Top2Bottom: The Game Thread

[Greasy Chip Butty]

Also about the team managing issue Andy, what will you do when you get relegated & all promoted teams are T2B teams?

Cross the bridge when I come to it! Had a thought of whoever isn't contributing to the thread getting taken over. We'll see how it goes.

Apologies for lack of update today - will sort it over next couple of days. Real life reared its head and stopped me!

[19992008]

Come on Tibbolini, cant wait for the Prem to kick off, got a feeling we are gonna struggle though.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

WELCOME TO SPORTS.tv SATURDAY - SATURDAY AUGUST 16TH 2008

Hosted by Dan White

DW: Welcome to SPORTS.tv SATURDAY as the Premier League joins the Coca Cola Championship in starting the season. With nineteen new teams in the Premier League joining Sheffield Wednesday, things will sure be interesting as we kick off proceedings today. However, we will not forget the Championship as the five teams look to build on good starts – for most – and cement their promotion credentials. As ever, we’re joined in the studio by expert reporters who will keep us bang up to date with our main games as well as bringing you news of the goals as they go in from around the Premier League and Championship.

DW: Last week, we were joined by Bill Thomason, Charles Knickers, Pat Le Teaser and Saul Mearson and they’re all here again today. They’re joined by two more recruits to the SPORTS.tv team – former Wigan Athletic manager Paul Jewels and former England midfielder Shay Wrinklings. Welcome to you all. Bill, where are you at today?

BT:I’m at The White Rock Stadium as the Welsh Wizards kick off their campaign with a home game with Coedpoeth United. New signing Gennaro Gattuso starts for the Wizards whilst Cesc Fabergas and Wayne Rooney make their debuts for Coedpoeth. Should be a cracker here.

CK:I’m at Windy Hill Dan, the home of Essendon. They face a home start with London Titans who start with Diego Forlan up front. Essendon start with the experience of Gary Speed in midfield as they seek an opening day win.

PLT:I’ve got a cracking game today Dan with Boreham Badgers at home to Discworld. It should be a close one here at the Muddy Field with Badgers starting with Del Piero and Benni McCarthy up front. Discworld start with Xabi Alonso in midfield and named as new captain.

SM:Afternoon Dan, I’m here at The Metronome on the Isle of Man as the Metros face Brennan United. Luca Toni and Riccardo Fuller start up front for Metros whilst Mauro Camoranesi makes his debut for Brennan.

SW:I’m happy to be here at the Campion Grove Arena for SPORTS.tv as Tibbolini start their season against the Community Shield winners Queensland Origin. Origin’s Wembley hero Dave Kitson starts up front whilst new Tibbolini signing Arjen Robben starts as captain.

DW: And Paul Jewels is in the Championship. Paul?

PJ:Thanks Dan, I’m here at my old haunting ground of Pride Park to see if Derby can upset Fanghunters further after their defeat last weekend. The Predators will be hoping that Gabriel Agbonlahor can keep us his magnificent scoring start to the season today as they look to bag their first points.

DW:Thanks Gentlemen. The other games in the Premier League see Didsbury Dynamoes face Saffron United, losers in the Community Shield last week of course, at the South Manchester Stadium. Gnome’ania United start off at home to Sheffield Wednesday in their new home – the Arcane Arena. Inland Valley Hawks and Steel Panthers meet at the Harveston Field whilst Essex Eagles start off home to New Bloc at The Eagle Arena. Aurora Park is the setting for Northern Extreme’s start against Blackthorn Athletic. In the Championship, Canadian Mighty Squirrels are at the Land of the Chestnuts to face Coventry City, Joga Bonitos Juniors are on Terra Firma for the visit of Crystal Palace whilst Melbourne are at home – Commonwealth Bank Stadium – to face Watford. Finally, Barnsley face a difficult trip to title favourites VfB Rammstein at the Stadion des Groβen. We’ll be back with the reports and updates after the break. Stay tuned.

[whitehead.10]

GCB, was wondering if you will be adding Man Of The Match to the games you do a full report on?

[Greasy Chip Butty]

WELCOME TO SPORTS.tv SATURDAY - SATURDAY AUGUST 16TH 2008

Hosted by Dan White

DW: Welcome back – the Premier League season is underway and the first goal has already been scored and it’s in one of our games as well. Over to Shay at Campion Grove Arena.

SW:Thanks Dan, a goal for Queensland Origin after just six minutes. Mikel Arteta started the move with a forceful run before he was tackled. With most people expecting a free kick to be given though, DAVID JONES smashed the ball home from 25 yards into the bottom left corner of Jaaskelainen’s goal. 1-0 to Origin.

DW: An unlikely goalscorer, not many would have predicted David Jones to get the first Premiership goal of the season. Another goal in one of our games, Bill Thomason – has it gone to the Wizards or Coedpoeth?

BT:It’s a horrible moment for the 16 year-old debutant, Hakeem Welsh of Coedpoeth United. Just seven minutes into his debut, he has been dispossessed easily by Kuyt, a great one-two with strike partner Vagner Love and KUYT buries past Petr Cech to put the Wizards in front.

DW: Goals flying in all around in the Premiership. ROBINHO has put the STEEL PANTHERS one nil up at the Harveston Field against the INLAND VALLEY HAWKS, not the start the Hawks faithful were looking for. Another goal has been scored at Aurora Park as NORTHERN EXTREME get off to a perfect start in their new home – new signing JOSE ANTONIO REYES has put them 1-0 up against BLACKTHORN ATHLETIC. Back to The White Rock Stadium and Bill, a second goal but who for?

BT:A second goal for the Wizards, Dan. And another defensive mix-up for Coedpoeth, their manager will not be impressed with this as it is experienced players this time. A long ball by Vidic should have been defended easily but Silvestre’s back header was poor, Cech in the goal was so hesitant and VAGNER LOVE pounced to head it over Cech and into the gaping goal. Wizards are 2-0 up and a big assist to a Coedpoeth defender on both occasions.

DW: Awful defending, awful goalkeeping but instinctive play from Vagner Love and his first goal for the Welsh Wizards. Goal at the Eagle Arena and ESSEX EAGLES are off to a great start in their home game with NEW BLOC going 1-0 up thanks to MAREK HAMSIK. And another team are in dreamland on the first day of the season – Welsh Wizards already 2-0 up at home to Coedpoeth and now NORTHERN EXTREME are 2-0 up as well, they’re at home to BLACKTHORN ATHLETIC who must be in despair. The second goal has been scored by LUIS FABIANO on twelve minutes. Goal now at Muddy Field, Badgers or Discworld? Pat?

PLT:Shocking goalkeeping by Victor Valdes Dan, failed to deal with a Benayoun corner underneath his own crossbar and DIMITAR BERBATOV had headed home from about 3 inches out. One nil to the Discs.

DW: He doesn’t score many headers does he? But he has put Discworld a goal up on thirteen minutes at Muddy Field against Boreham Badgers. First goal of the day in the Championship goes to MELBOURNE, they go a goal up at home to Watford thanks to JOHN HEITINGA. Amazing news coming in now from Aurora Park, NORTHERN EXTREME were 2-0 up at home to BLACKTHORN ATHLETIC but two goals in two minutes have now made it .... 4-0! FERNANDO TORRES and PATRICE FEINDOUNO on the scoresheet for Extreme and it’s a long way back now for Blackthorn, 4 down in 26 minutes. Dreadful start to the season, things can only get better there. Back to Muddy Field, equaliser for the Badgers. Over to Pat.

PLT:Yes, BOREHAM BADGERS 1-1 DISCWORLD. The Badgers only behind for 13 minutes before a throw in found Benni McCarthy in the area, he found DEL PIERO who turned and curled the ball into the far corner. The Badgers’ aging strike-force get them back level, Dan, 1-1.

DW: Goals flying in down in the Championship now. ANTONIO DI NATALE has put the CANADIAN MIGHTY SQUIRRELS in front at home to Coventry City, VfB RAMMSTEIN are also in front at home thanks to KEIRRISON and they lead Barnsley 1-0 and after their victory over Fanghunters last week, JOGA BONITOS JUNIORS striker HIGUAIN has put them in front at home to Crystal Palace. Goal for Saul at The Metronome.

SM:Slow start here Dan but a goal for BRENNAN UNITED has the visitors in front. Mauro Camoranesi found CHED EVANS in the box, ISLE OF MAN METROS defender Liam Ridgewell gave him too much space and he fired the ball into the top corner. 1-0 to United.

DW: SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY have put a good fight up so far at GNOME’ANIA UNITED but the Gnomes have made the breakthrough now thanks to CRAIG BELLAMY who scores on his Arcane Arena debut. More goals in the Championship, MELBOURNE are now 2-0 up at home to Watford thanks to TUGAY and a set-back for JOGA BONITOS JUNIORS, an equaliser for Crystal Palace thanks to ALLESANDRO GAMBERINI who makes it 1-1. No goals yet between DIDSBURY DYNAMOES and SAFFRON UNITED at South Manchester Stadium but an injury to Didsbury defender JONAS OLSSON has forced him off. Almost half time now and we have our first goal of the day at Windy Hill where Charles Knickers is watching the game.

CK:Thanks Dan, first goal of the game comes on 44 minutes and it has been scored by ESSENDON striker MIROSLAV KLOSE. Leighton Baines was allowed to run down the left by the LONDON TITANS defence far too easily and his cross was met by the outstretched foot of Klose who prodded home. 1-0 to Essendon.

DW: A second goal of the game for MAREK HAMSIK means that ESSEX EAGLES are now 2-0 up against NEW BLOC and that makes Hamsik the top scorer in the Premiership for now. Back to Windy Hill Charles, you wait 44 minutes for a goal and then you get two in two minutes.

CK:That’s true Dan, an equaliser for LONDON TITANS. ESSENDON defender Pepe made the clearance that hit Diego Forlan and ran kindly for him to run onto. His shot was saved by Igor Akinfeev, he fired the rebound at goal, saved by Akinfeev again but this time SCOTT PARKER stuck his head out to direct the ball into the net for the leveller. 1-1.

DW: Half time whistles going around the country, let’s get a classified check of the half time scores.

PREMIER LEAGUE:

Welsh Wizards 2-0 Coedpoeth United

Didsbury Dynamoes 0-0 Saffron United

Essendon 1-1 London Titans

Gnome’ania United 1-0 Sheffield Wednesday

Inland Valley Hawks 0-1 Steel Panthers

Boreham Badgers 1-1 Discworld

Isle of Man Metros 0-1 Brennan United

Essex Eagles 2-0 New Bloc

Northern Extreme 4-0 Blackthorn Athletic

Tibbolini 0-1 Queensland Origin

COCA COLA CHAMPIONSHIP:

Canadian Mighty Squirrels 1-0 Coventry City

Derby County 0-0 Fanghunters

Joga Bonitos Juniors 1-1 Crystal Palace

Melbourne 2-0 Watford

VfB Rammstein 1-0 Barnsley

DW:We’ll see you after the break for the second halves.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

GCB, was wondering if you will be adding Man Of The Match to the games you do a full report on?

Fanghunters' Gabriel Agbonlahor.

[bergtaur]

Ugh... come on Defense, where's the passion!!!

[conners]

4-0 at half time. Its gonna be a long season

[whitehead.10]

some home goals won't go a miss

[Greasy Chip Butty]

WELCOME TO SPORTS.tv SATURDAY - SATURDAY AUGUST 16TH 2008

Hosted by Dan White

DW: Welcome back to the second half of the opening day of the Premiership season where Northern Extreme look set to go top of the league – they lead Blackthorn Athletic 4-0 already. Can Athletic make any kind of comeback or will it get worse for them today? First goal of the second half has been scored at Harveston Field, it is an equaliser for INLAND VALLEY HAWKS who level at 1-1 with STEEL PANTHERS thanks to a strike from BRETT EMERTON two minutes into the second half. It’s been quiet so far at the South Manchester Stadium but not no more as the home side have taken the lead – it’s DIDSBURY DYNAMOES 1-0 SAFFRON UNITED thanks to a goal from ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIC, the Swedish international off and running in the Premiership. Penalty at Windy Hill, Charles can tell us about it.

CK:Penalty for the home side, Dan. Sebastien Larsson has won it, run down the right and tackled by Jonathan Woodgate and Andrew Taylor. Woodgate got the ball, Taylor didn’t, Larsson went down and the referee gave the spot kick. It’s going to be Phil Jagielka to take it for Essendon against London Titans’ keeper David James. Up her steps .... Ooooooh! PHIL JAGIELKA scores for ESSENDON! James went the right way but it went in off the inside of the post, nothing the LONDON TITANS’ keeper could do and it is now 2-1 to Essendon, Dan.

DW: Thanks Charles. Another goal at the Muddy Field for Pat Le Teaser to tell us about.

PLT:A second goal of the game for DIMITAR BERBATOV Dan but he owes it all to some superb football from David Villa whose terrific turn and run past Marquez and Higginbotham of BOREHAM BADGERS created the goal. He pulled it back from the byline to the oncoming Berbatov who smashes DISCWORLD back in front, 2-1.

DW: Goals galore in the Championship again, four to tell you about! GIOVINCO has put JOGA BONITOS JUNIORS back into the lead at home to Crystal Palace, the CANADIAN MIGHTY SQUIRRELS are looking comfortable now at the Land of the Chestnuts as EMANUEL ADEBAYOR puts them 2-0 up against Coventry and two goals at the Stadion des Groβen, both for VfB RAMMSTEIN who now lead 3-0 over Barnsley thanks to goals from KEIRRISON again with his second and CARLOS TEVEZ. A second goal as well at the South Manchester Stadium, a second for DIDSBURY DYNAMOES and a second for ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIC as well putting them 2-0 up against SAFFRON UNITED who look set for an opening day defeat now. A third goal now for CANADIAN MIGHTY SQUIRRELS at home to Coventry City, ANTONIO DI NATALE with his second of the afternoon. Windy Hill, another goal for Charles Knickers.

CK:And it could be a match winning goal for ESSENDON who, nine minutes on from Phil Jagielka’s penalty, are now 3-1 up over LONDON TITANS thanks to a second goal from MIROSLAV KLOSE. Gary Speed’s floated free kick to the edge of the area, flicked on by Darius Henderson and Klose kept his cool to round James and slide the ball into the net. Essendon’s fans are celebrating now, could be a great three points.

DW:Indeed it would be, Essendon now 3-1 up there. First goal of the day at Pride Park, Paul Jewels?

PJ:And a massive blow to FANGHUNTERS who, already having lost on the opening day, have fallen behind to Derby County now with their main rivals all winning at the moment. Free kick into the area nodded down by Marco Materazzi and NICK BARMBY rolled back the years with a sure finish low past the keeper. 1-0 to Derby!

DW:Penalty at Aurora Park where NORTHERN EXTREME were 4-0 up against BLACKTHORN ATHLETIC. A very tiny glimmer of hope now for Blackthorn who have scored the penalty thanks to DARYL MURPHY to make it 1-4 now. Another goal at Terra Firma, JOGA BONITOS JUNIORS look set for victory now as they go 3-1 up against Crystal Palace, a second goal for HIGUAIN – a case of Higuain again maybe?! And another Championship goal at Pride Park, a big moment in the season for Fanghunters Paul Jewels?

PJ:Certainly so, Dan. GABRIEL AGBONLAHOR has equalised and the relief is clear on their faces as it is now 1-1 within 3 minutes of going behind. Puyol with the ball in from deep, suspicions of offside but Agbonlahor kept his composure and tucked the ball home past Bywater. 1-1, can they win it now?

DW: They’ll certainly hope so or else they’ll go five points behind their main rivals after just two games. Hat-trick at the South Manchester Stadium and surely points secure for DIDSBURY DYNAMOES now, ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIC makes it 3-0 and it’s a miserable day for SAFFRON UNITED. Twenty minutes remaining in most games now, back to Windy Hill. Nervous finish in store for Essendon now Charles?

CK:Certainly is, Dan. Stunning goal as well, Andrew Taylor making up for the penalty foul by laying the ball square for MIRKO VUCINIC to hit a 30-yard curler into the top corner to make it ESSENDON 3-2 LONDON TITANS with twenty minutes remaining.

DW:Fabulous goal it was too. MELBOURNE are now 3-0 up at the Commonwealth Bank Stadium against Watford, RONALDINHO with their third that should secure the points. KEVIN DAVIES has just made it 4-1 to JOGA BONITOS JUNIORS as well in their home game with Crystal Palace and VfB RAMMSTEIN are routing Barnsley now, 4-0 up thanks to a CARLOS MARCHENA strike. Goal at Pride Park now, a late goal. Which way has it gone Paul?

PJ:It’s a goal for FANGHUNTERS Dan and it’s a virtual carbon-copy of their equaliser. This time it was David Beckham with the slid ball through the Derby defence and AGBONLAHOR tucked it home again. Oh, and hang on Dan, a chance ... GOAL! Another goal ... Vargas across the goal and in acres of room, AGBONLAHOR again and he could not miss. That’s his hat-trick and Fanghunters are safe now, 3-1 up here at Pride Park.

DW:You can hear their sighs of relief from here! Three precious points for the Predators! Red card at Muddy Field, Pat?

PLT:Yes, DISCWORLD are down to ten men Dan with seven minutes remaining here. Aaron Ramsey playing the ball through towards Benni McCarthy who was tripped by ANDRE BIKEY and Martin Atkinson has sent him off for denying McCarthy a goalscoring opportunity and a chance to equalise for BOREHAM BADGERS. Can they find an equaliser now against the ten men?

DW:They have seven minutes to find it. Goal at Arcane Arena, GNOME’ANIA UNITED were a goal up over Sheffield Wednesday but a late goal has been scored. Don’t worry though Gnomes fans, it is a second goal for your team and it has been scored by DECO. Waiting to see if there are going to be any injury time goals – No. That’s it, all games finished. Let’s get a check on the results.

PREMIER LEAGUE:

Welsh Wizards 2-0 Coedpoeth United

Didsbury Dynamoes 3-0 Saffron United

Essendon 3-2 London Titans

Gnome’ania United 2-0 Sheffield Wednesday

Inland Valley Hawks 1-1 Steel Panthers

Boreham Badgers 1-2 Discworld

Isle of Man Metros 0-1 Brennan United

Essex Eagles 2-0 New Bloc

Northern Extreme 4-1 Blackthorn Athletic

Tibbolini 0-1 Queensland Origin

COCA COLA CHAMPIONSHIP:

Canadian Mighty Squirrels 3-0 Coventry City

Derby County 1-3 Fanghunters

Joga Bonitos Juniors 4-1 Crystal Palace

Melbourne 3-0 Watford

VfB Rammstein 4-0 Barnsley

DW:An exciting first day of the season in the Premier League. Wins for Welsh Wizards, Didsbury Dynamoes, Essendon, Gnome’ania United, Essex Eagles and Northern Extreme all at home whilst there were away victories for Discworld, Brennan United and Queensland Origin. The only draw came between Inland Valley Hawks and Steel Panthers, finishing 1-1. In the Championship, the big five all won with Fanghunters coming from behind at Derby to secure their first points which leave them 10th in the early table. Canadian Mighty Squirrels lead the way on goal difference from Ipswich, VfB Rammstein, Joga Bonitos Juniors and Melbourne who have all won 2 games out of 2 so far. Thanks for tuning in, see you next time!

[rancer890]

Nice work lads. Another solid win and sitting at the top of the table.

KUTGW GCB!

[Greasy Chip Butty]

If you would like to post your managers, chairmans or a players response to the results today, please feel free to do so. I will report on the rest of August tomorrow or Tuesday (SUFC are playing Newcastle so may struggle for Monday). Thanks for being patient.

[Thefanghunter]

Fanghunters FC: Intro and Round 2 Review

Based in the heart of Siberia, Fanghunters FC has finally left the legendary country of Cricsimia and entered a real league. With fantastic facilities, awesome players, a 48000 capacity stadium and an elite manager in Samuel Yates, chairman of both Fanghunter sides Artemis Rasmussen was outraged to find his side placed in the second tier, crushing morale of the side. This leaves unrest in Stadium: Siberia, any big name may want to leave at any time, leaving their future in jeopardy, but at Fanghunters, it always is.

Players are genetically altered to survive the freezing conditions, making a trip to Stadium:Siberia a ridiculously hard challenge to those without fur. Despite this, the players didn't adapt in their first game and they suffered a defeat without their stars. Now we will meet the manager and Gabriel Abonglahor:

Reporter: So, Yates, what do you think of your start

SY: The first home game may cost us the season, i'm not too happy so far. Only Gabby has shown his true class so far. But when Kaka and Ronaldo return, we will maul every side in this pathetic league

Reporter: So what about your last game:

SY: The win was all that mattered. Though if another side takes the lead like that, i'm going to ******* **** **** ***** ****** ****** kill about half the side

Reporter: Gabriel, what do you think of the Championship so far?

GA: It seems very easy. I can't shoot and i'm dominating this league. There's only 4 sides that slightlu worry us, and we don't fear them at all

Reporter: So what do you think will happen with the return of your stars?

GA: We will have the potential to win everything we're in easily with their return. If they last the season, then they're practically garunteed to stay

Reporter: Thanks for your time.

[Coasterkoa]

At least I didn't lose!

[Striker475]

Smith confident with early results

Melbourne FC manager Zac Smith met up with Melbourne Informer journalist Kevin Draftwood after the 3-0 win over Watford.

KD: Zac, how do you feel about the opening to the season?

ZS: Well, to be honest I feel we could have performed better. 3-0 at home to Watford was great, but the win at Turf Moor should have been bigger - Burnley aren't that great a side, in my opinion.

KD: And the League Cup? How do you rate your chances against Barnsley there?

ZS: I think we have a great chance. Barnsley are relegation contenders for a reason, you know.

KD: Finally, how do you rate your chances when you come to meeting the Premiership sides, as you very well may if you beat Barnsley?

ZS: Kevin, the twenty-four clubs which have been formed all started on a (relatively) even pegging. Yes, four of us were forced to take Championship places, but our sides are still as good as anything the Premiership can throw at us. Don't discount our squads for the FA Cup and the League Cup.

KD: Thanks for your time.

[PluckaDuck]

Very happy to have won my second match in a row. After last weeks demolishment in the Community Shield, this week the boys took the lead early and never even looked like conceding!

As for the teams lack of fire power up front, I've come to the conclusion that it only takes one good strike to win you a game, as long as the defence is rock solid, which mine looks to be. So David Kelly, Davie Kitson, all I need is one good strike in the entire 90 minutes. Not too much to ask is it???

Haven't got time for a proper review sorry GCB, KUTGW!!

[hamilton162]

A good start for Brennan United there on the Isle of Man Hopefully we can keep winning!

KUTGW GCB

[RUFC4eva]

4-0 against the gills in the cup then 2-0 win over charlton and a 4-0 against barnsley

getting goals and hopefully playing attractivly to do it

KUTGW

[SnakeXe]

The Steel Slip Up On Opening Day

After talking up their challenge in pre-season, Steel Panthers have missed out on an opening day win after throwing away a 1-0 lead against Inland Valley Hawks. Robinho got things off to a great start, but, despite the ability and experience in defence, The Steel could not hold on, ending up with a 1-1 draw. We have manager Stix Zadinia here to discuss the result:

Reporter: Stix, what do you think went wrong today?

Stix: Well dude, it was all going great up until half time but then we kind of nodded off a bit and let them back in after. Michael came down and wanted to give them all a line of cocaine, but I had to tell him that was against the rules.

Reporter: Michael sounds like an unconventional chairman... do you enjoy working with him?

Stix: Yeah man, me and Michael, we go way back. I'd rather he was trying to give my players illegal drugs than selling the naming rights to a stadium with over a hundred years of history.

Reporter: Quite true, quite true. What ever did happen to Mike Ashley in the end?

Stix: It's not my place to say dude, but I think he probably got what was coming to him. Probably dealt by a mock-glam-rock band. Probably from the drummer. But that's all I'm saying!

Reporter: Err... I think I'll just ignore that. Overall reaction to the result then?

Stix: 6 out of 10 I think, it was away from home and the guys are still getting to know each other. We'll take 'em out to a strip joint or something, get some team spirit going. Nothin' builds team spirit like holding each other's fantastically groomed hair back whilst barfing on strippers, man.

Reporter: Thanks, Stix, I can see I'm going to enjoy covering Steel Panthers this season.

[super_lampard]

Poor start losing at home

[I\'mTheRulerOfAllTheWorld]

Good start with a 2-0 win, hopefully the first of many for Love. KUTGW!

[joetheref]

Defeat for the Badgers in the first game of the season, Valdes making a mistake was a shock

[rancer890]

Ricky Nakano sounds off with Canadian Mighty Squirrels' fantastic start

Canadian Mighty Squirrels manager Ricky Nakano was elated to see his side at the top of the Championship after two dominant wins against Watford and Coventry. The following are his comments after a chat with a reporter after the Coventry game:

Reporter: What are your thoughts on this match?

Ricky Nakano: I am very pleased. The weather was fantastic. The pitch was a bit on the bumpy side, and our mascots didn't dig up the pitch as much as I thought for the first home game. I saw a couple chestnuts sticking up, but it's no big deal. I'm sure the groundskeeper will fix it up before the next home game.

Reporter: Err...I meant the game, the 3-0 win...

Ricky Nakano: Oh that. I'm happy that the team is clicking and there's nice chemistry. It's always nice to win by 3 goal margins.

Reporter: You're leading the Championship after 2 games. Do you think you can continue your dominance?

Ricky Nakano: Of course. We don't belong in the Championship. It's too easy. -yawn-

Reporter: So you believe you can perform as well with the Premier League clubs?

Ricky Nakano: Definitely. We might be leading that league as well right now.

Reporter: Are you bitter that the club has to start in the Championship?

Ricky Nakano: Yes, but we will let our game do the talking and show everyone that these Mighty Squirrels can't be messed with.

Reporter: What is your goal this season?

Ricky Nakano: Win every single game.

Reporter: Good luck andthank you for your time.

Ricky Nakano: No problem. See you after our next match where we're going to win again.

[19992008]

Interviewer: So Mike, a 1-0 home loss to start the season, you can't be happy?

Mike Bassett: Well no of course im not, but you know there were positives, i mean at least we didnt concede a hatful.

Interviewer: Is that really the best attitude?

Mike Bassett: Listen, dont school me on how to coach my team, yes we lost, but im not gonna whip the boys for that, we need time to gel and were up against a very good side, if Sammy can find his scoring boots we will be fine.

Interviewer: But arent you worried by the lack of actual clear cut chances in the game for your team?

Mike Bassett: Obviously it's always a concern when you dont create bags of chances, but lets give the boys a chance, if Pirlo can settle in and set up Sammy as I said we will be fine.

Interviewer: Thank you for your time Mike.

Mike Bassett: No worries kid.

[Greasy Chip Butty]

WELCOME TO SPORTS.tv NEWS – AUGUST 2008 ROUND-UP

Hosted by Dan White, Thursday September 3rd 2008

TRANSFERS (since August 9th):

BLACKTHORN ATHLETIC: Nicola Legrottaglie

BOREHAM BADGERS: Patrick Vieira

CANADIAN MIGHTY SQUIRRELS: Massimo Ambrosini

FANGHUNTERS: Juan Manuel Vargas, Darijo Srna, Phillippe Lahm, Mathieu Flamini

INLAND VALLEY HAWKS: Klaas-Jan Hunterlaar, Diego Milito, Guti, Christian Chivu

JOGA BONITOS JUNIORS: Gonzalo Higuain, Simao, David Suazo, Dejan Stankovic, Cicinho, Luis Suarez

MELBOURNE: Maxi Rodriguez, Diego Capel, Enzo Maresca, Juan

NEW BLOC: Thierry Henry

NORTHERN EXTREME: Pascal Feindouno

VfB RAMMSTEIN: Zdenek Grygera

WELSH WIZARDS: Ivan Cordoba

[hamilton162]

Slightly disappointed that John Puckett didn't make any signings during the rest of August, but the signs are promising with our existing team

KUTGW GCB

[JB]

Start with a win! 2-0, happy with that!

But no more transfers in August, shame

[Greasy Chip Butty]

There are still many many free transfers available and free transfers for out of contract players can be completed outside of the transfer window. Inland Valley Hawks captured Christian Chivu on September 2nd for example.

Europe coming soon.

[joetheref]

Patrick Vieira for the Badgers, some much needed strength in midfield , now only need a decent defender and we are set for the season

[Greasy Chip Butty]

WELCOME TO SPORTS.tv NEWS – AUGUST 2008 ROUND-UP

Hosted by Dan White, Thursday September 3rd 2008

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE:

With Didsbury Dynamoes and Discworld looking to join Queensland Origin and Isle of Man Metros in the Champioons League Group Stages, the final qualifying games were set to take place with the Dynamoes facing Standard Liege over two legs whilst Discworld would face Artmedia Bratislava.

It was a superb first half of the away leg for Didsbury as they went in at half time 2-0 up and with one foot in the Group stages. Goals from IBRAHIMOVIC and XAVI gave them the lead but it was halved by Jolan Dannemark early in the second half. However, they held firm to secure a vital away victory and a solid performance at home would see them through. So imagine the shock when Standard took the lead at the South Manchester Stadium, Stanislas Kramer putting the Belgians in front on 11 minutes. Didsbury were panicking but fears were eased before half time by IBRAHIMOVIC again before a second half goal from XAVI secured their place in the Group Stages.

Discworld faced Artmedia at home in the first leg and by half time the tie was over as The Disks ran riot and pummelled their way to a 5-0 half time lead. Two goals from DAVID VILLA – the second a penalty – started them off before LUCIO, JAMES MORRISON and DIMITAR BERBATOV added to the lead before half time. A sixth goal followed in the second half – another penalty – from JAMES MORRISON to secure Discworld a place in the Group Stages before the away leg. A full strength line-up was used in Bratislava for the second leg despite the score and it was added to in the first half by XABI ALONSO before second half strikes from DIMITAR BERBATOV and JEREMY TOULALAN wrapped up an emphatic 9-0 aggregate win for the Disks.

The draw for the group stages has since been made:

GROUP A: Olympique de Marseille, Shakhtar Donetsk, DIDSBURY DYNAMOES, PSV Eindhoven

GROUP C: Bordeaux, Fenerbahce, ISLE OF MAN METROS, Bayern Munich

GROUP E: Slavia Prague, Celtic, Werder Bremen, DISCWORLD

GROUP H: IFK Gothenburg, Schalke, Panathanaikos, QUEENSLAND ORIGIN

**********

UEFA CUP:

Essex Eagles secured their place in the First Round of the UEFA Cup with a convincing win over Macedonian side Pelister in the Final Qualifying Round. A 6-0 home win was secured thanks to goals from CARLOS VELA, MAREK HAMSIK, PHILLIPPE MEXES and a hat-trick from JO before a 5-1 win in the away leg thanks to goals from THEO WALCOTT, EL-HADJI DIOUF and another hat-trick, this time for CARLOS VELA as the tie was won 11-1 on aggregate.

Blackthorn Athletic had a perfect start in Warsaw against Polish side, Legia, when JASON ROBERTS gave them an early lead but they were pegged back thanks to a Muszynski penalty for the hosts before half-time. However, there were no more goals and a draw should give Blackthorn a chance of progression in the second leg. This they did as they scored four unanswered goals thanks to strikes from BOBBY ZAMORA, LEE CATTERMOLE, JEREMIE ALIARDIERE and HATEM BEN ARFA to seal a 5-1 aggregate win.

With both Essex Eagles and Blackthorn Athletic through to Round 1, the draw contained five English sides. Here is the draw for Round 1 where victory puts a team into the UEFA Cup Group Stages.

Dinamo Zagreb vs. ESSEX EAGLES

Salzburg vs. SAFFRON UNITED

FC Moscow vs. BLACKTHORN ATHLETIC

Aalborg vs. TIBBOLINI

LONDON TITANS vs. Bellinzona

[JB]

Dinamo Zagreb, tough draw. Should progress though

[Greasy Chip Butty]

Right, have got to go now - football on a Monday Night is sooooo wrong. Up the Blades!

Tomorrow:

- Results from 2 rounds of Premiership action.

- Results from League Cup Round 2.

- Results from 3 rounds of Championship action.

And SPORTS.tv brings you LIVE coverage of the final League Cup Round 2 tie - delayed due to European qualifying committments - between Coventry City and Premiership newbies, Blackthorn Athletic. Make sure you tune in!

[magvest]

Really nice group for Discworld, should go through from that one...

[MattFergie]

Kind of an indifferent group for Didsbury, Shaktar and PSV are definately beatable, but can be very difficult when they play well. Not holding out much hope against OM though

[bergtaur]

After repeated calls to New Bloc F.C. headquarters, we at upthebloc.com received an e-mail from the manager.

Hello,

Stop trying to contact me. Thank you.

~Danilo

Danilo may be on the hot seat after his squad's opening loss in Premiership play. Only time will tell. We at upthebloc.com with do our best to keep you up to date with all New Bloc F.C. announcements, rumors, and signings, like the signing of Thierry Henry that we broke first.

[Marky Mark!]

Post Match Interview with Mark Mota - Chairman of Essendon FC

Reporter: So Mr Mota, what did you make of Essendon's first game of the season?

Mark Mota: The first game of the season is always an exciting moment, and the 5 goal spectical didn't disapoint.

Reporter: So you were happy with the team's performance then?

Mark Mota: We walked away with the 3 points, so I can't have any complaints, but I think we will have to lift our game in the coming weeks as we come up against the better side in the league

Reported: I see manager Sheedy hasn't made any summer signings so far, do you expect him to make any or are you happy with the crop of players you have?

Mark Mota: Whilst we've got a good side, I think we could do with one or two more signings, but I'll let Sheedy have the final say on those sorts of things. I mean, I thought his decision to start vetran Speed was questionable, but Speed ended up playing a vital role in the winning goal, so that goes to show what I know.

Reporter: And finally, your up against Oldham in the League Cup in the next fixture, what are you expecting there?

Mark Mota: All respect to Oldham, but I will be expecting goals, and lots of them.

Reported: Thanks for the interview Mark, all the best for the new season

[Marky Mark!]

GCB, great work so fat, the only request I have is that when you do the live games, if you can work a mention of the MOM into the commentery (ie Essendon had a good 3-2 win, with Klose's 2 goals earning him man of the match).

That aside, fantastic work!

[conners]

nice to have a featured match. Up the thorn!

[Northerm Lights]

Northern do Extremely well

Northern News

The first set of league fixtures saw Northern Extreme get off to a great start. Kodaly McMaster's side have sent a message out to the League that they mean business. The Borealis made a flying start in the game going 4-0 up after 26minutes. We got The gaffer's thoughts after the final whistle.

NN: You must be extremely pleased with the performance today?

KM: Well yes - its difficult to gauge how things are going to go this early in the season but the boys knew what they had to do today and started at a flying pace.

NN: With so many positives from todays match what was your highlight?

KM: I think the fact we spread the goals around the team was particularly pleasing especially Feindouno's - he only arrived here 1 hour before the kick off!!!

NN: And of course Torres was on fire too.

KM: Aye! I heard he had been grumbling about the cold up here - that should heat him up a fair bit!

NN: You have Carlisle coming in the League Cup are you going to change things around?

KM: Maybe aye maybe no! i'm no telling you i'll keep them guessing - they're probably trembling to be honest!

NN: Thank you for your comments. Until next time!

[Thefanghunter]

Vargas, Srna, Lahm and Flamini, fullback problem solved

[PluckaDuck]

No new signings, from what I can gather, we still have our initial squad!

Brilliant group draw for Queensland in the Champions League, should get through easily!

KUTGW GCB.

[whitehead.10]

Gonzalo Higuain, Simao, David Suazo, Dejan Stankovic, Cicinho, Luis Suarez

Higuain should be class in the championship

Simao should be immense

Suazo decent signing

Stankovic - another amazing signing

Cicinho - finally have a good right back

Luis Suarez - unsure of his potential - will have to trust Flash's Judgement

[Striker475]

GenieScout helps. Don't know bout Maxi or Juan, but Capel solves my left winger problem, and Maresca looks class too!

[apnelson]

Sorry for not posting in a few days its been a busy weekend with work and football.

I will post my team introduction in a sec.

VERY!!!! pleased to see it all up and running now =) Bit saddened by the Community Shield defeat but Ballack and Ribery both out. Hopfully we won't turn out like Liverpool when they don't have Gerrard and Torres lol

[apnelson]

Saffron United

Saffron United are a recently formed Premier League team. There chairman Patrick Kakamp is a French/South African ex footballer. Altho he never achieved much in his playing career he started setting up youth camps around Africa after he retired. He also set up a professional football team Saffron United. He employed a friend of his William Knoppers as Manager.

William Knoppers is a Dutch/Liberian ex footballer who also didn't do much with his playing career. He was a coach for Ajax and met Patrick Kakamp when working out in South Africa for the Ajax youth set-up out there.

Micheal Ballack and Frank Ribery are the clubs key players and it is expected that Saffron Uniteds chance of success depends majorly on the fitness and availability of these two.

The club also boasts an impressive youth set-up and with two former experienced youth coachs now at the head of the club it is hoped that many a star will be produced by the side

[super_lampard]

Isle of Man Reporter

Isle of Man Metros chairman Super Lampard finally speaks out to the!

Interviewee: So Super you have kept quiet so far when other managers have been expressing the views and thoughts on their clubs why is this?

Super Lampard: Well I'm not really the sort of person who enjoys talking to the media however I have been informed by others I should make myself known.

I: You have quite an unusual first name, where does it come from?

SL: Hehe, isn't it obvious

I: No

SL: [murmurs to himself]

SL: Ok lets just stick to the club

I: How do you think the Metros will do this season

SL: I believe our aim is for mid-table security this season and hopefully to push on next year

I: You are in the champions league though, surely you should aim higher

SL: You work for the Isle of Man Reporter, surely you should be aiming higher

I: [After a moments pause] Your team has made no further signings this summer how do you think that will affect your performance considering the majority of other teams have strengthened

SL: I believe we have a squad that is capable of achieving what we intended for the season

I: What was your opinion on the defeat to Brennan United

SL: I do not believe it is anything to be worried about. We only lost 1-0, I think we will get better

I: Thank you Super Lampard I wish the best of luck to your team

SL: Thank you

[Greasy Chip Butty]

WELCOME TO SPORTS.tv NEWS – AUGUST 2008 ROUND-UP

Hosted by Dan White, Thursday September 3rd 2008

LEAGUE CUP ROUND 2:

A tough test for WELSH WIZARDS in the League Cup as they travelled to the once mighty Leeds United in Round 2. After breezing into a 3-0 lead by half time, they were given a scare as Leeds fought back but Vagner Love completed a hat-trick to seal a 4-2 win for the Wizards. Their first goal was an own goal. ESSENDON were never in danger of an upset at League 1 Oldham as a brace apiece from Miroslav Klose and Darius Henderson saw them to a comfortable 4-1 win. JOGA BONITOS JUNIORS also travelled to League 1 opposition in Colchester United and secured a convincing 5-0 win thanks to goals from David Suazo (2), Martin Skrtel, Gonzalo Higuain and Kevin Davies. Burnley fought back from 2-0 down against BRENNAN UNITED who led thanks to goals from Mauro Camoranesi and Steven Taylor. A late Olivier Kapo goal ended the Clarets hopes though and sealed a 3-2 win for United. An amazing game at Oakwell where extra time was needed to separate Barnsley and MELBOURNE. On three occasions, The Tykes equalised after Melbourne led from goals from ALEBERTO GILARDINO, RONALDINHO and then a RONALDINHO penalty. Iain Hume’s third equaliser came in injury time to force the extra 30 minutes but goals from DIEGO CAPEL and SERGIO AGUERO gave MELBOURNE a 5-3 win in the end.

League 2 Bradford City welcomed the CANADIAN MIGHTY SQUIRRELS but suffered a 2-0 defeat after first half goals from EMANUEL ADEBAYOR and JUNINHO PERNAMBUCANO. Early goals from ALEX WITSEL and EVER BANEGA plus a late goal from JOSE ANTONIO REYES gave NORTHERN EXTREME a 3-0 home win over Carlisle United whilst VfB RAMMSTEIN got the same result against Southend United with goals from CARLOS TEVEZ, KEIRRISON and LEROY LITA. First half goals from FABIAN DELPH and JERMAIN DEFOE (2) gave NEW BLOC a 3-0 win as well over Wycombe Wanderers and BOREHAM BADGERS – depite falling behind to a Freddy Kanoute goal – won at home against QPR with goals from YOSSI BENAYOUN, ANDRES INIESTA and ROMAN PAVLYUCHENKO securing their passage into Round 3. Championship FANGHUNTERS completely destroyed Premiership SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 4-0 with goals from KANU (2), DIEGO GODIN and MATHIEU FLAMINI and two goals from CHINEDU OBASI gave STEEL PANTHERS a 2-0 home win over Brighton. CRAIG BELLAMY, DECO and OWEN HARGREAVES scored the goals for GNOME’ANIA UNITED as they overcame Championship Southampton 3-0, INLAND VALLEY HAWKS smashed Stockport County 5-0 with goals from KARIM BENZEMA (2), KLAAS JAN HUNTELAAR (2) and GUTI and COEDPOETH UNITED saw off Championship Swansea City at home by 1-0 with JIMMY BULLARD scoring the goal that won the game.

That leaves every ‘Top to Bottom’ side through to the next round except for BLACKTHORN ATHLETIC who play later thanks to European commitments. That game – away at Coventry City – will be live on SPORTS.tv tonight as well as details of the Round 3 draw where the European teams join in as well.

[joetheref]

Comfortable win for the Badgers, another good update Andy

[hamilton162]

3-2 win for Brennan United, glad to be through as it sounded as if we were on the ropes after being pegged back!

KUTGW Andy

[Northerm Lights]

7 goals 6 different scorers so far