REAL MADRID: STEVEN GERRARD ON THEIR AGENDA?

A Big Win For L.A.

The Lakers won their 40th game of the season last night with a 110-109 win over the Boston Celtics. This was a tough one. The game constantly went back and forth with the Lakers taking control early and the Celtics charging back. The game had a playoff edge where every possession counted and each team hustled for every loose ball. It looked like tough sledding for the Lakers early on when Lamar Odom picked up 2 quick fouls at the beginning of the game. But the Lakers got solid minutes from their bench including Josh Powell. The Lakers were able to get contributions from everyone and escape with a 1 point! win at the Garden.

Kobe Bryant worked hard for his 26 point, 10 rebound effort. Pau Gasol chipped in 24 points and 14 rebounds for his third straight double double since the Bynum injury. Lamar Odom was a bright spot and produced his first 20 point game since being inserted in the starting lineup. Ray Allen led Boston with 22 and Paul Pierce added 21. The Lakers played great team defense last night against the Celtics big three. They were extremely physical with the Celtics, clawed and fought all game long. Odom made Garnett work hard on the defensive end and Garnett ended up fouling out i! n the 4th quarter. The Lakers can beat anyone in the NBA when they play defense like they did tonight.

The Lakers snapped the Celtics 12 game winning streak and are now 5-0 on their current road streak. The Lakers will finish up their road trip with their next game Sunday afternoon against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Aaron Heifetz upset with Hope Solo!

She (Solo) was honest, fair, and to the point, and in my opinion, quite brave to even do the interview when she was clearly devastated at the team's result. Even more interestingly, as she walked away from the interview, she again spun on her heels and said to Aaron Heifetz: "Don't you ever tell me what interviews I can do."

Even when the Canadians were unexpectedly knocked out in group stage against the Aussies, many of them were willing to face the music, not just with us, but with the Australian media as well.
I think the U.S. could learn a thing or two from the Canadians' team management.

UNC 1, New Zealand WNT 0

UNC won 1-0 with a Jaime Gilbert winner 15 minutes from time against New Zealand.
New Zealand produced a gritty performance and came within inches of taking the lead in the 12th minute, as Marlies Oostdam rattled the crossbar with a dipping 25-yard drive which drew the biggest roar of the day from the 1500-strong crowd.

US U-20s to face Germany

Jess Rostedt' 61st minute goal was enough as the US beat France 1-0 and will face Germany in quarterfinals of the U-20 World Cup.

Honda and Button expect more competitive in Monza

Jenson Button is expecting his Honda Racing team to be more competitive than in previous races at this weekend's Italian Grand Prix.

The Japanese squad, who have scored just one point in a dismal season so far, enjoyed a productive test at Monza last week, leaving Button encouraged about his prospects for the weekend.

"We tested here last week for four days which went well despite the unusually poor weather. We ran the car in the unique set-up required for Monza with a lower downforce setting than usual and it performed well," the British driver said in a team preview.

"The race will be tough however I expect our performance to be more competitive than some of the recent races which gives cause for optimism."

The team's senior technical director Shuhei Nakamoto echoed Button's comments, saying he expects the team to have a stronger race pace.

"Testing at Monza last week in preparation for the Italian Grand Prix has enabled us to find a good bal! ance for the car around this high-speed circuit after running through different wing, tyre and chassis set-up options," said Nakamoto.

"Monza's many straights will be a challenge for us, however as in Turkey, we expect to be stronger in the race than in qualifying, enabling us to battle strongly with our mid-grid rivals."

Former Red: Mascherano deserved it

Liverpool have until the end of today to appeal Javier Mascherano's charge of improper conduct.
The Argentine midfielder was punished by the FA for his sending off at Manchester United on Sunday.
Mascherano needed team-mates to drag him off the pitch after disputing ref Steve Bennett's decision.
And former Liverpool star Phil Neal told Sky Sports News he deserves to be punished.

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If you missed it...

Du Toit gets her ticket to Beijing

Capetonian Natalie du Toit has qualified for the Beijing Olympics (not the Paralympics).
Du Toit was an exceptional swimmer before she lost her leg in a road accident in 2001, but since then she's never looked back. Now she'll be able to fulfill her dream of participating at the Olympic Games.

She qualified by finishing fourth in the 10 kilometre race at the Open Water World Championships in Seville, Spain. The 24-year-old clocked a time of 2 hours 2 minutes and 7.8 seconds, only 5.1 seconds behind winner Larisa Ilchenko of Russia.

The 10 kilometer open water swim will make its Olympic debut at the Beijing Games in August.

De Villiers Shows His Hand

Springbok coach Peter de Villiers has given us a good indication of what his starting lineup will look like for the first Tri-Nations match against the All Blacks at the Westpac stadium next month.

De Villiers has recalled the "naughty" Ricky Januarie to the starting lineup for the second test against Wales to partner Butch James at halfback while he's gone for two Sharks props Beast Mtawarira and BJ Botha. World Cup legend Victor Matfield returns to lock alongside Bakkies Botha.

On the bench, Danie Rossouw makes way for Ryan Kankowski while the talented Frans Steyn gets a nod ! on the bench. The position in which the 21 year old is sent on will be where coach de Villiers will play him for the rest of the season. The popular theory is that Steyn will be brought on at outside centre in the second half to partner Jean de Villiers but it could also be possible that Steyn will replace Butch James at flyhalf with Percy Montgomery taking over from Conrad Jantjes at fullback.

In the long term, Luke Watson's future still looks uncertain with the return of Schalk Burger imminent. If the Stormers hardman puts in another stellar performance at the weekend, the coach will be left with no choice but to move Watson to number eight at the expense of Pierre Spies.

Interesting times ahead.

The Springbok team to play Wales at Loftus:

15. Conrad JANTJES; 14. Tonderai CHAVHANGA; 13. Adrian JACOBS; 12. Jean DE VILLIERS;11. Bryan HABANA; 10. Butch JAMES; 9. Ricky JANUARIE; 8. Pierre SPIES; 7. Juan SMITH; 6. Luke WA! TSON; 5. Victor MATFIELD; 4. Bakkies BOTHA; 3. BJ BOTHA; 2. Jo! hn SMIT (c);1. Tendai MTAWARIRA

16. Bismarck DU PLESSIS; 17. Gurthrö STEENKAMP; 18. Andries BEKKER; 19. Ryan KANKOWSKI; 20. Bolla CONRADIE; 21. Francois STEYN; 22. Percy MONTGOMERY

Beijing MPC Officially Opens

The Main Press Center (MPC) for the Beijing Olympics formally opened today and will follow a 24-hour operation schedule between July 25 and August 27 for media crews from around the world, Director of the MPC and IBC operation team, Sha Wanquan, told reporters.The International Broadcast Center (IBC), nearby the MPC, also began operation today.

With a floor space of 62,000 square meters, the MPC is the largest media center in Olympic history. Located within reach of the "Bird's Nest", "Water Cube", National Indoor Stadium, the Olympic Fencing Hall, the Olympic Village, Media Village and other venues, the MPC allows for more convenient news coverage and easy access by journalists.

The two media hotels are conjoined to the MPC, allowing for direct flow between media work space and living quarters, setting a precedent for the Olympic Games.

With 971 workstations, the press work room is also the largest in Olympic history. Among these workstatio! ns, 680 are equipped with electrical and network interface features to provide media crews with optimal communication capabilities. An additional 206 workstations will be available for photographers. W-LAN and laptop locks will accompany all stations for user convenience. To date a record 144 media organizations have rented 110 offices at the facility.

All Blacks Thump Samoans

The All Blacks put up a ton in their midweek test against Samoa in New Plymouth today. New Zealand scored 101 points to 14 - a record winning margin against their island rivals. As the score suggests, it was a one sided match which the All Blacks dominated. They scored a total of 15 tries including a penalty try, while Samoa managed to carry the ball over the try-line twice.

I always feel that the All Blacks Haka is the most fearsome and today was no different. Kevin Mealamu led an intense Ka Mate Kora after the Samoan equivalent, which just not have the same violent intent. Maybe that set the tone of the match, which started at a blistering pace and continued at breakneck speed.

Graham Henry's side seemed to be able to score at will and Mils Muliana scored a hat-trick as New Zealand launched wave after wave of attack against the weak Samoans. Conrad Smith and Richard Kahui got two each as the All Blacks preyed on an extremely poor d! efense. Almost everyone got in on the act, as it rained tries from the opening gambit. Adam Thomson, Jimmy Cowan, Stephen Donald, Ali Williams, Jerome Kaino, Isaia Toeava and Piri Weepu all got their names on the score-sheet. Dan Carter kicked six conversions and Donald got seven.

For Samoa, tries came from Uale Mai and Alafoti Faosiliva. Mai and Roger Warren successfully converted.

The win was expected, but the ruthless nature of the All Blacks side will worry the Wallabies. The two old enemies meet in Sydney next Saturday in the deciding Tri-Nations match. Winner takes all, and if New Zealand play this kind of rugby against an Australian side that let in 53 points against the Springboks, then Wallaby coach Robbie Deans better do something to get his players in the right frame.

F1 Drivers Brace for Singapore Challenge

The Formula One calender starts it's fly-away leg of the season in the Singapore metropolis this weekend for the first ever night race. It's a a street circuit, the third of the season, and with the race being held at night at a track none of the drivers have ever seen, there will be quite a few challenges to consider.

The first potentially tricky obstacle the drivers face is the artificial light which will illuminate the circuit. That coupled with rain could give off an almighty glare, making visibility poor which could potentially lead to a few collisions. Drivers have only ever used video-game like simulators to get a feel of what the circuit looks like from the cockpit but it's obviously no replacement for the real thing.

Time management will be another problem for the drivers. The race will start at 8pm Singapore time (11am South African time) so the teams will have an unusually long day. Personnel will have to wake up around midday and go to bed at around 3 o' clock the next morning. But the drivers themselves don't seem too fussed about the timing issue. David Coulthard from Red Bull Racing says he'll be trying out the club scene and stocking up on carrots to improve his vision at night. The same goes for Rubens Barrichello from Honda who says he'll be pursuing a lively night life.

The McLaren team have ordered the hotel staff to black out all windows and hold all calls to the team until the afternoon.

Tyre manufacturer Bridgestone will also be doing its bit to make ! visibility easier for the fans. They'll be putting reflective ! lines on their tyres to make it easier for viewers to differentiate between the different compounds.

The free practice sessions happen on Friday with qualifying on Saturday and the race on Sunday.

Ajax Skipper Eyes Crunch Week

Ajax Cape Town captain Brett Evans says it's an interesting week in the ABSA Premiership, but he's keeping one eye firmly on the Telkom Knockout this coming weekend. Ajax face Wits at Athlone Stadium tomorrow night and play Free State stars in the Telkom semi-finals in East London on Sunday.

Ajax are currently fourth in the league and Evans says a lot can change this week.

"It's going top be a very interesting couple of games...obviously all the teams in the top five or six are playing against each oth! er tomorrow night. If we can continue with our run and get a good result tomorrow night, obviously leading up to the cup will be great for us."

Evans says with just three points separating Ajax from log leaders Golden Arrows, they're in a good position.

"I think our main goal and focus will be to stay in the top two or three. Even if we can get the top position by December, we know we can get a good run after that."

"We don't want to get left behind. Obviously it's a very tough ask, coming into next year, with ten or fifteen games to go, to make those points."

Meanwhile, Evans believes the door is still wide open for him to make Joel Santana's Confederations Cup team. The Ajax left back has dropped down the pecking order recently, behind Tsepo Masilela and Bradley Carnell, but he says hopefully the coach will recognise his attacking ability.

"Obviously the coach's mind is not made up. It will be up until the last few we! ek's before the Confederations Cup, when he decides on his fin! al squad . You know I try and push forward as much as possible, and banging in one or two goals has always helped my cause."

The Blues get down to business

The Auckland Blues have ascended on Cape Town. The New Zealand side are in the city ahead of their Super 14 game against the Stormers at the weekend.

The Blues braved the summer heat as they began preparations for their third S14 game of the season. The Kiwi side were made to run around the field, while chasing one another with pool noodles in an effort to get their blood flow pumping!

Meanwhile Chairperson of the All Blacks Supporters Club of South Africa was in atten! dance. He says one of the main reason he and his organisation back one of the Springboks biggest rivals is due to the fantastic brand of rugby the All Blacks play.

Man U on the brink of winning title

Soccer Analyst Shaun Bartlett says he is expecting a wounded Arsenal to come out against Manchester United on Saturday.

The Gunner's have suffered two big losses to the Red Devils in the Champions League semi-final as well as to their London rivals Chelsea in the league last weekend.

United only need a point to claim the title for a third year running.

Bartlett says it's going to be tough call to work out what Sir Alex Ferguson's game plan will be.

"It's going to be an interesting game I am not sure if United are going to are just going to play for a point and get the title. They could go for all three points and jeopardize losing the game which could possibly happen with Arsenal's attacking players."


Meanwhile on the other end of the table, Newcastle are not in the bottom three of the Premier League however they are still in danger of being relegated.

They face Fulham at St Jame! s' Park on Saturday, the Magpies will be looking for nothing less than a victory to increase their chances of remaining in top flight football.

Bartlett says should they get the drop it is unlikely manager Alan Shearer will stay on at the club.

"I don't think he will take the challenge to coach in the Championship, I think you need a coach with a lot more experience to get the club back to the Premiership. You need to do this in one season otherwise after the parachute payment you get from the Premier League you would struggle financially."

Formula One in economic free fall?

Formula One teams seem prepared to turn the series into a standardized series in the mold of NASCAR and the IRL as a way to make immediate cost reductions amidst a global economic crisis. In an autosport.com article out today we have the following:

"FIA president Max Mosley has ramped up efforts to bring F1's costs down amid fears that the sport is unsustainable in its current guise. He is due to meet with the Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA) after the Chinese Grand Prix to discuss an urgent plan of attack. And although he and F1 commercial rights holder Bernie Ecclestone have floated the concept of a standard engine, sources have indicated that several manufacturers would pull out of F1 if such a rule was introduced. However, despite the reluctance for a single-specification power unit, teams do appear willing to support the concept of introducing more standard parts - such as brakes or gearbox." ht! tp://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/71236

BMW and Honda have been very vocal against having standard engines although both manufacturers support reducing costs and seem ready to compromise with some standardization of the engine.

Money will change any plan; even in Formula One. The FIA and F1 wanted to keep technology and technology development a centerpiece of the sport as that pillar was supported overwhelmingly by F1 fans in a 2006 survey the FIA administered. At the time, Max Mosley said, "we recognize their (fans) view that technology is important but that the right balance with driver skill must be achieved and that improving car design to encourage overtaking must be one of our priorities. We are now working very closely with the teams and manufactures to ensure that we encourage the introduction of new energy efficient technology which will not only help to improve the show but will also have a direct environmental relevance for the ! motoring public."

They are delivering on the techno! logy tha t have direct environmental relevance through KERS and have done some things with car design that may faciliate overtaking. Nevertheless, the need to do some more hatchet work on Formula One budgets seems very alarming. So, given the nature of the financial crisis and the easy willingness of teams to standardize the sport, one must ask the questions how 'liquid' is Formula One? How damaged is Formula One by this global crisis? One of F1's shareholders, Lehman Brothers (part of the CVC group that owns 16.8% of F1) filed for bankruptcy in September. So, how shaky are the other shareholders? Below is the link to the Business posts for Formula One America in which some of these issues are discussed.

http://formulaoneamerica.blogspot.com/search/label/Business%2FTech

Kuwaiti Royal Family Keen Viewers At Chelsea vs Liverpool

The Kuwaiti royal family, long since linked with a move to buy an English soccer club, attended Chelsea's match with Liverpool this weekend, which ended in a 2-0 victory for the London team.

Though Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is not believed to be seeking any investment in his team, the same cannot be said of Liverpool's co-owners, Tom Hicks and George Gillett, who have appointed Bank of America Merrill Lynch and Rothschild to advise on possible investments.

Last week Prince Faisal bin Fahd bin Abdullah, a member of the ruling family of Saudi Arabia, claimed that he was close to agreeing a deal to invest in Liverpool. He attended the match against Hull last weekend to discuss tie-ups between F6, his investment company, and Gillett's Richard Petty Motorsports Nascar franchise, as well as the possibility of establishing Liverpool-supported youth academies in Saudi Arabia.

This weekend a! lso saw more controversy for Liverpool, with Gillett reportedly criticising both Hicks and coach Rafa Benitez in an interview with a representative of the fans' union Spirit of Shankly.

Under-Pressure Rafa Benitez To Play Strongest Possible Liverpool Lineup Against Lyon

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has admitted that he must play his strongest lineup against Lyon, despite what is shaping up to be a must-win game against Manchester United next weekend.

The early-season optimism at Anfield is fading fast, with the Reds having already lost four of their nine Premier League matches this season, as well as suffering a surprise loss to Fiorentina in the Champions League.

That reversal to La Viola means that Benitez cannot afford to rest his key players in their next European outing against French club Lyon - who are sitting comfortably on top of their group with a maximum six points.

United, on the other hand, have the lux! ury of rotating their squad for the long midweek trip to play CSKA Moscow, ahead of their mouthwatering visit to Anfield.

Benitez said in The Daily Mirror: "We can't do what United are doing. We have to take one at a time. We have to use the best players for each game."

Losing both games against Lyon and United would be disastrous for Liverpool - but the Spaniard is not entertaining such thoughts.

The Reds boss had no illusions over how important Tuesday's match was, however, and conceded he had no qualms over rushing Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres back from injury if required.

"People ask what happens if we lose against Lyon and United, but what about if we win both games? We feel we can win and everything can change in a positive way," he said.

"Our priority now is Lyon because we hopefully have players coming back from injury.

"I think Gerrard and Torres will be available. If they are, I don't see any ! problem playing them before the United game because that will ! be five days later. If we win the first of these games it will be easier for the next one.

"We know the first half against Fiorentina wasn't good enough. But the second half was really good. I think we had 12 attempts on goal to their one.

"We have enough quality, confidence and experience in the squad, so it's a case of approaching every game thinking we have to win. We have had difficult games and difficult moments in the past and shown our character.

"Lyon are a good team, they play quality, attacking football and have experience of playing in the Champions League for many years. So they know what they are doing.

"But to play against Liverpool is not easy for anyone. You can lose, draw, but always any team in the world would say Liverpool is difficult to beat and, hopefully, it will be the same this time.

"Our fans know the Champions League is a special competition and for us it has been amazing.

"The atmosphere in! the Champions League has always been good for our team, especially when we are under pressure.

"Anfield will be a key factor for us. We need the fans behind us. They are the best in the world."

Rafael Benítez's Liverpool Youth Policy Very Much Still A Work In Progress

The Carling Cup, according to Rafael Benítez, is "a special competition". But it is a competition that has often demonstrated the paucity of Liverpool's resources beneath first-team level in recent years, whether that means home-grown youngsters, imported teenagers or disenchanted senior professionals who are stagnating and in desperate need of a run-out.

As well as the debut of Alberto Aquilani, almost certainly as a substitute, Liverpool's squad that faces Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium this evening will include Jay Spearing and Nathan Eccleston, two bona fide home-grown players, and David Ngog.

But there will also be Philipp Degen, Andrea Dossena and Andriy Voronin, whose services Benítez has retained only to keep up the numbers in a squad that is alarmingly short of strength in depth, and Ryan Babel, the former Ajax protégé, whose career has stalled.

Diego Cavalieri, the Brazilian g! oalkeeper, and Sotirios Kyrgiakos, the 30-year-old Greece defender, will also be on duty in the knowledge that they will not be troubling Pepe Reina and Jamie Carragher any time soon.

For all the uninformed criticisms of Benítez in recent weeks, his approach to the Carling Cup is curious, particularly when set against the dozens of young players he has signed.

He has spoken of his desire to replicate Arsenal's successful model when it comes to developing youngsters. But, whereas Arsène Wenger views this as the arena in which to test his youngsters, the Liverpool starting line-up away to Leeds United in the previous round had an average age of 27.

Benítez, of course, seems to be damned whichever course of action he takes; in January 2005, four months before winning the Champions League in his first season at Anfield, he was widely criticised for fielding a reserve team that lost to Burnley in the FA Cup.

One of the players likely t! o be rested this evening is Emiliano Insúa, the 20-year-old le! ft back, who was signed from Boca Juniors for a pittance and recently made his debut for Argentina.

Insúa apart, though, there are not many young players challenging for first-team places and it will be interesting to see how many on duty tonight are still at Anfield next season. A run in the competition may be their best hope of persuading Benítez that they are worth persevering with.

Aya Hirayama Next Idol from Japan

Short hair beloved girl, her name Aya Hirayama. She becomes next idol. Career in modeling world is be awaiting it.

Miss Universe Japan

Miss Universe Japan: Emiri Miyasaka, newly crowned 2009 Miss Universe Japan, an awarding of the final competition in Tokyo, Monday.

More weather woes

By John Hopkins

The early spring snowstorm that hit portions of southern Ontario has forced the cancellation of the opening round of the CMX motocross season in Port Perry, which was slated for this weekend.

As of late Tuesday afternoon a blanket of snow still covered the track, according to a release from CMX officials, leading to the decision.

Moto Park in Chatsworth, ON apparently fared better, and as a result the track will host an open practice this Saturday and Sunday, with the CMX season now opening at the track Apr. 16-17.

According to the CMX release, Moto Park is offering a $10 discount to all Hypersports Racing members for practice this weekend.

Inside Motorcycles // www.insidemotorcycles.com

Peris 24th in Qatar

By John Hopkins

Calgary's Chris Peris placed 24th in a wet opening qualifying session for round 1 of the World Supersport Championship at the Losail circuit in Qatar.

Peris set a time of two minutes, 30.164 seconds on his Team Bikers' Days-Yamaha-Moto1 R6. Teammate Didier Van Keymeulen was 27th, about 0.7 secs. behind Peris in the session, which was held in wet conditions.

Here is a rundown of times courtesy Yamaha Racing:

Session 1 :
Pos. Rider Manufacturer Nat. 1st Qualifying
1 K. Sofuoglu Honda TUR 2' 21.890
2 K. Curtain Yamaha AUS 2' 23.872
3 G. Nannelli Yamaha ITA 2' 24.021
4 B. Parkes Yamaha AUS 2' 24.757
5 K. Andersen Suzuki NOR 2' 25.853
6 M. Sanchini Yamaha ITA 2' 26.670
7 B. Veneman Suzuki NED 2' 26.770
8 X. Fores Yamaha ESP 2' 26.887
9 C. Zaiser Ducati AUT 2' 26.94! 5
10 K. Fujiwara Honda JPN 2' 27.615
11 G. Vizziello Yamaha ITA 2' 27.690
12 S. Charpentier Honda FRA 2' 27.755
13 A. Gobert Yamaha AUS 2' 28.284
14 J. Brookes Ducati AUS 2' 28.508
15 D. Thomas Kawasaki AUS 2' 28.542
16 D. Garcia Yamaha ITA 2' 28.596
20 M. Roccoli Yamaha ITA 2' 29.666
23 A. Velini Yamaha ITA 2' 30.150
24 C. Peris Yamaha CAN 2' 30.164
26 V. Ivanov Yamaha RUS 2' 30.250
27 D. Van Keymeulen Yamaha BEL 2' 30.832

Inside Motorcycles // www.insidemotorcycles.com

2009 NBA Playoffs: Western Conference Preview

No. 1 L.A. Lakers vs. No. 8 Utah

The Lakers and the Jazz ended the regular season playing each other with the Lakers defeating the Jazz 125-112 in the preview of this playoff matchup. The Jazz, who are led by Deron Williams, Carlos Boozer, and Andre Kirilenko, will more than likely struggle defensively against the Lakers. LA's Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum will be a tough match up for Utah in the post. And of course LA has Kobe Bryant who can take over at any time during any game. The Lakers will be too much for Utah and should advance fairly easily.
No. 3 San Antonio vs. No. 6 Dallas

Dallas is a team who needs to capitalize on their talent levels before it is too late. This team that was once the toast of the Western Conference is beginning to show its age. Led by Dirk Nowitzki's 25.9 points per game and with Jason Kidd running the point Dallas' playoff experience could come into play in this series. Unfortunately they are facing a just as experience San Antonio team that has made the most of the talented Tony Parker and continues to get serious stat sheet production from Tim Duncan. I think San Antonia will pull of the series in seven games.


No. 4 Portland vs. No. 5 Houston

Portland has been riding a very productive season out of newly emerged superstar Brandon Roy. Roy, who is averaging 22.6 points per game, came out of nowhere in my opinion to be one of the best players in the Western Conference. This series will be the series of the unkno! wn teams. With Portland relying on players like Aldridge, Pryz! billa, O utlaw and Blake and Houston putting stock into Scola, Altson, and role players like Chuck Hayes. With Yao Ming finally in the playoff roster Houston will need big games from both Yao Ming and star Shane Battier. They have also found production in defensive specialist Ron Artest. Looks for Houston to advance in this series.

No. 2 Denver vs. No. 7 New Orleans

What a matchup of point guards in this series, Chauncey Billups vs. Chris Paul. This may be must watch NBA TV. The Hornest are essentially a two man team featuring Chris Paul and David West. Both Paul and West have elevated their games in 2009 and last years "Cinderella" after securing a #2 seed barely limped into the scene this year. Denver will be playing their own two man game with Billups and Anthony leading the attack. This may be one of the better matched series in the playoffs in the end I think you will see Chris Paul and David West take this series over and shock Denver sen! ding them home early. New Orleans will advance.

Adreian Payne Narrows List to 5 - Kentucky Among Them

Adreian Payne, one of the top centers in the class of 2010, has narrwed his list to five schools. The 6'10, top 20 prospect out of Dayton, Ohio is now choosing between powerhouses Kentucky, Arizona, Kansas, Michigan State and West Virginia. Schools such as Dayton, Xavier and Cincinnati were in the mix prior to Payne narrowing his choices.

It seems Kentucky's incoming class has upped the interest for Payne and it's also interesting how Arizona is now in the mix with Sean Miller landing in the desert.

Chad talking about the Ray Lewis Hit

This is pretty classic Chad Ochocinco who is talking about the massive hit that Ray Lewis put on him on Sunday. Pretty funny, Chad is the man!

Rich Reviews: Iron Man

-Keefe

I saw Iron Man over the weekend, and figured I'd share my thoughts. Chances are you've already seen it as the film has pulled in $177 million in two weeks including $50.5 in its second weekend. The formula is simple. Recognizable comic book + movie star or 2 = easy 100+ million dollar block buster. Let's see Spider- Man (3 times), X-Men (3), Fantastic 4 (2 and counting), Hulk (and we'll see another one this summer), Daredevil, Punisher, Batman (all of them), I mean if they keep making them we'll keep seeing them. You name it, I'll watch it. Infinity Gauntlet? Yes. X-Factor? Of course. Alpha Flight? Why not.

As for the most recent successful Marvel Comic Book movie adaptation, it was the real deal. Iron Man brought the noise, and no, that's not the glorious surround sound from the CineMagic talking. Even with the lack of a well known super villain (Iron Monger played by Jeff Bridges, instead of a Joker, Magneto, Kingpin, Dr. Doom, Sabretooth, Juggernaut, Venom, Green Goblin, Dr. Octopus, etc.), you are still intrigued to see what Iron Man is up against. The action, fighting sequences, and special effects were top notch and extremely entertaining.

Robert D! owney Jr. was brilliantly cast to play billionaire weapons man! ufacture r, genius, and playa Tony Stark/ Iron Man. Whether you are familiar with the comic series or not you will enjoy the job done by Downey Jr. There's been some great acting jobs done in super hero roles; Christian Bale in Batman Begins (and The Dark Knight, which will raise the bar once again) and Hugh Jackman as Wolverine in the X-Men series are just two examples, and Downey Jr. is right there with his performance as Stark. He is a natural to play the part and he seems at ease in front of the camera.

The rest of the cast was solid as well. Downey Jr. clearly brings the level of play up from everyone around him, much like a Kevin Garnett with the Celtics. Speaking of the Celtics, when will they start to play well on the road? I mean are you! kidding me with that Game 3 showing? Sorry. The supporting cast: Jeff Bridges, who will forever be known as the Dude was good as was Terrence Howard as Stark's buddy Jim Rhodes. Howard will undoubtedly have a bigger role in the sequel where I expect him to fight side by side as War Machine. Gwyneth Paltrow plays Pepper Potts, Stark's assistant that knows everything about him. She's not supposed to be smoking hot, so they got that right, but her acting isn't the best either. Most comic book movies you wouldn't notice, but when she's surrounded by the likes of Downey Jr., Bridges, and Howard you can tell. But she wasn't bad enough to bring down the entire ensemble.

Bottom line, Iron Man is an absolute treat to the eyes and ea! rs. It's just over 2 hours long, and you'll never once feel th! at the f ilm is dragging. Lots of action mixed with humor. You don't have to be a comic book fan to enjoy this movie, although I'm sure it helps. I give it a 9 out of 10, and can't wait for the sequel.

Special heads up brought to you by the Sports Brief. If you have not seen the movie yet, make sure you stay through the end of the credits. You'll be glad you did.

I hope you enjoyed the first installment of Rich Reviews. It will become a new addition to the Brief, where I can sound off on new films that I have seen. Maybe I'll even save you 9 bucks in the process.

Goodluck with all that... 2.0

Back by popular demand... well at least back, everyone's favorite, "Goodluck with all that," a sarcastic look at some of the major story lines in sports. If you're new to it, I'm sure you'll pick it up real quick. On to the encouragement.

To Josh McDaniels and the Broncos. Your Pro Bowl QB Jay Cutler is "shocked" that he was in trade talks. McDaniels tried bringing in Matt Cassel, and now will have to convince Cutler that he can work with him after all. The guy is shaken and still thinks he's on the trade block. And to make matters even easier for the 1st year head coach, their All-Pro stud WR Brandon Marshall got arrested, again, and could face another suspension. Goodluck with all that...

To Steve Kerr for convincing people he is a viable NBA GM. When Kerr took over, the Phoenix Suns were a top 2 seed in the Western Conference. In year 1 he traded Shawn Marion away for Shaq and made sure his team got out of the top 4 so they could lose in the 1st Roun! d of the playoffs on the road. This year? Despite a rejuvinated Shaq, the Suns are in the 9th spot in the West. They openly tried trading both Amare Stoudemire and Shaq to no avail. Also, in less than 2 full seasons Kerr has employed 3 head coaches. Nice. Goodluck with all that...

To Alex Rodriguez for putting the steroid issue behind him. Great start for A-Rod as he still has his shady lookin cousin hanging out with him the 2nd week of spring training. Whether this guy is hitting .350 or .250 questions will surround him all year long. Goodluck with all that...

In a related note; to Roger Clemens, Sammy Sosa, Mark McGwire, and Rafael Palmeiro on making Baseball's Hall of Fame. This is nothing new, but goodluck with all that...

To Thales Leites on fighting Anderson Silva at UFC 97 on April 18th. Silva had been completely dominant since joining the UFC, but in the Spider's last fight against Patrick Cote he looked lack luster. He's been hearin! g it ever since. He will use Leites to prove he hasn't lost a ! step. Th is may be the last we ever see of Thales Leites. Goodluck with all that...

To anyone trying to get 27 in a row in ESPN's Streak for the Cash. I mean come on. Besse peaked out at 10, I've only gone as high as 5. And talk about frustrating/ addicting. Cripes. But keep trying, it's $1,000,000. Goodluck with all that...

To the World Baseball Classic on being a success. I like the idea, but it can't work. You got top of the line guys pulling out of this thing left and right. Everyone is still in spring training mode. You got pitchers going 2.0 innings deep, etc. Look, I love Olympic basketball, and this is as close as we got to Olympic baseball, with a majority of stars from the around the world, but it just doesn't get me going. Goodluck with all that...

To the team that wins the Big East tournament this year. MSG will be the site for all 16 teams this year for the 1st time. By my count 5 are absolute lock, another 6 are still very much alive, an! d the conference as a whole only has 3 terrible teams. Let's say for example that Syracuse wins the tourny. In a 4 day span they would have to beat (as the bracket looks right now), Notre Dame, Louisville, Pitt, and UConn. Good lord. I don't like the Orange's chances. Whoever wins, they earned it, goodluck with all that.

To the LA Dodgers signing Manny Ramirez. Goodluck with all that...

To Manny Ramirez signing with the LA Dodgers. Goodluck with all that...

To Scott Boras on making this happen. Goodluck with all that...


What else ya got? Leave a comment.

-Keefe

BJal's Lock du Jour - Wednesday, October 7

You know it's funny, when BJal texted me the other day about doing this lock du jour, his original text told me he was taking Troy (-6). I knew nothing about either one of the teams, but one thing I did know is that you never bet against Brad Pitt. So I was a little stunned when he texted me back claiming he misspoke (or mistexted) and that he wanted MTSU (+6). Perhaps that was actually the mistext, or maybe he thought MTSU was getting 60 points and forgot the zero, I dunno. But regardless, Troy ran for 264 and at one point led 24-0 in the 3rd quarter on its way to an embarrassing 31-7 romp. Woops.

So after watching an incredible game between the Twins and Tigers last night, BJal will try and redeem himself and get back on the right track. Personally, my lock of the century is the Yankees absolutely cremating the Twins. In New York. Today. After the Twins ripped through their bullpen in a 12-inning game. Last night. And partied. Celebrating clinching the ! division. Hangovers.

But that's just me. Instead, he's taking NH native Chris Carpenter and the St. Louis Cardinals over Randy Wolf and the LA Dodgers. Fair enough. And by the way, this should actually be a great series. Two of the top managers in the league in Tony Larussa and Joe Torre squaring off. Manny and Pujols. The Matts, Kemp and Holliday. Adam Wainright, Ryan Franklin's goatee. So much to enjoy about this series.

BJal's Lock du Jour: Cardinals over Dodgers
Overall record: 0-1

-Bess

Ipswich 0-4 Newcastle

Kevin Nolan's hat-trick helped Newcastle move to the top of the Coca-Cola Championship and left Roy Keane's Ipswich side in turmoil.

The Magpies hit three goals in four first-half minutes to crush Keane's disillusioned side - who have now made the Suffolk club's worst ever start to a season - on an emotional afternoon at Portman Road.

Both sets of fans paid tribute to the late Sir Bobby Robson throughout as Ipswich renamed a stand in honour of their former manager,! who died in July.

But while Ipswich have now made it nine league games without a win, Newcastle - where Robson ended his illustrious managerial career - have made light of their relegation from the Barclays Premier League in May with an impressive start.

They dominated from the off and opened the scoring with an excellent Nolan header before the former Bolton captain scored again 60 seconds later.

Ryan Taylor then drove home a free-kick for Chris Hughton's side before Nolan completed the rout after the break.

Newcastle captain Alan Smith set the tone with two crunching tackles in the opening 90 seconds and the visitors came close to an opening goal in the fifth minute.

Nolan played the ball up to Nile Ranger, who showed superb strength to turn Alex Bruce on the edge of the area.

The 18-year-old then had the poise to dummy inside the challenge of Liam Rosenior and get a shot away, which goalkeeper Richard Wright did well to palm beh! ind for a corner.

The visitors were playing all the foo! tball, w ith the experienced trio of Smith, Nicky Butt and Nolan controlling proceedings in midfield as Ipswich looked woefully short of confidence after their disastrous start to the season.

Nolan looked a class above and opened the scoring with a marvellous header in the 30th minute.

Jon Walters gave away a silly free-kick for a push on Ryan Taylor on the right wing and, from the former Wigan man's delivery, Nolan leapt high to power a header past Wright and into the roof of the net.

The away fans had hardly stopped celebrating when Nolan grabbed his second a minute later.

Andy Carroll played the ball over the top for Nolan, who surged into the area. He easily cut inside a flimsy challenge from Pim Balkestein and slipped the ball between Wright and the near post for a tidy finish.

Newcastle were rampant and went 3-0 up in the 34th minute.

Ranger was fouled on the left-hand side and Taylor stepped up to curl a fine 25-yard free-kick over the! wall and into the top corner.

A parade of Robson's former Ipswich players entered the field during half-time, including Scotland and former Tractor Boys manager George Burley, as the FA Cup and UEFA Cup won under the former England manager were rightly celebrated.

The current crop made a slightly better start to the second period, with Walters heading onto the roof of the goal, but Nolan soon completed his treble in the 50th minute.

Zurab Khizanishvili charged down the right wing before laying the ball off to Ryan Taylor. He picked out Ranger unmarked at the back post and his header back across goal looked like finding the net until Nolan arrived to nod over the line from three yards out.

The visitors saw out the rest of the game with ease and gave a debut to on-loan Aston Villa forward Marlon Harewood in the closing stages.

Attention now turns to Keane's immediate future as the former Manchester United captain reflects on the fact that, ! after nine games of a season which promised much, his side are! only be ing kept off the bottom of the division by Plymouth.

Chinese Super League Wed Review

Bottom side Chongqing Lifan secured their fifth win of the season with a 2-1 victory over Hangzhou Lucheng in the Chinese Super League.

Johnny Lambert scored a penalty in the 57th minute to put the hosts ahead before Peng Wu added a second with five minutes remaining.

Otto then scored a consolation strike for the visitors in the 90th minute.

Greek Super League Review

Olympiacos reclaimed top spot in the Super League with a comfortable 3-0 win over Asteras Tripoli.

They lead bitter rivals Panathinaikos, who play at Kavala tomorrow, by a point as Swedish defender Olof Mellberg put them on the path to victory in the 35th minute.

Second-half goals from Kostas Mitroglou (53) and Jaouad Zairi (67) wrapped things up for Zico's men.

Aris Salonika are the nearest challengers to the top two, six points back in third after a goalle! ss draw away to Ergotelis, who had Michalis Fragoulakis sent off in the 57th minute,

PAOK drew level on points with city rivals Aris as they won the day's other game, beating Giannina 2-0 with first-half goals from Lino and Nikos Arabatzis.

Bayer Leverkusen 1-1 Borussia Dortmund

Bayer Leverkusen missed their chance to go clear at the top of the Bundesliga table when they were held to a draw at home to Borussia Dortmund.

The hosts went a goal behind when Lucas Barrios scored in only the eighth minute.

Even after Manuel Friedrich had equalised in the 64th, they could not go on to win and are therefore just one point ahead of second-placed Hamburg - who now have a game in hand.

Leverkusen debutant Lars Bender had a wonderful chance to ! mark the occasion in style in only the second minute. But after Eren Derdiyok's pass had set him up from the edge of the penalty area, he put his side-foot shot wide.

Bender and his new employers soon had more reason for regret when Barrios got on the end of Nelson Valdez's cross and headed low past Rene Adler to put Dortmund in front.

Patrick Owomoyela might have doubled the lead just after the half-hour but blazed his right-foot shot high and wide.

Four minutes from half-time, Leverkusen defender Sami Hyypia headed wide from a good position - and Derdiyok tested Roman Weidenfeller with a shot from distance, comfortably saved soon after the break.

But Friedrich made no mistake when he headed low past Weidenfeller, from a cross by Tranquillo Barnetta.

Hyypia missed with another header, and Stefan Kiessling could not beat Weidenfeller in similar circumstances in the 79th minute.

Swiss Super League Review

Young Boys enhanced their position at the top of the Super League with a 7-1 win over Bellinzona.

Seydou Doumbia scored a hat-trick - while Gilles Yapi Yapo, with a penalty, David Degen, Scott Sutter and substitute Marc Schneider were also on target.

It was Young Boys' 11th win from 14 games this season and sees them move nine points clear of second-placed Neuchatel Xamax.

Neuchatel Xamax were held to a 1-1 draw by Lucerne in tonight's other fixture.

Ideye Brown put the hosts in front, but substitute Joao Pedro Paiva replied 12 minutes from time for fourth-placed Lucerne.

Improve Your Soccer Betting Using The Win Draw Loss Method

by Malcolm Nossiter

Improve Your Soccer Betting is a series of articles that describe some well known and well used statistical techniques that will help the soccer punter make more informed bets. Each of the techniques has its own advantages and disadvantages and using them in isolation will improve your chances of winning. However, together they will prove invaluable in your battle with the bookies. In each article we will describe in detail how a particular method works giving you enough information for you to go ahead and create your own forecasts. We will also give you information as to where you can already find websites that use this technique in comprising their weekly soccer betting forecasts.

The statistical methods described in this set of articles will help you to arrive at a better decision about the match, or matches, that you are betting on.

In this article we will be describing the well known Win Draw Loss method.

H! ere are the basic rules...

The Win, Draw, Loss method is very simple and takes into account the proportion of past wins, draws, and losses over a specified period of time. By calculating the number of wins, draws and losses for both the home and away sides and then combining them it is possible to produce a statistical probability of the possible outcome of the game.

Here is how a typical calculation is made...

1. For a specified period of time the number of wins, losses, and draws are counted for each side. This could be for a whole season or you may wish to have a rolling time period, say the last six months for example.

2. The percentage probabilities for home wins, draws, and away wins are then made. For example, the home win percentage is calculated as follows:

(( HW + AL) * 100) / total number of matches

Where,

HW = number of home wins by home team AL = number of away losses by away team Once! you have a percentage probability for each outcome a decision! can be made on the most likely outcome.

Let's look at a simple example of how you could apply this...

First of all you would collect the data for a specified period of time and for each of the three possible outcomes, i.e.

HW = number of home wins for home team HD = number of draws for home team HL = number of home losses for home team AW = number of away wins for away team AD = number of draws for away team AL = number of away losses for away team

TOTALGAMES = HW + HD + HL + AW + AD + AL

HOMEWIN = ((HW + AL)*100)/TOTALGAMES DRAW = ((HD+AD)*100)/TOTALGAMES

AWAYWIN = ((HL + AW)*100)/TOTALGAMES

This gives you a percentage probability for each of the three possible outcomes.

Now let's extend this to provide 1, X, 2, 1X, and X2 predictions...

To do this we can employ a simple voting system, here is how it works:

First we set three thresholds;

DRAWTHRESHOLD = 35% AWAY! THRESHOLD = 45% HOMETHRESHOLD = 55%

Then we initialise our voting counts for each method;

DRAWP = 0 HOMEP = 0 AWAYP = 0

Now we compare each of the calculated probabilities against our thresholds to arrive at a vote count for each outcome;

IF DRAW > DRAWTHRESHOLD THEN DRAWP = DRAWP + 3 ELSE HOMEP = HOMEP + 1

AWAYP = AWAYP + 1 END IF

IF AWAYWIN > AWAYTHRESHOLD THEN AWAYP = AWAYP + 3 ELSE HOMEP = HOMEP + 1 DRAWP = DRAWP + 1 END IF

IF HOMEWIN > HOMETHRESHOLD THEN HOMEP = HOMEP + 3 ELSE DRAWP = DRAWP + 1 AWAYP = AWAYP + 1 END IF

This means we now have a total vote count for each of the three possible outcomes. Next we can deduce our final 1, X, 2, 1X, and X2 predictions based on the voting as follows;

IF HOMEP > AWAYP AND HOMEP > DRAWP THEN PREDICTION = "1" ELSEIF AWAYP >
HOMEP AND AWAYP > DRAWP THEN PREDICTION = "2" ELSEIF DRAWP > HOMEP AND DRAWP > AWAYP THEN PREDICTION = "3"! ELSEIF HOMEP = DRAWP AND HOMEP > AWAYP THEN PREDICTION = "1X"! ELSEIF AWAYP = DRAWP AND AWAYP > HOMEP THEN PREDICTION = "X2" ELSEIF HOMEP = DRAWP AND HOMEP = AWAYP THEN PREDICTION = "X"

Now it's your turn...

Of course you may choose to use different values to those shown above and by experimenting you may come up with better values to use. So, you could create better threshold values and decide to collect data over any period of time you like. Experimenting with threshold values and durations will let you home in on the best settings for you.

If you have the necessary skills you could go away and build your own spreadsheet of data or even write a piece of software to take in results and fixtures and apply the Win Draw Loss method to your data. Or, if you're lazy like me, you could grab some free software that already does this for you. 1X2Monster and Footyforecast have been providing this kind of facility since 1999. A total of seven different statistical methods are used to determine the outcome of each game p! layed in each league, and a comprehensive record of how each method in each game performed is kept. Apart from how each tip performed within its respective league 1X2Monster also provides the league tables of how each league has performed in successfully predicting outcomes of games. The league tables of prediction performance are produced for home win predictions, draw predictions, away win predictions, and for overall predictions and are invaluable tools to the soccer punter when deciding where to target their European soccer betting predictions.

Here is a list of all the articles in this series...

How To Make A Profit From FREE 1X2 Soccer Picks Improve Your Soccer Betting Using The Rateform Method Improve Your Soccer Betting Using The Footyforecast Method Improve Your Soccer Betting Using The Win Draw Loss Method Improve Your Soccer Betting Using The Simple Sequence Method Improve Your Soccer Betting Using The Score Prediction Method Improve Your So! ccer Betting Using The Superiority Method

About the! Author< br />
Malcolm Nossiter is the owner of 1x2monster.com and footyforecast.com. He has been providing hundreds of 1X2 tips every week since 1999. Please visit 1x2monster.com for a fountain of information on soccer betting.

WTA Tennis- Sharapova Won Title in Tokyo after 10-Months Away

by Ally White

Former world No. 1 Maria Sharapova finally (re-)experienced success after a 10-month layoff from tennis. The unseeded Sharapova took the title at Saturday's Pan Pacific Open final after 7th-seed Jelena Jankovic retired in the first set due to a wrist injury. Her withdrawal did not, however, bring joy to Sharapova, who wanted to win the final through her own efforts. Nevertheless, the Russian understood the need for withdrawal; the tennis star had had surgery on her should last October, not returning to tennis until May.
The title is Sharapova's first since her surgery and the 20th of her career. Her last title was attained in April of 2008 at Amelia Island.

Sharapova got off to a rough start; the Servian Janovik began strong, breaking her Russian opponent's serve and taking a 2-0 lead. Sharapova, however, rallied and took the next four games. By the time Jankovic took a timeout to have her right arm examined by her trainer, Sharapova! had taken the lead in the first match 5-2. The Serb managed just two more points after the medical timeout before deciding to withdraw.

After Jankovic left the court, Sharapova expressed her disappointment but nonetheless hoped for the Serb's quick recovery.

"It was a tough start today. Jelena started off so strong. It's disappointing. It's toward the end of the year and there are a lot of injuries so I wish Jelena a speedy recovery. It was my second final of the year and I was a bit nervous. But I played well enough this week to know I could give her a good match. I just wanted to keep fighting out there and unfortunately Jelena had to stop," said the Russian.

Tokyo is the place in where the 22-year-old Russian attained her first WTA singles and doubles titles, at the 2003 Japan Open.

With this most recent victory, Sharapova is looking forward to her last event of the season at the Beijing tournament, where she hopes to play in! top form. After Beijing, Sharapova will prepare herself for t! he offse ason, during which she will train even harder for a strong 2010 performance.

"I have one more tournament left in Beijing. During the off-season, I'll be training and working on my game. It's going to be really a good time for me to create a good base. Actually I have a good enough time to prepare for the next year. I'm really looking forward to the period," Sharapove said.

Jankovic, on the other hand, will try to rehabilitate her arm before the Beijing tournament, but also said that her entry would depend on her doctor's advice. If a short-term recovery becomes unlikely, she will prepare herself for the offseason.

The best of luck to these two great tennis players; hopefully both players will be able to demonstrate their great superb athletic skills at Beijing and prepare for an even better year next season.

About the Author
Ally White is a top senior copy writer for the international tennis championships as well as the top ra! nking sportsbetting:www.instantactionsports.com/uk Feel free to reprint this article in its entirety on your site, make sure to leave all links in place and do not modify any of the content.

Orsi a TMW: "Mantova, società di grande tradizione"

Di Pasquale Campanella
Fonte: tuttomantova.it

Raffaella Bon ha realizzato in'esclusiva per TMW un'intervista a Fernando Orsi, che le voci circolate nelle ultime ore vorrebbero come possibile sostituto di Michele Serena alla guida del Mantova. Ecco le dichiarazioni dell'ex tecnico del Livorno: "E' un onore essere accostato ad una squadra come il Mantova, che è una società di grande tradizione. La panchina in questo momento mi manca. La serie B? Vedo un campionato finalmente bello, imprevedibile, dove non esiste una squadra leader, che uc! cide il campionato. C'è un gruppo di squadre che sta facendo bene. Non mi aspettavo un Frosionone primo, ma esprime un buon gioco, come Ascoli e Cittadella, che ho visto giocare ieri e sono sicuro che diranno la loro fino alla fine, anche perchè un conto è giocare in questi campi, un conto è giocare a Torino, Lecce o Brescia, con grandi pressioni. Ti chiedono vittorie subito e questo può arrecare problemi. In altre piazze per le sconfitte non fanno drammi".
Tuttavia, almeno per ora, Michele Serena rimane saldamente sulla panchina del Mantova.

Garrone 'Più saliamo, più gente felice'

di Rocco Fortunato

fonte:eurosport.it

Ieri pomeriggio Claudio Bellucci e Nicola Pozzi sono intervenuti al Teatro Albatros di Rivarolo alla premiazione del 16° concorso scolastico 'Paolo Mantovani', del quale oggi ricorre il sedicesimo anniversario della scomparsa. L'indimenticato presidente! dello Scudetto è mancato il 14 ottobre del 1993. Oggi è in pr! ogramma una doppia seduta; domani pomeriggio alle 15 amichevole al Mugnaini contro il Fo.Ce.Vara, formazione che milita nel campionato di Eccellenza. Il presidente Riccardo Garrone, intanto, ieri sera ha fatto tappa a Chiavari per la festa organizzata per laSampdoria capolista da Francesco Bruzzo, vice presidente della Società Economica e presidente del Consorzio per la tutela dell'olio extra vergine di oliva Dop 'Riviera Ligure'. 'Arrivo da voi oggi che è il 13 - ha detto ieri sera Garrone -, un numero che mi porta fortuna come me ne ha portato Chiavari: speriamo sia di buon auspicio'. Il presidente ha sottolineato l'orgoglio per il primato, per aver 'riportato in Italia il genio di Cassano' e per essere alla guida di una società 'bene organizzata che o! ra punto dritto all'obiettivo del nuovo stadio'. Quanto alla classifica, Garrone ha riaffermato un concetto che gli sta a cuore: l'importante è rimanere nella parte sinistra della classifica. 'Poi, più su si riesce a salire, più saranno le persone che riusciremo a fare felici, perché anche tanti non sampdoriani ci guardano con simpatia'.

Torino, 42 anni fa il triste addio a Gigi Meroni

fonte: Tuttosport

A Como i suoi amici restaurano la macchina per il museo del Toro.

Quarantadue anni fa, all'età di venti­quattro anni, moriva a To­rino Gigi Meroni, travolto da due automobili, una delle quali guidata da un giovane che poi, oltre trent'anni dopo, sarebbe divenuto presidente del Torino: Attilio Romero. Oggi Meroni sarà ricorda­to con grande affetto e il solito enorme rimpianto non solo a Como, dove nacque, ma anche a Geno­va e soprattutto a Torino: ! la Farfalla arrivò in gra­nata dopo una breve pa­rentesi nel Genoa e fece immediatamente innamo­rare la gente. Fece sogna­re un intero popolo, poi crollato nell'angoscia per la tragica fine. A Como i suoi amici di famiglia e dell'oratorio, guidati dal generoso Della Torre, or­ganizzano da oltre tre de­cenni un torneo giovanile gigantesco, con migliaia di ragazzini della provin­cia in azione tutti gli anni. Quest'anno l'associazione comasca nata per traman­dare la memoria e il mito di Meroni ha anche prov­veduto a rimettere a nuo­vo la celebre Balilla che il giocatore usava per vezzo. E che aveva abbellito per­sonalmente, all'interno, con tessuti preziosi e lam­pade in stile. Obiettivo de­gli amici di Meroni è ora esporre la Balilla per qualche tempo a Torino nel museo dedicato alla storia del Toro.

Pasquale Marino: "Creare densità su tutto il campo per far prevalere i valori tecnici"

di Orazio Resta
Fonte: udinese.it

L'Udinese ricompone le file dopo una settimana di qualificazioni alla Coppa del Mondo per le Nazionali. Tutti i ragazzi sono tornati a disposizione del Mister, compresi i sudamericani Zapata e Sanchez. Purtroppo a destare preoccupazione solo le condizioni di Felipe, infortunatosi alla caviglia nell'allenamento di ieri. Il malanno potrebbe costare al difensore brasiliano la convocazione per la gara contro l'Atalanta, ma c'è la speranza di poterlo recuperare.

Quasi tutti i bianconeri impegn! ati con le rispettive Nazionali sono riusciti a strappare un biglietto per il Sud Africa. Per il tecnico Pasquale Marino è un grande orgoglio: "Peccato per Zapata che non ce l'ha fatta con la Colombia. Adesso aspettiamo di vedere se anche Handanovic riuscirà a qualificarsi agli spareggi. C'è grande entusiasmo nel gruppo. Chi è nel giro della nazionale deve confermarsi durante la stagione per andare ai Mondiali, quindi i ragazzi devono tornare a concentrarsi subito sul campionato. Ci attende un avversario difficile".

Infatti domenica arriva al "Friuli" un' Atalanta affamata di punti: "I bergamaschi giocano a calcio in maniera speculare alla nostra. I singoli duelli in mezzo al campo saranno molto importanti. Da parte nostra dovremo cercare di tenerci corti per far prevalere i valori tecnici. I temi della partita saranno aggressività ed agonismo. Sarà un incontro complicato, dovremo essere bravi a far partire la manovra da dietro".

La sconfitta di San Siro ha la! sciato l'amaro in bocca ai friulani ma anche la consapevolezza! dei pro pri mezzi: "Abbiamo sensazioni positive proprio in virtù della prova offerta contro l'Inter. Siamo riusciti a giocare alla pari contro una delle squadre più forti d'Europa. Questo ci deve dare fiducia".

Il fatto che Sanchez sia tornato ieri sera non preclude un suo eventuale utilizzo per domani: "E' già successo che il cileno sia sceso il campo la domenica successiva agli impegni con la Nazionale. Non sarebbe una novità".

Asamoah è appena rientrato in gruppo dopo l'operazione al ginocchio: "Si è allenato bene questa settimana, ma era fermo da molto tempo. Ora deve trovare la migliore condizione. E' un ragazzo su cui conto molto perchè può fare sia il centrale che l'esterno di centrocampo. Sarà un peccato perderlo di nuovo per la Coppa d'Africa".

Pasquale Marino mette in campo l'Udinese così: "Scende in campo sempre chi sta meglio. Non sono i giocatori che si devono adattare ad un sistema di gioca prestabilito, ma è il modulo che deve variare per poter va! lorizzare al meglio le qualità dei singoli. Con questo spirito è nato il 4-4-2 con cui ci schieriamo adesso sul rettangolo verde. Volevo utilizzare sia Sanchez che Pepe perchè entrambi attraversavano e attraversano un buon momento di forma".

Gasbarroni, 3-4 settimane di stop

fonte: www.torinofc.it

Andrea Gasbarroni e Luca Belingheri sono stati oggi sottosposti ad accertamenti per la valutazione degli infortuni occorsi rispettivamente venerdì e sabato. A Gasbarr! oni è stata diagnosticata una distorsione alla caviglia sinistra con distrazione al compartimento legamentoso laterale: circa 3-4 settimane per il recupero.

Un'ecografia ha invece escluso lesioni muscolari all'adduttore destro per Belingheri, che resta comunque in dubbio per il match di venerdì sera contro la Reggina.

#021 Minuto x Minuto 3: Roma - Milan

Dal Canale YouTube di MinutoxMinuto il match clou dell' ultima giornata di Serie A scelto da RaiBobo è Roma - Milan 2-2, radiocronaca del sempre "infuocato" Francesco Repice.

#113 Amarcord 87-88 (Parte 1)

Con questo episodio di Amarcord, andiamo ad iniziare l'analisi della stagione 1987-1988.
Lo scudetto di questa stagione andrà al Milan di Sacchi, Gullit e Van Basten che al fotofinish nello scontro diretto del San Paolo alla 29a giornata conquisteranno lo scudetto.
Ma questo sarà materia della prossima puntata, per ora invece ci concentriamo su altre 2.

Giornata 1

In studio Massimo De Luca (che con questa puntata esordisce come voce da studio); da Cesena per Cesana - Napoli Enrico Ameri, da Milano per Milan - Pescara Sandro Ciotti, da Pisa per Pisa - Milan Alfredo Provenzali, da Ascoli per Ascoli - Roma Claudio Ferretti, da Firenze per Fiorentina - Verona Enzo Foglianese, da Avellino per Avellino - Torino Riccardo Cucchi, da Juventus per Juventus - Como Livio Forma, da Genoa per Sampdoria - Empoli Emanuele Dotto.

Giornata 9

In studio Massimo De Luca; da Firenze per Fiorentina - Sampdoria Enrico Ameri, da Roma per Roma - Inter Claudio Ferretti, da Napoli per Napoli - Torino Alfredo Provenzali, da Milano per Milan - Avellino Sandro Ciotti, da Torino per Juventus - Cesena Carlo Nesti, da Verona per Verona - Pescara Riccardo Cucchi.

Alla prossima settimana

Verdetti 2008-2009 Il Chievo resta in A

Amarcord 2007-08 (Parte 1)

Facciamo un bel balzo in avanti e veniamo ai giorni nostri.
Amarcord questa settimana richiama ricordi freschi nella nostra mente, quelli del campionato 2007-2008, quello dello scudetto dell' Inter sotto il diluvio di Parma.

Ma la storia sul filo della tensione dell' ultima giornata sarà argomento della prossima puntata.
Oggi richiamiamo la prima e la diciannovesima giornata.
Da notare che tutte le voci presenti sono ancora abili e arruolate nella stagione in corsa.
Giornata 1

in studio ! Alfredo Provenzali
da Milano per Inter - Udinese Riccardo Cucchi
da Genova per Genoa - Milan Antonello Orlando
da Firenze per Fiorentina - Empoli Francesco Repice
da Napoli per Napoli - Cagliari Claudio Verna
da Siena per Siena Giuseppe Bisantis
da Parma per Parma - Catania Ugo Russo
da Reggio Calabria per Reggina - Atalanta Tonino Raffa

Giornata 19

in studio Alfredo Provenzali
Campi principali
da Roma per Roma - Catania Riccardo Cucchi
da Torino per Juvent! us - Sampdoria Giulio Delfino
da Napoli per Napoli - Lazi! o Carlo Verna
da Reggio Calabria per Reggina - Cagliari Tonino Raffa

Tutto il calcio n° 14

Tutto il Calcio Serie B
Giornata 8
(Sabato 03/10 ore 15.30)
Conduce: Filippo Corsini

CP Piacenza - Frosinone Livio Forma
2 Brescia - Vicenza Tonino Raffa
3 Crotone - Padova Ugo Russo
4 Gallipoli - Empoli Giovanni Scaramuzzino
5 Cesena - Salernitana Antonio Monaco
6 Cittadella - Lecce Massimo Zennaro
7 Modena - Reggina Antonello Brughini
S Mantova - Grosseto STUDIO
S Triestina - Albinoleffe STUDIO

Interventi di:

• Paolo Zauli dall' Estoril per le Prove del Gp di Portogallo
• Andrea Coco da Antalya per i Mondiali di scherma

Anticipo:
Ascoli - Sassuolo (Venerdì ore 20.45 ) NON COPERTA

Posticipo:
Torino - Ancona (Lunedì ore 20.45) Emanuele Dotto

Felix Protagonista

Il Fantanews è in silenzio stampa per lutto ma vorrei sottolineare la sonora sconfitta subita dall'Armata a vantaggio della Tofa (Tofa 67, Armata 56): 1 a 0.
Inoltre vi comunico che Felix ha scovato i registri. Ecco la classifica ufficiale del 2002-2003.
Il Pollo ha vinto dopo uno spareggio vinto per 3 a 0.
Retrocessi come al solito Piero e Celeste con i nomi meteora Peones e Real Cannonau:

Blucrociata 46
Zuzzurro&Gaspare 46 (Felix)
Armata Lambertoska 43
Zona Cesarini 41 (Pasq)
Dinamo Kikkiland 40
Zeresimo Minuto 35 (Paolo)
Peones 29 (Piero)
Real Cannonau 19 (Ceg)

Campos puoi ristampare l'albo d'oro completo in un post? A questo punto devi invertire: io il fanta l'ho vinto nell'anno che abbiamo assegnato a Giovanni (1999-2000). Anche se dobbiamo controllare l'ordine (abbiamo però la certezza che negli anni 1998-99, 1999-00, 2000-01 per due volte l'ha vinto Carlo e una volta io).
Ciao, Raffaele

BLITZ NOTTURNO

Il fantamercato impazza!!! Nella notte c'è stato un meeting di mercato tra il Direttore Passafiume e il DS dell'Armata Rafilozzo Foschi.

E' stato raggiunto un'accordo. Il calciatore ZAPATA (ingaggio 2 crediti) passa all'Armata. In cambio del giocatore il presidente dell'Armata Raf Zamparini versa nelle casse della società di Ser Passafiume 3 fantamilioni (3 crediti).

Scambiate ragazzi... scambiate. Ciao, Raf

United Post - Niente di definito

In attesa che siano recuperate ben quattro partite del nono turno, il campionato più bello del mondo riprende il suo cammino. La decima giornata registra un pareggio e quattro vittorie casalinghe che, mantenendo corta la classifica, non danno indizi più precisi su quali siano gli obiettivi stagionali conseguibili. In fondo, la zona Champions dista solo sei punti da quella retrocessione.

L'unica costante, per di più negativa, è l'impressionante involuzione della Nuanda. Una squadra molto accreditata ad inizio stagione, che adesso fatica a risalire la classifica. La sesta sconfitta stagionale fa vivere al presidente Campopiano Sr. una situazione che appare sempre più un déjà vu. Il patron tentenna, pensando anche alle dimissioni, ma siamo sicuri che il suo grande coraggio, già dimostrato in quindici anni di ono! rata carriera, lo convincerà ad affrontare e superare anche questa prova.

Chi si avvantaggia del momento no della Nuanda è, invece, l'Armammece & Jamme che si impone con un facile 2-0 casalingo. A dire il vero, però, la squadra del presidente De Vallonis non avrebbe bisogno di vantaggio, dato che al momento è la vera nota positiva del campionato. Una squadra creata letteralmente dal nulla che, anche grazie al carattere infusole da mister Vamplone, ottiene la quinta vittoria stagionale ed il terzo posto in classifica.

La vetta non è tanto lontana. Il Giorno Dei Giorni dista un solo punto. La squadra del presidente Pancrazio cerca di tenere a bada le concorrenti che, come tigri affamate, insidiano il suo titolo. La frustata questa volta tocca all'Armata Lambertoska; un 2-1 che consente ai campioni in carica di mantenere la testa della classifica e che costa il piazzamen! to Champions al presidente Raf Lamb.

A fare compagnia al presidente Pancrazio, però, ci pensa l'I Love Giorgia. Questa volta la tigre riesce a dare la sua zampata e resta aggrappata ai campioni in carica. Nonostante la contestata esclusione di Ronaldinho, la squadra del presidente Campopiano Jr. si impone nettamente sulla Blucrociata Mattia. Il 3-1 mette sempre più a rischio l'allenatore. Il presidente Mattia, però, conferma la fiducia e, scaramanticamente, ridefinisce l'obiettivo stagionale. Francamente, crediamo che la sua squadra non possa temere per la permanenza nella massima serie.

Intanto, però, lo MLK United approfitta dello scivolone dei crociati e si porta nella prima metà della classifica battendo la Selecao Italia. Le numerose defezioni in entrambe le formazioni non pregiudicano le qualità delle due squadre. Partita intensa, che il presidente Violante si aggiudica con un pizzico di fortuna ed i gol di Brienza e il solito Miccoli ! (su rigore, ndr). La compagine del presidente Passafiume accorcia le distanza con Kharja, ma viene tradita dalla giornata no del suo tridente offensivo.

Ne approfittano a metà il Real Marcina e la Dinamo Tofa che, grazie all'unico pareggio di giornata, raggiungono in classifica sia la Blucrociata sia la Selecao. Una partita frizzante, con molte occasioni e quattro gol. La doppietta di Aquafresca illude il presidente Cesaro, ma a riportare in parità il risultato ci pensano Vieira ed il nuovo acquisto Conti, che fa sorridere il presidente Trapanese...

LuV

Da oggi sono tifoso del Real Madrid

Ciao Ricardo Kakà. Grandi colpi, grande giocatore, ma soprattutto un ragazzo a cui mi ispiravo un pò: viso da bambino ma con valori autentici e mentalità vincente. Purtroppo il passaggio al Real Madrid significa anche che il GRANDE CALCIO prende la valigia e va via dall'Italia: destinazione Spagna e Inghilterra. Siamo diventati un campionato di seconda fascia. E quando anche Ibra andrà via resterà un vuoto nelle squadre italiane. Come detto qualche mese fa: il calcio con la "C" maiuscola in Italia è in agonia. Il prossimo passo? I ragazzi faranno il tifo per le squadre straniere. E io sono il primo: FORZA REAL MADRID!

Del resto il calcio è un'espressione della cultura e dell'economia: e l'Italia sta perdendo colpi rispetto all'Europa. Nè i politici di destra nè quelli di sinistra si attivano per costruire un'Italia competitiva e sana. E tra qualche anno anche dal punto di vista professionale diventeremo un Paese di seconda fascia e i giovani andranno all'estero pe! r crescere. Tutte le aziende italiane in questi anni sono state assorbite da gruppi stranieri (Peroni, Omnitel, Wind, BNL, GS, etc etc).

E quindi le sedi centrali si stanno spostando a Londra, Parigi e Madrid e molti giovani dovranno emigrare. Ora io mi chiedo: ma cosa hanno gli spagnoli e gli inglesi meglio di noi? Semplice: una mentalità vincente! Meditate gente. E chi può lotti per un'Italia migliore perchè nella sfida Europea serviranno grinta e muscoli.

Nel frattempo forza Real! E una piccola nota per Gio, Leo e Campos:
in Fantachampions non toccatemi Kakà che ve magno.

Ciao, R

World Cup doom-mongering kicks off

A recent Guardian article graphically highlighted the dangers awaiting fans in the urban warfare experience that is modern South Africa.

The journalist first quotes excerpts from official Foreign Office travel advice:

"In all areas of South Africa you should be cautious when out after dark." "Vigilance" is demanded "at all times" in Durban.

On the subject of transport, the picture isn't much better. A road heading towards Jo'burg is described by one source as "like snorkelling in a sewer filled with squid ink".

Later, we read that an Austrian ex-footballer was shot dead in Durban during the draw for the qualifiers. Oh, and nearly 20% of the population has HIV.

Add all this up and the tournament should have been awarded to Egypt or Morocco instead. This is interesting, because the same Foreign Office the journalist quoted says "There is a high threat from terrorism in Egypt. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in p! laces frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers, such as hotels and restaurants." Or football grounds.

As for Morocco, "You should be aware that there is a threat of kidnapping in the immediate and wider regions and particular care should be taken in remote regions and border areas. You should have confidence in your individual security arrangements and maintain a high level of vigilance." Especially if you're a foreigner heading to a football match.

I could go on. Anyway, here's the article in full:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2009/jul/07/louise-taylor-south-africa-2010-world-cup?commentpage=1

2009 FA CUP Debate: Are times finally ready for video civilization?

Chelsea Florence Malouda's shot Saturday in the 2009 FA Cup Final between Chelsea and Everton at Wembley raised again the long standing debate about the application of video technology in football that was heavily voiced about in the numerous post match radio phone-ins by angry fans.  

Many callers felt aggrieved by the stubborn refuse of the main Governing Body Authority (FIFA)  to approve the technology to be applied in football. Luckily the call - ri! ght or wrong that was - was not decisive for the final result. 

The goal not awarded to Malouda however was not the only match officials failure reported Saturday; there was also a giant offside position not flagged in the build up of the Everton goal and a sending off challenge that Howard Webb the referee converted leniently in a caution. 

All these decisions could have been easily discussed in real time between the referee and its assistants on the pitch or behind a monitor and there would have not been the minimal acrimony and resentment towards the officials by the disgruntled crowds.  

However there must be more than ethical reasons behind this stubbornness not to apply the technology.  You can easily remember the many cases in the past when the ball had passed - or not passed the line starting from the most famous of all that happened coincidentally in this very stadium some ! 43 years ago - where goals were not awarded. 

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Even more worryingly are the thoughts for the ones that will be denied in the incoming important matches like the World Cup qualifiers or the next season competitions that  will reach the climax with the South African World Cup that make reasonable suggesting an introduction of helping aids for the refs. 

Instead it only inspire calls for sorrow of the opportunity seeing this magnificent 'Dream Stadium'- that cost almost a billion pound- made up of the most modern and daring construction techniques and materials - only to be incapable to help the game which is hosting to be played in a full sportsmanship and correctness including just decisions for the pleasure and joy of the crowds and the televised world watching it.

I personally can remember with dismay an unscrupulous London Referee Association chair who when posed the question at a meeting went goading with the idea to have the fans riled up over the! many 'controversial decisions'  a referee can make in a football match; 'Great! It will generate debate' was his conclusions. 

The worst the better he seemed wishing for the category. No wonder why that referee had his own career shortened up by being attacked by a player. 

It seem however that UEFA is moving some steps towards civilization; from next season in the Europa League there will be two more assistant referees deployed just behind or beside! the goal lines and linked up via radio with the referee. 

 

The system has been tested thoroughly during the 2008 UEFA Euro U19 in Cyprus with positive results. (Pictured above courtesy of UEFA) However for cases like the one in the FA Cup last Saturday (See video, courtesy of ITV)  or when the ball suddenly pass the line in the air I am afraid it will not be resolved if not combined with the goal post technology. 

FIFA should not defer anymore these technologies. All popular sports now are using it with complete satisfaction of the public notably Rugby, Hockey, Volley, Tennis and Cricket. Why is Football deferring it? The prevailing current of thought in the FIFA circles is 'Football should be played equally at all levels; from Parks to Premier League the rules (and means they assume) should be the same. 

OK then if we want to keep denying the progress why don't we carrying on playing with the old stringed leather ball and the equipment like the ! one pictured here next? (Pictures courtesy of www.iwantoneofth! ose.com)

World Football Report - From the Publishers of 1st Interactive Journal. Established 1992