It’s now hard to imagine a time when football was without goal line technology (Glt). The last few years have proven many things; the fact Luis Suarez randomly bites opposing players without warning, that England are a million miles away from winning a major tournament, underdogs can win the Premier League, and most importantly, that there is room within the game for technology.
With Glt being a huge success, it must once and for all convince the doubters that video technology will not ruin the game. In July 2010 English hearts were broken when Frank Lampard’s perfectly good goal wasn’t awarded, but without knowing it then, football was to change forever. This incident was the moment that Sepp Blatter re-opened discussions concerning the use of Glt, and how happy are we they decided to do that. Some moments, (Lampard’s goal against Germany not being the case), are impossible to call.
With Glt being a huge success, it must once and for all convince the doubters that video technology will not ruin the game. In July 2010 English hearts were broken when Frank Lampard’s perfectly good goal wasn’t awarded, but without knowing it then, football was to change forever. This incident was the moment that Sepp Blatter re-opened discussions concerning the use of Glt, and how happy are we they decided to do that. Some moments, (Lampard’s goal against Germany not being the case), are impossible to call.
- 5/19/2017
- by kieranedwards
- The Cultural Post
Gary Lineker has joined BT Sport.
There has been much speculation about the presenter's future with the BBC, but it has now been confirmed that he has signed a new non-exclusive deal with the corporation, allowing him to present for both broadcasters.
Lineker will join Rio Ferdinand and Jake Humphrey on the presenting team for BT's Champions League coverage from next season.
He tweeted: "Thrilled to tell you, I'll be presenting @ChampionsLeague football next season on @btsport."
The retired footballer's new deal with the BBC has ensured that he will remain on Match of the Day and other programmes until at least 2020.
It has been reported that Lineker agreed a BBC pay-cut to allow him to present for BT Sport alongside his current commitments.
Your @btsport #ChampionsLeague presenters. Between us we scored 48 goals for England... pic.twitter.com/aM1bOJ2ng7
— Jake Humphrey (@mrjakehumphrey) June 9, 2015
John Petter, chief executive of BT Consumer,...
There has been much speculation about the presenter's future with the BBC, but it has now been confirmed that he has signed a new non-exclusive deal with the corporation, allowing him to present for both broadcasters.
Lineker will join Rio Ferdinand and Jake Humphrey on the presenting team for BT's Champions League coverage from next season.
He tweeted: "Thrilled to tell you, I'll be presenting @ChampionsLeague football next season on @btsport."
The retired footballer's new deal with the BBC has ensured that he will remain on Match of the Day and other programmes until at least 2020.
It has been reported that Lineker agreed a BBC pay-cut to allow him to present for BT Sport alongside his current commitments.
Your @btsport #ChampionsLeague presenters. Between us we scored 48 goals for England... pic.twitter.com/aM1bOJ2ng7
— Jake Humphrey (@mrjakehumphrey) June 9, 2015
John Petter, chief executive of BT Consumer,...
- 6/9/2015
- Digital Spy
Ricardo Mazalan/AP/Press Association Images
Just a year after the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson, Howard Webb – the nation’s favourite Manchester United punch-line – has announced his retirement from refereeing.
The decision will come as a surprise to some, considering he is but 43 years old, but his move is very much an upwards one, as he will take up the role of Technical Director of Professional Game Match Officials Limited, overseeing the technical direction and standards that govern the on-field performance of Pgmol’s match officials. He wil also be in charge of their training programme and coaching system, and will open more avenues for qualified referees to make it to the top of the game in his footsteps.
He will link up in his new role with former Premier League referee Mike Riley, who is General Manager of Pgmol and will very much be the public-face of refereeing,...
Just a year after the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson, Howard Webb – the nation’s favourite Manchester United punch-line – has announced his retirement from refereeing.
The decision will come as a surprise to some, considering he is but 43 years old, but his move is very much an upwards one, as he will take up the role of Technical Director of Professional Game Match Officials Limited, overseeing the technical direction and standards that govern the on-field performance of Pgmol’s match officials. He wil also be in charge of their training programme and coaching system, and will open more avenues for qualified referees to make it to the top of the game in his footsteps.
He will link up in his new role with former Premier League referee Mike Riley, who is General Manager of Pgmol and will very much be the public-face of refereeing,...
- 8/6/2014
- by Simon Gallagher
- Obsessed with Film
The 2014 Olympic Games are wrapping up, but until they're good and done, most TV is still in reruns. That doesn't mean there weren't plenty of good lines from the shows that did have new episodes, though.
From the first week of "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" to "Pretty Little Liars," there was more than enough great dialogue this week. Check out some of Zap2it's favorite lines below.
'Kroll Show'
George St. Geegland when Gil Faizon pulls out a freezer Ziploc full of wine: "One of the best movies I ever went to sleep during was 'Sideways.'"
'The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon'
Stephen Colbert to Jimmy Fallon, after repaying a $100 "bet" in pennies: "Welcome to 11:30, b****!"
'Cougar Town'
Bobby: "Let me tell you about my life, son. Last night I had six Doritos Locos Tacos and fell asleep naked under the stars,...
From the first week of "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" to "Pretty Little Liars," there was more than enough great dialogue this week. Check out some of Zap2it's favorite lines below.
'Kroll Show'
George St. Geegland when Gil Faizon pulls out a freezer Ziploc full of wine: "One of the best movies I ever went to sleep during was 'Sideways.'"
'The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon'
Stephen Colbert to Jimmy Fallon, after repaying a $100 "bet" in pennies: "Welcome to 11:30, b****!"
'Cougar Town'
Bobby: "Let me tell you about my life, son. Last night I had six Doritos Locos Tacos and fell asleep naked under the stars,...
- 2/24/2014
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
As always, this is Spoiler Central Zone, so stop reading now if you haven’t watched the first four episodes of season 2. Many turned away from the premiere, which really felt more like a season finale, feeling as struck in the gut as hungry Zoe Barnes. Where could the season go after Frank had so violently declared his bottom?
Well, let’s take a break from Frank for a second. And from the shake-hands-stab-backs war over entitlements. And from that braying elephant of a man Tusk who suddenly is such a ubiquitous presence in the Oval Office. And most especially...
Well, let’s take a break from Frank for a second. And from the shake-hands-stab-backs war over entitlements. And from that braying elephant of a man Tusk who suddenly is such a ubiquitous presence in the Oval Office. And most especially...
- 2/17/2014
- by Karen Valby
- EW.com - PopWatch
Warning: Do not keep reading if you haven't watched the first two episodes of "House of Cards" Season 2. Up now, "Chapter 15."
Where we are:
Raymond Tusk has come back into play, as he meets with the president to discuss Chinese tariffs -- a meeting Frank and Secretary of State Durant crash because Christina (Peter Russo's old flame and campaign manager) now works for the president's chief of staff, Linda Vasquez, and told them about said meeting.
Durant wants to send a message to the Chinese about cyber-security and attacks on the U.S., which Tusk balks at because he can't have anything messing up his business with China. The president initially tells Durant to tread lightly, but when a comment leaks from the negotiations with China that sounds somewhat like an ultimatum, Durant stays strong in her stance.
The president consults with Tusk but then surprisingly sides with Durant and Frank,...
Where we are:
Raymond Tusk has come back into play, as he meets with the president to discuss Chinese tariffs -- a meeting Frank and Secretary of State Durant crash because Christina (Peter Russo's old flame and campaign manager) now works for the president's chief of staff, Linda Vasquez, and told them about said meeting.
Durant wants to send a message to the Chinese about cyber-security and attacks on the U.S., which Tusk balks at because he can't have anything messing up his business with China. The president initially tells Durant to tread lightly, but when a comment leaks from the negotiations with China that sounds somewhat like an ultimatum, Durant stays strong in her stance.
The president consults with Tusk but then surprisingly sides with Durant and Frank,...
- 2/17/2014
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
After a first episode (read our recap of that one here) that dropped a bomb, episode two of House of Cards’ second season turned its attention to the dynamics of Washington, or at least, Washington as House of Cards sees it. This installment was a portrait of people who can switch morals on or off like the Internet connection that allows Frank to play God of War. Everybody — from Frank Underwood to Claire Underwood to Congresswoman Jackie Sharp — compartmentalized and rationalized out of perceived necessity, so they can keep living well and living with themselves. As Howard Webb told Wes Buchwalter, referring to the House Ethics Committee and delivering the best line of the episode: “All you can offer me is Ethics, which nobody wants.” (Second best line of the episode, from Lucas’s Washington Herald boss to Lucas: “We can’t have an editor looking more disheveled than his...
- 2/15/2014
- by Jen Chaney
- Vulture
Media Image Ltd
Eden Hazard fired Chelsea to the top of the Premier League table with three goals against an ineffectual Newcastle United.
Chelsea barely had to be at their best to secure victory against a side who showed plenty of willingness but little final product. While small defensive lapses reinforced the importance of John Terry’s organisational skills in absentia, missing his first Premier League match of the season with a muscle inflammation described as ‘half an injury’ by José Mourinho, Newcastle were guilty of wasting the few opportunities they managed to create.
Both sides pushed forward early on, but it was the Blues who created the only chances of note. Eden Hazard gave a hint of things to come with a low strike after being played in by a lively Cesar Azpilicueta, and a Frank Lampard free-kick zipped wide of Tim Krul’s right-hand post. Newcastle could only...
Eden Hazard fired Chelsea to the top of the Premier League table with three goals against an ineffectual Newcastle United.
Chelsea barely had to be at their best to secure victory against a side who showed plenty of willingness but little final product. While small defensive lapses reinforced the importance of John Terry’s organisational skills in absentia, missing his first Premier League match of the season with a muscle inflammation described as ‘half an injury’ by José Mourinho, Newcastle were guilty of wasting the few opportunities they managed to create.
Both sides pushed forward early on, but it was the Blues who created the only chances of note. Eden Hazard gave a hint of things to come with a low strike after being played in by a lively Cesar Azpilicueta, and a Frank Lampard free-kick zipped wide of Tim Krul’s right-hand post. Newcastle could only...
- 2/8/2014
- by Xander Markham
- Obsessed with Film
Chris Ison/Pa Wire/Press Association Images
A lone second-half strike from Adam Lallana helped the Saints to a vital Premier League victory at St Mary’s Stadium.
It was only the second win in 10 games for the Saints, a run that has seen their early high position slip in the table.
However, 25-year old English international midfielder Lallana has been a revelation for the Saints this term, and his 66th minute strike after a cross from Gaston Ramirez ensured a much-deserved home victory for the Southerners.
Artur Boruc had a relatively quiet game in goal, but he was called on to make a vital save from Irish international Shane Long in the dying minutes.
Southampton dominated much of the game, but it’s their on-target count that will worry boss Mauricio Pochettino; just 5 of 18 efforts on target.
Incoming West Bromwich Albion boss Pepe Mel watched from the stands; the...
A lone second-half strike from Adam Lallana helped the Saints to a vital Premier League victory at St Mary’s Stadium.
It was only the second win in 10 games for the Saints, a run that has seen their early high position slip in the table.
However, 25-year old English international midfielder Lallana has been a revelation for the Saints this term, and his 66th minute strike after a cross from Gaston Ramirez ensured a much-deserved home victory for the Southerners.
Artur Boruc had a relatively quiet game in goal, but he was called on to make a vital save from Irish international Shane Long in the dying minutes.
Southampton dominated much of the game, but it’s their on-target count that will worry boss Mauricio Pochettino; just 5 of 18 efforts on target.
Incoming West Bromwich Albion boss Pepe Mel watched from the stands; the...
- 1/11/2014
- by Diarmuid Hickey
- Obsessed with Film
copyright Andrew Orchard
Writing about Manchester United this season feels like kicking someone when they’re already down. The initial schadenfreude has given way to bemusement as you watch them shuffle around the Old Trafford pitch with all the inhibition and reluctance of someone awaiting a prostate exam. Indeed, Moyes steely intimidating stare has dissolved into a kind of confused desperation as the frown lines upon his head grow ever deeper. Dare I say at times you almost feel an ounce of sympathy for the man as every clumsy soundbite or minor slip of the tongue in a press conference is used as another stick to beat him with.
Every football fan across the land is shouting over each other to profess their respective soothsayer-esque abilities for predicting that United would be a weaker presence without the best manager of all time. Incredible insight everyone, pat on the back for you all.
Writing about Manchester United this season feels like kicking someone when they’re already down. The initial schadenfreude has given way to bemusement as you watch them shuffle around the Old Trafford pitch with all the inhibition and reluctance of someone awaiting a prostate exam. Indeed, Moyes steely intimidating stare has dissolved into a kind of confused desperation as the frown lines upon his head grow ever deeper. Dare I say at times you almost feel an ounce of sympathy for the man as every clumsy soundbite or minor slip of the tongue in a press conference is used as another stick to beat him with.
Every football fan across the land is shouting over each other to profess their respective soothsayer-esque abilities for predicting that United would be a weaker presence without the best manager of all time. Incredible insight everyone, pat on the back for you all.
- 1/3/2014
- by Pete Strauss
- Obsessed with Film
copyright Andrew Orchard
Tottenham Hotspur won at Old Trafford for the second successive season thanks to goals from Emmanuel Adebayor and Christian Eriksen. Manchester United responded through Danny Welbeck, but the Premier League champions stay 11 points adrift of leaders Arsenal.
Welbeck forced Hugo Lloris in the Spurs goal to parry away early on as he raced through on goal and left Michael Dawson for dead. Chris Smalling also drew a save from the visiting keeper.
David De Gea was then worked by Aaron Lennon when Adebayor found Soldado and the Spanish striker slipped in the Tottenham winger. Nemanja Vidic headed wide from a right wing corner on 20 minutes, but the Red Devils later conceded on the counter.
Adebayor headed home Eriksen’s stood up centre ten minutes before half time and Hotspur then could have gone in two goals ahead. Soldado shanked wide, however, when found by a lovely Lennon cross.
Tottenham Hotspur won at Old Trafford for the second successive season thanks to goals from Emmanuel Adebayor and Christian Eriksen. Manchester United responded through Danny Welbeck, but the Premier League champions stay 11 points adrift of leaders Arsenal.
Welbeck forced Hugo Lloris in the Spurs goal to parry away early on as he raced through on goal and left Michael Dawson for dead. Chris Smalling also drew a save from the visiting keeper.
David De Gea was then worked by Aaron Lennon when Adebayor found Soldado and the Spanish striker slipped in the Tottenham winger. Nemanja Vidic headed wide from a right wing corner on 20 minutes, but the Red Devils later conceded on the counter.
Adebayor headed home Eriksen’s stood up centre ten minutes before half time and Hotspur then could have gone in two goals ahead. Soldado shanked wide, however, when found by a lovely Lennon cross.
- 1/1/2014
- by Jamie Clark
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
Chelsea came from behind at Stamford Bridge to inflict a second festive defeat on Liverpool. Jose Mourinho triumphed over Brendan Rodgers in the battle between the Special One and his apprentice.
The visitors led through Martin Skrtel’s early opener, but Eden Hazard and Samuel Eto’o struck to ensure the hosts won it. A home win moved the Blues to two points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal.
Chelsea were undone by a set piece with three minutes played after Eto’o caught Jordan Henderson on the knee. Luis Suarez met Philippe Coutinho’s delivery, that deflected off Branislav Ivanovic and Reds defender Skrtel snapped up the loose ball.
Simon Mignolet then saved from Eden Hazard at the other end and Slovakia centre back Skrtel almost put through his own net, but Glen Johnson cleared the danger. Hazard then went down in the Liverpool box under Lucas Leiva’s challenge,...
Chelsea came from behind at Stamford Bridge to inflict a second festive defeat on Liverpool. Jose Mourinho triumphed over Brendan Rodgers in the battle between the Special One and his apprentice.
The visitors led through Martin Skrtel’s early opener, but Eden Hazard and Samuel Eto’o struck to ensure the hosts won it. A home win moved the Blues to two points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal.
Chelsea were undone by a set piece with three minutes played after Eto’o caught Jordan Henderson on the knee. Luis Suarez met Philippe Coutinho’s delivery, that deflected off Branislav Ivanovic and Reds defender Skrtel snapped up the loose ball.
Simon Mignolet then saved from Eden Hazard at the other end and Slovakia centre back Skrtel almost put through his own net, but Glen Johnson cleared the danger. Hazard then went down in the Liverpool box under Lucas Leiva’s challenge,...
- 12/30/2013
- by Jamie Clark
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
Venue: Upton Park Referee: Howard Webb Date: Saturday 2nd of November
Team News;
For West Ham United; Matt Taylor, Alou Diarra, James Collins, Andy Carroll, Ricardo Vaz Te and Stephen Henderson are all confirmed absentees. Mladen Petric and James Tomkins are doubtful for the clash, so manager Sam Allardyce is hardly spoilt for choice with his squad.
The Villans are short of options at left-back, with Antonio Luna and Joe Bennett both ruled out of action, meaning centre-back Nathan Baker could deputise in their absence. Forward Gabriel Agbonlahor is also doubtful, meaning Lambert will most likely give the out-of-form Andi Weimann a start.
The home side find themselves in poor form of late, with just one win in their last eight games. The Hammers are in 15th place with 9 points from 9 games and are likely to once again be without a recognised striker. West Ham’s home...
Venue: Upton Park Referee: Howard Webb Date: Saturday 2nd of November
Team News;
For West Ham United; Matt Taylor, Alou Diarra, James Collins, Andy Carroll, Ricardo Vaz Te and Stephen Henderson are all confirmed absentees. Mladen Petric and James Tomkins are doubtful for the clash, so manager Sam Allardyce is hardly spoilt for choice with his squad.
The Villans are short of options at left-back, with Antonio Luna and Joe Bennett both ruled out of action, meaning centre-back Nathan Baker could deputise in their absence. Forward Gabriel Agbonlahor is also doubtful, meaning Lambert will most likely give the out-of-form Andi Weimann a start.
The home side find themselves in poor form of late, with just one win in their last eight games. The Hammers are in 15th place with 9 points from 9 games and are likely to once again be without a recognised striker. West Ham’s home...
- 11/2/2013
- by Crip Cooke
- Obsessed with Film
With Arsenal dropping points yesterday, failing to take the points gap between third, fourth and fifth to a comfortable 4 points, both Newcastle and Tottenham will be fired up to take maximum points from their own games this weekend. The North Londoners have now lost control of their own destiny, and must hope that neither Newcastle nor their own closest city rivals can take advantage and move up into third and the lucrative promise of automatic Champions League qualification.
It is undoubtedly the North Easterners who have the more difficult prospect, welcoming the champions elect to St James Park for what looks like it might be a stellar affair. The atmosphere, at least, is bound to be electric, and Sky have made the right decision to share the fixture with their customers.
For the two clubs involved tomorrow at St James Park at 1.30pm, the fixture might well be the biggest of the season.
It is undoubtedly the North Easterners who have the more difficult prospect, welcoming the champions elect to St James Park for what looks like it might be a stellar affair. The atmosphere, at least, is bound to be electric, and Sky have made the right decision to share the fixture with their customers.
For the two clubs involved tomorrow at St James Park at 1.30pm, the fixture might well be the biggest of the season.
- 5/6/2012
- by Simon Gallagher
- Obsessed with Film
A late winner from Mario Gomez denies Real Madrid of an advantage going into the second leg at the Bernebaeu next week, but also leaves warning signs for Jose Mourinho whose caution was the undoing of Real Madrid.
It was a lively affair as billed, the wealth of attacking talent on display meant neither defences rested easy but even less so in the white half, as the Madrid back line, which has looked shaky this season, looked panicky against a quick attacking Bayern side who showed plenty of attacking ambition.
It was an early breakthrough for Bayern, who took the lead through talented footballer, deep sea diving enthusiast, referee botherer and general abomination of a footballer Franck Ribery who, after failing to win a penalty for a blatant dive, rocketed in the ball from 6 yards out from a poorly dealt with corner.
Bayern continued to be the main threat during the first half,...
It was a lively affair as billed, the wealth of attacking talent on display meant neither defences rested easy but even less so in the white half, as the Madrid back line, which has looked shaky this season, looked panicky against a quick attacking Bayern side who showed plenty of attacking ambition.
It was an early breakthrough for Bayern, who took the lead through talented footballer, deep sea diving enthusiast, referee botherer and general abomination of a footballer Franck Ribery who, after failing to win a penalty for a blatant dive, rocketed in the ball from 6 yards out from a poorly dealt with corner.
Bayern continued to be the main threat during the first half,...
- 4/17/2012
- by Luke Stevenson
- Obsessed with Film
Bolton and Owen Coyle will make an emotional return to White Hart lane this evening in their F.A cup Quarter-Final replay. It is less than two weeks since Bolton midfielder Fabrice Muamba suffered a cardiac arrest, which led to him collapsing on the pitch. With Muamba still not 100%, Bolton will want to add another victory after their 2-1 win over Blackburn at the weekend. With the amount of support Muamba has received from fans and players worldwide, he was said to be overjoyed at the support but even more pleased that his team is on winning ways. Manager Owen Coyle said: “Sometimes you think ‘what is normal’. We are engrossed in this football world. When events like that transpire, you think ‘hold on a minute’ and get a different perspective.
Harry Redkanpp’s men have had a difficult time in this competition with only managing a draw away a Stevenage.
Harry Redkanpp’s men have had a difficult time in this competition with only managing a draw away a Stevenage.
- 3/27/2012
- by Mathew Robinson
- Obsessed with Film
Zaire-born English Premier League soccer star Fabrice Muamba is showing signs of improvement after suffering a cardiac arrest during an F.A. Cup game between Bolton Wanderers and Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.
The Bolton star, 23, collapsed at Tottenham's White Hart Lane stadium in London and was taken to the London Chest Hospital in a critical condition.
But his health is improving - a statement from his soccer club reads: "Fabrice Muamba remains in intensive care at The London Chest Hospital, where today (Monday) he is showing small signs of improvement.
"His heart is now beating without the help of medication and he is also moving his arms and his legs. However, his long-term prognosis will remain unclear for some time. He is still critically ill and will continue to be closely monitored and treated by staff in The London Chest Hospital's intensive care unit."
Muamba escaped the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he grew up, when he was 11 and moved to England with his family. He represented England at under-21 level.
After paramedics failed to revive Muamba on the pitch, match referee Howard Webb abandoned the game.
Bolton's English Premier League game with Aston Villa, scheduled for Tuesday, has also been called off.
The Bolton star, 23, collapsed at Tottenham's White Hart Lane stadium in London and was taken to the London Chest Hospital in a critical condition.
But his health is improving - a statement from his soccer club reads: "Fabrice Muamba remains in intensive care at The London Chest Hospital, where today (Monday) he is showing small signs of improvement.
"His heart is now beating without the help of medication and he is also moving his arms and his legs. However, his long-term prognosis will remain unclear for some time. He is still critically ill and will continue to be closely monitored and treated by staff in The London Chest Hospital's intensive care unit."
Muamba escaped the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he grew up, when he was 11 and moved to England with his family. He represented England at under-21 level.
After paramedics failed to revive Muamba on the pitch, match referee Howard Webb abandoned the game.
Bolton's English Premier League game with Aston Villa, scheduled for Tuesday, has also been called off.
- 3/19/2012
- WENN
Saturday evening’s Fa Cup quarter final match between Tottenham Hotspur and Bolton Wanderers at White Hart Lane was postponed five minutes before half time when Bolton midfielder Fabrice Muamba suddenly collapsed on the pitch.
The 23 year-old England U21 midfielder was unconscious and did not respond to immediate medical treatment including CPR from medics and trainers who were attempting to resuscitate him. He was then rushed away in an ambulance just minutes later.
Referee Howard Webb made the decision to cancel the game after speaking to the officials, all the players and both managers who all agreed it was the right thing to do. All players noted that they were not going to be able to continue the game and it was said by the Espn commentary time that Webb’s decision was respected. No replays were shown by the Espn team of the incident but all commentators and players...
The 23 year-old England U21 midfielder was unconscious and did not respond to immediate medical treatment including CPR from medics and trainers who were attempting to resuscitate him. He was then rushed away in an ambulance just minutes later.
Referee Howard Webb made the decision to cancel the game after speaking to the officials, all the players and both managers who all agreed it was the right thing to do. All players noted that they were not going to be able to continue the game and it was said by the Espn commentary time that Webb’s decision was respected. No replays were shown by the Espn team of the incident but all commentators and players...
- 3/17/2012
- by Jack Carver
- Obsessed with Film
Arsenal’s season threatens to come off the rails every week at the minute, but the strong showing against Milan in mid-week and the exciting acquisition of Lukas Podolski for next season will have given Arsene Wenger’s men a much needed boost after the disappointment of the 4-0 away leg drubbing in Milan. A win tonight against Newcastle United who sit in sixth with a five point cushion over Liverpool would see Arsenal move to within two points of North London rivals Tottenham in third.
Arsenal fans will no doubt want to see Wenger encourage his team to go for the jugular and repeat Tottenham’s mauling of Newcastle three games ago in which Harry Redknapp’s men mercilessly pulled the Toon’s defence apart with some cut-throat direct play. If Wenger chooses to play Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain from the start (and he surely must on form) then the North...
Arsenal fans will no doubt want to see Wenger encourage his team to go for the jugular and repeat Tottenham’s mauling of Newcastle three games ago in which Harry Redknapp’s men mercilessly pulled the Toon’s defence apart with some cut-throat direct play. If Wenger chooses to play Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain from the start (and he surely must on form) then the North...
- 3/12/2012
- by Simon Gallagher
- Obsessed with Film
Chelsea threw away a three goal lead to draw with Manchester United at Stamford Bridge. A Jonny Evans own goal, a magnificent Juan Mata strike and a deflected David Luiz header seemed to have Andre Villas-Boas’ men flying, but two penalties scored by Wayne Rooney and a third from Javier Hernandez ensured the visitors didn’t leave with nothing.
Chelsea ‘welcomed’ Manchester United to Stamford Bridge in a Premier League match the watching of which, although perhaps not quite as important as it was a season or two ago, still promised to be a good way to spend a snowy afternoon.
The Blues started the game 12 points adrift of Alex Ferguson’s Red Devils, so only the most optimistic, i.e. the delusional sections of the Chelsea faithful, would tentatively suggest that Andre Villas-Boas’ men were still in with a shout of winning the title. However, United hadn’t won...
Chelsea ‘welcomed’ Manchester United to Stamford Bridge in a Premier League match the watching of which, although perhaps not quite as important as it was a season or two ago, still promised to be a good way to spend a snowy afternoon.
The Blues started the game 12 points adrift of Alex Ferguson’s Red Devils, so only the most optimistic, i.e. the delusional sections of the Chelsea faithful, would tentatively suggest that Andre Villas-Boas’ men were still in with a shout of winning the title. However, United hadn’t won...
- 2/5/2012
- by Alex Moore
- Obsessed with Film
A draw was the fair result as Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur met in a near-top of the table clash. However, a last minute mistake from Ledley King allowed Mario Balotelli to score the winner from the penalty spot. The first half was as tame as they come but when Samir Nasri and Joleon Lescott put the hosts two ahead and Jermaine Defoe and Gareth Bale pulled it back for Spurs, the lacklustre opening 45 minutes were banished from memory. Substitute Balotelli was ultimately the catalyst, as he won and scored the penalty in stoppage time to secure the three points.
Manchester City welcomed Tottenham Hotspur to the Etihad Stadium for what promised to be a mouth watering affair. This game has, in recent years been a clash of Champion’s League hopefuls. All that’s changed now though – as both sides have realistic hopes of actually winning the league. Last...
Manchester City welcomed Tottenham Hotspur to the Etihad Stadium for what promised to be a mouth watering affair. This game has, in recent years been a clash of Champion’s League hopefuls. All that’s changed now though – as both sides have realistic hopes of actually winning the league. Last...
- 1/22/2012
- by Alex Moore
- Obsessed with Film
From the sublime Fire in Babylon to Mario Balotelli's ridiculous hat, what to put in people's stockings this year
DVD & Blu-ray
An absolutely bumper year for sport on film was dominated by two disciplines. Cricket gave us Fire In Babylon (all titles available at amazon.co.uk), a rousing account of the 1970s West Indies side, of their brilliant cricket and, importantly, its part in their assertion of pride amid the racial and post-colonial politics of the time.
Politics also sets the scene for From The Ashes, the gloom of Britain in 1981 providing a backdrop for an historic series. It's a gripping story, entertainingly told, but the real treats are the Australian contributions – amusing and enlightening. It doubles up with the The Ashes Series 2010-2011 Box Set, a mammoth celebration of an Aussie defeat that simply never gets old. The included two-disc documentary is also excellent.
Motor sport also provides some compulsive viewing.
DVD & Blu-ray
An absolutely bumper year for sport on film was dominated by two disciplines. Cricket gave us Fire In Babylon (all titles available at amazon.co.uk), a rousing account of the 1970s West Indies side, of their brilliant cricket and, importantly, its part in their assertion of pride amid the racial and post-colonial politics of the time.
Politics also sets the scene for From The Ashes, the gloom of Britain in 1981 providing a backdrop for an historic series. It's a gripping story, entertainingly told, but the real treats are the Australian contributions – amusing and enlightening. It doubles up with the The Ashes Series 2010-2011 Box Set, a mammoth celebration of an Aussie defeat that simply never gets old. The included two-disc documentary is also excellent.
Motor sport also provides some compulsive viewing.
- 12/12/2011
- by Giles Richards
- The Guardian - Film News
Tottenham Hotspur played some delightful football to defeat a hardworking Queen’s Park Rangers side 3-1 at White Hart Lane. A brace from Gareth Bale and one from Rafael van der Vaart ensured the three points for Spurs with Jay Bothroyd getting one back for Qpr. The home side dominated the first half but weren’t nearly so comfortable in the second as the R’s battled their hardest, though it was ultimately all in vain.
After defeating the mighty Chelsea in the battle of West London last Saturday, Neil Warnock’s Qpr marched north to do battle with King ‘Arry’s Spurs at White Hart Lane. Two wily old leaders with a thirst for power. The Super Hoops leak goals in London though, they’ve conceded 14 goals whilst playing in the capital, compared to letting in just two elsewhere. Tottenham haven’t lost since August either – a 5-1 trouncing to Man City,...
After defeating the mighty Chelsea in the battle of West London last Saturday, Neil Warnock’s Qpr marched north to do battle with King ‘Arry’s Spurs at White Hart Lane. Two wily old leaders with a thirst for power. The Super Hoops leak goals in London though, they’ve conceded 14 goals whilst playing in the capital, compared to letting in just two elsewhere. Tottenham haven’t lost since August either – a 5-1 trouncing to Man City,...
- 10/30/2011
- by Alex Moore
- Obsessed with Film
Robin van Persie put in a true captain’s performance as Arsenal got a vital three points to go some way to turning around their rather dismal season, as they ran out 2-1 winners against Sunderland at the Emirates Stadium. It was a fantastic 90 minutes of football which started 29 seconds in as van Persie took the lead for the hosts. Then two magnificent free kicks – first from Sebastian Larsson, then from van Persie again completed the scoring.
There are certainly still issues for Arsene Wenger to address, but a good performance nevertheless by both teams. Sunderland fans won’t be too worried with their poor start to the season if they can replicate this performance on a more regular basis.
Two underachieving sides met at the Emirates Stadium as Arsenal took on Sunderland. The Black Cats had never beaten the Gunners on their home soil, but did manage to hold...
There are certainly still issues for Arsene Wenger to address, but a good performance nevertheless by both teams. Sunderland fans won’t be too worried with their poor start to the season if they can replicate this performance on a more regular basis.
Two underachieving sides met at the Emirates Stadium as Arsenal took on Sunderland. The Black Cats had never beaten the Gunners on their home soil, but did manage to hold...
- 10/16/2011
- by Alex Moore
- Obsessed with Film
A slow Sunday of football culminated in a turgid clash between Fulham and Blackburn that ended in an uninspired draw. Neither side would be happy with the 1-1 result, both desperately needing a win but having to settle for a point after two spectacular goals from Ruben Rochina and Bobby Zamora which stood out against a backdrop of dull football. Junior Hoilett picked up what looked like a serious injury in the last minute to add further misery to the display.
A win for West Brom earlier in the day meant that this game at Craven Cottage was fought between the bottom two teams in the league, with Blackburn and Fulham picking up a solitary point between them in their opening three games. Things seemed to picking up for the London side though, with new £10 million signing Bryan Ruiz in the starting line up along with long term absentee Bobby Zamora,...
A win for West Brom earlier in the day meant that this game at Craven Cottage was fought between the bottom two teams in the league, with Blackburn and Fulham picking up a solitary point between them in their opening three games. Things seemed to picking up for the London side though, with new £10 million signing Bryan Ruiz in the starting line up along with long term absentee Bobby Zamora,...
- 9/11/2011
- by Alex Moore
- Obsessed with Film
Arsenal took an absolute drubbing at Old Trafford today as an inexperienced defence completely collapsed under the pressure of a fantastic Manchester United squad, who put 8 past their hopeless opponents. A Wayne Rooney hat trick was complimented by goals from Danny Welbeck, Ashley Young (2), Nani and Park Ji-Sung to ensure Manchester United topped the table, with Theo Walcott and Robin van Persie responding for the visitors. On a day where Manchester well and truly dominated North London, it was United who somehow bettered City’s 5-1 result at White Hart Lane.
So often a memorable Premier League fixture, the match at Old Trafford always looked likely to be a one sided affair, with the Gunners’ starting 11 seeming to pale in comparison to Manchester United’s young side who were in such terrific form. Yet to win a league match, Arsenal’s relief at their Champion’s League qualification earlier...
So often a memorable Premier League fixture, the match at Old Trafford always looked likely to be a one sided affair, with the Gunners’ starting 11 seeming to pale in comparison to Manchester United’s young side who were in such terrific form. Yet to win a league match, Arsenal’s relief at their Champion’s League qualification earlier...
- 8/28/2011
- by Alex Moore
- Obsessed with Film
Sunderland manager Steve Bruce called it the ’90 minute panic attack’ and few supporters of either Tyne/Wear clubs would disagree with him as the fierce North East rivals played out an incredibly tense affair at the Stadium of the Light earlier this afternoon. In the end, it was the visitors Newcastle United that once again shaded one of football’s biggest derbies (despite the decision to once again not screen it live on television) in a close affair that the losing team, if they had showed more composure with their threatening possession & chances, perhaps should have got all three points.
The eventual breakthrough that proved to be the single deciding goal came two minutes after the hour mark when make-do Newcastle left back Ryan Taylor reminded his club how useful he can be with set pieces, swooping in a deadly free kick from the corner of the 18 year box that...
The eventual breakthrough that proved to be the single deciding goal came two minutes after the hour mark when make-do Newcastle left back Ryan Taylor reminded his club how useful he can be with set pieces, swooping in a deadly free kick from the corner of the 18 year box that...
- 8/20/2011
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
This French documentary, the lingua franca of which is Euro-England, is an impressionistic account of half-a-dozen football referees as they go about their duties during the 2008 European Championship finals in Austria and Switzerland. This is the event that led to death threats against the British ref Howard Webb from, among others, the Polish president, but it's a sober film, and impressionistic rather than analytical, with no commentary and no direct identification of teams, speakers or venues. They're all somewhat authoritarian, deeply serious, immaculately turned out, given to preening before the changing- room mirror, extremely confident, very talkative both on and off the field, and rather likable. The postmortems and briefing sessions are fascinating to sit in on, but at the end we don't quite get to understand them, though quite clearly they enjoy their power, prefer commanding to being ordered around, have skins as thick as old-fashioned footballs, and seem,...
- 8/6/2011
- by Philip French
- The Guardian - Film News
This very diverting film gives us a quasi-telepathic access to the tense, internal world of a group of football refs during Euro 2008
They have a strange tendency to run backwards. Why? This documentary on international football referees doesn't say. But it is very diverting nonetheless. They are the sport's lawmen, subject to all the pressure experienced by the stars, but with none of the cash or adulation, and increasingly considered fair game for abuse by internet bile-spewers and even motormouth coaches for whom vilifying the ref – once unthinkable – is now an accepted mind-game technique.
The film follows a group of refs, including Britain's Howard Webb, during the Euro 2008 championship. It shows how these very human and fallible officials nervously await Uefa's judgment on their performance. As in a reality show, only a select few will be invited back to preside over the final knockout matches after the group phase.
There...
They have a strange tendency to run backwards. Why? This documentary on international football referees doesn't say. But it is very diverting nonetheless. They are the sport's lawmen, subject to all the pressure experienced by the stars, but with none of the cash or adulation, and increasingly considered fair game for abuse by internet bile-spewers and even motormouth coaches for whom vilifying the ref – once unthinkable – is now an accepted mind-game technique.
The film follows a group of refs, including Britain's Howard Webb, during the Euro 2008 championship. It shows how these very human and fallible officials nervously await Uefa's judgment on their performance. As in a reality show, only a select few will be invited back to preside over the final knockout matches after the group phase.
There...
- 8/4/2011
- by Peter Bradshaw
- The Guardian - Film News
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Directed by Belgian former sports journalist Yves Hinant, French football documentary Les Arbitres – released in the UK as The Referees - draws obvious comparison with Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait as it hones in on one solitary figure during a football match. However, as the title suggests, here that figure is not a mercurial footballer but the most hated man in professional sport: the referee. The film follows a half-dozen of these poor souls (and their assistants) during matches at an international tournament – UEFA Euro 2008 (going from the group stage to the final) – as we catch a glimpse of the beautiful game in a way we’ve never been asked to see it before – from the point of view of the embattled man in the middle.
The Referees is a slightly more conventional documentary than the more arthouse-oriented Zidane, lacking that film’s Mogwai soundtrack and...
Directed by Belgian former sports journalist Yves Hinant, French football documentary Les Arbitres – released in the UK as The Referees - draws obvious comparison with Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait as it hones in on one solitary figure during a football match. However, as the title suggests, here that figure is not a mercurial footballer but the most hated man in professional sport: the referee. The film follows a half-dozen of these poor souls (and their assistants) during matches at an international tournament – UEFA Euro 2008 (going from the group stage to the final) – as we catch a glimpse of the beautiful game in a way we’ve never been asked to see it before – from the point of view of the embattled man in the middle.
The Referees is a slightly more conventional documentary than the more arthouse-oriented Zidane, lacking that film’s Mogwai soundtrack and...
- 8/4/2011
- by Robert Beames
- Obsessed with Film
While you were slumbering in your bed, innovación was dancing a pasa doble with the Jules Rimet trophy on its head, crying tears of alegría, and wibbling about in a state of what can only described as benevolent inebriation. Way to go, España, and dos cañas por favor!
1. For the first time in its history, Spain is the proud possessor of a large-ish gold trophy, following a month of less-than-whelming football in South Africa, although Holland aimed its final two-footed tackle, this time at referee Howard Webb. After all the griping about crime and lack of infrastructure, the tournament has given the Rainbow Nation a feeling of unity, says the Nyt. Elsewhere in Africa, Islamic militants killed 64 in Uganda in two attacks.
2. How much has the Deepwater oil spill helped the cause of climate change? Not much, says the Washington Post. Bp is fitting a new cap on the leak but,...
1. For the first time in its history, Spain is the proud possessor of a large-ish gold trophy, following a month of less-than-whelming football in South Africa, although Holland aimed its final two-footed tackle, this time at referee Howard Webb. After all the griping about crime and lack of infrastructure, the tournament has given the Rainbow Nation a feeling of unity, says the Nyt. Elsewhere in Africa, Islamic militants killed 64 in Uganda in two attacks.
2. How much has the Deepwater oil spill helped the cause of climate change? Not much, says the Washington Post. Bp is fitting a new cap on the leak but,...
- 7/12/2010
- by Addy Dugdale
- Fast Company
• Handicapping the final. [Fox Soccer] • Five things to watch for on Sunday. [Espn] • Cruyff’s choice. [The New Republic] • The Spanish Armada. [The Shin Guardian] • The cosmopolitan fans of the World Cup. [When Saturday Comes] • FIFA to make refereeing changes for future World Cups. [BBC] • Nominees for the Golden Ball. [Washington Post] • Howard Webb to ref the final. [BBC] • Around the World Cup in 32 (or so) books. [Words Without Borders] • The fine art of losing. [Lapham’s Quarterly] • Trying to apply stats to soccer. [New York Times] • The roots of New York: Spain versus the Netherlands. [New York Times] • Ten lessons from the World Cup. [Espn] • On the Suarez handball and what might be done about it. [Pitch Invasion] • Epl, dominated by foreigners, hurts England’s World Cup ambitions. [Guardian]...
- 7/9/2010
- Vanity Fair
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