Top2Bottom: The Game Thread

[Greasy Chip Butty]

Scratch that: Swansea vs. Melbourne has been moved to Feb 25th now.

The next update will be FA Cup Round 5.

Updated schedule for SPORTS.tv games can be found here.

[hamilton162]

Rebels Come From Behind to Claim Priceless Draw

Brennan United came from 2 goals down to draw 2-2 with Inland Valley Hawks at the Brennan Arena. Afterwards, manager John Puckett spoke to Sports.TV

"I am extremely satisfield with the performance today, after coming from behind to draw level in the dying moments of the game against a quality side who are looking for a European place this season" Puckett commented. However, he did add that "In future, even against top 4 sides, we must not give them a 2 goal headstart".

United chairman Bernard Brennan also came out after the match to state how pleased he was with the recent upturn in form. "I asked for some extra input from the players recently and in the games since then, they have put in the extra effort that is shooting us up the table away from a relegation fight which we desperately want to avoid come the end of the season". However, Brennan insisted that the team should maintain these effort levels in order to push on further and get into the top half of the table and towards the European places.

[SnakeXe]

Stix Gets Stuck

Rumours that chairman Michael Starr was unhappy with Steel Panthers losing the lead twice and eventually losing against relegation candidates Blackthorn Athletic were proved true this morning, as manager Stix Zadinia was discovered by the players turning up for training tied to a lamp-post with rude words written all over his face in marker pen.

Both Starr and Zadinia declined to comment, but given their staunch commitment to entertaining football, they have to expect the odd result like this.

[JB]

Browne delighted with bounce back

Our top story today is an exclusive interview with Jack Browne, manager of Essex Eagles.

'I am delighted that we bounced back from the poor midweek loss with a win against the Badgers. Going to their ground and getting a win is no mean feat and I hope that we continue this form into the next game.'

When asked what he thought was in store for them for the rest of the season, his reply was full of confidence.

'I think that we still have an excellent chance of qualifying for the Europa League again, if not the Champions League. We also have a good chance of winning the Europa League which I will be delighted with. The only problem is that some teams are only really starting to gel and they could start providing more competition than they did earlier in the season. That said, we are one of the better teams in the league so I have no doubt that we will continue to climb up the league.'

Finally, we asked him his thoughts on who will win the league.

'I would like to think that we will, but we probably don't have enough in the tank to get to the top of the league, so for them reasons, I can't look past New Bloc. They have a real class about them.'

[Striker475]

Melbourne sneak past Blackpool

After their 2-1 victory over Blackpool, Melbourne manager Zac Smith was heard to cackle and claim that the Premier League won't know what hits them. "With two of the T2B teams guaranteed to drop and no major transfer losses, it's time to bring down the EPL...." claimed Smith. Many are wondering whether he has the ability, especially given that the Demons have not yet guaranteed automatic promotion yet.

[PluckaDuck]

A last gasp win for Origin!!

Huddlestone, Kitson and Rogadella, you have saved Mr Hunt from the axe!!!!

I just checked my squad cren, if it wasn't for Arteta and the mighty Dave Kitson, we'd be fighting off relegation... I'm starting to regret all of my criticism towards him, instead I will start to divert my anger towards "Star Striker" David Trezugeut who has scored just 9 goals all year...

[Striker475]

Melbourne prepare for Origin game

The first Australian battle is readying for Melbourne FC with an FA Cup 5th Round tie against Queensland Origin. The 5th Round tie between Championship challengers Melbourne and European contenders Queensland could potentially be make-or-break for the Origin manager, with Karmichael Hunt's job seriously under question at Suncorp. When interviewed, Melbourne manager Jack Brenner had this to say;

"Sinking the Origin out of the FA Cup would be the absolute top of our season if we could manage it. The Queenslanders won't know what hit 'em."

[5ergio]

The Gnomes Still Not Happy, Still Not Winning

When asked about her team's last few weeks performances, Blanc said that "We are not happy, we are not winning. The games are looking like a win for us every week but somehow we lost motivation, coordination and maybe our respect for the game. This is not our standard, I can say that. We're looking for ways to improve the form." After the new year, things have started going downhill for the Gnomes. They have only managed two points in their last 4 games, both draws coming after they've gained the lead. Only positive side is the FA Cup run, which they'll be facing Brennan United away in the next round.

[Northerm Lights]

Kodaly Extremely Happy!

In what was viewed as a match that could go either way Northern Extreme Boss Kodaly McMaster declared himself very happy with the outcome of the result.

"Following the results we have previously had there had to be an emphasis on keeping it tight at the back."

McMaster went on to explain why the 1st half was so boring

"We knew going to White Rock was going difficult so we wore them down, imposed ourselves on them and hit them with a crucial goal just before halftime."

He then gave his thoughts on the Torres injury

"We dont know how bad it is - and no he's no running scared from the New Bloc match!"

When he heard the result of the New Bloc match McMaster declared......

"interesting....."

[bergtaur]

Where have the players gone?

No member of New Bloc FC has been seen since their stunning loss in their recent Premiership game. All phonecalls to New Bloc headquarters have have unanswer until today when we were able to get a hold of Danilo Uljarevic.

"Well, I'll tell you why you haven't seen the team, they haven't figured out the riddle. You see, I've locked the entire staff and players in the training facility with clues on how to get out. Plain and simple, we haven't been a team for a while now, hopefully this leads our men to think as a unit that way we can finish the season where we are right now, atop the Premiership. Until they figure it out, they will stay in there. Now good afternoon to you gentlemen."

[Greasy Chip Butty]

He then gave his thoughts on the Torres injury

"We dont know how bad it is - and no he's no running scared from the New Bloc match!"

Torres = stubbed toe, 6 days, back for FA Cup tie against New Bloc.

No update today, apologies. Happy New Year to you all.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

Just realised that this game is on the last day of the season: Northern Extreme vs. New Bloc.

That could be important on the final day!

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Saturday 14th February 2009

WHO IS TRAVELLING ALL THE WAY DOWN THE ROAD TO WEMBLEY?

Whilst the FA Cup Round 3 day is the most romantic day on the footballing calendar – and rightly so – it is Round 5 when things usually really start to get interesting. Eight ties involving sixteen teams take place this afternoon and by the end of the day, the Quarter Finals will be taking shape as Wembley begins to loom on the horizon.

SPORTS.tv LIVE will be at the Brennan Arena where 45000 fans are expected to witness the game between Brennan United and Gnome’ania United – two Premier League clubs with not much to cheer this season. Both sides are rooted in the lower mid-table area with both casting nervous glances over their shoulders at the relegation dogfight although neither have fully entered the battle at the bottom. Today sees the two sides meet with managers John Puckett and Joselyn Blanc hoping for some excitement in a season that has so far delivered little. We’re LIVE and EXCLUSIVE from the Brennan Arena later on this evening.

Ahead of the game though, SPORTS.tv NEWS will be focusing on the other seven FA Cup ties taking place today. And there are some crackers amongst them – particularly down to the fact we have all five of the T2B Championship sides still in the competition – that will provide lots of interest and excitement. There could also be a new name at the top of the Premier League table come the end of the afternoon as well and SPORTS.tv NEWS will keep you right up to date on this too.

TITLE RIVALS CLASH AT AURORA PARK!

Since the January transfer window, Premier League leaders New Bloc and rivals Northern Extreme have stumbled with some surprising defeats. However, for one afternoon, thoughts of the Premier League title can be cast aside as both sides concentrate on the FA Cup with the pair meeting at Northern Extreme’s Aurora Park. New Bloc were surprisingly defeated by managerless Saffron United last weekend but Northern Extreme got their challenge back on track with a solid 3-0 away win at Welsh Wizards that sees them installed as favourites heading into the cup clash today. New Bloc will be desperate to strike a psychological blow with a win at Extreme though and with both clubs in the hunt for the title, this could be an important match in the context of a double winning season as well.

OUT OF FORM BADGERS AND ESSENDON CLASH!

Boreham Badgers’ cup results this season have been flawless except for one result which has completely de-railed their season since. A League Cup Semi Final appearance for the mid-table Badgers was an achievement and when they drew lowly Didsbury Dynamoes in the Semi Final, their Wembley dreams were in touching distance. A first leg victory (1-0 at home) put them in the driving seat but a 4-0 reversal in the second leg left them devastated and the Badgers have taken just a solitary Premier League point since. Essendon were in position to challenge for Europe a few short weeks ago but four straight defeats in the Premier League and an unconvincing defeat of Swansea City in the 4th Round after a replay mean that both sides need morale boosting wins today. After becoming only the second team this season to lose to Sheffield Wednesday, Essendon will be desperate to get their season kickstarted at Muddy Field this afternoon.

COCA COLA CHAMPIONSHIP SIDES LOOKING TO PROVE A POINT!

With the top five Coca Cola Championship sides all remaining in the FA Cup and with ties against Premier League opponents today, it could be a day when several Premier League sides are given a warning of what might come next season. The five Championship sides are all intent on a promotion to the Premier League this season and will want to show that they would be no pushover should they make it. Could we see more Championship sides than Premier League sides in the Quarter Finals? Don’t bet against it. Championship table-toppers, Fanghunters, face a trip to the Metronome to face the Isle of Man Metros who have been on a good run recently; their nearest rivals in the Championship, Melbourne, are also away from home as they face Queensland Origin; Joga Bonitos Juniors – at home - will fancy their chances of adding to relegation threatened Blackthorn Athletic’s troubles whilst Canadian Mighty Squirrels are also at home where they will face League Cup finalists, London Titans, at the Land of the Chestnuts; finally, VfB Rammstein are away from home where they face Didsbury Dynamoes who are out to continue recent improvements and take a step towards another Wembley appearance after their League Cup heroics.

COEDY LOOKING TO GO TOP OF THE LEAGUE!

With both sides out of the FA Cup, Premier League Coedpoeth United and Essex Eagles meet at the Penygelli Arena with Robert Jones’ Coedy side looking for a win to take them above New Bloc to the top of the Premier League this afternoon. However, Jack Browne’s Eagles have won their last five in the Premier League and are starting to threaten the European places so United will need to be on their best to go top tonight.

SPORTS.tv NEWS has all the action from around the FA Cup Round 5 and this afternoon’s Premier League encounter when we return after the break. Stay tuned.

[bergtaur]

Players spotted!!!

New Bloc FC has turned up ready for their match-up with staunch rivals Northern Extreme in the FA Cup. When the men left the team bus they were all wearing pink and black shirts saying "1 goal, 1 mindset, 1 team."

New Bloc Manager Danilo Uljarevic said, "I told you my men would come out looking like a team for this match, and our mindset has changed from a group of individuals to an actual team. Northern Extreme better be ready because today we prove that pink and black keeps them coming back."

[JB]

'Mon the Eagles!

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Saturday 14th February 2009

FA CUP ROUND 5

Welcome to SPORTS.tv NEWS on this FA Cup Round 5 afternoon where we are going to keep you right up to date with all seven ties taking place ahead of the SPORTS.tv LIVE encounter between Brennan United and Gnome’ania United this evening. We’ve also got all the latest news on the Premier League match taking place between Coedpoeth United and Essex Eagles – remember that Coedy could go top - at the Penygelli Arena.

The matches are kicking off around the country, we’ll head to the grounds whenever there is something to report on. And we’re heading to The Land of the Chestnuts first, goal in just the second minute.

Canadian Mighty Squirrels vs. London Titans

The Championship side are in front after just two minutes here as London look very shaky early on. It’s Italian striker Antonio Di Natale who has scored it and the Squirrels hopes of an upset have got off to a great start. Squirrels 1-0 Titans.

Joga Bonitos Juniors vs. Blackthorn Athletic

It’s a super start all round for the Championship sides as Joga Juniors are also in front early on. Luis Suarez has scored after just three minutes and it looks like a long afternoon for Athletic already. Can Wenger’s new team show some character? Joga Juniors 1-0 Blackthorn.

Queensland Origin vs. Melbourne

Well, it was all going well for the Coca Cola Championship sides but not here as Origin have just been awarded a penalty kick against Melbourne. It will be David Trezeguet to take it ... And he scores. Four minutes gone, Origin 1-0 Melbourne.

Coedpoeth United vs. Essex Eagles (Premier League)

Great start for Coedy – looking to go top of the Premier League remember – as Shaun Wright-Phillips has scored after just six minutes. Can the Eagles respond? Coedpoeth United 1-0 Essex Eagles.

Isle of Man Metros vs. Fanghunters

Goal here at the Metronome and another Championship side have fallen behind as well, this time the league leaders. Obafemi Martins has struck for the Metros after nine minutes. Wait a minute though, another chance ... Goal! It’s a second goal for Obafemi Martins and he puts the Isle of Man Metros two up after just ten minutes. Metros 2-0 Fanghunters.

Queensland Origin vs. Melbourne

Melbourne’s cup dream is looking in tatters here as Origin have added a second goal. Trezeguet’s penalty has been followed by a goal from Dave Kitson and Origin lead 2-0. Queensland 2-0 Melbourne.

Coedpoeth United vs. Essex Eagles

It’s a penalty for Coedpoeth United here as they look to add a second goal. Juan Manual Mata will step up ... And he scores. Coedpoeth go two nil in front and their fans start to chant ‘We are top of the league!’ after just eleven minutes. Coedpoeth 2-0 Essex.

Northern Extreme vs. New Bloc

It seems that Danilo Uljarevic’s plans over the last few days are set to pay off as New Bloc make the breakthrough here at Aurora Park. Javier Mascherano has scored their first goal of the afternoon. Twelve minutes gone, Extreme 0-1 New Bloc.

Boreham Badgers vs. Essendon

Essendon are off to a solid start as they begin to put their Hillsborough horror show behind them. Steed Malbranque has put them in front here at Muddy Field and after twenty minutes, Badgers 0-1 Essendon.

Queensland Origin vs. Melbourne

A third goal here and it could be important ... And it is more bad news for Melbourne fans I’m afraid. Origin have added a third goal on 21 minutes thanks to Spaniard Mikel Arteta. It looks bleak now for Melbourne, Origin 3-0 Melbourne.

Boreham Badgers vs. Essendon

Red card shown here at Muddy Field. Minutes after taking the lead, Essendon are down to ten men after defender Pepe was shown a red card. They are a man down but remain a goal up.

Canadian Mighty Squirrels vs. London Titans

Titans have hit back here at the Land of the Chestnuts and levelled on 33 minutes. Joao Moutinho, signed in January, has scored the goal for the Premier League club. Squirrels 1-1 Titans.

Coedpoeth United vs. Essex Eagles

New Bloc might be enjoying their trip to Northern Extreme at the moment but they will not be top of the Premier League tonight. Instead, Coedpoeth United are heading there and are destroying Eagles’ five match winning streak in the process. Roque Santa Cruz has made it three, Coedy 3-0 Eagles.

Joga Bonitos Juniors vs. Blackthorn Athletic

Equalising goal here for Blackthorn Athletic as Francesco Totti has put Wenger’s side level at 1-1. Another chance as well ... and another goal for Blackthorn. Two goals in four minutes just before half time, Mario Gomez has got this one to put them in front. Joga Juniors 1-2 Blackthorn.

Half time across the country, we’ll be back after the break.

[JB]

3-0 at half time. FFS

[Loojay]

I wish I was part of this sign up so much

[super_lampard]

half time leading 2-0

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Saturday 14th February 2009

FA CUP ROUND 5

Welcome back to SPORTS.tv NEWS as we follow the FA Cup ties in progress. At half time, Didsbury and VfB Rammstein are goalless, the Metros (2-0 at home to Fanghunters) and Origin (3-0 at home to Melbourne) look to be coasting through to the Quarter Finals, Squirrels and Titans are level at 1-1, Blackthorn have come from a goal down to lead Joga Juniors 2-1, Essendon lead away at Boreham Badgers but are down to ten men as well and New Bloc lead 1-0 at Northern Extreme.

First action of the second half comes from Penygelli Arena, a fourth goal for Coedy or a glimmer of hope for Essex?

Coedpoeth United vs. Essex Eagles

The new league leaders have taken a 4-0 lead now after just one minute of the second half. Lucho Gonzalez is the fourth Coedy player to find the net and I think it’s time for the Eagles to shut up shop now. Coedpoeth 4-0 Eagles.

Northern Extreme vs. New Bloc

It seems that New Bloc are right back on track as they go two nil up on their title rivals in the FA Cup now. Brazilian striker Pato has got the second goal and it’s a long way back for Extreme now. 47 minutes played, Extreme 0-2 New Bloc.

Didsbury Dynamoes vs. VfB Rammstein

Deadlock finally broken here and it is the Premier League outfit that have scored the opening goal. Portuguese midfielder Deco has scored it on 51 minutes, it’s Dynamoes 1-0 Rammstein.

Coedpoeth United vs. Essex Eagles

It is getting embarrassing now for Essex Eagles but it is a five-star performance from Coedpoeth as they go five nil up here at Penygelli Arena. Roque Santa Cruz has a second of the night, Coedpoeth 5-0 Eagles.

Northern Extreme vs. New Bloc

Game on again here at Aurora Park as Northern Extreme pull a goal back against New Bloc. After returning from a minor injury for the cup tie, Fernando Torres has scored for Northern Extreme and with more than half an hour still to play, it is Extreme 1-2 New Bloc.

Didsbury Dynamoes vs. VfB Rammstein

It looks bleak now for the Championship outfit but Didsbury Dynamoes amazing cup season continues. A second goal on 66 minutes for the Dynamoes, this time from Felipe Caicedo, means that they now have one foot in the Quarter Finals of the FA Cup. 24 minutes remaining, Didsbury 2-0 VfB Rammstein.

Canadian Mighty Squirrels vs. London Titans

After their early goal was cancelled out, it would have been easy for the Championship Squirrels to fade against Premier League London but with 18 minutes to go, the Squirrels of Mighty have taken a massive step towards the Quarter Finals. Robbie Keane has got them a second goal and they now lead again. Squirrels 2-1 Titans.

Boreham Badgers vs. Essendon

Ten-man Essendon have – against the run of play – added their second goal of the afternoon and now look set to make their way into the Quarter Finals. Badgers need a small miracle now with 13 minutes remaining but Lionel Messi’s strike means Essendon can start planning their Quarter Final. Badgers 0-2 Essendon.

Joga Bonitos Juniors vs. Blackthorn Athletic

Premier League Blackthorn Athletic have been hanging on all the second half but as we enter injury time, we have our fourth goal of the game and it’s gone to ... Joga Juniors. Kevin Davies has struck moments from time and it is now 2-2 and we are heading for a replay at Franconian Crescent.

That’s the full time whistles going around the country. Here are the full time results:

FA CUP ROUND 5:

Didsbury Dynamoes 2-0 VfB Rammstein

Isle of Man Metros 2-0 Fanghunters

Canadian Mighty Squirrels 2-1 London Titans

Joga Bonitos Juniors 2-2 Blackthorn Athletic

Replay at Franconian Crescent, Saturday February 28th

Boreham Badgers 0-2 Essendon

Queensland Origin 3-0 Melbourne

Northern Extreme 1-2 New Bloc

PREMIER LEAGUE:

Coedpoeth United 5–0 Essex Eagles

Coedpoeth United move two points clear at the top of the Premier League but Essex Eagles remain 9th although their goal difference has taken an hammering.

Tune in later for the SPORTS.tv LIVE cup game between Brennan United and Gnome’ania United as well as the draw for the FA Cup Quarter Finals.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

LIVE

Saturday 14th February 2009

VS.

BRENNAN UNITED

VS.

GNOME’ANIA UNITED

Live from Brennan Arena

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

TEAM NEWS:

Brennan United: 4-4-2 for John Puckett with new signing Liedson – five goals in four appearances since joining The Red Rebels in January – partnering Goran Pandev (13 goals in 26 games) in a prolific strikeforce. Veteran goalkeeper Jens Lehmann continues in goal as they look to keep a clean sheet that should see their strikers send them through. With Zoran Tosic and Mauro Camoranesi on the wing, you can see why Pandev and Liedson are not struggling up front and Gnome’ania will need to quieten these two.

Lehmann, Onuoha, McCartney, S.Taylor, Meite, Camoranesi, Tosic, Carrick, Tymoschuk, Liedson, Pandev.

Gnome’ania United: Joselyn Blanc becomes the first female manager to reach Round 5 of the FA Cup and looks to go even further with a 4-4-2 formation for the Gnomes. Hulk and Dean Ashton start up front but the pair have struggled so far to set the world alight so they may need to be solid at the back where Cris and Brede Hangeland will be important in front of Swiss keeper Diego Benaglio. Midfielder Esteban Cambiasso has the ability to create something out of nothing and will be the Gnomes main man if they are to pull off a win today.

Benaglio, Friedrich, Ivanovic, Hangeland, Cris, Hargreaves, Pugh, Cambiasso, Reo-Coker, Ashton, Hulk.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Welcome to the Brennan Arena as these two mediocre Premier League sides look for a anti-dote to the probable end of season fizzle out they are likely to face over the coming weeks. For one of these sides, it will be back to the Premier League and staying away from trouble, for the other it will be the same but with dreams of Wembley.

Mike Dean – a referee not much liked here at SPORTS.tv after he once ruined a Sheffield derby with a rash red card – is the man in the middle here today and he blows the whistle as the red shirted Brennan United face the white shirted Gnomes for a place in the FA Cup Quarter Finals. BBC Sport have predicted a Brennan United win – but obviously SPORTS.tv is the only place to get the very best action and opinions!

21: Brennan United have had the better of the early exchanges without creating a chance but they attack now down the centre with the dangerous Liedson. He plays a lovely diagonal ball to the left to Tosic who could shoot but pulls the ball back to Pandev but his shot is weak and Benaglio makes the save that he shouldn’t have been given chance to make.

23: A free kick on the left hand side of the box for Brennan United – almost a corner in placement. Tosic will take left footed and drifts it into the area and CARRICK heads down and in to the bottom corner. Brennan United have got first blood in the FA Cup here at the Brennan Arena!

GOAL: Brennan United 1-0 Gnome’ania United (Carrick, 23)

37: More danger as Carrick picks out Pandev on the edge of the box and his turn is crudely ended by Hargreave’s challenge. However, the ball runs to Liedson who hammers the ball goalwards and forces a good blocking save from Benaglio.

42: We have seen little of the Gnomes as an attacking threat and another attack breaks down with Hulk and allows Brennan United to come forward again. Good play from McCartney and Tosic down the left feed Liedson whose clever ball into the area finds PANDEV who scores the second for Brennan United! But wait ... Offside flag is up against Pandev. Correct decision, he was a fair few yards off in the end.

45: A throw in on the right for Brennan is taken by Nedum Onuoha and finds Tymoschuk. He slides a good ball into Liedson who beats two men and shoots but another smart stop from Benaglio keeps the score at one. Half time at the Brennan Arena as Mike Dean signals the end of the first half.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Brennan United could and should be out of sight at half time and they may regret – and knowing football, they will – their failure to put the Gnomes away in the first half. With Dean Ashton hobbling around, the Gnomes have got to look at Louis Saha at some point soon surely. Liedson and Pandev have looked dangerous and are clearly confident right now but it is the header from Michael Carrick that separates the two sides at half time.

A reminder of the FA Cup and Premier League scores from earlier in the day:

FA CUP ROUND 5:

Didsbury Dynamoes 2-0 VfB Rammstein

Isle of Man Metros 2-0 Fanghunters

Canadian Mighty Squirrels 2-1 London Titans

Joga Bonitos Juniors 2-2 Blackthorn Athletic

Replay at Franconian Crescent, Saturday February 28th

Boreham Badgers 0-2 Essendon

Queensland Origin 3-0 Melbourne

Northern Extreme 1-2 New Bloc

PREMIER LEAGUE:

Coedpoeth United 5–0 Essex Eagles

Don’t forget that we have the FA Cup Quarter Final draw first, live and exclusive, on SPORTS.tv NEWS following this evenings final whistle. Back out to the Brennan Arena, can the Gnomes get back in the tie?

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

No changes at half time so both sides stay as they were. Mike Dean blows his whistle and we’re on the way in the second half.

50: First chance of the half for Brennan United. Steven Taylor’s long free kick into the area drops to Carrick who feeds in Camoranesi on the right of goal. The Italian shoots and Benagli saves but the ball falls towards Liedson ... Hangeland hoofs the ball clear before the Portuguese striker can make it 2-0.

55: First booking of the game goes to Owen Hargreaves for a challenge on Tymoschuk as Brennan United have a free kick on the left. Tymoschuk plays it short to Carrick whose long range effort drifts over the crossbar.

60: Corner for Gnome’ania United is taken on the left by Hargreaves. It’s swung in at goal and Lehmann has to palm it onto the crossbar to deny the Gnomes a fluke equaliser before Brennan United clear the ball quickly.

Dean Ashton is finally replaced by Louis Saha by Gnome’ania United in the game’s first change.

61: Almost an instant impact by the French striker. Friedrich’s throw in finds Reo-Coker who combines well with Hargreaves before finding Saha on the edge of the area. He twists left and right before firing a shot just over the bar. A warning shot for the Red Rebels.

63: Danny Pugh down the left for Gnome’ania United fires the ball across towards Hulk at the near post. Onuoha makes a clumsy challenge and ... penalty! Mike Dean punishes Onuoha for the use of an elbow and books the young defender, it will be a penalty to Gnome’ania United.

64: Owen Hargreaves will take the penalty for Gnome’ania. They’ve been poor going forward but now they have a chance to level the FA Cup tie. Just Jens Lehmann to beat, can Hargreaves score? He steps up ... HARGREAVES fires it home to the keeper’s left hand side. It is level here at the Brennan Arena!

GOAL: Brennan United 1-1 Gnome’ania United (Hargreaves, 64 pen)

Onuoha has had a bad couple of minutes: penalty given against him, a yellow card and now he is replaced by Mario Melchiot as Brennan United shake things up.

70: Brennan United’s attack from Pandev breaks down and Friedrich’s long clearance falls into the path of Hulk who turns the defenders inside out before firing wide from the edge of the box. Good chance for the Gnomes.

71: Good work from Cambiasso sets Hulk away on the left. The Portuguese striker – who has been quiet so far – powers past Melchiot before firing a shot away from a tight angle that beats Lehmann but curls away and wide of the post.

75: Owen Hargreaves, Branislav Ivanovic and Danny Pugh combine down the left before Pugh feeds the ball to Hulk again. He turns the defender and then HULK powers a right foot shot out of the reach of Lehmann and into the top corner of the goal. A fantastic strike and the Gnomes lead!

GOAL: Brennan United 1-2 Gnome’ania United (Hulk, 75)

Adriano comes on to replace Liedson who has been quiet second half for Brennan United.

79: Anatoliy Tymoschuk picks the ball up in the centre of the Gnomes half and unleashes a shot that flies over the bar. The Red Rebels need to do more than that if they are to keep their Wembley dream alive.

80: Good football from Pandev and Carrick finds Adriano but he shoots from distance as well and it’s over the top. They need to do more than this. Ben Watson comes on for Nedum Onuoha for Brennan United – why not Ched Evans?

86: Another long range effort from Goran Pandev drifts wide of the post and the Gnomes look happy with the long shots.

93: Final minute of stoppage time as Carrick plays a short free kick to Ben Watson who strides towards the edge of the Gnomes’ penalty area and shoots ... but straight at Benagli who clutches it gratefully. He kicks it forward and Mike Dean signals the end of the game. Gnome’ania United are into the FA Cup Quarter Finals!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

A superb second half performance from Hulk was the difference as the Gnomes came back from a goal down to secure the Quarter Final place. Great win for Joselyn Blanc and her boys but devastating for Brennan United who delivered an awful second half performance.

We’ll be back later with the FA Cup Quarter Final draw.

Thank you for watching SPORTS.tv LIVE tonight where the final score was: Brennan United 1-2 Gnome’ania United.

[PluckaDuck]

A super performance from Queensland in the local derby.

Dave Kitson, what a hero!!!!

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Saturday 7th February 2009

FIVE-STAR COEDY POWER TO TOP OF LEAGUE!

New Bloc still happy after FA Cup win at Extreme!

A bitter-sweet afternoon for New Bloc who saw themselves fall from the Premier League summit for the first time since early October but moved into the Quarter Finals of the FA Cup after a hardfought victory away at Northern Extreme. With Coedpoeth United hammering Essex Eagles 5-0 at Penygelli Arena in the Premier League, New Bloc fell to second but have a game in hand which would see them move top again with a win.

In a fairly equal game at Penygelli Arena, Coedy’s clinical finishing gave them a 5-0 win which flattered them slightly and didn’t do justice to the performance of the Eagles. Coedy goalkeeper Petr Cech was one of the better performers on his team which suggests the Eagles were in the game but keeper Ochoa had a nightmare game and conceded five goals. Whilst Coedy – out of the FA Cup already – were beating Essex, former leaders New Bloc were getting their season right back on track with a well deserved victory over Northern Extreme at Aurora Park with Brazilian Pato scoring the winner just after half time.

SEVEN TEAMS INTO FA CUP QUARTER FINAL!

There were goals galore in the first half of today’s FA Cup ties as seven teams went through and seven teams went out leaving just Joga Bonitos Juniors and Blackthorn Athletic to replay – 28th February at Franconian Crescent – for a place in the Quarter Finals after a 2-2 draw today. Deco and Felipe Caicedo scored to send Didsbury through (2-0 against VfB Rammstein), two early Obafemi Martins goals sent Isle of Man Metros through (2-0 over Fanghunters) and Queensland Origin made it a hat-trick of Premier League clubs to knock out Championship clubs after their 3-0 win over Melbourne thanks to goals from Trezeguet, Kitson and Arteta. With New Bloc through, Essendon won the other all-Premier League encounter with a 2-0 win at Boreham Badgers despite the sending off of Pepe and Canadian Mighty Squirrels provided the shock of the round as they knocked out London Titans – League Cup finalists – by 2-1 at The Land of the Chestnuts.

In the SPORTS.tv LIVE game, Brennan United threw away a 1-0 half time lead (given to them by Michael Carrick) and lost 2-1 to recently struggling Gnome’ania United who scored twice in the second half through an Owen Hargreaves penalty and a stunning strike from Hulk to join the FA Cup draw which is coming soon.

FA CUP QUARTER FINALS DRAW!

We’re now here live at Wembley Stadium for the draw for the Quarter Finals of the FA Cup.

First out is ... New Bloc. Conquerors of Northern Extreme this weekend and recently dislodged from the top of the Premier League, they’re at home to ...

The winners of the replay between Joga Bonitos Juniors and Blackthorn Athletic. They drew 2-2 earlier and replay in two weeks time at Franconian Crescent.

Next game now. Home will be ... Gnome’ania United. A superb comeback today against Brennan United to seal their place in the Quarter Finals live on SPORTS.tv ...

Will face Queensland Origin. Convincing winners over Melbourne this afternoon and will be fancying their chances of a Semi Final place with that draw.

Essendon will be at home as well. They won 2-0 at Boreham Badgers with ten men for over an hour today ... They will be facing ...

Didsbury Dynamoes. The cup specialists this season – League Cup Final in a couple of weeks and now an FA Cup Quarter Final. Improving in the Premier League as well recently.

And finally, at home will be ... Canadian Mighty Squirrels. The only Championship side guaranteed to be in the Quarter Finals after their 2-1 home win over London Titans. They’ll face ...

Isle of Man Metros. Metros beat Championship leaders Fanghunters at home and now face a trip to the Squirrels to make the Semi Finals.

FA CUP QUARTER FINAL DRAW

Tie scheduled for 7th and 8th March 2009

New Bloc vs. Blackthorn Athletic/Joga Bonitos Juniors

Gnome’ania United vs. Queensland Origin

Essendon vs. Didsbury Dynamoes

Canadian Mighty Squirrels vs. Isle of Man Metros

SPORTS.tv NEWS can announce that the game between Championship side Canadian Mighty Squirrels and Premier League Isle of Man Metros will be shown live and exclusive on SPORTS.tv LIVE.

SPORTS.tv is back on Wednesday as we see whether New Bloc can return to the top of the Premier League tree. They’re at home to Essendon, both FA Cup Quarter Finalists. We’ll see you there!

[Guest roberto922]

damn we're good

[Greasy Chip Butty]

I've got a feeling that there are a few people who signed up who have not been on for a while and commented. Please do otherwise I will refuse to feature your team anytime soon.

I will update tomorrow IF I get at least ten media things! It takes me ages to write an update so you lot can damn well help me by putting some stuff on here.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

damn we're good

and top of the league.

[Striker475]

Commonwealth Bank Stadium damaged by riot following 3-0 loss

Melbourne supporters reacted angrily to the 3-0 loss at the hands of Queensland Origin. Demons supporters who were unable to travel to Suncorp watched from the CommBank Stadium and upon the 3rd goal being scored went crazy. Chairs were torn up, Molotov cocktails thrown and all in all hell broke loose.

A spokesman for Jack Brenner commented that the damage would be repaired as quickly as possible. When questions about allegations of a video appearing on YouTube which showed a pipe bomb being thrown from the chairman's office towards the scoreboard, the spokesman refused to reply.

[hamilton162]

Puckett furious after FA Cup Exit

Brennan United manager John Puckett was fuming this evening after seeing his team slip out of the FA Cup. The Red Rebels were made to rue their first half misses as Gnome’ania United came from a goal down to snatch a place in the quarter finals from United's grasp. "I'm very angry and disappointed" said Puckett afterwards. "We should have been 3 or 4 up at half time, but we failed to take out chances and in games at this level, you need to take every oppertunity that comes your way". However, the manager did see some positives. "We've had a decent run in the cup, and now that we're out of it, we can concentrate on the league and could take advantage of having to play less games than those teams around us as our fitness will enable us to play to a better standard consistantly"

[Marky Mark!]

Essendon manager back from Christmas / New Year break

After an extended Christmas break, Essendon chairman Mark Mota was spotted back at Windy Hill today and sources say he is furious at the sides inconsistant form, which has seen it win an FA Cup 5th round match despite being a man down, yet unable to beat Sheffield Wed in the Premier League!

He has apparently had stern words with both the players and manager Kevin Sheedy, and will be be expecting a much more consistant performance from the Bombers in the 2nd half of the season.

We expect to hear more on this development in Mr Mota's scheduled press conferance after Essendon's tough match against high flying New Bloc, which of course will be shown live on SPORTS.tv

[joetheref]

Badgers Chairman outraged at Badgers cup exit

Boreham Badgers chairman Dimo Wache gave a rare interview today talking about a poor run of form for the Badgers. The German said 'I am absolutely gutted with the poor form at the moment. Ever since the League Cup drubbing we have played terribly. The players must sort themselves out and I won't shy away from making big decisions, including sacking the manager if need be'.

The manager Joe Tompkins agreed with his chairman saying 'The players do need to sort themselves out, if we can't start grinding out wins then we could face relegation'

[conners]

Blackthorn impress under new boss Wegner.

The amazing recovery at Blackthorn Athletic continued this week as the rose bushes kept their hopes of a wembley apperance alive at joga bonita juniors. Leading goalscorer totti and mario gomez scored the goals in an exciting 2-2 draw. A last gasp win in the premier league also moved blackthorn closer to premier league survival

[SJ234]

No comment on that preformance

[Northerm Lights]

Have been celebrating Hogmanay and Ne'er last couple of days - with it being a national institution, (and had friends over from abroad) but i'm back and will post shortly

[bergtaur]

"Told You So"

Those words were the first out of the mouth of New Bloc Manager Danilo Uljarevic after his team's 2-1 win at Northern Extreme to advance to the quarter finals of the FA cup. "It appears reports of the demise of New Bloc F.C. have been greatly overblown," said the manager. "We have a new thought process here and we will not only win the FA Cup, but we will soon rise back to our spot on top of the Premiership to complete a double for our fans."

[Northerm Lights]

Fair play to New Bloc

Following the bitter nature of the build up to FA Cup 5th round game the Northern Extreme management had this message for their counterparts at New Bloc...

"We cant complain about the way New Bloc outplayed us today on the day the better team won, but....... We can assure our fans that it is our priority to get to the top of the heap and with us meeting again on the last day of the season we are aiming to ensure that it will matter and we will get the revenge!"

[SnakeXe]

Starr Furious at Lack of Action

Steel Panthers Chairman Michael Starr is reputedly furious at there being no goals at all at Catnip Park during the latest round of action. He allegedly showed up at the training ground and berated the whole playing staff for the complete absence of any entertainment.

Upon being told that The Steel had in fact not had any fixtures that week, he is said to have replied: "You mean to say that I imagined ALL of those little people yesterday?!"

In unrelated news, a large stash of hallucinogenic drugs disappeared from a police evidence locker near Catnip Park last week. Officers have no leads.

[MattFergie]

Didsbury Advance

Didsbury FC will be wondering how on earth they have ended up 19th in the Premiership after progressing well in the cups. The clubs form has been astounding and with key men such as Iker Casillas firing on all cylinders, relegation could possibly be avoided.

/curse.

[5ergio]

The Gnomes present you: Hulk, the Incredible

After a bad start in the first half and going down by one goal despite Brennan United's countless attempts, the Gnomes finished the game in style with Hulk managing an incredible performance. When asked about the game and their future, Blanc mentioned that they see this game as a miniature of their seasonal performance. The femal manager claimed that their hopes are high for the rest of the season and managing a come up in FA Cup will surely provide a big confidence boost to the team.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

SHORT AD BREAK ...

Coming soon to

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Thousands of broken dreams ...

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Twenty four footballers ...

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Four managers ...

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One Champion.

SIRUS LANNOCK: this time they're all out to get you.

Coming soon to SPORTS.tv

[PluckaDuck]

Oooohhhhh, this will be interesting

[SnakeXe]

\o/ can't wait

[JB]

Love the created badge for it

[bergtaur]

HUZZAH for FMX3!!! HUZZAH for New Bloc... HUZZAH FOR GCB!!!!!!!!!

[19992008]

my team Tibbolini didnt play

[hamilton162]

FMX 3 Red Rebels improving in T2B All good news as far as i'm concerned, top work Andy!

[whitehead.10]

why do an undate/media bit when i'm well against mate, KUTGW amazing

[apnelson]

Would just like to say sorry for not posting on here in over a month. Still have no internet at my new flat but am getting it installed in next few days then i will be on here checking once a day and posting some media stuff and getting involved around.

League doesnt seem to be going to well hopfully we do enough to stay up.

Domestic Cups out in first game of each terrible.

Europe seems to be going well so looks like that is the only good part of the season so far

Disappointed the Knoppers didn't sign anyone in January as Saffron needed some new faces to give add abit more quality to the team. If we stay up Aragones will have to do some good business if were to do better next time round.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

Next update: probably won't be till the weekend. Back at school today and a hundred things to do already.

GCB

[MattFergie]

Schools cancelled over here

[SnakeXe]

I'm back at university out of choice got work/revision to do, but don't actually need to be here for another week...