European round up

Spain
Barcelona lost for the first time this season, as Getafe stunned their illustrious rivals with a defensively strong performance in a 1-0 victory. Defeat for Barca, means they now trail Real Madrid by six points after Jose Mourinho's side won the Madrid derby 4-1.

A Valera header won the game for Getafe, as Barcelona without Andres Iniesta, Cesc Fabregas and Carlos Puyol failed to break down their opponents.

Just hours before two Cristiano Ronaldo penalties helped Real extend their lead at the top of the table. Atletico had opened the scoring through Adrian just 15 minutes in; however their joy was short lived as Thibaut Courtois, the man on loan from Chelsea, was sent off in conceding a penalty.

Ronaldo levelled from the spot, and after that Real really made their extra man count, as further goals from Angel Di Maria, Gonzalo Higuain and a second penalty from Ronaldo. The second penalty award saw Atletico go down to nine men as Diego Godin was shown his marching orders for a second yellow card.

Inigo Martinez scored an incredible winner from his own half for Real Sociedad as they edged an incredible match 3-2 against Real Betis, whose poor run extended to nine games without a win.

Big spending Malaga take on the injury hit Villarreal tonight.

La Liga results
Mallorca 2 Racing Santander 1
Athletic Bilbao 0 Granada 1
Zaragoza 0 Sevilla 1
Levante 4 Sporting Gijon 0
Rayo Vallecano 1 Valencia 2
Espanyol 1 Osasuna 2



Germany
Bayern relinquished top spot of the Bundesliga as a second consecutive defeat saw the Munich giants slip to third. The Austrian Andreas Ivanschitz opened the scoring before Daniel Van Buyten scored his first of the game to level the game.

However Mainz were the better side, and two quick goals from Marco Caligiuri and Niko Bungert gave the relegation threatened side breathing space. A second Van Buyten goal wasn’t enough as Bayern’s poor form continued.

The surprise package Borussia Monchengladbach went top of the Bundesliga, all be it only for a short time, after a comprehensive 3-0 away victory against Koln on Friday. Last year’s champions Dortmund regained the spot on goal difference with a comfortable 2-0 home win against Schalke. Goals from Robert Lewandowski and Felipe Santana ensured they took full advantage of Bayern’s Sunday slip up.


Italy

Juventus extended their unbeaten start to eleven games with an impressive 1-0 away win at Lazio. Simone Pepe's 34th minute winner gave the Turin side their seven win of the season as victory saw them replace Udinese at the top of the table. Juventus face Napoli next in a re-arranged fixture as the game was postponed due to flooding recently, and the match will no doubt test Conte's side title credentials.

Flying in Europe, struggling at home, that’s the scenario Napoli are in currently. With just four wins in 11 games this league campaign, Walter Mazzarri's side are struggling, and were fortunate to leave the Stadio Atleti Azzurri d'Italia with a point, as Edison Cavani's late goal ensured the game finished 1-1. Atalanta have done brilliantly this year, and if they had started the season without a six point deduction, they would sit an impressive fifth place.

Elsewhere in Italy A.C Milan romped to a 4-0 win over Cheivo, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic scoring his 100th Serie A goal in the process. All four strikes came in a dominant first half. Thiago Silva, a double from Ibrahimovic and an Alexander Pato strike meant Milan went second for the first time this season. A.C's city rivals Inter Milan, won back-to-back league games for the first time this season as Luc Castaignos's 90th minute winner stole the points from Siena.

Serie A results

Udinese 2 Roma 0
Leece 0 Catania 1
Novara 2 Parma 1
Cagliari 1 Bologna 1
Cesena 2 Genoa 0
Palermo 2 Fiorentina 0

Week 4 Predictions

The Prediction League

Daniel A Lofti (11 points, 3 PS)
Stoke 2 Blackburn 0
Bolton 1 Everton 1
Chelsea 3 Wolves 0
Manchester United 2 Newcastle 1
Norwich 2 QPR 1
Sunderland 2 Wigan 0
West Brom 1 Tottenham 3
Arsenal 2 Fulham 0
Swansea 1 Aston Villa 1
Liverpool 2 Manchester City 3

Fraser Stradling (9 points, 2 PS)
Stoke 1 Blackburn 0
Bolton 0 Everton 1
Chelsea 1 Wolves 0
Manchester United 1 Newcastle 1
Norwich 1 QPR 2
Sunderland 1 Wigan 0
West Brom 1 Tottenham 3
Arsenal 2 Fulham 1
Swansea 0 Aston Villa 2
Liverpool 3 Manchester City 4

Jack Burman (7 points, 1 PS)
Stoke 2 Blackburn 1
Bolton 2 Everton 1
Chelsea 1 Wolves 0
Manchester United 2 Newcastle 1
Norwich 2 QPR 0
Sunderland 2 Wigan 1
West Brom 1 Tottenham 2
Arsenal 1 Fulham 1
Swansea 1 Aston Villa 0
Liverpool 0 Manchester City 3

James Sherwood (6 points, 1 PS)
Stoke 1 Blackburn 0
Bolton 2 Everton 2
Chelsea 3 Wolves 1
Manchester United 1 Newcastle 0
Norwich 2 QPR 1
Sunderland 0 Wigan 0
West Brom 1 Tottenham 4
Arsenal 4 Fulham 1
Swansea 1 Aston Villa 0
Liverpool 3 Manchester City 2

Joshua Jones  (6 points, 1 PS)
Stoke 3 Blackburn 1
Bolton 1 Everton 2
Chelsea 4 Wolves 2
Manchester United 2 Newcastle 0
Norwich 2 QPR 2
Sunderland 2 Wigan 1
West Brom 2 Tottenham 2
Arsenal 3 Fulham 1
Swansea 2 Aston Villa 0
Liverpool 2 Manchester City 2


Tyrone Nicklin (6 points, 1 PS)
Stoke 1 Blackburn 0
Bolton 1 Everton 3
Chelsea 2 Wolves 1
Manchester United 3 Newcastle 2
Norwich 2 QPR 2
Sunderland 2 Wigan 0
West Brom 1 Tottenham 3
Arsenal 3 Fulham 0
Swansea 1 Aston Villa 2
Liverpool 1 Manchester City 2

Liam O'Donovan (6 points, 0 PS)
Stoke 2 Blackburn 0
Bolton 1 Everton 2
Chelsea 4 Wolves 1
Manchester United 3 Newcastle 1
Norwich 3 QPR 1
Sunderland 3 Wigan 0
West Brom1 Tottenham 1
Arsenal 2 Fulham 0
Swansea 2 Aston Villa 2
Liverpool 1 Manchester City 1

Daniel Underwood (5 points, 0 PS)
Stoke 2 Blackburn 1
Bolton 1 Everton 1
Chelsea 3 Wolves 1
Manchester United 2 Newcastle 1
Norwich 2 QPR 2
Sunderland 2 Wigan 1
West Brom 1 Tottenham 2
Arsenal 2 Fulham 1
Swansea 1 Aston Villa 1
Liverpool 2 Manchester City 2


Chris Deacon (4 points, 0 PS)
Stoke 1 Blackburn 2
Bolton 0 Everton 1
Chelsea 3 Wolves 1
Manchester United 2 Newcastle 2
Norwich 0 QPR 0
Sunderland 2 Wigan 1
West Brom 0 Tottenham 3
Arsenal 3 Fulham 1
Swansea 0 Aston Villa 1
Liverpool 0 Manchester City 4

Perry Blanchette (4 points, 0 PS)
Stoke 2 Blackburn 1
Bolton 1 Everton 1
Chelsea 1 Wolves 0
Manchester United 1 Newcastle 0
Norwich 2 QPR 2
Sunderland 3 Wigan 0
West Brom 0 Tottenham 2
Arsenal 2 Fulham 1
Swansea 1 Aston Villa 1
Liverpool 1 Manchester City 3

United struggle against Benfica as qualification goes down to the wire.

Manchester United were held to a 2-2 draw at home to Benfica, giving the Portuguese side the chance to top the group with victory in two week’s time.

An own goal from Phil Jones inside three minutes gave Benfica an early lead, however Dimitar Berbatov levelled on the half hour point with a guided header past the impressive Artur Moraes. The Red’s wasted a succession of chances before Darren Fletcher gave them a deserved lead, but they couldn’t contain their Portuguese counterparts and just two minutes after Fletcher had scored, the classy Aimar tapped home from close range.

Sir Alex Ferguson made five changes from the narrow victory away to Swansea on the weekend, with Berbatov making a rare appearance in a frustrating season for the Bulgarian. The most notable absentee was Wayne Rooney, who missed out completely due to injury.

Back to back victories over Otelul Galati had given United the chance to resurrect a disappointing Champions League campaign; however the draw means they have to avoid defeat next week in Basel to ensure progression into the knock out rounds.

Benfica opened the scoring after just three minutes in unfortunate fashion, as Jones guided the ball into his own goal. Nicolas Gaitain, a reported target for Manchester United, did well down the Benfica right, and his cross was converted in by the unlucky Jones.

Manchester United didn’t react to going behind well, and the Old Trafford faithful were left frustrated as the Red Devils struggled to maintain possession of the ball against a technically good Benfica side.

A Nani solo run gave brought some life into United. The Portuguese winger beat four Benfica players before being crudely taken down by Ezequiel Garay. Though the resulting free-kick came to nothing, it was the first sign United were back in the game.

A spell of United possession took its toll on Benfica as the Red Devils levelled through Berbatov. Young took a free kick quickly, guiding the ball out wide to Nani, whose cross was brilliant, and Berbatov guided the header home.

Literally a minute later Young should’ve turned the game on its head; however the former Villa winger couldn’t find a finish when one-on-one with Moraes. As the game became more stretched, Aimar nearly gave Benfica their second lead, but he failed to beat David De Gea from a tight angle.

Half time came and went and United came out of the traps the quicker in the second half and missed a couple of chances in quick succession. Firstly Berbatov did well to find Young whose shot was saved well before Nani from a free kick failed to test the Benfica keeper.

Fabio Da Silva really should’ve given Manchester United the lead, but well when placed he decided against sliding it past the keeper, instead opting for the lofted route, which Moraes dealt with easily.

At this point United were flying, and Fletcher gave the Reds a deserved lead. A Patrice Evra cross was perfect for the Scotsman, the keeper saved Fletcher’s initial effort, however he couldn’t missed the follow up from a yard out.

Having turned the game around, most people inside Old Trafford expected the home side to go on and seal the game with a third; but it was the away side who scored the decisive fourth goal of the match moments after United had gone in front.

A poor clearance from De Gea feel perfectly for Bruno Cesar whose cross wasn’t dealt with by Rio Ferdinand and Aimar, just like Fletcher, couldn’t miss with the goal gaping.

Berbatov blew an incredible chance to edge United ahead for a second time. Fabio did brilliantly to find the former Spurs man, and with just Moraes in the way, Berbatov smashed his volley over the bar.

With United in desperate need of a goal, as Benfica not only levelled the game, but edged ahead in the head-to-head matches between the two, brought on Javier Hernandez; however it was Benfica’s Rodrigo who went the closest to getting a late winner. The former Bolton man beat two players before putting his arrowed shot narrowly wide of De Gea’s near post.

Three minutes of extra time were signalled, but the customary United late onslaught never arrived and Benfica left Old Trafford not only with a deserved point, but the group momentum, as the draw ensured they will qualify from Group C; with first place also in the Portuguese sides hands.

http://football-united-blogs.com/2011/11/23/match-report-united-struggle-against-benfica-as-qualification-goes-down-to-the-wire/

Who will be the first Premier League managerial casualty?

According to Paddy Power, Steve Kean and Roberto Martinez are the favourites to be given the boot first in the Premier League sack race. Combined, Blackburn and Wigan have mustered together just two victories, with the solitary win each. The two clubs played out an entertaining 3-3 draw on Saturday; however the point does neither for both sides chances of survival.

Blackburn’s owners have stated their loyalty to their under pressure manager, with Kean reportedly set for an improved deal, which will see his wages increase to £1.5million a year. The Lancashire club have four winnable games coming up; giving Kean the chance to improve not only their league position, but his stay in charge. If the club are still in the bottom three after their favourable run of games, then Kean’s future will be in doubt.

Despite the clubs awful start to the season, I can’t see Martinez picking up his p45 anytime soon; having shown great loyalty to the Premier League perennial strugglers over the summer. Dave Whelan has frequently stressed the fact Martinez job is safe, and having defied the odds to avoid relegation last year, Whelan will be hoping his Wigan can follow suit this term, with an improved second half of the season.

Currently I can’t see any Premier League manager being given the chop; however another gaffer reportedly under pressure is Steve Bruce. Having lost Darren Bent and Jordan Henderson to big money moves, Bruce recruited no less than 11 players during the summer, as expectations at the Stadium of the Light grew. However a disappointing start to the campaign has dampened those expectations, with the club sitting just two points above the drop zone.

Despite changing the club’s approach, Owen Coyle and his Bolton side have been poor, really ever since their F.A cup defeat to Stoke in March this year. 14 defeats from 18 games since their semi-final humiliation, has left the club in the bottom three of the Premier League. Phil Gartside, the Bolton Chairman has real belief in the Coyle approach, and he’s another manager I still see in his job come May.

The bookies don’t usually get it wrong, and I also believe Kean, despite his recent contract offer, will be the first Barclays Premier League manager out of a job. When? Not yet, but probably in and around the Christmas schedule with games coming thick and fast.

 

The latest odds on the next Premier League manager to leave (either via sacking or resignation) (According to Paddy Power)

Steve Kean 7/5

Roberto Martinez 3/1

Steve Bruce 4/1

Andre Vilas-Boas 5/1

Owen Coyle 9/1

Mick McCarthy 11/1

Week 3 Predictions

The Prediction League

Jack Burman (13 points, 4 PS)
Norwich 1 Arsenal 2
Everton 2 Wolves 1
Manchester City 1 Newcastle 2
Stoke 2 QPR 1
Sunderland 1 Fulham 2
West Brom 2 Bolton 1
Wigan 1 Blackburn 2
Swansea 2 Manchester United 1
Chelsea 1 Liverpool 2
Tottenham 2 Aston Villa 1




Fraser Stradling (12 points, 2 PS)
Norwich 0 Arsenal 2
Everton 1 Wolves 0
Manchester City 3 Newcastle 1
Stoke 1 QPR 1
Sunderland 1 Fulham 2
West Brom 2 Bolton 1
Wigan 1 Blackburn 1
Swansea 1 Manchester United 3
Chelsea 2 Liverpool 4
Tottenham 2 Aston Villa 1



Daniel A Lofti (11 points, 2 PS)
Norwich 1 Arsenal 3
Everton 2 Wolves 1
Manchester City 2 Newcastle 1
Stoke 2 QPR 0
Sunderland 1 Fulham 1
West Brom 1 Bolton 1
Wigan 1 Blackburn 1
Swansea 0 Manchester United 3
Chelsea 1 Liverpool 1
Tottenham 2 Aston Villa 1



Joshua Jones (11 points, 2 PS)
Norwich 2 Arsenal 3
Everton 2 Wolves 1
Manchester City 4 Newcastle 1
Stoke 1 QPR 2
Sunderland 2 Fulham 1
West Brom 2 Bolton 1
Wigan 2 Blackburn 2
Swansea 1 Manchester United 1
Chelsea 2 Liverpool 1
Tottenham 3 Aston Villa 1



Daniel Underwood (11 points, 2 PS)
Norwich 1 Arsenal 2
Everton 2 Wolves 1
Manchester City 3 Newcastle 0
Stoke 1 QPR 0
Sunderland 1 Fulham 1
West Brom 1 Bolton 1
Wigan 1 Blackburn 1
Swansea 1 Manchester United 2
Chelsea 2 Liverpool 1
Tottenham 3 Aston Villa 1




Chris Deacon (9 points, 2 PS)
Norwich 0 Arsenal 2
Everton 2 Wolves 1
Manchester City 1 Newcastle 0
Stoke 1 QPR 1
Sunderland 0 Fulham 1
West Brom 0 Bolton 2
Wigan 0 Blackburn 1
Swansea 0 Manchester United 3
Chelsea 3 Liverpool 1
Tottenham 2 Aston Villa 0



Liam O'Donovan (9 points, 2 PS)
Norwich 1 Arsenal 3

Everton 2 Wolves 1

Manchester City 2 Newcastle 0

Stoke 2 QPR 0

Sunderland 3 Fulham 1

West Brom 2 Bolton 1

Wigan 3 Blackburn 1

Swansea 2 Manchester United 1

Chelsea 2 Liverpool 0

Tottenham 1 Aston Villa 0




Tyrone Nicklin (9 points, 1 PS)
Norwich 1 Arsenal 3
Everton 2 Wolves 0
Manchester City 3 Newcastle 1
Stoke 1 QPR 0
Sunderland 1 Fulham 1
West Brom 1 Bolton 2
Wigan 0 Blackburn 0
Swansea 1 Manchester United 2
Chelsea 3 Liverpool 2
Tottenham 2 Aston Villa 1

James Sherwood (7 points, 2 PS)
Norwich 1 Arsenal 2

Everton 2 Wolves 2

Manchester City 2 Newcastle 1

Stoke 3 QPR 0

Sunderland 1 Fulham 2

West Brom 1 Bolton 1

Wigan 0 Blackburn 2

Swansea 1 Manchester United 1

Chelsea 3 Liverpool 1

Tottenham 2 Aston Villa 0

Perry Blanchette (6 points, 1 PS)
Norwich 1 Arsenal 2
Everton 1 Wolves 1
Manchester City 3 Newcastle 2
Stoke 0 QPR 0
Sunderland 1 Fulham 3
West Brom 1 Bolton 1
Wigan 2 Blackburn 2
Swansea 0 Manchester United 2
Chelsea 1 Liverpool 1
Tottenham 2 Aston Villa 2

Johnson's strike seals a late victory for Liverpool

Glen Johnson scored a late winner to stun his old club, as Liverpool went level on points with Chelsea after an entertaining victory.

Johnson’s winner came when the game looked certain to finish level, however the right back’s adventuress nature paid dividends, as they beat Chelsea for a third time in a row.

Deservedly Liverpool opened the scoring through the surprise selection Maxi Rodriguez as the Merseyside club dominated the first half. Chelsea levelled early in the second half as Daniel Sturridge couldn’t miss after Florent Malouda’s cross come shot, feel perfectly for the recently capped England international; however as the game was coming to a conclusion Johnson popped up to steal the three points.

Fernando Torres and Raul Meireles both had to settle for a place on the bench as they come up against their former side. Liverpool selected Craig Bellamy and Maxi for the second and first time respectively in the Premier League as Kenny Dalglish started with an attacking line-up.

Juan Mata blew the games first real chance after Malouda did brilliantly to get his cross in. The Frenchman stuck the ball up well to the back post and Mata’s volley, which was probably going wide, was cleared well by Martin Skrtel. With Didier Drogba at the back post, whether Mata was going for goal or attempting to find Drogba is questionable.

A Drogba free-kick went marginally wide of Pepe Reina’s post, with the Spanish goalkeeper confident the ball was never going in.

Luis Suarez blew a great chance to find a team mate as Dirk Kuyt won the ball on the half way line, and after finding Suarez, the Uruguayan, with men over in a four against three attack, could only find David Luiz and the chance was gone; however despite the missed chance, Liverpool were in control as Lucas and Charlie Adam in particular dominating the midfield.

The returning duo of Maxi and Bellamy combined to open the scoring as the former Atletico Madrid man capitalised on a Jon Obi Mikel mistake. The Nigerian lost the ball to Adam who fed Bellamy who played a nice one-two with Suarez before finding Maxi who finished past Cech comfortably.

Liverpool nearly doubled their lead as a Suarez cross was deflected goal wards by Luiz, only just going past the post as it rippled the side netting.

Andre Vilas-Boas made a change at half-time as Sturridge replaced the poor Mikel, which meant Chelsea, changed to a 4-2-3-1 formation with Mata playing off the ineffective Drogba.

Drogba found a bit of space after Johnson failed to win the ball in a 50/50 with the Ivorian; however the striker’s finish was always going over Reina’s goal.

Chelsea come out of the traps the better side and levelled through substitute Sturridge. Malouda ran into the heart of the Liverpool defence and his cross come shot was perfect for the on rushing Sturridge at the back post who couldn’t miss.

Luiz almost turned the game on its head moments after Sturridge’s equaliser, as the Brazilian centre half was only prevented by a fantastic save from Reina who got down brilliantly to save the goal bound header.

At this stage Chelsea were dominate, however for long periods of the game their possession and territorial threat rarely resulted in a clear cut chance.

Liverpool’s two former boys Torres and Meireles both came on for Drogba and Ramires.

Kuyt missed Liverpool’s best chance of the half after sub Jordan Henderson did well to beat two Chelsea defenders before feeding Adam who found Kuyt, however the Dutchman put it wide when well placed on the edge of the area.

Kuyt’s miss was irrelevant shortly after however as the unlikeliest of sources in Johnson finished brilliantly. The former Chelsea man did excellently well to beat Ashley Cole and when one-on-one with Cech, the right back slotted home well beating Terry’s despairing lunge to give Liverpool their second lead of the day.

The late strike ensured Chelsea lost for the third time in four Premier League matches, meaning they trail Manchester City now by an alarming 12 points. Liverpool’s second victory in the capital this season however will only boost their chances of a top four finish for the first time in three years.

Chelsea: Cech 6, Ivanovic 5, Terry 5, Luiz 5, Cole 6, Mikel 4 (Sturridge 7), Ramires 6 (Meireles 5), Lampard 6, Malouda 6, Mata 7, Drogba 5 (Torres 5)

Liverpool: Reina 7, Johnson 7, Skrtel 7, Agger 7, Enrique 7, Lucas 8, Adam 8, Maxi 7 (Downing 6), Bellamy 7 (Henderson 6), Kuyt 7, Suarez 7 (Carroll 5)

A.C held in dour draw

Fiorentina held A.C Milan to a goalless draw in Delio Rossi’s first game in charge of the Florence side.

The home side never threatened to steal the three points, as AC Milan dominated the game from start to finish and were unfortunate not to claim all three points, as Clarence Seedorf saw a legitimate goal disallowed for offside.

Rossi unsurprisingly decided against recalling Stevan Jovetic on his return from injury; however the exclusion of Adam Ljajic was controversial as Fiorentina fielded a defensive looking eleven.

A.C Milan controlled the opening proceedings of the match, without ever looking like scoring, as Fiorentina, marshalled well by the young Matija Nastasić, kept the title challengers at bay.

However 18 minutes in and Seedorf looked to given Milan the lead. Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s flick forward was perfect for the Dutchman, who finished well, only to be disappointed by an incorrect flag for offside.

Robinho missed Milan’s best chance before half time as the Brazilian blazed over after a spell of possession from the Rossoneri.

Half time came and went and still Fiorentina failed to threaten Milan. Massimiliano Allegri’s side were pleasing on the eye, however they lacked the creative threat of Antonio Cassano, as Ibrahimovic and Robinho were poor on the evening.

It took sub Pato to show the out of sorts duo how to finish, and the Brazilian was only prevented from breaking the deadlock by a fantastic save from Arthur Boruc. The former Celtic keeper did brilliantly to get fingertips to the smashed finish, which would’ve found the corner, if it wasn't for the world class reactions of the Polish international.

Fiorentina’s only chance of note fell to Manuel Pasqual whose long range effort went wide of Christian Abbiati’s post.

The result saw Milan slip up for the first time in five, and their missed opportunity allows Juventus the chance to overtake them again with victory over Palermo on Sunday.

The days other games saw Inter Milan record only their third win of a terrible Serie A season. The win saw them move to 16th as goals from Thiago Motta and Phillipe Coutinho, were enough to edge out Cagliari 2-1. Lazio's impressive goalless draw away to Napoli, ensured the Rome side stayed top of the Serie A table. Napoli were the better side; however the draw extends their poor form with just one win in five games. 

Andrade’s return helps QPR overcome Colchester.

After a loan spell with Aldershot, Bruno Andrade returned to inspire QPR's under 18 side to a deserved 3-1 win over Colchester.

Frankie Southerland’s smart finish gave QPR a deserved lead, however in the second half Colchester equalised with a long range effort. With the game looking like finishing level Andrade tapped home from close range to edge QPR ahead again, and with time running out Bradley Simmonds smashed a third home after more good work from Andrade.

Neither side created much during the opening exchanges with much of the action being played in the midfield.

The first real chance of the game went QPR’s way as Jordan Gibbons did well to get a cross in, however Andrade’s effort was easily saved by the Colchester keeper.

QPR where now in control and it wasn’t much longer before the opened the scoring.

Andrade did brilliantly to set the first goal up as he turned well and slid perfectly through for Frankie Southerland who audaciously chipped the ball over the onrushing Colchester keeper for a deserved lead.

A mix up in the QPR defence nearly allowed Colchester to level immediately, however Fred Chapman recovered in time to clear.

Half time came and went and Colchester levelled early on in the second half with a fine finish giving Gareth Keane no chance in the QPR goal.

At this stage the game could’ve gone either way, however Andrade scored from close range to edge QPR ahead for a second time.

After brilliant work from sub Manny, who ironically replaced fellow sub Connor Hubbell after he took a nasty blow to the face, Andrade couldn’t miss from inside the six yard box with the goal at his mercy.

With QPR now heavily on top, and playing some nice flowing football in the process, the Hoops added a third with another fine team goal. Southerland and Andrade combined brilliantly down the QPR right before the latter crossed perfectly for the onrushing Simmonds to smash a third home.

And not long after the third the referee brought an end to the game.

After the match QPR Under 18’s manager Steve Gallen commented “It could’ve gone either way, at 1-1 we dipped a little bit, however today we had Bruno Andrade it was his first game today, and when you’ve got him, I’m always thinking if we can get him the ball in the right area’s we had a chance.”

Mark Bright interview

Mark Bright is most commonly known for his spells with Crystal Palace and Sheffield Wednesday. During his time with Palace the club had arguably their best spell, including an FA Cup final appearance in 1990.

You joined Palace in 1986, and during you 6-year stint the club had its greatest period. How proud are you of yours and the club achievements alike?

I'm very proud of the clubs achievements when I was there, 3rd in old first div 1, that’s the equivalent of coming 3rd in the Premier league now, and of course playing in the FA Cup final in 1990 against Man Utd.

In 1990 Palace had an amazing cup run, beating Liverpool 4-3 in the semi-final, with you scoring the equaliser to make it 1-1. Despite taking Manchester United to a replay, the original final was another classic. Which of the two was your favourite or most memorable game?

The FA Cup Final was very memorable with Ian Wright coming off the bench to score 2 goals, but so was the FA Cup semi final against Liverpool, so I would say the 3-3 at Wembley.

In 1992 you moved to Sheffield Wednesday, in doing so becoming their all-time premier league top scorer. However you missed out again on Cup glory after narrow defeats to Arsenal in both the League and FA Cup, how did you recover from the disappointment?

It’s always difficult to get over defeats especially in big games, as footballers you get used to losing, it seems strange to say it but when it’s over there is nothing you can do about it, everyone will go over the game many times in their heads, what they could have done different but the reality hits and it’s all done, even now I can't watch Bryan Robson of Man Utd, or Tony Adams of Arsenal pick up the FA Cups on the TV highlights it still hurts to see them doing what I wanted to do.

When you joined Charlton you played in another Wembley classic, this time winning on penalties in the Division 1 play-off final against Sunderland. This must have been a highlight in your career?

I've had many highlights so I'm lucky, the Charlton game towards the end of my career so I enjoyed every minute, Charlton was on the up and I was coming to the end, it was a pleasure to be part of the clubs journey to the Premier League.

Sandwiched between Charlton and Wednesday you went to Switzerland to play for FC Sion. How did the move come about? And did you enjoy your time at the club?

FC Sion was a strange one, long story but I didn't get paid properly, the president ended up in jail for whatever reason and I ended up back in the UK at Charlton, I believe everything happens for a reason so I just had to swallow my pride and come back home, but I really enjoyed it in Switzerland, I played with Roberto Asiss, who was Ronaldinho's elder brother, he was a fantastic person and player, I’ve been back to Sion in the summer time to visit, its half an hour from Chamonix, it’s a lovely place.

Does seeing three of your previous sides Sheffield Wednesday, Charlton and Palace have also spiralled down the leagues, with all three, at one stage in financial trouble in recent times, does this upset you to see them in trouble after the success you enjoyed with the trio in your playing career?

No one wants to see their former clubs in trouble but for three of them to be in free fall is incredible, Wednesday, Palace and Charlton have all suffered but hopefully it won't be long before all of them will make strides to get back to where they were.

You’ve played under some great managers: Steve Coppell; Trevor Francis and Alan Curbishly to name but three. Who was the best manager you’ve played for though?

Steve Coppell.

You recently joined up with John Salako, your former team mate to help the Crystal Palace youth team, have you always been interested in becoming a coach?

Not always, but I did my UEFA B badge when I was at Charlton and decided the media was better for me at that stage, I coach 10-16yr olds at Palace Academy, I did the same at Wednesday, I used to go to the academy Thursday evenings to help out.

Having worked for the BBC and written in the Metro, did you always want to become a pundit when you finished your playing career?

I did a spell on the Big Breakfast with Jonny Vaughan and I got a taste for it there and it all took off, so that’s why I love it.

Euro 2012 seeding

The draw for the Euro 2012 group stages will be made on the 2nd December, however the seeding for the groups has already been done. Ukraine and Poland as host nations are placed in the 1st seed pot, alongside the holders Spain and Holland.

1st seeds
Ukraine
Poland
Spain
Holland

2nd seeds
Germany
Italy
England
Russia

3rd seeds
Croatia
Greece
Portugal
Sweden

4th seeds
Denmark
France
Czech Republic
Ireland

England's worst case scenario
Spain
England
Portgual
France

England's best case scenario
Poland
England
Greece
Ireland

Top 10 foreigners (3-1)

(Numbers 10-7)
(Numbers 6-4)


3) Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United 2003-2009)

Signed from Sporting Lisbon to replace David Beckham, after a slow start, Cristiano Ronaldo became one of Manchester United’s greatest ever players.

After the 2006 World Cup Cristiano Ronaldo really became a Manchester United legend, in those three seasons he scored an incredible 67 Premier League goals in just 99 matches and in them three seasons in all competitions an incredible 91 goals in just 155 games.

The boy has everything: dribbling ability; shooting with either foot; crossing ability; set piece technique; he can even head the ball. And if Lionel Messi wasn’t around, nobody in world football would be able to compare with his match winning ability.

Three Premier League titles to go with a League Cup, F.A Cup and Champions League success definitely ensure Ronaldo is in the top three.

2) Dennis Bergkamp (Arsenal 1995-2007)

Having arrived from a poor spell in Italy with Inter Milan, Bergkamp became a legend not only at Arsenal but in England for an incredible 12 years with the Gunners.

Technically amazing, he could score goals no ‘one could dream of. Famously he once was finished in third, second and first place in the BBC’s goal of the month competition after his two of his incredible hat-trick against Leicester, as well as a strike vs. Southampton were all voted into the top three goals.

During his time at the club Bergkamp won Three Premier League titles, which included two domestic doubles and the invincible season. Bergkamp’s fear of flying often prevented him from playing in Europe for Arsenal; however he did play in the UEFA Cup 2000 final vs. Galatasary, a game the Gunners lost on penalties.

120 goals during his time at Arsenal as well as countless assists ensure the Dutchman is second.

1) Eric Cantona (Leeds United 1992, Manchester United 92-97)

Eric Cantona started his English life of at Leeds when he won the 1992 First Division title.

However he is most certainly more remembered for his time at Manchester United where the Frenchman won four Premier League crowns at the Manchester club as well as two F.A Cups, one of which he so famously scored the winner against Liverpool in a dull final.

A controversial figure Cantona once ‘kung-fu’ kicked a Crystal Palace fan after being sent off at Selhurst Park in 1995. Suspended until the end of the season because of this action, Manchester United lost the League title to big-spenders Blackburn, the only time Cantona didn’t win the title in his five seasons at the club.

His comeback season saw United trail Newcastle by 10 points going into Christmas, however in typical United fashion the club hauled down Kevin Keegan’s Newcastle, as Cantona inspired Manchester United to another double.

In his final season at Old Trafford, before he retired at the young age of 30, Cantona again won the Premier League title. 

Top 10 foreigners (6-4)

(Numbers 10-7)


6) Patrick Vieira (Arsenal 1996-2005, Manchester City 2010-11)

The Senegalese born Frenchman joined Arsenal in 1996 for just £3.5million, representing a bargain in anyone’s books. Vieira won three Premier League titles and four F.A Cup successes in just nine years at the club.

Vieira and his Arsenal side incredibly went 49 Premier League games unbeaten, which included a whole League campaign in 2003-04. Having forged a fantastic partnership with Emmanuel Petit in his early years at the club, Vieira was vital for Arsenal at both ends of the pitch.

Even nine red cards at Arsenal doesn’t diminish was a fantastic player Vieira was for Arsenal. The fact the Gunners have yet to win a trophy since his exit speaks volumes of his importance at Arsenal. He had a brief spell at Manchester City towards the end of his career, collecting another FA Cup winner’s medal.

5) Gianfranco Zola (Chelsea 1996-2003)

Was recently voted Chelsea’s greatest player of all time, by the fans of the club, and you can’t doubt he deserves that tag. A bargain £4.5million transfer from Parma in 1996, one of many Ruud Guillit foreign moves during his spell in charge of Chelsea.

Zola won numerous cup competitions; 2 F.A Cups; 1 League Cup; 1 Super Cup and a Cup winners Cup. Premier League success eluded Zola during his time with Chelsea; however his class was never in doubt.

Zola so famously scored what the then Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri manager dubbed a ‘magic goal’ versus Norwich City in the F.A Cup in 2002. Zola bowed out from Chelsea by guiding Chelsea into fourth place and the Champions League.

4) Thierry Henry (Arsenal 1999-2007)

Thierry Henry joined Arsenal in 1999 as a forward being played out on the wing, and left as a the clubs top scorer of all time.

Following an 11million move from Juventus in 1999, it took Henry a while to adjust to life in England however once he found his feet at times he was unplayable. During his time at Arsenal he won 2 Premier League Titles and 3 FA Cup’s.

He was part of the unbeatable side of the 2003-04 side that saw the Gunners go the whole league campaign unbeaten. And following Patrick Vieira’s departure he became captain of Arsenal in 2005. He scored the last ever goal at Highbury, celebrating by famously kissing the ground.

Famously he spurned a couple of good chances in the clubs only ever European Cup final appearance as Arsenal lost 2-1 to Barcelona in 2006. A year later he joined the Catalan giants, leaving behind an incredible legacy at the club. 

Ireland’s Long absentee list, shouldn’t stop them in Tallinn

Ireland’s recent 2-1 success over Armenia secured a second consecutive play-off berth under the Italian Giovanni Trapattoni

Thierry Henry’s handball so infamously cost Ireland dear as they narrowly failed to qualify for the World Cup in South Africa, yet having drawn the weakest side in Estonia, the Irish go into this double header as favourites.

The recent injury to Shane Long means Ireland goes into the away leg in Tallinn with limited numbers in the striker force area. Kevin Doyle’s red card in the 2-1 win over Armenia rules the Wolves striker out of the first game and with the in-form Leon Best also ruled out, Trapattoni looks set to partner the Republic’s all time record scorer Robbie Keane with Stoke’s Jonathan Walters.

The Italian manager has an incredible record as Ireland manager and is yet to lose a competitive away game in his spell in charge. Further injuries look set to rule out John O’Shea and Darren Gibson; however I still expect Trapattoni’s impressive record to continue.

Estonia, possibly fortuitously, made the play-offs after only winning half of their 10 group games, which included four defeats. Serbia’s obvious quality was undone by their inconsistency, and the highly talented squad should’ve at least made second in a group Trapattoni’s native Italy topped.

Ireland have been good defensively of late and that’s why I am going for them to steal a first leg advantage in Estonia.

Euro 2012 play off predictions

Estonia 0 Ireland 1

Turkey 2 Croatia 1

Czech Republic 1 Montenegro 0

Bosnia 1 Portugal 1

Week 2 Predictions

The Prediction League

Daniel A Lofti 12 points, 2 PS
Newcastle 2 Everton 1
Arsenal 3 West Brom 0
Aston Villa 2 Norwich 0
Blackburn 1 Chelsea 3
Liverpool 2 Swansea 0
Manchester United 3 Sunderland 0
QPR 1 Manchester City 3
Wolves 1 Wigan 0
Bolton 1 Stoke 1
Fulham 1 Tottenham 2


Chris Deacon 10 points, 2 PS
Newcastle 2 Everton 1
Arsenal 3 West Brom 0
Aston Villa 1 Norwich 1
Blackburn 0 Chelsea 4
Liverpool 1 Swansea 0
Manchester United 2 Sunderland 0
QPR 1 Manchester City 5
Wolves 2 Wigan 2
Bolton 0 Stoke 0
Fulham 0 Tottenham 3

Daniel Underwood 10 points, 1 PS
Newcastle 2 Everton 1
Arsenal 2 West Brom 1
Aston Villa 1 Norwich 0
Blackburn 1 Chelsea 3
Liverpool 2 Swansea 1
Manchester United 2 Sunderland 0
QPR 1 Manchester City 3
Wolves 2 Wigan 1
Bolton 1 Stoke 1
Fulham 1 Tottenham 2

James Sherwood 9 points, 1 PS
Newcastle 2 Everton 0
Arsenal 3 West Brom 2
Aston Villa 0 Norwich 1
Blackburn 2 Chelsea 3
Liverpool 2 Swansea 1
Manchester United 4 Sunderland 0
QPR 1 Manchester City 4
Wolves 1 Wigan 0
Bolton 2 Stoke 2
Fulham 1 Tottenham 3

Jack Burman 8 points, 0 PS
Newcastle 2 Everton 0
Arsenal 3 West Brom 1
Aston Villa 1 Norwich 2
Blackburn 0 Chelsea 2
Liverpool 1 Swansea 1
Manchester United 4 Sunderland 2
QPR 0 Manchester City 2
Wolves 2 Wigan 0
Bolton 2 Stoke 1
Fulham 1 Tottenham 1

Tyrone Nicklin 8 points, 1 PS
Newcastle 2 Everton 1
Arsenal 3 West Brom 1
Aston Villa 2 Norwich 0
Blackburn 2 Chelsea 2
Liverpool 3 Swansea 0
Manchester United 2 Sunderland 0
QPR 0 Manchester City 3
Wolves 2 Wigan 1
Bolton 1 Stoke 2
Fulham 2 Tottenham 1

Fraser Stradling 6 points, 0 PS
Newcastle 1 Everton 1
Arsenal 4 West Brom 2
Aston Villa 2 Norwich 1
Blackburn 0 Chelsea 3
Liverpool 2 Swansea 0
Manchester United 3 Sunderland 1
QPR 0 Manchester City 2
Wolves 0 Wigan 1
Bolton 0 Stoke 0
Fulham 1 Tottenham 2


Joshua Jones 6 points, 0 PS
Newcastle 1 Everton 2
Arsenal 4 West Brom 1
Aston Villa 1 Norwich 1
Blackburn 0 Chelsea 2
Liverpool 3 Swansea 1
Manchester United 3 Sunderland 1
QPR 0 Manchester City 2
Wolves 3 Wigan 2
Bolton 2 Stoke 1
Fulham 1 Tottenham 1

Liam O'Donovan 6 points, 0 PS
Newcastle 1 Everton 1
Arsenal 2 West Brom 0
Aston Villa 2 Norwich 1
Blackburn 0 Chelsea 4
Liverpool 2 Swansea 1
Manchester United 3 Sunderland 1
QPR 1 Manchester City 2
Wolves 1 Wigan 2
Bolton 2 Stoke 0
Fulham 1 Tottenham 1

Perry Blanchette 6 points, 0 PS
Newcastle 2 Everton 2
Arsenal 2 West Brom 1
Aston Villa 2 Norwich 0
Blackburn 0 Chelsea 3
Liverpool 2 Swansea 0
Manchester United 3 Sunderland 1
QPR 0 Manchester City 4
Wolves 1 Wigan 1
Bolton 1 Stoke 2
Fulham 1 Tottenham 2

The Top 10 foreigners in the PL History (10-7)

10) Nemanja Vidic (Manchester United 2006 – Present)

The Serbian defender has quite simply been the best foreign defender the Premier League has seen, as voted for in the recent four-four-two magazine. Following a £7 million move from Spartak Moscow in the January transfer window of 2006, Vidic has forged a watertight partnership with the former England captain Rio Ferdinand at the heart of United’s defence.

Four Premier League titles in his five full seasons in England (excludes the six month spell at the end of the 2006 season), represents a fantastic haul.  Not only an amazing defender, Vidic also a huge goal threat, scoring an impressive 18 goals in his time at the club.

Vidic recently replaced the retiring Gary Neville as captain of Manchester United.

Mario Balotelli about Vidic: “The best defender I’ve faced who I hadn’t heard of before I arrived in England? I’d have to say Nemanja Vidic, definitely.”

9) Paolo Di Canio (Sheffield Wednesday 1997-99, West Ham United 1999-2003, Charlton 2003-04)

As controversial as he was brilliant, yet he most certainly belongs in this list. A good spell at Sheffield Wednesday, were he scored 15 Premier League goals, came to an abrupt conclusion as he so famously pushed over referee Paul Alcock, resulting in an 11 match ban.

The incident didn’t put off Harry Redknapp who signed the Italian for West Ham in 1999. He quickly endeared himself to the Upton Park faithful with his energetic performances. His most memorable moment came in the home meeting with Wimbledon in 2000, when Di Canio scored an incredible scissor kick goal. The strike was not only voted goal of the season, but goal of the decade in the recent Sky Sports News poll.

Di Canio is also remembered for his amazing piece of fair play at Goodison Park, when he refused to score a simple tap-in as the Everton keeper Paul Gerrard laid on the ground injured. This remarkable piece of sportsmanship won him the FIFA fair play award in 2001.

Di Canio also had a brief, if yet unsuccessful spell with Charlton Athletic.

Giovanni Trapattoni dismissing the possibility of choosing Paolo Di Canio for the 2002 World Cup: “There will have to be a bubonic plague for me to pick Di Canio”

8) Peter Schmeichel (Manchester United 1991-99, Aston Villa 2001-02, Manchester City 02-03)

‘The Great Dane’ just edges out Petr Cech for the number one foreign keeper. Most memorable for his eight years at Manchester United, having moved to the Red Devils in 1991 from Danish club Brondby.

Schmeichel had everything as a goalkeeper and despite his height and weight, his reflexes were impeccable, and no striker would fancy themselves one-on-one with the keeper.

Schmeichel won five Premier League titles in his spell at Old Trafford and his most notable season was the treble winning season of 1999, ironically Schmeichel’s last, before he moved to Sporting Lisbon in Portugal. His last game for the red of Manchester United was the 1999 Champions League final against the German giants Bayern Munich, were in the absence of the suspended Roy Keane, Schmeichel captained the side to one of its most glorious days.

Schmeichel also had spells in the Premier League with Aston Villa and Manchester United’s city rivals City; however no ‘one can argue his best days were with the 19 time champions.

Sir Alex Ferguson on his £530,000 purchase of Schmeichel in 2000: “The greatest bargain of the century.”

7) Ruud Van Nistelrooy (Manchester United 2001-06)

95 goals in 150 Premier League matches and 150 goals in just five seasons, is the reason why the Dutchman is in the list. The best all round striker he is not, however he comes alive in the box; scoring all bar one of his Manchester United goals inside the penalty box.

Van Nistelrooy was unfortunate in the sense he joined Manchester United during their most barren of Premier League runs; winning just the solitary Premier League title in his full five seasons at the club. This didn’t stop the Dutchman from consistently finding the back of the net, at one stage scoring for a record 10 Premier League games in a row.

Despite falling out of favour towards the end of his United career, his goal scoring ability was second to none in the Premiership during his time in England. He went on to join Real Madrid in 2006.