Top2Bottom: The Game Thread

[joetheref]

You can set it up but youd have to set it in an existing country, the European qualifications should still work

[spartans5]

You would be able to edit an existing one in a random country such as Andorra or Malta or something like that and as long as its a nation in Europe it would qualify for the CL and Europa League.

[hamilton162]

I'd prefer it to stay in 09 altogether tbh, gives some continuity

Sorry i've not been around very much recently, i've been very ill and was in hospital until a few days ago after having a heart operation. I've also got a very busy period coming up with mock & GCSE exams, so i may not post as much as i have done, but i will check this thread every time i sign in

KUTGW Andy

[whitehead.10]

Quite a few of us have had exams its understandable

[Greasy Chip Butty]

Quite understandable, good luck with the exams.

[Thefanghunter]

A few of us have holidays, presume that's understanderble. I check every day at least once though.

[SnakeXe]

Just had 4 exams in 4 days! Little break now then 2 next week

[Greasy Chip Butty]

Quick repost. For those who maybe missed it on the end of Page 7.

NEWS

Saturday 28th February 2009

TOUGH AFTERNOON IN STORE FOR TITLE RIVALS!

It’s a massive afternoon in the Premier League today as both of the leading two sides face very tricky looking trips to top six sides which could quite easily end in defeats. Could this be the afternoon for Northern Extreme and Inland Valley Hawks to re-establish their title credentials? Or will the top two fire signs of intent as we move into the final reckoning in the Premier League?

Coedpoeth United went back to the top of the Premier League last weekend with a hard-fought 1-0 win at Tibbolini, in a match which proved that those sides fighting for their lives at the bottom of the table could cause shocks to the big teams, with a second half penalty to thank for the three points. Today, Coedy – who are currently on a run of five straight league wins – travel to fourth placed Inland Valley Hawks. The Hawks are on the fringes of the title race and victory today could see them potentially begin to gatecrash the top positions and challenge for the title. However, their record against the top three this season has been poor with four defeats from four games suggesting that they lack the quality to challenge: can they change that view today?

New Bloc dropped back into second place as a result of Coedpoeth’s win and travel to Queensland Origin today. The sixth placed Origin have frustrated their fans at the Suncorp Stadium this season with a staggering 8 drawn games from 13 played but with just one defeat at home, New Bloc will need to be on top of their game to secure three points. Their recent away record makes worrying reading with just two wins from their last seven travels away from the Google International Stadium.

Northern Extreme have started to find form again after a wobble and a home game with Isle of Man Metros offers a chance to make ground tonight. With just one home defeat all season – to leaders Coedpoeth – Extreme will fancy their chances but the Metros have the sixth best away record in the league despite their place in the lower half. It might not be easy for Extreme tonight either.

Seventh placed Steel Panthers will look to take advantage of the top six clashes and the absence of London Titans this weekend by beating bottom club Sheffield Wednesday. The Panthers won 5-1 at Hillsborough earlier in the season and the Owls will be on a hiding to nothing when they visit Catnip Park this afternoon as they near the Championship trapdoor.

Eighth meets tenth at the Eagle Arena as Essex Eagles – winners of their last six home games – face travel-sick Welsh Wizards. Since their 6-1 hammering of Blackthorn Athletic, the Wizards have taken just one point and one goal from their away games and must improve on that to get a result today. The Eagles will be confident as they look to pressure the teams above them as well. Out of sorts Essendon – without a win in six – return to their Windy Hill stadium today to face Brennan United. United haven’t won away in eleven games since their opening day win at Isle of Man Metros so it is a great chance for the Bombers to get back on track this afternoon.

At the bottom of the table, Tibbolini and Boreham Badgers are the only sides in the bottom five in action. Both sides desperately need to put some space between themselves and the bottom three and they clash at Campion Grove Arena knowing that three points are vital this afternoon. Tibbolini should be favourites as they have only lost three times at home all season whereas Boreham have only the one Premier League away win this season – at Saffron United – and have not won in their last six away from the Muddy Field.

FA CUP REPLAY FOR THE LAST QUARTER FINAL PLACE!

One tie remains unfinished in the FA Cup 5th Round as Championship side Joga Bonitos Juniors get a second chance at taking the scalp of Premier League strugglers Blackthorn Athletic. The Rose Bushes drew 2-2 in the first game at Terra Firma and will fancy their chances back at home at Franconian Crescent. However, Joga Juniors are having a good season in the Championship and cannot be counted out. Both sides may have their eyes elsewhere with their relegation and promotion battles raging elsewhere this afternoon.

MELBOURNE LOOKING TO BOUNCE BACK FROM LIBERTY HORROR SHOW!

After a dreadful performance at Swansea City in midweek that somehow earned a 2-2 draw, Melbourne look to secure three points and move to the top of the Championship table with a trip to Nottingham Forest this weekend. With Forest flying high as well, Melbourne will need an improved performance to secure top spot but with only one away defeat this season, Melbourne will be confident. However, leaders Fanghunters are also in action today as well and their home game with QPR at Stadium: Siberia could also play a big factor in who sits top at 5pm. Both sides will be desperate to secure three points and move seven points clear of third placed Joga Bonitos Juniors – who are not playing in the league today – and heap the pressure on Ben Flash’s team ahead of their game in hand later in the season (at Doncaster Rovers). The remaining two T2B sides, Canadian Mighty Squirrels and VfB Rammstein, are also in action. The Squirrels have the worst away record of the big five in the Championship and travel to Plymouth Argyle today looking for three points. And if VfB Rammstein’s home form was the only factor, the Rams would sit in 8th place in the table. They entertain Derby County looking to end that record today.

EARLY TEAM NEWS FROM WEMBLEY!

SPORTS.tv is live at Wembley Stadium for tomorrow’s League Cup Final as London Titans and Didsbury Dynamoes do battle over the first domestic silverware of the season. Titans’ defender Jonny Evans and midfielder Javad Nekounam are cup-tied for the Thames Valley Warriors and Cristian Zanetti misses with injury. There are bigger problems for Dynamoes manager Rafael Benitez to cope with though as he has five star names out cup-tied or injured: Iker Casillas is injured for two months; Eric Abidal, Daniel Agger, Deco and Claudio Marchena are all cup-tied. Join SPORTS.tv tomorrow at Wembley for all the action.

No live game today but all the latest news and updates from the twelve games in the FA Cup, Championship and Premier League today. Stay tuned.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Saturday 28th February 2009

Welcome to SPORTS.tv for the latest news from the world of football as the Premier League, Coca Cola Championship and FA Cup provide the prelude to tomorrow’s mouth-watering League Cup final live from Wembley Stadium. We’ll be heading around the grounds soon to see what is happening but first we speak to the English FA chairman, Chip Butty about his thoughts of the season so far. Welcome Chip.

Chip Butty: Thank you for the invite.

So what have you made of the season so far?

Chip Butty: It’s been very interesting. When the league restructure was taking shape last summer, the upheaval for the FA was chaotic and it must have been unbelievable for the fans, players and officials at the clubs. We now have teams from all over competing in the Premier League and Coca Cola Championship and it has been an even playing field. We believe that anything can happen now in our league.

Did you expect the leaders to be New Bloc and Coedpoeth United?

Chip Butty: Not after the first day of the season, no. But both sides have played superb football and deserve to be where they are. New Bloc will be disappointed that they have lost their 7 point lead but Coedy have been sensational recently.

Who do you think will win the league?

Chip Butty: Well, don’t count out the likes of Northern Extreme and Inland Valley Hawks. Good results today could see them make a challenge and you can’t predict this league right now. If I had to plump for one, I think Coedpoeth United have the strongest squad and will sneak it.

At the bottom, it’s so tight isn’t it?

Chip Butty: Massive competition down there. Didsbury look in big trouble with Wednesday and I can’t see them having enough time to rescue themselves. Rafa Benitez has steadied them and they are improving but may need to focus on the cups and build for a promotion challenge next time. As for the third side to go, I wouldn’t like to predict that.

We’re going to insist!

Chip Butty: Oh, fair enough. Going to predict ... Gnome’ania United. They’re on an awful run and are sliding. They need to sort their current form out and quick!

How is the race for promotion looking?

Chip Butty: Very exciting! So tight between the top three till recently and still any two of the top three could do it. And none of them can afford to miss out as the Canadian Mighty Squirrels and VfB Rammstein will be so tricky in the Play Offs. Before you ask, I’ll go for Melbourne and Fanghunters. And VfB Rammstein in the Play Off Final.

League Cup Final tomorrow. London or Didsbury?

Chip Butty: Tough call. London Titans will start as favourites for sure but Dynamoes have stung some big names in the cup competitions this season and haven’t lost a cup game. I fancy Rafa’s men to sneak it as well. Didsbury in extra time.

Thanks for your time, Chip.

Chip Butty: No problem. Speak to you soon.

OK, let’s get around the grounds. Midway through the first half, 25 minutes played. Let’s start in the FA Cup:

FA Cup Round 5 Replay: Blackthorn Athletic vs. Joga Bonitos Juniors

25 minutes played here and it is the home side who are leading thanks to an early Mario Gomez strike on 8 minutes. 1-0 to Blackthorn.

Onto the Premier League:

Premier League: Essendon vs. Brennan United

They’re looking to get that winning feeling back here at Essendon and have made a good start with a 14th minute Michael Owen goal. The Bombers lead here at Windy Hill, Essendon 1-0 United.

Premier League: Essex Eagles vs. Welsh Wizards

Another home side in front here as Mario Balotelli, the young prospect signed from Inter Milan, has given the Eagles the lead on the quarter hour mark. The Wizards need to find a reply here, it’s Essex 1-0 Welsh Wizards.

Premier League: Inland Valley Hawks vs. Coedpoeth United

Must win game for the Hawks if they are to challenge for the title but it hasn’t started well as the league leaders have the lead thanks to a goal from Cesc Fabregas after 14 minutes. The ‘top of the league chant’ is ringing around the Harveston Field, Hawks 0-1 Coedy.

Premier League: Northern Extreme vs. Isle of Man Metros

A real shock here at Aurora Park as the Metros lead the Extreme. With the Extreme’s title hopes fading, they need a comeback but Metros will not be giving up Ricardo Fuller’s strike easily. Extreme 0-1 Metros.

Premier League: Queensland Origin vs. New Bloc

Goalless here at the Suncorp Stadium and New Bloc seem out of sorts after news of Coedpoeth’s lead at Inland Valley. Can they find a way to overcome the Origin here? 0-0.

Premier League: Steel Panthers vs. Sheffield Wednesday

A fourth minute strike from Didier Drogba has given Steel Panthers an expected lead here at Catnip Park. The Panthers look likely to add to their lead and replicate their thrashing of the Owls at Hillsborough. Panthers 1-0 Wednesday.

Premier League: Tibbolini vs. Boreham Badgers

Massive six-pointer at the bottom of the Premier League and it is first blood to the struggling Badgers who lead thanks to a goal from Alessandro Del Piero. Can Tibbolini respond? Tibbolini 0-1 Badgers.

Now to the Coca Cola Championship:

Coca Cola Championship: Fanghunters vs. QPR

Early lead here for the league leaders in front of their home support. Brazilian playmaker Kaka has got it after 10 minutes and they look set to extend their lead over Joga Bonitos Juniors this afternoon. Fanghunters 1-0 QPR.

Coca Cola Championship: Nottingham Forest vs. Melbourne

Not the same story here at the City Ground where the breakthrough has yet to come. Goalless so far. Forest 0-0 Melbourne.

Coca Cola Championship: Plymouth Argyle vs. Canadian Mighty Squirrels

The Squirrels lead here at Home Park after Portuguese Jorge Valdivia scored after 16 minutes. Plymouth 0-1 Squirrels.

Coca Cola Championship: VfB Rammstein vs. Derby County

The nerves are jangling here after the recent poor home form of the Rams of VfB and they remain goalless after the first quarter of their game with the Derby Rams. Lots of butting but no mint sauce to go with the meat as yet. Rams 0-0 Rams.

We’ll be back after the break with the half time round-up. Stay tuned!

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Saturday 28th February 2009

Welcome back to SPORTS.tv where we are keeping an eye on the goals and important updates in this afternoon’s action. And what about this action from Germany recently? A game between Duisburg and Frankfurt in the 2.Bundesliga was all but over at 4-0 to the home side when this happened ...

here

Unbelievable? They make Graham Poll look good in Germany. And for proof it wasn’t a goal, here is a second view of the goal from a different angle.

here

And the Germans complain about Geoff Hurst’s goal in 1966!

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

Moving on, let’s get the half time round-up’s from around the leagues after we’ve heard about the FA Cup replay:

FA Cup Round 5 Replay: Blackthorn Athletic vs. Joga Bonitos Juniors

Fabulous turnaround here from Joga Bonitos Juniors and it is now the Championship side who are heading into the Quarter Finals to face New Bloc. Gonzalo Higuain levelled for Joga Juniors before Diego struck right on half time to make it 2-1. Blackthorn 1-2 Joga Juniors.

Onto the Premier League:

Premier League: Essendon vs. Brennan United

Without a win in six, Essendon’s lead was cut on the half hour as Zoran Tosic’s penalty brought Brennan United level. However, the home side are back in front before half time thanks to Lionel Messi. Essendon 2-1 Brennan.

Premier League: Essex Eagles vs. Welsh Wizards

No change here at the Eagle Arena. Eagles still lead thanks to Mario Balotelli’s early goal. Eagles 1-0 Wizards.

Premier League: Inland Valley Hawks vs. Coedpoeth United

A crazy five minutes here at Harveston Field as both sides hit the net as the game swings back and forth. Karim Benzema’s equaliser for the Hawks levelled for just four minutes before the league leaders re-established their lead thanks to Roque Santa Cruz. At half time, Hawks 1-2 Coedy.

Premier League: Northern Extreme vs. Isle of Man Metros

Isle of Man Metros have a decent away record and that looks to be extended this afternoon. No reply yet from the Extreme who desperately need three points in the title race. No change at half time, Extreme 0-1 Metros.

Premier League: Queensland Origin vs. New Bloc

Breakthrough at the Suncorp Arena five minutes before the break and it will only intensify the delight in the away end at Harveston Field. Mikel Arteta’s free kick means that Origin lead at half time and Coedy – two one up at Inland Valley – are in front with their nearest three challengers all behind.

Premier League: Steel Panthers vs. Sheffield Wednesday

It looked like business as usual on the half hour as Didier Drogba extended the Panthers lead to 2-0 but a Bruno Alves strike late in the half as given the bottom side a glimmer of hope here. Panthers 2-1 Wednesday.

Premier League: Tibbolini vs. Boreham Badgers

Boreham Badgers will be kicking themselves here at the Campion Grove Arena after they threw away a 1-0 lead and are now behind to their relegation rivals. Andrea Pirlo cancelled out Del Piero’s opener before French striker Freddie Kanoute put the Mad Hatters into the lead on 35 minutes. Tibbolini 2-1 Boreham at half time.

Now to the Coca Cola Championship:

Coca Cola Championship: Fanghunters vs. QPR

Fanghunters are going to get the win they need to stay in the mix for the top spot this evening as they extend their lead to 2-0 here and there looks no way back for QPR. Carles Puyol has added the second goal here at Stadium: Siberia. Fanghunters 2-0 QPR.

Coca Cola Championship: Nottingham Forest vs. Melbourne

Two goals here since you last visited. Melbourne in front on the half hour thanks to Enzo Maresca’s strike but six minutes later, Forest were level thanks to Scott MacDonald’s penalty strike. Forest 1-1 Melbourne.

Coca Cola Championship: Plymouth Argyle vs. Canadian Mighty Squirrels

No further goals here at Home Park. Jorge Valdivia’s early goal still gives the Squirrels the advantage. Plymouth 0-1 Squirrels.

Coca Cola Championship: VfB Rammstein vs. Derby County

The battle of the Rams remains goalless here at the Stadion des Groben where VfB are huffing and puffing but failing to blow the Derby door down. 0-0.

Second half updates coming after the break. Stay tuned!

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Saturday 28th February 2009

Welcome back for the second half of the games happening across the country. Some interesting scores in the first half and Coedpoeth United, Fanghunters and Joga Bonitos Juniors must be delighted with their fortunes so far. Can they keep them up? The second halves are just on their way.

This just in from Spain in La Liga. Real Betis and Salamanca. Betis are leading 1-0 and then this happens.

As Del Boy would say, ‘What a plonker!’

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

Midway through the second halves now, let’s find out what’s going on around the country. FA Cup Replay first:

FA Cup Round 5 Replay: Blackthorn Athletic vs. Joga Bonitos Juniors

No change here as Blackthorn seek the equaliser to stay alive in this season’s FA Cup. Joga Juniors hanging on so far, twenty minutes left. Blackthorn 1-2 Joga Juniors.

Onto the Premier League:

Premier League: Essendon vs. Brennan United

Another goal here, potentially very important. And it has gone to Essendon. Michael Owen’s second of the game and Essendon look back to winning ways. Essendon 3-1 Brennan United.

Premier League: Essex Eagles vs. Welsh Wizards

Still no change here at the Eagle Arena. Eagles 1-0 Wizards.

Premier League: Inland Valley Hawks vs. Coedpoeth United

Another Karim Benzema goal has got Inland Valley Hawks back into the game for a second time and Coedy are living on their nerves now. The Hawks fans are roaring on their team, Hawks 2-2 Coedy.

Premier League: Northern Extreme vs. Isle of Man Metros

Northern Extreme have levelled the game here at Aurora Park thanks to the Italian striker, Antonio Cassano. His goal five minutes into the second half means the game is now up for grabs again. Extreme 1-1 Metros.

Premier League: Queensland Origin vs. New Bloc

Eight minutes into the second half and disaster for New Bloc as they gave away a penalty kick. Up stepped Sneijder and he buried it to put the Maroons into a commanding lead now. Origin 2-0 New Bloc.

Premier League: Steel Panthers vs. Sheffield Wednesday

No change here at Catnip Park and the Panthers are making a struggle of this one. Still Panthers 2-1 Wednesday.

Premier League: Tibbolini vs. Boreham Badgers

No change here as Boreham Badgers press for an equaliser but it is still Tibbolini who lead the relegation six-pointer. Tibbolini 2-1 Badgers.

Now to the Coca Cola Championship:

Coca Cola Championship: Fanghunters vs. QPR

Nice and steady now for Fanghunters. No change in the score, holding what they have with ease. Fanghunters 2-0 QPR.

Coca Cola Championship: Nottingham Forest vs. Melbourne

An early second half strike has lifted the pressure on second placed Melbourne thanks to Sergio Aguero’s goal. They are now looking to hold onto their lead. Forest 1-2 Melbourne.

Coca Cola Championship: Plymouth Argyle vs. Canadian Mighty Squirrels

The Squirrels are comfortable but the game is still up for grabs as they haven’t finished Argyle off yet. No change, Argyle 0-1 Squirrels.

Coca Cola Championship: VfB Rammstein vs. Derby County

Finally, a breakthrough for the Rams. The Rams of VfB Rammstein that is – and it is Robin Van Persie who has done it on 68 minutes. VfB Rammstein 1-0 Derby.

All the late excitement to come. Stay tuned!

[PluckaDuck]

Great start from Origin, but we've struggled to hold onto leads this season. Strong second half performance is required!

EDIT- 2-0 up now, surely we can hold on from here.....

[super_lampard]

Thrown away a lead away from home against title challengers

[Northerm Lights]

Oooh on tender hooks! F5 F5 F5 F5 F5!

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Saturday 28th February 2009

We’ve featured some funny video clips today so here is one more. How about this one from the Japanese J-League?

Unbelievable. Anybody need a goalkeeper?!

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

Into the final minutes now, let’s get up to date with the final results and action. Starting in the FA Cup:

FA Cup Round 5 Replay: Blackthorn Athletic vs. Joga Bonitos Juniors

Unbelievable late drama here! Franconian Crescent is bouncing as Blackthorn Athletic equalise with virtually the last kick of the game. Mario Gomez’ second of the night means that we will have extra time to determine the final Quarter Final place. SPORTS.tv will keep you updated!

Onto the Premier League:

Premier League: Essendon vs. Brennan United

Essendon stroll to victory here as Lionel Messi adds a fourth goal late on from the penalty spot for the Bombers. Even the dismissal of Darius Henderson for a second yellow can’t spoil the night for Essendon, their first win in seven games. For Brennan United, they need a win to move away from the fringes of the relegation fight. Final score, Essendon 4-1 Brennan United.

Premier League: Essex Eagles vs. Welsh Wizards

A goal with quarter of an hour remaining here at the Eagle Arena as John Obi Mikel stunned the Eagles with an equaliser for the Wizards. As the clock ticked down though, the winning goal came four minutes from time by Eagles’ Marek Hamsik to give them the three points. Eagles 2-1 Wizards.

Premier League: Inland Valley Hawks vs. Coedpoeth United

The game was heading for a 2-2 draw until a late winner with six minutes remaining. And it blows the title race wide open! Robert Huth has scored a third goal for the Inland Valley Hawks who are now right in the hunt for the title. Coedy’s run of five wins comes to a crashing halt here at the Harveston Field. Final score is Inland Valley Hawks 3-2 Coedpoeth United.

Premier League: Northern Extreme vs. Isle of Man Metros

Defeat for Coedpoeth United meant that the Extreme fans were willing their men on late on ... And it paid off with three minutes remaining. Antonio Cassano hitting the winner on 87 minutes, Northern Extreme are back in the title race. Heartbreak though for the Metros. Northern Extreme 2-1 Isle of Man Metros.

Premier League: Queensland Origin vs. New Bloc

Queensland Origin coast home to win 2-0 and it’s a great night for the title outsiders as the top two both lose. Origin 2-0 New Bloc.

Premier League: Steel Panthers vs. Sheffield Wednesday

Unbelievable news here at Catnip Park. At 2-0 after 31 minutes, Steel Panthers looked to have the game wrapped up against whipping boys Wednesday but the Owls have stunned the Europe hopefuls with a late equaliser from Jermaine Johnson. Panthers will be kicking themselves. Panthers 2-2 Wednesday.

Premier League: Tibbolini vs. Boreham Badgers

With Badgers throwing it all at Tibbolini, it was a case of equaliser or hit on the break. And they were hit on the break as Tibbolini added two late goals to give the result a comfortable feel. Both goals – on 79 and 85 minutes – came from Brazilian Amauri and it means that Tibbolini win the six-pointer. Tibbolini 4-1 Boreham Badgers.

Now to the Coca Cola Championship:

Coca Cola Championship: Fanghunters vs. QPR

A late goal from Ruud Van Nistelrooy means that it has been an easy night for the Fanghunters. They stay top of the Championship. Fanghunters 3-0 QPR.

Coca Cola Championship: Nottingham Forest vs. Melbourne

But Melbourne remain in close attendance as they put the Swansea result behind them with a good 3-1 win at the City Ground. Eduardo adding the third goal with 13 minutes left. Forest 1-3 Melbourne.

Coca Cola Championship: Plymouth Argyle vs. Canadian Mighty Squirrels

It took a while but the Squirrels finally put the game to bed through Frasier Campbell late on. Plymouth 0-2 Squirrels.

Coca Cola Championship: VfB Rammstein vs. Derby County

Two goals from Robin Van Persie and a hard-fought 2-0 win for the Rams of VfB Rammstein. VfB Rammstein 2-0 Derby.

And it is now full time in the FA Cup. Are we heading to penalties or not?

FA Cup Round 5 Replay: Blackthorn Athletic vs. Joga Bonitos Juniors

No we are not and it is the Championship side that are into the Quarter Finals after recovering from the late shock of conceding an injury time equaliser. Eight minutes into Extra Time came the crucial goal as Diego Suazo scored the goal that sets up a Quarter Final clash with New Bloc for Joga Juniors. Blackthorn can now concentrate on the UEFA Cup and their relegation dog-fight. After extra time, it ends Blackthorn Athletic 2-3 Joga Bonitos Juniors.

Thanks for tuning in tonight. Make sure you are with us for the League Cup Final! Good evening!

[conners]

Blackthorn should not have lost that one

[PluckaDuck]

Great viewing GCB!!

Thrilled to have got up over New Bloc, we seem to score a lot of our goals from set-pieces!

[SnakeXe]

/o\ starting to worry about Steel Panthers, dropping points to Wednesday?! Just how many points have we thrown away this season?

Quality set of updates, enjoyed the funny videos

[19992008]

Bassett Delight at Amauri Show

Mike Bassett was delighted following Amauri's late brace which keep Tibbolini clear of the relegation zone for now. The game was set for a nervy conclusion before the mad hatters broke and scored twice.

'Im just thrilled to be honest, it was a fantastic performance from the lads and I have to say that on our day we are fantastic. The lads showed real courage to fight back from 1-0 down and im so proud of them'

[Northerm Lights]

GCB, would you consider - if participants were interested- PMing the player of the month to the member whose player got Player of the month? They could then add a link of their choice to a video highlighting their player's skills and they could add some bragging rights for that month, what do you/all think?

[Thefanghunter]

QPR Dominated to keep Fanghunters top

The richer side was crushed by the richer quality as Fanghunters FC continue to keep Aussie Scum, I mean Melbourne off the top of the championship with a 3-0 home win. Artemis Rasmussen, the Predator's chairman said "I hope they get used to this, it doesn't look like they're going to knock us off top. It also goes to show non T2B sides are useless compared to acual ones." When we went to the Melbourne chairman's office, he was unavailable and crying was heard behind the door.

[joetheref]

Tompkins furious as Badgers lose again

Boreham Badgers manager was understandably livid with his team after they lost 4-1 to relegation rivals Tibbolini. The under-pressure manager commented 'I am livid with my team after todays defeat. The team showed no determination at all and decided to relax at 1-0 during the first half. I just can't understand it, schoolboy errors are going to cost us our place in the Premiership unless the lads buck their ideas up'. Boreham Badgers chairman Dimo Wache was unavailable to comment amid rumours he is set to have a crisis meeting with Tompkins.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

GCB, would you consider - if participants were interested- PMing the player of the month to the member whose player got Player of the month? They could then add a link of their choice to a video highlighting their player's skills and they could add some bragging rights for that month, what do you/all think?

Yeah, fair enough.

[hamilton162]

Red Rebels going downhill now

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 1st March 2009

SPORTS.tv LIVE AT WEMBLEY STADIUM AHEAD OF LEAGUE CUP FINAL!

Welcome to Wembley Stadium as we prepare for the first silverware of the season to be handed out as London Titans and Didsbury Dynamoes clash in the League Cup Final. Titans are flying high in the Premier League and are challenging for a Champions League spot whereas Dynamoes are rooted in the bottom two and looking set for relegation to the Coca Cola Championship. However, today is a chance to forget any other stresses and concentrate on the first domestic final of the Top2Bottom era.

A sprained ankle looks set to keep Italian defensive midfielder Cristiano Zanetti out of the Titans’ line-up at Wembley this afternoon as he still awaits his first team debut. With other signings Javad Nekounam and Jonny Evans cup-tied, there will need to be changes to the Titans’ line-up as they look to secure their first silverware as a club. However, Wes Brown and Marko Vucinic should be fit after slight worries in the build-up. As for the Didsbury Dynamoes, they have four players out due to being cup-tied after manager Rafa Benitez made several new signings in the transfer window. Eric Abidal, Daniel Agger, Deco and Carlos Marchena are all ruled out and veteran goalkeeper Iker Casillas is ruled out with a slipped disk. Maik Taylor looks set to deputise in just his third appearance of the season.

Join SPORTS.tv later for all the action live and exclusive from Wembley Stadium.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

Where are you all? Was expecting some discussion on the League Cup Final!

LIVE

Sunday 1st March 2009

Here is the prize on offer today at Wembley:

The Football League Cup. SPORTS.tv welcomes you to Wembley Stadium. First, let’s hear the breaking team news.

A standard 4-4-2 for the London Titans who will play in their second strip this afternoon of yellow shirts and black shorts. Raul and Forlan are two of the most feared strikers in the Premier League so Didsbury will need to be on their toes to stop them. Dynamoes look set to keep it tight with James Harper and Didier Digard sitting in front of the back four. The front four of Duff, Xavi, Cotterill and Ibrahimovic will be key to their chances of lifting the trophy.

Wembley Stadium is filling up nicely and it will soon be time for the anthems.

The two sides are almost ready to head out onto the hallowed Wembley turf. Here they come. The two League Cup Finalists: London Titans and Didsbury Dynamoes.

The London Titans reached Wembley by beating four teams on their way. In Round 3, they saw off Bristol City before Steel Panthers were defeated in Round 4. The Quarter Finals saw them knock out Tibbolini on penalties before a 4-3 aggregate win over Welsh Wizards saw them seal their place at Wembley. Their captain today is Raul as he pumps his fists to the massed ranks of yellow clad supporters behind the goal.

Didsbury Dynamoes’ fans are also out in force and there are thousands of red and black balloons around the goal at the right end of the ground. The Dynamoes faced a tough route to the final with four ties against Top 2 Bottom opponents. Essex Eagles in Round 3, New Bloc in Round 4 and Discworld in the Quarter Finals set up a Semi Final with Boreham Badgers where a stunning 4-0 win in their second leg secured their place at Wembley today. Captain for Didsbury is Spanish midfielder Xavi in his first major appearance in English football.

It’s time for the National Anthem.

The atmosphere at Wembley Stadium is electric. It’s the League Cup Final live and exclusive from Wembley Stadium, it’s London Titans against Didsbury Dynamoes. And you can see the action only on SPORTS.tv LIVE: the home of Top 2 Bottom football! Join us after the break!

[SJ234]

Come on Titans

[MattFergie]

Come on Titans

Mon the Dynamos!

[SJ234]

Mon my awesome Cms ripping them apart

[Greasy Chip Butty]

LIVE

Sunday 1st March 2009

Welcome back to Wembley, kick off is now so close. To get you in the mood, here are some Carling Cup memories from the last six years.

Clicky

CARLING CUP FINAL 2009

VS.

LONDON TITANS

VS.

DIDSBURY DYNAMOES

Live from Wembley Stadium

We’re ready for kick off here at Wembley. Referee Mike Riley checks all around him and with a huge roar all around the stadium, the battle for the first domestic silverware of the season begins with London Titans in the yellow kicking off against Didsbury Dynamoes, the pre-match favourites just, in the red and black strip. Let’s hope for an excellent League Cup Final!

5: Digard and Harper work hard to win the ball from the Titans’ in their defensive half of the field. Harper slides Duff in on the left side of the box and he cuts inside to shoot but saved well by David James.

7: Good build up play by Didsbury after a throw in on the left leads to Harper with a 25-yard shot blocked and Digard’s follow up well wide of the post.

10: More good work from Harper and Digard who are dominating the midfield battle so far allows Ibrahimovic to find Cotterill on the right. His ball in his volleyed goalwards by Ibrahimovic but James gets down well to parry the ball away and Titans’ scramble clear.

17: Here come London Titans looking dangerous on the left. Billy Jones finds Raul and the Spaniard works to the byline, crosses in for Joao Moutinho whose point-blank header is superbly stopped by Maik Taylor. First chance for Titans but they should be in front. Didsbury on the break with Ibrahimovic down the left, cuts inside, gets a bounce of the ball, it’s Ibrahimovic .... Saved by James at the second attempt! Breathtaking moments there!

20: It’s Traore on the left for Didsbury who finds Xavi in the centre circle. Good ball into Duff, now Ibrahimovic, slides a glorious ball through for COTTERILL .... Goal for Didsbury Dynamoes! David Cotterill breaks the deadlock, sliding the ball into the bottom corner past David James.

GOAL: London Titans 0-1 Didsbury Dynamoes (Cotterill, 20)

26: How will London Titans respond? Well, they can’t keep the ball and it’s another Didsbury break as Xavi sets Cotterill away on the right wing. Cotterill pulls the ball back to Xavi who shoots but James makes the save to keep the score down to one.

28: It’s a corner kick on the left for London Titans as they look to bounce back. Riccardo Montolivo will drive the ball in towards the near post, flicked on and in! DIEGO FORLAN has headed the ball home at the near post and London are level here at Wembley! Dynamoes’ lead lasted just eight minutes!

GOAL: London Titans 1-1 Didsbury Dynamoes (Forlan, 28)

39: Scrappy period of the game since the equaliser but here come London again. Here is Raul, he finds Zabaleta who shoots from distance but it is well wide.

44: Throw in on the right for Didsbury. Hoyte finds Xavi on the edge of the area and slides the ball back towards Harper who shoots just over from 20 yards out.

One minute injury time brings no further action and an exciting first half comes to an end with the sides level. Stay tuned for the second half.

[SJ234]

Mon titans .

[MattFergie]

Mon titans .

Anything could happen, just hoping Rafa pulls out an awesome team talk

[Greasy Chip Butty]

LIVE

Sunday 1st March 2009

Welcome back to Wembley Stadium for the second half here. It’s all-square in the League Cup Final between London Titans and Didsbury Dynamoes after Diego Forlan levelled for the Titans after the opening goal from Dynamoes’ David Cotterill. What will happen in the second half? Will the game end in 90 minutes or will we require extra time and maybe penalties?

Surprisingly, Didsbury Dynamoes’ manager Rafa Benitez is making two substitutions for the start of the second half. Jonas Olsson is coming off and is replaced by Maynor Figueroa whilst Anthony Gardner is replacing Damien Duff for the Dynamoes as well.

48: First effort on goal in the second half comes from Xavi as he hits a thirty yard half-volley well wide.

55: Another long range effort from Xavi which this time forces David James to tip the ball over the bar.

56: From the resulting corner, Xavi fires a loose ball at goal which James blocks and Cotterill then sets up Hoyte who hits a curling effort just wide and into the side netting.

57: Diego Forlan brings the ball down and feeds it wide to Marko Vucinic who cuts inside and fires a dipping effort that whistles over the top of Taylor’s bar.

58: Excellent play from Zlatan Ibrahimovic as he teases the Titans’ defence before firing a low shot from eight yards straight at James who blocks. Great build up from the Swede but a terrible finish.

66: James Harper is fouled by Gonzalo Rodriguez 25 yards from the Titans’ goal and it is a shooting chance here. Xavi leaves it for Ibrahimovic who paces back. He curls the ball over the wall ... Into the top corner! IBRAHIMOVIC scores for Didsbury Dynamoes with a stunning curling free kick into the top corner of James’ goal.

GOAL: London Titans 1-2 Didsbury Dynamoes (Ibrahimovic, 66)

Didsbury make their third and final change as Pascal Chimbonda replaces Justin Hoyte at right back.

70: Titans launch an immediate attack of their own as Raul controls the ball in the Dynamoes’ half of the field. He slides the ball to the left and VUCINIC hits a curling shot ... In off the crossbar! It just creeps over the line! Instant response from London Titans!

GOAL: London Titans 2-2 Didsbury Dynamoes (Vucinic, 70)

Titans’ Gonzalo Rodriguez goes into the book for a foul on Ibrahimovic and Dynamoes’ Gardner follows him into the book moments later. Sub Chimbonda seems to be struggling with a knock now as well. Titans replace Zabaleta with Solomon Kalou.

82: Patient build-up from London allows Kalou to run at the tiring Didsbury defence. However, his pass to Forlan is thumped well over the bar.

Nicolas Anelka comes on for London Titans to replace Vucinic who got the equaliser. Parnaby replaces Raul as the fourth official signals three minutes injury time.

93: The 90 minutes is up and we are heading for extra time. Join us after the break.

[MattFergie]

Wow, extra time

[Greasy Chip Butty]

LIVE

Sunday 1st March 2009

Welcome back to Wembley for extra time in the League Cup Final. Twice, Didsbury Dynamoes have taken the lead but twice London Titans have quickly pegged them back and we now have another thirty minutes to try and find a winner before a penalty shoot-out. London Titans ended the game looking the more likely to score but without mustering an effort of note.

92: The extra time period starts with another long-range effort from Xavi but this time David James is forced into a superb tip away save to prevent Dynamoes from going in front for a third time.

93: First chance of extra time for the Titans as Forlan is slid into the area by Billy Jones but his shot is parried away by Maik Taylor and cleared by desperate defending by the Dynamoes’ defenders.

96: So close to a third goal for Didsbury Dynamoes. A 30-yard free kick from Xavi this time smashes against the post and from the rebound, Cotterill crosses for James Harper to head goalwards but James gets across to make a solid stop.

99: For the second time in three minutes, Didsbury Dynamoes have rattled David James’ woodwork. This time, Xavi found Ibrahimovic and his 20-yard effort beat James but cannoned off the cross bar before being cleared to safety.

100: Great play from London Titans finds Nicolas Anelka in the thirty yard zone, he slides the ball in for KALOU who slides the ball past Maik Taylor to give London Titans the lead for the first time in the game. Twenty minutes remaining, can they hold on now? Chimbonda appeals for offside but it’s not to be and Titans lead the League Cup Final.

GOAL: London Titans 3-2 Didsbury Dynamoes (Kalou, 100)

103: Given away by Traore, Kalou finds Anelka who shoots from distance but Taylor gets down well to his left to collect the bouncing shot. It’s half time in the extra time period. Didsbury Dynamoes have fifteen minutes to find a priceless equalising goal to send this game to penalties.

106: Dangerous run by David Cotterill from the left ends with a 25-yard effort that rises up and over the bar.

116: Ibrahimovic centres the ball from the right hand side causing panic in the Titans area and Traore almost capitalises but David James pounces on the loose ball in the six yard box. It’s now or never for Dynamoes.

120: Into the last minute we go as Maynor Figueroa strides forward on the left and drifts a ball into the area for Ibrahimovic to glance a header just wide of the Titans’ goal. So close. That is it!

LONDON TITANS HAVE WON THE LEAGUE CUP!

CARLING CUP WINNERS 2009 ARE: LONDON TITANS!

A thoroughly entertaining final as London Titans edge a five goal game to sneak the win in extra time. It was a close game and it was always going to be one goal that won it; unfortunately for Didsbury Dynamoes, they hit the woodwork with their extra time chances whilst London Titans scored theirs. Soloman Kalou is the hero here for London Titans: the winners of the League Cup!

Thank you for watching! Good night!

[PluckaDuck]

Looking at the line-ups, I would have really backed the Didsbury in this game, so to see Kalou score the winner, was quite a surprise! Ibra didn't have the massive impact I thought he would and that probably cost them the game. Yes, he scored a goal, but I was expecting him to dominate the match, Ronaldo-esque. Had he been the star I thought he was going to be, I reckon the result could have been different.

Loved the report GCB, seemed exactly like the real thing. KUTGW mate!!

[Striker475]

Smith congratulates Titans on Carling Cup thriller

With the end of the Carling Cup, Melbourne manager Zac Smith has graciously congratulated the London Titans on their 3-2 victory at Wembley.

"It's great to see such a thrilling conclusion to a fantastic tournament, and all kudos must be given to the Titans for their win."

Smith refused to reply to questions regarding the supposed "Goat Saga".

[Marky Mark!]

Essendon record first win in seven games

After playing what has been very sub standard football the past month or two, Essendon fans will be very releived with the 4-1 win over Brennan United, and most importantly, so will manager Kevin Sheedy, who rumor had it was looking over his shoulder as Essendon chairman Mark Mota was starting to run out of patience.

Despite initial hopes of landing a European spot this season, Essendon's previous run of 6 games without a win saw them moving towards the relegation spots, however thanks to Owen and Messi, this run of poor form has now been broken, and Essendon chairman Mark Mota has been quoted saying that Essendon are back on track for that European place.

[SJ234]

Titans Manager Revels in Titanic Victory

Bob Mcbob the manager of the Titans today announced their victory in the League cup as his proudest achievement "Never before have i achieved something like this, the feeling is great". When asked on what he believed the club could achive in the rest of the season he was full of hope, " I beleive anything is possible for us". However when asked on what to expect in the futur in the transfer market he was typically puzzling "transfers happen, transfers dont happen"

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Monday 2nd March 2009

BEATEN FINALISTS SENSATIONALLY FIRE BENITEZ!

Didsbury Dynamoes are searching for a new manager for the third time this season after the sacking of Rafa Benitez after their extra time defeat to London Titans in the League Cup Final at Wembley yesterday.

Since replacing previous manager Arsene Wenger – who lasted less than two months and is now manager at relegation rivals Blackthorn Athletic – in late November, Benitez has led the Dynamoes to the League Cup Final as well as good cup runs in Europe and the FA Cup. However, a failure to lead Didsbury out of the dire relegation trouble that they have found themselves in seems to have led to Benitez’ sacking this morning despite their League Cup Final appearance yesterday.

It is the third time this season that Didsbury Dynamoes have fired their manager after Matt Ferguson and Arsene Wenger bit the bullet earlier in the season and now Benitez looks to have paid for the club’s 19th place in the Premier League after failing to capture silverware at Wembley. Although it was common knowledge that Dynamoes’ chairman Hermann Schermann was growing restless at the failures of Benitez to move them up the table, it was thought that they would stick with the Spaniard until the end of the season. Indeed, recent Premier League performances have shown an improvement and the gap to safety has shortened but not quick enough for the chairman it seems.

SPORTS.tv will keep you up to date about which manager – if there are any that want it – takes the challenge of leading Dynamoes to safety with Roberto Mancini, former Sampdoria player and Inter Milan scarf-loving manager, the bookies’ favourite to take the job at this stage.

[19992008]

Wow! Their chairman must have no patience!

[SnakeXe]

Shocking sacking! I suppose this is as a result of the uneven balance between reputation and playing squad from the beginning of the game, definitely be interesting to see how things level out over the next few years.

[conners]

heh david cottrell, remember him

[PluckaDuck]

Jeeeez, certainly didn't see that coming!!

Rafa Benitez being sacked?? Maybe a sign of things to come

[whitehead.10]

Great Work GCB - must have took you ages to do

[MattFergie]

Wenger out, Benitez out, Mancini in...Hiddink must be quaking in his boots

[Striker475]

Shall be away for the next month or so everyone - off to Europe. Up the Dees. And down with Essendon.

Catch y'all soon.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

Thanks for the heads up Striker. Enjoy your trip.

I'm going to have a break from T2B for a week or two now. I am not stopping it and I will return to it. I will PM you all when I am going to re-start the updates. I have half term coming up (I'm in Week 4 of 6 this half term) so I'm hoping to get back to it then. I want to play FM10 a little more (see the Gang of Four challenge, come and join us!) and set-up FMX3 ... I've been doing T2B for a while now and need a break.

I promise I won't forget it!

Hope you all understand. It takes some doing to write the reports!

[PluckaDuck]

All good GCB. Your commitment to this sign-up is incredible, a weeks rest will do no harm!!

[Thefanghunter]

2 will do us some very serious mental harm though, but nothing serious.