Bleacher Report - Articles by Marc Kaveh

TV Replays Are Becoming Badly Needed For EPL

Marc Kaveh — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 08:14:27 -0400

Roy Carroll may not be appreciated among Manchester United circles but in years to come, his blunder against Tottenham could well be remembered as the moment TMO's were demanded in football.

Of course there were many other incidents that had the football community pondering the rugby initiative but Carroll's "Save" in 2005 began the never ending clamor for technology.

There was Fulham's "Goal" in 2007 that was unfairly chalked off and countless penalty disputes, not to mention the many sending offs that managers have claimed were never a red or even a yellow. Managers have often shouted Blue Murder over decisions but when there is no way for them to see the moment again, they're left with no choice but to shout for their team.

This shouting usually leads to sending offs for the managers who join their players out of action and then face a massive fine. This all could be avoided by a simple thirty-second check.

What's the argument against this possible savior of football? The main one consists of slowing the game down. OK, since when have you seen the games of Rugby or Tennis brutally interrupted by a simple split second decision? It takes at maximum of one minute in rugby to come to a conclusion and only ten seconds in tennis.

Over the past two weekends there have been so many clear-cut mistakes where the intervention of a TMO could have spared a few blushes. Tim Cahill's red card, Everton's first goal against Hull, Ronaldo's penalty incident, the Wigan penalty, the Spurs penalty that never was, Christophe Samba's offside effort against Newcastle and of course Reading's "phantom goal."

I could go on and on.

There is a serious need for the introduction of television technology. It would save the governing body many appeals and tribunals and most of all, the embarrassment of having to constantly defend match officials.

Do you think there is a serious need for the introduction of television technology?

Mike Ashley Confirms He Wants To Sell Newcastle

Marc Kaveh — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 08:15:37 -0400

So, after the worst and most turbulent two weeks in Newcastle United's history, Mike Ashley has put the club up for sale. In those amazing yet depressing two weeks, we lost 3-0 to Arsenal, Keegan was sacked, everybody and anybody was linked with the job, Keegan was nearly re-appointed, and we lost to Hull...

It couldn't have gotten much worse but now Mike Ashley has bowed to Geordie pressure and put the club up for sale, here is his full statement but I honestly don't know whether to cheer or shake my head in disappointment:

"I have enjoyed sport since I was a boy. I love football. I have followed England in every tournament since Mexico '86. I was there to see Maradona and his hand of God. I know what it means to love football and to love a club. I know how important it is to other people because football is so important to me.

"My life has been tied up with sport. It was the passion that I felt for sport that helped me to be successful with my business. That success allowed me to mix my passion and my business.

"I bought Newcastle United in May 2007. Newcastle attracted me because everyone in England knows that it has the best fans in football. When the fans are behind the club at St James' Park it makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. It is magic. Newcastle's best asset has been, is and always will be the fans.

"But like any business with assets the club has debts. I paid £134 million out of my own pocket for the club. I then poured another £110 million into the club not to pay off the debt but just to reduce it.

"The club is still in debt. Even worse than that, the club still owes millions of pounds in transfer fees. I shall be paying out many more millions over the coming year to pay for players bought by the club before I arrived. But there was a double whammy. Commercial deals such as sponsorships and advertising had been front loaded. The money had been paid upfront and spent. I was left with a club that owed millions and part of whose future had been mortgaged.
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"Unless I had come into the club then it might not have survived. It could have shared the fate of other clubs who have borrowed too heavily against their future. Before I had spent a penny on wages or buying players Newcastle United had cost me more than a quarter of a billion pounds.

"Don't get me wrong. I did not buy Newcastle to make money. I bought Newcastle because I love football. Newcastle does not generate the income of a Manchester United or a Real Madrid. I am Mike Ashley, not Mike Ashley a multi-billionaire with unlimited resources. Newcastle United and I can't do what other clubs can. We can't afford it.

"I knew that the club would cost me money every year after I had bought it. I have backed the club with money. You can see that from the fact that Newcastle has the fifth highest wage bill in the Premier League. I was always prepared to bank roll Newcastle up to the tune of £20 million per year but no more. That was my bargain. I would make the club solvent. I would make it a going concern.

"I would pour up to £20 million a year into the club and not expect anything back. It has to be realised that if I put £100 million into the club year in year out then it would not be too long before I was cleaned out and a debt ridden Newcastle United would find itself in the position that faced Leeds United.

"That is the nightmare for every fan. To love a club that overextends itself, that tries to spend what it can't afford.

"That will never happen to Newcastle when I am in charge. The truth is that Newcastle could not sustain buying the Shevchenkos, Robinhos or the Berbatovs. These are recognised European footballers. They have played in the European leagues and everyone knows about them. They can be brilliant signings. But everybody knows that they are brilliant and so they, and players like them, cost more than £30 million to buy before you even take into account agent commissions and the multi-million pound wage deals.

"My plan and my strategy for Newcastle is different. It has to be. Arsenal is the shining example in England of a sustainable business model. It takes time. It can't be done overnight. Newcastle has therefore set up an extensive scouting system. We look for young players, for players in foreign leagues who everyone does not know about. We try and stay ahead of the competition. We search high and low looking for value, for potential that we can bring on and for players who will allow Newcastle to compete at the very highest level but who don't cost the earth.

"I am prepared to back large signings for millions of pounds but for a player who is young and has their career in front of them and not for established players at the other end of their careers. There is no other workable way forward for Newcastle. It is in this regard that Dennis and his team have done a first class job in scouting for talent to secure the future of the club.

"You only need to look at some of our signings to see that it is working, slowly working. Look at Jonas Guttierrez and Fabricio Collocini. These are world class players. The plan is showing dividends with the signing of exceptional young talent such as Sebastien Bassong, Danny Guthrie and Xisco. My investment in the club has extended to time, effort and yet again, money being poured into the Academy.

"I want Newcastle to be able to create its own legends of the future to rival those of the past. This is a long term plan. A long term plan for the future of the club so that it can flourish.

"One person alone can't manage a Premiership football club and scout the world looking for world class players and stars of the future. It needs a structure and it needs people who are dedicated to that task. It needs all members of the management team to share that vision for it to work.

"Also one of the reasons that the club was so in debt when I took over was due to transfer dealings caused by managers moving in and out of the club. Every time there was a change in manager millions would be spent on new players and millions would be lost as players were sold. It can't keep on working like that. It is just madness.

"I have put Newcastle on a sound financial footing. It is reducing its debt. It is spending within itself. It is recruiting exciting new players and bringing in players for the future.

"The fans want this process to happen more quickly and they want huge amounts spent in the transfer market so that the club can compete at the top table of European football now. I am not stupid and have listened to the fans. I have really loved taking my kids to the games, being next to them and all the fans. But I am now a dad who can't take his kids to a football game on a Saturday because I am advised that we would be assaulted. Therefore, I am no longer prepared to subsidise Newcastle United.

"I am putting the club up for sale. I hope that the fans get what they want and that the next owner is someone who can lavish the amount of money on the club that the fans want.

"This will not be a fire sale. Newcastle is now in a much stronger position than it was in 2007. It is planning for the future and it is sustainable.

"I am still a fan of Newcastle United. We, my kids and I, have loved standing on the terraces with the fans, we have loved travelling with the away fans and we have met so many fans whose company we have enjoyed. We have absolutely loved it but it is not safe anymore for us as a family.

"I am very conscious of the responsibility that I bear in owning Newcastle United. Tough decisions have to be made in business and I will not shy away from doing what I consider to be in the best interests of the club. This is not fantasy football.

"I don't want anyone to read my words and think that any of this is an attack on Kevin Keegan. It is not. Kevin and I always got on. Everyone at the club, and I mean everyone, thinks that he has few equals in getting the best out of the players. He is a legend at the club and rightly so. Clearly there are disagreements between Kevin and the Board and we have both put that in the hands of our lawyers.

"I hope that all the fans get to read this statement so that they understand what I am about. I would not expect all of the fans to agree with me. But I have set out, clearly, my plan. If I can't sell the club to someone who will give the fans what they want then I shall continue to ensure that Newcastle is run on a business and football model that is sustainable. I care too much about the club merely to abandon it.

"I have the interests of Newcastle United at heart. I have listened to you. You want me out. That is what I am now trying to do but it won't happen overnight and it may not happen at all if a buyer does not come in.

"You don't need to demonstrate against me again because I have got the message. Any further action will only have an adverse effect on the team. As fans of Newcastle United you need to spend your energy getting behind, not me, but the players who need your support.

"I am determined that Newcastle United is not only here today, but that it is also there tomorrow for your children who stand beside you at St James' Park."

Mike Ashley. Sunday 14th September 2008.

I understand Mike Ashley but he hasn't explained his reasons for bringing in Dennis Wise, the Cockney mafia, and dismissing Kevin Keegan. For those crimes against Newcastle, he sadly must go and his name will not be remembered in a good light.

Where next? Anil Ambani? A Chinese Consortium? Americans or Asians? I haven't got a clue what will happen next in North EastEnders, but maybe that's the enjoyment of being a Geordie.

Frank Rijkaard Coming to Toon?

Marc Kaveh — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 07:08:10 -0400

So after one of the most turbulent weeks in Newcastle's history—which in itself is no mean feat—we find ourselves looking for a new manager yet again. Keegan is gone, but we've seen this before and despite the shoddy treatment of our "Messiah" we must get behind the lads and our new gaffer.

I for one hope that the new gaffer is Frank Rijkaard, as the Dutchman fits the role Newcastle are looking for in every department. He could deal with the Director of Football role, play attractive football, and attract quality players to Tyneside.

Newcastle are in turmoil but there is an excellent opportunity to emerge as a stronger team for it, perhaps I'm blindly optimistic but I don't see Keegan's departure as the end of the club. Sure, Mike Ashley is a clown and Dennis Wise is a midget, but the eleven that play for the shirt every Saturday are a good group of players.

With the proper manager, we could go places.

And I've already stated I believe Rijkaard is the man to pull Newcastle up by the boot laces into the upper echelons of the Premiership. Other well respected managers have thrown their hats into the ring; Didier Deschamps, Zico, and Fatih Terim all fancy their chances at St. James' Park.

Mike Ashley clearly doesn't want to dig deep but the least he can do for the fans is hire a world class manager, so when he sells up he's done at least one good thing for Newcastle.

I firmly believe that if any of Rijkaard, Deschamps and Terim (unconvinced on Zico...) take charge we can qualify for Europe. Our squad is full of quality but short on quantity. There are few teams outside the top four that can boast players the quality of Given, Coloccini, Beye, Taylor, Enrique, Duff, N'Zogbia, Butt, Guthrie, Jonas, Martins, Viduka and Owen.

Keegan has put a good foundation in place and can claim a slice of any credit that could be earned this season. However we must move on, protest against Ashley of course, but move on all the same.

Rijkaard?

Perhaps I'm blindly optimistic, but when you're a Newcastle fan it's the only way to live!

New Tennis Series On Bleacher: LIVE U.S. Open Final

Marc Kaveh — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 05:49:08 -0400

This is my latest idea for Bleacher, for those of you who can't for whatever reasons see a sports match, you can read regular updates on LIVE. The TV isn't showing the match you want to see, or there is nowhere you can you can get any information on it. Then LIVE is for you.

I brought Bleacher live action of Andy Murray vs. Rafa Nadal's semi final and was pleased with the reaction. It was a thrilling match and I enjoyed informing people of that breathtaking action I was watching.

The way it worked was I updated the information every time a game was won or a significant event occurred, or every four or five minutes. So all in all I edited my Murray vs. Nadal article a good 12 times!

The way the tennis community enjoyed the article has spurred me on to provide LIVE action of Tennis, Golf, Soccer and F1. Be it game by game, hole by hole, minute by minute or lap by lap, I'll keep you bang up to date on what's happening in that fixture.

As far as I know this is the first time the service has been offered on Bleacher and I want to know what you think of it. Is it a good idea? Is there any particular match you want me to cover that you can't see?

Already lined up to go under my microscope is Roger Federer vs. Andy Murray in the US Open Final in Flushing Meadows. Then you have the World Cup qualifiers which will mainly cover the home nations (England, Scotland, Wales, NI, Ireland) but if you want regular updates on your country, then let me know.

Then an epic event in itself, the Ryder Cup will be brought to you LIVE on Bleacher by myself, so sit back and enjoy America slog it out with Europe.

Keep that feedback coming in because if it's a flop, I'll stop!

Post comments so that we can discuss strategies and what we feel during the game:

But for now enjoy Roger Federer and Andy Murray at about 21.00 GMT. (17:00 EST, States Time)

Here's the link:

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/55302-murray-v-federer-live

Republic Of Ireland Heading For South Africa?

Marc Kaveh — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 08:27:43 -0400

Okay, so we're only one game into the qualifying stages of South Africa 2010, but Ireland look like a team capable of making the Finals. All the home nations were poor bar the Irish, and with a blend of youth and experience, 2010 could be our year.

It's more the manner in which Ireland dispatched a spirited Georgian side than the result, that has the Emerald Isle buzzing. Trappatoni's men looked in control for the whole 90 minutes and played with a previously unseen purpose.

The ball was worked wide to the impressive Hunt and McGeady, whose crosses kept Georgia pinned in their own half. Even if the Georgians broke, Steven Reid and Man of the Match Glenn Whelan scuppered their moves and brought the Irish forward once more.

Kevin Doyle held the ball up well to allow to team to get forward, Keane was industrious as usual. Il Trap's worked so well in the first half, Georgia were limited to one opportunity and the defence held firm.

Shay Given might as well have joined the 2,500 Irish behind him as his goal was rarely threatened. The luck of the Irish played a big part, seeing this tie moved from the hostile Tbilisi to sleep Mainz.

We took advantage, and have gotten one of the hardest trips out of the way with relative ease.

England laboured as you would have expected, Scotland looked a shadow of the side that pushed France and Italy all the way last year, Northern Ireland are back to the dogged side that will fail to get results away from Windsor and Wales were...eh...Wales.

The Irish looked by the far the best of the home nation sides, and with a good group there is confidence that South Africa will end the eight year drought going back to Japan.

Only Italy, Bulgaria, Cyprus and Montenegro can throw a spanner in the works.

The latter two will be tricky but achievable, Bulgaria are beatable as Montenegro nearly showed. Italy looked very ordinary against Cyprus and could be shot down at Croke Park.

Of course I'm getting ahead of myself, but it is conceivable that Ireland could top this group.

OK maybe I'm dreaming but I'd rather be in our position then the rest of the home nations.

GO ON YA BOYS IN GREEN

Newcastle Fans Should Buy '"Our" Club

Marc Kaveh — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 06:23:03 -0400

In one of Newcastle United's darkest hours, when our hero was disgracefully pushed to one side, there appears to be only one way forward.

Mike Ashley must go, fact. However, do we really want a Sheik or Indian in control?

No, they could easily make the same mistakes. So here's my solution:

We Newcastle fans buy our club.

This model has been successfully used by Barcelona over the past few decades, so why not Newcastle? We Geordies are knowledgeable folk, and together could certainly run a football club.

The finance is obviously a key issue, but here is a quick business plan I have devised. The offer is made clear that if 30,000 people stump up £10,000, then they will receive free season tickets for a ten year period.

Other incentives could be offered such as five year training passes. If 30,000 Toon fans were to invest that kind of money, we would have the £300 million that Mike Ashley requires to move on.

Now another 20,000 people are encouraged to invest say £7,500 into the club, then they could receive discounted tickets and a free away jersey for seven years.

Now if another 10,000 could be encouraged to invest £5000 into the club, then they could receive a say in the club's business—like the Barcelona model. These 10,000 could also receive free tickets for cup games, and a free third jersey for five years.

So, in the unlikely event that all that money is pumped into the club, we'll have raised £300 million for the purchase of the club. £150 million from the 20,000 for team purchases and wages. Another £50 million to put in the bank from the latter 10,000.

Consider that the population of Newcastle-upon-Tyne is 250,000 and the foreign fans could amount to a significant number, then 60,000 people should not be that hard to find. The financial aspect would be especially hard to entertain, but do you think the incentives are enough?

For those of you who don't know, the Barcelona model works like this. Every member of the Nou Camp club has a vote on the president. The president is paid a salary by the club, effectively the fans, so he attempts to impress them to keep his job.

To keep his job, the president often attempts to buy the best players, hire the best managers and do the best for the club (themselves) This gives the fans unbelievable power and effectively control of their beloved club.

Can it happen? Could us Geordies control our own club? Does the model work? For one thing, I would sell most of my assets and invest £10,000 into Newcastle to prevent the tragedy of the past week.

Robinho Signs For Manchester City

Marc Kaveh — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 12:21:25 -0400

In arguably the biggest transfer shock ever, Manchester City have signed Brazilian ace Robinho for £32.5 million, and in the process have set a British transfer record.

The very fact the day begun with claims of "Robinho to Chelsea" has made this transfer look all the more sensational. Manchester City have had probably the greatest day in their history—fans woke up to the news they had become one of the world's richest clubs, and then they secured their most expensive signing ever.

The only blemish on the day's work was that Dimitar Berbatov couldn't be persuaded to swap White Hart Lane for the City Of Manchester Stadium.

But Robinho is not a bad second option.

The very fact this entire transfer has been conducted within the space of a few hours really shows Chelsea up, who couldn't come to an agreement in weeks! Roman Abramovich and co. will be slightly red faced, but can console themselves that they still look likely Premiership champions.

City, however, may not get the instant reward from their new Arab owners amazing financial muscle. The squad will hopefully cling onto the curtails of the top four by January, and then God only knows who'll come to town.

Huntelaar, Eto'o, Metzelder, Henry, Rooney, Ronaldo. These were names that last night City fans could only dream of, but on the 1st of September these players' odds of turning out for the Blues have been slashed dramatically.

The new Arab owners say they were interested in three clubs—City, Arsenal, and Newcastle. How the Gunners and my beloved Toon must wish they had been picked!

Nevertheless, September 1st 2008 will surely go down as Manchester City's finest hour.

Dimitar Berbatov Is The Main Man In Manchester

Marc Kaveh — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 07:08:25 -0400

Dimitar Berbatov will most likely sign for a club based in Manchester. Yesterday you would have put your house on the fact that Tottenham would be selling to United, but in the last few hours the Bulgarian has seen the London club accept a £30million+ offer for his services...from Manchester City!

Nobody could have guessed the latest chapter of this unbelievable saga, that the European Champions nearest and dearest rivals would attempt to nick the Bulgarian from under Sir Alex Ferguson's nose.

The very fact Manchester City have been sold on deadline day as well has added intrigue to the situation. The Dubai group who have taken control are attempting to win the fans over with a major signing. David Villa, Mario Gomez and Berbatov are all the subject of bids from the Eastlands club.

So how could Dimitar end up at City? Well apparently it's mega money that may well turn Berbatov's head. Reports are claiming he's been offered £200,000-a-week to turn down his "dream" of playing for United.

The fee itself would become a British record for a transfer and would leave Tottenham in a great position financially.

Manchester United are the glamour club, Premiership and European Champions, they play in front of 76,000 regularly, attract all the big players, and will be confident that Berbatov will agree to join Tevez and Rooney up front in two weeks time in Anfield.

Let's just sum up a frentic day on D-Day for Berbatov.

The day begins with Manchester United expected to finalise a deal for the Bulgarian despite Spurs' resistance to the move. Many rumours are flying around that Berba is in Carrington but the big news is that Shinawatra has jumped ship and sold City to a group of Dubai-based investors.

After that, the focus returns to the Berbatov saga but news sensationally breaks that Manchester City have had a bid accepted from Tottenham that would be a British record. Speculation begins that Mark Hughes will nick him and United have lost their opportunity because of their falling outs with Spurs.

Then Berbatov ends up at Carrington, supposedly undergoing a medical for the champions, but of course he has to go to the Blue side of the city to meet Mark Hughes. This is going in every direction and what odds he ends up at Real Madrid!

Well with five hours to go, Manchester United are in the driving seat...although we have said that for the last two years and City are oh so close to the shock of the century.

Funniest Football Quotes

Marc Kaveh — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 09:38:27 -0400

After seeing some rather bizarre quotes in the American football camps, I decided to share with the world the wonderful, weird, and funniest football quotes. they range from some absolute clangers to just the downright stupid.

Even the big names usually spared from embarassment feature, and it goes to show when you're in the mood, you can say some pretty odd things. So sit back and enjoy the following quotes and then vote on the worst and most stupid quote of all.

"England now have three fresh men, with three fresh legs."—Jimmy Hill.

Thank God Jimmy Hill isn't...well...God

"If history is going to repeat itself, I should think we can expect the same thing again."—Terry Venables

And the winner for stating the bleeding obvious is...

"They didn't change positions, they just moved the players around."—Terry Venables

Another entry from Terry—so what is the definition of changing positions?

"Venison and Butcher are as brave as two peas in a pod."—John Silett

We all know how brave those vegtables are...

"I think that France, Germany, Spain, Holland, and England will join Brazil in the semi-finals."—Pele

Can someone explain the meaning of semi-final to Pele?

"Kevin Keegan has now tasted the other side of the fence."—Dave Merrington

And the taste of a fence is what, Dave?

"He never fails to hit the target, but that was a miss."—Bobby Robson

Talk about a contradiction...

"Roy Keane, his face punches the air..."—Alan Brazil

We know he's amazing but...

"He is like an English equivalent of Teddy Sheringham."—Trevor Brooking

And where's Teddy Sheringham from?

"Argentina won't be at Euro 2000 because they're from South America."—Kevin Keegan

Kev clearly owns a globe.

"Hungary is very similar to Bulgaria. I know they're different countries..."—Kevin Keegan

Yet again, that globe is handy.

"Goalkeepers aren't born today until they're in their late 20s or 30s."—Kevin Keegan

The labour pains must be unbearable.

'No money in the world can buy a white England shirt."—Alan Shearer

£30 in JJB...

Interviewer: "Would it be fair to describe you as a volatile player?"
David Beckham: "Well, I can play in the centre, on the right, and occasionally on the left side."

Dictionary for Beckham.

"We lost because we didn't win."—Ronaldo

The basics of football are well-known to the Brazilian star.

"The first 90 minutes are the most important in football."—Bobby Robson

The closing word goes to Bobby, and yet another odd statement.

Any more to add? Leave a comment.

Your The Gaffer: England's XI

Marc Kaveh — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 08:02:53 -0400

Don't we all wish we could pick our team's XI? When our manager gets the sack we all say, god I could have done better.

But who would you have picked differently and here in lies the problem. Its just your opinion but now Bleacher members will rate your opinion!

Fabio Capello has struggled to get his England team firing and it doesn't look like much of a change from the Steve McClaren era. How can the Italian get his side playing together in cohesion for the first time in yonks?

Why can't he get Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard playing in the same midfield together. Why can't England's strikers produce the goals when needed? And who should get the nod for goalkeeper?

Well Fabio has just been sacked after a dismal 1-0 loss to Andorra and you've been hired by the FA to turn things around. You face a tough match in Zagreb against Croatia but have every player fit and ready. The win is a must to keep qualification hopes alive and get England on the road to South Africa 2010.

You arrive in Carrington and you have the choice to name you're own squad. Yet you call 40 players you like the look of to training and will pick your first 11 and then the seven subs. So after a day of good, hard work you have to make your choices for the make and break match.

Your goalkeeping options include David James, Rob Green, Chris Kirkland, Paul Robinson, Scott Carson, Steve Harper and Manuel Almunia. Of course only two will board the flight for Zagreb but who will get the No.1 shirt for you?

The defence is looking strong with good options everywhere. Cole, Bridge, Richards, Neville, Ferdinand, Lescott, Campbell, King, Woodgate, Terry, Taylor and Wheater are the options and you can take as many as possible depending on your formation.

The midfield is usually an area for problems so who'll get your vote for the trip. Players at training included Joe Cole, Hargreaves, Gerrard, Lampard, Young, Beckham, Barry, Bentley, Walcott and James Milner. Bring as many as you like that can fit into your plans, who could counter that dangerous Croatia midfield including Modric?

The strikers have been banging the goals home in training all week but usually fail when it comes to big competitive fixtures. The lads available for selection include Rooney, Owen, Heskey, Ashton, Crouch, Defoe, Agbonlahor and Darren Bent.

It's crunch time as the press conference in half an hour and the team still needs to be picked. You're only a day into your job and this team could already define your reign.

Your the gaffer so who do you pick?

Shay Given And Michael Owen The Hero's As Toon Edge Bolton

Marc Kaveh — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 23:39:06 -0400

Fourth in the table and unbeaten after two, sounds good but let's remember Big Sam Allardyce was in a similar position. Yet the way Keegan's men have gone about their business is encouraging.

They came up against a dire, uncreative, rock in Bolton Wanderers but Newcastle never gave up. Always searching for a hole in their back line, N'Zogbia's testing crosses were always getting closer to Oba Martins head and you felt this team was made of stronger stuff then the shambles Keegan inherited from Allardyce.

Although Keegan is indebted to Irishman Shay Given who saved a Kevin Nolan penalty at 0-0. Steven Taylor handled not once but twice, the first a stray hand and the second throwing himself at the rebounded shot. Botlon's captain stood up and hammered the ball low and right.

But Shay got across and knocked the ball out and completed the save with his feet to deny Nolan revenge. The crowd was lifted, after being amazing in the first half, the SJP faithful were going quiet until Given's intervention. The crowd seemed to lift the players and the Toon began to create more chances.

Michael Owen was eventually the saviour but he missed a guilt edge chance moments earlier heading straight at Jaaskelainen and the Finn denied Coloccini from the rebound with a great reaction stop.

Newcastle weren't to be denied though, after a corner broke down, Geremi showed his excellent ability at crossing and placed the ball on the England hitman's head. Owen was in a similar position to his miss but this time he guided the ball past the Bolton keeper.

St. James's Park erupted and now we were rocking, another goal would put this contest to bed but James Milner missed a good chance as did Charles N'Zogbia. Bolton attempted to make us rue those misses as Nolan and Davies missed half chances.

But the final word goes to Steven Taylor, forget Jamie Carragher who everybody knows loves Liverpool for life (pity he supported Everton as a teenager!). Taylor is a Geordie and would do anything for his beloved Toon. It's easy to see his effort, he regularly throws himself in front of shots desperately and often clears the danger.

Kevin Nolan hammered a volley towards Given's far post that looked goal-bound but Taylor put his head on it and ensured Bolton went home with nothing and KK retained his unbeaten start.

Looking at Arsenal's lame performance at Fulham, the trip to the Emirates holds none of the fear it might have three months ago. Howay the lads.

Newcastle Outplay Manchester United at Old Trafford

Marc Kaveh — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 08:32:06 -0400

I'm delighted, amazed, chuffed, ecstatic and the headline reflects my emotions. My beloved Newcastle outplayed the domestic and European champions on their own park.

It was one of the best displays by Keegan's troops and was a far cry from the crap Allardyce left us with in January.

We'll hear the usual excuses from Old Trafford, no Ronaldo, no Tevez and a half fit Rooney meant a blunt United attack lined up but Newcastle were hardly in great shape either. No Owen or Viduka, Martins is our only recognised striker and boy did he deliver.

His powerful header on 22 minutes after a sensational leap gave Newcastle a rare lead away from home yet we couldn't just hold on. Yet I firmly believe if Steven Taylor had been on the pitch when Fletcher netted then we could be celebrating a famous win.

His absence was crucial as Giggs flighted the ball into Taylor's would be position and the Scotsman duly obliged and beat the brilliant Given. Many expected a complete avalanche to follow but with Taylor back on the field and debut boy Coloccini excelling there was no chance.

Although Given had to make a smart double save from Rooney then Scholes as the Irishman was equal to everything thrown at him. His save from Frazier Campbell in just the seventh minute is a contender for save of the season and he would go to deny Rooney once more in the second half.

King Kev was bouyant and enthusiastic in his pre match press conference and this rubbed off on his players as they began brightly. It wasn't easy having to see "More Goals Please" emblazened into the Manchester crowd and from my point of view it was a complete display of arrogance from the champions.

They underestimated us and Jonas Gutuirez along with Danny Guthrie had cracking games, the former constantly caused the United rearguard problems are evoked memories of a certain Laurent Robert, only this Robert was prepared to defend. His pace frightened United so much, the great Vidic could only rugby tackle the Argentine when he beared through on goal.

Guthrie and Butt dominated the centre of the park to the extent Scholes was hardly heard from. They weren't helped by Geordie Michael Carrick's early withdrawal but Newcastlw weren't fazed. Coloccini played out of his skin and gave Rooney no chances all day.

And what really frustrates me about the Manchester frontman is whenever something goes against him, he throws the toys out of the pram. He nearly killed Gutuirez and was a constant moan to Mike Riley.

Get over it Rooney, you played crap! Coloccini had you in his back pocket, grow up and show your potential we all know you have.

But let's finish on Newcastle, they shove that cocky sign up United's you know what, especially Given with four top drawer saves. We turned in a great performance and stunned the doubters who thought we'd struggle. We might still but after seeing that display we could be on for Europe.

Newcastle earned that point, United didn't give it to them.

Howay the Lads!

Is Michael Phelps The Greatest Ever Olympian?

Marc Kaveh — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 09:22:54 -0400

Each country has a symbol of success and triumph, for China it is basketball giant Yao Ming. When you think of all the Americans who could be the national pride and joy, there can only be one winner. The greatest Olympian ever Michael Phelps.

But here is the question, is Michael Phelps, holder of 11 gold medals and 13 including two bronze the greatest ever Olympian? Mark Spitz, Carl Lewis, Paavo Nurmi and Larysa Latynina could all lay claim to Phelp's new title.

Spitz claimed two golds in Mexico City before going on to claim seven in Munich. The latter was an impressive 7 of 7 haul and Spitz famously remarked before his last event: "I know I say I don't want to swim before every event but this time I'm serious. If I swim six and win six, I'll be a hero. If I swim seven and win six, I'll be a failure."

The American doesn't have to worry however, he is the second greatest Olympian swimmer, trailing man of the moment Michael Phelps.

Larissa Latynina was a Soviet gymnast who was born in the Ukraine, she's better known for her amazing nine gold medals. She actually won a medal in every event she took part in, they were Melbourne 1956, Rome 1960 and Tokyo 1964. Her total Olympic medal count comes to 18 and she has a high claim to greatest Olympian of all time.

It's not as straight forward to compared Latyinna to Phelps as it was Spitz to Phelps. Two completely different events with completely different techniques required, I'm tempted to give the Soviet the nod because of more intense opponents but Phelps will get it because this is only his second Olympics compared to Latynina's three.

Paavo Nurmi was a Finnish long distance runner who claimed nine gold medals like Spitz and Latynina, he competed in three Olympiad's. Three golds in Antwerp 1920 were followed by five golds in Paris 1924 and he finished an historic career with a gold in Amsterdam 1928.

He is considered by many to be the greatest ever track and field athlete and it is unlikely his haul will be beaten in the near future. Is Phelps a greater athlete in Olympic terms?

The statistics will say so, but I don't think so. The track is a harder place to win medals then the pool, so sorry Michael but you lose this round.

Carl Lewis is yet another famous track and field Olympian, like his fellow athletes he claimed nine gold medals. Yet the American had a slight advantage over Nurmi as he competed in four Olympics, Los Angeles 1984, Seoul 1988, Barcelona 1992 and Atlanta 1996.

Definitely the greatest ever Olympic sprinter but overall there is no doubting his greatness. Is Phelps better then Lewis? Because it took Lewis four Olympics to reach his total whereas it took the swimmer just two, I'm going to give Phelps the nod.

Special mention must go to Jesse Owens who defied Hitler by winning four gold medals at Berlin 1936. He showed up Hitler's campaign of anti-blacks and German superior race. Not the greatest but he won four golds in one Olympics, if only more had followed. Still a hero.

So on that evidence make up your own mind on who is the greatest ever Olympian. My order would be along the lines of...

Paavo Nurmi
Michael Phelps
Carl Lewis
Larissa Latynina
Mark Spitz
Jesse Owens

So Michael Phelps sits at No. 2 on my list, but if he goes onto claim the maximum from Beijing and a few more from London then he'll rocket to No. 1 without a doubt.

Kevin Keegan's Recruitment Drive Speeds Up

Marc Kaveh — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 08:21:53 -0400

It hasn't been a vintage summer for Newcastle in terms of transfers, but last week’s news of Tyneside hints at more activity for St. James' Park this week. Kevin Keegan is expecting three or so new signings before Sept. 1.

King Kev has so far brought in Jonas Gutierrez, Danny Guthrie, and Sebastien Bassong, but Fabio Coloccini is expected to join this week after Deportivo La Coruna agreed to a fee with Newcastle for the Argentine starlet.

Steven Warnock remains high on the wanted list at SJP, although he has recently denied handing in a transfer request. However, the suspicion remains at both Newcastle and Ewood Park that if the North-East club were to bid in the region of £4 million for the English international, then a deal could be done.

Herita Ilunga is keen on a move to Tyneside after telling Toulouse that he's ready to leave for pastures a new. Yet the Congo DR international remains only a second choice option—bought only if Warnock decides to remain under Paul Ince.

Sebastian Larsson could well be on his way up North, but there are conflicting stories coming out of St Andrew's. The Swede and his agent are ready to quit the Championship club, but their hierarchy remain keen on keeping their prize asset.

Focusing on what we have for the moment though, it seems Keegan has bought quality—even if it is only four new arrivals. Bassong is one for the future so I'll leave him out of my analysis.

Jonas Gutierrez has the potential to become one of the Premiership's top widemen. His crosses at Real Mallorca were the main reason that Daniel Guiza claimed the Golden Boot—and with Oba Martins, Mark Viduka, and Michael Owen to aim at on Tyneside, goals could be plentiful next year.

In two sparkling home displays against PSV and Valencia, it already looks like we have ourselves a winner.

Danny Guthrie is a 21-year-old bag of energy, and has a lot of potential to become a box-to-box midfielder and fan favourite. He can run all day, has a good pass, and a powerful shot.

Signed for £2.5 million, he scored on his debut with a cracker before following up with a goal against PSV. Could be a bargain.

Fabio Coloccini is almost guaranteed to be a Newcastle player in the next few days, so he could line up against Manchester United on Sunday. The Argentine defender is a calming influence, one that Newcastle desperately need to bring Steven Taylor along.

He's a cool player who netted four goals last year. Keegan has spent £10 million on this lad so he must be good!

Hopefully more new faces will arrive in the next few weeks to join Keegan's quality additions. Just a few more and we're set for a good season.

Premier League Predictions 2008/09

Marc Kaveh — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 08:40:44 -0400

This following set of Premier League predicitions is my personal opinion so it's not law. Feel free to disagree and tell me why.

The questions I'm faced with are, "Who'll win?" "Champions League places?" "UEFA Cup places?" and "Relegation?"

1st. Chelsea

2nd. Manchester United

3rd. Liverpool

4th. Arsenal

5th. Aston Villa

6th. Everton

7th. Tottenham Hotspur

8th. Newcastle United

9th. Portsmouth

10th. Manchester City

11th. West Ham United

12th. Wigan

13th. Sunderland

14th. Blackburn Rovers

15th. Middlesbrough

16th. Fulham

17th. West Bromwich Albion

18th. Bolton Wanderers

19th. Stoke City

20th. Hull City

I have perfectly logical explanations for all my choices so don't go biting my head off just yet and below I'll tell you why I think each of those teams is destined to finish in those positions.

Chelsea: The addition of Luis Felipe Scolari, Deco, Boswinga and possibly Robinho will be the key in my mind. Last year Chelsea challenged on all fronts when ravaged by injuries but this year if they can stay fit then in my mind they have solved key questions. A playmaker was badly needed and Deco has duly arrived, a right-back was desperately needed and Boswinga duly arrived. If they can add Robinho to complement Drogba then they can challenge for the Champions League.

Manchester United: Alex Ferguson will probably come back to haunt me and win United yet another league but for me he hasn't strengthened his team sufficiently to win again. Another striker is urgently needed to fill in for the absent Ronaldo and cover Rooney and Tevez. Midfield is another year older but so are Anderson and Nani but they can't do what Scholes and Giggs do so regularly. The defence will keep them in touch but they might just miss out.

Liverpool: Selected over Arsenal for the last automatic Champions League spot? Well on the basis of their summer activity, yes. If Robbie Keane can bring his Spurs form to Anfield to complement Torres, then Liverpool will have no problems finding the net. Their defence is one of the best in the league but that midfield needs some creativity that Gareth Barry won't solve. Gerrard has shown and proved his class over many seasons and this should move Benitez's men closer to their aim but not just yet.

Arsenal: As Arsene Wenger said himself "We'll have to sell our top assets for the next 15 years." A side that has replaced Hleb and Flamini with Nasri and Ramesy will not improve. Fabregas and Adebayor can keep Arsenal in contention but they'll need Rosicky and Walcott to step up to the plate if they are to mount a title charge. Carlos Vela could be a hit but it remains to be seen when Eduardo will return to full fitness and form. If Adebayor goes through one of his dry patches then the Gunners could struggle for goals.

Aston Villa: Martin O'Neill created a quality side last time round that contained the exciting talents of Ashley Young and Gabriel Agbonlahor. With or without Gareth Barry they will be stronger this year as they've added Shorey, Young, Cuellar and Friedel to what was sometimes a vulnerable defence. Sidwell can boss the midfield like his Reading days and provide the chances for Agbolahor and Carew then Villa could have a good year both domestically and in Europe.

Everton: Maybe a bit high for their lack of transfer action but I think it's inevitable that Moyes will spend some of the 12 million from Andy Johnson's sale to buy another striker. If Moyes can get Vagner Love to Goodison to play alongside Yakubu then goals should flow. Arteta and Cahill provide the creativity in midfield but who will replace Lee Carsley? An unseen component of Everton's success has departed and the defence might be a tad more vulnerable. But with Yobo and Lescott at the heart and Howard behind them, they can qualify for Europe.

Tottenham Hotspur: Juande Ramos has left his significant mark on a team he inherited back in October. Out went Keane, Robinson and co. and in came Bentley, Gomes, Modric and Dos Santos. There is still the distant possibility that Arshavin could arrive while Berbatov departs. If so the team will have an unproven quality about it, Modric should be able to adapt but it could take the others a bit longer. The aim this year will be the UEFA Cup places despite what their fans keep telling themselves. 2009/10 will be the year to challenge the big boys.

Newcastle United: Keegan's squad is high on class but low on numbers, the starting eleven is undisputedly a quality outfit but if any injuries strike the Toon then the struggle could begin. Hopefully they won't and new signings Gutierez, Guthrie and Coloccini can prove their worth in the Premier League. Two players to watch are Shay Given and Damien Duff, both back to fitness and enjoying good pre-seasons, especially the latter. Martins, Owen and Viduka's goals can fire the Magpies up the table while their defence looks slightly better and they could challenge for a UEFA Cup place.

Portsmouth: The FA Cup winners have made a major signing in Peter Crouch to what is slowly becoming an England "B" team! Defoe should continue his form and score enough goals but the problems come from Sulley Muntari's sale to Inter Milan. The Ghanaian was one of their players of the season and his departure will hit Pompey hard. Their defence is solid but another year older can really only leave the odd gap that didn't appear last year. Expect a good run in Europe but that itself could damage their league aspirations.

Manchester City: They began the summer by signing Jo for 19 million and attempting to bring Ronaldinho to Eastlands but since then not a lot has happened. Thaskin Shinawatra's financial woes in Thailand could well be restraining City in the transfer market. Mark Hughes is in and judging by Sven's treatment he has to finish in a UEFA Cup spot pushing for the Top Four. Looking at the personnel at City, it's a possiblity especially when you can boast Elano, Petrov, Dunne and Richards. But when that pressure is applied can City cope? Probably not and Hughes could go before May.

West Ham United: What is there to say about the Hammers? Not bad enough to be considered relegation candidates but not good enough to push for Europe. It's a frustrating position for Alan Curbishley and the fans at Upton Park. Expect the odd upset from West Ham as they contain Ashton, Ferdinand, Green, Bellamy and Parker. Although as frustration mounts Curbishley could be sacked.

Wigan Athletic: They have flirted with relegation for two seasons but now have a manager who can get them into that mid-table comfort zone. Steve Bruce's departure from Birmingham was key in their relegation and Wigan's survival. He's turned them into a team no one enjoys facing and finally has Heskey scoring goals. The team has a few quality players like Scharner, Valencia and Koumas so they should survive comfortably.

Sunderland: Roy Keane kept them up last year as part two of his masterplan and stage three should be cementing their places in the elite league. His transfer activities have centred around Spurs rejects and Djiouf but they can only improve his squad. Sunderland don't contain too many star players but their key man is Kenwyne Jones. His goals were vital last year and expect the same again. They'll flirt with danger again before pulling away.

Blackburn Rovers: Paul Ince is no Mark Hughes and he will struggle to keep Rovers with the big boys. Bentley and Friedel's departures are blows and they can't afford to lose Santa Cruz and Warnock. Ewood Park must become an impossible place for teams to visit but on their travels Rovers will suffer a few tonkings. They'll be good enough to avoid relegation but come May the Ewood faithful may just realise how good things were under Mark Hughes.

Middlesbrough: They have a great young manager in Gareth Southgate but his side look very vulnerable at the back now with the departures of Young and Woodgate. Their midfield is not up to the standard of star player Stewart Downing, he could fire them to big scalps. Didier Digard and Tuncay will provide just enough goals to keep the Teesiders in the top division.

Fulham: Roy Hodgson is "Jesus Christ" to the Fulham following after last years heroics and they should move up a place thanks to the purchase of Andrew Johnson. Danny Murphy and Jimmy Bullard were great performers last time round and they'll need to chip in with vital goals if the Cottagers are to avoid relegation. They have just enough quality to survive again this year and Hodgson could enhance his reputation in London.

West Bromich Albion: I have only one promoted team to beat the dreaded drop and West Brom are them. Two reasons I fancy them over Stoke and Hull is a great manger in Tony Mowbray and they have vital Premiership experience unlike the other two. The sale of Kevin Phillips could be a mistake but the permanent signing of Roman Bednar could be key. Marek Cech is a shrewd buy and the Slovakian could thrill the Hawthorns with his long range efforts. However it could be Scott Carson that saves their Premiership status.

Bolton Wanderers: The sale of Anelka should have caught Bolton flat and sent them down but this time round it's hard to see where the goals pre January will come from. Elmander is a quality addition but it could take him a while to adapt to life at the Reebok. Kevin Davies can't keep going forever while their defence looks extremely weak, only Kevin Nolan and Fabrice Muamba provide some class to their midfield. Bolton should go down and if they don't Gary Megson is a miracle worker.

Stoke City: It's sad that I have to put one of my favourite sides down for relegation but their side is no better then Bolton's and not too much better then Hull. Lawrence, Fuller and Kitson are the only players in the Stoke eleven with any proven quality and I keep coming back to that word "quality" It's what keeps a team up and Stoke sadly don't have it. They may enjoy the odd famous victory and Dave Kitson could score enough goals to justify his price tag but it won't be enough.

Hull City: They'll finish last for three reasons, 1) Dean Windass is a good striker of the ball but not a good striker, he can't outwit Premier League defenders as he did their Championship counterparts. 2) No Frazier Campbell, one of the main reasons they went up will sit on United's bench while Hull struggle. 3) No signings that make me think, "Ye, they could do it actually." Phil Brown is a great manager and maybe this exposure will get him to a bigger club. They won't be a Derby however...

Right that was exhausting but I hope I've given reasonable explanations for my thoughts. Leave a comment if you don't agree. Now the cup competitions, nah i'll leave that for another day.

Beijing Babes: The Top-Five Beauties at the 2008 Olympics

Marc Kaveh — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 06:39:13 -0400

There's always the few athletes that catch us guys' collective attention. Usually they are in the swimming or gymnastic events, and how many guys do you know that watch those events for the technique or landings? They usuall have their eyes on other things than skills.

In those events where tight clothes—or, in the case of beach volleyball, hardly anything—are worn, then the athletes are likely to get more exposure (for lack of a better word) to the male viewing audience. Every four years there are always a few crackers, and this time round it's no different.

Stephanie Rice: The Australian swimmer has made waves with many for her Commonwealth gold, but she makes a splash in other areas. Easily recognised by her stunning body and equally good face, the male population, dare I say it, love to see her get wet.
9/10

Ana Ivanovic: The tennis star has sadly had to pull out of this year's games due to injury, but it would be a crime to exclude the sexy Serb. Her French Open victory has put her in more exposure to the sporting world, and how grateful we are! It still amazes me that her forehand gets more attention then her upper body!
9/10

Jenna Randall: The sychronised swimmers always promise a few crackers, and how they have delivered with the Briton Jenna Randall. Her gold in the Commonwealth supplements her sensational body and seductive teeth.
8/10

Susanna Kallur: The Swedish hurdler holds the world indoor record on 60m hurdles, and isn't it great when birds are fit as well as sexy? Certainly the case for Kallur, and her face really lights up the athletic department. Although not the best, she is one of my personal favourites.
9/10

Alicia Sacramone: Here is my undisputed number one. The American gymanst has an unbelievable body and sexy face. Something about girls with brilliant bodies in tight clothes doing flips is a turn on! I really don't care how she does in this year's Olympics—as long as she does nothing to her looks! Please come to London in 2012! 10/10

Don't worry if these aren't enough—they aren't for me! As the Olympics continue, I'll be back with more Beijing Babes who have caught my attention.

What August 17 Means To Football

Marc Kaveh — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 11:05:20 -0400

The day I wait for and pray for is nearly upon us, the day when the brilliant or brutal memories of May come flooding back, the day when the new and young test themselves against the usual suspects, this day marks the beginning of the Premiership season.

This past summer wasn't as bad as previous gone by. We had an amazing Euro 2008, a sensational Wimbledon and scintillating British Open and USPGA. They all helped pass the time, but that really hits the nail on the head. That's all it does, pass time until midway through August when football's greatest league re-starts.

Regardless of your team's position every fan eagerly awaits the return of competitive league action, unless of course you follow Luton Town and there is absolutely no light at the end of the tunnel.

August excites many because for the one and only time in the season, Stoke are level with Manchester United, Hull City sit above Liverpool and Bolton Wanderers sit in the Champions League places.

August excites many because the crap has been shipped out and the new blood is eager to be tested. The millions and millions of pounds spent on players is finally put to the test against the tried and tested. Can Deco set the world elite and even at the other end of the spectrum can Dave Kitson fire Stoke to safety?

August excites many because we are hyped up by SkySports Escala ad featuring Ronaldo, Gerrard, Terry, Adebayor, Fabregas, Young, Berbatov, Owen and Santa Cruz in action. That really hits me at how much each and every one of them has been missing from my living room for three months.

August excites many because it's the feeling of walking through the turnstiles for the opening game and seeing an untouched pitch and renewed optimism among old friends who are only ever met in the pub preceding and following the match.

August excites me because it gives me more belief than ever that this is my beloved Newcastle's year, we can finally win some silverware or push for the top four. Is it stupid or idiocy, no it's every fan's right on August 17th. In April it may be a different story but for now nobody can dismiss my hopes and dreams.

August excites me because when I stand on the terraces with my fellow fan's and dusting off some old favourites, then belt them out. A united front and we're all pulling for the same goal, and hating opposition players universally. Come that first match and the first goal, then I will finally know that my beloved Newcastle and Premiership is back.

Ireland Hopes to Bring Home Gold in Boxing

Marc Kaveh — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:38:38 -0400

The Beijing Workers' Indoor Arena was built in 1961 to host the world table tennis championships, and after a two-year renovation for Olympic boxing it can cope with earthquakes registering up to eight on the Richter scale.

Just as well, because if Zou Shiming fulfills his promise and wins China's first gold medal in boxing the place will be shaken to its foundations. In the meantime, it's looking increasingly likely that the arena will also witness an Irish medal of some color.

We may be getting a little carried away, but it was hard not to be optimistic yesterday when Johnny Joyce coolly took apart Gyula Kate of Hungary. This was just 24 hours after Kenny Egan had done the same to Julius Jackson of the Virgin Islands.

With Paddy Barnes and Darren Sutherland getting byes into the second round, four of the five Irish boxers are two wins from a medal.

Truth is, Joyce was not meant to beat Kate. He'd lost their last three fights at light-welter, including a 32-17 beating at last year's World Championships. However, Joyce turned the tables this time, outsmarting Kate to win 9-5 and book his place in Thursday's second round.

"I'd been drawn against him so many times before in the first round, I just knew God would be on my side this time," said Joyce.

"Drawing him again, I knew God was testing me. This time, I brought my performance with me. I could have boxed better, but there were my tactics, to beat him, round by round.

"He's been my bogeyman...My goal here was to bring my fight to him, and as the fight went on, I got more and more confident. He's a big banger, but I let him chase me, that was the plan."

At 20, Joyce is six years younger than Kate, but looked more mature. His fight-retreat-cover tactic was superbly effective. Team coach Billy Walsh had warned him that this was his only way to win.

"I said to Johnny yesterday that if this guy beats you again he's going to bring you home and put you on the mantelpiece," said Walsh. "But he got everything right today."

In the vastness of the Workers' Arena the Irish support was typically vocal. Joyce could tell by the shouting he was in front, even if Walsh had tried to keep him calm.

"I know now, as the tournament goes on, the better I'll get. Especially after beating him, the way I did," said Joyce, who will next face 24-year-old Felix Diaz of the Dominican Republic, ranked ninth in Athens four years ago.

For Egan, Saturday's 22-2 victory over Jackson at light heavy had medal potential written all over it. He's also out again on Thursday against Bahram Muzaffer of Turkey—who claims he is "the best fighter in the division."

"Well, he's never fought Kenny before," said Walsh.

Egan was naturally buoyant, spurred on, he admitted, by the thought of his family watching from the stands. "They all must have got tickets at the last minute...my father, two brothers, and a lot of their mates. It's a great stadium, and the atmosphere is savage, but once you're in there, all you see is your opponent, and four ropes.

"That's the way you have to think. It's the Olympics, sure. But it's just another fight. It's all about the win, the 'W' after your name."

Padraig Harrington Is Ireland's Greatest Sportsman

Marc Kaveh — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:29:07 -0400

We gave our football team an open top bus parade after USA 94, we celebrated Michelle Smith after four golds in Atlanta (all of which were stripped) but Padraig Harrington is unlikely to appear in Dublin City upon a bus any time soon.

In a way, it's a shame that Padraig will never get to hear what Dublin thinks of him; we will never get to shout and scream our admiration of the man.

Yet the man who has won three majors would not accept such an opening; he's too humble. That is the factor that has won Padraig his three majors thus far.

What was it Nick Faldo once said about nice guys always failing, and wasn't it sometime around Carnoustie? Well, 13 months later and Harrington has achieved something Faldo and any other European hasn't, won back-to-back majors. It couldn't have happened to a nicer guy.

This is not a jibe at the great Tiger Woods, but while waiting for Stenson and Curtis to hole out, Padraig spent the guts of five minutes signing autographs for the wowed Oakland faithful. I don't think I have ever seen Woods do that in all of his 14 titles.

Exactly 13 months ago, America's grip on the majors was strong, but almost single-handedly Padraig has reversed the odds dramatically. As Sergio Garcia and Padraig went head-to-head and only the slightest mention of Ben Curtis, it was suddenly clear to me. Americans can't really win majors if their name isn't Tiger Woods.

Forget Woods, Mickelson, Furyk and the rest. Today is Harrington's day, he has made his family, team, and whole country proud to boast we have the unofficial second-best golfer in the world. Today it feels great to be Irish, and long may that continue.

Padraig Harrington, USPGA and British Open Champion, Leading European Player, Irish. Sounds pretty good, but so does everything connected to Harrington on this Emerald Isle.

Drogheda United Come So Close To Toppling Dynamo Kiev

Marc Kaveh — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 01:27:28 -0400

SHANE ROBINSON came within the width of a post of putting Drogheda United into the third qualifying round of the Champions League in Kiev last night in what would have been the biggest victory by a League of Ireland side in their 51 years in Europe.

With the scores level at 2-2 a minute into stoppage time, substitute Fahrudin Kuduzovic put midfielder Robinson away down the right and his low cross was parried on to the post by goalkeeper Taras Lutsenko with the ball rolling across the goal to safety.

If it had gone in Drogheda would have won on the away goal rule. An incredible finish to the match saw Graham Gartland stab home Paul Keegan's 88th-minute free-kick to put Drogheda level for the second time in a riveting match.

Seconds later Australian midfielder Adam Hughes somehow shot over the bar from six yards after Ibrahima Iyane-Thiam had flicked on Joe Kendrick's cross from the left.

"We were so disappointed in there, I can't put it into words," said Robinson who'd scored Drogheda's first equaliser.

"A lot of people said we were going to get hammered. It was an insult to us, we're full-time professionals four years; we eat, sleep, drink football.

"We never doubted ourselves to be honest, we're proud of what we did tonight, the genuine feeling is we're disappointed. It's a nice two fingers to a couple of people that wrote us off, we do everything to be professional footballers, we're not amateurs anymore."

Oleksnadr Aliev scored a brilliant late winner at Dalymount Park as Dynamo won 2-1 in Dublin last week. And the Ukrainian under-21 star scored the early goal Drogheda dreaded to appear to end the tie.

But Drogheda rode their luck and hit back before half-time from a Robinson penalty. That rattled Dynamo, who despite having all the possession in the second half, needed a penalty of their own to get back in front.

Milos Ninkovic stung the hands of Jamie Ewings from long-range on the half-hour before Drogheda silenced the home crowd by equalising on 40 minutes.

Kendrick put a superb ball in from the left for the run of Richie Baker who was pulled down by Badr El Kaddouri. Robinson confidently fired the penalty into the bottom right corner despite Lutsenko diving the right way.

Dynamo went back in front on 73 minutes when Brazilian right-back Betao was taken down by Kendrick and substitute Artem Milevsky blasted the spot kick to the roof of the net.

"Why say 'so close yet so far'—we should have won," said an emotional manager Paul Doolin. "It's simple, we had two chances at the end that should have won the game. Adam's effort should have been a goal, but that's what happens sometimes."

The chance of a lifetime may never present itself again and this was a real chance to see an Irish amatuer side do wonders in Europe...

Billionaire With TWICE Roman Abramovich's Fortune Linked To Newcastle United

Marc Kaveh — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 07:59:39 -0400

The name of Anil Ambani had many Toon fans including myself reaching for the computer to search google and wikipedia about the man. Either would have told you he is the sixth richest man in the world with a fortune of 21 billion.

It may have also told you that the Indian is currently linked with a takeover of Newcastle United.

As I always say when reports of takeovers involving Newcastle surface, "I'll believe it when I see it." Yet this particular one has my pulse running slightly higher than normal. An Indian billionaire with a fortune TWICE that of Roman Abramovich and THRITY times that of current miser/owner Mike Ashley.

So if I am to believe the speculation, and I so desperately want to, Ambani is facing competition from Singapore-based global investment company Profitable Group. The price apparently set by Ashley is £260 million and that is well within the means of both supposed bidders.

Ashley doesn't want to sell outright as indicated in interviews he gave last month, he wants partners in funding Newcastle's future. Yet both buyers, particularly Ambani, want sole ownership of the club.

Yet I'm not too bothered because Ambani is usually someone with a plan and strives to achieve the best in every field he can.

So its unlikely he'll wear the jersey on matchdays, its unlikely he'll buy us pints after the games or stand with us at away games. But what billionaire Anil Ambani will do is turn Newcastle into a club that can finally mount the kind of challenge at the top of the Premier League the most devoted fans in the country have dreamed about.

Apparently Ambani has been in negotiations with Ashley for several weeks and has made his intentions clear. He will rival Roman Abramovich in the spending stakes.

A figure of around £150m has been discussed in Ambani’s inner circle with the telecoms magnate only too happy to sanction such a sum for players.

The man and his ideas would be welcomed by all on Tyneside. RCom are comfortable discussing their plans to not only book a permanent place in the Champions League but also a Toon invasion of India.

It is the last great untapped audience for English football and Ambani’s advisers have seen the massive potential of an exclusive stake in a market numbering billions.

RCom already have a major stake in India’s entertainment market, and also own power plants and financial services companies.

While Profitable Group will still have a major say in any Toon takeover, RCom’s bid is further down the line.

There is a widespread belief from those closest to the potential deal that papers drawn up by Ambani’s legal team could even be lodged with Ashley’s lawyers by next week.

That would open the door for RCom to proceed with due diligence—and be a concrete step towards buying out Buckinghamshire-born Ashley.

Like Abramovich at Chelsea, the financial muscle of the Indians is astonishing with a money-no-object attitude they bring to all their businesses.

There is still some way to go before any deal is struck but even the ultra-conservative RCom delegation are said to be hugely excited by the prospect of taking control.

Forget their excitement if this deal goes through then the entire of Tyneside will be rocking and who knows in ten years perhaps the glory hunters who currently idolise the Top Four might have attached themselves to St James Park.

Joey Barton Needs Help Not Punishment After Release From Prison

Marc Kaveh — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 08:31:55 -0400

Joey Barton’s story is tragic—a promising and talented footballer who has made bad decisions, decisions that have now brought him to a crossroads in his life.

Where he goes on from here and what he does with his career will depend a lot on how he views the past (whether he perceives himself to be the victim or the victimiser) and perhaps more relevant to football, how the people around him help him move forward.

Make no mistake—Newcastle United, the PFA and the FA each have key roles to play in Barton’s future—and here’s how they can help the player while punishing him for his actions:

FA need to consider Newcastle’s and Barton’s future

Banning Barton from playing football—for 5 games, 15 games, a whole season or a lifetime is not the answer. It won’t help football (although it would help the FA’s image), it won’t help Barton and it won’t help Newcastle.

Keegan has talked about giving Barton a supportive environment and a genuine chance to make good—I believe that while it should be his last chance, he should still get a shot.

In addition, the FA will be grossly negligent of their responsibilities to football in England if they rule on Barton’s case without catering for Newcastle’s current predicament—facing undue punishment for an incident that happened before they bought the player.

Sure, in hindsight it’s easy to say that Allardyce made a mistake (a costly one for Newcastle given Barton’s wages and lack of minutes on the pitch in the first season) but the target of the punishment should be Barton, not Newcastle and it’s the FA’s responsibility to account for this.

The ideal solution would be to punish Barton without punishing Newcastle—and with that in mind I suggest the following:

Barton must agree to a contract amendment that puts him on 50% salary (50% basic + 50% bonuses) for the next season. This can be renegotiated next summer.
Barton is also on a one-year probation—if violated he gets a lifetime ban from football, and if he comes through it without any problems then all restrictions mentioned above are removed.
Failure to comply results in an immediate lifetime ban from English football.

There’s a part of me that likes to think that Barton can reform himself if he’s given the chance. Keegan will give him the space and TLC needed, but the FA have to ensure that Barton doesn’t go scot-free AND that Newcastle are not unnecessary punished for actions not committed when he was on their books (lucky, lucky City).

PFA and Barton

I’d like to see the PFA step in and help Barton with his anger management problems and to sort things out so that in the future he doesn’t harm his own career or hurt anyone else.

Most people at this age refuse to change, and therefore end up destroying their lives. Barton has a slim chance, and a slimmer window of opportunity to avail that chance. We have to do everything possible to give him that chance.

Newcastle and Barton

Barton owes Newcastle a lot for the backing they’ve given him. I know that the reason is financial—they don’t want to lose a player for nothing when they paid 5m+ for him—but in Keegan they have a manager who can motivate and reform players while in the Geordie faithful they have that rare communal support that Barton can rely on as he works on being a more responsible person and footballer.

If Keegan and the Newcastle fans back him, if the PFA give him all the help he needs and if the FA make sure that he’s back to playing football as quickly as possible, there’s every chance that Barton might be saved.

Although in the end it comes down to how Barton behaves, it all starts with the FA and their decision on the matter. Let’s hope they make the right one.

Jaded Roger Federer Slams Down to Earth, Possibly to No. 2

Marc Kaveh — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:28:03 -0400

When Roger Federer's five-year Wimbledon reign was ended by Rafael Nadal last month, tennis pundits began speculating whether his No. 1 ranking would be next to go.

Some said Federer would hang on until the end of the year. Others thought he might be toppled at the US Open. But no one, at that stage, seriously suggested Nadal could become world No. 1 within a month.

This Sunday, however, just four weeks after his epic victory in near darkness at SW19, the remarkable Spaniard could bring an end to Federer's 235-week vigil at the top of his sport by winning the Cincinnati Masters.

With Nadal safely into quarter-finals following a 6-4, 7-6 win over Tommy Haas, and Federer heading home after another shock defeat, men's tennis is on the verge of a seismic shift in power.

No player has owned the top spot for so long with a break, but Nadal is now just three victories away from relegating Federer back to No. 2 for the first time since February 2004.

In 2004, Nadal had won nothing and had just earned himself the title of youngest player to reach the previous Wimbledon's third round since Becker. A stress fracture ruled him out of the French Open just as Federer's reign began.

Yet four and a half years later, Nadal is just three victories away from that honour. By my calculations, those three players will be Nicolas Lappentin, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray. The latter two are tough encounters for the Spaniard and gives Federer a slight chance.

The problem now occurs for Roger: Nadal looks vulnerable only to him and even then only occasionally. Yet Roger is vulnerable to everybody!

The Giles Simons and Ivo Karlovics of tennis will now approach with no fear, unlike that they would hold facing Rafa Nadal.

Now therein lies the problem...

Did I Miss Something, Since When Are Spurs Attractive?

Marc Kaveh — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:36:14 -0400

David Bentley and Andrei Arshavin are set to join Luka Modric at White Hart Lane and I have to wonder, since when are Spurs big? Don't get me wrong I like Spurs and love their style of play but Arshavin, why would he take a step down?

The Spurs were winners of the Carling Cup yet failed to make any impact in the EPL, finishing one place above my dear Newcastle. OK they can offer UEFA Cup football but so can Aston Villa and he would be playing Champions League if he stayed at Zenit.

I don't understand the image of Spurs to players, perhaps like Keane, Carrick and possibly Berbatov, they see it as a stepping stone to the Top 4 or a La Liga giant. Yet if your as good as the world proclaims Arshavin, then I would hold out for a better move.

David Bentley is leaving Blackburn Rovers for Spurs, this I get. Blackburn are a smaller club who will always have to sell their assets and the last day of Jul 2008 marks another chapter in their selling history.

Yet Zenit who are not strapped for cash, have made previous statements about only selling to their players dream are selling to Spurs.

Oh I get it, by saying I dream of playing for Barcelona in the Champions League, he meant I dream of playing for Tottenham in the UEFA Cup. Maybe his Russian translator was having a bad day...

However here's another reason, location, location, location. London is where the players want to be, the wild nightlife and so on, yet in three years they'll be happy to swap it for Manchester or Barcelona.

Help me out here Bleacher, I want to see what makes Spurs so attractive?

In the Premier League Who Holds The Best Hand?

Marc Kaveh — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 08:36:12 -0400

Think of football as a game of cards, you need a great pair most of the time to achieve your goal. Now think of pairs as strikers and these are the rare breed many clubs strive to team up and gun for glory.

Now back to the cards, picture Sir Alex Ferguson, Luiz Felipe Scolari, Arsene Wenger, Rafael Benitez, Juande Ramos and Kevin Keegan sitting around a smoky card table in a quiet bar. Each holds a pair of cards in their hands and nothing is being given away.

Sir Alex has the advantage, he holds a pair of aces in Argentine genius Carlos Tevez and England superstar Wayne Rooney. Sir Alex has won the last two hands in a row and has wrestled the chips from London to Manchester.

Luiz Felipe Scolari isn't worried, he has loads of cash waiting to be spent on a king or ace. Roman Abramovich has funded his club's many goal-getters but Scolari holds Didier Drogba and has representatives attempting to nab Robinho from the Spanish bar next door. However "Big Phil" must be wary that both Mourinho and Grant occupied his seat in 2007-08.

Arsene Wenger is not in a good way, he owes many of his chips to various bankers and can't properly fund his transfer activities. Wenger has openly complained that his aces get constantly robbed.

Henry was nabbed and now his second ace Adebayor could be Italy bound. Van Persie and Bendtner don't look like a great hand for Arsene if Adebayor sets sail.

Rafael Benitez is often criticised for his negative tactics and failure to take risks in the transfer market, yet he has splashed £50 million worth of chips on Nando Torres and Robbie Keane. Liverpool finally have their best pair since Owen and Fowler and Benitez is smirking quietly in the corner.

Juande Ramos is the new boy at the table, but word had spread to the English bar of his work next door. Tottenham have the men to negotiate their way to the bigger table but have been dealt a blow when Rafa bet big and took Keane from White Hart Lane. He still holds the Berbatov card but Sir Alex is eyeing it and Ramos could be left empty-handed.

Kevin Keegan returns to the big table after nearly 10 years away and much has changed. Keegan left his successor with a real pair of aces, Shearer and Ferdinand.

On his return to Tyneside he has the urge for three aces. Oba Martins, Mark Viduka and Liverpool's ex-ace Michael Owen. Many feel Keegan should spend his aces on the defense but the attack is pretty awesome.

All in all, in the intense gambling world of football you need a great pair to claim ultimate victory. Man Utd are in pole position with Chelsea and Arsenal just behind. Newcastle and Tottenham have the ammunition to worry but not the defence. It could be a cracking season.

Padraig Harrington Wins Back-to-Back Opens, Thanks To Sergio Garcia

Marc Kaveh — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 05:50:20 -0400

Padraig Harrington has two British Open titles, and it all started with a miss.

But it wasn't his. The morning after he defended his title at Royal Birkdale, the Irishman already was looking ahead. He now is in the same company as Greg Norman, Curtis Strange, Ben Crenshaw, Dave Stockton and others who have won the same major twice.

Next on his list is winning a third major, perhaps one in America.

But imagine where he would be if Sergio Garcia had made that 10-foot par putt last year at the British Open.

What everyone remembers from Carnoustie is Harrington draped in an Irish flag and carrying his son Patrick, who wanted to fill the silver claret jug with ladybirds.

Forgotten after his playoff victory was a collapse that would have ranked with anything Norman ever did and, by Harrington's admission, might have ruined his career.

Harrington had a one-shot lead on the 18th when he hit his tee shot into Barry Burn. Then he chunked a 5-iron for his third shot that tumbled into the burn again. His greatest shot was a 5-foot putt for double bogey.

All that spared him a crushing defeat was Garcia, whose par putt to win the British Open looked good until the final inch.

"If Sergio parred the last and I did lose, I think I would have struggled to come back out and be a competitive golfer," Harrington said that day. "To take a 6 down the last, it would have hit me very hard. I think I would have struggled in the future."

Harrington had an old friend at his side—the claret jug—when he was reminded Monday of his good fortunes.

It brought back memories not only of Carnoustie, but also of the final round at Royal Birkdale. Harrington twice was on the verge of bogey until a beautiful pitch from 30 yards to within inches on the first hole, and a 15-foot putt to save par on the third.

Every shot he made, Norman missed.

"I'm realistic enough to believe that the twin impostors of success and failure are always a hair's breadth away," Harrington said Monday. "The difference of that putt (by Garcia) going in and not going in—and the consequences of that—are amazing, and no more so than in that one second."

He recognized that if Norman had saved par from a pot bunker on the opening hole and Harrington couldn't get up-and-down from short the green, the Shark would have had a three-shot lead and loads of momentum.

No one will ever know.

"But in Sergio's case," Harrington continued, "we do have an answer. If his putt did drop, he would have won the Open. But the fact is it didn't drop, and I ultimately won the Open."

Perhaps it was only fitting that Harrington played the final round with Norman, who at age 53 gave himself yet another chance to win a major and set himself up for more failure.

Of the majors Norman squandered, the most memorable were his 4-iron over the 18th green at the 1986 Masters for a bogey that paved the way for Jack Nicklaus to win a sixth green jacket; his 78 in the final round of the PGA Championship that same year at Inverness, where Bob Tway holed a bunker shot for birdie on the final hole; and the 1996 Masters, when he led by six and lost by five.

How might it have been different for Norman?

One of the most underrated players of his generation was Scott Hoch. How might his career have changed had he made that 30-inch par putt to beat Nick Faldo in a playoff at the 1989 Masters?

What about Doug Sanders blowing a three-foot putt to win at St. Andrews in 1970?

Colin Montgomerie, the best player alive without a major, could have picked one up at Congressional in 1997 at the U.S. Open if not for freezing over that five-foot par putt on the 17th hole. One can only imagine how that might have helped him at Winged Foot two years ago, when he chunked a 7-iron from the 18th fairway.

"You have to look at it like this," Harrington said. "It's about averages. You get yourself in position enough times, it will fall on the right side of you some of the times, and the wrong side some of the times. The key is to get into position.

"I've played great in tournaments and through no fault of my own finished second," he added, "and I've seen where I messed up and finished second.

"If you keep getting in position, one day you'll hole a 10-footer to get into the playoff, and the next day you won't," he said. "You can't control all the breaks."

Garcia, meanwhile, was the betting favourite at Royal Birkdale this year. He was seven shots behind going into the final round, shot 44 on the back nine and was never a serious factor.

He began the week with a lively press conference, which included one question about Carnoustie. As good as Garcia struck that putt, how much different would his life have been over the past 12 months if that fraction of an inch had gone in his favour?

"I don't know," Garcia said. "I will never know."

Andy Roddick Must Seize His Chance at the U.S. Open

Marc Kaveh — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 05:35:34 -0400

A-Rod has an unbelievable chance to claim the second Grand Slam of his career. The 2008 US Open is, in my opinion, there for the taking.

Roddick already has a key advantage over Federer, Nadal, Djokovic and Co. He's skipping the Olympics.

While Roger and Rafa are expending a sick amount of energy in Beijing, Roddick will have his feet up, resting and only playing when he practises. The Olympics conclude on Aug. 17, and the U.S. Open starts on the Aug. 25.

Can the world's best move from the mentally draining arena of China to America and still put in their best? One week is surely not enough to get back to full-strength and mount a challenge, or is it?

In 2004, Tim Henman lost in the first round of Athens yet made the semi-finals in New York for the first time in his career. During the same year and events, Federer failed in the second round of the Olympics yet went on to win the US Open.

Roddick should be confident of his chances. He should mentally back himself and think I can win this tournament, my tournament. Who stands in A-Rod's way, a severely wounded Roger Federer? A poor hardcourt player in Rafael Nadal? Probably not, but maybe Novak Djokovic could intervene?

I always back Roddick for every Grand Slam, and he hasn't come through for me since 2003. I really felt Wimbledon this year would be the second Grand Slam when I saw the draw, but his mental issues saw him fall early.

If Roddick can stay fresh, mentally fit, keep his forehand consistent and serve a record amount of aces, then I expect Roddick to claim the title. If not, maybe in 2012?

Shay Given is the EPL's Best Goalkeeper

Marc Kaveh — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 05:04:24 -0400

Call me biased because I'm a Newcastle United fan, but the fact that I'm a Geordie and proud might actually help me in my clarity of this statement.

I believe Shay Given is the best keeper in the Premier League.

Better then Edwin Van der Sar and Petr Cech, surely I'm bonkers. These were the top two, Man United and Chelsea's last lines of defense in successful seasons. That's right, in my mind Cech only ranks as number four and Van der Sar deserves no mention when it comes to the current best.

Given's only true rivals for the number one spot are Jose Reina and Brad Freidel. These are the keepers who time and time again keep Newcastle, Liverpool, and Blackburn afloat and in contention for their respective goals.

But here is why I rate Shay Given as the Premier League's current best.

He has an unbelievable shot stopping record, and often keeps out those efforts destined for the goal. Examples of this would be his save against Kevin Phillips which was voted the second best save ever of the Premiership era.

He is a steady pair of hands from crosses and hardly lets the ball drop from his hands. He used to have a problem controlling his six yard box but recently he has become better at this aspect. Hardly nowadays is Given beaten by a close range header.

Here's another reason: Given has kept Newcastle afloat during all the bad years when our defense was nonexistent. The days of Shearer's knee injuries meant no attack was in place and often I feared for the worse and I have to feel that Cech would not have had the bottle to keep top-notch performances going during a crisis.

Given's kicking from ground has often been criticized, but that out of hand is unbelievable. Like his control of the six-yard box, his kicking has improved greatly.

Shay Given was heavily linked with a move to United before Van der Sar arrived at Old Trafford. He was also linked to Arsenal before Lehmann got the job but the fact he didn't leave was his refusal to uproot his family. Maybe not United but definitely Arsenal's loss.

In my view, Given would do an equal if not better job than all of the top four keepers at their respective clubs.

So in my humble opinion, the Premier League's current number one is Shay Given.

Newcastle Thump Hartlepool 4-1 As Damien Duff Grabs A Hat-Trick

Marc Kaveh — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 07:12:05 -0400

Newcastle United began their pre-season with a resounding 4-1 victory over neighbours Hartlepool. The match was marked by the return to form by Irish winger Damien Duff.

The League One side weren't good enough to cope with the Premier League stars despite Kevin Keegan's men getting off to a shaky start. Hartlepool stunned the travelling Toon Army by taking the lead after 16 minutes as Matty Robson dinked the ball past fit again Shay Given.

However, Newcastle were level on 40 minutes after Butt played the ball to Milner who found Duff on the left before the Irishman steered the ball home from just inside the box on the left to make it 1-1.

Martins then went round the keeper a minute later but Ben Clark cleared the ball off the line to keep the score level.

On the stroke of half-time N’Zogbia forced a good save from Lee Barrett with Martins unable to convert the rebound as Newcastle finished the half slightly on top.

Guthrie was handed his debut at the start of the second half and replaced Enrique with a reshuffle seeing N’Zogbia drop to left-back.

And Ameobi—who was given a superb reception from the visiting fans—was also introduced for the second period with Martins making way.

Guthrie, signed from Liverpool, proved an instant success and fed Duff for his second on 54 minutes. The Irishman timed his run to perfection and slotted the ball past Lee Barrett.

Less than a minute later, Guthrie had scored himself with a thundering strike from 20 yards as Hartlepool began to wilt under the Geordie waves of pressure.

It should have been three goals in three minutes as Shola Ameobi missed an open goal after doing the hard work, despite that the Academy product showed enough desire to continue playing for Newcastle.

With 19 minutes left United gave youngster Callum Morris a slice of the action with the Academy product taking his place at right back and Ben Tozer partnering Taylor in the middle.

Duff almost completed his hat-trick with 10 minutes left when a cross from the left hand side dipped on to the Pools bar before bouncing to safety.

But he did get the treble he was looking for with three minutes to go as he side footed a neat finish into the roof of the net after Ameobi laid the ball off to him.

Newcastle off to a great start and the forgotten man Damien Duff is back with a bang.

Sam Allardyce Had to Go

Marc Kaveh — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 07:41:34 -0400

Sam Allardyce was sacked from Newcastle on January 9, yet many observers don't actually seem to know why "Big" Sam was given the boot. These are the reasons why.

He was appointed as Glenn Roeder's replacement in May 2007 after quitting his role as manager of Bolton Wanderers. Fans of Newcastle were cautious and some felt Allardyce would attempt to implement his boring negative football.

Still, we gave "Big" Sam a chance—everyone in life deserves at least one. His summer signings were an encouragement: Viduka, Beye, Cacapa, Jose Enrique, Rozenhal, Geremi, Faye, and Smith. Let's see where this goes.

A reasonable victory over Bolton on the first day of the season was nice, but in seeing how Bolton struggled all season it was hardly a world class team. He continued to impress until in my view his position became untenable in five matches.

Portsmouth Home

Defending an unbeaten home record, Sam Allardyce's negative tactics were brutally exposed. Three goals in nine minutes ended the game and Newcastle slumped to a 4-1 defeat.

Liverpool Home

Now let's get this straight. We never expected to beat Liverpool, but the problem was we had just ONE shot on goal all game. We were losing 3-0 and still he was substituting our only attacking threats. Chants of, "You don't know what your doing" rang out.

Derby Away

By far the worst ever Premiership team who only earned one win and guess who they beat...Allardyce set out to contain and sit back against a toothless and utterly terribly side and we were deservedly beaten 1-0. He blamed internationals, but a few months later there were no excuses.

Wigan Away

We lost 1-0 yet again at the JJB, but here's the thing: Sam Allardyce played one up front against ex-Toon man Titus "Crap" Bramble and five at the back against Antoine "Not Good Enough for a Contract" Sibierski. "Allardyce Out" was the chant.

Derby Home

Yet again we set out to contain the worst ever Premiership team and twice they took the lead only for Viduka to twice save Allardyce's job. It was a pitiful performance that any club would have been ashamed of and Allardyce was gone soon after.

I can already see the arguments: give him time, it would work, unpatient Geordies. Let me just inform you, we don't mind crap football and crap results, but only when we see improvement.

Sir Bobby Robson came 11th and we gave him time because we were going in the right direction. Sam Allardyce's negative one up front crap tactics had us heading to the first division, not Europe.

Now do you understand?