The Back of the Onion bag

Why John Terry should quit England

2012-02-10T20:53:00.002-05:00

IN THIS BLOG:

WHY TERRY SHOULD QUIT ENGLAND

EPL PREVIEW INCLUDING GOONERS' CORNER

Follow me on Twitter and check out my article on why Chelsea fans should give AVB time
http://www.itsroundanditswhite.co.uk/2012/02/09/message-to-chelsea-fans-give-avb-time/

WHY JOHN TERRY WOULD BE WISE TO STEP DOWN

When England were thrashed out of the World Cup in South Africa, the FA determined that they wanted Fabio Capello out, despite the fact that his contract would be soon be expiring after Euro 2012.

It wasn't his fault that England embarrassed themselves at the World Cup, his personnel were simply not up to par, failing to perform up to their skill levels, not to mention the unreasonable expectations of the media and fans. While it doesn't amount to trophies, it is hard to discard Capello's pristine qualifying campaign leading up to the disaster, with a record of 9-0-1. However, the FA just can't stick to a plan, and moved to push Capello out immediately after Germany ousted England.

Capello has had John Terry's back over this recent racial affair, despite stripping him of his captaincy over the Wayne Bridge fiasco. The Italian reinstated the Chelsea man in 2010, and was fully prepared give him the armband again in June. Capello believed that Terry was/is still the best option to lead England at Euro 2012, yet the manager's thoughts fell on deaf ears within the FA.

Why wasn't Capello allowed to make the call on Terry this time around? The FA left it up to him the last time the defender waded into controversy with Wayne Bridge, so why not now?

The FA knew that the prideful Capello would take this as a slap in the face, and lead to dissent and ultimately, to his resignation.

NO question, Terry has only himself to blame for the controversy surrounding the club over the last few tournaments. Getting involved with a teammate's wife, and then this recent issue with Anton Ferdinand (the brother of another England teammate) is just inexcusable. It has cast a shadow over a team that doesn't need any more attention.

The Italian's resignation has opened the door for dismissed captain John Terry to remove himself from the International squad. Terry can choose to step down in a show of solidarity with Capello for backing him, but also to save some face on the international stage. I doubt that he will, however, since he may believe that such an action would be an admission of guilt.

Terry still has much to offer in terms of talent and leadership to the team, and definitely won't want to go out this way. However, there won't be a better time to leave than now.

SATURDAY
MATCH OF THE WEEK
07:45
Manchester United 3 V Liverpool 1 TSN2 - Dimitar Berbatov, minnow-killer, wants more games. Well, how about you stop disappearing during big matches? Enjoy the hostile reception Luis Suarez, while you thankfully shake hands with Patrice Evra. Tom Cleverley should return, at least for half an hour, but he won't be the reason that United win this match. The Red Devils are out for revenge after the FA Cup ouster, and looked fantastic moving forward last week versus Chelsea. They are at the Theatre of Dreams, and the Reds just can't score these days. In addition, I hope somebody boots Suarez with as much vehemence as he footed Scott Parker with last week.

10:00
Blackburn 2 V QPR 3 - The Yak returns and should score on QPR, but how will Bobby Zamora fare without striker partner Djibril Cisse (hello Jay Bothroyd! What? You're not excited?)? It gets worse for Rovers than the 7-1 thrashing at Arsenal, with Gael Givet starting his suspension and Christopher Samba missing out, this time with a hamstring injury? Is this real or is he just tire of saying that his head is not with the team?

Bolton 2 V Wigan 1 - Ream (Tim) this Wanderers' fans, your American hero has arrived and will likely make his debut at the Reebok. While he won't give the Trotters a Donovan-esque influence, his pace will definitely help. Full-strength Wigan need points and they need them now as hopes to stay in England's top league continue to fade. Could Mohamed Diame be the returning hero? I think not.

Everton 1 V Chelsea 2 SNW - AVB would be wise to stick with the 4-2-3-1 formation that opened up United last week, but who knows what the Portuguese manager will do after seeing owner Roman Abramovich on the practice ground this week. He should not be concerned, as the Russian can't afford to sack him, or else he'll have trouble netting a world class tactician that he needs to guide a world class club. The Blues are now supposed to be locks to sign Shakhtar Donetsk's Willian, another attacking midfielder who could help the club right now, like Kevin De Bruyne.

As for the game, Everton are still penetrable at the back because of no Phil Jagielka, and also miss Leon Osman, Seamus Coleman and Jack Rodwell. The Blues should have Frank Lampard and (dammit!) John Obi Mikel back, in addition to the un-suspended Ashley Cole. "Captain" Terry is on vacation to assist with his "knee" injury, so Gary Cahill should get another start. AVB will not underestimate Everton, and he would be wise not to. He certainly witnessed Roberto Mancini doing just that a few weeks ago. Chelsea with a late winner. Torres?

Fulham 1 V Stoke 0 - The Pavel Pogrebnyak era begins at Craven Cottage, and he should get a good run with Andrew Johnson out, though I expect Clint Dempsey to keep his recent run of goals going. How was Robert Huth's red card appeal rescinded? Who knows, but that's a massive three games without the big German. Fulham pass the Potters with a win that sends Tony Pulis off the rails.

GOONERS' CORNER
Rumours of Arsene Wenger taking over France after Euro 2012 are flying, but I don't see him leaving anytime soon, especially now that Wenger project Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has captured Gooners' hearts over the past few weeks. RvP has also told a Spanish paper that he would be excited over a move to Real Madrid. Uh-Oh. The Dutchman has a contract until 2013 though, but an extension has yet to be discussed.

The Ox will have to make the most of his matches, because Andrei Arshavin and Gervinho should be returning soon (Arshavin has been linked to a move to Anzhi before the Russian window closes on Feb. 24, but Wenger denies it). Marouane Chamakh is back at the Emirates, but he was useless before the Cup of Nations anyways and won't threaten the Ox's playing time. Kieran Gibbs is back, but injuries are still commonplace among the Gunners (Jenkinson, Santos, Diaby, Wilshere). SIDE NOTE: Is it just me or is Francis Coquelin a capable defender all of a sudden, also able to lead a forward push?

Sunderland 3 V Arsenal 2 SN - An FA Cup preview that I think Sunderland pulls out under the magic of Martin O'Neill. Arsenal might be a little full of themselves after the smoke-show of Blackburn.

Swansea 2 V Norwich 0 - Swans at home against fellow promoted Norwich=Three points for Brendan Rogers' side and another clean sheet at the Liberty for Michel Vorm. Scott Sinclair at the double.

12:30
Tottenham 2 V Newcastle 2 SN - In order to get something out of this match, Newcastle will need their new number 9 to continue his Shearer-esque start by scoring on a stubborn Spurs' back four. Papiss Demba Cisse is the new bar coded threat, though he won't have Ryan Taylor to assist, nor will Yohan Cabaye and Cheick Tiote be present in North London. The Senegalese striker should start with Leon Best likely gone for the year. Spurs are missing injury prone RvdV, but Aaron Lennon and Jermain Defoe return to help fill the gap. I think the Harry Redknapp court (though the charges have been dismissed) and England management distractions are enough to cause Tottenham to drop points.

SUNDAY
08:30
Wolves 3 V West Brom 2 SNW - Emmanuel Frimpong, on loan from Arsenal, is out for the year with another knee injury as his bad luck continues.The pressure mounts on Roy Hodgson as the Baggies' chances at staying up start to flap in the wind. Wolves for all three.

11:00
Aston Villa 1 V Manchester City 2 SNW - Reinforcements will assist Villa, and they need it. Welcome back Aga-bons, Marc Albrighton and James Collins. Irishman and "gunner" Robbie Keane makes his last appearance in front of the Villa faithful before heading back to LA (he has one more away appearance, though). It's head-case Mario's last match of his suspension, but Vincent Kompany should be back to help foil that "potent" Villa attack. Despite the presences of Alex McLeish, Villa will almost get something from this match with still shaky City.

EPL Review: Chelsea chokes in a Webb of dives

2012-02-06T21:43:00.000-05:00

IN THIS BLOG:

EPL REVIEW WITH IN-DEPTH MATCH OF THE WEEK - CHELSEA V MAN UNITED

Follow me on Twitter for more Footy updates and beer reviews

My Predictions were ruined by some ridiculous red cards, but there was still a lot of great action that included goals, snow and an incredible comeback by Manchester United.

MATCH OF THE WEEK:
Chelsea 3, Manchester United 3 - If I saw this result without actually seeing the game, I would have been both surprised and chuffed. Considering the Blues were missing Ashley Cole, John Terry, Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba, Ramires and Salomon Kalou, I gave them little chance to defend with a weakened backline and save a home point.

Before the match, it was learned that Chelsea were apparently trying to freeze out Manchester United. Sir Alex Ferguson even said, "You could hang meat in there (locker room)!"

Within the half hour there were two penalty claims by United. In the first instance, Ashley Young would have been better off not to dive, and then maybe he would have won the penalty. Jose Bosingwa did in fact hold the jersey at one point when the English winger was making a run in the box, but not right before the fall. The former Villain needs to work on his timing. As for the Danny Welbeck appeal, it should have been a free kick just outside the box, a definite foul but not in penalty territory.

As halftime approached, the returning to form Daniel Sturridge used Patrice Evra as a pylon, stepping by him and then firing it first off of a hesitant David De Gea, and then off of clueless Jonny Evans and into the goal.

If a 1-0 halftime lead was a glorious start for Chelsea, then the first few minutes of the second 45 had Chelsea and their fans thinking that they were dreaming: Fernando Torres whipped in a great cross for Juan Mata, who finished beautifully on the half-volley by blasting the pass into the roof of the net. It was an amazing touch by the Spaniard that made it 2-0.

It was only a couple of minutes later that Mata played creator, firing in a free kick that David Luiz headed off of Rio Ferdinand's shoulder and past a admiring De Gea. Stamford Bridge (and me) were exclamatory in disbelief. The only problem was that there was still plenty of time left, and with Chelsea's defense less than impressive, the game was not yet over.

Not even ten minutes later, Chelsea handed Man United a lifeline. Howard Webb bought what Evra was selling, though it's hard to argue with the penalty decision, it's just that the theatrics were a little much. Wayne Rooney, a forward-moving force thus far, smashed the spot-kick past Petr Cech. Game on.

The goal clearly rattled Chelsea, their desire to press forward relenting. Ten minutes later, Webb bought into a dubious move again by Welbeck, clearly baiting the official by getting in front of Branislav Ivanovic's foot, and the Englishman made the purchase. What are defenders supposed to do? Are they not allowed to tackle in the box? It's clear that many defenders are going to be even more wary with the recent decisions (see Chris Baird's foot getting run into by Adam "Flailing" Johnson below) Rooney again stepped up and smashed home United's second (so much for his recent penalty troubles).

Torres should have then quelled the comeback. The slumping striker clearly thinking too much when he had the ball in close, taking one too many touches, over-settling the ball, and his chance was cleared. JUST SHOOT the damn ball! If it wasn't clear already, this is a striker without any confidence at all. The old Torres would have blasted it into the net and Chelsea would have the three points.

However, that was not the case, much to my Blues' loving chagrin. Another quarter-hour was all it took for Sir Alex's XI to tie the game.

If the Blues porous defending wasn't already apparent, it was glaringly obvious when Ryan Giggs (who else?) whipped in a perfect cross to the wide-open Chicharito, who had an acre in which to meet the pass and head home. Where was the marking? Both Cahill and Ivanovic were caught in space by themselves, their marks no where nearby.

Tension may have prevented the teams from gambling too much in the last ten minutes or so, but De Gea finally decided to make a great save, this one at the death off of a glorious free kick by Juan Mata.

The final whistle blew with the points divided, Chelsea gutted by a massive choke job. However, Referee Howard Webb had something to do with it, as per usual when it comes to Chelsea. While I admire Webb for being the Ed Hochuli of the Premier League, it appeared that Webb was slipped some cash (or a GNC gift card) at halftime.

Chelsea are now winless in seven matches that Howard Webb has officiated versus teams from Manchester (0 wins, 3 draws, 4 losses). The comeback also masked the great game that Petr Cech had for Chelsea, the first time in a while that he performed like the keeper of a few years ago. He was not at fault on any of the goals.

The substitutions by Ferguson made a massive and immediate impact, the Scot on his managerial game at the Bridge. The petulant and penalty-seeking Young was removed for Javier Hernandez, and the striker shortly began his Mexican Ole Gunnar Solskjaer impression, his pace and determination confusing the Blues. Even bringing on thirty minute specialist Paul Scholes improved possession and threats by Ferguson's Red Devils.

The only positive I that I found out of this debacle is that Chelsea are the only team in the Premier League that haven't lost a game in 2012.

At this point though, I don't really care.

ELSEWHERE
Arsenal 7, Blackburn 1 - Thierry Henry capped the Blackburn beatdown after RvP ripped a hat-trick, and newcomer and England Euro2012 hopeful Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain had two (Mikel Arteta, back from injury, had the other) and was a running machine all game. Of course, the cause was assisted by a red card to studs-up Gael Givet at the end of the first half. Despite the man-advantage, this was vintage Arsenal football. Theo Walcott also kept his run of good play going. The Gunners are now only three points back of Chelsea. It may be early, but I hope Fabio Capello loves the Ox as much as I do, and can keep a string of young English forwards to make an impact at International tournaments (See Owen, Michael, Rooney, Wayne and Walcott, Theo)

Norwich 2, Bolton 0 - Canadian Simeon Jackson helped set up the winner by Andrew Surman, and the Canuck was a force to contend with all day. Bolton surprisingly did not go for it, the Canaries clearly off of their game and sitting back for two-thirds of the match before the breakthrough. Blowing chances after falling behind, Norwich ended all Trotters' hopes when Anthony Pilkington cleaned up the ginger mess that Bogdan left from his initial save.

QPR 1, Wolves 2 - Djibril Cisse didn't take long to add another first for Rangers. Manager Mark Hughes can't be happy with his new striker losing it, reacting to a late Roger Johnson tackle by snapping, shoving Johnson and then grabbing his face like he was due a talking to. Straight red. That's the problem and risk that you take when you sign a hot head like Cisse though. Is it any coincidence that he has the same haircut as Mario Balotelli? I think not. Matt Jarvis and Kevin Doyle then finished some dominant runs of play with beautiful touches and finishes to queue the comeback and give Wolves their first win in ten matches. Wayne Hennessey still had to save his club late though, Rangers almost stealing a point while playing short-handed. The result also cancels out the great play that SWP worked with Bobby Zamora for his first goal as a Rangers' player.

Stoke 0, Sunderland 1 - In the heavy snow, (which was damned entertaining) Potters were unjustly dealt a bad hand. Robert Huth was sent off for a missed tackle that was hardly worthy of a yellow card, though the official clearly believed that the attempt was reckless and endangered another player. It was Huth's first dismissal since he was a Chelsea player eight years ago. It's a damn shame since Sunderland capitalized on the advantage in what had been an even and back and forth match until the official got in the way with a terrible decision. The goal by a young James McClean was absolutely beautiful team passing play that has typified Martin O'Neill's resurrection of the Wearside club. McClean didn't make an appearance under Steve Bruce, another reason why he failed as manager.

Wigan 1, Everton 1 - The Toffees recovered from a Phil Neville own goal that spun wildly to elude a confused Tim Howard (you don't see that too often) but late match rescuer Victor Anichebe came through again with a glancing header, Leighton Baines' lethal ball in the real treat.

West Brom 1, Swansea 2 - Five minutes a flurry was this whole match: West Brom opened but, like always this season, it didn't matter to Swans. The Welsh stormed back with two quick ones, and of course Danny Graham was involved netting the winner, a absolute beaut.

Manchester City 3, Fulham 0 - In the relentless wet snow, City had no trouble with bullet-less Fulham. It was the Adam Johnson and Chris Baird show, and by that I mean it was a display of disgusting proportions. Johnson dove twice in the box, winning one penalty (Aguero converted) on Baird's challenges. The Fulham defender had probably the worst match of his life (or it better be), scoring an own goal (bad luck) and he could/should have been booked for a red card after a brutal scissor tackle on Edin Dzeko. With the outcome already determined, City didn't react, and no card given. Dzeko also finished off the match in the snow with a solid finish in his usual tap-in manner.

Newcastle 2, Aston Villa 1 - A defensive miscommunication almost doomed the Magpies, normally reliable Fabricio Coloccini failing to cover the energized Robbie Keane who volleyed in a nice cross to level it. Of course, Demba Ba scored in his return to Newcastle with a fantastic touch to control and then finish sideways all within a second and a half. Ryan Taylor suffered a massive bruise on the play in getting the ball to his striker. The bludgeoning Stephen Warnock's flying tackle doing the damage. (does he tackle any other way?), but Taylor isn't expected to be out long. Leon Best, though, who also left the match early, is out at least a month. Darren Bent was thwarted by Tim Krul numerous times, including with a few minutes remaining and I'm still not sure how Krul stopped it. Papiss Demba Cisse's winner in his debut was the glorious winner. The Senegalese forward settling and then blasting a top corner missile that Shay Given had no chance on. Welcome to another Demba, the Toon Army welcomes you.

Liverpool 0, Tottenham 0 - Outside of a great chance by Gareth Bale when Niko Kranjcar sent him in close, and a direct header into Brad Friedel's chest by Luis Suarez, there weren't too many chances in this match. Bale's effort was surprisingly weak and aimed right at the keeper, not like the Welshman at all. The most exciting part of the match was the cat that stormed the field and caused a disruption. He now even has his own twitter account. Liverpool, the home team, played five across the middle with Andy Carroll up front (who had a Torres moment again this week). If you're the home team, bloody well go for it! Full credit to Spurs though, keeping chances to the outside and Friedel's keeping was solid. Suarez made his return from suspension, and is clearly still finding his legs, evident in his kicking of Scott Parker in the stomach, a second behind the ball. Tottenham get a big point at a tough ground, and they have their resilient tactical defenses to thank.

Captain Terry Stripped, so who should lead England?

2012-02-03T20:37:00.002-05:00

IN THIS BLOG:

JOHN TERRY LEADS THE THREE LIONS NO MORE

EPL PREVIEW INCLUDING MATCH OF THE WEEK - CHELSEA V MAN U

JOHN TERRY LEADS THE THREE LIONS NO MORE

The FA have taken the armband away from John Terry, even though the Blues' defender is still likely to feature and be a major player in England's Euro 2012 bid. The Association cites the delay of Terry's trial until after the tournament as proper grounds to remove the captaincy, because of the responsibilities, profile and demands that the team's leader must assume and absorb. The PFA agrees but Chelsea and Andres Villas-Boas do not. Terry will remain the Blues' captain in the time being.

The good thing is that Terry will not have to appear, nor face as much attention during the tournament, but somehow the decision seems to indicate that the FA believes that Terry is guilty of racially abusing QPR defender Anton Ferdinand. However, with Anton's brother Rio in the team, does it make sense to even take Terry when they'll be in the same locker room? How can that be good for team chemistry?

It's the second time that Terry has seen his captaincy removed, the other being after accusations of an affair with England teammate Wayne Bridge. No matter what the result of the trial (which should not have been delayed until July in the first place), don't expect Terry to ever receive the captaincy again.

So, the big question is, who will lead England and who would be the best fit? The choices:

Rio Ferdinand - NO - Not captain of his own team, and doesn't want it anyhow.

Wayne Rooney - NO - He's missing the first two games of Euro 2012 and still has some anger management issues to deal with

Joe Hart - NO - While I think he'd be a fantastic captain if he were in the field, the Keeper (just like the goalie in hockey - remember how ridiculous it was when Vancouver gave Roberto Luongo the C?) should not wear the armband, they need to be out on the pitch

Steven Gerrard - Yes - While he doesn't have many good years left nor the health for those years, he has the experience and solid disciplinary record to warrant the honour.

Frank Lampard - NO - He's just not consistently healthy and, like Ferdinand, is not the captain of his own team although under different circumstances.

Ashley Cole - NO - Another veteran, fantastic defender and overall player, but he has too much baggage and like Ferdinand, does not want the pressure of the captaincy.

Gareth Barry - Maybe - Is he vocal enough? He did play well enough at the World Cup, but he needs to play more for Manchester City.

Glen Johnson - He's been around long enough, but he is not a leader on the pitch, and often leaves his fellow defenders in the lurch through his gambles.

Scott Parker - Maybe - Since moving to Tottenham, his has excelled and taken a leadership role on the pitch. He'd have to do something about that hairstyle though, for he looks like a WWII Army Pilot.

EPL PREVIEW

SATURDAY
08:00
Arsenal 3 V Blackburn 1 TSN2 - It was Ryan Nelsen who was transferred, not Christopher Samba, but the latter will still not suit up for Rovers. Not only are Steve Kean's troops short at the back, but Yak has his final match suspension to serve, and they have an ill Goodwillie. Even if Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain cannot play (knee injury), the Gunners should have no problem with Rovers, though I've said that before.

10:00
Norwich 2 V Bolton 1 SN - After getting pegged back by Sunderland last week, Carrow Road offers a friendlier result, but resurgent Wanderers make it tough as they attempt to tread water just above the relegation line (seven away defeats).

QPR 2 V Wolves 0 SNW  - Welcome Bobby Zamora, and say hello to your new strike partner, Djibril Cisse. These two additions along with returns of Adel Taarabt and Armand Traore from the African Cup of Nations make for a massive boost to the club. While Wolves will introduce Sebastien Bassong, it pales in comparison to the new Rangers that they'll be facing. It could get ugly at Loftus for one away win Wolves.

Stoke 2 V Sunderland 2 - Full-strength Stoke go against the hottest team in the Premier League over the last two months, making for a classic the Battle at the Britannia. The Potters will look to rebound and impress Tony Pulis after his scathing assessment of their performance at United.

West Brom 2 V Swansea 2 - This is a puzzler: West Brom have only won twice at home against seven losses and two draws, while Swansea have only won once away against seven losses and three draws. So who takes this one? Having watched Swans play with no fear against impotent Chelsea, I think the Baggies just don't have the weapons or defenders to keep up with Swans, even if they are at the Hawthornes.

Wigan 2 V Everton 3 - Another returnee from Africa is Mohamed Diame, the creative midfielder that will no doubt boost the Latics. They'll need it since the Toffees will trot out newcomer Nikica Jelavic from Rangers, along with Landon Donovan who continues to look better every week. This should be a classic because David Moyes is forced to field another makeshift fullback situation due to injuries.

12:30
Manchester City 3 V Fulham 1 SN  - Surely City get back on track at home to Fulham, even without the Head Case and the Toure's. On loan midfielder David Pizarro is available from Roma, but who knows if he'll get into the game if it's meaningful. Mousa Dembele's return will help, but not enough against a team on the rebound.

SUNDAY

08:30
Newcastle 3 V Aston Villa 1 SNW - Senegal suffering a surprise boot from the African Cup of Nations is great news for the Magpies, as it means that Demba Ba and new striker Papiss Demba Cisse are both able to suit up at St. James'. Their return should cancel out the missing Yohan Cabaye, on match two of three of his suspension. Villa are likely missing Aga-bons and Marc Albrighton, but they should be more concerned about how they're going to defend potent Newcastle at home.

MATCH OF THE WEEK
11:00
Chelsea 1 V Manchester United 3 SNW  - It doesn't look good for the home side, with Ashley Cole suspended for his two yellows at Swansea, and Ramires and John Terry both out due to injury. The immortal Frank Lampard could play, but he really shouldn't be risked with crucial Champions League and FA Cup matches coming up. While fourth place is still a minimal League goal for Roman Abramovich's side, risking a player not near 100% is not worth it for a match that they have little chance to win.

I'm sure we all remember the reverse fixture where Fernando Torres endured the miss-heard-round-the-world, but remember that he did also net against United. As for the Red Devils, they have the opposite situation of Chelsea in that they are welcoming back a bunch of players. Wayne Rooney, Ashley Young, Nani and Tom Cleverley all return, though so does shaky David De Gea. This is perhaps the only good news for the Blues prior to this match. I feel as though a re-enactment of last season's carving will take place, with Rooney feeding Chicharito. The Mexican will likely tear David Luiz apart again. A back four of Ryan Bertrand, Jose Bosingwa, Gary Cahill and Branislav Ivanovic is hardly intimidating.

NOTES:
- United have not beaten Chelsea in the League at the Bridge since 2002
- United are out of all major Cup competition by January for the first time, making every League match that much more crucial
- Howard Webb will referee this match. I mention this because Chelsea have only four losses and two draws when he officiates a Blues-Red Devils match
- Chelsea can't score of late...almost 400 minutes (not including penalties and injury-time own goals)

SUMMATION: I am not going to enjoy Superbowl number one of my Sunday.

MONDAY
15:00
Liverpool 2 V Tottenham 2 TSN2 - It's appropriate that this massive game gets a day all to itself. Luis Suarez makes his return after eight games, and will likely come off of the bench as he's out of match fitness, though captain Gerrard should start. As for Spurs, newcomer Ryan Nelsen misses out due to injury, but Louis Saha will suit up, possibly in place of Emmanuel Adebayor. However, I expect the Togolese player to fight off his bothersome hammy for this big match which he typically raises his play for. Aaron Lennon and William Gallas are also injured, putting more pressure on young Kyle Walker to cover for the liability that is Ledley King.

Anemic City could get Mancini Sacked

2012-02-02T07:55:00.003-05:00

EPL REVIEW: CITY'S SHOCKING LOSS TO EVERTON AND GAMES IN A SENTENCE

Not a bad week for some of my predictions: Spurs and Chelsea scores correct, while I only missed the results on Liverpool, Everton and Fulham. Who could have seen the Toffees coming? Well, I should have, given David Moyes' four previous wins over Roberto Mancini, and City's recent run. In any case, Manchester United fans are beaming with new found hope that their club will avoid only their fifth trophy-less EPL season.

NOTE: How randomly innovative was the Everton fans apparent protest of Ryanair, handcuffing himself to one of Joe Hart's goalposts? Apparently he was protesting his daughter's dismissal from the airline to the boss, who was in attendance.

Everton 1, Manchester City 0 - All of a sudden, Roberto Mancini's job is in peril. If he cannot inject some life into his lagging club, he's going to lose the only trophy that matters at this point in the season. While they are in the Europa League, it is considered second rate. A trophy that they used to strive for. The fans and the ownership want the Premiership. They want to put one over on their trophy-laden neighbours. If the Italian doesn't win that, I'd put a case of beer on him losing his job.

Mancini has been taking the blame for his team's failures of late, citing his poor tactics and substitutions, and, while that takes unneeded pressure off of his players with this edition of his head games, it masks the fact that they are not producing consistent effort (being shut out in four of their last nine). David Silva was his usual creative self, but he's nothing without teammates getting open and fighting for space and possession. The Toffees were tougher (Royston Drenthe, Landon Donovan) and more convincing that the visitors, Mancini unable to turn to the bench that suddenly seems rather thin. With the transfer window now closed, City have to deal with what they have. Carlos Tevez anyone?

Full credit to Everton for preventing anemic City from penetrating through the middle and pushing them out wide and getting fantastic efforts from their full backs (Tony Hibbert, John Heitinga), but what happened to the talented City team that ripped apart teams until late December?

GAMES IN A SENTENCE
Manchester United 2, Stoke City 0 - Tony Pulis must still be irate over his team gifting (capable) third-string keeper Ben Amos and Rooney-less led United team two penalties that were clearly unnecessary: Chicharito and Dimitar Berbatov's spot kicks were hardly convincing, unlike former teammate Darron Gibson's strike was as he did his old lads a favour. NOTE: United keeper Anders Lindegaard is out four weeks with damaged ankle ligaments.

Tottenham 3, Wigan 1 - Spurs looked absolutely brilliant against helpless Wigan, who really had no chance going in against full-form Gareth Bale's deft touch and Luka Modric's finesse; the Latics should take no shame in this loss, they were simply outclassed. NOTE: Spurs stole defender Ryan Nelsen from Blackburn on a free transfer

Bolton 0, Arsenal 0 - The old Gunners return, firing blanks and blowing chances in close against a team that Owen Coyle has resurrected, but still should have been beaten via Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Theo Walcott, Robin van Persie...you get the idea.

Swansea 1, Chelsea 1 - The Gary Cahill-benched-John Terry and Ramires-less-Blues stole a point by continuing to attack after a dire first half against a tough Swans team at home who should have taken the three points on former Blues Scott Sinclair's beauty spin-and-fire. NOTE: Ashley Cole will miss Sunday's massive game with Man United after picking up two yellows; in addition, John Terry's court date has been set for after the European Championships. How is this right? It should be settled, and settled right away.

Wolves 0, Liverpool 3 - Wolves hit woodwork, shot wide in close and were thwarted by Pepe Reina in the first half, and then the new and fluid Liverpool of recent Cup glory emerged with even Andy Carroll scoring (did you see that Fernando?) as this turned into a blowout.

Blackburn 0, Newcastle 2 - Magpies bounce back as they usually do after a tough loss, causing an own goal by Rovers and receiving the acrobatic keeping of penalty-stopper Tim Krul in completing the double over Blackburn. NOTE: Yohan Cabaye will miss the next three matches after having his appeal denied by the FA for kicking out at a Brighton & Hove player. It will be a big absence but if Peter Lovenkrands and Gabriel Obertan step up as they did today, they'll earn points in the next two.

Aston Villa 2, QPR 2 - Two strikers scored in the club debuts: Djibril Cisse (that's four for him - Liverpool, Sunderland and Lazio) Stephen Warnock and Charles N'Zogbia (hold on, it just seems as though it was N'Zogbia's debut, while Warnock just looks like he plays for the opponent: Mr. OG/Giveaway), Villa coming back from 2-0 (Darren Bent with his 100th EPL goal) after blowing that same lead to Arsenal in the FA Cup on Sunday, and just missing that third goal at the death.

Sunderland 3, Norwich 0 - As predicted, the Canaries were finally prevented from scoring for the first time in the League this year, the Black Cats now up to 19 points in seven weeks since Manager Martin O'Neill took over and resuscitated players like Stephane Sessegnon (scored), Sebastian Larsson and Craig Gardner. NOTE: Wayne Bridge debuted for Sunderland after moving from inactivity at City.

Fulham 1, West Brom 1 - It was immediately evident that Fulham had lost Bobby Zamora to QPR because a striker of his ilk would have been enough to earn three point against a Baggies team that hung around long enough without possession, benefiting from the Cottagers lack of finishing quality.

Finding Hop Glory: Flying Monkeys' Tap Takeover at Gambrinus Bistro

2012-02-01T14:14:00.002-05:00

It was with great anticipation that me and three close friends lined up outside Gambrinus Bistro in London this past Saturday (my Brother joined us later). We arrived early to ensure the securing of a table, expecting a full house. With the taps at London's craft beer leader being taken over by Flying Monkeys Brewery out of Barrie, we were certain there would be a high demand for seats.

We have all tasted Flying Monkeys' offerings already available at the LCBO (Anti-Gravity, Hoptical Illusion, Confederation Amber Ale, Cascadian, Smashbomb and SuperCollider), which prompted us to plan our attendance at this rare event. Twenty total taps would be filled with Flying Monkeys' goodness, and we weren't about to risk missing out.

Our table and beer and food tokens were secured quickly. We began our foray into a hoppy evening with the Smooth Hoperator (American Imperial IPA-8%), a blast of fresh grapefruit citrus aromas and flavour, with a solid pine backbone. If you're a hop head, this one is for you. Since I am one of these fanatics, an 8.5+/10 seemed appropriate.

Spinning away from the IPA but remaining in that vein, we ventured into the Righteous Rye-PA (American Imperial Pale Ale-9%). This beer had a bubblegum nose but was also biting, spicy and sweet. It's a mouth-smasher but, nevertheless, it combined well (8.5/10).

Changing it up to a beer with more depth, we chose Beast 2 (Russian Imperial Stout-12%). This monster exuded coffee flavours with strong alcohol while still maintaining a subtle, clean, finish with little carbonation (8.25/10).

Sticking with the larger brews, Big Red (American Imperial Red Ale-10%) was next. The hops blasted out of the Flying Monkeys taster glasses with a biting start, but the flavour was a little shallow, finishing very dry with a thin aftertaste. While we did love the hops, we wanted more of the red to come through (8/10).

The Pre-Divinity (Uber Imperial Porter-13%) was next up to tackle our sweet taste buds. While the name and style didn't seem to jive with the flavours, we still loved this beer. From our experience, we felt it was a hybrid of Southern Tier's Imperial Chokolat Stout and Imperial Creme Brulee Milk Stout. In this delicious treat we found molasses, marshmallow flavours and a long lingering sweetness (8.75/10) .

While all of this was going on, the chefs at Gambrinus provided some delicious food to keep its patrons fed and happy. Sliders, schnitzel topped with sauerkraut, onion rings, chicken strips and meat on a stick were just some of the offerings also available at the food table, conveniently and strategically adjacent to our table.

After filling ourselves up and clearing our palates, we tried Sound Without Vision (American Pale Ale-7%) that had a caramel nose but was a little watery (7.5/10); the Intergalactic Pale Ale with Galaxy hops (American Pale Ale-5.5%) that was smooth with little carbonation (8.75/10);Effinguud (Nitro Milk Stout-7%) that lived up to its name with a smoked coffee flavour and medium sweetness - delicious (8.75/10); Badonk-a-Dunkel Weizen Doppelbock (Doppelbock-7%) consisted of balanced, wheaty hops for a subtle, easy drinking beer that contained little aftertaste. It wasn't pretentious at all (8.25+/10).

The clever names just kept coming with the Creamsicle (American Light Ale-4.5%), that represented its name perfectly and was probably the surprise of the evening. If it became a regular brew, it would qualify as a Summer treat for its combination of ginger ale and cream soda with a hint of grape (9/10). The Patriot (American Wheat Ale-4%) concluded our tap take of sampling because the kegs ran out of the one-offs. It's a sweet wheat that was also a pleasant surprise. Refreshing, subtly sweet with grassy notes and a pleasant aftertaste (8.75/10).

Unfortunately, there were many other thirsty craft beer lovers at this event, so we missed out on Drunk Monk (Belgian Style Pale Ale-6%); the Little Red (American Red Ale-5.5%); Beer Geeks Stout (Russian Imperial Stout-12.5%); and the Bubblescream (American Light Ale-4%).

Shortly after, manager Milos Kral walked around bearing a sign indicating that the bludgeoningly-delicious Flying Monkeys SuperCollider Double IPA was on tap, he and his staff quickly changed over the rest of the taps in record time. Flying Monkeys' Cascadian,Smashbomb, Anti-Gravity and Hoptical Illusion were then joined by other great craft beers, some of which we sampled.

We were thoroughly impressed with theMcAuslan Scotch Ale (smoky big malts with toffee hints and a touch of hops on the finish); while the Taps Midnight Wheat also impressed for its cocoa and coffee flavours and grassy wheat on the finish. It was medium bodied for a very refreshing beverage.

It was appropriate that the Midnight Wheat was our final beer of the evening as the two hands neared meeting at the top of the clock. This flavourful and well-organized evening made my trip from Toronto well worthwhile.

We offer a big thank you and cheers to Gambrinus and Flying Monkeys for organizing this event so well. Rest assured that if this is a regular occurrence, there will be more people joining me for the road trip from Toronto.

Reds to Revert to Old Ways as the Transfer Deadline Looms

2012-01-30T22:38:00.000-05:00

EPL PREVIEW

Before I get to the games, news has come out that Gary Speed's suicide may have been accidental. The coroner could not determine if the death was on purpose, so it is possible that it may have happened without full intention by the Wales Manager. No matter what the final investigation reveals, it doesn't make his passing any easier as now his passing seems to be even more confusing.

TUESDAY
14:45
Swansea 1 V Chelsea 1 SNW  @23:00 - A crushing blow for the Blues is the loss of Ramires to a knee injury during their 1-0 win at QPR (a Revlon penalty call converted by Juan Mata). While he'll still return this season, he is out for three or four weeks. Chelsea have signed Genk's Kevin De Bruyne, but he'll immediately be loaned back to the Belgian club and become a full-time Chelsea player next season. I'm sure that if Chelsea could dress him right away they would, but it's probably part of the deal to keep the player in Belgium. John Terry is also missing out to deal with his legal issues, so Gary Cahill will partner David Luiz. Maybe Cahill can teach the wandering Brazilian to stay in his own half more often. Swansea meanwhile, will look to continue it's stellar form at home, especially in preventing goals versus a team struggling to score.

Tottenham 3 V Wigan 1 SNW  @19:00 - Sandro, William Gallas and Tom Huddlestone are the only absentees for Spurs, which is a short list given what they've been through this year. Wigan are three points buried in last, and this tilt does not make it any better for the Latics as they just can't keep up with Spurs' speed or scoring prowess. Wigan did secure midfielder Jean Beausejour from Birmingham, but it probably comes too late to assist at the Lane. Wigan will try to stop an eight match winless streak that includes a four-match losing run, but they will leave with nothing. Tottenham should widen the gap on fourth place Chelsea with this win.

Wolves 2 V Liverpool 2 SNW  @21:00 - Fresh off massive Cup wins over the Manchesters, the Reds revert to dropping needed and attainable points in a league match yet again. Don't forget that 3-1 loss to Bolton just yet. If only Dirk Kuyt could provide the energy that he did in beating MU, Liverpool might just take these points against lesser teams. Like Fernando Torres, Andy Carroll is getting increasingly involved and dangerous (and I'm not referring to his flailing pony tail) and provided the assist on Kuyt's winner. It's been revealed that Kenny Dalglish will not venture into the transfer market, so don't expect any infusions, 'Scousers. Wolves are missing suspended captain Karl Henry, but that's a good thing until he simmers down. Mick McCarthy's team are currently reeling without a win in ten matches in all competitions, so they won't go down without grinding it out in these desperate times.

15:00
Everton 0 V Manchester City 2 SNW - No Mario Balotelli, but the more important roster news is the Vincent Kompany is back. Good luck getting through the back with your glutton of strikers, David Moyes. Oh wait, the Toffees still don't have any. They are apparently a little enamoured with Rangers' Nikica Jelavic (30G/45 Games), however, and could land the striker before the deadline. Move it Moyes, you have to do something here. City will be aiming to secure a more convincing win than their lucky three pointers against Wigan and Spurs produced, so expect a lot of Kun Aguero.

Manchester United 3 V Stoke 1 SN - Scrappy Stoke are out of their league here, despite shaky and injured United. The funny thing is that Paul Scholes has actually been very effective in his stints since his return, which he claims was his idea. Maybe that doesn't reflect well on Sir Alex's team, but it's all that they have at this point. Now, despite his enormous cost and his youth, isn't David De Gea due for a benching behind Anders Lindegaard? Hasn't the Dane earned more regular starts for United? He's made one mistake, and other than that he's seemed to have earned more trust from his defenders. Sunday's FA Cup loss to Liverpool was another match with more than enough evidence that its time for a change. De Gea is hesitant, lacks command and composure, mostly evidenced by Daniel Agger's opener. What was De Gea doing? Go out and challenge! Any chance at a trophy is already slipping from the Red Devils' grasp if something isn't done soon.

WEDNESDAY
14:45
Aston Villa 1 V QPR 1 SNW @ 01:00 - Gutted by blowing a 2-0 lead to Arsenal in the FA Cup, and seeing any disciplinary action on Robin van Persie and his elbow rejected, Villa fail to pick up the full points at home. Mark Hughes faces the team that he thought he would be asked to manage when he quit Fulham, but at least he has his new team listening. We'll just see how long that lasts. Djibril Cisse is apparently going to join Rangers, a massive boost for the striker deprived club, as the Frenchman leaves Lazio.

15:00
Blackburn 1 V Newcastle 2SNW  @19:00 - No Ryan Nelsen, likely no Christopher Samba and a suspended Yak for Blackburn. Despite crashing away at Brighton & Hove in Cup action, Alan Pardew's men rebound, for they seem to have a great ability to bounce back from defeats. Yohan Cabaye has been charged with violent conduct for kicking out in that FA Cup match, clearly showing some frustration as the loss was played out. The Frenchman has until tomorrow night to respond to the charge, but it is not known what the punishment will be just yet.

Bolton 2 V Arsenal 2 SNW - Can Bolton make it two in a row over a top club and continue to dig out from relegation? Nope, but they dent Arsenal yet again. Wanderers are making a last minute push for Crystal Palace's forward Wilfried Zaha to add to their addition of American Tim Ream. While the BIG surprise is Arsene Wenger is not going to make a move. Shocking, no? He has, however, expressed his adoration for the under-achieving and loss-inducing Andrei Arshavin. The Frenchman seems blind to the Russian's failings, or he's just too stubborn to admit that it's just not working. Sure Arshavin may have helped stretch Villa on Sunday, but it's not hard to get width on those horrid full backs. Good news for the Gunners is that Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is making massive strides and could even compete for England's Euro 2012 a la Theo Walcott. The winger doesn't seem to be fazed by the top league, and can dribble with immense speed.

Fulham 2 V West Brom 1 SNW  @21:00 - The Cottagers ran into the Landon Donovan train on the weekend, but won't slip up at home to fellow Cup-punted West Brom, who are surprisingly only one point behind the West Londoners.

Sunderland 2 V Norwich 0 SNW  @23:00 - The Canaries will be shut out in the League for the first time this season by Martin O'Neill, who leap-frog the East Anglians. Norwich will welcome Leeds' midfielder Jonny Howson to assist in their FA Cup run which now moves onto hosting Leicester City. The Black Cats are missing Niklas Bendtner, who's still suffering from facial injuries. They'll now be able to score more easily.

The Garrison Brewing Series - Get me Back to Halifax

2012-01-27T19:58:00.002-05:00

Garrison Brewing LCBO Feature

I walked to the LCBO on Queens Quay near Yonge this past Wednesday during my lunch break, solely to pick up some more Central City Red Racer. I was filling an order for my brother before it flew off of the shelves as the past two shipments had. When I made my way to the rear of the store where all of the hoppy goodness is kept, I was taken aback by the display of beers from Garrison Brewing out of Halifax. From the websites I had been checking, this Brewery series was supposed to be out on January 29th, so I had to immediately modify my course of action. First, I called my Brother to inform him of this surprise (and welcome) finding, and he promptly placed an order. He did show concern for my well-being, however, asking if I could carry his detailed and lengthy order in addition to the beers that I was picking up for myself. Considering his LCBO in Oakville was not destined to receive this special shipment, I assured him that I would be okay. I work out for these critical moments.

I visited Garrison a number of years ago and enjoyed some of their previous offerings (including the Imperial IPA that came out in Ontario a few months ago), I know that their beers are refined, adventurous and, most importantly, delicious. While I hadn't tasted any of these five brews (see below), I didn't hesitate. I purchased all five because I knew I would not be disappointed. I was most intrigued by the Spruce beer, partly because twitter blew up with love for it over Christmas, and also because I had never tasted a beer with spruce as the key ingredient.

After strategically packing my LCBO vinyl pouch and accompanying paper bag, I trudged back to work fully armed with a good share of East Coast goodness. Now that I have tasted them all, the LCBO can be assured that I will be coming back until there are no more left on the shelves. I just hope that this quintet of Haligonian goodness will return before too long.

Winter Warmer 500 mL Alcohol/Price: 6.5%/$5.25

Pour: Dark, ruby red with a frothy, long-lasting head.

Aroma: Many spices, but cloves seem to be dominant, with all-spice and cinnamon in the background.

Taste: Mildly sweet, with a bitterly dry and refined finish. On the second go, many more tastes are revealed with malt and nutmeg showing up in the many flavours of this beer.

Rating: 8.5/10 – There are a lot of flavours, tones and feelings with every sip of this beer, yet somehow Garrison refines it so well that the drinker is not confused. I was wowed, and then warmed.

Black I.P.A. 500 mL Alcohol/Price: 6.2%/$4.25
Pour: Almost jet black with an off-white head.

Aroma: Medium pine-like hoppiness with burnt malt.
Taste: This really is a solid IPA and Stout combination, with burnt caramel and malt undertones, that finishes sweetly and crisply.

Rating: 8.5+/10 - There is a hint of smokiness in the finish that adds uniqueness to this delicious beer.

Grand Baltic Porter 500 mL Alcohol/Price: 9.0%/$5.95
Pour: Robust brown with a solid tan head.

Aroma: Slight coffee hints, but a lot of toffee coming out with a tad of malts and alcohol.

Taste: Bitter toffee, slight licorice, soy sauce and solid molasses on the backbone. For a 9%'er, it is surprisingly medium-bodied, with an enjoyable, lingering finish.

Rating: - 8.5+/10 The flavours are bordering on Belgian-style ale, but not crossing that line. It is well-crafted and balanced, so be warned that you'll forget it's high on the ABV scale.

Pils 500 mL Alcohol/Price: 4.7%/$4.25
Pour: Apple juice coloured with medium, quickly-dissolving lacing.

Aroma: Grainy malts with grassy hop notes.

Taste: Refreshing, thirst quenching pilsner with a dry, cheek-puckering finish of dry malts and slight hops. After a big dinner, this was a perfect way to get back on board..

Rating: -8/10 - I'm not typically a fan of pilsners, but it'd be very hard to turn one of these down.

Spruce Beer 500 mL Alcohol/Price: 7.5%/$5.25
Pour: Deep, shining amber with a thick tan head.

Aroma: Some fruit hints but barely detectable through the Christmas tree-like fresh Spruce notes that linger.

Taste: The flavours that liken to a 2-month old Christmas tree resonate surprisingly well. I don't know how Garrison does it, but I thoroughly enjoyed this beer. Some breweries slap a flavour or intriguing spice in their beer's name, but don't deliver. Garrison has produced the perfect amount of spruce flavour, bitterness and hops on the finish that merge to near perfection.

Rating: 8.75+/10

EPL Review: Brilliant Bale beaten by Bludgeoner Balotelli

2012-01-23T22:08:00.000-05:00

Before I get into the EPL Review, some get well wishes to legendary Chelsea striker Bobby Tambling, owner of 202 career goals for the Blues, 8 hat tricks and a club best 54% strike rate.

EPL REVIEW

This week was one of the best for great goals and incredible drama, with London going down yet again to Manchester

Norwich 0, Chelsea 0 - Check out my Full Match Report on the Football Website: It's Round & it's White But I must add that Chelsea really need to secure a winger before the transfer window closes, because using Juan Mata out wide is not taking advantage of his great passing ability. Why was Malouda put in the centre when he replaced the injured Lampard? Maybe they'll figure it out in Mallorca or something, but Mata needs to work from a central role. In any case, fourth place for Chelsea isn't really too far from what was expected, as switching to a new coach and new system definitely strains a team. It's just the way the results are coming that makes it hard to accept as a fan.

Fulham 5, Newcastle 2 - Vastly outplayed in the first half by the Magpies, Fulham exploded in the second with Clint Dempsey netting three second half goals among the five that erased Danny Guthrie's wonder strike. The first of the five resulted from a questionable penalty call when Damien Duff was fouled outside the box. After that, momentum carried the home team to an easy victory with Alan Pardew's men falling apart at the back. Positives for the Magpies out of this thrashing is the continued improvement by Hatem Ben Arfa (he netted the second with a great run and tuck), and that Yohan Cabaye was able to play after all.

Everton 1, Blackburn 1 - Each team scored after committing an unchecked handballs. First, Marouane Fellaini guided a pass to Tim Cahill (13 months there, Tim) to pop home, and then David Goodwillie "finished" by deflecting Cahill's attempted clearance right back and into the net with his gut and arm. Christopher Samba did not dress for this one, Steve Kean choosing to leave the unhappy defender off the team list.

QPR 3, Wigan 1 - Another amazing match full of fantastic goals. Heidar Helguson had two to give Mark Hughes his first win as Rangers' Manager. Akos Buszaky (who?) ripped home an unstoppable free kick that turned out to be the winner, but Wigan gave Rangers trouble though, as Hugo Rodallega briefly answered Buszaky's wonder free-kick with a stunner of his own. Then Ali Al-Habsi stopped his fourth penalty of the season on Helguson. Tommy Smith concluded it all with a run and launch that Al-Habsi had no chance on. Who would have though QPR V Wigan would be so good?

Stoke 1, West Brom 2 - I'm through trying to guess how the Baggies are going to do, as they walked into the Britannia and nailed Stoke when Graham Dorrans struck in injury time to shock the Potters faithful. It came only five minutes after Stoke looked to have stolen a point they hadn't earned. Sure, Thomas Sorensen allowed two weak goals, but the visitors dominated play and hit the post on a couple of occasions. Throw in a Ben Foster save on Jonathan Walters' (unwarranted) penalty, and West Brom are now seven points clear of the drop. What's even more shocking is that it ended thirty years without a win at Stoke for West Brom.

Sunderland 2, Swansea 0 - A rare recent stumble by Swans, but it was really a matter of the class performance that Martin O'Neill's team put together that thwarted any attack that Swansea tried to generate. Sebastien Sessegnon's winner was a stunner: He curled his attempt from a bad angle and well out of the reach of a helpless Michel Vorm. The Benin striker then set-up Craig Gardner, whose looping beaut of a shot sent O'Neill skyward.

Wolves 2, Aston Villa 3 -Robbie Keane on the mark twice, a spin-and-fire, and the late winner on a great solo effort from well out. It was an absolutely thrilling match to watch, which probably surprised those tuning in, even if you are a fan of either team. Both squads played with much width, pace and attack (yes, even Villa), and the back and forth made for a great derby match. Keane has now scored for six different EPL Teams (Villa, Liverpool, Tottenham, Coventry City, Leeds United, West Ham). It should be noted that Karl Henry also contributed to Villa's cause, stupidly kicking poor Marc Albrighton in the chest and getting ejected from the game. I know Albrighton's hair is unkempt, but it's not offensive. Maybe it's time to rethink Henry's Captaincy, Mick McCarthy, as now he's lost for three matches. I do have a beef with Darren Bent though: ditch the gloves, especially if you're wearing short-sleeves, genius.

Bolton 3, Liverpool 1 -Yes, I meant Bolton over Liverpool in my predictions. Where did this offense come from? Well, how about it was created from the Reds porous defense, who allowed Mark Davies to waltz in and finish, one against three. Nigel Reo-Coker also scored, so Kenny Dalglish should know that his team is in dire straits. Then Gretar Steinsson's fantastic take off of a corner, low and into the corner of the net. Dalglish went off in his post-match comments, calling out his team's poor attitude and it's hard to blame him, his players deserved to be ripped. This is Liverpool, after all.

Arsenal 1, Manchester United 2 - The Fernando Torres bug hit RvP, though he did score the only Gunners' only marker. He had a couple of earlier chances that he normally makes without issue but fired wide. Arsenal fans booed the removal of the spirited Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain for Andrei Arshavin, and even RvP was not approving of the substitute either, which should be a massive concern to Arsene Wenger. The Russian promptly blew coverage of Antonio Valencia, allowing him loads of space to set-up Danny Welbeck's winner It wasn't only him though, as usually reliable Thomas Vermaelen and Johan Djourou weren't exactly great at marking either. That's three straight losses for Arsenal, and it is also United's eighth win on the road this year (8-2-1). What a change over last year's awful away record (5-10-4). In a positive Gunners note, Per Mertesacker actually prevented a goal with an impressive goal line clearance.

MATCH OF THE WEEK
Manchester City 3, Tottenham 2 - Well, my prediction for a draw was going accordingly until Mario Balotelli escaped with assault on an already down and hurt Scott Parker (Balotelli was already on a yellow). Referee Howard Webb was unfortunately following the play up the pitch and didn't see it. The Italian`s behaviour is an absolute disgrace, and he has been suspended four matches for violent conduct.for the disgusting stamp on the Spurs' midfielder. It's another example of a lack of discipline on City, and may end up costing them the title if it can't be controlled. But what is Balotelli angry about? Where doesn't this hatred stem from?

Tottenham defended very well in the first half, refusing to be broken down by the beast that is Sergio Aguero, Redknapp's tactics working perfectly to frustrate City. The home side looked poor in the first half, but it's more of a credit to Tottenham. However, David Silva's magic returned in the second 45' though, as he found Samir Nasri with a beauty of a pass for the first goal, also delivering the corner on the mess that was City's second. The second converted by Joleon Lescott who bumbled into the net with the ball, though Kyle Walker's snooze should be noted. Lescott is also guilty of elbowing Younes Kaboul, but did not receive punishment because intent couldn't be determined. Check the replay and see if you can see intent. I think it's glaringly obvious.

Elsewhere on the pitch, Joe Hart had a rare miscue, coming out to unnecessarily challenge Jermain Defoe after Stefan Savic coughed up yet another chance to the opposition with a wayward header that`s purpose is still being determined.

But what about Bale's incredible bending goal to even it up at two goals apiece? A one-timer that curled away from the lunging Joe Hart, further growing Bale`s legendary status as an all-time Tottenham great. Too soon? I don't think so.

Spurs came within inches of taking the full three points in extra time, Jermain Defoe barely missing another stellar pass by Gareth Bale that had the perfect amount of pace to elude both City's defence and Joe Hart. But the striker just couldn't make contact soon enough to put it into the goal. Even though I know the outcome, I still think that Defoe scores whenever I see the clip, but the ball rolls just wide.

It got worse for Harry Redknapp, Balotelli then putting away the injury time penalty that was awarded for being taken down by careless Ledley King (who was awful). It must have stung Harry Redknapp and Spurs' hard as they deserved better. Balotelli must be credited for his incredibly consistent and confident penalty taking, though. He's never intimidated by having to take a pressurized kick.

After fighting back from two goals down and coming within inches of taking the three points via , Spurs deserved better from this pulse-pounding game, which featured four goals in nine minutes. It's a crushing end to Tottenham's title hopes, and it's unfortunate that it had to end this way.

EPL Preview: London V Manchester-Capital Revenge

2012-01-20T21:34:00.004-05:00

In this Back of the Onion Bag, I preview Edition 21 of the EPL Season: Arsenal "welcome" Manchester United, who smoked the Gunners 8-2 back in August. Surely all of the Gunners and Gooners remember this (though they're trying to forget), and would love for revenge that would peg back Sir Alex's title hopes.

Follow me on Twitter:

SATURDAY
07:45
Norwich 1 V Chelsea 3 TSN2 - Branislav Ivanovic returns to bolster the squad, and Gary Cahill should also make his Blues' debut, but as a sub. Cahill's been noticeably under performing, though who can blame the guy when he was stuck with dire Bolton until now. He should be fine. Over one-third of the Canaries goals have come from set-pieces this season, BUT, Chelsea have yet to concede from a corner. Oh damn, did I just jinx my team? Better cover Grant Holt's noggin, John Terry. Fernando Torres. At least he's looked fitter, is playing with more pace and is more interested than Andy Carroll. Is it obvious that I'm looking for positives for this 50 million Pound signing?

10:00
Everton 2 V Blackburn 1 SNW - No Yakubu, who's serving a suspension for a cleat scraping incident last week. Will Chris Samba play though? His head is clearly not with the team, but he's still probably better than whomever his replacement would be. He should also be wary about being labelled as a malcontent too. If he doesn't play, expect at least three by Everton, produced by Landon Donovan and Royston Drenthe.

Fulham 2 V Newcastle 2 SN - Alan Pardew signed another Senegalese player in Papiss Cisse, but there's a problem: He's on the National team as well and thus, at the African Cup of Nations. I believe that this club really believes in each other and work harder than any other squad I've seen this year. With the Cottagers coming off of an embarrassing loss at ten men Rovers, they'll be amped to correct that slip-up. I'm just not convinced they have enough to break Newcastle down for all three points.

QPR 2 V Wigan 1 - Oh hey, Joey Barton is back, and Mark Hughes gets his first win with Rangers with the backing of his firecracker of a midfielder. This is a massive relegation zone match, and the Latics would jump over Rangers with a win at Loftus Road. I'm not having it though, as Hughes should be able to steer his club to victory. In addition, Barton might want to show his new manager that Neil Warnock was the problem (he launched a twitter attack this week).

Stoke 3 V West Brom 1 - Can't fool me twice, Roy Hodgson. It's another loss for your club, unable to handle Kenwyne Jones, Peter Crouch and Jonathan Walters. Wait, did I just say that?

Sunderland 3 V Swansea 2 - I expect this one to be one of the games of the week, especially if both teams play as they did last week. Although this week they don't face nearly as penetrable defenses, but they both play with an attacking sense that should yield some goals and a great matching of the minds.

Wolves 2 V Aston Villa 2 - Robbie Keane should start and will not be intimidated by Wolves tough back four. Another game with some goals in it, especially with Shay Given tweaking his hamstring again. That'll hurt Villa's chances for full points at the nearby Molineux, where Mick McCarthy's Wolves are looking for their first win in nine.

12:30
Bolton 1 V Liverpool 3 SNO - It's about time the Reds exploded for some goals, though with no signs of it happening, I'm probably a little crazy for thinking this would be the place. However, it IS Bolton, who realistically should have conceded at least five at Old Trafford last weekend. The defence hasn't improved in a week, and Andy Carroll has a big height advantage over the Trotters' back line.

SUNDAY
08:30
Manchester City 2 V Tottenham 2 SNW - Jermain Defoe, and not loan-limited Emmanuel Adebayor will pair RvdV in the attack for Spurs. Another pulse-pounding game is expected, and Tottenham will hold the League leaders to a draw. Missing Vincent Kompany and Yaya Toure is just too much against a team of Spurs' midfield talent. They will control most of the possession and control much of the play. Only the magnificent Joe Hart (yes, he has earned that - I will pump up England's #1 until he flails like Robert Green and David Seaman) prevents a full three point road steal by Harry Redknapp's team.

11:00
Arsenal 3 V Manchester United 2 SNW - While there are a few fantastic match-ups this week, this is easily the game of the week. If there's any match that Arsene Wenger will get his team focused for, it's this one. But I don't think they'll even need his inspiration because it's near impossible to forget about the piss-pounding that they took at Old Trafford in the summer. Robin van Persie is still in fantastic form, and if Theo Walcott (yes, BIG if) continues his pace of the last few weeks, the Gunners should be able to exploit that United back line (though the Da Silva's return, as do Rio Ferdinand, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones). As for the Keeper battle, it's no contest, as Wojciech Szczesny has been solid, and doesn't need an eye operation like David De Gea does (is that how they are explaining the 20m Pound+ signing's bout of the whiffs?). Don't forget about Thierry Henry either, as he's had a history of punishing Sir Alex, though that was before the neck beard. Henry will have to summon some young legs to get through this match, but if he can contribute positively, I think they can take this match. However, the Gunners have to control possession, since Wenger is still forced to implement Per Mertesacker at the back, even though Thomas Vermaelen returns.

Gunners out-flanked in Wales & why I love Nicklas Bendtner

2012-01-17T19:53:00.002-05:00

WEEK 21 EPL REVIEW:

In the back of this Onion Bag, I discuss Arsenal's horrid performance, why you should watch Swansea, King Kenny's over-managing, and Steve Kean's gutsy calls

Follow me on Twitter:

Man Utd 3, Bolton 0 - Yes I know, I was ripping Paul Scholes' comeback, so then he goes out and scores the winner in this match. Relax though. It was Bolton. Worrying for United was Danny Welbeck going off injured (again), and Wayne Rooney's shoulder also bugging him, but early word is that they're alright. However, what about Wazza with another penalty miss? He's no Frank Lampard, that is for sure. Rooney is only 57% on his EPL penalties over his career, so maybe it's time for a switch, Sir Alex? I just hope Fabio Capello is watching, just in case, because England will likely have to take one when they lose to Portugal in penalty kicks during Euro 2012. Welbeck and Michael Carrick looked up to good pace, causing major issues for Owen Coyle's team, Carrick scoring a beaut. Bolton must hope that they can persuade Tim Ream to come over from Red Bulls to plug a massive hole in the back with overrated Gary Cahill gone.

Chelsea 1, Sunderland 0 - The Blues were extremely lucky, getting full points when Sunderland and Martin O'Neill deserved at least one. They outworked and out-chanced Chelsea, with a great game plan by O'Neill that had AVB's men on their heels, quick passes consistently cutting through Blues' defences. Thankfully for Chelsea though, Nicklas Bendtner was in the lineup, so opportunities were choked away with errant shots by the Dane, along with any points. He also took a body check from Ashley Cole, and probably should have been awarded a penalty, but again, it's Nicklas Bendtner so he just doesn't get the call. Fernando Torres continued his year-long spate of bad luck, drilling one off the cross-bar with a beauty side-scissor, only for a clueless Frank Lampard to watch it deflect off of his right knee and into the net. NEWS: Josh McEachran has also been loaned out to Swansea, which is what this up and comer deserves. If he could just turn out as well as Daniel Sturridge did after his loan last year...

Aston Villa 1, Everton 1 - Landon Donovan was fantastic, and though he was held off of the score sheet by Villa, he still provided a sweet through ball to sub Victor Anichebe. Donovan's not going to stay off of it much longer though, for with his pace and growing familiarity with Tim Cahill and Co'., he will produce some goals. And how big was Shay Given in his return? He slipped right back into this show stopping self, though if Marc Albrighton hadn't coughed up the ball to Donovan, Villa'd have the three points and Given a clean sheet

Newcastle 1, QPR 0 - No Demba Ba and Cheik Tiote? No Yohan Cabaye after a first half hacking incident by Shaun Derry? No worries. The Magpies worked extremely hard and played off of each to produce a well-earned victory, though they had to withstand an early attack by goal-scared QPR. A fantastic finish by Leon Best, who brought his deking cleats out with him (or he stole Demba Ba's) to work over QPR after Rangers had the run of play. However, Mark Hughes must know now, if he didn't already, that he needs a striker who can convert their chances. He's looking at his old Fulham striker, Bobby Zamora, as well as possibly securing a permanent move of Ben Foster to Rangers from Birmingham via West Brom

Blackburn 3, Fulham 1 - Yakubu gets a red card after 23 minutes for a dangerous studs-up play, yet Rovers put up a three spot on Fulham? How can these protesters still berate Steve Kean? Venky's maybe, but not the manager anymore. Kean put on a striker (David Goodwillie) after the sending off and changed his midfield tactics to encourage Junior Hoilett and Morten Gamst Pedersen to stay back, but push forward when in possession. Some great saves from Paul Robinson, a wicked free kick by Pedersen and a fantastic chip pass by Steven N'Zonzi to Mauro Formica later, and Ewood Park was rocking to this amazing effort and result. NEWS: Christopher Samba has officially requested a transfer, which will gut the club, who deny that he will be sold.

Liverpool 0, Stoke 0 - Rack up home draw number seven for Liverpool. Ah, I saw this one coming, but I thought there'd at least be some goals. Was it too much to expect the Reds to have more than ONE SHOT on goal? C'mon now, what about those "creative" midfielders, Jordan Henderson and Stewart Downing? Tony Pulis neutralized them and the 3-4-2-1 formation after learning the squad before the match. Sure there is no Luis Suarez, but please, the Reds have netted only 24 times on the season in all. What is this jinx all about Kenny? I think that you over analyzed your opponents, choosing five defenders and leaving Andy Carroll and Craig Bellamy on the bench. It's Stoke, who, while tough, are a different team away. Not to mention the fact that when you're at home, you should be pushing for victory, not playing for a draw. How can your team continually drop these home points? It's been said that the Reds need a striker who can actually put the ball in the back of the net, and it appears close, but Suarez, Bellamy, Carroll and Kuyt aren't enough? This season seems to have removed Anfield and Stamford Bridge as fortresses for their tenants, as both teams fail to intimidate at home anymore.

Tottenham 1, Wolves 1 - Spurs foiled by Wayne Hennessey, something that many opponents can speak of this season. Tottenham buzzed around the goal after first breaching it via Luka Modric, but they couldn't work up another. Wolves fought hard, which is what you can guarantee every week from a Mick McCarthy team. It's not a terrible drop of points by Spurs, and they can make up for it with a win over City this weekend.

West Brom 1, Norwich 2 -Apparently the demise of the Canaries is just not happening, as I underestimate this team over and over, and gave West Brom too much credit to be able to cover for their litany of injuries. Yet to keep a clean sheet this season, Norwich have compensated by being the highest scoring team outside of the top five clubs. Impressive. Grant Holt made a difference after being subbed on as he has done all season, providing Steve Morison with the feed for the winner. The Baggies deserved a point, but John Ruddy was again a factor.

Swansea 3, Arsenal 2 - RvP returned to the line-up, but even he couldn't save the Gunners because he doesn't play defense. Of course, Thierry Henry's giveaway didn't help matters either, the Frenchman giving the ball to Swans that led to the third goal by Danny Graham, who finished another fast-paced rush up field for the winner in a thrilling match in Wales. Swansea, behind a tireless Liberty Stadium full of fans, played their game as they have all season, regardless of their opposition they will continue to attack their way. They can do it on the counter or from the outset, with all players getting involved. As for Arsenal, the real problem is Arsene Wenger, who continues to blame the referee for his team's dropped points, and, while he does have a great case that Swans were awarded a questionable penalty, it doesn't make up for the other two goals that were scored. The Gunners started the year with a questionable back four, and injuries (which you have to prepare for - it's called depth, and just look at Spurs as a shining example and their glut of injuries to the back. They still have serviceable defenders) have made it worse. Per Mertesacker's had another "gem" of a game, the German consistently making terrible decisions at the back, failing to communicate with his fellow defenders, not knowing if they're playing the offside trap or not. Care to discuss, Per? This time he also had troubles up front, his legs clanging together when the ball at his feet, the net gaping, Arsenal desperately needing a goal. Gooners, are you beyond frustrated yet again? Is there also too much expected of a young Aaron Ramsey to run this team from the midfield? His pace and sharpness has waned in recent weeks, but how can you blame the 21 year old? Arsenal have now conceded 25 goals away from home, and that's with a fantastic keeper in Wojciech Szczesny. Credit is due to Swans though, as again they were not intimidated by visiting opposition, nor when the Gunners went 1-up and then when it was tied at two via another sighting of vintage Theo Walcott. Swans answered right back with fantastic style and pressure, showing great discipline in their attack of pass and move, it's absolutely amazing to watch if you get a chance. NEWS: Chelsea and Man United are apparently looking at keeper Michel Vorm, which would be a massive loss for Brendan Rogers.

Wigan 0, Manchester City 1 - Ali Al-Habsi, top ten keeper this year, could only frustrate a relentless City attack so much, but only beaten once. Edin Dzeko broke his two month goal drought with a header off of a (surprise) beauty cross in by David Silva. Wigan came close to equalizing, but Joe Hart was his usual self, keeping a clean sheet with his fingertips. He was also helped by a missed handball on Pablo Zabaleta. After this run of tough games and losses by this loaded and talented Manchester City team, doesn't it further illustrate how good the invincibles of Arsenal were in 2004?

Signing Old Heroes Obscures the Real Problems - EPL Preview

2012-01-13T19:56:00.003-05:00

EPL PREVIEW WITH TRANSFER NEWS

Follow me on Twitter

SATURDAY
10:00
Aston Villa 2 V Everton 2 - Even Aston Villa have ventured into the local old age home, though Alex McLeish had to go all the way to California to grab Robbie Keane from LA Galaxy. Considering the dire offensive need, it can't hurt, but it is clearly not a long term solution. Everton are likely to steal at least some points from this one, as Landon Donovan gets another game in the squad and will be better adapted. Darron Gibson, who completed a deal from United this week, will provide immediate help bringing the ball down the field for the Toffees. A thin back line though should leave spaces for Villa's Bent to exploit, and maybe Charles N'Zogbia will decide to show up?

Blackburn 1 V Fulham 2 - Christopher Samba, Steven N'Zonzi and Junior Hoilett top the list of Rovers possible to bolt from Ewood Park for better places (not that that's hard to do). Spurs may not be the landing spot for Samba, though, as it looks like he might be PSG bound. Samba has said that it's time to quit Blackburn and who can blame him with relegation more than likely. Ouch. Hoilett could be on his way to Tyneside to suit up for Newcastle, which would lessen the blow that Demba Ba and Cheik Tiote's departures for Africa has left. As for the Cottagers, they rejected a low-ball offer from Venkys for Andrew Johnson, as Rovers look for striker help to assist the Yak.

Chelsea 3 V Sunderland 2 SNO @12:30 - AVB vs high flying Martin O'Neill. I'm a little uneasy about this tilt, but I think the time off of the League (they hammered Pompey 4-0 in the FA Cup at half-throttle) will get them back on track at home. Michael Essien is nearing a return and will be a massive boost to the team when he plays next week. He's a hulking midfielder and while after two knee surgeries he is not the Ghanaian of old, he will still greatly improve the squad's depth. I'll take getting him back over Thierry Henry and Paul Scholes. Meanwhile, Alex is on QPR's radar and a bid has been made for the now wanted Blues defender just when it seemed he was headed to Brazil. Gary Cahill has finally signed to a 5 year 23 million Pound contract, but likely won't be ready to play at the Bridge tomorrow. Thankfully John Obi Mikel is injured, but so is Branislav Ivanovic. Chelsea need to be wary of Martin O'Neill's attacks from the air by Sebastien Larsson as he feeds Stephane Sessegnon. O'Neill also has Frazier Campbell available for the first time, and it'll be the Englishman's first match since August of 2010.

Liverpool 2 V Stoke City 2 - SNW - The Reds are looking good in the Cup competitions, going to the Etihad and beating City via a Steven Gerrard penalty (Vincent Kompany's replacement Stefan Savic committed the foul with an awful tackle). With a 1-0 lead going back to Anfield, they look likely to progress in the Carling Cup. They also finally drew a home match in a Cup competition (everything thus far had been away), as United will come to Liverpool in the FA Cup 4th Round tilt. That being said, 'Pool struggle at home against lesser competition, so pit Tony Pulis to continue that trend. The Potters won't win, but they'll make it difficult on the Reds. I see Charlie Adam getting booked (but that's not really a wild prediction, is it?).

Manchester United 3 V Bolton 1 SNO - Paul Scholes came out of retirement against City in the FA Cup win. Where the hell did this come from? The fans didn't know, and apparently the players weren't aware until match day. In any event, he promptly gave the ball away after being subbed on, which led to a City goal. United still prevailed, and Sir Alex affirmed that the 37-year old is "still class". "Still class"? Every week I become more and more convinced that Sir Alex is losing it, this another example. So I guess, like Arsenal, United have no money for transfers so they resort to bringing back old heroes and covering up their problems as you cover up a stain on your coffee table with a coaster? Oh, and With Gary Cahill gone, Wanderers' back line can be even further exploited, if that was possible.

Tottenham 2 V Wolves 0 - Spurs took advantage of their game in hand by beating Everton on Wednesday. Aaron Lennon returned and was massive, scoring the opener after a spirited run and net-tucker of a shot. Benoit Assou-Ekotto then blasted one that deflected off of Tim Cahill's right butt cheek and past Tim Howard. There was never any doubt, really, and Spurs are now TIED with United for second place (3rd on Goal Differential). However, the injury bug may force Harry's reluctant hand to make a move. He said that he wasn't going to stick his head out the transfer window, but I see his puffy eyes peering out and gazing at Christopher Samba, having given up on Gary Cahill, whom he says he tried to sign multiple times. Scott Parker is missing with a knee injury, and Lennon might start on the bench to save his ever tender hammy. No Sandro though either, so Harry is a little short. Spurs are good enough in spite of this, and can fight off tough and free-tackling Wolves, though they might suffer another man down by the end of the ninety minutes.

West Brom 1 V Norwich 0 - Roy Hodgson has brought in 20 year old Scot midfielder Scott Allen from Dundee United, but that's it so far. Start the fall for the Canaries, with manager Paul Lambert unable to land any help yet, much to his frustration. They just don't have the cash to attract new talent. John Ruddy does return to make it difficult on the Baggies, without Shane Long up front, but West Brom should take it.

SUNDAY
08:30
Newcastle 2 V QPR 1 SNW - Even without Demba Ba, the Magpies should be able to win over Mark Hughes' new team. Yes, the Welshman took over at QPR after Neil Warnock and his whiny mouth were hoofed to the curb by owner Tony Fernandes. It'll take a few matches to get acclimated, and Newcastle need full points against these lower tier teams. Even with only one Ameobi (Sammy is hurt, so it's just Shola) and no Cheik Tiote, the Magpies are still better. Joey Barton will also remain captain under Hughes, but that can't be a lock to last the rest of the season (while he's missing this game due to a red card suspension). Hughes also has 20-30 million Pounds to spend, but he'll assess his squad over the next couple of games before splashing some cash on transfers. As for Ba, rumours are rampant that he'll be sold to another club once his release clause is triggered by as low as a 7 million Pound offer. The Magpies and Ba are disputing this, and I don't think he's going anywhere. For if he does, Mike Ashley will be hiring round-the-clock security detail.

11:00
Swansea 1 V Arsenal 1 SNW - Relax Gooners, Robert Pires is NOT returning to the club, despite qualifying for a senior's special at the Emirates. As for Thierry Henry and his glorious (and offside) winner over powerhouse Leeds at the Emirates in the FA Cup on Monday, it was the stuff of legend. However, I would wager that that's the best moment of his short two-month return to the club after four and a half years away. Could the return of Henry reinvigorate the club? Sure. Will it save the Gunners' season? No. He'll be a late game sub and hope to rekindle old success but I just don't see it. Again, while this can't hurt, it is not a solution. As for the match, Michel Vorm will cause RvP some problems...and how is the Dutchman still healthy? Swans are fully healthy, in Wales, and welcome a fragile and threadbare Gunners' team struggling to field a full team of experienced players (Ignasi Miguel will start at left-back). Need I say more?

MONDAY
15:00
Wigan 1 V Manchester City 3 - I'm still flabbergasted that Vincent Kompany received a red card for tackling Nani in last week's FA Cup defeat to United. The official clearly thought it was a two-footer, but Kompany went in with one foot, won the ball, and then the second foot came in. Add in the fact that Nani didn't fall, and the official should have known that it was a clean tackle. Don't we all know by now that Nani will exploit every opportunity to fall to the turf, whine and wince in pain, genuine or not? You'll probably think that because this is a trip to Wigan, that it's not that big of a match for 1st place City, but after a recent run in which they have incurred three losses in four, Roberto Mancini needs a win here. They suffered two losses at home in Cup competitions, and with a few injuries (Balotelli, though David Silva returns) and absentees (Toure's, Kompany) due to the African Nations Cup, they are almost reeling. The sloppy turf of the JJB won't help the fleet of foot, but I think the likes of James Milner and Adam Johnson will be the reason that City pull this one out and get back on track.

Tasting Ancient Ales from Dogfish Head Brewery

2012-01-09T19:27:00.000-05:00

I was lucky enough to be invited to the house of my Brother's friend Paul over the holidays. Why was I lucky? Paul had recently traveled to Delaware, and (more importantly) to Dogfish Head brewery. Among many other hoppy items, he was able to bring back some delicious treats from the brewery's Ancients Ales Series. Paul was extremely generous in first showing off his personally crafted beer fridge, complete with fans and complex insulation, and then his most impressive stock of Belgian Ales, IPA's, seasonals and other bottles of goodness from craft breweries in Canada, the United States, Belgium and Scotland (from what I could see, though I'm probably missing a few). My Brother and I also brought over a Lagunitis Hop Stoopid and a Beau's Bog Water as part of our random beer exchanges that we make whenever any of us find something that's hard to acquire.

Paul gave us the option to try whatever was in his fridge, but we felt it best to leave it up to him to decide. He brought out three offerings, each of which we hadn't seen before, nor knew existed. While we had previously tasted and thoroughly enjoyed the delicious Dogfish Head 60 Minute and 90 Minute IPA, the mind-blowing Burton Baton and the Raison d'Etre, we had no idea that we were about to sample beers with flavour combinations that we didn't know were possible. Each one revealed a new experience that unveiled notes and hints that we hadn't had the pleasure of enjoying in beer before.

Theobroma 650 mL Alcohol%: 9%

Pour: Golden Orange with solid lacing.

Aroma: Slight honey, with chili scents.

Taste: Mild honey sweetness on the initial taste, followed by lightchocolate and a mild hoppiness. On the finish there is a subtle, yet pleasant warming by the chilli’s that heats up the throat, but doesn't cause any discomfort, even if you don't enjoy hot or spicy food.

Rating: 8.5+/10 – A fascinatinglyinteresting taste revealed a combination of flavours that I didn’t know couldwork in a beer.

Midas Touch
Size: 330 mL
Alcohol%: 9%
Pour: Cascading and resilient lacing in the golden orangepour.
Aroma: White wine with saffron hints.
Taste: Light bodied, and very crisp. This beer combines white wine flavours and barley malts with sweet hops, and it finishes clean.
Rating: 9/10– There is no other beer like this, and it gets points for its uniqueness (and the brilliant name). I want another.

Chateau Jiahu
Size: 650 mL
Alcohol%: 10%
Pour: Light, yellowish-orange with a small resilient, white head.
Aroma: Fruity tones, as well as rice and sweet malts.
Taste: Slightly sweet and dry, with a chardonnay-like finish ofsweetness and grapes.

Rating: 8.0/10 - The flavour is very interesting and puzzling at first. While I've never tasted anything like it before and was doubtful that it would work, it was very enjoyable and left no doubt that it was a beer. A must try if you get a chance to have one.

Many thanks Paul, for treating my brother and me to more new delicious craft beer. After looking at a map, Milton, Delaware doesn't really seem that far anymore...cheers.

The Hop Awards: IPA's & Craft Beers of 2011

2012-01-05T21:22:00.000-05:00

I've never tasted as many different beers than I did in 2011. It was an eye and mouth-opening experience, and I feel quite a bit more knowledgeable about this delicious beverage. While the majority of the beers I had in the last year were IPA's, I had some other great ones that are worth noting in my first annual Hop Awards*:

A special thanks to barVolo, C'est What, Grapefruit Moon, Gambrinus and Cask Days for helping to educate me on the greatness of craft beer, and supplying a fantastic variety of goodness to constantly sample. Big cheers to you.

And I'd be remiss if I didn't thank my Hop Head Brothers, Peter and Mike, who joined me on many of these hop-filled journeys. And to the aspiring Jackie and Ottawa Brian, who are well on their way to suffering from the same addiction to Humulus lupulus. Mike D, Sean, Hamilton Brian, Paul and the other two other Mike's, more tastings are certainly in order.

Beer of the Year - Central City Brewing Red Racer IPA - Thisoffering from the best B.C. Brewer three years running gives off a strong aromaof hops and citrus, pouring a pale orange. The flavour is medium hoppy withgrapefruit and pine notes. You could even say it's a little zesty. It finishes clean but the hop resonates and beckons you to take the next sip. I'm not sure why, but the second shipment to LCBO's was so fresh, I felt like it had just been brewed the day before.

Double IPA of the Year - Southern Tier Gemini Imperial - It is still my favourite beer, with Southern Tier's Iniquity (Black IPA-only available in the US) banging on the door behind it (I like to call Iniquity the Black Gemini). It has so much depth that it is hard to believe that it is over 10% alcohol. Sweet citrus, caramel, honeyed malt and strong hops are combined brilliantly, leaving you thinking after each sip. It first came to the LCBO last year, and I am praying that it comes back.
- A closer runner up was Beau's Screaming Beaver that I had at barVolo. If it returns, I will be at barVolo no matter what I am doing that day to taste this organic goodness. A continued kudos to Beau's for sticking to the all-natural, organic vision, no matter how difficult it is to do so.

Bludgeoner of the Year - Flying Monkeys Super Collider - Wow, this one is not for any rookie hop head. While the high alcohol content is only slightly detectable upon the initial inhale, have a bottle all to yourself and you better be prepared for the consequences. It has a mildly sweet toffee aroma and mild to medium hoppiness. The backbone is of pine, toffee, strong hops and malt, with the hop bitterness resonating only somewhat on the finish. It's an amped-up Smashbomb that improves on every sip. Flying Monkeys has combined the flavours very well in this Double IPA.

Best IPA Available Year Round - Muskoka Brewing Mad Tom IPA - Introduced this year in both the LCBO and The Beer Store, this IPA helped stir up the storm that has become the excitement around IPA's in Ontario this year. The fact that it's available in both stores is a huge bonus, and I have never had trouble finding it. The six-pack's design is even brilliant, displaying Mad Tom carrying his barrel of beer with that goofy-crazed look on his face. As for the flavour, Mad Tom has a mild to medium hoppy aroma, a medium hoppy taste that is accompanied by a bomb of grapefruit citrus emerging on thefinish. There is also a slight bitterness that fits in to make this a deliciousIPA, so it's tough to stop at just one. Thank you Muskoka, I know that I'm never far from your citrus hop explosion whenever I get a craving.

Best Pumpkin Beer - Southern Tier Pumking - There are now more and more of these offerings come Thanksgiving weekend in Ontario, but the leader still has to be from Southern Tier, where the Pumking continues his reign. I enjoyed one with a Reese Peanut Butter Cup this year, and the flavours exploded even more. If you have trouble finding one next year (they fly off of the shelves), the Grand River Highballer fills in quite well, and acts as a nice introduction to pumpkin beer.

Best Seasonal - Muskoka Brewing Harvest Ale - 750 milliliters of tasty fall goodness. Mildly hoppy with resonating grassy notes. The finish is pleasantand clean, the alcohol seemingly non-existent. A fantastic fall beer that combineshops and a pleasant wheat flavour.

Cask of the Year - I have to go back to my second Cask Days experience at Hart House, where I sampled the Central City Brewing Simcoe IPA. It has a strong hop flavour with passion fruit citrus backbone, that I wish Ontario could receive along with the Red Racer.

Best Hops in a Can - Great Lakes Crazy Canuck takes this award. Just crack the can and the hops explode into your nose to satisfy any hop craving. Since it's also available for $2.50 at the LCBO and Beer Store, it makes it even better.

Best Introductory IPA - Flying Monkeys Hoptical Illusion. If you've got a friend who wants to be introduced to hoppy beers, go with this one. It has a slightcaramel aroma with mild hoppiness, and doesn't blow you away but gives you enough to satisfy and educate what hoppy beers are like.

Easiest Drinking Beer - Flying Monkeys Confederation (Amber) Ale - After two years without having one, I took one down in November and was blown away with how smooth this beer was. It has sweets malts with an earthy hop character. How have I not been to this brewery yet?

Best Beer Tasted Outside of Ontario - Harpoon Leviathan Imperial IPA At 10%, this has a medium hoppy aroma, but the hoppy flavours explode on the sip, but finishes smoothly and lingers with a strong caramel malt backbone. There is also a hint of complex, slightlybittersweet fruit flavours. If you are not afraid of strong hops, this is it.

*The Hop Awards are based upon beers available in Ontario in 2011, except for the Best Beer Tasted Outside of Ontario

United, Chelsea Get F's in my EPL Holiday Review

2012-01-03T20:28:00.001-05:00

Every season heading into the Christmas holidays, I seem to forget how unpredictable this full plate of games is: Every team lost in December, and each of the top teams experienced their share of problems.

I'm going to go through each team and quickly summarize what happened to them over the last three matches, grading each of them.

Starting at the bottom of the barrel:

BLACKBURN - 1-1 V Liverpool; 3-2 over Man U; 1-2 V Stoke
- The players are clearly still playing for Steve Kean, putting in a fantastic performance to beat United in one of the biggest upsets in EPL History with hardly a full strength squad. Who the hell are most of these guys? It was a makeshift squad, but they clearly have more faith in Kean than their fans do. The 2-1 stinker at home to Stoke takes some lustre off of their impressive Christmas period, and can Kean hang onto key players such as Christopher Samba (Spurs), the Yak (12 goals!) and Junior Hoilett though? GRADE: A

WIGAN - 0-5 V Man U; 2-2 V Stoke; 1-4 V Sunderland
- The loss to United looks worse than it was, and the real Latics scored an impressive draw at difficult Stoke, drawing when sub Ben Watson came on solely to take the penalty. It was a dramatic finish and a gutsy call by Roberto Martinez. Watson, despite immense pressure, didn't seem to really mind. Oh, and they were down to ten men at the time. As for the Sunderland match, Martinez was outmatched by O'Neill, his team simply outplayed by a better team. GRADE: C

BOLTON - 0-2 V Newcastle; 1-1 V Wolves; 2-1 V Everton
- This team lacks talent and it could get worse with Centre Back Gary Cahill set to join Chelsea if the Blues can agree on payment terms, as the transfer fee of 7M Pounds has been agreed. The Wanderers continue to be terrible at home, though they finally drew a game! A comeback win over Everton at Goodison to close out the period offers a great deal of hope to Owen Coyle that they can still stave off relegation. Gary Cahill upped his value as well, scoring the winner. GRADE:B-

QPR - 1-1 V Swans; 0-1 V Arsenal; 1-2 V Norwich
- The sink continues and Neil Warnock just continues to blame the officials, which is growing increasingly tiresome. He railed for a good thirty seconds against Robin van Persie's apparent control over the referees, as he seems to get "all of the calls". Time to get that mirror out, Neil, and also perhaps look at your squad. Throw in the grossly annoying Joey Barton, who's now been sent off with all of his three EPL Teams (Man City, Newcastle, QPR), ruining his goal that had given his team life versus Norwich. GRADE: D

WOLVES - 1-1 V Arsenal; 1-1 V Bolton; 1-2 V Chelsea
- It should have been solid three points for Mick McCarthy's men, but Frank Lampard intervened to score in injury time to save Chelsea. Lampard could have been red carded for a mean and almost leg-cracking tackle on Adam Hammill. His immediate apologies to Hammill and the official probably saved his arse and Chelsea's. In any case, for a team with probably the least amount of talent in the EPL, they had a decent run, though it would have been all coal-filled if it weren't for Wayne Hennessey. The Welshman just stoned Arsenal over and over, even when the Gunners had a one-man advantage. GRADE: B

WEST BROM - 0-0 V Man City; 0-1 V Everton; 0-1 V Spurs
- Incredible and aggressive defending instituted by Roy Hodgson thwarted City, also able to counter as well and could have taken three points. Unfortunately, it was a one match sensation, as they were outplayed by Everton, though unlucky against Spurs. GRADE: C+

FULHAM - 1-1 V Chelsea; 1-1 V Norwich; 2-1 V Arsenal
- Taking advantage of slacking Chelsea and lolly-gagging Arsenal, Fulham had a fantastic run. While they benefited from a generous second yellow to Johan Djourou against Arsenal, it's more accurate to blame the Gunners for wasting early chances to put the three points in the bag. David Stockdale stepping up in place of Mark Schwarzer has helped immensely, covering the net with insane energy.
GRADE: B+

ASTON VILLA - 0-0 V Stoke: 3-1 V Chelsea; 0-2 V Swansea
- The break started out brilliantly for Villa, doing just enough to peg back Stoke away and hold them to a draw, Brad Guzan a major reason why. Alex McLeish then took his team to Chelsea and used the counter-attack to near-perfection against the Blues absent-minded and beleaguered defense. It all came to a crashing halt when they snoozed at home to Swansea though, after Stephen Warnock decided to gift Nathan Dyer with a chance that was converted. Villa played better at times against Swansea, but lacked the counter that worked so well away. Compounding a second mistake on top of the first was Keeper Brad Guzan, though Swans deservedly earned their first away win. GRADE: B-

SWANSEA - 1-1 V QPR; 1-1 V Spurs; 2-0 V Aston Villa
- Swans had a good end to December, and it's hard not to like this promoted club to stay up. They have a talented bunch of young, forward moving players, an excellent keeper, and a composed Manager in Brendan Rodgers. GRADE: A-

EVERTON - 1-1 V Sunderland; 1-0 V West Brom; 1-2 V Bolton
- Only four points out of nine for the Toffees has to be a disappointment, considering the opposition. The fact that Tim Howard scored one of the three goals scored in the three games further magnifies the dire need for a striker. Lucky to even get a point versus O'Neill and the Black Cats, losing at Bolton and beating West Brom is a terrible run. Landon Donovan returned, but he's got some catching up to do. GRADE: D

SUNDERLAND - 1-1 V Everton; 1-0 V Man City; 4-1 V Wigan
- Martin O'Neill still has this team flying, only dropping four points since taking over. His record should be even better were it not for that terrible penalty call that gave Everton a late equaliser. While the late winner by sub Dong-Won Ji vs City was a leg offside, you can hardly claim that Sunderland did not deserve the points. Sunderland defended tirelessly and thwarted City, wasters of chances. To cap the period, they go out and absolutely wax Wigan, the contest not really in doubt from the start. O'Neill has woken up the now former squad of underachievers, and their talent is better reflected at 10th in the standings, and impressive 7th in goal differential. GRADE: A+ (They couldn't really have had a better period, as they were hosed v Everton)

NORWICH - 0-2 V Tottenham; 1-1 V Fulham; 2-1 V QPR
- The Canaries continue to hang on, and sit in ninth. NINTH! A team that many picked to go down
is looking strong right now, though if you look at the table (and QPR), they can't slow down now or they'll be right into the relegation zone. There's no shame in running into the machine of Gareth Bale and Spurs, taking a point vs Fulham and taking advantage of red card Joey Barton is just going about your business. The all-out style is dangerous and unlikely to be successful all year. GRADE: B+

STOKE CITY - 0-0 V Aston Villa; 2-2 V Wigan; 2-1 V Blackburn
- The Potters had a mediocre session, Tony Pulis disappointed in the draw with Wigan, Hugo Rodallega's "soft penalty" ripping two additional points away. Peter Crouch made another appearance to ensure full reward with two at Blackburn, just when Rovers were thinking they'd pop out of the bottom three. GRADE: C

NEWCASTLE - 2-0 V Bolton; 1-3 V Liverpool; 3-0 V Man United
- Two fantastic results sandwiched around a calamitous trip to Anfield. Sure, the Magpies enjoyed an own goal from Daniel Agger, but the Reds were lucky that Tim Krul had his worst game of the year, combining with Danny Simpson to mess up a stoppable free kick by Craig Bellamy, his second of the game. At least Fabricio Coloccini used his height to "naturally" elbow the lippy Bellamy in the eye, causing the Welshman to spout blood and yell obscenities at the missed call. Right back at you Craig, how does it taste? Krul then incredulously came way out to challenge the super-charged Steven Gerrard, who still makes a significant difference in the the Reds squad. Gerrard was at a desperate angle, bound for goal, but Krul gave him space the size of two soccer balls between his legs to shoot, and the Englishman would not miss. What a bounce back for Alan Pardew's team though, returning to St. James' to outclass and embarrass United. Demba Ba (of course) used Rio Ferdinand's body as a screen to spin and rip one by Anders Lindegaard (no chance). Yohan Cabaye's free kick should finish as one of the best of 2012, and then Phil Jones and Lindegaard forgot to talk, Jones deflecting the ball into his own net. The main reason, outside of goal machine Ba (who is now heading to Africa, so who will score? Insert worry here), is the top-notch creative midfield of Cabaye, Cheik Tiote, Ben Arfa, Jonas Gutierrez and Ryan Taylor that is leading this team. Jealous, Sir Alex? You should be. GRADE: B+

LIVERPOOL - 1-1 V Blackburn; 3-1 V Newcastle; 0-3 V Man City
- Thankfully Liverpool did not appeal the Luis Suarez ban, though the tepid way that they handled it was less than comforting. Andy Carroll gets an eight match run, just as fellow transfer stiff Fernando Torres does with Didier Drogba's trip to Africa. Carroll, also like Torres, missed chance after chance against Newcastle, and it's becoming comical how snake bitten and mentally fragile they now are. The talent is still there, but positioning and finishing are still a long ways away from being restored, if they ever are. Pitiful against Rovers and better against generous Newcastle, the Reds didn't feel it necessary to show up at the Etihad Stadium where City kept their perfect record on the season. Torn apart, 3-0 actually flatters the Reds. Captain Gerrard couldn't save them here. GRADE: C-

ARSENAL - 1-1 V Wolves; 1-0 V QPR; 1-2 V Fulham
- Just when it seemed that the Gunners were putting something together, and opportunities to move up the table through the top clubs slip-ups, Arsene Wenger's squad reverted to early season form. Is there anyone on this team other than RvP, Mikel Arteta and Aaron Ramsey playing up to par? Even RvP was guilty of poor play, missing more than a handful of chances that he usually buries over this three match period. Normally stable Wojciech Szczesny was also poor against Fulham, though it's hard to blame him. They squeaked out the win over Rangers, someone needing to hand a GPS to locate the net for Walcott and Gervinho. But wait, it's always the officials, isn't it Arsene? You should have a love-in with Neil Warnock because no one else in interested. How about you sign a real striker instead of recycling Thierry Henry, a legend who has a statue outside the Emirates. I'm sorry, once a player has a statue, they should no longer suit-up for the club in competitive football. Arsenal fans deserve Champions League football year after year, and signing Henry is not going to achieve that. It's a further indication that Wenger is too cheap and stubborn to admit that he hasn't been able to groom youth into a top four club. GRADE: D

CHELSEA - 1-1 V Fulham; 1-3 V Aston Villa; 2-1 V Wolves
- While I'd still take a Petr Cech for Wayne Hennessey or David Stockdale swap straight up, it is hard to blame the Czech for the majority of the Blues problems. How about this millionaire line-up score some bloody goals? It's disgusting that the players don't show up, seemingly playing at half-speed most of the time. David Luiz, whom I still have some faith in to reach top defender status for some unknown reason, was a brutal joke over the last few matches. He gambles and loses up the pitch, then forgets that he has to cover forwards on the other team. Frank Lampard was lucky to get away with his tackle on Adam Hammill, but Lamps still offers something positive to this team and acts as a field general. What felt like a loss to Fulham exhibited just how far removed the term "Stamford Bridge Fortress" is these days. Chelsea's home form is awful, though they probably played worse against Wolves on the road. As for Villa, they had their chances and didn't take them. It's lazy play, and I'll only exclude Juan Mata, Daniel Sturridge, Ramires, Romeu and Ashley Cole from blame. I can't even talk about Torres, it's too frustrating to explain. GRADE: F

TOTTENHAM - 2-0 V Norwich; 1-1 V Swansea; 1-0 V West Brom
- The impressively deep Spurs team is suddenly thinner because of injuries to Aaron Lennon, Sandro and Scott Parker. Thankfully for Harry Redknapp, only the Lennon injury appears lengthy. Their midfield of Sandro, Parker, Modric and Lennon, with the almost unstoppable Gareth Bale combines for really beautiful football to watch. Emmanuel Adebayor and the sometimes healthy RvdV provide even more width to make this a scary team. Only three points behind Man United for second place, I think it's going to be hard to prevent them from taking an automatic Champs League position. Lucky to win at West Brom, they did just enough to get through the Baggies wall, but it took Jermain Defoe and his flashy new blonde dye job to do it. GRADE: A

MANCHESTER UNITED - 5-0 V Wigan; 2-3 V Blackburn; 0-3 V Newcastle
- This may be it, Red Devils fans, Sir Alex Ferguson might finally be losing it. I'm not just talking about the losses to Blackburn and Newcastle alone, I'm talking about the tactics and teams the Scot has been putting out there. Rafael in midfield? Valencia at the back? The banishing of Wayne Rooney to street clothes over a night out with his wife and teammates? Tell me he didn't regret that decision when Blackburn went up 2-0 and he needed more than Anderson and William Keane (?) to come in to help generate some goals. Wait, who the hell is William Keane? Roy's younger Brother? His wayward son? Listen, you've now lost twice to Wayne Rooney, first by caving into his salary demands last year, and now by not dressing him and losing a critical three points to Blackburn. Would a second straight relegation to the bench not have been enough? Your ego is harming your club, just when they should have stayed at least on par with your neighbours. And what about Nani? Even his haircut that makes him look like he was witness to an violent explosion hasn't fixed his attitude, as he can't be counted on to perform with vigour and concern for a match's outcome over 90 minutes. The midfielder disappears, moments of brilliance now easily cancelled out by his lackluster play and disposition. There are a lot of holes to fill this month, Sir Alex, now suck up your pride and infuse this team or this race will be over soon. GRADE: F

MANCHESTER CITY - 0-0 V West Brom; 0-1 V Sunderland; 3-0 V Liverpool
- Sure City could have beaten the Baggies, but they seemed to have lost that edge that got them to first at Christmas. They played with the expectation a goal would come, lacking the persistence needed to penetrate Roy Hodgson's wall. The match at Sunderland displayed the same type of result: wasted chances and a team that certainly got up for their visitors, not intimidated by the millions running around the pitch in front of them. Everything returned to normal though once Roberto Mancini returned to the Etihad with his squad. Sitting in first place despite two fairly significant stumbles has to have grown the confidence of the Citizens. They seem ready to pounce on United in the FA Cup on Saturday, then start to run away with the title once they bludgeon United's resolve just a little more. GRADE: C+

Thierry Henry looks likely to Gun again

2011-12-29T20:08:00.000-05:00

IN THIS BLOG:

EPL PREVIEW/REVIEW

FRIDAY
14:45
Liverpool 2 V Newcastle 2 SNW - Alan Pardew is slowly getting some troops back, with Yohan Cabaye and Mike Williamson returning to make a huge difference last match. Kenny Dalglish has Steven Gerrard available to start, but the scoring (and winning) woes continue at home.
LAST MATCHES: Liverpool 1, Blackburn 1 - A Charlie Adam own goal put the Reds behind as they underachieved yet again at home to a lesser club. Maxi Rodriguez saved them (and Adam's embarrassment as it was a stupefying decision to stick his leg out on a corner) , but Rovers should be credited with standing tough against the Reds. Fancy some goals anytime soon, Kenny? Maybe get someone like Andy Carroll in the Transfer window...he's supposed to be a deft striker...
Bolton 0, Newcastle 2 - Demba Ba exposed the year-long ineptitude of Bolton defense, following Hatem Ben Arfa, who netted two minutes earlier. Ivan Klasnic should have opened the scoring, but he tripped over himself...sounds about right, doesn't it, Owen Coyle?

SATURDAY
07:45
Manchester United 3 V Blackburn 1 TSN2 -The Yak will feed once, but United's attack is a little more potent than the pop-gun Liverpool offense that Rovers thwarted at Anfield. In addition: Berbatov+bottom 5 club = 2 goals
LAST MATCH: Manchester United 5, Wigan 0 - Already down 1-0, Wigan were shafted when a red card was given to Conor Sammon for a weak (though careless) elbow on Michael Carrick (it's since been rescinded by the FA), reducing them to ten men. Dimitar Berbatov took advantage, popping up one of those meaningless hat-tricks when the game's outcome has already been decided. Antonio Valencia fired in a gem of a goal too, ripping one into the far corner past a helpless Ali Al-Habsi. It should be noted that Al-Habsi still played extremely well, despite giving up five. United got top, only second to goal differential to Manchester City.

10:00
Arsenal 3 V QPR 1 SN - Yes, it's true all of you Gooners, your boy is likely returning. Your hand-ball, glove-wearing striker of a prolific nature, Thierry Henry, is returning to North London. The loan is expected to be for only two months and act as a stop-gap measure while other "productive" strikers Marouane Chamakh and Gervinho are away at the African Cup of Nations. It should send a jolt into the fan base and the team, and it sounds like a good call that I'm sure RvP will welcome. Henry could make it into seven EPL games and some FA Cup action, while also likely to play versus AC Milan in the Champions League. How much does the Frenchman have left, however, and, will he remember how much more demanding European soccer is than the MLS? You're going to be doing a lot less eye-rolling at your teammates, Thierry.
LAST MATCH: Arsenal 1, Wolves 1 - Hey AVB, how much does Mick McCarthy want for Wayne Hennessey? Whatever it is, PAY IT. I'd take him over rapidly declining Petr Cech right now and not even think twice about it. Hennessey's been incredible lately, and stole the point for his team against Arsenal. Even before the Gunners played 16 minutes up a man, the Welsh Keeper had vision, anticipating deflections and shots and stopping the Dutch force of RvP.
Swansea 1, QPR 1 - I didn't know there was still life in Rangers, who deserved a point and maybe more in one of the better visiting performances at Liberty Stadium all year.

Bolton 2 V Wolves 2 - No defenses, but I'll take McCarthy's boys to keep the away form going, buoyed by the draw at the Emirates.

Chelsea 2 V Aston Villa 1 SNW - I've had about enough of my Blues lately. It's mind boggling to me how inept they can be on the attack with that wealth of talent, especially when they play lesser clubs like Fulham. I think they're ready this time and pull out the three points, even after AVB rightly conceded that the title is out of their reach right now. Thank you for not believing in the impossible. No one else does.
LAST MATCH: Chelsea 1, Fulham 1 - Finish, Chelsea, finish. It's really not that hard if you've ever been introduced to the net's location before. There must have been something in the water bottle refreshments, because even can't miss Daniel Sturridge couldn't hit his wide open chances. I won't let you know how many f-bombs I threw out watching this disgrace.
Stoke City 0, Aston Villa 0 - Alex McLeish somehow pulled out a point here, but if Darren Bent and the now injured Emile Heskey had been able to convert, it would be hard to argue that Villa didn't deserve it all. What happened to your recent run of organization, Tony Pulis?

Norwich 2 V Fulham 1 - A rough and tumble team like Norwich can handle the up and down Cottagers.
LAST MATCH: Norwich 0, Tottenham 2 - The Canaries were careless, both with their chances and their "ability" to contain Gareth Bale. I must admit that I thought Spurs were going to slip up here and draw, thinking the Welsh wonder wasn't quite 100%. Turns out I was dead wrong. Or at least I'd be scared to see him at full strength because he was World Class worthy at Carrow Road.

Stoke 2 V Wigan 0 - Pulis gets back on it at home, no Europa League to interfere.

Swansea 1 V Tottenham 1 SN1 - There are only a few people capable of slowing down the Spurs juggernaut, and one of them is Michel Vorm. It's not that I don't have faith in Tottenham, I just have the utmost respect for Swans at the Liberty.

SUNDAY
West Brom 1 V Everton 1 SNW - It's becoming less and less strange to see West Brom in the top half of the table. When's Landon Donovan coming over, Mr. Moyes?
LAST MATCH: West Brom 0, Manchester City 0 - Both teams had their fair share of chances, but City for once could not convert any of theirs. Roy Hodgson deserves a hats-off, thwarting City's attack with aggressive defending. There's a reason that the fans at the Hawthornes stood and applauded their team off of the pitch.

10:00
Sunderland 1 V Manchester City 2 SNW - Martin O'Neill's point streak is stopped, but not without a fight and some sideline gyrations.
LAST MATCH: Sunderland 1, Everton 1 - The Black Cats were denied by a terrible decision by referee Howard Webb to award a penalty to the Toffees for Leon Osman tripping over himself.

MORE GAMES MONDAY/TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY

EPL Boxing Day Preview - Liverpool is fired up

2011-12-25T19:43:00.000-05:00

EPL PREVIEW
Whenever the Christmas break comes, I always have trouble remembering what day it is. It's even more confusing this year, because the NFL just played the majority of their games on a Saturday, but that made yesterday feel like a Sunday, meaning it feels like the EPL is starting again on a Tuesday. Anyhow, I'm off of work, so that's all that really matters, and Chelsea kick things off, days of the week included in my scheduled predictions below:

MONDAY
08:00
Chelsea 4 V Fulham 1 08:00 SNW - The Blues can't afford to drop any more points anytime soon, so they'll be on an all-out attack on dented Fulham. There is no tube active to get fans to the game for the early afternoon start, but I'm pretty sure there'll still be a full house. How about giving Mr. Torres a chance, AVB? And don't even think about starting Jon Obi Mikel over Oriol Romeu. I'd rather have Joshua McEachran instead of boring Mikel. In other Chelsea news, the Blues will not mimic Liverpool's ridiculous move by wearing pre-match shirts bearing the number of their racial abuse-charged teammate. Good call AVB, as I think that was a disgusting thing for the Reds to do, especially when Suarez admitted what he said. Chelsea also look set to add Gary Cahill in the upcoming transfer window, a massive move that will help a bludgeoned back line. I mean, they had to actually play walking turnstile Paulo Ferreira last match. Dire that situation was a the time.

10:00
Manchester United 3 V Wigan 0 SNW - Can the Latics steal some more points off of another top team this week? They have only lost one in their last six, but they won't have the "pristine" JJB pitch to slow down their opponents. United are coming off of a fiver at Fulham, and their biggest question is which keeper will start. No matter if it's De Gea or Lindegaard, the run is over, Roberto.
HOWEVER, while the Red Devils should have no problem with Wigan, their injury list is approaching a full squad with Phil Jones joining the hobbled due to a broken face, or something like that (Ashley Young, Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, Cleverley, Fletcher, Owen, Bebe, Anderson, Fabio). But Sir Alex is not going to sign anyone. Stubborn or stupid? Are you content with second place Alex? If you're a fan of MU, I'd be irate.

Bolton 1 V Newcastle 2 - Ugh, six matches without a win Alan Pardew. Time to take some action against a team was suffering a similar plight that you are now but played Rovers who gave them some respite. Don't get cocky Owen Coyle, or Cabaye will strike a dagger of a free kick. Time to turn it around Newcastle, you're better than that (and this is my soft spot for the Barcodes coming out again).

Liverpool 4 V Blackburn 1 SN1- Luis Suarez continues to play while his appeal works its way through, and my guess is that the Reds explode in unity at home behind their striker. It doesn't hurt that its Rovers coming to town either. Can Venky's just put down their Christmas chicken and sack this guy already? It was disgusting how much hatred and vitriol was being heaped on Kean by the fans (I dont' blame them to a degree) during Blackburn's home loss to Bolton last match. Give the guy a break, cut him a good severance package, and save him from having a lifetime of nightmares. It's not his fault. Either that or give him some cash to buy some players in January. You can't have it both ways.
SIDE NOTE: Did you know that Rovers' Defender Scott Dann played through and scored after suffering a ruptured testicle? That is definition of tough.

Sunderland 1 V Everton 0 - Keep the run going, Martin O'Neill, and you're sure to get a raucous welcome return cheer from the home fans after the massive away win at Loftus Road. It also sounds about right that the Toffees should drop points since a win would put them in the top ten.

West Brom 1 V Manchester City 3 SN - Riding high after a big win at St. James', West Brom welcome one of Europe's best. With the African Cup of Nations looming for City's Toure brothers, they better not drop points like these at the Hawthornes. Whom am I kidding? This is a cake walk not matter how much I try to convince myself that the Baggies could gut out a draw. Not happening.

14:45
Stoke City 2 V Aston Villa 2 SNW - Only FIVE points from relegation, Alex McLeish, though you will have your strikeforce back (Bent better play, as he was healthy enough to shop). The bad news is you're traveling to the Britannia, and the Potters are not happy about that bludgeoning by City.

TUESDAY
10:00
Arsenal 3 V Wolves 2 SNW - Not quite the easy win that it would normally be, because Wolves will continue to push forward and try to expose the Gunners' knocked-up back four, Keiran Gibbs the latest addition to the injury list (Santos, Jenkinson, Sagna). This will hopefully be a goal fest because Mick McCarthy's team is still looking up defending in Soccer for Dummies. Also, Arsene Wenger has hinted at targeting Thierry Henry in the January Transfer window. I guess he's got to make up for some goal scoring to cover for Marouane Chamakh's attendance at the African Cup of Nations. Oh wait.

12:00
Swansea 2 V QPR 0 SNW - Ahhh, South Wales welcomes the return of their Swans. Book the three points, I've had enough of your underachievers, Mr. Warnock. Michel Vorm is not having it either, as he returns to his personal fortress.

14:30
Norwich 1 V Tottenham 1 SNW -Some injury concerns for Spurs, with Gareth Bale picking up an injury against Chelsea, joining RvdV and Aaron Lennon as concerns. The Welshman will likely still play, as will the Dutchman, but I think Spurs drop two points for some reason. Just a hunch.

Happy Christmas everyone and enjoy some more Footy. The next slate starts on Friday, don't you love it?

Beer Review Trifecta and a London Draw means Manchester Wins

2011-12-23T21:41:00.000-05:00

IN THIS BLOG:

BEERS OF THE WEEK

EPL REVIEW

Many thanks to Etobicoke Manchester United Correspondent Alistair and his lovely wife Erica for gifting me the samples and vessel for this week's blog. Cheers.

BEERS OF THE WEEK: The Three Kings Brewery Pack - Munich style Dark Lager; Vienna Lager; Pilsner Region/Country: Nobleton, ON Brewery: King Brewery Price: $9.95/3 Beers & 1 Pint glass Size: 341mL x 3 Alcohol%: 4.8% Pour: Dark Lager: Reddish Brown with lighter brown, creamy rim. Aroma: Roasted wheat, slightly sweet. Taste: Thin mouthfeel, but a smooth, grainy malt taste with just a tiny hint of mocha and faint hops. Rating: 7.75/10 – I could take down a few of these without even thinking about it.

Pilsner: Pour: Shining yellow and thin white carbonated head. Aroma: Bitter graininess. Taste: Smooth, but pretty bitter on the finish that weirdly does not combine well with the grainy, cereal-like flavours. Rating: 6.5/10 - Pils have never been my thing, so maybe not a fair rating.

Vienna Lager: Pour: Translucent orange with a thin head. Aroma: Mostly light sweet malt but also some light fruitiness. Taste: Easy drinking lager, the unique flavour similar to sourdough bread to me.
Rating: 7.5/10 - Not minding the sourdough flavour, nothing like I've ever tasted.

EPL REVIEW
Tottenham 1, Chelsea 1 - What an entertaining game to watch, even if you aren't a fan of either team. Gareth Bale's pinpoint pass just inches ahead of John Terry found Emmanuel Adebayor for the first goal, the Togolese striker following his goal with a unique, "dusting myself off" celebration that even I didn't mind. After that though, Chelsea turned the run of play, with Ashley Cole drilling over a top notch pass of his own to Daniel Sturridge, who volleyed the ball in with the side of his foot. Spurs appealed for a hand ball on Cole, but it hardly affected the play and there was no way he even knew about it, running away from the ball at the time.

After that both teams had fantastic chances, John Terry thwarting Adebayor after he beat Petr Cech on his shot, the captain sliding desperately to knock the ball away. A sure goal it seemed. In fact, Terry played probably one of the best games I've ever seen him suit up for, despite the storm cloud of racism charges hanging above him right now.

Ramires also missed a wide-open header off of a Juan Mata free kick (Ramires' return made such a difference to the squad, they are so much more creative). William Gallas clearly blew his marking, leaving the Brazilian wide open. But Ramires headed to strongly, pushing the ball just wide of the post when it just needed a soft touch to beat the fantastic Brad Friedel. Gallas then pointed to Benoit Assou-Ekotto to blame him. Nice try Gallas, we all know it was you, perhaps looking around might help you next time.

AVB also started Jon Obi Mikel over inventive Oriol Romeu for some mysterious reason, and thankfully Mikel was injured at the end of the first half, forcing AVB to put Romeu into the lineup for the second 45'. I hope that he noticed that his team's forward progress and overall play improved, NOT coincidentally.

Aston Villa 1, Arsenal 2 - One of the best games that Villa have played in weeks. It's a shame that they couldn't pull out any points, since they couldn't beat mediocre teams either. This should be distressing to their fans as the schedule gets tougher with a trip to Stoke City and Chelsea next. Seldom used Yossi Benayoun tucked away the winner to crush Villa Park's hopes. Marc Albrighton had cancelled out the RvP penalty (to tie Thierry Henry's single year club mark) with a great run and strike, the 20,000th in EPL history. While I don't particularly care for this stat, I'd wager that Albrighton may wish he had a better haircut when fans look back on this "historic" goal. Do they not have salons in Birmingham, Marc?

Manchester City 3, Stoke 0 - Hey Potters' defenders, you might want to cover Sergio Aguero when the ball's coming into the box, ok? He's kind of one of the world's best strikers. In addition, Adam Johnson is really making a case for regular play and a spot on England's Euro 2012 team crushing a dart into the net.

Newcastle 2, West Brom 3 - Demba Ba can't play defense, and thus can't do everything. The Baggies kept the Magpie slide going, exposing Newcastle's injuries again. Damn that Paul Scharner with this winner, making Ba's two-spot moot and my soft spot for the Geordies exposed.

Everton 1, Swansea 0 - The Osman strikes again, denying another resilient effort by the Welsh. In other big Toffees news, Landon Donovan is coming back to Goodison, and I can hear the relief from David Moyes already.

Fulham 0, Manchester United 5 - This is a match that typically gives United problems, but whatever used to cause Red Devil discomfort was not at Craven Cottage this Wednesday. Danny Welbeck and Nani are getting to know each other well (each had a goal/assist), Wayne Rooney ripped a wonder strike from well out and we had a Dimitar Berbatov sighting! The elusive one showed up when it mattered least yet again, back heeling a beauty to make it 5-0. Thanks Dimitar, why don't you save that for a time when it's needed (remember last year's FA Cup?)?

QPR 2, Sunderland 3 - Did I underestimate the power of Martin O'Neill (two wins in three)? Apparently. And I also overestimated Rangers' talent. They're sinking down the standings, and were only in this game because the Black Cats decided to slack off and blow their 2-0 lead by not defending. Wes Brown headed in the winner off of a corner. Ouch.

Wigan 0, Liverpool 0 - Is Wigan better than I thought? Hmmm, don't think so but maybe they put something in the pitch, scraping another point from a better team. Oh, and they have penalty stopper Ali Al-Habsi, who stoned Charlie Adam. Unreal.

Wolves 2, Norwich 2 - A back and forth entertaining match that featured Canadian Simeon Jackson's first EPL goal in an ugly goal line tap-in. Oh well, they all count. Andrew Surman and Steve Morison led the way for we'll-worry-about-defense-later Norwich, but Ronald Zubar came flying in for a header to force the draw.

Blackburn 1, Bolton 2 -The basement battle. The battle of the sack. The battle of the bottom. The Lancashire derby. Whatever this match was called, it ended up with Steve Kean being on the hotter of the seats because his Rovers were taken down due to spotty coverage and absent-minded marking. Chris Samba should have tied it at the death, but failed badly on his wide-open header.

Happy Holidays to you all and thank you for reading the Back of the Onion Bag. If you haven't already, follow me on Twitter @jpaulsports.
NEXT: Boxing Day Preview Blog

Chelsea choke job and the Christmas Schedule

2011-12-20T09:31:00.000-05:00

Wigan 1, Chelsea 1 - The Blues were burned for not getting that second goal and sealing the three points, the curious subs by AVB also blowing up in the manager's face. With Petr Cech clearly injured, AVB used his final move to take out goal scorer Daniel Sturridge and bringing on Florent Malouda instead of Ross Turnbull for the Czech. While Cech blames himself for chest-barfing a shot that allowed Jordi Gomez to equalise, a healthy keeper would have likely held onto the ball. No Ramires hurt Chelsea's energy levels, their creativity lacking as even Juan Mata's influence was noticeably muted. Fernando Torres didn't even get on the pitch, though he surely has to play on Thursday, right?

QPR 0, Manchester United 2 - Clearly my upset special did not quite pan out, Rangers falling behind merely 52 seconds in on a glancing Wayne Rooney header from Antonio Valencia. The player of the match was Michael Carrick though, acting as field marshal all match and also scoring the second goal on a great individual run. Radek Cerny had two of the saves of the year on Danny Welbeck and Valencia, just when he looked to be down and out.

Aston Villa 0, Liverpool 2 - Horrid defending has Villa fans forgetting last week's away triumph. Both the Reds' goals were scored off of set-pieces (sound familiar?) when McLeish's team failed to use their height advantage to prevent Liverpool from getting their way in the air and their heads to the ball. Richard Dunne's reaction after giving up the first goal was pretty comical though, as he hammered the ball back into the net in frustration. And what about Darren Bent being caught shopping on match day, his injured thigh not bothering him enough from finishing up his Christmas list.

Tottenham 1, Sunderland 0 - It wasn't supposed to be that difficult going in, but Spurs did just enough to take another three points. Roman Pavlyuchenko finished a pretty three-way passing play via Luka Modric and Aaron Lennon by tucking it past Kieren Westwood. Sandro filled in for the injured Gareth Bale and was a pretty damn good replacement for the Welshman, though no one is provides quite the width that Bale does.

Manchester City 1, Arsenal 0 - A fantastic match that featured some back and forth, Arsenal having their fair share of chances. Both keepers were fantastic, but Joe Hart(still shocked that he's English) was just one save better than Wojciech Szczesny, David Silva scoring the only goal in a scramble in the box that surprise(!), Per Mertesacker had fun with. Considering the Gunners lost another defender in Johan Djourou, they held fairly strong.

Fulham 2, Bolton 0 - It keeps getting worse for the Wanderers, Clint Dempsey converting a beaut of a pass from Bryan Ruiz, whose chip of Jussi Jaaskelainen two minutes later made it 2-0. You have to figure Owen Coyle doesn't have many weeks left. Maybe they'll let him go after Christmas?

Blackburn 1, West Brom 2 - Two fantastic goals and the Baggies keep it going and gut Steve Kean. James Morrison tied it with a cracker of a volley, Peter Odemwingie outlasting the defense long enough to get a left-footed rip from just outside the box past Paul Robinson as the final minutes ticked away.

Everton 1, Norwich 1 - Royston Drenthe did have the impact I was expecting, but it's too bad he wasn't able to play the whole match. Drenthe made a great run and fired toward goal only to have a criss-crossing Leon Osman tip it just enough and into the net. Grant Holt scored one of the goals of the week (without his head though): He gained control in tight, between two defenders and Tim Howard, then quickly spun and nestled it right inside the far post. The Toffees keep having trouble scoring, and now Chelsea are going to throw some tempting Pounds at David Moyes for Jack Rodwell in January.

Newcastle 0, Swansea 0 - The Magpies dominated most of this game, but Swansea kept Newcastle outside the danger zone. Demba Ba managed a handful of good chances as usual, and with a bit of luck Newcastle could have righted themselves. But as it turned out though, the league's worst away defense held strong as they do in Wales. It was apparent though, how much Fabricio Collocini's presence means to the defense, the Magpies back to their solid back line of weeks ago.

Wolves 1, Stoke City 2 - Mick McCarthy will wonder where his offense went, though I think the absence of Jamie O'Hara(hernia) had something to do with it. Peter Crouch nearly knocked himself out heading in the winner at the right post, but did just enough to put in the winner. The Potters keep rolling with they're fourth in a row.

THIS WEEK IN ONE SENTENCE PREDICTIONS

TUESDAY
14:45
Wolves 3 V Norwich 1 - Wolves present a more dangerous front for Norwich, and will expose a withering Canaries defense, unlike Everton.

15:00
Blackburn 3 V Bolton 2 - The EPL's two worst teams battle for the bottom, defense an afterthought.

WEDNESDAY
14:45
Aston Villa 1 V Arsenal 3 - The pressure starts to mount on Alex McLeish, as Robin van Persie simply can't be held off of the scoresheet two games in a row.

Manchester City 4 V Stoke 1 - The good run of Stoke hits a speed bump in a City squad back on track after beating Arsenal, a much different team that the Potters.

Newcastle 3 V West Brom 2 - Demba Ba won't keep hitting the post, so Get In for this thrilling match.

15:00
Everton 0 V Swansea 0 - I'm not sure I've ever predicted a scoreless draw, but combine the inept Toffees attack and the solid backbone of Swans, and it's a stalemate.

Fulham 1 V Manchester United 2 - Wayne Rooney's plugs are looking pretty good these days, aren't they (and they help him score goals now, too)?

QPR 1 V Sunderland 1 -Two frustrated teams (did you know the Rangers' nickname is the Super Hoops? WTF?) but a big away point for Martin O'Neill.

Wigan 1 V Liverpool 3 - The Latics can't expect to get anything from a better club two weeks in a row, as Kenny's getting his boys tuned for a second half run, their set-pieces practiced to perfection against Villa.

THURSDAY
15:00
Tottenham 2 V Chelsea 2 - A heck of a match to conclude the week, which could turn into a copy of Chelsea 3, Arsenal 5 (though I certainly hope not) with these fine offenses and less than stellar backlines.

Double Your Stout, Ronaldo's new kicks and Tough Euro Draws

2011-12-16T21:08:00.000-05:00

IN THIS BLOG

BEER OF THE WEEK

EUROPEAN DRAWS

CLUB WORLD CUP FINAL

EPL WEEKLY PREVIEW

BEER OF THE WEEK

Past Masters Double Stout Region/Country: London, UK Brewery: Fuller’s - Griffin Brewery Price: $3.75 Size: 500 mL Alcohol%: 7.4% Pour: Dark Brown with a thin lacing that rounds the circumference of the glass. Aroma: Slight coffee, but more mocha with roasted malts. Taste: Thin mouthfeel, with the mocha dominating the flavour, with malt bitterness on the finish. It's a little thin on depth, especially considering this was using an old-time recipe. Rating: 7/10 – For a Double Stout, this brew is a little weak. I'd worry about what the "single" stout would taste like. Would there be any flavour? Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to have a real stout: the Southern Tier Chokolat.

Ronaldo's New Kicks
Better check out Ronaldo's new kicks, to further his futile attempt to compete with Lionel Messi. Thank you to Ottawa Manchester United correspondent Brian for this one.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE DRAW
The London teams get a tough draw with Chelsea taking on Napoli and Arsenal facing AC Milan yet again. At least the Blues and Gunners get the second leg at home, which is an advantage (I hope).

EUROPA LEAGUE DRAW
The Manchester's don't have it too easy, though I don't think United will really focus too much on this competition. City get defending champions Porto, while Sir Alex's team get the Dutch, Ajax.

CLUB WORLD CUP FINAL
If you want to get up insanely early on Sunday, one of the games of the year is on at 5:30 AM on the Score and pits Barcelona against Neymar and Brazilian Santos. It should be a doozy and also give you a look into how good the top South American team is. We'll also see just how far off Neymar is from Messi. Many Brazilians think he is close to the same level as the Argentinian, but I beg to differ. Neymar has to get tougher on the ball and be more creative to even approach the diminutive one. He's come a long way, even from summer's Copa America, though. And in case you didn't hear, David Villa broke his leg in the semi and is gone for six months. This could possibly curtail his hopes to be at full strength for the European Championships in June, but he could be a fast healer. If you watch closely, you can see the shin pop out of the Spaniard's shin slightly. Ugh.

EPL PREVIEW
SATURDAY
10:00
Blackburn 2 V West Brom 2 SNW@22:00 - No Junior Hoilett or Martin Olsson, so where will Rovers' creativity come from? And who will feed the Yak? For a sometimes plodding, somewhat inconsistent goal scorer, that's a pretty great nickname. Dropping points at home to a bottom dweller is going to burn Steve Kean.

Everton 3 V Norwich 1 SNW - The Canaries won't have the easy time they did with Newcastle last week when they travel to Goodison. The Toffees jump up and Royston "Please stay" Drenthe has something to do with it.

Fulham 3 V Bolton 2 SNW@20:00 - Not only are the Trotters the worst defensive team in the EPL, but they are now without top scorer Ivan Klasinc. Owen Coyle, it's not your fault but it may have to be you on your way out soon.

Newcastle 2 V Swansea 1 SN - Bounce back Pardew, but you better be lining up some defenders to import in January. Swans will be a tough out but St. James' propel their Magpies.

Wolves 1 V Stoke 0 SNW @18:00 - Ah, Stoke away and "fresh" off a trip to Istanbul? Book a McCarthy win, oh, and a header by Steven Fletcher, because that's all he seems to do.

12:30
Wigan 0 V Chelsea 2 SN - The Blues keep their run going but Wigan are going to put up a heck of a fight. David Luiz has been improving and this is the type of match where he should practice his defending, as he won't be needed up front. Check that, he's never needed up front, he just thinks he is. Surely Fernando starts, no? I'd like to see me some LUKAKU!

SUNDAY
07:00
QPR 2 V Manchester United 1 SNW - This is what I like to call a little Upset Special. The only thing that could hinder this is if Dimitar Berbatov has one of "those games" where he decides that he wants to be noticed on the pitch and pots a hat trick (it is, after all, against a bottom half team). I don't think he's up to fitness yet though, and United are so banged up that Neil Warnock gets his XI to steal the points and throw another wrench into the League.

09:05
Aston Villa 2 V Liverpool 2 SNW - What type of reception will Stewart Downing get? He returns to his former home ground and things don't get any easier for the Reds. Though the yellow-card accumulating Aga-bons is out, meaning geriatric Emile Heskey is up front with Darren Bent. I'm sure Bent was not impressed with Aga-bons when he received that suspension triggering yellow, leaving him subject to this pairing.

10:00
Tottenham 3 V Sunderland 1 SNW@14:00 - So much for that Martin O'Neill win streak. Spurs are a juggernaut and will not be tired despite winning 4-0 over Shamrock in Europa League, because they did not field their regulars. Spurs were eliminated, which means that this could be trouble for the other teams contending at the top of the EPL. Harry Redknapp can keep his team focused on the Domestic schedule, while the others are tied up elsewhere.

GAME OF THE WEEK (Easily)
b
Manchester City 2 V Arsenal 2 SNW - Well, Hamilton Gunners Correspondent, B, your Gunners against hated City. Nervous? Thoughts? It should be a fantastic game with goals galore and counter after counter. Robin van Persie vs Mario Balotelli, Edin Dzeko and Sergio Aguero. Wow. No former Gunner Gael Clichy (thanks again for last week!) or Aleksander Kolorov, but big Micah Richards returns. I'm guessing that Per Mertesacker will only come on in case of injury, otherwise, take and keep your seat Per.

THERE ARE A BUNCH MORE GAMES TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY/THURSDAY as the Christmas Schedule heats up. I'll try to get a blog out prior to those ones kicking off. Cheers all, and don't be afraid to fire up some comments if you think I'm full of it. Thanks for reading.

The Race isn't over: Lampard Smashes Chelsea over City

2011-12-13T20:47:00.000-05:00

GAME OF THE WEEK - The Cashico
Chelsea 2, Manchester City 1 - I somehow avoided the second half result while I commuted home so I could watch the last 45 minutes "live" on my PVR. I was quite chuffed that I pulled off this minor miracle, able to see my team's massive victory (with a little help from their careless opposition).

I must admit having watched the first half later, that Chelsea were lucky. They could/should have been further exposed at the back in the first 25 minutes or so, but only suffered City's opener mere minutes in. Kun Aguero's brilliant pass to Mario Balotelli exposed the "high line" that AVB has been running lately, beating the on rushing Cech after beating the back line (and is it just me or did the Italian almost crack a smile after he scored?) City also revealed a stumbling Branislav Ivanovic, who almost tripped trying to turn and catch Balotelli (whom I'm sure he didn't know was there).

Then there's the mis-timed fall by David Silva in the box, who could have gained a penalty but jumped too late. After that, Chelsea began to take over the flow of the game, catching City off-guard by pressuring them, while also staying cautious not to allow a swift counter attack. When the brilliant Daniel Sturridge found Raul Meireles for the tying goal, it was game on.

Gael Clichy did the Blues a favour in the second half, pretty much killing off hopes that the League leaders would get the three points when he received a second yellow card for stepping-into an on-rushing Ramires (I'm surprised the Frenchman didn't lose his leg in the clash). He clearly didn't notice that he had two teammates behind him, rendering his tackle needless.

Yet despite being up a man, Chelsea were strangely cautious, controlling play but not attacking the area. Instead, they looked for perfect entrances into the box, paranoid of making the wrong pass. Thankfully, Sturridge decided to take matters into his own hands again and try a shot on goal. The brain-cramp prone Joleon Lescott then obliged, sticking his arms out for the ball to strike. Penalty.

Once this happened, I started to worry. I knew 72 min substitute Frank Lampard was going to take the kick (despite two misses lately, and Juan Mata offering to take it for him), these types of retribution kicks are made for him. With his starting gig no longer automatic and his form and recent misses in question, there was no way in West London he was going to miss this. Why was I freaking out though? Because Joe freakin' Hart was the keeper, and I was more than mildly concerned that he knew his England teammate all too well and would somehow thwart him. I could see Hart, post-save, all fiery, in a jacked-up celebration, screaming at will.

I should have known better.

Has anyone ever seen a penalty hit any harder than Lampard pulverized that one? The commentator seemed somewhat surprised that the Back of the Onion Bag wasn't pierced by the ferocity of the former West Hammers' spot kick. Fist pumps and jubilation followed, Lampard making it fully aware to everyone that he loves Chelsea and is staying.

He also let City that the title is not won in December.

ELSEWHERE
Stoke 2, Tottenham 1 - Spurs go down for the first time since August, and of course, controversy was involved. The official harshly booked Younes Kaboul and reduced Spurs to ten men. However, before that, his assistant thought Emmanuel Adebayor was offside and his tying goal was disallowed. It wasn't close either, as he was TWO yards onside! Throw in an unnoticed handball on the line by Ryan Shawcross and Spurs certainly had a case for outrage. Unreal stuff and a much better effort by Stoke, who appear to be back. And you know what Harry Redknapp, post match complainer? You were lucky to get the penalty call for Luka Modric's dive, and don't fall behind 2-0 away from home and expect to get anything from it.

Just saying.

Sunderland 2, Blackburn 1 - Martin O'Neill's home debut was a great result, though he had to sweat it out. For once, it was the Black Cats' coming back after playing 80 minutes of forgettable football. Their goals were stunners by David Vaughan and Sebastien Larsson, though if Yakubu jumps on the Swedes' free kick, it ends in a draw. However, it's noteworthy that Sunderland never gave up, a common trait of the Irishman's teams.
Note: I watched this match with my Dad, who had never witnessed the exuberance of Martin O'Neill. He thus commented after the winning goal: "Well he gets pretty excited there doesn't he?"

Norwich 4, Newcastle 2 - The absence of legitimate centre backs for Newcastle was apparent at Carrow Road, but Demba Ba did his best to try and cancel out the gaping problem, netting two more goals. The Canaries were smart though, starting height that aided in their set piece goals, three of which came on headers where the Barcodes were simply out-jumped. Clever, Paul Lambert.

Manchester United 4, Wolves 1 - The expected response from United after being knocked out of the Champions League, beating an overmatched Wolves. Rooney and Nani each had two, the Portuguese midfielder looking especially dangerous and more comfortable shouldering the offensive load. What has happened to Ashley Young's early season form, though?

Liverpool 1, QPR 0 -The Reds almost were thwarted by another hot keeper, this time in back-up Radek Cerny, who was fantastic. Luis Suarez broke the goose egg though, with a stellar header. There have to be concerns for Reds' fans though. Where is the offense and direction going to come from on the pitch?

Arsenal 1, Everton 0 - Lethargic 125 year-old Arsenal looked like they were going to send the Thierry Henry honouring Emirates' faithful home with a draw, but then THIS happened. Absolute stunner of a goal by RvP that is one of his best and should be in the Top Five of the year (Not a bad pass by Alex Song there either). He's now second (33) all-time behind Alan Shearer's 36 goals in a year. Is this strike better than THIS one against Charlton? All you Gooners, let me know your thoughts. As for their opponents, Everton played tough and had some chances but again, striker please.

Next up Arsenal: Manchester City. Your move, Arsene.

Bolton 1, Aston Villa 2 -Wow, did Alex McLeish read my blog and get his team fired up and pressing forward? Or is Bolton just that bad? Well, let's go with the latter, even though McLeish flattered himself in the post match conference, revealing that his "system" was finally working. Ok, right, Alex, did you know that your opposition have conceded THIRTY-SIX goals already this season, over two a game? Full credit to finally getting Marc Albrighton more playing time of late because wow, he scores when you play the budding youngster. Who would have thought?

Swansea 2, Fulham 0 - Michel Vorm and his incredible year continues. He stopped another penalty (that shouldn't have been awarded) and kept the home goals allowed to an astonishing TWO for this promoted club.

West Brom 1, Wigan 2 - Wow, I didn't see this one coming. Roberto Martinez's men didn't have much trouble with Roy Hodgson's team. The Latics vault to the edge of the drop zone after coming back from an early deficit.

The Manchesters Disappear & Russian for a Great Stout

2011-12-09T19:48:00.001-05:00

IN THIS BLOG

BEER OF THE WEEK
WHAT HAPPENED TO UNITED?
EPL PREVIEW

BEER OF THE WEEK

Region/Country: Montreal, QC Brewery: McAuslan Brewing Inc. Price: $5.95 Size: 341 mL Alcohol%: 9.2% Pour: Black and thick with a brown, frothy head. The lacing is sticky, its stubbornness keeping it attached to the glass. Aroma: Smoky chocolate, bitter, with a hint of alcohol. Taste: Hello bourbon, nice to meet you. I'm not a fan of the liquor on its own, but it combines well with the sweet bitter chocolate flavour and creamy coffee hints of this beer, the definition of winter warmer. Just don't drive anywhere after having one Rating: 8.75/10 – This one surprised me with how smooth it was, and being a big fan of chocolate and coffee, it made for a delicious treat. I drank this from a snifter, only using the matching brewery glass for the picture because I had one.

WHAT HAPPENED TO UNITED?
What transpired Wednesday in Switzerland was shocking to even the most optimistic of United haters. Entering the match needing just a draw with FC Basel in order to advance to the next stage of the Champions League, Manchester United put up a dud of a performance and weren't deserving of moving on.

But it really shouldn't even have come to that.

Looking back at United's CL matches leading up to the finale, what about the home draw to Basel? They conceded three to the Swiss team, who (no offense to the relative minnows) had no business netting a trio of goals. This is Manchester freakin' United, Champions League finalists in May! Scoring three at Old Trafford couldn't have been considered even a possibility at the time, but somehow they managed the feat.

Throw in the 2-2 draw with Benfica, also at the former fortress of United in which the home team conceded carelessly, and there are four additional points that were considered givens before the tournament kicked-off.

The only team the Red Devils handled in the tournament was Otelul Galati, the weakest team in the group, the wins hardly an accomplishment for a team of United's quality. Entering this tournament, Sir Alex Ferguson could not have picked an easier group, yet they still find themselves headed to the Europa League.

So what exactly happened? How did United fall?

Well, personnel, mostly. The injuries that forced the team to field the eleven that they dressed is a result of the squad depth that Sir Alex picked heading into the season. The Scotsman gambled, and so far it hasn't paid off. Start with the embarrassment to City, a string of wins by razor-thin margins over weaker EPL squads, a loss to Crystal Palace in the Carling Cup, and, finally, the relegation to the secondary European tournament, and it's been a rough year so far. The caveat is that United still sit second, albeit third if Spurs win their game in hand.

Let's start in goal. Fergie chose the young David de Gea, who hasn't been trustworthy all year, his lack of commitment leading to Basel's first goal on Wednesday. Dane Anders Lindegaard has yet to be at fault, and perhaps has earned the starting job going forward.

Injuries have forced Phil Jones into the midfield, Chris Smalling into centre-back, and Danny Welbeck to shoulder the load up front. Do you think Basel was scared when United brought on Frederico Macheda to try and save the Red Devils? Hell no. Even the owner of one good hamstring, Michael Owen, would have inflicted more fear than Macheda; and with Wayne Rooney playing back in the midfield, Sir Alex had no other choice.

Now, let's throw in the news that Nemanja Vidic is lost for the season to a cruciate injury and all of a sudden, things have become much worse for an already vulnerable United.

With Manchester City also being eliminated (despite beating already advanced Bayern Munich), it's up to the London clubs of Arsenal and Chelsea to shoulder the load of English success in the world's best soccer tournament. While City supporters and owners expected to get out of the group stage, it is hardly the disappointment that United fans are feeling today. To City, winning the league is far more important than the Champions or Europa League. Nonetheless, they can't be happy that they are still in the same competition as their neighbours. However, the way things are going for United, City should hardly fear them. Roberto Mancini's squad depth is far superior to Fergies's, and are better outfitted to finish the year strongly.

PS - Wayne Rooney's three-match Euro ban has been reduced to two games. He will now be available to play Ukraine (#phew).

EPL PREVIEW

SATURDAY

10:00

Arsenal 2 V Everton 0 SNW - Mikel Arteta vs his old squad, who are battered. RvP's still healthy, so it's not hard to predict this outcome, even though Everton seem to be putting it together lately.

Bolton 2 V Aston Villa 1 - Gary Cahill's red card was properly rescinded, so he's back for Bolton, while Villa became 2X more vulnerable at the back when Shay Given injured himself last week and is out for a month. Brad Guzan fills in? Good luck with that McLeish. Wanderers are weak at the back, but you're too stubborn to push too many forward, aren't you Alex?.

Liverpool 3 V QPR 2 SN - I think this will be a thrilling match, and perhaps warrant game of the week status. While the Reds sorely miss Lucas, Spearing and Gerrard, Jordan Henderson will be amped to prove that he was worth the millions of pounds he came over for, and Suarez is due for a breakout.

Manchester United 3 V Wolves 1 TSN2 - Some good news for United is that Michael Carrick returns, meaning that Phil Jones can play in his natural position in the back. Dimitar Berbatov also returns, and, as United are playing a weak club, he should score and not choke on his snood as he routinely does with an open goal.

Norwich 2 V Newcastle 2 SN at Noon - Ok, Magpies, can you rebound from your loss to Chelsea and defensive injuries? I saw you do, though only enough to get a point. Norwich aren't exactly healthy either, nor can they put up a defensive wall. This match could be fun.

Swansea 1 V Fulham 1 - Another potentially great match up. Fulham off of a big win over Liverpool, (but they were partially gifted the three points), while the Welsh are a step or two better at home.

West Brom 3 V Wigan 2 - I'm really liking how Shane Long and Peter Odemwingie are playing together these days, and they will overpower the Latics. However, these bottom table matches are usually quite entertaining.

SUNDAY

08:30

Sunderland 3 V Blackburn 1 SNW - Martin O'Neill's first win, though I am concerned that he is hopeful that Nicklas Bendtner and Phil Bardsley are healthy. I'm pretty sure they'll remember to mark Yakubu, though while he might get one, but I'd rather tip MG Pedersen to notch.

11:00

Stoke 1 V Tottenham 1 SNW - Another fantastic match features a rebounding Stoke team against the offensive juggernaut and passing wizardry of Tottenham. RvdV will play, though Jermain Defoe and Gareth Bale are questionable. I bet Defoe starts on the bench but Bale suits up at the opening whistle because the Welshman doesn't pout. Here's where the Spurs stall. For now.

MONDAY

Chelsea 2 V Manchester City 2 TSN2 - Chelsea's confidence has never been higher this year, while City's is still in the clouds. While the elimination from the Champions League is a minor setback, there is no way that the Blues can beat them, or Joe Hart enough to get the three points at Stamford Bridge, no matter how much I pine for them to.

Newcastle Falls, Manchester V Manchester & O'Neill!

2011-12-06T19:38:00.000-05:00

IN THIS BLOG:

SUNDERLAND HIRE O'NEILL

WHY AVB GET ONION BAG PLAUDITS

EPL REVIEW
FA CUP DRAW

SUNDERLAND HIRE O'NEILL
Former Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has replaced the fired Steve Bruce at the Stadium of Light. It's a three-year deal for the animated Northern Irishman, who has also managed Celtic and Leicester City. Unfortunately, his new team welcomed him with a 2-1 loss at the Molineux. It's a massive task for O'Neill, who will try and lift the underachieving Black Cats out of 17th and near to the more expected mid-table position. It is a pleasure to watch him along the touchline, and even though she's a die-hard Spurs Fan, Tottenham correspondent Joanne is pretty excited to be able to watch him and his multitude of entertaining reactions and gyrations during matchcasts.

WHY AVB GETS ONION BAG PLAUDITS
The most important news though, is the word that the subject of years of Onion Bag derision, Nicolas Anelka, will no longer be a Chelsea player come January. THANK YOU AVB, and Daniel Sturridge, for the early Christmas present. AVB was looking to clear out the Frenchman's attitude, and his decision was made easy by Sturridge's incredible form that has exceeded expectations. Anelka has already been frozen out of training with the club, his departure now just a matter of days away. Oh, and Alex is gone too, but I will miss his scintillating free kicks. I don't want to get greedy here, but why can't they each take a partner? Yes, I'm looking at you Jon Obi Mikel, and you, Salomon Kalou.

EPL REVIEW
Newcastle 0, Chelsea 3 - Tim Krul was incredible (again; he stopped a Lampard Penalty among five or six stunners), as was the woodwork, which was dented at both ends of the pitch. Krul's magic and the 11th minute spontaneous tribute by the fans to Gary Speed (he wore 11 for Newcastle) wasn't enough, though this scoreline does flatter the Blues a little. Were it not for a terrible decision by Mike Dean, only giving David Luiz a yellow card when he took down Demba Ba five minutes in, this match would have been vastly different. Even the Assistant missed that Ba was the last defender and thus, Luiz should have been shown off. Dean did admit post match that it was an incorrect call, but said that he thought at the time that Ba didn't have control of the ball (huh?). It's gutting defeat for Newcastle, who also lost Defender Stephen Taylor, one of the solid back four that have propelled the Magpies to success thus far in the young season. After that, the Blues were the better team, Drogba drilling a power header and Mata again showing immense skill in lobbing a perfect pass for Daniel Sturridge to put home. Salomon Kalou added the last one when a gassed Fernando Torres (sub) couldn't finish the run and gave it to the Ivorian. John Terry also cleared one off the line as he looks healthier than he has all year. Wow, and look at this other shocking turn of events: two straight clean sheets for Chelsea. I'll put $100 down that they don't make it three straight in the EPL, because next up is Manchester City. Ugh.
ENTERTAINMENT VALUE (/5): ****

Blackburn 4, Swansea 2 -FOUR goals from Yakubu, making it an impressive nine in the League this season. (strike, power header, glancing header, penalty)Steve Kean no doubt took him out for dinner after the game, his job saved for another week.

QPR 1, West Brom 1 - Neil Warnock and Rangers were another team robbed by the official, missing out on their second goal because of an incorrect offside call on SWP. QPR wasted other chances though, and Peter Odemwingie's great pass to Shane Long split the points. Your boys must learn to finish at Loftus Road, Neil, finish.

Manchester City 5, Norwich 1 - Yikes, 48 goals for City already. Not only did they strike five on the Canaries, but they spread it around with five different goal scorers (Aguero, Nasri, Toure, Balotelli, Johnson), . The midfield rock, Yaya Toure (David Silva is the creator) even scored, while also throwing in 90/91 on Pass attempts in the first half. What? Is that stat for real? He finished with 124.

Tottenham 3, Bolton 0 - 10-0-1 in their last eleven in the League, though this one benefited from a phantom harsh foul (it will be appealed and I bet, rescinded) that the Wanderer's Gary Cahill was given for taking down an accelerating Scott Parker on the break (Spurs were up 1-0). The English defender was shown his walking papers unfairly, giving Tottenham and advantage they didn't really need. Spurs are rolling and doing so with class. Throw in Gareth Bale's fantastic tribute to Gary Speed after his opening side-footed goal, and it was a great day at White Hart Lane.
ENTERTAINMENT VALUE: ****

Wigan 0, Arsenal 4 - Crazy stuff at the JJB: Arsenal played some free form football and the white-hot Robin van Persie scored. Ok, not so shocking. The real puzzler was that RvP only scored one among the Gunners four-spot. What's really becoming apparent is how much Arsenal missed Thomas Vermaelen. He has really solidified the back line, bringing stability and organization, while also scoring as a bonus. Who needs Per Mertesacker? In any case, Arsenal sit 5th, playing great Wenger-style open football, maybe because there is no pressure on them?
ENTERTAINMENT VALUE: ***.5

Aston Villa 0, Manchester United 1 - This result clearly flattered Villa, who were vastly outplayed, especially in the first half. (Future England Captain?) Phil Jones scored another on a forward push and beauty rising one-timer. What is worrying for United is that they lost Chicharito mere minutes into this match, and he could be gone for up to a month. They have six games in 23 days over the holidays, and will likely have to play them without him. It'll be the Rooney and Danny Welbeck show, but ONLY if Welbeck can himself get healthy.
ENTERTAINMENT VALUE: ** .5

Everton 0, Stoke 1 -So much for being gassed after their Europa League match on Thursday, as the Potters looked the team they were at the start of the year. Everton? Still missing that striker. How good would a return of Yakubu look to the team right now? Anyone?

Wolves 2, Sunderland 1 - The first match for Martin O'Neill didn't go so well, though it started perfectly with Kieran Richardson opening the scoring. That only lasted for a minute though, before Wolves tied it up on another Stephen Fletcher header, and then a late strike, taking all of the points.

Fulham 1, Liverpool 0 - Jonathan Spearing gets tossed for a hard, but not egregious tackle on the Academy Award nominee Moussa Dembele. While the Reds' player did scissor a little hard with his following leg, a red was too much. Liverpool were definitely hard done by being reduced to ten men, but they had their chances, and, in typical Liverpool fashion, squandered them just when it looked like they were going to continue to fly up the standings. As for Fulham, they defended just well enough but lucked out a bit in getting all of the points, and Pepe Reina chest-barfing Danny Murphy's shot to Clint Dempsey, who just won't miss.

FA CUP DRAW
Click here for the full FA Cup Draw.
Manchester City match up with Manchester United, the most intriguing of the Third Round Match-ups. Other matches involving the EPL Teams are:
Tottenham V Cheltenham
MK Dons V QPR
Fulham V Charlton
Birmingham V Wolves
Norwich V Burnley
Arsenal V Leeds
Barnsley V Swansea
Chelmsford or Macclesfield V Bolton
Newcastle V Blackburn
Everton V Tamworth
Liverpool V Southend or Oldham
Gilingham V Stoke
Chelsea V Portsmouth
Peterborough V Sunderland
West Brom V Cardiff

A Group of Death is drawn, 52,000 Geordies and MOJO's IPA delivers this week

2011-12-02T20:13:00.000-05:00

IN THIS BLOG
EURO DRAW

BEER OF THE WEEK

EPL PREVIEW

BEER OF THE WEEK

Mojo India Pale Ale Region/Country: Boulder, CO Brewery: Boulder Beer Company Price: $1.75 Size: 355 mL Alcohol%: 7.2% Pour: A pale, apple juice pour, with strong lacing that mostly disappears fairly quickly minus a few stubborn bubbles. Aroma: Medium hoppiness and a hint of sweet lemon. Taste: Medium hops follows through with a minor caramel sweetness and a very dry, bitter finish. This is pretty fresh because my cheeks kept puckering after every sip. Rating: 8.5+/10 – A zesty IPA that delivers the hops when you want it (and when don't you?)

EURO 2012 CHAMPIONSHIPS DRAW

For the Full draw, click here

In summation, Portugal get burned for their back door entrance as they're placed in the Group of Death with Germany, Holland and Denmark. I know my Porto correspondent Nilton is not too happy with the way the balls fell; The Republic of Ireland drew the next shortest straw by having to deal with Spain, Italy and Croatia; England get 2nd rate lucky by landing with Ukraine (and there's no "the" in front of Ukraine either (remember the Ukrainian in Seinfeld), but there will be countless commentators saying it during the tournament), France and Sweden; and the Group of Mediocrity features Greece, Poland, Czech Republic and Russia. The Group of Death will play the Group of Mediocrity in the knock-out stages and the other two groups will then face off, which basically means England losing to Spain or Italy in the quarter-finals in a shoot-out. Damn.

EPL PREVIEW

SATURDAY
07:45
Newcastle 2 V Chelsea 3 TSN2 - Alan Pardew laid down some pre-game smack, warning Chelsea to fear 52,000 Geordies. Alright Alan, I think your head is getting a little big, and it may be time to get bumped back a peg. It may be a throw down for me, as my Newcastle fan of a Brother and I will be watching the match together, his team finally competitive once again. I hope my nephew knows that his Cheerios and cartoons are trumped by this match, as he'll be relegated to the secondary television. The fans will be buoyed with extra emotion though, as there will also be a minute of silence for former Magpies Captain Gary Speed, who led the club to three Wembley appearances, Champions League qualification and consistent competitiveness. It's amazing that he captained each side that he played for. As for the game, the sides are pretty much full strength (minus Cheick Tiote, Jonas Gutierrez, Michael Essien and hopefully Jon Obi Mikel can be stapled to the bench), with Chelsea resting it's top XI midweek in their giveaway to Liverpool in the Carling Cup. I hope you enjoyed it Kenny, because AVB clearly didn't care. Juan Mata is going to work over Ryan Taylor, though Demba Ba is likely to put John Terry on his back again as he drills home at least one. Ultimately though, Chelsea builds on the class they showed against Wolves as AVB's boys start to turn the corner.

10:00
Blackburn 1 V Swansea 1 -Should Rovers get their full back line on the pitch, they'll be hard to beat; But without Junior Hoilett, they'll have trouble moving the ball up the pitch. Let's draw this tilt because there's no Danny Graham leading the line for Swans.

Manchester City 3 V Norwich 1 SNW - Joe Hart shouldn't have much to do to get the win in this match, but with the Canaries, being a plucky bunch, will fight until the end. What do they care? They know they're not winning this game but they won't be intimidated by any side in the EPL. John Ruddy will still put up fantasy points despite letting in three that won't be his fault.

QPR 2 V West Brom 1 -I can't see Rangers dropping points to a second-rate team that, despite playing with Spurs last weekend, cannot do it up at Loftus Road.

Tottenham 2 V Bolton 0 - Oh dear, Owen Coyle, things are getting worse as Rovers could leapfrog your boys and drop you further into relegation. How will you stop the Tottenham juggernaut? They're a little tired from Europa League play, but they welcome back RVDV, enough to cruise to a win.

Wigan 0 V Arsenal 3 SN -Which Gunners show up this week? The one that floated around the pitch against Fulham last week? Or the one that left Chelsea with their pants down? I'm betting on the latter, at least until Robin van Persie gets hurt. That's inevitable, right?

12:30
Aston Villa 1 V Manchester United 3 SN - Wayne Rooney says Ryan Giggs should be honoured with a statue at Old Trafford. Give it a few years, Wayne and I agree, it should be up. Dimitar Berbatov is now of injury concern, further thinning Sir Alex's bench of strikers (Michael Owen is still out), and the Brazilian twins are out! Hmmm, I'd like to say that Villa could grind out a draw with the return of captain Stiliyan Petrov, but that would only be if they had a different manager who actually knew how to use the dangerous English attackers, Bent and Aggy-bons and actually generate an attack on purpose.

SUNDAY
10:00
Everton 2 V Stoke 1 - The Potters, gassed from a big and impressive home draw with Andriy Shevchenko, his gloves and Dynamo Kiev, go through the motions at Goodison Park. The Toffees edge it through Leighton Baines' free kick.

11:00
Wolves 2 V Sunderland 0 SNW - With the firing of Steve Bruce this week, Mark Hughes and Martin O'Neill top the list to replace the Geordie.In the meantime, Eric Black loses this game and finds himself in the red, or something. Stephen Hunt and Jamie O'Hara's return are enough for me, as they run that Wolves "potent" attack.

MONDAY
15:00
Fulham 1 V Liverpool 1 - A massive loss for Liverpool is the news that Lucas is gone for the year with a knee injury. The creative and facilitating Brazilian went down in the Carling Cup win over youth-infused Chelsea on Tuesday. Time for Kenny Dalglish to stand on the sidelines, mouth agape as Andy Carroll continues to match Fernando Torres in point-blank chances sent for souvenirs.

Hart saves City and Get in line Sir Alex

2011-11-29T20:24:00.000-05:00

IN THIS BLOG

R.I.P. GARY SPEED

EPL REVIEW

FROM THE TOP DRAWER (PLAYS OF THE WEEKEND)

R.I.P. GARY SPEED
As we wait to learn more about what exactly led to the tragic Welsh Manager's suicide early on Sunday, I'll remember him as a fantastic midfielder for Newcastle, wearing the Magpies colours and possessing a powerful left foot. It was no surprise that many players involved in the games on Sunday were not themselves, having known Speed well.

EPL REVIEW
Stoke 3, Blackburn 1 - Watching the game with my Dad, he described Peter Crouch as a four-legged spider who scores occasionally. I can't help but agree. The Potters are back to their winning ways at home, while Steve Kean returns to the hot seat.

West Brom 1, Tottenham 3 - Missing Rafael van der Vaart and Luka Modric, Spurs still came up with a way to win. Of course, having Sandro and Jermain Defoe stepping in helps quite a bit. Spurs were outplayed for much of the match, but Tottenham's Emmanuel Adebayor finished when he had the chances this week. It isn't hard either, when you have people like Gareth Bale feeding you gorgeous passes(ffwd 1:30) as he did on Saturday. Look out for Spurs, who could take second if they win their game in hand. And, am I the only one who keeps forgetting that Adebayor is still property of Manchester City? I just became nauseous.

Manchester United 1, Newcastle 1 - Sure the Red Devils have a case on the garbage call that led to Demba Ba's equalizing penalty, but they are not the first team to be denied by a terrible decision (See Norwich, Wigan and Aston Villa). The Ref shouldn't have gone to the assistant for help on Rio Ferdinand's winning tackle on Hatem Ben Arfa. He had already called for a corner, AND was closer to the play! However, Sir Alex, queue up behind the other upset managers, and remember that your team scored a lucky deflection goal, were up a man late, had a net full of chances, but ultimately just couldn't get it done. One goal for the eighth time this season is just not good enough. On the other side, Hatem Ben Arfa is improving with every game, becoming a chore to get off of the ball. The Magpies also defended well yet again, including a fantastic goal line clearance by Danny Simpson and amazing keeping by Tim Krul. Who was their starter last year? Steve Harper? Oh yeah, I knew I didn't like him, much like someone else of that same name.

Sunderland 1, Wigan 2 - The heat is on Steve Bruce, whose talented team again blew it against lesser opposition at home. The consistently terrible defensive gaffes are going to sink Bruce, though he does have a case that his team is gutted by injuries. It's unfortunate that with his family in the stands, as he faced some disgusting abuse from the home fans, who just haven't taken to him from the start. Being a Newcastle man just can't be overcome or forgotten, apparently. You better hope that you beat Wolves on Saturday, Steve, or maybe it's better to move on if you're fighting a battle with the fans that you can't win.

Bolton 0, Everton 2 - David Wheater's two-footed studs-up tackle gave Everton 2/3's of the match up a man, and the Toffees cruised with that advantage. It boggles my mind how players can be this stupid, and I've seen a lot of it, being a Chelsea supporter and subject to many brainless decisions. Owen Coyle, I pegged your boys for relegation and it's looking damn possible right now! Six home losses is appalling at this stage.

Norwich 2, QPR 1 - I'm really starting to develop a rooting interest in Norwich. They play with a reckless abandon that sometimes leaves them exposed at the back but damn, is it ever entertaining. Throw in the borderline insane Carrow Road fans, and it's not hard to get behind this promoted squad. Rangers did have it tied, but the Canaries' onslaught twenty minutes from time just couldn't be stopped as Captain Holt finally put away the winner.

Arsenal 1, Fulham 1 - I pretty much locked up the three points for the Gunners in my Preview blog, so of course they go out and lay a stink bomb at home to Fulham. The Cottagers played well, but forgot to mark Thomas Vermaelen (the "Fulham" scorer as well) in the box and he headed down the winner. Beautiful. As the season wears on though, Arsene Wenger has reason to be worried about his team's health.

Chelsea 3, Wolves 0 -Absolutely beautiful football. FINALLY, I was able to enjoy a Chelsea game and while AVB's lineup didn't quite match my desired XI, it was close (Romeu for Lampard; Drogba for Torres; Luiz for Bosingwa). The main thing was the there was NO Mikel among the starters. Damn right, he is useless. After watching what they were able to do as well, I am even more of a buyer into AVB's plan. How good is Juan Mata and what an under the radar buy. The Spaniard was the creator on the first two goals, and scored the third. CAVEAT: It was Wolves. Dammit. Hopefully AVB takes the same lineup to St. James' Park next weekend.

Swansea 0, Aston Villa 0 - A melancholy start to this game, with many players like Shay Given, James Collins, Neil Taylor, Ashley Williams and Joe Allen all having either played with or for Gary Speed. The game seemed be to secondary to the terrible events.

As for the game, what is Alex McLeish doing with this talent going forward? Swansea are good at home and lock-in tightly, but even though Gabriel Agbonlahor had some chances, they were hardly close to turning into goals. Maybe because Villa's defenders are average at best that it forces McLeish to play this way, hamstringing his attacking talent? Don't look at the upcoming schedule, Villa fans, it's been cake so far (mostly), and it's about to get tough.

Liverpool 1, Manchester City 1 - I was 2/2 with my Manchester predictions (the score wasn't on but the result is more important, no?). The Reds had so many opportunities to win this match late, after the annoying Mario Balotelli was given a second yellow. While he didn't deserve to get booted, he HAS to realize that there is a massive target on his back due to his crybaby/attention driving attitude and behaviour. You had it coming Mario, you're under the microscope. Manager Roberto Mancini blamed the Liverpool players for convincing the ref to escort Balotelli out, but he has to look at his own player. Please, he's an adult, he can figure out what's going on. City still pulled out a big away point when they didn't deserve it, Liverpool running into a hot keeper at Anfield (again: see Vorm, Michel and Ruddy, John), this time it was Joe Hart who was absolutely fantastic. The goal conceded wasn't his fault either. Joleon Lescott inexplicably interfered with a relatively harmless shot by Charlie Adam from well out that Hart had covered.

FROM THE TOP DRAWER
Joe Hart V Liverpool - Well damn, sorry, I can't find a good clip of it, but I'll post it Friday in my next blog if one becomes available. Until then, watch the EPL Review Show on one of the Sportsnet channels.
Juan Mata V Wolves
Jermain Defoe V West Brom (FFWD 1:15)
Danny Simpson V Man U

Going down the Grand River with some Beer and Manchester City will fall (maybe)

2011-11-25T21:21:00.000-05:00

IN THIS BLOG:

BEERS OF THE WEEK

EPL PREVIEW

BEERS OF THE WEEK

Highballer Pumpkin Ale Region/Country: Cambridge, ON Brewery: Grand River Brewing Price: $3.60 Size: 500 mL Alcohol%: 5.2% Pour: A solid amber with little head. Aroma: Spicy but mild to medium pumpkin aromas. Taste: Spicy cloves with some cinnamon and sweet pumpkin. The Highballer has a good mouthfeel that goes down easily, a clean finish with little aftertaste. Rating: 8.25/10 – Not the best pumpkin beer but a good introduction pumpkin ale, while the lower alcohol content makes it a lighter choice than the leaders.

Russian Gun Imperial Stout Region/Country: Cambridge, ON Brewery: Grand River Brewing Price: $4.60 Size: 500 mL Alcohol%: 8.4% Pour: Very dark with a solid head and resilient lacing. Aroma: Roasted malt with a hint of molasses and chocolate. Taste: A well balanced stout that goes down frighteningly easy with a combination of strong roasted malts, chocolate, mild licorice and hop hints. Rating: 8.5/10 - The taste lives up to the name.

SATURDAY
07:45
Stoke 2 V Blackburn 0 - Surely the Potters can stop the bleeding of points at home (and in general). Since they didn't play in the Europa League during the week, there can be no excuses about rest and lack of focus. But wait, no Peter Crouch? Don't worry, goal machine Nicklas Bendtner is healthy! Rovers also didn't deserve anything last week, so I don't expect their form to generate points in this more difficult match-up than at Wigan. Watch keeper Paul Robinson as well, he seems to be declining in goal, losing vision and anticipation. He looked a little lost last week, and without defensive star Chris Samba, who will clear the line?

10:00
Bolton 2 V Everton 2 - Sitting third from the bottom, the injury plagued Trotters welcome a Toffees who are looking to build on a big win over Wolves and start a run against weaker teams. The home edge might keep this a draw, but (CAVEAT) if Jack Rodwell plays, he'll give David Moyes' men the edge to get the full points.

Chelsea 3 V Wolves 1 Sportsnet - Just what the faltering Blues needed, a visit from Wolves. Thank you schedule makers. I don't expect a clean sheet, however, though surely Chelsea can't concede more than one goal at home on Saturday. AVB is keeping with his tactics that emphasize a winged attack and constant push forward; and, while I'm all for this, he has to implement the right personal to ensure more than the one goal is scored, as opposed to what occurred vs Liverpool. I am hoping for: Terry, Cole, Bosingwa, Ivanovic, Lampard, Ramires, Meireles, Mata, Sturridge and Torres. If you're going to go all out, send out your best offensive players. AVB's porous defense also benefits from both Jamie O'Hara and Stephen Hunt being suspended, which is a blow to Wolves; attacking possibilities.

Manchester United 2 V Newcastle 2 TSN2 - Round two in Manchester for Newcastle, but can they come away with something this time? It's obviously possible, with United's form sagging of late, drawing at home to Benfica mid-week with Chelsea-style defending. They also narrowly defeated Norwich but did what they had to do to win, as is so often the case.. The Magpies creative midfield should cause some problems down the wings for United, so I'm betting on a draw. In addition, there is no way that Demba Ba misses a sitter two weeks in a row.

Norwich 2 V QPR 1 - Joey Barton is still suspended (surprise!), though Rangers shouldn't need him to win this match, but they do need Heider Helguson, who is not available due to injury. I do like how the Canaries played against United, so book a surprise win for the all or nothing style of play by the inhabitants of Loftus Road.

Sunderland 2 V Wigan 1 - Free kick fiend Sebastien Larsson is back from suspension, therefore all hands on deck Wigan. Sebastien Sessegnon will have more space to operate, and there is no way that the Latics can defend it. Steve Bruce's boys were denied by Mark Schwarzer last week, but they get it all this time.

West Brom 1 V Tottenham 2 RSW - Not only are Spurs are in third, but Harry Redknapp thinks they can win the title as well. While he's crackers for thinking so (especially with a lack of squad depth), they are going to give Chelsea/Liverpool/Arsenal a run for third this season. The thin bench will be exposed this weekend with Jermain Defoe and RVDV expected to miss the match, meaning Roman Pavlyuchenko will start. Ugh, not as scary is it? The Baggies will fight as well, not the easy three points they once were.

12:30
Arsenal 3 V Fulham 2 Sportsnet - Can the Gunners machine keep running? Certainly, or well, as long as RvP stays healthy it will (They should rest him for this match). Oh, and if Per Mertesacker doesn't continue to play about as well as I could at the back. Arsenal had an impressive win over Borussia Dortmund which kept them going in the Champions League, while Fulham haven't won away in match with another London team since 2003. That's thirty-four straight! Oh, and they've never beaten Arsenal away either. This is about as certain as points get.

SUNDAY
08:30
Swansea 1 V Aston Villa 1 RSW - Hmmm, not sure what's going to happen here, but while Swans keep it tight, Darren Bent's itchy scoring feet can't be kept abated

11:00
Liverpool 2 V Manchester City 2 RSW - This is second straight week that I'm predicting City to drop points. I'm just not sold on them traveling the Anfield to face Kenny Dalglish who will definitely have some tactics to counter the stunning attack. Luis Suarez should be able to wreak enough havoc to put a few past Joe Hart, who might be due for a lapses.

The EPL Review: Is Emmanuel Adebayor a new man?

2011-11-22T23:34:00.000-05:00

Though we're only 12 weeks into the season and if I were a betting man (maybe I am), I'd put a large amount on City winning the crown this season. While they certainly have some faults, I'm having a hard time finding where they are going to drop some points. Although they weren't dominant over Newcastle (see review below-the 3-1 score is flattering), they weren't in danger of being beaten either.

Everton 2, Wolves 1 - A questionable penalty converted by Leighton Baines in the 83' stole some points from Mick McCarthy's team. Louis Saha went down way too easily to draw the spot kick, leading to the game winning goal. "I guess if he was trying to nick his wallet he wouldn't have gone down as easy would he, to be honest....soft and it cost us." - Mick McCarthy. Classic stuff.

Manchester City 3, Newcastle 1 - While City deserved to win, Newcastle handed them the three points. I'm not sure if Ryan Taylor has gotten out of his hole after gifting both Mario Balotelli (via pen) and Micah Richards a goal. Ben Arfa did the rest, although the decision to award a penalty for his inadvertent contact with a City player in the box was a little harsh. Demba Ba had an early chance to make it 1-0 and should still be ruing it. What was disgusting was Balotelli's classless stare-down of Newcastle Keeper Tim Krul (who was brilliant) after he scored (FFWD to 1:35). Who is this guy and when is someone going to bump him down a peg? Where's Dennis Wise when you need him?

Swansea 0, Manchester United 1 - This game should have turned out differently, 1-0 Canaries after one, had Scott Sinclair converted a sitter (guess I cursed him by urging him to be started because he scores) and Angel Rangel (yes that name is real) not given the ball away that led to Chicharito's goal. Unreal. It was another great performance by the promoted club, but coming away with nothing is just not good enough. It was definitely not an impressive performance by United, but again, they did what they had to do to get the three points. Again. The Welsh club did do an amazing thing by banning sale of Man U gear at Liberty Stadium (which was jacked, by the way) and fans from wearing United paraphernalia in the ground.

Chelsea 1, Liverpool 2 - See my LIVE BLOG HERE.
While I applaud Andre Villas-Boas as he stubbornness as he implements his entertaining and offensive style of play, he has to employ the personnel to make it fully worthwhile. Why was Torres on the bench? Is he not the type of player that you're looking for in this system? Why was Mikel in there? What about Josh McEachran, Raul Meireles and Romeu? Are you going with youth, attacking and flair, or not? I do enjoy how AVB is sticking to his tactics, despite his defense continually getting exposed, unworried about getting sacked. He doesn't think that Roman Abramovich is going to fire him and waste millions, especially when he's instituting the style of play that the Russian owner adores.

Norwich 1, Arsenal 2 - The Robin Van Persie show continued, though Steve Morrison opened the scoring when he made the continually and justifiably maligned Per Mertesacker look like a fool, stealing the ball from out under him and tightly sliding home the opener. But then the ever-improving Gerinho slipped the ball to RVP who tucked away goal 30 of 2011 (the record is 36 by Alan Shearer in 1995). Yawn, #31 game a little later. The Dutchman is also set to play a personal record 30th game of the year this Saturday at home to Fulham (12:30 Sportsnet). Anthony Pilkington had a late chance to tie, but Gunners deserved and were awarded the full points.

Stoke 2, QPR 3 - This match had some great goals: Jonathan Walters with a doozy to open, then Heider Helguson's running header tied it up. Luke Young gave Rangers a surprise lead with a strike while stepping over a fallen Potter. Helguson's sliding strike gave QPR a 3-1 lead but then Ryan Shawcross smartly followed a scramble in the box to head in and make it 3-2. The referee clearly missed a penalty, though, as Robert Huth was hacked down in the box late. 3-3 would have been a correct result.

Sunderland 0, Fulham 0 - While there were no goals, this was very entertaining. Mark Schwarzer still has some jump and some incredible saves in his old age. Sebastien Sessegnon was just plain robbed (though it was deflected), but an unreal reaction by the Aussie with his right leg as he moved away from the misguided ball.

West Brom 2, Bolton 1 - Welcome back from injury, Shane Long. He scored the winner as West Brom secured only their second win at the Hawthornes this year. It's a big three points for the Baggies, who now sit tenth.

Wigan 3 V Blackburn 3 - Well, I slogged this match going in, but it was actually the best game of the week. Yakubu exposes some awful Latic defense to start, but then Rovers return the favour by standing around and watching Jordi Gomez rip one home. Yes, the game started and Paul Robinson apparently didn't realize it. Then Gary Caldwell is given tonnes of space to receive a cross and heads the ball from well out, somehow not intercepted by any defenders, and watch again by Paul Robinson. Did he not get his pregame coffee on Saturday morning? Albert Crusat then makes it 3-2 Wigan before Yakubu sets down the ball for a corner. Morten Gamst Pedersen moves to take the corner, but then passes the ball to himself and crosses for Canadian Junior Hoillett who put it away. Um, what just happened? Yakubu then converts a penalty for Rovers. Why? Because referee Andre Mariner awarded a penalty for David Jones' kicking of Paul Robinson in the head while he was lunging for the clearance. Robinson was on as an extra attacker, at the opposite end of the pitch. The whistle should have been blown, but instead, Rovers steal a point.

Tottenham 2, Aston Villa 0 - Not a good day for Villa fans. While the scoreline looks respectable for a traveling team that is out-talented on paper, the match more dictated a 5-0 result. Emmanuel Adebayor was a inefficient 2/5 on converting his clear-cut chances, though his two goals were still impressive. The first, a bicycle kick employed in a maddeningly large amount of space that Villa's line gave, which Alex McLeish must have been seething about. The second, a tap-in that the Togolese striker flicked after some great work by Gareth Bale. What impressed me most about the Balotelli-type player is that before he put the ball in the net for the second goal, he waited to see if it was going cross the line on it's own, seemingly not wanting to take a goal away from a teammate. Who is this guy? Has Harry Redknapp done some brain surgery on this apparently former malcontent? Is it possible that Adebayor actually cares about someone other than himself? Shocking stuff, really. And I'm sure Gunners fans would also agree with this, having endured more than enough during his short three-year tenure with Arsenal.

My Live Chelsea V Liverpool Blog

2011-11-21T20:11:00.000-05:00

I decided to record my thoughts as I watched the biggest match of the weekend, which just happened to involve my EPL team.

My thoughts below, as it happened:

Pre-Match Prediction: 2-1 Chelsea with a goal from Fernando Torres against his former club. Wait, check that, Torres is NOT in the starting line-up, yet somehow the useless and invisible Jon Obi Mikel makes the starting eleven. Oh and the Portuguese Sideshow Bob also makes the lineup. Does Andre Villas Boas want to set the record for yellow cards in a match? It's weird to curse this much in the morning, especially before the first ball has been kicked.

To match AVB, Kenny Dalglish also leaves his most expensive signing on the bench with Andy Carroll sitting. How dare they ruin the drama! Dalglish also hands Maxi Rodriguez his first start of the year, which is curious.

Petr Cech's headgear makes him look like Will Ferrell in boxing gear. Or he's halfway to being Darth Vader.

It's a misty one at Stamford Bridge, which does not bode well for the slippery one, Luis Suarez, who may dive more as a result. If that's possible.

3 min There's the first dive by Luis Suarez going for the ball with John Terry, who graised the Uruguayan 's chest.

9 min Ramires looks brittle in going down from a tackle by Lucas. Wait, Ramires is always brittle.

11 min Lampard and Mata working well together. Look out Glen Johnson, for yes, you are a defender.

11 min Mikel fires over top of the goal and the commentator says that Mikel has never scored for Chelsea in a League match. Thank you Captain obvious.

13 min Liverpool dominating this game so far, outworking the Blues. I thought Chelsea were at home?I remember when Stamford Bridge used to be a fortress.

14 min Glen Johnson makes a run inside the box along the touchline. Shouldn't he be playing back slightly? Glen, yes, you're still a defender. The chance goes for naught.

16 min Luiz gets away with taking a swipe at Dirk Kuyt as the ball went out of play. Missed yellow number one.

18 - Suarez way offside but again, Luiz was lucky. I guess the sides are even in that they both have a defender that don't bother to check their player card before the match to verify their position?

21 - A Liverpool sandwich of Drogba gives Chelsea a free kick. Drogba adjusts his socks 18 times. It's Mata or Drogba to take it. Will we see the old Drogba?

21 - YES! Oh wait. What?

21 - Apparently I wasn't the only one who was fooled, as the the commentators just bought that Drogba had scored. He shot just wide and it bounced behind the net making it look like the ball had gone in. Dammit. Drogba bites his thumb, which is more contained than I just was.

32 - Liverpool really taking over possession, though Suarez looks a step off his usual self.

34 - Chelsea looking awful as Liverpool's skill and speed exposing Chelsea's flat, slow-footed play.

34 - Cech incredulously gives the ball to Mikel just outside the box who coughs it up and, a trifecta of quick smart passes later, it's 1-0 Liverpool. Maxi Rodriguez finishes it off. Why am I feeling like this is Arsenal all over again?

34 - Dalglish looks like a genius by starting Maxi now. As if his Kop legend can get any bigger.

42 - Luiz wins the ball twice, then throws in a yellow card-worthy tackle. That's the loose cannon I know!. Free kick Reds.

42 - Free kick and Suarez jacks it well over and then tries to blame someone for it. At least that part of his game is still working.

45 - Luiz apparently doesn't think it's necessary to know if you're the last defender, oblivious to Ivanovic who's behind him as the possession changes. But he actually shows some speed and deflects a dangerous shot by Suarez

46 Suarez and Luiz bickering at each after a contentious play. I swear Suarez just said, "Nice hair, Holmes," but I don't trust my lip reading skills.

47 - Malouda taken down a Chelsea Free kick outside the box to end the half. Drogba's shot off Johnson's head for a corner. Mata's corner is then put out of play by Luiz' hair.

End of half. What has Mikel done for you? Well, he's given the Reds the lead and hopefully will be substituted.

Second Half - Raul Meireles is still on the bench but Mikel, the giveaway and yellow card time bomb is out for Daniel Sturridge. AVB is all about attacking, which I like. Now, if only the players would show up.

49 - Drogba appealing for a hand ball. Keep searching.

53 - Chelsea actually threatening a little bit. Could it be because of the sub? Hmmm? Maybe.

55 - Fantastic pass by Malouda (who is that again?) on the break who crosses beautifully to Sturridge who finishes strongly and it is tied! Mata could even have pumped it home before Sturridge but left it for the youngster.

55 - Not sure what Enrique was doing there as he forgot his job is to stop the team in Blue, not stand around and observe.

57 - Free kick and Ivanovic is robbed by Reina. Great diving stop to the left. Chelsea are really flying with confidence now.

57 - Mata shoots right on Reina. Where was this in the first half? Doesn't matter, they can do this.

62 - Ramires with a random loose tackle on Skrtel. Do players sometimes just get urges to take someone out? Yellow is awarded.

63 Fernando Torres sighting! He's warming up. Maybe my prediction(s) can still come through.

64 - Malouda draws a yellow from Kuyt for I don't know what.

67 - Gotta love the announcers, staying quiet for a full minute to let the singing and chanting echo through the televisions. This would NEVER happen during an American sport.The traveling fans are really giving it to John Terry. C'mon Reds fans, get some originality. Dammit, can't blame them.

70 - Mata feeds Malouda with a great cross, but the Frenchman blows it. That's the Malouda I know of this year and last!

76 - Mata works Glen Johnson like a pylon. What a steal Mata is.

87 - Glen Johnson works over former teammate of both club and country Ashley Cole and finishes fantastically as Terry dives to prevent his team from being sunk but ends up on his arse, the ball embarrassingly resting next to him. Goal: 2-1 Pool. Cue more cursing.

87 - Chelsea are done. Forget the League this year, for certain. I had already done so, but this clinches it. Focus on the Cups and Europe.

89 - Here comes the other bust, Andy Carroll. Oh, and Torres was brought on, I hadn't really noticed.

FINAL WHISTLE - CHELSEA 1, LIVERPOOL 2
What a disgrace, Chelsea again are embarrassed at home, the 2-1 score really flattering them. They were clumsy, disorganized and careless. If it weren't for Mata, Lampard, Sturridge and Malouda, this could have been ugly.

I can't even convince myself to watch the post-match commentary to see if any one of the panel members can resurrect some hope in my dour hopes for the remainder of the season. The only thing that can do that is a little NFL at this point.

Trafalgar Ales' Black IPA, what do England's wins mean and City vs the other United

2011-11-18T20:55:00.000-05:00

IN THIS BLOG

BEER OF THE WEEK

ENGLAND'S TWO WINS/EURO

EPL PREVIEW

BEER OF THE WEEK - India Ink Black Pale Ale Region/Country: Oakville, ON Brewery: Trafalgar Ales & Meads Price: $4.75 Size: 650 mL Alcohol%: 5% Pour: A totally black pour with little head, light, and quickly disappearing lacing with little carbonation. Aroma: Faint roasted malt and maybe some slight coffee hints. Taste: Very thin mouth feel and slight flavours of roasted malts and coffee on the finish. Tried as I might, I could not find any hops even though it's supposedly an IPA. It's disappointing as there are elements that could make this a tasty ale, but it's a hollow effort. Rating: 5/10 - I might be a hop head, but if you use the acronym "IPA" you better make sure there are hop flavours. I didn't finish this beer, instead choosing to use it as the base for my next loaf of bread. I'm turning to a Red Racer to cleanse my violated palette.

ENGLAND'S TWO WINS/EURO (England have not lost in 2011!)
Let's English not get too excited over the Three Lions pair of 1-0 wins over World Champion Spain (wow, a World Champion reference that actually means just that) and Sweden (first win since 1968), but they are definitely two results to be optimistic about. Sure Spain dominated possession, but how many quality chances did they have? Few. England were rock solid at the back, executed their set pieces when they had to and won headers when needed. It led led to Captain Lampard's goal (he looked damn good; amazing what a little criticism would do). Spain are lacking the facilitator, and while they are and should be favourites to win Euro 2012, they haven't exactly dominated lately, nor did they in the World Cup. David Villa has looked average, Xavi and Iniesta a little out of synch. Cesc Fabregas was probably their best player, so let's not anoint them yet.
England were pedestrian versus the Swedes, but again, won the needed battles in the box and limited Sweden's attack.
Youngsters whose time is now: Leighton Baines, Kyle Walker, Phil Jones, Jack Rodwell, Daniel Sturridge
Solid Vets that must play in Euro 2012: Scott Parker, Ashley Cole, Darren Bent, James Milner, Joleon Lescott, Gareth Barry, Gary Cahill

EPL PREVIEW

SATURDAY
07:45
Norwich 1 V Arsenal 3 TSN2 - The Gunners are rolling, have the defense solidified with Thomas Vermaelen and Laurent Koscielny, and they're facing a recently defensively challenged Canaries team. A+B = Goals. Get your mitts on tight John Ruddy.

10:00
Everton 3 V Wolves 2 - This is three points that the Toffees have to have. They're in 17th with a game in hand, only one point behind the visitors. Looking at the lineups, which are both near fully healthy, there is too much class on Everton to think they drop anything here. Jamie O'Hara is playing fantastically lately, though the Irish trifecta of Kevin Doyle, Stephen Hunt and Stephen Ward might still be hungover from the qualification party.

GAME OF THE WEEK
Manchester City 1 V Newcastle 1 - Entering the season, who would have believed that this would be one of the top two matches of Week 12? The only two remaining unbeaten teams (MC-10/11 Wins; NU-7/11) The is the first real test for Newcastle, though their win at Stoke was pretty difficult. The Magpies are missing Cheik Tiote, Sylvain Marveaux and maybe Leon Best and Gabriel Obertan, but midfield catalyst Yohan Cabaye is back. He's the most important cog in the Magpies offensive machine. Do you think I'm crazy for predicting a draw? Well, City have a lot of players who deputized for their international sides during the EPL break, so I expect a little disconnect and some time to return to congruency. Let's go with Demba Ba and Edin Dzeko to score. Should be a good one.

Stoke 2 V QPR 2 - Last we saw Stoke, they suffered ultimate drillage at the Reebok, 5-0. Though they were plagued with injuries, it was still a disgrace that Tony Pulis will no doubt have righted, the team's return to near health also helping. Rangers should try and build on the impressive display against Man City, and give Shaun Wright-Phillips the ball more. An entertaining slant, Manager Neil Warnock's opinion of temperamental midfielder Adel Taarabt.

Sunderland 2 V Fulham 2 - Normally I'd go with a Black Cats win and three points for Steve Bruce at the Stadium of Light, but free kick wizard Sebastien Larsson is suspended for too much yellow. Look for some terrible defending on Wearside.

West Brom 1 V Bolton 2 - Could be rough go of it for the Baggies, who are still missing Shane Long and probably Peter Odemwingie. West Brom still have a chance, though, as Bolton are still suffering heavily from a thin squad, as they have been all year. They do have Ivan Klasnic and Kevin Davies, though, and they actually know the net this year (see Bolton 5, Stoke 0).

Wigan 1 V Blackburn 2 - Ugh, look at this battle of the bottom. Rovers actually have shown to play hard for the embattled Steve Kean, and are tight enough defensively to gut out a win over a much less talented Latics team. Looking at the schedules, Kean really has done well and now, as the opponents lessen, they should actually be able to register some points and move away from Wigan in the table.

12:30
Swansea 0 V Manchester United 2 Sportsnet One - A rested Wayne Rooney vs a rock solid home team in Swans. Only one goal has beaten Michel Vorm at home this season, and that was from his own player, Danny Graham. It would be ridiculous to think that United won't put one in here, but the Welsh should at least make it somewhat of a challenge. Which Nani will show up? The one who scored one of the goals of the year for Portugal? (Look at the space he was given!) Or the one that disappears, lolly-gags and complains? United seemed to be getting healthy again, with Ashley Young, Darron Gibson and Rafael returning, though now Danny Welbeck, Michael Owen (what will they do for their next Carling Cup match?) and Tom Cleverley are out. Chicharito nets again, and Scott Sinclair would too, if Brendan Rogers realized that he scores when he plays.

SUNDAY
11:00
Chelsea 2 V Liverpool 1 - SNWorld - It's the battle of the big signings (*cough* busts *cough*!) from last year, as Fernando Torres and Andy Carroll go against each other to prove who's the bigger dud. So far it's clearly Torres, for he was a proven goal scorer when he moved south to Stamford Bridge, Carroll a striker of limited success. Despite his downturn near the end of his Liverpool term, it would have been difficult to predict the drought that the Spaniard has suffered since joining the Blues (3 goals in 22 EPL matches). I say AVB should go all out here and employ a Drogba, Mata, Sturridge, Torres, Lampard, Meireles, Terry, Ivanovic, Cole, Bosingwa and Cech lineup. Luis Suarez should play and will make Ivanovic work harder than usual. I'm really interested to see how much Suarez and Charlie Adam look like Nani, reacting like a gun shot victims to Chelsea's aggressive tackling. Torres WILL score against his former club in GAME OF THE WEEK #2.

MONDAY
15:00
Tottenham 3 V Aston Villa 1 SN World - Alex McLeish is sweating over his strikeforce. He'll need Gabriel Agbonlahor and Stiliyan Petrov to play in order to keep pace with Spurs stampede of offense, but they're questionable at best. Even a 3/4 fit Rafael van der Vaart is a big handful, and while Darren Bent is talented, he needs some support. Only Shay Given can save you, Villa.

The Brotherhood of Hop Heads Tasting Event

2011-11-17T20:40:00.000-05:00

I'll be honest. I think that I've developed an addiction.

Don't worry, it's not dangerous. At least not yet. Along with my brother Mike and best friend Peter, aggressively hopped India Pale Ales (and more specifically American style) have become a passion. As a result, we have decided to form what we call The Brotherhood of Hop Heads. Our pursuit to try and rate each new IPA that is either sold at the LCBO, procured from cross-border trips or other sources has become so intense that we thought it best to give ourselves an official name that properly represents our obsession.

While we have consumed many IPA's together over the last two years and shared our thoughts, we hadn't actually held an official tasting event that was complete with a Beer Menu and rating card. Since we don't live in the same cities, we had to plan an event in advance. My brother hosted the inaugural event and generously provided much of the beer menu. The rest of us, which included my sister-in-law and Peter's girlfriend Jackie, supplied the food and cooked the meals.

Amazingly, my brother managed to amass 45 different beers that we could choose from, with the other two members of the Brotherhood only providing a handful of the available ales. Even though our plan was to split each beer as we went through our tasting, it was obvious that we wouldn't be able to sample them all.

We led off with one ale that we hadn't tried yet, the Southern Tier Hoppe. We determined it tasted like a Southern Tier Gemini Light would taste, pouring a pale golden with medium hoppiness and a soft caramel backbone (8.5/10). We followed that by engaging two representatives from a rare import from Brewdog in Scotland: Punk IPA (9/10) and Hardcore DIPA (9.25). We procured these two gems from Paul, a beer aficionado from London, Ontario, who thankfully reserved them for my brother. The Hardcore was the better of the two, exuding strong hoppy flavours with dark fruitiness and just a tad of sweetness. While those two Scottish treats nailed our craving for hops, we hopelessly still wanted more. We turned to Central City's Red Racer IPA, and it blew us away with its freshness, grapefruit-citrus hops and a dry, clean finish (9.25+). We just couldn't get over how newly brewed it smelled and tasted.

Unfortunately at this point, we had to pause for dinner. It was a good thing in that the nourishment would enable us to sample more ales without keeling over when the night was still young. Another benefit was that we also had some "dessert ales" we could review. After the delicious meal of tilapia on a bed of jasmine rice, green beans and boerewors, we were ready for dessert.

To satisfy our sweetness and hop needs, Southern Tier stepped up with the Creme Brulee (8.75). It's perfect for splitting four ways because of its intense vanilla bean sweetness and high ABV. Following that up was the new Muskoka Winter Beard, a double chocolate cranberry stout. It's no easy task to follow anything from Southern Tier, especially something as sweet as the Creme Brulee, but the Winter Beard held its own with its clean yet bitter finish, which was no doubt a result of the cranberry content (8.25).

The surprise of the evening was Jackie's welcome introduction of a new LCBO offering, New Zealand's Renaissance Scotch Ale. It had a raisiny-scotch flavour that added depth to the hoppiness and cheek-puckering finish.

I'd be remiss if I didn't finish the menu, which we did our best to attack, but the pace slowed even after we paired the beer with some different blue cheeses for the IPA's, and extra-old cheddar for the Bitters.

The rest of the menu we sampled is below. All of the hop heads, including prospect Jackie (who is learning quickly), rated on their own cards. These ratings below are from my card:

Flying Monkeys SuperCollider (The high alcohol content is only slightly detectable upon the initial inhale, with a mildly sweet toffee aroma and mild to medium hoppiness. The backbone is of pine, toffee, medium hops and malt, with the hop bitterness resonating only somewhat on the finish. Flying Monkeys has combined the flavours well - 8.75)

Southern Tier Gemini (This is still our number One, although this particular bottle was evidently a little stale. My brother had somehow managed to still have some left, and we gladly obliged. It was ranked around 9.5 when it first came to the LCBO, but it just lacked the freshness and complex hoppy flavour, caramel and Amarillo citrus combination from last year. Nevertheless, it's still delicious. 9.25+)

Tree Double Hop Head IPA (Great combination of hoppiness and caramel hop backbone - 9)

Rogue Double Dead Guy IPA (While it doesn't have the strong hoppy flavours of a typical Double IPA, it is still very enjoyable with its caramel sweetness and light floral hops on the finish. There's also maybe some toffee in there as well. Pretty complex - 8.5)

Garrison's Imperial IPA (Cloudy, hoppy and deliciously sweet on the finish - 8.75+) and Oktoberfest Brau (copper pour and but too heavy on the malts - 7.25)

Muskoka's absolutely delicious Harvest Ale (Hop-malt harmony and a hint of sweet grassiness - 8.75)

Great Lakes Crazy Canuck (Delicious hops in a can, but not the full hoppy flavour that you would expect from the aroma that is unleashed once the can is cracked. A solid beer with medium floral notes that goes down very easily - 8.25)

Hop City's Barking Squirrel (Golden Amber, slight hops which is welcomed for a lager, but it is skunky and somewhat hollow - 7.5)

Propeller's Extra Special Bitter (Pours dark amber with a roasted aroma and a hint of chocolate or coffee flavours that combine very well with the malty bitterness - 8/10)

The first official tasting of The Brotherhood of Hop Heads was a success. And there is no doubt that there will be another one, sooner rather than later.

St. James' Park no more???

2011-11-09T21:56:00.000-05:00

IN THIS BLOG

NEWCASTLE CHANGES FOR THE BETTER?

GOAL OF THE WEEK

EPL REVIEW

NEWCASTLE CHANGES FOR THE BETTER?
Short sighted Owner Mike Ashley has decided to named famed, legendary and castle-like St. James' Park, wait for it...Sports Direct Arena. Wtf is Sports Direct? The increasingly hated owner's high street brand that the "club" claims was recommended by branding consultants. The move also follows other clubs like Manchester City and their Etihad Stadium, and Arsenal's Emirates Stadium. Obviously money talks and Ashley follows as the club aims to generate more commercial income.

I understand the need to brand and generate additional income, but certain stadiums and clubs are more easily and properly sponsored and named than others. Arsenal had to move to a new ground so the name was natural; and City's stadium doesn't have the history that St. James' does. In addition, I don't think many City fans would be raise a stink over the name change given that it represents the owners that brought the team to respectability and on the verge of overtaking their rival and hated neighbours.

It's more ammunition for Magpie fans, though it's less top of mind that it would have been if the club wasn't lighting up the league and sitting an impressive 3rd.

GOAL OF THE WEEK
Ryan Taylor V Everton
Aaron Lennon V Fulham
Anthony Pilkington V Aston Villa
Frank Lampard V Blackburn
Mikel Arteta V West Brom

EPL REVIEW
Newcastle 2, Everton 1 - Ryan Taylor's winner was worthy of it's importance but Everton certainly made the Magpies sweat in the second half and had a legitimate appeal for a penalty when Dan Gosling handled in the box. Luckily for Newcastle, the officials' view was obstructed. The Magpies just kept running and also benefited from the opening own goal by John Heitinga.

Blackburn 0, Chelsea 1 - The Blues withstood a relentless attack from Rovers and an inept Yakubu, who couldn't finish a clear chance in close on the outstanding Petr Cech. Cech suffered a broken nose on the play (via Ashley Cole) but kept playing after a lengthy assessment and was absolutely brilliant. Frank Lampard's grass-eating header from a gorgeous chip-pass by Branislav Ivanovic proved to be the winner. Oh, and Fernando Torres missed another "sitter". Ho-hum. Hey, clean sheet for Chelsea! That's been a while...how long? Season opener.

Liverpool 0, Swansea 0 - How many points do the Reds want to throw away at home? No offense to Swans, but Liverpool have now drawn newcomers Norwich and Swansea at home, only registering eight goals in six home games! Andy Carroll's miss was worse than Torres', though Michel Vorm was the real reason that Liverpool did not net. Swansea are superb, however. Confident, quick and carefree, they are a good bet to stay up for now. They just need to score some more.

Manchester United 1, Sunderland 0 - The Club surprised Sir Alex by naming a stand after the manager of 37 total trophies, but his players also surprised him by putting in a dour performance. The Red Devils were only recipients of the full points because ex-MU defender Wes Brown scored on his own goal. Maybe next time, Steve Bruce.

Aston Villa 3, Norwich 2 - The Darren Bent-Gabby Agbonlahor connection was flowing like never before in this match, but Villa made it interesting at the end again, almost coughing up another late lead. Shay Given, the stopper, prevented that. Anthony Pilkington. Wow.

Arsenal 3, West Brom 0 - How good is Aaron Ramsey these days? He's a major reason (behind RvP of course), why the Gunners have had a resurgence as he's opened up massive spaces for the Dutch striker and the learning Gervinho. Mikel Arteta is also picking up the Arsene Wenger system, netting as well. Arsenal are getting healthy (Thomas Vermaelen), the new signings are fitting in better, and even Laurent Koscielny's defending has been superb of late. Per Mertesacker doesn't fit any of the above, but maybe give him some time. Oh, and Arsenal were playing West Brom.

QPR 2, Manchester City 3 - Probably the toughest test thus far for City, who noticeably missed Captain Vincent Kompany(suspended), replaced by the less-than-intimidating-and-defensively-haggard Stevan Savic. QPR missed some chances to make it 2-0, which would have vastly altered the game. Instead, City woke up in the second half and the towering Yaya Toure headed in the winner in a thrilling game. Well done Rangers.

Wolves 3, Wigan 1 - Can anyone hit the back of the net for Wigan? Poor Ali-Al Habsi was under assault in this match, and did very well but could only keep out so many point-blank chances. Finally Wolves beat one of the bottom feeders as the Latics look way up from the cellar of nightmares.

Bolton 5, Stoke 0 - I guess Stoke were tired from their trip to Israel, but Tony Pulis was not giving any excuses for his team's shellacking. Captain Kevin Davies opened via a free kick resulting from an illegal back pass to Keeper Asmir Begovic, and then Ivan Klasnic and Chris Eagles took turns scoring twice apiece.

Fulham 1, Tottenham 3 - Oh Spurs, you know you got lucky here, somehow withstanding the last game full-pitch press that the Cottagers put on you. Brad Friedel was incredible, as was back up keeper Kyle Walker. Oh wait, the young Englishman is a midfielder, yet was seen corralling the ball in the box, unseen by the officials. Aaron Lennon did score a wonder goal, as I lied Jo (Spurs Correspondent), another Spurs GOW candidate. How blanketing were Fulham on Tottenham? Thirty-two shots worth! Martin Jol was beside himself as injury-time ticked away and then Jermain Defoe sealed the robbery by putting the game out of reach in the final seconds.

It's an International break so there will be a weekend without games in the EPL. HOWEVER, some great Euro Qualifying Playoff Leg One Matches to watch. I'll be cheering for the Irish to get a good start on Estonia and make their fans try and forget the Thierry Henry debacle.

Cask Days 2011 @ Hart House - So much good craft beer, not enough time

2011-11-08T07:12:00.000-05:00

Because I attended the Cask Days IPA Challenge at barVolo back in March, I was greatly anticipating the Cask-Conditioned beer festival held at University of Toronto's Hart House also run by Cask Days and barVolo. With 82 total casks provided by 55 different breweries, I had my ticket only a few days after they went on sale for Session #1 (From 12-5pm; Session #2 was from 5-10pm) for the very reasonable price of $35. The ticket included a well-crafted Cask Days pint glass, five beer tokens and admission into the event to taste some glorious craft beer.

As the beer list filtered out a few weeks prior to the event day, I began to formulate my plan of attack. Obviously five hours wouldn't be enough time to taste all of the beers that I wanted to try, even by limiting my sampling to 1/4 pints.

So, I decided to focus on IPA's, Double IPA's and Black IPA's, and began highlighting these ales as I narrowed my choices from the list. My "menu" going into the event was whittled down to 28 beers, of which I figured I could get to at least 20, while still being able to remember my name come 5:05 pm.

I arrived at Hart House ten minutes before Noon with a colleague of mine who also wanted to sample in the glory. While gloves were needed to keep warm, the sun made it a fantastic day for being outside and drinking cask ales.

The lineup was massive, but we had our first sip by 12:40, choosing the Central City Red Racer Simcoe IPA to kick it all off. We were not disappointed as it ranked as our top beer for the day, strong hops with a passion fruit citrus backbone that my colleague nailed after a few sips.

The event featured multiple sections with the Brewers divided by regions: BC/MB/NS/NB, Quebec, Fuller's, Niagara College, Ontario and barVolo's House Ales. The courtyard also had a food stand with simple but tasty appetizers like hot dogs, pulled pork sandwiches and sliders. Other keys to success were the multiple water stations and good swag available for purchase. It was incredibly easy to navigate, and Cask Days did a great job of organizing the event.

Our third sampler for the event showed up after our fourth beer, and he did his best to try and catch up. My pace was a little faster than my fellow samplers, as I finished with a few more ales tasted, totalling 19 craft beers in all. I even had time to purchase two Fuller's Beer mats for a reasonable $12 (this figure may not be accurate) before I was reluctantly forced to leave Hart House to allow the next session to enter and enjoy delicious cask ales.

The next event is in March, and there is no doubt I'll have another plan of attack, but this time I'll be heavily armed with experience and knowledge that will help me get to twenty. A big cheers and thank you to Cask Days, barVolo and all of the organizers for putting on the event and marking a great end to the month of October.

Below is the list of what I drank along with sporadic notes and a brief rating that I recorded as I went along:

BC
Rating/Brewery/Beer Name/Style/Specifics

****+Central City Red Racer Simcoe IPA – 6.5%/80 IBU’s

***Central City Red Racer Citra Pale Ale – 5%/48 IBU’s

***Howe Sound Cinnamon Fireball Pumpkineater 10%/19 IBU’s – Only Southern Tier's Pumking beats this. It’s cinnamon heaven.

***Storm Fresh Hop IPA – 7%/55 IBU’s

***Tree Hop Head IPA – 5.6%/63 IBU’s

MANITOBA

***Half Pints Five-A-L IPA – 5.5%/50 IBU’s

QUEBEC

***Benelux Strato Black IPA – 6.4%/44 IBU’s – A great balance of coffee, hops and bitterness

**Benelux Sabotage American IPA – 7%/55 IBU’s

***Hopfenstark Post Colonial IPA “Harvest” – 6.5%/75 IBU’s

ONTARIO

**Black Oak Black Betty IPA – 5.3%/50 IBU’s

****Cameron’s Rock Me Amarillo Double IPA – 8.1/80 IBU’s

***Church Key Grains of Wrath Double IPA – 8%/75 IBU’s

*Double Trouble Hops and Robbers IPA – 5.6%/40 IBU’s

***Great Lakes Fangboner India Brett Ale – 7%/70 IBU’s

***Kensington AAXH Augusta Ale Extra Hoppy – 6%/40 IBU’s – Wheat Backbone balanced well with Hops.

*Lake of Bays Black & Tan Hybrid Blend – 5.1%/12 IBU’s

*Muskoka Not So Pale Galactic Ale (Black IPA) – 8.5%/56 IBU’s

**Publican House Square Nail Pale Ale – 5.5%/44 IBU’s

***Railway City Double Dead Elephant IPA – 6.5%/55 IBU’s

EPL Preview and a Unique & Well travelled IPA from Quebec

2011-11-04T20:56:00.000-04:00

IN THIS BLOG

BEER OF THE WEEK

EPL PREVIEW

BEER OF THE WEEK - La Ruine Papilles Region/Country: St-Tite, QC Brewery: À La Fût Brasseur de gout Price: Size: 341 mL Alcohol%: 6.2% Pour: A frothy head and cloudy caramel coloured pour. Aroma: The aroma is medium hoppy, bitterness even evident on the initial waft. Throw in a little acidic citrus hints and I was anticipating the first sip. Taste: Medium to strong hoppy flavour with a mighty, dry, acidic bitterness on the finish. It is a robust beer, that also reveals slight spruce and raisin flavour on the backbone. This is like nothing I've ever tasted. Rating: 8.5/10 - I enjoyed this beer and it's unique flavour quite a bit. Many thanks to fellow hop head Mike D for bringing this back from Montreal for me to taste, as well as a prime McAuslan Pint glass. Cheers, Mike.

EPL PREVIEW

SATURDAY (Still waiting one more day for North America to catch up on sleep here, but at least we won't have to get up as early this week to watch the games)

08:45

Newcastle 3 V Everton 1 TSN2 - You'd have to figure that the Magpies can win at home to 16th place Everton after winning easily at Stoke last week. Though the Toffees get a boost by exchanging the suspended and weekly loose cannon Marouane Fellaini for the increasingly lethal Royston Drenthe, there are no indications that they can go to the Tyneside and knock off one of the league's hottest teams. St. James' will be rocking for this one, supporting their Champions League-Bound team (at least for now). They're playing so well that even Alan Pardew is surprised with his Magpies hot start...count about 98% of the population in that as well!

11:00

Arsenal 3 V West Brom 1 - The Baggies could be facing a striker drought, as with Shane Long already out long-term, Peter Odemwingie will not be 100% if he even plays. The Gunners are on a roll, having won five of their last six in the league. However, will this massive drop-off in the talent level of their opponent lower their effort? Arsenal are known for dropping winnable points (even at home), and this one screams just that. RvP won't let that happen though (at least while he's healthy), but it's close. For a bit.

Aston Villa 2 V Norwich 0 - Time to break out of the funk, Villains. No more dropping points near the death like TFC, especially when a promoted team comes to town (no offense Canaries; and you didn't deserve any points vs Rovers last week). Darren Bent can play at ease this week, no hostile chants from the friendly home fans, and with Barry Bannan back, Alex McLeish actually gets some offense again.

Blackburn 1 V Chelsea 2 - AVB will not relent from his attacking style, and it cost Chelsea again Tuesday at Racing Genk, settling for an embarrassing 1-1 result. The Blues need a bounce back game/victory badly, and a trip to Ewood Park is no cakewalk. John Terry returns and will probably face some taunting from the Blackburn fans as the FA investigation continues. John Obi Mikel unfortunately has overcome a back injury and will play. Can anyone tell me why he continually makes the line-up? I think they'll get this one (surprise), but I'll also pit Fernando Torres to net here. He is playing with pace and creativity, and set up Ramires with a fantastic pass for the Blues only goal in Belgium (20 seconds). Maybe I'm naive for continually believing the 50m Pound striker, but it's not as though he's playing terribly. Steve Kean should have bought some time with his two most recent results, and a point here would be massive for the maligned manager.

Liverpool 3 V Swansea 0 Sportsnet - Steven Gerrard is only supposed to be out two weeks with his ankle infection, not that they need him to beat Swans. Jordan Henderson will be fine but which Henderson will appear? The big signing has been wildly inconsistent. Will Danny Graham keep scoring? Not likely as his four-game streak ends.

Manchester United 4 V Sunderland 1 Sportsnet World - This match marks the 25th anniversary of Sir Alex Ferguson taking over at Old Trafford. TWELVE Titles later, and Ferguson welcomes one of his former players in Sunderland Manager Steve Bruce to the party. The Black Cats haven't won at the Theatre of Dreams since 1968, with Bruce never beating Sir Alex no matter what the venue. Nemanja Vidic returns to the back line, but Ashley Young and Ryan Giggs are still out. This one could get messy.

NOTE: The FA are going to appeal Wayne Rooney's three-match suspension for Euro 2012.

13:30

QPR 1 V Manchester City 4 Sportsnet - Can Rangers pull out their second straight big home win over a top club? Don't even think about it Mr. Warnock, even with top defender Vincent Kompany suspended for his Red card last week against Wolves. City are too deep as Joleon Lescott steps right in and will provide a different problem than Kompany. Lescott will be a factor on set-pieces, to go along with the already excessive list of offensive threats. Do you remember when QPR lost 6-0? This won't be a repeat, but I don't see City slipping. Not yet anyways, unless Roberto Mancini hits his noggin' again.

SUNDAY

08:30

Wolves 3 V Wigan 1 Sportsnet World - Steven Fletcher will be a huge boost for Wolverhampton, who needed his striking last week at City, a match that they were surprisingly in. Wigan provide a much smaller threat than City, obviously.

10:00

Bolton 2 V Stoke 2 - The Potters corrected their form in a massive away win in Israel in Europa League play. While a trip to the Reebok to play 19th place Bolton is less daunting, they will be too tired to get the full points, and could actually lose this one.

11:00

Fulham 1 V Tottenham 3 Sportsnet World - Welcome the return of William Gallas! The Frenchman is back again, at least before the next flare-up. Fulham were stellar is crushing Wisla Krakow 4-1 in Europa League play, but Spurs are not nearly the Polish side. With Fulham's inability to defend, Spurs will have a field day. Jermain Defoe is on the mark.

Arsenal win an Epic Match and Newcastle stun Stoke

2011-11-01T22:07:00.000-04:00

IN THIS BLOG:

GOALS OF THE WEEK

GAME OF THE WEEK

EPL REVIEW

GOALS OF THE WEEK
Stiliyan Petrov V Sunderland - This long range effort made some Villa fans compare the Bulgarian's tendency to hit from far away to another team legend. Unfortunately I can't find a legit link, so I'll try to provide that on Friday if you haven't been able to find it/see it yet.
Juan Mata V Arsenal
Junior Hoilett V Norwich - Go to 3:15
Gareth Bale V QPR - Go to 3:10 and enjoy.

GAME OF THE WEEK
Chelsea 3, Arsenal 5 -While the result made this blogger less than impressed, I must admit that it was one of the most entertaining matches that I have ever seen (if you're a fan of defensive football, though, you won't agree with me).

Everything seemed fine for Chelsea when John Terry headed in at the stroke of halftime to restore Chelsea's lead (2-1), but then the Blues were burned by their high defensive line. With the defenders so far forward, it allows them to press more easily, but obviously opens them up for exploiting. This has been AVB's approach for the year and he is not backing down from. The problem is that if you do this against an offensively gifted team such as Arsenal, you will get burned. It didn't help though, that John Terry blew a tire on Robin van Persie's second of three, and Petr Cech had one of (if not the worst) match I've ever seen him play. It's not wildly out of reason to expect a world class keeper like Cech to stop Andres Santo's five-hole finder, Theo Walcott's short side rip, and then RvP's sealer that he even got a hand on.

As for the Chelsea positives, there weren't many. Juan Mata's goal temporarily drew the game at three, but what was most encouraging was his post-goal celebration. It was short, and then he urged his teammates to get on with it, for they had a game to win (or so they thought). The only problem was they then got on with giving the Gunners two more goals and failing to score again on their own.

Arsenal definitely deserved the three points, even with their own defensive liabilities that saw Per Mertesacker forget about Frank Lampard and John Terry on box-bound crosses, though there was nothing any of them could have done on Mata's goal. Wojciech Szczesny should have been shown his walking papers when he took down Ashley Cole in the 50th minute as a goal-scoring opportunity was denied. Even he was surprised, tweeting that he should have been sent off later: (‘I don’t know why I stayed on the pitch but WHAT A GAME!!’.). Grrr.

The most glaring and egregious error was on Theo Walcott's goal. The oft-injured Englishman made a run toward the box amidst four Chelsea defenders, only to trip on himself and fall down. No whistle blew, but the Blues stood around and watched while Walcott got up and then blasted one by Cech. Absolutely atrocious stuff and shocking that it happened.

The Gunners are in great shape now, boosted by this win and now facing the following cake of a schedule: WBA, @Norwich, Fulham, @Wigan, Everton before going to Manchester City. Time to rack up points, Arsene.

EPL REVIEW
Stoke 1, Newcastle 3 - Demba Ba with a hat trick as Newcastle shut down a surprisingly ineffective Stoke City team, usually in lock-down mode at the Britannia. It is Ba's second hat-trick of the season, continuing to prove another one of Alan Pardew's great off-season signings. I'm gaining more respect for Pardew, especially after this fist pump. Newcastle are in third place. Yes, THIRD. My Brother and Newcastle correspondent, Mike is no doubt loving every minute of this. I urge him to get one of these striking away kits as well.

Spurs 3, QPR 1 - How much fun are Tottenham fans having these days? They are easily one of the most exciting teams to watch, despite not having much of a back four these days (missing Dawson and Gallas). But who cares? They're still winning and having fun doing so. Rangers Manager Neil Warnock also praised Gareth Bale and his two goals, but lamenting that, "it's too bad he's Welsh." Beautiful. Van der Vaart looked great (again) and has scored in FIVE straight.

West Brom 0, Liverpool 2 - A convincing win over former manager Roy Hodgson. Luis Suarez is being accused of diving in order to draw the penalty that Charlie Adam converted, but it's tough not to call it when you only have one look at it. Andy Carroll did score the second goal, but it was hardly convincing. Steven Gerrard is out for probably a long time. Again. He's in a boot and an ankle infection has been cited.

Sunderland 2, Aston Villa 2 -Villa gave away two points here, but looking at it outside of what happened, a point at The Stadium of Light is a good result. It's just the way that Villa just keep choking away points late in games. Even at 85 minutes when Villa took the lead it was hard to fathom that even they would find some way to lose. Fans (I know Villa Laurie is growing increasingly frustrated) Stilyan Petrov scored one of the goals of the year, but Stephane Sessegnon was just too much to keep out in the goal mouth scramble. Oh, and Darren Bent sure heard it from Black Cats' fans, and it clearly affected him, missing a host of chances.

Manchester City 3, Wolves 1 -There was only so much Wolves' Keeper Wayne Hennessey could do, but his team did put up a valiant fight. The difference in talent was/is just too wide but they will keep fighting for Mick McCarthy as the pressure mounts. Oh, City won again. Ho hum.

Wigan 0, Fulham 2 - A couple of posts for Wigan typified this day. Clint Dempsey and Moussa Dembele markers keeps the Latics stapled to the bottom of the league with 5 points from 10 matches. Ouch.

Swansea 3, Bolton 1 - Danny Graham scored on his own net and on the opponent's (4th straight game) as Swans pretty much cruised after Ricardo Gardner was sent off in the 48th. Look at Swansea, more than a quarter of the way through the season are in 10th, while Bolton are barely out of last.

Norwich 3, Blackburn 3 - Rovers blew a 3-1 second half lead but the ending was cruel. A handball in the box to Steven Nzonzi when he threw his arms up in exasperation, unaware of the ball's location, only to see the ball subsequently glance his arm on the way down was just plain bad luck. It is a call that shouldn't be made because it was uncertain and on the absolute last play of the match. The official decided to crush a team with a questionable call. It was and Grant Holt who sent the Carrow Road fans home happy by ripping in the resulting penalty.

Everton 0, Manchester United 1 - It wasn't quite the convincing rebound match that I expected, but Sir Alex Ferguson and his team will certainly take it. See what starting Chicharito will do? He netted the winner but there were many anxious moments as Everton threatened quite a bit. Leighton Baines' rocket of a free kick hit the crossbar. Nemanja Vidic was strong at the back, and no doubt helped Jonny Evans regain his confidence by playing beside him and taking the pressure off of him. The Toffees fall to 16th, so can somebody get David Moyes a striker? Anyone? Louis Saha is done and outside of that, who do they have?