14 weeks have passed and time we reckon for the new Team Challenge competition to be rolled out.
10 sides this season as follows: Aon Re, AIG, Layton Blackham, Willis, Lloyds, Ace, RSA, Allianz, Aon US and Aspen.
It is RSA who lead the way with a member in Mexico City and the City, an interesting combo. 2nd spot are Willis, who contain a couple of fac r/i beauties and a small bloke from the M&A group. 3rd are fantasy stalwarts AIG (sponsored by the Fed) and containing 7 members, which is one more than in 4th place Aon Re. They include the league leader Neil Reynolds and possibly the grumpiest man in insurance, Brian Rutter (just kidding mate).
5th after 14 weeks are our Chicago Allianz boys Michael and Steve. In 6th is Ready's Layton Blackham, now missing sadly Huw. Next in 7th is Ace with Pamela and the duo Tom & Wayne.
Down in 8th is the motlry crew of the fantasy subscription market that is Lloyds. Tatlock will soon join Cryer, Rose, Panzetta and wait for it Nathan (phwarr, phwarr, phwarr....). 9th and not least is Aspen with James in the states and Wizz and Plumms in London and least and last is Aon's effort from the USA. Tim and his buddy Frank plus John in Philly.
No BMS, last years champions as both Danny and Wenners have left.
The table will appear with the email showing week 14's scores.
Monday, November 24, 2008
N&R Team Challenge Hall of Fame
Just in case you were wondering.... Previous winners:
Team Challenge Winners
2007/08 BMS - Wenman, Reddy
2006/07 Layton Blackham - Read, Saveall, Thomas
2005/06 AIG - Waterman, France, Dewberry, Barwick, Higgs, Ryan.
2004/05 Marsh - Simmons, Doyle
2003/04 Marsh - Simmons, Doyle
2002/03 Allianz - Jenkins, Day
2001/02 Avon - Godfrey, Rose
2000/01 HSBC - Waters, Murrell, Ready
Team Challenge Winners
2007/08 BMS - Wenman, Reddy
2006/07 Layton Blackham - Read, Saveall, Thomas
2005/06 AIG - Waterman, France, Dewberry, Barwick, Higgs, Ryan.
2004/05 Marsh - Simmons, Doyle
2003/04 Marsh - Simmons, Doyle
2002/03 Allianz - Jenkins, Day
2001/02 Avon - Godfrey, Rose
2000/01 HSBC - Waters, Murrell, Ready
Mexico wave
Breaking News 88888 Week 14 scoresThe man from Mek-e-ko has done it again, and that is 3 top weekly scores out of the last 7. Boys on tour already lead the season's best weekly total and now they stride dep into the top 3 best overall score and lead by 35 points The Kerryman group.
There is a perhaps a new young star within the N&R fantasy world and his name is Ben Guarino. Ben took over the reigns from Ian France at Keep the faith with Francey moving upstairs and the turnaround has been unbelievable. In real terms Ben has moved the team up 32 places in the overall league table, but in the East India group they now sit 3rd.
Another team on the up is Loads of Roubles, John hit 54 in week 14, two more than the in form Bollocks to insurance. Who are you calling Big Nose is another team on a roll, 51 for Ian. Guinness and eggs and Panzos projectiles both notched a half century.
Glasgow kiss remained in the top 2 overall with 49, a point more than In Tatters, 6th overall and Student Ninjas, 4th. The lusty Sheron's ready to fac are setting this place alight. Sarah scored 46 and Towels on the bench hit 44 with Gooner win league next with 43.
Other shouts go out to Philly Feet 2k8, Torres Rosso, Dynamo Kebab and Shinawatras Dream.
The worst week 14 score belonged to somewhat suprisingly Goonersmoan and 2Infinity & beyond with 11 each.
For those interested - a view on Alan Pardew
Not written by me, but an excellent view on Alan Pardew's reign as Charlton manager, ending after 23 months on Saturday night.
“I will be doing everything in my power to inspire what we’ve got here. I’ve always been able to operate well without big money. I am very focused, my philosophy is very complicated with what I do and I need people who are good enough to be able to go along with that. It’s going to be about fighting, digging in, and winning games.” - Alan Pardew, Dec 2006.
Richard Murray and his board of directors took a huge sigh of relief. A disastrous period of uncertainty had seen the reliable, well-drilled Charlton ship start to veer off course. Alan Pardew would emerge as the right appointment at the right time to lead that ship back into smoother waters. The much-heralded returning hero, the man Fergie was tipping to go on to great things, and seen by the Addickted and the wider football world as a managerial coup for little old Charlton.
If relegation from the Premiership was eventually to befall upon us, there was strong belief that we had the right man to stabilise our club and help us rebuild it correctly. Even come back stronger. None of those directors, or the 20,000 plus who continue to painfully file through The Valley turnstiles could have foreseen the mess that was to follow.
Relegation came and went. While Tottenham hammered the final nail into our Premiership coffin, there was no anger at The Valley. The supporters stood defiant as one, and proudly sang at noise levels that have not been repeated since. Pardew would rebuild. Of course it was accepted that high earners and better players would leave, but there was equal belief that so would under-performers and inconsistency that had let the club down. Pardew, with his solid track record, would lead us back as a leaner, hungrier side, playing organised, offensive high-tempo football.
Funds were provided, decent funds for a relegated side. Big money was spent on players such as Luke Varney, Zheng Zhi, Izale McLeod and Paddy McCarthy. Exciting young foreign imports such as Racon, Semedo and Moutuouakil we brought it to complete our high-tempo, quality approach. Punts were taken on the likes of Dickson and Sinclair, non-league rough diamonds simply in need of a good polish and a rub of Pardew magic. He was going to become the Championship Wenger, carving out an admired team that would blitz the division with the quality offensive approach Reading did in recent years.
Our huge squad and top-two budget guided us to second in the table by November, but performances were unconvincing. Promise had been shown, but the side had failed to gel, prompting frequent changes to the starting eleven. We accepted it was a new side, it would take time to reach its peak as individuals and team shape became fully acquainted. We would be a side that will grow stronger and dominant in the second half of the season as we become more organised.
In reality, the opposite occurred. Poor performances led to panic. Panic led to more team changes and questionable further arrivals, permanently or on short-term loans. The more changes made, the more erratic performances become. With our top-two budget, we wimpered into a pitiful eleventh place as the second half of the season fell apart. We ended the season not having a clue who our best formation, tactics or individuals were.
Pardew’s ego was hugely dented we were told. The mistakes would make him a stronger, better manager. Yet everywhere we turned the same mistakes were repeated. Players were chopped and changed, more non-league gambles were brought in to no effect, and questionable loan signings continued to arrive in their droves.
We fell into the bottom three of the Championship, embarrassed by a Barnsley side lacking quality but huge in endeavour and determination. The decision should have arrived then but a stay of execution was granted, though the lack of public support from the top club showed the obvious split at board level; his job was being maintained on a thin thread.
After soul-searching, changing training, tactics, and once again individuals, the slide could not be arrested and we went on to concede ten goals in the next three games. The end of Pardew’s reign shows a desperate side who won just nine of their last forty one games, five of their last twenty eight. A side that did not win two games in a row for 50 weeks and counting.
So where did Pardew go wrong ?
Lets state now that it is never easy for any manager that has to sell his best players. But Pardew was given more than adequate time and funds to get things right. Thirty five players arrived at The Valley in his time, some have left already while few have shined. More worryingly, virtually none have improved in their time here.
The over-riding feeling for me is that at no stage did he get to grips with what the Championship is about. Success in this league is based on organisation, commitment and endeavour; resolute in defence, denying space and taking chances when they occur. Pardew appeared to have too much belief in his own ability, that he could carve out a young Premiership style side who would go straight to level three before they have learnt and mastered levels one and two. When this failed, he appeared bereft of ideas to correct the situation, and failed to learn from things that went wrong. Virtually all the gambles and changes he made spectacularly failed to come off.
Pardew did not become a bad manager overnight, and is likely to go on and be a success elsewhere. But there is no hiding the fact he got things stunningly wrong here, and a change was vital for all parties. As someone calling for his dismissal for the past few weeks, the end comes with no sense of relief or satisfaction. Just pure sadness at how far we have fallen so quickly, and how disorganised as a club we currently appear.
Where now for Charlton is a debate for tomorrow. For now, the sad legacy of Pardew’s reign and our decline is that his dismissal won’t even make the back page of the Sunday papers.
“I will be doing everything in my power to inspire what we’ve got here. I’ve always been able to operate well without big money. I am very focused, my philosophy is very complicated with what I do and I need people who are good enough to be able to go along with that. It’s going to be about fighting, digging in, and winning games.” - Alan Pardew, Dec 2006.
Richard Murray and his board of directors took a huge sigh of relief. A disastrous period of uncertainty had seen the reliable, well-drilled Charlton ship start to veer off course. Alan Pardew would emerge as the right appointment at the right time to lead that ship back into smoother waters. The much-heralded returning hero, the man Fergie was tipping to go on to great things, and seen by the Addickted and the wider football world as a managerial coup for little old Charlton.
If relegation from the Premiership was eventually to befall upon us, there was strong belief that we had the right man to stabilise our club and help us rebuild it correctly. Even come back stronger. None of those directors, or the 20,000 plus who continue to painfully file through The Valley turnstiles could have foreseen the mess that was to follow.
Relegation came and went. While Tottenham hammered the final nail into our Premiership coffin, there was no anger at The Valley. The supporters stood defiant as one, and proudly sang at noise levels that have not been repeated since. Pardew would rebuild. Of course it was accepted that high earners and better players would leave, but there was equal belief that so would under-performers and inconsistency that had let the club down. Pardew, with his solid track record, would lead us back as a leaner, hungrier side, playing organised, offensive high-tempo football.
Funds were provided, decent funds for a relegated side. Big money was spent on players such as Luke Varney, Zheng Zhi, Izale McLeod and Paddy McCarthy. Exciting young foreign imports such as Racon, Semedo and Moutuouakil we brought it to complete our high-tempo, quality approach. Punts were taken on the likes of Dickson and Sinclair, non-league rough diamonds simply in need of a good polish and a rub of Pardew magic. He was going to become the Championship Wenger, carving out an admired team that would blitz the division with the quality offensive approach Reading did in recent years.
Our huge squad and top-two budget guided us to second in the table by November, but performances were unconvincing. Promise had been shown, but the side had failed to gel, prompting frequent changes to the starting eleven. We accepted it was a new side, it would take time to reach its peak as individuals and team shape became fully acquainted. We would be a side that will grow stronger and dominant in the second half of the season as we become more organised.
In reality, the opposite occurred. Poor performances led to panic. Panic led to more team changes and questionable further arrivals, permanently or on short-term loans. The more changes made, the more erratic performances become. With our top-two budget, we wimpered into a pitiful eleventh place as the second half of the season fell apart. We ended the season not having a clue who our best formation, tactics or individuals were.
Pardew’s ego was hugely dented we were told. The mistakes would make him a stronger, better manager. Yet everywhere we turned the same mistakes were repeated. Players were chopped and changed, more non-league gambles were brought in to no effect, and questionable loan signings continued to arrive in their droves.
We fell into the bottom three of the Championship, embarrassed by a Barnsley side lacking quality but huge in endeavour and determination. The decision should have arrived then but a stay of execution was granted, though the lack of public support from the top club showed the obvious split at board level; his job was being maintained on a thin thread.
After soul-searching, changing training, tactics, and once again individuals, the slide could not be arrested and we went on to concede ten goals in the next three games. The end of Pardew’s reign shows a desperate side who won just nine of their last forty one games, five of their last twenty eight. A side that did not win two games in a row for 50 weeks and counting.
So where did Pardew go wrong ?
Lets state now that it is never easy for any manager that has to sell his best players. But Pardew was given more than adequate time and funds to get things right. Thirty five players arrived at The Valley in his time, some have left already while few have shined. More worryingly, virtually none have improved in their time here.
The over-riding feeling for me is that at no stage did he get to grips with what the Championship is about. Success in this league is based on organisation, commitment and endeavour; resolute in defence, denying space and taking chances when they occur. Pardew appeared to have too much belief in his own ability, that he could carve out a young Premiership style side who would go straight to level three before they have learnt and mastered levels one and two. When this failed, he appeared bereft of ideas to correct the situation, and failed to learn from things that went wrong. Virtually all the gambles and changes he made spectacularly failed to come off.
Pardew did not become a bad manager overnight, and is likely to go on and be a success elsewhere. But there is no hiding the fact he got things stunningly wrong here, and a change was vital for all parties. As someone calling for his dismissal for the past few weeks, the end comes with no sense of relief or satisfaction. Just pure sadness at how far we have fallen so quickly, and how disorganised as a club we currently appear.
Where now for Charlton is a debate for tomorrow. For now, the sad legacy of Pardew’s reign and our decline is that his dismissal won’t even make the back page of the Sunday papers.
Week 14 reminder
Arsenal lost at home to Villa, only their 4th loss since being at the Emirates I believe. Agbonlahor capping a fine display with the 2nd. Liverpool won 2-0 at The Reebok. Kuyt again and Gerrard getting the goals. Foolham pissed on Redknapp's parade at the Cottage winning 2-1. Davies and Johnson with a late reply from on loan Frazier Campbell.
Chelski hammered the Baggies. 3-0 at The Hawthorns. Bosingwa znd two more from Nicolas Anelka. Zola and Adams, two players who didn't have a lot in commons shared the spoils as managers of West Ham and Pompey at The Bolwyn. Newcastle and Wigan played out an entertaining 2-2 at St James. Titus bloody Bramble getting a late equaliser after Martins had looked to have won the game 3 minutes before for the Latics.
Sunderland beat Rovers at Ewood as Ince continues to struggle. Man U thrashed Stoke 5-0, Ronaldo (2), Carrick, Berbatov and a cracker from young Welbeck all scoring.
On the Sunday Everton and Boro shared the spoils 1-1 as did Hull and Man City in a fine game.
Chelski hammered the Baggies. 3-0 at The Hawthorns. Bosingwa znd two more from Nicolas Anelka. Zola and Adams, two players who didn't have a lot in commons shared the spoils as managers of West Ham and Pompey at The Bolwyn. Newcastle and Wigan played out an entertaining 2-2 at St James. Titus bloody Bramble getting a late equaliser after Martins had looked to have won the game 3 minutes before for the Latics.
Sunderland beat Rovers at Ewood as Ince continues to struggle. Man U thrashed Stoke 5-0, Ronaldo (2), Carrick, Berbatov and a cracker from young Welbeck all scoring.
On the Sunday Everton and Boro shared the spoils 1-1 as did Hull and Man City in a fine game.
Sheep, sheep
Group Stage - 1. The LambGooner win league still control this group of old fac'ers. Tallywacker's Bukkake Marathon is 2nd tied with Roubles with Goonersmoan just behind. This will be a tough and well fought group.
Watch Lamb to the slaughter in 5th and Real Ale Madrid in 6th. By the way in an award for biggest disappointment at week 14, it would be won by Ben 's Dangleberry Rovers, if there was such an award!
Ruby's on Baz?
Group Stage - 2. East IndiaStudent Ninjas have carried their good form into the group stages. 39 ahead of Torres Rosso in the 'AIG' group. Keep the faith look very likely to challenge those top two under the new guidance of Ben Guarino. Bent it like Bentley are in the mix but then it drops away to Californication and Pure Irish.
Barry Paull to buy the end of season curries? Paris Eagles though have been busy recently in the transfer market so watch this space.
Tight and all out top
Group Stage - 3. New MoonStill tight in this merry band and Soozie is way out top with Pot Noodle 2nd. Gunners Bandits move up to 3rd ahead of Hannoi Utd. But just 64 points lie between Soozie and Lee's Sweaty Palms in 7th. Richard's Gerradinho have some work to do mind.
Go Godders Go
Group Stage - 4. The ShipBollocks to insurance had a great week and lead the group by 41 points ahead of Preston Pie Munchers. Towels on the beach closed the gap to 3 on Martin and Leigh's Shinawatras Dream aren't far behind. Who are you calling big nose are on the up and just like the Gunners, Arsene Knows are on the way down.
In 7th and 8th Cyril Smith and Champions change places.
Glasgow streets ahead
Group Stage - 5. Cheshire CheeseGlasgow kiss is a worthy leader of Group 5. Another excellent score in week 14 keeps her well out in front of the chasing pack. Sheron's ready to fac is her nearest rival with Dynamo Kebab and St Mirnoff in chase.
Ginger Rapids dropped 3 places and Elland (Glad) back in weeks they would like to forget. Bingo FC remains in last.
Gardening paying off
Group Stage - 6. The ElephantAll change in this very tight group. On the face of it, it has all the ingredients for an exciting contest. In Tatters, who is currently tending his garden before moving into Lloyds took top spot from Beaver Ruin. 2Infinity & beyond drops to 3rd. Panzo moves into 4th whilst Mono slips to 5th.
Team Chong, whose manager Danny Matthews is tendering what appears to be Kew Gardens, is up a place to 6th with Team GB at 7th with poor old Curbishley is s**t last.
Boys open lead
Group Stage - 7. The KerrymanBoys on tour stretched their lead at the top by 10 further points ahead of Guinness & eggs. Nancy Lollygaggers moved into 3rd just ahead of Brighton Blues. Philly 2k8 closed the gap at the bottom.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Road to Wembley - Going back to our Roots
Sarfend United needed two late goals to see off the challenge of our Road to Wembley boys non-league Telford in their FA Cup first-round replay.
Simon Francis marked his 100th appearance for the Shrimpers by prodding home a corner from close range after 74 minutes and then ex-Addick James Walker made sure of victory with a curling shot from 25 yards.
Unfortunately for Telford they missed a hatful of chances prior to the Sarfend goals. Great chances were fluffed by Andy Brown and Jon Adams and home keeper Steve Mildenhall make two magnificent saves.
AFC Telford: Young, Vaughan, Cowan, Whitehead, Meredith, Naylor (Jagielka 45), Adams, Rodgers, Blakeman (Fearns 77), Moore, Brown.
Subs Not Used: Taylor, Khela, Bermiglio.
Attendance: 4,415
So Sarfend United become our new team to follow on the Road to Wembley and take on Luton at Roots Hall on November 29th.
Simon Francis marked his 100th appearance for the Shrimpers by prodding home a corner from close range after 74 minutes and then ex-Addick James Walker made sure of victory with a curling shot from 25 yards.
Unfortunately for Telford they missed a hatful of chances prior to the Sarfend goals. Great chances were fluffed by Andy Brown and Jon Adams and home keeper Steve Mildenhall make two magnificent saves.
AFC Telford: Young, Vaughan, Cowan, Whitehead, Meredith, Naylor (Jagielka 45), Adams, Rodgers, Blakeman (Fearns 77), Moore, Brown.
Subs Not Used: Taylor, Khela, Bermiglio.
Attendance: 4,415
So Sarfend United become our new team to follow on the Road to Wembley and take on Luton at Roots Hall on November 29th.
Photograph of the week
Jeez. What an ugly race they are, eh? Thank god for the Falklands is all I can say, otherwise we might have all ended up looking like that!
Welcome to the Group Stages
A new format for us this year. After 12 weeks Nobby & Ready have stuck you all into groups, seven of them as follows:
Group 1 - The Lamb
Group 2 - East India
Group 3 - New Moon
Group 4 - The Slip
Group 5 - Cheshire Cheese
Group 6 - The Elephant
Group 7 - The Kerryman
We have tried to bring together old and current work rivalries or families or sexual tensions, hopefully it should be fun and keep the interest peaked, which we know is difficult when we have 55 teams.
The Group Stages will be commented on each week on the blog as well as the highest scores, so the Manager of the Week will still be the manager with the highest score (coloured in bright pink).
It will work like world cup qualifying with the best teams qualifying for the finals later in the season and the also rans playing for some pride. The best prize monies will of course be reserved for the finals and the ultimate top teams but there will be prizes for the groups as well. All to be announced in due course.
The top 7 overall sides will be colour-coded as usual as will the 54th team (penultimate prize) but try to forget about the big league for the next few months and concentrate on qualifying from your group - good luck all.
Group 1 - The Lamb
Group 2 - East India
Group 3 - New Moon
Group 4 - The Slip
Group 5 - Cheshire Cheese
Group 6 - The Elephant
Group 7 - The Kerryman
We have tried to bring together old and current work rivalries or families or sexual tensions, hopefully it should be fun and keep the interest peaked, which we know is difficult when we have 55 teams.
The Group Stages will be commented on each week on the blog as well as the highest scores, so the Manager of the Week will still be the manager with the highest score (coloured in bright pink).
It will work like world cup qualifying with the best teams qualifying for the finals later in the season and the also rans playing for some pride. The best prize monies will of course be reserved for the finals and the ultimate top teams but there will be prizes for the groups as well. All to be announced in due course.
The top 7 overall sides will be colour-coded as usual as will the 54th team (penultimate prize) but try to forget about the big league for the next few months and concentrate on qualifying from your group - good luck all.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Learning curve
Group Stages - 1. The LambThe Aon fac boys. What a dasterly collection eh? Big Bri and the boys. Led of course at the top of the table with the N&R FL's best score Neil Reynolds, the new boy who clearly doesn't know the rules and obviously spends too much time on his fantasy football and not in The Lamb, er sorry the market.
Gooner win league are a whole 67 points clear of 2nd placed current champ Tallywacker's Bukkake Marathon. Goonersmoan are next, followed by Loads of Roubles in 4th and a point further back Lamb to the slaughter. It's tight though Real Ale Madrid are in 6th, Lovejoy in 7th and last but not least Dangleberry Rovers.
The Government bailout group
Group Stages - 2. East IndiaThis group is sponsored by the American taxpayer and contains 7 employees from AIG and one escapee. I love these boys and girls and they have been fine supporters of the N&R FL since inception. However at no point has anyone of them ever won the N&R title, but that could change this year with strong challenges from Chris Wright and Aaron Barden.
Student Ninjas lead the table with Torres Rosso next. Bent it like Bentley are 3rd just ahead of the revitalised Keep the faith, which has absolutely nothing to do with Ian France.
Chris Waterman who just began his 4th new job in 5 years at AIG, each time collecting another week's holiday as part of his package is next in line with Californication. The best looking out of the bunch, Hilary and Pure Irish is just behind but well placed. Then is the odd man out. Alex Boswell who found the escape route and is now at Lockton. His Megan & Hannah bears are in 7th and surprisingly Paris Eagles are bottom with the entire league 2nd worst score.
Fireworks
Group Stages - 3. New MoonThe group of death. The most tightly packed group in terms of points out of the seven. Add some family, love interests and long time friendships into the mix and this group could give off some serious fireworks.
Top of it at week 13 is Soozie's Succulent Sausages. Pot Noodle is 2nd and Huw is having a fine season but doubts exist as to whether he can keep it up after he gets to Oz. Nobby's Bermuda shorts are 3rd 6 points ahead of partner Ready and his Hannoi Utd.
In 5th is Soozie's brother Jason and Gunners Bandits. 6th is the New Mr Soozie to be Ryan. The ex-champ's Sizzling Saveloys bangers are still way in the top half of the entire league. Next are Sweaty Palms who are having a good season, by Lee's standards anyways and last in the group is Razor Nathan and his boys Gerradinho.
Big Brother
Group Stages - 4. The ShipOur very own Big Brother house. For you new to N&R FL a few years ago we voted on who would be the best candidates from the market to go into an insurance Big Brother house. And from memory Singleton, Godfrey, Cryer and Oakley were certainly included.
This is a tough group packed with fantasy experience. Kennett, Godders, Oakley and Cryer I think have all been with us 10 years plus and Simmons almost invented the game.
Top of the group by just 12 points is Bollocks to insurance, with Preston Pie Munchers in 2nd. Towels on the beach have had another good start but can Al keep it up. Leigh's Shinawatras Dream are the unknown quantity but he's right in the mix ahead of Arsene Knows and Who are you calling big nose.
At the bottom Champions are having a dreadful season and we wonder how long Mark will continue with an all Man U line-up. Last but certainly notleast is Rochdale's second finest, Cyril Smith.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Glasgow by miles
Group Stages - 5. Cheshire CheeseThe Cheshire Cheese's consists of a ramshackle bunch of boys and girls. The experience comes from Munden, the youth from Messrs Harrington and Hillier, the good looks from Sarah, Pam and Kirsty, the charm from Shay, the laughter from Wardy and the gingerness from Doyley.
However Kirsty's Glasgow kiss appear to have this group already wrapped up. 85 pts ahead of her nearest rival Ginger Rapids. The others need to get a move on, although St Mirnoff and Sherons' ready to fac have shown some form lately.
HotLanta
Group Stages - 6. The ElephantA real pub for real men. A collection here of reinsurance dudes and underwriters. Some even know what they're doing it says here. Beaver Ruin's James Down is leading the way from his hideout in HotLanta, Georgia. But it is close. This should be a tough group. 2Infinity & beyond are a point behind James and next up is In Tatters (11th overall). Nige has a new job and I wonder if this will affect his form but he is currently 3rd in Group 6. Mono is on a roll and Panzo is improving too. Danny Chong has gone walkabouts and Wizzo's Curbishley in s**t bring up the rear.
Mexican stand-off
Group Stage - 7. The KerrymanThe Mexican and the Chicagoans in this only group of 7. How things have improved for this lot of hockey, baseball and gridiron fans. There was a time when one of my old mates from the windy city used to occupy the bottom slot all season, but now there is only one American native in the bottom 10 - John Littig's Philly 2k8.
As expected Foulger's Boys on tour lead the way (4th overall) and there is a 25-point gap to Guinness & eggs who are having a good season. Brighton Blues are certainly showing more consistancy and Nancy Lollygaggers are holding their own in 5th, 10 pts ahead of Hot Pink Center. The No hopers are 7th, way ahead of Philly.
Comeback Pete
Breaking News 88888 Week 13 scores
Well blow me down with a big feathery feather. MoW in week 13 was Peter Godfrey. Now, those old enough will remember that Pete used to be half decent at fantasy football, this before he found a real job and alzheimers found Pete. But maybe this is some kind of Joe Kinnear comeback in the making as Bollo*ks to Insurance mustered 51 points and collects a fiver for their troubles.
Another blast from the past is Ian Kennett, although as he will tell you, he did start working in insurance when he was 12, and to be honest he hasn't grown much since then. But Ian's Who are you calling Big Nose were another 'big' performer in week 13 scoring 49. Two top sides Gooner win League and Beaver Ruin both knocked in a 47, a point more than Student Ninjas and three more than Oz-bound Pot Noodle.
Kiss, Bangers, Lovelies, Rapid and Kebab all sounds together like a bloody good night out but in fact these were the teams next in the scoring stakes in week 13.
Other favourable mentions to Brighton Blues, Gunners Bandits, Mono's Cunning plan, Guinness & eggs, Pie Munchers and Lollygaggers.
Worst of the lot was.... Champions (again).
Well blow me down with a big feathery feather. MoW in week 13 was Peter Godfrey. Now, those old enough will remember that Pete used to be half decent at fantasy football, this before he found a real job and alzheimers found Pete. But maybe this is some kind of Joe Kinnear comeback in the making as Bollo*ks to Insurance mustered 51 points and collects a fiver for their troubles.
Another blast from the past is Ian Kennett, although as he will tell you, he did start working in insurance when he was 12, and to be honest he hasn't grown much since then. But Ian's Who are you calling Big Nose were another 'big' performer in week 13 scoring 49. Two top sides Gooner win League and Beaver Ruin both knocked in a 47, a point more than Student Ninjas and three more than Oz-bound Pot Noodle.
Kiss, Bangers, Lovelies, Rapid and Kebab all sounds together like a bloody good night out but in fact these were the teams next in the scoring stakes in week 13.
Other favourable mentions to Brighton Blues, Gunners Bandits, Mono's Cunning plan, Guinness & eggs, Pie Munchers and Lollygaggers.
Worst of the lot was.... Champions (again).
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Transfers and bribes
Just a reminder, the deadline for transfers is Tuesday at 5pm each week. If you need an updated list, just email me. I'll add one to the email this week.
Also to reiterate, Ready and I are open to bribes. Cash, sexual favours or beer are all acceptable tender. But Pk, we have to exclude you from the sexual favours because we know where you have been.
The reason I mention this is that we have been subject to some (il)legal approaches recently. Offers of Mexican dancing girls and claiming to have more money than 50 million because you've applied for a government bailout have all been considered but subsequently declined, but don't give up.
Also to reiterate, Ready and I are open to bribes. Cash, sexual favours or beer are all acceptable tender. But Pk, we have to exclude you from the sexual favours because we know where you have been.
The reason I mention this is that we have been subject to some (il)legal approaches recently. Offers of Mexican dancing girls and claiming to have more money than 50 million because you've applied for a government bailout have all been considered but subsequently declined, but don't give up.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Group stages
Next week the N&R FL moves into the fantasy group stages. There will be 7 groups names The Lamb, East India, New Moon, The Ship, Cheshire Cheese, The Elephant and The Kerryman. Which one will you be in? Well, you're have to wait and find out.
It will work like a world cup qualifier with the top teams going into to final nearer the end of the season. We will throw in some group prizes too.
And look out for more on the N&R FA Cup competition soon.
It will work like a world cup qualifier with the top teams going into to final nearer the end of the season. We will throw in some group prizes too.
And look out for more on the N&R FA Cup competition soon.
Movers and shakers
The very best of luck to Huw Thomas and his wife who are moving to Australia. Huw and his missus Ozzy are going to live in Adelaide, closer to her family. Apparently there is no truth in the rumours that he was becoming a bit too well known to the police in Swansea for sheep worrying.
Although privately we do know that Huw has been looking on line at the sheep dating website to get a good idea of what to expect when he finally get's down under, if you parden the pun. There is actually a website here for sheep dating - not work friendly. Baaaaa
Meanwhile Mark Wenman and Danny Matthews have both left BMS. Wenners is off to Price Forbes to work with Harry Potter. And Danny Matthews was struggling with the fact that he'd been at the same place almost long enough to work on a renewal and has also resigned. Relocation to be agreed.
Although privately we do know that Huw has been looking on line at the sheep dating website to get a good idea of what to expect when he finally get's down under, if you parden the pun. There is actually a website here for sheep dating - not work friendly. Baaaaa
Meanwhile Mark Wenman and Danny Matthews have both left BMS. Wenners is off to Price Forbes to work with Harry Potter. And Danny Matthews was struggling with the fact that he'd been at the same place almost long enough to work on a renewal and has also resigned. Relocation to be agreed.
Smooch
Breaking News 88888 The N&R FL League TableA lot of movement in the upper echelons of the table. Neil's Gooner win league opened up a 27 point lead, Glasgow kiss smooch into 2nd place and 2Infinity & beyond drop to 3rd. In 4th are Boys on tour, who zoomed in from 11th. It's Greg's first appearance in the top 10 this season. Student Ninjas drop to 5th, and in 6th are both of Soozies Succulent Sizzlers.
Beaver Ruin and Torres Rosso share 7th, 9th is Tallywacker's Bukkake Marathon and up to 10th from 21st, is Guinness and eggs. Steve was in 54th place just 10 weeks ago - shows what can be done.
Outside of the this group are In Tatters, Loads of Roubles, Nobby's Bermuda Shorts and Lamb to the slaughter, each gained good ground.
Lower down the order Bollo*ks to insurance moved up 13 spots and Mono's Cunning Plan hurdled 15 places to 29th. Well done lads.
At the bottom Curbishley is s**t drop to last, this is probably not helped by the fact I left Dave off the email list - sorry Wizzo. Pure Irish remain in the penultimate spot. Very surprisingly Barry Paull's Paris Eagles drop 7 places to 53rd - not sure whether Barry's ever been this low in the table. Philly Feet 2k8 slip 4 places and Mark's Champions climb to 48 and Ben's fantasy career has started well at Keep the faith. They move from 47th to 38th.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Week 12 reminder
Chelsea thrashed Sunderland 5-0, according to Keano all five goals scored by Alex, Lampard and 3 from Anelka were offside. Louis Saha rescued Everton at home as they beat Foolham. Hull City gave Man U a right good go at the OT, Ronaldo scored twice and Geovanni got a late pen for 'Ull.
Boro and Happy Hammers drew 1-1 at the Riverside. Mido and Mullins scored. Wigan beat Tony Adams Pompey 2-1 on the south coast, Big Emile scoring an injury time winner. The Baggies and Rovers drew 2-2. A late goal from Keith Andrews giving Incy a point. Bolton beat Citeh with a match winning performance from Ricardo Gardner.
The two big upsets came as Harry's Spudz won again, beating Liverpool 2-1 and Stoke thrashing Arsenal 2-1. Delap getting his 453rd assist of the season. Wenger out!
Boro and Happy Hammers drew 1-1 at the Riverside. Mido and Mullins scored. Wigan beat Tony Adams Pompey 2-1 on the south coast, Big Emile scoring an injury time winner. The Baggies and Rovers drew 2-2. A late goal from Keith Andrews giving Incy a point. Bolton beat Citeh with a match winning performance from Ricardo Gardner.
The two big upsets came as Harry's Spudz won again, beating Liverpool 2-1 and Stoke thrashing Arsenal 2-1. Delap getting his 453rd assist of the season. Wenger out!
Week 13 reminder
Arsenal surprised a few people by beating Man U 2-1, Nasri getting both. Keane got two at home to Bolton for his first Scouse league goals. Hull started their march to the relegation battle by losing at home to Bolton 1-0. Tatlor getting the goal. Defoe got a late goal to claim the points for Pompey at Sunderland.
Everton beat West Ham convincingly 3-1 at Upton Park. Well convincingly only after 83 minutes, Louis Saha scored a brace. Wigan drew with Stoke 0-0 and on Sunday Chelsea beat Rovers 2-0 at Ewood. Anelka getting both, Foolham beat Newcastle at home 2-1, Murphy's penalty the difference. Boro had a great win at Villa Park and 'Arry continued his run at the City of Manchester stadium as Benty got two in a 2-1 win.
Everton beat West Ham convincingly 3-1 at Upton Park. Well convincingly only after 83 minutes, Louis Saha scored a brace. Wigan drew with Stoke 0-0 and on Sunday Chelsea beat Rovers 2-0 at Ewood. Anelka getting both, Foolham beat Newcastle at home 2-1, Murphy's penalty the difference. Boro had a great win at Villa Park and 'Arry continued his run at the City of Manchester stadium as Benty got two in a 2-1 win.
Bumper week topped by Foulger
Breaking News 88888 Week 12 scoresA bumper week 12 with season top scores all over the shop. Our man from Mexico Greg and his Boys on tour swept to 92 points and 4th in the table with his 2nd MoW in 5 weeks. Mono's Cunning Plan A had a miraculous week with a storming 83. Where the fcuk that came from only Mono will know. Table topper's Gooner win league opened a gap at the summit and Guinness & Eggs lived up the billing I gave him last week.
Loads of Roubles had a big jump up the table and Ben at Keep the faith contiued where he left off last week. Godder's Bollo*ks to Insurance finally came up trumps and Glasgow kiss and Towels on the bench both collected 75. Panzos Projectiles hit probably a record weekly score of 70 (I'd have to check), Preston Pie Munchers got busy with a 69 and In Tatters banged in 66.
Nancy Lollygaggers collected easily a season best 65, and Pure Irish had another good week scoting 64. Dangleberry Rovers at last got some action and notched 62, while Lamb to the slaughter and Who are you calling Big Nose both scored 60.
It was 59 for Nobby's Bermuda shorts and 58 for Megan and Hannah's bears, 2Infinity & beyond and Student Ninjas.
The week's worst score, if it can be called that was 18 by Cyril Smith First 11.
Road to Wembley - Bucking close
Drama, controversy, passion and pain – this FA Cup classic had it all and so much more. The drama – as fortunes swayed one way then the other in the blink of an astonished eye. Controversy – as Southend scored a suspect opener then were denied what looked a legitimate second before missing a penalty.
Passion – as AFC Telford turned the game on its head, Jon Adams bagging two terrific goals in an electric 30-minute spell. And pain – as the visitors saved their skins in injury-time with a deflected equaliser that means we must do it all again at Roots Hall next week.
Roared on by almost 4,000 at the New Bucks Head stadium Southend United took the lead when after a dodgy decision Jean-Francois Christophe took a quick free-kick and Laurent, suddenly through on goal, made no mistake. Having got their noses in front, the Essex men might well have wrapped it up in the opening 10 minutes of the second half.
But they didn't. Telford got back into the game and their pressure finally told on 70 minutes as Vaughan’s cross was only half-cleared and ADAMS struck a fine 25-yard left-footed effort into the bottom corner.
Telford, with their tails up, kept pressing and Andy Brown’s header hit the bar with Meredith volleying the loose ball over. It was ADAMS’ day, though, and he sent the New Bucks Head wild with his second seven minutes from time after good work by substitute Terry Fearns.
The Bucks looked like they could hold on even as the board went up for four minutes of stoppage time, but Southend had other ideas.
Christophe, on loan from Portsmouth, got them off the hook with a 20-yard shot that cruelly deflected off Jamie Vermiglio to beat Young. The moral victory, though, belonged to Telford – and the prize of a second round meeting with Luton or Altrincham remains very much up for grabs.
Telford team: Ryan Young, Lee Vaughan, James Meredith, Gavin Cowan, Stuart Whitehead (c), Martyn Naylor (Terry Fearns 56), Jon Adams, Jamie Vermiglio, Liam Blakeman (Carl Rodgers 80), Andy Brown, Lee Moore (Steve Jagielka 90).
Subs not used: Indy Khela, Steve Taylor, Steve Jagielka
Attendance: 3,631
Passion – as AFC Telford turned the game on its head, Jon Adams bagging two terrific goals in an electric 30-minute spell. And pain – as the visitors saved their skins in injury-time with a deflected equaliser that means we must do it all again at Roots Hall next week.
Roared on by almost 4,000 at the New Bucks Head stadium Southend United took the lead when after a dodgy decision Jean-Francois Christophe took a quick free-kick and Laurent, suddenly through on goal, made no mistake. Having got their noses in front, the Essex men might well have wrapped it up in the opening 10 minutes of the second half.
But they didn't. Telford got back into the game and their pressure finally told on 70 minutes as Vaughan’s cross was only half-cleared and ADAMS struck a fine 25-yard left-footed effort into the bottom corner.
Telford, with their tails up, kept pressing and Andy Brown’s header hit the bar with Meredith volleying the loose ball over. It was ADAMS’ day, though, and he sent the New Bucks Head wild with his second seven minutes from time after good work by substitute Terry Fearns.
The Bucks looked like they could hold on even as the board went up for four minutes of stoppage time, but Southend had other ideas.
Christophe, on loan from Portsmouth, got them off the hook with a 20-yard shot that cruelly deflected off Jamie Vermiglio to beat Young. The moral victory, though, belonged to Telford – and the prize of a second round meeting with Luton or Altrincham remains very much up for grabs.
Telford team: Ryan Young, Lee Vaughan, James Meredith, Gavin Cowan, Stuart Whitehead (c), Martyn Naylor (Terry Fearns 56), Jon Adams, Jamie Vermiglio, Liam Blakeman (Carl Rodgers 80), Andy Brown, Lee Moore (Steve Jagielka 90).
Subs not used: Indy Khela, Steve Taylor, Steve Jagielka
Attendance: 3,631
Photograph of the week
Didier Drogba throwing back a 50p piece to the crowd after Chelsea drew with Burnley in the Carling Cup. Losing on penalties does not count as a defeat if you are a Chelsea fan by all accounts.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Straw Poll #2
Following on from Lewis Hamilton's extraordinary victory in the F1 championship and the exciting finish in Brazil that had the country on the edge of it's seat, I asked:
Lewis Hamilton....
a) British hero
b) All he's worried about is the cash
c) He's misunderstood
d) Knob
And the result was:
a) 32%
b) 14%
c) 17%
d) 17%
e) 20% other
Overwhelmingly the view was that he is a national hero. Quotes such as this one:
"Why oh why oh why do we as British people love people who lose but hate anyone who wins? so what if he's a bit arrogant - I'd be fuc king arrogant if I got paid a fortun
e,drove a formula 1 car brilliantly for a living, was sha gging a pussycat doll and had hair!!!!" He's a British hero and no mistake" - Rob Munden
However the 2nd most popular vote was one I didn't even ask for, that was e) "Lucky f*cker for sleeping with that Pussycat Doll, " as James Down put it.
Others who mentioned the lovely Miss Scherzinger were Rob of course and Peter Doyle: "C misunderstood, though more correctly a talented misunderstood knob that is banging a stunning bird."
Some plucked for d) such as Ben Graves, who said: "d) Mostly because he's is sh*gging the fit one from pussycatdolls, but also because as a nation we feel obliged to jump on the bandwagon of any successful sportsman we can (driving a car isn't even a proper sport by the way....don't even get me started on snooker or darts) so all of a sudden the country is full of F1 enthusiasts talking about the merits of refuelling strategies and safety cars, trying to fool themselves that they've always been a fan." But added: "I don't actually think he's a knob, he actually comes across as quite a level headed bloke, but thought that was the closest option."
Lewis Hamilton....
a) British hero
b) All he's worried about is the cash
c) He's misunderstood
d) Knob
And the result was:
a) 32%
b) 14%
c) 17%
d) 17%
e) 20% other
Overwhelmingly the view was that he is a national hero. Quotes such as this one:
"Why oh why oh why do we as British people love people who lose but hate anyone who wins? so what if he's a bit arrogant - I'd be fuc king arrogant if I got paid a fortun
e,drove a formula 1 car brilliantly for a living, was sha gging a pussycat doll and had hair!!!!" He's a British hero and no mistake" - Rob MundenHowever the 2nd most popular vote was one I didn't even ask for, that was e) "Lucky f*cker for sleeping with that Pussycat Doll, " as James Down put it.
Others who mentioned the lovely Miss Scherzinger were Rob of course and Peter Doyle: "C misunderstood, though more correctly a talented misunderstood knob that is banging a stunning bird."
Some plucked for d) such as Ben Graves, who said: "d) Mostly because he's is sh*gging the fit one from pussycatdolls, but also because as a nation we feel obliged to jump on the bandwagon of any successful sportsman we can (driving a car isn't even a proper sport by the way....don't even get me started on snooker or darts) so all of a sudden the country is full of F1 enthusiasts talking about the merits of refuelling strategies and safety cars, trying to fool themselves that they've always been a fan." But added: "I don't actually think he's a knob, he actually comes across as quite a level headed bloke, but thought that was the closest option."
Payment - Last Reminder
Ok, nearly Christmas, if you still owe money for this season, then please can you arrange payment in one of the following three ways:
1) Pass either cash or a cheque to Ready.
2) Put the funds into my bank account as follows:
Simon J Newport
NatWest
Sort Code56 00 18
A/C no. 08164193
3) Send a cheque to me at my parents at the following address:
8 Paddock Gardens
Wannock
Polegate
E Sussex
BN26 5PW
Thank you.
1) Pass either cash or a cheque to Ready.
2) Put the funds into my bank account as follows:
Simon J Newport
NatWest
Sort Code56 00 18
A/C no. 08164193
3) Send a cheque to me at my parents at the following address:
8 Paddock Gardens
Wannock
Polegate
E Sussex
BN26 5PW
Thank you.
Friday, November 07, 2008
Photograph of the week
What goes up must come down. Since Harry has been at the Lane, everything he touches turns to wine. As for Adams, I'm not so sure and wine is probably the last thing he wants!
Road to Wembley - Big day for Telford
AFC Telford host League One Southend United after comprehensively beating Northwich Victoria from the divison above in the re-arranged 4th Qualifying Rd. Goals from LEE MOORE (2) ANDY ANDY in front of 1,003 people secured tomorrow's first round proper tie
Week 11 reminder
Sorry, I'm a week behind.
Sunderland beat Newcastle for the first time in 300 years. 3 goals and 40 arrests with Kieran Richardson the hero with a goal clicked at 73mph. Hull continued their Champions League assault with an easy 3-0 win over the Baggies. Zayatte, Geovanni and King scoring. Boro and Blackburn shared the spoils as did Everton and Man U. Rooney getting booked and lucky to stay on the pitch.
On the Sunday Villa thrashed Wigan at the JJB. Barry, Agbonlahor, Sidwell and Carew scoring (this time on the pitch and not in a strip club!). Spurs won under Harry, although to be fair he only had just turned up. They beat Bolton 2-0 thanks to Pavlyuchenko and Bent. Carlton Cole was sent off as the Hammers lost at home to Arsenal. Pompey and Foolham played out a 1-1 draw, Dempsey rescuing the west Londoners late.
In week 11's big game at the Bridge, Liverpool broke Chelsea's 86 home game unbeaten run - league remember, Charlton and Barcelona (often confused) both beat them in the cup! Alonso's 10th minute goal enough for the scousers. Robinho got a hattrick at Citeh beat Stoke 3-0 and on the Tuesday night Newcastle beat West Brom (a game that was included in week 11). Newcastle's first win under Roy Kinnear.
Sunderland beat Newcastle for the first time in 300 years. 3 goals and 40 arrests with Kieran Richardson the hero with a goal clicked at 73mph. Hull continued their Champions League assault with an easy 3-0 win over the Baggies. Zayatte, Geovanni and King scoring. Boro and Blackburn shared the spoils as did Everton and Man U. Rooney getting booked and lucky to stay on the pitch.
On the Sunday Villa thrashed Wigan at the JJB. Barry, Agbonlahor, Sidwell and Carew scoring (this time on the pitch and not in a strip club!). Spurs won under Harry, although to be fair he only had just turned up. They beat Bolton 2-0 thanks to Pavlyuchenko and Bent. Carlton Cole was sent off as the Hammers lost at home to Arsenal. Pompey and Foolham played out a 1-1 draw, Dempsey rescuing the west Londoners late.
In week 11's big game at the Bridge, Liverpool broke Chelsea's 86 home game unbeaten run - league remember, Charlton and Barcelona (often confused) both beat them in the cup! Alonso's 10th minute goal enough for the scousers. Robinho got a hattrick at Citeh beat Stoke 3-0 and on the Tuesday night Newcastle beat West Brom (a game that was included in week 11). Newcastle's first win under Roy Kinnear.
Middle to diddle
Breaking News 88888 The N&R FL League Table
2Infinity & beyond move within 8 points of 4 week leader Gooner win league, Beaver Ruin (is that really your girlfriend James) stay 3rd in close shooting distance and Student Ninjas are 4th and Soozie's succulent pair are 5th. Very tight in the top 7.
I'm going to concentrate on the midtable teams this week though. Whilst Bent it like Bentley and St Mirnoff slipped off the pace a bit, there are some very capable teams below making their way slowly up the table.
Pot Noodle Miners, Nobby's Bermuda shorts (capable is probably pushing it mind), Lamb to the slaughter and Gunners Bandit all climbed healthily up the league in week 11. N&R virgin Sheron's
ready to fac gained 7 places, another debutant Shinawatras Dream jumped 5 places and Team Chong was up 4. Other teams circling around the middle to watch out for are Guinness & eggs, Loads of roubles, Arsene Knows, Ginger Rapids and previous champ Sizzling Saveloys bangers.
At the bottom Pure Irish moved out of 55th place and Curbishley is s**t goes back to whence they came.
2Infinity & beyond move within 8 points of 4 week leader Gooner win league, Beaver Ruin (is that really your girlfriend James) stay 3rd in close shooting distance and Student Ninjas are 4th and Soozie's succulent pair are 5th. Very tight in the top 7.
I'm going to concentrate on the midtable teams this week though. Whilst Bent it like Bentley and St Mirnoff slipped off the pace a bit, there are some very capable teams below making their way slowly up the table.
Pot Noodle Miners, Nobby's Bermuda shorts (capable is probably pushing it mind), Lamb to the slaughter and Gunners Bandit all climbed healthily up the league in week 11. N&R virgin Sheron's
ready to fac gained 7 places, another debutant Shinawatras Dream jumped 5 places and Team Chong was up 4. Other teams circling around the middle to watch out for are Guinness & eggs, Loads of roubles, Arsene Knows, Ginger Rapids and previous champ Sizzling Saveloys bangers.At the bottom Pure Irish moved out of 55th place and Curbishley is s**t goes back to whence they came.
Huw goes Potty
Breaking News 88888 Week 11 scoresHuw Thomas, who is soon on his way down under as the N&R FL extends it's global reach would have been proud to win the MoW award in his final week in the city. Huw's Pot Noddle Miners wacked 43 points and they climbed 7 places up the table. In 2nd place in week 11 was Sheron's ready to fac. This is a bit of a milestone for the Liverpudlian, who moved into the top half of the table for the first time and we hope she can put a run together to join her bubbly mate Kirsty in the top 10.
Then in 3rd Keep the faith under new direction from Ben Guarino made an immediate impact scoring 36 points and propelled Fracney's boys away from the bottom of the table. Also with 36 pts was Shinawatras Dream. We haven't seen much of Leigh but this was a fine effort, his best of the season, and moves him up a few places too.
Nobby's Bermuda shorts were next with 34, same as 2Infninty & Beyond, and a point moer than Lamb to the slaughter, Tallywacker's Bukkake Marathon and the lovely Hilary and her Purest Irish.
Good scoring from Glasgow Kiss keeps the Scottish belle challenging for the title as it did for Aaron's Torres Rosso. Team GB under Wenners notched a nice 31 as did Rutter's Goonersmoan and Littig's Philly Feet 2k8 (is that really your girlfriend John?).
Finally kudos to Gooner win league (30), Ginger Rapids (30) and Brighton Blues (30). The lowest week 11 scored belonged to Californication, with 11 points, although I did hear last week that Chris got his mortgage paid off, pushing the amount of the loan AIG have now borrowed from the Fed nearer to the $100bn mark. Francey is checking if he can get his caravan paid off too.
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
An historic moment
"Now, I know jack, but when I was watching the baby faced state lawmaker the other night on TV, his presence and his words even made me think that I was watching the one day future President of the United States of America." Me, July 2004."And to all those watching tonight from beyond our shores, from parliaments and palaces to those who are huddled around radios in the forgotten corners of the world - our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared, and a new dawn of American leadership is at hand.
To those who would tear the world down - we will defeat you. To those who seek peace and security - we support you.
And to all those who have wondered if America's beacon still burns as bright - tonight we proved once more that the true strength of our nation comes not from the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty, opportunity and unyielding hope.
For that is the true genius of America - that America can change. Our union can be perfected. And what we have already achieved gives us hope for what we can and must achieve tomorrow." - Barack Obama, November 2008, the new President of America.
I stayed up late last night watching history being made. I sincerely hope Obama can change America and change the way it looks at the wider world beyond it's vast shores. C
ertainly Obama has provoked and galvanized the metamorphic American population. Meanwhile the world watched someone it can relate to. Welcome to the rest of the world America.Chicago would have been an awesome place to be last night. I would have loved to have been in Grant Park (right) with 250,000 others listening to the new president's historic victory speech. The people of Chicago deserves Barack Obama and he deserves them.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Road to Wembley - Complete Abandonement
Think this was a first for the N&R FL, AFC Telford's game got abandoned at Northwich Victoria on Saturday due to a power failure. Judging by the Telford club statement, clearly something kicked off:
"The club would also like to distance itself from the totally inaccurate claims made in Dave Stringer's match report carried by The Non League Paper yesterday in which he insinuates that the club placed undue pressure on officials to abandon the game and that “loud cheers were heard from the away dressing room” when the news that the game had been abandoned came through. We totally deny these claims which are a pathetic attempt to divert attention away from the very real issues and actual cause of Saturdays abandonment." (more)
They were losing 1-0 at the time. The game will be replayed Tuesday (tomorrow) and the winners will host Southend Utd in the 1st Rd proper. About 400 Telford fans made the wasted short journey and the ticket prices have been reduced for tomorrow's game (in case you wanted to go!).
"The club would also like to distance itself from the totally inaccurate claims made in Dave Stringer's match report carried by The Non League Paper yesterday in which he insinuates that the club placed undue pressure on officials to abandon the game and that “loud cheers were heard from the away dressing room” when the news that the game had been abandoned came through. We totally deny these claims which are a pathetic attempt to divert attention away from the very real issues and actual cause of Saturdays abandonment." (more)
They were losing 1-0 at the time. The game will be replayed Tuesday (tomorrow) and the winners will host Southend Utd in the 1st Rd proper. About 400 Telford fans made the wasted short journey and the ticket prices have been reduced for tomorrow's game (in case you wanted to go!).
Friday, October 24, 2008
Week 10 reminder
After the International break, Arsenal destroyed Everton despite Osman putting the Toffeemen in front. Midget Nasri, Van Persie and Walcott got the Gunners 2nd half goals. Man U were even more dominant in their 4-0 win over West Brom. Goals for Rooney, Ronaldo, Berbatov and Nani. And Chelsea were even mor, oh you get the picture. Premier League, yawn!
Liverpool came behind again to beat plucky little Wigan 3-2. Kuyt scoring two more to add to his total of er, two. Meanwhile put Zaki in your team because Chelsea or Man U or Liverpool are bound to buy him in January. But cancel that, it will probably be Man City.
Talking of whom, they drew 2-2 at Roy Kinnear's Newcastle on Monday. Sunday saw Spurs lose again, oh stop it, it ain't funny is it Ready? Higginbotham got the first for Stoke and then Delap scored direct from a throw-in. Bale and Dawson were both sent off for Spurs.
Hull continued their amazing season beating West Ham at the KC. Ex-Addick Michael Turner heading the goal. And there were three goalless draws between Aston Villa and Portsmouth (Davis got sent off), Bolton and local rivals Blackburn and finally Foolham and Sunderland .
Liverpool came behind again to beat plucky little Wigan 3-2. Kuyt scoring two more to add to his total of er, two. Meanwhile put Zaki in your team because Chelsea or Man U or Liverpool are bound to buy him in January. But cancel that, it will probably be Man City.
Talking of whom, they drew 2-2 at Roy Kinnear's Newcastle on Monday. Sunday saw Spurs lose again, oh stop it, it ain't funny is it Ready? Higginbotham got the first for Stoke and then Delap scored direct from a throw-in. Bale and Dawson were both sent off for Spurs.
Hull continued their amazing season beating West Ham at the KC. Ex-Addick Michael Turner heading the goal. And there were three goalless draws between Aston Villa and Portsmouth (Davis got sent off), Bolton and local rivals Blackburn and finally Foolham and Sunderland .
Neil goes top
Breaking News 88888 The N&R FL League Table
Gooner win league slipped ahead of Soozie's Succulent Sizzlers in week 10 and now top the table by 7 points. James fresh back from Chi Town and his Beaver Ruin move into 3rd three behind Soozie. It's pretty close though as we approach week 12 and the split.
In 4th 2Infinity & beyond are a point ahead of Chris' Student Ninjas. Then Glasgow kiss and Torres Rosso tie for 7th. In 8th is curent champ Tallywacker's Bukkake Marathon (that will cost me a flippin arm and leg if I have to get it engraved on a trophy next year!). Tied with Pk is Rutt's Goonersmoan, who stop the slide temporarily.
Bent it like Bentley is 10th up a place and Sweaty Palms are week 10's biggest loser down 6 places to 12th. Another dropsy were Rob's Elland (Glad) Back down from 13th to 18th. Real Ale Madrid moved in the oppo direction from 21st to 15th.
Other climbers were Arsene Knows (27th to 21st), Guinness and eggs (23rd to 19th) and Sheron's ready to fac (39th to 33rd) but two of the biggest movers were Panzo's Projectiles up 11 and Nobby's Bermuda Shorts up 13.
Curbishley is s**t move off the bottom and leave Pure Irish docked there on 143 points.
Gooner win league slipped ahead of Soozie's Succulent Sizzlers in week 10 and now top the table by 7 points. James fresh back from Chi Town and his Beaver Ruin move into 3rd three behind Soozie. It's pretty close though as we approach week 12 and the split.
In 4th 2Infinity & beyond are a point ahead of Chris' Student Ninjas. Then Glasgow kiss and Torres Rosso tie for 7th. In 8th is curent champ Tallywacker's Bukkake Marathon (that will cost me a flippin arm and leg if I have to get it engraved on a trophy next year!). Tied with Pk is Rutt's Goonersmoan, who stop the slide temporarily.
Bent it like Bentley is 10th up a place and Sweaty Palms are week 10's biggest loser down 6 places to 12th. Another dropsy were Rob's Elland (Glad) Back down from 13th to 18th. Real Ale Madrid moved in the oppo direction from 21st to 15th.
Other climbers were Arsene Knows (27th to 21st), Guinness and eggs (23rd to 19th) and Sheron's ready to fac (39th to 33rd) but two of the biggest movers were Panzo's Projectiles up 11 and Nobby's Bermuda Shorts up 13.
Curbishley is s**t move off the bottom and leave Pure Irish docked there on 143 points.
Champions are back
Breaking News 88888 Week 10 scores
Mark Simmons' Champions finally awoke from his slumber in week 10 to collect the MoW with 57 points. An efforsd that propelled him to 50th in the table. Still a long way to go. There was a huge gap to the next best manager, Paul Hargis' Real Ale Madrid collected a very fine nonetheless 43. One more than our man in Mexico Boys on Tour, who are edging their way up the table.
Nobby's Bermuda shorts hit another season best, joined by Panzo's Projectiles on 41 (also a season best). Then there was a gap to three teams on 33 points - Arsene Knows, Dangleberry Rovers and Sheron's ready to fac. Cor have you seen her? Not wrong.
32 points was the number for Glasgow kiss, Torres Rosso and Pam Ross' St Mirnoff FC, who are looking dangerous just outside the top 10. Student Ninjas confirmed their to 5 place with 31 and Preston Pie Munchers, Cyril Smith First 11, Hot Pink Center, Team GB and the No Hopers all notched 29.
The week's worst score belonged to Pure Irish.
Mark Simmons' Champions finally awoke from his slumber in week 10 to collect the MoW with 57 points. An efforsd that propelled him to 50th in the table. Still a long way to go. There was a huge gap to the next best manager, Paul Hargis' Real Ale Madrid collected a very fine nonetheless 43. One more than our man in Mexico Boys on Tour, who are edging their way up the table.
Nobby's Bermuda shorts hit another season best, joined by Panzo's Projectiles on 41 (also a season best). Then there was a gap to three teams on 33 points - Arsene Knows, Dangleberry Rovers and Sheron's ready to fac. Cor have you seen her? Not wrong.
32 points was the number for Glasgow kiss, Torres Rosso and Pam Ross' St Mirnoff FC, who are looking dangerous just outside the top 10. Student Ninjas confirmed their to 5 place with 31 and Preston Pie Munchers, Cyril Smith First 11, Hot Pink Center, Team GB and the No Hopers all notched 29.
The week's worst score belonged to Pure Irish.
AFC Telford - Who knew?
AFC Telford, our latest FA Cup giant killers are away at Northwich Victoria tomorrow hoping to win and get their names in the first round hat.So let me tell you a few things about The Bucks:
- Telford is one of the countries largest towns (pop: 139,000) without a league club.
- AFC Telford is actually owned by the fans. Saved from bankruptcy in 2004.
- The clubs motto is numquam obliviscere (never forget).
- Telford play at the New Bucks Head. It was built in 2003 and is considered one of the best grounds outside the Football League.
- Local rivals include Shrewsbury and Kettering
- Since AFC Telford was formed in 2004 (the original name was Telford Utd), they have had 2 promotions in 4 years and last year lost in the North play-off final.
- Telford are currently 4th in the Conference North
- Stephen Jagielka will line up tomorrow in midfield, the older brother of Everton's Phil.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Razor blunted
Recently Peter Godfrey and Ready got into a slanging match because Godders thought that he gave Keith his entry money one night when Pete was away with the fairies and Keith was out with some very important clients minding his p's and q's.
And then just the other day, again Ready had to deal with another drunken fool, this time Richard Razor Nathan. So sharp of course he can cut himself but also it appears so tipsy la-la that he forgets what he is doing.
Apparently standing at the bar attracting the wrong attention to himself last week Razor reckons he paid Keith 20 quid. Well according to various witnesses (and some weren't even strippers) they agree that he did no such thing despite Ready asking him to pay on various occasions.
Of course I will not have my man Ready's reputation slated like this, particularly when he doesn't even drink.
And then just the other day, again Ready had to deal with another drunken fool, this time Richard Razor Nathan. So sharp of course he can cut himself but also it appears so tipsy la-la that he forgets what he is doing.
Apparently standing at the bar attracting the wrong attention to himself last week Razor reckons he paid Keith 20 quid. Well according to various witnesses (and some weren't even strippers) they agree that he did no such thing despite Ready asking him to pay on various occasions.
Of course I will not have my man Ready's reputation slated like this, particularly when he doesn't even drink.
Director of Football
This topic was raised by Greg in his letter from Mexico recently. Of course it is all the trend in real football but how many times has it really worked at the higher levels of the Premiership? Go on then, give me an example.
In the world of N&R FL Alan Waters introduced Paul Kelleher to the league after his team was adrift at the bottom of the table. Muddy moved upstairs (to The Fenchurch Exchange if my memory serves me correctly) and installed a young Paul Kelleher as head coach. Paul performed a minor miracle and saved Muddy's Happy Hammers from disgrace and then got headhunted to run his own N&R FL side.
Then this week, fantasy stalwart Ian France announced that he too was stepping upstairs to become Director of Football of Keep the Faith and named Ben Guarino as footballing team manager. Ben takes over Keep the Faith with them sat 5th from bottom of the 55 teams, with just 158 points and two or the five worse weekly scores to his name.
Ben has already made 9 transfers in a speed with frankly won't see him last very long at AIG. I mean if he can knock a quote out that quick, he'll be down at the Korea Re in no time!
Welcome Ben, if you need Ready or I to talk to Francey about your financial package, just let us know.
In the world of N&R FL Alan Waters introduced Paul Kelleher to the league after his team was adrift at the bottom of the table. Muddy moved upstairs (to The Fenchurch Exchange if my memory serves me correctly) and installed a young Paul Kelleher as head coach. Paul performed a minor miracle and saved Muddy's Happy Hammers from disgrace and then got headhunted to run his own N&R FL side.
Then this week, fantasy stalwart Ian France announced that he too was stepping upstairs to become Director of Football of Keep the Faith and named Ben Guarino as footballing team manager. Ben takes over Keep the Faith with them sat 5th from bottom of the 55 teams, with just 158 points and two or the five worse weekly scores to his name.
Ben has already made 9 transfers in a speed with frankly won't see him last very long at AIG. I mean if he can knock a quote out that quick, he'll be down at the Korea Re in no time!
Welcome Ben, if you need Ready or I to talk to Francey about your financial package, just let us know.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Road to Wembley - Oh Bulgarians
Hendon were knocked out of the FA Cup last Saturday by a strong AFC Telford United side in the shadow of the arch of Wembley Stadium. Playing just down the road from the international side (who kicked off shortly after the end of the Greens' cup tie), the Bucks took early control of the tie taking the lead in the 11th minute through a TERRY FEARNS header. Hendon rallied well, and kept the Conference North side at bay for much of the half, but LEE MOORE took advantage when the Dons were overcommitted just before the half-time break to put Telford 2-0 ahead.
An improved second half saw Hendon create a number of chances, with Ryan Young having to save well on a couple of occasions, but it took an injury time penalty for the home side to get their deserved consolation, HAULE sliding the ball under Young's dive. Final score 1-2.
Hendon team: Lawrencin, Burgess, Vargas, Leach, Kirby, Bent, Busby, Hudson (Garner 45, Diedhiou 72), Haule, Hunt, Mapes (Guentchev).
Att: 377
That is a quick end of our relationship with Hendon and I never even got to tell you that they are maanged by former Bulgarian international Bontcho Guentchev, who spent the majority of his career playing in England for Ipswich Town.
In the 4th qualifying round draw AFC Telford are away at Northwich Victoria on October 25th. The prize will be a place in the 1st Round Proper.
An improved second half saw Hendon create a number of chances, with Ryan Young having to save well on a couple of occasions, but it took an injury time penalty for the home side to get their deserved consolation, HAULE sliding the ball under Young's dive. Final score 1-2.
Hendon team: Lawrencin, Burgess, Vargas, Leach, Kirby, Bent, Busby, Hudson (Garner 45, Diedhiou 72), Haule, Hunt, Mapes (Guentchev).
Att: 377
That is a quick end of our relationship with Hendon and I never even got to tell you that they are maanged by former Bulgarian international Bontcho Guentchev, who spent the majority of his career playing in England for Ipswich Town.
In the 4th qualifying round draw AFC Telford are away at Northwich Victoria on October 25th. The prize will be a place in the 1st Round Proper.
Week 8 reminder
A late, late goal from Cesc Fabregas gave the Gunners a lucky point at the Stadium of light, Man U won comfortably against Paul Ince's Rovers. Brown and Rooney scoring. West Brom beat Fulham 1-0 as did Boro at Wigan. Aliadiere and Bednar (who I sold that week) got the goals.
On the Sunday it was miserable again for Spudz fans as they slumped at home to Hull City. Jenas, Lennon, Bent and Campbell were all booked as Geovanni acored a peach. It left Ramos's side contemplating their worst start in 96 years. The Hammers added to their off the pitch woes by getting stuffed by Bolton at Upton Park. Davies, Cahill and Taylor all scored for Wanderers with Carlton Cole replying.
Pompey beat Stoke 2-1, a Crouch & Defoe double and Chelsea beat Villa at the Bridge 2-0 with goals from Joe Cole and Anelka.
In two of the week's best games Newcastle pulled back a two-goal deficit to draw at Goodison Park and were unlucky not to win in Joe '@#$* ^&*@#' Kinnear's first game and Liverpool defeated Man City 3-2 with a late goal from Dirk Kuyt, after also being two goals down.
On the Sunday it was miserable again for Spudz fans as they slumped at home to Hull City. Jenas, Lennon, Bent and Campbell were all booked as Geovanni acored a peach. It left Ramos's side contemplating their worst start in 96 years. The Hammers added to their off the pitch woes by getting stuffed by Bolton at Upton Park. Davies, Cahill and Taylor all scored for Wanderers with Carlton Cole replying.
Pompey beat Stoke 2-1, a Crouch & Defoe double and Chelsea beat Villa at the Bridge 2-0 with goals from Joe Cole and Anelka.
In two of the week's best games Newcastle pulled back a two-goal deficit to draw at Goodison Park and were unlucky not to win in Joe '@#$* ^&*@#' Kinnear's first game and Liverpool defeated Man City 3-2 with a late goal from Dirk Kuyt, after also being two goals down.
Top Gunners
Breaking News 88888 The N&R FL League TableYet another new league leader, two of them in fact. And both Arsenal fans. The beautiful Soozies Succulent Sizzlers and the grammatically deficient Gooner Win League sit pretty on top of the pile after week 8. Soozie in fact has climbed 51 places since week 2 and is looking favourite to do an incredible double of walking up the aisle and the grander walking down to The Lamb to collect her title trophy. Neil meanwhile has had a fanatstic start to his N&R career.
Last week's leader 2Infinity & beyond drops to 3rdand Beaver Ruin stay 4th. Student Ninjas in turn fall to 5th, just 7 ahead of the Hull City of the N&R FL, Sweaty Palms who incredibly are in 6th - keep it up Sweats.
Current champion Pk and his Tallywacker's Bukkake Marathon are in 7th and then comes Torres Rosso, Glasgow kiss, back in the top 10, and Goonersmoan. Rutts has now fallen from top to 10th in 3 weeks.
Hannoi Utd slip 4 places to 11th and Elland (Glad) Back move up a place to 13th. I'm keeping an eye on Pam Ross (only because I'm told she's tidy) as St Mirnoff hurdled 6 places to 13th in week 8, and another big climber was Hot Pink Center who jumped from 27th to 16th.
Brighton Blues fall to 17th, Gerrardinho is up 6 to 18th and Mrs Soozie and his Bangers are 19th.
Lower down Loads of Roubles drop to 8 places, Towels on the bench climbed 10 places after a season's best and watch out for little Nobster, whose Bermuda shorts storm into 35th place after their best week of ther season!
At the bottom Champions finally climb off it, and are replaced with Curbishley is sh*t. Dangleberry Rovers are in 53rd and Pure Irish in 52nd.
Double Sausage
Breaking News 88888 Week 8 scores
A double banging this week for Soozie as she collected her second MoW award in week 8 for the highest 7-day score of the season, 70 points. This Sizzled her Succulent ones up the table into 2nd place. Soozie scored 14 points more than the next best side, that was Beaver Ruin, James scoring 56. New Dad Tim and 'Frank' scored their season-best with 55 for Hot Pink Center. Talking of which, Kirsty's Glasgow Kiss were next up with 54 and then Gooner win league with 50.
Other teams worth a mention in week 8 were Champions, who finally came out of their horrible run of form to score 48, Razor's Gerrardinho cut in with 46, Towels on the bench 45, 44 was scored by both Sweaty Palms, keeping up his excellent start to the season and St Mirnoff.
The No Hopers (43), Team Chong (42), Californication (42), Nancy Lollygaggers(42) and Real Ale Madrid (42) also deserve some credit.
The week's lowest score was Keep the faith who flumped to just 4 points and a drop of 9 places.
A double banging this week for Soozie as she collected her second MoW award in week 8 for the highest 7-day score of the season, 70 points. This Sizzled her Succulent ones up the table into 2nd place. Soozie scored 14 points more than the next best side, that was Beaver Ruin, James scoring 56. New Dad Tim and 'Frank' scored their season-best with 55 for Hot Pink Center. Talking of which, Kirsty's Glasgow Kiss were next up with 54 and then Gooner win league with 50.
Other teams worth a mention in week 8 were Champions, who finally came out of their horrible run of form to score 48, Razor's Gerrardinho cut in with 46, Towels on the bench 45, 44 was scored by both Sweaty Palms, keeping up his excellent start to the season and St Mirnoff.
The No Hopers (43), Team Chong (42), Californication (42), Nancy Lollygaggers(42) and Real Ale Madrid (42) also deserve some credit.
The week's lowest score was Keep the faith who flumped to just 4 points and a drop of 9 places.
The best weekly score
Early days but here we go. The best 7 day fantasy score so far:
1. Soozie Sausage, 70 pts, week 8
2. Brian Rutter, 67 points, week 5
3= Lee Baughan, 61 points, week 3
3= Soozie Sausage, 61 points, week 3
5. Paul Kelleher, 60 points, week 3
6= Greg Foulger, 58 points, week 7
6= Chris Wright, 58 points, week 3
6= Brian Rutter, 58 points, week 3
9= James Down, 56 points, week 1
9= Richard Nathan, 56 points, week 2
9= Barry Plummer, 56 points, week 3
9= Barry Plummer, 56 points, week 5
9= James Down, 56 points, week 8
There will be a prize for the best and worst weekly score.
1. Soozie Sausage, 70 pts, week 8
2. Brian Rutter, 67 points, week 5
3= Lee Baughan, 61 points, week 3
3= Soozie Sausage, 61 points, week 3
5. Paul Kelleher, 60 points, week 3
6= Greg Foulger, 58 points, week 7
6= Chris Wright, 58 points, week 3
6= Brian Rutter, 58 points, week 3
9= James Down, 56 points, week 1
9= Richard Nathan, 56 points, week 2
9= Barry Plummer, 56 points, week 3
9= Barry Plummer, 56 points, week 5
9= James Down, 56 points, week 8
There will be a prize for the best and worst weekly score.
Bad debtors
Have you seen the debt some of (most of) the Premier League clubs are carrying? I really believe that one of these big boys is going to go bankrupt sooner rather than later. The game is leveraged by television money, an arbitrary monthly outgoing that many families will be thinking twice about. Falling television receipts will only emphasise club's considerable levels of debt, and believe me when the banks have finished sorting themselves out that debt will not be looking pretty.
So called millionaires, billionaires even are no longer such. Before the entrance of camels on the horizon Charlton very prudently paid down short-term debt, ensuring that banks will ignore us when it comes to withdrawing credit, perhaps it might have forced us into administration? Other clubs lower down the food chain will not be so lucky. How many teams will end this season with a points deduction due to forced upon administration?
We have all been forced to understand recently what leveraged money is, describing the ability to magnify potential profits by investing borrowed money. Many clubs and West Ham are sadly the greatest example are 'backed' by this 'funny money' and not real cash. That funny money is not particularly funny anymore. Add in the potential fine due to the Tevez debacle and XL going tits up plus £142 of debt and the Hammers have big problems. However they have the potential, geography, fanbase and history to find a new suitor but do Fulham (£182m in debt) and Middlesbrough (£84.6m in the red) if their current sugar daddies decide to ditch their 'investments'?
Manchester United's debt is seven times that of Bermuda. Recent figures put United's debt at £764m and the Glazer's had to pay £81 million in interest alone last year. Even a dodgy referee is not going to let them get away with that. Chelsea can't even beat Man U in the debt league! They come a close 2nd with a whopping £736m, but then they have Abramovich, who after a bad few weeks at the office is down to his last few billion. Chelsea's debt nevertheless is underwritten by Abramovich at let me see, a slightly better interest rate than those elsewhere in the Premier League.
Liverpool and Manchester United, meanwhile, were taken over or partially bought by American businessmen using a private-equity type model, borrowing heavily to buy the clubs, and then loading them up with the debt. Liverpool's debt is said to be £350m, most of which was due to be refinanced in 2009. The old Kop might well be standing for a few years yet.
The chairman of the FA, Lord Triesman touched a sore nerve among England's top clubs last week, and also I expect raised some unwelcome eyebrows in some of their banks. Some of the other Premier League club's debts are as follows:
Arsenal £318m, but nearly all tied up in the new stadium and those new flats. Oh.
Man City £103m, but soon to be wiped out by petrol dollars.
Newcastle United £69.7m, with the club on the market for £400m with Dennis Wise thrown in for nowt.
Aston Villa £63m but with a rich and seemingly well informed sugar daddy.
Bolton £43m with Eddie Davies looking to sell.
Portsmouth £41m with huge wage bills and an owner running short of money.
Sunderland £35m and big spenders.
A lot of doom and gloom and I really don't want to see a club go to the wall, especially mine or yours.
For excellent up to date news on the football economy, check out The Political Economy of Football.
So called millionaires, billionaires even are no longer such. Before the entrance of camels on the horizon Charlton very prudently paid down short-term debt, ensuring that banks will ignore us when it comes to withdrawing credit, perhaps it might have forced us into administration? Other clubs lower down the food chain will not be so lucky. How many teams will end this season with a points deduction due to forced upon administration?
We have all been forced to understand recently what leveraged money is, describing the ability to magnify potential profits by investing borrowed money. Many clubs and West Ham are sadly the greatest example are 'backed' by this 'funny money' and not real cash. That funny money is not particularly funny anymore. Add in the potential fine due to the Tevez debacle and XL going tits up plus £142 of debt and the Hammers have big problems. However they have the potential, geography, fanbase and history to find a new suitor but do Fulham (£182m in debt) and Middlesbrough (£84.6m in the red) if their current sugar daddies decide to ditch their 'investments'?
Manchester United's debt is seven times that of Bermuda. Recent figures put United's debt at £764m and the Glazer's had to pay £81 million in interest alone last year. Even a dodgy referee is not going to let them get away with that. Chelsea can't even beat Man U in the debt league! They come a close 2nd with a whopping £736m, but then they have Abramovich, who after a bad few weeks at the office is down to his last few billion. Chelsea's debt nevertheless is underwritten by Abramovich at let me see, a slightly better interest rate than those elsewhere in the Premier League.
Liverpool and Manchester United, meanwhile, were taken over or partially bought by American businessmen using a private-equity type model, borrowing heavily to buy the clubs, and then loading them up with the debt. Liverpool's debt is said to be £350m, most of which was due to be refinanced in 2009. The old Kop might well be standing for a few years yet.
The chairman of the FA, Lord Triesman touched a sore nerve among England's top clubs last week, and also I expect raised some unwelcome eyebrows in some of their banks. Some of the other Premier League club's debts are as follows:
Arsenal £318m, but nearly all tied up in the new stadium and those new flats. Oh.
Man City £103m, but soon to be wiped out by petrol dollars.
Newcastle United £69.7m, with the club on the market for £400m with Dennis Wise thrown in for nowt.
Aston Villa £63m but with a rich and seemingly well informed sugar daddy.
Bolton £43m with Eddie Davies looking to sell.
Portsmouth £41m with huge wage bills and an owner running short of money.
Sunderland £35m and big spenders.
A lot of doom and gloom and I really don't want to see a club go to the wall, especially mine or yours.
For excellent up to date news on the football economy, check out The Political Economy of Football.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Photograph of the week
Poor Chris Iwelumo. His face says it all. The ex-Addick never had a great first touch but blimey. Up there with Ronnie Rosenthal for the worst ever open goal miss.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Our man in Mexico
Greg Foulger is our man in Meck-i-co. He has wired in this latest transcript about his fantasy team and some of his challengers for the title:"World phenomenon Boys on Tour have been spotted training in the foothills of Mexico City with manager Gregory Foulger and new director of football Sven-Goran Eriksson. The altitude training would now appear to be paying dividends after a fantastic performance in Week 7 as the Boys on Tour look to build on an impressive first season. Asked about the season so far, Gregory Foulger merely replied
"yes we’re sampling the tacos, of course we share in a tequila or two in the afternoon but most of all it's about enjoying the football. Myself and Sven are looking at total football, look at the boys, just look at them. Yes, Sven and I are very handsome blonde men, and in Mexico that goes a long way. Put it this way, it's done us no harm, look at morale. My mum always said you couldn't get a good roast outside of England, myself, Sven and JT beg to disagree."
When asked about the other managers in the league, maverick Gregory Foulger replied "what do you think?", an impressive insight from the man crowned 'World's sexiest manager 2004-2008'.
Foulger did however express his disgust at the entry of Ryan Saveall "I was hoping we'd got rid of that toe rag, I personally can't stand him. Ryan and Huw Thomas represent everything that's wrong with the modern fantasy game. They're all about themselves, they're all ego. I'm the special one, i'm the most handsome and i'm by far the most talented manager."
Boys on Tour maverick Gregory Foulger then admitted to making a grave error in locating preseason training in Miami. "It was all too much for the boys, I made an error of judgement. Yes myself and Sven had a right old time but we spent a lot of the shareholders' money, team bonding with various young ladies was at times taken to an excessive level and young Jimmy Bullard went AWOL on numerous occasions. I believe that after experiencing the excesses of Miami he's now considering a transfer to Sweaty Palms, I understand their manager Lee Baughan endorses that kind of behaviour if you get my drift."
Foulger then went on to comment about the recent rumour that Thaksin Shinawatra was looking to finance a takeover of Hannoi United and make a substantial sum of money available for transfers: "Hannoi United can buy whoever they want, it doesn't mean they will have a good team. You need all things together, the alchemy of the team, the direction of an inspirational manager. They've got Read, they've got nothing. Give them as much money as you want, Hannoi will still be a mediocre team and Read will still be a little d*ck head."
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
Week 7 reminder
Ok, deep breath. Hull beat Arsenal in the first of a north London one-two. Of course you all have Daniel Cousin in your teams, don't ya? Torres scored two as the Mersey Reds beat the Mersey Blues. West Ham won at the Cottage. Cole & Etheringtpn the scorers. Murphy replying from the spot. Man U beat a resilient Bolton through a dodgy Ronaldo pen and Rooney. Villa beat Sunderland 2-1.
There were a lot of 2-1's as Blackburn beat Newcastle, despite a 2nd half fight back. Samba, Santa Cruz and Micky Owen scored. West Brom won at the Riverside, Chelsea beat Stoke 2-0 thanks to Bosingwa and Anelka, whilst on the Sunday Pompey heaped more pressure on Ramos by easily winning 2-0. Old boy Defoe and Crouch got the goals and then Wigan beat Man City, ooh 2-1. Valencia for Wigan with Kompany equalising and another dodgy pen, this from Zaki.
There were a lot of 2-1's as Blackburn beat Newcastle, despite a 2nd half fight back. Samba, Santa Cruz and Micky Owen scored. West Brom won at the Riverside, Chelsea beat Stoke 2-0 thanks to Bosingwa and Anelka, whilst on the Sunday Pompey heaped more pressure on Ramos by easily winning 2-0. Old boy Defoe and Crouch got the goals and then Wigan beat Man City, ooh 2-1. Valencia for Wigan with Kompany equalising and another dodgy pen, this from Zaki.
Bazzooka
Breaking News 88888 The N&R FL League TableA new league leader. Barry Plummer despite choosing to support a rubbish football team actually knows a thing or two about his footie. Previous N&R FL champ and consistent contender, Bazza has had an excellent start to this campaign and after waiting in the aisles for the last couple of weeks with some steady scoring, 2 Infinity & beyond made their move this week and went top of the table. They knocked off a horribly out of form Goonersmoan, who drop to 4th after leading since the gun.
In 2nd move Student Ninjas after a fine week 7 and in 3rd are new boys Gooner win league. Current champ Tallywacker's Bukkake Marathon slip up and fall to 5th five points ahead of Beaver Ruin. Ready and Soozie are locked together (not for the first time) Sausages and Hannoi hand in hand on 206 pts.
Sweaty Palms are still hanging in there on 9th, joint with Torres Rosso and In Tatters are nicley placed behind them.
There were some big climbers in week 7. Bent it like Bentley jumped 12 places as did Elland (Glad) Back, Gerrardinho moved up 14 spots and Team GB hurdled 12 other managers.
At the bottom the Champions are now 30 points adrift of Curbishley is s**t. At what points does Mark change his game plan? Another big surprise is seeing Ben Graves Dangleberry Rovers down there level with Megan & Hannah's Bears, which is er, not a surprise!
Mexican wave
Breaking News 88888 Week 7 scoresAh the man from Mexico with love. I wondered when he would finally get into gear this season. Greg's Boys on tour started like a bat out of hell last season, this time it has been a lot more, well Mexican. Greg took the MoW in week 7 with a score of 58 ans climbed an incedible 22 places. Next up was Bent it like Bentley, and even with both of those players in Dewbs' team, he still managed 56 points.
Following these two were Student Ninjas and Elland (Glad) Back with 53. Chris pushing himself into 2nd place and Rob upto 14th. New leader 2Infinity & beyond scored a half century, one more than another early challenger Torres Rosso. Plaudits to Soozies Succulent Sizzlers, who had a banger of a week (allegedly) by scoring 47, the same as Razor whose Gerrardinho surged 13 places.
Gooner win League and Team GB both fired a 45 and Towels on the bench, Guinness & eggs, St Mirnoff and Cyril Smith each knocked up 44.
The lowest weekly score was a shocker. Rutt's Goonersmoan who after leading the way for each of the previous 6 weeks, suddenly slumped to 4th after scoring just 9 points.
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
Hull City
You got to give it to Hull City haven't you? Up until this season and for 103 years Hull was the largest English city never the have had a team play in the countries top tier. Now, I'm not a great lover of Hull, it's bloody grim up there but credit where credit's due those northern monkeys must be on cloud nine at the moment.
Just 10 years ago Hull just managed to avoid relegation from the old fourth division to the conference. In 2000 under Brian Little they had the baliffs close their old ground Boothferry Park with bankruptcy seemingly around the corner. In 2001 a takeover by former Leeds director Adam Pearson settled the ship and he ploughed considerable money into the club. Brian Little was sacked and replaced by Jan Molby, a big name and a big belly. He was the hot ticket that Pearson wanted but after just a few months with City struggling in Division 3, he was sacked and replaced by Peter Taylor, who had left Brighton bemoaning financial constraints. Hull had a bit of money.
Taylor took the helm just as the Tigers moved out of the dreary Boothferry Park and into the KC Stadium (named after sponsors Kingston Communications). The next season Taylor got Hull promoted from the old Div 3 to the old Div 2 (now League One) finishing 2nd. Then Taylor did it again with another runners up spot to take Hull into the Championship for the first time since 1990.
Taylor achieved stability in his first season in the Championship and finished 18th, then Taylor made a mistake he will live to regret - he buggered off to Crystal Palace. the now Charlton assistant manager Phil Parkinson took over, spent a lot of money but struggled. Pearson showed again he would not accept failure and sacked Parkinson.
But this time he erred away from choosing a big name and persuaded Phil Brown to leave Big Sam's side at Bolton and take his first management job. This was in December 2006. Brown brought back ex-player Dean Windass and together they kept Hull up.
Last summer in a move that has been a huge factor in Hull's success, Brown brought in ex-manager Brian Horton as his number two and last season against the odds they made the play-offs and won promotion. Also last summer Adam Pearson, who had done so much for the club and community decided to sell up to Paul Duffen, who had made his money in the media.
Hull was the 3rd club that Duffen and his consortium tried to buy after West Ham and Cardiff. Duffen plays a much more behind the scenes role than Pearson did, but he sat and watched Hull win the play-off's at Wembley and has backed Phil Brown with a fair bit of cash this season, although what they have achieved so far deserves serious credit.
And where did Adam Pearson go? To take over Derby County last autumn, the team that went down with record points, and had their place taken by.... Hull City of course!
Interesting fact: Hull already have 3 more points than Derby got during the whole of last season.
Just 10 years ago Hull just managed to avoid relegation from the old fourth division to the conference. In 2000 under Brian Little they had the baliffs close their old ground Boothferry Park with bankruptcy seemingly around the corner. In 2001 a takeover by former Leeds director Adam Pearson settled the ship and he ploughed considerable money into the club. Brian Little was sacked and replaced by Jan Molby, a big name and a big belly. He was the hot ticket that Pearson wanted but after just a few months with City struggling in Division 3, he was sacked and replaced by Peter Taylor, who had left Brighton bemoaning financial constraints. Hull had a bit of money.
Taylor took the helm just as the Tigers moved out of the dreary Boothferry Park and into the KC Stadium (named after sponsors Kingston Communications). The next season Taylor got Hull promoted from the old Div 3 to the old Div 2 (now League One) finishing 2nd. Then Taylor did it again with another runners up spot to take Hull into the Championship for the first time since 1990.
Taylor achieved stability in his first season in the Championship and finished 18th, then Taylor made a mistake he will live to regret - he buggered off to Crystal Palace. the now Charlton assistant manager Phil Parkinson took over, spent a lot of money but struggled. Pearson showed again he would not accept failure and sacked Parkinson.
But this time he erred away from choosing a big name and persuaded Phil Brown to leave Big Sam's side at Bolton and take his first management job. This was in December 2006. Brown brought back ex-player Dean Windass and together they kept Hull up.
Last summer in a move that has been a huge factor in Hull's success, Brown brought in ex-manager Brian Horton as his number two and last season against the odds they made the play-offs and won promotion. Also last summer Adam Pearson, who had done so much for the club and community decided to sell up to Paul Duffen, who had made his money in the media.
Hull was the 3rd club that Duffen and his consortium tried to buy after West Ham and Cardiff. Duffen plays a much more behind the scenes role than Pearson did, but he sat and watched Hull win the play-off's at Wembley and has backed Phil Brown with a fair bit of cash this season, although what they have achieved so far deserves serious credit.
And where did Adam Pearson go? To take over Derby County last autumn, the team that went down with record points, and had their place taken by.... Hull City of course!
Interesting fact: Hull already have 3 more points than Derby got during the whole of last season.
Monday, October 06, 2008
Rod Liddle says
Another thought provoking article in the Sunday Times from Rod Liddle on crowd abuse at football matches. For the full article click here.
"The Sol Campbell song is impossible to defend; but then an awful lot of football chants are difficult to defend. They have become nastier and more personal of late and we could argue all year about why. Perhaps we are much nastier people these days; or the gulf between players and supporters has become so grotesque the players are no longer viewed as anything other than fair game for an unlimited level of abuse. We pay their obscene wages; they repay us with a total and utter lack of loyalty, so they get what they deserve. Maybe it’s both of these things."
"The Sol Campbell song is impossible to defend; but then an awful lot of football chants are difficult to defend. They have become nastier and more personal of late and we could argue all year about why. Perhaps we are much nastier people these days; or the gulf between players and supporters has become so grotesque the players are no longer viewed as anything other than fair game for an unlimited level of abuse. We pay their obscene wages; they repay us with a total and utter lack of loyalty, so they get what they deserve. Maybe it’s both of these things."
Photograph of the week
With apologies to my mate Keith. Tottenham are without a win now in seven matches, their worst start to a season since 1912, the year the Titanic sank, Herbert Asquith was Prime Minister, Scott was in the South Pole and Barnsley won the FA Cup. Whatever happened to that nice chap Martin Jol?
Road to Wembley - Happiness isn't a team called Hamlet
Hendon are through to the third qualifying round of the FA Cup after seeing off our one-round wonders Dulwich Hamlet 2-1 in a replay at Harrow Borough FC last week. The first game at Champion Hill ended 2-2 in front of 353 people.In this game Hamlet found themselves a goal and a man down but put in a stunning second half display that almost snatched an improbably victory. NOEL and CUMBERBATCH scoring the goals earning a replay.
Goals from Dave Diedhiou and Harry Hunt gave the Greens a 2-0 lead at half-time in a game held at Harrow Borough, before the NOEL pulled one back after the break for Hamlet.
Hendon will now host AFC Telford of the Blue Square North Div on October 11. The match will be played at Wembley FC. Hendon are currently homeless after their home for 80 years at Claremont Road in Brent Cross was shut. Hendon, who are owned by a supporters trust have been playing home games "wherever they can," and their future is in serious doubt.
The crowd for the Hamlet replay for a game that was played at Harrow was just 139, the lowest of the season. More on the plight of Hendon soon.
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