Monday, April 30, 2007
The Long Road Ahead for Sunderland & Birmingham
By John Nicholson
Birmingham and Sunderland have hit the jackpot. There's never a bad time to get promoted to the Premiership but if you're in to do it, this was the year to make it happen because the money that it will bring both clubs is simply huge at anywhere from £30-50 million.
It's mega money but what does it mean in reality? Primarily it means both clubs can buy better quality players this summer. But Reading has proved this season that you don’t need big money signings to succeed in the top flight. Team work, good tactics and organisation are much more important and clubs such as West Ham have proved that spending money is no guarantee of success.
So there's no simple equation that you can use to prove that simply getting a massive sack of TV cash will make your club even survive in the top flight. And to further complicate the situation it’s pretty clear that some managers don't know how to spend money especially if they've had to survive on very little for years. Some seem to feel obliged to lash out money on any old rubbish just to try and prove they’re doing something.
At Birmingham, Bruce's reputation in the transfer market is very patchy when they were in the Premiership. The occasional odd good loan signing was counter balanced by buying crocks and players who just were not good enough and yet this season, his purchase of Gary McSheffrey along with the Arsenal kids was totally crucial. So getting the right man in can be key. But it's far from inevitable.
Managers can live and die by their transfer policy but what do you do? Spend big and hope the players you get in will do the business or do you stick with the squad that got you up? There's no easy answer. In recent seasons Coppell at Reading and Jewell at Wigan stayed up after promotion by spending very little. Sheffield United has just about survived also on a shoestring budget. And yet others such as WBA were relegated after not spending much money and were criticised for not breaking the bank.
So the hard work is just beginning for Bruce and Keane. Fans will expect big names and big money to be spent as a sign of the clubs ambition. Ironically, the amount of money available to these clubs next season will put even more pressure on the managers to get it right first time. Because as happy and joyous as Birmingham and Sunderland are right now, a poor start and some bad results early next season will see that quickly evaporate.
Birmingham and Sunderland have hit the jackpot. There's never a bad time to get promoted to the Premiership but if you're in to do it, this was the year to make it happen because the money that it will bring both clubs is simply huge at anywhere from £30-50 million.
It's mega money but what does it mean in reality? Primarily it means both clubs can buy better quality players this summer. But Reading has proved this season that you don’t need big money signings to succeed in the top flight. Team work, good tactics and organisation are much more important and clubs such as West Ham have proved that spending money is no guarantee of success.
So there's no simple equation that you can use to prove that simply getting a massive sack of TV cash will make your club even survive in the top flight. And to further complicate the situation it’s pretty clear that some managers don't know how to spend money especially if they've had to survive on very little for years. Some seem to feel obliged to lash out money on any old rubbish just to try and prove they’re doing something.
At Birmingham, Bruce's reputation in the transfer market is very patchy when they were in the Premiership. The occasional odd good loan signing was counter balanced by buying crocks and players who just were not good enough and yet this season, his purchase of Gary McSheffrey along with the Arsenal kids was totally crucial. So getting the right man in can be key. But it's far from inevitable.
Managers can live and die by their transfer policy but what do you do? Spend big and hope the players you get in will do the business or do you stick with the squad that got you up? There's no easy answer. In recent seasons Coppell at Reading and Jewell at Wigan stayed up after promotion by spending very little. Sheffield United has just about survived also on a shoestring budget. And yet others such as WBA were relegated after not spending much money and were criticised for not breaking the bank.
So the hard work is just beginning for Bruce and Keane. Fans will expect big names and big money to be spent as a sign of the clubs ambition. Ironically, the amount of money available to these clubs next season will put even more pressure on the managers to get it right first time. Because as happy and joyous as Birmingham and Sunderland are right now, a poor start and some bad results early next season will see that quickly evaporate.
John Nicholson is currently touring California, so be on the lookout for a Northern Man with a penchant for debauchery, football and music. John Nicholson writes each week for Football 365 and EPL Talk. You can listen to John's wonderful stories on episode 30 and 45 of the EPL Talk Podcast, as well as purchase his excellent Footy Rocks book and order one of his unique rock'n roll T-shirts.
Read John's recent article about his trip to the States and the experience of watching a Middlesbrough match on telly here compared to his home in the UK.
Read John's recent article about his trip to the States and the experience of watching a Middlesbrough match on telly here compared to his home in the UK.
Labels: birmingham city, john nicholson, roy keane, steve bruce, sunderland
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Interview with Ian Plenderleith
Episode 64 of the EPL Talk Podcast was released tonight featuring an interview with Ian Plenderleith, freelance writer for The Guardian, When Saturday Comes, USSoccerPlayers.com and other notable publications.
You can read more about Ian Plenderleith at his web site. Or, if you're interested in purchasing his book, "For Whom The Ball Rolls," visit this page.
You can read more about Ian Plenderleith at his web site. Or, if you're interested in purchasing his book, "For Whom The Ball Rolls," visit this page.
Labels: ian plenderleith
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Liverpool v Chelsea: Live and Online
If you're searching for a way to experience Tuesday's Champions League match between Liverpool and Chelsea online, join the EPL Talk Chat hosted by bcjohn.
We'll have Chelsea, Liverpool and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the huge semi-final clash. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Liverpool and Chelsea radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The coverage kicks off on Tuesday, May 1st at 2:30pm ET/5:30pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
We'll have Chelsea, Liverpool and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the huge semi-final clash. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Liverpool and Chelsea radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The coverage kicks off on Tuesday, May 1st at 2:30pm ET/5:30pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
Labels: Champions League, Chelsea, epl talk chat, Liverpool
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Sunday, April 29, 2007
ESPN Interested in Bidding for Setanta Sports
According to the Irish newspaper The Sunday Business Post, ESPN has been linked with a possible bid for Setanta Sports. The reporter also mentions that BT and Virgin may also be interested.
If ESPN wants to get more into soccer, it's easier for them to buy a network that already has a strong footprint in the sport than to try waiting years to bid for new TV rights deal when they become available.
During the past year, Setanta Sports has achieved some incredible coups by breaking up Sky's monopoly of the Premiership coverage, which will begin this August with both Setanta and Sky in the UK covering Premier League games. Setanta also recently acquired the rights, alongside ITV, to the England internationals and FA Cup games in the UK beginning next year.
In December 2006, ESPN announced it was acquiring NASN from Setanta. NASN (North American Sports Network) was a European network covering American sports.
If the interest by ESPN is true, it makes perfect sense for the American network that's owned by Disney. Purchasing Setanta would be an instant ticket to an impressive platform of soccer programming including the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, Scottish Premier League, Championship, FA Cup, Lique Un and much more.
More importantly for soccer fans in America, having ESPN associated with the soccer network should increase the likelihood that the channel would be more readily available on cable networks nationwide. ESPN's interest in soccer has increased considerably after a very successful 2006 World Cup campaign with impressive TV ratings, and more coverage of Champions League matches than in previous years.
More importantly for soccer fans in America, having ESPN associated with the soccer network should increase the likelihood that the channel would be more readily available on cable networks nationwide. ESPN's interest in soccer has increased considerably after a very successful 2006 World Cup campaign with impressive TV ratings, and more coverage of Champions League matches than in previous years.
If ESPN wants to get more into soccer, it's easier for them to buy a network that already has a strong footprint in the sport than to try waiting years to bid for new TV rights deal when they become available.
During the past year, Setanta Sports has achieved some incredible coups by breaking up Sky's monopoly of the Premiership coverage, which will begin this August with both Setanta and Sky in the UK covering Premier League games. Setanta also recently acquired the rights, alongside ITV, to the England internationals and FA Cup games in the UK beginning next year.
In December 2006, ESPN announced it was acquiring NASN from Setanta. NASN (North American Sports Network) was a European network covering American sports.
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Saturday, April 28, 2007
BBC & ITV to Offer Free HDTV Channels in 2008
In an interesting development, the BBC and ITV announced today a unique partnership whereby the British networks will offer free high definition television (HDTV) in the scale of 200 channels to residents in the UK beginning spring 2008.
Unfortunately, I'm sure those of us outside the United Kingdom would be unable to watch this programming especially if the service is paid for from the TV license fees in that country.
As you may remember, ITV recently secured a deal with Setanta Sports to capture the TV rights to England internationals and the FA Cup beginning next year.
Read more about the story here.
Read more about the story here.
Labels: BBC, England, FA Cup, ITV, setanta sports
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Tottenham Hotspur Next For American Takeover
The club that's most likely to be taken over by American investors next is Tottenham Hotspur. That's according to 39% of you, the readers, who believe the north London club could be going the way of Manchester United, Liverpool, Aston Villa and possibly Arsenal and Manchester City.
In the meantime, be sure to cast your vote in the next EPL Talk Poll (see left column of this blog page).
While almost 40% of you predicted Spurs being taken over by American businessmen, Everton and Newcastle both received 21% of your vote. Reading and Fulham received 13% and 6% respectively.
All this comes with the news that Southampton may be acquired by Seattle Seahawks owner Paul Allen. Southampton won against Norwich today and are fighting to get promoted from the Championship and back into the Premiership.
All this comes with the news that Southampton may be acquired by Seattle Seahawks owner Paul Allen. Southampton won against Norwich today and are fighting to get promoted from the Championship and back into the Premiership.
In the meantime, be sure to cast your vote in the next EPL Talk Poll (see left column of this blog page).
Labels: everton, fulham, newcastle united, paul allen, reading, southampton, spurs, tottenham hotspur
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Guests Announced for EPL Talk Show
Well, it's been a stunning day in football today, and we still have two weeks of brilliant football in front of us plus the first FA Cup final at Wembley, and the Champions League semi-finals. Right now, there's simply no better time to be a fan of English football.
But before the Premier League season wraps up on Sunday, May 13th, it gives me great pleasure to announce the guests who will be participating in the panel discussion during the EPL Talk Show, a live radio show scheduled for Saturday, May 12th from Noon to 2pm ET.
The featured guests are:
- Steven Cohen (host of World Soccer Daily)
- John Nicholson (author, and Football365 columnist)
- Chris Slegg (co-host of The Beautiful Game, and BBC Sport reporter)
- Phil McThomas (host of Soccer Shout)
- And me.
During the panel discussion, we'll discuss a bevvy load of Premier League-related topics on the day before the season concludes. If you have a topic you'd like to suggest for discussion on the show, just click the 'comments' link below and let us know.
In addition to the panel discussion, we'll have plenty of other features during the show such as a run-through of the best football web sites, a chance to win Pro Evolution Soccer 2007 for the PS2, and much more.
The EPL Talk Show will use technology from a company named Talkshoe so you can not only listen to the show live via the Internet, but you can also participate by chatting online with the audience and guests. And you can phone in to ask your questions, also.
To make sure you're equipped to enjoy the Show, sign up at the Talkshoe web site here (read the FAQ here). And then you'll need to download the Talkshoe client. Your best bet is to go ahead and check out one of the live shows after you've registered, so you can get used to how everything works.
If you have plans for Saturday, May 12th, we'll also release the episode as a podcast. But if you can make it, live is definitely the way to experience it.
Labels: BBC, beautiful game podcast, chris slegg, john nicholson, phil mcthomas, Soccer Shout, steven cohen, talkshoe, world soccer daily
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Man United Could Win EPL Title at Stamford Bridge
If you were able to watch the two Premiership matches this morning at the same time, what an incredible experience it was to see Man United's sensational 4-2 comeback against Everton on Setanta while Chelsea had a comeback of their own but couldn't find the winner in the 2-2 draw.
The results from the matches now gives Manchester United a massive advantage to win the Premiership title. United are now five points ahead of Chelsea. But technically they're six points ahead due to the vastly superior goal difference.
With three matches to go for both sides, all United has to do is beat cross-town rivals City in the Manchester derby next Saturday. And then if United gets either a win or a draw against Chelsea on Wednesday, May 9th at Stamford Bridge, Sir Alex Ferguson's side will be champions no matter what happens on the final day of the season.
Of course, if United drops points against Manchester City or if Chelsea drops points against Arsenal, then everything changes.
Without a doubt, Manchester United's scoring spree throughout this season has paid dividends compared to Chelsea's more typical 1-0 and 2-0 wins. That superior goal difference puts United into a fantastic spot and psychologically gives Chelsea a mountain to climb.
Despite Man United beating Everton today, they didn't play nearly the best. Everton put on a valiant performance closing down United whenever they got the opportunity. Rooney, especially, had a very poor game but that one twist of brilliance which led to his goal to make it 3-2 was all it took to make him a hero for the day.
Is the Premiership title now out of Chelsea's grasp or do you see any way that they can fight back and pinch it?
The results from the matches now gives Manchester United a massive advantage to win the Premiership title. United are now five points ahead of Chelsea. But technically they're six points ahead due to the vastly superior goal difference.
With three matches to go for both sides, all United has to do is beat cross-town rivals City in the Manchester derby next Saturday. And then if United gets either a win or a draw against Chelsea on Wednesday, May 9th at Stamford Bridge, Sir Alex Ferguson's side will be champions no matter what happens on the final day of the season.
Of course, if United drops points against Manchester City or if Chelsea drops points against Arsenal, then everything changes.
Without a doubt, Manchester United's scoring spree throughout this season has paid dividends compared to Chelsea's more typical 1-0 and 2-0 wins. That superior goal difference puts United into a fantastic spot and psychologically gives Chelsea a mountain to climb.
Despite Man United beating Everton today, they didn't play nearly the best. Everton put on a valiant performance closing down United whenever they got the opportunity. Rooney, especially, had a very poor game but that one twist of brilliance which led to his goal to make it 3-2 was all it took to make him a hero for the day.
Is the Premiership title now out of Chelsea's grasp or do you see any way that they can fight back and pinch it?
Labels: chelsra, man united, manchester united, stamford bridge
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Friday, April 27, 2007
Will Manchester United Tour the U.S. This Summer?
It's the million dollar question for Man United and soccer fans in America. Will United pass up the opportunity of playing in America this summer during the pre-season friendlies like they did last year when they concentrated on South Africa instead?
The decision hasn't been made, but what we do know is that United are scheduled to play several friendlies in the Far East between July 17 and July 27:
The decision hasn't been made, but what we do know is that United are scheduled to play several friendlies in the Far East between July 17 and July 27:
July 17: vs Urawa Red Diamonds (Japan)
July 20: vs FC Seoul (South Korea)
July 23: vs Shenzhen (China)
July 27: vs Malayasian XI (Malaysia)
July 20: vs FC Seoul (South Korea)
July 23: vs Shenzhen (China)
July 27: vs Malayasian XI (Malaysia)
The 2007-2008 Premiership season will begin on August 11, which means that the Community Shield match (the symbolic start of the new season) will be on August 4th or 5th. That means that after Sir Alex Ferguson's side plays its last match of the Far East tour, it only has seven days before the match at Wembley.
The Community Shield pits the winner of the FA Cup against the winner of the Premier League. If the same side wins both, then the second place Premier League side will play the winner of the FA Cup. No matter what happens in the coming weeks, we already know that the Community Shield will feature Chelsea against Man United.
So could Man United play some matches in the United States before they head out to the Far East? It's possible, but I doubt it. Many of the Man United players will be featured in the June 1st friendly against Brazil at the new Wembley Stadium. This means that the United players will only have approximately four weeks until they report back to training in early July.
When Man United toured America in 2003, they played their matches between July 22 and August 3. During the 2004 tour, the club played matches in this country from July 25 to July 31. So given the timing of the Far East tour that was announced today and the earlier start to the season compared to last year (when it kicked off on August 19th), it looks highly unlikely that Man United will visit the US this summer.
So could Man United play some matches in the United States before they head out to the Far East? It's possible, but I doubt it. Many of the Man United players will be featured in the June 1st friendly against Brazil at the new Wembley Stadium. This means that the United players will only have approximately four weeks until they report back to training in early July.
When Man United toured America in 2003, they played their matches between July 22 and August 3. During the 2004 tour, the club played matches in this country from July 25 to July 31. So given the timing of the Far East tour that was announced today and the earlier start to the season compared to last year (when it kicked off on August 19th), it looks highly unlikely that Man United will visit the US this summer.
Labels: man united, manchester united
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Chelsea v Bolton on Fox Soccer Channel
If you're a subscriber to the EPL Talk Email Newsletter or you read the forums on the EPL Talk Community, you would have discovered some great news about this weekend's TV schedule for Premiership matches in the States.
The 7:45am match between Chelsea against Bolton, which was initially to have been played on Setanta Xtra, will be shown instead on Fox Soccer Channel. This means that 7:45am ET will have two games playing simultaneously: Everton versus Man United on Setanta, and Chelsea against Bolton on Fox.
Subscribe to the EPL Talk Email Newsletter today or register to join the EPL Talk Community message boards for free today so you don't miss any of the late-breaking news and developments.
The 7:45am match between Chelsea against Bolton, which was initially to have been played on Setanta Xtra, will be shown instead on Fox Soccer Channel. This means that 7:45am ET will have two games playing simultaneously: Everton versus Man United on Setanta, and Chelsea against Bolton on Fox.
Subscribe to the EPL Talk Email Newsletter today or register to join the EPL Talk Community message boards for free today so you don't miss any of the late-breaking news and developments.
Labels: bolton, Chelsea, fox soccer channel, setanta xtra
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Thursday, April 26, 2007
Wish-list for Setanta Sports
Yesterday we took a closer look at Fox Soccer Channel and made recommendations of what changes they can make in the summer to improve their level of Premiership coverage when the season begins again in August.
Today, it's our turn to do the same for Setanta Sports. Here's our recommendation of what they need to do to improve:
- Become more readily available. Simply said, Setanta Sports needs to do a better job at making its network more readily available to soccer fans across America. Sure, there's DirecTV and ITVN, but for Setanta to flourish, it needs to be available via cable and DISH network.
- More consistency with programming. Hopefully this will be sorted out beginning with the new season, but right now it's hard to know when we can expect to see Paul Dempsey on-air before, during, or after Premiership matches via the feed from the Setanta studios in Dublin, Ireland. If we can expect to see his analysis each weekend, this will help us form a bond with the programming.
- New original programmes. With Setanta acquiring the rights package in the UK to show many of the Premiership matches starting with the new season, let's hope that Setanta will have some new programming that we can watch here in North America. Football analyst discussion shows like the one on RTE, for example. Or other new programming.
Again, other than HD, which I don't see happening this year, what recommendations do you have for Setanta to improve other than the ones above? I look forward to reading your comments.
Labels: Setanta, setanta sports
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Portsmouth v Liverpool: Live and Online
If you're searching for a way to experience Saturday's Premiership match between Portsmouth and Liverpool online, join the EPL Talk Chat hosted by bcjohn.
We'll have Pompey, Liverpool and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the huge Premier League clash. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Portsmouth and Liverpool radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 28th at 10am ET/3pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
We'll have Pompey, Liverpool and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the huge Premier League clash. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Portsmouth and Liverpool radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 28th at 10am ET/3pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
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Chelsea v Bolton: Live and Online
If you're searching for a way to experience Saturday's Premiership match between Chelsea and Bolton online, join the EPL Talk Chat hosted by bcjohn.
We'll have Everton, Man Utd and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the huge Premier League clash. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Chelsea and Bolton Wanderers radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 28th at 7:45am ET/12:45pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
We'll have Everton, Man Utd and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the huge Premier League clash. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Chelsea and Bolton Wanderers radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 28th at 7:45am ET/12:45pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
Labels: bolton wanderers, Chelsea
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Everton v Man United: Live and Online
If you're searching for a way to experience Saturday's Premiership match between Everton and Manchester United online, join the EPL Talk Chat hosted by bcjohn.
We'll have Everton, Man Utd and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the huge Premier League clash. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Everton and Man United radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 28th at 7:45am ET/12:45pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
We'll have Everton, Man Utd and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the huge Premier League clash. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Everton and Man United radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 28th at 7:45am ET/12:45pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
Labels: everton, manchester united
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Wednesday, April 25, 2007
For Those About To Chat, We Salute You
by BCjohn:
To all who experienced the Champions League on the EPL Talk Chat Wednesday, I would like to apologize for all the technical difficulties we experienced today. I hope nonetheless you enjoyed the coverage of the All England Champions League Semi-Final and will join us again Tuesday for the return leg at Anfield.
To all who experienced the Champions League on the EPL Talk Chat Wednesday, I would like to apologize for all the technical difficulties we experienced today. I hope nonetheless you enjoyed the coverage of the All England Champions League Semi-Final and will join us again Tuesday for the return leg at Anfield.
Labels: epl talk chat
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Wish-List for Fox Soccer Channel
As the Premiership season is close to being wrapped up, many soccer fans will go into hibernation this summer before they return in August. Others will watch Major League Soccer. But while some soccer fans may take it easy this summer, it's time for Fox Soccer Channel (and other networks) to get some more hard work done.
Here's my wish-list of the things that Fox should change for next season:
- Reduce the time delay. This season, FSC's 10am ET match on Saturday has been guilty of kicking off matches as much as five to six minutes late. Reason being is that the show would begin at 10am, introduce the teams, go to commercial, come back and give the team lineups and finally go to the "live" match. But, in the real world, the match itself actually kicked off at 10am. The solution is simple. Fox should begin their coverage five minutes earlier for all Premiership matches allowing adequate time for introductions and advertisements.
- Cancel or change Super Saturday +. I have no issue with the show itself except that it could be better. But more importantly, the time of the show is inconvenient. For soccer fans who begin watching the Premiership on a Saturday morning through to the end of the 2:30pm match at 4:30pm ET, Super Saturday + becomes irrevelant. Sure, the show is intended more-so for viewers who missed most of the coverage earlier in the day. But I feel it would be better to air the show between Noon and 12:15pm and the second half of the show between 2:15pm and 2:30pm. The format of the show should be more analysis than reporting the news or showing the highlights.
- Provide soccer matches via broadband. Rumors are that this is already in the works, but how Fox provides this will be important (in terms of pricing and options). To me, the pricing should be low ($5 to $10 a month) to encourage fans to adopt the new technology and get them used to experiencing the Premiership via broadband. A monthly subscription model would be preferred, or a pay-per-match option.
- Create a remarkable new show. Fox provides some quality programming with the Fox Soccer Report and Fox Football Fone-In (although it is very repetitive for those who listen to the WSD radio show). However, Fox has the opportunity to create a new show where they can offer soccer fans with content that breaks new ground, doesn't copy other shows out there and resonates with soccer fans throughout North America. I have several ideas of what that should could be. It would be something remarkable that would win soccer fans over and get them hooked.
Those are my four ideas of how Fox Soccer Channel could improve. Of course, broadcasts of Premiership matches in high-definition would be nice, but I don't see that happening this year.
What ideas do you have for Fox Soccer Channel on how they can improve their coverage of the English Premier League? Click the 'comments' link below and let us know.
Labels: fox soccer channel
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Another Glorious Night for Manchester United
After the full-time whistle blew at Old Trafford last night, you could see the incredible delight on Alex Ferguson's face. The Scot wants nothing more than to add another Champions League trophy to his long list of accomplishments before he retires, whenever that is.
But while United's performance was exemplary, especially in the second half, the Red Devils shouldn't get too carried away. All that Milan needs to qualify for the final in place of Man United is a 1-0 home win next week at the San Siro (the same scoreline that kicked Celtic out of the first knockout round this year).
Such is the demands of the Champions League that the return leg in Milan will be played next week. Ferguson will especially be concerned with the weak defending that led to both goals by Kaka. Heinze was guilty of giving the Brazilian too much space and being unable to catch up with him for the first goal. The second goal was a comedy of errors with Patrice Evra clashing in to his own player for Kaka to go it alone and slot the ball into the back of the net.
United should also be concerned with the inability to capitalize on free kicks with both Ryan Giggs and Cristiano Ronaldo being guilty of weak shots.
Of particular note were the Paul Scholes pass that led to the first goal by Rooney (Alan Ball discussed it after the match, just hours before he died). And the pass by Ryan Giggs that led to Rooney's last minute winner.
For more analysis and highlights of the match, watch this:
Just as the United fans were against Roma in the 7-1 home win, the Old Trafford Crowd was loud and passionate again last night. Incredibly, United only has one more home game left this season and that's the final one at the end of the season against West Ham United at home where Ferguson will be hoping he can win the Premiership trophy. Let's hope the fans can be as boisterous that day as they were last night.
But while United's performance was exemplary, especially in the second half, the Red Devils shouldn't get too carried away. All that Milan needs to qualify for the final in place of Man United is a 1-0 home win next week at the San Siro (the same scoreline that kicked Celtic out of the first knockout round this year).
Such is the demands of the Champions League that the return leg in Milan will be played next week. Ferguson will especially be concerned with the weak defending that led to both goals by Kaka. Heinze was guilty of giving the Brazilian too much space and being unable to catch up with him for the first goal. The second goal was a comedy of errors with Patrice Evra clashing in to his own player for Kaka to go it alone and slot the ball into the back of the net.
United should also be concerned with the inability to capitalize on free kicks with both Ryan Giggs and Cristiano Ronaldo being guilty of weak shots.
Of particular note were the Paul Scholes pass that led to the first goal by Rooney (Alan Ball discussed it after the match, just hours before he died). And the pass by Ryan Giggs that led to Rooney's last minute winner.
For more analysis and highlights of the match, watch this:
Just as the United fans were against Roma in the 7-1 home win, the Old Trafford Crowd was loud and passionate again last night. Incredibly, United only has one more home game left this season and that's the final one at the end of the season against West Ham United at home where Ferguson will be hoping he can win the Premiership trophy. Let's hope the fans can be as boisterous that day as they were last night.
Labels: alex ferguson, Champions League, manchester united, paul scholes, wayne rooney
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RIP: Alan Ball
Tragic news today as England World Cup star Alan Ball died outside his home in England after suffering a heart attack trying to put out a garden fire in his backyard.
Ball, the red-haired dimunitive England midfielder, played 975 matches in his career and even played in the NASL in the late 70s for Vancouver Whitecaps and the Philadelphia Fury.
In his management career, I have fond memories of his time at Portsmouth, Southampton and Manchester City, where he had a mixture of success and failure.
Here's a video compilation of some of his goals when he played for Arsenal in the seventies:
Ball, the red-haired dimunitive England midfielder, played 975 matches in his career and even played in the NASL in the late 70s for Vancouver Whitecaps and the Philadelphia Fury.
In his management career, I have fond memories of his time at Portsmouth, Southampton and Manchester City, where he had a mixture of success and failure.
Here's a video compilation of some of his goals when he played for Arsenal in the seventies:
Labels: alan ball, Arsenal, England, manchester city, portsmouth, southampton
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Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Investors Enter Feeding Frenzy for Premiership Clubs
Love it or hate it, the success of the Premier League in recent years is created a feeding frenzy among investors as they attempt to snap up the remaining clubs that aren't already owned by foreign investors.
While the purchases of Man United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Portsmouth and Aston Villa are well documented, the question is what clubs are next that are ripe for a takeover? Arsenal's buy-out by Stan Kroenke, to me, is inevitable. In fact, The Observer newspaper is reporting that a £650 million takeover is in the works.
Manchester City, meanwhile, is in the midst of a tussle between the former Thai prime minister and former player Ray Ranson who has tabled a £90 million bid for City. However, there have been strong rumors of an American investor interested in purchasing the club, so Ranson's offer to City may force the hand of the mystery American so he can be revealed to us all.
Last weekend, I posted a poll and asked you which clubs you thought would be the next ones to be purchased by American investors. I made an educated guess and offered you the choice of Newcastle, Spurs, Reading, Everton and Fulham.
Little did I know that financial experts in London are predicting that between now and the end of the year, Newcastle, Reading and Fulham could be in the hands of American investors. The Observer didn't mention Spurs or Everton. However, the second largest shareholder in Everton FC is English-born Florida resident (and Planet Hollywood founder) Robert Earl.
In January, US hedge fund Polygon called off talks with Newcastle United. Reading chairman John Madjeski has stated publicly that he's seeking a buyer. With a passionate and affluent fan base, Reading could be purchased for a lot less than Manchester City, I believe. However, outside of Berkshire, Reading has a small loyal fan base. Sure, they have many admirers of their attacking style of play (myself included), but would you swear your allegiance and buy a Reading shirt?
By the end of 2007, what clubs will be left that haven't been purchased by foreign investors? Middlesbrough, Bolton, Blackburn and Wigan... all clubs that aren't as attractive as the high flyers in the league.
While the purchases of Man United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Portsmouth and Aston Villa are well documented, the question is what clubs are next that are ripe for a takeover? Arsenal's buy-out by Stan Kroenke, to me, is inevitable. In fact, The Observer newspaper is reporting that a £650 million takeover is in the works.
Manchester City, meanwhile, is in the midst of a tussle between the former Thai prime minister and former player Ray Ranson who has tabled a £90 million bid for City. However, there have been strong rumors of an American investor interested in purchasing the club, so Ranson's offer to City may force the hand of the mystery American so he can be revealed to us all.
Last weekend, I posted a poll and asked you which clubs you thought would be the next ones to be purchased by American investors. I made an educated guess and offered you the choice of Newcastle, Spurs, Reading, Everton and Fulham.
Little did I know that financial experts in London are predicting that between now and the end of the year, Newcastle, Reading and Fulham could be in the hands of American investors. The Observer didn't mention Spurs or Everton. However, the second largest shareholder in Everton FC is English-born Florida resident (and Planet Hollywood founder) Robert Earl.
In January, US hedge fund Polygon called off talks with Newcastle United. Reading chairman John Madjeski has stated publicly that he's seeking a buyer. With a passionate and affluent fan base, Reading could be purchased for a lot less than Manchester City, I believe. However, outside of Berkshire, Reading has a small loyal fan base. Sure, they have many admirers of their attacking style of play (myself included), but would you swear your allegiance and buy a Reading shirt?
By the end of 2007, what clubs will be left that haven't been purchased by foreign investors? Middlesbrough, Bolton, Blackburn and Wigan... all clubs that aren't as attractive as the high flyers in the league.
Labels: Arsenal, blackburn, bolton, fulham, liverpool. everton, newcastle united, reading, Wigan Athletic
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Guest Appearances on Soccer Shout & Inside Soccer
If you get a chance, be sure to listen to Tuesday's episode (April 24th, 2007) of the Soccer Shout podcast where I guest co-host alongside Phil McThomas. Phil and I discuss the past weekend's Premiership matches and look ahead with glee to the Champions League matches this week.
In case you missed it, feel free to listen to my recent appearance on the Inside Soccer radio show with Brian Halliday. We discuss several topics including my favorite guest on the EPL Talk Podcast, the appointment of Lawrie Sanchez and we share some laughs as always.
You can listen to both of these broadcasts and read any of the media coverage featuring EPL Talk on the About Us page here.
In case you missed it, feel free to listen to my recent appearance on the Inside Soccer radio show with Brian Halliday. We discuss several topics including my favorite guest on the EPL Talk Podcast, the appointment of Lawrie Sanchez and we share some laughs as always.
You can listen to both of these broadcasts and read any of the media coverage featuring EPL Talk on the About Us page here.
Labels: Champions League, fulham, Inside Soccer, Soccer Shout
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Monday, April 23, 2007
Soccer Fan Experiences Ineptitude of Time Warner
I quite often get emails from soccer fans around North America asking for help regarding their TV or satellite questions, or sharing their frustrations about dealing with cable and/or satellite providers.
I, too, have experienced my fair share of customer service nightmares (most notably with DirecTV). But here's one letter from a Time Warner customer and his experiences trying to sign up for the MLS Direct Kick package. Thanks to the excellent blog, That's On Point, for the article.
How many of you have had similarly bad experiences with your local cable or satellite company?
I, too, have experienced my fair share of customer service nightmares (most notably with DirecTV). But here's one letter from a Time Warner customer and his experiences trying to sign up for the MLS Direct Kick package. Thanks to the excellent blog, That's On Point, for the article.
How many of you have had similarly bad experiences with your local cable or satellite company?
Labels: major league soccer, MLS, time warner
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Sunday, April 22, 2007
Chelsea v Liverpool: Live and Online
If you're searching for a way to experience Wednesday's Champions League semi-final match between Chelsea and Liverpool online, join the EPL Talk Chat hosted by bcjohn.
We'll have Chelsea, Liverpool and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big semi-final clash. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Chelsea and Liverpool radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Wednesday, April 25th at 2:45pm ET/7:45pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
We'll have Chelsea, Liverpool and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big semi-final clash. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Chelsea and Liverpool radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Wednesday, April 25th at 2:45pm ET/7:45pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
Labels: Champions League, Chelsea, epl talk chat, Liverpool
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U.S. Investors Invading the EPL a Good Move
While the English Premier League is the most popular sports league in the world based on the number of global viewers, it ranks a distant fourth on revenue generated. According to The Daily Express, the top three are:
- NFL
- MLB
- NBA
It's no surprise therefore that more American businessmen are investing in Premiership clubs. With a global TV audience of more than 450 million in more than 152 countries, the opportunity for the EPL to generate more revenue than it currently does is enormous. And the proliferation of broadband technology is only going to generate new revenue streams for clubs and leagues.
I have no doubt that Arsenal will soon be in the hands of Stan Kroenke. As for Manchester City, a takeover deal looks likely to happen in the summer by a mystery American buyer. Beyond those teams, I wouldn't be surprised if more clubs are approached by U.S. investors.
For soccer fans living in America, it means the awareness of the league will increase in the U.S. And the chances of Premiership clubs visiting the States on friendly tours will increase.
For the Brits, the Premiership clubs need to realize that the Premier League is no longer simply an English league. It's the number one global sports league thereby attracting investors from some of the wealthiest countries in the world. Arsenal may try to fight back, but I really believe that Peter Hill-Wood's efforts are futile.
Labels: Arsenal, epl, manchester city, Stan Kroenke
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You're Invited to the EPL Talk Show
You're invited to the first official broadcast of the EPL Talk Show, scheduled for Saturday, May 12th at Noon ET/9am PT/5pm GMT.
Sure, you may wondering why you should listen to another footie-show. But this one will be different. It'll be broadcast live on the Internet. No matter where you live in the world, you'll be able to listen live, chat with fellow audience members and participate in the show by asking questions via the special call-in number or via online.
Also, the format of the show will be unlike no other. During the show, we'll have a panel discussion featuring different soccer experts. Already confirmed is Football365 columnist John Nicholson. More special guests will be confirmed in the next week. In addition to the panel discussion, we'll talk about a variety of other Premier League-related topics that you'll be interested in. Again, topics that you don't hear on other shows.
The May 12th episode will be the first EPL Talk Show of the summer. Depending on the popularity of the show, we're planning on broadcasting throughout the summer from the end of the season all the way to the beginning of the 2007/2008 season in August.
If you're interested, register for a free account at Talkshoe today (the service we're using for the EPL Talk Show) and get ready for the show kick-off on Saturday, May 12th at Noon ET.
PS. If you're curious, we kicked the tires a few weeks ago with a test episode open to just a few people. You can hear that sneak preview here.
The May 12th episode will be the first EPL Talk Show of the summer. Depending on the popularity of the show, we're planning on broadcasting throughout the summer from the end of the season all the way to the beginning of the 2007/2008 season in August.
If you're interested, register for a free account at Talkshoe today (the service we're using for the EPL Talk Show) and get ready for the show kick-off on Saturday, May 12th at Noon ET.
PS. If you're curious, we kicked the tires a few weeks ago with a test episode open to just a few people. You can hear that sneak preview here.
Labels: epl talk show, john nicholson, talkshoe
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Interview with Tommy Smyth from ESPN
ESPN's Tommy Smyth is featured as the interview guest on this week's EPL Talk Podcast. Download the podcast here or subscribe to the EPL Talk Podcast via iTunes so you don't miss a single episode.
During the interview, Tommy discusses:
- This week's Champions League semi-finals and whether AC Milan can stop Man United,
- What impact the managers of the respective Champions League semi-finalists will have on their teams,
- Tommy's playing career as a goalkeeper in America,
- How he came up with the catchphrase about putting a "bulge in the auld onion bag,"
- What a typical week is like in the life of Tommy,
- And much more.
Plus, during the interview, listen to Kevin Jones discuss the impact of the Premier League in the Far East. And we'll discuss the news stories from the past weekend as well as including a clip of the Ray Hudson interview from the video podcast for those of you who missed it.
Labels: Champions League, ESPN, manchester united, tommy smyth
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Saturday, April 21, 2007
If you enjoy EPL Talk...
It's 6:18am on a Saturday. I can't sleep, and there's still over an hour to go before the glorious Premiership weekend kicks off again with Arsenal against Spurs, and I have a mountain-full of work to do on EPL Talk, but it's all good.
Whether you're a new or regular visitor to EPL Talk, you may be interested in a new blog from EPL Talk named EPL Talk Buzz, which aims to give you an insider's look into what goes on behind the scenes to make EPL Talk happen. And, if you like what EPL Talk is doing, to provide you with links and tools you need to help promote us.
Bookmark the site today at http://epltalkbuzz.blogspot.com or subscribe to the RSS feed.
Thanks for your continued support!
Whether you're a new or regular visitor to EPL Talk, you may be interested in a new blog from EPL Talk named EPL Talk Buzz, which aims to give you an insider's look into what goes on behind the scenes to make EPL Talk happen. And, if you like what EPL Talk is doing, to provide you with links and tools you need to help promote us.
Bookmark the site today at http://epltalkbuzz.blogspot.com or subscribe to the RSS feed.
Thanks for your continued support!
The EPL Talk Blog has moved. Be sure to visit epltalk.com and update your bookmarks!
Fans Vote In Opposition to European Super League
The results are in from the latest EPL Talk poll about whether you are in favor of a proposed European Super League or not. With 95 people responding, here are the results:
What's surprising to me is that only 53% of you are in opposition to the Super League. I thought it would have been a higher percentage. Forty percent of you are either in favor of it, or would need to hear more about the plans before making a final decision.
For the 6% of you who aren't familiar with the European Super League concept, go here to learn more.
The next poll asks your opinion regarding which Premiership club is next to most likely be taken over by an American investor (see left column for poll).
Labels: european super league, poll
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News From Around The World of Soccer
- Premier League CEO Richard Scudamore believes that Premiership clubs should reduce ticket prices next season especially in light of the new, massive TV deal. However, he believes that it's up to the clubs to make that decision, which will mean that very few clubs will comply with his wishes.
- US-based writer Ian Plenderleith has written a revealing account of his recent return to England to watch some Championship and League Two football with visits to QPR and Lincoln's grounds, and gives us a comparison of how Major League Soccer is different. His observations may surprise you.
- Former Manchester City great Ray Ranson is one of the most business-savvy ex-players you may come across. The man invested heavily in ProZone, the incredibly sophisticated computer technology which has transformed the way managers analyze the game (see article about it here in the EPL Talk Magazine).
Now, Ranson is in the press talking about money matters, but predicts that the Americans investing in the game have their eyes set on the amount of money the clubs can make off broadband.
Also, Ranson's comment about making ProZone the Bloomberg of soccer is quite revealing. I'm sure we would have to pay for this level of research data, but that would be wonderful if the fans could sift through the data themselves.
Labels: ian plenderleith, Lincoln City, manchester city, match tickets, prozone, QPR, ray ranson, richard scudamore, ticket prices
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Thursday, April 19, 2007
Fox Soccer Channel Presenter Andy Houlihan
A couple of weeks ago, Fox Soccer Channel viewers started hearing the dulcet voice of new presenter Andy Houlihan (as first reported here). Since then, we've found out -- according to a spokesperson at Fox Soccer Channel -- that Houlihan's position at FSC is temporary. He's a freelancer from SkySports who lives in Beverly Hills.
Here's more background about Houlihan from his bio, courtesy of Fox:
Andy Houlihan began his career in the Network Newsroom with the BBC in London. After University, he returned to the BBC and soon became a respected news producer and reporter.
His life-long love of sport - he played schoolboy soccer at Premiership club Watford FC - led him to move from news to sports broadcasting in early 90's.
Since then Andy has had a very successful sports broadcasting career in the UK, covering some of the world's most prestigious sporting events for the BBC TV and Radio, ITV Sport, Sky News, Sky Sports, Bloomberg and Independent Television News.
He has consistently covered Premiership, Championship, Champions League, Uefa Cup and International Soccer for the past 10 years for a variety of International Television and Radio Networks.
He has interviewed David Beckham, Sven Goran-Eriksson, Michael Owen, Rio Ferdinand, Alan Shearer, Thierry Henry, Patrick Viera, Roy Keane and Sir Alex Ferguson among the hundreds of interviews he has conducted during his career.
During his time at Sky Sports, Andy reported and presented from various locations across the UK and Europe, including the 1998 World Cup Finals in France and the 2000 European Championships in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Andy was also the co-host of the 'Sports Breakfast' with former Ipswich, Spurs and Manchester United striker Alan Brazil on 'talk SPORT,' the Uk's first National All Sports Commercial Radio Station. Andy went on to present 'Sports Zone' on the Network on which he interviewed soccer legends George Best and the victorious England World Cup winners of 1966.
Labels: andy houlihan, fox soccer channel
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Charlton v Sheffield United: Live and Online
If you're searching for a way to experience Saturday's relegation match between Charlton Athletic and Sheffield Utd online, join the EPL Talk Chat hosted by bcjohn.
We'll have Charlton, Sheffield United and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big Premiership battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Charlton and Sheff Utd radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 21st at 10am ET/3pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
We'll have Charlton, Sheffield United and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big Premiership battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Charlton and Sheff Utd radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 21st at 10am ET/3pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
Labels: charlton, sheffield united
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Newcastle v Chelsea: Live and Online
If you're searching for a way to experience Sunday's Premiership match between Newcastle United and Chelsea online, join the EPL Talk Chat hosted by bcjohn.
We'll have Newcastle, Chelsea and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big Premiership battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Newcastle v Chelsea radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Sunday, April 22nd at 8:30am ET/1:30pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
We'll have Newcastle, Chelsea and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big Premiership battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Newcastle v Chelsea radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Sunday, April 22nd at 8:30am ET/1:30pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
Labels: Chelsea, newcastle united
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Spurs v Arsenal: Live and Online
If you're searching for a way to experience Saturday's Premiership match between Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal online, join the EPL Talk Chat hosted by bcjohn.
We'll have Arsenal, Tottenham and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big Premiership battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Spurs v Arsenal radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 21st at 7:45am ET/12:45pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
We'll have Arsenal, Tottenham and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big Premiership battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Spurs v Arsenal radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 21st at 7:45am ET/12:45pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
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A Word from Our Sponsors
EPL Talk is proud to announce that CDPoker.com has agreed to be a sponsor for the next six months.
The online poker room features jackpots of up to $275,000. Plus they offer 150% up to $500 and $15 free, free poker schools and much more.
To learn more, visit EPLTalk.com and click on the CDPoker.com banner near the top of the page.
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Thank you for supporting our sponsors.
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Wednesday, April 18, 2007
West Ham Falters to Clinical Finishing from Chelsea
If you didn't have a chance to watch tonight's 4-1 win by Chelsea at West Ham's Boleyn Ground, you may consider the result as another indication of Chelsea's superiority and West Ham's decline. Sure, the Blues were incredible tonight, but the scoreline didn't accurately portray West Ham's efforts, especially in the first half.
The first half was incredible. Hearing the West Ham fans singing "I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles," the hair on the back of my neck stood up, and the Hammers performance on the pitch was equally as impressive. Chelsea were on the backfoot much of the first 15 minutes as West Ham pressured Chelsea.
But the difference in the first half was the brilliance of Shaun Wright-Phillips, who scored two absolutely incredible goals. Sandwiched in between those goals was an equally as impressive strike by Carlos Tevez.
The second half was a different story as West Ham fell apart after Kalou scored Chelsea's third goal. By the 63rd minute, the West Ham fans started to leave the Boleyn Ground in droves. But those Hammers fans who did stick around gave their West Ham side a standing ovation.
West Ham's season isn't over yet, but the team needs to win its remaining matches to have any chance of staying up. Curbishley must tighten up his defense, though, as the Hammers fell victim to some blatant mistakes.
Chelsea, meanwhile, performed exceptionally especially in such a hostile environment. If they can win matches like these, I don't see them faltering anytime soon -- whether it's the Premiership, Champions League or FA Cup.
The first half was incredible. Hearing the West Ham fans singing "I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles," the hair on the back of my neck stood up, and the Hammers performance on the pitch was equally as impressive. Chelsea were on the backfoot much of the first 15 minutes as West Ham pressured Chelsea.
But the difference in the first half was the brilliance of Shaun Wright-Phillips, who scored two absolutely incredible goals. Sandwiched in between those goals was an equally as impressive strike by Carlos Tevez.
The second half was a different story as West Ham fell apart after Kalou scored Chelsea's third goal. By the 63rd minute, the West Ham fans started to leave the Boleyn Ground in droves. But those Hammers fans who did stick around gave their West Ham side a standing ovation.
West Ham's season isn't over yet, but the team needs to win its remaining matches to have any chance of staying up. Curbishley must tighten up his defense, though, as the Hammers fell victim to some blatant mistakes.
Chelsea, meanwhile, performed exceptionally especially in such a hostile environment. If they can win matches like these, I don't see them faltering anytime soon -- whether it's the Premiership, Champions League or FA Cup.
Labels: alan curbishley, carlos tevez, Chelsea, shaun wright-phillips, West Ham United
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World Soccer Daily Launches Redesigned Web site
This week, World Soccer Daily launched a redesigned version of their web site at worldsoccerdaily.com
Redesigned with frames by web designer Chris Kennedy, the site now has a completely different look and feel and has moved from its previous white background to black. The home page is much cleaner and better organized. The image of the pitch turf at the top and bottom of the page is nicely done. And the design, overall, definitely holds your attention far longer than the old design did.
That said, the redesign fails to add any significant new content or features to the site. Perhaps that's to come at a later date? At the time of the review, the TV schedule page was still out-of-date. The Nick and Steven Fan Club has gone (understandably so with Geber concentrating on poker now). Meanwhile, the advertisement for ITVN on the home page is misleading ("May 9th: Manchester United v. Chelsea, and the only place to see it is on ITVN"). Sure, ITVN will be showing the match, but it definitely isn't the only place you can see the match, which will air on Setanta Sports.
Overall, the design is a definite improvement over the old version. But once you've familiarized yourself with the new look, there isn't much to bring you back other than the message board.
Redesigned with frames by web designer Chris Kennedy, the site now has a completely different look and feel and has moved from its previous white background to black. The home page is much cleaner and better organized. The image of the pitch turf at the top and bottom of the page is nicely done. And the design, overall, definitely holds your attention far longer than the old design did.
That said, the redesign fails to add any significant new content or features to the site. Perhaps that's to come at a later date? At the time of the review, the TV schedule page was still out-of-date. The Nick and Steven Fan Club has gone (understandably so with Geber concentrating on poker now). Meanwhile, the advertisement for ITVN on the home page is misleading ("May 9th: Manchester United v. Chelsea, and the only place to see it is on ITVN"). Sure, ITVN will be showing the match, but it definitely isn't the only place you can see the match, which will air on Setanta Sports.
Overall, the design is a definite improvement over the old version. But once you've familiarized yourself with the new look, there isn't much to bring you back other than the message board.
Labels: steven cohen, world soccer daily, worldsoccerdaily.com
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BBC Debuts Female Commentator on MOTD
BBC's Match of the Day this weekend will feature a first when female commentator Jacqui Oatley will cover the Fulham against Blackburn match.
She will be the first female commentator for MOTD in the 43 year history of the show.
Read the article in The Daily Mail newspaper for some interesting comments by personalities within the football industry. Personally, I'm in favor of Jacqui commentating. It's about time, really.
Thanks to the EPL Talk reader Tokyo Toffeeman for the link.
She will be the first female commentator for MOTD in the 43 year history of the show.
Read the article in The Daily Mail newspaper for some interesting comments by personalities within the football industry. Personally, I'm in favor of Jacqui commentating. It's about time, really.
Thanks to the EPL Talk reader Tokyo Toffeeman for the link.
Labels: BBC, daily mail, jacqui oatley, match of the day
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EPL Talk Vodcast Features GolTV and Ray Hudson
The debut episode of the EPL Talk Video Podcast has been released, which features an exclusive interview with Ray Hudson and a behind-the-scenes tour of the GolTV studios and the set of their American Soccer television show.
The video podcast (or 'vodcast') is also available via iTunes, and is -- I believe -- the first ever soccer video podcast published in America. If you have a video iPod, you can view it there. Or you can view it directly through the iTunes software. Or, you can view it as Quicktime movie from here.
The EPL Talk Podcast will continue to be published every Sunday. For example, this Sunday's episode will include an interview with Tommy Smyth from ESPN, where he'll preview the Champions League matches as well as revealing how he came up with his catchphrase ('the bulge in the auld onion bag') and much more.
I'm planning on releasing the interview with Hudson as a podcast episode (i.e. audio-only) sometime this week -- especially for those listeners who are unable to play video.
Special thanks to The Creative Underground for directing and producing the video. The brand development agency provides clients with creative brand building solutions.
The video podcast (or 'vodcast') is also available via iTunes, and is -- I believe -- the first ever soccer video podcast published in America. If you have a video iPod, you can view it there. Or you can view it directly through the iTunes software. Or, you can view it as Quicktime movie from here.
The EPL Talk Podcast will continue to be published every Sunday. For example, this Sunday's episode will include an interview with Tommy Smyth from ESPN, where he'll preview the Champions League matches as well as revealing how he came up with his catchphrase ('the bulge in the auld onion bag') and much more.
I'm planning on releasing the interview with Hudson as a podcast episode (i.e. audio-only) sometime this week -- especially for those listeners who are unable to play video.
Special thanks to The Creative Underground for directing and producing the video. The brand development agency provides clients with creative brand building solutions.
Labels: EPL Talk Podcast, epl talk video podcast, goltv, ray hudson
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David Dein's Departure Raises Concerns for Arsenal
It must be a eyeopening time to be a fly on the wall of Arsenal's boardroom right now. Today, Arsenal's vice-chairman David Dein left the club after citing "irreconcilable differences" with the rest of the board.
Dein, who has been a director at the club since 1983, has been a central figure at Arsenal. His departure comes as a massive shock to the Gunners and English football. Rumors reveal that Dein was in favor of U.S. businessman Stan Kroenke's takeover of Arsenal, while most of the remaining board members were opposed to it.
Kroenke's actions in recent weeks have definitely ruffled the feathers with the Arsenal executives. Only yesterday, Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood said that "[the boardmembers have] no intention of selling to some stranger" and would be "horrified to see the club go across the Atlantic."
Kroenke recently bought 9.9% of Arsenal from ITV and purchased more shares from major shareholder Danny Fiszman.
Dein, who has been a director at the club since 1983, has been a central figure at Arsenal. His departure comes as a massive shock to the Gunners and English football. Rumors reveal that Dein was in favor of U.S. businessman Stan Kroenke's takeover of Arsenal, while most of the remaining board members were opposed to it.
Kroenke's actions in recent weeks have definitely ruffled the feathers with the Arsenal executives. Only yesterday, Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood said that "[the boardmembers have] no intention of selling to some stranger" and would be "horrified to see the club go across the Atlantic."
Kroenke recently bought 9.9% of Arsenal from ITV and purchased more shares from major shareholder Danny Fiszman.
However, in a statement today, the board has said that "In light of recent speculation with regards to the ownership of the club, the remaining board members, who together own 45.45 per cent of the issued share capital of the company, would like to reassure the supporters, shareholders and employees of Arsenal Football Club that they remain long-term holders of their interests in the club. To this effect, they have entered into an agreement not to dispose of their shares for at least one year and have confirmed that they intend to retain their interests on the expiration of this period."
Obviously there's a power struggle within Arsenal right now. With Dein leaving the board, Arsenal fans and executives will be worried that Dein may sell his shares to Kroenke. If Colorado Rapids owner Kroenke is interested in taking over Arsenal, it's going to get ugly.
Meanwhile, Dein is current chairman of the G14 group.
Labels: Arsenal, Arsenal Colorado, Stan Kroenke
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Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Lettering for 07/08 Premiership Shirts Unveiled
Starting on May 15th, the 2007/2008 shirts of Premiership clubs will feature a new letter and number style that will incorporate the new Premier League logo and will be easier to read.
Looking at the application guide for the new season (click image for a larger view), the height of the player's names on the back of the jersey appear to be smaller. The spacing between each letter appears to be wider, though, making it easier to read from afar.
One interesting point about the new design is that the Premiership application guide shows a Premier League logo (and associated text) to be added near the bottom of the short on the player's left leg. In the 2006/2007 season, it was a small Premier League logo inside the number on that player's short. But placing the logo beneath the number on the shorts may cause some clubs problems. Why? Because many clubs feature the kit manufacturer's logo in that space (as well as on the jersey, etc).
According to the application guide, though, "the position information is intended as a guide only. Shirts and shorts differ and this information may need to be reviewed in individual circumstances for the best fit to be achieved."
Overall, just as with the logo, I prefer the new design of the numbers and letters. The font is more modern and easier on the eye. The end result is a more attractive style. Now all we have to do is wait for the Premiership clubs to unveil improved shirt designs. Newcastle is first out of the blocks, and their design isn't bad at all.
Looking at the application guide for the new season (click image for a larger view), the height of the player's names on the back of the jersey appear to be smaller. The spacing between each letter appears to be wider, though, making it easier to read from afar.
One interesting point about the new design is that the Premiership application guide shows a Premier League logo (and associated text) to be added near the bottom of the short on the player's left leg. In the 2006/2007 season, it was a small Premier League logo inside the number on that player's short. But placing the logo beneath the number on the shorts may cause some clubs problems. Why? Because many clubs feature the kit manufacturer's logo in that space (as well as on the jersey, etc).
According to the application guide, though, "the position information is intended as a guide only. Shirts and shorts differ and this information may need to be reviewed in individual circumstances for the best fit to be achieved."
Overall, just as with the logo, I prefer the new design of the numbers and letters. The font is more modern and easier on the eye. The end result is a more attractive style. Now all we have to do is wait for the Premiership clubs to unveil improved shirt designs. Newcastle is first out of the blocks, and their design isn't bad at all.
Labels: 2007-2008 kits, 2007-2008 season, football kits, newcastle united, premier league shirt lettering
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Release Dates for 2007/2008 Premiership Shirts
If you're wondering when your favorite Premiership side will unveil their new 2007/2008 jerseys and kits, we have the answers for you:
Arsenal: July 7 (home), August 7 (away); Nike
Bolton: May 7 (h), June 7 (a); Reebok
Chelsea: July 7 (a), August 7 (third); Adidas
Everton: May 31 (h), July 12 (a), September 6 (third); Umbro
Liverpool: July 7 (a), August 7 (third); Adidas
Manchester City: July 7 (h), Aug 7 (a); Le Coq Sportif
Manchester United: July 7 (h), August 7 (a); Nike
Newcastle: May 7 (h), July 7 (a); Adidas
Tottenham: May 7 (h), July 7 (a); Puma
Wigan: June 1 (h), August 2 (a), September 6 (third); Umbro
* Dates are subject to change.
It looks very probable that Chelsea will play in their new away kit in time for the July 21st friendly against the LA Galaxy to mark Beckham's debut.
The above list is confirmation that Manchester City will be switching to Le Coq Sportif. Adidas lost out on that battle.
I wasn't aware that Wigan were changing their kit manufacturers this summer from the JJB brand to Umbro, but they are.
If you want to purchase shirts of your favorite Premier League clubs before they disappear from the shelves, visit the EPL Talk Store where we have a collection of all 20 clubs plus some rare items.
Arsenal: July 7 (home), August 7 (away); Nike
Bolton: May 7 (h), June 7 (a); Reebok
Chelsea: July 7 (a), August 7 (third); Adidas
Everton: May 31 (h), July 12 (a), September 6 (third); Umbro
Liverpool: July 7 (a), August 7 (third); Adidas
Manchester City: July 7 (h), Aug 7 (a); Le Coq Sportif
Manchester United: July 7 (h), August 7 (a); Nike
Newcastle: May 7 (h), July 7 (a); Adidas
Tottenham: May 7 (h), July 7 (a); Puma
Wigan: June 1 (h), August 2 (a), September 6 (third); Umbro
* Dates are subject to change.
It looks very probable that Chelsea will play in their new away kit in time for the July 21st friendly against the LA Galaxy to mark Beckham's debut.
The above list is confirmation that Manchester City will be switching to Le Coq Sportif. Adidas lost out on that battle.
I wasn't aware that Wigan were changing their kit manufacturers this summer from the JJB brand to Umbro, but they are.
If you want to purchase shirts of your favorite Premier League clubs before they disappear from the shelves, visit the EPL Talk Store where we have a collection of all 20 clubs plus some rare items.
The EPL Talk Blog has moved. Be sure to visit epltalk.com and update your bookmarks!
Monday, April 16, 2007
Interview with John Williams Now Live
Episode 62 of the EPL Talk Podcast was published this morning featuring an interview with author John Williams, who is also the director of the Sir Norman Chester Centre for Football Research in England.
As well as being an expert on matters dealing with hooliganism, ground safety and race within football, Williams is also a die-hard Liverpool fan who has written several books about his favorite team.
Williams discusses several topics including Hillsborough, his observations regarding the hooligans at the Roma against Man United match, what he thinks about Liverpool FC being taken over by Americans instead of local businessmen, his reflections about how the Premier League is doing ten years after he wrote a book on the topic, and much more.
Listen to the interview now, or subscribe to the EPL Talk Podcast via iTunes so you don't miss an episode.
More background information about John Williams is available here, while details about the resources and publications available can be found here. You can sort through the listings here to locate books by John Williams for purchase.
As well as being an expert on matters dealing with hooliganism, ground safety and race within football, Williams is also a die-hard Liverpool fan who has written several books about his favorite team.
Williams discusses several topics including Hillsborough, his observations regarding the hooligans at the Roma against Man United match, what he thinks about Liverpool FC being taken over by Americans instead of local businessmen, his reflections about how the Premier League is doing ten years after he wrote a book on the topic, and much more.
Listen to the interview now, or subscribe to the EPL Talk Podcast via iTunes so you don't miss an episode.
More background information about John Williams is available here, while details about the resources and publications available can be found here. You can sort through the listings here to locate books by John Williams for purchase.
Labels: EPL Talk Podcast, hooligans abroad, john williams, Liverpool
The EPL Talk Blog has moved. Be sure to visit epltalk.com and update your bookmarks!
Behind-The-Scenes at GolTV And American Soccer
Across the street from the GolTV studios on the JF Kennedy Causeway in Miami is the beautiful green water of Biscayne Bay. Stroll down the street and you see the WSVN Channel 7 studios featuring a view of downtown Miami to the left and Miami Beach to the right.
Yet, one block away, the buildings that house GolTV comprise two nondescript structures. One is a free-standing edifice that's so unassuming from the outside that it's easy to drive past without noticing. The building's blue color is warm and soothing, though, and consistent with the look and feel of the network.
The offices of GolTV, meanwhile, are on the fourth floor of a generic office building that's separated from the studios by a strip plaza. It's hardly the surroundings that I imagined, but it made me realize how the professionalism and GolTV brand makes the 24 hour soccer network appear much larger than what the buildings portray.
Buildings aside, what matters most about GolTV is the product on the screen and how it's presented, which I believe is exceptional and continues to improve. More on that later.
Inside the GolTV offices, I was impressed by the TV monitors inside every office and almost every cube on the floor. The day I arrived, everyone was watching the Chelsea against Valencia match from the Champions League. How refreshing it must be to work in a company where watching soccer on TV is encouraged!
After a tour of the GolTV offices and the impressive conference room (see the photo slideshow here of the entire behind-the-scenes tour), we headed over to the GolTV studio. Inside, it was a rudimentary building but filled with a team of hard-working people. After a brief tour, we stepped on to the set and chatted with the team of the "American Soccer" TV show (Phil Schoen, Ray Hudson, Lindsey Dean and Kelly O'Donnell).
As the cameramen made their preparations, the team of "American Soccer" traded notes, jokes and verified pronunciations as well as running through the schedule of the show to ensure that everything was prepared before the cameras started rolling.
We then had the pleasure of sitting in the studio and watching the "American Soccer" TV show unfold. Aired on Wednesday's at 8pm ET, the show is by far the best original soccer programming in the States packed with 60 minutes of news, highlights, analysis and passion.
Sitting back and watching the show being taped, I could see first-hand the fantastic chemistry and knowledge of the game that Schoen, Hudson, Dean and O'Donnell possess. Each of them are scholars of the game, and are able to communicate that knowledge with confidence, energy and, at times, humor.
Yet, one block away, the buildings that house GolTV comprise two nondescript structures. One is a free-standing edifice that's so unassuming from the outside that it's easy to drive past without noticing. The building's blue color is warm and soothing, though, and consistent with the look and feel of the network.
The offices of GolTV, meanwhile, are on the fourth floor of a generic office building that's separated from the studios by a strip plaza. It's hardly the surroundings that I imagined, but it made me realize how the professionalism and GolTV brand makes the 24 hour soccer network appear much larger than what the buildings portray.
Buildings aside, what matters most about GolTV is the product on the screen and how it's presented, which I believe is exceptional and continues to improve. More on that later.
Inside the GolTV offices, I was impressed by the TV monitors inside every office and almost every cube on the floor. The day I arrived, everyone was watching the Chelsea against Valencia match from the Champions League. How refreshing it must be to work in a company where watching soccer on TV is encouraged!
After a tour of the GolTV offices and the impressive conference room (see the photo slideshow here of the entire behind-the-scenes tour), we headed over to the GolTV studio. Inside, it was a rudimentary building but filled with a team of hard-working people. After a brief tour, we stepped on to the set and chatted with the team of the "American Soccer" TV show (Phil Schoen, Ray Hudson, Lindsey Dean and Kelly O'Donnell).
As the cameramen made their preparations, the team of "American Soccer" traded notes, jokes and verified pronunciations as well as running through the schedule of the show to ensure that everything was prepared before the cameras started rolling.
We then had the pleasure of sitting in the studio and watching the "American Soccer" TV show unfold. Aired on Wednesday's at 8pm ET, the show is by far the best original soccer programming in the States packed with 60 minutes of news, highlights, analysis and passion.
Sitting back and watching the show being taped, I could see first-hand the fantastic chemistry and knowledge of the game that Schoen, Hudson, Dean and O'Donnell possess. Each of them are scholars of the game, and are able to communicate that knowledge with confidence, energy and, at times, humor.
Incredibly, the show was taped with only one or two retakes in the entire 60 minutes (one, when O'Donnell forgot to switch on his headset so he could hear the producer). Schoen, who was interviewed recently on the EPL Talk Podcast, demonstrated his experience in broadcasting by taking the lead and maintaining a professional attitude throughout without distancing himself from the viewer.
Between takes, the running joke throughout this episode was the tie selection worn by the hosts. While the team works well together on-screen, their chemistry off-screen is equally as impressive.
Hudson, the master of the English language and passionate man of the beautiful game, was in his element as he added his observations unscripted throughout the show. In addition to Hudson, the whole team on "American Soccer" had the freedom to adlib throughout the show, which made it feel more natural.
During a break in the show, "American Soccer" and GolTV producer Helberth Ariza graciously invited us into the control room to see the other side of the show where Ariza and his team of four people put together all of the elements to make the show a success. As soon as the cameras rolled, Ariza was in complete control directing his team to roll tape on cue and ensuring that the show was perfected.
Without a doubt, the production value on "American Soccer" is superb. The entire team that works together on the show runs a tight ship. While the outside of the studio may appear unassuming, inside it's a different picture altogether and it's very apparent that GolTV has a winning formula in place.
Between takes, the running joke throughout this episode was the tie selection worn by the hosts. While the team works well together on-screen, their chemistry off-screen is equally as impressive.
Hudson, the master of the English language and passionate man of the beautiful game, was in his element as he added his observations unscripted throughout the show. In addition to Hudson, the whole team on "American Soccer" had the freedom to adlib throughout the show, which made it feel more natural.
During a break in the show, "American Soccer" and GolTV producer Helberth Ariza graciously invited us into the control room to see the other side of the show where Ariza and his team of four people put together all of the elements to make the show a success. As soon as the cameras rolled, Ariza was in complete control directing his team to roll tape on cue and ensuring that the show was perfected.
Without a doubt, the production value on "American Soccer" is superb. The entire team that works together on the show runs a tight ship. While the outside of the studio may appear unassuming, inside it's a different picture altogether and it's very apparent that GolTV has a winning formula in place.
The first episode of the EPL Talk Video Podcast will be released in the next 24-48 hours featuring video from the behind-the-scenes tour of the GolTV studios plus an interview with Ray Hudson.
Labels: american soccer, gol tv, goltv, kelly o'donnell, lindsey dean, phil schoen, ray hudson
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Goal of the Weekend: Hameur Bouazza (Watford)
How about this for a bicycle kick?
Who said Watford doesn't have class?
Who said Watford doesn't have class?
Labels: hameur bouazza, Watford
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Sunday, April 15, 2007
The Impact of the EPL on the Far East
EPL Talk correspondent Kevin Jones, who lives in London, will return to the EPL Talk Podcast on Sunday, April 22nd for the first in a series of exposes about the impact that the Premiership is having on the Far East.
Jones just returned from a trip that included Beijing, Shanghai and other cities throughout China. He also stopped by New York City along the way, so he'll compare and contrast what he saw in China versus New York, especially from a footballing sense.
Be sure to tune in for the April 22nd episode. Subscribe today to the EPL Talk Podcast via iTunes or visit the EPL Talk Podcast page here. Later today (April 15th), we'll feature an interview with John Williams, the director at the Norman Chester Centre for Football Research, for a fascinating conversation about hooliganism, ground safety and more.
Jones just returned from a trip that included Beijing, Shanghai and other cities throughout China. He also stopped by New York City along the way, so he'll compare and contrast what he saw in China versus New York, especially from a footballing sense.
Be sure to tune in for the April 22nd episode. Subscribe today to the EPL Talk Podcast via iTunes or visit the EPL Talk Podcast page here. Later today (April 15th), we'll feature an interview with John Williams, the director at the Norman Chester Centre for Football Research, for a fascinating conversation about hooliganism, ground safety and more.
Labels: china, EPL Talk Podcast, kevin jones, premier league
The EPL Talk Blog has moved. Be sure to visit epltalk.com and update your bookmarks!
Long Live The New George Best: Cristiano Ronaldo
By John Nicholson
For many football fans, the phrase "he's the new George Best" will be a familiar one. Over the last 35 years barely a season has passed without someone being hailed as the new George Best. I remember a lad from Hibernian called Peter Marinello was hailed in 1971 as the new Bestie when he signed for Arsenal. He wasn't. He had long hair though, and that was just about enough to invite the comparison.
As soon as anyone displays a bit of pace, skill and trickery, it's inevitable that this hoary old cliche is trotted out once again. And until now it has always proven to be way short of the mark. The player often possesses little of what made Bestie great and the comparison is a bit embarrassing to all concerned.
When Rooney emerged at Everton, it only took a season before the title was assigned to him by both fans and journalists. But Rooney, great player that he is, is no George Best. He isn't as quick, as quicksilver, as mercurial or as outrageously skilful.
For the last 35 years I never thought anyone would ever fill Bestie's boots; that no one was ever going to be the new George Best, primarily because the man was so extraordinary. If you ever saw him play live, he was an awesome sight in his pomp. He was able to run as fast with the ball as without it. He was always two steps ahead of a defender, knowing both what the defender would do and what he would do in response even before the thought had entered defenders head.
His close control of the ball was second to none. It appeared tied to his foot. He would beat a defender then go back and beat him again just for the hell of it. In the European cup in the mid 60s playing for Manchester United, he was an unstoppable force, gliding through what were back then often brutal defences whose intent was to kick the living crap out of you.
And all of this was played out on pitches that were like a ploughed field and at a time when the extent of physiotherapy was having Vaseline rubbed into you by an ex-army Sergeant Major and pre-match training was a steak and a pint of Guinness.
So I'd given up on seeing a new Bestie. Until Tuesday night. Cristiano Ronaldo is the new George Best. He is literally the inheritor of the legendary 7 shirt, but more than that he is the modern embodiment of everything Bestie was. His performance in that astonishing 7-1 victory was breathtaking. Audacious skill, vision and entertainment all performed at high speed. It blew me away. I never thought I would ever see a footballer play with that kind of panache and, just as crucially, effectiveness, again.
Because Ronaldo isn't just a show pony – he was – but he isn't anymore. He has learned to deploy his incredible array of skills to tear teams apart and to score goals. It's not just self indulgence, its not just 'look at what I can do' for its own sake and that is what has taken him to his current exalted level.
He is a mesmerising player; a blur of feet attached to an astonishing body. He is freaky looking. 6ft 2" and built like a brick shithouse, but with a low centre of gravity. He has the thick neck of a bull but the feet of a dancer. While Thierry Henry at Arsenal, in previous seasons has displayed awesome invention and pace, he pales in comparison to Ronaldo on his current form. Unlike Henry, Ronaldo is a total footballer who doesn't bottle it on big occasions. He's scored 21 goals so far from midfield, he can play left or right wing or up front or in behind a front two. He can tackle and he's a consummate header of the ball. He's like two players in one, the like of which I have never seen.
While he has been prone to throw a hissy fit, like Henry, this season his histrionics have been tempered and he's been a far better player because of it.
While it's impossible for any modern player to have the broader cultural impact that Georgie Best did and Ronaldo will never be as rock n roll or as downright good-looking either, but in terms of pure football, he is the real deal. On Tuesday night, it was a privilege to witness his genius and it was a performance that, like so many of Bestie's, are the stuff of legend.
Bestie is dead, long live the new Bestie.
For many football fans, the phrase "he's the new George Best" will be a familiar one. Over the last 35 years barely a season has passed without someone being hailed as the new George Best. I remember a lad from Hibernian called Peter Marinello was hailed in 1971 as the new Bestie when he signed for Arsenal. He wasn't. He had long hair though, and that was just about enough to invite the comparison.
As soon as anyone displays a bit of pace, skill and trickery, it's inevitable that this hoary old cliche is trotted out once again. And until now it has always proven to be way short of the mark. The player often possesses little of what made Bestie great and the comparison is a bit embarrassing to all concerned.
When Rooney emerged at Everton, it only took a season before the title was assigned to him by both fans and journalists. But Rooney, great player that he is, is no George Best. He isn't as quick, as quicksilver, as mercurial or as outrageously skilful.
For the last 35 years I never thought anyone would ever fill Bestie's boots; that no one was ever going to be the new George Best, primarily because the man was so extraordinary. If you ever saw him play live, he was an awesome sight in his pomp. He was able to run as fast with the ball as without it. He was always two steps ahead of a defender, knowing both what the defender would do and what he would do in response even before the thought had entered defenders head.
His close control of the ball was second to none. It appeared tied to his foot. He would beat a defender then go back and beat him again just for the hell of it. In the European cup in the mid 60s playing for Manchester United, he was an unstoppable force, gliding through what were back then often brutal defences whose intent was to kick the living crap out of you.
And all of this was played out on pitches that were like a ploughed field and at a time when the extent of physiotherapy was having Vaseline rubbed into you by an ex-army Sergeant Major and pre-match training was a steak and a pint of Guinness.
So I'd given up on seeing a new Bestie. Until Tuesday night. Cristiano Ronaldo is the new George Best. He is literally the inheritor of the legendary 7 shirt, but more than that he is the modern embodiment of everything Bestie was. His performance in that astonishing 7-1 victory was breathtaking. Audacious skill, vision and entertainment all performed at high speed. It blew me away. I never thought I would ever see a footballer play with that kind of panache and, just as crucially, effectiveness, again.
Because Ronaldo isn't just a show pony – he was – but he isn't anymore. He has learned to deploy his incredible array of skills to tear teams apart and to score goals. It's not just self indulgence, its not just 'look at what I can do' for its own sake and that is what has taken him to his current exalted level.
He is a mesmerising player; a blur of feet attached to an astonishing body. He is freaky looking. 6ft 2" and built like a brick shithouse, but with a low centre of gravity. He has the thick neck of a bull but the feet of a dancer. While Thierry Henry at Arsenal, in previous seasons has displayed awesome invention and pace, he pales in comparison to Ronaldo on his current form. Unlike Henry, Ronaldo is a total footballer who doesn't bottle it on big occasions. He's scored 21 goals so far from midfield, he can play left or right wing or up front or in behind a front two. He can tackle and he's a consummate header of the ball. He's like two players in one, the like of which I have never seen.
While he has been prone to throw a hissy fit, like Henry, this season his histrionics have been tempered and he's been a far better player because of it.
While it's impossible for any modern player to have the broader cultural impact that Georgie Best did and Ronaldo will never be as rock n roll or as downright good-looking either, but in terms of pure football, he is the real deal. On Tuesday night, it was a privilege to witness his genius and it was a performance that, like so many of Bestie's, are the stuff of legend.
Bestie is dead, long live the new Bestie.
John Nicholson writes each week for Football 365 and EPL Talk. You can listen to John's wonderful stories on episode 30 and 45 of the EPL Talk Podcast, as well as purchase his excellent Footy Rocks book and order one of his unique rock'n roll T-shirts.
Labels: cristiano ronaldo, george best, john nicholson, man united, manchester united
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Is Tottenham Jose Mourinho's Next Destination?
Paul Wilson in The Observer today writes an absorbing article about how England means the best of Europe, and how the domination of the Premiership clubs could accelerate the formation of a European Super League (albeit without the English teams). It's a must-read article.
Wilson concludes with an interesting question and that's whether Jose Mourinho will decide to stay in England to manage instead of going to Spain, especially with the "fall" of La Liga in terms of no Spanish sides being in the semi-final stages of the Champions League.
If Mourinho is sacked by Chelsea, which clubs in the Premiership would have the money and ambition to hire him? I believe there's only other club in England Jose would consider and that's Tottenham Hotspur.
If Mourinho is sacked by Chelsea, which clubs in the Premiership would have the money and ambition to hire him? I believe there's only other club in England Jose would consider and that's Tottenham Hotspur.
With a passionate fan base similar to Chelsea (even more passionate than the Blues fans, in fact) and a foundation of a winning team, Spurs could be a likely new home for Mourinho. Based in London, Mourinho wouldn't have to worry about moving his kids to a new school or unsettling his family. And more importantly, there's an opportunity at White Hart Lane for Mourinho to do what he did at Chelsea: To take a club who has won several trophies in the past and turn them into a championship winning side.
What's vital for Spurs is that they qualify for the UEFA Cup and, even better, the Champions League. Catching up with Arsenal will be extremely difficult, but Spurs can definitely close the gap when they play this Saturday (April 21, 7:45am ET, Setanta).
Martin Jol has done a decent job, but his side has been too inconsistent for the amount of money they've spent on transfers. Spurs's match against Sevilla last Thursday sums up their inconsistent season.
Of course, the rivalry between Spurs and Chelsea fans is pretty huge. However if Mourinho gets kicked out into the street by the Chelsea board, Jose should have no qualms about making the trip from the west end of London to north London.
The only two other likely candidates in the Premiership for Mourinho other than Spurs are Newcastle and Manchester City. However, both clubs have no chance of qualifying for Europe next season, so I believe they're both ruled out.
Martin Jol has done a decent job, but his side has been too inconsistent for the amount of money they've spent on transfers. Spurs's match against Sevilla last Thursday sums up their inconsistent season.
Of course, the rivalry between Spurs and Chelsea fans is pretty huge. However if Mourinho gets kicked out into the street by the Chelsea board, Jose should have no qualms about making the trip from the west end of London to north London.
The only two other likely candidates in the Premiership for Mourinho other than Spurs are Newcastle and Manchester City. However, both clubs have no chance of qualifying for Europe next season, so I believe they're both ruled out.
Overall, I believe Real Madrid would be the logical choice for Mourinho if and when he's sacked by Chelsea. However, Real Madrid never seem to make easy decisions and there's a lot of politics involved. If Real Madrid fail to get Mourinho, then Barcelona could be his destination if Rijkaard fails to lift the La Liga trophy. And there's always Italy, but Italian soccer has had one of their worst seasons in recent history this year.
Jose, do you know your way to White Hart Lane?
If you're a Spurs fan, listen to the interview with Tottenham legend Alan Mullery on the EPL Talk Podcast.
Jose, do you know your way to White Hart Lane?
If you're a Spurs fan, listen to the interview with Tottenham legend Alan Mullery on the EPL Talk Podcast.
Labels: Chelsea, jose mourinho, martin jol, spurs, tottenham hotspur
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Saturday, April 14, 2007
Survey: United & Spurs Fans Unfairly Victimized
This past week, many of you responded to a poll about whether Manchester United and Tottenham fans were unfairly victimized by the Italian and Spanish authorities in their matches away to Roma and Sevilla respectively. Your answers were a little surprising:
What's surprising to me is that 59% of you thought that yes, the fans were unfairly victimized. To me, Man United fans must accept some of the blame as witnessed by the CCTV footage from the Olympic Stadium in Rome. That said, the segregation between the home and away fans at the stadium was pathetic, which definitely made the situation worse. And yes, the Roma fans attacked the see-through glass partition to provoke the United fans.
In the meantime, be sure to respond to this week's new poll which begs the question whether you're in favor of a European Super League or not (you can find the survey in the column to your left).
What's surprising to me is that 59% of you thought that yes, the fans were unfairly victimized. To me, Man United fans must accept some of the blame as witnessed by the CCTV footage from the Olympic Stadium in Rome. That said, the segregation between the home and away fans at the stadium was pathetic, which definitely made the situation worse. And yes, the Roma fans attacked the see-through glass partition to provoke the United fans.In the meantime, be sure to respond to this week's new poll which begs the question whether you're in favor of a European Super League or not (you can find the survey in the column to your left).
Labels: hooligans, man united, manchester united, poll, spurs, tottenham hotspur
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Guest Appearance On Inside Soccer Today
If you have 10-15 minutes, listen to today's Inside Soccer radio show where I'll be a guest starting at approximately 3:40pm PT/6:40pm ET/11:40pm GMT on Saturday, April 14th, 2007. You can listen live from the Inside Soccer web site here.
Or if you miss the episode, you can subscribe to the Inside Soccer podcast via iTunes.
Or if you miss the episode, you can subscribe to the Inside Soccer podcast via iTunes.
Labels: Inside Soccer
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Friday, April 13, 2007
Cricket Web Site Breaks New Ground for Soccer Sites to Follow
We're living in a time where the guidelines of what's legal and not regarding football coverage is blurred. Let me explain.
If you live outside the UK, you've undoubtedly experienced the frustration of being unable to listen or watch certain matches due to rights restrictions. The example we're most familiar with is the radio commentary of Premiership matches on BBC Five Live. Instead of listening to Mike Ingham, Alan Green and company, we're cursed with hearing the audio loop that gives soccer fans more dread than any other ("We're sorry, but due to rights restrictions...").
Instead of the TV or radio commentary, we've had to suffer with the stopgap solution for several years, namely text commentaries. The bane of our existence, but a solution that's better than nothing. BBC, and other sites that provide text commentary, get around the whole issue of rights restrictions by publishing factual information, which can't be copyrighted.
However, instead of text commentary, what if The Guardian, BBC, Sporting Life or a similar sports web site showed animations onscreen to give users an idea of what was happening in the match? Is that breaking the copyright laws?
This leads us to the main crux of this article, which centers around this year's Cricket World Cup. Sky owns the rights to show the games, but a site named Cricinfo.com found a way to get around the rights issues by showing animations of ball-to-ball coverage to give fans a better idea of what's going on in matches if they're unable to see the Sky broadcast.
Read the article to find out how they got around the copyright law. As a side note, if you're at a Premiership match and you're a journalist, you're forbidden from blogging about the match in real-time. But if you're watching the match on television, you can blog about it.
Of course, the story has interesting implications for soccer/football. Take a look at Cricinfo's 3D technology here, or see their animations here to better understand how this technology could revolutionize the way we experience matches online where we're unable to see coverage.
Here's a perfect instance of how cricket is surpassing football in technology. How much longer wil it be before someone invests the money to adapt this technology for our favorite sport?
If you live outside the UK, you've undoubtedly experienced the frustration of being unable to listen or watch certain matches due to rights restrictions. The example we're most familiar with is the radio commentary of Premiership matches on BBC Five Live. Instead of listening to Mike Ingham, Alan Green and company, we're cursed with hearing the audio loop that gives soccer fans more dread than any other ("We're sorry, but due to rights restrictions...").
Instead of the TV or radio commentary, we've had to suffer with the stopgap solution for several years, namely text commentaries. The bane of our existence, but a solution that's better than nothing. BBC, and other sites that provide text commentary, get around the whole issue of rights restrictions by publishing factual information, which can't be copyrighted.
However, instead of text commentary, what if The Guardian, BBC, Sporting Life or a similar sports web site showed animations onscreen to give users an idea of what was happening in the match? Is that breaking the copyright laws?
This leads us to the main crux of this article, which centers around this year's Cricket World Cup. Sky owns the rights to show the games, but a site named Cricinfo.com found a way to get around the rights issues by showing animations of ball-to-ball coverage to give fans a better idea of what's going on in matches if they're unable to see the Sky broadcast.
Read the article to find out how they got around the copyright law. As a side note, if you're at a Premiership match and you're a journalist, you're forbidden from blogging about the match in real-time. But if you're watching the match on television, you can blog about it.
Of course, the story has interesting implications for soccer/football. Take a look at Cricinfo's 3D technology here, or see their animations here to better understand how this technology could revolutionize the way we experience matches online where we're unable to see coverage.
Here's a perfect instance of how cricket is surpassing football in technology. How much longer wil it be before someone invests the money to adapt this technology for our favorite sport?
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Chelsea v Blackburn FA Cup Semi Final on FSC
Correction: In today's EPL Talk Email Newsletter, I incorrectly stated that the Chelsea v Blackburn FA Cup semi-final match this Sunday is on pay-per-view. In fact, Fox Soccer Channel will be showing it live instead.
Labels: blackburn, Chelsea, FA Cup, fox soccer channel
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Chelsea v Blackburn: Live and Online
If you're searching for a way to experience Sunday's FA Cup semi-final match between Chelsea and Blackburn online, join the EPL Talk Chat hosted by bcjohn.
We'll have Chelsea, Blackburn and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big FA Cup semi-final battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Chelsea v Blackburn radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Sunday, April 15th at 11am ET/4pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
We'll have Chelsea, Blackburn and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big FA Cup semi-final battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Chelsea v Blackburn radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Sunday, April 15th at 11am ET/4pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
Labels: blackburn, Chelsea, epl talk chat, FA Cup
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Ronaldo's New Contract Shows Allure of Premiership
Cristiano Ronaldo's decision to sign a five year extension to his contract at Manchester United is a sign of how England is becoming, as EPL Talk blogger Kartik calls it, the "epicenter of world football."
Many pundits, myself included, expected Ronaldo to sign with Real Madrid or Barcelona this summer. But in a year when both of the Spanish supergiants failed to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Champions League, it's another sign that the pendulum has swung in the favor of English football.
Foreign managers are making eyes at the Premiership (Sevilla's Juande Ramos has also dropped hints that he'd like to manage in the EPL). And more foreign players, too, will be following the money to England this summer as they know that the Premier League clubs have massive amounts of money to spend resulting from the new lucrative TV deal.
Right now, English club football is more powerful than it has ever been. The amount of money coming into the game is enormous. The global appeal among TV viewers is gigantic. Three of the four finalists in the Champions League are English clubs. And the quality of play on the pitch, while not as technically skilful as La Liga, is entertaining to watch.
Many pundits, myself included, expected Ronaldo to sign with Real Madrid or Barcelona this summer. But in a year when both of the Spanish supergiants failed to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Champions League, it's another sign that the pendulum has swung in the favor of English football.
Foreign managers are making eyes at the Premiership (Sevilla's Juande Ramos has also dropped hints that he'd like to manage in the EPL). And more foreign players, too, will be following the money to England this summer as they know that the Premier League clubs have massive amounts of money to spend resulting from the new lucrative TV deal.
Right now, English club football is more powerful than it has ever been. The amount of money coming into the game is enormous. The global appeal among TV viewers is gigantic. Three of the four finalists in the Champions League are English clubs. And the quality of play on the pitch, while not as technically skilful as La Liga, is entertaining to watch.
With Ronaldo deciding to put his money with Manchester United, this could be the turning point for more La Liga players to head to England. Not just foreign players, but La Liga superstars such as Samuel Eto'o, David Villa, Fernando Torres, Dani Alves and possibly even Riquelme.
The 2007/2008 Premiership season promises to be awe-inspiring.
The 2007/2008 Premiership season promises to be awe-inspiring.
Labels: cristiano ronaldo, la liga, manchester united
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Thursday, April 12, 2007
Is Abramovich Mad?
If a tree falls in a forest and there is nobody to hear it, does it make a sound? Or in footballing terms, if Jose Mourinho's Chelsea side goes on to win the treble or quadruple this season, will he still get the sack?
I honestly believe that Roman Abramovich is mad. It appears extremely likely that no matter what Mourinho does this season, Abramovich's plan to bring in Guus Hiddink and form a committee to govern the team will happen.
While no one can doubt the talents of Hiddink, I honestly don't believe he'll be able to achieve more than Mourinho. The only difference perhaps is that he'll allow Chelsea to play a more attractive brand of football on the pitch to turn Abramovich's smirks into smiles.
The Chelsea fans won't be smiling though. They've formed a massive bond with Mourinho. Jose's replacement will have the almost impossible task of winning the fans over. And you know that whoever it'll be (Hiddink or someone else), they'll always be compared to Mourinho behind their backs and in the press. Not easy shoes to step in to, to say the least.
Abramovich risks losing the support of the fans, too. He was welcomed with open arms when he bought the club and opened his checkbook. However, the patience of the Chelsea fans with Abramovich will start to run out if the new manager is unable to replicate the success that Mourinho achieved.
It's ridiculous, really. The more Mourinho keeps on winning in the next few weeks will garner more support among the fans and press; thereby increasing the pressure on Abramovich to question whether he should let Jose go or not. I'm still convinced that no matter what happens, Mourinho will leave due to the friction that exists between Abramovich and Mourinho. In doing so, Abramovich is breaking one of the golden rules of business: making the sacking of Jose a personal decision, rather than a business one. And for that, I believe Chelsea will suffer.
I honestly believe that Roman Abramovich is mad. It appears extremely likely that no matter what Mourinho does this season, Abramovich's plan to bring in Guus Hiddink and form a committee to govern the team will happen.
While no one can doubt the talents of Hiddink, I honestly don't believe he'll be able to achieve more than Mourinho. The only difference perhaps is that he'll allow Chelsea to play a more attractive brand of football on the pitch to turn Abramovich's smirks into smiles.
The Chelsea fans won't be smiling though. They've formed a massive bond with Mourinho. Jose's replacement will have the almost impossible task of winning the fans over. And you know that whoever it'll be (Hiddink or someone else), they'll always be compared to Mourinho behind their backs and in the press. Not easy shoes to step in to, to say the least.
Abramovich risks losing the support of the fans, too. He was welcomed with open arms when he bought the club and opened his checkbook. However, the patience of the Chelsea fans with Abramovich will start to run out if the new manager is unable to replicate the success that Mourinho achieved.
It's ridiculous, really. The more Mourinho keeps on winning in the next few weeks will garner more support among the fans and press; thereby increasing the pressure on Abramovich to question whether he should let Jose go or not. I'm still convinced that no matter what happens, Mourinho will leave due to the friction that exists between Abramovich and Mourinho. In doing so, Abramovich is breaking one of the golden rules of business: making the sacking of Jose a personal decision, rather than a business one. And for that, I believe Chelsea will suffer.
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Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Lawrie Sanchez Faces a Huge Mountain to Climb
Northern Ireland manager and Fulham caretaker manager Lawrie Sanchez faces a difficult job the next few weeks on many different levels.
First, he has to somehow instill confidence in a Fulham side that hasn't won in seven matches. With only five matches to go until the end of the season, Sanchez has little time to make a dramatic difference. Ironically, his first match is against Reading at the Majeski Stadium this Saturday. For six years, Sanchez was a player at Reading where he started his football career.
First, he has to somehow instill confidence in a Fulham side that hasn't won in seven matches. With only five matches to go until the end of the season, Sanchez has little time to make a dramatic difference. Ironically, his first match is against Reading at the Majeski Stadium this Saturday. For six years, Sanchez was a player at Reading where he started his football career.
Fulham's remaining schedule is Blackburn (h), Arsenal (a), Liverpool (h) and Middlesbrough (a). Out of those matches, Middlesbrough is the only team Fulham can beat based on the track record of the west London side.
Fulham currently has 35 points. If they win against Middlesbrough, those 38 points will probably not be enough to escape relegation, so Sanchez will need to work wonders to get points against Arsenal, Liverpool, Blackburn and Reading -- all very difficult opponents.
Fulham currently has 35 points. If they win against Middlesbrough, those 38 points will probably not be enough to escape relegation, so Sanchez will need to work wonders to get points against Arsenal, Liverpool, Blackburn and Reading -- all very difficult opponents.
Second, if Sanchez starts to get points from these matches, the question he's going to get repeatedly asked by the press is whether he'll be staying as Fulham manager and leaving Northern Ireland. The national squad doesn't play until August, so the timing for Sanchez and Fulham is extremely convenient right now (imagine Steve McClaren temporarily managing a Premiership side, god forbid; and who would even take him if McClaren was interested).
Hopefully the anticipated antagonism by the press won't provide Fulham and Sanchez with any unneeded pressure.
Sanchez has a huge mountain to climb in the space of five weeks. However, all Fulham needs is two wins out of their last five. If he can accomplish that, Fulham and Northern Ireland will be thankful. If he fails to do so, he'll probably return to Northern Ireland with his tail between his legs, and the Northern Irish fans will hope that this then doesn't have a negative impact on the country's performance trying to qualify for Euro 2008.
Between August and November 21st when Northern Ireland plays its last Euro 2008 qualifying match, the country plays six matches -- which is probably too much to ask for Sanchez to manage both Fulham and Northern Ireland. However, I'm sure Fulham is focused on the short-term right now and trying to avoid relegation. Best of luck to Sanchez in a difficult situation.
Should Chris Coleman have been sacked? If Sanchez can keep Fulham up, I think the answer is yes despite Coleman's achievements in recent years. At the end of the day, Fulham has to stay up this season to receive the bundle of TV revenue that Premiership sides will get starting next season. Financially, Coleman's departure may have been necessary.
Hopefully the anticipated antagonism by the press won't provide Fulham and Sanchez with any unneeded pressure.
Sanchez has a huge mountain to climb in the space of five weeks. However, all Fulham needs is two wins out of their last five. If he can accomplish that, Fulham and Northern Ireland will be thankful. If he fails to do so, he'll probably return to Northern Ireland with his tail between his legs, and the Northern Irish fans will hope that this then doesn't have a negative impact on the country's performance trying to qualify for Euro 2008.
Between August and November 21st when Northern Ireland plays its last Euro 2008 qualifying match, the country plays six matches -- which is probably too much to ask for Sanchez to manage both Fulham and Northern Ireland. However, I'm sure Fulham is focused on the short-term right now and trying to avoid relegation. Best of luck to Sanchez in a difficult situation.
Should Chris Coleman have been sacked? If Sanchez can keep Fulham up, I think the answer is yes despite Coleman's achievements in recent years. At the end of the day, Fulham has to stay up this season to receive the bundle of TV revenue that Premiership sides will get starting next season. Financially, Coleman's departure may have been necessary.
Labels: fulham, lawrie sanchez, northern ireland
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Manchester United: Future Champions of Europe?
What an awe-inspiring performance that was last night by Manchester United after their 7-1 thrashing of Roma in the second leg of the Champions League quarter-final. Who could have predicted such an outcome?
The one-touch passing and incredible link-up play was incredible. But, to me, what was even more impressive was the performance of Manchester United as a team. Playing together as a team sounds like a simple concept, but it's one that the England national team, and many other sides, are unable to accomplish.
Giggs played one of the best games of his life with unbelievable vision on the pitch that led to inch-perfect passes that completely ripped Roma apart. In fact, you can go through the entire squad and single out many heroic performances. But again, it was the interplay between Man United on the pitch and their amazing determination to put this match out of Roma's reach that was astounding to watch.
At four nil up in the first half, the majority of club sides in the world would have taken their pedal off the gas and made some substitutions and rested players. But not Man United, who seemed like they wanted to provide a message to the world. For the remainder of the Champions League, and Premiership, teams will now fear Man United even more than they did before.
Tonight was a magic night and Alex Ferguson and his side has to be congratulated. So too does the Old Trafford crowd who were the loudest I've heared them in quite some time at the historic stadium. After all, if you can't be that passionate while winning 7-1, when would you ever be?
Giggs played one of the best games of his life with unbelievable vision on the pitch that led to inch-perfect passes that completely ripped Roma apart. In fact, you can go through the entire squad and single out many heroic performances. But again, it was the interplay between Man United on the pitch and their amazing determination to put this match out of Roma's reach that was astounding to watch.
At four nil up in the first half, the majority of club sides in the world would have taken their pedal off the gas and made some substitutions and rested players. But not Man United, who seemed like they wanted to provide a message to the world. For the remainder of the Champions League, and Premiership, teams will now fear Man United even more than they did before.
Tonight was a magic night and Alex Ferguson and his side has to be congratulated. So too does the Old Trafford crowd who were the loudest I've heared them in quite some time at the historic stadium. After all, if you can't be that passionate while winning 7-1, when would you ever be?
Editor's note: I drove to GolTV's studios in Miami this afternoon for the first episode of the EPL Talk Video Podcast. More details to come on that soon. But I didn't get a chance to watch Chelsea's historic 2-1 win against Valencia. What a night for English football, and congratulations must also go to Jose Mourinho and Chelsea for pulling off the victory that so many people didn't think they had it in them.
Labels: Champions League, man united, manchester united, roma
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Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Top 10 Football Chants/Songs of All Time
Courtesy of The Offside blog, here's a link to the top ten football chants of all time according to one YouTuber.
Some glaring omissions, I believe, are:
"Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will be, Will be)"
"Glory, Glory Man United"
"When The Saints Go Marching In"
"United Road (Take Me Home)"
"Blue Is The Colour"
Some glaring omissions, I believe, are:
"Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will be, Will be)"
"Glory, Glory Man United"
"When The Saints Go Marching In"
"United Road (Take Me Home)"
"Blue Is The Colour"
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FoxSoccer.com Strengthening its Online Content
Fox Soccer Channel today announced that it has signed a three year deal with the United Soccer League (USL) to broadcast matches on Friday nights.
But, for me, the bigger news in the press release is that Fox will be showing the matches on their web site in addition to TV. While I seriously doubt that the number of people interested in watching the USL online is significant, it does signal the direction for Fox and how the site will hopefully make more soccer, specifically the Premiership, available in the near future.
But, for me, the bigger news in the press release is that Fox will be showing the matches on their web site in addition to TV. While I seriously doubt that the number of people interested in watching the USL online is significant, it does signal the direction for Fox and how the site will hopefully make more soccer, specifically the Premiership, available in the near future.
Labels: fox soccer channel, USL
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Which Premiership Clubs Deserve To Get Relegated?
At the foot of the Premiership, the race to avoid relegation has now been reduced from 10 teams last weekend to eight. Those teams are: Watford, West Ham, Sheffield United, Charlton, Wigan, Fulham, Aston Villa and Middlesbrough. If Villa and Boro reach 40 points (they're both at 39), that should be enough to ensure safety.
But while Watford's fate seems certain unless a string of miracles occur, the race is really down to five clubs to avoid the drop. Last season, the three teams who were relegated ended with the following number of points: Sunderland (15), West Brom (30) and Birmingham (34). So, with six games to go in this season, it looks like whichever three clubs that get relegated will have achieved more points than last season's bottom three. However, that doesn't cushion the blow for the teams who do drop.
To answer my question about which Premiership clubs deserve to get relegated, I don't think any team deserves to get relegated. That's too harsh. But three teams have to go down no matter what. When I made my predictions before the Premiership season began back in August, I said that Charlton, Sheffield United and Fulham would go down.
What's fascinating is that the bottom eight teams in the EPL right now have had a rollercoaster of seasons. Charlton fell flat in the beginning with Iain Dowie and descended even further with replacement Les Reed. West Ham started the season brightly with Bobby Zamora, especially, bagging several goals. But after the Hammers first match with Carlos Tevez on the pitch (against Aston Villa, which I still think was one of the best games of the season thus far), West Ham has been in a tailspin until a few weeks ago.
Based on performances alone, here are the teams that I won't be sad to see relegated:
Watford. No matter how much they've battled this season, their quality on the pitch just hasn't been good enough. The team was devastated after star striker Marlon King was injured earlier in the season. While the club has been sensible by not overextending themselves financially and going into massive debt to buy players, they deserve to be playing in the Championship given their current level of talent.
Fulham. Other than the 2-2 draw against Chelsea and their 2-1 loss against Manchester United, Fulham has failed to impress me at all during the season. My hopes were increased when they signed Vincenzo Montella on loan, but Coleman needs to start "The Little Aeroplane" more between now and the end of the season to increase their chances of surviving the drop.
Manchester City. Sorry, but even though the team will be playing in the Premiership next season, I can't think of one match all season where I was impressed by the side. Stuart Pearce will undoubtedly be sacked this summer, and the promise of a takeover from an American businessman will hopefully infuse the team with a new energy and cash to purchase quality players.
For me, West Ham, Charlton, Sheffield United and, to a lesser extent, Wigan, have impressed me this season. Neil Warnock's side has been entertaining to watch (pre-Rob Hulse's injury), while Charlton under Alan Pardew are far more entertaining than Man City. Wigan, at times, have been entertaining (especially during the early part of the season when they were playing good football but didn't have much luck).
Which teams do you feel deserve to be relegated? Click the 'comments' link below and let everyone know.
But while Watford's fate seems certain unless a string of miracles occur, the race is really down to five clubs to avoid the drop. Last season, the three teams who were relegated ended with the following number of points: Sunderland (15), West Brom (30) and Birmingham (34). So, with six games to go in this season, it looks like whichever three clubs that get relegated will have achieved more points than last season's bottom three. However, that doesn't cushion the blow for the teams who do drop.
To answer my question about which Premiership clubs deserve to get relegated, I don't think any team deserves to get relegated. That's too harsh. But three teams have to go down no matter what. When I made my predictions before the Premiership season began back in August, I said that Charlton, Sheffield United and Fulham would go down.
What's fascinating is that the bottom eight teams in the EPL right now have had a rollercoaster of seasons. Charlton fell flat in the beginning with Iain Dowie and descended even further with replacement Les Reed. West Ham started the season brightly with Bobby Zamora, especially, bagging several goals. But after the Hammers first match with Carlos Tevez on the pitch (against Aston Villa, which I still think was one of the best games of the season thus far), West Ham has been in a tailspin until a few weeks ago.
Based on performances alone, here are the teams that I won't be sad to see relegated:
Watford. No matter how much they've battled this season, their quality on the pitch just hasn't been good enough. The team was devastated after star striker Marlon King was injured earlier in the season. While the club has been sensible by not overextending themselves financially and going into massive debt to buy players, they deserve to be playing in the Championship given their current level of talent.
Fulham. Other than the 2-2 draw against Chelsea and their 2-1 loss against Manchester United, Fulham has failed to impress me at all during the season. My hopes were increased when they signed Vincenzo Montella on loan, but Coleman needs to start "The Little Aeroplane" more between now and the end of the season to increase their chances of surviving the drop.
Manchester City. Sorry, but even though the team will be playing in the Premiership next season, I can't think of one match all season where I was impressed by the side. Stuart Pearce will undoubtedly be sacked this summer, and the promise of a takeover from an American businessman will hopefully infuse the team with a new energy and cash to purchase quality players.
For me, West Ham, Charlton, Sheffield United and, to a lesser extent, Wigan, have impressed me this season. Neil Warnock's side has been entertaining to watch (pre-Rob Hulse's injury), while Charlton under Alan Pardew are far more entertaining than Man City. Wigan, at times, have been entertaining (especially during the early part of the season when they were playing good football but didn't have much luck).
Which teams do you feel deserve to be relegated? Click the 'comments' link below and let everyone know.
Labels: aston villa, charlton, fulham, middlesbrough, sheffield united, Watford, West Ham United, Wigan Athletic
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MySpace Pages of Famous Soccer Celebrities
In another sign that the Internet is making the world a smaller place, take a look at some of the following MySpace pages from famous soccer celebrities such as players, commentators and presenters:
John Motson
Peter Brackley
Peter Drury
Andy Gray
Garth Crooks
Efan Ekoku
Momo Sissoko
Dan O'Hagan
Georgie Bingham
Hayley McQueen
Katie Chapman
Alan Brazil
Jeff Stelling
Robbie Earle
Ian Wright
Carlton Palmer
Des Walker
Les Ferdinand
Ron Atkinson
Chris Kamara
Sven Goran Eriksson
Alan Hansen
Ally McCoist
Steve Claridge
Jim Rosenthal
Katie Chapman
Carlos Tevez
What soccer celebrities that have MySpace pages are missing from the above list? Click the 'comments' link below and tell us.
In the meantime, feel free to check out the EPL Talk MySpace page at http://www.myspace.com/epltalk
John Motson
Peter Brackley
Peter Drury
Andy Gray
Garth Crooks
Efan Ekoku
Momo Sissoko
Dan O'Hagan
Georgie Bingham
Hayley McQueen
Katie Chapman
Alan Brazil
Jeff Stelling
Robbie Earle
Ian Wright
Carlton Palmer
Des Walker
Les Ferdinand
Ron Atkinson
Chris Kamara
Sven Goran Eriksson
Alan Hansen
Ally McCoist
Steve Claridge
Jim Rosenthal
Katie Chapman
Carlos Tevez
What soccer celebrities that have MySpace pages are missing from the above list? Click the 'comments' link below and tell us.
In the meantime, feel free to check out the EPL Talk MySpace page at http://www.myspace.com/epltalk
Labels: myspace
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Monday, April 09, 2007
Get the Most Out of the English Premier League
In the past two years, a lot has changed in football with English clubs generating gigantic amounts of revenue while the interest in the FA Premier League among Americans (and American investors) has grown considerably.
During this time, EPL Talk has grown and expanded its coverage. And we now have a better sense of our place in the football landscape. We're commited to having an intelligent discussion about the Premiership for discerning football fans. Sure, we have laughs too, but we feel you'll get more out of our experience than some of the alternatives out there.
So whether you're a new visitor or not, here are several ways to get the most out of EPL Talk:
1. Discuss the latest topics. Start discussions or join in debates in the EPL Talk Community, where we've had 25 messages or more a day recently talking about the hottest topics in the EPL.
2. Learn more about the game from the experts. Subscribe to the weekly EPL Talk Podcast via iTunes, or visit the page online to hear intelligent interviews with some of the best minds in football including Patrick Barclay, Simon Kuper, Derek Rae, Gabriele Marcotti, Jeff Winter and 56 other guests.
3. Make new connections with fans from around the world. Each weekend, EPL Talk hosts an online chat from its homepage where you can make new friends online and share your football knowledge.
4. Share your opinions about the top news stories. Give us your opinion about the topics we write about both on this blog and the EPL Talk Community blogs, where we have five fans writing about topics that will interest you.
5. Keep yourself organized with the TV listings of all the matches in one guide. Rather than scouring the Internet trying to figure out what games are going to be on what channel, subscribe to the EPL Talk Email Newsletter to find the listings for all Premiership clubs. And that's not even half of what's in the newsletter (see sneak preview here).
During this time, EPL Talk has grown and expanded its coverage. And we now have a better sense of our place in the football landscape. We're commited to having an intelligent discussion about the Premiership for discerning football fans. Sure, we have laughs too, but we feel you'll get more out of our experience than some of the alternatives out there.
So whether you're a new visitor or not, here are several ways to get the most out of EPL Talk:
1. Discuss the latest topics. Start discussions or join in debates in the EPL Talk Community, where we've had 25 messages or more a day recently talking about the hottest topics in the EPL.
2. Learn more about the game from the experts. Subscribe to the weekly EPL Talk Podcast via iTunes, or visit the page online to hear intelligent interviews with some of the best minds in football including Patrick Barclay, Simon Kuper, Derek Rae, Gabriele Marcotti, Jeff Winter and 56 other guests.
3. Make new connections with fans from around the world. Each weekend, EPL Talk hosts an online chat from its homepage where you can make new friends online and share your football knowledge.
4. Share your opinions about the top news stories. Give us your opinion about the topics we write about both on this blog and the EPL Talk Community blogs, where we have five fans writing about topics that will interest you.
5. Keep yourself organized with the TV listings of all the matches in one guide. Rather than scouring the Internet trying to figure out what games are going to be on what channel, subscribe to the EPL Talk Email Newsletter to find the listings for all Premiership clubs. And that's not even half of what's in the newsletter (see sneak preview here).
The EPL Talk Blog has moved. Be sure to visit epltalk.com and update your bookmarks!
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Goal Difference Is United's Best Bet to Edge Chelsea
By John Nicholson
I've assumed since the Xmas and New Year period when Man United opened up a 12 point gap over Chelsea that the Blues would hunt United down and catch them. I just assumed it would happen, so much so that United being so far ahead just looked unnatural; an aberration. This weekend, as the gap reduced to three points it all seems to be unfolding exactly as I anticipated. This isn't because I am a visionary, it's because it almost always happens that way.
Maintaining a big lead is always difficult, and United's lead was enhanced by Chelsea's games in hand so it seemed they were further ahead than they really were.
United have played the best football between the two of them but Chelsea have played the most effective football, the most relentless. They are like a giant, grinding machine that slowly and surely crushes everything. In this respect they are very like the Liverpool sides of the late 70s and early 80s who won so many games 1-0 and who often scored late. They based their campaigns on not conceding. Chelsea hasn't conceded a goal now for 8 games. They've let in 19 compared to United's 23, but crucially 10 of those 19 where in the blip period from mid December to mid January. As the run in kicks in, United are without their best defender in Vidic but Chelsea are almost at full strength with even Cole coming back. It all bodes well for them.
Chelsea also have an almost perfect home record, never having lost under Mourinho at home in the league and only drawing a handful. United's list of fixtures to come is easier than Chelsea's but with Chelsea that doesn't seem to matter. They seem to play every game the same way regardless of who the opposition is. They ground out the win at bottom club Watford with a goal in the last minute. They eased past top six placed Spurs – who barely made any effort to compete - still by a single goal. Once they're a goal up they are almost impossible to beat and they have patience in scoring goals. On top of that Mourinho is the king of the radical substitutions, sometimes playing 5 or 6 up front to get a needed goal. He has the grande cojones to do that.
Like those Liverpool teams of old, most of the time, they don't seem bothered about playing free flowing entertaining football; they are completely results orientated. Only the outcome matters to them, and when you build every game on such a solid defensive performance, the odds are always in your favour.
However, it does mean that their goal difference is vastly inferior to United's at 37 compared to 52. And this is United's lifeline. This is United's only hope of stopping the Chelsea juggernaut. They can match Chelsea's results, and still lose to them at Stamford Bridge in the penultimate game of the season and the title will still be theirs on goal difference.
And if Chelsea doesn't win the title the ultimate irony is that it will be because they haven't scored enough goals and been adventurous enough. In some ways it would vindicate Mourinho's position on Shevchenko, a player he didn't really want and who hasn't been that good for him. In other words, if they don’t win the title, it won't be his fault it'll be Abramovichs' for trying to manage the club for him and buying in players. That will be his argument as he walks away from Chelsea in the summer and he will be right.
With away games for United at Manchester City and Everton to get through, and similarly unpredictable away games for Chelsea at the newly resurgent West Ham and also Arsenal, there may still are a few twists in the end of this seasons' Premiership plot. But even though United still have the advantage, Chelsea already look more like the winners. It's as much about having the bottle to hold your nerve now and bottle is something Mourinho and his side have never lacked.
I've assumed since the Xmas and New Year period when Man United opened up a 12 point gap over Chelsea that the Blues would hunt United down and catch them. I just assumed it would happen, so much so that United being so far ahead just looked unnatural; an aberration. This weekend, as the gap reduced to three points it all seems to be unfolding exactly as I anticipated. This isn't because I am a visionary, it's because it almost always happens that way.
Maintaining a big lead is always difficult, and United's lead was enhanced by Chelsea's games in hand so it seemed they were further ahead than they really were.
United have played the best football between the two of them but Chelsea have played the most effective football, the most relentless. They are like a giant, grinding machine that slowly and surely crushes everything. In this respect they are very like the Liverpool sides of the late 70s and early 80s who won so many games 1-0 and who often scored late. They based their campaigns on not conceding. Chelsea hasn't conceded a goal now for 8 games. They've let in 19 compared to United's 23, but crucially 10 of those 19 where in the blip period from mid December to mid January. As the run in kicks in, United are without their best defender in Vidic but Chelsea are almost at full strength with even Cole coming back. It all bodes well for them.
Chelsea also have an almost perfect home record, never having lost under Mourinho at home in the league and only drawing a handful. United's list of fixtures to come is easier than Chelsea's but with Chelsea that doesn't seem to matter. They seem to play every game the same way regardless of who the opposition is. They ground out the win at bottom club Watford with a goal in the last minute. They eased past top six placed Spurs – who barely made any effort to compete - still by a single goal. Once they're a goal up they are almost impossible to beat and they have patience in scoring goals. On top of that Mourinho is the king of the radical substitutions, sometimes playing 5 or 6 up front to get a needed goal. He has the grande cojones to do that.
Like those Liverpool teams of old, most of the time, they don't seem bothered about playing free flowing entertaining football; they are completely results orientated. Only the outcome matters to them, and when you build every game on such a solid defensive performance, the odds are always in your favour.
However, it does mean that their goal difference is vastly inferior to United's at 37 compared to 52. And this is United's lifeline. This is United's only hope of stopping the Chelsea juggernaut. They can match Chelsea's results, and still lose to them at Stamford Bridge in the penultimate game of the season and the title will still be theirs on goal difference.
And if Chelsea doesn't win the title the ultimate irony is that it will be because they haven't scored enough goals and been adventurous enough. In some ways it would vindicate Mourinho's position on Shevchenko, a player he didn't really want and who hasn't been that good for him. In other words, if they don’t win the title, it won't be his fault it'll be Abramovichs' for trying to manage the club for him and buying in players. That will be his argument as he walks away from Chelsea in the summer and he will be right.
With away games for United at Manchester City and Everton to get through, and similarly unpredictable away games for Chelsea at the newly resurgent West Ham and also Arsenal, there may still are a few twists in the end of this seasons' Premiership plot. But even though United still have the advantage, Chelsea already look more like the winners. It's as much about having the bottle to hold your nerve now and bottle is something Mourinho and his side have never lacked.
John Nicholson writes each week for Football 365 and EPL Talk. You can listen to John's wonderful stories on episode 30 and 45 of the EPL Talk Podcast, as well as purchase his excellent Footy Rocks book and order one of his unique rock'n roll T-shirts.
Labels: Chelsea, john nicholson, manchester united
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Highly Recommended Podcast for Liverpool Fans
As the number of football podcasts continues to grow especially as clubs jump on the bandwagon and release their official versions, it's often hard to find new podcasts that are unique and deliver insight you can't find elsewhere.
But there is one podcast I'd like to highlight for Liverpool fans or for those who are students of the game, and that's "MP Red," a fortnightly independent podcast from LFCNY.org
Hosted by Conor Brennan and Conor Murphy, the show is well-produced, offers intelligent debates, has a variety of different segments to interest many, but most importantly of all, is quite addictive and listenable.
Resident expert Simon Davies (no, not the Welsh international) is a breath of fresh air in the podosphere. He's especially astute when he's asked by the gracious Conor Brennan, with his dulcet Irish accent, to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the Liverpool team in past matches. Davies does a superb job of dissecting those player performances and describing them in such a manner that's easy for the listener to comprehend while keeping the topic quite interesting.
The panel discussion, for me, is the highlight of the show. Led by Brennan, Davies and fellow guests tussle in an intelligent debate over some of the hot topics of the week. Of course, it's Liverpool centric but the answers sometimes stray into topics outside Liverpool FC, such as who was the greatest player in the world from the late 70s to 1982. Brennan argued that Kenny Dalglish was, while Davies interjected and gave his opinion about the incredible talents of Socrates, a Brazilian god that lived up to his name.
In the Kick In The Grass segment on the show, they had Clive Toye (the former NASL maestro) on, which was quite a coup. In episode 16, author Jay Mwamba was featured discussing the two Steve's -- McClaren and Staunton, and predicting that Ireland will qualify for Euro 2008, while McClaren's England team will be sitting home instead of having qualified for the tournament.
As for areas of improvement, the two biggest are the name MP Red -- which is a spin-off from the MP3. The name MPRed, while unique, doesn't capture the creativity of the show and an improved name is needed, I believe. The other recommendation is to increase the frequency of the show. Once every two weeks is okay, but a weekly show would be preferable. If that's not possible, having the show recorded and published sooner would be advisable. Episode 16, which is the current one, discusses the Liverpool 4-1 win over Arsenal, and was recorded on April 2nd. But by the time it was released, it was later in the week.
But there is one podcast I'd like to highlight for Liverpool fans or for those who are students of the game, and that's "MP Red," a fortnightly independent podcast from LFCNY.org
Hosted by Conor Brennan and Conor Murphy, the show is well-produced, offers intelligent debates, has a variety of different segments to interest many, but most importantly of all, is quite addictive and listenable.
Resident expert Simon Davies (no, not the Welsh international) is a breath of fresh air in the podosphere. He's especially astute when he's asked by the gracious Conor Brennan, with his dulcet Irish accent, to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the Liverpool team in past matches. Davies does a superb job of dissecting those player performances and describing them in such a manner that's easy for the listener to comprehend while keeping the topic quite interesting.
The panel discussion, for me, is the highlight of the show. Led by Brennan, Davies and fellow guests tussle in an intelligent debate over some of the hot topics of the week. Of course, it's Liverpool centric but the answers sometimes stray into topics outside Liverpool FC, such as who was the greatest player in the world from the late 70s to 1982. Brennan argued that Kenny Dalglish was, while Davies interjected and gave his opinion about the incredible talents of Socrates, a Brazilian god that lived up to his name.
In the Kick In The Grass segment on the show, they had Clive Toye (the former NASL maestro) on, which was quite a coup. In episode 16, author Jay Mwamba was featured discussing the two Steve's -- McClaren and Staunton, and predicting that Ireland will qualify for Euro 2008, while McClaren's England team will be sitting home instead of having qualified for the tournament.
As for areas of improvement, the two biggest are the name MP Red -- which is a spin-off from the MP3. The name MPRed, while unique, doesn't capture the creativity of the show and an improved name is needed, I believe. The other recommendation is to increase the frequency of the show. Once every two weeks is okay, but a weekly show would be preferable. If that's not possible, having the show recorded and published sooner would be advisable. Episode 16, which is the current one, discusses the Liverpool 4-1 win over Arsenal, and was recorded on April 2nd. But by the time it was released, it was later in the week.
Other than those two areas of improvement, I would strongly recommend that football fans give MPRed a chance. The podcast is available via iTunes and here.
Labels: Liverpool, MPRed, podcasts
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7 Habits of Highly Effective EPL Talk Readers
Behind the scenes, there's been a lot going on at EPL Talk. Even if you're a daily visitor, here are some new features and news you may have missed:
1. EPL Talk is featured in the April issue of Podcast User Magazine with an article penned by The Gaffer about the recent EPL Talk Tour. Check out this page for more articles and radio show interviews, including guest co-host spots on the Soccer Shout Podcast.
2. In the next week, we'll debut the EPL Talk Video Podcast. The first episode will feature a behind-the-scenes tour of the GolTV studios and an exclusive interview with Ray Hudson.
3. EPL Talk is on Twitter. Click here to view the EPL Talk Twitter page and request to be added as a follower (you can learn more about what Twitter is here). The link to the Twitter page is always under the "More EPL Talk" section on this page if you want to see what The Gaffer is up to.
4. Under each blog post, you'll see two new sharing buttons ("Bookmark" and "Hype this.") If you find any particular article interesting, click on the Bookmark button to share the article with others on sites such as De.licio.us, Digg or 30 other similar sites. Or click "Hype this," which will prompt you to share the article on a new site named Ballhype.com, which is a social networking site geared to sports fans.
5. We now have a weekly poll. You can find it in the left column of this blog, where we'll ask your opinion regarding controversial topics each week. The first poll is whether the Man United and Spurs fans were unfairly victimized by the Italian and Spanish police or not. The results that are in thus far are quite surprising.
6. Near the bottom left column of the blog, you'll find a "Recent Readers" widget that displays the images of registered users at MyBloglog.com on the EPL Talk blog. Click the 'View Reader Community' link at the foot of the Reader photographs and you'll see the other recent visitors as well as ones that have been added as friends.
7. We've updated the drop-down list under the club names on the EPLTalk.com homepage, so you can now easily access the podcast for your favorite team(s) just by rolling over your team's name and hovering over the 'podcast' name.
Stay tuned for more great Premiership coverage this summer when EPL Talk launches the EPL Talk Show (listen to a preview here) and the possible release of an eBook on a hot soccer-related topic.
1. EPL Talk is featured in the April issue of Podcast User Magazine with an article penned by The Gaffer about the recent EPL Talk Tour. Check out this page for more articles and radio show interviews, including guest co-host spots on the Soccer Shout Podcast.
2. In the next week, we'll debut the EPL Talk Video Podcast. The first episode will feature a behind-the-scenes tour of the GolTV studios and an exclusive interview with Ray Hudson.
3. EPL Talk is on Twitter. Click here to view the EPL Talk Twitter page and request to be added as a follower (you can learn more about what Twitter is here). The link to the Twitter page is always under the "More EPL Talk" section on this page if you want to see what The Gaffer is up to.
4. Under each blog post, you'll see two new sharing buttons ("Bookmark" and "Hype this.") If you find any particular article interesting, click on the Bookmark button to share the article with others on sites such as De.licio.us, Digg or 30 other similar sites. Or click "Hype this," which will prompt you to share the article on a new site named Ballhype.com, which is a social networking site geared to sports fans.
5. We now have a weekly poll. You can find it in the left column of this blog, where we'll ask your opinion regarding controversial topics each week. The first poll is whether the Man United and Spurs fans were unfairly victimized by the Italian and Spanish police or not. The results that are in thus far are quite surprising.
6. Near the bottom left column of the blog, you'll find a "Recent Readers" widget that displays the images of registered users at MyBloglog.com on the EPL Talk blog. Click the 'View Reader Community' link at the foot of the Reader photographs and you'll see the other recent visitors as well as ones that have been added as friends.
7. We've updated the drop-down list under the club names on the EPLTalk.com homepage, so you can now easily access the podcast for your favorite team(s) just by rolling over your team's name and hovering over the 'podcast' name.
Stay tuned for more great Premiership coverage this summer when EPL Talk launches the EPL Talk Show (listen to a preview here) and the possible release of an eBook on a hot soccer-related topic.
Labels: epl talk blog
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Saturday, April 07, 2007
Fox Soccer Channel's Bizarre Ads for Pathfinder
Has Fox Soccer Channel lost the plot?
In amazement, I was watching Fox Soccer Channel tonight and saw a preview to Pathfinder, a new violent fantasy film from 20th Century Fox. Except instead of the normal preview FSC had been showing earlier in the day, Fox played a special advertisement for the movie that showed brief flashes of the Pathfinder preview mixed with footage from the Premiership.
While the effect cheapened Fox Soccer Channel in my view, what was worse was the distasteful clip of Djibril Cisse's agonizing cry that was included when he broke his leg. It's one thing to show the clip, but to glorify it for usage in a movie for another Fox company is disgusting.
Also, Fox superimposing a soccer ball into one of the scenes in the preview was laughable. Trying to blend together the die-hard passion that fans feel for soccer and fusing that with Pathfinder was ridiculous.
If you're going to market the movie on Fox Soccer Channel, don't try and trick the viewers into wanting to see the film just by throwing in soccer clips. There's plenty of other imaginative ways to promote the movie instead of resorting to cheap tricks.
In amazement, I was watching Fox Soccer Channel tonight and saw a preview to Pathfinder, a new violent fantasy film from 20th Century Fox. Except instead of the normal preview FSC had been showing earlier in the day, Fox played a special advertisement for the movie that showed brief flashes of the Pathfinder preview mixed with footage from the Premiership.
While the effect cheapened Fox Soccer Channel in my view, what was worse was the distasteful clip of Djibril Cisse's agonizing cry that was included when he broke his leg. It's one thing to show the clip, but to glorify it for usage in a movie for another Fox company is disgusting.
Also, Fox superimposing a soccer ball into one of the scenes in the preview was laughable. Trying to blend together the die-hard passion that fans feel for soccer and fusing that with Pathfinder was ridiculous.
If you're going to market the movie on Fox Soccer Channel, don't try and trick the viewers into wanting to see the film just by throwing in soccer clips. There's plenty of other imaginative ways to promote the movie instead of resorting to cheap tricks.
Labels: fox soccer channel, pathfinder
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"MLS Saturday On FSC" Scores an Awful Own Goal
Tonight, I witnessed the most embarrassing 30 minutes of Fox Soccer Channel on TV since I began watching the channel when it was previously known as Fox Sports World.
"MLS Saturday on FSC," with hosts Todd Grisham and Christopher Sullivan was meant to be a pre-game show to excite fans and prepare them for the debut of Toronto FC against Chivas USA at the Home Depot Center on the opening day of the 2007 Major League Soccer season. However, as soon as Grisham uttered the opening words "No one does [MLS] bigger, no one does [MLS] better [than Fox Soccer Channel]," the live show completely fell apart and became a train wreck.
For the next few minutes, the screen displayed a graphic showing a list of transfers made during the off-season. However the graphic appeared prematurely and then proceeded to stay on the screen for 2-3 minutes despite the fact that the broadcasting team had Christian Miles talking about late breaking team news when the camera should have been focused on him instead.
It got worse.
For the next few minutes, the screen displayed a graphic showing a list of transfers made during the off-season. However the graphic appeared prematurely and then proceeded to stay on the screen for 2-3 minutes despite the fact that the broadcasting team had Christian Miles talking about late breaking team news when the camera should have been focused on him instead.
It got worse.
Grisham, especially, appeared like a deer caught in headlights as, first, he was confused about which camera to look at and proceeded to aim his eyesight at the wrong one. According to the press release touting "MLS Saturday on FSC," the channel bragged that they would be using a combination of 13 different cameras for on-site coverage. Sometimes Fox, less is more.
Second, when Sullivan drew his tactics on a new screen device called TrackVision from a company named Orad, Grisham quickly noticed that it wasn't working correctly. So instead of calmly making Sullivan aware of the situation, Grisham was instead seen gesticulating on screen to the cameras that the system wasn't working. The problem was we were able to see Grisham's every move during the live transmission.
Unbeliveably, it got even worse from here.
Wrong graphics were flashed on screen. Different graphics were displayed, but they just showed a big soccer ball with no text. When Max Bretos thought he was off camera, he was on camera. When an interview with Preki was played, the video wasn't visible and all we could hear was the audio. When they fixed it for a few seconds where we could see the video of the interview, the audio didn't work. Not surprisingly, Fox broke to a commercial with no warning at all.
I realize live television is extremely difficult to perfect. However, the match was played in Los Angeles, so Fox was on home territory where they could have practised the show over and over again until it was perfected.
Unfortunately, first impressions last forever and tonight's broadcast was an absolute disaster. It's hard to believe the show could have been that awful for a span of just 30 minutes. Let's hope Fox gets their act together and has it perfected by the time Beckham arrives in the summer. Otherwise, this is a poor advertisement for Major League Soccer and Fox Soccer Channel.
Unbeliveably, it got even worse from here.
Wrong graphics were flashed on screen. Different graphics were displayed, but they just showed a big soccer ball with no text. When Max Bretos thought he was off camera, he was on camera. When an interview with Preki was played, the video wasn't visible and all we could hear was the audio. When they fixed it for a few seconds where we could see the video of the interview, the audio didn't work. Not surprisingly, Fox broke to a commercial with no warning at all.
I realize live television is extremely difficult to perfect. However, the match was played in Los Angeles, so Fox was on home territory where they could have practised the show over and over again until it was perfected.
Unfortunately, first impressions last forever and tonight's broadcast was an absolute disaster. It's hard to believe the show could have been that awful for a span of just 30 minutes. Let's hope Fox gets their act together and has it perfected by the time Beckham arrives in the summer. Otherwise, this is a poor advertisement for Major League Soccer and Fox Soccer Channel.
Labels: fox soccer channel
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Only 3 Percent of EPL Matches End In A Shock Win
Before today's two shock results (Portsmouth 2-1 Man United, and Arsenal 0-1 West Ham), how many times this season had there been shock wins?
Well, the answer is 19. Out of the 619 matches played this season prior to Saturday, only 3% of those matches featured shock wins (which equates to a shock result once in every 32 matches). Some of you may disagree, but here are the 19 matches that I consider shock wins this season:
Middlesbrough 2-1 Chelsea
Manchester City 1-0 Arsenal
Everton 3-0 Liverpool
Manchester United 0-1 Arsenal
Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 Chelsea
West Ham United 1-0 Arsenal
Bolton Wanderers 3-1 Arsenal
Fulham 2-1 Arsenal
West Ham United 1-0 Manchester United
Arsenal 6-2 Blackburn Rovers
Sheffield United 1-0 Arsenal
Reading 6-0 West Ham United
Middlesbrough 5-1 Bolton Wanderers
Liverpool 2-0 Chelsea
Watford 2-1 Middlesbrough
Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United
Sheffield United 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur
Blackburn Rovers 1-2 West Ham United
Everton 1-0 Arsenal
What does this say about the English Premier League? By far, shock wins occur far too infrequently. Nineteen shock results out of 619 matches screams of far too many predictable matches. And predictability breeds boredom.
What needs to happen to buck the trend? First, more teams need to play attacking football like Reading and go for the jugular in matches instead of sitting back in fear. Second, the top four teams in the four horse race need to move up to a European Super League to allow the remainder of the Premiership teams to face a fair fight and give them an opportunity to win the league. Otherwise the gap between the top four and the teams below will continue to increase even more to the detriment of the league.
Well, the answer is 19. Out of the 619 matches played this season prior to Saturday, only 3% of those matches featured shock wins (which equates to a shock result once in every 32 matches). Some of you may disagree, but here are the 19 matches that I consider shock wins this season:
Middlesbrough 2-1 Chelsea
Manchester City 1-0 Arsenal
Everton 3-0 Liverpool
Manchester United 0-1 Arsenal
Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 Chelsea
West Ham United 1-0 Arsenal
Bolton Wanderers 3-1 Arsenal
Fulham 2-1 Arsenal
West Ham United 1-0 Manchester United
Arsenal 6-2 Blackburn Rovers
Sheffield United 1-0 Arsenal
Reading 6-0 West Ham United
Middlesbrough 5-1 Bolton Wanderers
Liverpool 2-0 Chelsea
Watford 2-1 Middlesbrough
Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United
Sheffield United 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur
Blackburn Rovers 1-2 West Ham United
Everton 1-0 Arsenal
What does this say about the English Premier League? By far, shock wins occur far too infrequently. Nineteen shock results out of 619 matches screams of far too many predictable matches. And predictability breeds boredom.
What needs to happen to buck the trend? First, more teams need to play attacking football like Reading and go for the jugular in matches instead of sitting back in fear. Second, the top four teams in the four horse race need to move up to a European Super League to allow the remainder of the Premiership teams to face a fair fight and give them an opportunity to win the league. Otherwise the gap between the top four and the teams below will continue to increase even more to the detriment of the league.
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Setanta Working Deals with DISH Network and Comcast
The Australian Football Association of North America (AFANA) is reporting that Setanta Sports is pushing hard to get their network added to DISH and Comcast by June or July, which would be perfect timing for the beginning of the 2007/2008 Premiership season in August.
Setanta would kick off on Comcast in Chicago and New England first, according to the spokesperson mentioned in the AFANA article.
The article advises readers to contact their DISH and Comcast networks to request Setanta Sports.
Setanta would kick off on Comcast in Chicago and New England first, according to the spokesperson mentioned in the AFANA article.
The article advises readers to contact their DISH and Comcast networks to request Setanta Sports.
Labels: comcast, DISH network, Setanta
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Oliver Tse Discusses The Future of SoccerTV.com
The latest episode of the EPL Talk Podcast has just been published and features an interview with Oliver Tse, the creator of the popular web site, SoccerTV.com
During the interview, Tse makes a major announcement regarding the future of SoccerTV.com
Listen to episode 61 right now to hear Tse discuss that. Plus discover Tse's insight into the state of soccer on US television on topics such as:
During the interview, Tse makes a major announcement regarding the future of SoccerTV.com
Listen to episode 61 right now to hear Tse discuss that. Plus discover Tse's insight into the state of soccer on US television on topics such as:
- the average TV ratings for a Premiership match in America,
- which soccer league shown in the U.S. has higher TV ratings than the NHL,
- what impact the increasing number of Hispanics is having on soccer on U.S. TV,
- why soccer is having a tough time becoming more popular in the States,
- whether ESPN would be interested in broadcasting Premiership matches in the future,
- the future of soccer on broadband,
- when we may expect to see Fox Soccer Channel and Setanta on HDTV,
- and much much more.
Happy Easter!
Labels: EPL Talk Podcast, oliver tse, soccerTV.com
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Fox Soccer Channel Welcomes Andy Houlihan
If you watched the Reading v Liverpool match today on Fox Soccer Channel, you may have noticed a different voice than usual announcing the intro, half-time and wrap-up from the Fox studios in Los Angeles.
For the Saturday 10am ET kickoffs, it's usually Mark Rogondino, the San Diego native. But today, it was Andy Houlihan with his English accent making his debut for Fox Soccer Channel.
His smooth English voice sounds very professional and on a par with the better English presenters and commentators. Let's hope that Houlihan will become a permanent fixture at Fox.
For the Saturday 10am ET kickoffs, it's usually Mark Rogondino, the San Diego native. But today, it was Andy Houlihan with his English accent making his debut for Fox Soccer Channel.
His smooth English voice sounds very professional and on a par with the better English presenters and commentators. Let's hope that Houlihan will become a permanent fixture at Fox.
Labels: andy houlihan, fox soccer channel
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Intriguing Football Storylines from British Press
For those of you who haven't experienced the British culture of newspapers (after all, there are still 11 major national daily newspapers), Saturday is one of the best days of the week for feature length football stories in the papers. The Guardian, especially, does a fantastic job and, if I remember correctly, it's the day of the week when they have a special pull-out section that's focused just on football.
Sunday is sometimes better, too. I still remember devouring the Sunday morning newspaper from ages 8 to 14 (News of the World in my household; I read whatever my Dad picked up that morning). It was definitely a weekly ritual for me to pick up the paper and memorize the league tables in the late 70s and early 80s.
So, here are a few intriguing stories from the British press today including an article from a computer video game site about FIFA 08.
So, here are a few intriguing stories from the British press today including an article from a computer video game site about FIFA 08.
- "Violent Past Comes Back to Haunt English Football Fans" (The Times). Interesting story from The Times about the reaction by UEFA and the Italian and Spanish authorities about what happened in Italy and Spain, and how the attacks are more worrying than in the 80s because many of them may, apparently, be premeditated and planned rather than spontaneous.
- "Four Sides Who Said They Were Too Good To Go Down" (The Guardian). Four ex-professional players account their stories about how their teams were too good to go down from the top flight league in England, but did just that instead. The four players/teams are Barry Horne (Sheffield Wednesday), Eddie Gray (Leeds United), Neil Cox (Middlesbrough) and Nigel Winterburn (West Ham United).
- "Platt Diagnosis of England's Ills a Real Cause for Alarm" (The Telegraph). Henry Winter writes about former England international David Platt and his report on how England's national team future is doomed unless it adopts some of the lessons learned by football in Italy.
- "FIFA 08" (ComputerAndVideoGames.com). The executive producer of football games at EA gives some hints and insight into what to expect in FIFA 08 including a lot more online integration and synergy. Sounds intriguing.
- "Warnock Gears Up for Last-Day Survival Decider" (The Guardian). Trust Sheffield United manager Neil Warnock to be opinionated. He believes the relegation dogfight will go all the way until the final day of the season when the Blades play Aston Villa. I believe he will be correct.
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Friday, April 06, 2007
Portsmouth v Manchester United: Live and Online
If you're searching for a way to experience Saturday's Premiership match between Portsmouth and Man United online, join the EPL Talk Chat hosted by bcjohn.
We'll have Portsmouth, Man United and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big Premiership battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Pompey v Manchester United radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 7th at 12:15pm ET/5:15pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
We'll have Portsmouth, Man United and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big Premiership battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Pompey v Manchester United radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 7th at 12:15pm ET/5:15pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
Labels: epl talk chat, manchester united, portsmouth
The EPL Talk Blog has moved. Be sure to visit epltalk.com and update your bookmarks!
Reading v Liverpool: Live and Online
If you're searching for a way to experience Saturday's Premiership match between Reading and Liverpool online, join the EPL Talk Chat hosted by bcjohn.
We'll have Reading, Liverpool and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big Premiership battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Reading v Liverpool radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 7th at 10amET/3pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
We'll have Reading, Liverpool and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big Premiership battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Reading v Liverpool radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 7th at 10amET/3pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
Labels: epl talk chat, Liverpool, reading
The EPL Talk Blog has moved. Be sure to visit epltalk.com and update your bookmarks!
Arsenal v West Ham: Live and Online
If you're searching for a way to experience Saturday's Premiership match between Arsenal and West Ham United online, join the EPL Talk Chat hosted by bcjohn.
We'll have Arsenal, West Ham and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big Premiership battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Arsenal v West Ham radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 7th at 10am ET/3pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
We'll have Arsenal, West Ham and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big Premiership battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Arsenal v West Ham radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 7th at 10am ET/3pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
Labels: Arsenal, epl talk chat, West Ham United
The EPL Talk Blog has moved. Be sure to visit epltalk.com and update your bookmarks!
Chelsea v Spurs: Live and Online
If you're searching for a way to experience Saturday's Premiership match between Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur online, join the EPL Talk Chat hosted by bcjohn.
We'll have Chelsea, Spurs and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big Premiership battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Chelsea v Spurs radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 7th at 7:45am ET/12:30pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
We'll have Chelsea, Spurs and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big Premiership battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Chelsea v Spurs radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in). The match kicks off on Saturday, April 7th at 7:45am ET/12:30pm GMT. You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
Labels: Chelsea, epl talk chat, spurs
The EPL Talk Blog has moved. Be sure to visit epltalk.com and update your bookmarks!
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Everton v Fulham: Live and Online
If you're searching for a way to experience Friday's Premiership match between Everton and Fulham online, join the EPL Talk Chat hosted by bcjohn.
We'll have Everton, Fulham and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big Premiership battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Everton v Fulham radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in).The match kicks off on Friday, April 6th at 2:30pm ET/7:30pm GMT.You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
We'll have Everton, Fulham and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big Premiership battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Everton v Fulham radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in).The match kicks off on Friday, April 6th at 2:30pm ET/7:30pm GMT.You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
Labels: epl talk chat, everton, fulham
The EPL Talk Blog has moved. Be sure to visit epltalk.com and update your bookmarks!
Manchester City v Charlton: Live and Online
If you're searching for a way to experience Friday's Premiership match between Man City and Charlton online, join the EPL Talk Chat hosted by bcjohn.
We'll have Man City, Charlton Athletic and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big relegation battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Man City vs Charlton radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in).The match kicks off on Friday, April 6th at 12:15pm ET/5:15pm GMT.You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
We'll have Man City, Charlton Athletic and neutral fans from around the world chatting in real-time about the big relegation battle. We'll also be able to tip you off regarding Man City vs Charlton radio coverage and how to listen live (depending on what part of the world you live in).The match kicks off on Friday, April 6th at 12:15pm ET/5:15pm GMT.You can access the EPL Talk Chat from the EPL Talk homepage (near the center of the page).
The EPL Talk Blog has moved. Be sure to visit epltalk.com and update your bookmarks!
A Benefit of a European Super League for Americans
The discussion of a European Super League has been raised several times in the media the past week after newspapers reported of a secret meeting in Europe among some of the top clubs from back in February.
But consider this for a moment: Imagine if Champions League matches were played on a Saturday or Sunday. How would that enhance your weekends?
While watching a double-bill of Roma against Manchester United, and Chelsea versus Valencia is quite exciting, it's often difficult for many Americans who work 9 to 5, then go home and try to squeeze in four consecutive hours of football comprised of those two taped matches.
How many of you fast forward through the matches? How many of you watch them the following day? How many of you simply don't have time to watch both of them?
For all of the pros and cons of a European Super League, having the matches played on a weekend would garner a larger worldwide TV audience and, selfishly, make it easier for most Americans to watch the matches. But at what cost? No domestic league football.
In other news:
But consider this for a moment: Imagine if Champions League matches were played on a Saturday or Sunday. How would that enhance your weekends?
While watching a double-bill of Roma against Manchester United, and Chelsea versus Valencia is quite exciting, it's often difficult for many Americans who work 9 to 5, then go home and try to squeeze in four consecutive hours of football comprised of those two taped matches.
How many of you fast forward through the matches? How many of you watch them the following day? How many of you simply don't have time to watch both of them?
For all of the pros and cons of a European Super League, having the matches played on a weekend would garner a larger worldwide TV audience and, selfishly, make it easier for most Americans to watch the matches. But at what cost? No domestic league football.
In other news:
- The EPL Talk Podcast interview with Oliver Tse has been postponed and will be published this weekend. Sorry for the delay.
Labels: Champions League, european super league
The EPL Talk Blog has moved. Be sure to visit epltalk.com and update your bookmarks!
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Trip Down Memory Lane for Brighton and Watford
Three interesting stories from the world of football today:
Brighton and Hove Albion, currently, in League One in England will be honoring the ten year anniversary of their departure from their Goldstone Ground (that they occupied from 1902 to 1997) with '97 ticket prices, prizes for the best retro kit worn and more.
Sadly, the south coast club still doesn't have a permanent ground and continues to play at the Withdean Stadium, which is an athletics stadium (see fans pictured above).
Learn more about their history and the activities planned for Saturday here.
Sadly, the south coast club still doesn't have a permanent ground and continues to play at the Withdean Stadium, which is an athletics stadium (see fans pictured above).
Learn more about their history and the activities planned for Saturday here.
Watford has received planning permission to expand Vicarage Road to a capacity pf 24,000. The work, which includes building low-cost housing for the community, is expected to begin this summer.
Financial experts believe that German manufacturer Puma is interested in making a bid for Umbro, the English sportswear and equipment company. Umbro, meanwhile, has been busy on their own securing new replica kit deals for the 2007/2008 season with Sunderland, West Ham United and Hull City.
Labels: brighton, puma, Umbro, Watford
The EPL Talk Blog has moved. Be sure to visit epltalk.com and update your bookmarks!
Wacky World of Premiership Soccer on U.S. TV
- Both Everton and Fulham are admirable clubs, both steeped in history, but it's particularly odd that both Fox Soccer Channel and Setanta are, according to their TV schedules, scheduled to show Friday's 2:30pm ET match. Who will broadcast the match, or could we have the first time a match will be shown by both networks at the same time? Oliver Tse, rescue us.
- Looking ahead to this Saturday's Premiership matches, we have one of the best well-rounded days on offer in quite some time. Each match on Fox Soccer Channel and Setanta Sports should be quality kicking off with Chelsea v Spurs (7:45am ET, Setanta), then Arsenal v West Ham (10am ET, Setanta), Reading v Liverpool (10am ET, FSC) followed by Portsmouth v Manchester United (Noon ET, FSC). When was the last time you had four matches like that on U.S. television?
- It's never too late to look to the end of the Premiership season on Sunday, May 13th. All of the matches will be shown at the same exact time, 10am ET, to ensure everything's fair in love and war. But it does pose a difficult challenge for TV viewers who are only able to see two or three live matches on the final day instead of a typical Saturday where we can watch four to five.
The TV schedule for the last day of the season hasn't been finalized yet, but here are some of the matches we could expect to see:
Manchester United v West Ham (could both of these teams' futures be decided by this game, or will the match take on a huge importance if it decides whether the Hammers go down and United win the league?),
Sheffield United v Wigan (battle for relegation survival on the last day of the season, anyone?)
Spurs v Manchester City (qualifying for the UEFA Cup or Champions League versus avoiding the drop?)
Chelsea v Everton (Jose Mourinho's last Premiership match?)
Labels: fox soccer channel, Setanta
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Tuesday, April 03, 2007
English Premier League Theme Song/Anthem
If you've been searching for the Premier League anthem by DJ Judge Jules in MP3 format, I've found them courtesy of EPL Talk.
You can choose between:
> English Premier League theme
> Premier League Dance Remix (Long version)
> Premier League Dance Remix (Short version)
While you're playing those familiar tunes, be sure to check out the rest of the EPL Talk site where we have podcasts, blogs, magazines, newsletters, message boards and much more to entertain fans of Premiership clubs.
To read the story behind the making of the Premier League anthem, go here.
You can choose between:
> English Premier League theme
> Premier League Dance Remix (Long version)
> Premier League Dance Remix (Short version)
While you're playing those familiar tunes, be sure to check out the rest of the EPL Talk site where we have podcasts, blogs, magazines, newsletters, message boards and much more to entertain fans of Premiership clubs.
To read the story behind the making of the Premier League anthem, go here.
Labels: dj judge jules, english premier league
The EPL Talk Blog has moved. Be sure to visit epltalk.com and update your bookmarks!
Monday, April 02, 2007
Chelsea Eyeing Guus Hiddink & Two Coaches
It's been a busy 24 hours in the world of football with some very revealing stories that are unfolding. Take a peek at these for today's recommended reading:
- Chelsea Ready for Hiddink to Run Radical New Set-Up (The Independent)
- Top Clubs In Secret Talks Over European Super League (The Guardian)
- US Investor Takes a Punt On Cambridge (The Daily Telegraph)
Meanwhile, you can read an intriguing article about PSV Eindhoven, Liverpool's opponents in the Champions League on the EPL Talk sister site, ChampionsLeagueTalk.com.
Labels: Chelsea, guus hiddink
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Who Reigns Supreme? Fox Soccer Channel, Setanta Sports or GolTV
If you're a soccer fan in the United States, you're familiar with the three most accessible 24/7 soccer networks, Fox Soccer Channel, GolTV and Setanta Sports. But you may be very surprised at the latest EPL Talk study where we closely examined a typical week for all three networks and calculated how often they broadcast different leagues, and what comprises their overall programming.
First, some background. EPL Talk studied the TV guides for all three networks for the same week: From Saturday, March 31st at 12:01am through Friday, April 6 at midnight. We surveyed each program and, based on what type of program it was, we labelled it as belonging to one of six categories. More details about how the survey was conducted appear at the foot of the article.
Programming
Second, here are the results followed by a description and analysis of the findings. The first series of pie charts focus on what comprises the programming at the three major soccer networks:
The majority of programming (32%) at Fox features replays of matches. Particularly, Fox Soccer Channel tends to often repeat the Premiership matches throughout the midweek. Fox also relies heavily on news and highlight shows (31%) including "Through The Night" from Sky, "Fox Soccer Report," "Football Asia," J-League highlights and other programs.
Only 18% of Fox's programming features live matches (or ones that are shown on a same-day delay [SDD]).
Entertainment shows, such as "Fox Football Fone In" and "Dream Team" comprise 4% of its programming. And infomercials, which are played during the morning hours, take up 15% of FSC's programming, almost more than the live and SDD matches.
I found it surprising that 42% of Setanta's programming in the U.S. focuses on sports such as rugby, Australian Rules football and gaelic football. Much of this programming is played late in the night, though, and Setanta -- in comparison to Fox -- doesn't feature infomercials.
Twenty eight percent of Setanta's programming focuses on replays from matches played earlier that day or week. Some of this, like Fox, include reruns of the Premiership matches from the weekend, or Le Championnat matches from France.
Schedules change week-by-week for all three networks, but in this particular week, Setanta devotes 17% of its programming to matches that are live or on a same-day delay. Thirteen percent of the Irish broadcaster's content focuses on news and highlight shows such as the "EPL Review Show," "Football Asia," Chelsea TV and Manchester United TV.
Out of the three networks, GolTV replays more of its matches (36%). The network replays many of its best matches from the weekend (such as Bundesliga, La Liga and Serie A) throughout the week. However, GolTV does feature the most news and highlights with shows such as Arsenal TV, Liverpool TV, "American Soccer," and Bundesliga, Serie A and La Liga highlight shows, among others.
Eighteen percent of its matches are shown live or on same-day delay. Incredibly, the vast majority of those occur on Saturdays and Sundays. On Saturday, March 31st, GolTV featured 14 hours of live and/or same-day delay matches, while the network numbered 12 hours on Sunday.
Infomercials comprise 13 percent of its programming, while one percent focuses on entertainment ("Soccer Academy.")
Leagues
Let's take a look at the three networks to see how much programming time they feature on the different leagues. Some of the findings may surprise you.
Incredibly, 50% of the soccer matches that Fox Soccer Channel broadcasts are comprised of the Premier League. Of course that'll change when the new season of Major League Soccer kicks off this weekend, but it just goes to show how much Fox relies on the coverage and how often it replays the EPL matches.
Twelve percent of Fox's matches are from the Serie A, which will increase significantly beginning with the 2007/2008 season because Fox will then own the rights. The Champion's Cup (10%) is an anomaly and scores highly due to a few games being shown this week both live and replayed.
With Setanta, 42% of the matches it broadcasts feature the Premiership, while 21% focus on the UEFA Champions League. The Scottish Premier League (SPL) is also well represented at 15%. Note: What I neglected to include was one match from the Dutch Eredivisie in the pie chart.
GolTV broadcasts a wide range of soccer leagues, but the lionshare is commited to Spain's La Liga (37%). The EPL, surprisingly, is 13% of GolTV's soccer matches that the network broadcasts, all thanks to Arsenal TV and Liverpool TV (and the subsequent times the programs are replayed).
Additional Thoughts
While GolTV broadcasts the most live/SDD coverage on weekends, the challenge is that the network offers little original or new programming to watch during the week. The exceptions are Arsenal TV and Liverpool TV, as well as the "American Soccer" show. But without the UEFA Cup and Champions League, GolTV offers fewer choices during the week.
In a perfect world, soccer fans in the United States will embrace all three networks and watch the best bits that suit them. There is, after all, much to choose from.
Which network is the best? It all depends what you like and what you want to see. All three offer pros and cons.
Additional notes about how the research was conducted: Live/SDD matches only include soccer matches, not other sports; and the Arsenal TV and Liverpool TV programs were each categorized as 2 hours of replayed matches, with one hour of news/highlights.
First, some background. EPL Talk studied the TV guides for all three networks for the same week: From Saturday, March 31st at 12:01am through Friday, April 6 at midnight. We surveyed each program and, based on what type of program it was, we labelled it as belonging to one of six categories. More details about how the survey was conducted appear at the foot of the article.
Programming
Second, here are the results followed by a description and analysis of the findings. The first series of pie charts focus on what comprises the programming at the three major soccer networks:
The majority of programming (32%) at Fox features replays of matches. Particularly, Fox Soccer Channel tends to often repeat the Premiership matches throughout the midweek. Fox also relies heavily on news and highlight shows (31%) including "Through The Night" from Sky, "Fox Soccer Report," "Football Asia," J-League highlights and other programs.
Only 18% of Fox's programming features live matches (or ones that are shown on a same-day delay [SDD]).
Entertainment shows, such as "Fox Football Fone In" and "Dream Team" comprise 4% of its programming. And infomercials, which are played during the morning hours, take up 15% of FSC's programming, almost more than the live and SDD matches.
I found it surprising that 42% of Setanta's programming in the U.S. focuses on sports such as rugby, Australian Rules football and gaelic football. Much of this programming is played late in the night, though, and Setanta -- in comparison to Fox -- doesn't feature infomercials.
Twenty eight percent of Setanta's programming focuses on replays from matches played earlier that day or week. Some of this, like Fox, include reruns of the Premiership matches from the weekend, or Le Championnat matches from France.
Schedules change week-by-week for all three networks, but in this particular week, Setanta devotes 17% of its programming to matches that are live or on a same-day delay. Thirteen percent of the Irish broadcaster's content focuses on news and highlight shows such as the "EPL Review Show," "Football Asia," Chelsea TV and Manchester United TV.
Out of the three networks, GolTV replays more of its matches (36%). The network replays many of its best matches from the weekend (such as Bundesliga, La Liga and Serie A) throughout the week. However, GolTV does feature the most news and highlights with shows such as Arsenal TV, Liverpool TV, "American Soccer," and Bundesliga, Serie A and La Liga highlight shows, among others.
Eighteen percent of its matches are shown live or on same-day delay. Incredibly, the vast majority of those occur on Saturdays and Sundays. On Saturday, March 31st, GolTV featured 14 hours of live and/or same-day delay matches, while the network numbered 12 hours on Sunday.
Infomercials comprise 13 percent of its programming, while one percent focuses on entertainment ("Soccer Academy.")
Leagues
Let's take a look at the three networks to see how much programming time they feature on the different leagues. Some of the findings may surprise you.
Incredibly, 50% of the soccer matches that Fox Soccer Channel broadcasts are comprised of the Premier League. Of course that'll change when the new season of Major League Soccer kicks off this weekend, but it just goes to show how much Fox relies on the coverage and how often it replays the EPL matches.
Twelve percent of Fox's matches are from the Serie A, which will increase significantly beginning with the 2007/2008 season because Fox will then own the rights. The Champion's Cup (10%) is an anomaly and scores highly due to a few games being shown this week both live and replayed.
With Setanta, 42% of the matches it broadcasts feature the Premiership, while 21% focus on the UEFA Champions League. The Scottish Premier League (SPL) is also well represented at 15%. Note: What I neglected to include was one match from the Dutch Eredivisie in the pie chart.
GolTV broadcasts a wide range of soccer leagues, but the lionshare is commited to Spain's La Liga (37%). The EPL, surprisingly, is 13% of GolTV's soccer matches that the network broadcasts, all thanks to Arsenal TV and Liverpool TV (and the subsequent times the programs are replayed).
Additional Thoughts
While GolTV broadcasts the most live/SDD coverage on weekends, the challenge is that the network offers little original or new programming to watch during the week. The exceptions are Arsenal TV and Liverpool TV, as well as the "American Soccer" show. But without the UEFA Cup and Champions League, GolTV offers fewer choices during the week.
In a perfect world, soccer fans in the United States will embrace all three networks and watch the best bits that suit them. There is, after all, much to choose from.
Which network is the best? It all depends what you like and what you want to see. All three offer pros and cons.
Additional notes about how the research was conducted: Live/SDD matches only include soccer matches, not other sports; and the Arsenal TV and Liverpool TV programs were each categorized as 2 hours of replayed matches, with one hour of news/highlights.
The EPL Talk Blog has moved. Be sure to visit epltalk.com and update your bookmarks!
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