Bleacher Report - Articles by Edward Quinn

The Lions: Who Would You Play at the Back?

Edward Quinn — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 08:01:21 -0400

After what was in my mind, and in doubt every rugby fan's mind, an enthralling RBS Six Nations, the focus switches next to the British and Irish Lions' tour of South Africa in the summer, and it is now the job of head coach Ian McGeechan to pick a finely balanced squad with enough world-class talent, whilst having to sacrifice some other world-class talents in their place. It's not an easy job.

Especially when there were so many class performances out there amongst the home nations during the Six Nations. The Irish blossomed, England were resurgent, Wales were still there and Scotland showed promise but failed to ultimately deliver. And it wasn't just the teams, but individual players themselves who delivered inspirational performances.

In terms of the forwards...in my view, they pick themselves because of their influential performances week in week out:

1. Gethin Jenkins (Wales)

2. Ross Ford (Scotland)

3. Euan Murray (Scotland)

4. Paul O'Connell (Ireland)

5. Alan Wyn Jones (Wales)

6. David Wallace (Ireland)

7. Martyn Williams (Wales)

8. Jamie Heaslip (Ireland)

Although honorable mentions must go to Phil Vickery and Lee Mears (both England), Jerry Flannery (Ireland), Tom Croft (England), Andy Powell (Wales) and Denis Leamy (Ireland)

But I believe where places will be most hotly contested is in the remaining seven places in the backs. So many stood out in every position that it is hard to pick a definite for them. So instead of doing that, each position will be thoroughly examined, as will the likely players, and a decision will most likely come from that.

Scrum-half (No. 9)

To my mind, not many scrum-halves truly stood out in the Six Nations. Scotland's Mike Blair had another chance to impress on the international stage, but flopped. England's Harry Ellis and Danny Care both gave good performances, although Care's sin-bin against Ireland was a bit petulant on his part.

Ireland's Tomas O'Leary also showed good tactical awareness, and Wales' Mike Phillips, although not back to his ultimate best, gave a good account of himself in the Wales shirt. It's hard to pick a definite BUT if I was really pushed...

Verdict: MIKE PHILLIPS (Wales)

Fly-half (No.10)

Another difficult position to fill, as you want a consistent performer who will always hit the target with penalties and coversions yet is good in open play too. There were, again, not many who really stood out. Ronan O'Gara of Ireland wasn't consistent enough through the tournament (although credit to him that was a cool head he kept when slotting the final drop-goal). Stephen Jones also impressed for Wales, as did Toby Flood for England.

But the biggest headache is of course Jonny Wilkinson. If he can regain his fitness for the Lions' tour, then there is every possibility he could play. This is a hard one so I'm going for two possibilities...

Verdict: JONNY WILKINSON (England)...and if Wilkinson isn't fit, then RONAN O'GARA (Ireland)...becuase I believe he can give a performance when its due.

Left wing (No.11)

This one could have been easy, but over the Six Nations, it became slightly more complicated as the premium number 11 in the world, Wales' Shane Williams, didn't impress as much as in 2008, and this has allowed other names to creep in, such as England's Mark Cueto and Ugo Monye, Ireland's Tommy Bowe and Scotland's Thom Evans. But overall, on his day, little Shane can destroy teams so...

Verdict: SHANE WILLIAMS (Wales)

Inside centre (No.12)

How on earth can you pick an inside centre from the ones who were on show at the Six Nations? Gavin Henson and Jamie Roberts of Wales both gave good accounts of themselves when they played. England's Riki Flutely was a rising star and impressed one and all, and Ireland's Gordon D'Arcy also impressed.

Picking a number 12 from these talents is going to be hard for McGeechan and co, but if I was pressed, then...

Verdict: RIKI FLUTELY (England)...for me he really impressed during the tournament and deserves a Lions' berth.

Outside centre (No.13)

No contest. The easiest position to fill on the park. Mike Tindall and Matthew Tait of England, plus tom Shanklin of Wales, both gave good performances during the tournament, but in the end, this position can only really be filled by one man, who was the star of Six Nations 2009...

Verdict: BRIAN O'DRISCOLL (Ireland)...need I say any more?

Right wing (No.14)

Since little Shane Williams is still the best left-wing in the world, the contest for right-wing now hots up. Paul Sackey and Mark Cueto (again) gave good performances in this position for England, as did Leigh Halfpenny and and Mark Jones of Wales, and Tommy Bowe (again) of Ireland. Not an easy choice to fill on this one, but if I had to plump for one...I can't even plump for one so its a choice of two here, two players who I think can make the number 14 shirt...

Verdict: TOMMY BOWE (Ireland) or LEIGH HALFPENNY (Wales)

Full back (No.15)

Almost as easy to fill outside centre. Delon Armitage of England really impressed for England during the Six Nations, and is really one for the future. But in the end, whilst Armitage was impressive, there was one number 15 out there consistently better...

Verdict: LEE BYRNE (Wales).

So if I were the Lions' boss, this would be the team I would field in the first game:

1. Gethin Jenkins, 2. Ross Ford, 3. Euan Murray, 4. Paul O'Connell, 5. Alan Wyn Jones, 6. David Wallace, 7. Martyn Williams, 8. Jamie Heaslip, 9. Mike Phillips, 10. Jonny Wilkinson/Ronan O'Gara (if JW wasn't fit), 11. Shane Williams, 12. Riki Flutely, 13. Brain O'Driscoll, 14. Tommy Bowe, 15. Lee Byrne.

Captain: Hard one but Brian O'Driscoll would get the nod for me.

It should be an exciting tour for the Lions, against the world champions. Who will be the first XV? Only time will tell.

Bernie Ecclestone and Lewis Hamilton: The Whole Racism Thing

Edward Quinn — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 07:08:43 -0500

It's been dragging on for quite a while now, but I'm sure like many of you, I want to see the back of this whole racism scandal.

It's pathetic and it's the mark of idiots who have nothing better to do than get on the back of someone because of their ethnicity and other things.

But the way Bernie Ecclestone handled the racism surrounding the newly crowned Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton was, in a way, an even worse case.

In an effort to try and clear the air, Ecclestone said that the whole thing was a "joke," that it had been "blown out of proportion" and that overall, the sport never had a problem with racism.

These comments provoked a reaction from the Hamilton camp, who felt it was far worse than what Ecclestone described.

Newly crowned World Champion, Lewis Hamilton, insisted he did not see it as a joke and, amid suggestions he was condoning racism, Ecclestone was roundly condemned by groups such as Kick It Out.

Ecclestone then tried to clear the air again, almost in an embarrassed way, by terming his use of the word "joke" as "I meant they were a joke, clowns.

"If I had had the opportunity, I would have got those guys, dragged them into the paddock and asked them to explain themselves and say the things they were apparently saying directly to Lewis.

"Anyone who does this sort of thing against Muslims, Jews, or whoever, are third-rate people."

These incidents refer to when Hamilton was taunted by spectators during pre-season testing at the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona.

In for the last race of the season at Brazil, visitors were urged to visit a "voodoo-style" website that invited to them to drop imaginary nails on a computer version of the Interlagos track, in the hope that Hamilton would suffer a puncture and hand the title to home favourite Massa.

Many of the posts were obscene, while others referred to Hamilton's skin colour.

I, for one, am appalled about fans who can sink to such a low level. True, the Hamilton-Alonso rift in 2007 would've upset the Spanish fans as they thought Hamilton was denying their man a third straight title, but that was hardly a good excuse to go out and do what they did...it was disgraceful.

Racism is a horrid thing...we've already had it in football, where disgruntled fans often boo players regarding their ethnicity or colour, and that's bad enough.

But for it to spread to other sports...it is wrong, just wrong. The time has come to put more effort into those anti-racism campaigns, and get it out of sport once and for all.

Formula 1: Who Should Stay and Who Should Go?

Edward Quinn — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 10:56:34 -0500

Formula One 2008 is over...Lewis Hamilton has taken his first championship crown, and Ferrari secured another Constructors Championship. Next up is 2009, with new changes and coverage changed from ITV to the BBC.

We know about these...what about the drivers...who deserves to stay, and who deserves to go, based on last season's performance? Some may have moved elsewhere, but for the rest, I will give opinions on whether they should stay or go. And remember, these are just opinions and not facts.

Definites to stay:

Lewis Hamilton:He says he wants to stay at McLaren for the rest of his career. I will say there's no better team for him right now. He gels well there and it would be a shocking day indeed, if he ever moved. The reigning champion and favourite for the 2009 crown.

Felipe Massa: When he's on his day, he is fast, fast, fast and no-one can match him. A definite champion one day, and with the Ferrari team right behind him, he'll be a favourite for the 2009 crown.

Robert Kubica: If BMW can deliver the car, then there is no reason this guy cannot win the World Championship. He has great talent, great raw speed, and just needs the right car to win races regularly. His time will come.

Fernando Alonso and Nelson Piquet Jr.:These two have been contracted to Renualt for 2009. A wise move from Fernando to stay, as Renault are making strides with his awesome talent, and he could contend for wins in 2009, and maybe even the title. Piquet had a mixed first season but can improve.

Sebastien Vettel:Definitely one for the future. Brought great speed from the unfancied Toro Rosso car. Manged to chalk up his first victory at Monza, an there is the potential for many more. Moving to Red Bull will either make or break the career of this young German.

Jenson Button: Contracted to Honda for 2009. A good driver, just needs the right car to get back up there.

Jarno Trulli and Timo Glock: As long as Toyota make good strides, these two can make a good impression next year. Trulli needs to improve race pace, and Glock is one for the future for sure.

Maybes to stay with current teams

Heikki Kovalainen: Had a sketchy season. Was never really on the pace of Hamilton, and had good qualifying pace, but poor race pace at times. Had a win gifted to him at Hungary by a blown engine to Massa. He needs to improve, but I reckon he can cut it. He could find next year tough though.

Kimi Raikkonen:Has the motivation been there? Last year's world champion had a mixture of form, sometimes brilliant, sometimes poor. Only chalked up two race victories this season and had to play second fiddle to Massa in the closing races. Contracted by Ferrari for at least another year, he needs to up his game a little and perform consistently in 2009.

Mark Webber: He's a very good talent in F1 but bad reliability and luck have let him down on many occasions. He can be a regular point scorer...he just needs his luck to improve.

Nico Rosberg: Flashes of speed have shone through sometimes during a tough year for the German. After his podium in the opener, it slipped away from him and Williams. Contracted for 2009, but needs to improve.

Sebastian Bourdais: Has often shown good talent, but outclassed by Vettel in a uncompetitive car. A second season improvement is needed.

Adrian Sutil and Giancarlo Fisichella: Not a competitive car, true, but these two have tried their very best nonetheless. Sutil produced a great drive in Monaco, and was cruelly denied points, whilst Fisi showed he still has it with a gutsy drive in Brazil. Great talents, not-so-great car.

Those who should go

Nick Hiedfeld: The BMW's been a good car this year, but Hiedfeld has definitely dissapointed. Outclassed all year by Kubica, he sometimes found it difficult to make the top 10 shootouts in qualifying. BMW have always wanted to promote its youth, so I think its time they washed their hands over Hiedfeld and find another talent.

David Coulthard: He's definitely going anyway. There's nothing bad I can say about the guy. He was a great F1 stalwart and often put the Red Bull further up than it suggested. Thank you DC and I hope you enjoy your retirement.

Kazuki Nakajima: I'm not sure about Nakajima. I don't think he has the talent to cut it, YET. To be fair, the Williams has been uncompetitive, but Nakajima has been one of the forgotten men this year. Contracted for 2009, but his neck is on the line.

Rubens Barrichello: the most experienced Formula 1 driver ever, and I think its time to hang up the helmet. No disrespect Rubinho, but I think the old speed's gone. Yes, the Honda is uncompetitive, but often Rubens has been in the shadow of Button. As yet, unconfirmed for 2009.

There you have it. Who I think should stay, and maybe stay, and also to go.

But let's see what the grid is like at Melbourne 2009...you never know what can happen.

Manchester United-Arsenal: Clash of the Giants, Part I/II

Edward Quinn — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 03:16:30 -0500

After mid-week blips in the Champions League which fans of both teams would rather forget, Manchester United and Arsenal return to do battle in the Premiership this weekend.

A Ryan Giggs equaliser gained Manchester United a deserved point against Celtic, a game which the Champions feel they should have won. Meanwhile, Arsenal were held at home by a stubborn Fenerbache side whom they had beaten 5-0 in the last fixture between the two clubs.

Now the teams will do battle this weekend at the Emirates Stadium in order to keep on the pace of league leaders Chelsea and Liverpool.

In terms of the last four games for both clubs, the odds would favour the Premiership champions, who have picked six victories from their last seven league games, and are a place and a point above the Gunners with a game in hand.

In contrast, Arsenal have gone three games without a win in all competitions and, despite sitting fourth in the table, have already lost to Fulham and Hull this season.

In terms of player availability, Manchester United have the advantage yet again as they have a clean bill of health, although doubts remain over the fitness of Owen Hargreaves and Wes Brown.

However, Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is definitely without top-scorer Emmanuel Adebayor, while Mikael Silvestre has a suspected broken nose, Theo Walcott and William Gallas are doubts, and Robin van Persie begins a three-match domestic suspension after his sending off against Stoke.

But despite their impressive past record on their visits to Highbury, Arsenal's previous home, United have claimed just one point from two games at the Emirates Stadium. These omens may not bode well for United's challenge.

At this moment of time the odds would favour Manchester United, however the game is still two days away and anything could happen to tip the odds one way or another.

Neither team can afford to lose the game in terms of the title race, although one more than the other, especially if Liverpool and Chelsea win their games.

Cristiano Ronaldo: The Whole Problem of the Saga

Edward Quinn — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 07:15:50 -0400

All the twists, all of the turns...yet have we really had time to sum up the saga in general? It's time to unravel all of the push and pull factors, the whole sense of the ongoing Cristiano Ronaldo saga. Will he stay at Manchester United or go to Real Madrid? As soon as I tie up all of the ends, we can draw up a sizable conclusion.

First off, let's get the footballing side of it out of the way. If it were for pure footballing reasons, he would stay. The fact is he could win a lot more at Unied than he could at Real.

He could win up to five trophies at United every season, the Premiership, the League Cup, the FA Cup, the Champions League and the Community Shield. In fact, they have a great chance of doing it this season. At Real, it could only be three or four.

But, he could put so much transfer budget in the kitty for United if he did go off to Madrid. The amount he could go for, around £70 million, could give United plentiful funds, about £100 million from existing funds, to sign a replacement plus a striker and maybe one or two others if they think they needed it.

Then let's get to the personal reasons. Ronaldo's been all over the place with whether he would go to Real or stay at United. Last year he signed a new five-year deal with United, professing his loyalty to stay until 2012.

But in the last few months he has declared that it would be his dream to play for Real Madrid.

Once he said: "Where I will be next season...only God knows."

With mixed statements such as these, it's impossible to know where he'll end up.

Various luminaries of football have expressed their opinions. People like David Beckham, Pele, Arsene Wenger, and Rio Ferdinand have told Ronaldo that he'd do best if he stays at United. Others like Fabio Cannavaro, Zinedine Zidane, and even Sepp Blatter, have told Ronaldo he should move to Real.

But in other terms, Real have been totally unsporting about this saga. Courting Ronaldo in public has been totally pathetic, making sure to unsettle the player so it would be easier to nab him.

United were right to report them to UEFA because it was out of proportion. The fact that Real avoided punishment still puzzles me.

But then there's the player himself. If Ronaldo wanted to leave, then it'd be wrong of United to keep him against his will. It'd mean he wouldn't be able to give his best because he would not be playing at the club he wants. It'd be sheer cruelty.

So, all factors here and examined, should he stay or should he go?

Well, it's still pretty blurry in terms of the eventual outcome. I for one cannot reach a certain conclusion about it. Let's hope that this saga does not leave a bigger stain as it already has done on World football.

Sergio Aguero: Can Manchester United Nab Another Sensation?

Edward Quinn — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 02:24:58 -0400

He's 20 years old, he has a brilliant left foot and lots of pace and has attracted the attention of top European football clubs such as Manchester United, Real Madrid and Inter Milan.

And now rumors are spreading that Manchester United are planning to raid Atletico Madrid for the wonderkid who is Sergio Aguero.

People and critics were wondering if Atletico were going to be reeling after the big-money sale of Fernando Torres. Instead they haven't.

And this guy's why.

After moving out of Torres' shadow when the striker moved to Anfield, Aguero has been an outstanding player for Atletico Madrid this season, partnering Diego Forlan up front in a new and exciting partnership, one that became one of the most feared partnerships in Europe.

That's why he was the third highest goalscorer in La Liga this season, with 19 goals.

He has pace, bundles and bundles of it, and one of the most deadly left-boots in the world today. His small size underpins his lightning acceleration and deadly goal-scoring ability to match.

No wonder "El Kun" was picked to play by his former club Independiente at the tender age of just 15 years and 35 days in 2003, breaking a much-vaunted record, previously held by one of the greatest players ever, as one of the youngest players ever to kick a football in a competitive match.

The record held by the legendary Maradona.

No wonder Atletico Madrid were willing to cough up £13.78 million in May 2006 to bring the striker in.

After a dreary first season in the shadow of Torres, Aguero has been one of Europe's top players this season. Look at the awards he has won this season!

The Antonio Puerta Award for the Best "La Liga" player for the 2007-2008 season, Tuttosport Golden Boy 2007 and FIFA's Young Player of the Year 2007.

After the circulating rumors of Cristiano Ronaldo's future at United, Aguero is being lined up as a possible replacement for the Portuguese winger if he makes a big money move to Real Madrid this summer.

And if Ronaldo does decide to stay, Aguero could still come to Old Trafford as they are known to be great admirers of his ability.

As a Manchester United fan, I would love Ronaldo to stay. But I have been taking an interest in Aguero for a while now. Even if Ronaldo left for Real Madrid, I would be satisfied if we brought Aguero in to cover for him.

But the best result is if we had both of these world-class players at United playing for one of the greatest teams in the world!

Watch out Europe, for the name of Sergio Aguero is not one that you will forget that easily, if at all.

Formula One: Kimi Raikkonen Sets The Pace In Monaco

Edward Quinn — Thu, 22 May 2008 01:10:32 -0400

At the first practice session in Monaco, McLaren were expected to set the pace. Instead, it was Kimi Raikkonen's Ferrari that topped the time-sheets on Thursday.

Raikkonen and Ferrari teammate Felipe Massa had always maintained that Ferrari would be very competitive in Monaco, at least a good match for McLaren, who usually dominate around this track.

And so it proved as Raikkonen clocked a fastest lap of one minute 15.948 seconds through the twisting street circuit of Monte Carlo, just 0.268 seconds ahead of Lewis Hamilton.

Hamilton's McLaren team-mate Heikki Kovalainen was third fastest, with Ferrari's Felipe Massa just behind.

The Williams of Nico Rosberg also came on strong as he recorded the fifth fastest time, with BMW's Robert Kubica behind him. BMW again look slightly off the pace against McClaren and Ferrari, with Nick Hieldfeld languishing down in 14th place.

Two-time winner of Monaco Fernando Alonso placed seventh in his Renault, followed by Rubens Barrichello's Honda in eighth, Mark Webber in the Red Bull ninth and the Force India of Giancarlo Fisichella rounding off the top 10.

David Coulthard stopped his Red Bull after only three laps, as he had to pull over after his Red Bull had a small fire. He ended up last with no time set.

Nick Heidfeld also had to withdraw after 13 laps, while Jarno Trulli buckled his wheel after his Toyota clipped a barrier coming out of the tunnel.

First free practice times for the Monaco Grand Prix:

1. Kimi Raikkonen (Finland) Ferrari 1min 15.948 seconds

2. Lewis Hamilton (Britain) McLaren-Mercedes 1:16.216

3. Heikki Kovalainen (Finland) McLaren-Mercedes 1:16.248

4. Felipe Massa (Brazil) Ferrari 1:16.292

5. Nico Rosberg (Germany) Williams - Toyota 1:16.653

6. Robert Kubica (Poland) BMW Sauber 1:16.834

7. Fernando Alonso (Spain) Renault 1:17.498

8. Rubens Barrichello (Brazil) Honda 1:17.511

9. Mark Webber (Australia) RedBull - Renault 1:17.798

10. Giancarlo Fisichella (Italy) Force India - Ferrari 1:17.835

11. Timo Glock (Germany) Toyota 1:17.942

12. Jenson Button (Britain) Honda 1:18.153

13. Sebastien Bourdais (France) Toro Rosso - Ferrari 1:18.245

14. Nick Heidfeld (Germany) BMW Sauber 1:18.263

15. Kazuki Nakajima (Japan) Williams - Toyota 1:18.274

16. Jarno Trulli (Italy) Toyota 1:18.360

17. Adrian Sutil (Germany) Force India - Ferrari 1:18.360

18. Nelson Piquet (Brazil) Renault 1:18.955

19. Sebastian Vettel (Germany) Toro Rosso - Ferrari 1:19.176

20. David Coulthard (Britain) RedBull - Renault no time

2008 Champions League Final: Manchester United Crowned Kings of Europe Again

Edward Quinn — Wed, 21 May 2008 11:15:44 -0400

Manchester United have won the European Champions League for the third time in their history as they overcame Chelsea in a penalty shoot-out in Moscow.

Cristiano Ronaldo headed an incredible 42nd goal of the season in the 26th minute after a good cross from Wes Brown in a United dominated first half, but Chelsea snatched one before the break as Frank Lampard charged in to slot home just before half-time.

Chances came thick and fast during the game. Tevez missed a few good chances, plus there were misses for Carrick, Drogba and Lampard to name a few, and the game went into extra-time.

The teams were deadlocked through extra-time, but then five minutes from the end of the second period, Didier Drogba was sent off after slapping Nemanja Vidic in the face during a player rumble in the Chelsea area. It went to penalties.

As fate would have it, Cristiano Ronaldo missed his penalty after a good save from Cech. But then John Terry missed the crucial last penalty to send it to sudden death.

Anderson, Kalou and Giggs then slotted their penalties before Anelka stepped up. He sent it to the right side of the goal, and Van der Sar sprawled across to save it to send United fans into wonderland.

And so it was heartbreak for Chelsea, especially John Terry, as they missed out on a first European Crown, while United partied like 1999, with Ronaldo breaking down after Anelka's miss. Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs, who becomes the most experienced Manchester United player after breaking Sir Bobby Charlton's record, lifted the trophy.

I know I should never put my own personal thoughts in an article, but I just have to. I was heartbroken when Ronaldo missed his penalty, elated when Terry hit the post, and then out of my mind when Anelka missed. Such is my support of United, my throat went dry from all the roaring I did.

I can't really say anymore. I'm SO SO HAPPY! So congratulations Manchester United on another Champions League victory, and my deepest sympathies to Chelsea. Despite not liking them, I have to feel sympathy for them.

That's the club football done now everybody!

Bring on Euro 2008, where we will see more explosive footballing talents!

Until the Premier League starts next season, have a great summer footy fans everywhere!

Sir Alex Ferguson vs. Vladimir Lenin: A Comparison, or Plain Rubbish?

Edward Quinn — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:51:45 -0400

It was the evening of May 20, 2008, 10:35 pm, ITV 1, my bedroom.

The preview to what they called "The Game of Games" popped on. A preview of the 2008 Champions League Final between Manchester United and Chelsea at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.

As well as looking back at the roads of United and Chelsea to the final, we also had interviews with the likes of Rio Ferdinand, Cristiano Ronaldo, Joe Cole and Petr Cech (where I liked it that his nickname was affiliated to one of the Russian Czars, Peter the Great), a reporter's quest to interview Roman Abramovich (which failed), and Champions League Final rapping with DJ Yoda (which was catchy).

But before the interview with Sir Alex Ferguson, the reporters gave him a contrast to Vladimir Lenin, leader of the Communist Party of Russia, who was Russia's leader from 1917-1924.

Is this a good comparison or not? I'll try to find out.

It is probably a good idea to outline the qualities/characteristics of Lenin, and see how Sir Alex matches up to those.

Lenin was an intensely hard worker. He gave his whole life to the Russian Revolution (where his party of Communists seized and held power). He had no free time or leisure, for all was for the Revolution. He lived simply and worked 16 hours a day.

Can Sir Alex compare to that? I don't think so. True, Manchester United may be his life's work like Lenin's was the Revolution, but does Sir Alex work 16 hours a day?

I honestly don't think so.

And of course, he is entitled to his free time, and though I do not know what he does with it I am sure he relaxes (unlike Lenin did). And with the money he amasses, he is sure to have a rich and secure life.

Lenin was a great public speaker. He had the great ability to be able to explain complex ideas in simple phrases so that his followers would understand.

Sir Alex is also a good speaker. True, he may never talk on Match of the Day, but during interviews with the press, he always gets his point across. He shows not a hint of emotion, and usually gets in a joke or two as well.

Lenin was a pragmatic and ruthless leader. He drafted in harsh economic policies on the peasants, which involved the Communist soldiers to forcibly take grain from the peasants in order to win the Civil War. But when he had to be, Lenin was also known to compromise on his policies in order to keep the people happy and the Communists in power.

Sir Alex has shown a ruthless streak in the past, such as forcibly getting rid of David Beckham and Ruud Van Nistelrooy when he felt they no longer were of any use for his football team. But he has had to compromise sometimes with injuries by bringing in youths and playing people in unfamiliar positions, and they have always worked.

So, good comparison or not? I would say it does have some basis, as Sir Alex and Lenin are similar sorts in some ways. But honestly, do we think that Lenin could have led United to the same successes that Sir Alex has had with them?

Hmmm, I don't think so, even if he did have Stalin as his ruthless assistant.

I just don't think Lenin would have understood the concept of football!

Bristol City: The Meteoric Rise to the Playoff Final

Edward Quinn — Wed, 14 May 2008 05:29:51 -0400

Bristol City finished second in the English League One to secure promotion to the Championship for 2007-2008.

A year later, they are one game away from securing a second promotion, to the Premiership, after winning the playoff semi-final against Crystal Palace.

It all started in summer 2007.

In the summer between City's promotion and the start of the Championship season, Gary Johnson made a number of signings. This included the capture of Swansea City's star player, Lee Trundle for a fee of £1 million.

In addition, pacy winger Ivan Sproule was bought from Hibs, Marvin Elliott signed on a Bosman ruling after leaving Millwall, Darren Byfield signed also from Millwall, and Stephen Henderson arrived from Aston Villa.

Michael McIndoe was also bought from Wolves, reuniting him with his former boss at Yeovil, Gary Johnson.

City had a good start to the season, briefly topping the table after their fourth game (a 0-1 win at Sheffield Wednesday) and again later after beating Championship leaders Coventry City 3-0 at Coventry's Ricoh Arena.

They were narrowly beaten by Sven Goran Eriksson's resurgent Manchester City in the League Cup.

On September 6, 2007, Gary Johnson and assistant Keith Millen signed new contracts, keeping them at the club until 2010.

Since then, City have gone from strength to strength, winning against recent Premiership clubs Sheffield United, Norwich City, and a Stoke City side managed by former City boss Tony Pulis.

Reaching the dizzying heights of second place and starting talk of a second successive promotion that would take them to the Premier League.

A run of poor form began in November with just two points from a possible 15, including a 6-0 thrashing away to Ipswich Town. A poor November was followed by a good start to December.

A dramatic 94th minute winner by Darren Byfield got city a first win in five away to table toppers Watford, televised live on Sky Sports.

Revenge came against Ipswich Town four days later as City beat them, 2-0, at home and gave them a huge boost in the table once again.

A draw away to West Country rivals Plymouth Argyle followed, leaving them fifth in the table and unbeaten in December. City then beat fierce rivals Cardiff City 1-0 at Ashton Gate.

The Christmas period started off well with a 3-2 win over Barnsley at Ashton Gate. On Boxing Day, the Robins traveled to the Hawthorns to play the league leaders West Brom but they were outplayed.

Although the Baggies were held in the first half, the game ended 4-1 to the Baggies. Two more wins against Burnley (1-0) and Coventry City (2-1) put City level in third place, level on points with West Brom and Watford with 47 each.

After a draw against a dangerous looking Colchester United side, City lost by two goals to nil against Crystal Palace before a Marvin Elliott strike gave City a much needed win against Blackpool.

By late February 2008, City were second in the Championship, after scoring in the final minute to gain a 1-1 draw in a televised game against Crystal Palace and coming from behind to beat struggling Colchester United 2-1.

On March 1, 2008, City beat Hull City 2-1 at Ashton Gate to top the division, two points clear of second-placed Stoke City. On March 4, Bristol City came from a goal down to draw 1-1 with Charlton Athletic.

They went back to the top of the league after a 2-1 win over Norwich City at Ashton Gate. The winner came three minutes into injury time from Steve Brooker, in his first home game of the season after struggling with a knee injury.

However, after a poor run of form through March and April, City found automatic promotion slipping out of reach.

After a 2-1 loss at Sheffield United, it was confirmed that automatic promotion was mathematically impossible, whilst other results around the country confirmed that they would definitely be appearing in the play-offs.

On May 4, 2008, a 3-0 home win against Preston North End on the final day of the league season ensured a playoff place and a semi-final fixture against Crystal Palace.

On May 13, 2008, City confirmed their trip to Wembley with a 4-2 aggregate win over Crystal Palace with goals from Lee Trundle & Michael McIndoe. They will play Hull City, who are touted as the better team according to betting parlours

As my native city team, I am very excited by the prospect of having a Premier League team, if we can get through.

I'd love it if I could go to a Bristol City vs. Manchester United game (my native team versus my favorite team). Come on City!!!

EPL: Super Ronny On Fire As Fulham Continue To Fight

Edward Quinn — Sat, 03 May 2008 08:12:24 -0400

Cristiano Ronaldo took aim and fired on the Hammers as Manchester United banished their three-game jinx with a 4-1 thumping of West Ham United.

Meanwhilst, Fulham continued their race for survival as they beat Birmingham 2-0.

Ronaldo scored twice in the first 25 minutes to bring his tally for the season to an incredible 40 goals as United raced out of the blocks very early.

Then, Carlos Tevez struck a beauty from 25 yards to remind his former club of his class. But the goal of the game was to come from Dean Ashton as he netted a spectacular overhead kick shortly afterward.

Luiz Nani was sent off in the 37th minute after inexplicably headbutting Lucas Neill, but United held on quite well against a poor West Ham side.

Michael Carrick netted the fourth after 58 minutes to seal the points for all.

This win brings Manchester United within one win of retaining their Premiership crown. Chelsea play Newcastle on Monday knowing that if they lose, the crown goes to Old Trafford once again.

Sir Alex Ferguson added fuel to the fire by claiming that "the pressure is on Chelsea now."

Two second-half goals at Craven Cottage pulled Fulham out of the drop-zone with one game to go after beating Birmingham. Brian McBride rose to head home Jimmy Bullard's free-kick on 52 minutes to set them on their way.

Erik Nevland fired home in the final minutes to wrap up the points.

Realistically, Fulham, Birmingham and Reading can still be relegated. Bolton, in 16th, are mathematically safe.

Antonio Valencia was on target twice for Wigan as they confirmed their survival with a 2-0 win over Aston Villa at Villa Park.

An early Robbie Keane strike gave Spurs a victory over Reading and pulled the Royals into the relegation zone, with 1-0 the final score.

Bolton and Sunderland are both ensured of survival now, with the team in white beating the Black Cats 2-0 with goals from El-Hadji Diouf and Kevin Nolan.

Blackburn won 3-1 against Derby and Middlesbrough recorded a 2-0 victory over Portsmouth in the day's other games.

Didier Drogba : The Hitman Of The Chelsea Revolution

Edward Quinn — Thu, 01 May 2008 09:41:33 -0400

When Jose Mourinho announced that he was bringing in an Ivory Coast international called Didier Drogba for £23.8 million from Marseille at the start of the 2004/05 season, eyes were raised, ears were pricked, journalists were intrigued.

The 26 year-old striker from Abidjan in Ivory Coast was definitely going to be a big gamble by Mourinho. And the gamble has definitely paid off.

Despite his first season being hampered by a stomach injury at Liverpool, which ruled him out for two months, Drogba scored an impressive 16 goals in 40 games, with the second best goals-to-games ratio in the Premiership that season, but it came at a price: he had started a bad reputation as being a diver.

Nevertheless, Chelsea rampaged to a Premiership and Carling Cup double, with Drogba scoring the winner against Liverpool to clinch the Carling Cup at the Millennium Stadium.

2005-06 gave Drogba 16 goals again as Chelsea retained their Premiership crown. However, his reputation took a turn for the worse as he was discovered to be a cheater and a diver.

He finished the 2005-06 season as the top dive provider in the Premier League, with 11 dives according to Victim Stats, a bad record for any top-class player. He was so disheartened that he contemplated a move away from Chelsea, but signed a new contract in 2006, saying that he looked forward to playing with new team-mates Michael Ballack, Salomon Kalou, Andriy Shevchenko and Mikel John Obi.

The 2006-07 season was a personal success for Drogba as he hit 33 goals in all competitions (more than his tally in the previous two seasons combined), including 20 in the Premier League to win the Golden Boot.

In doing so, he became the first Chelsea player since Kenny Dixon in 1984-85 to reach 30 goals in a season. Although Chelsea lost the league to Manchester United, Drogba scored all of the goals in Chelsea's 2-1 Carling Cup final win over Arsenal and the FA Cup Final 1-0 victory over Manchester United.

In January 2007 Drogba was crowned the Ivorian Player of the Year and African Footballer of the Year. This undermined his class and ability and his deadly accuracy in front of goal. He narrowly missed out on PFA Player of the Year to an equally superb Cristiano Ronaldo.

The start of the 2007-08 season was tough for Didier, as he was reportedly in tears when Jose Mourinho told him he was leaving the club, and said "Mourinho's departure destroys a certain familiarity we had at the club. Many of us used to play first and foremost for the manager. Now we need to forget those feelings and find another source of motivation."

Following these claims, Drogba told France Football Magazine "I want to leave Chelsea. Something is broken with Chelsea, the damage is big in the dressing room." In the interview he also claimed that "morale has plummeted since Jose Mourinho left."

Despite having signed a four year contract with the club in 2006, Drogba reportedly pointed out several favoured clubs in the interview, including AC Milan and Real Madrid, though recently he admitted he regrets claiming he wants to leave the club, and claims to be 100% committed to the club.

Drogba has nevertheless scored 15 goals this season after his early season lapse. A good comeback. With Chelsea still on for a double, they'll be a force to be reckoned with as long as Drogba is leading the line.

His prolific scoring always hits the back of he net with the fans. He has been an undoubted success for Chelsea, and is one of the crucial factors to their status as one of he best teams in Europe.

Hats off to you Jose, you unleashed a talisman on the Premier League...

The Battle Of Stamford Bridge 2008: Who Will Win? Chelsea Or Liverpool?

Edward Quinn — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 05:28:44 -0400

After witnessing Manchester United's gritty victory against Barcelona thanks to a Paul Scholes rocket, the battle royal commences to see who will join them.

Chelsea face Liverpool in the second Champions League semi-final, after a late John Arne Riise own goal has given Chelsea an advantage on away goals with a 1-1 draw in the first leg at Anfield.

Frank Lampard is expected to return for Chelsea after recovering from the death of his mother.

Liverpool could recall John Arne Riise in place of the injured Fabio Aurelio, if he fails to make it. Torres will be recalled, with Crouch expected to start up next to him with Babel demoted to the bench. Hyypia is also expected to partner Carragher in defence.

If John Terry gets booked in this match, he will miss the final regardless of who wins. Will that be a factor?

Here are my expected line-ups for the game. If they are different, scourge me far and wide in whatever way you can:

Chelsea (possible 4-3-3): Cech - Belletti, Carvalho, Terry, A Cole - Ballack, Essien, Lampard - J Cole, Drogba, Kalou

Liverpool (possible 4-2-2): Reina - Finnan, Carragher, Hyypia, Riise - Gerrard, Alonso, Mascherano, Benayoun - Torres, Crouch

I'm going for a competitive game. They both have good attacking potential. But, I'd have to call it 1-1. Liverpool and Chelsea both have good attacking forces with Torres and Drogba respectively.

Their defences are doing well at the moment with stalwarts such as Carragher and Terry. It will be an even match with one goal each. If my prediction is right, then penalties will be needed because both have away goals.

Anyway, enjoy! Whichever way it goes, we're going to have an all English final for the first time! That will be fantastic.

The lines are set. Who will emerge triumphant and proceed to do battle with Manchester United at the decisive Battle of Moscow on May 21st 2008?

The Pain In Spain For Thierry Henry

Edward Quinn — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 11:23:15 -0400

This is not how it was supposed to turn out. One minute you're on top of the world, next you're in the pits. It could happen to anyone, but unfortunately it has happened to Thierry Henry. A move from Arsenal to Barcelona that promised so much has produced little.

What a great shame for the charismatic Frenchman, who's £16.1 million move to Barcelona was supposed to give Barcelona the finished jigsaw in "The Four Fantasticos" (Lionel Messi, Ronaldinho, Samuel Eto'o and now Thierry Henry).

But what a difference a season can make. After having scored 174 goals in 235 appearances for Arsenal, he has only scored 7 in 22 for Barcelona, and made to play out in the uncomfortable position of wide left by manager Frank Rijkaard for most of the time. It's definitely the case of a big fall after a meteoric rise.

Why has Henry struggled so much? His fitness had been worn out after a troubled injury-filled 2007 with Arsenal. So when he moved to Spain, Henry was still not match fit yet he had to dig deep to play his first few games, but he so often looked like a worn-out battery, not really fit enough to play.

Henry also has had his personal life troubled. He split up with his wife Claire when he moved to Spain, who also had custody of Henry's two year-old daughter, Tea. Henry was quoted on saying on the 13th March: "My daughter is the most important thing in my life. I'm not happy because a father who sees his daughter five times in eight months cannot be." His manager Rijkaard has conceded that Henry's personal situation has been a "difficult thing" for the Frenchman.

These have lead to intense speculation that this season would be Henry's only season in Spain. The tabloids were suggesting that a move back to England woud suffice for the striker who once set the world alight with his mazy dribbling and flair. Henry conceded that he would ever move back to England if it was for his former team, Arsenal, and Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has been alerted to the Frenchman's state of mind, and is reportedly interested.

What the future holds is uncertain at best. Henry has the rest of the season, in La Liga and in the Champions League, to prove that he can grit it out and bear it at Camp Nou. But where he will go after that, no-one yet knows? All I know is, my sympathies, and the sympathies of Arsenal fans, are with Henry as he struggles to overcome a tough period in his football career.

John Terry, Steven Gerrard Or...? Which Way Will Fabio Capello Go?

Edward Quinn — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 07:32:57 -0400

A few months to go. So many candidates to choose. But the question is: Who will Capello pick as England captain come Qualification for the 2010 World Cup? With the Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United and Newcastle team captains in the frame, it will not be an easy decision. But he has to go one way or another, and the expense of ridicule from the press if they feel he chooses the wrong one.

Here, the list of possible candidates for Capello to choose will be run through. Each will be assessed on their leadership abilities and present form:

John Terry - Chelsea captain - Chosen by former coach Steve McClaren to be his England captain. Has shown he is a born leader, leading by example with great defensive performances for Chelsea alongside Carvalho. Seen as the prime choice.

Steven Gerrard - Liverpool captain - Shown good form and good leadership abilities to help Liverpool to a possible 3rd Champions League Final in 4 years, and securing Liverpool 4th place in the Premiership table. Able to boss a game from central midfield. Another prime choice

Gary Neville - Manchester United captain - Been sidelined all season with injury. Shown good leadership skills last season to lead Man Utd to Premiership title, bombing forward from right-back when needed. Maybe a slight outside choice.

Rio Ferdinand - 3rd choice Manchester United captain - An absolute tower in defence this season alongside Vidic, commanding United from the back in Neville's absence. Given the armband against France, but shown touchy and angry side on Saturday against Chelsea. A good choice, maybe a slight outsider

Michael Owen - Newcastle captain - Impressed for Newcastle in recent matches both with form and with leadership abilities. Scored a few goals but lacks enough leadership qualities to permanently captain the national side.

Capello's got a touch choice. Where will he go? We will have to wait until September to see...

Formula 1: Will Anyone Melt the Ice Man, Kimi Raikkonen?

Edward Quinn — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 09:28:04 -0400

Four races, two victories, a nine-point lead in the Championship table. Can anyone stop the fast-developing legend that is Kimi Raikkonen?

Since his move to Ferrari from Mclaren at the end of the 2006 season, he has never looked back. With a fast car and his natural raw talent and pace, I was not surprised that Kimi came back to steal the F1 crown at the last race in Brazil from under the noses of Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso.

This was a guy who had come into F1 at the start of 2000 having only raced in 23 competitive car races since stepping up from karts. If he had not had his Super License given to him, who would have replaced him?

Getting a point in his first Grand Prix with Sauber was a remarkable feat for the young Kimi, and in that season alone, he managed to put his teammate Nick Heidfeld in the shade for some of the races.

Mclaren snapped him up for 2001. Two years later, he earned his first Formula One victory at the Malaysian Grand Prix. However, a mix of reliability issues in that year and in 2004 prevented him for mounting a serious title challenge.

He was a strong contender in 2005, but reliability problems struck again, and Fernando Alonso took the crown. The next year saw the fight between Alonso and Michael Schumacher, with Kimi put in the shade.

Replacing the legend that was Michael Schumacher was never going to be an easy task for the 2007 season, but Kimi took it like a duck to water, winning first time out in Melbourne.

But until France, he was put in the shade by talented teammate Felipe Massa. Then strong results came back to Kimi and...you know the rest, a well deserved first Formula 1 title that was a long time in coming.

To sum this guy up, he is a 29-year-old from Espoo in Finland who is the fastest man on the planet. He inherits the mantle of "The Flying Finn" from compatriot and double world champion Mika Hakkinen. Kimi Raikkonen, the "Ice Man" of Formula 1, will continue to take the sport by storm in years to come.

He has the talent, he has the car, he has the raw pace...need I say more?

England Rugby: Jonny Be Good...But When Jonny Not There, Who Can Be Better?

Edward Quinn — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 22:26:25 -0400

Jonny Wilkinson, the top rugby union point scorer of all time, the holder of the infamous No. 10 England rugby shirt, one of the most deadly kickers of a rugby ball to have ever existed, will undergo shoulder surgery at the end of this rugby season, meaning that he is definitely out of the New Zealand tour in June.

This will be a big blow to new team manager Martin Johnson, someone who has played alongside and helped to nurture Wilkinson as he has come of age and made the number 10 shirt his own. He will now need to fill the big void left by Wilkinson's withdrawal. There are a list of potential candidates who could step up to the plate, and I will go thorough them below:

Danny Cipriani - had a brilliant game against Ireland in the 6 Nations after coming on for Wilkinson. Had a perfect 100% kicking rate in that game and never looked daunted under the pressure. Seen as the prime choice to take the shirt.

Shane Geraghty - Has made two starts in an England shirt and not failed to disappoint in both. Contributed to England's win over France in the 2007 Six Nations, but did not make the World Cup squad. A reliable if unproven choice

Charlie Hodgson - Only just recovered match fitness. Has scored 253 points in 29 England games (an average of 8.74 points per game). Has often been cited for his inconsistent kicking accuracy. A wise old head but inconsistent.

Olly Barkley - Has given England victories when the have really counted, such as against Wales and France in the 2004 Six Nations and the Barbarians in the first test of the 2005 tour. Average 3 and a third points per cap. Reliable but will Johnno see that?

Toby Flood - Can cover in at fly-half should the need arise,but excelled as an inside centre during the 2008 Six Nations. If Mike Tindall recovers they could make a formidable pair in England's centre. Should be in the squad but as a centre rather than a fly-half.

Checking out these guys, I would say that Cipriani should be a dead cert to start at fly-half for the New Zealand tour. The other fly-half place I think should go to either Geraghty or Barkley. Given the choice, I would say Olly Barkley. Geraghty can also cover as a centre so he can be in the squad, along with Flood, to provide emergency fly-half cover should it be needed.

Jarno Trulli: The Unsung Hero Of Formula One?

Edward Quinn — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 10:46:03 -0400

The Formula One season is well on its way. Ferrari are looking like the dominant runners. Mclaren look as though they've recovered from Spygate and BMW are challenging as hard as ever to break their first-win duck. But let's take a special time out for, I think, Formula 1's unsung hero, Jarno Trulli.

I remember Jarno when he first came into Formula One, at the struggling Prost team, where he produced a fine performance in the wet at Nurburgring to take 2nd position in the dramatic 1999 European Grand Prix. A switch to Jordan promised success but achieved little, and Trulli was often on the end of engine failures and disappointing results, although his qualifying pace raised a number of eyebrows.

He joined Renault in 2002, but this bore little better results than he had with Jordan, as the Trulli and his team-mate Jenson Button struggled with a very uncompetitive car. In 2003, Trulli was put in the shade by is new young team-mate, Fernando Alonso, who scored the team's only victory of the season at Hungary whilst Trulli again struggled, but a podium at the German Grand Prix as a sign of things to come, and sure enough, at the Monaco Grand Prix in 2004, he broke his duck and grabbed his one and only Formula 1 win to date. However, his relations with team boss Flavio Briatore soured, and he hopped ship to Toyota for 2005.

Since 2005 up to the present day, Trulli has had a mixed bag with Toyota, often getting the most out of the car when most expect him not to. His qualifying pace is still so blisteringly hot that I would say he is the best 1-lap specialist of my generation. His race pace has often been questioned as he fails to translate qualifying form into race form, But a gritty drive to 4th place at Malaysia in 2008, and holding off Briton Lewis Hamilton's quicker Mclaren, could be a sign of changing fortunes.

Jarno is now one of the most veteran drivers in the whole pack, with a total of 184 Grand Prix starts, but he's far from finished. He can still put together a blistering qualifying lap,often upsetting the balance at the top of the grid, and his race performances are nothing short of exemplary from the car he has under him, with team-mate Timo Glock appearing to struggle more with the car. I am sure, if Toyota give him the right package and the right car, and if he runs the right races, we can see Jarno Trulli standing on the Formua 1 podiums again.

EPL: Michael Ballack and Diomansy Kamara Strike to Keep Their Teams Alive

Edward Quinn — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 10:12:40 -0400

Chelsea and Fulham both recorded sensational victories today to keep their Premier League ambitions alive.

Chelsea overcame the reigning champions Manchester United 2-1 at Stamford Bridge whilst Fulham mounted a sensational comeback from 2-0 down to beat Manchester City 3-2.

Chelsea struck first at Stamford Bridge when Michael Ballack poked in a header after 45 minutes after Joe Cole's sizzler had hit the bar. But United bounced back when Wayne Rooney latched onto a rare defensive lapse from Ricardo Carvalho to fire past Petr Cech. But then 5 minutes from time Micheal Carrick handled in the penalty box and Ballack coolly slotted home the first penalty United have conceded this season.

United fought on until the end, however, and goal-line clearances from Ashley Cole and Andriy Shevchenko denied Cristiano Ronaldo and Darren Fletcher respectively.

This result provides a potential mouth-watering climax to the Barclays Premier League season, with United and Chelsea level on 81 points, albeit United have a superior goal difference, with two games to go. Chelsea have to hope United will slip up at either West Ham or Wigan, and if Chelsea beat both Newcastle and Bolton, the title will go to Stamford Bridge.

In the other major D-Day clash, Fulham found themselves 2-0 down with 20 minutes to go against Manchester City after goals from Stephen Ireland and Benjani. Their season seemingly doomed. But in a great death-or-glory comeback, Diomansy Kamara rammed a shot passed City keeper Joe Hart to give Fulham a hope. Danny Murphy converted the rebound after his initial penalty was saved by Hart. And then Kamara sent Fulham fans into dreamland after he fired in again in the very last minute.

This means Fulham are still within a shout of staying in the Premiership, as they, in 19th, are only 3 points from safety with 2 games left, with Reading and Sunderland being drawn into the scrap as well.

In the day's other Premiership ties, Peter Crouch and Youssi Benayoun spared Liverpool's blushes as they came back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 against Birmingham City. Daryl Murphy hit a crucial injury-time winner for Sunderland as they beat Middlesborough 3-2 at the Stadium of Light. Newcastle recovered from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 at West Ham. Bolton snatched a vital point with a 1-1 with Spurs, and Wigan and Reading played out a 0-0 draw at the JJB.