It’s the one the Cobra has been wanting for the best part of three years.
The Nottingham man, 35, will get his chance to avenge the tighter of his two career losses after he and Dane, Mikkel Kessler agreed terms for a rematch.
The fight will likely be on 25th May at a London venue to be confirmed in the next few days.
The two first faced off in the early stages of the Super Six tournament in April 2010. It was held in Kessler back yard, with Froch’s WBC super-middleweight strap on the line.
It was a true war, one of the most entertaining fights of that year with Froch on the wrong end of a unanimous decision that many felt had been closer.
Froch made it further in the tournament than Kessler despite this, losing to Andre Ward in the showcase’s final.
But ever since the tournament was concluded, Froch has been chasing a rematch with the Dane.
Now that is has been agreed, it provides a chance for us to begin thinking about what kind of fight it will be.
Froch has faced the stronger opposition, of that there is no dispute, two of his last three fights coming against fighters seen as the best in the super-middleweight, regardless of what happened to Lucian Bute when they met last summer.
This fact could help or hinder a normal fighter, but I can only see it helping Froch because, at 35, he looks in as good shape as he ever has been and will not be suffering from ring-rust.
Kessler, on the other hand, has had a mixed three years in the intervening period.
He has knocked out Mehdi Bouadla, Allan Green and Brian Magee, none of whom – with the greatest respect – will go down as greats of the division.
Like Froch, the Viking Warrior has only been bested twice, by the two men many – myself included – see as the greatest super-middleweights of this millennium; Joe Calzaghe and Andre Ward, neither of whom have been beaten.
But I see Froch’s recent fights setting him up as pre-fight favourite. One thing is for sure; if you are a boxing fan, you will not want to be missing this one!
Adam’s top 10 Super-Middleweights of the Millennium (judged purely on performances during this time-scale:
1. Joe Calzaghe (46-0)
2. Andre Ward (26-0)
3. Carl Froch (32-2)
4. Mikkel Kessler (42-2)
5. Arthur Abraham (36-3)
6. Jean Pascal (30-2-1)
7. Lucian Bute (32-1)
8. Jeff Lacy (25-4-1)
9. Andre Dirrell (20-1)
10. Sakio Bika (30-5-2)
Tuesday, 15 January 2013
Monday, 26 November 2012
Heartbreak for heroic Hitman
He wasn’t meant to lose. Ricky Hatton gave another of his trademark valiant and dogged performances, but he wasn’t meant to lose.
He came out all guns blazing, winning four of the first five rounds. But whilst he was catching Vyacheslav Senchenko with many decent shots, he was also missing many more and getting caught by return punches.
As the rounds went by, the Hitman was visibly starting to tire and Senchenko’s ring craft began to take over.
But the devastating body punch that ended the bout was one that would have chopped down most fighters.
Perhaps if he had taken on Senchenko three years ago, five months after his fight against Pacquiao, he would most likely have won.
It was his ring rust, mixed with questionable fight fitness that cost him the bout, two elements he would not have been lacking if it wasn’t for his retirement.
It was crushing to hear him – in his post-match press conference – say: “I am not a failure.”
This sadly showcased the fragile mind state that led so many to adore him, but also left him vulnerable.
Those who have followed Hatton’s career know that he not a failure, he is a champion, a champion that had one of the most Cinderella-like careers his sport has ever seen.
He is also a hero to millions, proof of which lies in the fact that he took 20,000 fans across to Las Vegas for his fights with Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, taking over the city. It is also more than Amir Khan, Nasim Hamed and Lennox Lewis ever managed.
Another theory is that Hatton could have taken a tune-up fight before taking on a fighter of Senchenko – who was a world champion until his last bout against Paulie Malignaggi – but this is Ricky Hatton, a tune-up fight would not be good enough for him and he would have felt he was doing his beloved fans a disservice if he took the easy way.
He has never taken things the easy way, in or out of the ring, having to lose five stone to make the weight, just as he always used to. Unfortunately on this occasion, it was one bridge too far and Hatton has re-retired saying: “I go the answers I was looking for. I needed to see if I still had it in me, and I don’t.”
He said afterwards that he was “heartbroken”. We knew, our hearts had broken too.
Adam Appleton
He came out all guns blazing, winning four of the first five rounds. But whilst he was catching Vyacheslav Senchenko with many decent shots, he was also missing many more and getting caught by return punches.
As the rounds went by, the Hitman was visibly starting to tire and Senchenko’s ring craft began to take over.
But the devastating body punch that ended the bout was one that would have chopped down most fighters.
Perhaps if he had taken on Senchenko three years ago, five months after his fight against Pacquiao, he would most likely have won.
It was his ring rust, mixed with questionable fight fitness that cost him the bout, two elements he would not have been lacking if it wasn’t for his retirement.
It was crushing to hear him – in his post-match press conference – say: “I am not a failure.”
This sadly showcased the fragile mind state that led so many to adore him, but also left him vulnerable.
Those who have followed Hatton’s career know that he not a failure, he is a champion, a champion that had one of the most Cinderella-like careers his sport has ever seen.
He is also a hero to millions, proof of which lies in the fact that he took 20,000 fans across to Las Vegas for his fights with Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, taking over the city. It is also more than Amir Khan, Nasim Hamed and Lennox Lewis ever managed.
Another theory is that Hatton could have taken a tune-up fight before taking on a fighter of Senchenko – who was a world champion until his last bout against Paulie Malignaggi – but this is Ricky Hatton, a tune-up fight would not be good enough for him and he would have felt he was doing his beloved fans a disservice if he took the easy way.
He has never taken things the easy way, in or out of the ring, having to lose five stone to make the weight, just as he always used to. Unfortunately on this occasion, it was one bridge too far and Hatton has re-retired saying: “I go the answers I was looking for. I needed to see if I still had it in me, and I don’t.”
He said afterwards that he was “heartbroken”. We knew, our hearts had broken too.
Adam Appleton
Sunday, 3 June 2012
Khan must pass Garcia test before 147 schemes
Amir Khan is set to meet WBC light-welterweight Champion Danny Garcia at the Mandalay Bay on the 14th July.
This came after Khan’s original opponent Lamont Peterson failed a drugs test seeing their rematch cancelled.
But again, Khan has been looking past this next fight and weighing up his plans to move up to the welterweight division.
This proved a grave error before the first Peterson fight, which saw the Washington man defeat Khan in the upset of the year to take Khan’s belts to America.
It is imperative that Khan stays focussed on the task at hand this time so that he doesn’t get caught out in another fight he is favourite going in to.
Danny Garcia is unbeaten and fresh from winning the WBC strap of boxing legend Erik Morales via unanimous decision in March.
He will be eager to show his pedigree as this is his first defence and he will be looking to truly announce himself on the world scene.
But whilst he has all these attributes, Khan is still the more skilled, quicker technician.
Garcia could not vanquish an aged Morales with a knockout, showing that he will probably not knock out a fresher-legged Khan either.
Khan however has knockout victories over the likes of Zab Judah, Paulie Malignaggi and Marco Antonio Barrera.
Although it must be taken into consideration that Khan’s spirits will be down, having trained as hard as he did for his Peterson rematch only to have it cancelled.
Be that as it may, Khan should still have the tools to see off Garcia, likely by decision.
Should he do so, what is next for the boy from Bolton?
He constantly says that he will move up to 147lbs, but it isn’t as easy as that.
Firstly, he must ingratiate himself to the division with an impressive victory over a good, but not necessary great opponent.
Fortunately for Amir, welterweight is about the most talent-diluted division going right now.
Victor Ortiz could be an option if can wants to go for a live, active fighter and southpaw at that.
Sugar Shane Mosley could provide a nice stepping stone as Saul Alvarez showed last month.
It is wise that Khan stays away from Mayweather, Pacquiao, Cotto and possibly Marquez this time around as he will need to get used to the weight and make adjustments.
That said, Amir does not balloon up in between fights, he keeps himself trim and walks around about half a stone heavier than his fight weight which will stand in his favour.
He should not lose much speed in his fists as it is his legs that will need bulking up to take the slightly heavier shots as well as his shoulders and neck.
To me, his best options lie with three fighters; former WBC champion Devon Alexander, current NABA and NABO holder Mike Jones, and Timothy Bradley.
Of this opponents, a Bradley fight is the most attractive as there is history from the light-welterweight so as to who is the better combatant.
But Bradley must get past Manny Pacquiao with his fighting dignity intact to keep this fight viable.
Alexander is coming off a resounding victory over Marcos Maidana, who took Amir Khan all the way 18 months ago.
Mike Jones, much like Danny Garcia is fairly untested, but unbeaten and a fight with Khan would be a great acid test.
Many critics are asking whether he will be able to handle himself at the heavier weight.
There should be no problem, his only knockout loss is far, far behind him and he learned from it that he needed better conditioning.
If he can increase his leg mass slightly that should stand him in good stead.
As for how far he can go, Khan should be looking to have one fight and then setting his sights firmly on the top of the division to take on Mayweather, Pacquiao, Cotto or Marquez.
Either of these opponents would be great for Khan as victories over Cotto and Marquez would heavily increase his stock, whilst proving he looks to face the best.
Wins over Pacquiao and/or Mayweather would be on another level though and would see Khan right up there with Britain’s best ever boxers, having competed in two divisions saturated with the best talents in world boxing.
One thing is for sure, Amir “King” Khan is looking to become just that, a king, a legend of boxing.
And in order to achieve that he must move up to welterweight, force his way through the politics of match-making to ensure himself the biggest fights before his planned “retirement” when he turns 28.
This came after Khan’s original opponent Lamont Peterson failed a drugs test seeing their rematch cancelled.
But again, Khan has been looking past this next fight and weighing up his plans to move up to the welterweight division.
This proved a grave error before the first Peterson fight, which saw the Washington man defeat Khan in the upset of the year to take Khan’s belts to America.
It is imperative that Khan stays focussed on the task at hand this time so that he doesn’t get caught out in another fight he is favourite going in to.
Danny Garcia is unbeaten and fresh from winning the WBC strap of boxing legend Erik Morales via unanimous decision in March.
He will be eager to show his pedigree as this is his first defence and he will be looking to truly announce himself on the world scene.
But whilst he has all these attributes, Khan is still the more skilled, quicker technician.
Garcia could not vanquish an aged Morales with a knockout, showing that he will probably not knock out a fresher-legged Khan either.
Khan however has knockout victories over the likes of Zab Judah, Paulie Malignaggi and Marco Antonio Barrera.
Although it must be taken into consideration that Khan’s spirits will be down, having trained as hard as he did for his Peterson rematch only to have it cancelled.
Be that as it may, Khan should still have the tools to see off Garcia, likely by decision.
Should he do so, what is next for the boy from Bolton?
He constantly says that he will move up to 147lbs, but it isn’t as easy as that.
Firstly, he must ingratiate himself to the division with an impressive victory over a good, but not necessary great opponent.
Fortunately for Amir, welterweight is about the most talent-diluted division going right now.
Victor Ortiz could be an option if can wants to go for a live, active fighter and southpaw at that.
Sugar Shane Mosley could provide a nice stepping stone as Saul Alvarez showed last month.
It is wise that Khan stays away from Mayweather, Pacquiao, Cotto and possibly Marquez this time around as he will need to get used to the weight and make adjustments.
That said, Amir does not balloon up in between fights, he keeps himself trim and walks around about half a stone heavier than his fight weight which will stand in his favour.
He should not lose much speed in his fists as it is his legs that will need bulking up to take the slightly heavier shots as well as his shoulders and neck.
To me, his best options lie with three fighters; former WBC champion Devon Alexander, current NABA and NABO holder Mike Jones, and Timothy Bradley.
Of this opponents, a Bradley fight is the most attractive as there is history from the light-welterweight so as to who is the better combatant.
But Bradley must get past Manny Pacquiao with his fighting dignity intact to keep this fight viable.
Alexander is coming off a resounding victory over Marcos Maidana, who took Amir Khan all the way 18 months ago.
Mike Jones, much like Danny Garcia is fairly untested, but unbeaten and a fight with Khan would be a great acid test.
Many critics are asking whether he will be able to handle himself at the heavier weight.
There should be no problem, his only knockout loss is far, far behind him and he learned from it that he needed better conditioning.
If he can increase his leg mass slightly that should stand him in good stead.
As for how far he can go, Khan should be looking to have one fight and then setting his sights firmly on the top of the division to take on Mayweather, Pacquiao, Cotto or Marquez.
Either of these opponents would be great for Khan as victories over Cotto and Marquez would heavily increase his stock, whilst proving he looks to face the best.
Wins over Pacquiao and/or Mayweather would be on another level though and would see Khan right up there with Britain’s best ever boxers, having competed in two divisions saturated with the best talents in world boxing.
One thing is for sure, Amir “King” Khan is looking to become just that, a king, a legend of boxing.
And in order to achieve that he must move up to welterweight, force his way through the politics of match-making to ensure himself the biggest fights before his planned “retirement” when he turns 28.
Early bath likely for not so great Danes
By Adam Appleton
In 1992 they came off the beach ten days before the tournament having failed to qualify to replace an errant Yugoslavia team.
Twenty years later, they are still the most unlikely, unfancied and unbelievable European champions ever.
They saw off the likes of England, France, Holland and Germany along the way to glory to win 2-0 in the final with goals from Vilfort and Jensen in front of a packed Ullevi stadium, Gothenburg.
What made it all the more surprising was that they did it without star players Michael Laudrup and Jan Molby.
Oh how they could do with such talents in their 2012 squad.
They have been given a hellish draw, the tournament’s group of death versus Holland, Germany and Portugal.
Whilst it is unlikely that they will win any of these games, let alone get out of the group, it is still interesting to look into their squad.
Defence must be the first priority for them, which is why Daniel Agger looks set to be their most important player.
The Liverpool defender had a superb season and has truly become a senior player for both of his red teams.
He will have to marshal the defence with Simon Kjaer, who is also a high quality player.
Meanwhile, their up-and-coming star is undoubtedly Christian Eriksen.
The Ajax man will be the creative force in their midfield, playing just behind the strikers.
He will be hoping that main forward Nicklas Bendtner can play as well as he talks, because you feel as though there will not be many goal-scoring opportunities, but one worries he is more image than substance.
Utilising their experienced players will also be vital, Christian Poulsen will be anchoring the midfield, the perfect foil for Christian Eriksen, while 115-cap Dennis Rommedahl will be roaming the wings just as he always has done.
He may been heavily experienced, but Rommedahl has not lost much of his pace over the years and can still give any wing-back trouble.
They could not ask for a more knowledgeable, learned manager in Morten Olsen.
And they will need every inch of that knowledge, as collectively they are very inexperienced, with only 618 caps to their names, 206 of which belong to Poulsen and Rommedahl.
But this will not faze Olsen, who has been in charge of the national side for 12 years now, having made 102 appearances for them in his playing days; a true patriot.
Through the nineties he worked for Brondby, Koln and Ajax before accepting the national job in 2000.
He will face a tough task to get any points from this tournament.
In 1992 they came off the beach ten days before the tournament having failed to qualify to replace an errant Yugoslavia team.
Twenty years later, they are still the most unlikely, unfancied and unbelievable European champions ever.
They saw off the likes of England, France, Holland and Germany along the way to glory to win 2-0 in the final with goals from Vilfort and Jensen in front of a packed Ullevi stadium, Gothenburg.
What made it all the more surprising was that they did it without star players Michael Laudrup and Jan Molby.
Oh how they could do with such talents in their 2012 squad.
They have been given a hellish draw, the tournament’s group of death versus Holland, Germany and Portugal.
Whilst it is unlikely that they will win any of these games, let alone get out of the group, it is still interesting to look into their squad.
Defence must be the first priority for them, which is why Daniel Agger looks set to be their most important player.
The Liverpool defender had a superb season and has truly become a senior player for both of his red teams.
He will have to marshal the defence with Simon Kjaer, who is also a high quality player.
Meanwhile, their up-and-coming star is undoubtedly Christian Eriksen.
The Ajax man will be the creative force in their midfield, playing just behind the strikers.
He will be hoping that main forward Nicklas Bendtner can play as well as he talks, because you feel as though there will not be many goal-scoring opportunities, but one worries he is more image than substance.
Utilising their experienced players will also be vital, Christian Poulsen will be anchoring the midfield, the perfect foil for Christian Eriksen, while 115-cap Dennis Rommedahl will be roaming the wings just as he always has done.
He may been heavily experienced, but Rommedahl has not lost much of his pace over the years and can still give any wing-back trouble.
They could not ask for a more knowledgeable, learned manager in Morten Olsen.
And they will need every inch of that knowledge, as collectively they are very inexperienced, with only 618 caps to their names, 206 of which belong to Poulsen and Rommedahl.
But this will not faze Olsen, who has been in charge of the national side for 12 years now, having made 102 appearances for them in his playing days; a true patriot.
Through the nineties he worked for Brondby, Koln and Ajax before accepting the national job in 2000.
He will face a tough task to get any points from this tournament.
Sunday, 6 May 2012
Not carefree but Chelsea take the Wembley spoils
By Adam Appleton
A Didier Drogba winner proved the difference between Chelsea and Liverpool as the South London club extended their superb recent FA Cup record with a 2-1 victory over the Reds.
The Blues claimed their fourth FA Cup since 2007 and their seventh in all while their Ivorian hit man became the first ever player to score in four FA Cup finals.
History, character, romance, these are but a few choice adjectives that surround the phenomenon that is the FA Cup, therefore it was fitting that the final’s participants graced Wembley’s turf in the colours of red and blue to allow a true throwback experience to final’s of the past.
Chelsea’s goal came after 11 minutes, with Mata sliding Ramires in down the right channel. The Brazilian then expertly brushed Enrique aside before wrong-footing Pepe Reina at his near-post.
In spite of this early goal, the first half proceeded to be a fairly tame affair, with the teams simply not seeing enough chances to create an entertaining atmosphere.
The second half started more briskly with Liverpool looking to press their way back into the game, leaving themselves more open at the back.
These gaps were then exposed when Didier Drogba broke free of Skrtel and fired across goal into the far corner, giving Reina no chance to put his side two ahead.
If there is a positive that Liverpool can take from this game, it is that Andy Carroll seems to have not only started scoring, but also began imposing his considerable physicality once more.
He showed great footwork to shake off John Terry and a forceful finish after Stewart Downing dispossessed Bosingwa, putting his team right back in the game only minutes after he was brought on.
The ex-Newcastle forward also scored the winner in the semi final against Everton as well as at Ewood Park a few days prior.
The higher tempo was there for all to see as Liverpool hounded an equaliser and pressed Chelsea’s midfielders with added aggression and intensity.
It reached it climax when – with ten minutes remaining – Luis Suarez crossed to Andy Carroll who, at point blanc range, arrowed a header towards goal only for Peter Cech to pull off what must be one of the greatest saves in FA Cup history.
Liverpool were appealing for a goal, sure that the ball had crossed the white line but the linesman was having none of it as replays showed the ball to only be half over, preventing its legitimacy.
As it was, the soulful Reds could not find their goal leaving Chelsea to celebrate another FA Cup win, lengthening their reign of dominance in the competition.
Having only been in charge for four months, Roberto Di Matteo already has his first trophy as Chelsea manager, although Andre Villas Boas is likely to feel aggrieved that he was not allowed to take the credit for what is arguably his team.
Saturday, 28 April 2012
Chastening Chelsea bemuse broken Barca
Adam Appleton
“Quitters never win, and winners never quit”. That, or a variant on Vince Lombardi’s famous quote must have been re-articulated in Roberto Di Matteo’s half-time team-talk last night.
Sky commentator, Gary Neville’s ejaculatory “oooooh” at the sight of Fernando Torres’ eventual tie-clincher summed up perfectly the disbelief and hysteria that surrounded the downing of this Catalan juggernaut.
The Blues produced an astonishing rearguard performance to keep out a team hailed as one of the greatest in football’s long history.
A performance that interim boss, Di Matteo, would herald as: “an incredible achievement by this group of players.”
The first half saw Sergio Busquets put the Catalan giants 1-0 ahead after 35 minutes as Chelsea failed to locate the Spaniard from a low cross.
Minutes later it went from bad to worse for the Londoner’s as captain, John Terry, was inexplicably dismissed for sticking a knee in Alexis Sanchez’s back.
Now it is very difficult to estimate just how steep a task playing Barcelona with ten men must be, but it is likely akin to David taking on Goliath without his slingshot.
With this in mind, going 2-0 behind was not high on Chelsea’s wish-list, but that’s precisely what happened as Messi slid in Andres Iniesta to double the advantage and put his team ahead in the tie.
At this stage, many teams would have battened down the hatches and gone for damage limitations, but not Chelsea, whose typical English grit shone through like a beacon all night long.
This determination was rewarded when, seconds before the half time whistle, Frank Lampard played Ramires through down the inside-right channel.
What happened next was pure artistry, with Ramires’ first touch lofting the ball millimetres over Victor Valdes’ outstretched paw, and then dipping to caress the back of the net.
Chelsea were back in it, with their goal turning the game into a chess match, with Barcelona hammering at Chelsea’s pawns, trying their damnedest to find the checkmate.
When Fabregas was brought down by Drogba and a penalty given, Chelsea fans must have thought the writing was on the wall.
Lionel Messi, scorer of 63 goals this season, and serial-terroriser of defences stepped up to take the kick, and cannoned the ball off the crossbar.
As the minutes ticked by, Barcelona were growing increasingly desperate, anxious to work an opening, but master-class displays from all in a white shirt kept them at bay.
With one minute of injury time already played, Fernando Torres found himself in and through on the half way line after a well-guided hook from Ashley Cole, arguably Chelsea’s man of the match.
With Valdes advancing, Torres scooped the ball round him and slotted the ball into the open net to secure not only Chelsea’s spot in the final, but perhaps also a reprieve for himself, repaying much if not all of that £50million transfer fee.
Messi was reduced to crouching, staring blankly at the Nou Camp turf for answers, but none came. At the final whistle, Chelsea fans, players and staff went into realms of happiness hitherto unseen, jumping around yelling like a cat when its tail is trodden on.
In a dignified acceptance of defeat, Barca players stood up, looked Chelsea in the eyes and shook their hands, with many of the home supporters respectfully applauding the Blues’ effort.
But for all their flair, flamboyance and tiki-taka poetry, Barcelona’s prowess could not match Chelsea’s grit, determination and sheer will to see that 19th May date in Munich. Unfortunately, though all will see, not all will play.
Terry’s red card, along with the yellow’s of Meireles, Ramires and Ivanovic will see them play no part in the biggest stage of club football in Europe. But this will not force them to concede the game because winners never quit, and quitters never win.
“Quitters never win, and winners never quit”. That, or a variant on Vince Lombardi’s famous quote must have been re-articulated in Roberto Di Matteo’s half-time team-talk last night.
Sky commentator, Gary Neville’s ejaculatory “oooooh” at the sight of Fernando Torres’ eventual tie-clincher summed up perfectly the disbelief and hysteria that surrounded the downing of this Catalan juggernaut.
The Blues produced an astonishing rearguard performance to keep out a team hailed as one of the greatest in football’s long history.
A performance that interim boss, Di Matteo, would herald as: “an incredible achievement by this group of players.”
The first half saw Sergio Busquets put the Catalan giants 1-0 ahead after 35 minutes as Chelsea failed to locate the Spaniard from a low cross.
Minutes later it went from bad to worse for the Londoner’s as captain, John Terry, was inexplicably dismissed for sticking a knee in Alexis Sanchez’s back.
Now it is very difficult to estimate just how steep a task playing Barcelona with ten men must be, but it is likely akin to David taking on Goliath without his slingshot.
With this in mind, going 2-0 behind was not high on Chelsea’s wish-list, but that’s precisely what happened as Messi slid in Andres Iniesta to double the advantage and put his team ahead in the tie.
At this stage, many teams would have battened down the hatches and gone for damage limitations, but not Chelsea, whose typical English grit shone through like a beacon all night long.
This determination was rewarded when, seconds before the half time whistle, Frank Lampard played Ramires through down the inside-right channel.
What happened next was pure artistry, with Ramires’ first touch lofting the ball millimetres over Victor Valdes’ outstretched paw, and then dipping to caress the back of the net.
Chelsea were back in it, with their goal turning the game into a chess match, with Barcelona hammering at Chelsea’s pawns, trying their damnedest to find the checkmate.
When Fabregas was brought down by Drogba and a penalty given, Chelsea fans must have thought the writing was on the wall.
Lionel Messi, scorer of 63 goals this season, and serial-terroriser of defences stepped up to take the kick, and cannoned the ball off the crossbar.
As the minutes ticked by, Barcelona were growing increasingly desperate, anxious to work an opening, but master-class displays from all in a white shirt kept them at bay.
With one minute of injury time already played, Fernando Torres found himself in and through on the half way line after a well-guided hook from Ashley Cole, arguably Chelsea’s man of the match.
With Valdes advancing, Torres scooped the ball round him and slotted the ball into the open net to secure not only Chelsea’s spot in the final, but perhaps also a reprieve for himself, repaying much if not all of that £50million transfer fee.
Messi was reduced to crouching, staring blankly at the Nou Camp turf for answers, but none came. At the final whistle, Chelsea fans, players and staff went into realms of happiness hitherto unseen, jumping around yelling like a cat when its tail is trodden on.
In a dignified acceptance of defeat, Barca players stood up, looked Chelsea in the eyes and shook their hands, with many of the home supporters respectfully applauding the Blues’ effort.
But for all their flair, flamboyance and tiki-taka poetry, Barcelona’s prowess could not match Chelsea’s grit, determination and sheer will to see that 19th May date in Munich. Unfortunately, though all will see, not all will play.
Terry’s red card, along with the yellow’s of Meireles, Ramires and Ivanovic will see them play no part in the biggest stage of club football in Europe. But this will not force them to concede the game because winners never quit, and quitters never win.
Saturday, 3 March 2012
Mitchell expecting summer Burns bout
Essex fighter has schemes on British World title fight with two-weight Champ
By Adam Appleton
Kevin Mitchell is pursuing a summer fight with WBO lightweight champion, Ricky Burns, Appleton’s Edition can exclusively reveal.
The Dagenham Destroyer was at York Hall, Bethnal Green last night attending a Five Live radio special, “Future of Boxing”, hosted by Mark Chapman, Steve Bunce and Mike Costello.
He was joined there by the likes of Frank Warren, Eddie Hearn, Darren Barker, Enzo Calzaghe, Spencer Oliver, Colin Hart as well as representatives of the Amateur Boxing Association (ABA), British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) and BBC and ITV officials.
We asked Mitchell whether he was eyeing up a fight with the Scottish World champion as he posed for a photograph.
He replied: “It’s a fight I’m very much looking at, probably for June or July, but there is still a lot of paperwork to get through first.”
Burns first has to negotiate Namibian, Paulus “The Hitman” Moses on the 10th March.
He was changed from interim to official WBO champion when Juan Manuel Marquez went up to light-welterweight. This will be his first defence.
Mitchell was devastatingly knocked out in 3 rounds by Australian Michael Katsidis, putting his hopes of superstardom on hold.
When he fought John Murray fourteen months later in a much-anticipated return, Mitchell triumphed in an exhilarating 8th round TKO.
After the fight, he told reporters he had suffered personally around the time he fought Katsidis.
Whether true or false, the same Katsidis was out-boxed by Ricky Burns in a unanimous 12-round decision in a title-eliminator.
However Mitchell has matured since his sole defeat in 33 fights, not only as a boxer, but as a man.
He is currently working in several inner-city schools, trying to encourage a re-introduction of boxing in school to infuse youths with the same discipline and goals that he had.
Oh, you Bute!
Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn also announced that his new charge Carl
Froch has agreed to take on the much-untested, but undefeated IBF super-middleweight champion Lucian Bute.
The Cobra will take on the 32 year old Canada-based Romanian in Nottingham on the 26th May.
Hearn was delighted that they had managed to get Bute to fight outside adopted home, saying: “I have to respect Lucian and his team for agreeing to enter the Lion's Den and face Carl in his hometown, but am fully confident that Carl can become a world champion again.”
Read more at: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/boxing/article-2108900/Carl-Froch-fight-Lucian-Bute-Nottingham-May-26.html#ixzz1nzs8v9zE
By Adam Appleton
Kevin Mitchell is pursuing a summer fight with WBO lightweight champion, Ricky Burns, Appleton’s Edition can exclusively reveal.
The Dagenham Destroyer was at York Hall, Bethnal Green last night attending a Five Live radio special, “Future of Boxing”, hosted by Mark Chapman, Steve Bunce and Mike Costello.
He was joined there by the likes of Frank Warren, Eddie Hearn, Darren Barker, Enzo Calzaghe, Spencer Oliver, Colin Hart as well as representatives of the Amateur Boxing Association (ABA), British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) and BBC and ITV officials.
We asked Mitchell whether he was eyeing up a fight with the Scottish World champion as he posed for a photograph.
He replied: “It’s a fight I’m very much looking at, probably for June or July, but there is still a lot of paperwork to get through first.”
Burns first has to negotiate Namibian, Paulus “The Hitman” Moses on the 10th March.
He was changed from interim to official WBO champion when Juan Manuel Marquez went up to light-welterweight. This will be his first defence.
Mitchell was devastatingly knocked out in 3 rounds by Australian Michael Katsidis, putting his hopes of superstardom on hold.
When he fought John Murray fourteen months later in a much-anticipated return, Mitchell triumphed in an exhilarating 8th round TKO.
After the fight, he told reporters he had suffered personally around the time he fought Katsidis.
Whether true or false, the same Katsidis was out-boxed by Ricky Burns in a unanimous 12-round decision in a title-eliminator.
However Mitchell has matured since his sole defeat in 33 fights, not only as a boxer, but as a man.
He is currently working in several inner-city schools, trying to encourage a re-introduction of boxing in school to infuse youths with the same discipline and goals that he had.
Oh, you Bute!
Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn also announced that his new charge Carl
Froch has agreed to take on the much-untested, but undefeated IBF super-middleweight champion Lucian Bute.
The Cobra will take on the 32 year old Canada-based Romanian in Nottingham on the 26th May.
Hearn was delighted that they had managed to get Bute to fight outside adopted home, saying: “I have to respect Lucian and his team for agreeing to enter the Lion's Den and face Carl in his hometown, but am fully confident that Carl can become a world champion again.”
Read more at: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/boxing/article-2108900/Carl-Froch-fight-Lucian-Bute-Nottingham-May-26.html#ixzz1nzs8v9zE
Monday, 13 February 2012
Poor team selection Spears Liverpool’s Champion’s League hopes
By Adam Appleton
Liverpool’s Champion’s League hopes were dealt a severe blow today as they were defeated by Manchester United.
The Red’s lost 2-1 at Old Trafford in a highly-charged encounter that saw Wayne Rooney score a brace before Luis Suarez struck a consolation goal.
The Uruguayan striker was facing Patrice Evra for the first time since the Frenchman accused him of racist behaviour when the two sides met at Anfield in October.
Having served his subsequent 8-match ban, Suarez then refused to shake Evra’s hand, much to the annoyance of the wing-back. Suarez was then, in-turn, refused handshakes by Ferdinand, Valencia and Welbeck, United’s black players.
There was much surprise when Craig Bellamy and Charlie Adam were only on the bench.
Instead, Liverpool picked the far more defensively-minded options of Downing and Kuyt on the wings, whilst Jay Spearing and Jordan Henderson were both preferred over Scotland international, Adam.
They managed to keep the score-line to 0-0 for half-time despite playing averagely, but in the second half Liverpool really were a disappointment.
Dalglish later admitted that the Red Devil’s were the better team, before angrily defending Suarez, saying: “I think to suggest that (Suarez caused a tense environment) is bang out of order!”
Sir Alex Ferguson countered, branding Suarez a ‘disgrace’ and telling Liverpool to get rid of him.
It was Spearing that was to blame for the second United goal, attempting a risky pass against Valencia, who then broke free and squared to Rooney.
Such mistakes did little to justify Dalglish’s decision to leave out Adam and Bellamy.
It is hard to say that Arsenal, Chelsea, Newcastle or Manchester City would leave out Robin Van Persie, Daniel Sturridge, Demba Ba or Sergio Aguero in any equally big game as Liverpool did with Bellamy.
Only Glen Johnson and Jose Enrique had a good showing, and only when the former was pressing forward.
Steven Gerrard was poor, constantly misplacing passes, Luis Suarez, in spite of his goal, was never going to have his best game, whilst Stewart Downing and Dirk Kuyt were, at times, non-existent down the flanks.
Not only did Liverpool lose, but worse, they deserved to lose because in games with prestige like these you must always pick your strongest side.
But Everton-youth Wayne Rooney saw to this, and you know it’s been a strange day when he comes out with the most philosophical comment: “They are both professionals and that (the handshake incident) is between those two individuals.”
Liverpool’s Champion’s League hopes were dealt a severe blow today as they were defeated by Manchester United.
The Red’s lost 2-1 at Old Trafford in a highly-charged encounter that saw Wayne Rooney score a brace before Luis Suarez struck a consolation goal.
The Uruguayan striker was facing Patrice Evra for the first time since the Frenchman accused him of racist behaviour when the two sides met at Anfield in October.
Having served his subsequent 8-match ban, Suarez then refused to shake Evra’s hand, much to the annoyance of the wing-back. Suarez was then, in-turn, refused handshakes by Ferdinand, Valencia and Welbeck, United’s black players.
There was much surprise when Craig Bellamy and Charlie Adam were only on the bench.
Instead, Liverpool picked the far more defensively-minded options of Downing and Kuyt on the wings, whilst Jay Spearing and Jordan Henderson were both preferred over Scotland international, Adam.
They managed to keep the score-line to 0-0 for half-time despite playing averagely, but in the second half Liverpool really were a disappointment.
Dalglish later admitted that the Red Devil’s were the better team, before angrily defending Suarez, saying: “I think to suggest that (Suarez caused a tense environment) is bang out of order!”
Sir Alex Ferguson countered, branding Suarez a ‘disgrace’ and telling Liverpool to get rid of him.
It was Spearing that was to blame for the second United goal, attempting a risky pass against Valencia, who then broke free and squared to Rooney.
Such mistakes did little to justify Dalglish’s decision to leave out Adam and Bellamy.
It is hard to say that Arsenal, Chelsea, Newcastle or Manchester City would leave out Robin Van Persie, Daniel Sturridge, Demba Ba or Sergio Aguero in any equally big game as Liverpool did with Bellamy.
Only Glen Johnson and Jose Enrique had a good showing, and only when the former was pressing forward.
Steven Gerrard was poor, constantly misplacing passes, Luis Suarez, in spite of his goal, was never going to have his best game, whilst Stewart Downing and Dirk Kuyt were, at times, non-existent down the flanks.
Not only did Liverpool lose, but worse, they deserved to lose because in games with prestige like these you must always pick your strongest side.
But Everton-youth Wayne Rooney saw to this, and you know it’s been a strange day when he comes out with the most philosophical comment: “They are both professionals and that (the handshake incident) is between those two individuals.”
Tuesday, 7 February 2012
Is Klitschko fight Vitali important for Haye?
By Adam Appleton
It has emerged that David Haye is in talks with Vitali Klitschko in spite of the 31 year-old’s October retirement.
The Bermondsey man has allegedly weighed up his options and is negotiating a meeting with the 40 year old Klitschko.
In his final fight before ‘retirement’, Haye lost weakly to WBO, IBO, IBF and now WBA champion Wladimir Klitschko in a unanimous points decision, giving the Klitschko brother’s all the alphabet heavyweight belts.
As a consequence, Vitali is not likely to be so generous with Haye financially as his brother was for their July bout.
The story of David Haye and the Klitschko brother’s dates back to April 2009 with the brash Londoner ruffling feathers with his trash talk, a fight was arranged but Haye withdrew with a back injury.
Haye also wore the now famous “severed heads” t-shirt to cause further animousity.
The Briton then beat Russian giant Nicolai Valuev on points, claiming the WBA title before defeating John Ruiz and later Audley Harrison in one of the division’s most farcical fights.
With these defences won, Haye appeared the only real threat to the Klitschko’s domination. But this hope was shattered by the tentative performance that came in Hamburg.
Now it seems that Haye has vengeful schemes on fighting Vitali Klitschko.
Reports from both camps say that the contract talks are on hold until after Vitali faces Dereck Chisora on 18th February in Munich, but rumours say a fight could happen in November.
Klitschko’s manager Bernd Boente said: “Vitali wants to finish what his brother didn’t do, meaning knock out David Haye.”
If this is indeed true, the man from Bermondsey has much to fear.
Not only is he challenging the man with the record knockout percentage in heavyweight history, not only the same man who arguably chased Lennox Lewis into retirement, but Vitali can also claim to have never been conclusively beaten.
In the last big heavyweight clash before Haye versus Klitschko, Klitschko was controversially stopped in 6 rounds by Lennox Lewis in Los Angeles in 2003. A deep cut above the left eye caused the stoppage and plans for a rematch were dashed by Lewis’ retirement.
His only other loss occurred when a torn rotator cuff forced his withdrawal against Chris Byrd in 2000. In both these defeats, the German-based Ukrainian was unanimously ahead on the judges scorecards.
In spite of this nine year unbeaten streak, Hall of Fame trainer Emanuel Steward believes Haye’s style could work more effectively against Vitali.
“Vitali is bigger and hits hard but he comes straight in and doesn’t have the same balance and elusive movement as Wladimir, so David might give him a little more trouble.”
Indeed it is a style that got Haye a near-flawless record. Until meeting Klitschko, his only previous loss came against Carl Thompson in 2004 when an over-active Haye threw in the towel by the end of the 5th round.
Should Haye decide to dwell on tales from the past, he might be advised to think better of targeting the arguably superior Klitschko.
Sugar Ray Leonard and Muhammad Ali succumbed to breaking retirements and both paid for it. Ali was beaten up by Larry Holmes before losing to Trevor Berbick. Leonard did beat Marvin Hagler, Tommy Hearns and Roberto Duran, but eventually lost to Terry Norris and Hector Camacho.
However Floyd Mayweather made it work, coming back from retirement to beat the likes of Juan Manuel Marquez and Shane Mosley.
Haye has much to consider before stepping back into the ring. Fitness and age are no issue to him as they were to Leonard and Ali, at 31 he has been training lightly in case of such an offer from Vitali. The issue is his legacy, if there is to be one.
He must consider the risk:reward; If he beats Dr Ironfist, great, that will add to or maybe even give him legacy.
If he loses, he will be remembered as the man who could not back up his infamous trash-talk, and as the man whose only big heavyweight scalp was Nicolai Valuev, hardly a Hall of Famer.
Although his reputation as one of the finest Cruiserweights remains untarnished, his performances in boxing’s headline division will live long in the memory of many fans.
To me, Haye the heavyweight still has much to prove. So go on David, show us what you are made of and take on Vitali, you owe your fans a better lasting memory than excusing your performance on a broken toe and ultimately failing on the biggest night of your career.
ENDS
It has emerged that David Haye is in talks with Vitali Klitschko in spite of the 31 year-old’s October retirement.
The Bermondsey man has allegedly weighed up his options and is negotiating a meeting with the 40 year old Klitschko.
In his final fight before ‘retirement’, Haye lost weakly to WBO, IBO, IBF and now WBA champion Wladimir Klitschko in a unanimous points decision, giving the Klitschko brother’s all the alphabet heavyweight belts.
As a consequence, Vitali is not likely to be so generous with Haye financially as his brother was for their July bout.
The story of David Haye and the Klitschko brother’s dates back to April 2009 with the brash Londoner ruffling feathers with his trash talk, a fight was arranged but Haye withdrew with a back injury.
Haye also wore the now famous “severed heads” t-shirt to cause further animousity.
The Briton then beat Russian giant Nicolai Valuev on points, claiming the WBA title before defeating John Ruiz and later Audley Harrison in one of the division’s most farcical fights.
With these defences won, Haye appeared the only real threat to the Klitschko’s domination. But this hope was shattered by the tentative performance that came in Hamburg.
Now it seems that Haye has vengeful schemes on fighting Vitali Klitschko.
Reports from both camps say that the contract talks are on hold until after Vitali faces Dereck Chisora on 18th February in Munich, but rumours say a fight could happen in November.
Klitschko’s manager Bernd Boente said: “Vitali wants to finish what his brother didn’t do, meaning knock out David Haye.”
If this is indeed true, the man from Bermondsey has much to fear.
Not only is he challenging the man with the record knockout percentage in heavyweight history, not only the same man who arguably chased Lennox Lewis into retirement, but Vitali can also claim to have never been conclusively beaten.
In the last big heavyweight clash before Haye versus Klitschko, Klitschko was controversially stopped in 6 rounds by Lennox Lewis in Los Angeles in 2003. A deep cut above the left eye caused the stoppage and plans for a rematch were dashed by Lewis’ retirement.
His only other loss occurred when a torn rotator cuff forced his withdrawal against Chris Byrd in 2000. In both these defeats, the German-based Ukrainian was unanimously ahead on the judges scorecards.
In spite of this nine year unbeaten streak, Hall of Fame trainer Emanuel Steward believes Haye’s style could work more effectively against Vitali.
“Vitali is bigger and hits hard but he comes straight in and doesn’t have the same balance and elusive movement as Wladimir, so David might give him a little more trouble.”
Indeed it is a style that got Haye a near-flawless record. Until meeting Klitschko, his only previous loss came against Carl Thompson in 2004 when an over-active Haye threw in the towel by the end of the 5th round.
Should Haye decide to dwell on tales from the past, he might be advised to think better of targeting the arguably superior Klitschko.
Sugar Ray Leonard and Muhammad Ali succumbed to breaking retirements and both paid for it. Ali was beaten up by Larry Holmes before losing to Trevor Berbick. Leonard did beat Marvin Hagler, Tommy Hearns and Roberto Duran, but eventually lost to Terry Norris and Hector Camacho.
However Floyd Mayweather made it work, coming back from retirement to beat the likes of Juan Manuel Marquez and Shane Mosley.
Haye has much to consider before stepping back into the ring. Fitness and age are no issue to him as they were to Leonard and Ali, at 31 he has been training lightly in case of such an offer from Vitali. The issue is his legacy, if there is to be one.
He must consider the risk:reward; If he beats Dr Ironfist, great, that will add to or maybe even give him legacy.
If he loses, he will be remembered as the man who could not back up his infamous trash-talk, and as the man whose only big heavyweight scalp was Nicolai Valuev, hardly a Hall of Famer.
Although his reputation as one of the finest Cruiserweights remains untarnished, his performances in boxing’s headline division will live long in the memory of many fans.
To me, Haye the heavyweight still has much to prove. So go on David, show us what you are made of and take on Vitali, you owe your fans a better lasting memory than excusing your performance on a broken toe and ultimately failing on the biggest night of your career.
ENDS
The F1 Number One
By Adam Appleton
On 1st May, it will be 18 years since the passing of world-famous driver Ayrton Senna after a fatal crash at Imola.
But many still look back on his era and ask: ‘Was he the greatest driver ever?’
Many answers spring to mind; Ascari, Villeneuve, Clark, Mansell, Piquet, Stewart, Fangio, Brabham and Lauda, and maybe Vettel, Alonso and Hamilton may, someday, join that illustrious pack.
However, three names always seem to emerge as the most legitimate contenders; Alain Prost, Michael Schumacher and Senna himself.
Between 1985 and 2004, they claimed 14 driver’s titles, Schumacher seven, Prost four and Senna three.
For me, Senna and Schumacher emerge over Prost.
Prost won his titles in the best cars, and was nearly always the preferred driver of those teams.
His methodical approach did not draw many supporters either, he did not take gambles and was a poor wet-weather driver.
He also had FISA President Jean-Marie Balestre, a Frenchman, providing several decisions in his favour and against Senna.
But Prost’s lack of grounding in less competitive cars stops him gaining this status, because Senna and Schumacher both made their way up from unfashionable manufacturers.
They also both excelled early in their careers.
Senna scored points in his second and third races in the uncompetitive Toleman car, and then finished second in a rain-filled Monaco Grand Prix, 1984.
Schumacher issued early warnings of his precocious talent, qualifying 7th on debut at Spa, also the setting for his maiden victory in 1992.
The German would drive for Benetton, Ferrari and Mercedes GP, and Senna for Lotus, McLaren and finally Williams.
Both were controversial figures, due to their aggressive styles and exaggerated will to win.
Most of Senna’s incidents involved Prost, the synonymous duo had a rivalry more public than Formula One had ever seen.
They first clashed at the 1989 title-decider at Suzuka. They collided as Senna tried to overtake Prost, Senna managed a push-start and won the race.
However, he was left fuming after being disqualified by Balestre for cutting the chicane to rejoin the race, leaving Prost to take the title.
Further controversy followed at Suzuka the following year.
Senna took pole position ahead of Prost, but believed he was on the “dirty” side of the grid.
Prost looked to have the lead into the first corner, only for Senna to plough into him to win the title.
The incident drew reaction from both drivers, Prost saying: “Ayrton has a problem in that he does not think he can die.”
Senna however, was unrepentant: “If you no longer go for a gap, you are no longer a racing driver… I am not designed to finish 3rd or 4th or 5th.”
Schumacher also had title-related controversies early in his career.
In Adelaide, 1994, Schumacher led Damon Hill by a point.
On lap 36, Schumacher, leading, ran wide critically damaging his car on the wall.
Hill, sensing an opportunity tried to overtake but Schumacher shut the door on him, sending both out of the race, conveniently handing Schumacher the title.
Many believe that Schumacher caused the crash to ensure him and Benetton the championship.
In a near-identical incident at Jerez in 1997, Schumacher – now at Ferrari – turned in on Jacques Villeneuve but could only tap his side-pod, meaning Villeneuve took the title. It also did not stop Schumacher getting an awful press reaction.
When it finally boils down to answering this question, it is not the controversies that separate them, but instead the quality of the era they raced in.
Schumacher’s biggest rivals were Damon Hill, Mika Hakkinen and Fernando Alonso.
These names are incomparable to the men Senna shined against; Alain Prost, Nigel Mansell and Nelson Piquet, all great in their own respect.
This divides the two because whilst Schumacher holds the biggest records; most pole positions (68), most victories (91) and most World Championship (7), a purist like me will always say that Senna was the greatest in the greastest era.
This is perhaps best shown in terms of pole positions, Schumacher’s F1 career has been six seasons and counting longer than Senna’s, but he has only managed three more pole positions.
He was likely the most naturally talented pilot in history and it is difficult pinpoint particular races in Senna’s career because he was incredible in so many.
So whilst the numbers point to the German, the Brazilian had an almost unquantifiable asset to his driving. It may not have been metronomic but, to quote Murray Walker, it was “absolutely sensational!”
ENDS
On 1st May, it will be 18 years since the passing of world-famous driver Ayrton Senna after a fatal crash at Imola.
But many still look back on his era and ask: ‘Was he the greatest driver ever?’
Many answers spring to mind; Ascari, Villeneuve, Clark, Mansell, Piquet, Stewart, Fangio, Brabham and Lauda, and maybe Vettel, Alonso and Hamilton may, someday, join that illustrious pack.
However, three names always seem to emerge as the most legitimate contenders; Alain Prost, Michael Schumacher and Senna himself.
Between 1985 and 2004, they claimed 14 driver’s titles, Schumacher seven, Prost four and Senna three.
For me, Senna and Schumacher emerge over Prost.
Prost won his titles in the best cars, and was nearly always the preferred driver of those teams.
His methodical approach did not draw many supporters either, he did not take gambles and was a poor wet-weather driver.
He also had FISA President Jean-Marie Balestre, a Frenchman, providing several decisions in his favour and against Senna.
But Prost’s lack of grounding in less competitive cars stops him gaining this status, because Senna and Schumacher both made their way up from unfashionable manufacturers.
They also both excelled early in their careers.
Senna scored points in his second and third races in the uncompetitive Toleman car, and then finished second in a rain-filled Monaco Grand Prix, 1984.
Schumacher issued early warnings of his precocious talent, qualifying 7th on debut at Spa, also the setting for his maiden victory in 1992.
The German would drive for Benetton, Ferrari and Mercedes GP, and Senna for Lotus, McLaren and finally Williams.
Both were controversial figures, due to their aggressive styles and exaggerated will to win.
Most of Senna’s incidents involved Prost, the synonymous duo had a rivalry more public than Formula One had ever seen.
They first clashed at the 1989 title-decider at Suzuka. They collided as Senna tried to overtake Prost, Senna managed a push-start and won the race.
However, he was left fuming after being disqualified by Balestre for cutting the chicane to rejoin the race, leaving Prost to take the title.
Further controversy followed at Suzuka the following year.
Senna took pole position ahead of Prost, but believed he was on the “dirty” side of the grid.
Prost looked to have the lead into the first corner, only for Senna to plough into him to win the title.
The incident drew reaction from both drivers, Prost saying: “Ayrton has a problem in that he does not think he can die.”
Senna however, was unrepentant: “If you no longer go for a gap, you are no longer a racing driver… I am not designed to finish 3rd or 4th or 5th.”
Schumacher also had title-related controversies early in his career.
In Adelaide, 1994, Schumacher led Damon Hill by a point.
On lap 36, Schumacher, leading, ran wide critically damaging his car on the wall.
Hill, sensing an opportunity tried to overtake but Schumacher shut the door on him, sending both out of the race, conveniently handing Schumacher the title.
Many believe that Schumacher caused the crash to ensure him and Benetton the championship.
In a near-identical incident at Jerez in 1997, Schumacher – now at Ferrari – turned in on Jacques Villeneuve but could only tap his side-pod, meaning Villeneuve took the title. It also did not stop Schumacher getting an awful press reaction.
When it finally boils down to answering this question, it is not the controversies that separate them, but instead the quality of the era they raced in.
Schumacher’s biggest rivals were Damon Hill, Mika Hakkinen and Fernando Alonso.
These names are incomparable to the men Senna shined against; Alain Prost, Nigel Mansell and Nelson Piquet, all great in their own respect.
This divides the two because whilst Schumacher holds the biggest records; most pole positions (68), most victories (91) and most World Championship (7), a purist like me will always say that Senna was the greatest in the greastest era.
This is perhaps best shown in terms of pole positions, Schumacher’s F1 career has been six seasons and counting longer than Senna’s, but he has only managed three more pole positions.
He was likely the most naturally talented pilot in history and it is difficult pinpoint particular races in Senna’s career because he was incredible in so many.
So whilst the numbers point to the German, the Brazilian had an almost unquantifiable asset to his driving. It may not have been metronomic but, to quote Murray Walker, it was “absolutely sensational!”
ENDS
Time to Pieter out?
By Adam Appleton
Many of England’s batsmen find themselves under serious pressure after poor performances against Pakistan, none more so than Kevin Pietersen.
The three-match series – which has been taking place in the United Arab Emirates due to the current security concerns in Pakistan – has seen Pakistan go 2-0 ahead and take a commanding position in the third match.
Such a result has seen blame fly around, much of which has been squarely aimed at England’s batsmen.
Their numbers so far do not make for good reading, they have managing only 352 and 399 runs overall in the respective matches.
Kevin Pietersen is taking a good brunt of this, not only due to his lack of runs but because of his dismissals on this tour.
In the First Test he incredibly decided to hook Umar Gul whilst still on nought, giving away his wicket as he was caught at deep square leg.
Then in both of his last two innings’, the old fallacy of slow left-arm round-the-wicket bowling has haunted him with Rehman trapping him in front on both occasions.
What worries England fans is that he has not learnt from his mistakes. This weakness has been spoken about for at least two years now, yet he has either not done enough to counter it, or is simply unable to.
Obviously only having mustered 49 runs from 5 innings’ at an average of 9.8 and a top-score of 32 does not stand in his favour.
In fact, there is a favourable chance that these technical failures might be forgiven had he managed 300 runs in the series.
What does stand in his favour is that he is not the only horribly under-performing batsman in the team.
He is also the most senior, therefore the most embedded run-maker that is struggling, meaning he will likely get more chances.
Eoin Morgan and Ian Bell also find themselves under scrutiny, particularly the former as he is the most junior batsman and looks like he is finding the adaptation to Test match cricket difficult.
Indeed Morgan will likely be the first to get dropped even if there are several strugglers simply because he is the most junior.
This may well save Pietersen from further scrutiny as the selectors will not want to get rid of him likely having been the cornerstone of the batting line-up since he burst onto the scene against Australia in the 2005 Ashes.
However, it could also add to the pressure.
As he is this senior figure, many will say that he should start acting and more importantly batting as such.
He does not seem to consider employing a Plan B batting style if he fails to come in and dominate the bowling straight away as has happened too many times recently and will continue to happen if his confidence is low, which it surely will be.
England need more frequent scores from him as he is filling this senior role. If he is scoring runs, the pressure will be off players like Eoin Morgan, enabling them to play a little more freely, the same way Trescothick and Vaughan did for Pietersen in his early days.
This is not the first time that Pietersen has come under the cosh.
Going into the 2010/11 Ashes in Australia, both Pietersen and Cook were under dire pressure to re-prove their worth to the team after both had lean patches in the run-up.
766 runs and an Ashes victory later Cook had shoved the critics words back down their throats.
Pietersen’s own contribution was comparatively quiet, but in a normal series 360 runs at an average of 60 would be a clear warning of form.
But he out-did this with a superb home series against India as England took a 4-0 whitewash and the Number 1 Test Team ranking.
Scoring 533 runs in 6 innings with 2 centuries, Pietersen was leading run-scorer, edging out Ian Bell and Rahul Dravid.
This shows that Pietersen has had form in the past year and perhaps, like the rest of the English batsmen, he has simply struggled to make runs on the wickets in the UAE.
England selectors and fans alike will hope this is the case because it will be a sign of weakness if it comes to the point where Pietersen has to be sacrificed.
Not only is this because there is no like-for-like replacement for him, but because he is such a gifted individual once he is in flow.
He is arguably the most talented batsmen of his generation along with AB De Villiers and Michael Clarke and England need him firing out runs to maintain their Number 1 Test status.
ENDS
Many of England’s batsmen find themselves under serious pressure after poor performances against Pakistan, none more so than Kevin Pietersen.
The three-match series – which has been taking place in the United Arab Emirates due to the current security concerns in Pakistan – has seen Pakistan go 2-0 ahead and take a commanding position in the third match.
Such a result has seen blame fly around, much of which has been squarely aimed at England’s batsmen.
Their numbers so far do not make for good reading, they have managing only 352 and 399 runs overall in the respective matches.
Kevin Pietersen is taking a good brunt of this, not only due to his lack of runs but because of his dismissals on this tour.
In the First Test he incredibly decided to hook Umar Gul whilst still on nought, giving away his wicket as he was caught at deep square leg.
Then in both of his last two innings’, the old fallacy of slow left-arm round-the-wicket bowling has haunted him with Rehman trapping him in front on both occasions.
What worries England fans is that he has not learnt from his mistakes. This weakness has been spoken about for at least two years now, yet he has either not done enough to counter it, or is simply unable to.
Obviously only having mustered 49 runs from 5 innings’ at an average of 9.8 and a top-score of 32 does not stand in his favour.
In fact, there is a favourable chance that these technical failures might be forgiven had he managed 300 runs in the series.
What does stand in his favour is that he is not the only horribly under-performing batsman in the team.
He is also the most senior, therefore the most embedded run-maker that is struggling, meaning he will likely get more chances.
Eoin Morgan and Ian Bell also find themselves under scrutiny, particularly the former as he is the most junior batsman and looks like he is finding the adaptation to Test match cricket difficult.
Indeed Morgan will likely be the first to get dropped even if there are several strugglers simply because he is the most junior.
This may well save Pietersen from further scrutiny as the selectors will not want to get rid of him likely having been the cornerstone of the batting line-up since he burst onto the scene against Australia in the 2005 Ashes.
However, it could also add to the pressure.
As he is this senior figure, many will say that he should start acting and more importantly batting as such.
He does not seem to consider employing a Plan B batting style if he fails to come in and dominate the bowling straight away as has happened too many times recently and will continue to happen if his confidence is low, which it surely will be.
England need more frequent scores from him as he is filling this senior role. If he is scoring runs, the pressure will be off players like Eoin Morgan, enabling them to play a little more freely, the same way Trescothick and Vaughan did for Pietersen in his early days.
This is not the first time that Pietersen has come under the cosh.
Going into the 2010/11 Ashes in Australia, both Pietersen and Cook were under dire pressure to re-prove their worth to the team after both had lean patches in the run-up.
766 runs and an Ashes victory later Cook had shoved the critics words back down their throats.
Pietersen’s own contribution was comparatively quiet, but in a normal series 360 runs at an average of 60 would be a clear warning of form.
But he out-did this with a superb home series against India as England took a 4-0 whitewash and the Number 1 Test Team ranking.
Scoring 533 runs in 6 innings with 2 centuries, Pietersen was leading run-scorer, edging out Ian Bell and Rahul Dravid.
This shows that Pietersen has had form in the past year and perhaps, like the rest of the English batsmen, he has simply struggled to make runs on the wickets in the UAE.
England selectors and fans alike will hope this is the case because it will be a sign of weakness if it comes to the point where Pietersen has to be sacrificed.
Not only is this because there is no like-for-like replacement for him, but because he is such a gifted individual once he is in flow.
He is arguably the most talented batsmen of his generation along with AB De Villiers and Michael Clarke and England need him firing out runs to maintain their Number 1 Test status.
ENDS
Sunday, 16 October 2011
MY TOP 20 ALL-TIME POUND-FOR-POUND BOXER’S!
Over the past 4 years I have become engrossed in the “art” of Pugilism, or Boxing. It has been known as a variant of things down the years, from the Sweet Science to a barbaric practice.
Some people look for heart, guts and determination. Others look for speed both of mind and body, combinations and entertainment. Others still look for grace, defensive prowess and slick counter-punching. In this piece I will be looking to find the best 20 fighters that possessed all over these aspects of their game.
It will not include current boxers as their careers are still on-going and the rises and falls of their records are unfinished. It will be an endeavour to try to judge the fighters’ whole careers and not just the peaks. However, fights seen as ridiculous will be given more lenience, for example; Ali v Holmes and Leonard v Camacho when many said Ali and Leonard were not fit to fight.
So, enough talking, here is what you want, I hope it sparks debate.
20. Jimmy Wilde 152 fights 137 wins (100 by KO) / 4 losses / 2 draws / 8 no contests
19. Joe Frazier 37 fights 32 wins (27 by KO) / 4 losses / 1 draw
18. Roy Jones Jr 62 fights 54 wins (40 by KO) / 8 losses
17. Marcellin Cerdan 117 fights 113 wins (66 by KO) / 4 losses
16. Sandy Saddler 162 fights 144 wins (103 by KO) / 16 losses / 2 draws
15. Harry Greb 298 fights 261 wins (48 by KO) / 19 losses / 18 draws / 6 no contests
14. Gene Tunney 86 fights 81 wins (48 by KO) / 1 loss / 3 draws / 2 no contests
13. Roberto Duran 120 fights 104 wins (69 by KO) / 16 losses
12. Julio Cesar Chavez 115 fights 107 wins (89 by KO) / 6 losses / 2 draws
11. Rocky Marciano 49 fights 49 wins (43 by KO)
10. Lennox Lewis - Heavyweight - 44 fights 41W (32 KO’s) / 2L / 1D
He is probably the most controversial inclusion in the top 10. But in a good era for heavyweight boxing, Lennox Lewis stood top of the pile as undisputed Champion.
He was stripped of the WBA title for not fighting John Ruiz, but held the lineal titles (WBC, IBF and IBO) in two separate periods.
A man who can say he beat everyone he shared a ring with as he avenged his two shock loses to Hasim Rahman and Oliver McCall. His subsequent wins against Rahman, Holyfield and Tyson gave him his legacy.
His two losses called in to question his biggest criticism; a poor chin. Lewis was KO'd in both of his losses, but his strong defence meant that his chin wasn't too frequently tested.
Whether he would have beaten Vitali Klitschko had the Ukrainian not been stopped for a severe cut nobody knows. The only other question was whether he would have been Riddick Bowe if they had thought, but as Bowe dodged the fight it suggests he was scared of Lewis. Whilst these questions may linger, Lewis' superb technique, record and the fact he was never tempted out of retirement like many before him has ensured him a place in my top 10.
9. Tommy Hearns - Various - 67 fights 61W (48 KO’s) / 5L / 1D
The "Hitman" astonishing (and at the time record-setting) five world titles at five weights under the tutelage of Emanuel Steward is held in high reverence. He boxed at Welterweight, Super-Welterweight, Middleweight, Super-Middleweight, Light Heavyweight and Cruiserweight winning belts in all divisions apart from Super-Welter.
He is unfortunate in that he is probably best remembered for losing the two biggest fights of his career; "The Showdown" against Sugar Ray Leonard and "The War" against Marvin Hagler. The latter is one of boxing's most famous matches and it does its name full justice and in the former he was ahead on all cards at the end of the 13th before Leonard KO'd him in the 14th.
He did, however, beat Wilfred Benitez and KO Roberto Duran in two rounds.
At 6ft1, he had unusual dimension to be boxing at welterweight and middleweight and he was often able to utilise his long reach to great effect.
That he won belts at 5 weights within 15 years also shows the longevity of his greatness.
8. Henry Armstrong - Various - 180 fights 149W (101 KO’s) / 21L / 10D
Henry "Homicide Hank" Armstrong was a special boxer in many ways, he remains the only man two have ever held three belts at three weights at the same time. In an era when there was only eight weights to choose from, it is quite some achievement.
He was Featherweight, Lightweight and Welterweight world Champion.
According to many experts, he should been a four weight Champion, but his rematch with Ceferino Garcia - who he had beaten in their first mach before Garcia became Champion - was scored a harsh draw that many thought Armstrong had won.
He managed to successfully defend his Welterweight belt eighteen times, still a record at that weight.
At the age of 31 however, he lost to a 22 year old future world Champion and hall of famer Sugar Ray Robinson in a unanimous decision. This loss marked the end of Armstrong's competitive career and after a few more fights he retired. But by this point he had already set the benchmark for all welterweight boxers before and after him.
7. Marvin Hagler - Middleweight -67 fights 62W (52 KO’s) / 3L / 2D
Marvelous Marvin Hagler was the undisputed Middleweight Champion of the world from 1980 - 1987 and still owns the highest KO% of any Middleweight.
In his 14 year career, he only had one un-avenged defeat to the great Sugar Ray Leonard.
In his most famous fight, "The War" versus Tommy Hearns, he dispatched the Hitman in three of the most aggressive rounds ever seen in boxing. He also defeated the last of the "Four Kings" Roberto Duran in a fifteen round unanimous decision.
Possibly the most interest facet of Hagler was that he was completely ambidextrous and just as good a boxer in a southpaw stance as he was in an orthodox one.
He had to overcome controversy when he was awarded a high-contested draw in his first title fight against Vito "Mosquito" Antuofermo when even referee Mills Lane thought Hagler had won easily.
Many also say that Hagler was robbed in his fight against Leonard as Sugar Ray simply put in a few flashy-looking combinations per round to convince the judges.
However, Hagler's grit, determination and commitment to training and boxing as an art has him in my top 10.
6. Benny Leonard - Lightweight - 217 fights 183W (70 KO’s) / 19L / 11D / 4NC
One of boxing's most articulate fighters, Benny Leonard beat many of his opponents with the words he said and combined them well with the speed of his fists.
He was world Lightweight Champion for seven and a half years, setting a precedent for those that followed him and set many gate receipt records with his popularity.
An adaptable fighter, when tired he would often talk to his opponents, making them think while he recovered himself. He was also renowned for his superb technique and wasn't hit too often in his prime.
He could have become a two-weight Champion when he challenged then Welterweight Champion Jack Britton, he was subsequently disqualified in their match as he hit
He even died in the ring whilst refereeing a bout in 1947, a fitting place for him to go.
5. Sugar Ray Leonard -Various - 40 fights 36W (25KO’s) / 3L / 1D
To many, he was a smaller reincarnation of Muhammad Ali. Sugar Ray does indeed claim that he tried to be like Ali. He is set the precedent for the high purses that fighters like Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao now know as second nature.
The most successful of the "Four Kings", he managed to beat Marvin Hagler, Tommy Hearns and Roberto Duran, though he famously lost to the latter in their first fight. Indeed the trilogy with Duran is a watermark in Leonard's career with Duran quitting in the infamous "No mas" rematch before winning again in their rubber match.
He defeated Tommy Hearns in "The Showdown" with a stunning finish to takeout the Hitman in the 14th after Angelo Dundee warned him: "You're blowing it son!". He was also given a debatable draw in their rematch.
After retiring, he finally granted Hagler a fight in 1986. Leonard boxed his way to a decision that many believe could have gone either way.
After two ill-advised comeback fights against Terry Norris and Hector Camacho in 1991 and 1997 respectively, Leonard finally called it quits on his career. He was a 5 weight champion, at Welterweight, Light-Middleweight, Middleweight, Super-Middleweight and Light-Heavyweight. He only lost a belt once, retiring whilst champion or vacated the title with all the others.
He was the most stylish and talented boxer of his generation and the king in a supreme era of welter/middleweight boxing.
4. Willie Pep - Featherweight -249 fights 229W (65 KO’s) / 11L / 1D
Will o' the Wisp's record speaks for itself; to step to the ring 249 times and fail to win only 12 of those times is truly staggering.
He is another fighter that used his speed, reactions and finesse to out-do his opponents.
He went 62-0 before losing to Sammy Angott, another champion. He reigned as world Featherweight Champion for 6 years (1942-1948) in his first stint before falling at the hands of his biggest nemesis, Sandy Saddler. He beat Saddler in a rematch 6 months later to have another 18 month spell with the title before being once more defeated by Saddler, the only boxer to ever get the upper hand over Pep in some questionably dirty fights.
His career is particularly spectacular as he was severely injured in a plane crash in 1947 but still made it back to the ring.
His skill was such that a legend says he once one a round without throwing a punch, whether it is true, nobody is sure but Willie Pep was definitely that special.
3. Muhammad Ali - Heavyweight - 61 fights 56W (37 KO’s) / 5L
What is there to say about this man that hasn't already been said? Not only one of the greatest boxers ever, but one of the greatest people of his generation. The Louisville Lip transcended the sport when he chose to refuse to go to war, but we're going to concentrate on his boxing.
As a fighter, he beat everyone in a golden Heavyweight era; Liston, Frazier, Foreman, Paterson, Norton and Spinks to name a few victims.
The three-time World Heavyweight Champion is famous for so many things; the "Ali Shuffle", the "Rope-a-Dope" as well as his famed trash talk.
When he beat Sonny Liston at 22, he became the youngest Heavyweight Champion to dethrone another Champion.
The only two fighters to beat him in his prime were Ken Norton and Joe Frazier, both of which he avenged. Indeed with Frazier, Ali shared a memorable trilogy which culminated in the "Thrilla in Manilla" which Ali won by 14th round TKO, after which Ali would claim: "that was the closest I've been to death."
He was beaten by Larry Holmes and Trevor Berbick in fights he should never have fought and for which he was barely healthy.
Parkinson's disease may have slowed him down over time, but no one will ever forget Ali, his legacy will live forever.
2. Joe Louis - Heavyweight - 72 fights 69W (57 KO’s) / 3L / 1NC
The Brown Bomber is best remembered for his record of defending his World Heavyweight Championship belt successfully 25 times. But he was also one of the first nationally popular Black men in American and helped to pave the way for the likes of Muhammad Ali and Sugar Ray Leonard.
He beat Max Baer and giant Primo Carnera before succumbing to a shock lose to Schmelling. In spite of this loss, he fought for the World Title a few fights later and disposed of James Braddock in eight rounds.
This begun his long reign on the throne, beating the German Schmelling in a rematch famous for its political ramifications in 1938, and Jersey Joe Walcott twice before announcing his retirement.
It only lasted 18 months. He had ten more fights, the most notable of which were losses to Ezzard Charles and later Rocky Marciano in his last fight when he was well past his best.
He was famed for his power punching and his humility in the ring. Sportswriter Jimmy Cannon once said of him: "He is a credit to his race - the human race."
1. Sugar Ray Robinson - Various - 200 fights 173W (108 KO’s) / 19L / 6D / 2NC
Simply the best, Ray Robinson was a magician in the ring. "The King, the Master. My Idol." is how Muhammad Ali described him. No praise is high enough for the 5-time Middleweight and 1-time Welterweight Champion.
His style was all about rhythm and timing, he was as fluid a boxer as there ever has been with KO power in both hands and supreme instinct.
He was so good that the pound-for-pound ranking system - where fighters are compared regardless of weight - was created around his brilliance. He defeated such big names as; Kid Gavilan, Jake LaMotta, Rocky Graziano, Carmen Basilio and Gene Fulmer.
He went 85-0 as an amateur before turning pro and enjoying a 26 year career.
He was a flamboyant man and is likely the originator for entourages.
Sugar was the fighter of the decade for the 1950's and is rated as the greatest of all time by Joe Louis, Sugar Ray Leonard and Muhammad Ali.
He is most famous for his six fight series with Jake LaMotta, LaMotta dealt him his first loss but whom Sugar Ray would go on to beat five times.
The only man to get some measure of Robinson was Gene Fulmer who managed 2 wins and a draw over Sugar.
Sugar Ray will always be synonymous with boxing as everyone wants to be the next "Sugar" he is the only one fit to be number one in this list as this quote from Sugar Ray Leonard exemplifies: "Someone once said there was a comparison between Sugar Ray Leonard and Sugar Ray Robinson. There is no comparison. Sugar Ray Robinson was the greatest."
Some people look for heart, guts and determination. Others look for speed both of mind and body, combinations and entertainment. Others still look for grace, defensive prowess and slick counter-punching. In this piece I will be looking to find the best 20 fighters that possessed all over these aspects of their game.
It will not include current boxers as their careers are still on-going and the rises and falls of their records are unfinished. It will be an endeavour to try to judge the fighters’ whole careers and not just the peaks. However, fights seen as ridiculous will be given more lenience, for example; Ali v Holmes and Leonard v Camacho when many said Ali and Leonard were not fit to fight.
So, enough talking, here is what you want, I hope it sparks debate.
20. Jimmy Wilde 152 fights 137 wins (100 by KO) / 4 losses / 2 draws / 8 no contests
19. Joe Frazier 37 fights 32 wins (27 by KO) / 4 losses / 1 draw
18. Roy Jones Jr 62 fights 54 wins (40 by KO) / 8 losses
17. Marcellin Cerdan 117 fights 113 wins (66 by KO) / 4 losses
16. Sandy Saddler 162 fights 144 wins (103 by KO) / 16 losses / 2 draws
15. Harry Greb 298 fights 261 wins (48 by KO) / 19 losses / 18 draws / 6 no contests
14. Gene Tunney 86 fights 81 wins (48 by KO) / 1 loss / 3 draws / 2 no contests
13. Roberto Duran 120 fights 104 wins (69 by KO) / 16 losses
12. Julio Cesar Chavez 115 fights 107 wins (89 by KO) / 6 losses / 2 draws
11. Rocky Marciano 49 fights 49 wins (43 by KO)
10. Lennox Lewis - Heavyweight - 44 fights 41W (32 KO’s) / 2L / 1D
He is probably the most controversial inclusion in the top 10. But in a good era for heavyweight boxing, Lennox Lewis stood top of the pile as undisputed Champion.
He was stripped of the WBA title for not fighting John Ruiz, but held the lineal titles (WBC, IBF and IBO) in two separate periods.
A man who can say he beat everyone he shared a ring with as he avenged his two shock loses to Hasim Rahman and Oliver McCall. His subsequent wins against Rahman, Holyfield and Tyson gave him his legacy.
His two losses called in to question his biggest criticism; a poor chin. Lewis was KO'd in both of his losses, but his strong defence meant that his chin wasn't too frequently tested.
Whether he would have beaten Vitali Klitschko had the Ukrainian not been stopped for a severe cut nobody knows. The only other question was whether he would have been Riddick Bowe if they had thought, but as Bowe dodged the fight it suggests he was scared of Lewis. Whilst these questions may linger, Lewis' superb technique, record and the fact he was never tempted out of retirement like many before him has ensured him a place in my top 10.
9. Tommy Hearns - Various - 67 fights 61W (48 KO’s) / 5L / 1D
The "Hitman" astonishing (and at the time record-setting) five world titles at five weights under the tutelage of Emanuel Steward is held in high reverence. He boxed at Welterweight, Super-Welterweight, Middleweight, Super-Middleweight, Light Heavyweight and Cruiserweight winning belts in all divisions apart from Super-Welter.
He is unfortunate in that he is probably best remembered for losing the two biggest fights of his career; "The Showdown" against Sugar Ray Leonard and "The War" against Marvin Hagler. The latter is one of boxing's most famous matches and it does its name full justice and in the former he was ahead on all cards at the end of the 13th before Leonard KO'd him in the 14th.
He did, however, beat Wilfred Benitez and KO Roberto Duran in two rounds.
At 6ft1, he had unusual dimension to be boxing at welterweight and middleweight and he was often able to utilise his long reach to great effect.
That he won belts at 5 weights within 15 years also shows the longevity of his greatness.
8. Henry Armstrong - Various - 180 fights 149W (101 KO’s) / 21L / 10D
Henry "Homicide Hank" Armstrong was a special boxer in many ways, he remains the only man two have ever held three belts at three weights at the same time. In an era when there was only eight weights to choose from, it is quite some achievement.
He was Featherweight, Lightweight and Welterweight world Champion.
According to many experts, he should been a four weight Champion, but his rematch with Ceferino Garcia - who he had beaten in their first mach before Garcia became Champion - was scored a harsh draw that many thought Armstrong had won.
He managed to successfully defend his Welterweight belt eighteen times, still a record at that weight.
At the age of 31 however, he lost to a 22 year old future world Champion and hall of famer Sugar Ray Robinson in a unanimous decision. This loss marked the end of Armstrong's competitive career and after a few more fights he retired. But by this point he had already set the benchmark for all welterweight boxers before and after him.
7. Marvin Hagler - Middleweight -67 fights 62W (52 KO’s) / 3L / 2D
Marvelous Marvin Hagler was the undisputed Middleweight Champion of the world from 1980 - 1987 and still owns the highest KO% of any Middleweight.
In his 14 year career, he only had one un-avenged defeat to the great Sugar Ray Leonard.
In his most famous fight, "The War" versus Tommy Hearns, he dispatched the Hitman in three of the most aggressive rounds ever seen in boxing. He also defeated the last of the "Four Kings" Roberto Duran in a fifteen round unanimous decision.
Possibly the most interest facet of Hagler was that he was completely ambidextrous and just as good a boxer in a southpaw stance as he was in an orthodox one.
He had to overcome controversy when he was awarded a high-contested draw in his first title fight against Vito "Mosquito" Antuofermo when even referee Mills Lane thought Hagler had won easily.
Many also say that Hagler was robbed in his fight against Leonard as Sugar Ray simply put in a few flashy-looking combinations per round to convince the judges.
However, Hagler's grit, determination and commitment to training and boxing as an art has him in my top 10.
6. Benny Leonard - Lightweight - 217 fights 183W (70 KO’s) / 19L / 11D / 4NC
One of boxing's most articulate fighters, Benny Leonard beat many of his opponents with the words he said and combined them well with the speed of his fists.
He was world Lightweight Champion for seven and a half years, setting a precedent for those that followed him and set many gate receipt records with his popularity.
An adaptable fighter, when tired he would often talk to his opponents, making them think while he recovered himself. He was also renowned for his superb technique and wasn't hit too often in his prime.
He could have become a two-weight Champion when he challenged then Welterweight Champion Jack Britton, he was subsequently disqualified in their match as he hit
He even died in the ring whilst refereeing a bout in 1947, a fitting place for him to go.
5. Sugar Ray Leonard -Various - 40 fights 36W (25KO’s) / 3L / 1D
To many, he was a smaller reincarnation of Muhammad Ali. Sugar Ray does indeed claim that he tried to be like Ali. He is set the precedent for the high purses that fighters like Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao now know as second nature.
The most successful of the "Four Kings", he managed to beat Marvin Hagler, Tommy Hearns and Roberto Duran, though he famously lost to the latter in their first fight. Indeed the trilogy with Duran is a watermark in Leonard's career with Duran quitting in the infamous "No mas" rematch before winning again in their rubber match.
He defeated Tommy Hearns in "The Showdown" with a stunning finish to takeout the Hitman in the 14th after Angelo Dundee warned him: "You're blowing it son!". He was also given a debatable draw in their rematch.
After retiring, he finally granted Hagler a fight in 1986. Leonard boxed his way to a decision that many believe could have gone either way.
After two ill-advised comeback fights against Terry Norris and Hector Camacho in 1991 and 1997 respectively, Leonard finally called it quits on his career. He was a 5 weight champion, at Welterweight, Light-Middleweight, Middleweight, Super-Middleweight and Light-Heavyweight. He only lost a belt once, retiring whilst champion or vacated the title with all the others.
He was the most stylish and talented boxer of his generation and the king in a supreme era of welter/middleweight boxing.
4. Willie Pep - Featherweight -249 fights 229W (65 KO’s) / 11L / 1D
Will o' the Wisp's record speaks for itself; to step to the ring 249 times and fail to win only 12 of those times is truly staggering.
He is another fighter that used his speed, reactions and finesse to out-do his opponents.
He went 62-0 before losing to Sammy Angott, another champion. He reigned as world Featherweight Champion for 6 years (1942-1948) in his first stint before falling at the hands of his biggest nemesis, Sandy Saddler. He beat Saddler in a rematch 6 months later to have another 18 month spell with the title before being once more defeated by Saddler, the only boxer to ever get the upper hand over Pep in some questionably dirty fights.
His career is particularly spectacular as he was severely injured in a plane crash in 1947 but still made it back to the ring.
His skill was such that a legend says he once one a round without throwing a punch, whether it is true, nobody is sure but Willie Pep was definitely that special.
3. Muhammad Ali - Heavyweight - 61 fights 56W (37 KO’s) / 5L
What is there to say about this man that hasn't already been said? Not only one of the greatest boxers ever, but one of the greatest people of his generation. The Louisville Lip transcended the sport when he chose to refuse to go to war, but we're going to concentrate on his boxing.
As a fighter, he beat everyone in a golden Heavyweight era; Liston, Frazier, Foreman, Paterson, Norton and Spinks to name a few victims.
The three-time World Heavyweight Champion is famous for so many things; the "Ali Shuffle", the "Rope-a-Dope" as well as his famed trash talk.
When he beat Sonny Liston at 22, he became the youngest Heavyweight Champion to dethrone another Champion.
The only two fighters to beat him in his prime were Ken Norton and Joe Frazier, both of which he avenged. Indeed with Frazier, Ali shared a memorable trilogy which culminated in the "Thrilla in Manilla" which Ali won by 14th round TKO, after which Ali would claim: "that was the closest I've been to death."
He was beaten by Larry Holmes and Trevor Berbick in fights he should never have fought and for which he was barely healthy.
Parkinson's disease may have slowed him down over time, but no one will ever forget Ali, his legacy will live forever.
2. Joe Louis - Heavyweight - 72 fights 69W (57 KO’s) / 3L / 1NC
The Brown Bomber is best remembered for his record of defending his World Heavyweight Championship belt successfully 25 times. But he was also one of the first nationally popular Black men in American and helped to pave the way for the likes of Muhammad Ali and Sugar Ray Leonard.
He beat Max Baer and giant Primo Carnera before succumbing to a shock lose to Schmelling. In spite of this loss, he fought for the World Title a few fights later and disposed of James Braddock in eight rounds.
This begun his long reign on the throne, beating the German Schmelling in a rematch famous for its political ramifications in 1938, and Jersey Joe Walcott twice before announcing his retirement.
It only lasted 18 months. He had ten more fights, the most notable of which were losses to Ezzard Charles and later Rocky Marciano in his last fight when he was well past his best.
He was famed for his power punching and his humility in the ring. Sportswriter Jimmy Cannon once said of him: "He is a credit to his race - the human race."
1. Sugar Ray Robinson - Various - 200 fights 173W (108 KO’s) / 19L / 6D / 2NC
Simply the best, Ray Robinson was a magician in the ring. "The King, the Master. My Idol." is how Muhammad Ali described him. No praise is high enough for the 5-time Middleweight and 1-time Welterweight Champion.
His style was all about rhythm and timing, he was as fluid a boxer as there ever has been with KO power in both hands and supreme instinct.
He was so good that the pound-for-pound ranking system - where fighters are compared regardless of weight - was created around his brilliance. He defeated such big names as; Kid Gavilan, Jake LaMotta, Rocky Graziano, Carmen Basilio and Gene Fulmer.
He went 85-0 as an amateur before turning pro and enjoying a 26 year career.
He was a flamboyant man and is likely the originator for entourages.
Sugar was the fighter of the decade for the 1950's and is rated as the greatest of all time by Joe Louis, Sugar Ray Leonard and Muhammad Ali.
He is most famous for his six fight series with Jake LaMotta, LaMotta dealt him his first loss but whom Sugar Ray would go on to beat five times.
The only man to get some measure of Robinson was Gene Fulmer who managed 2 wins and a draw over Sugar.
Sugar Ray will always be synonymous with boxing as everyone wants to be the next "Sugar" he is the only one fit to be number one in this list as this quote from Sugar Ray Leonard exemplifies: "Someone once said there was a comparison between Sugar Ray Leonard and Sugar Ray Robinson. There is no comparison. Sugar Ray Robinson was the greatest."
Friday, 26 August 2011
Premier League Round-up Week 2, 2011-12
Feature Matches
Sunderland v Newcastle
Arsenal v Liverpool
Aston Villa v Blackburn
Man City v Bolton
Man Utd v Tottenham
TAYLOR-MADE VICTORY FOR MAGPIES ON DERBY DAY!
Sunderland 0 - 1 Newcastle
Taylor 62'
The Tyne-Wear Derby is the biggest in the North-East of England, a massive rivalry that has produced some high quality matches down the years with the likes of Quinn, Shearer and Phillips often headlining.
This game however, was not such a quality occasion with chances few and far between. Fortunately the derby day tension was still there, so there was no quarter given by either team.
Newcastle should have had a stone-wall penalty in the first half after Seb Larsson saved Joey Barton's point blanc header with his arm just before the ball crossed the line. Luckily for Larsson, neither the referee, nor his assistant spotted the misdemeanour, and him and his team got away with the incident, leaving Newcastle incensed and feeling hard done by.
The game carried on, with the midfields battling hard to gain sustained pressure and possession without much success. Gyan went closest yet with a great effort from 25 yards with his left foot, which dipped to graze the bar on it's way through with Krul beaten.
The opening goal, and winner, came just after the hour mark when the Magpies got a free kick on the left flank. Ryan Taylor stood over the ball and put in what looked like a half cross, half shot. The ball sailed across goal, evading everyone in the box, to nestle neatly into the far corner, sending the home fans into pandemonium.
Newcastle held out to keep their second clean sheet of the season and second favourable result. Sunderland though, will be dissappointed that they managed to take a point away from Anfield, but had no such luck at St James'.
DEVASTATED GUNNERS LOSE MORE GROUND!
Arsenal 0 - 2 Liverpool
Ramsey OG 78'
Suarez 90'
Arsenal fans journeyed to the Emirates in the hope that their team would banish the ghost of Cesc Fabregas' departure with a victory of Liverpool. What a got was not far short of a shambles.
The rain pelted down in North London, conditions which fitted in perfectly with the emotions surrounding Arsenal.
In spite of his near-certain imminent transfer to Man City, Samir Nasri started as Jenkinson and Frimpong made their debuts. Luis Suarez was benched after showing fatigue.
The first twenty minutes came without chances, the first such attempt resulted in a save from Szcesny as Andy Carroll powered a header.
Emanuel Frimpong made a surging start with a drive through the midfield and rifling off a shot from 25 yards that Reina was forced to palm round the post. Indeed the rookie made a good start, one that was unfortunately marred by his 2nd yellow card in the 70th minute after a poor tackle as Wenger labelled him "the victim of his own passion".
The game then only started to hot up again after the hour mark. Robin Van Persie's close range effort required a good save from Pepe Reina.
Then, with 78 minutes on the clock, Arsenal's luck showed foul once more. Substitue Miquel was attempting to clear the ball, but only managed to hit Ramsey in the face as the ball ricocheted over Szcesny and into the goal.
Then as injury time began, the Arsenal defenders backed off the oncoming Liverpool players as the ball was slipped to Meireles. Meireles then squared to Suarez who was able to slide the ball in.
Despite of the criticism against the Arsenal boss after another questionable result, Kenny Dalglish gallantly stated, "no one can take away what Arsene Wenger has done for this football club". This may be true, but will the football club soon has to take away what Wenger wants to do in the future?
VILLA RUN RIOT TO SEND ROVERS BOTTOM!
Aston Villa 3 - 1 Blackburn
Agbonlahor 12' Pedersen 52'
Heskey 25'
Bent 67'
Villa were the picture of unity following this dominant victory. So far maligned boss Alex McLeish was in charge of his first home game at Villa Park. "We believe in the manager" were Darren Bent's words following this victory. It must be a much better environment after the unfortunately sequence of events that unfolded during Gerard Houllier's tenure.
Proceedings started early on as Gabby Agbonlahor put his team in the lead with a outstanding effort. He jinked one way, then another to put Salgado off-balance down Villa's left flank. He then cut in and let fly with a curling effort that evaded Paul Robinson's outstretched arms to settle in the back of the net after 12 minutes.
New Blackburn signing Goodwillie had his first chance at glory soon after, but he could only spurn it by blasting it just over the bar from a tough angle. Down the other end, Agbonlahor was at it again, cutting in once more to hit another swerving shot. This time however, Robinson managed to cling onto the ball with a flying catch.
Villa were not kept waiting much longer though, a ball into Agbonlahor saw him with his back to goal, and a defender behind him. He squared to an on-coming Emile Heskey who was able to slide the ball round a defender, and more importantly round Robinson to find the net for the first time this season.
The Yorshire side then got an excellent goal back when Junior Hoilett used his quick feet to beat three men wide on the left. He then hit a beautifully flighted cross which was met by the on-rushing Morten Gamst Pedersen and past a helpless Given to get the second half of to a good tempo.
With half an hour to go, Albrighton rifled off a cross goal effort that went narrowly wide of goal from 25 yards. Then five minutes later, Darren Bent pounced on a poor clearance to squeeze a shot of that past Robinson for a typical goal from the Londoner.
Villa sealed the points with some good defending in the last 20 minutes. It was a strong showing from the Clarets, far better than they were this time last year, and they will hope to continue this.
Blackburn on the other hand are now the lowest of all the teams that have played two games.
RANGERS ADD TO EVERTON WOES AT GOODISON!
Everton 0 - 1 QPR
Smith 31'
On the half hour, Buszaky rolls Tommy Smith in after Jagielka mis-cleared the ball to him. Smith expertly turns and curls the ball into the far corner as Jagielka fails to stop him.
WIGAN DENIED BY ANOTHER VORM SPECIAL!
Swansea 0 - 0 Wigan
20 minutes from time, Gomez rattles the crossbar with a great dipping shot.
3 minutes later Moses clatters the bar at the same end. This is followed by Gomez being brought down by Williams. Watson steps up to take the penalty, but is saved expertly by Vorm.
CHELS DO IT THE HARD WAY!
Chelsea 2 - 1 West Brom
Anelka 53' Long 4'
Malouda 83'
Alex is bullied off the ball fairly softly by Shane Long, who then beats him for pace and slips past Hilario to put the Midlands team 1 - 0 up early on.
Anelka equalises early into the second half moments after Lampard is denied a penalty. He shoots across goal and the ball deflects into the far corner of Olsson.
Chelsea then began to apply the pressure on the Brom back-line. This pressure finally told when Malouda completed the turn around in an almost identical match to West Brom's previous game against Utd. Bosingwa crosses into back post where Malouda is ready and waiting for a tap in.
This result gave Chelsea the much-vaunted three points they were wanting after Stoke denied them so keenly the week before. For West Brom, they must be the league's unluckiest team so far. They went ahead against Utd and lost and then again to Chelsea and ended up losing there too. They are playing good football and should keep doing what they are doing as it will reward them against the lesser teams as the season goes on.
JONES RESCUES POTTERS WITH A BIT OF MAGIC!
Norwich 1 - 1 Stoke
DeLaet 36' K. Jones 90+1'
Ritchie DeLaet hooked onto a great delivery from a wide free-kick with a glancing header that got Norwich into the lead.
Barnett was sent off on the hour for a last man tackle that also conceded a penalty. Walters failed to convert the following spot-kick.
Whelan put in a great cross in injury that Kenwyne Jones rose to head home, saving Stoke a point.
WOLVES KEEP UP 100% RECORD!
Wolves 2 - 0 Fulham
Doyle 42'
Jarvis 43'
Doyle collected a pass from Matt Jarvis, before letting fly to beat Mark Schwarzer.
Jarvis doubled the lead minutes later, pouncing on a header from Johnson that hit the crossbar.
CITY COME OUT ON TOP IN FIVE GOAL THRILLER!
Man City 3 - 2 Bolton
Silva 26' Klasnic 40'
Barry 38' Davies 63'
Dzeko 47'
This fixture bought a clash between the top two teams in the Premier League after the first weekend. Both had put four goals past their opponents without reply, and had looked impressive doing so.
In spite of this, the first ten minutes of the game was spent getting into the rhythm of the game by both teams. Eagles and Knight went close early doors, Eagles with a testing, low free kick and then Knight tapping narrowly wide from a corner. Indeed, Bolton's corners were where they looked most dangerous in the opening part of the match. They were constantly pressuring the City defence with well directly balls in.
After fifteen minutes, the tide began to change. Jussi Jaaskelainen was forced into his first big save from James Milner as he met Kolarov's cross with a tough effort. Three minutes later, Aguero missed a sitter from 8 yards as he ploughed the ball over the bar.
The pressure soon told, just shy of the half hour mark as Man of the Match, David Silva cut into the box after a pass from Micah Richards and then hit a low, swerving shot past Jaaskelainen from the edge of the box to put his team ahead.
Richards then got a goal disallowed as his cross fed Aguero's tap-in finish as he had barged Petrov just before crossing.
By this point, City were thoroughly dominating both play and possession. Aguero missed another chance with his head. Then came a second magic moment for City. James Milner hit a variation corner out to Gareth Barry, who was 25 yards out. Barry got the ball out of his feet and hit an arrow of a shot with his left foot in the the top corner to double City's advantage.
Bolton threw themselves a lifeline when Klasnic hit a beautifully executed half-volley from a Petrov cross with his left foot on the twirl.
City soon got the upper hand once again, two minutes into the second half, they were 3 - 1 up as Dzeko capitalised on Paul Robinson's mistake to break clear and hit a well timed effort underneath the Finish keeper.
Kevin Davies scored what was to be the last goal with half an hour left on the clock with a superb jump to outleap Lescott to head home from a free kick. David Silva was narrowly stopped from scoring again thanks to a brilliant block from Zat Knight as the Spaniard was almost clean through.
The game had been going at such a furious tempo, that for such an early game in the season, players were beginning to tire, City's men in particular as they struggled and strained to keep the Bolton offenses at bay. That said, Adam Johnson almost scored 5 minutes from time, when he sold Zat Knight, only to dribble the ball just wide of the target.
But when the game was all said and done, City managed to get the result and the three points with it to take them top of the table. They may have looked slightly defensively frail at times, but another fluorescent performance from David Silva guided them to victory.
UNITED RAMPANT TO RE-INTRODUCE SPURS!
Man Utd 3 - 0 Tottenham
Welbeck 61'
Anderson 76'
Rooney 87'
A big game early is the season for United, Tottenham presented a big hurdle coming up to Manchester. Having been postponed last week, this was Spurs' first game of the season and it was always going to be a tough ask.
The first half was fairly even with both sides coming close at times, but struggling most with a quality final ball to find a goal. Friedel was forced into several good saves from Cleverley and Young. Young went closest with a floating header after a great chipped ball in from Rooney.
United really began to turn the screw as the second half went it's course. Young, Anderson and Rooney all had the American goalkeeper stretching to make fine saves to keep Tottenham level.
He could not however, keep them out forever as United's youngsters combined brilliantly for the opener. Cleverley whipped in a fantastic cross which Welbeck was able to guide into the far corner excellently with his head.
This opened the gate somewhat for the Red's as they soon applied more and more pressure on the Tottenham backline. Friedel produced his best save of the match to keep out an in-direct Rooney free kick with superb flexiblity at his near post.
The build up for United's second goal was almost mesmeric. Rooney played the ball to Welbeck, whose amazing vision saw him backheel to a running Anderson who creamed the ball into the corner.
The trio was rounded off nicely when Giggs put in a lovely floating cross for Rooney to have an easy header to give him his second goal in as many games to guide his team to a nigh on flawless win.
MY TEAM OF THE WEEK;
GK - Vorm (Swansea), RB - Bosingwa (Chelsea), LB - Assou-Ekotto (Tottenham), CB - Carragher (Liverpool), CB - Smalling (Man Utd), RM - Young (Man Utd), LM - Agbonlahor (Aston Villa), CM - Nasri (Arsenal), CM - Silva (Man City), CF - Welbeck (Man Utd), CF - Rooney (Man Utd).
Sunderland v Newcastle
Arsenal v Liverpool
Aston Villa v Blackburn
Man City v Bolton
Man Utd v Tottenham
TAYLOR-MADE VICTORY FOR MAGPIES ON DERBY DAY!
Sunderland 0 - 1 Newcastle
Taylor 62'
The Tyne-Wear Derby is the biggest in the North-East of England, a massive rivalry that has produced some high quality matches down the years with the likes of Quinn, Shearer and Phillips often headlining.
This game however, was not such a quality occasion with chances few and far between. Fortunately the derby day tension was still there, so there was no quarter given by either team.
Newcastle should have had a stone-wall penalty in the first half after Seb Larsson saved Joey Barton's point blanc header with his arm just before the ball crossed the line. Luckily for Larsson, neither the referee, nor his assistant spotted the misdemeanour, and him and his team got away with the incident, leaving Newcastle incensed and feeling hard done by.
The game carried on, with the midfields battling hard to gain sustained pressure and possession without much success. Gyan went closest yet with a great effort from 25 yards with his left foot, which dipped to graze the bar on it's way through with Krul beaten.
The opening goal, and winner, came just after the hour mark when the Magpies got a free kick on the left flank. Ryan Taylor stood over the ball and put in what looked like a half cross, half shot. The ball sailed across goal, evading everyone in the box, to nestle neatly into the far corner, sending the home fans into pandemonium.
Newcastle held out to keep their second clean sheet of the season and second favourable result. Sunderland though, will be dissappointed that they managed to take a point away from Anfield, but had no such luck at St James'.
DEVASTATED GUNNERS LOSE MORE GROUND!
Arsenal 0 - 2 Liverpool
Ramsey OG 78'
Suarez 90'
Arsenal fans journeyed to the Emirates in the hope that their team would banish the ghost of Cesc Fabregas' departure with a victory of Liverpool. What a got was not far short of a shambles.
The rain pelted down in North London, conditions which fitted in perfectly with the emotions surrounding Arsenal.
In spite of his near-certain imminent transfer to Man City, Samir Nasri started as Jenkinson and Frimpong made their debuts. Luis Suarez was benched after showing fatigue.
The first twenty minutes came without chances, the first such attempt resulted in a save from Szcesny as Andy Carroll powered a header.
Emanuel Frimpong made a surging start with a drive through the midfield and rifling off a shot from 25 yards that Reina was forced to palm round the post. Indeed the rookie made a good start, one that was unfortunately marred by his 2nd yellow card in the 70th minute after a poor tackle as Wenger labelled him "the victim of his own passion".
The game then only started to hot up again after the hour mark. Robin Van Persie's close range effort required a good save from Pepe Reina.
Then, with 78 minutes on the clock, Arsenal's luck showed foul once more. Substitue Miquel was attempting to clear the ball, but only managed to hit Ramsey in the face as the ball ricocheted over Szcesny and into the goal.
Then as injury time began, the Arsenal defenders backed off the oncoming Liverpool players as the ball was slipped to Meireles. Meireles then squared to Suarez who was able to slide the ball in.
Despite of the criticism against the Arsenal boss after another questionable result, Kenny Dalglish gallantly stated, "no one can take away what Arsene Wenger has done for this football club". This may be true, but will the football club soon has to take away what Wenger wants to do in the future?
VILLA RUN RIOT TO SEND ROVERS BOTTOM!
Aston Villa 3 - 1 Blackburn
Agbonlahor 12' Pedersen 52'
Heskey 25'
Bent 67'
Villa were the picture of unity following this dominant victory. So far maligned boss Alex McLeish was in charge of his first home game at Villa Park. "We believe in the manager" were Darren Bent's words following this victory. It must be a much better environment after the unfortunately sequence of events that unfolded during Gerard Houllier's tenure.
Proceedings started early on as Gabby Agbonlahor put his team in the lead with a outstanding effort. He jinked one way, then another to put Salgado off-balance down Villa's left flank. He then cut in and let fly with a curling effort that evaded Paul Robinson's outstretched arms to settle in the back of the net after 12 minutes.
New Blackburn signing Goodwillie had his first chance at glory soon after, but he could only spurn it by blasting it just over the bar from a tough angle. Down the other end, Agbonlahor was at it again, cutting in once more to hit another swerving shot. This time however, Robinson managed to cling onto the ball with a flying catch.
Villa were not kept waiting much longer though, a ball into Agbonlahor saw him with his back to goal, and a defender behind him. He squared to an on-coming Emile Heskey who was able to slide the ball round a defender, and more importantly round Robinson to find the net for the first time this season.
The Yorshire side then got an excellent goal back when Junior Hoilett used his quick feet to beat three men wide on the left. He then hit a beautifully flighted cross which was met by the on-rushing Morten Gamst Pedersen and past a helpless Given to get the second half of to a good tempo.
With half an hour to go, Albrighton rifled off a cross goal effort that went narrowly wide of goal from 25 yards. Then five minutes later, Darren Bent pounced on a poor clearance to squeeze a shot of that past Robinson for a typical goal from the Londoner.
Villa sealed the points with some good defending in the last 20 minutes. It was a strong showing from the Clarets, far better than they were this time last year, and they will hope to continue this.
Blackburn on the other hand are now the lowest of all the teams that have played two games.
RANGERS ADD TO EVERTON WOES AT GOODISON!
Everton 0 - 1 QPR
Smith 31'
On the half hour, Buszaky rolls Tommy Smith in after Jagielka mis-cleared the ball to him. Smith expertly turns and curls the ball into the far corner as Jagielka fails to stop him.
WIGAN DENIED BY ANOTHER VORM SPECIAL!
Swansea 0 - 0 Wigan
20 minutes from time, Gomez rattles the crossbar with a great dipping shot.
3 minutes later Moses clatters the bar at the same end. This is followed by Gomez being brought down by Williams. Watson steps up to take the penalty, but is saved expertly by Vorm.
CHELS DO IT THE HARD WAY!
Chelsea 2 - 1 West Brom
Anelka 53' Long 4'
Malouda 83'
Alex is bullied off the ball fairly softly by Shane Long, who then beats him for pace and slips past Hilario to put the Midlands team 1 - 0 up early on.
Anelka equalises early into the second half moments after Lampard is denied a penalty. He shoots across goal and the ball deflects into the far corner of Olsson.
Chelsea then began to apply the pressure on the Brom back-line. This pressure finally told when Malouda completed the turn around in an almost identical match to West Brom's previous game against Utd. Bosingwa crosses into back post where Malouda is ready and waiting for a tap in.
This result gave Chelsea the much-vaunted three points they were wanting after Stoke denied them so keenly the week before. For West Brom, they must be the league's unluckiest team so far. They went ahead against Utd and lost and then again to Chelsea and ended up losing there too. They are playing good football and should keep doing what they are doing as it will reward them against the lesser teams as the season goes on.
JONES RESCUES POTTERS WITH A BIT OF MAGIC!
Norwich 1 - 1 Stoke
DeLaet 36' K. Jones 90+1'
Ritchie DeLaet hooked onto a great delivery from a wide free-kick with a glancing header that got Norwich into the lead.
Barnett was sent off on the hour for a last man tackle that also conceded a penalty. Walters failed to convert the following spot-kick.
Whelan put in a great cross in injury that Kenwyne Jones rose to head home, saving Stoke a point.
WOLVES KEEP UP 100% RECORD!
Wolves 2 - 0 Fulham
Doyle 42'
Jarvis 43'
Doyle collected a pass from Matt Jarvis, before letting fly to beat Mark Schwarzer.
Jarvis doubled the lead minutes later, pouncing on a header from Johnson that hit the crossbar.
CITY COME OUT ON TOP IN FIVE GOAL THRILLER!
Man City 3 - 2 Bolton
Silva 26' Klasnic 40'
Barry 38' Davies 63'
Dzeko 47'
This fixture bought a clash between the top two teams in the Premier League after the first weekend. Both had put four goals past their opponents without reply, and had looked impressive doing so.
In spite of this, the first ten minutes of the game was spent getting into the rhythm of the game by both teams. Eagles and Knight went close early doors, Eagles with a testing, low free kick and then Knight tapping narrowly wide from a corner. Indeed, Bolton's corners were where they looked most dangerous in the opening part of the match. They were constantly pressuring the City defence with well directly balls in.
After fifteen minutes, the tide began to change. Jussi Jaaskelainen was forced into his first big save from James Milner as he met Kolarov's cross with a tough effort. Three minutes later, Aguero missed a sitter from 8 yards as he ploughed the ball over the bar.
The pressure soon told, just shy of the half hour mark as Man of the Match, David Silva cut into the box after a pass from Micah Richards and then hit a low, swerving shot past Jaaskelainen from the edge of the box to put his team ahead.
Richards then got a goal disallowed as his cross fed Aguero's tap-in finish as he had barged Petrov just before crossing.
By this point, City were thoroughly dominating both play and possession. Aguero missed another chance with his head. Then came a second magic moment for City. James Milner hit a variation corner out to Gareth Barry, who was 25 yards out. Barry got the ball out of his feet and hit an arrow of a shot with his left foot in the the top corner to double City's advantage.
Bolton threw themselves a lifeline when Klasnic hit a beautifully executed half-volley from a Petrov cross with his left foot on the twirl.
City soon got the upper hand once again, two minutes into the second half, they were 3 - 1 up as Dzeko capitalised on Paul Robinson's mistake to break clear and hit a well timed effort underneath the Finish keeper.
Kevin Davies scored what was to be the last goal with half an hour left on the clock with a superb jump to outleap Lescott to head home from a free kick. David Silva was narrowly stopped from scoring again thanks to a brilliant block from Zat Knight as the Spaniard was almost clean through.
The game had been going at such a furious tempo, that for such an early game in the season, players were beginning to tire, City's men in particular as they struggled and strained to keep the Bolton offenses at bay. That said, Adam Johnson almost scored 5 minutes from time, when he sold Zat Knight, only to dribble the ball just wide of the target.
But when the game was all said and done, City managed to get the result and the three points with it to take them top of the table. They may have looked slightly defensively frail at times, but another fluorescent performance from David Silva guided them to victory.
UNITED RAMPANT TO RE-INTRODUCE SPURS!
Man Utd 3 - 0 Tottenham
Welbeck 61'
Anderson 76'
Rooney 87'
A big game early is the season for United, Tottenham presented a big hurdle coming up to Manchester. Having been postponed last week, this was Spurs' first game of the season and it was always going to be a tough ask.
The first half was fairly even with both sides coming close at times, but struggling most with a quality final ball to find a goal. Friedel was forced into several good saves from Cleverley and Young. Young went closest with a floating header after a great chipped ball in from Rooney.
United really began to turn the screw as the second half went it's course. Young, Anderson and Rooney all had the American goalkeeper stretching to make fine saves to keep Tottenham level.
He could not however, keep them out forever as United's youngsters combined brilliantly for the opener. Cleverley whipped in a fantastic cross which Welbeck was able to guide into the far corner excellently with his head.
This opened the gate somewhat for the Red's as they soon applied more and more pressure on the Tottenham backline. Friedel produced his best save of the match to keep out an in-direct Rooney free kick with superb flexiblity at his near post.
The build up for United's second goal was almost mesmeric. Rooney played the ball to Welbeck, whose amazing vision saw him backheel to a running Anderson who creamed the ball into the corner.
The trio was rounded off nicely when Giggs put in a lovely floating cross for Rooney to have an easy header to give him his second goal in as many games to guide his team to a nigh on flawless win.
MY TEAM OF THE WEEK;
GK - Vorm (Swansea), RB - Bosingwa (Chelsea), LB - Assou-Ekotto (Tottenham), CB - Carragher (Liverpool), CB - Smalling (Man Utd), RM - Young (Man Utd), LM - Agbonlahor (Aston Villa), CM - Nasri (Arsenal), CM - Silva (Man City), CF - Welbeck (Man Utd), CF - Rooney (Man Utd).
Sporting News of the Week
Football
· Jose Enrique moves to Liverpool for £6million.
· Tottenham v Everton is postponed due to the London riots.
· Fabregas finally realises his dream with a move to Barcelona worth £35million.
· Barca then win the 2nd Leg of the Super Cup 3-2 (5-4 on aggregate) at the Nou Camp in a physical affair. Fabregas assists Messi’s winner.
Cricket
· Alastair Cook hits a career best 294 as the records tumble on the third day of the Edgbaston test, with England declaring on 710/7 after Eoin Morgan scored a century, and Pietersen, Strauss and Bresnan all hit fifties. England win by an innings and 242 runs to go 3-0 up in the series and claim the Number 1 Test Team spot.
· England win by an innings an 8 runs to secure a 4-0 whitewash at the Oval. 235 runs from Bell and a big Pietersen hundred got the hosts to 591/7dec. India were then removed for 300 following a peerless Dravid century. Graeme Swann then took a 5 wicket-haul to get the Indians 283 all out after a supreme 91 from Tendulkar.
Golf
· Keegan Bradley makes it four first-time Major champions for the season as he secures the PGA Championship. Tiger Woods enjoyed opposite fortunes as he missed the cut.
Tennis
· Andy Murray wins the Cincinati Open after Novak Djokovic had to retire mid-way through the final.
· Jose Enrique moves to Liverpool for £6million.
· Tottenham v Everton is postponed due to the London riots.
· Fabregas finally realises his dream with a move to Barcelona worth £35million.
· Barca then win the 2nd Leg of the Super Cup 3-2 (5-4 on aggregate) at the Nou Camp in a physical affair. Fabregas assists Messi’s winner.
Cricket
· Alastair Cook hits a career best 294 as the records tumble on the third day of the Edgbaston test, with England declaring on 710/7 after Eoin Morgan scored a century, and Pietersen, Strauss and Bresnan all hit fifties. England win by an innings and 242 runs to go 3-0 up in the series and claim the Number 1 Test Team spot.
· England win by an innings an 8 runs to secure a 4-0 whitewash at the Oval. 235 runs from Bell and a big Pietersen hundred got the hosts to 591/7dec. India were then removed for 300 following a peerless Dravid century. Graeme Swann then took a 5 wicket-haul to get the Indians 283 all out after a supreme 91 from Tendulkar.
Golf
· Keegan Bradley makes it four first-time Major champions for the season as he secures the PGA Championship. Tiger Woods enjoyed opposite fortunes as he missed the cut.
Tennis
· Andy Murray wins the Cincinati Open after Novak Djokovic had to retire mid-way through the final.
Thursday, 18 August 2011
PREMIER LEAGUE ROUND-UP WEEK 1 2011/12
It’s soon come back round again, that’s right it’s the Premier League season again. This weekend has seen a fascinating opening showing from the teams involved. Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool all drew game they would have thought winnable, whilst Bolton stormed to the top of the table. No home games were won by the home teams until Monday evening, and a game was postponed.
Featured Matches
Liverpool v Sunderland
Newcastle v Arsenal
Stoke v Chelsea
West Brom v Man United
Man City v Swansea
HUNGRY WOLVES CLAIM COMEBACK!
Blackburn 1 v 2 Wolves
Formica 20’ Fletcher 22’
Ward 47’
• Roberts brushes past three men with great strength to play Formica in to beat Hennessy to put Blackburn ahead.
• The lead only lasts two minutes as Fletcher heads in from the back post after a well –flighted cross Jarvis.
• The winner comes via a penalty early in the second half. Whilst Robinson saves Fletcher’s effort from the spot, the ball goes out wide and is crossed in to meet a superb left-foot volley from Ward.
• Blackburn tried valiantly to gain an equaliser, but the full time whistle beat them to it. Mick McCarthy, though pleased with his team’s victory stressed about “not getting carried away” whilst Steve Kean admitted that “different areas of this team still need strengthening”.
SAME OLD STORY AT CRAVEN COTTAGE!
Fulham 0 v 0 Aston Villa
• Craven Cottage lived up to its status as the Mecca for draws in spite of a disallowed goal for Darren Bent and some great saves out of both goalkeepers. At the end of the game Martin Jol professed, “we would have liked to have points on the board”.
LOVELY LARSSON SAVES A POINT!
Liverpool 1 v 1 Sunderland
Suarez 12’ (pen) Larsson 42’
Anfield welcomed the start of yet another football season. After all of their investment, it will be interested to see what the next 9 months holds in store for them. Their opponents Sunderland have also been making some smart signings; Seb Larsson, Wes Brown and Connor Wickham being just three of them.
The game did not take long to have its first flashpoint. With 5 minutes gone, an overly casual piece of defending from Kieran Richardson caused his clearance to be intercepted by Suarez. Suarez sprinted clear, and attempted to round the keeper before being tugged down by a recovering Richardson. Somehow, the Sunderland number 3 avoiding seeing red, but did concede the penalty. Suarez duly blasted this over the bar in a poor effort to keep the deadlock.
This deadlock was not long lived though, seven minutes later, Liverpool found themselves with a wide free-kick out on the right flank. A brilliant, flat delivery from the left-footed Charlie Adam found a deflected header from Suarez, which found the net to help the Uruguayan atone for his earlier mistake and send Liverpool ahead.
Liverpool continued to dominate as Andy Carroll found himself blasting the ball into the back of the net, only to have it chalked off due to a debatable shove on Anton Ferdinand. Stewart Downing found himself beating four men with a superb, winding run from the right before cutting in and shooting with his left from 25 yards, only for the bar to deny him.
Having weathered this, Sunderland then formed a chance that would precede a more dominant showing from them in the second half. Reina hesitated to come for a Larsson free kick that almost allowed Sessegnon to head home three minutes from half time.
On the other side of the half time break, Sunderland came out firing on more cylinders to take the attack to Liverpool. Then, on 57 minutes, this pressure told. El Mohamady whipped in a cross that floated over all the Red’s defenders to an unmarked Seb Larsson, who then executed an unbelievable volley into the far corner to put the teams back on a level heading.
The only other chance was an Andy Carroll header being denied by Mignolet before the final whistle sounded.
It had been a competitive game of two halves. Liverpool had failed to kick on for all three points in the second half and it had shown in the sloppy defending that allowed Larsson to show up unattended for the equaliser. Downing looked impressive on his Liverpool debut as well as Charlie Adam, who claimed the assist. Larsson and Wes Brown did likewise for Sunderland, with Brown showing all his experience in his defending to keep Liverpool at bay.
QPR BOLTED OUT THE DOOR!
QPR 0 v 4 Bolton
45+2’ Cahill
67’ Gabbidon OG
70’ Klasnic
79’ Muamba
• Campbell has a goal disallowed in the first minute for offside.
• Kieran Dyer picks up horrible injury a minute later.
• Gary Cahill opens his account for the season with a glorious curling effort for 20 yards to put Bolton ahead in first half injury time.
• Halfway through the second period, a wide Eagles free kick runs across the goalmouth, with Gabbidon sliding the ball into the back of the net for an unfortunate own goal.
• Three minutes later a deflected shot from Klasnic after a good flick on from Kevin Davies puts Bolton 3 – 0 up.
• The final nail in the coffin came via a great Bolton move which resulted in Muamba finishing neatly after a good through ball from Klasnic.
• Warnock surmised, “We’ve got to learn quickly after this. We capitulated after 2 – 0, but we’d rather be here than the Championship.”
HOOLAHAN THE HERO AS POINTS ARE SAVED!
Wigan 1 V 1 Norwich
Watson 21’ Hoolahan 45+1’
• Di Santo wins a penalty for Wigan after DeLaet knocks him down following some slack defending from the Belgian. Ben Watson converted this penalty to put the Latics ahead.
• Hoolahan replied in injury time as Wigan keeper Al-Habsi spilled a cross to leave him with an easy finish.
GERVINHO SEES RED IN ST JAMES’ PARK STALEMATE!
Newcastle 0 v 0 Arsenal
Unfortunately for the neutrals, football was not treated to quite as entertaining a spectacle as it saw in this fixture last year when Newcastle reversed a 4 – 0 deficit to take a point. Instead, what they got was a tense game, on Arsenal’s part, it was mostly due to the speculation surrounding two of the most prominent players, Nasri and Fabregas and the fact that they were not taking part. For Newcastle, it was likely down to Joey Barton’s involvement after a full u-turn from those up-high in the St James’ Park club.
The first chance of the game fell to Tomas Rosicky, who generally impressed as cover for the absent Fabregas. Aaron Ramsey had slid across a ball to him on the edge of the area, which Rosicky curled narrowly wide after a fluid build up.
Indeed, Arsenal had much of the early running as a deflected Van Persie shot left Tim Krul scrambling in the Newcastle goal. This was followed soon after by a goal line clearance from Simpson to prevent Arsenal taking the lead. Robin Van Persie then went the closest yet, with a free kick from the right corner of the box that skimmed the roof of the net with Krul struggling to stop it if it dipped further.
An interesting incident then happened. Having been dispossessed by Song, Joey Barton was on the floor, Song then subtly stamped on the back of Barton’s leg so that the referee could not see and got away with it in spite of Barton’s protests. Barton went on to twitter a post-game statement, “if the roles were reversed and I’d stamped on him, it would be so much different”.
This episode only served to spice up the game. After Theo Walcott made Krul stretch to save an effort, Gervinho found himself tripped in the area. A penalty was not given, but Joey Barton then took it upon himself to drag Gervinho to his feet aggressively and accuse him of cheating and diving. Gervinho then struck out at Barton with a slap, to which Barton fell theatrically, clutching his face. The referee then came over and gave Gervinho a red card, whilst Barton only got a yellow. Arsene Wenger was displeased by this and remarked, “I don’t understand the red card, the referee didn’t see the incident and had his back turned to it. It is either a yellow to each player or a red to each player.” Video evidence supported Wenger’s claims about the referee view (or lack thereof) of the coming together.
In the last minute, Arsenal countered, three against two, but squandered the opportunity. This served to encapsulate their performance, whilst Newcastle managed to defend well enough to keep them out.
CHELSEA FAIL TO UNLOCK STOKE CODE!
Stoke 0 v 0 Chelsea
This game saw the possible re-emergence of a sharp Fernando Torres. He may not have scored, but he did just about everything but. After a poor start to his Chelsea career, he shielded the ball expertly, showed well-timed changes of pace and beat men aplenty as he took the man of the match award.
In spite of the 0 – 0 score line, there could easily have been 5 penalties. Kalou, Torres and Lampard were all felled in the box for Chelsea, whilst Stoke had a Terry handball rejected as well as having Shawcross dragged to the floor by Terry as they battled throughout the match at set-pieces. On review, it appeared that the Torres and Lampard penalty claims were - in most eyes – penalties, as was Terry’s handball at the other end.
The first half went mostly Stoke’s way. Their set pieces were well delivered and caused Cech and his defenders more than a few problems. Not only this, but their open play was not bad either. Ashley Cole was caught sleeping by a ball in behind him to Walters, who’s cross was denied by Cech.
This does not mean that Stoke had it all their own way. Bosingwa had an early effort put round the post by the highly impressive Asmir Begovic. Robert Huth then found himself having to produce a well-timed headed clearance from a good cross. Ramires - who also had a striking impact - managed to bully his way through several players only to have his squared pass run across the face of goal to waste.
The second half then saw Chelsea start to take over the game, really pressuring the Stoke defence. Stoke however, failed to fold and refused to back down as Chelsea threw all they had at the Potters. Torres failed to turn and score from a Terry knock down following a corner just before a rasping 25 yard shot from John Obi Mikel had to be tipped over the bar by Begovic.
The last 25 minutes saw a much more stretched game with plenty of end to end play. It was still Chelsea that were having the better of the play and this was not helped when Etherington had to go off with a suspected broken arm. Malouda hit a stinging shot straight at Begovic, and a deft chip from the newly-introduced Anelka nearly beat the stopper, who was just able to tip the ball onto the bar before saving from Kalou.
The final whistle saw a slightly despondent Chelsea, disappointed at not being able to either score or take three points back to London. However, all credit must be given to the solid Stoke back four and there supreme goalkeeper for keeping the Blues out for the duration of the game when a late winner looked nigh-on inevitable.
YOUNG SHOWS MATURITY ON DEBUT TO MAKE UP FOR DE GEA HOWLER!
West Brom 1 v 2 Man United
Long 37’ 13’ Rooney
81’ Reid OG
United were quick out of the blocks on this occasion, as opposed to their sedate approach in the Community Shield. Ashley Young marked the beginning of his debut with a well-aimed freekick that narrowly evaded the head of Danny Welbeck to put United into an early ascendency.
They would not have to wait long however. Wayne Rooney opened the scoring on 13 minutes following a great exchange with Young, who he back-heeled the ball to and was laid off by. He swivelled onto his left foot and slid the ball into the far corner from the edge of the box.
United should have doubled their lead ten minutes later after brilliant work from Welbeck and Rooney to tee up Nani, who could only fluff his shot over the bar.
Wigan then had their first chance of the game with Paul Scharner forcing a good save out of new boy David De Gea. Cleverly then had a chance denied down the other end within seconds, as the ball was taken away from him in a certain goal-scoring position. Another minute later, the Baggies got themselves right back into the game after Tchoyi battled well to get the ball across to Brunt, who then passed on to Long. Long then managed to steal half a yard with a step over to get a shot off at De Gea. De Gea was well placed enough to save it, but his movements were to slow and he could only let the ball roll underneath him as West Brom found their equaliser.
De Gea almost made a gaffe just short of half time as a cross/shot from the impressive Tchoyi came worryingly close to beating him.
United were dealt another blow soon into the second as Nemanja Vidic had to limp off with a hamstring problem that had flared up early in the first half. But United reacted well to this, with Rooney not getting the timing on his flicked header required to beat Foster, whilst Young nearly caught Foster out with a good curling effort.
Soon after this Ferdinand began to struggle with an injury of his own and quickly had to go off to be replaced by Phil Jones for his full United debut. A spot of luck finally came to the Mancunian’s as Ashley Young cleverly beat a couple of men to get his cross in, which was deflected him by Tamas and Reid into the far corner to secure United a later winner in the last 10 minutes.
Despite West Brom’s attempt at a last minute on-slaught -even bringing Ben Foster up for a free kick - United managed to hold out and claim the 3 points. Fergie was far from pleased though, “David should’ve done better” was one of his first comments on West Brom’s goal. Will the new keeper be good enough?
KUN CLICKS TO MAKE CITY SLICK!
Man City 4 v 0 Swansea
Dzeko 57’
Aguero 68’
Silva 71’
Aguero 90+1’
Man City dominated this game from the opening whistle, this is not meant to offend Swansea supporters, whose team bore up well under such pressure. Keeper Vorm was a particular standout with Swansea stringing a few nice moves together at times.
AS the headline suggests, this match was mostly about the appearance of one man. New record signing Sergio “Kun” Aguero came on with an hour gone and completely changed the game for his team. Until he was brought on, David Silva and Yaya Toure had been City’s best performers, with Silva creating the first goal that Edin Dzeko managed to dispatch, and Toure with his marauding runs and power.
Within 8 minutes of his substitution, Aguero’s named was being read out by the speaker after he got to back post to tap in a great ball across by Micah Richards. Three minutes later, he attempted an outrageous, audacious piece of skill when he kicked the ball over Vorm’s head, and seemingly out of play. Instead of giving up on the ball, we kicked it over his head for the on-rushing David Silva to put City 3-0 up and in an unassailable position with 20 minutes remaining.
Vorm managed the save of the match after a pass back was awarded. Yaya Toure blast the shot from 16 yards, underneath the wall. An unsighted Vorm managed to stretched out an arm with the ball literally about to cross the line.
Unfortunately he was to be beaten one final time though, when Aguero sized up an amazing 25 yard dart into the bottom corner to end the rout and bring Swansea into the Premier League with a bang of reality in injury time.
TEAM OF WEEK; GK - Begovic (Stoke), CM - Brown (Sunderland), CM - Huth (Stoke), LB - Warnock (Aston Villa), RB - Richards (Man City), CM - Muamba (Bolton),RCM - Young (Man United), LCM - Larsson (Sunderland), LWF - Silva (Man City), CF - Suarez (Liverpool), RWF - Aguero (Man City).
Friday, 12 August 2011
My England Dream Team XI
After having read my last article, another friend of mine, Toby, asked me if I could pick an England Dream Team XI. In other words, I was asked to provide my best, most definitive England side. Well, after much research and with many new facts learnt, presented is my attempt at an answer. I decided to limit my search to post WWI players, but will also give notable mentions to the greats before that time.
PLAYER Test Runs/Avr Test Wkts/Avr Matches
1. Jack Hobbs 5,410 @ 56.94 1 @ 165.00 61
Having scored 199 first-class hundreds and 61,760 runs at the same level, the least I can do is include one of the greatest opening batsmen in this team. He is a great of his and any generation with the bat who could also bowl at first-class level.
2. Herbert Sutcliffe 4,555 @ 60.73 54
Hobbs’ opening partner, and he tried his very best to overshadow his former colleague with the 6th best average in test history, and the best by an Englishman. He is also considered the best “bad wicket” player of all-time, a useful attribute in the days of uncovered wickets that could be two-paced on a good day.
3. Len Hutton (C) 6,971 @ 56.67 3 @ 77.33 79
The man who held the record for the highest individual score in a test match record for 20 years after his superb 364, oh, and it was in an Ashes Test Match too. A great leader and has my trust and faith as captain.
4. Wally Hammond 7,249 @ 58.14 83 @ 37.80 85
Joint with Colin Cowdrey and Geoffrey Boycott, he has the highest number of hundreds by an Englishman at 22. One of these was a brilliant 336*, which was a record score until Hutton surpassed it 5 years later in 1938. In his obituary in the Wisden Almanack, they claimed he was one of the four best batsmen in history.
5. Kevin Pietersen 6,123 @ 49.37 5 @ 126.20 74
England have never had a batsman like him, pure and simple. He possesses unparalleled talent in English cricketing history. The shots he comes with are often unconventional, but nearly always brilliant. He is a man for the big occasion with big hundreds against the big teams. His fantastic charisma and ego is a double-edged sword to his personality, allowing him to dominate bowlers with arrogance, but, just as equally enabling his bad temper to surface itself in bad moments. At times he looks simply unstoppable.
6. Matt Prior 2,278 @ 43.79 44
Wicket-keeper/batsmen are the only wicket-keepers accepted in Test Cricket nowadays, this wasn’t always the case. Taking this into consideration, I have to go for the current keeper, because over the past 2 years he has been nigh on flawless with gloves and bat. He is a real cornerstone of the team and is becoming more and more of a Mr Reliable.
7. Ian Botham 5,200 @ 33.54 383 @ 28.40 102
Beefy narrowly goes in ahead of Flintoff in this team. This is due to the fact that both had personas, both had the incredible performances that marked them out, both even had Ashes named after them. Put plainly, Botham’s numbers are better and show more effectiveness. He is England’s highest ever Test wicket-taker which helps him to no end.
8. Graeme Swann 745 @ 24.03 140 @ 27.72 32
He has become the saviour of English spin bowling, the man England turn to for inspiration right now. An uncanny knack for wickets in the first over of his spell mixed with a brilliantly positive, yet at times humorously self-deprecating charisma endears him to all that follow England. More than useful with the bat as well which only adds to his popularity.
9. Harold Larwood 485 @ 19.40 78 @ 28.35 21
Arguably the man that stopped Don Bradman from averaging 100. His integral part in the “Bodyline” or “Fast Leg Theory” Ashes series of 1932-33 cut Bradman’s average down to 99.94 from what would have been 104.76. Of course he was not the solo performer, but the main protagonist as he was England’s quickest bowler of the time and possibly of all times. Sadly only played 22 tests as he refused to apologise after having been made the scapegoat of the Bodyline tactics. But his 1427 wickets at 17.51 in first-class cricket prove his abilities more than appropriately.
10. Fred Trueman 981 @ 13.81 307 @ 21.57 67
The original fiery Yorshireman. He was a rapid bowler on his best day and still mighty quick on his worse. The first Englishman to reach 300 test wickets. His popularity saw him named the “greatest living Yorshireman” by Prime Minister Harold Wilson. He - like Pietersen after him - ran into trouble with English officials on a few occasions, accusing them of snobbery.
11. Bob Willis 840 @ 11.50 325 @ 25.20 90
Ian Botham quoted big Bob as the “only world-class fast bowler in my time as an England player”. His tremendously long run-up intimidated batsmen from the outset and he frequently played well beyond the pain barrier for his country. Perhaps he was a gangly, ungainly fast bowler, but his pace was great and the bounce he could generate was even more so. He sits behind Botham as England’s 2nd highest wicket-taker.
Notable omitted players –
Opening Batsmen; Geoffrey Boycott, Marcus Trescothick, Alistair Cook, Michael Atherton, John Edrich.
Middle Order Batsmen; David Gower, Colin Cowdrey, Graham Gooch, Michael Vaughan, Ken Barrington, Graeme Thorpe.
Wicket-Keepers; Alec Stewart, Alan Knott, Jack Russell.
All-Rounders; Andrew Flintoff, Ted Dexter, Dennis Amiss.
Spinners – Jim Laker.
Fast Bowlers – James Anderson, Darren Gough, Steven Harmison, Andrew Caddick, Chris Old, Devon Malcolm.
Many of these selections were highly difficult to make. Leaving out the likes of Alec Stewart, David Gower, Andrew Flintoff and Geoffrey Boycott were very hard to decide and they were not decisions easily taken.
England’s deepest strength in depth over the ages definitely appears to be their opening batsmen. Hobbs and Sutcliffe were eventually my men of choice because they had phenomenal records. On top of this, the issue of player’s playing in tandem with each other would be no problem for these two as they forged an incredible partnership for many years.
Omitting batsmen such as David Gower, Colin Cowdrey and Graham Gooch proved an arduous process. Gower was arguably the most talented batsmen of his generation bar Vivian Richards. On the other hand, Colin Cowdrey is one of the three men on 22 test hundreds, the English record and was a cornerstone of the side he played in. Gooch is a fabled run-maker the likes of which England were lucky to have and may not see for a while.
Hutton, Hammond and Pietersen emerged as my middle order through a mixture of unparalleled performances and figures over a number of years. Wally Hammond is one of the other three men on 22 test hundreds, one of which was a brilliant and unbeaten 336* which was only surpassed by Len Hutton’s 364 five years later. This score by Hutton remains the highest individual score in a test match by any Englishman and the 5th highest in cricketing history after Sobers, Hayden and Lara. The fact that Hutton maintained such a fantastic average in spite of being his team’s captain speaks volumes for just how great a player he was.
Having already justified my wicket keeping and all-rounder selections, I shall now move onto the bowlers.
It was a tight call between Jim Laker and Graeme Swann for the team’s spinner. It may well be down to the bias of having seen Swann play that gets him my selection of Laker. Laker himself was a superb bowler, anyone that takes 19 wickets in a test match should be held in high regard. However, I feel in a batsmen friendly era of cricket, Swann has become a real danger to any batsmen on just about any wicket. He is also a more than useful addition to the end of the batting line-up.
Out of the fast bowler’s chosen, Harold Larwood is likely the most contentious and debatable call. Larwood was the front man of the famous Bodyline series in 1932/33. His fearful speed terrorised the Australian’s as well as cricketing officials, but it did work. To me, any man that could keep the incomparable Don Bradman as far under his average (without this series, Bradman would have averaged 104.76 instead of the 99.94 he ended up on) as Larwood did merits a place in this team whether he played many test matches or not.
Trueman and Willis were near-automatic picks for me. Not only are they the 2nd and 3rd on the English list of Test wicket takers, but they also achieved these wickets at outstanding averages. This edges them ahead of bowlers like Gough, Old and Malcolm in my eyes.
I decided it unfair to put the greats of the 19th Century such as; W.G. Grace, Frank Wooley, C.B. Fry, Sydney Barnes and Tom Richardson in my team as pre-WWI cricket was a completely different game in that it was amateur when few nations played test cricket as the game was still in it’s infancy. Having said that, these men are the pioneers of English cricket and should be treated with respect, as they are legends of the game, and indeed of English history.
So there you have it, that Toby is my final decision on an all-time England XI. Thank you for your request, the research for the article was both enlightening and highly interesting to read into.
Tuesday, 9 August 2011
SPORTING NEWS OF THE WEEK!
Football
· Manchester United claim a fantastic win with a memorable comeback to take the Community Shield as a Nani-inspired second half saw them reverse a 2-0 deficit into a 3-2 victory.
· Arsenal sign Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain from Southampton after a protracted transfer saga.
· Former Manchester United player Gabriel Obertan is signed by Newcastle United.
· Radosav Petrovic is signed by Blackburn Rovers from Partizan Belgrade.
· Matthew Upson has gone to Stoke on a free transfer.
· Shane Long has been snapped up by West Brom in a rumoured £6.25 million move.
· England’s friendly against the Netherlands is called off due to the looting and violence ravaging London’s streets along with fears that the Premier League games could also be cancelled in places.
Golf
· Adam Scott wins the World Golf Championship just before the last major of the year. Tiger Woods also made his comeback in this event.
Rugby
· England defeated Wales 23-19.
· Manchester United claim a fantastic win with a memorable comeback to take the Community Shield as a Nani-inspired second half saw them reverse a 2-0 deficit into a 3-2 victory.
· Arsenal sign Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain from Southampton after a protracted transfer saga.
· Former Manchester United player Gabriel Obertan is signed by Newcastle United.
· Radosav Petrovic is signed by Blackburn Rovers from Partizan Belgrade.
· Matthew Upson has gone to Stoke on a free transfer.
· Shane Long has been snapped up by West Brom in a rumoured £6.25 million move.
· England’s friendly against the Netherlands is called off due to the looting and violence ravaging London’s streets along with fears that the Premier League games could also be cancelled in places.
Golf
· Adam Scott wins the World Golf Championship just before the last major of the year. Tiger Woods also made his comeback in this event.
Rugby
· England defeated Wales 23-19.
Thursday, 4 August 2011
England 05’ and 11’ vs Australia 05’ and India 11’
So my friend Andrew asked me an interesting question earlier. If able to make composite teams, who would I pick for England – based solely on current form at the time – if I had the victorious Ashes team from 2005 and the current 2011 crop together? And, who would I pick to play against them if I had the Australia 05’ team and the Indian team England are currently up against.
Well here goes, it’s tough to pick with and injured Sehwag, so I’ll have to omit him on this occasion.
England
1. Marcus Trescothick (05’ Opening Batsmen)
One of the best openers these shores have seen, a fantastic batsmen who took the attack to McGrath, Lee and Co in 2005. Much missed ever since succumbing to his stress illness.
2. Andrew Strauss (05’ Opening Batsmen, 11’ Captain)
Joined Trescothick in 2005 and scored many runs in that series. His captaincy vs India so far has been superb, we only hope his batting will soon follow it up.
3. Jonathon Trott (11’ Batsmen)
England were struggling for a solid No.3 batsmen. Then came Trott in 2009, he hasn’t looked back since. 2nd highest average in test history. Only made one fifty at Lord’s but struggled with shoulder injury at Trent Bridge.
4. Kevin Pietersen (05’ Batsmen)
Despite playing well above his average for the first time in a long time, I went for the 05’ Pietersen. This is because this was a Pietersen new to the scene, with no fear. He blasted McGrath, Warne and Lee. He also played one of the best backs to the wall hundreds I’ve ever seen at the Oval. A Pietersen before the left-arm spin “weakness”.
5. Ian Bell (11’ Batsmen)
Fresh off a sublime hundred and looking at ease at the crease, Bell has finally developed into the player we were hoping for and boy does he look good!
6. Matt Prior (11’ Wicket-keeper, Batsmen)
No brainer! This man is in the form of his life with bat and gloves. Churned out runs at an aggressive strike rate and he just doesn’t seem to make mistakes behind the stumps anymore. Long may it continue!
7. Andrew Flintoff (05’ All-Rounder)
Player of the Series in 2005 for a reason. The best all-rounder England have had since Botham tormented Australia with bat and ball all series long and made a vital contribution.
8. Stuart Broad (11’ All-Rounder)
Another man in ridiculous form. For once with bat and ball. Averaging 60.6 so far this series and has already claimed 15 wickets. Might impressive stuff!
9. Graeme Swann (11’ Off Spinner)
Yet to hit his stride with the ball in this series, but is indubitably world-class. Has provided useful runs too.
10. Simon Jones (05’ Seam Bowler)
One of the true tragedies of English seam bowling. A fantastic performer in the 05’ Ashes. Able to swing the ball both ways and reverse an old ball. Unfortunately never able to shake off his injury problems since.
11. James Anderson (11’ Seam Bowler)
A similar bowler to Jones, but probably has more disguise to his variations. 2nd best bowler on the planet after Dale Steyn at the moment and it is hard to argue with that!
Australia 05’ and India 11’
1. Justin Langer (05’ Opening Batsmen)
Grit may well have been his middle name. Grinded out countless inning’s and played some great one’s in the 05’ Ashes. A fighter.
2. Rahul Dravid (11’ Opening Batsmen)
The Wall has become a phenomenon of his own. Constantly overshadowed by the No.4 but this series he has shone in the face of recent criticism with 2 great hundreds in vain.
3. Ricky Ponting (05’ Batsmen and Captain)
Another determined individual. Who can forget his match-saving 156 at Old Trafford? A much-maligned skipper, but had tough boots to walk in.
4. Sachin Tendulkar (11’ Batsmen)
Despite the fact he has not found form yet in England, you cannot argue with the inclusion of arguably the greatest batsman ever. A pure player. 56 at Trent Bridge could act as a warning to England.
5. VVS Laxman (11’Batsmen)
The most understated of the Indian Big 3, but a player of vast class and poise. Starting to look good enough to worry England.
6. Michael Clark (05' Batsmen)
An excellent stroke-maker and probably the best player of spin in the world right now. He is a man to be regarded highly.
7. Adam Gilchrist (05’ Wicket-keeper, Batsmen)
Undoubtedly the great keeper/batsman not only of his generation, but ever. An integral part of the all-conquering Aussie team. Only Viv Richards would manfully compete with his aggression and strike rate.
8. Shane Warne (05’ Leg Spinner)
The best leg spinner of all time. No mug with the bat either, in fact probably one of the best to never score a hundred. But his performances with the ball more than speak for themselves.
9. Brett Lee (05’ Seamer)
With Shoaib Akhtar, the fastest bowler of his and most generations. Full of passion and grit as well as being a superb competitor and gentleman.
10. Zaheer Khan (11’ Seamer)
May not have been too active so far with injury preventing him. But when he did bowl he looked dangerous and we all know what he can do when fit.
11. Glenn McGrath (05’ Seamer)
One of the best and most accurate seamers ever, able to take wickets on any deck with his persistant line, length and deceptive pace.
A number of places in these teams were tough to call and justify. The fact that Zaheer Khan has so far been elusive this series makes his selection contentious, but everyone is aware of what he can do when able.
England beat the Aussies and are beating India yet - pound for pound, player for player - you’d probably say the Australian/Indian team are stronger, even without Sehwag around.
Embarrassingly for India, I have picked the only Indian batsmen that have both played well and played the short ball appropriately. Yuvraj, Mukund and Raina have all struggled to master the bouncer.
There is also a difference between England beating Australia and England beating India. In my option, the gap between England and Australia was the two runs they lost by at Edgbaston. England went a long way to winning the Ashes that day, if Australia had won, I’m sure they would have taken the series having gone 2-0 up.
India on the other hand, have managed to lose by a cumulative of over 500 runs over two matches so far in this series. That shows a vast gap in ability if you ask me.
Well here goes, it’s tough to pick with and injured Sehwag, so I’ll have to omit him on this occasion.
England
1. Marcus Trescothick (05’ Opening Batsmen)
One of the best openers these shores have seen, a fantastic batsmen who took the attack to McGrath, Lee and Co in 2005. Much missed ever since succumbing to his stress illness.
2. Andrew Strauss (05’ Opening Batsmen, 11’ Captain)
Joined Trescothick in 2005 and scored many runs in that series. His captaincy vs India so far has been superb, we only hope his batting will soon follow it up.
3. Jonathon Trott (11’ Batsmen)
England were struggling for a solid No.3 batsmen. Then came Trott in 2009, he hasn’t looked back since. 2nd highest average in test history. Only made one fifty at Lord’s but struggled with shoulder injury at Trent Bridge.
4. Kevin Pietersen (05’ Batsmen)
Despite playing well above his average for the first time in a long time, I went for the 05’ Pietersen. This is because this was a Pietersen new to the scene, with no fear. He blasted McGrath, Warne and Lee. He also played one of the best backs to the wall hundreds I’ve ever seen at the Oval. A Pietersen before the left-arm spin “weakness”.
5. Ian Bell (11’ Batsmen)
Fresh off a sublime hundred and looking at ease at the crease, Bell has finally developed into the player we were hoping for and boy does he look good!
6. Matt Prior (11’ Wicket-keeper, Batsmen)
No brainer! This man is in the form of his life with bat and gloves. Churned out runs at an aggressive strike rate and he just doesn’t seem to make mistakes behind the stumps anymore. Long may it continue!
7. Andrew Flintoff (05’ All-Rounder)
Player of the Series in 2005 for a reason. The best all-rounder England have had since Botham tormented Australia with bat and ball all series long and made a vital contribution.
8. Stuart Broad (11’ All-Rounder)
Another man in ridiculous form. For once with bat and ball. Averaging 60.6 so far this series and has already claimed 15 wickets. Might impressive stuff!
9. Graeme Swann (11’ Off Spinner)
Yet to hit his stride with the ball in this series, but is indubitably world-class. Has provided useful runs too.
10. Simon Jones (05’ Seam Bowler)
One of the true tragedies of English seam bowling. A fantastic performer in the 05’ Ashes. Able to swing the ball both ways and reverse an old ball. Unfortunately never able to shake off his injury problems since.
11. James Anderson (11’ Seam Bowler)
A similar bowler to Jones, but probably has more disguise to his variations. 2nd best bowler on the planet after Dale Steyn at the moment and it is hard to argue with that!
Australia 05’ and India 11’
1. Justin Langer (05’ Opening Batsmen)
Grit may well have been his middle name. Grinded out countless inning’s and played some great one’s in the 05’ Ashes. A fighter.
2. Rahul Dravid (11’ Opening Batsmen)
The Wall has become a phenomenon of his own. Constantly overshadowed by the No.4 but this series he has shone in the face of recent criticism with 2 great hundreds in vain.
3. Ricky Ponting (05’ Batsmen and Captain)
Another determined individual. Who can forget his match-saving 156 at Old Trafford? A much-maligned skipper, but had tough boots to walk in.
4. Sachin Tendulkar (11’ Batsmen)
Despite the fact he has not found form yet in England, you cannot argue with the inclusion of arguably the greatest batsman ever. A pure player. 56 at Trent Bridge could act as a warning to England.
5. VVS Laxman (11’Batsmen)
The most understated of the Indian Big 3, but a player of vast class and poise. Starting to look good enough to worry England.
6. Michael Clark (05' Batsmen)
An excellent stroke-maker and probably the best player of spin in the world right now. He is a man to be regarded highly.
7. Adam Gilchrist (05’ Wicket-keeper, Batsmen)
Undoubtedly the great keeper/batsman not only of his generation, but ever. An integral part of the all-conquering Aussie team. Only Viv Richards would manfully compete with his aggression and strike rate.
8. Shane Warne (05’ Leg Spinner)
The best leg spinner of all time. No mug with the bat either, in fact probably one of the best to never score a hundred. But his performances with the ball more than speak for themselves.
9. Brett Lee (05’ Seamer)
With Shoaib Akhtar, the fastest bowler of his and most generations. Full of passion and grit as well as being a superb competitor and gentleman.
10. Zaheer Khan (11’ Seamer)
May not have been too active so far with injury preventing him. But when he did bowl he looked dangerous and we all know what he can do when fit.
11. Glenn McGrath (05’ Seamer)
One of the best and most accurate seamers ever, able to take wickets on any deck with his persistant line, length and deceptive pace.
A number of places in these teams were tough to call and justify. The fact that Zaheer Khan has so far been elusive this series makes his selection contentious, but everyone is aware of what he can do when able.
England beat the Aussies and are beating India yet - pound for pound, player for player - you’d probably say the Australian/Indian team are stronger, even without Sehwag around.
Embarrassingly for India, I have picked the only Indian batsmen that have both played well and played the short ball appropriately. Yuvraj, Mukund and Raina have all struggled to master the bouncer.
There is also a difference between England beating Australia and England beating India. In my option, the gap between England and Australia was the two runs they lost by at Edgbaston. England went a long way to winning the Ashes that day, if Australia had won, I’m sure they would have taken the series having gone 2-0 up.
India on the other hand, have managed to lose by a cumulative of over 500 runs over two matches so far in this series. That shows a vast gap in ability if you ask me.
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