chrisfraser Posted May 14, 2004 Share Posted May 14, 2004 bah, where's my edit funtion gone Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
hveiga Posted May 18, 2004 Share Posted May 18, 2004 What do I have to do to join this clan?... Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
jan_sørensen Posted May 18, 2004 Share Posted May 18, 2004 hveiga please post in our thread in the general questions for the cm series forum, this is mainly used for team updates. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
jan_sørensen Posted May 18, 2004 Share Posted May 18, 2004 yes we did it Europe is a certainty after we beat chelski 4-1 in the league cup final, things went our way from the start after Le tallec scored after 2 minutes and after 4 minutes they were down to 10 men. It was clearly uphill for chelsea after that, we totally dominated and despite of being 11 against 10 it was a very good performance. This means that the best we could hope for in this season is achieved, and it is well past the modest board expectations of rebuilding the team. The rest of the league matches will be a good opportunity to test some of the players which future at the club is in doubt. Off course i would like to finish as high as posible in the league, but apart from a few ££££ in prize money difference it isnt that important, cause we are well behind the 4th place and relegation isnt an option either, so there isnt really that must to play for. Even if we were to win all the remaining league matches we wouldnt qualify for the CL. Players that risk going in the summer is Heskey, Diouf, Biscan, andrade, vaschuk, guayre, parker but they will only be sold at the right price and if the right replacements are available, cause they are important players at the moment. And they will all get plenty of time on the pitch to prove their worth the rest of the season. Problem is that i dont know what formation to play next year 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 it demands slighty different types of players, and the ideal would of course be players that can be used in both formations. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stan petrov Posted May 19, 2004 Share Posted May 19, 2004 "Liecester wont slip up" vows Donnachie II Anthony Donnachie II has for the first time this season given his most defiant claim yet that his team will win promotion to the premiership,amongst the elite of England. Liecester have stormed to eleven points clear,with nine games remaining,and the manager was jubilant. "I told my team to grab this chance with both hands,and they did.They have won like 5 games in succesion,and this run WILL see them go up,I'm confident.Three more wins,and I'll be playing the second string,no doubt.My team deserve a well earned rest after a difficult season.The last hurdle waits,all they gotta do is jump it,and they have won their promotion." Donnachie II was sceptical about his teams dip in form earlier,mainly because of injuries. "We lost quite a few points a month or so back,with injuries to key players to blame.Cassidy,Izzet,Scowcroft and Heath all had spells out of the team,and this team would not survive the premiership next year should such a scenario occur next year.We have a young team,but we need backup in midfield and defence." Donnachie II went on to explain the transfer zone for the club. "We have Ivan De La Pena confirmed on a pre-contract agreement,and Jamie Donnelly has just arrived to brighten up the midfield.I also have a defender and goalkeeper confirmed,who are both U-23.Richard Walker is here on loan,and has impressed in his performances so far,as Heath was injured,and he took his chance.I will look to make Walker permanent at the end of the season,he has impressed me.Tomi Petrescu has went to Bolton on loan,as he hasnt been able to get a look in at this excellent forward line.I dont want to disrupt his prospect so he will be allowed to leave,if the price is right,as he is still young" more updates soon Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
jan_sørensen Posted May 21, 2004 Share Posted May 21, 2004 Liverpool agree terms with star defender Liverpool spokesmen confirmed yesterday, that defender M Upson from Birmingham has agreed to a 3 year deal with the club, that will se him join this summer. The manager of liverpool had the following comment; He is fast, strong and good in the air he will be a vital part of our team next season, and i must say that i am very pleased with the defensive options this purchase gives us next season. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
DezMW Posted May 21, 2004 Share Posted May 21, 2004 Forest falling short again We here at Forest Focus have been at loggerheads with each other over the strapline to carry on this article and unfortunately none of them were particularly good (For Forest that is, our language skills are unquestionable). Filled with alliterations and packing a punch that voiced the disappointment being felt by fans, players and board alike. With the strides made at the back end of last season which saw Forest break into the top half of the Premiership for the first time since returning to the top flight in 2004, also achieved was a European spot thanks to a last day of the season win, to clinch an Inter-toto cup spot. This led to a UEFA cup place, thanks to an all English final against Spurs, sealing a 2nd trophy (albeit less coveted than your average Egg Cup) in Wilkins' 4 year tenure as club manager. With this European spot came an influx of "big name stars" John Terry and Andres D'alessandro joined to add some class to the side along with Mourad Meghni in midfield, the latter being a Winter signing from Liverpool for £1m and Spaniard Gerard moving in the other direction. Also brought in in January was another front man. Englishman Jermain Defoe was added to the ranks, ending his torrid spell at Aston Villa with a £1.1m move across the midlands. Meghni has settled well in the first team, but Defoe has struggled to find consistant form, leaving him falling down the pecking order. It was always going to be hard for him to break the first choice partnership of Nino and Baros, who on the whole have done stirling jobs for us. When a change in the attacking line was needed, despite early signs of a return to form, Defoe has failled to deliver. Whereas youngsters, Rungratsamee and Nasri have both delivered when called upon. Leaving Defoe with another dilema on his hands. On the field we have witnessed a mixed bag of results all season long. Recently we have seen a very lacklustre performance against Newcastle in the FA Cup, the 2nd time we have faced off against the toon army in the God father of club competitions. Last season's Quarter final saw two great games, very evenly match in the first tie, but in the replay we capitalised to progress to the Semi's. This season however there was no spark and no imagination from our boys and so we bowed out to a disappointing 1-0 defeat. In the league we've had middling results of late, mainly drawing. A great fight back at home against a resurgent Liverpool led by new manager, Jan Sorenson where we were two goals down inside 20 minutes and looking down and out. A shift to a more attacking 4-3-3 had wonderous effects. Former Liverpool players, Kristiansen and particularly Meghni were up for the scrap. The latter bagging a goal back only minutes after the tactical change. 2-1 at half time. Whilst Liverpool came out strongly again in the second half we managed to weather the threatening storm and assert some control on the game. Indeed many chances came and went, before Young French U21 starlet, "The King" Nasri, on for Meghni in the second half, latched onto a Nino cross from the left and slotted the ball under the keeper to level up the match. There were enough chances for us to feel we deserved more from the game, but a gallant fightback it was nonetheless. The next match was a trip to Manchester to play City. This was a game filled with defensive errors, from both parties. A goal packed encounter saw the spoils shared once more in a 6 goal thriller. This match, unlike the previous game was viewed as a disappointment. While another fightback was completed it was the nature of a couple of the goals that upset many assosiated with Forest. Wilkins himself had a few not too pleasant words to say about goalkeeper, Paul Robinson. Robinson's form this season has been somewhat erratic, but up till now at least Wilkins had always defended the England keeper, but made his feelings known after this match. Another game, another fightback needed. Conceeding two sloppy goals to deflections. The first from a free kick and the second, a low drive from near the edge of the area, both innitially heading off target, but both leaving Robinson stranded as the cruelly changed direction, saw Portsmouth take a rather fortuotous 2 goal lead at Fratton Park. A returning from injury, Danny Invincibile was largely to thank for the turn around. The Australian was the orchastrator in a most of Forest's attacks and he bagged a brace in the process of the four goal come back. The other scorers were Nino and Baros. The final score was 4-2 and three much needed points were in the bag. Back to winning ways, but stuck in 10th place. The top 6 looks unbreakable really, given the gap (some 12 points or so). But all eyes are on 7th position in the remaining 6 games. It seems unlikely, but with this side you never can quite tell what is going to happen... Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bulletsponge Posted May 21, 2004 Share Posted May 21, 2004 Crewes season comes down to wire Crewe are currently on a warm streak, unbeaten in thier last 7 games. unfortunatly only 3 were wins. Crewe is currently only 3 pts back from the final playoff spot, with 5 games to go. thier final 5 are these: 9th placed Birmingham (A) 15th Chesterfield (H) 21st Crystal Palace (H) 4th Fulham (A) 24th Wigan (H) Bulletsponge feels he needs at least 12 points to make the playoffs, very possible with a little luck. On the Crewe squad, Olofsson got called up the the Swedish squad as thier goalie, and Ross Smith the hot 16yo has been on fire, scoring 3 and 1 assist in only 4 appearences. Bullets then sold a loan player to Leiceter for 200K to make room for his new South American DC ( forgot his name). on a bad note DML R Rooney, the hot prospect thats been playing DL got a groin injury and will be out the remainder of the year. With Crewes current streak of 5 wins, 6 draws and 2 losses they can smell the playoffs for the first time. "if only we can avoid all the draws, we might pull a rabbit out of our arse and get in the Premiership" Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chilliconcarnie Posted May 24, 2004 Share Posted May 24, 2004 Grimsby to GO All the Way In the last week, Grimsby's promotion to the First Division was confirmed when Derby upset the resident third placed team of Bristol Rovers. For a team that could never achieve a position above 16th place just hoping to scrape into the top half of the table, manager Mike Carnie has done the players and fans proud by pushing them to the very top of the table. Unfortunately, success in the LDV Vans Trophy was not to follow. Facing 3rd Division opposition, the Second Division Champions Elect appeared to wane under the lower level opposition, despite scoring early. Youngster Bardsley unfortunately gave away a penalty only minutes later, enabling the score to be leveled, and with the way of the match, neither side could score again. A dreaded penalty shootout ensued, and Grismby went out of the Cup, but at least there was still the Title to go on for. Now within touching distance, the Second Division Title is what the players in black are playing for. Needing only to win their next match to cement their status, Carnie's team will have to live up to high expectations. Carnie has insisted that he is interested in buying Cardiff City's David Bell; but the struggling team refused to budge on any offer or enquiry that the Cash Strapped Grimsby could offer. Carnie is believed to be awaiting the Board Review on June 20th so that he knows if he will have any transfer funds for the forthcoming season. With one of his signings dependant on any money coming in, along with potential contract renewals that will need to be carried out, the club which is in debt may yet still find themselves out of debt in moving into the First Division. At the start of the season, the club was reported to have over £3M in debt, but the club announced to its fans that that figure has since been halved. with thanks going to Manager Mike Carnie for keeping the wage bill down and releasing player Bo Henrikkson to help the wages for the rest of the team. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chilliconcarnie Posted May 24, 2004 Share Posted May 24, 2004 Grimsby to Go All the Way In the last week, Grimsby's promotion to the First Division was confirmed when Derby upset the resident third placed team of Bristol Rovers. For a team that could never achieve a position above 16th place just hoping to scrape into the top half of the table, manager Mike Carnie has done the players and fans proud by pushing them to the very top of the table. Unfortunately, success in the LDV Vans Trophy was not to follow. Facing 3rd Division opposition, the Second Division Champions Elect appeared to wane under the lower level opposition, despite scoring early. Youngster Bardsley unfortunately gave away a penalty only minutes later, enabling the score to be leveled, and with the way of the match, neither side could score again. A dreaded penalty shootout ensued, and Grismby went out of the Cup, but at least there was still the Title to go on for. Now within touching distance, the Second Division Title is what the players in black are playing for. Needing only to win their next match to cement their status, Carnie's team will have to live up to high expectations. Carnie has insisted that he is interested in buying Cardiff City's David Bell; but the struggling team refused to budge on any offer or enquiry that the Cash Strapped Grimsby could offer. Carnie is believed to be awaiting the Board Review on June 20th so that he knows if he will have any transfer funds for the forthcoming season. With one of his signings dependant on any money coming in, along with potential contract renewals that will need to be carried out, the club which is in debt may yet still find themselves out of debt in moving into the First Division. At the start of the season, the club was reported to have over £3M in debt, but the club announced to its fans that that figure has since been halved. with thanks going to Manager Mike Carnie for keeping the wage bill down and releasing player Bo Henrikkson to help the wages for the rest of the team. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cesc Fabregas the Phenom Posted May 25, 2004 Share Posted May 25, 2004 Wolves push on for honours Wolverhampton Wanderers guided by their new boss Ali Omar have done the unthinkable, the unimaginable, the totally preposterous and reached the FA Cup final, where they will meet fellow first divisioners Bradford City. In an amazing semi-final weekend, Premiership league leaders Newcastle were denied the chance of a possible League and Cup double by Wolves. They won a scrappy game 1-0 thanks. Newcastle dominated the majority of the game and had by far the most chances to opening the scoring. Jenas and Dyer were guilty of missing some of the clearest chances. However Wolves also had their chances, notably falling to Henri Camara, who true to form missed them all narrowly. Wolves took the lead in the second half thanks to a wonderfully worked goal and they held strong to book their place at Wembley. In the other semi final Bradford City beat Arsenal by 1-0 in another upset. The dream final was not going to be and instead we might just have a first division side playing in next season's UEFA Cup. Some people already have betted against Wolves saying they will choke and struggle like they have previously against Bradford City in the league this season. Wolves current form in all competitions has been exceptional. They have gone a club record 21 games unbeaten in all competitions including the most recent win against Newcastle. They lie in second place in the First Division and are three points clear of West Ham with only 5 games to go. It has been quite the transformation for Wolves under their new management regime. Ali Omar has bought in a couple of players wisely and has slashed the wage budget to acceptable levels. What is most impressive is that he seems to be getting more out of his players than his predecessor. Some of the football they have been playing has also been crisp. The one touch passing and movement has been noted by other managers to be excellent. Players brought in by Wolves have proved to be shrewd purchases strengthening their bid for automatic-promotion. Justin Hoyte was brought in from debt-ridden Sheff Utd for a fee of £600k. Cesar Prates arrived on a Bosman from Galatasaray. Danny Pugh, Alou Diarra and David Poole were captured on season long loans from Sunderland and Preston respectively. Jorge Acuna was snapped up from Feyenoord on a Bosman, however the Chilean international is already struggling to adapt to the hectic English lifestyle and looks set to be offloaded in the close season. Amongst the releases included former skipper Paul Telfer, Palencia, Colin Cameron and Steffan Iverson. Although good players, they were showing their age and due to these players' large wages it was decided to release them. The highlight of the season so far has been the form of Kenny Miller, he has been scoring for fun and has received great supply from the midfield from Matt Etherington, Chris Eagles and Chris Dixon. Eagles' has been adapting to life as a central attacking midfielder and has been doing well, getting in amongst the goals. Danny Pugh has been holding the midfield well. Justin Hoyte has been showing everyone what a great player he is by slotting into the team effortlessly. Matt Hill has been moved from centre-back to left-back as he has pace for a tall man and good ball control, it is deemed that he could do very well in that position. Cesar Prates has shown all the quality that a Brazilian can show and his surging runs from right back have been sensational providing ample support for his right-sided team mate Dixon. Chris Dixon and Matthew Etherington have stepped up to the plate and have been instrumental in Wolves' push for honours. They have given great width and supply for the central attackers. The disappointment has been the inconsistent form of Henri Camara, he has scored a few and help create some too, however he has not been as prolific as he knows he can be. Camara's average form is David Poole's gain, the on-loan player has come in and banged in a few goals and has impressed many people by his hard work and determination. Transfers In <pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre"> | Date | Person | From | Fee | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 20.9.2006 | Brown, Mark | Wigan | £190K | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 29.11.2006 | Ingimarsson, Ivar | Free Transfer | Free | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2.12.2006 | César Prates | Galatasaray | Free | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 5.12.2006 | Gillespie, Steven | Bristol City | £65K | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 5.12.2006 | Moore, Luke | Walsall | £110K | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 8.12.2006 | Hoyte, Justin | Sheff Utd | £600K | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 28.12.2006 | Richards, Dean | Free Transfer | Free | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1.1.2007 | Vaughan, Stephen | Liverpool | £180K | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4.1.2007 | Acuña, Jorge | Feyenoord | £150K | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 24.2.2007 | Heaton, Thomas | Rushden | £28K | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 29.11.2006 | Poole, David | Preston | Loan | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1.12.2006 | Pugh, Danny | Sunderland | Loan | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 25.3.2007 | Diarra, Alou | Sunderland | Loan | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| </pre> Transfers Out <pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre"> | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4.12.2006 | Iversen, Steffen | Leeds | £70K | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 5.12.2006 | Cameron, Colin | Brighton | £40K | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 7.12.2006 | Dempsie, Allan | Brighton | £100K | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 15.3.2007 | Shaw, Michael | Free Transfer | Free | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 15.3.2007 | Harvey, Graham | Free Transfer | Free | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 15.3.2007 | Price, Neil | Free Transfer | Free | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 15.3.2007 | Howe, Mark | Free Transfer | Free | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 15.3.2007 | Johnson, Jim | Free Transfer | Free | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 15.3.2007 | Telfer, Paul | Free Transfer | Free | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 7.4.2007 | Palencia, Juan Francisco | Free Transfer | Free | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 7.4.2007 | Navarro, Alan | Free Transfer | Free | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| </pre> Results So Far <pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre"> | | | | | | | | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sun, 16.7.2006 | 15:00 | A | Mansfield | Friendly | | 3 : 2 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 19.7.2006 | 19:30 | A | Watford | Friendly | | 1 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Mon, 24.7.2006 | 19:30 | H | Portsmouth | Friendly | | 3 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Fri, 28.7.2006 | 19:30 | H | Benfica | Friendly | | 2 : 3 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Mon, 31.7.2006 | 19:30 | H | Arsenal | Friendly | | 2 : 2 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Thu, 10.8.2006 | 19:30 | H | 1860 München | Friendly | | 2 : 3 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 12.8.2006 | 15:00 | A | Leicester | First Division | | 1 : 3 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 16.8.2006 | 19:45 | A | Stoke | League Cup 1st Rnd | | 1 : 2 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 19.8.2006 | 15:00 | H | Birmingham | First Division | | 3 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 26.8.2006 | 15:00 | A | Crewe | First Division | | 1 : 3 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 2.9.2006 | 15:00 | H | Crystal Palace | First Division | | 1 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 6.9.2006 | 19:30 | A | Fulham | First Division | | 1 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 16.9.2006 | 15:00 | H | Wigan | First Division | | 1 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 23.9.2006 | 15:00 | A | Leeds | First Division | | 0 : 2 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 30.9.2006 | 15:00 | H | Sheff Utd | First Division | | 2 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 7.10.2006 | 15:00 | H | Middlesbrough | First Division | | 4 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 18.10.2006 | 19:30 | H | Chesterfield | First Division | | 1 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 21.10.2006 | 15:00 | A | Wimbledon | First Division | | 1 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 28.10.2006 | 15:00 | A | West Ham | First Division | | 2 : 2 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 4.11.2006 | 15:00 | H | Cheltenham | First Division | | 3 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 8.11.2006 | 19:30 | A | Brighton | First Division | | 4 : 2 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 11.11.2006 | 15:00 | H | Barnsley | First Division | | 1 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 18.11.2006 | 15:00 | A | Q.P.R. | First Division | | 1 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 25.11.2006 | 15:00 | H | Bolton | First Division | | 1 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 29.11.2006 | 19:30 | A | Bradford City | First Division | | 2 : 3 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 2.12.2006 | 15:00 | H | Sheff Wed | First Division | | 4 : 2 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 9.12.2006 | 15:00 | A | Walsall | First Division | | 0 : 2 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 16.12.2006 | 15:00 | H | Bristol City | First Division | | 6 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 20.12.2006 | 19:30 | A | Stoke | First Division | | 3 : 4 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 23.12.2006 | 15:00 | H | Leicester | First Division | | 3 : 3 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Tue, 26.12.2006 | 15:00 | A | Birmingham | First Division | | 3 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 30.12.2006 | 15:00 | H | Norwich | First Division | | 1 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Mon, 1.1.2007 | 15:00 | H | Crewe | First Division | | 1 : 2 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 6.1.2007 | 15:00 | H | Derby | FA Cup 3rd Rnd | | 2 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 10.1.2007 | 19:30 | H | Fulham | First Division | | 0 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 13.1.2007 | 15:00 | A | Wigan | First Division | | 2 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 17.1.2007 | 19:30 | A | Crystal Palace | First Division | | 2 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 20.1.2007 | 15:00 | H | Leeds | First Division | | 2 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 27.1.2007 | 15:00 | H | Colchester | FA Cup 4th Rnd | | 2 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 31.1.2007 | 19:30 | A | Sheff Utd | First Division | | 1 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 3.2.2007 | 15:00 | A | Chesterfield | First Division | | 1 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 10.2.2007 | 15:00 | H | Wimbledon | First Division | | 1 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 17.2.2007 | 15:00 | H | Watford | FA Cup 5th Rnd | | 0 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 21.2.2007 | 19:30 | A | Middlesbrough | First Division | | 1 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 24.2.2007 | 15:00 | H | West Ham | First Division | | 2 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 28.2.2007 | 19:30 | A | Watford | FA Cup 5th Rnd Rep | | 2 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 3.3.2007 | 15:00 | A | Cheltenham | First Division | | 2 : 2 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 10.3.2007 | 15:00 | H | Ipswich | FA Cup 6th Rnd | | 3 : 2 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 14.3.2007 | 19:30 | H | Brighton | First Division | | 5 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 17.3.2007 | 15:00 | A | Barnsley | First Division | | 3 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 24.3.2007 | 15:00 | H | Q.P.R. | First Division | | 2 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 7.4.2007 | 15:00 | A | Bolton | First Division | | 4 : 3 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 14.4.2007 | 15:00 | H | Bradford City | First Division | | 3 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 18.4.2007 | 19:30 | N | Newcastle | FA Cup Semi Final | | 1 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| </pre> Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cesc Fabregas the Phenom Posted May 25, 2004 Share Posted May 25, 2004 THE FA CUP FINAL PREVIEW How the teams got to the final Wolves <pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre"> | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 6.1.2007 | 15:00 | H | Derby | FA Cup 3rd Rnd | | 2 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 27.1.2007 | 15:00 | H | Colchester | FA Cup 4th Rnd | | 2 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 17.2.2007 | 15:00 | H | Watford | FA Cup 5th Rnd | | 0 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 28.2.2007 | 19:30 | A | Watford | FA Cup 5th Rnd Rep | | 2 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 10.3.2007 | 15:00 | H | Ipswich | FA Cup 6th Rnd | | 3 : 2 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 18.4.2007 | 19:30 | N | Newcastle | FA Cup Semi Final | | 1 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| </pre> Bradford City <pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre"> | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 6.1.2007 | 15:00 | A | Reading | FA Cup 3rd Rnd | | 1 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 31.1.2007 | 19:30 | H | Chelsea | FA Cup 4th Rnd | | 3 : 1 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 17.2.2007 | 15:00 | H | W.B.A. | FA Cup 5th Rnd | | 0 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 3.3.2007 | 15:00 | A | W.B.A. | FA Cup 5th Rnd Rep | | 2 : 2 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Sat, 10.3.2007 | 15:00 | H | Aston Villa | FA Cup 6th Rnd | | 1 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Wed, 18.4.2007 | 19:30 | N | Arsenal | FA Cup Semi Final | | 1 : 0 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| </pre> Key men to watch Wolves: Kenny Miller - The striker has been the thorn in many opposing teams' sides this season. The clubs top scorer will be looking to add to his tally. Wolves: Chris Eagles - If the young star can play to his full potential he will be a real handful for Bradford. His ghosting runs from midfield have a habit of going unnoticed by opposing defenders. Bradford: Ramon Calliste - This striker is full of pace and will expose any gaps in Wolves' defence. Bradford: Jurgen Weiss – This young Austrian forward will rattle the Wolves defence, he pace and reading of the game is excellent for one so young. Alan Hansen's Views 'Well I think that the defence of both teams is going to crucial. The team with the strongest back line for me will win the game. It will all be about who can manage the pacy forwards. Bradford have the advantage of playing a 3-5-2/5-3-2 Wing Back formation, which should keep Wolves' wingers quieter and cut the supply line to Miller and Poole/Camara. Wolves' central defensive duo of Lescott and Hoyte is as good as any in the first division and is young enough to develop into a formidable partnership. These two should find it tricky though to keep hold of Calliste and Weiss who themselves are a pacy and intelligent duo. The one advantage Wolves have is with Roy Carroll, having played for Manchester United he has proven himself at the top of the game and his stability could give Wolves the edge on defensive set-pieces, which Bradford are well known for.' Mark Lawrenson's Cup Final Prediction Its going to be tight, I can just see that the favourites Wolves might be undone at the Wembley Arch. Wolves will just have to be content with the chance of promotion. Wolves 1 - 2 Bradford Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bulletsponge Posted May 25, 2004 Share Posted May 25, 2004 End of the Season. Will Crewe smell the sweet scent of Victory or repugnent stench of Failure The final stretch of the season started in a bad way, loosing to playoff contenders Birmingham 0-2. This put the Crewe in a very precarious situation, almost needing to win out to have any chance at the playoffs. With only 4 Games remaining, there was no room for error. Crewe realised their predicament and came out and won the next 2 home games, shuting out Chesterfield and Crystal Palace. Then came a huge game at playoff bound Fulham. Crewe came through in a big way winning 2-0 and putting Crewe in the final playoff spot, tied with rival Birmingham, but way ahead on goal differential. The final weekend couldnt be bigger in the 1st Division, with 4 teams vying for the final spot. Crewe was hopefull, playing at home against the last place team Wigan at home. But then Bolton chief Shaun came and tried to throw a monkey wrench into their season. Shaun bought Crewe Assistant Manager Cunningham from under the nose of Bulletsponge. Shaun has always stated that Crewe assistant manager was better than thier current boss Bulletsponge, and with this coup he thought it would prove his point. But Bulletsponge knew he who luaghs last, luaghs loudest. The Big game against Wigan started about as bad as a game can start, with DC Raven making a monumental mistake in watching a ball bounce harmlessly for about 5 seconds in front of him, only to have a Wigan strikers run up a pluck it away, then getting a one on one vs the gaolie and putting it away. the score at halftime was 1-0 wigan, but thing made bleeker with the 3 teams behind crewe winning. Bulletsponge knew he needed 2 goals to win. He went gung-ho and get dividends with 2 goals to take the lead! but then a well placed cross lead to a header by Wigan to tie the game in the 78th minuete. things were looking bleek again until DMC Bell made a miracle strike from 35 yards out in the 85th minuete to win the game. The Crewe were going to the playoffs. 16 yo striker Smith, Andy Welsh, and Eddie Johnson played huge roles, scoring many gaols in their final run of the playoffs while Ashton was injured. Bulletsponge got more "encouragment" from Shaun when he said "doesnt matter, youll be beat in the playoffs". Unfortunatly Middlesborough didnt get that message. Crewe drew the game at Boro 1-1, then won the home game 2-0. included was 1st Division goal of the year by E Johnson. The final game was agianst Fulham, and Shaun called up Bulletsponge to note that over 50 thousand people were there to watch Crewe choke. The game was tied at 1-1 when young stud Smith scored the winner in the 83 minuete to put Crewe in the Premier League for the first time with Bulletsponge. Bulletsponge bought a plane that flew a banner behind it that said "Suck it Shaun", and had it flown over Bolton all day long. See ya in the EPL next year Shaun..... ohh wait sorry, maybe you will make it there after next season, then we will be there together. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cesc Fabregas the Phenom Posted May 25, 2004 Share Posted May 25, 2004 <BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by bulletsponge: Bulletsponge bought a plane that flew a banner behind it that said "Suck it Shaun", and had it flown over Bolton all day long. See ya in the EPL next year Shaun..... ohh wait sorry, maybe you will make it there after next season, then we will be there together. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE> Mwwwhahahahha Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
jan_sørensen Posted May 26, 2004 Share Posted May 26, 2004 End of season, Liverpool manager looks forward to the new season This season saw us finish in 7th place, which is not good enough for a club like liverpool, but acceptable considering i took over a team in 17th place. Along the way the squad has been trimmed an optimized, and the manager is confident that we now have a team capable of compeating with the best. Surely the amazing win over Man U showed this, but the week after Spurs reminded us how inconsistent we seem to perform. The away form was awful, and this is were the improvement have to come from next season. A finish in the top4 is what we are looking for and maybe we can push for the title along the way. We will also be competing in the UEFA cup after we won the league cup, and I expect the team to advance to the QF at least. The summer will see the arrival of Upson and Bellamy, and depending on the money available the manager will look for 1 or 2 star players that can really make a difference to the team. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
DezMW Posted May 27, 2004 Share Posted May 27, 2004 Forest Monopoly Manager Plays Get out of Jail Card another season running Well big spending Forest have salvaged their season again, when all was seemingly going down the pan - Enough was done to achieve European football for another season. The fourth season drew to a close with great pace. after the victory over Portsmouth, games away to Newcastle and Chelsea plus home games against Reading, Southampton, Preston and Charlton remained. from those ties the away games were going to prove to be the big tests. the Toon Army were flying high at the top of the table and the Billionnaires' club were still seeking to secure a Champions league place for the next season. Out of the home games victories were the targets. All four ties were games which we should be looking to take three points from. Three points were taken from Preston and reading quite comfortably. Milan Baros being the player to shine each of these games. Not played from the start as the Czech star was feeling pressures of 90 minutes football week in week out throughout the season, the mini rest he was given seem to do the world of good. He came on in the second half in both of these games to score the winners. The home game against Southampton was one of those games where lady luck was playing tricks upon the Reds of Nottingham. The coin of fate was still spinning in the air as the game kicked off and undeterrered by a strong Soton side our boys proceeded to play Southampton off the park, that is everyone except the South Coaster's goal keeper who was in inspirational form, saving at point blank range on at least 5 occasions. Still the tide of Forest attacks pressed forward, but still the gallant Saint's No.1 kept them at bay. Some of the football played by the home side was sublime, 24 shots later and the deadlock was still not broken. 18 shots on target couldn't find their way into the back of the net, some how the game ended goalless. There were no suprises for the man of the match award winner in this game. The trip to Newcastle, in stark contrast saw our boys outplayed for much of the first half. We improved after the interval, but unfortunately the dammage had been done before we got our act together. Conceeding 3 goals in the first half hour sent us home without any points and signalled Newcastle's intentions to not let slip in the league like they had done in the FA Cup a few weeks earlier. Visiting Stamford Bridge is never easy, but for us it was a must win game. This game in hand and penultimate game of the season could see us leap frog Liverpool and take 7th position in the league. It would also help to edge a gap between the other teams, Blackburn and KUBI's Ipswich who had designs on grabbing European spots themselves. 7th place would also be Forest's best ever finish in the top flight snce returning three season earlier, another indication that the side is improving all the time. Pablo Nino opened the scoring after only 9 minute to put us 1-0 infront. We were pegged back 10 minutes later by a cracking tight angled shot from Cameroon international, Geremi. Adrian Mutu made it 2-1 to Chelsea and that took us to half time. In the second half Chelsea pushed forward for a third and possible clincher, often leaving just their Centre back's to cover the defensive line as they marauded forward in search of the third. This worked to our advantage. Giving out trio up front plenty of space to move in and chances began to fall our way more frequently. Getting the ball up front early was the key, and then the attackers movement and pace came into play. One such Chelsea attack broke down and was cleared down the left by Julio Arca. A Cristiansen flick put Nino clear. He crossed early for Invincibile arriving early in the middle. His header was saved and cleared but the ball only fell to fellow Australian Wehrman who shot first time and found the bottom corner to level the game up. Now Chelsea really pressed on for a goal. Some of the defending was frantic, but it was effective too. We continued to play some fast counter attacking football. Closing down well to shut out the Chelsea attacks and setting chances up for ourselves. with only minutes to go (one plus time added on to be precise) the ball broke for Milan Baros who took his time and advanced on the keeper. A fierce drive that the keeper couldn't hold was spilled and went on spinning into the net. 3-2 at Stamford Bridge!!! Comments made by the Ipswich boss, KUBI about it being laughable to be glad of having a game in hand when that game in hand was away to Chelsea were laughed at. We had taken three points from Stamford Bridge and taken, at least for the time being, 7th place. The final game of the season was against Charlton, at home. we were blessed with an early dismissal for the opponants and an early goal from Nino but Charlton were ressiliant and managed to bag an equaliser. This time we couldn't find a winner so it ended with the points shared. Results on the last day went our way though. Liverpool beating Ipswich meant the East Anglian's didn't over take us, and although we lost 7th place to Liverpool. The Merseysider's success in the League Cup earlier in the season meant that they were entering Europe that way and that the second Inter toto cup spot was ours. The prospect of European football for a second season in succession is a welcome prospect. Season Summary In truth, too many games were drawn where we should have taken three points from them. Another slow start spoilt any chance of really breaking the top of the table pack and as a result we find ourselves playing a two bit Summer qualifying tournement for Europe. Next season we must push for a better start and drive on from there. We have the quality in the squad and will no doubt look to strengthen it further over the summer. Lets hope we can Crack the top six at least next season. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
chrisfraser Posted May 27, 2004 Share Posted May 27, 2004 Solid finish gives new Season Optimism Tykes finished just outside the playoffs in their 1st half season under Fraser. Taking over in early January when Barnsley lay 11th, Fraser closed a 9 point gap to the playoffs to 4 points, with some impressive performances along the way before finishing 9th. Fulham (h) Lucas Cort Wigan (a) 0-1 Leeds (h) 3-0 Betsy (pen) Cort Lucas Sheff Utd (a) 1-2 Brandon Wolves (h) 1-3 Lucas Wimbledon (a) 1-0 Cort MIddlesborough (h) 1-1 Betsy West Ham (a) 2-2 Cort Lucas Cheltenham (h) 4-1 Lucas 3 Cort Brighton (a) 3-0 Lucas 2 Betsy Chesterfield (a) 1-2 Lucas QPR (h) 1-1 Lucas Bolton (a) 3-2 Fallon 2 Edwards Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chilliconcarnie Posted May 27, 2004 Share Posted May 27, 2004 Grimsby Secure First Division Football and the Title!!! Just this week, Grimsby Town not only achieved the impossible of Promotion to the First Division, but done this as Champions of Division Two, with an impressive One-Hundred Points!! In a fantastic season that has seen Manager Mike Carnie take the club from strength to strength, Carnie in his post match interview wished to express his thanks to the fans and his players. "Without the fans, this club would surely be nothing. I would normally say that the players are but tools for the success of the club, but they have been phenomonal, trully showing what a tight knit team this is. Players like Callum [Flanagan], Jamie [Mullen] and Mikey [Edwards] have been the spearhead of the team. They will be the backbone of the team for our fight in the First Division next season. In fact most of the team I will be carrying through. Im hoping that the Club will be able to give me a little bit of cash in pre-season, so I can perhaps bring in another player or two. This club is only a small one, with only thirty players on our books over the season to keep the wage bill down. Our Youth Team was practically non-existant, but I have heard that a couple of players will be joining our little set up later on. "The Board Have commented that next season will merely a fight for survival, but I am hoping that I can bring in a couple of players, if the wage budget is increased, so hold more defensively and perhaps push a bit for something well clear of the Relegation Zone. "Again I would like to thank the fans, and hope that they will Bravely Support the Team in the next season!" Grimsby Town Manager Mike Carnie there after his final match of the season. To follow is the Fans Forum Opinion of the players, staff and performance of the club over the course of the season. Goalkeepers Oakes, Andy: An excellent performance from the Grimsby Number One. A wall between the pipes. Saved more games than he has fingers and toes. 8/10 Hughes, Bradley: Only made two Substitute Appearnaces. Being Oakes' understudy he didnt get much chance to play. Kept a 100% Clean sheet record in the games he came on in. 5/10 Defenders Branch, Mark: Arrived late in the season only participating in three matches, but looks to be a good aquisistion. 5/10 Edwards, Mike: An excellent season for the Club captain, who slawartly defended and lead the team from the back, and even used his head to score a few. Definately deserves to stay on. Even performed after a medium length injury, scoring on his return. 9/10 Pilkington, George: Had a shaky season, playing on the right side of defense. Was prone to letting wingers overlap him leading to deadly crosses. Will be watched closely over pre-season. 6/10 Davey, James: Played in 22 games for the side, albeit all from the bench. Provided excellent cover and didnt have a bad performance record considering. 6/10 Young, Greg: The clubs stalwart centre-back turned left-back, who showed that he was perfectly capable of playing on that part of the field. Another player to recieve a good nod from the manager. 7/10 Bardsley, Phillip: Brought in early on in the season, had a few shakey games, but has established himself in the heart of the defense, alongside Edwards Folly, Yoann: The French Under-21 International only figured into the side once injuries forced Carnie's hand. Played well in those matches, but is still struggling to push his way into the managers plans. 5/10 Midfielders Crane, Tony: Another fans favourite. The scouse lad has shown that he is capable of playing both Midfield and Defense, but has usually featured in the middle of the park, especially during a Midfield Injury crisis. He played well, extremely so during the crisis and has recieved a firm nod from the manager. 7/10 Campbell, Stuart: The clubs inherant Right winger, capable of whipping in several half decent crosses, despite only 7 of them finding a player to hit the net. However, the manager has been skeptical, as Campbell has not featured as strongly as Singh. Kubilskis, Alexis: Has followed Carnie around many clubs on loan from Nottingham Forrest as midfield and striker cover, but did not feature strongly this season for Carnie. Played well in one match, but still not good enough. 4/10 McKenzie, Mike: Another player to have featured for Carnie at another club, Mckenzie played well for Grimsby, so well that he has earned another year at Grimsby. 6/10 Wheeler, Bruce: A right winger that did not feature much with the loan players and much cover on that side of the pitch. 5/10 Bolder, Chris: Spent most of the season out on loan. 5/10 Mullen, Jamie: One of the clubs Gems. Spent 2 Months out injured, but still had a huge impact on the team. Played consistently well, setting up and scoring a few goals. Finally agreed a new contract in late January and will stay with the Mariners. Top Class player. 10/10 Pouton, Alan: an attacking midfielder who can play on the right ring, Pouton demonstrated the wealth of his experience to the team. Consistently played well. 8/10 Cook, Lewis: Singh's understudy on the left wing, Cook rarely got his chance in the team. Played well when he did, and even caused Carnie to consider him for a few more matches even when Singh was fully fit. Outstanding prospect, needs to be more diverse however. 6/10 Singh, Harpel: The "Demon" on the left wing, Singh created many, scored few, but caused defenses no end of grief with his blistering runs in attack. Capable of defending as well, Singh had an outstanding season. 9/10 Strikers Boulding, Michael: A forward who had his moments, a rival for the supporting striker position. Scored several dazzling goals and has featured strongly in Carnie's plans. 7/10 Vierinha: PLayer on loan from Sunderland. provided additional cover upfront during injury spells and could also play on the right wing. No extension to his deal was made however, despite Carnie's praise. 6/10 Flanagan, Callum: The Mariner's prized striker, top scorer and had it not been for a medium length injury, Flanagan may have made the Division Two's highest scorer. Several bids for the Striker were turned down, and Flanagan has pleased fans all around by signing a new contract with the club. Is part of Carnie's backbone and will most likely feature strongly in the Division One Battles. 10/10 Nimmo, Liam: Carnie's first choice partner to Flanagan in attack, who is fully capable of scoring goals. Also takes an excellent penalty, Nimmo too follows the team to the First Division. 8/10 Henrikson, Bo: The Swede striker only featured at the start of the season, before falling out of grace with Carnie and then subsequently having his contract with the club terminated to free up the wage bill. Backroom Staff Rodger, Graham: The clubs assistant manager did well in Carnie's absense, despite not being permitted to buy or sell players. He kept the side in the second division, but did not do well over the pre-season, leaving Gems like Mullen and Flanagan out of the side. Did well in a 2 week absense close to Christmas. 7/10 Carnie, Mike: Without a doubt the best thing to come to the club in a long time. Carnie achieved the impossible and brought the club up to Division One as the Second Division Champions. The fans are looking forward to the upcoming season! 10/10 The Fans Love Outgoing Players Chris Harris: Free Bo Henriksen: Free Incoming Players Graham Kavanagh (MC): Free from Cardiff Darren Ward (GK): Free from Nottingham Forrest Bosko Balaban (SC): Free from Wimbledon Mike McKenzie (MRC): Season Loan from Nottingham Forrest Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
chrisfraser Posted May 27, 2004 Share Posted May 27, 2004 Fraser rings in the changes at Barnsley 7 new faces will be aiming to propel the tykes to the Premier League in 2007/08. Goalkeeper Danny Coyne joins on a free transfer from Portsmouth, he will compete with Paul Rachubka for the number 1 shirt. Free transfers Larus Sigurdsson, Oliver Tébily and Ronnie Wallwork will strengthen defence. Sigurdsson will battle for right back with Neil Austin. Peter Handyside, Adam Oldham will have to play well to retain their places under threat of Tébily and Wallwork. Andrew Nicholas and Tim Hoogland will compete at left back, after the departure of David Merris. Sigurdsson will also work as a Coach. Kevin Betsy, fans player of the year will again hope to star on the right wing, his place under threat from Chris Brandon, displaced from central midfield by £475k Danny Pugh. Pugh will partner Chris Lumsdon. Whilst Julian Gray, free transfer from West Ham, will hope to oust Stephen Carson from his position on the left of midfield. Graham Barrett, Andy Miller and Antonio Noccerino offer cover. Alex Notman, a free transfer from Norwich, (having scored an impressive 14 in 19 games on loan at Bristol) is the only arrival this summer up front, where Fraser strengthened his side shortly after joining with the addition of Carl Cort, Jay Lucas and Paul Edwards. Carl Cort is a certain starter, with Jay Lucas likely to partner him after he returns from a broken leg suffered at the tail end of last season. <pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre"> Players In Danny Pugh Sunderland £475k Oliver Tébily Birmingham Free Julian Gray West Ham Free Alex Notman Norwich Free Ronnie Wallwork Millwall Free Larus SIgurdsson WBA Free Danny Coyne Portsmouth Free Players Out Tesfaye Bramble Reading £100k Christian Roberts Reading £100k Rory Fallon Reading £300k Isiah Rankin Plymouth £12k Sol Davis Ayr Free David Merris Birmingham £190k Derek Young Walsall £100k </pre> Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chilliconcarnie Posted May 27, 2004 Share Posted May 27, 2004 Carnie brings in new faces Grimsby Town Manager Mike Carnie has made some intriguing signings this summer, including the very hot prospect of James Graham. Carnie has since told the fans of the club that he is aiming for Mid-Table, but he has warned players and fans alike to not be surprised if the club is drawn into a relegation scrap. More Players In James Graham (SC): Free (Sunderland) Paul McCrink (SC): Trial (Coventry). Will be assessed With the sudden influx of strikers, Carnie may find that he has too many players who can play up front, but he has revealed that at least one of his front men may drop back into midfield. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bulletsponge Posted May 28, 2004 Share Posted May 28, 2004 EPL Crewe The first thing manager Bulletsponge wanted was a better goalie and wingers. He started by signing top prospect GK Bruno from Sunderland. Bruno isnt readly for the starting job, but will start unless BS can bring in a EPL ready Goalie. Bullets then went on a youth shoping spree, getting DR Marsden from Leeds for 120K. Briotti DC on a free transfer, Pierre Bergman MC from IFK Gotenborg. Then he signed hot prospect Robertson, a MC from Lincoln for 130K. Bulletsponge Loaned winger Ritchie Partridge from Dez's Forrest for the season, with an option to buy. with still over 3.5 million to spend, BS is eyeing a certain striker, and hoping he might get a certain midfielder. the first game of the season was a home draw vs Arsenal, and while a draw against a top team like the gunners was good for Crewe, we were completely outplayed the entire game. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stan petrov Posted May 31, 2004 Share Posted May 31, 2004 Leicester manager welcomes new challenge Anthony Donnachie II was excited today at the prospect of mixing it with the big boys in Englands top league.describing it as an 'amazing adventure to embark on'.His team has seen a few transfers in and out,and with their only left midffielder,Jordan Stewart out for 5 months with a broken leg,immediate replacements were needed.Scott Brown and Ian Murray were both brought in,on loan and bought respectively.Marco Reich was also bought,but will not be fit for another month.He urged his team to gain as many points as possible in the first third of the season,as the Premiership season will take its toll on his small squad.Richard Walker was secured on a permanent deal,and the manager sees his signing as a key one,with central defence now not a problem.The manager also released a short statement this morning,on his aspirations for this year: "We have gone from champions to relegation favourites in the space of a few weeks,albeit a tougher league,Im under no illusions of the task in front of me,it will be hard.My team is confident,eager to impress,and very able to impress and survive,which I will strive for this year,survival.A few more signings which I have lined up,would make us a complete team.In order to survive in the premiership,you gotta be a premiership team.We are now attracting players we could only have dreamed of last year,but the existing players know the score,and they will give their all,Im sure of that.We aspire for survival this year,and to improve ourselvses as a team and as individuals.Leicester are here to stay" more updates soon Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
jan_sørensen Posted June 1, 2004 Share Posted June 1, 2004 Liverpool manager breaks the transfer record The purchase of italien star De rossi for 20m£, was a record breaking purchase, he is now the clubs higest earner aswell, so surely there is a pressure on this player to show good performances of the pitch. We needed a dml and he is the best there is, and then you have to pay, the manager explained to the press. The new season got on the way aswell and performances has been ok, a loss at stamford bridge were expected, it was followed by good performances against Millwall and Leicester, were we won comfortable. Then a poor performance at Wolves saw us draw 2-2, we were unlucky in the end, but we didnt deserve more than a point from that match. Then we beat Gunners at home 1-0 and drew 2-2 at Old trafford. So some of the difficult fixtures are out of the way, and we are in 3rd spot, so it looks good for CL so far. The title is a long shot, cause newcastle seems unbeatable. But if they start to loose we will be there. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
jan_sørensen Posted June 2, 2004 Share Posted June 2, 2004 i would like him to perform ON the pitch aswell Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
DezMW Posted June 2, 2004 Share Posted June 2, 2004 Slight innacuracies about having 3rd position Jan, but never mind Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
jan_sørensen Posted June 3, 2004 Share Posted June 3, 2004 oh no dont tell me you played on and i lost to KUBI.... Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
DezMW Posted June 3, 2004 Share Posted June 3, 2004 No we didn't play on, you just aren't 3rd Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
jan_sørensen Posted June 3, 2004 Share Posted June 3, 2004 great i would rather suffer from memory loss than loose to KUBI... Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Shaun_Kelly Posted June 3, 2004 Share Posted June 3, 2004 Bolton Boss Praises Young Squad Today, Bolton Wanderers manager Shaun Kelly praised his young team for their performances so far in his first full season in charge. Bolton, who sit comfortably in the playoff places after 14 games of the season, have a new look to their team with more and more younger faces on the team sheet. Central midfielder Isaac Osbourne joined the Trotters on loan from Nottingham Forest at the start of the season as part of a deal which saw Nolan head the opposite way for a fee of £5.5m, and has since played a large part in holding the team together. His performances in the middle of the park have led Kelly to claim “He’s a definite talent, and I’ll do my all to keep him at the clubâ€, whilst Forest manager Wilkins was unavailable to comment. Bolton also added ex-Leeds youngster Andrew Kelly to the squad, a new talent who burst onto the scene last season, with a great debut year for Leeds, and when the troublesome debts crept up on the Leeds board again, it was always clear he was heading out of the door, and Shaun Kelly was the first to contact the Yorkshire based club. The real diamond in Kelly’s recent purchases has to be Nigerian superstar Benni Onwuachi. Onwuachi was brought to England to play for Sunderland under the management of Shaun Kelly and when Sunderland headed down to the Football League, Kelly unlocked a minimum fee release clause in his contract that he personally set. “Shaun is one of the best managers in the division, and although I loved every minute at Sunderland, when the opportunity to play under my mentor once again arose, I was only ever coming to Bolton†commented Onwuachi, at his signing on press conference. After a largely impressive start to the season, Bolton, who went 9 games unbeaten, including a 3-1 massacre over Birmingham City, and sat second in the league, finally succumbed under the pressure of Chesterfield, and the losses of Hunt and Onwuachi for the next match proved vital, as the team crumbled against division new-boys Grimsby, in a 4-0 mauling. Kelly claimed “Carnie had a horrible time at Cardiff, I remember one of the greatest football matches I’ve ever managed was against his Cardiff team, but now he’s at Grimsby, and he’s built a good team there, a real blend of youthful talent and experience, and I won’t be surprised to see him reach a playoff place come the end of the seasonâ€. Bolton’s losing stint almost continued, but for a late equaliser at Upton Park, which saw the Trotters slip out of the playoff places. Another draw thanks to a Kevin Davies wonder goal in Kelly’s return to The Stadium Of Light, saw the young Bolton team come under a lot of media criticism, but back to back wins over Bristol City and Preston (in the League Cup) have given Kelly cause to praise his ‘young soldiers’. “We’re in the fourth round of the League Cup, and sitting in the Playoff places†declared Kelly, “I have some brave young soldiers in this club, and they will go far. My chairman said to me in August that he’d love for us to be a Premiership club next year, but I have plenty of time to reach our ultimate goal†he added. If Bolton can continue this rich form, then there’s no reason why they won’t be challenging for one of those illustrious promotion spots in May. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
jan_sørensen Posted June 4, 2004 Share Posted June 4, 2004 its a long and bumpy road... The manager of liverpool is less than happy after the recent matches which have seen us draw 3 league games in a row, but with other results going our way we are still up there not far behind the top teams. The 2-2 against forest was a decent performance though, but again lady unluck showed her ugly tits in the 92th minute were forest got the eaqulizer. It wasnt complete undserved though, and a result that i could live with, just sad to see a victory slip in the last minute. Then it was newcastle at home they were out played for 90 minutes but got a 3-3, frustrating to see the opp score everytime they shoot, but that is not the first time this season, and Kirkland didnt bring his hands that day, and i guess it is hard to save even the easiest of shots then. Next blackburn away 0-0, how we managed not to score is beyond believe, but at least Blackburn didnt score either. We are still in Uefa + league cup, after a lucky 5-1 win against grimsby in the league cup, 5-5 would have said more about the match, grimsby displayed some good football, but there finishing let them down. In the uefa we beat OB of Denmark with ease and are ready to the next round. I dont now what to expect this season to be honest, if we have some luck and score on more of our chances we will win the PL with ease, if matches keeps going like this we will struggle just to make the toto cup. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chilliconcarnie Posted June 5, 2004 Share Posted June 5, 2004 Grimsby Boss gives BBC Interview Mike Carnie. A lad from the streets of Manchester, brought up in a small town in the Midlands, having had a Amateur career in Football cut short with a recurring ankle injury now finds himself in the Grimsby Town hotseat, as manager and now a hero to the town of Grimsby. Carnie started his managerial career at Cardiff City, taking the side to the heights of the play-offs of Division One. Having been beaten by the eventual winners, Norwich City, Carnie then began the task of strengthening his squad. The Chairman and the fans were hugely expectant after a wnderous first season, but it just was not meant to be, as a flurry of bad results after many injuries hit the squad, Carnie soon found his marching orders and found himself looking for a new club. After a brief spell with Gillingham where transfer funds were little to no where to be seen, Carnie succeeded in keeping the club in a respectable position. Reletively shortly after, Carnie found himself with an offer he could not refuse: Grimsby Town were looking for a new manager. The Division Two outfit had been in a bit of a boring state, having finshed either 16th or 17th in all seasons, Carnie quickly looked to reform and mould the squad in his image. But there was a wee bit of a Pause in his rise. Shortly after taking the reigns, Carnie fell ill with a debilitating illness which kept him bed ridden. With the club strapped for cash, the club Assistant manager, Graham Rogers took over the club in Carnie's stead, and kept the club alive in Division Two while Carnie recovered. Carnie finally returned to the club just after the start of the following season, after the club had lost its first two league games, and had been knocked out of the first round of the League Cup. Being bed-ridden did have one advantage however: Carnie was able to take a long hard look at his squad and decide how best to come about with a new strategy to bolster the teams on the pitch performances, despite being three million pounds in debt and missing the pre-season activity where he could search for those players whose contracts had expired. One of Carnie's first actions was to promote under-nineteens starlet Jamie Mullen to the first team squad. Callum Flanagan too was brought up, from the reserve team and Experienced striker Bo Henrikkson was pushed back into the Reserves. Carnie built his team around Mullen, with the inspirational Harpel Singh on the left wing. Alan Pouton formed a partnership with Mullen in the centre of midfield and Liam Nimmo and Michael Boulding alternated to partner Flanagan. Michael Edwards retained the Captaincy and formed an amicable central defensive partnership with new signing Peter Bardsley, the forumer Manchester United youngster who was released by the club. Within five games, the team trully started to gel into the attacking 4-4-2 formation that Carnie brought to the club. Flanagan started to score for fun, with the crowds chanting "Flananagan" (like "Banana") everytime the former Man Utd young striker made contact with the ball. A few newspapers began calling the club the "Man Utd Rejects," with no fewer than three players being former Manchester United Youngsters. But this was soon shrugged off, with every part of the team contributing to the clubs dreams. Carnie was only aiming to push for a play-off place, but this was not meant to be. By the end of November, Grimsby were not approaching 6th place, but they were a mere point behind top-of-the-table Brentford and had a game in hand. Mike Carnie's Grimsby were in a prime position to make a swoop for the title if their run of form continued. And continue it did. Before too long, Grimsby were creating a six-point gap between themselves and the teams fighting for second place, and doing well in the cups. The Vans Trophy saw them doing well at the semi-final stage, moving to the North Final, before making it to the Grand Final. In the FA cup, the small-time side made it to the fifth round, where they were eventually knocked out by Tottenham at White Hart Lane. The Final of the Vans Trophy was not the game we all had expected. Jamie Mullen had been ruled out injured for 2 months and the clubs standards had slipped a little. But with the clubs debts now at only 1.8 million, the clubs fortunes had trully turned around, and with the release of Bo Henrikkson from the wage bill, the club then had enough to offer Mullen a new contract which he promptly signed, ensuring that he woudl spend the next five years at the club. The club lived up to the expectations brought up at Christmas, finishing top of the Second Division and with one hundred points. Fans and board members alike were trully excited by the clubs new found success, with not only promotion to the First Division, but as the Second Division Champions, the FA Vans Trophy Finalists, and finishing the season only 1.2 million in debt. Carnie immediately approached the board to ask about his next season. Without a doubt his future was secure, but the board could not spare any funds for Transfers, or to expand the blubs 9000 seater stadium at Blundell Lane, but they did allow him some extra funds for wages should he find any players he wished to bring in. Within weeks of the end of season, Video tapes and fax messages littered Carnie's cramped office. Immediately Carnie secured an extension to Mike Mckenzie's loan from Nottingham Forrest, for another season with a gentlemans agreement that Carnie could sign the player permanently should Grimsby ever aquire any transfer funds. Carnie also managed to sign Goalkeeper Ward from Nottingham Forrest on a free transfer, and Bosko Balaban from Wimbledon. And with news that Carnie will soon be signing promising talent James Graham from the SUnderland Youth system on a five-year deal, Carnie's prospects for the upcoming season with the likes of Mullen, Flanagan, Singh and Edwards, appear to be promising, despite being favourites for Relegation Summary given before the start of the new season And now, a couple of months into the new season, we catch up with manager Mike Carnie to find out the secrets behind his success. BBC Interviewer: SO Mike Carnie, congratulations on your successes of last season. Mike Carnie: Thank you. It as testimony to the fans and players. The talent was there all along, but it just needed a gentle push. BBC: Yes, and was that push all thanks to you? MC: Well I cannot take all of the credit. All I did was re-arrange the squad and bring in a couple of loan signings. BBC: And what about that Jamie Mullen eh? MC: Yes he is something special. While I was in hospital, I could do little else but watch tapes from the teams' games. And in every Youth and Reserve game I saw him play in, he was just phenominal. How he was missed by Rogers [the assistant manager] I do not know, but I just knew that he had to play in the first team. Callum too. BBC: Yes, he has also shone, being last seasons top scorer and close to the second division top scorer too I believe? MC: Quite right and I believe that had he not been injured for nearly two months, he woudl have taken the crown. A real testimony to the team. BBC: So what news of your signings for this season? MC: Well all the media has been raving about James Graham. And I can't say that I blame them. How no-one else picked up on him I do not know. But we were very pleased at getting him on a free. He has made a huge impact to the side, and should provide a good partnership with Flanagan. BBC: There have been reports saying that Graham is a better player then Flanagan, what do you think? MC: Well in training there is nothing between them. But so far on the pitch Graham appears to be performing better. And Balaban is always making it known that he wants to play so there may be times when I may have to make a crucial decision. BBC: And with your promising start to the season, what has been your impression of your midfield? MC: Well as usual Mullen has been dominating the centre of the field when he has been fit, but I have also been impressed with Graham Kavanagh's performances. So much so that I would ideally like him to partner Mullen. BBC: Ah yes, about Kavanagh. Is it true that he is retiring at the end of the season? MC: That is currently his intention yes. He wants to spend more time with his family. But if we do well this season, I can only hope we will change his mind. BBC: I know this was a controversial subject in the days after the game, but my I ask about your emotions surrounding your League Cup exit? MC: Well it was against Liverpool at Anfield in the third round. we were 3-1 down and Graham seized on a through ball from Nimmo and Nimmo went down, but the ref played the advantage and Graham took his shot, completely clear of the defenders. Kirkland made the save but fumbled it, right into Graham's path. Just as Graham was about to make the second shot, on an open goal, the ref pulled it back to the foul on Nimmo. It would have been 3-2 and a completely different game to what the final score of 5-1 suggested. BBC: And has the FA come to any decision about any discipliniary matters following your outburst? MC: Thankfully not. All I was guilty of was complaining to the Fourth Official, and raising my voice. It was an aggrovating decision in an emotional game for me. BBC: What are your ambitions for the rest of the season? MC: I would like to push for the top of the bottom half of the table, but if we get drawn into a relegation battle, then so be it. But I believe the club has the ability and the desire to do much better. BBC: And what of the pundits predicting a Play-Off battle? MC: Well I managed to get Cardiff to the Play-Offs at the first attempt, but I would not like to speculate too much on that matter. We have had some good results alread this season, beating Birmingham and thrashing my old Sparring Partner Shaun Kelly at Bolton. BBC: Ah yes, the Cardiff - Sunderland match in your second season was apparantly the greatest First Division match up of all time. Have you heard the reports that he has tipped you for Play-Off candidates? MC: Yeah I read the interview he gave, but like I said, I woudl rather not speculate and get hopes built up too much. With the club finally out of debt I would rather just concentrate on consolidating our position in the First Division. BBC: Well thank you very much Mike Carnie and we wish you all the luck in the coming season.[/i] MC: Thank you. Ciao for now! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bulletsponge Posted June 8, 2004 Share Posted June 8, 2004 Crewes EPL Adventure With about a third of the Seasons campaign thru, Crewe sit midtable. If we could score more than 1 goal a game we would be safe from relegation, but 1 goal a game makes it hard to bag wins. Crewe went on an early season win streak, winning 4 league games in a row, but then mediocrity sank back in to thier form, loosing 3 of thier next five, with no wins. Luckily in thier next game against Leicester, the refs we paid of by Bulletsponge, and Crewe won a big game on the raod to Stans club. both Crewes goals were scored on penalties . On another good note, Crewe run in the League Cup continues, with good wins at Swansea, at Leeds, both 6-1 wins. a tough 1-1 penaltie shootout win at Cardiff, even with crewe at the end down to 9 men, kept Crewe in the Cup. Crewe sold unhappy Ward, unused FLC Scott, and a reserve player. Bulletsponge shored up the left (and weakest side) of crewes team. He signed Lee Naylor from Portsmouth, and a good looking ML from kilamarock scotland. teh rest of the season might be a tough slog, but with a bit of luck Crewe might still be standing in the EPL when the dust settles. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
jan_sørensen Posted June 8, 2004 Share Posted June 8, 2004 Liverpool moves up the table After 3 wins in a row in the league we are now 2nd, only 2 points after Nottingham "we were outplayed but won again" Forest... But the top of the league is closer than ever, so anything from the title to 10th is possible, but if we can keep up the good recent performances the title will be more likely, and anything less than CL will be dissapointing. We are still in the league cup after an amazing 5-3 thriller win over wolves. And in the UEFA after an easy 10-0 agg win over some obscure eastern european side. Howewer the manager revealed that the pressure was getting the better of him, so the rest of the season is likely to be handed over to the assistent manager, while Jan The Man recover in the scenic Jutland with cold beers and golf. See you suckers next season was his last words, as he packed the van and drove off.... Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
DezMW Posted June 22, 2004 Share Posted June 22, 2004 So far so good The start to Nottingham Forest's 07/08 season has been their best yet. With the only black spot being a loss to Dagenham & Redbridge in the League Cup 2nd round. The suprising 2-0 Away loss may prove to be a blessing as the Premiership campaign couldn't have gone better. With 14 games gone in the season, Forest find themselves sitting proudly atop of the the pile, occupying 1st in the EPL. This great start to the season has seen some marvellous results. 5-1 away to So'ton early on and more recently the back to back 6-1 and 5-0 home wins against Ipswich and Leicester respectively. Also going well in Europe this term, after negotiating the Intertoto cup with a tricky final against Arsenal in which both the home and away legs. The result was 4-1 on aggregate. The new faces The players were mostly in place but a couple of additions to the side have done the world of good. Papa Waigo (FLC - £1.9m from Verona) The Senegalese attacker spent last season on loan at Man City and caught the managers eye. Started his Forest career slowly but getting better and better each game. sscored 9 goals and 6 assists. Marco Borriello (SC - Free transfer from Milan) The Italian started his season on the sidelines missing preseason and the Intertoto cup run with through injury, but made an instant impact, scoring on his debut against Aston Villa. Has since scored 7 more goals and made 8 goals for team mates. Kevin Nolan (DMC - £5.5m from Bolton) The English midfielder has slowly wrestled the starting spot in the centre of the park from established Australian Wehrmann. Also scored on his debut against Aston Villa. The deal saw Isaac Osbourne go the otherway on a season long loan. David Molina (D/MLC - Free transfer from Real Madrid) Plucked from the Spanish giant's B team. This useful left back is very strong and versatile, making up for his shortfalls in technical ability with a good footballing brain and physical attributes. Will no doubt be given the chance to develop and show he has the capability for the squad, will however be used sparingly. Still a long way to go, but closing in on new year top of the table has given cause for hope from the Forest Faithful. Is this the season it all comes together. If there's one word of warning for the manager then its this: The longer we stay at the top, the more we'll be expected to win it!! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chilliconcarnie Posted June 29, 2004 Share Posted June 29, 2004 Grimsby Settle in the First Division Grimsby Town have settled firmly into the English second tier, after a good set of results. Despite being knocked out of the FA cup by Stoke, the Mariners have settled into a mid-table position, with star men Mullen and Singh playing key roles for the club. Callum Flanagan has suffered an injury, but is expected back soon. James Graham has firmly established himself into the first team and Bosko Balaban has established a fighting spirit for the first team. The club has firmly secured their financial problems, now not being in debt at all and steadily building up a cash reserve. Rumours of Grimsby Town Manager Mike Carnie searching for a new club have been strictly denied by the managers agent, but the newspapers headlines are rife with the reports. Grimsby Town will soon be facing Stoke City in the league as their campaign soon will gather momentum... Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Shaun_Kelly Posted June 29, 2004 Share Posted June 29, 2004 Tasty Trotters on Course for Astonishing Triumph Shaun Kelly’s Bolton have continued their rich vein of form after the return of their saviour. Kelly, who was prevented from managing the Wanderers after suffering a horrible in-growing toe nail late in 2007, returned to take over the reigns at the Reebok Stadium, for the clash with West Ham United which ended in a draw. After Phil Brown’s 2 month stint as top dog at Bolton, he achieved phenomenal results, propelling The Trotter’s into top place in Division One. Kelly’s return was met with mixed emotions by faithful Boltonians, as they were happy to have their manager back, but were sad to see Brown’s term come to an end. After what seemed to be a let down of a first match back for Kelly, he went on to win the next four straight games. Starting with his return to the Reebok, playing hosts to Chesterfield. Tomi Petrescu netted the only goal on the 72nd minute mark, after what was a constant barrage of attacks on Andy Richmond’s goal. His third match back was against old rival Mike Carnie’s Grimsby. After a disappointing hammering earlier in the season at Blundell Park, Kelly, and Bolton were out to prove their worth. A 3-0 win did exactly that, and kept them on course to win the championship with goals coming from captain Nikos Dabizas, experienced left winger Boudewijn Zenden, and flavour of the month on form striker Moukouri. Moukouri then went on to bag a hat-trick in the emotion-filled match against Sunderland, which also ended 3-0. Kelly was cheered by the Mackem fans, and repaid their gratitude with claps, and praise after the match. The fourth and final match of the winning streak saw the return of Benjamin ‘Benni’ Onwuachi, the player Kelly fought hard to bring with him to the Reebok Stadium. A ten goal thriller saw Tomi Petrescu, Moukouri and ‘Benni’ Onwuachi each achieve a brace, as well as Kevin Davies’ 94th minute settler. Bristol City managed to pull 3 goals back however, and constantly kept up the challenge against Bolton, but the Trotters’ attack force overcame on the day. A 0-0 home draw with Wimbledon was a minor set-back, but when Fulham came to the Reebok, critics were settled with a 2-1 win, with the goals coming from Kevin Davies and Benjamin Onwuachi. With 7 games left to play in Division One, Bolton sit comfortably 8pts clear at the top of the table, only one win away from securing at least a playoff place. Things look good for the Northen whites, but potential downfalls come in the shape of Middlesbrough, Bradford City, Barnsley and Reading. Whether or not Bolton can hold onto their top spot, and make it to the 11th of May resting on top of the table, will be decided within the next four or five matches, and all signals currently point to a successful outcome. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bulletsponge Posted June 30, 2004 Share Posted June 30, 2004 The Streaky season continues Crewe got into a bad slump, loosing about 7 league games in a row, until beating ManUre at home. Crewe got eliminated from the league cup and we were having a horrible time scoring. to make things worse Crewe was slipping down the table, and were only a few points from the relegation zone. Then for some strange reason Crewe started to play like the Crewe of last year, winning 4 and drawing 2 of their next 6 games. Boss Hogg lead the way with about 9 goals in that streak. On the personel side of the club, young Ross Smith just got back from injury when he substained a torn groin. he claims it was when he was working out, but ive never seen a workout in a jacuzzi with a young chick before. maybe i need to workout more myself . Stephen Murray, the AML from Scotland, has had a rough time in the english game, only recently getting his game up to standard. Lee Naylor has been solid in his Left full back spot for my club. I bought an African from Rwanda, Ait-Mesghat a amlc 21 yo, who seems to be a potential star. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chilliconcarnie Posted June 30, 2004 Share Posted June 30, 2004 Carnie leads Grimsby to a boring run Grimsby Town, the Division One newcomers have experienced a flurry of unexciting matches, where only 3 out of the last 11 matches have resulted in a non drawing situation, of which 2 were defeats. A highly anticipated match against Bolton, where in the earlier fixture saw Grimsby run out 4-0 winners, saw Bolton return the favour and trounce the Mariners, where the most exciting part of the match was where James GRaham made a run from his make-shift Defensive Midfield position, to the right flank and send in a cross for Liam Nimmo, which was saved brilliantly by the Bolton 'keeper. The highlight of the last eleven matches however, was the return of the Mariners prized asset, Callum Flanagan from injury, who saw himself net twice on his return and set up the other goal in the 3-0 win. Graham Ward and Mike Edwards have also seen good performances. James Graham on the other hand has suffered a dip in form, despite his early season exploits and Carnie voiced out about his disappointment in a post-match interview (read: critisism). With Grimsby slowly dropping points and places, the now find themselves a mere 11 points away from relegation. On the positive side, they are only 16 points away from the play offs. This is going to be a tightly contested mid table scrap for the Mariners, provided they return to their Early season form. This has been a Sky Sports News update from me, Michelle Bobby Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
DezMW Posted July 1, 2004 Share Posted July 1, 2004 <BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>By KUBI: Ipswich heading for Europe after a impressive run of undefeated games Ipswichs Manager KUBI told the press, that the european challenge is something he is looking forward. But he also said that a lot of things did go well until now, "but we all know **** could happen, like England in the EURO 2004". Blaming the referee isnt the best thing you can do as manager. "Normally I dont congratulate the referee if we win a game, so why should I blame him, even if he is blind, lame and has a business card from the opposite chairman in his pocket." KUBI expressed his pleasure to work with young players like McAuley "one of the biggest talents in the Premier League, I think". Thats another reason because Ipswich should try to get at least one of the Uefa-cup places. "Its not easy to hold such a diamont at a club like Ipswich." But there is no doubt that KUBI will develop other young players, as he already did with the kind of Gunnarsson, Downing or 16 year old midfielder Thomson, a player he spotted on the bench of a lower league team. "We have also Hovland with a great potential". And the next season has already gone underway with the signing of Babangida, who was "the best loan player we ever had" and Czech striker Milan Baros, one of the heroes of the EURO 2004. "The reality lacks the pace, so we are still in 2004, but the future is Ipswich, what better can we say?" <HR></BLOCKQUOTE> Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bulletsponge Posted July 13, 2004 Share Posted July 13, 2004 The new season Crewe got a large transfer budget to play with. But they got bolstered with new bosman signings. J Euell, gk Ian Walker and former Ipswich MC Karagounis signed with the team. also signing for over 3 million was Danish international star Johan Absolonsen. Crewe also got former Dez defender Darren Purse for free. Crewe then decided to offload some now useless players, selling some players. there will likely be more players getting the heave ho latter in the season. The Boss Bulletsponge then concentrated on youngsters, buying A Winter a dmc for some ll club, and getting the sought after MR Alan Brown, who at the age of 17 is already getting into games. The season started off good, with 1 win and 2 draws. but then Crewe lost 3 and only drawed 1 game Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bulletsponge Posted July 13, 2004 Share Posted July 13, 2004 Midseason Madness Crewe was playing Liverpool next, and Crewe were slipping down the table fast. Jans 'pool humiliated Crewe 9-1, the only bright spot was Alan Brown scoring his first goal with Crewe. Crewe slipped to 16th place and were just about to slid into an abyss, when they finnaly showed signes of life. winning their next 2 games against rivals Bolton and winning at Portsmouth. Crewe then drew against rival Leiceter and Preston. Crewe needed to bolster thier attack when England international Boss Hogg got injured for several months. luckily he found Colombian rissing star Hildalgo for a mere 2 million. Crewe Boss will be looking to add Top notch talented Defenders if he can find them. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
jan_sørensen Posted July 14, 2004 Share Posted July 14, 2004 Jan the man returns from holiday After a good long vacation, jan the man has now returned to liverpool with a more relexed attitude and a better golfswing... I would like to thank the assistent for his excellent work during my absence, he has guided the team into the CL and managed to extend most contracts at reasonable wages. My only complaint was the lack of squad rotation, meaning that a few players didnt play a single match and were very unhappy. I took over the team in 5th place in the new season, and a couple of good wins brought the team to 2nd place so i am almost there. Surely a challenge for the title is a must this season. Things are going good in europe the team was drawn in a very easy group along with feyennoord, rapid and kiev, i would expect nothting less than 1st palce in that group. On the transfer side a shock deal will see Gerrard move to **** for 25m, he really hasnt been performing, players like Welsh and Parker has performed better in midfield, and they deserve to be in the team so 25m for a player that wasnt my 1st choice is a good deal. But i might regret if **** gets the best out of him, but only time will tell. I am looking for a couple of very good dcs cause its a bit dodgy in the back 4 if injuries strike. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bulletsponge Posted July 15, 2004 Share Posted July 15, 2004 Jan strikes critical blow to Crewe with the new transfer window opening, Jan signed Crewe top performer Johan Absolonsen for his minnimum release of 6.25 million. Johan was just bought for 2 million at the end of last season and was critical to the Crewes hopes of surviving the season. to make matters worse the Crewe is slipping down the table. 2 straight losses to Man U and WBA crash crewe to 16th place, only 4 pts clear of relegation. Luckily Crewe rose to the occasion against thier home crown against mighty Arsenal. beating Dez's boys 4-1 on only 4 shots on goal was a real boost to manager Bulletsponges moral. Crew followed with a loss to Nott forest, and a good draw against Chelsea. Next game was against relegation zone Ipswich, a game Crewe should win. but like the craptacular team they are currently playing like, they loose 2-0 and drop back down to 16th in the EPL. Bulletsponge was so angry with the loss, he imediatly transfer listed MR Bergman and star srtiker Ashton, calling him an "underacheiving tw*t". Luckily new signings finnaly arived. colombian S Hildalgo and 16 yo amc Ward. And they had a chance to prove themselves against Leiceter in the FA cup game. Crewe new stud Hildalgo showed his stuff with 2 goals against Stans boys, leading Crewe to the start of a hopefully better 2nd half. Things to look for in 2nd half Crewe seems to be deep enough in the attack to survive the relegation battle, with good young talent leading the way. but without a doubt the defence is in need of a top of the line Defender. Bulletsponge is looking to add a South American defender for most of his 9 million in the Transfer kitty. it will be hard considering Crewe is still the outhouse of the EPL, and Liverpools Jan has been on a major spending binge, buying what seems to be everone on my shortlist. he even put a 17 million $ bid on Diego, thats as much as Crewes whole bank account. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stan petrov Posted July 17, 2004 Share Posted July 17, 2004 Leicester get tactical Anthony Donnachie II looked a happy man at yesterdays press conference,unveiling his 3 new signings which he described 'the players which are the difference in us being a 1st division team,to a premiership team. Bobo Balde,Victor Sikora were joined by 'the anchorman' Arnasson as the triplet to secure their place amongst the midtable cluster of teams,according to the manager. Donnachie II stated his new tactic would be built around the rock solid defence now created,in Balde,Bernsten and Scimeca,and the anchorman in midfield,Arnnason.The team is looking accomplished,with young starlet and full England international Neil Dobson up front leading the attack.. Leicester,since changing tactic,have remained unbeaten in the league,which includes games Vs. high flyers Aston Villa and Manchester United. Donnachie II released this statement: " We now have the team,that will take us forward.Bobo Balde signifies our intentions,we are here to stay.He will solidify us at the back,and we shall finally lose our tag of relegation favourites" Bobo Balde's agent also released a statement: "Bobo is pleased to be here.He wants to finish his career here,and win trophies with Leicester.He is pleased with the setup,the manager,and the players around him,and will give 100%" more updates soon Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chilliconcarnie Posted July 20, 2004 Share Posted July 20, 2004 Carnie vows Progress Mariners' boss Mike Carnie made a shock statement earlier today as he and his team prepare for their match at Selhurst Park against Crystal Palace. Fourth placed Grimsby Town are only five points off of the top spot and Carnie is looking upbeat. "I believe that we have a team fully capable of mounting a serious title challenge. Players like Flanagan, Mullen and Graham have improved their game immensley since I took the reigns, and bringing in Ricardo Vaz Te from Bolton this season has given us the dynamic edge we need to make a push up the table. Last season was a good season for us. We were under no pressure to succeed and it was a great experience for all those at the club. Even with no funds for players I managed to bring in the players we needed to cement our hold on our status in the League. With the funds I was able to bring in Vaz Te, and I have been able to keep players on at the club. Can we finish top? Yes we can. And I believe we will. The club has been building a steady bank balance which is increasing all the time. The club has been making a profit since I joined and I invisage that it will continue to do so, as will the clubs success." Only half-way through the season, the Mariners' recent form will have to continue if the club are to reach to Carnie's dream. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
DezMW Posted July 20, 2004 Share Posted July 20, 2004 [Get with the times: A year in the life of A documentary airing on BBC1 next Tuesday will look at the incredible rollercoater year of top Premiership football manager, Dez Wilkins We've had a sneak peak of the documentary and were suitably impressed. Exploring all avenues of his managerial style, from how he deals with with training to handling the media spotlight. Developing the young talent and dealing with the millionnaire players. It really does make interesting viewing. Wilkins shot to fame as the unknown given his chance, He took the reins at Nottingham Forest and guided them the the 1st Division Championship in his first season. then making steady progress in the top flight and finally qualifying for Europe 2 seasons runnig. The shock came in the 2007/08 season when after an superb tart before Xmas Forest found themselve top of the table going into new year. Looking strong and in a real position to challenge for the title when the man who had lead them there walked away. Where did he go? He travelled south to the lucrative post as Arseanl manager. The Gunners had gone into decline in recent years under the leadership of Claudio Ranieri. They turned to Wilkins as a potential saviour. This is where the journey of the year long doccumentary really starts. Some of the things that are revealled; his tactical talks and team talks are a real insight into the psyche of the new breed of managers that have emerged in recent hears. Compelling viewing, a must watch for all football fans and indeed the psychologist amoungst us too. ***** (5 Stars) Source - The Guardian "Month" Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
chrisfraser Posted July 20, 2004 Share Posted July 20, 2004 Sacked! Well, there are reasons for everything. Apparently doing well one year isn't enough! Playoffs achieved and a hairs breadth from promotion, 2007/08 was a very good season. Sometimes that just makes the future even harder. I will be honest, 2008 didn't end well, it didn't really even end medium. Some might say complete and utter failure, but they are just softening the blow. A fortune was wasted on wages, big names like Francis Jeffers taking home big wages but delivering small performances, the same accusation could be levelled at a lot of the Barnsley team. I was responsible for these signings, and perhaps it is right that I fell on my sword.............. except what actually happened is I was stabbed brutally from behind, sacked at my 1st meeting with the board for months, don't people get warnings any more? I just assumed cruising towards relegation would be good enough! Anyway, times move on and so will I, anyone give me a lift to Accrington? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
jan_sørensen Posted July 20, 2004 Share Posted July 20, 2004 Liverpool remain in contention for the title After a crisis around new year with 4 winless matches the luck has turned at Anfield, after a good run of victories, we are now top of the PL. We are still in the FA Cup and very Close to the League Cup final this is a season were we could win it all, but also walk away with nothing. And the chanllenge of mighty Real Madrid awaits in the CL knock out phase. The latest run of victories were even more impressive considering the tactical changes that have been made. From a 4-3-3 to a 4-2-3-1/4-4-1-1 depending on the wingers position. This has proved a good tactic so far, but it was an expensive change as wingers wasnt a part of my previous squad and i didnt really have a good AMC. So the wallet was opened and in came Absalonsen, Delgado, Agahowa and Diego 3 versatile wingers and a world class AMC, it doesnt get much better than that, they all have their best years ahead of them and i am sure they will be an impact on the Liverpool team for years to come. The total price of these 4 were close to 46m £, so to get some money in i offloaded Melbranque and Heskey. So finances are still looking good and there is enough money for further improvements next season, but with a closed transferdeadline no more new faces will arrive this year, and to be honest they shouldt be needed there is at least 2 quality players to choose from in each position. It would be a huge dissapointment if this season doesnt result in some silverware. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Treble99 Posted July 22, 2004 Share Posted July 22, 2004 Boro fans buoyant after Grzesiak blisters them to promotion candidates Middlesbrough fans today spoke out at their delight at the progress their team has been making and the majority feel it's Grzesiak's managerial strategies that have totally revitalised the Teesiders. Although there was a great deal of uncertainty when Grzesiak was appointed the manager, he's been quick to win over the people who thought a more experienced manager would have suited the bill better. The profound leap was met by plaudits from everyone associated with Boro, Grzesiak took charge when Middlesbrough lay a mere 13th in The Championship and since then has seen them rise to 5th position and solidify a firm spot for a play-off place...or perhaps more. Grzesiak is delighted with his start at Middlesbrough, but admits he's finding it quite tough. "Obviously I'm very pleased to have got Boro in to this great position but I'm working with very limited finances and a generally small squad which is means we are treading on thin ice and relying on our big players not to pick up injuries. Marsh was signed for 900k, but that was mostly instalments so I'm very pleased with that coup." Grzesiak's first defeat as Boro boss came at St Mary's where his side were taught a lesson or two by the title favourites Southampton. They romped to a 4-1 victory, but the manager plays down a terrible performance. "In all honesty, I thought 4-1 was quite a flattering score-line. We missed a few chances, and decided to throw everything at them towards the end, and they hit us on the break. We could have got something if we had took our chances but it just wasn't to be. The defeat had to come sometime, 14 games undefeated was a great little run, but we knew it was always going to be hard at St Mary's. Despite the relatively tough upcoming fixtures for Grzesiak's side, he is optimistic that they will be in a similar position, if not higher when the seasons draws to a close. "The main objective is to be in a play-off position at the end of the 42nd league match. First or second isn't far from our grasp, but I don't wish to put that type of pressure on my players and I'm confident we can continue and re-establish our good run of form until the close of this season. Obviously, everyone at the club wants to be in the Premiership next season, and I'll certainly do everything I can to ensure that happens, but if we miss out it will not be a total disappointment. We would benefit financially being promoted to the Premier League as everyone is aware what great rewards are at stake from doing so. We'll keep our heads high and continue to work hard." Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Treble99 Posted July 22, 2004 Share Posted July 22, 2004 That should be *46th league match* Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Archived
This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.