Entering the day, Leeds United visit of Old Trafford to face nemesis Manchester United in the FA Cup offered a cornucopia of story lines. Yet in a magical moment that seems destined to live in the lore of Leeds, the troubled League One side rose up, against the odds and resurrected the hopes and dreams of its faithful for a gallant 1-0 victory over mighty Manchester United.
The fall of once great Leeds has been a tale that has been told countless times, a great warning for all clubs who suffer financial fallout as they tumbled from the lofty perches of the Champions League to the third division of English football. On the opposite side of the equation, Manchester United with its billowing hardware case and array of international stars, were clearly the heavy favourites of the day. However, as situations as these so often go, today was not one for favourites and predictable events, as Leeds found within their claret a bit a magic in route to the victory.
As the day began, Man Utd’s erstwhile leader, Sir Alex Ferguson was clearly aware that his opposition posed an eye towards playing David to their Golaith. Still with the likes of Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov in the Reds line-up Leeds was dreadfully out-matched, on paper that is. Leeds, too their credit, took a noteworthy opening stance and pushing aside comments of more defensive approach and instead launched forward with the striking tandem of Luciano Becchio and Jermaine Beckford. Tactically the move seemed both noble as an aggressive stance but equally suicidal, as the third division side would be easy pickings for the hosts.
At the opening whistle, Man Utd showed a sense of belonging, if not belief that they would given their fans the victory they hoped for. Yet slowly the tables turned, just ever so slightly at first as the curmudgeonly Leeds eleven began to press forward. Then finally it struck like a watchtower bell at the eighteenth minute, the 74,000 were shocked as Leeds notched what would become the matches lone goal. Remarkably, in a week that featured the first Premier League match in which not a single player born in the England graced the opening line-up, it was Jonny Howson, the hometown hero who turned the screw. With a magnificent long diagonal ball, he found Jermaine Beckford who once again outdistanced himself from statuesque defender Wes Brown and after chesting the ball down, the striker slid his twentieth goal of the campaign under ‘keeper Tomasz Kuszczak. Man Utd rolled-up its well-appointed sleeves and went to work, intent on the equalizer and only moments later Wayne Rooney’s goal bound effort was cleared from the line by veteran Jason Crowe. The thin margin continued and with much talent at Sir Alex’s disposal, he summoned Ryan Giggs in three minutes shy of the hour with Michael Owen not that long after. Pressure ensued in the Leeds end but despite the many efforts, Leeds clung to the lead. As regulation time ended, young Aiden White, eighteen years of age and a product of the Leeds academy was called upon for Andy Hughes as the Whites desperately held the lead. Tension thickened with five minutes of added-time called, surely an equalizer was in the offing but heroics were in store for Leeds ‘keeper Casper Ankergren with a stunning match saving save in the fourth minute. With the final tick of the clock, the white knuckle affair ended and for the 9,000 Leeds supporters who had made their way along the M62 to the Theatre of Dreams, their side resurrected the glory of the past once more in the greatest of fashions.
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Showing posts with label FA Cup. Show all posts
Showing posts with label FA Cup. Show all posts
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Everton heads to FA Cup final
Everton sealed it's first FA Cup final appearance since 1995 as they defeated Manchester United 4-2 in penalties.
The talk of the day was Sir Alex Ferguson radically reworking his starting eleven, leaving out regulars for the likes of Ben Foster, the twins Fábio and Rafael, Darron Gibson, Danny Welbeck and seventeen year-old Rome native Federico Macheda. Despite the youthful side, Everton were held back for much of the match and seemed unsure of how to approach them. While the Toffees were likely the better of the two in the opening half as the match wore Sir Alex's kiddie corp were posing bales of problems. After the break it seemed clear fortune was on Everton's side as Phil Jagielka could have easily be adjudged for bringing down Danny Welbeck in the area but Mike Riley waived play-on. Legitimate chances were sparse for Everton, despite the roar of supporters in blue urgent pleas and for the few that seemed ready to crest, Nemanja Vidić was there to turn it aside. And so after thirty-minutes of extra-time the score-sheet still was unmarked and it would come down to penalties.
From time to time when matches are decided in this manner the goals, just as the misses are remembered. David Beckham's miss in the Euro 2004 against Portugal tears at the heart of Three Lion supporters and as this shoot-out began so did Timmy Cahill blunder. However what came after that for Man Utd was basically a egotistical walk-up by Dimitar Berbatov that wasn't just shockingly bad but seemed to lack any thought and merely the work of arrogance. After Leighton Baines notched Everton's first goal, Rio Ferdinand stepped-up and while the English international is out of his realm you would assume somewhere along the Footy world he has struck one from the spot. Clearly that is assumption is erroneous or lest Man Utd was worried about all these trophies they were collecting and he sent another one that most children could improve upon. Following that miss it was merely a task of working through the order without error and in the end, Phil Jagielka sent Everton to the finals as his effort billowed in the net.
The talk of the day was Sir Alex Ferguson radically reworking his starting eleven, leaving out regulars for the likes of Ben Foster, the twins Fábio and Rafael, Darron Gibson, Danny Welbeck and seventeen year-old Rome native Federico Macheda. Despite the youthful side, Everton were held back for much of the match and seemed unsure of how to approach them. While the Toffees were likely the better of the two in the opening half as the match wore Sir Alex's kiddie corp were posing bales of problems. After the break it seemed clear fortune was on Everton's side as Phil Jagielka could have easily be adjudged for bringing down Danny Welbeck in the area but Mike Riley waived play-on. Legitimate chances were sparse for Everton, despite the roar of supporters in blue urgent pleas and for the few that seemed ready to crest, Nemanja Vidić was there to turn it aside. And so after thirty-minutes of extra-time the score-sheet still was unmarked and it would come down to penalties.
From time to time when matches are decided in this manner the goals, just as the misses are remembered. David Beckham's miss in the Euro 2004 against Portugal tears at the heart of Three Lion supporters and as this shoot-out began so did Timmy Cahill blunder. However what came after that for Man Utd was basically a egotistical walk-up by Dimitar Berbatov that wasn't just shockingly bad but seemed to lack any thought and merely the work of arrogance. After Leighton Baines notched Everton's first goal, Rio Ferdinand stepped-up and while the English international is out of his realm you would assume somewhere along the Footy world he has struck one from the spot. Clearly that is assumption is erroneous or lest Man Utd was worried about all these trophies they were collecting and he sent another one that most children could improve upon. Following that miss it was merely a task of working through the order without error and in the end, Phil Jagielka sent Everton to the finals as his effort billowed in the net.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Everton's magical FA Cup victory over Liverpool
With only two minutes remaining in extra time, Dan Gosling chiseled his name into Everton's history, scoring to give the Toffees a 1-0 victory over Liverpool in the FA Cup.
Tactically there was few surprises in the match with Everton refusing to provide any defensive openings and their were few chances prior to the break. Liverpools chances to a turn for the worse when Steven Gerrard was forced out with an injury only sixteen minutes into the match. After the restart, the Toffees slowly gained confidence and eventually went on the attack. With twenty minutes left, Timmy Cahill dispatched the ball to Leon Osman to the right of the goal but his drive slammed against the post and the match stayed even. However the match took a heavy turn as Liverpool was forced to play a man down with fifteen minutes remaining following
Lucas Leiva being booked for the second time. Everton continued to pressure and after a number of close calls in which the ball skidded wide it looked certain the match was going to penalties. However with two minutes left, Dan Gosling on the left, collected a ball with his left, out maneuvered the Liverpool defenders and bringing the ball to his right foot he curled the shot in off the far post.
Of special mention, while obvious Dan Gosling's confidence and overall play was impressive when he came on for Marouane Fellaini early into the half, seventeen year old Jack Rodwell continues to impress as an everyday player.
David Moyes said of the match on Everton TV:
"Credit the lads, we’ve probably played better games and been involved in better games, but for the supporters and everybody involved it was magic to score the goal so late on and win it.
"It was great because when they went down to ten men we had to make sure that we still did our jobs and didn’t give it away.
"It’s been hard; we’ve had three games against Liverpool so we have to remember what they’ve spent to get where they are today. So you take a little bit of pride in that.
"We were very anxious to play it out especially after the past couple of weeks and that’s what we did."
Tactically there was few surprises in the match with Everton refusing to provide any defensive openings and their were few chances prior to the break. Liverpools chances to a turn for the worse when Steven Gerrard was forced out with an injury only sixteen minutes into the match. After the restart, the Toffees slowly gained confidence and eventually went on the attack. With twenty minutes left, Timmy Cahill dispatched the ball to Leon Osman to the right of the goal but his drive slammed against the post and the match stayed even. However the match took a heavy turn as Liverpool was forced to play a man down with fifteen minutes remaining following
Lucas Leiva being booked for the second time. Everton continued to pressure and after a number of close calls in which the ball skidded wide it looked certain the match was going to penalties. However with two minutes left, Dan Gosling on the left, collected a ball with his left, out maneuvered the Liverpool defenders and bringing the ball to his right foot he curled the shot in off the far post.
Of special mention, while obvious Dan Gosling's confidence and overall play was impressive when he came on for Marouane Fellaini early into the half, seventeen year old Jack Rodwell continues to impress as an everyday player.
David Moyes said of the match on Everton TV:
"Credit the lads, we’ve probably played better games and been involved in better games, but for the supporters and everybody involved it was magic to score the goal so late on and win it.
"It was great because when they went down to ten men we had to make sure that we still did our jobs and didn’t give it away.
"It’s been hard; we’ve had three games against Liverpool so we have to remember what they’ve spent to get where they are today. So you take a little bit of pride in that.
"We were very anxious to play it out especially after the past couple of weeks and that’s what we did."
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Merseyside derby FA Cup tie preview
Liverpool makes it way to Goodison in the replay of the FA Cup with David Moyes anticipating the impact of home support. The fiery Scot said:
"I think Liverpool find it hard to break us down so we are aware of that. At Goodison it might give us the urge to feel as if we want to attack them more.
"We are looking forward to the game at Goodison and the supporters will be right behind us.
"As long as we get the rub of the green and the right decisions, which hasn't been the case in the past, then hopefully it will be okay.
"Everybody wants to win the FA Cup but you have to earn the right and beat the teams on the way through.
"We have been playing against the top sides recently and not letting ourselves down.
"I think you would say they (Liverpool) had the advantage in the two games at Anfield and we were able to come away with two draws.
"I feel we can play much better; I think we are playing well but I think we can play better. Hopefully if we can do that we can get into the next round of the Cup."
The club has Joseph Yobo available although new signing Jô is unavailable. The Brazilian goal scorer is cup tied as he was part of City's woefully bad performance when they lost to Nottingham Forest.
Everyone's favourite Aussie, Timmy Cahill said of the derby:
“It’s always massive playing Liverpool. It’s just the occasion that takes the lime-light, but the referee could also write the headlines.
“Hopefully that’s not the case and it’s an (Everton) player that get their name in the record books.
“Liverpool had a good result against Chelsea on Sunday after a fortunate decision from the referee. I got sent off by the same ref but games can hang on really harsh decisions.
“I think this is the best time to play Liverpool and we are really confident. Hopefully we’ll get a good result.
“I feel that there’s a lot of hype that goes on and now that we’re at home we should take the game to them and hopefully get a good result.
“I think we should just stick to our game plan. We will hit them on the break and defend well too.
"I think Liverpool find it hard to break us down so we are aware of that. At Goodison it might give us the urge to feel as if we want to attack them more.
"We are looking forward to the game at Goodison and the supporters will be right behind us.
"As long as we get the rub of the green and the right decisions, which hasn't been the case in the past, then hopefully it will be okay.
"Everybody wants to win the FA Cup but you have to earn the right and beat the teams on the way through.
"We have been playing against the top sides recently and not letting ourselves down.
"I think you would say they (Liverpool) had the advantage in the two games at Anfield and we were able to come away with two draws.
"I feel we can play much better; I think we are playing well but I think we can play better. Hopefully if we can do that we can get into the next round of the Cup."
The club has Joseph Yobo available although new signing Jô is unavailable. The Brazilian goal scorer is cup tied as he was part of City's woefully bad performance when they lost to Nottingham Forest.
Everyone's favourite Aussie, Timmy Cahill said of the derby:
“It’s always massive playing Liverpool. It’s just the occasion that takes the lime-light, but the referee could also write the headlines.
“Hopefully that’s not the case and it’s an (Everton) player that get their name in the record books.
“Liverpool had a good result against Chelsea on Sunday after a fortunate decision from the referee. I got sent off by the same ref but games can hang on really harsh decisions.
“I think this is the best time to play Liverpool and we are really confident. Hopefully we’ll get a good result.
“I feel that there’s a lot of hype that goes on and now that we’re at home we should take the game to them and hopefully get a good result.
“I think we should just stick to our game plan. We will hit them on the break and defend well too.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Newcastle falls to Hull 1-0 in FA Cup
"We were the better team by miles", said Joe Kinnear following the match but unfortunately Newcastle failed to capitalize on opportunities and fell 1-0 to Hull City in the FA Cup.Although indicated prior to the match, the idea of a youth-laden starting grid was cast aside as Joe Kinnear went forward with his best eleven available against a predominately second tier Hull City line-up. Newcastle started with a morsel more aggression than the visitors but unfortunately Michael Owen had a off night as he squandered at least three golden chances, including a clear chance in on the Hull City alone eleven minutes before the break but unfortunately his effort flew off into the stands. Earlier, twenty-one minutes after the start, Nicky Butt flicked on Danny Guthrie's free-kick against the crossbar and the theme of being denied had taken root. And while opportunities came and went, Hull City capitalized on one of their few chances as ex-Ranger Daniel Cousin re-directed Richard Garcia's cross to the back of the net to give them a 1-0 lead. Following the goal Kazenga LuaLua entered for Jonás Gutiérrez and in conjunction with Andy Carroll, they were able to show a notable attacking spirit that hopefully garners more playing time.
Following the loss Joe Kinnear said, "They had a smash and grab, they had one shot all night and scored, we missed at least five clear-cut chances. We hit the post, hit the crossbar, Michael (Owen)'s had a few, Xisco's missed one… The good thing is we created the chances but it wasn't going to be our night, was it? Michael, being the finisher he is, on any other day he would have put at least one of those away out of the opportunities."
Tamás Kádár to debut for Newcastle today in FA Cup
With today’s FA Cup replay against Hull City the big news is that Tamás Kádár is likely to debut for Newcastle. The eighteen year-old Hungarian U21 is a brilliant young talent and in-time will become a favourite for the St James’ Park faithful.
Joe Kinnear said of the young Tamás:
“Tamas has done very well.
“I’d think out of most of the young lads, he would have a realistic chance of playing, or almost certainly being involved in the game.
“I have got other options, but they depend on the fitness level of Charles, who is suffering from a thigh strain.”
Unfortunately Andy Carroll and Shola Ameobi will miss out with Newcastle as the Magpies head into the match with an astonishing eleven absences.
However as one door closes, another opens and Kazenga LuaLua, Mark Doninger and Jonny Godsmark have been included in the youthful lineup that will press hard to impress.
Joe Kinnear said of the young Tamás:
“Tamas has done very well.
“I’d think out of most of the young lads, he would have a realistic chance of playing, or almost certainly being involved in the game.
“I have got other options, but they depend on the fitness level of Charles, who is suffering from a thigh strain.”
Unfortunately Andy Carroll and Shola Ameobi will miss out with Newcastle as the Magpies head into the match with an astonishing eleven absences.
However as one door closes, another opens and Kazenga LuaLua, Mark Doninger and Jonny Godsmark have been included in the youthful lineup that will press hard to impress.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Sparky heats up the forces to face Portsmouth
The fallout of the FA Cup loss to Nottingham Forest continues to dominate Manchester City conversation but as the club ventures forward against Portsmouth it must find the professional resolve to dust itself off and get back the the fight. While I am not positive I have seen that “back against the wall” attitude, it is time to heat things up and make sure those that worry about losing their jobs to new arrivals know every performance could be the difference in your career. Performances past are just that, the past and the mettle of a professional is how he gets back up.
Looking back on the recent loss Mark Hughes said:
“We all feel it very much so, obviously at the weekend we didn’t get anywhere near the level we know we are capable of, that was the galling thing from our point of view because we know we are better than we showed.
“We’ve had time to reflect on the game, watched it over and over again and the opinion of it doesn’t really change,” he said.
“After the game I gave credit to Nottingham Forest because they worked extremely hard for the victory. You look at the stats and the cold, hard facts, and at the end of the day they made the most of their opportunities.
“I think they had four shots on target and they scored three goals. We had numerous shots on goal and didn’t score any – that doesn’t tell the whole story obviously – goals change games and they got the first goal and that gave them something to fight for and defend.
“They could then play on the counter attack and we didn’t cope very well with that. When you’re chasing the game it’s important that you keep your shape and discipline, even when you’re trying to ask questions of the opposition. In the end we didn’t really have that much structure to how we were trying to approach the game.
“I’d be disappointed if they weren’t down in fairness but at the end of the day you can’t dwell on what’s gone on before.
“You have to look at the game in detail as a Manager and as a coaching staff you make sure that any issues that arose in the game are addressed early in the week. Then towards the end of the week you prepare for the opposition ahead of you.
“That never changes and the games that have been played you can’t allow them to impact you in a negative way. You have to learn from defeats as well as wins and make sure you’re better next time out.”
Looking back on the recent loss Mark Hughes said:
“We all feel it very much so, obviously at the weekend we didn’t get anywhere near the level we know we are capable of, that was the galling thing from our point of view because we know we are better than we showed.
“We’ve had time to reflect on the game, watched it over and over again and the opinion of it doesn’t really change,” he said.
“After the game I gave credit to Nottingham Forest because they worked extremely hard for the victory. You look at the stats and the cold, hard facts, and at the end of the day they made the most of their opportunities.
“I think they had four shots on target and they scored three goals. We had numerous shots on goal and didn’t score any – that doesn’t tell the whole story obviously – goals change games and they got the first goal and that gave them something to fight for and defend.
“They could then play on the counter attack and we didn’t cope very well with that. When you’re chasing the game it’s important that you keep your shape and discipline, even when you’re trying to ask questions of the opposition. In the end we didn’t really have that much structure to how we were trying to approach the game.
“I’d be disappointed if they weren’t down in fairness but at the end of the day you can’t dwell on what’s gone on before.
“You have to look at the game in detail as a Manager and as a coaching staff you make sure that any issues that arose in the game are addressed early in the week. Then towards the end of the week you prepare for the opposition ahead of you.
“That never changes and the games that have been played you can’t allow them to impact you in a negative way. You have to learn from defeats as well as wins and make sure you’re better next time out.”
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Nottingham Forest humiliates Man City
Legendary club Nottingham Forest relived the glory of its magnificent past as it humiliated Manchester City 3-0 in the third round of the FA Cup. While Mark Hughes was without the services of Stephen Ireland and Robinho, it is little consolation for the Citizens and could very well cost the manager his position.
While Man City had been dumped out of the Carling Cup earlier in the campaign the hope was with the new year a page had been turned and the success in the FA was imminent. However Man City task was uphill from the start as they lost Shaun Wright-Phillips to a hamstring injury after eighteen minutes in. While early efforts by Daniel Sturridge and an Ecuadorian international Felipe Caicedo were turned aside by Forest ‘keeper Paul Smith, Nathan Tyson made no mistake when a positively dreadful defensive blunder by Micah Richards eight minutes before the break resulted in the former Reading-man volleying the ball home from eighteen meters.
Forest’s new manager Billy Davies, sitting in the stands, must have wondered which squad was the Premier side as his side took a 2-0 lead when another defensive error, this by the normally reliable Pablo Zabaleta resulted in a Chris Cohen cross into the box for Matt Thornhill. With the resulting effort was heading off-course Wales international Robert Earnshaw sent the ball in three minutes before the break.
Finally in a match scarred with some highly unprofessional errors, Forest added the third with fifteen minutes remaining as veteran Dietmar Hamann’s sloppy throw-in to Richard Dunne as hi-jacked by the highly promising Joe Garner and dispatched into the net.
With the scoreline now 3-0, hope slowly evaporated from Eastlands and the club was “reminded” by supporters of disappointment as they left the pitch.
Newcastle earns replay against Hull in FA Cup
Joe Kinnear will be pleased as his injury plagued side fought hard to a nil draw against Hull City in the FA Cup. While fans won’t be able to make claim of the match keeping them on the edge of their seat, it did possess a series of close misses and the saving work of Shay Given once again. Noteworthy for Newcastle was naturally the continued work of the Republic of Ireland ‘keeper but additionally the continued deployment of Andrew Carroll paired alongside Michael Owen, to which I am delighted to see Joe Kinnear give young striker an opportunity to shine. Unfortunately the match did come at a cost as Charles N’Zogbia was injured and needed to be substituted with Jonás Gutiérrez before the break.
Of worthy to note the match did feature a meeting of Craig Fagan and Danny Guthrie, who was responsible for the Hull City man broken leg early this fall and as expected with each touch, Danny Guthrie was received with a chorus of boos from the loyal home fans. For the most part, Hull City was the responsible for the majority of scoring opportunities. Former Rangers Daniel Cousin came close on a few occasions but each being held off by ‘keeper Shay Given. Newcastle was equally the beneficiary of a very close call by the referee with eighteen minutes remaining as Michael Turner headed appeared to cross the line before the Shay Given pulled the ball back. The Magpies opportunities were few and far between with close range efforts late in the match by Michael Owen and young Andy Carroll drifting off mark.
Following the match Newcastle coach Chris Hughton said on the club web-site:
“The game became very open after the break and both teams had chances to win it, although I thought a draw was fair.
“I thought we were the better side in the first-half. I also felt we had the best chances to win the game.
“It was very open second-half and Michael Owen had a good chance. They had a couple of good chances also and in some ways it was a typical cup tie.
“We were looking to bounce back after Liverpool. We knew we were up against a very good side in Liverpool and I think sometimes after the game you come off and put your hands up and appreciate the quality they’ve got.
“The important thing is that we did bounce back and got back to keeping clean sheets.
“Our record away from home recently has been very good.
“Our big priority is the Premier League but it’s a very welcome relief from that to be involved in the cup and for our supporters as well, you so how many we had here today and how vocal they were.
“We expect a very tough game at St.James’. They are a very good side and came to St.James’ and performed very well earlier in the season, but we’re at home and it’s important we make progress.
With the draw the Magpies will now be able to face Hull in a replay at St James’ Park on January 14.
Of worthy to note the match did feature a meeting of Craig Fagan and Danny Guthrie, who was responsible for the Hull City man broken leg early this fall and as expected with each touch, Danny Guthrie was received with a chorus of boos from the loyal home fans. For the most part, Hull City was the responsible for the majority of scoring opportunities. Former Rangers Daniel Cousin came close on a few occasions but each being held off by ‘keeper Shay Given. Newcastle was equally the beneficiary of a very close call by the referee with eighteen minutes remaining as Michael Turner headed appeared to cross the line before the Shay Given pulled the ball back. The Magpies opportunities were few and far between with close range efforts late in the match by Michael Owen and young Andy Carroll drifting off mark.
Following the match Newcastle coach Chris Hughton said on the club web-site:
“The game became very open after the break and both teams had chances to win it, although I thought a draw was fair.
“I thought we were the better side in the first-half. I also felt we had the best chances to win the game.
“It was very open second-half and Michael Owen had a good chance. They had a couple of good chances also and in some ways it was a typical cup tie.
“We were looking to bounce back after Liverpool. We knew we were up against a very good side in Liverpool and I think sometimes after the game you come off and put your hands up and appreciate the quality they’ve got.
“The important thing is that we did bounce back and got back to keeping clean sheets.
“Our record away from home recently has been very good.
“Our big priority is the Premier League but it’s a very welcome relief from that to be involved in the cup and for our supporters as well, you so how many we had here today and how vocal they were.
“We expect a very tough game at St.James’. They are a very good side and came to St.James’ and performed very well earlier in the season, but we’re at home and it’s important we make progress.
With the draw the Magpies will now be able to face Hull in a replay at St James’ Park on January 14.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Man City v Nottingham Forest FA Cup match preview
Storied side Nottingham Forest side make their first visit to Eastlands as they face Manchester City in the third round of the FA Cup. Following Manchester City’s Carling Cup disaster losing to Brighton and Hove Albion, Mark Hughes is most likely to come out with both guns blazing and use his top shelf squadron.
Going straight to the point, the manager said:
“It’s such a prestigious competition, and the third round is one of the great dates in the football calendar. Because of that, I think it needs to be shown respect and that is what we will do.
“You don’t want to go out in the early rounds, and we have already had an example of that this season. That night we made changes hoping to protect some players, and you can come unstuck when you do that.
“The FA Cup is a competition that seems to have featured a lot in my career, both as a player and as a manager. It is a competition I have great respect for, I always try to show it the respect it deserves by going into every game with as strong a side as you can.
“The mentality of players is possibly a bit different now. I know that when I was young, if asked why I wanted to be a footballer the answer was to play for your country and win the FA Cup. That may well have changed in this modern era, but it is still a fantastic competition. The thought of going out at Wembley on that invariably warm day in May at Wembley is still an attractive one.
I have always felt that cup runs help your league form. Doing well in a cup competition gives you a boost going into a league game, you’ll be confident so for me it’s not a hindrance.”
Nottingham Forest’s new manager Billy Davies will be watching from the stands before taking over the reigns. He said of the match:
“The expectation levels are not high, but we will have the energy and ability to go and put on a performance. It’s a cup tie and an occasion to be viewed as a great challenge.”
For the match Man City is without Nedum Onuoha and Stephen Ireland is questionable but are very likely to employ the best possible eleven as they look to make a definitive statement to home supporters in the first match of the new year.
Going straight to the point, the manager said:
“It’s such a prestigious competition, and the third round is one of the great dates in the football calendar. Because of that, I think it needs to be shown respect and that is what we will do.
“You don’t want to go out in the early rounds, and we have already had an example of that this season. That night we made changes hoping to protect some players, and you can come unstuck when you do that.
“The FA Cup is a competition that seems to have featured a lot in my career, both as a player and as a manager. It is a competition I have great respect for, I always try to show it the respect it deserves by going into every game with as strong a side as you can.
“The mentality of players is possibly a bit different now. I know that when I was young, if asked why I wanted to be a footballer the answer was to play for your country and win the FA Cup. That may well have changed in this modern era, but it is still a fantastic competition. The thought of going out at Wembley on that invariably warm day in May at Wembley is still an attractive one.
I have always felt that cup runs help your league form. Doing well in a cup competition gives you a boost going into a league game, you’ll be confident so for me it’s not a hindrance.”
Nottingham Forest’s new manager Billy Davies will be watching from the stands before taking over the reigns. He said of the match:
“The expectation levels are not high, but we will have the energy and ability to go and put on a performance. It’s a cup tie and an occasion to be viewed as a great challenge.”
For the match Man City is without Nedum Onuoha and Stephen Ireland is questionable but are very likely to employ the best possible eleven as they look to make a definitive statement to home supporters in the first match of the new year.
Hull City v Newcastle FA Cup match preview
The story line of the FA Cup match against Hull City is thick as Newcastle looks to respond to a dreadful loss to Liverpool. Last weeks 5-1 loss to Liverpool was a foul reminder of how far the club has to go as they were completely run off the pitch. While the scoreline was a foul abomination, it would have been worse if it had not been for Shay Given. Now with clubs injury situation getting so bad that manager Joe Kinnear was forced to cancel practice lest he risk another loss and the Republic of Ireland ‘keeper has expressed his displeasure and seemingly paving the way for an exit out. Yet if that isn’t enough the match could also see Craig Fagan come face to face with Danny Guthrie, whose reckless challenge broke the Hull City’s man leg approximately three months ago.
As always Joe Kinnear is pushing full steam ahead for the victory:
“We’ve got a lot of key players missing but I’ll be sending out my strongest possible side at Hull.
“This is a big game for us and it’s a competition which I love to be involved in.
“Maybe we should be keeping one eye on West Ham in the league next week but that’s not the message I will be giving my players.
“We’ll be going out very attacking minded and looking to get the win.”
Newcastle will have Sébastien Bassong available but are likely without Obafemi Martins and Habib Beye along with Mark Viduka, Cláudio Caçapa and longer-term absences Joey Barton and Alan Smith. Hull City is reporting a fully fit squad and anxious to climb into the next round of the FA Cup.
As always Joe Kinnear is pushing full steam ahead for the victory:
“We’ve got a lot of key players missing but I’ll be sending out my strongest possible side at Hull.
“This is a big game for us and it’s a competition which I love to be involved in.
“Maybe we should be keeping one eye on West Ham in the league next week but that’s not the message I will be giving my players.
“We’ll be going out very attacking minded and looking to get the win.”
Newcastle will have Sébastien Bassong available but are likely without Obafemi Martins and Habib Beye along with Mark Viduka, Cláudio Caçapa and longer-term absences Joey Barton and Alan Smith. Hull City is reporting a fully fit squad and anxious to climb into the next round of the FA Cup.
issue with pitch for FA Cup match
Everton’s third round FA Cup match against League Two Macclesfield Town is jeopardy due to pitch conditions. The pitch does not have an underground heating system and there is concern that it will freeze over and be unplayable. Late Friday afternoon the match referee inspected the surface and while satisfactory at the time it will depend on overnight conditions. The club has been using extra heaters to thaw the surface but the decision will come down to a early morning check.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Leeds fall to Histon in FA Cup
Straight to the point, Leeds fell to Blue Square Premier side Histon 1-0 today. The non-league side scored six minutes before the break as Matthew Langston, a postal worker by-trade (who yes, can now say he “delivers”), headed-in Gareth Gwillim’s cross. Leeds were provided a number of opportunities to score but were unable to do so and lost a glorious chance to advance in the FA Cup. Histon will now face Swansea in the third round.
Leeds return to the task of promotion from League One against Tranmere next Saturday.
Histon FA Cup match preview
Leeds travel to face Blue Square Premier League leaders Histon in the FA Cup second round Sunday afternoon. Prior to the match Gary McAllister said:
"It's a classic FA Cup tie."
"It's an early round and it's Conference versus a Division One side, but we're looking forward to it. It's the FA cup which I love. Bring it on...
"We're going to go and enjoy it. We know it will be a tough game. They are flying high in the Conference. I've watched them, I've seen DVDs and they are getting good results and are a confident side."
"But my concern is Leeds United not Histon. We're playing some good stuff. Our results could be better, but we're looking forward to Sunday. I want to go there and play at a good tempo."
Leeds will have Rui Marques and Alan Sheehan available for the match whilst Jermaine Beckford and Malcolm Christie are both injured.
I will report on the match once it concludes.
"It's a classic FA Cup tie."
"It's an early round and it's Conference versus a Division One side, but we're looking forward to it. It's the FA cup which I love. Bring it on...
"We're going to go and enjoy it. We know it will be a tough game. They are flying high in the Conference. I've watched them, I've seen DVDs and they are getting good results and are a confident side."
"But my concern is Leeds United not Histon. We're playing some good stuff. Our results could be better, but we're looking forward to Sunday. I want to go there and play at a good tempo."
Leeds will have Rui Marques and Alan Sheehan available for the match whilst Jermaine Beckford and Malcolm Christie are both injured.
I will report on the match once it concludes.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Leeds get through FA first round replay
After a dowdy draw against Northampton Town, Leeds got back on track with an overwhelming 5-2 victory in the replay. The vigor and spirit that Northhampton showed at Elland Road was absent and in its place was a lethargic, error prone contest that surely would leave their manager Stuart Gray fuming.Man of the match, Jermaine Beckford scored the first of his three goals thirteen minutes after the start, with David Prutton providing a perfect set-up against what appeared to be a practice ground defense by the Cobblers. Two minutes before the half-hour mark Jonny Howson's drive took a heavy deflection past a diving Mark Hughes and into the goal to make it 2-0. The theme of the day seemed etched in stone as young Ben Parker sent a long-range effort that should have easily been handed, skipped into the net past Northhampton 'keeper Frank Fielding to bring the score 3-0. However the home crowd, cleverly disguised as empty seats, were rewarded with a brilliant header off a Danny Jackman's corner by Jason Crowe as he charged into the box. With the score 3-1, there was a glimmer of hope but that would disappear shortly as a long ball was sent down the left side towards Jermaine Beckford. In-fact it was a horrendous piece of defending by Northampton as was out-run in a situation that could have easily been handled by a academy prospect. Catching up to the ball, Jermaine circled to left of the goal and instead of Malcolm Christie, who had made his first start for Leeds, he hit a perfect curling drive that hit the inside of the far post and in. With the 4-1 Leeds the match was effectively done with the exception of Jermaine's third goal of the night ten minutes after the restart and Jason Crowe further exploiting of Leeds weakness against set-pieces as he headed-in Luke Guttridge's corner as time ran down.
Leeds will now face Histon in the next round of the FA Cup.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Leeds kick off first round of FA Cup
The first round of the FA Cup gets underway at Elland Road against Northhampton. The Cobblers are winless in their last three league matches and are facing the match with Abdul Osman, Adebayo Akinfenwa and Luke Gutteridge out and Colin Larkin doubtful. Leeds are fully-fit with the exception of Rui Marques and Alan Sheehan. Judging from Gary McAllister's comments, they are anxious for the Cup:
"I love the FA Cup. I have to say I had a fantastic run late in my career in the cup competitions, including the FA Cup. As much as I came on for Liverpool against Arsenal in the final with not long to go, the FA Cup final for me has always been special. We didn't actually get the TV pictures in Scotland when I was growing up and we had to travel to the border towns to watch it, but the FA Cup has always been a big event. I'm a traditionalist. I like the history of it. I was involved at Cardiff, but it's nice to see it back at Wembley. It's a magical tournament. At Leicester I had six seasons and never won an FA Cup tie so it wasn't good to me. We always seemed to get tough draws when I was a player here as well. As much as the number one target is promotion, it is a respite from league business. We see the importance of getting to the third round. That's when the big boys come in and in some peoples eyes that is seen as when the cup proper starts. That's the target. We're not looking miles ahead, but that's what were looking for."
"I love the FA Cup. I have to say I had a fantastic run late in my career in the cup competitions, including the FA Cup. As much as I came on for Liverpool against Arsenal in the final with not long to go, the FA Cup final for me has always been special. We didn't actually get the TV pictures in Scotland when I was growing up and we had to travel to the border towns to watch it, but the FA Cup has always been a big event. I'm a traditionalist. I like the history of it. I was involved at Cardiff, but it's nice to see it back at Wembley. It's a magical tournament. At Leicester I had six seasons and never won an FA Cup tie so it wasn't good to me. We always seemed to get tough draws when I was a player here as well. As much as the number one target is promotion, it is a respite from league business. We see the importance of getting to the third round. That's when the big boys come in and in some peoples eyes that is seen as when the cup proper starts. That's the target. We're not looking miles ahead, but that's what were looking for."
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