Friday, July 31, 2009
Super Cooper to TSV 1860 Munich
FC Dallas have announced that they have agreed to a fee by div 2 Bundesliga team TSV 1860 Munich for forward Kenny Cooper. policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed. Is this a good move for Coop? Do you think he should have gone some where rather than a 2nd div team? Think He'll do better than Josh Wolf?
Freestyle Fridays - The Asian Invasion Edition II
I've featured Jin on here before but I thought I would post this battle since he waits until the last second to drop a bomb on a kid from the Hamptons. Sterlinho used to live in Southampton and he can tell you there's no hip hop in the Hamptons except for the likes of P. Diddy and other rap moguls. So I have no idea how the kid got on 106 and Park to begin with. Enjoy part two of The Asian Invasion Edition of Freestle Fridays.
More Crazy Skillz
I know this is an old video but some of the stuff that these guys do is amazing. I need to practice.
This kid rules!
Aint nothing wrong with a little Johnny Cash. My son is gonna have to pick up his game now. Even though he's only 9mo old, I'm taking him to rock school.
R.I.P Sir Bobby (18 February 1933 – 31 July 2009)
Bobby Robson, an ambassador of English soccer who coached his country to the 1990 World Cup semifinals and won trophies in four countries, died Friday. He was 76.
Robson had cancer and died at his Durham County home with family beside him, a family statement said. He was diagnosed with cancer five times since in 1991 but continued to work until November 2007.
His death came five days after he appeared in a wheelchair at Newcastle’s St. James’ Park. Thousands crowded the stadium to pay tribute to him and raise funds for his cancer charity.
Robson played for England at the 1958 World Cup and as coach led his country to its best World Cup finish since its 1966 title. The popular coach was knighted in 2002. He also coached PSV Eindhoven, Sporting Lisbon, FC Porto and Barcelona.
“He always showed great passion for the game and will be missed by all football fans across the globe,” FIFA president Sepp Blatter said. “On behalf of the worldwide football family, I would like to thank Sir Bobby Robson for his memorable contribution to the beautiful game.” Robson rose to fame in the 1970s when he turned unfashionable Ipswich into one of the country’s top teams, winning the FA Cup and UEFA Cup.
His last club job was at Newcastle, the club he supported as a boy. In January 2006, he took a job mentoring Ireland coach Steve Staunton.
“I did what I loved, and I did what I was pretty good at and I suppose what I was born for,” Robson said in 2005. “I enjoyed my career. It was wonderful. I played for some fabulous clubs and I played for England. Then I got the top job, the best job in the world really. I managed England.”
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson said he drew on Robson for his generous advice.
“I mourn the passing of a great friend, a wonderful individual, a tremendous football man and somebody with passion and knowledge of the game that was unsurpassed,” he said. “His character was hewn out of the coal face, developed by the Durham County mining background that he came from.”
Robson began his coaching career in 1968, when he took charge of struggling first division Fulham. The club was relegated and fired him after 10 months. Robson was hired by Ipswich and stayed there the next 13 years. He was then appointed England’s manager following the team’s elimination from the 1982 World Cup, and he won 27 of 28 qualifying matches in his eight years in charge.
The loss cost England a place at the 1984 European Championship. After the Football Association rejected his offer to resign, Robson went on to lead the team to the quarterfinals of the 1986 World Cup in Mexico.
England was eliminated from that tournament when Diego Maradona scored two of soccer’s most famous goals. The Argentine great punched the ball into the net for the first goal. On the second, Maradona surged halfway down the field, shredding much of the England team in the process.
Maradona called the first goal “The Hand of God.” Robson would have none of it.
“It wasn’t the Hand of God,” Robson said. “It was the hand of a rascal. God had nothing to do with it.”
A poor performance at Euro ’88 was followed by a run to the semifinals of the 1990 World Cup in Italy, where England lost a penalty-kick shootout to West Germany after a 1-1 draw.
Robson joined PSV after the World Cup and won the Dutch league in 1991 and ’92. He also coached at Sporting and FC Porto before moving to Barcelona in 1996. A year later, he was voted European Manager of the Year after winning the Spanish Cup, the Spanish Super Cup and the European Cup Winners’ Cup with a team that included Brazilian star Ronaldo. He returned to PSV and then went to Newcastle from 1999 to 2004.
No matter what, he remained popular with fans, often chatting soccer with them even as his declining health prevented a full-time return to coaching. He had surgery to remove a brain tumor in 2006 but was again diagnosed with cancer the following year.
Asked in 2005 why he continued to work into his later years, Robson said: “Football is my drug. I don’t like going to supermarkets on a Saturday afternoon.”
Thursday, July 30, 2009
The Streak Is Broken. Who Da Blame?
The MLS All Stars lost their first game to foreign opposition last night after winning five straight. The 1-1 draw sent the game to PK's and the Toffees prevailed. Some people may blame Freddie Ljungberg for the loss by missing his PK in the 6th round (including myself at first). But as I thought about it, I realized that a whole lot of these "All Stars" made mistakes or could have made plays to win the game for MLS. Here are some off the top of my head. Watch the highlights below to see for yourself.
1) Stuart Holden - A Gold Cup Final like mental breakdown gave Saha the Toffees only goal of the game.
2) Blanco - The guy had a great opportunity to shoot in the 21st minute that ended up killing a good attack. He also put in a weak free kick that Howard saw all the way. I guess his 30 yard run up doesn't work as well as it used to. Blanco never seemed to find the "magic" that he is known for.
3) Brad Davis - I know he scored the goal but it was a tap in. That doesn't excuse him from a whole night's worth of poor corners, poorer crosses and a MISSED PK! At least he scored on his chance...which leads me to the next player.
4) Landon Donovan - Easily the most explosive player on the field last night, the guy failed to score on an open goal off a great feed from Ljungberg. It was a Diego Forlan at ManU epic type miss. Howard can thank the post for the MVP trophy.
5) Commissioner Garber - As bad as it would have been to put David Beckham on the squad, DB7 is still a better player than a lot of guys on the All Star team. It would have been nice to have the Englishman's service from the wings, corners and on free kicks. And what's with the 7 sub rule? It didn't help having a limping Javi Morales out there for the end of the game. It made Landon have to move back to midfield and further away from the attack. That's not what we want out of our most dangerous player.
6) Davey Arnaud - Honestly, the guy didn't do anything out there. I hardly noticed him...until he missed his PK attempt.
7) Kasey Keller - He was mostly untested but he had his hands on Phil Neville's penalty kick and I originally thought he was going to parry it wide. I guess the guy has weak wrists because Neville's shot didn't look that hard.
8) Freddie Ljungberg - You could blame him for the loss, but he put in a very good 90 minutes and looked like the MLS's best player until Landon came in. His shot was weak, but now the Sounders know not to have him as their PK shooter. 0 for 2 for Freddie, which is probably why he wasn't in the original 5 shooters.
Watch the highlights below and let me know what you think.
English language highlights here. Full replay is available on ESPN360.com
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Kolo Toure Joins Adebayor at Man City
Manchester City returned to Premier League rivals Arsenal on Wednesday to sign Ivory Coast defender Kolo Toure for an undisclosed sum.
Toure, 28, whose team mate Emmanuel Adebayor joined City earlier this month, has signed a four-year deal with Mark Hughes’ side, the club said on their website (www.mcfc.co.uk).
British media estimated the fee at 16 million pounds.
City are in the market for defenders after compiling an impressive forward line in the close season.
“It is no secret that we have been looking to strengthen our defence and in Kolo I feel we have recruited a world class player,” said City manager Mark Hughes.
They have also had bids rejected for Everton defender Joleon Lescott and Chelsea and England captain John Terry.
The big-spending club have already signed striking trio Roque Santa Cruz of Paraguay from Blackburn Rovers, Argentina’s Carlos Tevez and Togo international Adebayor.
England midfielder Gareth Barry has also joined from Aston Villa with the club having now spent over 90 million pounds.
Toure joined Arsenal from Ivorian club Asec Mimosas in February 2002 and won the FA Cup at the end of his first season in 2003.
THE INVINCIBLES
Originally a utility player, he quickly emerged as a first choice centre-back alongside Sol Campbell in a 2004 season which saw Arsenal win the Premier League undefeated with a team dubbed ‘the invincibles’.
A second FA Cup the following season was to be Toure’s last winner’s medal for the north London club, although Arsenal came close to success in the Champions League before losing 2-1 to Barcelona in the 2006 final.
Toure, who made 326 appearances in all competitions for Arsenal, suffered a dip in form last season playing alongside Frenchman William Gallas and British media reported he had a transfer request rejected which he then later withdrew.
“Kolo has been a central figure in a very strong Arsenal team for many years and I have been an admirer of his for a long time,” added Hughes. “He is strong, quick, reads the game well and will be an influential figure in the dressing room.”
Arsenal have since strengthened their backline with the signing of Thomas Vermaelen from Ajax Amsterdam in a deal worth 12 million pounds and Swiss defender Philippe Senderos has returned to the club from a loan spell at AC Milan.
City, considered the richest club in the world, are bankrolled by wealthy Arab owner Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed al Nahyan and are expected to compete for Champions League qualification next season.
Is this getting out of hand or do you think this is good for football? Seems Real and Citeh are the only one's splashing for players. I know Barca made a move, but no to the magnitude of these 2 clubs.
The MLS All Star Game (Everton's away and Fredy's Boots)
Don't forget to watch tonight's MLS All Star game at 9:30 ET/6:30 PT on ESPN2/ESPN360 from Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy Utah. The MLS All Stars will be facing off against U.S. goalkeeper Tim Howard and the rest of his Everton squad. A few MLS players will be wearing their own personalized boots for the occasion, including the shoe shown below belonging to a certain Fredy Montero. You can now personalize your own boots at Mi Adidas. I could see White Kix breaking the bank for Stuart Holden's new kicks. Nike has been doing this for years so it's nice to see Adidas catching up
I'm also interested in seeing if Everton wears their new away kits. They probably won't be, but now is as good as time as any to drop these pics I've been sitting on of the clubs new softer away image. Seriously? I can imagine wearing pink while defending your home grounds... but wearing pink away trying to steal points? I can hear the taunts now.
Crazy Skillz
I must admit that after watching the Audi Cup that it's still kind of weird for me not to see CR7 in a Manchester United uniform. So if there's anyone else out there like me, I give you some highlights of CR7 in action.
Valencia's First Man United Goal
Manchester United are currently playing Boca Juniors in the Audi Cup in Munich. You can follow the Audi Cup games on Espn360.com. Antonio Valencia scored his first goal in a Red Devil's shirt so here's the highlight.
Here's to many more goals with ManU!
Here's to many more goals with ManU!
CONCACAF Champions League
Two games were played last night as we kicked off the qualifying rounds of the CONCACAF Champions League. The first video is the DC United vs Firpo game and the second is Pachuca vs Jalapa.
Limited Edition Bumpy Pitch
We here at Sterlinho are big fans of Bumpy Pitch and The Original Winger. Yesterday, the Bumpy Pitch crew dropped a limited edition T-shirt inspired by music, footy and Chelsea's Shed End. We fully support them in their efforts and love how soft all the BP shirts are. Check em out!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
CR9 Scores His First For Real
Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first goal for Real Madrid in a 4-2 victory over Liga de Quito in the Peace Cup on Tuesday.
Playing his third game for the Spanish powerhouse since his $131 million transfer from Manchester United, Ronaldo converted a 48th-minute penalty after being tripped in the area by defender Norberto Araujo.
The Portuguese star also set up the second goal in the 53rd.
Liga, whose coach Jorge Fossati was ejected from the bench for protesting the penalty award, scored in the 68th minute when Enrique Vera headed the ball in from close range.
Defender Christoph Metzelder headed Madrid’s third goal from Granero’s corner 3 minutes later. Ronaldo was replaced soon after by Lassana Diarra.
Vera doubled his tally in the 87th with a powerful header. Another substitute and Madrid newcomer Alvaro Negredo sealed the win in injury time.
Madrid will face Juventus in Seville on Friday in the semifinals of the 12-team offseason tournament. The final will take place on Sunday.
With Madrid needing to win at a half-full Santiago Bernabeu Stadium to advance, new Madrid coach Manuel Pellegrini picked an offensive lineup. Ronaldo was joined by another newcomer, Karim Benzema, along with Robben and Gonzalo Higuain.
Kaka, the second most expensive signing in Madrid’s $300 million spending spree since Florentino Perez regained the presidency last month, was not considered. He started training with Madrid on Monday.
Playing his third game for the Spanish powerhouse since his $131 million transfer from Manchester United, Ronaldo converted a 48th-minute penalty after being tripped in the area by defender Norberto Araujo.
The Portuguese star also set up the second goal in the 53rd.
Liga, whose coach Jorge Fossati was ejected from the bench for protesting the penalty award, scored in the 68th minute when Enrique Vera headed the ball in from close range.
Defender Christoph Metzelder headed Madrid’s third goal from Granero’s corner 3 minutes later. Ronaldo was replaced soon after by Lassana Diarra.
Vera doubled his tally in the 87th with a powerful header. Another substitute and Madrid newcomer Alvaro Negredo sealed the win in injury time.
Madrid will face Juventus in Seville on Friday in the semifinals of the 12-team offseason tournament. The final will take place on Sunday.
With Madrid needing to win at a half-full Santiago Bernabeu Stadium to advance, new Madrid coach Manuel Pellegrini picked an offensive lineup. Ronaldo was joined by another newcomer, Karim Benzema, along with Robben and Gonzalo Higuain.
Kaka, the second most expensive signing in Madrid’s $300 million spending spree since Florentino Perez regained the presidency last month, was not considered. He started training with Madrid on Monday.
FIFA 10
The FIFA 10 Soundtrack is up on the EA website. Here was ODB's reaction:
I've been listening to all the snippets and like the eclectic mix and of course Wyclef Jean. Plus I'm diggin' the Major Lazor track too.
Pretty sweet. I like that Metric is on there, Peter Bjorn and John, Major Lazer... Which I posted.
I've been listening to all the snippets and like the eclectic mix and of course Wyclef Jean. Plus I'm diggin' the Major Lazor track too.
The New Meadowlands Stadium
There was nothing I hated more about New York than getting to the Meadowlands. Then, once I finally made it there I had to put up with the crappy turf that the MetroStars played on in the empty cavern called Giants Stadium. I so wanted the West Side Stadium to be approved. I saw that place as a ticket to the return of the Cosmos.
But times have changed. The Red Bulls (though they still suck) will have their new stadium and the New Meadowlands will actually have train Service! Woo hoo! After the Gold Cup Final at Giants Stadium on Sunday, World Cup 2022 should be a no brainer. Except that the "new" stadium will now be 12 years old and out of date by then. Oh well. Here are the FIFA executives touring the new Meadowlands, courtesy of USsoccer.com.
But times have changed. The Red Bulls (though they still suck) will have their new stadium and the New Meadowlands will actually have train Service! Woo hoo! After the Gold Cup Final at Giants Stadium on Sunday, World Cup 2022 should be a no brainer. Except that the "new" stadium will now be 12 years old and out of date by then. Oh well. Here are the FIFA executives touring the new Meadowlands, courtesy of USsoccer.com.
Modern Warfare 2 Video
This video dropped on YouTube yesterday and already has almost half a million views. I think I might be more excited for this game than FIFA 10. Make sure you watch the entire video. There's a tasty little treat.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Next All-Star Game, Houston 2010.
Major League Soccer has picked Houston to host the 2010 All-Star Game.
MLS commissioner Don Garber made the announcement Monday after a news conference previewing this year’s game, which will take place Wednesday outside Salt Lake City. The MLS team will play Everton FC of the Premier League.
Garber says the league will stick with the current format of the select MLS players taking on an international club. Next year, it might be a team from Mexico.
Houston Dynamo president Oliver Luck says the game could be played in either Robertson Stadium, where the Dynamo play their home games, or Reliant Stadium, home of the NFL’s Houston Texans.
MLS commissioner Don Garber made the announcement Monday after a news conference previewing this year’s game, which will take place Wednesday outside Salt Lake City. The MLS team will play Everton FC of the Premier League.
Garber says the league will stick with the current format of the select MLS players taking on an international club. Next year, it might be a team from Mexico.
Houston Dynamo president Oliver Luck says the game could be played in either Robertson Stadium, where the Dynamo play their home games, or Reliant Stadium, home of the NFL’s Houston Texans.
Section 8 and the Timbers Army? Really?
I was going to give props to the Fire fans that made the trip to Seattle for Saturday's game, but I won't. I was originally impressed with their numbers, but now I'm not. You see, I thought they were all real Fire Supporters, but it turns out their trip was scheduled by the Timbers Army. Wow Portland, it must really suck to have such an inferiority complex to Seattle that you have to dress up in red and align yourselves with Section 8 just to hate on us.
And with that, I give you Section 8 and the Timber's Army stopping in the middle of a song/chant, looking befuddled as Qwest erupts into a "Seattle" "Sounders" call and response.
Note to Glenn Davis, it's not a lot of money to get from Portland to Seattle.
Face it, "We're Seattle, and we're better than you."
And with that, I give you Section 8 and the Timber's Army stopping in the middle of a song/chant, looking befuddled as Qwest erupts into a "Seattle" "Sounders" call and response.
Note to Glenn Davis, it's not a lot of money to get from Portland to Seattle.
The Fortune Teller
I was reading Steve Davis' blog, Daily Soccer Fix and ran across a few pieces of writing that I really enjoyed.
1) Steve agrees that the officiating in MLS is crap and that the call on Freddie Ljungberg should be questioned.
2) DC United playing 10 straight home games in the US Open Cup is a little messed up. Now, I am biased since I would love to see the game in Seattle, but I do think that the attendance would be better at Qwest Field. Having said that, DC does have real grass and the bouncing stands.
3) Buy this guy a lottery ticket since he called the result of the Gold Cup Final a week ago.
My time with CFC II
(Picture of goal keeper Training Hilario, Cech, Turnbull)I've seen and been a part of some intense training, but nothing could prepare for what I saw with Chelsea. The amount of focus and level of professionalism by both the staff and players is a model that I hope all pro teams take. Of course you have the guys joking around before training started, but it was like a switch went on when the first whistle blew for drills. These boys, took every amount of training as if it was a game type situation. The 8 v 8 scrimmage was as if they were playing against United or Liverpool. The amount of hitting and bodies being thrown in front of every shot, was like I was watching a Champions League final. Even when involving us in the drills (one which got me a little nervous), as soon as a ball was lost out of bounds I would hear John Terry yell over to me: "yeah, yeah!" as his palms were facing out in the direction he wanted the ball played. So, I quickly played him a ball and right back into the scrimmage they went, without skipping a beat. I have to admit, inside I as buzzing as I thought to myself... "Hey, I just played JT a long ball!" As the final whistle blew for the guys to hit the showers, most of the guys stuck around for some last minute workouts. Ricardo Carvahlo invovled me and another friend in some juggling and 2 touch passing. It was kinda funny, cause he never said a single word to us except good and thank you. As soon as as Carvahlo was done. Franco Di Santo wanted to knock the ball with me for a bit, so naturally being the nice guy that I am I obliged. It was all pretty amazing that these high profile players treated us with great respect. From, the many thank you's we got by just giving them water and sports drinks, to the hilarious jokes the coaching staff and trainers would say to us, the first half of Chelsea practice was terrific. The 2nd half of that day would be a different story. It turns out the mornings was just a light workout. The serious business was to come later that evening.
I Wish I Was A Kit Manager
After Oh Danny Boy's experience with Chelsea, I'm starting to think it would be fun to be a kit manager. Well, this video proves I'm right.
Crouch reunites with Redknapp at Tottenham.
Tottenham Hotspur completed the signing of Peter Crouch from Portsmouth on Monday after the England striker passed a medical and agreed personal terms, the London club said on their website (www.tottenhamhotspur.com).
The deal reunites Crouch with Harry Redknapp, his former manager at Portsmouth and Southampton, and takes him full circle back to White Hart Lane where he spent two years as a trainee before being released without playing a first-team game.
No fee was announced but local media speculated that Spurs had offered around 10 million pounds ($16 million) for the 28-year-old former Liverpool forward who turned down a move to Sunderland last week.
Crouch was Portsmouth’s top scorer last season with 16 goals in 49 games and the south coast club said they were reluctant to let him go.
“We are sorry to see Peter go both as a player and a person and would like to thank him for playing a key role in keeping the club in the Premier League last season,” a spokesman said on the club’s website (www.portsmouthfc.co.uk).
“His sale was necessitated by the club’s commitment to repay scheduled debts while we are in a transitional period of completing the takeover.
“We will now be looking to add fresh faces to the first-team squad as soon as possible.”
Portsmouth are in the process of being bought by a group of investors from the United Arab Emirates led by Sulaiman al-Fahim.
Crouch’s arrival at Spurs is likely to clear the way for the departure of striker Darren Bent, with Sunderland showing interest if the clubs can agree a fee for the player Spurs bought from Charlton Athletic for 16.5 million two years ago.
The deal reunites Crouch with Harry Redknapp, his former manager at Portsmouth and Southampton, and takes him full circle back to White Hart Lane where he spent two years as a trainee before being released without playing a first-team game.
No fee was announced but local media speculated that Spurs had offered around 10 million pounds ($16 million) for the 28-year-old former Liverpool forward who turned down a move to Sunderland last week.
Crouch was Portsmouth’s top scorer last season with 16 goals in 49 games and the south coast club said they were reluctant to let him go.
“We are sorry to see Peter go both as a player and a person and would like to thank him for playing a key role in keeping the club in the Premier League last season,” a spokesman said on the club’s website (www.portsmouthfc.co.uk).
“His sale was necessitated by the club’s commitment to repay scheduled debts while we are in a transitional period of completing the takeover.
“We will now be looking to add fresh faces to the first-team squad as soon as possible.”
Portsmouth are in the process of being bought by a group of investors from the United Arab Emirates led by Sulaiman al-Fahim.
Crouch’s arrival at Spurs is likely to clear the way for the departure of striker Darren Bent, with Sunderland showing interest if the clubs can agree a fee for the player Spurs bought from Charlton Athletic for 16.5 million two years ago.
I Am 1
I ran across this at Football Shirt Culture.
BKRW and NIKE have decided to join forces in 4 tournaments (bike polo, basketball, soccer, tennis) set up in Paris this weekend, and 5 collab videos to launch them.
Directed by young french director Alban Teurlai on the 5 athletes favorite sport courts, and revealing some hidden places of Paris where urban architecture takes over sport (basketball, football and
tennis) or, a place where sport is investing architecture (bike polo and running).
The films reveal the almost intimate relationship between the athlete and his own sport, and sport court. The camera turns on a panoramic view of Paris, then comes on the sports ground, then the athlete, to finally enter the psychological dimension.
Alban's camera is always trying to find each time the same intensity, the same gravity, the same fighting spirit, but also in a certain way to share the athlete's pain and his effort to overpass his failures and his doubt. Each film ends on a imperfection, emphasizing the humility required by the sport, the total fragility of this quest.
It's that time of the year again!
The start of the season is around the corner, and what better way to feel a part of all the action than picking your best 11. There is no better way to track all your favorite players than to put them in your fantasy team. With that said,here are a few links to sites that provide Fantasy Footy. Note: You will need to get an account for many of these sites. It's all free so have fun with with it.
Premier League:
Manchester United vs Greentown
I know Man U have a huge following in these Asian Countries... but you would think with American owners United and even Liverpool FC would make a visit here in the States as well. I guess they want us to support Chelsea FC since they have been here 3 times already.
I didn't want to put this up... But, it's soccer news.
I can't even begin to explain the rage and anger that is bubbling over.
Milan Derby at Foxboro
Would like to have seen Gooch stop the first goal, but I will give him a pass since it's only his 3rd game with the new club.
Chelsea vs Club America
My boy Franco Di Santo turned it on. Thank you Franco for at least giving me a reason to not see Mexico dominate 2 finales. Small consolation, but it was good to see any way.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Freestyle Fridays
I've been sittin' on this one a while so I figured I'd drop something even the whiteboys can understand. Here is your rap battle translated.
Gold Cup Semi-Final Highlights
Highlights from last night's games. U.S. vs Honduras and Mexico vs Costa Rica.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
My time with CFC
Morning practice at the massive Virginia Mason Atheltic Center (Seattle Seahawks training facility)I was standing on the training pitch, nervously waiting for the team to come out for practice. It was really quite the only thing I could hear was the 12th man flag flapping in the wind, billions of things ran through my head, which player would I see first, would I even care since I'm not even a Chelsea supporter, how will they act with me being around to help. 8:30am the Chelsea FC coaching staff began to slowly step out onto the field, many of them if not all said hello and good morning to me, this was something I was definitely shocked by. I never thought they would even pay attention to me unless they needed something. As soon as I made that thought one of them quickly summoned me over to help him move the goals for the goal keepers training session. I could tell this guy meant business as the scowl was easily noticeable from a distance, I know the scowl wasn't meant for mem, but meant for the goal keepers as he had his game face on and ready to destroy Petr Cech, Ross Turnbull and Hilario. As soon as I helped him set up, a grounds keeper had asked us to move to a different spot as he needed to finish mowing the section we were on. In side I sank, as I was ready for Christophe Lollichon to erupt... Well, he didn't erupt, but the Frenchman did give a look and gesture of distaste. He immediately turned and looked at me and all I said was "right away sir!" after I moved everything, the only time I ever saw this man smile was when he said Thank you, and just as fast as he smiled he quickly went to his scowl, then in his accent he said "sorry, this man is eh.. stupid!" I just laughed and told him no problem. 9am rolled around and as I was headed back to the door to pick up some water, out came Ancellotti and Drogba. It took everything inside of me to not just sit there and stare. As they walked and spoke together, other players followed. Alex, Carvahlo, Bosingwa, Hilario and Cech. Cech is easily the biggest goal keeper I have ever seen, I know I had to keep my mouth closed as I was caught in between all these players. Finally the rest of the players made their way out, when John Terry walked towards me and the other fellas, shook our hands and said good morning. I was expecting him to just walk away after him saying hello, but he stayed for at least 5min talking with us about the game they had against the Sounders, MLS and how this league could be better if they just spent the money. This was a great topic for me to dominate the conversation, so I just went with it. Pretty soon it was as if it was just me and JT talking, by the end of it he had to get going to warm up, but his last parting words were: "I love Washington, it's fantastic here," "and Who know's, maybe one day I'll end up playing here." And off he went.
-More to come soon.
In My Neighborhood by Jahaziel
With all the Chelsea posts and British accents I was reminded of UK hip hop artist, Jahaziel. I first saw this video on TV and immediately jumped online to find out more about this guy. Give this video a listen, it's worth it and the sample is sick. Man I wish conscious hip hop would get more airplay. You can pick up his album here.
More on Chelsea and the Sounders
I don't want Sterlinho and Oh Danny Boy to be the only ones to post on Chelsea so I thought I would give you a few videos from the day. The first video is from the Sounders website and shows that monster save by Petr Cech that Sterlinho mentioned.
And some good ole highlights for ya.
And some good ole highlights for ya.
Lamps Interview In Seattle
Frank Lampard talks about Chelsea's upcoming game against Inter Milan and former boss Jose Mourinho, as well as his new manager Carlo Ancelotti. All filmed at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center where Oh Danny Boy spent Sunday and Monday helping out with Chelsea's training. Stay tuned for pics and thoughts from Danny Boy's Chelsea experience.
Corinthians vs. Cruzeiro Highlights (OG Ronaldo Still Has It)
Old School Ronaldo (that's right the World Cup's record goalscorer) helped Corinthians with the game winning goal against his first club, Cruzeiro. What the highlights don't show you is Ronaldo's PK miss. The guy is still scoring goals. Can we get him to MLS sometime soon please?
Monday, July 20, 2009
America's Former First WAG
I'm not seeing this story on other soccer blogs so I'm going to run with it. The First Wag of the United States is apparently relinquishing her title. According to People, Bianca Kajlich and Landon Donovan quietly split up several months ago. Personally, I hate to see any marraige fall apart and so this news kind of bums me out, especially with her being a Northwest native. Hopefully the two will sort things out.
Bianca after the U.S. game against Italy in the 2006 World Cup. She was in disguise, but I recognized her. All that Dawson's Creek came in handy. For the record, she was totally cool when we met her.
From The Stands: Sounders vs. Chelsea
These shots are from my front row seat for Saturday's match against Chelsea. And just like Oh Danny Boy, I also need to invest in a better camera.
A packed Qwest Field. My only complaint is that parking costs four times as much and the restrooms and concessions were twice as crowded. I didn't think that the stadium was any louder than a league game with just the lower bowl open.
Ashley Cole taking a shot during warm-ups (hence the net in the way).
The line ups before kickoff.
Both teams getting set to play.
Cech in motion. I wasn't a big fan of the guy, but he is impressive in person. He made a save on a Ljungberg free kick that just made it look too easy.
So many big names on that squad. Right before kick off.
Bosingwa just played in a cross after going by Zakuani.
Frank Lampard and Nicolas Anelka.
Daniel Sturridge caught offside.
Sturridge and the rest of the Chelsea squad celebrating the first goal.
And the boys congratulate Lamps for putting one in the top shelf.
John Terry keeping the squad motivated after they went up 2-0.
I thought Nyassi played well in the second half. He's also been great in the Open Cup games. Get this guy some playing time, Sigi!
Tifo from The Emerald City Supporters after the game.
While the Sounders made their way around the field thanking the fans, our boy Ben Dragavon showed off the jersey he got from Cech.
The Brougham End with a lot of scarves up in this photo.
A few of the Chelsea players trained after the game.
I'm wondering why the white guys didn't have to train afterwards.
Drogba attacking during a 2v2 drill.
A packed Qwest Field. My only complaint is that parking costs four times as much and the restrooms and concessions were twice as crowded. I didn't think that the stadium was any louder than a league game with just the lower bowl open.
Ashley Cole taking a shot during warm-ups (hence the net in the way).
The line ups before kickoff.
Both teams getting set to play.
Cech in motion. I wasn't a big fan of the guy, but he is impressive in person. He made a save on a Ljungberg free kick that just made it look too easy.
So many big names on that squad. Right before kick off.
Bosingwa just played in a cross after going by Zakuani.
Frank Lampard and Nicolas Anelka.
Daniel Sturridge caught offside.
Sturridge and the rest of the Chelsea squad celebrating the first goal.
And the boys congratulate Lamps for putting one in the top shelf.
John Terry keeping the squad motivated after they went up 2-0.
I thought Nyassi played well in the second half. He's also been great in the Open Cup games. Get this guy some playing time, Sigi!
Tifo from The Emerald City Supporters after the game.
While the Sounders made their way around the field thanking the fans, our boy Ben Dragavon showed off the jersey he got from Cech.
The Brougham End with a lot of scarves up in this photo.
A few of the Chelsea players trained after the game.
I'm wondering why the white guys didn't have to train afterwards.
Drogba attacking during a 2v2 drill.
Sounders FC vs Chelsea FC pregame
I know I know, the game was last Saturday but I didn't have a whole lot of time to post this weekend as I was working for Chelsea FC. I will have more on my experience with the club as well as some pics. Anyway, here's some footage from little finepix FUJIFILM camera... I really need to invest in a better quality camera.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Super Cooper to the Rescue!!!
Worn down and undermanned, the United States found a way to rally.
Now the Americans remain in position to win their third straight CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Kenny Cooper converted a penalty kick in the 105th minute, giving the two-time defending champions a 2-1 victory over Panama and a semifinal berth against Honduras, which beat Canada 1-0 in the opener of Saturday’s doubleheader.
With just one regular in the starting lineup and down a goal early, U.S. coach Bob Bradley told his team at the first break it was time to get going and play like defending champions.
“Bob told us, `All right, we’re in a tough one,”’ midfielder Kyle Beckerman said. “He told everybody to step up and play better, and we’ll get our chances.”
They made the most of them the rest of the way.
“It was ideal to finish it off in regulation, but it took 30 extra minutes and that still says something about this group,” Bradley said.
Blas Perez put Panama ahead in first-half stoppage time, but Beckerman tied the score in the 49th.
In Sunday’s quarterfinal doubleheader, Guadeloupe meets Costa Rica and Mexico faces Haiti in the first sporting event at the Dallas Cowboys new stadium at Arlington, Texas. The semifinals are Thursday in Chicago.
“It’s going to be another tough one,” Beckerman said. “This definitely took a lot out of us.”
Cooper was kicked in the gut by Panama’s Roman Torres as they went for the ball, and the penalty was awarded by Mexican referee Benito Archundia, who also worked Italy’s victory over Germany in the 2006 World Cup semifinal. Goalkeeper Jaime Penedo correctly dived to his right, but Cooper’s low kick went in off the post.
Panama’s Felipe Baloy received a his second yellow card, and a red, for arguing with Archundia following the final whistle.
The Americans, who beat Honduras 2-0 in the first round, have not lost at home to an opponent from the North and Central American and Caribbean region since a 3-2 defeat to the Catrachos in a World Cup qualifier at Washington, D.C., in 2001. The U.S. won this tournament in 1991, 2002, 2005 and 2007, and the Americans haven’t failed to reach the semifinals since 2000, when they were defeated by Colombia on penalty kicks in the quarterfinals
Forward Brian Ching was the only regular on the field, with the others dispersed to their clubs or on vacation ahead of the European season.
Jimmy Conrad, U.S. captain for the game, left the field in the 44th minute after he was hit in the face, which drew blood. Conrad has a concussion and his status for Thursday’s game was not immediately known.
The United States was already short-handed because four of the 23 players on the original roster returned to their European clubs: forwards Charlie Davies (Sochaux) and Freddy Adu (Benfica), and defenders Steve Cherundolo (Hannover) and Michael Parkhurst (Nordsjaellands). Midfielder Benny Feilhaber also went back to Aarhus after playing for the U.S. in the first round.
Panama, which lost to the U.S. on penalty kicks in the 2005 Gold Cup final, went ahead when Perez scored about 45 seconds into stoppage time. He beat goalkeeper Troy Perkins with an acrobatic right-footed kick for his third goal of the tournament.
Beckerman tied the score after Davy Arnaud cut back a cross for him.
“I let the swing and fortunately it went in,” Beckerman said.
Now the Americans remain in position to win their third straight CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Kenny Cooper converted a penalty kick in the 105th minute, giving the two-time defending champions a 2-1 victory over Panama and a semifinal berth against Honduras, which beat Canada 1-0 in the opener of Saturday’s doubleheader.
With just one regular in the starting lineup and down a goal early, U.S. coach Bob Bradley told his team at the first break it was time to get going and play like defending champions.
“Bob told us, `All right, we’re in a tough one,”’ midfielder Kyle Beckerman said. “He told everybody to step up and play better, and we’ll get our chances.”
They made the most of them the rest of the way.
“It was ideal to finish it off in regulation, but it took 30 extra minutes and that still says something about this group,” Bradley said.
Blas Perez put Panama ahead in first-half stoppage time, but Beckerman tied the score in the 49th.
In Sunday’s quarterfinal doubleheader, Guadeloupe meets Costa Rica and Mexico faces Haiti in the first sporting event at the Dallas Cowboys new stadium at Arlington, Texas. The semifinals are Thursday in Chicago.
“It’s going to be another tough one,” Beckerman said. “This definitely took a lot out of us.”
Cooper was kicked in the gut by Panama’s Roman Torres as they went for the ball, and the penalty was awarded by Mexican referee Benito Archundia, who also worked Italy’s victory over Germany in the 2006 World Cup semifinal. Goalkeeper Jaime Penedo correctly dived to his right, but Cooper’s low kick went in off the post.
Panama’s Felipe Baloy received a his second yellow card, and a red, for arguing with Archundia following the final whistle.
The Americans, who beat Honduras 2-0 in the first round, have not lost at home to an opponent from the North and Central American and Caribbean region since a 3-2 defeat to the Catrachos in a World Cup qualifier at Washington, D.C., in 2001. The U.S. won this tournament in 1991, 2002, 2005 and 2007, and the Americans haven’t failed to reach the semifinals since 2000, when they were defeated by Colombia on penalty kicks in the quarterfinals
Forward Brian Ching was the only regular on the field, with the others dispersed to their clubs or on vacation ahead of the European season.
Jimmy Conrad, U.S. captain for the game, left the field in the 44th minute after he was hit in the face, which drew blood. Conrad has a concussion and his status for Thursday’s game was not immediately known.
The United States was already short-handed because four of the 23 players on the original roster returned to their European clubs: forwards Charlie Davies (Sochaux) and Freddy Adu (Benfica), and defenders Steve Cherundolo (Hannover) and Michael Parkhurst (Nordsjaellands). Midfielder Benny Feilhaber also went back to Aarhus after playing for the U.S. in the first round.
Panama, which lost to the U.S. on penalty kicks in the 2005 Gold Cup final, went ahead when Perez scored about 45 seconds into stoppage time. He beat goalkeeper Troy Perkins with an acrobatic right-footed kick for his third goal of the tournament.
Beckerman tied the score after Davy Arnaud cut back a cross for him.
“I let the swing and fortunately it went in,” Beckerman said.
Sturridge Gives Seattle The Blues
Daniel Sturridge jumped at the chance to join Chelsea as soon as he heard the club was interested in him.
His debut on Saturday made Blues’ management look very smart for acquiring the talented 19-year-old player.
Making his debut following an offseason move from Manchester City to Stamford Bridge, Sturridge scored in the 12th minute and assisted on Frank Lampard’s goal later in the first half as the Blues opened their preseason tour of America with a 2-0 win over the Seattle Sounders FC on Saturday.
“Nobody ever thinks twice about going to such a big club when it comes calling,” Sturridge said. “You have to take the opportunity and I’m very happy to be here.”
Sturridge’s goal early in the match quieted some of the 65,289 fans—most in Seattle green—who turned out to see the first of two international exhibitions the Sounders will host this season. It also made a winner of new manager Carlo Ancelotti in his first match leading the Blues after his move from AC Milan.
It was Chelesa’s second appearance in Seattle in recent years. They faced Celtic in 2004 in an exhibition match that drew 30,504 and was part of an increased run of international exhibitions in the Pacific Northwest.
But Saturday was the first time those Northwest fans were cheering for their own team. Seattle coach Sigi Schmid said he went to pick up his dry cleaning at 8 a.m. Saturday and was met by a Sounders fan already in full regalia.
The hometown team responded with a spirited effort despite getting shut out.
“From a European point of view I think it definitely sends a message that we can play so well against Chelsea,” Seattle midfielder Freddie Ljungberg said, a former Chelsea nemesis during his time at Arsenal. “When I speak to my friends back home there are a lot of questions about what is the level and how would you play against a great team. I think that message was sent today.”
The match was Chelsea’s first on-field test since beating Everton 2-1 in the FA Cup final on May 30. They are using the tour of the United States—which includes matches against Inter Milan, AC Milan and Club America—as their training leading up to the English Premier League opener against Hull on Aug. 15.
To that end, a number of stars either sat or played only one half. Didier Drogba and Michael Essien never took off their warmups, while Ashley Cole, John Terry and Petr Cech were among the Chelsea starters to only play a half. Terry did not speak to reporters afterward regarding the ongoing pursuit of his services by Manchester City.
The only Chelsea regular to play the full 90 minutes was Lampard.
“Today was the best atmosphere I’ve played in out here for sure,” Lampard said. “I think the game was pretty even really except for the two goals that we scored which is maybe a slight difference in quality from the Premier League to here, but the Seattle team played good football.”
Seattle is in the middle of its MLS season and had to balance upcoming matches with trying to make a good showing against the Blues. Goalkeeper Kasey Keller and forward Nate Jaqua only played a half, while Ljungberg played into the second half before leaving.
The Sounders host Houston in the U.S. Open Cup semifinals on Tuesday. They will play Chicago next Saturday.
With the blazing rave green of the Sounders easily dwarfing the royal blue of Chelsea’s in the stands, the Sounders were clearly the more fit side. But some sloppy passing and poor first-touches kept the numerous runs by Ljungberg and striker Fredy Montero from becoming great scoring opportunities. Seattle also missed on a pair of open second-half headers, and Sanna Nyassi missed an open net when his chipped attempt went over the crossbar.
While Seattle failed to convert, the Blues made the most of their runs through Seattle’s shaky defense. Sturridge took advantage in the 12th minute, accepting a pass from Florent Malouda near the top of the box, stopping while Seattle defender Tyrone Marshall slid past and beating Keller with a right-footed strike.
Just over 20 minutes later, Sturridge got Chelsea’s next goal started. His pass from near midfield found the foot of Nicolas Anelka running free in the box. Anelka chipped a centering pass that Lampard easily deposited past the helpless Keller.
The second half featured reserves for both sides. Seattle defender Zach Scott twice saved goals by clearing balls off the line after keeper Terry Boss was beaten.
“Their speed, their movement, their touch, there’s no mistakes in the back,” Seattle’s Steve Zakuani said. “They’re all very, very good at what they do. That’s the next level, that’s why they are where they are. It was good to measure ourselves today.”
His debut on Saturday made Blues’ management look very smart for acquiring the talented 19-year-old player.
Making his debut following an offseason move from Manchester City to Stamford Bridge, Sturridge scored in the 12th minute and assisted on Frank Lampard’s goal later in the first half as the Blues opened their preseason tour of America with a 2-0 win over the Seattle Sounders FC on Saturday.
“Nobody ever thinks twice about going to such a big club when it comes calling,” Sturridge said. “You have to take the opportunity and I’m very happy to be here.”
Sturridge’s goal early in the match quieted some of the 65,289 fans—most in Seattle green—who turned out to see the first of two international exhibitions the Sounders will host this season. It also made a winner of new manager Carlo Ancelotti in his first match leading the Blues after his move from AC Milan.
It was Chelesa’s second appearance in Seattle in recent years. They faced Celtic in 2004 in an exhibition match that drew 30,504 and was part of an increased run of international exhibitions in the Pacific Northwest.
But Saturday was the first time those Northwest fans were cheering for their own team. Seattle coach Sigi Schmid said he went to pick up his dry cleaning at 8 a.m. Saturday and was met by a Sounders fan already in full regalia.
The hometown team responded with a spirited effort despite getting shut out.
“From a European point of view I think it definitely sends a message that we can play so well against Chelsea,” Seattle midfielder Freddie Ljungberg said, a former Chelsea nemesis during his time at Arsenal. “When I speak to my friends back home there are a lot of questions about what is the level and how would you play against a great team. I think that message was sent today.”
The match was Chelsea’s first on-field test since beating Everton 2-1 in the FA Cup final on May 30. They are using the tour of the United States—which includes matches against Inter Milan, AC Milan and Club America—as their training leading up to the English Premier League opener against Hull on Aug. 15.
To that end, a number of stars either sat or played only one half. Didier Drogba and Michael Essien never took off their warmups, while Ashley Cole, John Terry and Petr Cech were among the Chelsea starters to only play a half. Terry did not speak to reporters afterward regarding the ongoing pursuit of his services by Manchester City.
The only Chelsea regular to play the full 90 minutes was Lampard.
“Today was the best atmosphere I’ve played in out here for sure,” Lampard said. “I think the game was pretty even really except for the two goals that we scored which is maybe a slight difference in quality from the Premier League to here, but the Seattle team played good football.”
Seattle is in the middle of its MLS season and had to balance upcoming matches with trying to make a good showing against the Blues. Goalkeeper Kasey Keller and forward Nate Jaqua only played a half, while Ljungberg played into the second half before leaving.
The Sounders host Houston in the U.S. Open Cup semifinals on Tuesday. They will play Chicago next Saturday.
With the blazing rave green of the Sounders easily dwarfing the royal blue of Chelsea’s in the stands, the Sounders were clearly the more fit side. But some sloppy passing and poor first-touches kept the numerous runs by Ljungberg and striker Fredy Montero from becoming great scoring opportunities. Seattle also missed on a pair of open second-half headers, and Sanna Nyassi missed an open net when his chipped attempt went over the crossbar.
While Seattle failed to convert, the Blues made the most of their runs through Seattle’s shaky defense. Sturridge took advantage in the 12th minute, accepting a pass from Florent Malouda near the top of the box, stopping while Seattle defender Tyrone Marshall slid past and beating Keller with a right-footed strike.
Just over 20 minutes later, Sturridge got Chelsea’s next goal started. His pass from near midfield found the foot of Nicolas Anelka running free in the box. Anelka chipped a centering pass that Lampard easily deposited past the helpless Keller.
The second half featured reserves for both sides. Seattle defender Zach Scott twice saved goals by clearing balls off the line after keeper Terry Boss was beaten.
“Their speed, their movement, their touch, there’s no mistakes in the back,” Seattle’s Steve Zakuani said. “They’re all very, very good at what they do. That’s the next level, that’s why they are where they are. It was good to measure ourselves today.”
Tevez Watches Pirates Sink City
New signing Carlos Tevez watched from the sideline as Manchester City lost 2-0 to Orlando Pirates Saturday in the opening Vodacom Challenge tournament match.
City manager Mark Hughes said was "too dangerous" to field Argentine Tevez and another close-season striking purchase Paraguayan Roque Santa Cruz in this northern city as they lacked match fitness.
Former Manchester United striker Hughes, under pressure to break into the English Premiership "big four" after a close season spending spree that also netted England midfielder Gareth Barry, offered no excuses for the loss.
"It was a good workout against a Pirates team that played very well. I was pleased with the day, but not the result," he admitted after a goal in each half gave the "Buccaneers" a deserved victory before 20,000 spectators.
"We are in the conditioning phase of pre-season preparations and today you could see that the players are at different levels. A few more games and they will all be up to speed.
"Carlos (Tevez) and Roque (Santa Cruz) were not considered for this match as it would have been too dangerous given their level of pre-season fitness," stressed Hughes.
Pirates coach and former Netherlands World Cup star Ruud Krol had sympathy for City: "They have just travelled from Dubai and this does not make it easy. Believe me, City are a good team."
The English Premiership outfit lacked at least half its likely first choice line-up and were under pressure from the kick-off with goalkeeper Stuart Taylor forced into a low save just 14 seconds after the kick-off.
Lucas Thwala put Pirates ahead on 36 minutes from the penalty spot after Ben Mee was guilty of shirt tugging and City had Craig Bellamy and Martin Petrov booked during an opening half in which they wasted several scoring chances.
Botswana midfielder Phenyo Mongala added a second goal on 56 minutes as his cross flew over Taylor into the far corner of the net and although City made a number of substitutions they never threatened to wrest the initiative.
City face Kaizer Chiefs Tuesday in the Indian Ocean city of Durban before meeting the winners of a play-off between the South African clubs in the Pretoria final next Saturday.
City manager Mark Hughes said was "too dangerous" to field Argentine Tevez and another close-season striking purchase Paraguayan Roque Santa Cruz in this northern city as they lacked match fitness.
Former Manchester United striker Hughes, under pressure to break into the English Premiership "big four" after a close season spending spree that also netted England midfielder Gareth Barry, offered no excuses for the loss.
"It was a good workout against a Pirates team that played very well. I was pleased with the day, but not the result," he admitted after a goal in each half gave the "Buccaneers" a deserved victory before 20,000 spectators.
"We are in the conditioning phase of pre-season preparations and today you could see that the players are at different levels. A few more games and they will all be up to speed.
"Carlos (Tevez) and Roque (Santa Cruz) were not considered for this match as it would have been too dangerous given their level of pre-season fitness," stressed Hughes.
Pirates coach and former Netherlands World Cup star Ruud Krol had sympathy for City: "They have just travelled from Dubai and this does not make it easy. Believe me, City are a good team."
The English Premiership outfit lacked at least half its likely first choice line-up and were under pressure from the kick-off with goalkeeper Stuart Taylor forced into a low save just 14 seconds after the kick-off.
Lucas Thwala put Pirates ahead on 36 minutes from the penalty spot after Ben Mee was guilty of shirt tugging and City had Craig Bellamy and Martin Petrov booked during an opening half in which they wasted several scoring chances.
Botswana midfielder Phenyo Mongala added a second goal on 56 minutes as his cross flew over Taylor into the far corner of the net and although City made a number of substitutions they never threatened to wrest the initiative.
City face Kaizer Chiefs Tuesday in the Indian Ocean city of Durban before meeting the winners of a play-off between the South African clubs in the Pretoria final next Saturday.
Do you think that face is because City lost or that they signed Adebayor, leaving him to fight again for playing time? City looks like a club looking for goal scorers, how many more forwards should they buy?
Adebayor in the City
Emmanuel Adebayor is the third striker to join Manchester City in the offseason, leaving Arsenal to boost the Premier League rival’s already extensive attacking options.
The Togo international signed a five-year deal Saturday at the end of a week that began with Argentina forward Carlos Tevez joining from Manchester United. Manager Mark Hughes recruited Paraguay striker Roque Santa Cruz from Blackburn last month.
“I can’t wait to play for City’s fans and show them what I can do,” said the 2008 African player of the year.
The transfer fee for the 25-year-old Adebayor was reported to be about $41 million.
“Emmanuel has been one of the top forwards in the Premier League since he arrived from France and we are delighted he has agreed to come and join us,” Hughes said
The Togo international signed a five-year deal Saturday at the end of a week that began with Argentina forward Carlos Tevez joining from Manchester United. Manager Mark Hughes recruited Paraguay striker Roque Santa Cruz from Blackburn last month.
“I can’t wait to play for City’s fans and show them what I can do,” said the 2008 African player of the year.
The transfer fee for the 25-year-old Adebayor was reported to be about $41 million.
“Emmanuel has been one of the top forwards in the Premier League since he arrived from France and we are delighted he has agreed to come and join us,” Hughes said
Michael Owen Debut Notches 1st Goal As A Red Devil
Michael Owen made an immediate impact in his Manchester United debut Saturday, coming off the bench to score with five minutes left in a 3-2 victory over a Malaysian all-star squad in the team’s Asian tour opener.
The striker, who joined Man United on a free transfer from Newcastle, scored after the Premier League champions surrendered a two-goal lead to Malaysian XI before a crowd of 85,000.
Owen pounced on a loose ball after Darron Gibson’s pass to Ryan Giggs was blocked by goalkeeper Mohamad Farizal Marlias. Owen replaced Wayne Rooney in the 61st minute.
“Michael is different to the other strikers we have here,” manager Alex Ferguson said. “He’s always searching for that space in and around the box, and he reacted really well to take his goal.”
Rooney put United ahead in the eighth minute and set up a goal in the 27th minute with a cross to Nani. as the half ended, Mohamad Amri Yahyah chipped a 25-yard shot over United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar. Malaysia tied it in the 52nd, with Amri beating substitute goalie Ben Foster.
Man United plays Malaysian XI again Monday in Kuala Lumpur after its trip to Indonesia was canceled because of Friday’s bombing of the Jakarta hotel where the team was to stay. The team will depart Wednesday for the next leg of the Asia tour in Seoul and then head to China.
The striker, who joined Man United on a free transfer from Newcastle, scored after the Premier League champions surrendered a two-goal lead to Malaysian XI before a crowd of 85,000.
Owen pounced on a loose ball after Darron Gibson’s pass to Ryan Giggs was blocked by goalkeeper Mohamad Farizal Marlias. Owen replaced Wayne Rooney in the 61st minute.
“Michael is different to the other strikers we have here,” manager Alex Ferguson said. “He’s always searching for that space in and around the box, and he reacted really well to take his goal.”
Rooney put United ahead in the eighth minute and set up a goal in the 27th minute with a cross to Nani. as the half ended, Mohamad Amri Yahyah chipped a 25-yard shot over United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar. Malaysia tied it in the 52nd, with Amri beating substitute goalie Ben Foster.
Man United plays Malaysian XI again Monday in Kuala Lumpur after its trip to Indonesia was canceled because of Friday’s bombing of the Jakarta hotel where the team was to stay. The team will depart Wednesday for the next leg of the Asia tour in Seoul and then head to China.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Freestyle Fridays
Today I give you Gift of Gab of Blackalicious. Enjoy the freestyle and all the footy on the TV this weekend.
Stupid Terrorists
If I was a ManU fan in Indonesia I would be super pissed right now. The suicide bombs in Jakarta that killed 8 people have caused Manchester United to cancel their trip to the city. The videos below give you more of the story.
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