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Match Preview: Arsenal vs Manchester United – RVP’s Emirates Return

  By O-Posts Team | April 28, 2013 - 10:51 | , , , ,
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Rewind to the early 2000s, it was all about Arsenal and Manchester United, later Chelsea came into the equation. Fast forward to 2013 and all you see is an Arsenal decline. The team which used to compete for all the top domestic honours have been reduced to mere challengers for a place among the top 4. The transformation has been astounding even for the neutrals. Now what they created is coming to bite them hard on Sunday.

When Robin Van Persie departed the Emirates, he had only won the F.A Cup and that was 8 long years ago. The last time Arsenal fans ever saw their team celebrate a cup success (except the Emirates Cup is now massive for them). Tomorrow evening, the Dutchman who struck 30 league goals in the Premier League for them last season, returns as Champion of England.

Something last achieved by the INVINCIBLES who have all jumped ship. Arsene Wenger let his then captain leave for 24 Million Pounds. Now he returns to his former home with 24 League goals and a winners medal (although not yet given).

The Red Devils won their 20th EPL title six days ago with a convincing 3-0 win over relegation threatened Aston Villa. Fittingly and acting according to the written script, Robin Van Persie struck a finesse laden hat-trick in 33 minutes-the fastest in the League in nine years. The 2nd was reminiscent of the one time volley he hit v Everton at the Emirates last season.

Finally, he is a Premier League winner. Something that eluded him in his 8 years as a Gunner. Just one year as a Red Devil, he is about to hoist his maiden trophy. Man United also helped Michael Owen add a winners medal to his collection two years ago. Steven Gerrard could be next….who knows?

Arsenal come into this match on the back of 5 wins from their last six games in the League. Only Everton have taken a point off them in that spell. Nonetheless, it is the Champions who are in town. A team they haven’t done well against in recent fixtures. They won’t forget in a hurry how they got thumped 8-2 last season and 2-1 in the reverse fixture. It was 2-1 again at Old Trafford earlier this term.

Arsenal’s last win over Manchester United came in May 2011 when a sweetly struck Aaron Ramsey goal was the difference at the Emirates. A repeat of that will be appreciated by Arsene Wenger, but the scorer should be someone else..lol. The North Londoners are going to be pumped up for this crucial game. They are locked in a London battle with Chelsea and Spurs on who gets the automatic slot for next season’s Champions League Campaign. It is a wonderful experience for those who support neither outfit. The tension- soaked affair is expected to drag on until the end of the season.

An Arsenal win tomorrow will put them in a great position to at least finish fourth if third is beyond their reach. Traditionally (at least since 2006), they always come good during the tail end of the season to end it on a high. Consolation for not fighting for the EPL title. Something they last managed to do in 2008, and eventually fizzled out when it became fierce.

Overrated Englishman, Jack Wilshere has been hampered by injuries yet again this season. Despite his limited time on the pitch, he was surprisingly chosen as a YPOTY (Young Player Of The Year) nominee. Among the six (Hazard, Benteke, Lukaku, Bale, Welbeck and Jack), he least deserved such recognition. Even though he gets much more praise than the effort he actually puts in, he does play with his heart on his sleeve and when fit, is one of the best young players in the world. He seems ready for the big time.

A good performance tomorrow will go a long way to assuage the doubts people have about him. Santi Cazorla, perhaps one of the best midfielders of his generation and by a country mile, Arsenal’s best player this season, was unfairly overlooked for the POTY award. That hasn’t deterred him one bit. The Spanish footballer hasn’t been too effective in the last couple of weeks because he has been featured on the left side of midfield where his performance will be restricted.

Arsenal’s qualification for Europe depends largely on what he does right. Starting from tomorrow, the gunners have four finals to play. To win all of them, Santi must be at the forefront of everything Arsenal do right.

Robin Van Persie is the happiest man in football right now. A hat-trick to seal Manchester United’s 13th Premier League title and his first was an excellent conclusion to a fabulous season. He will walk out of the tunnel as a Champion. The major reason why he made the move to MUFC. The 20-20 marriage has blossomed beyond his imagination. When he joined, he said the ‘LITTLE BOY’ in him told him to switch allegiance. That ‘kid’ has been vindicated. He added that he chose the  NO 20 shirt because he wants to help his new team claim their 20th Premiership crown. That again has been achieved. It is a dream come true for the Dutchman and everyone attached to the red army.

Despite the disappointments of elimination from the Champions League and the FA Cup, this has been celebrated like none other and May 12 will be like the last day at school for each and everyone at the CLUB. Sir Alex Ferguson has hailed the contribution of the Dutchman this season and even likened his impact to that of King Cantona. I can’t agree more and others have concurred. 24 league goals (one for every million pound spent on him) and 8 assists have been nothing short of extraordinary.

Now he is going to walk through a GUARD OF HONOUR made up of his former colleagues at a club where he spent eight years with one of the greatest managers in History as his tutor. He thoroughly deserves all that he will tomorrow evening and as SAF said in his pre-match presser yesterday, he wouldn’t be disturbed by chants, boos and abuse from supporters who once hailed him as the best in the business. How the cookies crumble.

 

PROBABLE LINEUPS

ARSENAL- Szczesny, Sagna, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Gibbs, Arteta/Wilshere, Ramsey, Rosicky, Poldy, SANTI, Walcott.

Lukasz Fabianski is still nursing the rib injury he sustained three weeks ago, so Wojciech continues in goal. Oli Giroud starts his three match suspension tomorrow, while Mikel Arteta is a doubt after feeling something at Craven Cottage last weekend. If he doesn’t make it, Wilshere will sit deep, with Rmsey-Rosicky-and SANTI ahead of him. Poldy will support Walcott in attack to make up for the absence of the Frenchman. Arsenal have shipped in 21 goals at the Emirates this season and have failed to keep a clean sheet in 12 of their 16 home games already.

Their away form is better in this regard; only 14 goals conceded is the best in the Division. Arsenal have taken the least points (4) from fellow members of the top 5 this season. Others have taken at least 6 more. Arsenal were the last team to win the Premier League with 4 games to spare. Their last triumph in this competition in 03/04.

 

MANCHESTER UNITED- DDG, Rafa, Rio, Vidic, Buttner, Jones, Cleverley, Kagawa, Nani, RVP, Chicharito.

There will definitely be changes to the line up on Sunday. With the Title sealed last Monday, the mighty reds of Manchester will make alterations to the team. Carrick and Evans will be rested after playing through pain last time out. Cleverley has played for a while. So are Nani and Chicharito who have had limited time on the pitch. The little pea has been unfortunate this season. He has still scored 16 goals and made his presence felt. RVP could have been rested, but I feel and think Fergie will even make him captain for tomorrow’s encounter just to rub it in more and make it spicier.

Wayne Rooney has scored landmark goals for Manchester United against Arsenal. His first ever League goal was against Wenger’s men in 2002. he also hit his first for MUFC in the League against tomorrow’s opponents. His 100th in the League was also against Arsenal at the Emirates. He just loves playing against them, doesn’t he? He might be rested alongside Valencia and Evra. Anders Lindegaard is 2 games away from reaching the mandatory 10 appearances in the League to be eligible for a medal. Fergie will decide when to field him.

Ashley Young is out for the season….he will get a medal, though.

We wish all the nominees GOODLUCK  at the PFA POTY AND YPOTY Awards ceremony tomorrow night…..GO FOR THE KILL….

 

Written by Ohiskaka Eboreime

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Match Preview: The Madrid Derby – Atletico Madrid vs Real Madrid

  By O-Posts Team | April 27, 2013 - 17:01 | , , , ,
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EL Cholo Simeone has done great things at the Calderon since he took over in 2011. The ex-Argentine Midfielder succeeded Gregorio Manzano in December 2011 after a poor run of form that saw the capital club flirting with relegation at some point, going winless for long stretches. He steadied the ship and brought joy to the faces of avid Colchoneros when he delivered two European trophies in 3 months.

First, the Europa League in May (thrashed Bilbao 3-0) and then the European Super Cup in August (annihilated Chelsea FC 4-1). Colombian marksman, Radamel Falcao was the star of the show on both historic nights, scoring a brace in the first and a well taken hat-trick in the second to hand Simeone a dream start to life as manager of Atletico Madrid.

However, one thing still ails the Colchoneros. A win against their great rivals and neighbours, Real Madrid. The 32 time La Liga Champions have not lost to the defending Europa League Champions in 14 years, winning the last nine encounters on the bounce. This, they intend to stop today.

The task has been made easier with the absence of 51-goal Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese has been omitted from the squad that travelled to the Vicente Calderon because of a leg injury and most importantly, adequate rest for Tuesday’s very essential Champions League 2nd leg tie vs Borussia Dortmund at the Bernabeu. It has taken some shine off the much talked about battle, but it will do nothing to diffuse the tension and anticipation.

In Falcao, Los Colchoneros possess the best centre forward in the game. He has shown time and time again why he is so revered. 25 League goals this term, including crucial strikes in the Copa Del Rey show the stuff he is made of. Brazil’s Diego Costa has also been an able ally, providing the much needed support for the Tiger from Santa Marta.

This affair is seen as a dress rehearsal for the Copa Del Rey final on May 17. However, it is much more important than that. With three points separating both sides, second place in La Liga is up for grabs and today’s duel will go a long way to determine who’s favourite to claim it. Jose Mourinho and his side were dismantled in Germany on Wednesday.

Die Borussen inflicted one of the most disastrous defeats of the Mou era on the Merengues, with Robert Lewandowski shinning like a million stars. His four goals were expertly taken and the ‘whites’ were put to the sword. The almost impossible feat was accomplished in Ruhr with some of the most breathtaking displays you will ever witness. The ‘Only one’ as he chooses to be known as, is looking to turn around the tie in three days time when the German, well drilled machine comes to town.

A 4-1 deficit may seem unassailable, but if you remember what happened at the Riazor nine years ago, you will know that impossible is nothing, especially in football. Jose will be without CR7 and is also expected to rest some of the big guns for this particular game. La Liga is lost.

Although second place is far from guaranteed, the task ahead holds more substance for the Spanish giants whose chase for LA DECIMA continues in midweek.

PROBABLE LINEUPS

 

ATLETICO MADRID- Courtiois, Juanfran, Godin, Miranda, Luis, Garcia, Gabi, Suarez, Koke, Costa, FALCAO

Atletico’s rise in La Liga has been phenomenal and it wouldn’t have been made possible without the brave efforts of Belgian youngster, Thibaut Courtois. The 20 year old has been a revelation since his arrival at the Calderon. The on-loan Chelsea goaltender was part of the reason why the Colchoneros performed so well in Europe last season. He has carried that marvellous form this season. Only 25 goals have been conceded by him and the Miranda-Godin marshalled rearguard. The lowest in the Spanish top flight.

This has seen Miranda earn call ups for the Brazilian National team and the team in general has earned rave reviews.With Falcao and Costa in front, and the industrious Gabi in midfield, Diego Simeone is fast building a squad capable of competing for top honours in the near future. They are certainties to feature in the Champions League next season – most probably without the Tiger’s roar.

REAL MADRID- Casillas, Arbeloa, Pepe, Albiol, Nacho, Modric, Kaka, Di Maria, Callejon, Benzema, Morata.

The 4-1 thumping of Real Madrid was Jose Mourinho’s biggest margin of defeat in 106 games as manager in Europe’s biggest club competition. He was dazed at the Iduna after the match. Just like Champions, his wards are prepared to bounce back from that devastating blow and register a morale boosting win later today at the Calderon. Assistant coach, Aitor Karanka has confirmed that CR7 is OUT of this encounter.

Other regulars may be forced to sit out, thus channelling their attention to Tuesday’s showdown. The likes of Sergio Ramos, Raphael Varanae and Ozil may be rested. Iker Casillas may return, so Diego Lopez may sit out this game as well. The Merengues haven’t fared well away from the Santiago Bernabeu in recent times. Only one win from their last four away games in all competitions is a bad run.

Against Atletico, they will be hopeful that this can change. The home front has been defended with gusto by Atleti. Only one loss all season. The task is herculean for Real.

 

Written by Ohiskaka Eboreime

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Champions League: The Semi-final Preview

  By O-Posts Team | April 23, 2013 - 18:08 | , , , , , , , ,
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An enthralling and exciting semi-final slam awaits us. Four European giants, who play some of the most brilliant football ever seen throughout, battle it out for the chance, the opportunity to take the most prestigious club competition on the continent. Who are the favorites? Who are the underdogs? Here’s our world-class (somewhat) preview of what potentially awaits us all.

 

Bayern Munich – Barcelona

Bayern Munich have turned things around this season in grand style. It has even been said that Pep Guardiola might have nothing left to achieve by the time Jupp’ Osram’ Heynckes quits the Bavarians. News coming out of Germany this morning say that Mario Gotze is switching allegiance next season.

His next destination? The Allianz Arena to join his Nationalelf teammates, Neuer, Muller, Lahm, Schweini etc in what will be perhaps the best squad of players even assembled in Munich. The 6-1 mauling of Hannover 96 at the weekend was too good to be true. The Roten have scored for fun from the beginning of the season and only Arsenal have beaten them since the turn of the year. Against Wolfsburg in the Pokal Semis, Bayern also scored six and conceded one-a beauty from Deigo Ribas.

These goals galore have been done without the bulk of their first team players. The likes of  ‘EL Conquistador’ Pizarro who has been described as the best ’3RD STRIKER’ in the world by many, Jerome Boateng who has dropped to the bench since the start of the season, Xherdan Shaqiri, the diminutive Swiss winger, Arjen Robben who has found himself among the starters recently because of Toni Krooss’ layoff, etc have come in and done a great job. The Bundesliga champions are battle-ready for any team. Even Barcelona do not scare them considering the form they are in presently.

Barcelona are one of the favourites for Champions League glory. But before they secure a Wembley date against either Real Madrid or Dortmund, Bayern Munich must be stopped. However arduous it seems to be, the Blaugrana are unfazed by the challenge in front of them. A late 1-0 win over Levante nonetheless, the Spanish champions-elect have the ability to unsettle any team.

Tito Vilanova and his coaching staff are sweating over the fitness of star man, Lionel Messi. The Argentine has been sidelined for the last three League games and only came on versus PSG because it was absolutely expedient. Whether he can feature from the start today is something the management have kept close to their chest. If Messi does not play, the task will be made all the more difficult.

Barcelona have stars like Iniesta, Xavi, Fabregas, Villa, Busquets, and Pedro, but without Messi, they are not so special. Forget the 5-0 success over an already condemned Mallorca. Carles Puyol and Javier ‘Jefecito’ Mascherano are currently sidelined through injury.

That leaves gaps in the Catalan rear guard which is likely to be filled by the returning Eric Abidal whose story has been one of greatness and determination. The Frenchman completed 90 minutes against Levante on Saturday. His height and balance will give him an edge over Adriano because of the giant nature of the Bayern point men.

Marc Batra can also line up alongside Pique if Abidal is not trusted enough to carry the responsibility.

 

PROBABLE LINEUPS

BAYERN: Neuer, Lahm, Van Buyten, Dante, Alaba, Martinez, Schweinsteiger, Robben, Muller, Ribery, GOMEZ.

Lahm and Schweini return to the starting eleven after being left out of the team that won emphatically at Hannover. Mario Mandzukic is suspended for this fixture, so the other Mario, Gomez, will step in his shoes. Javi Martinez has been vocal in his praise of his Spanish friends at Barcelona. Paying homage to Xavi and Busquets especially. He must perform every well to also earn their eulogies. Arjen Robben has a point or two to prove tonight. His mistakes cost Bayern dear in last year’s final. He must make amends to get back into the fans hearts in a positive light.

Bastian Schweinsteiger, as usual, has a big role to play tonight. The German machine kept Andrea Pirlo quiet in the two matches against Juventus. A similar showing is expected of him when Xavi steps foot on the Inflatable boat in a few hours. Lahm, Gustavo and Dante will all miss the 2nd leg at the Nou Camp if they are cautioned in this game.

 

BARCA: Valdes, Alves, Pique, Batra/Abidal/Adriano, Alba, Busquets, Xavi, Iniesta, Pedro, Messi, Villa.

For all of Christian Tello’s runs, goals, and assists in the last couple of weeks, it is unlikely that he will start tonight. The experienced heads of Villa and Pedro will be preferred to the youthful exuberance of the pacy winger. Messi could return to the team and Sergio Busquets has shaken off a hernia problem to face the Bavarian giants.

It is in defence that the problem lies. Bartra, Adriano or Abidal? The answer lies with Tito and Jordi Roura. Gerard Pique was uttering some annoying things against Germany in the build up to his great game. He has  to do the talking on the pitch tonight.

 

Real Madrid – Borussia Dortmund

The Schwarzgelben might have shot themselves in the foot with the shocking news that Mario Gotze is set to join arch-rivals, Bayern Munich in the summer for 37 Million Euros. However tempting the offer may be/or have been, Germany’s Lionel Messi who says he’d rather be called the CR7 of DIE MANNSCAFT, should not be allowed to go for any price.

The Signa Iduna landlords are becoming a major force in Europe and to move further, their best players must stay put. That is beside the point. Some of immediate greater importance is before them. The visit of high flying Real Madrid who are so willing to win their 10th European trophy popularly called ‘LA DECIMA’ by the Merengues faithful.

Borussia Dortmund do not give a hoot about Real Madrid’s quest to win the Champions League – they harbour their own ambitions, too. The Borussens have relinquished their Bundesliga crown to Bayern already and are looking for silverware this season. A 2nd European triumph, 16 long years after the first, will be a fantastic accomplishment. Jurgen Klopp has been bullish in his assertions that BVB can do the impossible this term. No one can doubt the quality they possess.

Robert Lewandowski cannot stop scoring. If the Pole scores in his next 5 league games, he will break Gerd Muller’s long standing record of scoring in 16 consecutive League games  Mats Hummels has returned to full fitness and is poised to start alongside Neven Subotic in defence, leaving Felipe Santana on the sidelines. The Brazilian will be infuriated by this. After all, it is because of him that Dortmund are in the semi-finals. Rolls Reus scored against Real at the Bernabeu in their group encounter and can repeat the same feat if given the opportunity.

Real Madrid have a few injury problems. The war against Betis was won not without a few casualties. Benzema and Modric picked up minor injuries, while Marcelo was stretchered out of the pitch following a hamstring issue. Varane, Coentrao and Sergio Ramos are all likely to return to the starting 11 tomorrow. Di Maria and Xabi Alonso are also set to take their places in midfield and Pipita Higuain will lead the line with CR7 as usual, carrying the team’s hopes and aspirations.

Jose Mourinho has to decide yet again if Iker Casillas will return between the sticks or continue with the very impressive Diego Lopez. He wants to win the Champions League at all costs after three consecutive semi-final appearances. Dortmund stand in the way, just like Bayern last time out and Barcelona two seasons prior. The Portuguese is set to leave the Spanish capital at the end of the season. What better way to sign off than with a record breaking 10th UCL title.

Real will not look beyond this game despite the capital derby showdown at the weekend which will go a long way to decide who finishes as La Liga runners-up. The’whits’ must do better than their last showing in Rhine-Westphalia. The 2-1 loss was deserved by the Ruhr giants and they almost won at the Bernabeu until a late Ozil free-kick sealed a 2-2 draw for the hosts.

Tomorrow night, both sides will attempt to get an early goal and ultimately secure an unassailable advantage before the 2nd leg in Spain.

PROBABLE LINEUPS

BORUSSIA DORTMUND: Weidenfeller, Piszczek, Hummels, Subotic, Schmelzer, Bender, Gundogan, Kuba, ROLLS REUS, Gotze, Lewandowski.

Lewandowski has shaken off a minor problem to play in this game. Despite Gotze’s imminent departure, the playmaker will do everything humanly possible to destroy Real Madrid. Captain Sebastian Kehl who just signed a contract extension will start on the bench with Bender taking his place.

 

REAL MADRID: Lopez, Ramos, Pepe, Varane, Coentrao, Khedira, Alonso, Di Maria, Ozil, CR7, Higuain.

The back four will feature Ramos-Pepe and Varane from the start for the first time this season in Europe. Mesut Ozil and Sami Khedira return to their adopted country. This time around, not to represent them, but to stop one of its leading teams from emerging victorious tomorrow.

CRISTIANO RONALDO is the top European goal scorer this season with 11 goals. Two more and he will reach the 50-goal milestone in the Champions League. He has 50 already this season in all competitions and 196 in Real colours.

 

Written by Ohiskaka Eboreime

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Match Preview: Arsenal vs Everton – Squeaky Bum Time

  By O-Posts Team | April 16, 2013 - 16:01 | , , , ,
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Since the Moyes dynasty started in 2002, the Toffees have not defeated Arsenal in the Premier League either at Highbury or the Emirates. Tonight, the Scotsman and his boys will attempt to end that horrible away record tonight when they face 3rd placed Arsenal.

 

Everton are back in the hunt for the race to be England’s representatives in the Champions League next season with a remarkable run of 4 wins from their last 5 League games. Last weekend’s 2-0 victory over QPR took their points tally to 55, just three less than Spurs and Chelsea who are 5th and 4th respectively – although the latter have a game in hand over their fellow Champions League chasers. Liverpool can count themselves out of the ‘TOP 4′ race as they lie 5 points adrift of 6th placed Everton even after playing a game more.

 

The Evertonians have stepped up their level in recent weeks, taking out the likes of Manchester City and Stoke on their way to getting themselves back in the race for Champions League qualification. Leighton Baines has been the Premiership’s best left back this campaign and the Blues best player by a stretch. His forays, mazy runs, crosses, and set piece accuracy have been very instrumental to Everton’s surge.

 

Nikica Jelavic has been inconsistent this term after a sparkling start to life in Merseyside. The Croat has since returned to his shell. Kevin Mirallas, Victor Anichebe, Leon Osman, Gibson, and co have all come to the fore. It is  the Moroccan giant, Marouane Fellaini that has carried the goal scoring duties in the league. He is the only Blue to reach double figures (11) in league goals scored.

 

Tim Howard has been excellent again this season. The American number one is still one of the best between the sticks. The central defensive partnership of Distin and Jags (Jiagielka) has been sensational most of the time. The task of keeping out the in-form Arsenal front line will be arduous, but not impossible.

 

Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal traditionally raise their game at this time of the season. When others are jostling for the EPL title, the Gunners fight tooth and nail to be among the Champions League flag bearers. Not since 2008 have Arsenal been in any title race. It remains to be seen when they can mount a serious challenge for top honours again. That by the way side, London’s most successful football club have won their last five Premier League games and are favourites to make it six on the trot when the Toffees come visiting.

 

 

The Frenchman has a very good record against David Moyes and tonight’s challenge shouldn’t be too big to negotiate through. The Arsenal have risen to 3rd place in the EPL standings and can go 4 points clear of Chelsea and Spurs with a victory tonight. Jack Wilshere returned to the fold on Saturday to boost the morale of his teammates. Lukas Podolski came on to score a beautiful goal at the weekend and Thomas Vermaelen deputised for the suspended Per Mertesacker v the Canaries and did very well. Theo Walcott also came on and set up Poldi’s goal.

 

By and large, the weapons are potent. The Arsenal filled with enough to devour the Evertonians. The stage is set for a pulsating finale.

 

PROBABLE LINEUPS

 

ARSENAL

 

Szczesny, Sagna, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Monreal, ARTETA, Rosicky, Cazorla, Walcott, Gervinho, Giroud.

 

There will be a couple of changes to the starting line up tonight for sure. Nacho Monreal is set to replace Gibbs at left back….Per Mertesacker is back from a one game ban which means Vermaelen returns to the bench. Wojciech Szczesny will get an unlikely start as fellow compatriot, Fabianski,  is sidelined through injury. Jack can’t be risked again, so Czech playmaker, Rosicky, will return and hope go continue his good form.

 

Olivier Giroud will lead the line alongside Gervinho and most probably, Walcott.

 

 

EVERTON

 

Howard, Coleman, Distin, Jagielka, BAINES, Gibson, Osman, Pienaar, Mirallas, FELLAINI, Anichebe

 

The Toffees will start with just about the same team that beat QPR on Saturday. The duo of Fellaini-Anichebe will cause a lot of trouble to the Arsenal rearguard. If they are to win for the first time in 17 years, both must fire. The Everton record at Arsenal is shameful; 20 games and 16 defeats is absolutely rotten.
We await the fireworks.

 

 

Written by Ohiskaka Eboreime

 

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Serie A: A Preview of this Week’s two Titanic Clashes

  By O-Posts Team | April 14, 2013 - 18:02 | , , , , ,
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Juventus have set the pace in Serie A yet again. The Old Lady of Turin currently hold a 9 point lead over second placed Napoli and could see this increase if results go their way tonight. The Juventini will be looking to get back to winning ways after suffering elimination from the Champions League in the hands of Bayern Munich.

The German club destroyed their Italian counterparts, 4-0 on aggregate (2-0 H&A) to set up a mouth watering, eagerly anticipated, block buster clash with almighty Barcelona in the semis. Lazio on other hand, know that tomorrow’s game is the one of the last few opportunities to secure qualification to the next season’s Champions League.

Anything less than 3 points tonight and things will become very, very delicate. A.C Milan are one of the most in-form teams in the Italian League and it is no surprise that they have maintained third place for a long time now.

Victory over 2nd placed Napoli will take the Berlusconi owned outfit to within one point of tonight’s opponents and a chance to claim 2nd place in the next couple of weeks.

 

A.C MILAN-NAPOLI

The Milanese have won 4 and drawn of their last 5 Serie games and lie third in the League standings, four points behind 2nd placed Napoli. This would have been inconceivable at the beginning of the season with poor result after poor result coming for the 2011 Italian Champions. Allegri was on brink of a sack and things were going from bad to worse.

However, the ship has steadied ever since and it is a different Rossoneri now. The purchase of Mario Balotelli coupled with the rise to prominence of ‘Faraone’ Shaarawy has been very crucial to the Milan resurgence. El Shaarawy has carried the team all on his way at various times this season. The Egyptian-Italian’s phenomenal form has seen him earn caps with the Azzurri.

Today’s opponents, Napoli, also possess some of the deadliest footballers in Serie A. It is no accident that they sit a place ahead of Milan and still harbour the ambition of winning the Scudetto despite the 9-point lead Juventus have.

The Neapolitans, who have won three of their last 5 games, know that a win over the red and black will all but ensure 2nd place is theirs to lose. Edinson Cavani leads the scorers chart with 22 goals already this season. This means that two Uruguayans comfortably sit atop the marksmen list of two of Europe’s best leagues (England and Italy). He went scoreless for some time, but has come back strong to bang in the goals as he so regularly does.

Marek Hamsik provides the needed creativity from attacking midfield and chips in with some vital goals. Milan know all about these two guys. Stopping them tonight will not be a piece of cake.

Allegri must come to terms with the fact that ‘bad boy’ Mario will not be available for the next 3 games after he was suspended for collecting his 5th yellow card and insulting match officials in Florence. He is also set to face the disciplinary committee of his club for allegations of smoking on the train to the Artenio Franchi.

Consequently, ‘II Pazzo’ will lead the line with El Shaarawy and teenager, M’baye Niang. The EL-BA-NI partnership will have to wait until Mario returns from suspension.

Ricco Montolivo has been exceptional in the last month or so. The midfield pearl’s displays have caught the eye. A superb one again today and Milan could be singing the glory song.

 

PROBABLE LINEUPS

Milan:

Abbiati, Abate, Zapata, Mexes, Constant, Montolivo, Boateng, Flamini, Niang, Pazzini, El Shaarawy

The absence of Balotelli is a huge loss for Milan. Stephan El Shaarawy has not scored since the end of January. Well, Pazzini has goals in him.

 

Napoli:

De Sanctis, Campagnaro, Cannavaro, Britos, Maggio, Behrami, Dzemaili, Zuniga, Hamisk, Pandev, Cavani

Walter Mazzarri’s men use the wing-back system like Juventus. With Maggio and Zuniga marauding down the wings. Swiss duo, Behrami and Dzemaili will take the midfield roles with Hamsik ahead of them. Blerim Dzemaili has scored 4 goals in his last 2 Serie A games. He is a man in form.

The meeting at San Paolo ended all square (2-2).

 

 

LAZIO-JUVENTUS

Prior to midweek, the Laziali and the Bianconeri were Italy’s last two representatives in European Competitions. However, both of them have been thrown out with the Biaconceleste at least earning a creditable 1-1 draw at home to Fenerbahce. The extra motivation will be with the Rome based club.

The 5th placed team have lost three of their last five games. A draw in last weekend’s Rome derby was seen as two points lost. Hernanes has been tremendous for Petkovic’s side this season, but he let himself and Lazio down in that game by missing a penalty and conceding one at the other end that Er Pupone duly dispatched.

Miroslav Klose is back and that is a bonus for the Biancoceleste. His 10 goals before the long layoff helped the Sky Blues to Champions League places. They have since capitulated afterwards. The much travelled Sergio Floccari has deputised at times for the German Legend. It hasn’t been enough nonetheless.

Hernanes has been the shining light all season and bar the 2nd half performance v the Giallorossi last time out, he has rarely put a foot wrong. Federico Marchetti in goal has been one of the Aquile’s most consistent performers. The Italian goalie’s exploits haven’t gone unnoticed by Cesare Prandelli. Only that Gigi Buffon will be very difficult to displace. PSG’s Salvatore Sirigu has found that a futile mission too.

If the Coppa Italia finalists still want to qualify for the UCL, today’s game is a must win.

Juventus are no easy ride for anyone. Well, except you are Bayern Munich. Apart from the German destroyers, no side has been so dominant against the Old Lady since Antonio Conte took over and came back from a 4 month suspension in December.

Tomorrow night against the Biancoceleste, the league leaders have it all to do in order to restore the confidence that was nowhere to be found on Wednesday. Andrea Pirlo will not want to see Bastian Schweinsteiger anytime soon. The German midfielder gained revenge over the Italian master in both legs of the European tie. It was a performance that drew comparisons with some of the very best ever. A virtuoso display of excellence.

Marchisio cut a forlorn figure in both legs and his ineffectiveness when playing against Europe’s finest footballers showed to a great extent. The absence of Giorgio Chiellini is another minus for the Juventini. The defence without him have coped….with him, they are water tight.

Mirko Vucinic and his strike partners were no match for Dante and Danny Van Buyten who effortlessly kept them very quiet. A Cana-Ciani partnership might be weaker on paper, but can put on a similar show. Tonio Candreva is that stunning winger these days. He knows the Old Lady very well, having spent a season there on loan some seasons ago. His form this campaign has been great.

Ogenyi Onazi has shown flashes of what he is capable of, especially in the European stage. A vital squad member who can come in handy at any time.

 

PROBABLE LINEUPS

LAZIO:

Marchetti, Gonzalez, Cana, Ciani, Stankevicius, Candreva, Ledesma, Onazi, Hernanes, Mauri, Klose

The prominent Senad Lulic is suspended for this tie, so Alvaro Gonzalez comes in for him. The return of the imposing Klose is a massive boost for Vladimir Petkovic’s team.

 

JUVENTUS:

Buffon, Peluso, Bonucci, Barzagli, Asamoah, Marchisio, Vidal, Pirlo, Lichtsteiner, Vucinic, Matri

The return of Arturo Vidal and Stephan Lichtsteiner will be music to the ears of Conte. Although Chiellini is out through suspension, the old lady have enough in their arsenal to wreck havoc at the Stadio Olimpico.

Alessandro Matri is set to replace the Quag in attack, while Kwadwo Asamoah at left wing back is an automatic choice when fit.

 

Written by Ohireime Eboreime

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Champions League Last 8: Tuesday Night Second Leg Preview

  By O-Posts Team | April 9, 2013 - 17:53 | , , , , ,
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Real Madrid will be looking to finish the Gala job when they travel to the Turk Telekom Arena tonight. Fatih Terim and his boys will be looking to salvage some pride at least. A three goal deficit against a great team like Real Madrid is impossible to overcome. Although, impossible is nothing.

They could borrow a leaf from the phenomenal Depor side under Javier Irueta who came from 4-1 down to dismantle an A.C Milan team comprising of Andrea Pirlo, Kaka, Seedorf, Sheva, etc by four unreplied goals at the famous RIAZOR stadium in La Coruna. Juan Carlos Valeron ran the show that day. A repeat of that performance is highly unlikely.

Meanwhile, Malaga and bereaved manager, Manuel Pellegrini travel to Dortmund with the sole aim of trying to qualify for the semi-finals. The Iduna will be made very uncomfortable for the Boquerones. Tomorrow, Paris St Germain travel to the Camp Nou, while Bayern Munich visit the home of the Old Lady of Italian football to complete the demolition job. Conte awaits their arrival.

 

DORTMUND- MALAGA

The excellent Manuel Pellegrini is grief-stricken. The Chilean had to travel home over the weekend to be with his family as a result of the death of his father. It was looking increasingly unlikely that the Leader of the Malaga orchestra will be available for the biggest match of their history yet.

The Champions League quarter-final 2nd leg v Jurgen Klopp’s Borussia Dortmund who couldn’t find the net at the Rosaleda despite having many scoring chances. The Borussens relinquished their status as German Champions to Bayern Munich at the weekend and will be looking to get to the semi-finals in what has been a near impeccable Eurpean adventure. The 1997 European champions will rely on the firepower of Robert Lewandowski to guide them past Joaquin’s Malaga.

The Andalusians also have Francisco “Isco” Alarcon to count on when the going gets tough. Julio’ the beast’ Baptista can also turn things around on his day. Labista Sevilla was marvellous at times in his career and can make things happen when it matters most.

Pellegrini is aware of the importance of the away goals rule and has underlined his ambition to take the game to Dortmund from start to finish. It can get all messy for the host if the first half ends scoreless. Pressure will begin to mount and they can buckle.

Defensive rock, Mats Hummels and the energetic Kuba are doubts for this game. Not that it really matters as Klopp has alternatives to choose from.

 

Probable Lineups

Dortmund:

Weidenfeller, Piszczek, Santana/Hummels, Subotic, Schmelzer, Kehl, Gundogan, Reus, Gotze, Kuba/Groskreutz, LEWANDOWSKI.

Polish predator, Lewandowski, came of the bench to score in his 10th successive Bundesliga game at the weekend and will be looking to add to his 5 Champions League goals this term. Gotze has missed far too many chances in the last two games. He will also be determined to make amends for the number of chances that went begging in the first leg.

Marco ‘Rolls’ Reus should be feared as always. He rarely puts a foot wrong and his partnership with the diminutive Gotze is one of the deadliest in world football.

 

Malaga:

Caballero, Jesus Garmez, Lugano, Demichelis, Artunes, Toulalan, Iggy Camacho, ISCO, Joaquin, Baptista, Saviola.

Los Boquerones will be without Weligton, who has been a rock in the center of defence and Midfield linchpin, Manuel Iturra whose play complements Toulalan’s. Huge losses. But ISCO is fit and set to roar.

 

GALATASARAY – REAL MADRID

Selcuk Inan was overshadowed and outplayed by Xabi Alonso in the battle of the World’s finest Deep lying playmakers at the Bernabeu. He wouldn’t want to be dominated in his own home, even though Alonso is suspended for the game. Luka Modric is also a fantastic footballer and can compete with the very best in the business.

Didier Drogba made his presence felt at the weekend with two fine goals in league play, but has done nothing for Gala in the European scene. If not for anything, he should at least chip in with a goal tonight.

Real Madrid will know better than to sleep on this game. If recent capitulations by A.C Milan are anything to go by, then ‘never’ is a word meant for the lame and tame-hearted. Fatih Terim will throw all that he possesses at the Merengues tonight for what it’s worth.

Jose Mourinho will not be able to call upon Roja Centurions, Alonso and Sergio Ramos tonight due to suspension. Pepe is a doubt after pulling up in training. French teenager, Varane is a certain starter and could be joined in central defence by the much maligned Raul Albiol if the Portuguese defender cannot shake off whatever ails him.

Cristiano Ronaldo is the UCL top scorer with 9 and can add to his tally tonight to stretch his lead at the top of the chart over Messi and the suspended Burak Yilmaz who have 8 a piece.

 

Probable Lineups

GALA:

Muslera, Eboue, Balta, Kaya, Riera, Inan, Melo, Altintop, Sneijder, DROGBA, Elmander

The crushing blow for the Turkish League leaders is that top scorer, Burak Yilmaz is unavailable for this game due to suspension. Somewhat needless and stupid. The Norwegian referee (Svein Oddvar Moen) in charge of the match at the Bernabeu wrongly booked the marksman for diving when indeed it should have been a penalty.

Dany Nounkeu is also out. Too many yellows accumulated by the central defender. Hakan Balta takes his place.

 

REAL MADRID:

Diego Lopez, Arbeloa/Essien, Pepe/Albiol, Varane Coentrao, Khedira, Modric, Ozil, Di Maria, CR7, Benzema.

The ‘whites’ made 7 changes to the team that spanked Levante on Saturday. Still the 5-1 result flattered Real who only started playing in the final stages of the match. San Iker is back after a 9 week layoff, but cannot unseat Diego Lopez from the goalkeeping position. It will be a travesty of epic proportions if that happens.

The Pipita-Benz centre forward battle might likely be won by the latter. Coentrao is a more disciplined left back and should replace Marcelo in that department. Sami Khedira returns to shore up the midfield, while Luka Modric will get the nod in the absence of Xabi Alonso. Kaka likely to be on the bench yet again even after scoring a goal at the weekend.

The Ozil-Di Maria axis will return to bolster the team.

 

Written by Ohireime Eboreime

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Match Preview: West Brom vs Arsenal

  By O-Posts Team | April 6, 2013 - 11:48 | , , ,
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Saturday and we are back to football ways, Arsene Wenger’s in-form Arsenal side visit The Hawthorns for an epic Premier League clash against Steve Clarke’s inconsistent West Brom team.

West Brom would be looking recover from that embarrassing loss against West Ham. Their display was similar to the Reading outfit that visited the Emirates ; committed a high number of individual errors and were also too aggressive. Although, they were a bit unlucky as they created tons of goal scoring opportunities through individual skills but couldn’t convert them into goals. Overall, they were poor and Steve Clarke should be looking  to instill some belief to a side that dominated possession but ended up losing by a fair margin.

For Arsenal, the incredible win against Bayern in the UEFA Champions League looks to have spurred the Gunners, who gained 3 successive league wins. Their mouth-watering display against Reading hasn’t come unnoticed ; they created a high number of chances relating to their possession, even though they were caught offside often, Arsenal played very well in my opinion and should have scored more goals anyway.

After losing to Arsenal in the first leg of this fixture, West Brom have managed just 5 wins out of 16, so for that, I choose to label them as “inconsistent” despite their barnstorming start to the season.

 

Team news

West Brom

Highflying goal scorer Romelu Lukaku should be available. The Belgian, on loan from Chelsea, has scored 13 goals for the Baggies this season and is currently the highest goal scorer in the team. Not also forgetting goalkeeper Ben Foster who has performed heroics between the sticks. Other than that, the team looks okay  and should be ready to give Arsenal a torrid time at the Hawthorns.

 

Arsenal

The competition in the squad is getting feisty and that has seen top players stuck to the bench. Arsene Wenger message is loud and clear: You need to be at your top game and work very hard to make the starting line-up irrespective of your position in the team.

Aside Nacho Monreal limping off at the Reading game and a definite doubt ahead of this encounter, the squad looks in good shape and it would be interesting to see if Wojciech Szczęsny is welcomed back into the squad.

 

Last 5 matches for each side

West Brom League Form : WLWDL

Arsenal League Form : WLWWW

 

Predictions

This sort of fixture has been noted to produce incredible moments and goals. Expect the Baggies supporters to roar from start to finish. If Arsenal are on their top game and dictate possession, then they can cause problems for the hosts.

 

Predicted scoreline: West Brom 1-2 Arsenal

 

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UEFA Champions League: Quarter-final First Leg Previews

  By O-Posts Team | April 2, 2013 - 15:20 | , , , , , , , ,
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In previous years, the Champions League has tended to get more and more dramatic as it goes along. However, this year, both the group stage, and the round of 16 have been full of drama with world class teams Manchester United, Shakhtar Donetsk, Arsenal, last year’s winners Chelsea, to name just a few, already being dumped out.

So with this season’s tournament already being full of excitement and tension, these quarter finals promise to be nothing less than spectacular.

 

Bayern Munich vs. Juventus

Both these teams are considered “dark horses” to win the competition by many, but only one will make the semi-finals as these two European giants clash, with the first leg being held in Munich.

Both teams look set to win their respective domestic leagues, and won impressively at the weekend. Bayern tore Hamburg apart, winning 9-2, while Juventus picked up a colossal three points in a 2-1 victory over Inter Milan at the San Siro. Both these sides are flying, with Juventus having one of the most organised teams in world football, and Bayern having the most well rounded and energetic sides.

Bayern’s attacking trio of Müller, Kroos and Ribery will look to create chances for the deadly Mario Mandžukic, but if any side can neutralise the threat posed by these four, it is the expected Juventus defence of Barzagli, Chiellini and Bonucci, helped by energetic wing backs Lichsteiner and Asamoah.

Bayern’s Javi Martinez is suspended for this game, so Bayern will need to rely on Luis Gustavo to help Bastian Schweinsteiger keep Claudio Marchisio, Andrea Pirlo and goalscoring midfielder Arturo Vidal quiet. Juventus tend to keep the ball regardless of the opposition, but against a creative Bayern side in the expectant Allianz arena, this may be difficult.

A genuinely mouth-watering tie.

 

PSG vs. Barcelona

Barcelona have fond memories of the French capital, having won this very trophy in Paris back in 2006, in a 2-1 victory over Arsenal. However, despite having virtually won La Liga a while back, this Barca team arrives in Paris with question marks regarding their ability to play away from home.

In the round of 16, Barca were beaten 2-0 against Milan, with many suspecting they wouldn’t be able to overturn that result. Barcelona managed it however, winning 4-0 in Catalonia, so PSG will need a huge result if they are to go into the second leg with strong hopes of going through.

PSG’s defence that includes Brazilians Thiago Silva, Alex and ex-Barca left back Maxwell, will need to remain fully focused and determined if they are to silence Messi and co., and knock out the side who many consider tournament favourites.

 

Malaga vs. Dortmund

At the start of the tournament, many considered Malaga a side too weak to make waves in the Champions League and Dortmund a side just too young to compete against Europe’s elite. However, both of these hard working sides are just two games away from a place in the Champions League semis.

Malaga’s well-oiled machine of a defence has conceded a mere 6 goals in 8 champions league games this season, while Dortmund possess one of Europe’s most feared attacks, with Reus, Götze, Lewandowski and Błaszczykowski all hitting form right now.

Malaga do possess creative players themselves though, such as the highly regarded Isco and Joaquin.

Definitely one of the most tactically unpredictable quarter finals.

 

Real Madrid vs. Galatasaray

After getting through to the quarter finals in a highly controversial manner against Manchester United, Jose Mourinho’s quest for an historic third Champions League triumph runs through Turkish champions Galatasaray.

Although Galatasaray aren’t the most feared team left in the competition, their impressive 3-2 win away to Schalke in the round of 16 second leg is a prime example why they shouldn’t be dismissed, especially with the champions league’s top scorer (along with Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo) Burak Yilmaz in absolutely unbelievable from, as well as a presumably determined Wesley Sneijder returning to his old stomping ground of the Bernabeu.

Galatasaray’s Hamit Altintop and Felipe Melo will be expected to do a great deal of running to prevent Mesut Özil and Xabi Alonso from controlling the game too much, although this may prove a task too much for this tenacious Galatasaray side.

 

Written by Joshua Sodergren

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Sunderland vs Manchester United: Match Preview

  By O-Posts Team | March 30, 2013 - 09:16 | , , ,
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What a welcome relief. The International break is well and truly over (at least for now). Focus shifts to club football once again. This is what the fans really care about, not some boring games all in the name of World Cup Qualifiers, although some games were hugely entertaining.

Manchester United resume domestic affairs in a bid to win its 20th English crown. Their next adventure is at the Stadium of Light where relegation threatened Sunderland await the challenge.

It has been a bit of a surprise that the black cats are flirting with relegation this season. They lie in 15th place on 31 points, level with Southampton who are 16th. Although they are only 3 points behind 11th placed Stoke City (34 pts). Mathematically, all ten teams are not safe from relegation. From Stoke who occupy the 11th spot to lowest ranked QPR.

The team is led by one of the most experienced managers in British football, Martin O’Neil, whose spells at Celtic, Leicester City and Aston Villa brought a lot of success. He was expected to replicate something similar at Wearside. It hasn’t been as anticipated.

Backed by multi-millionaire owner, Ellis Short, they have spent in excess of 30 million pounds this season bringing in the likes of Adam Johnson, Steven Fletcher and ex-Swan, Danny Graham. Results haven’t gone their way at all and their last outing in the Premier League ended in a 1-all draw v the yellow submarines of English football, Norwich. This is an even bigger test. The biggest of their season. Manchester United come to town.

Sir Alex Ferguson has still not forgotten his team’s ordeal in the hands of the Sunderland fans when the announcement came through that Kun Aguero had scored an injury time winner for the Citizens of Manchester to effectively end United’s hopes of claiming a 20th top flight domestic triumph.

They were vociferous in their scorn and ridicule of the Red Devils who until the 91st minute, were champions of England. The Scotsman and his talisman, Wayne Rooney have repeatedly stated this term that they will never forget that fateful day and the latter also added that he now checks when his team plays Sunderland as soon as the fixture list is released. It was and still is that hurtful.

The champions-elect come into this game 15 points ahead of closest challengers, City who have stuttered this season and failed to rise up to the occasion when it matters most. Fergie and his boys know that only a collapse even more tumultuous than the earthquake that struck Japan a few years ago, can stop the Premier League trophy from finding its way back to where it has stayed 12 times prior.

During the International Break, the likes of Rooney, RVP and Chicharito were on song for their respective national teams. On a personal and collective level for RvP’s Oranje, everything went as dreamed. 2 clean sheets and 7 goals scored with RVP contributing to 6 (3 goals, 3 assists) of the strikes. The Dutchman has now scored 34 goals for the Netherlands and is just 6 behind the Legendary Patrick Kluivert (40).

For England, it was a relatively satisfactory performance with 4 points gained from two matches played. Rooney struck and assisted against the World’s biggest minnows, San Marino and then added another sweet headed goal v Montenegro in Podgorica where he was famously red carded in a Euro 2012 Qualifier. With that goal, the Englishman joined Michael Owen as the two players who have scored the most goals in competitive games for the 3Lions-26.

Javier Hernandez a.k.a Lil Pea made his presence felt in Mexico’s game v Honduras. His two goals for the Tri were not enough to earn a victory as the opponents came back from 2 down to even the score. On a personal level though, his brace took him to an excellent 30 since his debut. SENSATIONAL!

Antonio Valencia and Ecuador scored great wins v El Salvador (friendly) and Paraguay (WCQ) and Tony V made a telling contribution in each of them. Ashley Young was also among the scorers in the San Marino game and is in fine form.

Sunderland are without Steven Fletcher and Captain Lee Cattermole who have both been ruled out until next season – a big blow to the Black Cats’ survival push. Fletcher was injured in the Scotland-Wales game and their worst fears have now been confirmed. Connor Wickham is expected to fill the void over the next two months or so.

The Black Cats have other options in midfield, but Lee’s driving force and leadership qualities will be sorely missed in the run-in.

 

Probable Lineups

Sunderland-

Mignolet, Gardner, O’Shea, Cuellar, Rose, Larsson, Vaughan, Sessegnon, Johnson, McClean, Graham

Stephane Sessegnon has been very poor this season. The Benin International has been well below par for the Wearsiders and it has been evident in results and performances thus far. This is where great players are counted and a good showing v Manchester United will assuage fears of relegation.

Danny Graham must stand up to be counted as well. The striker has been here and there since his arrival and in the absence of Fletcher, he must carry the burden of scoring the needed goals.

 

Manchester United-

DDG, Rafa, Rio, Vidic, Evra, Carrick, Scholes, TonyV, Ashley Young, Rooney, RVP

Sir Alex Ferguson will definitely have one eye on Easter Monday’s FA Cup Quarter-Final replay at the Bridge when selecting his team for Saturday. The managerial great wants the domestic cup at all costs after missing out for the past nine years.

The evergreen Ryan Giggs will be needed to steer the Red Army ship past Chelsea on Monday and should be rested for the trip to the Stadium of Light. Paul ‘Ginger Maestro’ Scholes is back after a long layoff and should start the Sunderland game. Northern Irishman, Jonny Evans will start one of the two upcoming games.

The gaffer will choose the one best suited for him. Rooney and RVP will start as the team cannot afford any slip-ups and intend to be merciless.

The expected outcome should be a straightforward United victory, but who knows?

 

Written by Ohis Eboreime

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Premier League Betting Preview: This Weekend’s Top 5 Bets

  By O-Posts Team | March 16, 2013 - 17:00 | , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
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This weekend we’re back to a full complement of Premier League fixtures as there is no FA Cup action to contend with, and it could be a pivotal weekend for both ends of the table as Manchester City would have had a tricky fixture away to Europe-chasing wounded animals Everton earlier in the day in the lunchtime match, while in the evening clash champions-elect Manchester United take on the relegation-threatened and managerless Reading, with the Royals fully knowing the task ahead of them in light of the crucial six-pointer between fellow basement dwellers Aston Villa and QPR in the pick of the 3pm games.

The first tip comes from the Liberty Stadium however, where the newly-crowned Capital One Cup winners look a tad over-priced to claim their third successive league victory over Arsenal today.  I would suggest the quoted match odds represent an over-reaction of sorts to the Gunners’ admittedly impressive yet ultimately fruitless 2-0 midweek win at Bayern Munich, coupled with an away win being seen as necessary to maintain real hope amongst Arsene Wenger’s men of trips to opposition of Bayern’s ilk next season.

The Swans will not be easy pickings by any stretch however, and Michael Laudrup has been keen to stress there remains lots to play for despite safety assured and a cup win under their belt.  Besides, having the pressure off should only encourage even more champagne football from Michu, De Guzman and the like.

Next up, I see no reason why Luis Suarez cannot continue his impressive goalscoring form at a notoriously porous Southampton at St. Mary this afternoon, while former Saints boss Harry Redknapp will be as pumped for a QPR win today at Aston Villa as he was for his current team to beat his old employers a couple of weeks ago.  Redknapp always gets dogs abuse at Villa Park and he’ll use the home fans’ bile as an incentive to rile his players to extend their recent purple patch.  Expect the Hoops to come away from Birmingham this evening with at least a point.

Redknapp’s old protegè from the South Coast and more recently North London was unavailable for Tottenham’s torturous yet ultimately successful trip to the San Siro on Thursday, but Gareth Bale will return from his European ban to give his team-mates a badly-needed boost after successive bashings by Liverpool and Inter Milan.

Spurs looked out on their feet, in particular at the back, towards the end of Thursday’s Europa League marathon and a significantly fresher Fulham have the quality in Bryan Ruiz and former Lilywhite Dimitar Berbatov to capitalise on a tired defence and find the net.  A well-rested Bale may have the last laugh, however.

 

PREMIER LEAGUE TOP FIVE BETS

1) Swansea to beat Arsenal 23/10 PINNACLEBET
2) Southampton vs. Liverpool Suarez Anytime Goalscorer Evens BOYLESPORTS
3) QPR +0.5 Handicap vs. Aston Villa 4/6 Ladbrokes
4) Tottenham vs. Fulham Both Teams to Score 17/20 BetVictor
5) Tottenham vs. Fulham Gareth Bale Last Goalscorer 3/1 EVERYWHERE!

 

Written by Emelie Okeke

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