Tonight is the big one. Liverpool have booked their place in the final now we MUST do the same. We are the best team in England and indeed in Europe and WE deserve to be at that final just as much as our biggest rivals. Milan is a difficult place to go, but we should believe… we must believe that this season it is our destiny!
We talk a lot about 99’ when we get to this point of the season and it got me thinking, I would like to know what it means to all the readers what it means to be a Manchester United fan. I was sat watching the game last night and yes it was tense, but for me, it just doesn’t come close to watching Manchester United. Tonight I will be singing, chanting, cheering and hopefully not crying. These are the games that shape any fan’s experiences of being a fan, so instead of talking line-ups and formations today, I would invite you all to tell me what it means to be a red and some of your fondest memories of being a fan?
I’ll kick things off! I’m sure a number of you will say that your fondest memory was winning the European cup and I am no different. I remember sitting on the sofa at the time, (I couldn’t make it over to Barcelona unfortunately) we were 1-0 down and weren’t playing particularly well. My heart was breaking inside. We were losing to the German’s, something I had already experienced a couple of times in international football. The boys were tired with no apparent way back into the game.
Then came those commentators words, “United must score.. They always score”. Ferguson had just hauled of our two strikers, Yorke and Cole and replaced them with Ole and Sheringham. It was the last minute, all was over. Then it came… a goal from nowhere and we were staring extra time in the face. I was jumping around the living room and right there and then I knew, this was a team that believed in themselves so much, that they could win this! With adrenaline pumping through my veins from the first goal I sat back with a huge grin on my face.
Then came the second! I knew at that point that these boys would go down in history. We had won the Champion’s league from the clutches of defeat, and it was against the Germans. I look back on that day now and think to myself. That was the pinnacle. You don’t get much better than that as a fan.
The next few years was a steady decline. For most fans that would be enough to last a life time. But not Man Utd fans. We are back bigger and arguably better than before. We can challenge and we can win, I think our players know that! So this morning, let me know what is your fondest memory of being a Man Utd fan and why?
I’m just gonna put this video in again because I love it. You may have already seen it, but to be honest I don’t care. COME ON YOU REDS.. UNITED FOREVER!
Showing posts with label champions league. Show all posts
Showing posts with label champions league. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Monday, April 30, 2007
Manchester United the rollercoaster!
Good morning fellow United fans and what a great morning it is too. Is the premiership the best league in the world or what? At one point we were 2-0 down, with Chelsea leading 2-1 and we were going to have to play Chelsea at the bridge for the title. Then Our boys pulled yet another performance out of the bag, Chelsea conceded a goal and it’s 4-2 to us, Chelsea draw and we are 5 points clear with 3 games to go.
It’s at this point of the season that more emotion is spilled than any other. I think it’s partly because we all know that the season is drawing near, it’s been a long hard road and suddenly it’s make or break for everything. Of course winning the silverware is important, we’ve smelt it for so long but it’s so close now that you can almost taste it.
At the back of my mind I know that this summer will be long with no football to watch. My hope is that we are celebrating a host of trophies under our illustrious manager. When the dust settles and we are kicking our heals, this blog will resort back to the Man Utd transfer rumour blog reporting every little bit of gossip I can get my hands on, remember the Carrick and Van Nistelrooy saga?
But let’s not think about that now, we still have a few games left of this season, one of the most important being Wednesday’s visit to Milan. Vidic will have a scan today that will determine whether or not he can play in the game, oh how we need him. Ferguson said that he was trying his best to get Rio back, perhaps the gap in the Premiership will give him a little breathing space to make that decision.
We hold a 3-2 lead. That second away goal is the crucial one for them. A 1-0 result would send Milan through and us going home wondering what might have been! However this season seems different. Could you imagine this team coming back from 2-0 down away from home last season? Could you picture us driving on from 2-1 down against a team like Milan and then scoring a winner in injury time?
Wednesday will be tough, but we have shown time and time again this season that no matter how up against it we are, we can mix it with the best. This season promises many more ups and downs before Man Utd rollercoaster pulls into the station!
It’s at this point of the season that more emotion is spilled than any other. I think it’s partly because we all know that the season is drawing near, it’s been a long hard road and suddenly it’s make or break for everything. Of course winning the silverware is important, we’ve smelt it for so long but it’s so close now that you can almost taste it.
At the back of my mind I know that this summer will be long with no football to watch. My hope is that we are celebrating a host of trophies under our illustrious manager. When the dust settles and we are kicking our heals, this blog will resort back to the Man Utd transfer rumour blog reporting every little bit of gossip I can get my hands on, remember the Carrick and Van Nistelrooy saga?
But let’s not think about that now, we still have a few games left of this season, one of the most important being Wednesday’s visit to Milan. Vidic will have a scan today that will determine whether or not he can play in the game, oh how we need him. Ferguson said that he was trying his best to get Rio back, perhaps the gap in the Premiership will give him a little breathing space to make that decision.
We hold a 3-2 lead. That second away goal is the crucial one for them. A 1-0 result would send Milan through and us going home wondering what might have been! However this season seems different. Could you imagine this team coming back from 2-0 down away from home last season? Could you picture us driving on from 2-1 down against a team like Milan and then scoring a winner in injury time?
Wednesday will be tough, but we have shown time and time again this season that no matter how up against it we are, we can mix it with the best. This season promises many more ups and downs before Man Utd rollercoaster pulls into the station!
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Man Utd V Milan match highlights and review
It was one of those fairy tale games that only United can provide. We scored first and early, but somehow you just knew this wasn’t the end of it. 2 fabulous goals by Kaka made it 2-1, our patched up defence looked as though they had lost it for us. But then came the fightback!
United showed spirit and determination, the players seemed experienced beyond their years. 2-1 down against such a great team was not an issue, the goals would come and they just knew this fixture would go their way. They never stopped believing!
All the talk this week has surrounded Ronaldo, but for me this was Rooney’s night. He scored the second and then the third in jury time was a marvel. It could well be the goal that takes us through. Don’t get me wrong there is still much to do, but with the likes of Rooney and Ronaldo, why shouldn’t we be confident?
I’m sure that I have said this before, but something seems different this year. Whenever it looks like it is all over we are given a reprieve. Last night was one of those times as was the Chelsea result on Sunday. We are still alive and still fighting. Let’s see how tonights game goes between Chelsea and Liverpool, who would you want to see in the final, should we get there?
United showed spirit and determination, the players seemed experienced beyond their years. 2-1 down against such a great team was not an issue, the goals would come and they just knew this fixture would go their way. They never stopped believing!
All the talk this week has surrounded Ronaldo, but for me this was Rooney’s night. He scored the second and then the third in jury time was a marvel. It could well be the goal that takes us through. Don’t get me wrong there is still much to do, but with the likes of Rooney and Ronaldo, why shouldn’t we be confident?
I’m sure that I have said this before, but something seems different this year. Whenever it looks like it is all over we are given a reprieve. Last night was one of those times as was the Chelsea result on Sunday. We are still alive and still fighting. Let’s see how tonights game goes between Chelsea and Liverpool, who would you want to see in the final, should we get there?
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Manchester United V AC milan match preview
Tonight is the big one. Nothing less than a win will suffice as we look to book our place in the final of the Champions league. We face a Milan side that rested a lot of its major stars over the weekend whilst we have a squad that has only 10 first team players fully fit. United always have injury problems at some point in the season, it is how we deal with it that will determine our season.
Ferguson said it again on Saturday “we like to make things difficult for ourselves and do it the hard way” and it looks like this season will be no different. With the likes of Ferdinand, Vidic and Neville out for both ties, we will be relying heavily on our attacking options to seek a breakthrough. Can they do it?
For the first time this season I was gloomy before the Roma game at Old Trafford I could see as drawing 1-1 with them equalising in the last minute, but how wrong was I? Perhaps it would be a good omen if I were to suggest the same again? I think we all now that the Roma result was a freak, we played outstandingly well and Roma just never closed us down. Tonight promises to be equally spectacular however.
With no first team defence to speak of, the red devils will look to play the kind of football the South Americans like to play. You score 1 and we’ll score 2. I expect us to try and play as much of the game as possible passing, moving and attacking. There will inevitably be gaps at the back, but I think our attacking players will be able to run Milan’s’ ageing defence to pieces. Kaka will be on form and how we deal with him could well be the determining factor.
What happened at the weekend? Drawing against Middlesbrough at home? It threw my predictions straight out of the window. Jose was moaning that the referees are all supporting Manchester United all because his team couldn’t capitalise on our slip up. What about all those goals your team has scored when the whistle should have gone minutes ago Mourinho? I guess we don’t mention those. That draw could well have cost him the title, remember they still need to go to the Emirates.
In transfer news, it seems that Torres was photographed with the slogan “you’ll never walk alone on his captains’ armband. This slogan as many will know is synonymous with Liverpool. Could this be a sign that he would rather move to Liverpool than Man Utd? To be honest I think a move to Liverpool would suit the Spaniard and would make more sense. To me, he is not an essential purchase, more a luxury should we wish to add him to our ranks. There are other striking options that we should be considering, Rossi, Huntelaar, Berbatov all spring to mind!
Well that’s it from me for today. Roll on tonight and I’ll be back tomorrow to gloat or wallow!
Ferguson said it again on Saturday “we like to make things difficult for ourselves and do it the hard way” and it looks like this season will be no different. With the likes of Ferdinand, Vidic and Neville out for both ties, we will be relying heavily on our attacking options to seek a breakthrough. Can they do it?
For the first time this season I was gloomy before the Roma game at Old Trafford I could see as drawing 1-1 with them equalising in the last minute, but how wrong was I? Perhaps it would be a good omen if I were to suggest the same again? I think we all now that the Roma result was a freak, we played outstandingly well and Roma just never closed us down. Tonight promises to be equally spectacular however.
With no first team defence to speak of, the red devils will look to play the kind of football the South Americans like to play. You score 1 and we’ll score 2. I expect us to try and play as much of the game as possible passing, moving and attacking. There will inevitably be gaps at the back, but I think our attacking players will be able to run Milan’s’ ageing defence to pieces. Kaka will be on form and how we deal with him could well be the determining factor.
What happened at the weekend? Drawing against Middlesbrough at home? It threw my predictions straight out of the window. Jose was moaning that the referees are all supporting Manchester United all because his team couldn’t capitalise on our slip up. What about all those goals your team has scored when the whistle should have gone minutes ago Mourinho? I guess we don’t mention those. That draw could well have cost him the title, remember they still need to go to the Emirates.
In transfer news, it seems that Torres was photographed with the slogan “you’ll never walk alone on his captains’ armband. This slogan as many will know is synonymous with Liverpool. Could this be a sign that he would rather move to Liverpool than Man Utd? To be honest I think a move to Liverpool would suit the Spaniard and would make more sense. To me, he is not an essential purchase, more a luxury should we wish to add him to our ranks. There are other striking options that we should be considering, Rossi, Huntelaar, Berbatov all spring to mind!
Well that’s it from me for today. Roll on tonight and I’ll be back tomorrow to gloat or wallow!
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Manchester United to face AC Milan in the semi finals
So it looks like we’re facing Milan in the semi finals. They did well to get a 2-0 result in Munich, but facing United promises to be a whole new proposition. 2 years ago we lost both ties 1-0 against the mighty AC, back then the likes of Rooney and Ronaldo were mere whippersnappers. This time around it promises to be a completely different affair. Whilst our boys are maturing all the time, Milan’s players are edging closer to the pension queue. How old is Maldini now? Must be at least 58! Good luck facing Ronaldo.
I seem in a defiant mood this morning. I feel as though we will beat anyone put in front of us. I scratch my head and wonder why, then the light bulb comes on, we just beat Roma, second in the league 7-1. Yes it’s true we shouldn’t dwell on this result for too long, we must look forward and prepare for the next game showing as much respect to our opposition as we did previously. But we can still gloat and wallow in our own success, for a couple more days at least. Just to revel a little more Marlowe has found this excellent little video dubbed the “7-1 Charts” watch and enjoy!
One thing is definite… There will be an English team in the final for the third year in succession. Whilst I am not one of those people that wants all British teams to do well in Europe (the thought of spurring Liverpool on, makes me feel quite nauseous) it does show just how strong the Premiership is. Year on year we produce teams that other European clubs dread to face. We are strong, fast and difficult to break down. Tuesday was a prime example of that. You can guarantee that Milan will not be looking forward too visiting Old Trafford in 2 weeks time.
In transfer news it seems that the Munich have softened their stance on keeping Hargreaves, They have said that a bid of between £17 and £20 million would be enough to let him go. To be honest we all knew it was going to happen. He will be down to 3 years left on his contract and Bayern will want to cash in whilst he still has value. It’s hardly groundbreaking stuff!
The weekend brings Watford, let’s hope we can continue on our run and keep up the fight on 3 fronts. One love One United!
I seem in a defiant mood this morning. I feel as though we will beat anyone put in front of us. I scratch my head and wonder why, then the light bulb comes on, we just beat Roma, second in the league 7-1. Yes it’s true we shouldn’t dwell on this result for too long, we must look forward and prepare for the next game showing as much respect to our opposition as we did previously. But we can still gloat and wallow in our own success, for a couple more days at least. Just to revel a little more Marlowe has found this excellent little video dubbed the “7-1 Charts” watch and enjoy!
One thing is definite… There will be an English team in the final for the third year in succession. Whilst I am not one of those people that wants all British teams to do well in Europe (the thought of spurring Liverpool on, makes me feel quite nauseous) it does show just how strong the Premiership is. Year on year we produce teams that other European clubs dread to face. We are strong, fast and difficult to break down. Tuesday was a prime example of that. You can guarantee that Milan will not be looking forward too visiting Old Trafford in 2 weeks time.
In transfer news it seems that the Munich have softened their stance on keeping Hargreaves, They have said that a bid of between £17 and £20 million would be enough to let him go. To be honest we all knew it was going to happen. He will be down to 3 years left on his contract and Bayern will want to cash in whilst he still has value. It’s hardly groundbreaking stuff!
The weekend brings Watford, let’s hope we can continue on our run and keep up the fight on 3 fronts. One love One United!
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Manchester United V Roma match review and highlights
Well boys and girls, could you ever have wished for a more scintillating performance? I have to be honest I was nervous before the game. I could see us grabbing an early goal and then sitting back, only for them to equalise in the last minute…. I couldn’t have been wrong. 7-1.. yes 7-1 the players couldn’t have rewarded those fans that were mixed up in the violence a week ago any better way. It will have been a long walk home back to Rome!
It was a night when United were truly back to their best. Carrick and Ronaldo both grabbed a brace and it was fantastic to see Smith get on the scoresheet. I truly feel that his enthusiasm and determination lifted the team to produce such a miraculous performance. Other goals from Rooney and Evra rounded of Champions league history. Roma looked like a 1st division side such was our pace and accuracy.
Marlowe… I’ve just read your comment on the forum about me not posting on the blog since our defeat to Pompey at the weekend… very amusing. I have to admit it had put a dampener on my usually overly optimistic outlook for the season, but last night reminded me as to why I am a United fan and why I love my team so much. I don’t think we have anything to worry about, we still have the advantage in the league and have our place booked in the semi finals of the champions league and FA cup. Dare we mutter the words treble at this point?
Let’s look forward to Watford and then to Sheffield United in the league. All games are must win from her on in. I think it’s all going to come right down to the wire.
It was a night when United were truly back to their best. Carrick and Ronaldo both grabbed a brace and it was fantastic to see Smith get on the scoresheet. I truly feel that his enthusiasm and determination lifted the team to produce such a miraculous performance. Other goals from Rooney and Evra rounded of Champions league history. Roma looked like a 1st division side such was our pace and accuracy.
Marlowe… I’ve just read your comment on the forum about me not posting on the blog since our defeat to Pompey at the weekend… very amusing. I have to admit it had put a dampener on my usually overly optimistic outlook for the season, but last night reminded me as to why I am a United fan and why I love my team so much. I don’t think we have anything to worry about, we still have the advantage in the league and have our place booked in the semi finals of the champions league and FA cup. Dare we mutter the words treble at this point?
Let’s look forward to Watford and then to Sheffield United in the league. All games are must win from her on in. I think it’s all going to come right down to the wire.
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Roma V MAnchester United Match review.
Last night was a heated affair and this morning our thoughts should be with those innocent fans that were brutally attacked by Italian riot police. Yes there were some Manchester United fans who stupidly reacted to provocation from the Roma crowd, but repeatedly beating women, children and old men cannot be tolerated. There were images of broadcast across the world of police acting in a barbaric fashion, beating fans that were lying unconscious on the floor. At one point senior officer were holding back other officers to stop their thirst for Mancunian blood. The authorities in Europe could learn a lot from UK police on how to deal with the crowds. Every time I go to Old Trafford there is little police presence within the ground and very rarely any trouble. In my opinion riot police promote a hostile environment.
Ok rant over for now, so what about the game. First off, and I don’t often say this, Paul Scholes was stupid. He was flying in all over the shop with rash tackles and deserved to be sent off. It was his actions that landed us with a defeat in my opinion. The rest of the team were magnificent. Ronaldo was sublime, ran the show and provided us with an outlet to attack.
Rooney’s goal was superb. For a player struggling to find his best form, his composure and touch to give us real hope was incredible. I was saying last night, 2-1 is better than 1-0. I think we will be fine at Old Trafford. We always create and nearly always score.
We certainly missed Vidic last night. I am sure with him and Rio at the back we wouldn’t have conceded 2 goals, but that is the game of football. We take the highs with the lows. So there is no need to worry, the red army goes marching on, a little battered and a couple of soldier down, but I have no doubt we can march over the finishing line!
Ok rant over for now, so what about the game. First off, and I don’t often say this, Paul Scholes was stupid. He was flying in all over the shop with rash tackles and deserved to be sent off. It was his actions that landed us with a defeat in my opinion. The rest of the team were magnificent. Ronaldo was sublime, ran the show and provided us with an outlet to attack.
Rooney’s goal was superb. For a player struggling to find his best form, his composure and touch to give us real hope was incredible. I was saying last night, 2-1 is better than 1-0. I think we will be fine at Old Trafford. We always create and nearly always score.
We certainly missed Vidic last night. I am sure with him and Rio at the back we wouldn’t have conceded 2 goals, but that is the game of football. We take the highs with the lows. So there is no need to worry, the red army goes marching on, a little battered and a couple of soldier down, but I have no doubt we can march over the finishing line!
Friday, March 09, 2007
Manchester United Quarter final champions league draw
We have been landed a near perfect draw. We play Roma away in the quarter finals and then either Bayern Munich or AC Milan in the semi finals. To be honest it could have gone a lot worse and I for one am glad we avoided English opposition.
I think it is quite amusing that Liverpool and Chelsea face the prospect of playing each other in the semi finals; this will be the third year in a row that they have the potential to meet each other before the final.
This year there is a very real possibility of there being an all English final. Could you imagine 50,000 Liverpool fans and 50,000 Manchester United fans in Greece for the final. I would not fancy policing that one.
Overall a very good draw, now let’s focus on the FA Cup on Saturday. This really could be our year!
I think it is quite amusing that Liverpool and Chelsea face the prospect of playing each other in the semi finals; this will be the third year in a row that they have the potential to meet each other before the final.
This year there is a very real possibility of there being an all English final. Could you imagine 50,000 Liverpool fans and 50,000 Manchester United fans in Greece for the final. I would not fancy policing that one.
Overall a very good draw, now let’s focus on the FA Cup on Saturday. This really could be our year!
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Manchester United V Lille Match Review
Good morning people, so we are through to the quarter finals after a 1-0 victory over Lille. It wasn’t vintage United, but we got the job done and now face the prospect of facing some of the European giants for a place in the semi finals.
Lille looked dangerous from set pieces and threatened us a few times on the break, whereas united lacked that final ball into either Larrson or Rooney. I thought Rooney’s touch let him down somewhat and Larrson seemed to struggle with the physical nature of the game. But let me complain no more, we did what we needed to do and that’s what counts!
The draw for the quarter finals is tomorrow and the big question is… who do and don’t you want to face? you can vote for your choice in our Man Utd forum. Personally I would like to avoid and English team, the excitement of the champion’s league revolves around playing the top clubs in Europe and not in playing domestic teams.
Therefore the 3 teams I would like to face in order of preference would be Bayern Munich, AC Milan and Valencia. I know this is tough opposition, but I don’t think we need to fear anyone in this competition, it’s almost as though the bigger the team, the better we play.
I know that I have said this many times this season, but the next few games really are crucial if we are to push on all fronts for silverware. Without Scholes in midfield and limited options up front, the team must pull together more than ever. We have 2 physical games against Bolton and Blackburn coming up, I see this as potential slip ups. Our saving grace without doubt is our defence. We look so solid at the back, that we rarely look like conceding. It is up front that we really need to work hard, wasn’t it great to see Smith have a run out last night?
Right that’s it from me this morning, I forgot to mention earlier, the atmosphere at Old Trafford was excellent last, it reminded me of previous seasons, let’s have more of it!
Lille looked dangerous from set pieces and threatened us a few times on the break, whereas united lacked that final ball into either Larrson or Rooney. I thought Rooney’s touch let him down somewhat and Larrson seemed to struggle with the physical nature of the game. But let me complain no more, we did what we needed to do and that’s what counts!
The draw for the quarter finals is tomorrow and the big question is… who do and don’t you want to face? you can vote for your choice in our Man Utd forum. Personally I would like to avoid and English team, the excitement of the champion’s league revolves around playing the top clubs in Europe and not in playing domestic teams.
Therefore the 3 teams I would like to face in order of preference would be Bayern Munich, AC Milan and Valencia. I know this is tough opposition, but I don’t think we need to fear anyone in this competition, it’s almost as though the bigger the team, the better we play.
I know that I have said this many times this season, but the next few games really are crucial if we are to push on all fronts for silverware. Without Scholes in midfield and limited options up front, the team must pull together more than ever. We have 2 physical games against Bolton and Blackburn coming up, I see this as potential slip ups. Our saving grace without doubt is our defence. We look so solid at the back, that we rarely look like conceding. It is up front that we really need to work hard, wasn’t it great to see Smith have a run out last night?
Right that’s it from me this morning, I forgot to mention earlier, the atmosphere at Old Trafford was excellent last, it reminded me of previous seasons, let’s have more of it!
Friday, February 23, 2007
Lille saga continues, Can United go 9 clear?
Lille are accusing Manchester United of issuing tickets to fans too early and as a result a number of forgeries were produced that resulted in the crowd problems in the United end. The tie that was held on Tuesday of this week is descending into a shambles of the highest order. Whatever next? Will Lille hold Man Utd responsible for the missiles that were thrown by their fans?
There is so much bad blood revolving the midweek fixture the return to Old Traffard promises to be a frosty affair. Let’s hope the Old Trafford crowd produce aan electric atmosphere and inspire the players to put on a magnificent performance. We need to win and win convincingly. Ferguson will be telling his players that they must let the football do the talking, whilst officials deal with the commotion off field!
We have a huge game against Fulham on Saturday and it’s even more significant because we have the opportunity to go 9 points clear at the top. Chelsea have lost their skipper again and have it all to do. United aren’t home and dry, but the more pressure that United can put on the Blues the greater chance we have.
From the beginning of the season and this blog in fact I have said we are a team that can win this title. I love United and always knew that we had every chance of bringing the title home and most people on this blog agreed with me, read my ramblings here
So 9 points clear with 10 games to go is a great place to be. If we pull it off we will be one step closer to putting United back on the map. We are still in 3 competitions and have every chance of winning them all. I feel the United anthem coming on!
There is so much bad blood revolving the midweek fixture the return to Old Traffard promises to be a frosty affair. Let’s hope the Old Trafford crowd produce aan electric atmosphere and inspire the players to put on a magnificent performance. We need to win and win convincingly. Ferguson will be telling his players that they must let the football do the talking, whilst officials deal with the commotion off field!
We have a huge game against Fulham on Saturday and it’s even more significant because we have the opportunity to go 9 points clear at the top. Chelsea have lost their skipper again and have it all to do. United aren’t home and dry, but the more pressure that United can put on the Blues the greater chance we have.
From the beginning of the season and this blog in fact I have said we are a team that can win this title. I love United and always knew that we had every chance of bringing the title home and most people on this blog agreed with me, read my ramblings here
So 9 points clear with 10 games to go is a great place to be. If we pull it off we will be one step closer to putting United back on the map. We are still in 3 competitions and have every chance of winning them all. I feel the United anthem coming on!
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
United victory overshadowed by Lille antics
It was a victory for Manchester United last night in a game that had it all. Crowd problems, missiles and even a potential walk off by the Lille players ensure that the return leg at Old Trafford will be a fiery encounter.
Both sides had chances in a game that really didn’t get going for the first 45 minutes. The only notable action appeared off the pitch when there appeared to be an altercation between the United fans and French riot police. It was suggested at the time that there were too many fans in the away end, and as a result some spectators were getting crushed!
Riot fans appeared to respond by using tear gas, with reports after the game suggesting Van Der Sar suffered double vision as a result.
Read the BBC article here
The second half brought yet more drama when Lille had a goal disallowed for an appeared push on Nemanja Vidic. Ronaldo was then substituted after an indifferent performance. He often tried one trick too many and ended up giving the ball away on too many occasions. Saha was his replacement, but he was not much better.
The game descended into chaos on 83 minutes. Giggs scored a quickly taken free kick and as a result the Lille coach ordered his players off the pitch in what appeared to be a walk off. The game eventually continued but it had done nothing to quell an already tense atmosphere. The crowd appeared restless and hostile and responded by launching missiles at the Man Utd players.
The game ended 1-0 but sadly the talking points were not the football. Ferguson clearly wasn’t happy as can be judged by his response in this interview
All in all it sets things up for a seriously exciting return leg! Welcome to Old Trafford Lille!!!
Both sides had chances in a game that really didn’t get going for the first 45 minutes. The only notable action appeared off the pitch when there appeared to be an altercation between the United fans and French riot police. It was suggested at the time that there were too many fans in the away end, and as a result some spectators were getting crushed!
Riot fans appeared to respond by using tear gas, with reports after the game suggesting Van Der Sar suffered double vision as a result.
Read the BBC article here
The second half brought yet more drama when Lille had a goal disallowed for an appeared push on Nemanja Vidic. Ronaldo was then substituted after an indifferent performance. He often tried one trick too many and ended up giving the ball away on too many occasions. Saha was his replacement, but he was not much better.
The game descended into chaos on 83 minutes. Giggs scored a quickly taken free kick and as a result the Lille coach ordered his players off the pitch in what appeared to be a walk off. The game eventually continued but it had done nothing to quell an already tense atmosphere. The crowd appeared restless and hostile and responded by launching missiles at the Man Utd players.
The game ended 1-0 but sadly the talking points were not the football. Ferguson clearly wasn’t happy as can be judged by his response in this interview
All in all it sets things up for a seriously exciting return leg! Welcome to Old Trafford Lille!!!
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
United V Lille match Preview
Tonight sees us take on Lille in the Champions league. After last seasons humiliation I have no doubt that the squad will be up for revenge in what promises to be an entertaining match. United fly out with a full strength squad with the likes of Rooney, Giggs, Neville and Scholes all returning for the much anticipated fixture.
The reconvening of the Champions league always brings the biggest teams in Europe together. Other big matches scheduled for tonight are Celtic V AC Milan, and Real Madrid V Bayern Munich. From here on in the competition really heats up, as the top teams fight for survival.
United have been unconvincing on their travels in Europe this season, scoring only 1 goal away from home in the campaign. They must improve their goals ratio if they are to progress against teams like Barcelona, Madrid and Munich. However with four British teams still in the running, there is still the possibility of it being an all English final!
The result at the weekend has led to yet more fixture congestion for the red devils. United must now play Reading before their all important clash with Liverpool, with squad that Ferguson has at his disposal I have no doubt that the team can cope.
The reconvening of the Champions league always brings the biggest teams in Europe together. Other big matches scheduled for tonight are Celtic V AC Milan, and Real Madrid V Bayern Munich. From here on in the competition really heats up, as the top teams fight for survival.
United have been unconvincing on their travels in Europe this season, scoring only 1 goal away from home in the campaign. They must improve their goals ratio if they are to progress against teams like Barcelona, Madrid and Munich. However with four British teams still in the running, there is still the possibility of it being an all English final!
The result at the weekend has led to yet more fixture congestion for the red devils. United must now play Reading before their all important clash with Liverpool, with squad that Ferguson has at his disposal I have no doubt that the team can cope.
Friday, February 16, 2007
Ronaldo, Ronaldo, Ronaldo
Morning people, Ronaldo’s future is shrouded in yet more mystery as more Barcelona’s players seek to unsettle the Portuguese superstar. Deco, the latest in a number of high profile players has stated that Ronaldo would be perfect for Barcelona, but if were honest I don’t think there is a team that Ronaldo wouldn’t be perfect for.
The only person who can stop these rumours is Ronaldo himself! Manchester United have stood by him through thick and thin. The fans have been nothing short of magnificent in their support of him after the Rooney spat after the world cup. Most importantly is the part that Ferguson has played in the development of a player who was more of a show pony than the finished article when he arrived at Old Trafford.
All Ronaldo would have to do is either sign a new contract or come out to the press outlining hi intention to commit his future to Manchester United. The longer this saga continues, the more unsettling it is for the other members of the squad. It is high time Ronaldo repaid the manager and the fans for the faith they have shown in him.
Enough of Ronaldo, let’s look forward at the weekend’s action. Saturday see’s us take on Reading. It’s another home fixture with Steve Coppell saying he will field a second string side. On paper this would suggest that this fixture is a walk in the park for United, but I for one think that it is far from the case. United always seem to make life difficult for themselves and we must ensure that we proceed to the next round on Saturday.
The Champions league reconvenes next week with us facing Lille. Again we have been landed a favourable draw against a side we really should be looking to beat. I have a feeling that the return game at Old Trafford is going to offer some real fireworks. Is anybody going?
Then it’s the big one against Liverpool. Lose and the title race is straight back on. Win and it gets one of those difficult games out of the way and maintains the pressure on Chelsea! It is getting to that stage of the season where Chelsea will be really puching to get results in games and could quite easily see them trying too hard in games and coming unstuck!
As the run in hots up I for one would not want to be supporting any other team right now. United always provide drama and entertainment of the highest calibre!
P.S the forum is up and running now, it took me all day to clear it up after the spammers left their mark!
The only person who can stop these rumours is Ronaldo himself! Manchester United have stood by him through thick and thin. The fans have been nothing short of magnificent in their support of him after the Rooney spat after the world cup. Most importantly is the part that Ferguson has played in the development of a player who was more of a show pony than the finished article when he arrived at Old Trafford.
All Ronaldo would have to do is either sign a new contract or come out to the press outlining hi intention to commit his future to Manchester United. The longer this saga continues, the more unsettling it is for the other members of the squad. It is high time Ronaldo repaid the manager and the fans for the faith they have shown in him.
Enough of Ronaldo, let’s look forward at the weekend’s action. Saturday see’s us take on Reading. It’s another home fixture with Steve Coppell saying he will field a second string side. On paper this would suggest that this fixture is a walk in the park for United, but I for one think that it is far from the case. United always seem to make life difficult for themselves and we must ensure that we proceed to the next round on Saturday.
The Champions league reconvenes next week with us facing Lille. Again we have been landed a favourable draw against a side we really should be looking to beat. I have a feeling that the return game at Old Trafford is going to offer some real fireworks. Is anybody going?
Then it’s the big one against Liverpool. Lose and the title race is straight back on. Win and it gets one of those difficult games out of the way and maintains the pressure on Chelsea! It is getting to that stage of the season where Chelsea will be really puching to get results in games and could quite easily see them trying too hard in games and coming unstuck!
As the run in hots up I for one would not want to be supporting any other team right now. United always provide drama and entertainment of the highest calibre!
P.S the forum is up and running now, it took me all day to clear it up after the spammers left their mark!
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
The Forum and Ronaldo
Hey guys, before i continued i just wanted to let you all know that we are swapping the forum onto a new server, so please bear with us whilst we do so. We are working hard to bring you a new site and the plan is to eventually migrate the blog over too. It's all very exciting and I wish I could tell you more, but we will be offering loads more info on our favourite team/s!
Right now that I have made that announcement lets talk United. It was another convincing win for the reds this weekend. Some said that it was rather a disjointed performance, but I have to disagree. With a number of key players out I thought the team played well and were consistent in their pressure on Charlton. You can't play amazingly and score 4 goals every game, but you can win every game and that is exactly what United are doing at the moment.
The champions league is about to recommence and I for one am very excited! I really feel that this year we have every chance of beating any team in the competition. Yes Barcelona have Eto, Ronaldinho and Messi, but I think we sometimes forget that other fans are just as fearful of the likes of Ronaldo, Rooney, Giggs and Scholes. All are a t the top of their game and could quite easily make the difference in what promises to be a truly exciting run-in.
As we all expected the rumours are still rife about Ronaldo. The will he won't he stay saga promises to be a s drawn out as the Hargreaves affair. I have come to the conclusion that if Ferguson wants him to stay... then he will stay. I couldn’t think of anything worse than asking the Scot for a transfer request! I think we also need to remember what Ferguson has done for Ronaldo. After the world cup he faced a barrage of criticism, but it was Ferguson who defended his player to the hilt. Ronaldo will surely repay with his loyalty to the club.
So we march on, still with one eye on the treble. This season promises to be one of the most exciting in a very long time. Come on you Reds!
Right now that I have made that announcement lets talk United. It was another convincing win for the reds this weekend. Some said that it was rather a disjointed performance, but I have to disagree. With a number of key players out I thought the team played well and were consistent in their pressure on Charlton. You can't play amazingly and score 4 goals every game, but you can win every game and that is exactly what United are doing at the moment.
The champions league is about to recommence and I for one am very excited! I really feel that this year we have every chance of beating any team in the competition. Yes Barcelona have Eto, Ronaldinho and Messi, but I think we sometimes forget that other fans are just as fearful of the likes of Ronaldo, Rooney, Giggs and Scholes. All are a t the top of their game and could quite easily make the difference in what promises to be a truly exciting run-in.
As we all expected the rumours are still rife about Ronaldo. The will he won't he stay saga promises to be a s drawn out as the Hargreaves affair. I have come to the conclusion that if Ferguson wants him to stay... then he will stay. I couldn’t think of anything worse than asking the Scot for a transfer request! I think we also need to remember what Ferguson has done for Ronaldo. After the world cup he faced a barrage of criticism, but it was Ferguson who defended his player to the hilt. Ronaldo will surely repay with his loyalty to the club.
So we march on, still with one eye on the treble. This season promises to be one of the most exciting in a very long time. Come on you Reds!
Friday, December 15, 2006
Man Utd Champions league draw
So today is the big draw, we will finally know who we will face in February when the champions’ league reconvenes. As you would expect, there are so many great teams mixed up in the draw that there promises to be one or two great fixtures for the passive fan to feat their eyes upon. But we’re not here to talk about other teams we are here to talk about United, the One and only football team that actually matters.
Let’s have a look at the options of who we might get, as always I’ll let you now my outspoken views.
Inter Milan:
Fantastic prospect. After buying half the Juventus team they are in a similar predicament to Chelsea, too many stars to cope with. They are strong and very capable of going all the way and would provide us with a great test.
PSV Eindhoven:
Play in an inferior Dutch league, but seem to rise to the big occasions in Europe. If United are playing at anywhere near the tenacity that they are at the moment, this should be a safe passage.
Roma:
Totti is their main man and has been for some time. Currently doing well in Serie A and would probably want to make their mark in Europe this year. Again United are better on paper.
Real Madrid:
A team of Galatico’s that have underperformed for a number of seasons. That said, with a new coach, they are a tough prospect. United will have a to play well both home and away if they are to go through. A truly mouth watering prospect!
Barcelona:
The cream of Europe, last years champions and the team that everyone want to beat. They have class all over the field in Eto, Ronaldinho and Messi. Having said that Rooney, Ronaldo, Saha and Scholes are just as good! Another dream prospect!
Porto:
When Mourinho knocked us out of the competition with Porto there was outcry. How could such an inferior team take us down? They got lucky with a free-kick, but they did go onto win the tournament. I would look at Porto as our Bogey team.
Lille:
The whipping boys. The weakest team in the group and the one that most teams will be hoping they get. As far as United are concerned, they never seem to perform against the underdogs. On paper though, this should be a passage to the quarter finals.
Let’s have a look at the options of who we might get, as always I’ll let you now my outspoken views.
Inter Milan:
Fantastic prospect. After buying half the Juventus team they are in a similar predicament to Chelsea, too many stars to cope with. They are strong and very capable of going all the way and would provide us with a great test.
PSV Eindhoven:
Play in an inferior Dutch league, but seem to rise to the big occasions in Europe. If United are playing at anywhere near the tenacity that they are at the moment, this should be a safe passage.
Roma:
Totti is their main man and has been for some time. Currently doing well in Serie A and would probably want to make their mark in Europe this year. Again United are better on paper.
Real Madrid:
A team of Galatico’s that have underperformed for a number of seasons. That said, with a new coach, they are a tough prospect. United will have a to play well both home and away if they are to go through. A truly mouth watering prospect!
Barcelona:
The cream of Europe, last years champions and the team that everyone want to beat. They have class all over the field in Eto, Ronaldinho and Messi. Having said that Rooney, Ronaldo, Saha and Scholes are just as good! Another dream prospect!
Porto:
When Mourinho knocked us out of the competition with Porto there was outcry. How could such an inferior team take us down? They got lucky with a free-kick, but they did go onto win the tournament. I would look at Porto as our Bogey team.
Lille:
The whipping boys. The weakest team in the group and the one that most teams will be hoping they get. As far as United are concerned, they never seem to perform against the underdogs. On paper though, this should be a passage to the quarter finals.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Man Utd Ruffle Cheslea's feathers
So Chelsea got lucky yesterday with a cheeky 1-0 win over Newcastle and now John Terry has decided to join the slanging match party. It seams that all is not well in the Chelsea camp; we have ruffled a few feathers by being serious title challengers.
Chelsea, under Mourniho, have yet to experience pressure on their premiership title campaign and now is the time for us to really get going and make life difficult for the boys in blue. We have another must win game against West Ham at the weekend, whilst Chelsea are away to Everton.
In other news, the champion’s league draw is tomorrow and I for one am really excited about this one. Most people know that I would like us to get one of the big teams. Barcelona or Real Madrid would be brilliant, others hope that we get someone smaller, Roma seems to be the preferred option.
January is getting closer and the speculation is still rife about who we will sign. The usual suspects like Hargreaves, Torres and Huntelaar have been doing the usual rounds, but others such as Antonio Puerta are doing the rounds in the tabloids.
Apologies for not writing yesterday, it was my Christmas party at work and the festivities took the toll on me the day after. I really needed to focus my energy on surviving rather than writing. Anyhow Until the draw tomorrow, it’s goodbye from me!
Chelsea, under Mourniho, have yet to experience pressure on their premiership title campaign and now is the time for us to really get going and make life difficult for the boys in blue. We have another must win game against West Ham at the weekend, whilst Chelsea are away to Everton.
In other news, the champion’s league draw is tomorrow and I for one am really excited about this one. Most people know that I would like us to get one of the big teams. Barcelona or Real Madrid would be brilliant, others hope that we get someone smaller, Roma seems to be the preferred option.
January is getting closer and the speculation is still rife about who we will sign. The usual suspects like Hargreaves, Torres and Huntelaar have been doing the usual rounds, but others such as Antonio Puerta are doing the rounds in the tabloids.
Apologies for not writing yesterday, it was my Christmas party at work and the festivities took the toll on me the day after. I really needed to focus my energy on surviving rather than writing. Anyhow Until the draw tomorrow, it’s goodbye from me!
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Charlton Expects new signings!
There is a brief respite in fixtures until the weekend when we meet West ham who quite controversially have just sacked a great British manager, I will be ranting on this later. The mind games are in full swing between Fergie and Mourinho, be careful Jose, there is always only one winner when it comes to mind games and it certainly isn’t you. Just ask Wenger and Keegan!
There is good news coming from a press conference taken by Charlton yesterday, read the report here. He is basically stating that United will be strengthening in January, although how much remains a mystery. The vote is still going on in the forum, so if you haven’t already, let your thoughts be known.
For strikers I have the following: Huntelaar, Defoe, Torres, Aguero, Klose and Bent. Cast your vote here.
For midfield the options are: Hargreaves, Reo-Coker, Senna and Beckham. Cast your vote here.
For wingers we have: Nani, Adu, Van Der Vaart and Quaresma. Cast your vote here.
The news that Pardew had been sacked yesterday came as a great shock to me. Pardew is a great ambassador of football and a brilliant English coach. He worked miracles at West Ham despite the fans calling for his head when he first arrived. Magnusson has shown his true colours, by publicly backing Pardew then sacking him 2 weeks later, disgraceful in my opinion.
Anyhow back to the reds. We play West Ham at the weekend and looking at the fixture from a purely selfish perspective we couldn’t play them at a better time. The club is in turmoil, with no manager and a new owner. Let’s put 10 past them for Pards!
The draw for the Champions league is on Friday and debate is also raging in the forum who would you like to get and why?
Finally let’s finish with a video of some great Man Utd moments and of course it plays out to our new Man Utd anthem (you know the one). United forever!!!
There is good news coming from a press conference taken by Charlton yesterday, read the report here. He is basically stating that United will be strengthening in January, although how much remains a mystery. The vote is still going on in the forum, so if you haven’t already, let your thoughts be known.
For strikers I have the following: Huntelaar, Defoe, Torres, Aguero, Klose and Bent. Cast your vote here.
For midfield the options are: Hargreaves, Reo-Coker, Senna and Beckham. Cast your vote here.
For wingers we have: Nani, Adu, Van Der Vaart and Quaresma. Cast your vote here.
The news that Pardew had been sacked yesterday came as a great shock to me. Pardew is a great ambassador of football and a brilliant English coach. He worked miracles at West Ham despite the fans calling for his head when he first arrived. Magnusson has shown his true colours, by publicly backing Pardew then sacking him 2 weeks later, disgraceful in my opinion.
Anyhow back to the reds. We play West Ham at the weekend and looking at the fixture from a purely selfish perspective we couldn’t play them at a better time. The club is in turmoil, with no manager and a new owner. Let’s put 10 past them for Pards!
The draw for the Champions league is on Friday and debate is also raging in the forum who would you like to get and why?
Finally let’s finish with a video of some great Man Utd moments and of course it plays out to our new Man Utd anthem (you know the one). United forever!!!
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