Breaking news 8888 The N&R Premiership - week 22 scores
The top 6 was unchanged although last week's two leaders became one as Savchenko Spurs stepped out on his own, four points clear.
In 7th now sit Christian Daily Football Genuis as Rooney & Ronaldo’s rockstars slip 4 places. Lower down but not that many points behind Brighton Blues, East Indian Summer, Living in Sin and Epping 'dog walking' club all make ground.
In the relegation zone Underwriting cop is off the bottom, a place now occupied by Godder’s I Still *ing Hate Chelsea. Wizzi’s wonders and Lovejoy slip into the drop zone.
Monday, January 29, 2007
Oakley in a daze
Breaking news 8888 The N&R Championship - week 22 scores
Sven & Janas stay top with Jonny Forskins leading the chase. Nose-bleed merchant Oakers is in 3rd after Thank you 4 the daze’s 49 weekly points. My little tip for promotion Frank & Beans move into 5th and Glenn Francis’ Lamb to the slaughter is in 8th.
Lower down both Ping Pong and Pete Doherty for Allianz climbed the table although the biggest mover was Fabulous Fabregas, up 5 places to 19th. And, wait for it Nobby’s North of Crystal Palarce are on the march after storming into (cough, cough) 19th.
The bottom 3 remain unchanged with old Sweaty balls Le Guen's revolution glued to the foot of the table 118 points adrift of the next worst team. Come on Sweats, what’s going on?
Sven & Janas stay top with Jonny Forskins leading the chase. Nose-bleed merchant Oakers is in 3rd after Thank you 4 the daze’s 49 weekly points. My little tip for promotion Frank & Beans move into 5th and Glenn Francis’ Lamb to the slaughter is in 8th.
Lower down both Ping Pong and Pete Doherty for Allianz climbed the table although the biggest mover was Fabulous Fabregas, up 5 places to 19th. And, wait for it Nobby’s North of Crystal Palarce are on the march after storming into (cough, cough) 19th.
The bottom 3 remain unchanged with old Sweaty balls Le Guen's revolution glued to the foot of the table 118 points adrift of the next worst team. Come on Sweats, what’s going on?
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Beckham comes to America
So Becks and his skinny missus are coming to America. What has he done?
Once Goldenballs had the most revered right foot in the business and a haircut that would make every young man in the country head down to the nearest barbers. At times he single handedly won games for his country and was the first Premiership player to add real worth the word ‘assist,’ previously an expression used solely in American sports.
Recently he has swanned around Madrid as part of the glorified but generally shite Galacticos gracing the bench of some of the best stadiums in Europe.
However for the small some of $1m a week Becks has forgone the Galacticos for The Galaxy far, far away in Los Angeles, home of people considered to be madder than Neil Warnock!
So the former England captain will exchange the rarified atmosphere of Champions League tussles with thrilling games played in front of 10,000 people at Real Salt Lake, Columbus Crew and Kansas City Wizards.
Afternoons at The Bernabeu will be exchanged for afternoons at the Home Depot Center, the nearest you will get to Selhurst Park with its more popular Sainsbury’s in the car park.
The Home Depot Center I might add is 13 miles from LA in a town called Carson, so more Petts Wood than Hollywood. Beckham announced that he had taken advice from Tom Cruise about moving to LA, which is a bit like asking Vera Duckworth about a move to Manchester.
Beckham’s new management will consist of Alexi Lalas, one of the more famous American ‘soccer’ players outside of the country. The bloke who had a goatee and a ponytail long before Becks made them famous is LA Galaxy’s president and general manager, whilst Frank Yallop is their coach, who will be well known to Ipswich fans and, well that’s about it.
Yallop along with ex-Liverpool ginger nut Steve Nichol and ex-Celtic striker and reformed boozer Maurice Johnston each manage MLS teams. Yallop has twice before won the title with San Jose Earthquakes, who are now in true American franchise fashion called Houston Dynamos and have also been know as The Utah Threesomes and New Orleans Hurricanes. I did actually make the last two up by the way.
Teammates will include ex Coventry player Cobi Jones, who despite being absolutely appalling at Coventry has 164 caps for the US national team! Honest.
Before Beckham’s arrival the most well known ‘soccer’ player in the country was Landon Donovan, who didn’t quite cut it at Bayer Leverkusen and got homesick so came back to LA to be a rather large carp in a small pond.
Galaxy actually share their Home Depot stadium with Club Deportivo Chivas USA (try singing that one to a tune), a sister club to one that graces the Mexican league and draws it support from the huge Mexican immigrant population in south Los Angeles.
LA Galaxy do have the best support in the MLS and even have an official ‘firm’ called the LA Riot squad! And a mascot called Cozmo, a frog like creature apparently, who whips the crowd into a frenzy in between eating burgers and drooling over the cheerleaders.
Who knows what Beckham can add to football in the USA? If he gets American people to at least consider it a sport for grown up men and not for kids or women, then that will be a start even though the media have been lukewarm to his arrival despite being touted as “the best player in the world”
The best corner taker or free-kick specialist or the best sideburns once maybe, but despite Tom Cruise’s help Becks has much to do to raise the profile of the beautiful game in the US. LA has been home to has-beens before, and not just Tom Cruise. A certain George Best played for the LA Aztecs back in the day, when high profile signings bankrupted the NASL, let’s hope we don’t see that again and that old Goldenballs doesn’t suffer that indignity. At least not many people will notice if he does!
Once Goldenballs had the most revered right foot in the business and a haircut that would make every young man in the country head down to the nearest barbers. At times he single handedly won games for his country and was the first Premiership player to add real worth the word ‘assist,’ previously an expression used solely in American sports.
Recently he has swanned around Madrid as part of the glorified but generally shite Galacticos gracing the bench of some of the best stadiums in Europe.
However for the small some of $1m a week Becks has forgone the Galacticos for The Galaxy far, far away in Los Angeles, home of people considered to be madder than Neil Warnock!
So the former England captain will exchange the rarified atmosphere of Champions League tussles with thrilling games played in front of 10,000 people at Real Salt Lake, Columbus Crew and Kansas City Wizards.
Afternoons at The Bernabeu will be exchanged for afternoons at the Home Depot Center, the nearest you will get to Selhurst Park with its more popular Sainsbury’s in the car park.
The Home Depot Center I might add is 13 miles from LA in a town called Carson, so more Petts Wood than Hollywood. Beckham announced that he had taken advice from Tom Cruise about moving to LA, which is a bit like asking Vera Duckworth about a move to Manchester.
Beckham’s new management will consist of Alexi Lalas, one of the more famous American ‘soccer’ players outside of the country. The bloke who had a goatee and a ponytail long before Becks made them famous is LA Galaxy’s president and general manager, whilst Frank Yallop is their coach, who will be well known to Ipswich fans and, well that’s about it.
Yallop along with ex-Liverpool ginger nut Steve Nichol and ex-Celtic striker and reformed boozer Maurice Johnston each manage MLS teams. Yallop has twice before won the title with San Jose Earthquakes, who are now in true American franchise fashion called Houston Dynamos and have also been know as The Utah Threesomes and New Orleans Hurricanes. I did actually make the last two up by the way.
Teammates will include ex Coventry player Cobi Jones, who despite being absolutely appalling at Coventry has 164 caps for the US national team! Honest.
Before Beckham’s arrival the most well known ‘soccer’ player in the country was Landon Donovan, who didn’t quite cut it at Bayer Leverkusen and got homesick so came back to LA to be a rather large carp in a small pond.
Galaxy actually share their Home Depot stadium with Club Deportivo Chivas USA (try singing that one to a tune), a sister club to one that graces the Mexican league and draws it support from the huge Mexican immigrant population in south Los Angeles.
LA Galaxy do have the best support in the MLS and even have an official ‘firm’ called the LA Riot squad! And a mascot called Cozmo, a frog like creature apparently, who whips the crowd into a frenzy in between eating burgers and drooling over the cheerleaders.
Who knows what Beckham can add to football in the USA? If he gets American people to at least consider it a sport for grown up men and not for kids or women, then that will be a start even though the media have been lukewarm to his arrival despite being touted as “the best player in the world”
The best corner taker or free-kick specialist or the best sideburns once maybe, but despite Tom Cruise’s help Becks has much to do to raise the profile of the beautiful game in the US. LA has been home to has-beens before, and not just Tom Cruise. A certain George Best played for the LA Aztecs back in the day, when high profile signings bankrupted the NASL, let’s hope we don’t see that again and that old Goldenballs doesn’t suffer that indignity. At least not many people will notice if he does!
Premiership and Championship kick off
Breaking News 88888 Manager of week 21
So the 2nd part of the N&R season is well under way. I’ve had a mini mid-season break so need to catch up a little on the scores.
Remember the total scores earned up and until week 20 were carried forward as the teams were divided into the N&R Premiership and the N&R Championship. There’s no shame in being in the Championship it’s that you are not very good and are more Southend United than Manchester United!
A single weekly award of a fiver will still go to the best 7 day score over the two leagues and the latest winner of that award goes to Brian Rutter, whose Goonersmoan notched an superb 82 points, 7 more than In Tatters, and a whole 26 more than the next best Premiership team Living in Sin.
Read on….
So the 2nd part of the N&R season is well under way. I’ve had a mini mid-season break so need to catch up a little on the scores.
Remember the total scores earned up and until week 20 were carried forward as the teams were divided into the N&R Premiership and the N&R Championship. There’s no shame in being in the Championship it’s that you are not very good and are more Southend United than Manchester United!
A single weekly award of a fiver will still go to the best 7 day score over the two leagues and the latest winner of that award goes to Brian Rutter, whose Goonersmoan notched an superb 82 points, 7 more than In Tatters, and a whole 26 more than the next best Premiership team Living in Sin.
Read on….
Nathan & Saveall lead the way
Breaking news 8888 The N&R Premiership - week 21 scores
Cristiano's Allstars and Savchenko Spurs who both came up from Serie B are the early title chasers with both teams on 804 points. Flighty Feet are just 4 points behind in 3rd.
There is a little gap to Glasgow Kiss in 4th with Roubles FC, #1 Strugglers and Rooney & Ronaldo’s allstars tucked in behind them.
Only 56 points separate the 7th team from the bottom, so each manager has it all to play for. Remember the bottom 8 teams will be relegated.
Cristiano's Allstars and Savchenko Spurs who both came up from Serie B are the early title chasers with both teams on 804 points. Flighty Feet are just 4 points behind in 3rd.
There is a little gap to Glasgow Kiss in 4th with Roubles FC, #1 Strugglers and Rooney & Ronaldo’s allstars tucked in behind them.
Only 56 points separate the 7th team from the bottom, so each manager has it all to play for. Remember the bottom 8 teams will be relegated.
Top Mark
Breaking news 8888 The N&R Championship - week 21 scores
Sven & Janas Bye occupy the top spot after the first week of action with Jonny Forskins and the Phullbacks 11 points behind, in fact unlike the tight Premiership table, The Championship table is pretty spread out with 46 points separating the top 10.
Lee Baughan’s Le Guen’s revolution (so revolutionized of course that he got fired) are an amazing 102 points adrift at the bottom.
Sven & Janas Bye occupy the top spot after the first week of action with Jonny Forskins and the Phullbacks 11 points behind, in fact unlike the tight Premiership table, The Championship table is pretty spread out with 46 points separating the top 10.
Lee Baughan’s Le Guen’s revolution (so revolutionized of course that he got fired) are an amazing 102 points adrift at the bottom.
People that make living in England not very appealing
1. Jade Goody
Racist or just a complete half-wit? And why do we care? Big Brother and the general British populate have made this poor excuse for a human-being famous and a millionaire to boot. When I was kid I was never a fan of just the upper class having the opportunity to become rich, mainly because Catford Boys didn’t have much of a record for producing millionaires, Spike Milligan aside. But if reality television and the tabloids can create dim-witted waste of spaces like Jade Goody then I would rather have no part of it. Goody says she is the “25th most influential person in the world.” Well maybe in Chaville but she disgusts me and make’s me embarrassed to be English.
2. Ben May and Glenn Johnson
Glenn Johnson earns 20 grand a week, Ben May plays for Millwall, so probably a little less but money as they say does not buy class. These two professional footballers were blessed with a talent but very few brain cells.
Despite their considerable salaries and having agents who wipe their arses for them, they were found running out of B&Q (think Home Depot to my American readers) with boxes of toilet seats with which they had changed the price tags for those of cheaper ones. When the security guard (annual salary £15k) stopped Johnson (annual salary £1m) and May (annual salary £300k) they were said to be both laughing their heads off. What is wrong with these people?
Racist or just a complete half-wit? And why do we care? Big Brother and the general British populate have made this poor excuse for a human-being famous and a millionaire to boot. When I was kid I was never a fan of just the upper class having the opportunity to become rich, mainly because Catford Boys didn’t have much of a record for producing millionaires, Spike Milligan aside. But if reality television and the tabloids can create dim-witted waste of spaces like Jade Goody then I would rather have no part of it. Goody says she is the “25th most influential person in the world.” Well maybe in Chaville but she disgusts me and make’s me embarrassed to be English.
2. Ben May and Glenn Johnson
Glenn Johnson earns 20 grand a week, Ben May plays for Millwall, so probably a little less but money as they say does not buy class. These two professional footballers were blessed with a talent but very few brain cells.
Despite their considerable salaries and having agents who wipe their arses for them, they were found running out of B&Q (think Home Depot to my American readers) with boxes of toilet seats with which they had changed the price tags for those of cheaper ones. When the security guard (annual salary £15k) stopped Johnson (annual salary £1m) and May (annual salary £300k) they were said to be both laughing their heads off. What is wrong with these people?
Saturday, January 27, 2007
A little bit of Bully
To celebrate the recent world darts championships, I thought I would list some tournament quotes for your enjoyment. A note to our American managers, Darts requires the fitness of Baseball, the precision of Basketball and the nerves of a American Football, oh and the ability to drink 10 pints of Stella and a huge plate of Steak & Kidney Pie.
Here are some quotes from the world’s top darts personalities:
“Before a match I like to relax with 25 bottles of Holsten Pils and six steak n' kidney pies.”Andy Fordham
“I don't know if his illness was drink-related or weight-related. He's got an infection in his lung.”
Fordham's wife Jenny after he collapses with breathing difficulties at The Lakeside.
“Who let the dogs out?”
The Lakeside crowd after the tournament's first streaker on the oche in 2001 as Ted 'The Count' Hankey played Shaun Greatbach.
“I wasn't nervous during the match but the streaker certainly affected my game. I just wish I'd got her name and address!”
Shaun Greatbach
“The other day Phil was going on about how he could not get a set of table and chairs in his Bentley. What does he want a Bentley for? It is pathetic, absolutely pathetic.”
Chris Mason on 13-time champion Phil 'The Power' Taylor.
“I drive a nine-year old car and he rubs everyone's noses in it by driving round in a Bentley.”
Mason warms to this theme.
“Phil is lucky I'm not 10 years younger when my bollocks were bigger than my brain. He is always giving it the 'Bertie big'.”
Mason again.
“At the end he effed and blinded at me. I'll see him upstairs in a minute and we'll see how big and brave he is.”
Taylor crushes Mason but is unhappy with his beaten opponent's reaction.
“If he wants to sort it out in the car park, I will see him there. I am a bigger man than him.”
Mason hits back, although careful you don't scratch the Bentley, Chris.
“Is ball-rooming dancing a sport? It's recognised as a sport but I don't see any balls there.”
The wonderful Bobby George.
“His darts used to stick out like tulips in the board.”
On the improvement of Dutchman Vincent van der Voort.
“Cliff Lazarenko's idea of exercise is a firm press on a soda siphon.”
Commentator Sid Waddell on the great and big Welshman,
“Bristow reasons; Bristow quickens; aaaaah Bristow!”
Sid Waddell on the 'Crafty Cockney,' who was different gravy.
“We couldn't have more excitement if Elvis walked in and asked for a chip sandwich.”
A Waddell classic
“William Tell could take an apple off your head, Taylor could take out a processed pea.”
And another.
Here are some quotes from the world’s top darts personalities:
“Before a match I like to relax with 25 bottles of Holsten Pils and six steak n' kidney pies.”Andy Fordham
“I don't know if his illness was drink-related or weight-related. He's got an infection in his lung.”
Fordham's wife Jenny after he collapses with breathing difficulties at The Lakeside.
“Who let the dogs out?”
The Lakeside crowd after the tournament's first streaker on the oche in 2001 as Ted 'The Count' Hankey played Shaun Greatbach.
“I wasn't nervous during the match but the streaker certainly affected my game. I just wish I'd got her name and address!”
Shaun Greatbach
“The other day Phil was going on about how he could not get a set of table and chairs in his Bentley. What does he want a Bentley for? It is pathetic, absolutely pathetic.”
Chris Mason on 13-time champion Phil 'The Power' Taylor.
“I drive a nine-year old car and he rubs everyone's noses in it by driving round in a Bentley.”
Mason warms to this theme.
“Phil is lucky I'm not 10 years younger when my bollocks were bigger than my brain. He is always giving it the 'Bertie big'.”
Mason again.
“At the end he effed and blinded at me. I'll see him upstairs in a minute and we'll see how big and brave he is.”
Taylor crushes Mason but is unhappy with his beaten opponent's reaction.
“If he wants to sort it out in the car park, I will see him there. I am a bigger man than him.”
Mason hits back, although careful you don't scratch the Bentley, Chris.
“Is ball-rooming dancing a sport? It's recognised as a sport but I don't see any balls there.”
The wonderful Bobby George.
“His darts used to stick out like tulips in the board.”
On the improvement of Dutchman Vincent van der Voort.
“Cliff Lazarenko's idea of exercise is a firm press on a soda siphon.”
Commentator Sid Waddell on the great and big Welshman,
“Bristow reasons; Bristow quickens; aaaaah Bristow!”
Sid Waddell on the 'Crafty Cockney,' who was different gravy.
“We couldn't have more excitement if Elvis walked in and asked for a chip sandwich.”
A Waddell classic
“William Tell could take an apple off your head, Taylor could take out a processed pea.”
And another.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
The things you do - part 37
Being a football fan is never easy, that is unless your Roman Abramovich of course.
N&R Fantasy manager Martin Singleton tells me of a great story following his beloved Preston North End over Christmas. This is Martin's story:
"Being completed bored senseless back at work, I wondered if any other Fantasy League member travell
ed as many miles as me to watch footy and darts over the Christmas period?
Me and Mrs S went up to Preston on Sat 23rd Dec to see the mighty (his words not mine) PNE beat Colchester 1-0 (Nugent) - total distance 246 miles.
We then came back down on Boxing day to see the Darts World Championships at Purfleet the next day - another 246
miles. (Actually think Martin played!)
Then we were up at 4.30am on Saturday 30th Dec to fly up to Newcastle to see Sunderland v Preston - another 0-1 (Nugent.) - total distance 281miles approx.
We got completed bladdered (wankered for our southern friends and hammered for our American friends) in Newcastle on Saturday night (bed at 2.00am) but were up at 7.00am for flight back to Stansted - another 281 miles.
We were supposed to go into town on NYE to see the fireworks but fell asleep on the settee and couldn't be arsed when we woke up!
Total distance travelled - approx 1054 miles. Total pints (English pints, not small American ones) drunk on those 3 days - approx 33 + the odd glass of vino tinto.
1. Can any other member of the Nobby & Ready Fantasy League beat this?
Anyone out there? Francey? Godders? Knouse?
2. Would PNE be completely sh!t@ if we sold Nugent?
Probably yes, but think that the price Simpson has put on his head will scare teams off. I really hope PNE go up this year.
Happy New Year to you all.
Martin Singleton, pie eater and global traveller.
N&R Fantasy manager Martin Singleton tells me of a great story following his beloved Preston North End over Christmas. This is Martin's story:
"Being completed bored senseless back at work, I wondered if any other Fantasy League member travell
ed as many miles as me to watch footy and darts over the Christmas period?Me and Mrs S went up to Preston on Sat 23rd Dec to see the mighty (his words not mine) PNE beat Colchester 1-0 (Nugent) - total distance 246 miles.
We then came back down on Boxing day to see the Darts World Championships at Purfleet the next day - another 246
miles. (Actually think Martin played!)Then we were up at 4.30am on Saturday 30th Dec to fly up to Newcastle to see Sunderland v Preston - another 0-1 (Nugent.) - total distance 281miles approx.
We got completed bladdered (wankered for our southern friends and hammered for our American friends) in Newcastle on Saturday night (bed at 2.00am) but were up at 7.00am for flight back to Stansted - another 281 miles.
We were supposed to go into town on NYE to see the fireworks but fell asleep on the settee and couldn't be arsed when we woke up!
Total distance travelled - approx 1054 miles. Total pints (English pints, not small American ones) drunk on those 3 days - approx 33 + the odd glass of vino tinto.
1. Can any other member of the Nobby & Ready Fantasy League beat this?
Anyone out there? Francey? Godders? Knouse?
2. Would PNE be completely sh!t@ if we sold Nugent?
Probably yes, but think that the price Simpson has put on his head will scare teams off. I really hope PNE go up this year.
Happy New Year to you all.
Martin Singleton, pie eater and global traveller.
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Saveall to last
Breaking news 8888 Serie B week 20 scores
Ryan Saveall’s final week of the 2006 saw Savchenko Spurs grab the Serie B title from under the nose of Cristiano’s allstars. Richard knew as much by making wholesale changes to his team today but it was dreaded way for him to lose the prize money after leading the table for 7 weeks.
Savchenko’s 88 points, 14 more than Richard, meant that he will collect the £30 prize and start The Premiership in week 21 on top. Wizzi’s wonders and Hannoi Utd climbed the table to give themselves a lift for the first week of The Premiership.
The big shock was Ahshay Reddy losing out after spending an incredible 19 out of 20 weeks in the top 12. His lowly 54 points saw him miss out to Rob Munden’s Thieving Chelsea gits by just 4 points. Well done to Rob but huge commiserations to Shay, whose Jonny Forskins were dreadfully unlucky to miss out in their first ever N&R season but they will start The Championship as early favourites.
Rose’s Rovers also missed out and will be disappointed after actually leading the table in week's 10 and 11.
Ryan Saveall’s final week of the 2006 saw Savchenko Spurs grab the Serie B title from under the nose of Cristiano’s allstars. Richard knew as much by making wholesale changes to his team today but it was dreaded way for him to lose the prize money after leading the table for 7 weeks.
Savchenko’s 88 points, 14 more than Richard, meant that he will collect the £30 prize and start The Premiership in week 21 on top. Wizzi’s wonders and Hannoi Utd climbed the table to give themselves a lift for the first week of The Premiership.
The big shock was Ahshay Reddy losing out after spending an incredible 19 out of 20 weeks in the top 12. His lowly 54 points saw him miss out to Rob Munden’s Thieving Chelsea gits by just 4 points. Well done to Rob but huge commiserations to Shay, whose Jonny Forskins were dreadfully unlucky to miss out in their first ever N&R season but they will start The Championship as early favourites.
Rose’s Rovers also missed out and will be disappointed after actually leading the table in week's 10 and 11.
Feet's a shoe-in
Breaking news 8888 Serie A week 20 scores
As expected Barwick & Higgs’ Flighty Feet scoop the £30 prize for winning Serie A with Kirsty’s Glasgow kiss in 2nd.
Rooney & Ronaldo’s rockstars stormed up the table after their magnificent week 20 as did Christian Dailly football genius. #1 Strugglers and Lovejoy slipped a little but the top 6 was tight.
East Indian summer and the Underwriting cop all gained ground as the teams finished the first half of the season. The big news being that Living in Sin finished with a flurry an qualify at the expense of James Down’s Massive Tackle, who fail to qualify for The Premiership despite spending the last 7 weeks in the play-off zone. James’ terrible week opened the door for Dougal, who hectic end of year ended with promotion. It just remains to be seen if he can push on to challenge for honours or will struggle against relegation.
As expected Barwick & Higgs’ Flighty Feet scoop the £30 prize for winning Serie A with Kirsty’s Glasgow kiss in 2nd.
Rooney & Ronaldo’s rockstars stormed up the table after their magnificent week 20 as did Christian Dailly football genius. #1 Strugglers and Lovejoy slipped a little but the top 6 was tight.
East Indian summer and the Underwriting cop all gained ground as the teams finished the first half of the season. The big news being that Living in Sin finished with a flurry an qualify at the expense of James Down’s Massive Tackle, who fail to qualify for The Premiership despite spending the last 7 weeks in the play-off zone. James’ terrible week opened the door for Dougal, who hectic end of year ended with promotion. It just remains to be seen if he can push on to challenge for honours or will struggle against relegation.
Solid as a Rockstar
Breaking News 88888 Manager of week 20
It was the make or break week, plenty of games and points to play for and the week when promotion and relegation was decided.
In recent years the best weekly points total has been bettered each season and this one is no different as John Littig, who is soon to depart this great city to go and work and live in Philadelphia cracked an unbelievable 132 points to finish the first half of the season. Mark Dewberry held the previous record best with 126.
John's record score saw Rooney & Ronaldo’s rockstars climb 6 places in the Serie A table and rightfully have high hopes of clinching some end of season silverware.
Elsewhere no one could get near John, the best being Ben Graves and his Christian Daily Genius who only appeared in the play-off places 3 weeks ago to finish 5th after scoring 113 points. Brian Dougal’s Living in Sin looked out of contention but they hit a phenomenal 101 points in week 20 to claim a play-off place after being out of the promotion picture for a month. The man to lose out was James Down, whose Massive Tackle (cough, cough) netted just 36 points in the final week of the year.
98 points any other week would have us all taking notice but in week 20 East Indian summer and Wizzi’s wonders both hit this excellent score but saw 3 other managers beat it.
Another Johnny come lately was Aaron Barden who more than secured his promotion with a 97 point total to allow Fuddy Munsters to finish 4th in Serie A. Francey showed what we can expect in the 2nd half of the season in The Championship when he’s Vote Seagull Party clobbered 95, a point more than Thieving Chelsea gits.
Rob Munden’s team had trod water out of the play-off zone for 9 weeks after a good start but in week 20 it was his turn to put on the magic as 94 points was enough to put noses out of joint and scrape into The Premiership.
93 points was enough for previous champion Ready and Hannoi Utd to qualify but not so for Frank & Beans but Tim & Dennis’ recent form gives them real hope.
Glasgow kiss and Brighton Blues both finished the first part of the campaign off well scoring 92 and 91 points respectively. Serie B Champions Savchenko Spurs’ 88 points was enough for them to grab the title.
82 points for Roubles FC kept Johnny Mac swinging along as it did for Nut Meg and the same for #1 Strugglers, who added 81 to their total. All three will play Premiership fantasy football in the new year.
In a week with literally 100’s of points available Nobby let himself down badly by crashing to just 24 points, his 4th worst week of the season. I had consigned myself to The Championship a few weeks back, but now North of Crystal Palarse start horribly disadvantaged.
Meanwhile Le Guen’s revolution, which has been put paid to at Glasgow Rangers should also get the same fate at Lee Baughan’s fantasy team. Sweaty’s last few months have been a disaster and an awful score of just 14 points in week 20, 118 less than John Littig, see’s his team start The Championship in week 21 way last.
It was the make or break week, plenty of games and points to play for and the week when promotion and relegation was decided.
In recent years the best weekly points total has been bettered each season and this one is no different as John Littig, who is soon to depart this great city to go and work and live in Philadelphia cracked an unbelievable 132 points to finish the first half of the season. Mark Dewberry held the previous record best with 126.
John's record score saw Rooney & Ronaldo’s rockstars climb 6 places in the Serie A table and rightfully have high hopes of clinching some end of season silverware.
Elsewhere no one could get near John, the best being Ben Graves and his Christian Daily Genius who only appeared in the play-off places 3 weeks ago to finish 5th after scoring 113 points. Brian Dougal’s Living in Sin looked out of contention but they hit a phenomenal 101 points in week 20 to claim a play-off place after being out of the promotion picture for a month. The man to lose out was James Down, whose Massive Tackle (cough, cough) netted just 36 points in the final week of the year.
98 points any other week would have us all taking notice but in week 20 East Indian summer and Wizzi’s wonders both hit this excellent score but saw 3 other managers beat it.
Another Johnny come lately was Aaron Barden who more than secured his promotion with a 97 point total to allow Fuddy Munsters to finish 4th in Serie A. Francey showed what we can expect in the 2nd half of the season in The Championship when he’s Vote Seagull Party clobbered 95, a point more than Thieving Chelsea gits.
Rob Munden’s team had trod water out of the play-off zone for 9 weeks after a good start but in week 20 it was his turn to put on the magic as 94 points was enough to put noses out of joint and scrape into The Premiership.
93 points was enough for previous champion Ready and Hannoi Utd to qualify but not so for Frank & Beans but Tim & Dennis’ recent form gives them real hope.
Glasgow kiss and Brighton Blues both finished the first part of the campaign off well scoring 92 and 91 points respectively. Serie B Champions Savchenko Spurs’ 88 points was enough for them to grab the title.
82 points for Roubles FC kept Johnny Mac swinging along as it did for Nut Meg and the same for #1 Strugglers, who added 81 to their total. All three will play Premiership fantasy football in the new year.
In a week with literally 100’s of points available Nobby let himself down badly by crashing to just 24 points, his 4th worst week of the season. I had consigned myself to The Championship a few weeks back, but now North of Crystal Palarse start horribly disadvantaged.
Meanwhile Le Guen’s revolution, which has been put paid to at Glasgow Rangers should also get the same fate at Lee Baughan’s fantasy team. Sweaty’s last few months have been a disaster and an awful score of just 14 points in week 20, 118 less than John Littig, see’s his team start The Championship in week 21 way last.
Monday, January 08, 2007
Road to Wembley - Albion bummed
West Ham, the team we followed to last years final will once again be N&R FL's team this season after they put pay to a brave Brighton side in the 3rd Round on Saturday.After an even first half in pouring rain a nervous Hammers took the lead on 49 minutes. A looping cross from Boa Morte on the left was headed back up into the penalty area. Tevez simply nodded the ball back down into the path of MARK NOBLE, who dispatched a cool finish into the bottom right corner for his first West Ham goal.
Brighton almost equalised when Revell had timed a run perfectly - but made a complete hash of an attempted diving header and missed the ball with the goal at his mercy following a deep cross.
Brighton had to go for it now, and enjoyed a spell of good possession as 5,000 Seagulls packed into the Centenary Stand got behind them. However, they looked vulnerable on the counter-attack, and so it proved as West Ham doubled their lead after 58 minutes.
Tevez broke down the right, and his low centre went across goal, where Boa Morte picked it up.
The new signing chipped the ball back into the six-yard box, where CARLTON COLE was on hand to volley in - with the visitors appealing in vain for offside.
Brighton struggled to rouse a late rally and, with virtually the last touch of the game, HAYDEN MULLINS rose unmarked in injury time to head home Shaun Newton's cross to seal the hosts' victory and leave the visitors still searching for a first third-round win in 14 years.
Brighton Team: Henderson, O'Cearuill, Lynch, Butters, Mayo, Fraser (Hart 51), El-Abd, Hammond, Frutos (Rents 67), Revell (Gatting 84), Robinson.
Subs Not Used: Kuipers, Carpenter.
Att: 32,874
2006 / 2007 Prize Money Announced
The following will be the prize money splits for the current season. There will be no less than 61 opportunities to earn a prize, enough to go around, that is unless you are generally crap, a bit like me.
Here we go:
The Premiership
N&R FL Champion £200 + the much sought after N&R winners trophy
Runner Up £140
3rd £100
4th £80
5th £60
6th £50
7th £25
Relegation The bottom 8 teams will be relegated to The Championship.
The Championship
Winner £100
Runner Up £70
3rd £50
4th £30
5th £20
6th £10
7th £10
8th £10
*The top 8 clubs will be promoted to The Premiership
26th £10
Other prizes
N&R Team Challenge Trophy
Best weekly score £25
Worst weekly score £25
Serie A Champion £30
Serie B Champion £30
Manager of the week 40 weeks x £5 = £200
Prizes paid in £ or $ equivalent depending on domicile of manager.
Good luck to everyone and another plea - if you have yet to pay please make your cheques payable to me and send them to:
8 Paddock Gardens
Wannock
Polegate
E Sussex
BN26 5PW
Or even better stick it in my bank account. Details here:
Simon J Newport
NatWest
Sort Code 56 00 18
A/C no. 08164193
Thank you.
Here we go:
The Premiership
N&R FL Champion £200 + the much sought after N&R winners trophy
Runner Up £140
3rd £100
4th £80
5th £60
6th £50
7th £25
Relegation The bottom 8 teams will be relegated to The Championship.
The Championship
Winner £100
Runner Up £70
3rd £50
4th £30
5th £20
6th £10
7th £10
8th £10
*The top 8 clubs will be promoted to The Premiership
26th £10
Other prizes
N&R Team Challenge Trophy
Best weekly score £25
Worst weekly score £25
Serie A Champion £30
Serie B Champion £30
Manager of the week 40 weeks x £5 = £200
Prizes paid in £ or $ equivalent depending on domicile of manager.
Good luck to everyone and another plea - if you have yet to pay please make your cheques payable to me and send them to:
8 Paddock Gardens
Wannock
Polegate
E Sussex
BN26 5PW
Or even better stick it in my bank account. Details here:
Simon J Newport
NatWest
Sort Code 56 00 18
A/C no. 08164193
Thank you.
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Announcement: One week to go before league splits
This is it - what you have all been waiting for? No Sweaty's not buying the beers and no, Soozie is not now working in Metropolis.
It is the famous N&R FL's first ever promotion and relegation.
It's simple - the top 12 teams from both leagues will be promoted after week 20 to The N&R Premiership. The remaining teams will be relegated to The N&R Championship. All points gained up and until week 20 will be kept.
Then from week 21 we will have 2 divisions, with lots of prizes to be announced very shortly. There will be promotion and relegation issues as well as the weekly MoW prize and others.
Remember you can still make transfers. The deadline is every Tuesday at 5pm as always.
May Nobby & Ready take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones the very best for 2007. We hope that you achieve everything you dream off, perhaps excluding the mucky stuff! Have fun and be safe.
Nobby & Ready
It is the famous N&R FL's first ever promotion and relegation.
It's simple - the top 12 teams from both leagues will be promoted after week 20 to The N&R Premiership. The remaining teams will be relegated to The N&R Championship. All points gained up and until week 20 will be kept.
Then from week 21 we will have 2 divisions, with lots of prizes to be announced very shortly. There will be promotion and relegation issues as well as the weekly MoW prize and others.
Remember you can still make transfers. The deadline is every Tuesday at 5pm as always.
May Nobby & Ready take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones the very best for 2007. We hope that you achieve everything you dream off, perhaps excluding the mucky stuff! Have fun and be safe.
Nobby & Ready
Aaron and Aaron and Aaron
kBreaking News 88888 Manager of week 19
Aaron's Muddy Funsters just keep marching on hitting the season's 8th best weekly score in week 19 and climbing 6 places to 4th in Serie A almost securing his promotion to the Premiership. The nearest team to him were Glencoe Hammers, who have found a bit of the Curbishley bounce and the boys picked up their biggest score of the season, 65.
Epping 'dog walking' club scored 58 to almost clinch their play-off birth, whilst Racing Ginger and Flighty Feet each scored 57 points. Pete is now 27 points behind the 12th placed team in Serie A, whereas a miracle needs to happen for Catherine and Karen not to win the Serie A prize.
Also in Serie A #1 Strugglers added 55 points to their total and look safely through to the next stage, and in Serie B the two top teams continue to battle it out for the mid-season prize. Savchenko and Cristiano's allstars both collecting 55 points.
Goonersmoan had a great week to notching 53 points, the same as Athletico Albertawe, who will almost certainly play in the Championship after the New Year.
Three teams in Serie B hit 52 points. They were NY Eagles, 2Infinity & beyond and Wizzis wonders who are all probably up.
Living in Sin, who should probably change their name to Living in Debt following the acquisition of an engagement ring and a new apartment, are still in with a huge shout of promotion after Brian hit 52 as well.
The week's worst score was shared by Fabulous Fabregas FC and Le Guen's Revolution with 12.
Aaron's Muddy Funsters just keep marching on hitting the season's 8th best weekly score in week 19 and climbing 6 places to 4th in Serie A almost securing his promotion to the Premiership. The nearest team to him were Glencoe Hammers, who have found a bit of the Curbishley bounce and the boys picked up their biggest score of the season, 65.
Epping 'dog walking' club scored 58 to almost clinch their play-off birth, whilst Racing Ginger and Flighty Feet each scored 57 points. Pete is now 27 points behind the 12th placed team in Serie A, whereas a miracle needs to happen for Catherine and Karen not to win the Serie A prize.
Also in Serie A #1 Strugglers added 55 points to their total and look safely through to the next stage, and in Serie B the two top teams continue to battle it out for the mid-season prize. Savchenko and Cristiano's allstars both collecting 55 points.
Goonersmoan had a great week to notching 53 points, the same as Athletico Albertawe, who will almost certainly play in the Championship after the New Year.
Three teams in Serie B hit 52 points. They were NY Eagles, 2Infinity & beyond and Wizzis wonders who are all probably up.
Living in Sin, who should probably change their name to Living in Debt following the acquisition of an engagement ring and a new apartment, are still in with a huge shout of promotion after Brian hit 52 as well.
The week's worst score was shared by Fabulous Fabregas FC and Le Guen's Revolution with 12.
Allstars and Savchenko fight it out for prize
Breaking news 8888 Serie B week 19 scores
One week left - I would say the top 8 are up. Goonersmoan's excellent week probably securing their place. Below them Nut Meg, Hannoi Utd, Jonny Forskins and London Irish have shown some inconsistency in form and all should be nervous as we enter the last week.
Rose'e Rovers will more upset than anyone if they miss out as they have been in the play-off zone each week from September, including 2 weeks at the top, this despite being bottom after week 1. Dan is currently 9 points from 12th place.
Bollocks to Ballack and Sven & Janas - Bye look like they have too much to do but I'm sure both will give it their best shot.
At the top of Serie B, it is a straight fight between Cristiano's allstars and Savchenko Spurs and despite them having the exact same scores these last 2 weeks they only have 4 players the same in their respective teams. Richard currently leads Ryan by 8 points and has been top since mid November.
One week left - I would say the top 8 are up. Goonersmoan's excellent week probably securing their place. Below them Nut Meg, Hannoi Utd, Jonny Forskins and London Irish have shown some inconsistency in form and all should be nervous as we enter the last week.
Rose'e Rovers will more upset than anyone if they miss out as they have been in the play-off zone each week from September, including 2 weeks at the top, this despite being bottom after week 1. Dan is currently 9 points from 12th place.
Bollocks to Ballack and Sven & Janas - Bye look like they have too much to do but I'm sure both will give it their best shot.
At the top of Serie B, it is a straight fight between Cristiano's allstars and Savchenko Spurs and despite them having the exact same scores these last 2 weeks they only have 4 players the same in their respective teams. Richard currently leads Ryan by 8 points and has been top since mid November.
Flight of fancy?
Breaking news 8888 Serie A week 19 scores
So one week left - I would say the top 9 are clear. That leaves East Indian Summer and Massive Tackle looking over their shoulders with one week to go.
Living in Sin, Here we go again, Make that 3 chickens will probably be one of the sides that could break into the party. Racing Ginger, 27 points adrift looks a tough ask.
At the top the ever dazzling Flighty Feet are 25 points clear of Glasgow kiss and look like picking up the first major prize of the season. That is unless the in hugely in-form Muddy Funsters don't pull another incredible score out of the bag!
So one week left - I would say the top 9 are clear. That leaves East Indian Summer and Massive Tackle looking over their shoulders with one week to go.
Living in Sin, Here we go again, Make that 3 chickens will probably be one of the sides that could break into the party. Racing Ginger, 27 points adrift looks a tough ask.
At the top the ever dazzling Flighty Feet are 25 points clear of Glasgow kiss and look like picking up the first major prize of the season. That is unless the in hugely in-form Muddy Funsters don't pull another incredible score out of the bag!
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Kiss chase
Breaking news 8888 Serie A week 18 scores
Glasgow kiss made some changes to her team last week and it immediately paid off as the MoW moved into 2nd place 13 points behind the leaders Flighty Feet.
Lovejoy's luvvies are now in 3rd with Underwriting cop and #1 Strugglers 11 points behind in joint 4th.
Godders' I Still *ing Hate Chelsea climb into 6th while Epping 'dog walking' club move into 7th. Christian Dailly also further imrove their chances and like Fuddy Munsters are on an excellent run just at the right time. Rooney & Ronaldo Rockstars drop to 9th.
I would have said 4 teams below the top 12 look like breaking into the promotion pack led by Make that 3 chickens. Here we go again and Living in Sin are on a downward spiral but Frank & Beans are on their way up and are currently 35 points behind Massive Tackle.
Glasgow kiss made some changes to her team last week and it immediately paid off as the MoW moved into 2nd place 13 points behind the leaders Flighty Feet.
Lovejoy's luvvies are now in 3rd with Underwriting cop and #1 Strugglers 11 points behind in joint 4th.
Godders' I Still *ing Hate Chelsea climb into 6th while Epping 'dog walking' club move into 7th. Christian Dailly also further imrove their chances and like Fuddy Munsters are on an excellent run just at the right time. Rooney & Ronaldo Rockstars drop to 9th.
I would have said 4 teams below the top 12 look like breaking into the promotion pack led by Make that 3 chickens. Here we go again and Living in Sin are on a downward spiral but Frank & Beans are on their way up and are currently 35 points behind Massive Tackle.
Top 3 chase Serie B title
Breaking news 8888 Serie B week 18 scores
The top 3 remain unchanged in Serie B, with Cristiano's Allstars ahead of Savchenko Spurs by 8 points, who in turn are 9 ahead of Roubles FC. These 3 appear to be challenging for the prize of winning Serie B.
Into 4th are now Brighton Blues and NY Eagles climb into 5th. 2Infininty & beyond stay in 6th, but Wizzis Wonders drop 3 places to 7th. Hannoi Utd fall to 11th as Goonersmoan and London Irish gain ground.
3 teams in fact share 11th place - Hannoi Utd, Rose's Rovers and Nut Meg, who jump 2 places. Now if these 3 teams end square they will all qualify for the Premiership otherwise one will miss out. Below 11th a gap has opened with Bollocks to Ballack leading the pack. Below them Thank U 4 the Daze are on a good run and could snatch a place.
Thieving Chelsea gits, Sven and Janas - Bye, Californication and Ping Pong each has a slight chance of getting promotion.
The top 3 remain unchanged in Serie B, with Cristiano's Allstars ahead of Savchenko Spurs by 8 points, who in turn are 9 ahead of Roubles FC. These 3 appear to be challenging for the prize of winning Serie B.
Into 4th are now Brighton Blues and NY Eagles climb into 5th. 2Infininty & beyond stay in 6th, but Wizzis Wonders drop 3 places to 7th. Hannoi Utd fall to 11th as Goonersmoan and London Irish gain ground.
3 teams in fact share 11th place - Hannoi Utd, Rose's Rovers and Nut Meg, who jump 2 places. Now if these 3 teams end square they will all qualify for the Premiership otherwise one will miss out. Below 11th a gap has opened with Bollocks to Ballack leading the pack. Below them Thank U 4 the Daze are on a good run and could snatch a place.
Thieving Chelsea gits, Sven and Janas - Bye, Californication and Ping Pong each has a slight chance of getting promotion.
Christmas kiss
Breaking News 88888 Manager of week 18
Kirsty Baillie celebrated the start of Christmas with £5 gift from Nobby & Ready as Glasgow kiss one week 18's MoW award. Kirsty scored 54 points and closed jumped into 2nd place in Serie A behind Flighty Feet, who remain 13 points clear at the top.
3 managers came close to toppling Kirsty in week 18. Paul and Christian Long's Brighton Blues kept up their challenge and inevitable promotion to the N&R Premiership after securing another 53 points. The same tale belongs to John McGowan's Roubles FC who also scored 53 and cement their position in 3rd place.
Meanwhile in Serie A Muddy Funsters hit their 172nd point in the month of December, making Aaron easily the form man leading into the crucial Christmas period, when each Premiership team plays 4 games in 9 days.
In Serie B another clear contender for promotion is NY Eagles notching another half century to their total in week 18.
4 managers each scored one short of 50. Frank & Beans are making a serious play for the play-off's, in which will be a remarkable acheivement. They move up two places. 49 points was met 3 times in Serie B.
Not surprisingly Savchenko Spurs and Cristiano's allstars led the way and remain clear at the top of the table but what was a surprise was seeing Martin Singleton's Los Cusingo's crack 49 points, a season best but not good enough to take them off bottom spot.
Top 12's Goonersmoan, London Irish and I Still *ing Hate Chelsea all hit a very 48 points.
The week 18's worse score was from Serie A's bottom team Le Guen's Revolution, where Sweaty scored just 18.
Kirsty Baillie celebrated the start of Christmas with £5 gift from Nobby & Ready as Glasgow kiss one week 18's MoW award. Kirsty scored 54 points and closed jumped into 2nd place in Serie A behind Flighty Feet, who remain 13 points clear at the top.
3 managers came close to toppling Kirsty in week 18. Paul and Christian Long's Brighton Blues kept up their challenge and inevitable promotion to the N&R Premiership after securing another 53 points. The same tale belongs to John McGowan's Roubles FC who also scored 53 and cement their position in 3rd place.
Meanwhile in Serie A Muddy Funsters hit their 172nd point in the month of December, making Aaron easily the form man leading into the crucial Christmas period, when each Premiership team plays 4 games in 9 days.
In Serie B another clear contender for promotion is NY Eagles notching another half century to their total in week 18.
4 managers each scored one short of 50. Frank & Beans are making a serious play for the play-off's, in which will be a remarkable acheivement. They move up two places. 49 points was met 3 times in Serie B.
Not surprisingly Savchenko Spurs and Cristiano's allstars led the way and remain clear at the top of the table but what was a surprise was seeing Martin Singleton's Los Cusingo's crack 49 points, a season best but not good enough to take them off bottom spot.
Top 12's Goonersmoan, London Irish and I Still *ing Hate Chelsea all hit a very 48 points.
The week 18's worse score was from Serie A's bottom team Le Guen's Revolution, where Sweaty scored just 18.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Merry Christmas
A very happy Christmas to you and your families from Nobby & Ready. I was thinking about doing Christmas cards this year and thought this was suitably inappropriate (found in San Francisco). 
Take care, Nobby & Ready.
Take care, Nobby & Ready.
Team Challenge - Aspen white out
Aspen climbed to the top of the N&R Team Challenge after 17 weeks, Plummer, Wizzo and Down are doing well but hot on their ski boots are the new team from Lloyds made up of Richard Nathan (Mitsui), Colin Panzetta (Catlin), Danny Rose (Clare) and Mr Lloyds himself Neil Cryer.
Just behind them are Ready's Layton Blackham, who have Huw letting the team down and then in 4th are Rutt's Aon Re, complete with Paul Kelleher now. BMS are just a half point behind in 5th and Willis with Kennett joining Kirsty are in 6th, down from top in the last knockings.
7th are last season's winners AIG with Catherine and Karen doing superbly but being well supported by Mark Dewberry, Hilary Ryan and Aaron Barden in his first season. Of course boss men Francey and Waterman are looking away at this precise minute!
In 8th are Aon Chicago with the big Croat leading the way, 11 points clear of the Ex-Pats. Then come RSA, previous champions Marsh and lastly JLT.
The full table appears with the email detailing the latest scores.
Just behind them are Ready's Layton Blackham, who have Huw letting the team down and then in 4th are Rutt's Aon Re, complete with Paul Kelleher now. BMS are just a half point behind in 5th and Willis with Kennett joining Kirsty are in 6th, down from top in the last knockings.
7th are last season's winners AIG with Catherine and Karen doing superbly but being well supported by Mark Dewberry, Hilary Ryan and Aaron Barden in his first season. Of course boss men Francey and Waterman are looking away at this precise minute!
In 8th are Aon Chicago with the big Croat leading the way, 11 points clear of the Ex-Pats. Then come RSA, previous champions Marsh and lastly JLT.
The full table appears with the email detailing the latest scores.
Promotion and Relegation at week 20
Just want to make sure everyone knows the importance of the N&R play-offs!
At the end of week 20, the top 12 teams from Serie A and B, which are split alphabetically will be promoted to the N&R Premiership. The remaining 27 teams will contest The Championship. If teams are tied for 12th place, then both will qualify for the Premiership.
Then from week 21 teams will play in their new leagues until the end of the season. Please note that points gained up and until week 20 will be kept in the new leagues.
Prize money (which will be announced shortly) will be weighted to The Premiership but there will be ample cash to play for in The Championship.
The winner of The Premiership will be crowned the 2006 / 07 N&R FL Champion and there will be promotion and relegation in readiness for next season.
Transfers can still be made, remember the deadline is as always Tuesday at 5pm. There will be no more transfers allowed after week 20 other than those already remaining.
At the end of week 20, the top 12 teams from Serie A and B, which are split alphabetically will be promoted to the N&R Premiership. The remaining 27 teams will contest The Championship. If teams are tied for 12th place, then both will qualify for the Premiership.
Then from week 21 teams will play in their new leagues until the end of the season. Please note that points gained up and until week 20 will be kept in the new leagues.
Prize money (which will be announced shortly) will be weighted to The Premiership but there will be ample cash to play for in The Championship.
The winner of The Premiership will be crowned the 2006 / 07 N&R FL Champion and there will be promotion and relegation in readiness for next season.
Transfers can still be made, remember the deadline is as always Tuesday at 5pm. There will be no more transfers allowed after week 20 other than those already remaining.
Just Genuis
Breaking News 88888 Manager of week 17Christian Dailly Football Genius and Ben Graves have saved their best week of the season to just the right time after 62 points propelled them into the top 12 in week 17. It was by far and away the top score and moves Ben up from 13th to 9th. Hannoi Utd also headed back in the right direction after securing 43 points.
The underwriting cop looks to have confirmed their place in the Premiership next year after their best score since week 2 to them to 4th in Serie A. And Aaron Barden's Fuddy Munsters hit another good score to make their first appearance in the play-off zone.
Make that 3 chickens climb the table after hitting 45, whilst Lovejoy moved back into 2nd place behind Flighty Feet after scoring 43.
Other notable scoring was done by Rooney & Ronaldo Rockstars (36), Savchenko Spurs (36), Jonny Forskins (35), Lamb to the slaughter (33), Thank You 4 The Daze (33) and Californication (33).
Living in Sin, who are going backwards and Los Cusingo's are can't get further backward both cleverly managed the worst week 17 score of 14 points.
Others in Grave danger
Breaking news 8888 Serie A week 17 scores
Ben Graves, who last year had a top 10 finish, purred into the top 12 after week 17 on the back of a cracking few weeks in the N&R FL. Ben's Christian Dailly Football Genius were last in the top 12 back in week 1. Muddy Funsters are in there for the first time ever. Aaron has also been gradually crunching through the gears and finds himself with a great chance of making the play-off's.
Aaron and Ben's surge unsettled Here we go again and Living in Sin, for which Brian disappears out of the play-off zone for the first time since mid-September but he has had other things on his mind but more about that another day!
Lovejoy's luvvies move back into 2nd and close the gap on Flighty Feet at the top, with Glasgow kiss in 3rd and The underwriting cop up into a mind-boggling 4th.
Lower down make that 3 chickens and Frank & Beans move up the ladder with Racing Ginger slipping.
The bottom 7 teams remain unchanged.
Ben Graves, who last year had a top 10 finish, purred into the top 12 after week 17 on the back of a cracking few weeks in the N&R FL. Ben's Christian Dailly Football Genius were last in the top 12 back in week 1. Muddy Funsters are in there for the first time ever. Aaron has also been gradually crunching through the gears and finds himself with a great chance of making the play-off's.
Aaron and Ben's surge unsettled Here we go again and Living in Sin, for which Brian disappears out of the play-off zone for the first time since mid-September but he has had other things on his mind but more about that another day!
Lovejoy's luvvies move back into 2nd and close the gap on Flighty Feet at the top, with Glasgow kiss in 3rd and The underwriting cop up into a mind-boggling 4th.
Lower down make that 3 chickens and Frank & Beans move up the ladder with Racing Ginger slipping.
The bottom 7 teams remain unchanged.
Rose pruned
Breaking news 8888 Serie B week 17 scores
Savchenko Spurs are within just 8 points of Cristiano's Allstars at the top of Serie B, they both look comfortable for promotion as do the 5 teams below them, who all remain in unchanged positions in the table.
Jonny Forskins and the Phullbacks were the biggest climber in the top 12, moving above Goonersmoan and Rose's Rovers, who in fact slip to a dodgy 12th place after 10 weeks in the play-off zone, including 2 at the top of the table.
Danny's season has been very topsy-turvey but with just 3 weeks left to the split it is looking more turve than tops for them.
Hannoi Utd is another team that is very inconsitent, week 17's best score in Serie B moving Ready back into the action and into 9th. Nut Meg slip out of contention to 13th and below that Thank you 4 the daze and Californication look the most threatening.
The bottom 5 teams remain unchanged.
Savchenko Spurs are within just 8 points of Cristiano's Allstars at the top of Serie B, they both look comfortable for promotion as do the 5 teams below them, who all remain in unchanged positions in the table.
Jonny Forskins and the Phullbacks were the biggest climber in the top 12, moving above Goonersmoan and Rose's Rovers, who in fact slip to a dodgy 12th place after 10 weeks in the play-off zone, including 2 at the top of the table.
Danny's season has been very topsy-turvey but with just 3 weeks left to the split it is looking more turve than tops for them.
Hannoi Utd is another team that is very inconsitent, week 17's best score in Serie B moving Ready back into the action and into 9th. Nut Meg slip out of contention to 13th and below that Thank you 4 the daze and Californication look the most threatening.
The bottom 5 teams remain unchanged.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Who are ya? Ian France
In readiness of the 3rd Round FA Cup day and Brighton’s trip to Alan Curbishley’s (an ex Seagull by the way) new Hamsters, I thought I would share with you Ian France’s life story.Conceived at a gay pride rally in the old town of Brighton, Ian grew up on the seaside coast in a loving if not unusual arrangement. He was shy at school and soon inherited the nickname of Shaky, not because of his rock n roll dancing abilities but because he was a bit nervous, particularly around the priests at his local Sunday school.
Francey played football and rugby at the school but soon realised he was built for watching not participating and kept it in the family way by becoming a regular at Brighton & Hove Albion’s Goldstone Ground where he became particularly partial to Peter Ward in his tight shorts.
Upon leaving school, his career’s teacher told him that he had a penchant for spreadsheets, and Ian decided that insurance was to be his vocation and he joined the Sun Alliance in Horsham, where he learnt all about buying facultative reinsurance and drinking.
He then moved up to the big smoke to find the streets paved with gold and the rather unusual sight of girls, something he was only previously used to see playing in blue and white stripey shirts on a Saturday afternoon.
Francey decided to go against his parents wishes and married the lovely Sarah, a
lthough both of his Dads did attend the wedding. He has now added 2 girls to the Brighton clan and can often be found kicking the football around his garden sporting his NOBO emblazoned Brighton shirt and Steve Foster headband, with the pet cat watching whilst being tied by rope to the washing line. Don’t ask me about that bit, but clearly the France’s are not pet lovers.Francey has been at AIG all the time I have known him, and is actually quite senior despite first impressions. My favourite Shaky story was the day he went out for lunch and despite disapproval from colleagues insisted on coming back to the office to finish off one of Brian Rutter’s quotes, reason enough apart from the fact that Ian couldn’t stand up. He was so trollied that some of the AIG boys had to put him in an Evacuchair to wheel him out of the office and down to London Bridge with his legs in the air and his fringe flopping all over the place.
They got him onto the train to Brighton, where he threw up a number of times before getting to his stop still completely wasted. No taxi’s would take him so a local tattooed builder (rather sexy according to Ian later) stuck him on the back of his open sided scaffold lorry and drove him home.
Ian’s (now ex) friends then rang the bell, lent him on the door and legged it around the corner to watch Mrs France give him a good hiding. He was subsequently banned from going to football for a while.
Despite all of that, Ian is one of the nicest blokes I know and was also one of our early N&R managers although his actual prize fund is exactly £0 he did help them lift the Team Challenge Trophy last season.
Chris and The Croat smash the season record
Breaking News 88888 Manager of week 16
Two rather surprising names cropped up in week 16 to not only share the week’s MoW award but also stroll out in front in the season’s best weekly score contest.
Firstly Chris Waterman’s Californication, who last year finished 6th overall but have so far struggled to make any impact did his hopes of qualifying for the Premiership a wonder of good by smashing a season best 78 points to leave him trailing qualification from Serie B by just 46 points.
And then illegal immigrant Davor Duvancic matched Chris’ score with one of his own the cement his #1 Strugglers probable place to promotion in Serie A.
Feel sorry for Ryan’s Savchenko Spurs and Aon Re’s new recruit Paul Kelleher, whose Epping 'dog walking' club who both just missed out in the highest collective scoring week of the season. Ryan scored 77 and PK 76, both beating the season's previous best of 75, scored by Kirstie Baillie.
Other teams who excelled in week 16 were Muddy Funsters and Vote Seagull Party, who both hit 74 and Brighton Blues and Goonersmoan, who both posted a 71.
It was a cracking week for points though with 31 teams scoring more than 50 and with 27 managers achieving their best score of the season.
Le Guen’s revolution came off worst though. Lee had the honour of week 16’s lowest score, a still respectable 26 points.
Two rather surprising names cropped up in week 16 to not only share the week’s MoW award but also stroll out in front in the season’s best weekly score contest.
Firstly Chris Waterman’s Californication, who last year finished 6th overall but have so far struggled to make any impact did his hopes of qualifying for the Premiership a wonder of good by smashing a season best 78 points to leave him trailing qualification from Serie B by just 46 points.
And then illegal immigrant Davor Duvancic matched Chris’ score with one of his own the cement his #1 Strugglers probable place to promotion in Serie A.
Feel sorry for Ryan’s Savchenko Spurs and Aon Re’s new recruit Paul Kelleher, whose Epping 'dog walking' club who both just missed out in the highest collective scoring week of the season. Ryan scored 77 and PK 76, both beating the season's previous best of 75, scored by Kirstie Baillie.
Other teams who excelled in week 16 were Muddy Funsters and Vote Seagull Party, who both hit 74 and Brighton Blues and Goonersmoan, who both posted a 71.
It was a cracking week for points though with 31 teams scoring more than 50 and with 27 managers achieving their best score of the season.
Le Guen’s revolution came off worst though. Lee had the honour of week 16’s lowest score, a still respectable 26 points.
The season's best weekly scores
Davor and Chris lead the way after last week's super effort. A £25 prize to the winner or $ equivalent. If it is Davor that wins, I will buy him a sleeping bag!
1= Chris Waterman, week 16, 78 points
1= Davor Duvancic, week 16, 78 points
3. Ryan Saveall, week 16, 77 points
4. Paul Kelleher, week 16, 76 points
5. Kirsty Baillie, week 1, 75 points
6= Aaron Barden, week 16, 74 points
6= Ian France, week 16, 74 points
8= Paul Long, week 16, 71 points
8= Brian Rutter, week 16, 71 points
10. Barry Paull, week 2, 70 points
1= Chris Waterman, week 16, 78 points
1= Davor Duvancic, week 16, 78 points
3. Ryan Saveall, week 16, 77 points
4. Paul Kelleher, week 16, 76 points
5. Kirsty Baillie, week 1, 75 points
6= Aaron Barden, week 16, 74 points
6= Ian France, week 16, 74 points
8= Paul Long, week 16, 71 points
8= Brian Rutter, week 16, 71 points
10. Barry Paull, week 2, 70 points
Strugglers no more
Breaking news 8888 Serie A week 16 scores
With just 4 weeks left until the teams are split into the Premiership and the Championship, Davor’s w16 score of 76 has almost assured that he will make the cut into the N&R elite. #1 Strugglers moved into 4th place in Serie A within spitting distance of Glasgow kiss and Lovejoy.
The Underwriting cop and Rooney & Ronaldo Rockstars get knocked back but the Epping 'dog walking' club surge into 6th from 11th.
Massive tackle and Living in Sin hang in there but are being chased down by Muddy Funsters and Christian Dailly and Birdy’s Here we go again slip into the play-off spots for the first time since October after his 61 score.
At the bottom of the pile, we saw a change for the first time in 7 weeks as Jon Knouse and Nick Davies hopped Le Guen’s revolution. The Pardew less Glencoe Hammers weekly score of 61 was almost twice their previous best.
With just 4 weeks left until the teams are split into the Premiership and the Championship, Davor’s w16 score of 76 has almost assured that he will make the cut into the N&R elite. #1 Strugglers moved into 4th place in Serie A within spitting distance of Glasgow kiss and Lovejoy.
The Underwriting cop and Rooney & Ronaldo Rockstars get knocked back but the Epping 'dog walking' club surge into 6th from 11th.
Massive tackle and Living in Sin hang in there but are being chased down by Muddy Funsters and Christian Dailly and Birdy’s Here we go again slip into the play-off spots for the first time since October after his 61 score.
At the bottom of the pile, we saw a change for the first time in 7 weeks as Jon Knouse and Nick Davies hopped Le Guen’s revolution. The Pardew less Glencoe Hammers weekly score of 61 was almost twice their previous best.
2Infinity and the play-off's?
Breaking news 8888 Serie B week 16 scores
Cristiano’s allstars remain proudly on top of this division, but Savchenko Spurs are back into 2nd after a rousing week from Ryan. Wizzi’s wonders drop to 4th and the on form Brighton Blues move in to 5th.
Rose’s Rovers slip but ex-champion 2infinity & beyond gain 2 places. Hannoi Utd are out of the top 12 after a dreadful week owning the worst score in Serie B. Rutts’ Goonermoan return to the action with a cheery 71.
Bubbling under is Bollocks to Ballack and Ping Pong stay in contention but Nobby's North of Crystal Palarse looks to have blown it as he slumps 2 places to 19th but Sven and Janas – Bye and one of the weeks hero’s Californication move up the table.
Down the bottom Serie B also has a new straggler. Los Cusingos replace Ball Hogs after Michael’s storming weekly score of 65.
Cristiano’s allstars remain proudly on top of this division, but Savchenko Spurs are back into 2nd after a rousing week from Ryan. Wizzi’s wonders drop to 4th and the on form Brighton Blues move in to 5th.
Rose’s Rovers slip but ex-champion 2infinity & beyond gain 2 places. Hannoi Utd are out of the top 12 after a dreadful week owning the worst score in Serie B. Rutts’ Goonermoan return to the action with a cheery 71.
Bubbling under is Bollocks to Ballack and Ping Pong stay in contention but Nobby's North of Crystal Palarse looks to have blown it as he slumps 2 places to 19th but Sven and Janas – Bye and one of the weeks hero’s Californication move up the table.
Down the bottom Serie B also has a new straggler. Los Cusingos replace Ball Hogs after Michael’s storming weekly score of 65.
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Graves & Byatt share weekly prize
Breaking News 88888 Manager of week 15
Serie A teams Lovejoy luvvies and Christian Daily Football Genius came out on top in week 15, both scoring 48 points. Alex stays where he was but Ben moves up 3 places as he makes a late run for the play-off spots.
Make that 3 chickens re-enter the top 12 after a 9 weeks absence as Lee hit 41 points. Over in Serie B Ready's Hannoi Utd continue their rich vein of form scoring 40 to climb 4 places in the table.
Ryan's Savchenko Spurs got back into the swing scoring 39 and Oakers Thank you 4 the Daze both managed 39. The biggest shock was seeing Michael Stout's Ball Hogs smacking 38, his best score since week 6.
East Indian Summer jump a few spots in Serie A after scoring 39, a point more than Crown Jewells.
Incontentia B uttocks and Nut Meg jointly achieved the week's worst socre of 10.
Serie A teams Lovejoy luvvies and Christian Daily Football Genius came out on top in week 15, both scoring 48 points. Alex stays where he was but Ben moves up 3 places as he makes a late run for the play-off spots.
Make that 3 chickens re-enter the top 12 after a 9 weeks absence as Lee hit 41 points. Over in Serie B Ready's Hannoi Utd continue their rich vein of form scoring 40 to climb 4 places in the table.
Ryan's Savchenko Spurs got back into the swing scoring 39 and Oakers Thank you 4 the Daze both managed 39. The biggest shock was seeing Michael Stout's Ball Hogs smacking 38, his best score since week 6.
East Indian Summer jump a few spots in Serie A after scoring 39, a point more than Crown Jewells.
Incontentia B uttocks and Nut Meg jointly achieved the week's worst socre of 10.
Anyone from 22 still in with a chance of qualifying
Breaking news 8888 Serie A week 15 scores
Glasgow kiss closed the gap a tad on Flighty Feet at the top of Serie A in week 15. These two plus Lovejoys luvvies look safely into the second stage of the season.
I Still *ing Hate Chelsea jumped over Rooney & Ronaldo Rockstars, while East Indian Summer climbed 4 places to 7th as Epping 'dog walking' club went the other way.
Make that 3 Chickens are back in the top 12 for the first time since early September and Racing Ginger and Pete Doherty for Allianz drop out.
Looking at the table, I reckon probably the top 3 are safe but anyone down to 22nd can still qualify for the 12 Premiership places.
Glasgow kiss closed the gap a tad on Flighty Feet at the top of Serie A in week 15. These two plus Lovejoys luvvies look safely into the second stage of the season.
I Still *ing Hate Chelsea jumped over Rooney & Ronaldo Rockstars, while East Indian Summer climbed 4 places to 7th as Epping 'dog walking' club went the other way.
Make that 3 Chickens are back in the top 12 for the first time since early September and Racing Ginger and Pete Doherty for Allianz drop out.
Looking at the table, I reckon probably the top 3 are safe but anyone down to 22nd can still qualify for the 12 Premiership places.
Still all to play for
Breaking news 8888 Serie B week 15 scores
Wizzi's wonders moved into 2nd after week 15's scores with Roubles FC moving back into 3rd. Cristiano's Allstars remain clear at the top on 492 points.
I would say that apart from Richard Nathan, Serie B is wide open. There has been a lot of movement in the league. This week Savchenko Spurs bounced back into 4th and Hannoi Utd moved up 4 places. Only 30 points separates 10th to 16th and teams down to In Tatters in 20th have all shown good form a varying stages and are all capable of qualifying.
Wizzi's wonders moved into 2nd after week 15's scores with Roubles FC moving back into 3rd. Cristiano's Allstars remain clear at the top on 492 points.
I would say that apart from Richard Nathan, Serie B is wide open. There has been a lot of movement in the league. This week Savchenko Spurs bounced back into 4th and Hannoi Utd moved up 4 places. Only 30 points separates 10th to 16th and teams down to In Tatters in 20th have all shown good form a varying stages and are all capable of qualifying.
Road to Wembley - Not a gay day for Stafford
Goals from Dean Hammond, Alex Revell and Jake Robinson gave Brighton a straightforward win over our boys Stafford Rangers and therefore N&R inherit the gay boys from Brighton as our Road to Wembley team.
Brighton took the lead in the 18th minute. Skipper DEAN HAMMOND picked up the ball just outside the Stafford area and curled a shot into the bottom right corner, out of reach of the diving Danny Alcock. Stafford had their best spell at the start of the second half. Craig Lovatt had a shot blocked, Guy Madjo drove a free kick into the wall and Kevin Street went close with a couple of long-range drives.
ALEX REVELL as good as put the result beyond doubt in the 67th minute, heading home a cross from Sam Rents to double his side’s lead. Albion’s third goal in the 90th minute was scored on the break. The excellent Dean Cox put JAKE ROBINSON clear who slotted home with just Alcock to beat.
600 Stafford fans enjoyed their day out but were not good enough for Dean Wilkins charges.
Stafford team: Alcock, Sutton, Daniel, Murray, Talbott, Street R Gibson), Murphy, Lovatt (Basham), Edwards, Madjo Olaoye), Grayson.
Subs not used: Quailey, Barlow.
Attendance: 5,741.
The rather exciting news in N&R Towers on Sunday was that Brighton got drawn out of the 3rd Round hat to play West Ham away. We have a lot of Hamsters fans in the League and a couple of Brighton. Francey has already told me that he thinks Albion can win. Oh dear.
The game will be played at Upton Park on Saturday January 6th. More on Brighton soon.
Brighton took the lead in the 18th minute. Skipper DEAN HAMMOND picked up the ball just outside the Stafford area and curled a shot into the bottom right corner, out of reach of the diving Danny Alcock. Stafford had their best spell at the start of the second half. Craig Lovatt had a shot blocked, Guy Madjo drove a free kick into the wall and Kevin Street went close with a couple of long-range drives.
ALEX REVELL as good as put the result beyond doubt in the 67th minute, heading home a cross from Sam Rents to double his side’s lead. Albion’s third goal in the 90th minute was scored on the break. The excellent Dean Cox put JAKE ROBINSON clear who slotted home with just Alcock to beat.
600 Stafford fans enjoyed their day out but were not good enough for Dean Wilkins charges.
Stafford team: Alcock, Sutton, Daniel, Murray, Talbott, Street R Gibson), Murphy, Lovatt (Basham), Edwards, Madjo Olaoye), Grayson.
Subs not used: Quailey, Barlow.
Attendance: 5,741.
The rather exciting news in N&R Towers on Sunday was that Brighton got drawn out of the 3rd Round hat to play West Ham away. We have a lot of Hamsters fans in the League and a couple of Brighton. Francey has already told me that he thinks Albion can win. Oh dear.
The game will be played at Upton Park on Saturday January 6th. More on Brighton soon.
European Tour
An interesting article on the BBC Sport website:
"The Premier League is crowing and has every right to do so. All four Premiership clubs topped their Champions League group, and the chances of the big pot coming to England must surely be pretty good.Does this prove the Premiership is the cock-of-the-walk as the strongest league in the world, or is it too early to count chickens?
To stretch the domestic fowl metaphor almost to snapping point, could the chickens could be coming home to roost to justify the vast amounts of money splashed out by Premiership clubs seeking success? The Premiership is the goose laying all the golden eggs. It is now the richest league in the world, wallowing in cash from thumping great television deals.
Sheikh Maktoum is the latest to apply to join an ever-growing club of foreign zillionaires wanting to run English clubs as he attempts to buy Liverpool. It's all good, surely, isn't it? Okay, other countries have more than one representative going into the various pots for a knockout stage draw which will keep England's quartet apart. But is any challenge as strong as the English one?
Once the crowned head of the European game, Italian football is a fading beauty, attempting to powder over the blemishes of corruption and scandal. Of the Italian trio, only AC Milan topped their group, with Inter and Roma coming through groups which were hardly punishing tests. There is an irony lurking there somewhere that as Italy laud it as world champions, the country's domestic football is on a downward spiral.
It wasn't all that long ago that Serie A was the world's strongest league, and the fears expressed then that the Stranieri playing in Italy would affect the national team are being echoed by those branded as nay-sayers in the Premiership. Of the three Spanish clubs in the knock-out stages, you might not have expected Valencia to be the only table-toppers. Spain's Primera Liga probably now sits in second spot behind the Premiership, having elbowed Serie A into third place. Real Madrid were always going to qualify from their group, but would they have expected to have been beaten so soundly into second place by Lyon?
Real are still living on past reputation which Fabio Capello is doing his best to restore. Barcelona certainly did not display the pedigree expected of holders as they limped past Werder Bremen into second place in Group A.
France's Championnat has been a one-horse race for five years. No surprise that Lyon qualified, but at least they've got Lille for company as they proved the best of the rest of a pretty ordinary bunch behind Milan in group H. Porto are Portugal's only representative, while PSV shows that their money talks loudest in Dutch football. Ajax and Feyenoord once kept European football firmly under the clog in the days Dutch clubs could keep their players, but without the financial clout that Philips-backed PSV enjoy, they are second-class citizens, confined to Uefa Cup action.
German football plays to big crowds as the love-in from the World Cup continues, but even mighty Bayern lack the financial muscle to stop their best players being tempted away. We haven't forgotten Celtic. The first British winners of Europe's top club prize deservedly take their place in the knock-out draw. But the weak competition they face on a weekly basis is hardly the ideal preparation to steel them to face Europe's best.
The line-up of the usual suspects for the knockout stage does underline that the power and clout in European football still remains in the west. Despite the influx of oligarch cash in Russian football, neither of the Moscow clubs qualified. Former European Champions Steaua Bucharest were just happy to be in the group stages, and the Greek clubs flattered to deceive.
If it is true there is safety in numbers, then England's four-pronged attack will surely fork the big prize, and bring it back to Blighty?"
"The Premier League is crowing and has every right to do so. All four Premiership clubs topped their Champions League group, and the chances of the big pot coming to England must surely be pretty good.Does this prove the Premiership is the cock-of-the-walk as the strongest league in the world, or is it too early to count chickens?
To stretch the domestic fowl metaphor almost to snapping point, could the chickens could be coming home to roost to justify the vast amounts of money splashed out by Premiership clubs seeking success? The Premiership is the goose laying all the golden eggs. It is now the richest league in the world, wallowing in cash from thumping great television deals.
Sheikh Maktoum is the latest to apply to join an ever-growing club of foreign zillionaires wanting to run English clubs as he attempts to buy Liverpool. It's all good, surely, isn't it? Okay, other countries have more than one representative going into the various pots for a knockout stage draw which will keep England's quartet apart. But is any challenge as strong as the English one?
Once the crowned head of the European game, Italian football is a fading beauty, attempting to powder over the blemishes of corruption and scandal. Of the Italian trio, only AC Milan topped their group, with Inter and Roma coming through groups which were hardly punishing tests. There is an irony lurking there somewhere that as Italy laud it as world champions, the country's domestic football is on a downward spiral.
It wasn't all that long ago that Serie A was the world's strongest league, and the fears expressed then that the Stranieri playing in Italy would affect the national team are being echoed by those branded as nay-sayers in the Premiership. Of the three Spanish clubs in the knock-out stages, you might not have expected Valencia to be the only table-toppers. Spain's Primera Liga probably now sits in second spot behind the Premiership, having elbowed Serie A into third place. Real Madrid were always going to qualify from their group, but would they have expected to have been beaten so soundly into second place by Lyon?
Real are still living on past reputation which Fabio Capello is doing his best to restore. Barcelona certainly did not display the pedigree expected of holders as they limped past Werder Bremen into second place in Group A.
France's Championnat has been a one-horse race for five years. No surprise that Lyon qualified, but at least they've got Lille for company as they proved the best of the rest of a pretty ordinary bunch behind Milan in group H. Porto are Portugal's only representative, while PSV shows that their money talks loudest in Dutch football. Ajax and Feyenoord once kept European football firmly under the clog in the days Dutch clubs could keep their players, but without the financial clout that Philips-backed PSV enjoy, they are second-class citizens, confined to Uefa Cup action.
German football plays to big crowds as the love-in from the World Cup continues, but even mighty Bayern lack the financial muscle to stop their best players being tempted away. We haven't forgotten Celtic. The first British winners of Europe's top club prize deservedly take their place in the knock-out draw. But the weak competition they face on a weekly basis is hardly the ideal preparation to steel them to face Europe's best.
The line-up of the usual suspects for the knockout stage does underline that the power and clout in European football still remains in the west. Despite the influx of oligarch cash in Russian football, neither of the Moscow clubs qualified. Former European Champions Steaua Bucharest were just happy to be in the group stages, and the Greek clubs flattered to deceive.
If it is true there is safety in numbers, then England's four-pronged attack will surely fork the big prize, and bring it back to Blighty?"
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Wizzi's Golden Wonder
Breaking news 8888 Serie B week 13 scoresDave Wisdom moved into his highest ever position at the end of week 14. 5th last week and up to 3rd this as Wizzi’s Wonders climbed over Rose’s Rovers and Savchenko Spurs, who have slumped to 7th after being top just 2 weeks ago. A sure sign that anything can happen and will with 6 weeks to go until the play-off’s decide who will compete in the Premiership and who in the Championship plate.
Cristiano’s allstars and Roubles FC stay 1st and 2nd and NY Eagles finally got an up-tick after a troublesome last 5 weeks.
Brighton Blues are proving the value of making a lot of transfers to get the right blend now and not waiting until it is too late. Paul and Christian are in 6th but London Irish, Goonersmoan and Jonny Forskins all slip in the race for promotion.
This meant that Nut Meg and 2Infinity & beyond move up the rankings. MoW Hannoi Utd are in 13th, 5 points from the play-off zone.
The bottom 5 remain unchanged and are starting to get stranded.
Copped Off
Breaking news 8888 Serie A week 14 scoresNeil Cryer’s Underwriting Cop stormed into 4th place in week 14 after a good show displacing Living in Sin, who slipped to 8th. Philly bound Rooney & Ronaldo Rockstars make it up to 5th after a 27 point week. Godders’ I Still *ing Hate Chelsea also benefited from Dougal’s worst score since early October, by moving up 2 places to 6th.
#1 Strugglers move up the table also and there is a welcome first time in the top 12 to perennial late starter Simon Jenkins, who’s Pete Doherty for Allianz scored 23.
The top 3 teams are creating a bit of a gap at the top of the table. Flighty Feet lead with 467 (a N&R FL best) while Glasgow kiss are 17 points behind in 2nd. In 3rd with some fresh air between them and 4th are Lovejoy’s Luvvies.
At the bottom Vote Seagulls Party swap places with Le Guen's Revolution, but lets face it they are both crap!
Reed who?
Breaking News 88888 Manager of week 14
There are many people who were asking that question in week 14 after Charlton appointed Les Reed their successor to Iain Dowie. Keith doesn’t have those problems mind, as everyone knows the little pit bull. Ready’s Hannoi Utd swept to the MoM award in week 14 after hitting 44 points to earn his first prize money of the season.
There were also improved weeks from Soozie Syrett’s Ping Pong and the giant Croat Davor Duvancic’s #1 Strugglers, which frankly is a rubbish name. Both managers improved their league positions with 38 points a piece. There were a host of teams who hit 35 points.
In Serie A Glasgow kiss bounced back after a couple of poor weeks. In Serie B Nutmeg, 2Infinity & beyond and Wizzi’s wonders all turned in strong scores.
Also worthy of a mention were In Tatters and Brighton Blues who have once again hit a rich vein of form. Nige and the Mutley’s both scored 32 points, a point more than Panzo’s Panthers, Muddy Funsters, Lovejoy’s luvvies and The Underwriting Cop.
Le Guen's Revolution and Fabulous Fabregas both celebrated the weeks lowest score of 13.
There are many people who were asking that question in week 14 after Charlton appointed Les Reed their successor to Iain Dowie. Keith doesn’t have those problems mind, as everyone knows the little pit bull. Ready’s Hannoi Utd swept to the MoM award in week 14 after hitting 44 points to earn his first prize money of the season.
There were also improved weeks from Soozie Syrett’s Ping Pong and the giant Croat Davor Duvancic’s #1 Strugglers, which frankly is a rubbish name. Both managers improved their league positions with 38 points a piece. There were a host of teams who hit 35 points.
In Serie A Glasgow kiss bounced back after a couple of poor weeks. In Serie B Nutmeg, 2Infinity & beyond and Wizzi’s wonders all turned in strong scores.
Also worthy of a mention were In Tatters and Brighton Blues who have once again hit a rich vein of form. Nige and the Mutley’s both scored 32 points, a point more than Panzo’s Panthers, Muddy Funsters, Lovejoy’s luvvies and The Underwriting Cop.
Le Guen's Revolution and Fabulous Fabregas both celebrated the weeks lowest score of 13.
Friday, December 01, 2006
Road to Wembley - Magpies staffed
A goal at either end of the Cup replay from LIAM MURRAY booked Stafford Rangers a place in the FA Cup Second Round in front of a bumper crowd of 1,934 at York Road last week.
Maidenhead will rue a great chance to get back in the game in the 26th minute when a Craig O'Connor penalty rattled the crossbar and rebounded to safety.
Stafford Rangers in good old Stoke-on-Trent become our team and will take on Francey & Paul Long's beloved Brighton tomorrow in the 2nd Round at The Withdean. All tickets have sold out.
Rangers play in the Conference, two divisions below Brighton and are currently in midtable. This is a little bit about them:
- Formed in 1876
- They won the Nationwide Northern league last year to win promotion
- They have played at Marston Road for over 100 years
- Manager Phil Robinson played 400 league games for Aston Villa and Wolves amongst overs
- Assistant manager is ex Luton & Leicester midfielder David Oldfield
- They average about 1,500 at home, about the same as Brighton!
- Oh and these are their colours:
Maidenhead will rue a great chance to get back in the game in the 26th minute when a Craig O'Connor penalty rattled the crossbar and rebounded to safety.
Stafford Rangers in good old Stoke-on-Trent become our team and will take on Francey & Paul Long's beloved Brighton tomorrow in the 2nd Round at The Withdean. All tickets have sold out.
Rangers play in the Conference, two divisions below Brighton and are currently in midtable. This is a little bit about them:
- Formed in 1876
- They won the Nationwide Northern league last year to win promotion
- They have played at Marston Road for over 100 years
- Manager Phil Robinson played 400 league games for Aston Villa and Wolves amongst overs
- Assistant manager is ex Luton & Leicester midfielder David Oldfield
- They average about 1,500 at home, about the same as Brighton!
- Oh and these are their colours:
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Christmas story
This little Christmas thought courtesy of Mark Simmons:
An alleged true story from an Arsenal season-ticket holder.
His season-ticket last year was an absolute plum seat half way up the
Highbury main stand close to the half-way line. In other words, a TV camera style view. Anyway, after the first few games of the season it became apparent that despite all the home games being sell-outs, the two seats on his left were always empty. This continued until just after Christmas when all of a sudden a guy and his young son appeared there.
After a few weeks of sitting next to this guy and his son, he decided to ask if the guy knew why the seats had been empty for half the season. The response is legendary:
"Yeah don't even go there mate. The wife bought me and my son a season ticket but decided it would be a nice idea to give us them for Christmas. I was f***in' raging!"
An alleged true story from an Arsenal season-ticket holder.
His season-ticket last year was an absolute plum seat half way up the
Highbury main stand close to the half-way line. In other words, a TV camera style view. Anyway, after the first few games of the season it became apparent that despite all the home games being sell-outs, the two seats on his left were always empty. This continued until just after Christmas when all of a sudden a guy and his young son appeared there.
After a few weeks of sitting next to this guy and his son, he decided to ask if the guy knew why the seats had been empty for half the season. The response is legendary:
"Yeah don't even go there mate. The wife bought me and my son a season ticket but decided it would be a nice idea to give us them for Christmas. I was f***in' raging!"
Uphill gardening
Alex Boswell has joined the ranks of the winter gardeners. Alex recently left JLT and is moving to US broker Lockton, a broker I know well from here in Chicago. Good luck young man.
I also hear on the grapevine that John Littig is leaving the windy city and moving to Aon in Philadelphia. The things people will do to avoid paying me the entry money!
I also hear on the grapevine that John Littig is leaving the windy city and moving to Aon in Philadelphia. The things people will do to avoid paying me the entry money!
Monday, November 20, 2006
Richard II
Breaking News 88888 Manager of week 13As Britney would say, oo-ah Dickie did it again. In week 13 Richard whacked 62 points, easily the best and went straight to the top of Serie B. It has been a marvellous first season for Richard, whose Cristiano's Allstars have not been out of the top 12 all season. Another new side Wizzi's Wonders have also acclimitised exeptionally well. Dave hit 57 last week as did Flighty Feet, who surge out into the lead of Serie A on their own after sharing it with Glasgow kiss last week.
Massive tackle scored their best weekly total since August and climb into the play-off places for the first time and Frank and Beans jump 5 places after a 47 point score. A big climber in Serie B was Paul Long and his son Christian. Brighton Blues hit 53, also their best score for 12 weeks and move into 7th. Strugglers In Tatters had a season best and move away from the bottom after scoring 52.
Other plaudits go to Roubles FC (49), Epping 'dog walking' club (46), Make that 3 chickens (44) and East Indian Summer (43).
The week's worst score? Step forward Jon and Nick, whose Glencoe Hammers are now stranded at the foot of Serie A.
All change
Breaking news 8888 Serie B week 13 scores
The pack in Serie A has been constantly changing during the past 5 weeks. NY Eagles were top, then Rose's Rovers, then Savchenko Spurs took over and now it is Cristiano's Allstars turn, after Richard's 2nd consecutive MoW prize.
In the last 5 weeks Wizzi's Wonders have hung there, so have London Irish. Brighton Blues are back in the mix but Jonny Forskins have rolled down!
Worse has happened to Ready's Hannoi Utd, Mark Simmons Sven and Janas - Bye and Munden's Thieving Chelsea Gits, who have fallen out of contention. Goonersmoan and Nut Meg mind you have both made great runs into play-off positions.
And with North of Crystal Palarse, Ping Pong Yo-Yo, Thank You 4 The Daze and even Nige's In Tatters all lying in wait, Serie B has a very exciting look to it.
The pack in Serie A has been constantly changing during the past 5 weeks. NY Eagles were top, then Rose's Rovers, then Savchenko Spurs took over and now it is Cristiano's Allstars turn, after Richard's 2nd consecutive MoW prize.
In the last 5 weeks Wizzi's Wonders have hung there, so have London Irish. Brighton Blues are back in the mix but Jonny Forskins have rolled down!
Worse has happened to Ready's Hannoi Utd, Mark Simmons Sven and Janas - Bye and Munden's Thieving Chelsea Gits, who have fallen out of contention. Goonersmoan and Nut Meg mind you have both made great runs into play-off positions.
And with North of Crystal Palarse, Ping Pong Yo-Yo, Thank You 4 The Daze and even Nige's In Tatters all lying in wait, Serie B has a very exciting look to it.
Best feet forward
Breaking news 8888 Serie A week 13 scores
Barwick and Higgs pushed their chests out in week 13 and opened up a remarkable 24-point lead over Glasgow kiss. Kirstie has been on top since August but finally shot her bolt and slips to 2nd. The AIG girls have a big lead and I wonder if anyone can catch Flighty Feet with just 7 weeks left until the end of the play-off's.
3rd and 4th remain unchanged but Epping 'dog walking' club move above The Underwriting Cop into 5th. The main talking point last week though was James Down's Massive tackle (shucks, walked straight into that one!). James hit a fine 54 points and jumped 5 places.
Out of the top 12 go Incontentia B uttocks and the other big climber in the table was Frank & Beans, who move to 15th and are within 33 points of a play-off place, better news for Dennis and Tim there.
At the bottom, Le Guen's Revolution jump above Megan & Hannah's Bears while Vote Seagulls Party and Glencoe Hammers remain 25th and 26th.
Barwick and Higgs pushed their chests out in week 13 and opened up a remarkable 24-point lead over Glasgow kiss. Kirstie has been on top since August but finally shot her bolt and slips to 2nd. The AIG girls have a big lead and I wonder if anyone can catch Flighty Feet with just 7 weeks left until the end of the play-off's.
3rd and 4th remain unchanged but Epping 'dog walking' club move above The Underwriting Cop into 5th. The main talking point last week though was James Down's Massive tackle (shucks, walked straight into that one!). James hit a fine 54 points and jumped 5 places.
Out of the top 12 go Incontentia B uttocks and the other big climber in the table was Frank & Beans, who move to 15th and are within 33 points of a play-off place, better news for Dennis and Tim there.
At the bottom, Le Guen's Revolution jump above Megan & Hannah's Bears while Vote Seagulls Party and Glencoe Hammers remain 25th and 26th.
Premiership playback
A latest look at the Premiership table, which is mysteriously upside down! Let me start with the bottom and my beloved Addicks. I hate to say this but we have that look, the look of Southampton and Leicester in previous years. When Martin O'Neill left Leicester they went into freefall and I fear we may go the same way.
The thing is Charlton have been in freefall for 2 years and Curbs left the new manager with very little to play with. Ok, he spent 11 million and I think the media have been harsh on his signings. Diawara, Faye, Reid and Carson (who is on loan) have been 4 of our best players this season and the sacking of the ex-Palarse man gets stranger and stranger you more you analyse it.
I worry about Les Reed, not because of his footballing ability - he is one of the best coaches around, and technically probably one of the best in Europe but he's never been a manager before, and why is that? Don Howe, Stewart Houston, Brian Kidd, Glenn Roeder, Graham Rix and Tony Parkes were all great coaches but they were not club managers.
Les Reed will get all my backing but his gentlemanly and calm demeanour is unfortunately not what we want. We need some passion and some tea cups being thrown around because the players look demotivated and like they couldn't give a shit. But all time we are hanging in there and have players of the quality of Darren Bent, Rommedahl, Reid, Thomas, Diawara, Young, Hasselbaink and Carson I believe we have a chance.
Onto our relegation rivals - oh that sends a shiver down my spine. Sheffield United and Watford were described by Alan Hanson as boxers who refused to go down, but eventually they will run out of steam and despite both having managers with the qualities that I want to see at Charlton, I think the players are simply not good enough (I hope). More on the Addicks plight can be found at Chicago Addick by the way.
I also hope that Newcastle, who lets face it are crap, also hang around the bottom of the table. They have some real quality in Parker and Duff, but my they have some donkeys too. West Ham to me seem to good to go down. There's a lot going on down there and the Argies and the takeover are all problems, but if Pardew is given time then they should stay up. But remember they were 'too good to go down' before.
Blackburn and Middlesbrough will both get pulled into the fray, I rate Hughes as for Southgate, he hasn't even got the basic coaching badges - it's a farce, just like its a farce that Portsmouth are allowed to stay in the division when they have one of the worst 5 grounds in the top 2 divisions - Colchester, Southend, Luton and Cardiff are the others, although both Cardiff and Colchester have plans to move.
Tottenham have slipped again and even Man City are above them, which proves what a couple of wins can do.
At the top, it looks like a 2-horse race. Liverpool are 10th, 16 points behind the leaders. That's shit isn't? How much money have they spent? Arsenal meanwhile are rebuilding, and waiver between playing total football to football like tits, especially in their palatial new home.
Meanwhile Portsmouth are having a fantastic season, Redknapp needs to be given serious plaudits for what he has done in his time back there (and before his failed move to Southampton). Bolton are up there and so are the revitalised Aston Villa, who appointed a new manager, he bought 1 player, compared to Dowie's 10 but have lost 1 game. Martin O'Neill's reputation grows and grows doesn't it?
And a word about Wigan and Reading. Wigan had a slow start and I thought the warning signs were there but they have pushed on well with little real quality in their squad. Reading also have only 1 or 2 players that as a Charlton fan I would like. However the underlying message is that they both have excellent managers and a squad of players that will bust their balls, and give everything.
Charlton was once like that.
The thing is Charlton have been in freefall for 2 years and Curbs left the new manager with very little to play with. Ok, he spent 11 million and I think the media have been harsh on his signings. Diawara, Faye, Reid and Carson (who is on loan) have been 4 of our best players this season and the sacking of the ex-Palarse man gets stranger and stranger you more you analyse it.
I worry about Les Reed, not because of his footballing ability - he is one of the best coaches around, and technically probably one of the best in Europe but he's never been a manager before, and why is that? Don Howe, Stewart Houston, Brian Kidd, Glenn Roeder, Graham Rix and Tony Parkes were all great coaches but they were not club managers.
Les Reed will get all my backing but his gentlemanly and calm demeanour is unfortunately not what we want. We need some passion and some tea cups being thrown around because the players look demotivated and like they couldn't give a shit. But all time we are hanging in there and have players of the quality of Darren Bent, Rommedahl, Reid, Thomas, Diawara, Young, Hasselbaink and Carson I believe we have a chance.
Onto our relegation rivals - oh that sends a shiver down my spine. Sheffield United and Watford were described by Alan Hanson as boxers who refused to go down, but eventually they will run out of steam and despite both having managers with the qualities that I want to see at Charlton, I think the players are simply not good enough (I hope). More on the Addicks plight can be found at Chicago Addick by the way.
I also hope that Newcastle, who lets face it are crap, also hang around the bottom of the table. They have some real quality in Parker and Duff, but my they have some donkeys too. West Ham to me seem to good to go down. There's a lot going on down there and the Argies and the takeover are all problems, but if Pardew is given time then they should stay up. But remember they were 'too good to go down' before.
Blackburn and Middlesbrough will both get pulled into the fray, I rate Hughes as for Southgate, he hasn't even got the basic coaching badges - it's a farce, just like its a farce that Portsmouth are allowed to stay in the division when they have one of the worst 5 grounds in the top 2 divisions - Colchester, Southend, Luton and Cardiff are the others, although both Cardiff and Colchester have plans to move.
Tottenham have slipped again and even Man City are above them, which proves what a couple of wins can do.
At the top, it looks like a 2-horse race. Liverpool are 10th, 16 points behind the leaders. That's shit isn't? How much money have they spent? Arsenal meanwhile are rebuilding, and waiver between playing total football to football like tits, especially in their palatial new home.
Meanwhile Portsmouth are having a fantastic season, Redknapp needs to be given serious plaudits for what he has done in his time back there (and before his failed move to Southampton). Bolton are up there and so are the revitalised Aston Villa, who appointed a new manager, he bought 1 player, compared to Dowie's 10 but have lost 1 game. Martin O'Neill's reputation grows and grows doesn't it?
And a word about Wigan and Reading. Wigan had a slow start and I thought the warning signs were there but they have pushed on well with little real quality in their squad. Reading also have only 1 or 2 players that as a Charlton fan I would like. However the underlying message is that they both have excellent managers and a squad of players that will bust their balls, and give everything.
Charlton was once like that.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Market movers
There will be some changes to our Team Challenge line-ups in the next couple of weeks following recent annoucements.
Paul Kelleher has decided to leave Willis and move to Aon Re. Sod Elliot Richardson, this is the big one! I have known PK since he was Alan Waters bag boy and he's wit and enthusiasm has always rubbed off on me. In fact full credit goes to Ready, who taught Paul everything that Waters didn't, i.e. where the market was. PK will report to fellow fantasy manager Brian Rutter at Aon Re, and of course will improve their chances of taking home the N&R Team Challenge trophy.
One of the people I have known longest in this league is Ian Kennett. I first knew Ian at London & Edinburgh, he then was at AIG and after that worked for Enron, sorry Independent. After homing his computer poker skills and doing his MBA there, he moved to Lambert Fenchurch's M&A group around 3 years ago.
However he told me that he's moving on, coincidently to Willis (to work under another old pal of mine Alastair Lester) in their M&A Group, and therefore Kennett will replace Kelleher in the Willis fantasy team.
Good luck to them both when they start their new jobs in a month or so's time.
Paul Kelleher has decided to leave Willis and move to Aon Re. Sod Elliot Richardson, this is the big one! I have known PK since he was Alan Waters bag boy and he's wit and enthusiasm has always rubbed off on me. In fact full credit goes to Ready, who taught Paul everything that Waters didn't, i.e. where the market was. PK will report to fellow fantasy manager Brian Rutter at Aon Re, and of course will improve their chances of taking home the N&R Team Challenge trophy.
One of the people I have known longest in this league is Ian Kennett. I first knew Ian at London & Edinburgh, he then was at AIG and after that worked for Enron, sorry Independent. After homing his computer poker skills and doing his MBA there, he moved to Lambert Fenchurch's M&A group around 3 years ago.
However he told me that he's moving on, coincidently to Willis (to work under another old pal of mine Alastair Lester) in their M&A Group, and therefore Kennett will replace Kelleher in the Willis fantasy team.
Good luck to them both when they start their new jobs in a month or so's time.
Monday, November 13, 2006
Dowie shocker!
My thoughts on Dowie's departure here.
I had to laugh at that idiot Simon Jordan, aka Tango Man. Is there a bigger wanker in football?
Quotes of the day:
"I don't wish anybody the sack. Gutless, faceless people take those decisions, don't they?"
And lets remember this when Palarse are relegated: "If Peter Taylor was producing the type of performances I know he is capable of, they wouldn't be saying anything like that. My focus is that I have a good manager in Peter. In the press tomorrow, you'll see I have strong support for Peter."
I had to laugh at that idiot Simon Jordan, aka Tango Man. Is there a bigger wanker in football?
Quotes of the day:
"I don't wish anybody the sack. Gutless, faceless people take those decisions, don't they?"
And lets remember this when Palarse are relegated: "If Peter Taylor was producing the type of performances I know he is capable of, they wouldn't be saying anything like that. My focus is that I have a good manager in Peter. In the press tomorrow, you'll see I have strong support for Peter."
Road to Wembley - 9-man Magpies win replay
A late penalty save by Chico Ramos inspired 9-man Maidenhead to hold on for a replay on a day of drama which lived up to the legend of the FA Cup. On an afternoon that will go down in Magpie history, the men in their changed red and white produced a performance that was nothing short of heroic to hold their opponents, two divisions above, to a draw despite Stafford enjoying a numerical advantage for most of the match.Both O'Connor and Lee were sent off but United still found an equaliser in the 53rd minute when DWANE LEE headed in from a corner. Stafford in front of a bumper crowd had taken the lead in the 13th minute when their captain WAYNE DANIEL scored an excellent solo effort.
Then late on the referee dubiously gave Stafford a penalty when the merest hint of contact from Sterling was enough for Grayson to give up his chance of a shot and tumble to the ground. With the referee signalling a foul he had no option but to award a penalty and dismiss the United captain.
Grayson then jumped up to take the spot kick but Ramos read the kick correctly diving to his left to stop the ball which was swiftly cleared to safety.
With two men spare Stafford inevitably laid siege to the Maidenhead goal, but the nine remaining Magpies took a deep breath, pushed out their chests and dug deep to withstand the onslaught.
Time and time again the men in red proved to have stout hearts and stern resolve as they committed themselves to ensure that they prolong their FA Cup run. Even when the defence was beaten Ramos was on hand to save the day, pushing away a good shot from Kevin Street.
As injury time dragged into its fourth minute Stafford again pressed forward but this time the referee decided enough was enough and blew for time to cue delirious celebrations from the Maidenhead supporters who poured onto the pitch to congratulate their heroes.
The replay will be at York Road, Maidenhead on Tuesday 21st.
Saturday, November 11, 2006
My kinda town
Something that has always made me smirk in my time here is American’s attitude to ‘British food.’ Its crap apparently and this fleeting comment of course never comes from people that have visited the UK but from people that don’t actually own a passport!
It’s pretty rich from a nation that queues up for nothing other than popcorn and McDonalds. It’s kind of rich coming from th
e home of the microwavable 1 minute dinner. And it’s kind of rich from a nation that can’t even make a decent ruby.
I was in my local supermarket the other day and was seeing what I could have for dinner and I came across these – A sausage wrapped in a chocolate chip pancake! Are you sure?
Can you imagine that? What do you do with it? Recently on the daily spoof news show The Daily Show, hilarious presenter Jon Stewart said: “America continues to push the envelope of what can technically be defined as food,” and suggested that whilst you nibble of the sausage on a stick, you can hold a stick of butter with the other hand. Yum!
It’s pretty rich from a nation that queues up for nothing other than popcorn and McDonalds. It’s kind of rich coming from th
e home of the microwavable 1 minute dinner. And it’s kind of rich from a nation that can’t even make a decent ruby.I was in my local supermarket the other day and was seeing what I could have for dinner and I came across these – A sausage wrapped in a chocolate chip pancake! Are you sure?
Can you imagine that? What do you do with it? Recently on the daily spoof news show The Daily Show, hilarious presenter Jon Stewart said: “America continues to push the envelope of what can technically be defined as food,” and suggested that whilst you nibble of the sausage on a stick, you can hold a stick of butter with the other hand. Yum!
Birds like it on top
Breaking news 8888 Serie A week 12 scoresKirstie, Karen and Catherine straddle the top of Serie A and are looking pretty hot as they look down their noses at the rabble behind them. 382 points, the best across the 2 divisions, is what both Glasgow kiss and Flighty Feet have, Catherine and Karen's week 12 score of 30 points means they break Kirstie's sole hold on the lead since week 1.
Alex's Lovejoy luvvies are just 2 points behind in 3rd, 13 points ahead of Living in Sin. The Underwriting Cop and I Still *ing Hate Chelsea stay in 5th and 6th but Rooney & Ronaldo Rockstars jump 3 places to 7th after a rocking week.
#1 Strugglers did a lot better than the Croat looked in the office this morning and gain another place and Incontentia B uttocks move back into the play-off zone, at the expense of Here we go again.
The bottom 7 are unchanged with Glencoe Hammers still bottom for the 3rd week. Make that 3 chickens halted their foul form and climb to 16th. Crown Jewells and Lamb to the slaughter both drop a couple of places.
Friday, November 10, 2006
3 becomes 1 as Ryan steps out in front
Breaking news 8888 Serie B week 12 scores
There was 3 in the bed and little Ryan said "move over." And move over NY Eagles and Rose's Rovers did as Savchenko Spurs sit atop of Serie B on their tod after another fine fantasy week. Ryan scored 37 points and opened up a 3 point lead from Cristiano's Allstars, who move up from 4th.
Barry and Dan stay stuck together in 3rd, whilst Roubles drop to 5th, despite a very good week. It's tight in those top 5 places. Jonny Forskins are upto 6th Goonersmoan move into 8th. Brighton Blues was another climber.
Thieving Chelsea gits slip out of play-off contention but behind him, both North of Crystal Palarse and 2Infinity & beyond gain ground.
The bottom 6 stay unchanged but Ball Hogs are gaining on Los Cusingos.
There was 3 in the bed and little Ryan said "move over." And move over NY Eagles and Rose's Rovers did as Savchenko Spurs sit atop of Serie B on their tod after another fine fantasy week. Ryan scored 37 points and opened up a 3 point lead from Cristiano's Allstars, who move up from 4th.
Barry and Dan stay stuck together in 3rd, whilst Roubles drop to 5th, despite a very good week. It's tight in those top 5 places. Jonny Forskins are upto 6th Goonersmoan move into 8th. Brighton Blues was another climber.
Thieving Chelsea gits slip out of play-off contention but behind him, both North of Crystal Palarse and 2Infinity & beyond gain ground.
The bottom 6 stay unchanged but Ball Hogs are gaining on Los Cusingos.
King Richard
Breaking News 88888 Manager of week 12Richard Nathan won his first ever N&R FL cash in week 12 when Cristiano's Allstars strolled to the MoW award with 43 points. It wasn't quite a stroll as John Littig's Rooney & Ronaldo Rockstars were only a point shy of Richard. In fact Ronaldo is a popular player in the N&R FL, both as a selection and a team name, even though he get's booed wherever he plays in the Prem.
There was a little gap to the next string of managers in week 12. Roubles FC and Savchenko Spurs both hit 37 whilst Lovejoy Luvvies scored 35. Frank & Beans deserve a special mention after a strong week.
Los Cusingos were the week's woosies, scoring 16.
Road to Wembley - The Magpies big day arrives
It’s crunch time for our team Maidenhead United as they make the long trip to Nationwide Conference side Stafford Rangers for their first FA Cup first round tie in 35 years.
The Magpies are in superb form going into tomorrow’s game, winning their last seven league and cup matches, including a 1-0 defeat of Merthyr Tydfil in the last round courtesy of a Dominic Sterling goal. Here is some inside knowledge on them:
Formed: 1870
Nicknames: Magpies
Stadium: York Road, which is in the middle of Maidenhead's town centre.
Capacity: 4,500
Colours: Black & White stripes, but they will be wearing their away 'Arsenal' kit Saturday.
Little known fact 1: Ex-Hammer Alan Devonshire was manager for 7 years until 2003.
Little known fact 2: They were FA Cup quarter finalists in 1875!
Little known fact 3: They have a women chairman, Una Loughrey.
The best of the action will be shown on Match of the Day and a report will appear later on here next week.
The Magpies are in superb form going into tomorrow’s game, winning their last seven league and cup matches, including a 1-0 defeat of Merthyr Tydfil in the last round courtesy of a Dominic Sterling goal. Here is some inside knowledge on them:
Formed: 1870
Nicknames: Magpies
Stadium: York Road, which is in the middle of Maidenhead's town centre.
Capacity: 4,500
Colours: Black & White stripes, but they will be wearing their away 'Arsenal' kit Saturday.
Little known fact 1: Ex-Hammer Alan Devonshire was manager for 7 years until 2003.
Little known fact 2: They were FA Cup quarter finalists in 1875!
Little known fact 3: They have a women chairman, Una Loughrey.
The best of the action will be shown on Match of the Day and a report will appear later on here next week.
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Nuts and Plums both have balls
Breaking News 88888 Manager of week 11
There were joint winners in week 11 of the Manager of the Week award. Megan and Plums can somehow split a fiver into dollars and pounds, but more importantly to them both is that it has sprung them back into contention for promotion. 2Infinity & beyond were languishing near the bottom after a good start but are on the rise again, whilst Nut Meg have hurtled into 8th. It was both managers best weekly score of the season and with only 31 points separating 1st from 16th Serie B is becoming a hugely exciting competition.
Back in Serie A #1 Strugglers hit 49 a point more than leaders Glasgow kiss, who are answering anyone who said that she couldn't keep up her early season form. Flighty Feet are still showing amazing consistency and The Underwriting cop, Massive Tackle, Rooney & Ronaldo Rockstars who deserve mentions for very good weeks. As does Cristiano's Allstars, with Richard continuing to hang in there at the top of Serie B.
Finally Dewbs' East Indian Summer and my very own North of Crystal Palarse both had fine weeks scoring 42 points each.
There were joint winners in week 11 of the Manager of the Week award. Megan and Plums can somehow split a fiver into dollars and pounds, but more importantly to them both is that it has sprung them back into contention for promotion. 2Infinity & beyond were languishing near the bottom after a good start but are on the rise again, whilst Nut Meg have hurtled into 8th. It was both managers best weekly score of the season and with only 31 points separating 1st from 16th Serie B is becoming a hugely exciting competition.
Back in Serie A #1 Strugglers hit 49 a point more than leaders Glasgow kiss, who are answering anyone who said that she couldn't keep up her early season form. Flighty Feet are still showing amazing consistency and The Underwriting cop, Massive Tackle, Rooney & Ronaldo Rockstars who deserve mentions for very good weeks. As does Cristiano's Allstars, with Richard continuing to hang in there at the top of Serie B.
Finally Dewbs' East Indian Summer and my very own North of Crystal Palarse both had fine weeks scoring 42 points each.
Threesome
Breaking news 8888 Serie B week 11 scores
An exciting three-way tie has developed at the top of Serie B, with last week's leader Rose's Rovers being joined by previous long-term leader NY Eagles and Savchenko Spurs, who are continuing their wonderful start to the season. All three teams are on 337 points, 9 ahead of both Roubles FC and Cristiano's Allstars with London Irish just a point behind them. It's incredibly close with Wizzi's Wonders and Nut Meg, who climbed a fantastic 7 places all close behind.
Jonny Forskins, Hannoi Utd and Goonersmoan all slip back but remain in the top 12. Back in the play-off zone though is Brighton Blues after they hit their best score since week 2.
Ball Hogs remain bottom, Michael is travelling in Europe on holiday and will hopefully come back with his batteries re-charged because he's now 22 points adrift of Los Cusingo's and almost 1oo away from making it into The Superleague.
An exciting three-way tie has developed at the top of Serie B, with last week's leader Rose's Rovers being joined by previous long-term leader NY Eagles and Savchenko Spurs, who are continuing their wonderful start to the season. All three teams are on 337 points, 9 ahead of both Roubles FC and Cristiano's Allstars with London Irish just a point behind them. It's incredibly close with Wizzi's Wonders and Nut Meg, who climbed a fantastic 7 places all close behind.
Jonny Forskins, Hannoi Utd and Goonersmoan all slip back but remain in the top 12. Back in the play-off zone though is Brighton Blues after they hit their best score since week 2.
Ball Hogs remain bottom, Michael is travelling in Europe on holiday and will hopefully come back with his batteries re-charged because he's now 22 points adrift of Los Cusingo's and almost 1oo away from making it into The Superleague.
Feet up to 2nd but watch the Croat
Breaking news 8888 Serie A week 11 scores
Glasgow kiss remain top and in fact increased their lead to 3 points but it is Flighty Feet who now head the charge to displace them. So we have three ladies heading the table followed by Lovejoy luvvies and Living in Sin, with The Underwriting cop now up to 5th.
A bit further down in the play-off zone is Davor, whose #1 Strugglers jump into 11th following their best weekly score since August and their highest position since early September. Some recent transfers should see the Croat push on.
Davor's gain is Incontentia B uttocks loss at Ian drops to 13th, 6 points shy of the promotion zone.
The bottom 7 remain unchanged with those Glencoe Hammers boys Knouse and Davies still bottom.
Glasgow kiss remain top and in fact increased their lead to 3 points but it is Flighty Feet who now head the charge to displace them. So we have three ladies heading the table followed by Lovejoy luvvies and Living in Sin, with The Underwriting cop now up to 5th.
A bit further down in the play-off zone is Davor, whose #1 Strugglers jump into 11th following their best weekly score since August and their highest position since early September. Some recent transfers should see the Croat push on.
Davor's gain is Incontentia B uttocks loss at Ian drops to 13th, 6 points shy of the promotion zone.
The bottom 7 remain unchanged with those Glencoe Hammers boys Knouse and Davies still bottom.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Money Owed.... still
I am still owed money - tiring isn't it? Please if you live in the UK, pass the money to Ready or send to my parents at:
8 Paddock Gardens
Wannock
Polegate
E Sussex BN26 5PW
Or even better stick it in my bank account. Details here:
Simon J Newport
NatWest
Sort Code 56 00 18
A/C no. 08164193
If you are here in the US and owe me money, please just send it to me or give me the cash ($47) next time I see you. Thanks.
8 Paddock Gardens
Wannock
Polegate
E Sussex BN26 5PW
Or even better stick it in my bank account. Details here:
Simon J Newport
NatWest
Sort Code 56 00 18
A/C no. 08164193
If you are here in the US and owe me money, please just send it to me or give me the cash ($47) next time I see you. Thanks.
How the Play-Offs work
Just a reminder what will happen after week 20.
The top 12 teams in Serie A and B will qualify for the N&R Superleague. They will each take with them their existing points total into the new league and these 24 teams will battle it out until the end of the season resulting in a N&R Superleague Champion.
The remaining managers who don't make the cut will compete in the N&R Plate. They will also keeps their points tally and there will still be plenty of prize money up for grabs in this league too, although not as much as there will be in the Superleague.
The prizes will be announced at that point, including a mid-season prize for the winners of both Serie A and B.
The top 12 teams in Serie A and B will qualify for the N&R Superleague. They will each take with them their existing points total into the new league and these 24 teams will battle it out until the end of the season resulting in a N&R Superleague Champion.
The remaining managers who don't make the cut will compete in the N&R Plate. They will also keeps their points tally and there will still be plenty of prize money up for grabs in this league too, although not as much as there will be in the Superleague.
The prizes will be announced at that point, including a mid-season prize for the winners of both Serie A and B.
What are the chances - Serie B
Now onto Serie B.
The Yankee Palarse fan Barry Paull has led the table from the off but his lead has been eroded gradually and now he's in a rather exciting 3-way tie. Barry is one of the best fantasy performers there is and will be among the favourites for this years title. Ryan Saveall has had a fantastic start to his first season, even though he thinks Savchenko plays for Spurs. A couple of early transfers have helped and a play-off place beckons. The third manager currently sharing top spot in the table is Danny Rose. Dan was bottom after week 1 but kept faith with his team and didn't make any panic buys. Bottom to top in 10 weeks, his side relies heavily on Arsenal excelling.
Chelsea boy John McGowan is a surprise challenger. Top 12 all season his team has a nice spread of talent. New boy and old mate Richard Nathan is doing very well. Frankly I thought working with John Tiernan he would nothing about football, but his early form has been a surprise. A solid starting XI, if only one of his forwards can score more goals, then he will be even higher up the table. Hilary Ryan, 4th last season, had a disastrous start (her words) but changed things quickly and has been in fine form of late.
David Wisdom is another blast from my past. Wizzo has put together a very strong rear-guard and is reaping the benefits and has yet to drop out of the play-off places. Megan McLeod has had a topsy-turvy season but bounced back into contention in week 11. All this without making a transfer. Another new boy Shay Reddy is in play-off contention - half of the top 12 in Serie B are new managers to the competition. His 3 strikers will all get him goals, which should help him through to the Superleague.
Ready, slowly but steady in 10th. Knows every fantasy trick in the book but may worry about his current strike force. This league has had far more changes in positions than Serie A and Brian Rutter is another manager, who started terribly but has made his way into the top 12 without changing a player. Heavily reliant on the Arse.
Paul Long, Mutley to his pals, has made more transfers than anyone of the 51 managers. Paul who with his son Christian have moved many players in and out to find the right blend are still only 1 point within the play-off zone and future transfers opportunities are limited.
Rob Munden, the joker in the pack, has been top 12 all season but unlike some of those around him, still has all 12 transfers in tact. 3rd last year I would expect Rob to qualify for the next stage. The current champ Soozie Syrett has struggled after her wonderful fantasy year. Bottom in week 4, but since then some transfers have seen an improvement. Another previous winner and I would have thought a sound bet for the top 12, Barry Plummer has been misfiring (probably blanks) all season. Needs to find that 'Big Plums' spark if he's not to get cut.
Wenners has faltered recently but is more than capable of making play-offs. Serious fantasy player, who is good in the transfer market. An interesting choice for goalkeeper and the only manager who has in his team one of the Premierships best young strikers!
Mark Simmons has also fallen back these last 2 weeks. However transfers are lodged and he is another bloke that I would expect to make the top 12. Herr Oakley. Al is actually doing alright.... for Al that is. A perennial struggler, only 23 points adrift of the play-off's, almost worth having a beer to celebrate? What's that? Oh, you've been drinking all day. Oh.
Nobby needs to do something this year. A few top 10 finishes in 11 years just doesn't cut the Colemans and I had a crap start too. Nevertheless I've made some transfers, have a young looking team and have already improved my position. Be afraid, be very afraid.
Huw Thomas needs a bit more coaching from Ready, well more so Ryan. A lot of Scousers in his team, Huw needs to start looking upwards and not down. Nigel Tatlock had a bad season last and can't seem to shake the hangover. 5 transfers don't seem to be helping yet either. Chris Waterman is proving to us that last season's 6th place finish was a fluke. Changes need to be made or it will be a long season for him.
Colin Panzetta openly admitted that he entered the league because of my fine wit not because he knew anything about football. Lets see, 10 weeks gone. I'm witty - yes. Panzo's crap at fantasy league - also yes. I love it when a plan comes together!
Its a surprise to see old fantasy pro Martin Singleton near the bottom, I really did think that more of the new managers would struggle but there is only 3 in the bottom 13. Martin has made some transfers but it does look like The Plate for the Preston lad. And then there is Michael Stout, Burnley bred, Swiss milked and Chicago winded. That doesn't make any sense at all I know, but hey-ho. Michael needs to make some changes, simple as that to avoid a season of struggle but that fact that Danny and Rutts and Soozie have previously found the escape route should give him some encouragement.
The Yankee Palarse fan Barry Paull has led the table from the off but his lead has been eroded gradually and now he's in a rather exciting 3-way tie. Barry is one of the best fantasy performers there is and will be among the favourites for this years title. Ryan Saveall has had a fantastic start to his first season, even though he thinks Savchenko plays for Spurs. A couple of early transfers have helped and a play-off place beckons. The third manager currently sharing top spot in the table is Danny Rose. Dan was bottom after week 1 but kept faith with his team and didn't make any panic buys. Bottom to top in 10 weeks, his side relies heavily on Arsenal excelling.
Chelsea boy John McGowan is a surprise challenger. Top 12 all season his team has a nice spread of talent. New boy and old mate Richard Nathan is doing very well. Frankly I thought working with John Tiernan he would nothing about football, but his early form has been a surprise. A solid starting XI, if only one of his forwards can score more goals, then he will be even higher up the table. Hilary Ryan, 4th last season, had a disastrous start (her words) but changed things quickly and has been in fine form of late.
David Wisdom is another blast from my past. Wizzo has put together a very strong rear-guard and is reaping the benefits and has yet to drop out of the play-off places. Megan McLeod has had a topsy-turvy season but bounced back into contention in week 11. All this without making a transfer. Another new boy Shay Reddy is in play-off contention - half of the top 12 in Serie B are new managers to the competition. His 3 strikers will all get him goals, which should help him through to the Superleague.
Ready, slowly but steady in 10th. Knows every fantasy trick in the book but may worry about his current strike force. This league has had far more changes in positions than Serie A and Brian Rutter is another manager, who started terribly but has made his way into the top 12 without changing a player. Heavily reliant on the Arse.
Paul Long, Mutley to his pals, has made more transfers than anyone of the 51 managers. Paul who with his son Christian have moved many players in and out to find the right blend are still only 1 point within the play-off zone and future transfers opportunities are limited.
Rob Munden, the joker in the pack, has been top 12 all season but unlike some of those around him, still has all 12 transfers in tact. 3rd last year I would expect Rob to qualify for the next stage. The current champ Soozie Syrett has struggled after her wonderful fantasy year. Bottom in week 4, but since then some transfers have seen an improvement. Another previous winner and I would have thought a sound bet for the top 12, Barry Plummer has been misfiring (probably blanks) all season. Needs to find that 'Big Plums' spark if he's not to get cut.
Wenners has faltered recently but is more than capable of making play-offs. Serious fantasy player, who is good in the transfer market. An interesting choice for goalkeeper and the only manager who has in his team one of the Premierships best young strikers!
Mark Simmons has also fallen back these last 2 weeks. However transfers are lodged and he is another bloke that I would expect to make the top 12. Herr Oakley. Al is actually doing alright.... for Al that is. A perennial struggler, only 23 points adrift of the play-off's, almost worth having a beer to celebrate? What's that? Oh, you've been drinking all day. Oh.
Nobby needs to do something this year. A few top 10 finishes in 11 years just doesn't cut the Colemans and I had a crap start too. Nevertheless I've made some transfers, have a young looking team and have already improved my position. Be afraid, be very afraid.
Huw Thomas needs a bit more coaching from Ready, well more so Ryan. A lot of Scousers in his team, Huw needs to start looking upwards and not down. Nigel Tatlock had a bad season last and can't seem to shake the hangover. 5 transfers don't seem to be helping yet either. Chris Waterman is proving to us that last season's 6th place finish was a fluke. Changes need to be made or it will be a long season for him.
Colin Panzetta openly admitted that he entered the league because of my fine wit not because he knew anything about football. Lets see, 10 weeks gone. I'm witty - yes. Panzo's crap at fantasy league - also yes. I love it when a plan comes together!
Its a surprise to see old fantasy pro Martin Singleton near the bottom, I really did think that more of the new managers would struggle but there is only 3 in the bottom 13. Martin has made some transfers but it does look like The Plate for the Preston lad. And then there is Michael Stout, Burnley bred, Swiss milked and Chicago winded. That doesn't make any sense at all I know, but hey-ho. Michael needs to make some changes, simple as that to avoid a season of struggle but that fact that Danny and Rutts and Soozie have previously found the escape route should give him some encouragement.
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