Top2Bottom: The Game Thread

[PluckaDuck]

Back to 6th now

Dave Kitson and I really do have a love-hate relationship

[joetheref]

Tompkins ecstatic with victory

Boreham Badgers manager Joe Tompkins was 'one of the happiest people in the world' after his team defeated title chasing New Bloc. Tompkins said 'There was a lot of talk about New Bloc bottling it in the run in and all the pressure was on them. They didn't take their chances and we did. I'm proud of the team because we seemed unable to turn our form around but we've done it and we've reached the magic 40 points. I think we need 1 more win to be safe though'

[super_lampard]

Good result for the Metros, as you said we are hopefully safe now

[SnakeXe]

Panthers on the Beach!

Earlier today we caught up with the Steel Panthers players, who had a day out at the beach. Robinho built a lovely sand castle, but then Didier Drogba came over and kicked sand in his face. Jamie Carragher and Habib Beye tried their hand at impressing the ladies on the surf board, but as soon as they walked over to speak to them, Jamie's incomprehensible scouse accent ruined their chances.

When asked if this was adequate preparation for a Premiership match, manager Stix Zadinia, reclining on a sun lounger, shrugged his shoulders and pulled his hat over his eyes.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

Love 'Panthers on the Beach' ... Can imagine all those things happening! Drogba bullying Robinho!

In the build up to the final day of the Championship season, it would be great to hear from the other managers about what they think will happen!

[hamilton162]

Home to Queensland Origin.

Cheers, that certainly seems win-able

Brennan pleased with first season

The Red Rebels chairman Bernard Brennan spoke out this morning after a brilliant 3-2 comeback win against the London Titans virtually secured United's place in the top flight next season. 'We've been in brilliant form since January and with a few quality summer signings, we should be in a position to push for Europe next season.'

When asked what he thought about the organisation, preparation and actions of the league's governing body in it's first season, Brennan supprisingly

, causing the Sports.TV interview team to run for the hills due to his 'amazing' singing voice.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

Cheers, that certainly seems win-able

Brennan pleased with first season

The Red Rebels chairman Bernard Brennan spoke out this morning after a brilliant 3-2 comeback win against the London Titans virtually secured United's place in the top flight next season. 'We've been in brilliant form since January and with a few quality summer signings, we should be in a position to push for Europe next season.'

When asked what he thought about the organisation, preparation and actions of the league's governing body in it's first season, Brennan supprisingly

, causing the Sports.TV interview team to run for the hills due to his 'amazing' singing voice.

Am a massive Killers fan and never realised that they'd sung a song called 'Andy, you're a star!' ... It might need to be my new favourite Killers song now!

© Best song ever. Period. Over and out. Forever.

[hamilton162]

Am a massive Killers fan and never realised that they'd sung a song called 'Andy, you're a star!' ... It might need to be my new favourite Killers song now!

Glad that you liked it, i've been trying to fit that link into one of my updates for a while now!

[SnakeXe]

© Best song ever. Period. Over and out. Forever.

Reeeeally?

It's good, and catchy, and they did very well out of it, but I wouldn't have considered it as one of the all time greats.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

Reeeeally?

It's good, and catchy, and they did very well out of it, but I wouldn't have considered it as one of the all time greats.

Really. Definitely. Full stop!

[SnakeXe]

Really. Definitely. Full stop!

We shall have to agree to disagree

[hamilton162]

I'm sitting on the fence here, it's one of the all time great rock songs, but not the greatest song ever

Anway, back to the sign up...

[SnakeXe]

I'm sitting on the fence here, it's one of the all time great rock songs, but not the greatest song ever

Anway, back to the sign up...

I'd call it a pop song personally.

But yeah, back to the football

[hamilton162]

I'd call it a pop song personally.

But yeah, back to the football

Yeah, because pop groups headline Glastonbury, T in the Park, Oxegen and Reading don't they Oh, and look at what wiki says:

The Killers is an American rock band

Right, that is the complete END of the Killers discussion in this thread, we don't want it being closed! :o

[Guest roberto922]

Pop rock.

And no Killers song comes close to being the best song of all time or the best rock song of all time

[hamilton162]

Pop rock.

And no Killers song comes close to being the best song of all time or the best rock song of all time

You've just made a powerful enemy my friend! :mad:

And fgs, let's stop spamming this thread with damn music talk, go onto OTF if you want to discuss music!

[SnakeXe]

You've just made a powerful enemy my friend! :mad:

And fgs, let's stop spamming this thread with damn music talk, go onto OTF if you want to discuss music!

I'll PM you

[Greasy Chip Butty]

FM10 version filling up nicely. T2B version 1 users have until tomorrow at 5pm to secure their places in the second bigger and better version.

[joetheref]

Just to let you know I will be going on holiday tomorrow for a week. Depending on the internet connection I will try and continue to follow during the week but probably wont be able to post.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

FINAL DAY IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP!

Two games with everything to play for if you are a player for the Canadian Mighty Squirrels or Melbourne. Both sides are level on points but the Squirrels are favourites as they have a 2 goal advantage in the goal difference column. If the goal difference is level at the end of the day, Melbourne’s better goal scoring record will win them a place in the Premier League instead. Both sides are on the road as they look to seal the result that will take them to the Premier League with the champions Fanghunters rather than face the agony of a Play Off with Norwich City for a trip to the Play Off Final at Wembley.

The Squirrels travel to Turf Moor and Burnley aware that three points should be enough to seal promotion. However, they will need to be aware of Melbourne’s result and react should the goals start flying in for the Demons. A clear, easy win is the order of the day for the Mighty Squirrels – if they were to win by 3 goals, Melbourne would need 5 to stop them joining Fanghunters in the Premier League.

For the Demons of Melbourne, the objective is clear: win and win well. A one or two goal win is no good if the Squirrels win at Turf Moor so they really do need to go for it from the off. They travel to Ninian Park to face Cardiff City and both the games will kick off at exactly the same time. SPORTS.tv is covering both games live and exclusive and will keep you fully up to date on how the events are unfolding.

It has been a big week in the other competitions as well with European Semi Finals and another round of Premier League action as the battles at the top and bottom come to a head. We’ll be bringing you up to date on all these games in our special round-up ahead of the Championship final day games.

So stick with us at SPORTS.tv for an exciting day of action!

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SEMI FINALS

ROMA vs. INTER MILAN

The all-Italian affair in the Stadio Olimpico in Rome turned out to be rather a damp squib as the two Italian giants played out a goalless draw. There is no doubt that Inter Milan will be the happier of the two sides with this result as they travel back to the San Siro with a foothold although they do not have the away goal that can be so valuable in these games. The tie remains delicately poised as these two seek a place in the Champions League Final later this month.

Roma 0-0 Inter Milan

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SEMI FINALS

QUEENSLAND ORIGIN vs. DISCWORLD

The all-Premier League Champions League Semi Final at the Suncorp Stadium saw a near-capacity crowd of 19,990 treated to a tight, tense, nervous first leg with one early goal settling the contest. That early goal could be crucial as well as it is an away goal for the Disks who return to Ankh-Morpork with a 1-0 lead as they seek a place against Roma or Inter in the Final. James Morrison’s right wing cross was flicked on cleverly by David Villa into the path of DIMITAR BERBATOV and the Bulgarian striker smashed the ball home past Enke to give the Disks a precious lead.

It was an otherwise even contest and despite the loss, Queensland Origin still know that they are capable of getting a result in the Second Leg but will need to take their chances.

Queensland Origin 0-1 Discworld

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

UEFA EUROPA LEAGUE SEMI FINALS

SEVILLA vs. ESSEX EAGLES

Jack Browne’s in-form Essex Eagles made the trip to Spain to face a Sevilla side who have won the Europa League – or the UEFA Cup as it was then known – on two occasions recently and were looking to make another appearance in the Final. And just like the Champions League Semi Finals, it was a tight and nervous affair that was settled by one goal.

The goal came on 39 minutes and it fell to the away side as they secured a precious lead to head home to the Eagle Arena and defend as well as an away goal. Darren Fletcher’s excellent right wing play saw him deliver the perfect cross for MAREK HAMSIK to head home from four yards. The Eagles are now the favourites to progress to the Final but will still need to be aware of the threat posed by the Spanish side in the Second Leg.

Sevilla 0-1 Essex Eagles

[magvest]

Great first leg from the Discs, need to stay focused in the second leg though..

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

UEFA EUROPA LEAGUE SEMI FINALS

BLACKTHORN ATHLETIC vs. BENFICA

It had not been a good night for the three home sides in the European Semi Finals so far with none of them even getting on the score-sheet; could the Rose Bushes change all that in their home tie at Franconian Crescent with Portuguese giants Benfica?

It took them 15 minutes to score the vital first goal as the Benfica side came to hold out and failed. Mathieu Bodmer’s through ball was delightful and Turkish striker NIHAT slotted the ball under the keeper to give Arsene Wenger’s side the lead. However, a crushing blow ten minutes later as the Portuguese side equalised and scored an away goal in the process. A long punt forward found striker HUGO in acres of space and he slotted home past Rene Adler to stun the home supporters.

The game then became tense and dull with the Benfica players happy to get home with a 1-1 draw and the Rose Bushes’ desperate to get in front to make up for the away goal. It took until the 74th minute but finally they broke through. Phil Bardsley launched the ball forward, Dorrans won the flick, Jason Roberts laid the ball square and NIHAT smashed the ball into the bottom corner for his second of the night.

But then in injury time, the most important goal of the night. And it went the way of the Premier League relegation strugglers. Hatem Ben Arfa’s left wing cross inexplicably found MATHIEU BODMER all alone and unmarked to glance the header into the corner and double Blackthorn’s advantage heading into the second leg.

Blackthorn Athletic 3-1 Benfica

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

PREMIER LEAGUE

BRENNAN UNITED vs. COEDPOETH UNITED

A massive game for the league leaders as they faced the tricky trip to Brennan United whose form recently has been much better as they have pulled away from any relegation danger. A win for the Red Rebels would mathematically seal a Premier League place next season whilst a win for Coedy would heap the pressure on second placed New Bloc in the title race. And what a game we were treated to!

There were less than 3 minutes on the clock when we were treated to the first goal of the game. The home side – roared on by a passionate crowd – attacked through Mauro Camoranesi and Anatoliy Tymoschuk and then Teemo Tainio slid the ball through into the path of GORAN PANDEV who smashed the ball past Peter Cech from a tight angle. 1-0 to the Red Rebels and a real shock opening.

On 21 minutes, the news got better for the home fans and the New Bloc supporters following elsewhere. Steven Taylor’s shot was half-blocked but fell into the path of ZORAN TOSIC who bundled home from close range to make it 2-0. How would Coedy react now?

Well, they didn’t – and twelve minutes later, they paid for it as Brennan United unbelievably made it 3-0. Goran Pandev’s pass from the left was hit on the half volley by MAURO CAMORANESI and the ball beat Petr Cech into the corner of the net.

Finally, Coedpoeth United showed some resistance to the drubbing they were facing and created their first chance of the match. Wayne Rooney and Cesc Fabregas combined to release SHAUN WRIGHT-PHILLIPS who smashed the ball into the top corner past the German keeper, Jens Lehmann. 3-1 and was the comeback starting?

First half injury time gave us part of the answer as the Red Rebels tore the Coedy defence apart again. This time it was Tosic providing the killer pass into the path of LIEDSON and he slotted home to make it 4-1 and surely all over. It would take a team-talk of significant proportions to get Coedpoeth United back into this one from Robert Jones.

And whatever he said didn’t work a little bit. Within five minutes of the restart, Liedson was tripped in the box and ANATOLIY TYMOSCHUK stepped up to slot home the penalty and make it 5-1 to the Red Rebels, the new favourite team of Danilo Uljarevic and the pink and black supporters of New Bloc,

Or so it seemed. Suddenly, the title contenders showed their class in a blistering twenty minute spell that had Brennan United pushed back and under severe pressure. First, Roque Santa Cruz sent Wayne Rooney sprinting away down the inside left channel and his ball into the box was met by SANTA CRUZ whose run was amazing to slot home past Lehmann to make it 5-2. Within minutes, it was back to 5-3. Fabregas was involved again and found SANTA CRUZ on the edge of the area and the Paraguayan striker turned and thundered the ball home past Lehmann. Was the unthinkable comeback on?

Coedy continued to press the mid-table Rebels back and looked set to pull another goal back every time they went forward. On 72 minutes, the goal was scored by RICHARD DUNNE but unfortunately for the Coedpoeth United defender, he was diverting a Liedson shot past his own keeper to seal a 6-3 win for the Red Rebels.

Brennan United 6-3 Coedpoeth United

An excellent win for Brennan United that secures their Premier League place next season (on FM10 of course – sign up now) but a disastrous one for Coedpoeth United and their title hopes. Would New Bloc be able to capitalise on the result in their game?

[JB]

delighted to take a 1-0 lead with us heading into the home leg.

[Guest roberto922]

Jesus Christ, what a ***** result.

[hamilton162]

****ing hell United, did us proud there!

[SnakeXe]

What a game!

[MattFergie]

Back from mes vacances, and it seems that things have really gone to pot for Didsbury oh dear

[Greasy Chip Butty]

Back from mes vacances, and it seems that things have really gone to pot for Didsbury oh dear

Yes, you could be relegated in this update if results go against you.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

PREMIER LEAGUE

NEW BLOC vs. WELSH WIZARDS

Although they didn’t know it at the time, this could then be the game where the title advantage swung back to New Bloc. Three points behind Coedpoeth United but with a game in hand, a result here against the Wizards would mean they were back in position to overtake Coedy in their game in hand. However, the Wizards are sniffing a possible Europa League place still and could put some real pressure on the teams above them with a win at the Google International Stadium.

After a quiet opening 33 minutes, the deadlock was broken by the home side. Great passing between the New Bloc midfielders and forwards led to Angelo Palombo sliding a delicious ball into the path of THIERRY HENRY and he clipped the ball past Hugo Lloris into the far corner to give the Bloc a half time 1-0 lead.

It wasn’t until the final 20 minutes that the game flashed back into life – by which time, the New Bloc fans were celebrating the stunning lead held by Brennan United against Coedpoeth United. So imagine their shock when Gennaro Gattuso’s right wing cross was flicked goalward by Dirk Kuyt onto the post but before any New Bloc defender could react, KUYT buried the rebound to level the game.

However, with 13 minutes left, the Wizards threw it away with a simple, simple goal for New Bloc. Rio Ferdinand’s clearing header from the halfway line was ignored by Nemanja Vidic and it bounced into the path of HENRY who slid the ball past Lloris for a second time to make it 2-1 to the home side.

It looked as if New Bloc were going to close the gap on the league leaders but then disaster struck for the home side. A simple short free kick to ANDRIY ARSHAVIN on the edge of the box allowed the Russian to turn well and slot home on 86 minutes – a goal that Lloris ran the length of the pitch to celebrate; and unbelievable, the same man ARSHAVIN found space twelve yards out to guide a Samir Nasri cross into the corner of the net as the clock ticked into the 90th minute. 3-2 to the Wizards and a lifeline for Coedpoeth United maybe?

But New Bloc did respond one more time deep into stoppage time. A free kick on the edge of the box is always dangerous but when THIERRY HENRY is around, you can bank on it being an almost certain goal. The Frenchman smashed the ball over the wall and in off the crossbar to level the game 3-3 and gain New Bloc a point in their title push.

New Bloc 3-3 Welsh Wizards

A mixture of disappointment and elation for New Bloc after they threw away three points but then rescued one – the title is in their hands now despite them being two points behind the leaders from Coedpoeth. For the Wizards, it was a good point but they were so close to gaining three that would have given them a real chance of making Europe this season.

[Guest roberto922]

Thank God for that, a New Bloc win would be a disaster for us

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

PREMIER LEAGUE

STEEL PANTHERS vs. NORTHERN EXTREME

After a poor run, Extreme were desperate for three points that would keep their slim title hopes alive as well as solidifying their Champions League place which was coming under threat from Essex Eagles after their recent excellent form. For the Panthers, the Europa League was still the target and they had sixth placed Queensland Origin in their sights as they looked to finish high enough for the Europa League next season.

And it was the purple clad Panthers who were celebrating first on 14 minutes. Kevin Nolan’s long ball forward found Chinedu Obasi whose surge into the area was stopped by a challenge from Daniel Alves resulting in a penalty for the Panthers. Up stepped JAMIE CARRAGHER of all people to fire the ball into the bottom corner to make it 1-0.

That was the end of the goals until four minutes from time when the Panthers sealed another victory and left the Extreme looking elsewhere at other results nervously. With Northern Extreme pressing for an equaliser, Antonio Valencia motored away down the right to the byline, slid the ball across goal and ROBINHO acrobatically turned the ball home to seal the win and quash rumours of unhappiness following a midweek trip to the beach with Didier Drogba.

Steel Panthers 2-0 Northern Extreme

Another big win for the Panthers as they sought to close the four point gap to sixth placed Queensland Origin; the pressure would be on them in their game with the Isle of Man Metros. For Northern Extreme, it meant that wins for Inland Valley Hawks and Essex Eagles could leave them outside the Champions League places just weeks after they were mixed up in the middle of the title race. They need to find their form quick.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

PREMIER LEAGUE

INLAND VALLEY HAWKS vs. TIBBOLINI

Weeks ago, this game would have been as close to a home banker as possible. However, recent stuttering form for the Hawks and Tibbolini’s 4-0 hammering of rivals Didsbury Dynamoes last time out made this less straightforward to call. Would the Hawks boost their Champions League hopes or would the Mad Hatters secure more precious points in their bid for survival?

The first goal was almost an hour in the making but, when it came, it was comic defending from the Mad Hatters. A Jesus Navas corner bounced twice in the 6-yard box, wasn’t cleared and CHRISTIAN CHIVU turned the ball home to give the Hawks a 1-0 lead. More comic defending on 71 minutes led to a second for the Hawks. A long ball forward was not defended at all and KARIM BENZEMA calmly rounded the keeper, Renan, and slotted the ball home for 2-0.

That should have been game over but Tibbolini then launched a fine comeback to secure a vital point. A lovely passing move on the left gave SAMUEL ETO’O time to cut inside and find the far corner from an acute angle on 75 minutes. And with 8 minutes left, another comedy of errors – this time from the Hawks defenders – led to the equaliser. Renan’s long kick was flicked on by Amauri for Eto’o who surprisingly hit the keeper with his shot. The loose ball was picked up in the 6-yard box by Aquilani for the Hawks but his attempted clearance hit PABLO AIMAR and bounced into the net for 2-2.

Inland Valley Hawks 2-2 Tibbolini

Another poor result for the Inland Valley Hawks who – like Northern Extreme – know they are in a battle now for the Champions League place that seemed so secure a few weeks back. The Essex Eagles result will be of interest to them too. For Tibbolini, every away point is another step closer to survival although they still have plenty of work to do in their final games to secure a Premier League place.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

PREMIER LEAGUE

ESSENDON vs. ESSEX EAGLES

With both Northern Extreme and Inland Valley Hawks slipping up, resurgent Essex Eagles could move into third place this afternoon with a win over the Bombers at Windy Hill. However, the FA Cup Finalists know that Cup Final places are up for grabs and were looking to give their manager Kevin Sheedy no reason to drop them ahead of the big day at Wembley in a few weeks time.

An early corner led to the first goal after just 2 minutes and it fell to the in-form Essex Eagles. A simple corner saw James Milner play the ball near post and PHILLIPPE MEXES flicked the header past Igor Akinfeev from a few yards out. The perfect start and 3rd place in the Premier League was already looking likely.

However, by half time, the Bombers were level. Kieran Gibbs’ throw-in found Steed Malbranque who turned and fired over the cross from the left. It was met by a terrific diving header from MIROSLAV KLOSE into the back of Guillermo Ochoa’s goal to level the game at 1-1 at half time.

Both sides went for victory in the second half and it was a strike in the 73rd minute that won the game. Good play from Klose and Michael Owen on the left allowed the little English striker to deliver a perfect ball to the far post which LIONEL MESSI cushioned past Ochoa to make it 2-1 to Essendon and win them the game.

Essendon 2-1 Essex Eagles

A big chance to jump into the top four wasted by Jack Browne’s Essex Eagles as they are beaten by the Cup Finalists from Essendon. They sit 2 points behind 3rd placed Extreme and the 4th placed Hawks with 3 games left for each side. For Essendon, there is little to play for in terms of league position although this result does mathematically ensure their Premier League place next season. However, it is an excellent result for earning places in the starting eleven for the FA Cup Final with New Bloc later in the month.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

PREMIER LEAGUE

DIDSBURY DYNAMOES vs. LONDON TITANS

Although they’ve provided excellent entertainment this season in the domestic cups, Europe and their survival fight, today was the first day that could end with Didsbury Dynamoes relegated to the Championship. For the Dynamoes to go down would need them to lose at home to London Titans and other results to go against them but the Dynamoes knew that a win – against the team that beat them in the League Cup Final - would keep their dreams alive for one more game at least. For the Titans, their poor run looked over last week when they led 2-0 over Brennan United but they threw it away to lose 3-2 and it seems that their League Cup win was the end of their season with just 2 wins in 11 games since their Wembley triumph over the Dynamoes.

60,000 were in the South Manchester Stadium to roar on the Dynamoes who saw influential striker Kenwynne Jones forced off injured after just 13 minutes. A goalless first half burst into life on the brink of the half time whistle though as the Dynamoes took the lead. From a throw in on the right, Michael Johnson was allowed to float a ball to the far post where DANIEL AGGER was given the freedom of South Manchester to plant a firm header past David James and make it 1-0 at half time.

The Dynamoes now had the result they wanted to ensure their survival for at least another week and they doubled their advantage late on to make sure. This time it was Spanish midfielder XAVI who curled a free kick up and over the wall and into the net to make it 2-0 on 83 minutes. That secured a 2-0 win: Didsbury Dynamoes are not dead yet.

Didsbury Dynamoes 2-0 London Titans

So the Dynamoes take revenge over the London Titans for the League Cup Final and it’s now five league games without a win for the Titans who are drifting into mid-table now. For Dynamoes, the result lifts them to 33 points but they still need to hope for poor results for Saffron United and Blackthorn Athletic to make inroads on the defecit they face. They will live on for one more week though.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

PREMIER LEAGUE

QUEENSLAND ORIGIN vs. ISLE OF MAN METROS

With five points between them and the relegation zone, Isle of Man Metros knew that one more win should see them safe and guaranteed a place in the Premier League next season. Their opponents had been disappointed in midweek after a defeat to Discworld in the Champions League Semi Final and were looking to regain some form ahead of the return leg this week at Ankh-Morpork as well as boosting their Europa League hopes – if needed.

The game was settled by one goal on the brink of half time. Sergio Ramos got forward on the right and sent over a cross to the far post which Charles N’Zogbia looked set to meet until he was pushed by Ledley King. Penalty for Isle of Man Metros which PAUL KONCHESKY fired home to seal a 1-0 win and guarantee the Metros Premier League place for another season.

Queensland Origin 0-1 Isle of Man Metros

Another poor result for the Origin who’ve gone right off the boil at the business end of the season and look to be struggling for form ahead of the Second Leg of the Semi Final with Discworld. Great result for the Metros though who can now turn their thoughts to the beach and relax ready for next season.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

PREMIER LEAGUE

SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY vs. DISCWORLD

Already relegated Wednesday were the opponents for Origin’s Champions League opponents, Discworld, who visited Hillsborough looking to build on their confidence and form ahead of the Second Leg. And it got off to a superb start for the Disks after just 7 minutes of the game. Lucio’s ball forward found DIMITAR BERBATOV in acres of space and time to chip the ball over Lee Grant and into the net to make it 1-0. The Bulgarian striker is in great form and 4 minutes later, he made it 2-0 with a well taken finish when played into the box by Fellaini.

With the floodgates seemingly open, Wednesday did well to stop the goals after that and even got back into it just before half time. JERMAINE JOHNSON raced away from the Disks defenders and slotted home to reduce the defecit to 2-1. However, it was not to be for the Owls who slumped to another defeat, 2-1 to the Disks.

Sheffield Wednesday 1-2 Discworld

Europa League qualification looks a long shot now for the Disks so they need to win the Champions League to make Europe next season. This result is good preparation for their tie with Queensland Origin in midweek where they look to secure a place in the Champions League Final.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

PREMIER LEAGUE

SAFFRON UNITED vs. GNOME’ANIA UNITED

A massive, massive game for the Saffron United followers as they faced a home game against Gnome’ania United – a side in decent recent form – knowing that a win was vital to their chances of Premier League survival with difficult fixtures still to come. For the Gnomes, survival was virtually guaranteed but another win would make absolutely sure with three games remaining afterwards.

It took 18 minutes to get a goal – and when it came, it blew the roof off the Saffron Stadium. Franck Ribery twisted and turned on the right and found ADRIAN MUTU who smashed the ball home from a tight angle past Benaglio in the Gnomes’ goal. It was the perfect start for the Sharks and gave them some relief until half time.

In the second half, the first goal would be pivotal you felt – and it came in the 50th minute. Michael Ballack found Franck Ribery again and his 25 yard effort stung the palms of Benaglio before FABIO AURELIO managed to turn the rebound home and put Saffron 2-0 in front.

With the points looking secure, the Sharks now had chance to boost their goal difference and that they did. Ballack released Mutu again who raced away and slotted the ball past Benaglio. It looked like 3-0 but the ball hit the post and bounced out into the path of Gnomes’ defender YOUNES KABOUL who put the ball into his own net to make it 3-0 to the Sharks. The lead was extended to 4-0 on 76 minutes as Fabio Aurelio’s corner was headed home from 6-yards by MICHAEL BALLACK to seal the three points for the purple and blacks.

The Gnomes were disappointing but did manage to cut the lead to three late on. Jose Bosingwa’s right wing cross found DEAN ASHTON and he bundled the ball past Sebastein Frey to make it 4-1 but it was too late for a comeback.

Saffron United 4-1 Gnome’ania United

A massive three points for Saffron United that lifts them out of the bottom three and level with Tibbolini above Blackthorn Athletic and Boreham Badgers who played in the last game to be reported on. Regardless of the result between those two, Saffron United will be out of the bottom three this evening due to their significant goal difference advantage. For the Gnomes, disappointment but it’s hard to see them ending up being dragged back into the mix.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

PREMIER LEAGUE

BLACKTHORN ATHLETIC vs. BOREHAM BADGERS

Probably the biggest game of the season so far at the bottom of the Premier League – more so now we know the result of Saffron United and Tibbolini’s games. Defeat for the home side Blackthorn would leave them two points adrift of the rest with three games left and would mean that Boreham Badgers would move five points clear of the drop zone. However, a win for the Rose Bushes would mean that the Badgers would fall into the bottom three on goal difference tonight. The game would be a real six pointer.

A nervous and tense first half was goalless until the 45th minute when the deadlock was broken by the home side. Rafael Marquez and Danny Higginbotham couldn’t stop FRANCESCO TOTTI after Mario Gomez released him and the Italian striker strode into the area and tucked the ball past Badgers’ keeper Victor Valdes into the far corner for the lead. 1-0 to Athletic at half time.

And deep into the second half as well. It was with 9 minutes remaining that the scoreline changed and it was a dagger to the heart of the home side’s survival hopes. Roman Pavlyuchenko’s blocked shot span into the path of MORTEN GAMST PEDERSEN who coolly slotted home at Rene Adler’s near post to level the game for the Badgers and send their fans delirious.

But there was one more twist to come.

With 3 minutes remaining, Hatem Ben Arfa swung over the corner from the left and MATHIEU BODMER – the same routine as used in the last moments of Blackthorn’s Europa League first leg against Benfica in midweek – headed past Victor Valdes from six yards to lift Blackthorn into safety and plunge the Badgers back into the bottom three.

Blackthorn Athletic 2-1 Boreham Badgers

The wins for Blackthorn Athletic, Saffron United and the point for Tibbolini are desperately bad news for Didsbury Dynamoes who remain stranded in 19th place and look certain to join Sheffield Wednesday in next season’s Championship. The win for Blackthorn lifts them over their three rivals for the final place, a point clear of them all, and takes them to 15th. Tibbolini, Saffron United and Boreham Badgers all have 40 points but the inferior goal difference of the Badgers means that they are in the bottom three tonight. It is so close now – any one of the four could go down.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

PREMIER LEAGUE

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

COCA COLA CHAMPIONSHIP: FINAL DAY DRAMA

COCA COLA CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS

Coventry City 0-1 Joga Bonitos Juniors (Grosso 53p)

Crystal Palace 0-1 VfB Rammstein (Mancini 15)

Fanghunters 2-0 Doncaster Rovers (Agbonlahor 7, Kaka 42)

Coventry City relegated with Plymouth Argyle and Barnsley. Norwich City in the Play Offs.

PLAY OFF SEMI FINALS, FIRST LEGS

Norwich City vs. Canadian Mighty Squirrels/Melbourne

VfB Rammstein vs. Joga Bonitos Juniors

Stay tuned for the drama from the Burnley vs. Canadian Mighty Squirrels and Cardiff City vs. Melbourne games.

[magvest]

8th place..

[conners]

Wenger Vows To Survive

Speaking after their nerveracking 2-1 win over boreham badgers blackthorn manager arsene wenger praised his side's resilience in the fight against the drop. "this was a must win tonight and my boys did me proud" The roses are now up to 15th with 3 to play

Anything Liverpool Can Do.......

Star striker and blackthorn athletic player of the year mario gomez has urged his side not to slip up in their europa league second leg match against benfica. Blackthorn carry a 3-1 lead into the second leg and the clubs mr reliable is looking to emulate liverpool's 5-3 win of last season. "reaching the final would be some achievement for us" mario stated "and winning it would be a dream come true"

[super_lampard]

Surely secure of safety now thanks to a good result

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

COCA COLA CHAMPIONSHIP: FINAL DAY DRAMA

3:00pm

Both the games at Turf Moor and Ninian Park get under way as Canadian Mighty Squirrels and Melbourne look to secure the results that they need to secure promotion to the Premier League rather than a Play Off Semi Final with Norwich City.

3:02pm

Eduardo picks up the ball on the edge of the Cardiff City box for Melbourne. He jinks around the defender and squares the ball to SERGIO AGUERO whose curling effort beats Enckelman and finds the corner of the goal. Cardiff City 0-1 Melbourne (Melbourne promoted / Squirrels need 1 goal)

3:18pm

It’s Aganzo for Burnley on the right hand side. He drifts inside and slides the ball through for CHRIS McCANN who tucks the ball past Squirrels’ keeper Tim Howard and into the net. Burnley 1-0 Canadian Mighty Squirrels (Melbourne promoted / Squirrels need 2 goals)

3:30pm

John Arne Riise’s corner from the right for the Squirrels is towards the back post and Carlos Cuellar but STEPHEN DARBY heads into his own net to level the game, an equaliser for the Squirrels. Burnley 1-1 Canadian Mighty Squirrels (Melbourne promoted / Squirrels need 1 goal)

3:36pm

Michael Essien plays the ball forward towards Joe Cole in the area, challenge from Omozuzi – penalty to the Mighty Squirrels. It’s going to be Gilberto Silva to take it for the Squirrels against Brian Jensen. GILBERTO SILVA scores in the bottom left corner and it’s Squirrels who lead. Burnley 1-2 Canadian Mighty Squirrels (Squirrels promoted / Melbourne need 2 goals)

3:48pm

Half time in both games. As it stands, both sides lead by one goal and that is enough for them both to reach 109 points. However, the Squirrels’ better goal difference will give them promotion to the Premier League. Remember that if both teams win, Melbourne need to win by 2 goals more than the Squirrels.

4:00pm

The second half of each game is starting now.

4:04pm

Confusion in the Burnley penalty area at the near post after a long throw. Here’s Emanuel Adebayor, is that a trip by Clarke Carlisle? Yes it is, another penalty for the Mighty Squirrels. Another chance for Gilberto Silva from the spot. Here he comes ... GILBERTO SILVA scores for the Mighty Squirrels! Burnley 1-3 Canadian Mighty Squirrels (Squirrels promoted / Melbourne need 3 goals)

4:11pm

Long kick forward from Melbourne keeper, Gianluigi Buffon. Steven Davis wins it for the Demons and sends it wide to Maxi Rodriguez, his low cross is met by EDUARDO, goal for Melbourne. A glimmer of hope again for the Melbourne team. Can they get two more goals? Cardiff City 0-2 Melbourne (Squirrels promoted / Melbourne need 2 goals)

4:33pm

Cross from Yeste on the left for Cardiff and OBERTAN with the header. Cardiff have got a goal back but it could be the end of the Melbourne dream now. Cardiff City 1-2 Melbourne (Squirrels promoted / Melbourne need 3 goals)

FULL TIME

Burnley 1-3 Canadian Mighty Squirrels

Cardiff City 1-2 Melbourne

Canadian Mighty Squirrels are promoted to the Premier League!

[Greasy Chip Butty]

NEWS

Sunday 3rd May 2009

COCA COLA CHAMPIONSHIP: FINAL DAY DRAMA

PLAY OFF SEMI FINALS

Norwich City vs. Melbourne

VfB Rammstein vs. Joga Bonitos Juniors

[Striker475]

(insert expletives here)