Bleacher Report - Articles by Saif Syed Omar

Manchester United vs Arsenal: Another Storm in the Teacup

Saif Syed Omar — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 08:10:23 -0400

On your mark, get set, and go. It was the first of the big four clashes of the Premier league, barely three weeks into the new season—a season which has seen a sea of change for both clubs in question—Manchester United and Arsenal.

And more so for United, who are without their most valuable player, both in terms of capital and quality. For Arsenal, it will be another season trying to win back the title they lost half a decade ago. And Arsenal will also be without key players in their squad in the form of Adebayor and Toure, perhaps the latter most likely to be missed.

While United, for a change, decided to be thrifty in the transfer market, it was a more predictable summer for Arsenal in terms of spending. While both teams, no doubt, will be less stronger by the departure of key personnel, the ability of the rest of the squad, rather the new squad, to adapt to life without the big names that are now gone, will decide the destiny of the League title.

As we kick off this first clash of the big guns, both teams have been on the ascendancy, more so for Arsenal who had a hundred percent record going into this game.

United, the perennial slow starters, didn't let their supporters down by putting on a horrible performance against Burnley only to turn on the heat against Wigan last week, putting five against the home team.

The Kick-Off

The game was killed before the kick off by the teams put out by both managers, crowded mid-fields and a single man up front—the perfect combination for a scrappy affair—as most of the encounters between the big teams turn out to be. Rather than discussing the game in general, let us shed some light on the two key moments in the game.

The First Half: Incident One

Premise: A cross from the right hand side of the field falls to Arshavin, the Russian takes a touch and as he is about to pull the trigger, Fletcher makes a rash diving challenge, getting less of the ball and more of the man, probably the man first.

Result: The referee, Mike Dean, waves play on and asks Arshavin to get up.

Argument: The referee, just 10 yards away from the action, should have awarded a penalty to the Gunners and booked Fletcher.

My Call: A clear cut penalty, United get the advantage of playing at home that they get from time to time each season. For Arsenal, another decision goes against them as Arsene bemoans the call on the edge of the technical area.

For Arsenal, justice is done a few seconds later when a rocket ends up in the back of the United net, oh, that was actually the ball launched by the little Russian. Another glaring example of the Arsene's shout that 50-50 calls never go Arsenal's way.

None the less, Arsenal finish the half as they started—on a high, with a solitary goal's advantage to show for.

The Second Half: Incident Two

Premise: Giggs plays in Rooney through a diagonal ball, it is a race to the ball between the striker and the keeper.

Result: Rooney wins the ball and eventually the penalty. Almunia wins the man, a yellow card for his effort, a penalty against his team that is later converted by Rooney.

Argument: Rooney is a diver. He was looking for the penalty. He should be banned for two games. Blah Blah Blah.

My Call: A penalty again, though not as clear cut as the one involving Arshavin. The referee made the right decision, albeit a tough one to make.

To all those who are trying to make a meal out of this issue—get a life people. Those who are making these baseless arguments, are constructing them on a very dicey foundation. Making comparisons of this incident to the one involving Edurado in the mid-week tie against Celtic is plain stupidity.

Although the penalty award given to Edurado can be branded controversial to say least, the decision by UEFA to review the case probably vindicates Arsene Wenger's claims that his team have been subjected to a witch-hunt. But regardless of that incident, the incident involving Rooney was straight forward for the following reasons:

1. The attacker took the ball past the keeper.
2. The keeper made no contact with the ball.
3. The keeper made contact with the attacker

People often stress on thinking "out of the box." In this case, all Rooney did was thinking "inside the box." He knew that, if he won the race to the ball and took the the ball away from Almunia, there was a high probability of Almunia committing the foul on Rooney.

Though Arsenal will walk away empty handed from this tie, there will be a lot of positives to take along. For starters, this squad can believe that it is capable of taking on teams and getting the results even without the likes of Fabregas and Rosciky.

As far as the moans and the groans from a few sections of the fans go, get on with it guys, you don't get the result you deserve sometimes. But it is the consistency in performance and the ability to grind out results while not on top form that will decide the destiny of the league title.

The Bigger Picture:

How this game will affect the bigger picture i.e. the league title, is a long shot. The league is a marathon and not a 100m dash. For Arsenal, winning the title with this squad will depend on the fitness of this set of players and the consistency in their level of performance. For United, this season will be a tough one, adjusting to life after Ronaldo.

With the other big guns like Chelsea and Liverpool, and the emergence of teams like Manchester City and Tottemham Hotspurs early this season provides a lip-smacking prospect of seeing a closely fought league. Who survives and prevails is a thing that only time will tell. Bring it on I say.

CR7: The Man, the Machine, the Dream, and the Money...

Saif Syed Omar — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 16:45:24 -0400

Waking up on a rainy Thursday morning, I was cheerful despite the rain because it was soccer day at school. With eyes not exactly wide open I was still getting the early morning blues when I was struck by lightening surfing through the morning news on my laptop.

It was the news that every United fan had been dreading for days, probably for a couple of years now. It became official: After six eventful seasons with the Red Devils, CR7 will be gone come August.

The Man...

Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro was born on Feb. 5, 1985 in Funchal, Madeira, the youngest child of Maria Dolores dos Santos Aveiro and José Dinis Aveiro.

After stints with local clubs, he went on to join Sporting Lisbon, a well-known Portuguese football club. There he was spotted by Manchester United who signed him for an amount believed to be about $20 million.

At United, Cristiano was molded into the player he is by the evergreen Sir Alex Ferguson with the help of Coach Carlos Queiroz. Often criticised for his on-field antics, Cristiano has been the poster boy of the media and the whipping boy of most English fans.

The Machine...

Under the guidance of SAF, he went from a boy with a box of tricks to the silky, mean, goal scoring machine. He has the record of most number of goals by a winger in the English League in a season.

He was painstakingly groomed to make him the player he is today. He was seen as the successor to David Beckham on the wing after the latter was forced out after a bust up with SAF.

After a mediocre first two seasons, Ronaldo burst into the limelight after a World Cup bust up with club teammate Wayne Rooney. Only this time, he returned a man determined to deliver.

Despite the constant booing from English fans, he delivered on the pitch each time when his team needed him. He was pivotal in United ending their barren run and winning their first league title in four years in 2006-07.

He has been United's top goal scorer ever since, despite playing a wide role during most of this period. He was also a crucial figure in United, winning their third Champions League title in Moscow last year and scoring the opening goal of the encounter.

The Dream...

Once upon a time, there was a little girl in a small town. As a child, she had a dream of becoming the best singer in her town and becoming the Queen of the place she lived when she grew up. Time went on and she grew up to be a beautiful girl with an even more beautiful voice.

She was spotted by the visiting Prince of the neighboring kingdom. The Prince was so charmed by her voice and beauty that he decided to take her home to his kingdom. There, everyone was bedazzled by her voice and she became the people's favorite.

The prince of the neighboring country wanted to marry her now and make her the future Queen. She resisted his advances but said she would stay—because her dream was still alive. She went on from strength to strength winning everyone's heart and accolades for that kingdom.

Finally, a point came when there was nothing left to prove and nothing left to win. At that point, the Prince of her dreams came. She decided to leave, the prince she had been with all these years and his kingdom, for her hometown and her Prince. She left a void, but the people still loved her for what she was. She will always be remembered...

Cristiano had often spoken about his dream to play for Real Madrid—a team he had loved as a child. The dream has often been used as a springboard by Real to lure him away from United.

It is this $130 million dream that has been a cause for discontent between the two clubs.

United bravely fended off previous approaches by Real as they struggled to hold on to their most prized asset. United finally decided to bow to pressure after the player himself requested a transfer.

The Money...

For United, the offer makes perfect business sense, though his value of his goal scoring exploits and match winning quality are difficult to be gauged. At $130 million, United have seen a return of more than $100 million on their investment.

However, in Cristiano, United will lose close to 30 goals a season, a few more assists, and a match winner who could turn games on its head. Besides, the revenues lost through the brand, CR7 will be yet another stumbling block.

Whether this was a wise move or not, only time will tell, but there was little United could do against the player's wishes.

The Future...

For Cristiano, the future poses a new challenge, a new environment. But there will be lots to prove, given the big price tag attached to his move and him being branded as the best in the world.

For United, it will be a time to rebuild and regroup. It is hard to imagine how one player's exit can have such an impact on a club that has just done a hat-trick of league titles and has been a Champions League finalist on the trot. Such has been the effect of Ronaldo on United in the past few seasons.

After the exit of Ruud van Nistlerooy, Ronaldo has single-handedly taken up the goal scoring mantle on his shoulders. His goals and skill will be hard to replace, at least in such a short span.

Luckily for United, SAF is still around, though for not very long. United will have to spend the huge transfer fee they get for Ronaldo well. It is also time for the likes of Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov to take up the goal scoring responsibility.

This is a vicious cycle; stars will be born, and they will be lost. All that will be left is the club. Nobody will ever be greater than the club. Ronaldo's contribution to the club has been invaluable. He might not have become a legend but he will always be a star.

He will be remembered, long after he's gone. Viva Ronaldo!!!

The Fall from Glory: How United Blew It Up in Rome

Saif Syed Omar — Wed, 27 May 2009 23:23:35 -0400

It was one of the biggest European nights for Sir Alex Ferguson's newest team—a team that he built to challenge Arsenal's stranglehold on the league and Chelsea's power monetarily. They seemed to literally buy every trophy that was in existence.

In that sense this team is about three to four years old or may be half a year more to the good. And in all fairness, the team has evolved over time and has gone from strength to strength blending into a fine mix of youth and experience.

Some have even claimed this team to be the best of all time. But regardless of how old or new you are, all that matters is winning. The current team was on the cusp of greatness and glory till before this woeful night.

They may still go on to be great and win many more things in the future, but this was one glorious moment that, SAF will admit, could have been a turning point, if not a make-break situation for this young side.

Sir Alex Ferguson has always said fondly, "We like to do it the hard way." For once, he might want to retract his evergreen one-liner because United did not do it the hard way. They lost their European Crown, but they kept it neat, clean and most importantly, simple. This is how it was done.

B-ve

This probably was not the blood group of the majority in United's squad but definitely the hypothetical type that the boss injected into his team going into the big one.

Playing a winger as your center forward does not exactly send shivers down the spine of many defenses. Yet this might be a unique case as we are talking about one of the meanest scorers in the English league, who has bedazzled many top-class defenders for the last few seasons.

All said and done, United gave a clear signal to Barca that they would play a counter attacking game and literally gave into submission even before kick-off.

It would have been worth it had United sacrificed their attacking flair for a cause, but they did not. Though United were more like an away side, their strategy of playing on the counter attack from the kick-off was ill-advised and short-sighted.

The Barcelona team's defense, though having creative players in abundance, is not one that many teams are envious of. Also, the absence of the likes of Danny Alves and Abidal further weakened Barca's attacking prowess to a large extent.

That made the defensive unit fragile as well, which had already shown gaping holes against Chelsea on a few instances.

Rather than going for the jugular, United hoped to sit back and counter, as they did at the Emirates.

But two things worked against them. One was that Barcelona carried a much more creative and attacking threat than the Arsenal side United beat in the semis. Secondly, the little bit of luck that is needed on a bad day would just not be United's.

Chase shadows on the pitch

Most of United's midfield was left chasing shadows and ghosts on the night. The likes of Giggs could not even get closer to those shadows.

Such was the plight of United's midfield. One of the world's most expensive and apparently talented midfield was made to look ordinary at most.

Barcelona clinched the tie in the midfield. Barca's retention of the ball was simply fabulous. They did not show one bit of complacency even after scoring early in the game. It was not even the case of sitting behind the ball and defending in numbers.

Barcelona simply overawed United by not letting them retain the ball. Most credit should go to the midfield trio of Barcelona in general and the creative genius of Xavi and Iniesta in particular.

Carrick was uncharacteristically slow on the pitch and hopelessly awful with the ball. Giggs and Anderson were non-existent for whatever time they spent on the pitch.

Some probable changes to the lineup: Ryan 'The Legend' Giggs could have been taken off earlier. Ronaldo could have started on the right/left and could drift in slowly. The defense could have been tested more. Only if those 'coulds' could be for real...

Wear White Jerseys

United's pale display in their white jerseys was reminiscent of the drubbing they received by AC Milan a couple of seasons ago in the semi-finals of the Cup. Though the jerseys may not actually have a bearing, their display today was amazingly similar to that against Milan.

First, they were short of ideas. After Ronaldo's free kick in the second minute, the Catalan keeper was hardly ever tested throughout the game—something that would leave many flabbergasted, to say the least.

Second, they tried too little and too late, or at least were made to look like that. The Champions of the World, England and formerly Europe, were made to look ordinary and foolish. Such was the might of Barcelona's passing game.

Last, United depended too much on Ronaldo, again.

For a team that is not as physical as a Chelsea, Manchester United did not make full use of the opportunities from set pieces, corners or the aerial route. United could have exposed the voids left by Daniel Alves and Abidal better.

A Better Approach

1. A 4-5-1 that could contain Barcelona's midfield and compete for the ball better would have been a more optimistic and well equipped lineup. Ronaldo on the wings is any day better than the center-forward Ronaldo. Fergie needed to show more faith in his forwards.

2. Fergie failed to counter Guardiola's tactics when the latter moved Messi to the center so as to escape Evra's attention. Rather, it was a tad too late as he had already replaced Anderson—a midfield personnel with a center forward in Tevez.

3. The role of Giggs should have been defined better. He failed to make any sort of a contribution to the midfield or to the attacking play of United. Worst, he even failed to do creatively what Paul Scholes could have done by his pin-point crosses.

Signing off

The night would have been a dream come true to the millions of Barcelona fans around the world. Not only did their beloved team win Europe's most prestigious trophy, they did so in style, making one of their better opponents look ordinary.

They stuck to their game and killed their opposition in a fashion that was demeaning to the holders, all with a depleted defense.

As for Manchester United, this is definitely a step back in their quest to be the best in the world. Every television pundit will think twice before purring on United and its stars.

The team was more than often found wanting for some magic from Ronaldo. In fairness to the lad, he had a good few games in the knock-out stages of the competition. But neither him nor his teammates stepped up when it mattered most.

It will be a long and painful break for United and all us fans. And to those sadist rival fans who are overjoyed just to see United lose...up yours.

Barcelona were worthy winners and United were worthy finalists.

It would have been great to see the winner of an evenly matched contest, but it just couldn't be. United can hold their heads high for what they achieved this season, though they couldn't cap it off to their liking.

The EPL Climax: It's Man on Top Again

Saif Syed Omar — Sat, 16 May 2009 14:29:49 -0400

The title of the article may sound like that of an amorous novel if not an erotic magazine or an excerpt from a porno weekly. Just to dispel all fears, this one requires no parental guidance or discretion on the part of the readers, far from it.

The only ball that will be discussed below will be Football.

The Climax in question is the 'squeaky bum time' that just went by, the Men in this context will be our beloved footballers, the ones using their legs, heads and sometime heads to control the ball, the football that is, and the only arse discussed being that of the gunners and Champagne being the only oozing fluid of concern to us.

The Foreplay... Or you could call it the prelude instead...

It has been a long and gruelling season, full of highs and lows if not 'Ohhhhs' and 'Aaaahhhhs' and other sounds and emotions not even remotely related to Football.

The fans have stood by their teams during this long time, going through the joy and pain themselves, staying up morn and night, giving up on stuff that they would have otherwise done.

As a Manchester United fan, the season has been brilliant so far, and it was a medley of sorts to watch Arsenal being held by ManUtd to clinch the title, yes,the same Man who's on top as the title says.

The Climax

"Thank God!!! We made it" - that was the first thought that came to my mind. I'm not one in the bandwagon of optimists, and can be their staunchest critic at times. I was at the edge of my seat through out the game though my team never were really threatened, albeit they didn't do too much themselves at the other end either.

Nerve wrenching? Well, not this one. The United fans might be the ones biting their nails, but for a neutral, this was one to forget. Neither team can take credit for having dominated the game.

Well the arsenal fans would like to point out that they enjoyed the lion's share of possession and made Old Trafford seem like the Emirates. But the fact of the matter is that both teams rarely looked liked they would score.

Van Der Sar can take pride in saying that his were the warmer pair of gloves where as Fabianski was a spectator all noon. I wish I could brand this game as a game of two halves, because it was not.

Both halves were bland and dour like a documentary on Global warming. And yes, talking of the weather, the weather Gods did try to play their part to spice up the script, it rained and it shined, but nothing could deter our resilient warriors. They were bent upon keeping the fans waiting and nail-biting, till they had no more to chew on.

Talking of rain, it was a torrential downpour of yellow cards as well, for rather silly challenges, Patrice Evra being the common factor of them all. But neither could that spur our boys on. It continued as it had been since the start, boring and only boring.

However, the men in Red held on to a scoreless draw, earning the point they needed to seal the deal. United have been on the ascendancy since they regained the title from the clutches of Chelsea back in 2006-07. But there is a sea of difference between the team that was and now is.

For starters, United won the 2006-'07 season without having the depth that they can now boast of. Though 2006-'07 seemed big because the trophy returned to Old Trafford after a barren spell, this season is special in its own way.

It is no mean feat for a team to be away to clinch the World Club Championship in the middle of the domestic season, get back to find themselves behind, and then claw their way back to the summit.

One thing though that has not changed is the hunger of the team for success. This season, without a doubt was won on the foundation laid by a strong backline. Unlike the '06-'07 season, the defense came out on top, the nominations for the Player of the year speak tons towards that cause.

While it was the attacking prowess of United that stood out on the previous two occasions, this season's success can be credited to the different combinations of the back four, probably five: VDS, Rio, Vida, Evans, Sheasy, Rafael, Patrice and Neville being a part of that group.

The attackers and the play-makers, managed to keep United in the hunt for glory by firing at crucial times, Mourinho's Chelsea style 1-0s were the order of the day. From Tevez, Rooney and Ronny to Scholsey, Giggsy, Fletch and Carrick, each one made contributions at important times.

The new kids on the block had their little bit to do as well, to highlight the fact that kids at United could play as well, and more importantly, win. Danny, Kiko, Gibson and Rafael being notable figures.

This season will be remembered for the professional demeanour of United's display. There has been an evident improvement in the team's maturity without having lost the youthful exuberance and hunger for winning.

This season, it was United the Champions defending their pride, rather than the title hopefuls of the 06-07 season. If it was United's desperation to regain lost glory in '06-'07, it was the maturity and sensibility to retain their prized asset that saw them through this time around.

It is tight rope walk, the mix of experience and youth. One can probably buy them both but building a winning team using a judicious mix of the two is a different ball game in itself.

The Actors

As far as the title race and the competition is concerned, this season did pop up a few surprises for us, one in the form of Liverpool's rise, and the other being the downfall of Big Two from London.

Liverpool fans will be the happier lot, seeing a title push from their side after a while. The effort, though worthy of a shout, is still some way from a title winning shot. Liverpool are still too very dependant on certain individuals, taking names is a no-brainer.

Though Rafa has done a decent job with the resources at hand, the strength in depth is still lacking to challenge for the top prize. It is more to do with boardroom battle rather than the dressing room's strategy.

Until Liverpool improve on their depth in the squad, it will always be the case of "either-or", the Premier League and the UCL being the two components.

The double over Manchester United and Chelsea might be something to cheer about for the fans. I could imagine that being used by the scousers till they get their hand on some silverware. Well, you may have won the battle here, but you know who won the War.

Chelsea will have some introspection to do as well as some head-hunting for the top job unless Guus decides to stay. The basic fragment of the Chelsea side is still intact, with strong personnel in the middle of the park, but the defense and the attackers is an area they will want to re-think on.

And as for Arsenal, we all love their game, I doubt if anybody will ever deny that if not flaunt and vaunt of it, but playing pretty is not equivalent to winning. The gunners will have to add some gunpowder to their cannons if they are to stand any chance of getting back to their good old days.

Their fans will be more than relieved not to have fallen behind Villa who gave them a real scare for the top four finish.

For United, a fourth in a row would be a big ask, though I'm not writing them off. At the beginning of the season, many would have doubted their credibility to win a third on the trot with an unwelcome distraction in the form of the World Club Championship.

If they can repeat the feat in the UCL, they will truly stamp their authority as a side that can not only play well but also win in the process. Till then, it is time to recline, retrospect and revel in this victory and enjoy that champagne.

Arsenal-Manchester United: How the Tie Was Won

Saif Syed Omar — Wed, 06 May 2009 01:57:36 -0400

The first of the two semifinals is now done and dusted, and boy, the Gunners will need some time to dust themselves down and get back on their feet.

The first of the two teams fighting it out for Champions League glory has been decided, and the semifinals was a statement of intent from the finalists to be. United dictated the game, similar to the way they did against Porto in their last European tie.

United got in the second leg what they missed most in the first—a cutting edge in front of goal and some luck. Of course, with the Gunners chasing the game, there would always be holes in their defence—which, in fairness, was already leaking. Let's see where the game was won for United over the two legs.

The Midfield—No Arguments Please...

Without a shadow of a doubt, United's supremacy in midfield won them this game. For once, Arsenal's midfield seemed to run out of ideas. Even the wily Mr. Wenger was left to ponder how United's dominance of the game could be overcome.

Arsenal began the game brightly, unlike their first leg disappointment. They moved the ball along briskly, albeit without causing United too many problems. SAF showed faith in the midfield trio of Carrick, Anderson, and Fletcher, who were nothing less than outstanding in the first leg—and they came up trumps yet again.

United hit Arsenal where it hurt them the most. In this case it was not by attacking, but by preventing Arsenal from playing their game. Arsenal's passing game—the much touted "Beautiful Game," revolves around the midfield, which moves the ball along and spreads the play over the entire width of the pitch.

United cut out the supply of the ball to the flanks and cut Arsenal's wings, preventing them from taking off. Arsenal may have had 55 percent of the possession, but less than five percent of that would've been in United's box. Van Der Sar was barely tested.

Fabregas was as big a no-show as he was in the first leg. He's been struggling to find form since his return from injury. His only effective contribution to the game was the foul he drew for the penalty kick—but the game was more than over by then.

Song tried his best to play an Essien-esque role without being too effective. The fact that he was the best player for Arsenal in the first leg tells you the level of Arsenal's performance. Nasri, along with Fabregas, struggled to get a foothold on the game.

Now to United's midfield. Cutting out Arsenal's supply line didn't mean that United played dirty in midfield, far from it. United excelled in retaining the ball whenever they had possession.

In Fletcher, United had someone who could run the length of the pitch the whole day. He was at his belligerent best, stealing the ball off the attackers and not giving the playmakers enough time to plot.

Anderson has been a revelation, at least as far as the Champions League is concerned. He was instrumental in the wins at Porto, Old Trafford, and tonight at the Emirates. He has the potential to convert defence into attack and a tremendous ability to run at the opposition's defence with the ball. He was one of the key factors in keeping Fabregas quiet in both legs.

Carrick was the playmaker on the pitch. He might never be as good as a Scholes, but nevertheless does show the maturity which Scholes still lacks sometimes. Carrick added a sense of calm to the United midfield. He might not have shown his passing skills as much as he'd like to, but along with Anderson and Fletcher, gave United's goal an extra line of defense.

The Others

The heading doesn't intend to belittle the efforts of the other departments in the win, rather, it highlights the role played by the midfield. Of course, the defence and the attack played their part and it was a team effort, but here are a few individuals who stood out.

Cristiano Ronaldo—From the Winking Winger to the Pouting Princess...

Ronaldo seems to have the happy knack of scoring important goals in this season's UCL—be it against Inter, Porto, or Arsenal.

Playing as the lone man up front didn't seem to faze Ronaldo as he was a constant thorn in the side of the jittery Arsenal defence. He was involved in all three of United's goals which speaks for itself.

All the Ronaldo bashers can take a break and RIP for a few days till he dives again or fails to show up in a game—or perhaps you guys could utilize this time to plan your next move against Ronaldo.

He may be overrated, he may be a winker, he may not be the first, second, or the third best player in the world, probably not even among the three, but for once, people should stand up and admit that he has been brilliant over the latter stages of this season's Champions League.

The myth that Ronaldo doesn't show up for the big games has been busted for once. Every knock out game is a big game dammit!

Wayne Rooney—Mr. Nice Guy

Perhaps one of the most unselfish players of modern times. If there was a Nobel prize for unselfishness, he'd have probably been in the running for the gong.

Playing on the flanks, while a winger plays center forward can be humiliating to a few but not to Wayne.

He has shown time and again that there is more to his game than his temper. With age, his game seems to have matured, without losing that hunger to win. He showed this side of his game tonight, by not earning himself a booking, which in the past would have been a foregone conclusion in this case.

Not only did he cause the defense problems in both legs, he also played as a full back for long periods, tracking back to help his team out. He may never become a prolific goal scorer or a poacher in the box like van Nistlerooy, but in Rooney, United have found the perfect team man who puts the team before himself.

Patrice Evra—The Underdog...

Having been through a little blip before coming into the clash with Arsenal, Evra was expected to be rolled over by Walcott's pace. But the Ffrenchman stood his ground and refused to bow out. No prizes for guessing who came out on top from that little battle on the pitch.

In Walcott, Arsenal had an inlet to United's box but Evra restricted that to hopeful runs. It was indeed a boy against man scenario.

United's defensive duo of Vidic and Rio were on top as always. Their partnership seems to get better by the day, but they were largely untested apart from a few scares over the two legs. It was hardly a case of desperate defending.

O'Shea is another player who deserves a mention. He has been United's unsung hero, along with the likes of Fletcher, who does all the donkey's work, and never gets enough plaudits, even when he deserves them.

Arsenal are a top side no doubt, but it will still be sometime before the youngsters find their feet and some vital experience.

All in all it was a thoroughly professional display by United, dictating the pace of the game at will. For now, it is "Mission 18th Title." Bring on City!!!

Manchester United, the Year That Was and What I Want: My Birthday Wish-List

Saif Syed Omar — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 11:48:32 -0400

The time is here again. I can't believe that time flies by when you begin to think that you have some more of it. On the brighter side, this year marks the silver jubilee of my arrival in this big mean world.

Which also means that one more year has gone by without my last wish-list being fulfilled—my being nominated for the Oscars, without my winning the Ballon d'Or, without my getting remotely close to the Nobel Peace Prize (well that's because I picked up many a fight on the way).

A lot of things have changed between my last birthday and today, some desirable and some downright shi**y. But well, that's what one means by "Life is not a bed of roses," I suppose. That's an important lesson I learned from the year that went by.

What I learned is that the game of Football, as well, is not a bed of roses—well apparently it is just turf. And what I also found out is it is much more simple to do a game preview/prediction or a game recap than doing opinion articles and alike—well those seem best left to the likes of Louie and Yoosof. Lesser humans like me should be content doing hardcore football articles.

Anyways, since I've started on this Herculean task, I'll make a sincere effort to give an account of all the things that happened since this day last year, and yes, a reading advisory—don't expect this to be unbiased.

As they say, "old habits die hard," so I will stick to what I always do—rather than a game recap, I'll do a recap of the year since my last birthday and rather than do a game preview, I'll roll out a wish-list for the year to come. And yes, it will be "strictly football". And for a change, I'll try to keep this one short, and for the rest, there's the single page view.

March 24th, 2008 - March 23rd, 2009 - The year that was...

The year started remarkably well for me. I was at this pub with a couple of close friends on the eve of the 23rd, when Manchester United hosted Liverpool at Old Trafford. I enjoyed Sitting there watching the game on the big screen, well it was bigger than the television at home, gulping down my soda. Yes, it is hard for a teetotaller to hang around in a pub, gulping soda all the time. All for the love of the game, that's some glory seeking.

And back to the game, it was some drubbing at Old Trafford that day. Liverpool were outdone completely, not helped one bit by the early sending off of Mascherano. The Red Devils compounded their misery by turning on the heat after he left the pitch. But in fairness, Liverpool were truly hopeless that day, losing 3-0 to United. It was well deserved, and our march towards the title continued.

To make things better, Chelsea came from behind beat Arsenal at Stamford Bridge. This worked well for us as Arsenal was one of the title challengers until then.

It was a show of supremacy from Chelsea, and more so from Drogba who was in the thick of things, helping for a 2-1 win. Only later did I realize that Chelsea would be better off dropping a couple of points as they would come back to haunt us on the final day of the season.

The final day it was, and I was back at the same pub, sipping the same soda—the only difference being that I'd bitten enough nails that day. Nail-biting it was, literally.

With equal points on the board, it was just the goal difference that gave us a slender advantage. But that seemed a mere consolation as we were playing Wigan on the road, while Chelsea hosted Bolton at home. Two strikes from two of our stars saved the day for us, and more importantly, won us our tenth title.

Moving to Europe, the year was just remarkable in that sense. It couldn't have gotten any better with the Red Devils triumphing in Moscow. If winning the league was nail biting, this was nothing less than heart-stopping, especially when John Terry lined up to shoot Chelsea to glory.

What Istanbul, 2005 was for a Scouse fans, Moscow 2008 was for us Mancunians, perhaps much more, considering how we have under-performed in Europe.

All said and done, there's nothing to beat this one. Winning the back to back league titles and Champions League against our fellow English team, there couldn't be a happier moment. It was indeed a moment to cherish, and one to add to the cliches'. It was indeed "one you could tell your grandchildren" about moment.

The year continued for us as it had been all along. A few blips and many more highs. The UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA World Club Championship being the ends, a Community shield and a Carling cup completing the spectrum.

A lot more happened over the course of the year, the important ones being Ronaldo winning a platter of trophies, Edwin van der Sar setting new records on the post and United successfully overcoming a slow start to regain the top spot in the league.

All in all, it was a great year, a year hard to beat. Of course there were a few heartaches like being undone by Liverpool twice this season. I'd just like to call that a Silver Lining!

Now to the Wish-List...

It would be hard to beat the year that was, without me being overly greedy and extremely biased. But here are a few things I'd love to see happen this year.

1. Red Rain in Rome

As I already said, it would be tough to beat last year in terms of what we achieved and it would take something special to do it. What better than beating Liverpool in Rome and retaining the Champions League for the first time. That would truly be something. Statistics and figures apart, not many things would be more satisfying than that—well having sex not being an option, or maybe even if it was.

2. The Eleventh League Title

Selfish as I am, the league is something I've always cherished, and is one of my favorites. So the league is next on the list, with Berbatov scoring a few winners, just to silence those critics.

3. An FA cup in the bag

My third priority would be a win in the FA cup finals. I would have opted out of this one, but since we didn't win it last year, I'd prefer us to win it this year.

4. Ronaldo signing a new five year contract extension

Well the title doesn't say it all. Add to it Mourinho signs as boss for Real Madrid and stays there for a long time, quashing the idea of Ronaldo in the squad. And to just cap it up, SAF deciding to stay at the club for another decade, at least.

5. Liverpool finish third in the league.

Well, as I'm the birthday boy, I'm allowed to be mean today, remember the reading advisory?. As I said, I am allowed to be my biased self today, I am on other occasions as well, but today I get my little waiver.

Liverpool to finish third in the league and us winning in Rome would all but mean another trophy less season for Liverpool, and a quintuple for us—you want to call me a bi*** for this don't you?

I just hope those stars I've used in the article don't strip me off my syndicated Writer status, I've got five of 'em already, now that's some bragging.

Jokes apart, it really was one helluva year that went by, not just from a footballing point of view but on a personal level as well.

BleacherReport was one of the best things that could happen to me when I had lost my way a bit, and lost a few important people around me, BR filled that void before I'd realized. I lost some, but made as many and more right here on BR. BR has truly been one of the highlights of the year that was.

As far as my wish-list goes, it's wishful thinking at best. In all fairness, Manchester United may not win the lot, nor are Liverpool as bad as I've made them out, but as I said, it's my day and I have my way, after all It's my Birthday.

Fulham-United: The Verdict

Saif Syed Omar — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 14:25:01 -0400

It is Saturday once more. After a week of introspection and frustration, everyone was expecting United to come out blazing and make a statement. There was more talk of how many United would put past Fulham, rather than the game itself.

There would've been as much anticipation on Merseyside as there'd be in the Red half of Manchester. The manager and the players would like to shrug off the pressure and say it's just another day in office, but for the fan, it's a never-ending saga of joy and heartache, a skip of the heartbeat and a tear of joy. Lets kick on with game and see it through a fan's eyes.

The Build Up

As I said earlier, one would have expected Manchester United to come out of the traps and come out all guns blazing. As many other writers on BR pointed out, United are a proud club; the drubbing at home would not have gone well with the club and the fans alike. The last time they were beaten in the league, they went on an unbeaten run, only to be beaten last week.

However, Fulham have been quite a revelation this season. Having struggled for the last couple of seasons to beat the drop, they seem relatively well placed this season. Having been beaten only thrice at the Craven Cottage, they sure were up for it.

To add to the momentum, they beat Bolton at the Reebok last week to secure their first win on the road. So things were all nicely set up for the game the Cottage.

The First Half

The game started with Fulham coming out to make a point. United had a few changes in personnel from the team that lost to Liverpool last week. However, it was the duo of Bobby Zamora and Andy Johnson that was looking lively in front of the goal. The initial exchanges were scrappy, without either side testing the keeper. There was a battle on in the midfield.

Just when things seemed to get even, United made the first blunder. Fulham's efforts won them a corner, which was well headed by Zamora only for VDS to make a quick reaction save. He could, however, only punch it out a few yards from him. The follow on effort from Zamora was blatantly handled by Paul Scholes, who was on the post.

United had blinked. It was more an instantaneous reaction than a deliberate hand ball. All said and done, it was a clear sending off, as he was the last man between the goal and Zamora's effort; he was rightly sent off.

Danny Murphy slotted home the penalty. Suddenly, it was advantage Fulham. United struggled to come to terms with the early blow. The sending off just added to their woes. Fulham were deservedly ahead and pressed for the second goal.

After months in hibernation, VDS was called into action for once. He made a few brilliant saves and kept United in the game til half time. The culprits of the half—the old guard of Scholes and Giggsy.

The duo struggled to get together a string of passes. The sending off was only a part of the story. Of course, Berbatov was present on the pitch as usual but failed to get involved in the game. He is class, no doubt, but he should try getting it out of the locker sometimes.

The Second Half

Berbatov was rightly substituted and the temperamental Wayne Rooney was brought on. His arrival seemed to galvanize United, as they hardly looked like they were a man down. United pressed for the equalizer and in fairness they were only denied by the heroics of Schwarzer.

Park Ji Sung was lively as ever at Craven Cottage, which has been more like his second home—the Korean having scored on the last two visits to the cottage.

But it just wouldn't go in for United, as wave after wave of attack came to nothing. Wayne Rooney seemed to have rubbed off his enthusiasm to his teammates as well.

The Reds pushed on for the equalizer with Rooney, Park, and Ronaldo all going close. United were a shadow of what they were against Liverpool, as they dominated the game even with 10 men.

Schwarzer's heroics kept Fulham ahead for most of the second half. However, a few poor passes and a few fouls by Fulham slowed down the momentum.

Cristiano Ronaldo was easily the most frustrated soul on the pitch. Nothing seemed to be going his way. As some pointed out, it is probably more of a mental exertion than a physical one. It earned him a booking though.

Just when United were looking to have regained their lost touch, the Fulham manager did well to make substitutions at key points in the game and slow the pace of the game. And it was a substitute that made the difference.

The youngster Gera came off the bench and in what was an unlikely counter attack, Fulham gave United the sucker punch with an acrobatic effort from Gera.

It was not over, however. Wayne Rooney was determined to make his presence on the pitch felt. His travails earned him his second yellow card and a sending off. Just when everyone had decided that the title was United's, they seem to have turned generous themselves.

The culprits

SAF - For goofing up his selection

Against Liverpool, SAF was caught on the back foot as he sent out a side with a lack of English names—the likes of Scholes, Fletcher, and Giggs, which are common in the big games against their rivals. As if he wanted to mend his mistakes too early, he picked all the three together in midfield rather than start with two upfront.

Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs - the Old guard

No doubt the two veterans are still instrumental for United winning the title, but today was just not their day. They have struggled when they have played together in recent times, even against Inter at home. The duo could just not keep the ball and match the energy of their younger counterparts and opponents.

Nemanja Vidic - For his blunder last week, that still seems to have the effects on United.

Wayne Rooney - For putting his teammates into more trouble, which will probably count in the coming weeks

The Verdict

Having said all this, full credit to Fulham. They were relentless in their efforts and made the home advantage count. They struck at important times in the game and Roy Hodgson did well to slow the game down.

The result would have sent ripples through Manchester and waves of joy through Merseyside, only if Liverpool can make this one count. The title race has—as the cliche goes—truly burst into life. United have been beaten twice in a span of a week.

Are United cracking up? Has SAF lost it? Well, not just yet. While United were much improved from last week, they sadly have nothing to show for except a loss. The Championship form which they seemed to have suddenly seems lost. Lady luck suddenly seems to have stopped smiling at them. The crucial goal that they managed to score every time suddenly seems elusive now.

With only a four-point lead to show for now, United season is on the cusp of being turned around, and for once, it's not for the good. What seemed an aberration last week seems to be turning into a full fledged downfall.

As everyone says, the title is United's to lose and they seem to be taking the prerogative to make things interesting for Chelsea and Liverpool.

As SAF said, United always do it the hard way. We will know at the end of the season if doing it the hard way helped them at all. If this is what he meant by a RESPONSE, then they'd be better of without it.

United Vs Liverpool: The Heroes, the Villains, the Aftermath...

Saif Syed Omar — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 11:22:14 -0400

Saturday, the 14th of March was a momentous day. Joyous for some and horrendous for the others. Just when the league was in the danger of becoming drab and drag, things were turned upside down this Saturday.

As many Liverpool fans would put it, they came, they saw, and they conquered. Of course, United deserve a fair share of credit for their howler.

As far as the neutral is concerned, it was not the perfect game to watch and rave about the standards of English football but the Liverpool faithful wouldn't mind that. Liverpool took United by storm, the look on the faces of the United players told most of the story. They had been stung and stung where it hurt most.

In front of their own supporters, the Champions were brought down to their knees and humiliated. It had been quite sometime since the Red Devils had been at the end of such a spanking.

To make matters worse, it was at the hands of their most bitter rivals in front of their own fans.

Now that the storm has subsided, at least for now, and the dust has settled, lets see how things shaped up on Saturday and will shape up in the coming weeks.

The Heroes...

The names of Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard seem to be synonymous to the title, at least for this game. Even though United gifted Liverpool with most of the goals at important times in the game, there was an awful lot to be done by the attacking duo.

Torres in particular tormented the United defense in general, and Vidic in particular, throughout the afternoon.

As the attacking prowess of Gerrard and Torres stole the limelight, the contribution of Liverpool's midfield and defense went unnoticed. Though the defense was largely untroubled, they deserve credit for standing up to the big game.

The absence of a targetman for United in the form of Berbatov somewhat eased the pressure on the center backs, but the lively Tevez kept them on their toes.

Another bunch of unsung heroes were the midfield duo of Mascherano and Lucas. Though they did not contribute much creatively towards the game, they did well
to break up United's attacks during their inception.

Lucas seemed to wear blinkers so as to keep a close eye on Cristiano Ronaldo. Mascherano, was his belligerent self and would be pleased to have banished the memories of last season's tie at Old Trafford.

Liverpool were far from what they were against Madrid mid-weeek, but few fans would think twice as to which of the results was the bigger one for the club.

Liverpool put in a rugged display and even though they cannot claim to have dominated the game, they soaked up the United attack and were disciplined on the
pitch.

United were made to look toothless in front of goal as a stern defensive display by a stitched up defensive unit was able to undo any move made by the attackers.

The Villains...

Though the United defense has been getting a lot of flak after this game, the warning signs were evident from the past few weeks.

While United's attacking strength has waned considerably this season, the defense has been the cornerstone of United's success so far this term. Hence, the degenaration of the defense catches the eye more easily than the mediocrity of the attack.

Vidic has generally suffered against pacey forwards more than the ones who provide more of a physical challenge to him. His indecision on the ball compounded with Torres' pace and physical presence cost United the first goal.

The back line of United was poor on the day. Sometimes, football can make you pay for your mistakes; Saturday was just one of those days.

United's decision to go with two in midfield was not very surprising as they were playing at home and the prerogative was theirs to attack. However, United seemed to lack experience in midfield.

The absence of Scholes/ Giggs was sorely felt on the day as United struggled to keep possession of the ball. Their lion's share of possession was no good as they gave the ball away cheaply.

Carrick failed to dominate the midfield to his liking and Anderson, though impressive with his darting runs, always lacked the killer pass. In short, United were crowded out in midfield and their inability to spread the game to the flanks played to Liverpool's advantage.

Rooney, seemed like he'd done all the talking off the pitch and was out of words while on it. His football certainly failed to do the talking for him. But in fairness, he was one of the better players for United, even though he was not at his best.

The Aftermath - What next for the two sides...

While this result will no doubt have rejuvenated Liverpool's title shout, there is still some way to go. Specially keeping in mind Liverpool's ten drawn games already this season, the winner of this season is not an easy call to make.

Let us see the run-in of both teams in the last lap of this title charge.

Liverpool - Better placed

Aston Villa - Home
Fulham -Away
Blackburn - Home
Hull City - Away
Newcastle United - Home
Westham - Away
Westbrom - Away
Spurs - Home
Arsenal - Home (may be rescheduled)

Liverpool, apparently have the easier run-in of the two sides, playing one game lesser. Liverpool play five games at home and four on the road. While it may be argued that Arsenal is the biggest game, there may be more to it than meets the eye.

Arsenal at home is, in fact, a big game for the gunners, as is for Aston Villa who play at Anfield this weekend. With both teams fighting out for the Champions League spot, it'll be anything but a walk in the park for the Reds.

On the other end of the spectrum, Blackburn, Hull, and Spurs to some extent (though I feel they will be safe 'til the end of the season), will know any result other than a loss will be good enough for them as they battle it out to avoid relegation.

Westham United at Upton Park will never be easy for any team, albeit the Hammers are stuck mid-table and may not have much to play for. All in all, it's not easy as one might expect, but Liverpool playing one game lesser, could be seen as one game lesser to lose/ drop points, as it is an away game.

Besides, Liverpool do not have the FA cup distraction, unlike United who will have to see off Everton to make it to the finals.

Another big deciding factor will be the Champions League quarter finals. This is one factor which can send all calculations haywire. In the past we've often seen Rafa give precedence to the CL as Liverpool were never truly challenging for the top spot in the domestic League.

It will be interesting what bearing the CL draw will have on his team selection. The results of the quarter/semi - final of the UCL may have an effect on the results in the league too, rubbing off a few positive or negative vibes.

Manchester United - A relatively arduous task

Fulham - Away
Aston Villa - Home
Sunderland - Away
Portsmouth - Home
Spurs - Home
M'boro - Away
Mancity - Home
Arsenal - Home
Hull City - Away
Wigan - Away (may be rescheduled)

United though sit pretty with a four point lead on the top with a game in hand, they will know too well from experience in the past that in football, it is not over until it's over.

With memories of the season where they threw away their 12-point lead to Arsenal, they would not want to get complacent here, a view endorsed by their capt. Rio Ferdinand.

United's games, both away and home, seem trickier than those of Liverpool. While Arsenal at home maybe a big game, the Manchester Derby would be no easy ride, with the Blues desperate to avenge their home defeat.

The games against M'boro and Pompey will be tougher than they appear on paper as both teams fight to ward off relegation, M'boro having done one over Liverpool last weekend.

Sunderland and Hull City who are currently placed at Twelfth and Thirteenth currently, may be perilously close to the the bottom till they meet United.

Aston Villa will be desperate to stop their downward spiral and cling on to their Champions League spot while Arsenal try to knock them off. In short, though United have a game in hand, SAF will know that points in the bag is better than a game in hand.

United's involvement in the FA cup will serve as an added distraction albeit they have a good shot at the Cup. The Champions League will also a bearing on the team selection as it will in the case of Liverpool.

The Unthinkable...

One thing which is certain is that every football fan, a Scouser, a Mancunian, or a neutral, will be smacking his lips at the thought of this run-in. It surely will be a busy few days for the football fanatic, with the odd heartache at times.

In the end, the team that holds its nerve better will triumph. Being unbeaten all along is out of question as both teams will surely drop points along the way.

One would be foolish to write off Chelsea, who seem to be revitalized with the arrival of Guus Hiddink. They certainly are more than capable of pulling something out of the bag.

Will the Champions hold on to their Cup, or will they be dethroned come May? Will there be drama on the last day of the season like there was in the last one? What if English teams face off in the UCL quarter/semi finals ?

Saturday the 14th may be joyous to some and heart wrenching for others, one thing it has certainly sprung up is HOPE. Hollywood would be envious of all the drama and action that football has to offer. It doesn't get much bigger than this. I, for one, am loving every bit of it.

Manchester United 1 Liverpool 4: What Goes Around, Comes Around...

Saif Syed Omar — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 13:08:42 -0400

What a day, what a game. Add a zillion exclamations after the statement if you are a Liverpool fan, and sadly, a heavy sigh if you are a Mancunian. All I can do is borrow a line from Forrest Gump - 'Sometimes...sh*t happens'

Well, something you might want to praise is my courage. After seeing my prediction fall flat on its face, and boy, what a fall that was, I'm back here sincerely to do the recap of the game. Well, I certainly hope to win a few sympathisers :)

The biggest of the game's pundits got their prediction wrong, and a few common men like me are amongst the early casualties. Liverpool did paint Manchester red, and for the Red Devils, it was the color of blood on a stinging Saturday.

My Big Mistake - Part 1
Starring: Spanish Sensation - Pepe Reina, Cristiano Ronaldo
Co-starring: Carlos Tevez, Park Ji Sung

So, getting on with the game, the game which was being talked about by players and fans from both sides for a long time. It had an electric start to it, as United seemed to take off from where they left against Inter. United tried to dominate the initial exchanges, which they did for the initial few minutes.

However, Liverpool cleverly slowed down the tempo of the game and they did so quickly. The presence and experience of Mascherano and Gerrard in the Liverpool played to their advantage as United started to give away possession quickly.

Liverpool had the first meaningful goal-bound runs, one a piece, by Torres and Gerrard, causing the once formidable back-line. Vidic looked jittery from the early exchanges and was clearly over-awed by Torres' pace.

Liverpool managed to keep the ball well, until a moment of madness by Reina gifted United an undeserved lead. Though Reina tried to pull out of the attempted slide, it was too late and he managed to clip Park Ji Sung, who was heading nowhere. The first mistake of the game.

1-0 to United, without much to show for. They would probably have been embarrassed by Liverpool's generosity. So United took matters in their own hands, and decided to be charitable themselves.

My Big Mistake - Part 2
Starring: The Rock - Nemanja Vidic, Fernando Torres
Co-starring: VDS

Even after being gifted with the first goal, United seemed determined not to mend their ways. They continued to give the ball away cheaply in midfield and the final ball was far from desirable. Liverpool, in the meanwhile, preferred to wait and contain, happy to counter when given the opportunity.

And they were not disappointed. A hopeful long ball from Liverpool's half of the pitch, and the ever so dependable, being proposed by some as the contender for the player of the year, Vidic, looked ordinary to say the least, failing to clear the ball the first time and inviting Torres to the ball. Vidic was clearly no match for Torres' pace, and in fairness, Torres had a lot to do after winning the ball back.

A sumptuous finish by the talismanic Spaniards. Van Der Sar, who had been a spectator so far, was beaten well. Liverpool had equalized without much effort. The second mistake of the game, and there was the second goal of the game. Full credit to Torres for scoring the goal; equal credit to Vidic for creating it. Game on!!!

My Big Mistake - Part 3
Starring: The French Chopper - Patrice Evra, Steven Gerrard
Co-starring: Fernando Torres

Well, as if the warning signs were not clear enough, United continued to be sloppy in possession. Liverpool were content picking up the loose ball and forging ahead. SAF would have been praying for the half time whistle to marshal his troops in the dressing room and give them some much needed hair-dryer treatment.

But the men in Red would not budge, not today, not just yet. Torres, who had been pretty much the center of the action as far as Liverpool were concerned, slid across a fine pass to Steven Gerrard, and just as Gerrard seemed to go clear, the blunder was made.

This time though, Evra decided to give Vidic some respite, just for the moment though. An ill-timed tackle on the edge of the box sent the Liverpool skipper tumbling down; it was a penalty. Gerrard stepped up to take the penalty, not his best, but enough to beat VDS, who did not seem quick enough to get down.

The team from Mersey side were ahead for the first time, again, against the flow of play. It was the second time this season that Liverpool had come from behind to take the lead against United. And the umpteenth time this season when United did not know what to do after they scored an early goal.

My Big Mistake - Part 4
Starring: The Rock - Nemanja Vidic, Fabio Aurelio
Co-starring: Captain Courageous - Steven Gerrard
The Spectator: VDS

United started the second half much better. They kept the ball well and launched wave after wave of attacks. However, they somehow seemed to miss the cutting edge in the final third. Cristiano Ronaldo switched flanks and seemed more effective, even though he was being double-teamed all day long.

If someone was desperately seeking attention on the sunny Saturday, it was our own show stopper, Nemanja Vidic. Not content with giving away a goal cheaply, he decided to do it again, yes—it was show time.

The hard tackling, bulldozing center-back struggled to bring the ball down yet again. In a repeat of the earlier incident, he lost the ball cheaply, and to compound to his misery, he brought Gerrard down this time, in a precarious position. He was rightly sent off for his heroics. Someone was on a mission to give David Beckham some competition, for his sendings-off, of course.

Gerrard and Aurelio stepped up to take the free kick. With everyone on the opposition expecting Gerrard to drive a thunderbolt, Aurelio nicked one into the near-post. It was a near unstoppable free kick taking superbly. Van Der Sar was a spectator. All this against the flow of the game, when it was seemingly imminent that United would score the next.

Bulge of United's goal, ball across the line, three points in the pocket. Effectively, Game Over.

Between all the action, Fergie did try to freshen up things a bit by making a triple change. Hopeful is all I would say. The third goal seemed to flatten United. It was a sucker punch. The sending-off was a rub in the wounds. In a flash, all the substitutions seemed meaningless. In fairness, there wasn't much they could do.

And the Credits Roll...

United had been living of the edge lately. They were managing to win without being at their best. I would not be raising too many hackles by saying that United have not been even close to what they were the last season, or the season before that. But the experience gained by winning seemed to push them on.

This season hasn't seen many a day where United brutally killed oppositions, sending fives and sixes past their goals. This season has been more of a Chelsea style—tough, rugged, disciplined 1-0 victories, both at home and away. And today, when that very foundation collapsed, they could not help but fall on their faces.

Liverpool's love affair with the league, the league that has been elusive for the last 18 years, has been reignited. Without being a fraction of what they were against Real Madrid or a few of the other oppositions this season, they managed to win. The score line was flattering. Apart from Dossena's goal, the others will be seen more as mistakes rather than moments of brilliance.

But it is fair to say that Liverpool were up for it. They took their chances and they took them when it mattered most. They won it without being too extravagant. The defense was outstanding despite being patched up. The midfield, though they did not exactly dominate proceedings, played their part rather well. Torres was outstanding albeit with a fair bit of support, more so from the likes of Vidic than Gerrard.

Suddenly the league seems to be alive and kicking again. Will Liverpool carry on from here? Will United crack up under pressure, or will they show the quality of true Champions? Questions will fly as eyebrows have been raised.

United are still in pole position, but there is much a sip between cup and lip. Today United had a taste of their own medicine, winning without being brilliant, winning by being disciplined, something that United epitomized so far this season.

In totality, it is a moment for the Liverpool fans to savor. It is not often that Rafa has scored a few points over SAF. And above all, it was a Liverpool Double over United. Merseyside will be red with joy and celebrations as Manchester bleeds.

Will Liverpool FC Paint Manchester Red?

Saif Syed Omar — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 23:29:16 -0400

The big one is here, and it is here for good. After a hectic week of European action, it is time to settle the scores on the domestic front.

The Red Devils host the Reds from the Merseyside, hoping to end their flickering and fading title dreams. On the other hand, for Liverpool this tie will serve as a life-saver, should they manage to get the double over Manchester United.

This season has been a roller-coaster for Liverpool, though they have seen more ups than lows. For starters, they managed to beat United at Anfield, something which they could not do for the last couple of seasons.

They also managed to beat Chelsea both at home and away, the latter being more significant, keeping in mind Chelsea's form at the Bridge for the past few years.

Whilst Liverpool started brightly and were seen as one of the main title contenders, their form managed to die out gradually much like the soda fizz. Let's see what the main reasons were for Liverpool's downfall and if there is still light at the end of the tunnel.

Who's the Boss?

The power struggle at Anfield, the one between the owners and the one between Parry and Benitez have not helped the club in any way either. There is enough evidence to prove that teams perform better when they have a stable administration and management. Even if it doesn't help, at least it wont do much to hurt the performance of the team.

Rafa's tactics have also been blowing hot and cold. Though they invariably seem to work well in Europe, they have been inconsistent, to say the least, back at home. Though he has given up his 'Shuffle 'em up for fun' act of tweaking the line-up, his idea of resting key players for the 'less' important ties has been questionable.

Mr. Dependable(s)

Yes. Actually they are two of them. Undoubtedly, Liverpool's title challenge has revolved around their hitman, Fernando Torres, and the midfield talisman, Steven Gerrard.

The two have out-performed their team mates to such an extent that many a time the others fail to show up even when either or both of them are not playing. This has resulted in so many drawn games and dropped points.

Until and unless they give up this love affair with drawing games, their title dreams will never materialize. The alternatives would be to either buy/groom match-winners like Gerrard and Torres or change the style of play to suit the results. The former seems more probable with Rafa around.

An awesome performance? What next...A Cropper

Each time Liverpool have managed to get a big result, they follow it with a mediocre performance and almost always, they are made to pay. Just for the record, here are a few of Liverpool's BIG results and the games that followed.

Win against Man Utd—followed by draws against Stoke and Everton

Win against Man City—followed by a draw against Wigan

Win against Chelsea—followed by a loss at White Hart Lane

Win at the Reebok—followed by draws at home against Fulham, West Ham and Hull City

A draw at the Emirates—followed by draws against Stoke, Everton and Wigan

Wins against Chelsea and Pompey—followed by a draw against Man City

The recent win at the Bernabeu—followed by the loss at Riverside

Well you don't need to know rocket science to conclude the consequences of these follow-ups.

I would rather prefer my team to lose or draw against the big four and win their rest rather than the other way round. At least that way they'd drop fewer points.

What Liverpool can expect from Manchester United

Liverpool were undoubtedly a class apart against a hapless Real Madrid. Though one would probably say that a below par Madrid made Liverpool look great, I, for one, would confess that Liverpool were truly outstanding on the night.

The Reds tore apart Real in a show of supremacy and clearly stamped their authority at Anfield. Having sung praises about Liverpool, I would just like to ask one question. What next?

If past experiences are anything to go by, one can expect another average performance from Liverpool. But can they afford one now ? A realist would say—negative. However, Liverpool have been known for shooting themselves in the foot more often than not.

A defeat at Old Trafford will all but end Liverpool's hopes of landing silverware in the League, yet again.

Manchester United will pounce on the game and try to grab it by the scruff of its neck. They will know too well that a result on Saturday will help them move a step closer towards a hattrick of league titles.

Lets see what the probable line-ups will be on Saturday:

                                   Van der Sar

O'Shea                 Vidic                       Ferdinand                    Evra

                 Carrick                           Anderson/Scholes

Ronaldo                                                                        Park
                          Berbatov            Rooney


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                     Torres
             Riera                                             Kuyt

                     Gerrard                       Alonso

                                    Mascherano

Aurelio               Skrtel                      Carragher             Arbeloa

                                      Reina

Knowing too well that this one is a must-win, the Reds under Rafa will still approach this one cautiously. They will be happy to see off the early onslaught and hit on the counter attack. This will only work against Liverpool because United will be rampant at home. There have not been many occasions where the Red Devils have failed to score at Old Trafford this season.

Liverpool's hesitancy to throw caution to the wind will cost them, and boy, will it cost them dearly. Rafa will stick by his stance and prefer that his team stand up and absorb United's attack rather than attack United themselves.

Liverpool will sit back and hope to get a draw out of this one. Rafa's thinking would be wishful to say the least. Yes, Rafa wouldn't mind to go home with a draw, feeling content.

Come Saturday, Manchester will be red. Whether it will be the color of joy and celebration or the color of blood, only time will tell.

United 2 Inter 0: United in the Last Eight, Mourinho in the Soup...

Saif Syed Omar — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 02:26:24 -0400

The moment was finally here.

All the hype, the glitz and the air surrounding this match-up came down to this very moment. It was all square after the first leg, though United would have thought that they had the slightest of advantages going into this game. However, they should have known that this thin figment of hope was a double edged sword which could fall either way.

And who else but Mourinho would be waiting in the wings to capitalize on the most trivial of mistakes that could tilt the game in Inter's favor. Inter and Mourinho went into this one, knowing fully well that a severe backlash by the fans and the media would be on the cards—the Italian and the British alike, if they failed to qualify.

United started with an attacking, flexible and malleable 4-4-2 with Giggs playing either on the left flank or as a second striker just behind Berbatov. The starting line-up was predictable, with Park Ji Sung the only notable absentee who had been confined to the bench, ironically the only one missing from the starting eleven prediction I made a week ago in my last article.

Ferguson clearly choosing to stick with experience rather than youthful exuberance with the average age of his side at 29. After all, Giggs and Scholes starting games together has not been the norm this season.

Someone had to be sacrificed—Nani was not even considered, and rightly so. He along with Tevez have been restricted to cup games, albeit Tevez deserves far more than the young Portuguese.

So that left Park as the only true contender for the bench. The Korean skipper has been the true model of a team player, sacrificing for the time each time he is called upon.

Apart from this aberration, the only concern was Berbatov, who had hurt himself during training. He however seemed to have shaken off the strain to start the game. So, finally—On your marks, get set and blow... well that was the referee's whistle.

First Half - Struck by lightening, struck on 4'

Mourinho would have liked to settled down in the customized and comfortable Audi seats in the dug-out before his side were struck by lightening, as he stood still in the technical area. It was just four minutes into the game and the Red Devils had already drawn the first blood. Mourinho would have dreaded seeing the back of Inter's goal bulge, and that is exactly what happened.

It was a soft goal to concede—first, the goal having come from a set-piece and second, man-marking on the post was missing. Two fundamental mistakes cost Inter a goal, one of the most disciplined teams of Serie A.

Patrick Vieira was a shadow of his former self, struggling to make a foothold in the game. Vidic pounced on the invitation and made a goal-scoring return to the side, having missed out the first leg through suspension.

The only positive for Mourinho was that it was just four minutes into the game, allowing Inter enough time to claw their way back into the game. And in fairness, Inter did do that to a certain extent.

The early strike seemed to have hurt United more than Inter, as the Champions began giving away the ball cheaply and showing glimpses of complacency, very unlike United. The vibrant attacking play that is characteristic of United's game was missing.

Inter took full advantage of United's inconsistency in mid-field and almost made United pay—Ibra and Stankovic going close. United were also guilty of missing a couple of good chances with O'Shea being the guilty party this time around.

Inter could have easily put three past Edwin Van der Sar, but it was not to be. Though Ibra could not exert the kind of influence on the game as he would have liked to, he went close on a couple of occasions without being his brilliant self. Inter finished the half strongly, very much like United did in the first leg. Despite Inter's exertions, United were still largely comfortable even if they showed a hint of profligacy.

Game On...

Second Half - Once bitten, twice shy?

Inter started the second half brightly, taking off from where they left the first. The Old Trafford faithful made themselves heard with chants of "Sit Down Mourinho", incensing the Portuguese tactician, after all he had a terrific record on this ground.

When it looked like an equalizer from Inter was imminent, United struck, again. For a second time, United had scored, against the flow of the game, sending the crowd wild. The chants of 'Sit Down Mourinho' now turned to 'F*** Off Mourinho'.

The goal was beautifully crafted by Giggs, created by Rooney and finished by Ronaldo. United would have hoped that the tie had been put to rest—but Inter kept knocking. Mourinho decided to reshape his side and sent out Adriano in place of Stankovic. Adriano almost had an immediate impact, only for the post to come to United's rescue, again.

For large parts of the game, United had themselves to blame as they struggled to hold possesion of the football. Even the ever-consistent Scholes was wayward in his passing. Ronaldo had been silent for the most part of the second half. Berbatov was his usual self and was isolated upfront at times. He did well hold up the ball but was short on service.

Rooney and Giggsy were the "better" players on the pitch—albeit in flashes. Giggs had a tremendous game over the two legs, easily the man of the two ties.

United's defense were largely untested by Inter's hitmen, but their performance at some places left a lot to be desired in the coming rounds. Carrick did a decent job without raising too many hackles.

Van Der Sar avoided any embarrassments but was left stranded with the post being the saving grace on a couple of occasions. Overall another decent outing for the defense.

Inter's attacking play was lacklustre to say the least. Ibra failed to show up once again, taking to 16 his tally of games in the knock out stages of the European Cup since he scored a goal. Not a record to brag about, from a player supposed to be the best in the World. Balotelli tried to make an impact but was unable to cause a ripple. He was easily Inter's worst player on the pitch.

Samuel had a piece of everyone in a red shirt on his way to a booking. Julius Cesar had another field day, only if he could repeat his feat at the San Siro. Maicon and Santon were excellent as full backs and had a better game than they did in Italy.

In a nutshell, the game had three major outcomes:

First, United made it to the last eight of the Champions League, without putting in a flawless performance, though their performances were good relative to Inter's over the two legs, United undoubtedly rich on championship form. United could easily have been knocked out of the cup had the Big Guy on Top not been on a mission against Jose's side.

Second, this tie, over both legs, has established the fact and dispelled any doubts about Ibra's absenteeism from the European games. 'Form is temporary, Class is permanent' - is just a wretched cliche fans of Ibra use to save his face, a player with class could not have gone 16 European games without scoring. Ibra would be better off concentrating on his games rather than belittling the Ballon d'Or or Ronaldo. We all know who the best in the world is for now.

Third, the biggest casualty of this game will undoubtedly be 'The Special one'. Mourinho will know deep down that has credibility has been questioned. He may well win the Scudetta with Inter, but that is not he was brought to Inter for. Inter had won the Scudetta in the past even without Jose. It was the European Glory that Mourinho was supposed to help bring home to the Italian Champions.

I would be surprised if Mourinho stays at Inter beyond the current campaign. With a return to Chelsea or English football seeming unlikely and Mourinho ruling himself out from the candidacy of the National Team's coach, the only possible destination seems Spain. Who knows, we may see Mourinho managing Real Madrid very soon.

For sometime though, this day will be remembered as the day when you saw United Roar as Mourinho was struck on 4'.

United-Inter: What To Expect at Old Trafford

Saif Syed Omar — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 01:55:02 -0500

The second leg of the Champions League last 16 is here. And the two weeks between the first and second legs have been quite eventful.

For starters, Inter came from behind to draw, 3-3, at home with Roma in unconvincing fashion. They were then thrashed, 3-0, by Sampdoria in the first leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final and face an uphill task to make it through.

On the other hand, United grabbed some more silverware, the Carling Cup this time, as they beat Tottenham Hotspur, 4-1, on penalties. They continued their winning streak in the Premier League and seem to have one hand on the trophy already.

In both matches, United were a shadow of what they were against Inter, and yet they have still managed to grind out results.

No prizes for guessing who's showing championship form.

On the down side, Edwin van der Sar conceded for the first time in four months with a howler against Newcastle United.

There may be more good news for United if they manage to see off Fulham in the quarterfinals of the FA Cup on Saturday.

The 0-0 draw at the San Siro seems like ages ago already. Fergie appears to have got one over on his old foe in the first leg, or at least he'd like to think so.

While it may be "advantage United" after the first leg, the game is far from decided. Let's see what United got right in the first leg and what they need to get right in the second leg to cement their place in the next round.

The Back Four: A Watertight Defence

One of the standout features of United's performance in the first leg was their flawless defence. The much-hyped attacking duo of Inter were kept at bay, and comfortably so, even with a patched-up United defence.

The stand-in duo of Jonny Evans and John O'Shea were outstanding on the night. This aspect of United's game will have to be as good, if not better, should United go on to the next round.

The return of Nemanja Vidic, at the expense of Evans, will add even more stability to the defence. The Serbian's presence will also give an added advantage to United at set-pieces and corners. Vidic and Ferdinand should be joined in defence by O'Shea and Evra.

First casualty of the second leg—Jonny Evans.

The Midfield: Engine Room of United

Though United did not completely overwhelm Inter in midfield, their performance was a revelation considering how often United have put in poor away performances in Europe.

Fletcher was outstanding as he usually is during European games. Carrick was the creative head of the department, spraying out passes and switching the game from flank to flank.

One of the main reasons for United's dominant display was that they did not allow Inter to play to their full potential because they killed the game in midfield.

To replicate the performance at the San Siro, minus the scoreline, United will have to prevent Inter's midfield from hitting top gear once again.

Whether or not Fergie will tamper with his midfield will play a decisive role in the outcome of the game. While playing three in the middle of the park helped them thwart Inter's creative force at the San Siro, United will have to be more aggressive at home.

So playing three in midfield is certainly ruled out.

Speaking of certainty, someone destined to start this game will be Paul Scholes.

Scholes will have overcome the travails of the Carling Cup final to play in the second leg, having missed out on the action in the first tie. Carrick will most certainly partner Scholes in midfield, resigning Fletcher to the bench.

Casualty No. 2—Darren Fletcher.

The Wingers: Flying on the Flanks

This is one department where Fergie would be better off not tampering.

With Ronaldo and Park on either flank, the full-backs had a torrid time at the San Siro. Fergie will be hoping that his wingers put in a similar performance at Old Trafford.

Park's workrate will be critical, not only in attack, but also in cutting down the attacking prowess of Inter's full-backs.

Maicon has been particularly influential in Inter's attacks down the wings. United will be doing themselves a huge favor if they restrict Maicon to Inter's half of the pitch. With Quaresma away to Chelsea on loan, Inter's options on the wings are somewhat limited.

With the ability of United's wingers to switch sides, Inter's full-backs will be assured of a busy day on the pitch. After Nani's exploits in the final of the Carling Cup, Park and Ronaldo need not fear the drop.

No casualties on the wings.

The Attack: Some More Tampering

The new-look United attack proved to be a handful for Inter's backline in the first leg. Ryan Giggs in particular gave the center backs all sorts of problems with his positioning and guile.

He tormented the defence with his marauding and mazy runs that were reminiscent of the winger's early days. His performance will, however, not guarantee him a position in the starting lineup as Scholes and Giggs starting together is highly improbable.

United will most likely opt for for the more conventional pairing of Berbatov and Rooney after the pair of them scored against Newcastle United in midweek.

Rooney will play a much deeper role than usual to help out the midfield and create problems for his marker. While Berbatov was largely ineffective in the first leg, the Gaffer will still stick by his marksman because of his proficiency as a target man and a focal point upfront.

Casualty No.3—Ryan Giggs.

In the Hot Seat: Being SAF

SAF will be aware of the threat Mourinho poses by virtue of his experience in the league and his knowledge of United's game.

Ferguson will know full well that the only way to counter Mourinho's challenge will be to beat him at his own game: defence.

SAF will try to make sure that Inter do not score. At the same time, United will go all out in the first half to find that invaluable breach of the Inter goal.

Scholes will do the creative work, while Carrick will take up a more defensive role, providing cover to the back four. Anderson and Fletcher will be on the bench, with the duo likely to start against Fulham in the FA Cup quarterfinal over the weekend.

With Park and Ronaldo constantly harrowing the defenders, United will be hoping to score in the first half, or at least the first 60 minutes, before they go on the defensive and take off a striker for Fletcher to come on.

SAF will also hope that Berbatov, the sulking Bulgarian, will show up for this leg and Rooney's impressive return from injury will continue.

What the boss will be dreading is the situation where Inter score, and score late. That will mean that United have to score one more than Inter, cranking up the pressure.

Ferguson may start Park on the left side of the pitch so as to lessen Maicon's attacking influence in the game. Apart from that, how United deal with Cambiasso will be a talking point in the dressing room. The Argentine was easily Inter's Man of the Match in the first leg.

Inter's forwards had a poor day in the first leg and United will be hoping that their bad form continues.

It will also be interesting to see if Mourinho will stick with the Ibrahimovich-Adriano pairing or give Balotelli the nod ahead of Adriano. The youngster's inexperience might tilt the balance in Adriano's favor.

SAF will certainly try to script this game as he did against Barcelona in last season's semifinal. Whether he can prevent Jose's side from scoring at OT will be decisive.

My Verdict: Inter To Score, but United To Win

Making predictions for the biggies is often fruitless as they rarely turn out to be close to reality. Just for the record, I will go with a United win, though I think Inter will score.

United's biggest threat will be in the form of the returning duo of Paul Scholes and Wayne Rooney.

Having said that, Mourinho is one of the very few managers with a positive record at Old Trafford. A classic example of that was his performance with Porto in 2004. A repeat of that showing will be enough for Mourinho's side to proceed to the next round.

Though a lot has changed between then and now, one would be foolish to rule out Mourinho. The wily Portuguese manager always has something up his sleeve.

Come Wednesday, the result will have far-reaching consequences. For Inter, a victory, or a score draw for that matter, will mean that their march towards their first Champions League trophy since 1965 will roll on.

For United, a victory would mean that their amazing journey this season will continue apace. Their quest for the invincible quintuple will continue. But to achieve such feats, one needs more than a little bit of luck.

Whether or not United will have that against Inter, only time will tell.

Carling Cup Final: Penalty Kings United on Top Again

Saif Syed Omar — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 13:49:46 -0500

The football season is underway and in full swing now and the first of the many to come finals happens to be the Carling Cup a.k.a The League cup. The teams up against each other are the current holders Tottenham Hotspurs and the reigning Champions of England and Europe, Manchester United, who won this trophy last in 2004 when they ran out 4-0 winners against Wigan.

A rejuvenated Spurs side, with their new manager at helm has seen off relegation, well almost and have managed to make it to the finals albeit through a pile-up of fixtures.

Harry Redknapp seemingly has traded the UEFA cup glory to the more realistic chance of winning silverware in this competition and truly so.

So the finals got underway at the Wembley with fans from all over England pouring in to see the finals of this so called 'less-prestigious' competition. This the 49th season of the League cup and 92 have been a part of this competition.

Let's analyze the game dividing it into quarters just for fun.

Quarter 1: The Kick off

Both teams started off well with chances at either end. Manchester United held a lion's share of the possession, but not too many chances for their forwards.

Gibson was the Man of the quarter, breaking Tottenham attacks and providing a solid anchor to the defense. He went closest to scoring with a 25 yard rocket which just fizzed above the bar.

Advantage United.

Quarter 2: Still a cagey affair

The attackers of both the teams continued to be spectators as a toothless attack on both the sides continued into the half. Both goal keepers were barely tested.

However, Spurs did claw their way back into the match though largely through winning back some possession. Modric, Jenas and Zokora finished the half better than they started. Aaron Lennon was the best player for Spurs.

Advantage Spurs.

Quarter 3: Spurs Roll on

Spurs started the half where they left off. They made the United Midfield and Defense work. But the United Defense managed to come out on top as the Spurs dominate in Midfield.

Finally Ben Foster's prayers were answered. He got into the game with a couple of decent saves. He was particularly good at handling corners and set-pieces well, with a clarity as to when to go for the Ball and when to punch it, unlike Tomasz Kusczack.

Substitutes were on for both teams, Anderson on for the below average Danny Welbeck who was Missing in Action throughout his stay. Harry Redknapp countered by sending Jamie O hara for the hapless Pavlyuchenko - easily Spurs' worst player.

He did have competition though, for the Worst player of the game - who else but Nani was up for it. He is consistent, isn't he.

He tried the old tricks in the box, cutting from the left and shooting. When nothing worked, he started gifting the ball back to the opposition - some courage the lad has.

Advantage Spurs, again...

Moment of the quarter -

Ronaldo booked for diving. Replays showed there was contact from Ledley King, but perhaps it was his reputation that earned him the card. His efforts against Blackburn have reaped rewards again, albeit unfairly this time.

Quarter 4: Stalemate continues...

Both teams did get decent efforts but none of them were able to finish it off in the final third - Ben Foster being the busier of the two keepers. Gomes would have loved to get into action, but United's attackers refused to be generous.

Aaron Lennon continued to have a good game, crossing, shooting and giving Evra a torrid time, doesnt happen too often.

Few more substitutions as legs began to tire. Vidic came on for the injured O'shea.
If you thought Giggsy and Scholes playing together was not a good sign, Harry just decided to hog the limelight by bringing Bale on.

Just when things seem to be going Tottenham's way, Harry Redknapp decided to turn the game on its head by bringing on Gareth Bale. The poor lad, though is a decent footballer, always carries a Jinx, with Spurs losing most matches he plays in.

Moment of the Quarter - United finished strongly, as they almost scored late through a Ronaldo effort. Probably a goal would have vindicated the poor guy, but it was not to be.

It's a Tie, though United win the Injury time.

Extra time

Legs and steam on both sides was running out with the players visibly exhausted by the game. Spurs went close and so did United, but nothing would go in.

Both Foster and Gomes were busy but the shots on goal lacked sting or accuracy. Both teams were probably prepared to decide the outcome through Shoot Outs.

Penalty Kings

If the Community Shield and Champions League wins are anything to go by, then one would have guessed the result right away. Manchester United won comfortably with Giggs, Tevez, Ronaldo and Anderson converting. O'hara and Bentley missed for Spurs.

Overall, a good day for Foster, who might very well be United's No.1. United's defense came out on top today, which has been the trend so far this season.

The midfield started brightly, but diminished as the game progressed. The attack never seemed to exist. Nani though was omnipresent trying to make a clown of himself. To be fair, he did achieve to a large extent what he set out for.

United lacked the form they showed at the San Siro, but made a thumping statement by showing the quality of Champions - to Win even when not at their best.

United's kids, though were a Revelation in the tournament this far, failed to show up on the big day, perhaps it is the nerves of the big game that got to them. That is what seperates the Boys from the Men. But have no illusions, these young guns are stars of the future, if they continue with the same verve and enthusiasm.

For United, their love saga with Silverware continues, One down Three to Go... The Quintuple is On...

Inter-United: Men of the Match, How the Red Devils Fared

Saif Syed Omar — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 01:09:57 -0500

The first installment of the much talked about Clash of the Big Boys is finally over. And boy, did it live up to the expectations! It was hyped, but importantly, it did not lack the substance.

The Champions of Italy, well almost, were up against the Champions of England, Europe and more recently, Champions of the World. And the Champions of Champions did do justice to their reputation, which was at stake.

More records were set, as United remained unbeaten yet again in Europe. Let's see how the Red Devils fared against the Nerazzurri at the San Siro.

1. The Line up - Surprise Surprise...

                                   Van Der Sar

John O'Shea            Rio Ferdinand         Johnny Evans            Patrice Evra

                           Carrick             Fletcher

Ronaldo                                                                  Park

                                      Giggs


                                     Berbatov

The Line-up did spring up surprises. They were not pleasant though, at least to Mourinho's liking. But this was a master-piece by the Gaffer to get one over the Special One.

Mourinho seemed to be clueless for most part of the game, and to be fair, he never recovered from the initial shock he got looking at the opposition's team-sheet.

2. Defense - Rock Solid, Yet again...

The much talked about defense, did not seem patched up after all. Though there was a change in personnel, the result was a familiar one, one more clean sheet for the records.

What was important about this game was the level of the performance that was put up by both John O'Shea and the rookie, Johnny Evans. Kudos to the lads, they brought their game up to a whole new level, despite barely having trained the previous day.

Van Der Sar has been given much credit for the clean sheets he has managed to keep this season. Equal credit has to be given to the likes of O'Shea and Evans, who have performed each time they have come on wearing the Red Shirt. It only stresses the fact that a team is not made of stars alone.

The much feared Inter Strike-force was made to bite the dust, at least this time. Barely did they pose a threat to the defense. Though the strikers provided a physical threat to the defense all night, that was it. The threat never materialized.

Top Rate Performance by the Defense.

3. Mid-field - They did 'Make And Break'

Getting the mid-field right was expected to 'Make or Break' the game for both managers. Yet again, the Good Old Man of Old Trafford trumped his counter-part in this department.

His Midfield Duo of Carrick and Fletcher not only Made and Created chances, but they also Broke and Tore apart Inter's advances, rather their attacking forays.

As I predicted in my previous article, Fletcher did start and he was one of the best performers on the pitch. Fletcher has always been a revelation during the away games in Europe. He fared no differently this time. His work rate has been one of the best in the team along with Park.

United's mid-field was a fine blend of creativity and perseverance. Carrick took over the mantle of doing the creative duties from the old horse, Scholesey, and did brilliantly.

He seems to get better with every season, though Fabio Capello would have other thoughts about him. He was the centre of United's Engine room and deserves credit for his performance.

Another Decent Performance by the Engine of the Team.

4. The Attack - Exuberance and Experience, A Lethal Combination

On a first look at the team sheet, one would have pointed out that the line-up was defensive minded, but it turned out to be more than a thorn for the Italians.

Giggsy was the unlikely hero of United's attack along with the more predictable contender, Ronaldo. United utterly dominated the first half, much to the disbelief of the 86,000 fans at the San Siro.

Giggs' experience played an important role in United's game. Mourinho's prediction that United woudl play defensively fell flat on its face.

Ronaldo had a decent game, though he was guilty of missing a good chance. All in all, a top class performance by United's attacking players, keeping in mind the fact that they were playing away from home and in Europe.

United have always been good at counter-attack and they did not disappoint this time, either. Inter had a tough time tracking back from box to box and were opened up quite a few times. Rooney and Giggs both went close to scoring during the many counter attacks that were a highlight of the game.

United's Attack: The Surprise of the evening...

5. What's My Verdict??? - And the Men of the Match are...

Of course, the most Deserving... Fletcher, Ronaldo and the best for the last... Giggsy. Another top class performance from the veteran who is the perfect example along with the likes of Scholes and Neville for young lads and upcoming footballers.

Undoubtedly, this was one of United's best performance in a European game away from home. Their unbeaten record in the Champions League got better with this game. Sceptics would be surprised by this performance of United and fans overjoyed. But...

Though United's performance was superior than Inter's, they have nothing to show for as they failed to convert a flurry of chances, with Giggs, Ronaldo, and Rooney all spurning glorious chances of hitting the back of the net.

United will have to play with the same tempo at OT, in fact put in a superior performance, and of course, do what they did at the San Siro. Keep a clean sheet, as well as what they did not: Score.

As England's famous Boy Band said: It only takes a minute, Girl. In football, perhaps it takes lesser. A kick of the ball can turn a game on its head and sadly, performances like these will mean nothing.

The Red Devils will have to kick one more thing apart from the ball at OT, Complacency - a recipe for disaster. United will have to just be themselves: be UNITED.

Inter Vs Utd: When Jose Met Fergie...Love-All and Game On...

Saif Syed Omar — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 09:31:16 -0500

Clash of the Titans, Battle Royale, BattleGround, StarWars, As Good As It Gets etc etc. One could go on endlessly. It is a field day for movie buffs, well rather football buffs all over the world.

By saying so I'm not sensationalizing this terrific matchup between the League leaders in Italy and their counterparts in the English League, who also happen to be the holders of the UEFA Champions League glory currently.

Most football fans around the world would be smacking their lips at the thought of such an event.

This is where these Good Fellas stood in their version of Catch Me If you Can in their respective league tables (Midweek results not included)

           P       W       D       L       F       A       GD      PTS

Inter 24     17     5       2     42     17     25     56

Utd    24     17     5       2     41     10     31     56

Well seems fishy, doesn't it. To spice things up further, it is a Mourinho Vs Ferguson once again, yes the never ending love saga continues, after the two met during the 2004 Cup, when Mourinho lead Porto to Champions League glory.

Mourinho will be hoping to do the same with Inter who have not won the Champions
League since they won consecutive titles in 1964 and 1965.

As far as Manchester United, the Big Red One, are concerned, they carry the extra burden of being the holders. But if their position in the league is anything to go by, where they are the holders as well, the pressure seems to mean nothing at all.

Though they might not be firing on all cylinders as far as their attacking play is considered, they have put in rugged, Jose Mourinho's Chelsea style performances and have been setting new records on the way.

They would like to believe that the Champions League is no different. But this one wont be a walk in the park, in fact far from it. T.I.A Fergie, This is Azzurri Land, rather Nerazzurri Land.

Here are a few reasons on why Ferguson's men will be In the Company of Men, not boys.

1. Enter the Dragon

If you are still wondering what the dragon is—it is the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza—better known to many as San Siro.

United face a uphill task in facing Inter, yes, this one's tougher than scaling Monte Bianco. If this was not reason enough, Utd play Inter, in their own backyard, which Mourinho has more recently upgraded to a fortress.

Mourinho has already over a century of games unbeaten at home with three different teams so far, and the record only seems to get better.

Playing in front of packed stadium which seats 86,000 fans, saying that United face a Herculean task seems an understatement. Inter have not lost at the San Siro in the league since they lost to Juventus last season.

The statistics speak for themselves. This will be To Hell and Back for Fergies Warriors.

Advantage Inter, sooo obvious...

2. I know what you did last summer...

Well maybe not the last summer, but for a few seasons before that. Mourinho and SAF are no strangers. It may not be a When Harry met Sally scenario, but it's far from
Cant see one in the Eye syndrome.

They have been at each other for the little more than three seasons Mourinho was in charge of Chelsea and briefly when Mourinho was in charge of the Porto side that beat United in the Champions League second round, 2004.

As far as the league goes, Mourinho has the better record of the two. Knowing SAF's tactics on and off the field, will no doubt be an advantage for Mourinho.

SAF on the Other hand, though has watched Mourinho's management style from close quarters during Mourinho's time in the league and maybe familiar with the way Mourinho operates, in the Inter side, United face a relatively unknown entity.

Besides, Italy has not been a happy hunting ground for United, apart from the Roma aberration (United did lose to Roma the first time they met at the Stadio Olimpico during the Champions league 2007 though.)

Advantage to the Home side, on a Hattrick...

3. Mind Games

This game will be played as much off the pitch as much on it. Both Mourinho and Ferguson are both Masters of Disguise. The plotting for this one would have begun weeks ago in the boardrooms and the War rooms, as they are aptly called.

As if the two old war horses being at loggerheads was not sufficient, the likes of Ibrahimovic and Ronaldo, the Dumb and Dumber, have jumped into the fray kicking off unnecessary debates about who the best in the world is.

Mourinho would be eager to create Trouble in Fergie's Paradise, specially when things have been going so well for The Man of All Seasons.

The wily Matador though would be planning to bring down the Raging Red Bull to his feet. But SAF is no novice to oversee this plot and will be counter-plotting to counter his counterpart's ploy and make it counter-productive. Complicated? Not really.

Love-All. Sorry Jose, not this time...

4. First Blood - Who draws, Wins...

Come Tuesday, Mount Vesuvius will not be the only active volcano in Italy. The San Siro will explode when the stars on both sides clash.

But will the game really live up to its expectations. Well...With United playing the second leg at home, Fergie will be keen not to lose this one.

He will put out a defensive line up with five in the midfield and a lone striker upfront. This lineup will, however, not be short of attacking prowess. Rooney and Berbatov will both start, with Rooney playing on the right flank and shuffling positions with Ronaldo on the left.

The midfield trio, Scholes, Carrick and the ever energetic Fletcher will be a key in deciding the game. The back line will be predictable with only Vidic missing out.

Fergie will be Saving Private Ryan for the bench along with the likes of Tevez, Rafael, and O'shea among others.

Mourinho, on the other hand will be keen not to concede at home. He will put out the tried and tested 4-3-1-2 that he played in the Milan Derby. In Adriano and Ibrahimovic, Rio Ferdinand and company will have a torrid time, Evans being relatively new to such big games.

United will face a tough physical test at the San Siro, something reminiscent of the Chlesea side that Mourinho built at Stamford bridge. Stankovic will be at his belligerent best playing behind the front men.

The engine will be run by the likes of Zanetti, Cambiasso, Muntari and
Viera with a couple of them warming the bench. The back four will be relatively consistent, a feature of most Mourinho sides.

With the side put out by United, the game has every chance of turning out to be cagey. However, there will be goals. Fergie will be happy to play out a hard fought 0-0 draw, as he did last season against Barcelona, but the atmosphere at San Siro leaves most Dazed and Confused.

United, will be lucky if they manage to score, with an individual piece of brilliance/ Goal Line Scramble/ Set Piece, producing their solitary goal.

5. What's my Verdict...

This one will be a closely fought contest with a narrow win to the home side. As always, I reiterate that my stance is based on simple logic and past experiences, but that alone doesn't decide games. So my call is as good as yours.

United will be satisfied with a draw and delighted with a scored one. A mediocre day for Inter, with the odd mistake will be just about what United will want.

But the home side will enjoy the Sweet Smell of Success, for the time being, as they will block any routes for United to make The Great Escape. Justice will be done come March 11 and this result will be Gone with the wind.

Luis Nani: Will He, Wont He?

Saif Syed Omar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 01:26:49 -0500

This article is a belated Valentine day special discussing the love life of our own "reincarnation" of Michael Jackson in his teens—before he had a face job done.

Yeah, you guessed it right, we are talking about Luis Nani. But there are other things in life than being voyeuristic and peeping into someone's love life, at least not Nani's.

Well lets try to talk about something he is apparently good at, Football. This 22 year old is a product of the Sporting Lisbon youth system that has seen the likes of Christiano Ronaldo and Miguel Veloso among others who had been in the news during the recent transfer rumours.

Nani plied his trade at Sporting as a winger, like his compatriot Christiano Ronaldo and made close to 60 appearances for them before he was sold to Manchester United in 2007. He has since been in and out of the playing 11 though he has cemented his place in the squad.

Despite showing promise, his role has been limited to the bench and the starting XI of Cup competitions. Lets see why this so called budding talent has failed to impress the Gaffer and the fans alike and has become the subject of the "Will he Wont he" sarcasm.

1. Will he...Ever be Christiano Ronaldo?

Being a teen prodigy at Sporting, like his more successful compatriot Christiano Ronaldo, he arrived at Old Trafford not only with a big price tag but also with sky high expectations from fans. However, he was seen as a buy for the future rather than the 2007-08 season.

But with injuries to key players, both Nani and Anderson—who arrived the same season, were put to test early in their OT careers and to be fair, both of them did impress everyone.

But that turned out to be more of a first season syndrome. Nani found the net four times last season and six times so far this season. Ronaldo's goal tally was similarly a single digit figure for the first two seasons.

But scoring goals is secondary, he has been brought to OT so that he can set up for others before scoring himself. His performances have been as inconsistent as Rafa's team selection last season.

While Christiano Ronaldo went on to improve the potential he showed in the first season, Nani's performances have hit a roadblock and have somewhat degenerated over time with only flashes of the promise shown early on.

Although it can be argued that he's still young and not a regular, he has had his chance to shine which he has blown away on most occasions.

2. Will he...Ever be consistent?

The only feature that has been consistent in Nani's play is inconsistency. He is found lacking the quality on most occasions even though he seems to be blessed with a repertoire of skills.

His overall performances have been better in cup competitions than in the league as he seems to dwell on the lesser oppositions. Though he scored against Derby in the fifth round of the FA cup, his performance was far from satisfactory.

His most memorable performance would undoubtedly be against Arsenal, again, in the FA cup last season where he scored one and set up a couple as Manchester

United ran out 4-0 winners. But besides such flashes of brilliance, it has been a mediocre outing on most other occasions.

3. Will he...Ever become a first team regular?

With performances we've seen so far, he's way off the mark. He's stuck between showboating and playing without direction in most games. He's often been criticized of giving the ball away too easily.

Though he has shown at times that he can deliver decent crosses and make intelligent runs, he has been inconsistent for the most part.

With veterans like Giggs likely to cut down playing, Nani was expected to push to make his position in the side permanent, on the contrary, Giggs seems to be improving with age and has restricted Nani to just eight appearances in the league. Even when he has had his chances he has shone intermittently at most.

Sadly, the answer to most of the above "Will He's" is—"He Won't."

Not until he shows the perseverance Ronaldo has shown to become the player he is today. Not unless he shows the professionalism and attitude shown by the legends like Giggs. Not unless he gives up showboating and plays for the team.

Hopefully he will mature with age and experience. The arrival of Tosic should act as a catalyst and spur him on from here lest we see another Kleberson in the making. We all love your somersault, but we love the "TEAM winning" better.

Chelsea FC's Big Fat Samba Wedding: Why It Was Destined to Fail

Saif Syed Omar — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 03:01:59 -0500

Most Chelsea fans woke up on Monday to be surprised—whether it was pleasantly or not, only they can comment.

The media and other followers of the league were however taken aback by the timing of Chelsea Football Club in sacking their newest high profile manager; Luiz Felipe Scolari.

Most of them ridiculed the decision while some of the fans seemed to stick by the Chelsea management's decision. However, Chelsea's appointment of Big Phil was far from a "Match made in heaven". It was hardly a "Marriage of Convenience".

Roman Abramovich was undone, for once. There are a few things money can't buy, and sexy football is certainly one of them, at least on such a short notice.

Mr. Abramovich set out on a "Mission Almost Impossible"—to get Chelsea playing sexy football, but that was not the end. He needed trophies too so that he could show them off to his friends in high places.

There is more—he wanted them right away, at once. After all this has been a long spell without a trophy for Roman Abramovich's Chelsea.

So he set out on his hunt to find the Mr. Perfect, who could get Chelsea playing sexy football. There were a few known names that were thrown up into the fray. They needed a big name to head the club, after all Chelsea is used to being in the news. So finally, Big Phil it was. It was a well paid job—something which Big Phil admitted in his first media conference. But as said before, there are a few things money can't buy.

Let us look at a few good reasons as to why Roman's plan was flawed:

1. Name of the Game

Big Phil has achieved big things as a coach. For starters, he is the only World Cup winning coach to date, to have managed a Premiership outfit.

As if winning the World Cup wasn't a mean enough achievement in itself, he also went on to take the Portugal national team to the Euro 2004 Finals, where they would eventually lose to the underdogs, Greece.

He even lead the Portugal national team to the semifinals of the 2006 World Cup, where they lost to the eventual runners-up, France.

His meanest achievement though, as considered by many, was a hat-trick of wins against England—two with Portugal and one with Brazil, to dump England out of
the World Cup and Euro 2004. This was achievement enough for Mr. Abramovich to hand over the top job at Chelsea to Big Phil. But little did he know about the blunder he was going to commit.

Big Phil has been an excellent coach, but the style of play he professes is far from Chelsea's style of play. Be it with Brazil, or even Portugal, Scolari's teams have always thrived on potent attacking play.

"Attack is the best form of defense" has been Big Phil's mantra. Both Brazil, and to a great extent, Portugal, have lived by that.

Chelsea's football, on the contrary, has been mostly played on the foundation of a strong backline—the backbone of the team. Mourinho built one of the greatest Chelsea teams of all time and modelled the team around a strong defense and a compact midfield.

Chelsea boasted a defensive lineup consisting of the likes of John Terry and Carvalho. In Essien, Chelsea found the perfect foil to Frank Lampard who could thwart the opposition's attacks. All in all, the lack of sexy football was overwhelmed by the presence of "Effective Football" that Jose introduced.

2. Great Expectations

Big Phil should have certainly known what he was getting into. He was taking up the post that had a lot at stake. The post has been held by top class coaches since Roman arrived to the scene. Mourinho had not only set high standards for himself but also raised the bar for his successors.

The results during Mourinho's stint are a clear testimony—Mourinho had a winning percentage of over 70%. Big Phil's record, though too early to be judged, was a meagre 55%. Even Avram Grant, despite not being the fan's favorite, had a better record than Big Phil. He even managed to take the club to the finals of the UEFA Champions League—something even Mourinho couldn't do. Thus the comparisons to his predecessors were imminent though unfair.

3. Time is Money, Honey...

A not so old adage goes—Time is Money. But Big Phil got neither. Neither was he given time to ply his trade, nor was the money was made available to buy the personnel. Big Phil probably was one of the first victims of the Credit Crunch that seems to have hit Mr. Abramovich's Treasury, Deco being Big Phil's only major signing apart from the loan spell of Quaresma. Mourinho on the other hand had plenty of both.

Though Mourinho bought big name players, it was money well spent. Drogba and Essien were two of the many important players that he brought to the Bridge.

Even though his teams lacked width, his midfield and defense more than made up for it. The results were evident—Chelsea lost less than 10% of their games under Mourinho as he turned Stamford Bridge into a fortress, Chelsea remained unbeaten there for over four years. On the other hand, under Big Phil Chelsea lost twice in just over four weeks.

4. Charity begins at home

Big Phil's charity at home doesn't seem to have gone down too well, either with his Bosses, or with the fans. Chelsea have dropped 16 points at home so far this season, something very uncharacteristic of Chelsea who have been traditionally strong at home over the last few seasons.

As some of the fans have put it, Chelsea have struggled to beat any team, and have surrendered to top teams, taking only a point against the "Big Four" so far this season.

The only bright spot for Big Phil has been the away form of the team, the 5-0 thrashing of Middlesbrough being memorable. The form of the team in the UEFA
Champions League has been far from satisfactory with the side managing to scrape through the group stages.

With the factors stated above, it is very clear that the idea of hiring Big Phil was flawed right from the beginning. Mr. Abramovich will have to choose between winning trophies and playing sexy football, as it is clear that he cannot have both of them right now.

Rome was not built in day. Nor will a Chelsea team that plays sexy football. Roman's greed for both will only jeopardize the future of Chelsea FC. After all the billions he has spent, his lack of patience will see Chelsea end up whining rather than winning.

Manchester United's Unsung Heroes: The Men Who ALSO Matter

Saif Syed Omar — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 02:28:58 -0500

When people talk about the trophies that United won last season, the first pictures that come to mind are those of Ronaldo, Rooney, Tevez or Giggsy. Everybody raves about the performances of these players and how they all excelled throughout the season and led United to their second trophy in 2 years.

Well that's true, one cannot argue much about that. After all United's firepower was a key element in their retaining the trophy for a second year running. They scored more goals than any other team and had a far more superior goal difference compared to others.

A key element in the run up to the title were the so-called 'Holy Trinity'—Ronaldo, Rooney and Tevez. The trio scored a whopping 55 goals amongst them out of the 80 scored by Manchester United in the League.

The superior goal difference gave them a cushion in case of a tied result as their nearest opponents were no where near United's tally. Therefore it does not surprise me when the media and the fans alike sing songs in praise of the trio. No doubt any team or any manager would love to have them in their squad.

So why are we repeating the same old story and purring about Untied's strike force and how they helped United retain their title ? And why does the title of the article say United's Unsung heroes, whilst in reality, they are the most talked about stars, both in the media and among the fans ?

Right, we are not here to discuss about our popular players. We will look at some of the so called 'Lesser' players in the team without whom the team would have been a fractured unit. To start our discussion, lets get over the term 'Holy Trinity' and talk about 'The NOT SO Famous Five'.

John O'Shea

He joined Manchester United as a trainee and made his debut for Manchester United's senior team in 1999. He is one of the most versatile players not only in Manchester United, but also in the league. He has played as a left back, right back, center back, midfielder, goalkeeper and at times as a striker.

His ability to play in different positions has made him an invaluable asset to the team. Not many teams can boast of players who have played in so many different positions. He has always been loyal to United despite interest from various clubs.

He also has a knack of scoring important goals for United, the most memorable among them is the opening goal against Everton at Goodison Park in the 2006-07 season, which Manchester Untied went on to win, the goal which turned the title in United's favor.

Darren Fletcher

Like John O'shea, he too joined Manchester United as a trainee in the year 2000. He's one of the most modest and genuine players in the team. Despite putting up Top Class performances, he finds himself left on the bench more often than not.

Even worse, he is sometimes left out of the squad after the arrival of Owen Hargreaves. But whenever called upon, he has done his job and in fact exceeded expectations. His work rate and performances, specially in the Champions League games have been praiseworthy.

Park Ji Sung

Park joined Manchester United in 2004 and has since been an important part of the team. His sheer pace, passing and relentless work rate have won him plaudits from the manager. Though not as skilled as other wingers like Ronaldo or Giggs, Park has more than made up for his shortcomings by his tremendous work rate.

So important has been his contribution to the team that even Sir Alex Ferguson admitted that the most difficult decision of his career was leaving Park out of the Champions League squad for the final in Moscow.

His performance against Barcelona was the highlight of the semi-final victory along with Paul Scholes' winning goal. Even though he is the Captain of the South Korean national team, he maintains a low profile and is ever ready to sacrifice for the team.

Wes Brown

Another Manchester United trainee who made it to the senior squad. Wes Brown signed a contract with Manchester United in the year 1996. He was one of the promising youngsters that came through United's academy.

Like Paul Scholes, Brown is a local lad, hailing from Manchester. He is an important member of the team who has added stability to United's defense. He has been proficient playing both as a center-back and more recently, as a right back in Gary Neville's absence.

He is a no-nonsense defender and provides excellent attacking support as a right-back. In fact, in the 2007-08 season, he was the player who made maximum appearances for Manchester United.

Tomasz Kuszczak

This polish keeper has been United's No.2 since August 2006. Before joining Manchester United, he was the first choice at West Bromwich Albion and made his mark there with a number of match winning performances, notably against Manchester Untied during the penultimate day of the 2004-05 season which kept the Baggies in the premier league.

Though his chances at United have been limited, he has always given it his best shot when called upon. He made an important contribution to the double winning season by keeping eight clean sheets.

He burst into the scene when he saved the penalty against Arsenal. The only downside of the season was his sending off in the FA cup semi-final against Portsmouth, which was clearly harsh.

These are a few of the players who have always been in the background and never taken the center stage of all the media attention. Although their performances mostly go unnoticed, neither their love for the game nor their hunger for success has diminished one bit. It is easy to lose focus and sharpness when one is on the bench and is deprived of first team action for long spells.

Still, these players have always performed at their very best when called into action in times of distress. Matches and trophies are not won just by having stars in the team. The idea here is not to stereotype certain kinds of players but to understand the fact that the efforts of all players need to be recognised and applauded.

Trophies are won by a team and not by a few individuals. It is high time these 'Working Class Heroes' are given the respect, appreciation and encouragement they are due. This article is not aimed at sensationalising anything and is simply dedicated to those footballers who do not make it to the back pages of the papers very often.

Cheers!!!

Liverpool-Chelsea Preview: Why It's a Must-Win for the Reds

Saif Syed Omar — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 02:07:24 -0500

Recent games pitting Liverpool against Chelsea have been tight ones, and not the best games to watch for a neutral.

The corresponding fixtures in the last three seasons have produced some glorious moments however. Starting with the 2005-2006 season, where Liverpool was beaten 4-1 at home as Chelsea trounced them on their way to winning their second consecutive title.

During the 2006-2007 season, Chelsea was beaten 2-0 by Liverpool, which in a sense, was a turning point of the season, as Chelsea would go on to lose their title to Manchester United.

Last year was a more cagey affair with the only bright spot being the arrival of Fernando Torres to the scene with his first goal at Anfield.

As games between the other teams of the Big Four—these games are more of a tactical spectacle than a treat to the eyes. Despite of the presence of well known attacking players on both sides, these games generally end up being a battle of defenses.

These games are rarely end-to-end excitement, and are instead a waiting game between the two teams as to who concedes the first goal. Once a team scores, the nature of the game changes to attack vs. defense.

Again, it is the defense which is in the spotlight. It's no surprise when both teams engage the tried and trusted 4-5-1 formation with an attacking midfield duo who pull the strings.

For the past few seasons, Liverpool have traditionally lost fewer games than any of the other teams in the league. Their Achilles' heel, however, has been the games which they have ended by a draw.

They seem to be following a similar trend this season as well. During the 2007-2008 season, Liverpool finished fourth with 76 points compared to the 87 points by the champions, Manchester United.

This tally included just three defeats, but the team finished 13 games with a draw. The figures this season are not very promising either. They have managed to draws in nine games already and they have lost just once. The consequences of one more drawn game at home, while it wouldn't mark the end of their season, will be damaging none the less.

Let's examine the defense, midfield and attack of these two teams as each compares to the other and see what we can expect from the game, and determine what is at stake for Liverpool.

The Mighty Defenses

Though both teams have rock solid defenses, injuries to key defenders have cost Chelsea dearly this season. The notable feature of Mourinho's championship-winning Chelsea side of the 2004-2005 and 2005-2006 seasons was an air-tight defense.

However, the story of the side coached by Scholari has been quite different. Though there has not been a drastic change in personnel, injuries to key players have resulted in Chelsea giving up goals at crucial times. Still, they have conceded fewer goals than Liverpool.

With nagging injuries to important players like Carvalho, Ashley Cole and John Terry, the starters for Sunday's showdown are still unclear.

Liverpool have fewer injuries and a relatively fit squad of players for Sunday's encounter.

Advantage: Liverpool.

The engine of the team—The midfield

Both teams boast of some of the best mid-fielders in the world, with Gerrard and Lampard being one of the most free scoring midfielders in the league. While Gerrard and Lampard pitch against each other to control the game, the likes of Mascherano and Mikel will provide the perfect foil to their attacking counterparts by protecting the back four.

On the wings, Riera and Babel/Kuyt will be ditched against Ashley Cole and Bosingwa—one of the weak links in the Chelsea defense.

On the other hand, Malouda and Kalou will test their wits against Arbeloa and Dossena/Aurelio.

Advantage: Liverpool.

The fire power upfront - The strikers

This is one area where the teams are very much equal.

Given the importance of defenses in the game, the side that unlocks the defense first will definitely have an upper hand. Both teams have high quality strikers. On any given day, either team's strikers can win games for their team.

With Chelsea having only two recognised strikers—Drogba and Anelka—in comparison to Liverpool's Torres, Kuyt and Robbie Keane, it might be argued that Liverpool has greater depth.

However, as both teams are likely to field a 4-5-1 formation, the quality of forwards matters more than the quantity. With Fernando Torres just returning from an injury, Chelsea seem to have the upper hand at least here.

Advantage: Chelsea (for once).

Using a little common sense, it should be a fairly comfortable win for Liverpool. However, the biggest pawn in the game will be the one off the pitch—coach Rafa Benitez. The final outcome of the match will be decided by the moves of this man. His team selection and substitutions during the game will definitely be instrumental in deciding the outcome of this battle.

Going by the current standings in the league and the recent condition of both the teams, I would tip Liverpool to nick this one, as they need to win more than Chelsea. However, going by my past experience, it would take more than just common sense to predict the outcome.

A defeat at home—their first for the season—will more or less rule out Liverpool's chances of winning the league, thus turning the battle for the title into a two-horse race.

A draw, though would be a fair result. It would be disastrous for both teams, but more so for Liverpool. The biggest winner would undoubtedly be Manchester United.

Only time will tell come Sunday. Bring it On!!!

Five Reasons Liverpool Won't Win the Premier League

Saif Syed Omar — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 17:27:06 -0500

As one of the world's best leagues is half way through the season, fans across the globe are curiously poised to see the season out to the end. Who will win the league? Who will be relegated? Will Manchester united do a hat trick of league trophies? These are some of the questions that pop up to the fore.

Well, undoubtedly, one of the stories of this season has been the emergence of Liverpool. Even though Liverpool have made it to two Champions League Finals in the
recent past, their stint with the domestic trophies has been far from satisfactory.

While Manchester United and Arsenal have consolidated their positions and Chelsea has emerged as a force to reckon, The Reds of Anfield have seen their side reduced to the bottom of the so-called Big Four. This season, after a long wait of almost 18 years, the Anfield faithful are hoping that their team will bring home the prestigious domestic trophy to Merseyside.

Though the performance of Liverpool in the league has been far better from their form in the previous seasons, there is much more work to be done if Liverpool are to land their first League title since the 1989-90 season.

Here are a few of the reasons as to why it'll take much more from the Red army to be the Champions of England. This article is by no means trying to rule out Chelsea or Arsenal's chances of winning the title, but to keep focus on the argument at hand, we will only discuss Liverpool's chances compared to its closest title contender—Manchester United.

Five Reasons Liverpool won't win the league

1. Philosophy of the managers

The Manager is the backbone of the team. Though it is the players who perform to win a game, it is the manager who directs the plot which is executed on the pitch. Both the managers in question, Rafael Benitez and Sir Alex Ferguson, are one of the best the league has had, more so in the case of the latter. Lets see how the mentality and temperament of the managers has had a result on the game of both teams.

Rafa Benitez—"Play Not to Lose"
Sir Alex Ferguson—"Play to Win"

This mentality is clearly visible from the numerous points dropped by Liverpool by drawing games. Though Manchester United lose more games than Liverpool, their Winning mentality has clearly been the reason for their dominance.

2. The Depth of the squad

Though both teams boast of world class players, as far as this season goes, Manchester United have clearly coped better with injuries to key players than Liverpool. Dirk Kuyt, though has performed better this season, Liverpool have clearly struggled in the absence of Torres or Gerrard. Manchester United have suffered quite a few injuries to their back-line, but have come out on top with every new combination of the Back four. Their recent run of clean sheets establishes this fact.

3. Consistency in Home Form

Liverpool have dropped as many as 12 points compared to Manchester United's two points at home so far this season. Though the away form of both team has been
inconsistent at times, United have clearly made their home form count.

4. Style of play

Liverpool generally play a more defensive albeit effective 4-5-1 lineup with a lone striker upfront. Manchester United have played a more attacking game having scored more and conceded fewer goals than Liverpool. The width of the game of both teams is also a testament of the style of play of both teams. While Liverpool's wide-men have fared well this season, they are way behind the attacking blitzkrieg that United posses on the flanks. As a result, Liverpool's game is more narrow when compared to United and have not been able to make this work to their advantage.

5. Nature of the league

The English league is generally considered to be more physical and fast-paced while compared to the other leagues. This provides some kind of an advantage to both the defence as well as the attack. The physical nature of the game means far more fouls and lesser scope for technicality in the game. At the same time, the fast paced nature of the game provides lot of scope for attack and counter-attacking play as well making it an end to end game. Keeping in mind the style of play of both teams, clearly United have come out Winners in this category as well.

With all due respect to Liverpool's style of play, I would not hesitate to comment that Liverpool, as a team, are better equipped for the Champions League than the Premier League. Apart from the Champions league, the FA cup and the Carling Cup serve as added distractions and expose Liverpool's lack of Strength and Depth in squad. Liverpool's inferior performances traditionally in the second half of the season are a proof for the same.

Miscellaneous Reasons

The atmosphere behind the scenes, the boardroom and the dressing room alike, seems to be a lot more desirable at Old Trafford than that at Anfield. Though result on the pitch is what really matters, distractions like these no doubt affect the performance of the players. Sir Alex Ferguson also seems to have won the battle in the Transfer Market, with Dimitar Berbatov likely to be a better buy than Robbie Keane.

In totality, though Liverpool have improved tremendously over the last season, a lot needs to be done both on and off the pitch if the Anfield faithful are to see their first league trophy in 18 years. Though fragments of this article maybe based on personal opinion, this article is largely based on facts. I would again like to stress on the point that I, by no means, am ruling out either Chelsea, Arsenal or for that matter Liverpool, having a shot at the title. This is just a prediction based on the current trend and the events that have transpired so far. Who's title is it anyway ? I'd say anybody's!!!