Napoli 2 vs. 1 Man City

1-0: An undeserved goal from Napoli when Lavezzi aims for the near post from a corner, Cavani was there to flick it towards goal and past Hart. (17)

1-1: De Sanctis parried Silva's shot straight to Balotelli who has the simplest of tap-ins. Napoli's failure to clear the ball lead to the goal. (33)

2-1: Cavani's side-footed volley was too hard for the City 'keeper and ended up being the winner. (49)

With Dzeko, Balotelli, Silva, Cavani, Lavezzi and Hamsik, this game was never going to be goalless!

The Manchester side started the better, keeping the ball well without creating any real chances. Napoli defended in typical Italian fashion, and looked to counter for their goalscoring opportunities. You see a lot of teams with players on the posts when defending corners - not City. For me Kolarov is to blame as he half heartedly stuck a leg out, which looked to put Hart off.

Man City seemed cautious and couldn't break down the sturdy defence of Napoli who played with a flat back 3 with the wing backs tucking in when they'd lose possession.

City weren't afraid to get players forward: Kolarov would often run down the left allowing Balotelli to move in field alongside Dzeko and Silva, with Milner and Toure Yaya joining attacks.

Although they kept the ball well for the majority, they left space for Napoli to counter and it was a well executed, attacking move that got the Italian side the victory, early in the second half.

City have to win against Bayern and hope that Villarreal (still without a point) do well against Napoli, to go through.

It's not like they need the money from the Champions League. Their squad may well be the strongest but they could do with less fixtures if they're to keep up their destructive Premier League form.

Athletic Bilbao 2 vs. 2 F.C. Barcelona

1-0

Great play by Susaeta out on the left flank, breezing past Mascherano who slid in. The Athletic winger squared it to Herrera on the edge of the box who was given enough time to take a touch, then curl it into the far right corner past Valdes. 

(20)

1-1

Barca hit back straight away, Abidal and Adriano were swapping from left back and left wing all game, Abidal it was who put in a good ball for Cesc to head in. 

(24)

2-1

Abidal has to take the blame for allowing Bilbao back into the lead. The ball was delivered in and the Frenchman looked too casual as he swung a leg at it. The ball sliced off his boot and flicked off Pique's shin and into the back of the net. 

(80)

2-2

Messi played the ball into Iniesta who flicked it towards Villa, it was too strong a touch and went towards Iraizoz, the Athletic 'keeper. His own player - Amorbieta got in the way and the ball fell to Messi who cooly put it in the bottom corner. 

(90+1)

The match started off slowly and neither side created many good chances. Bilbao were noticeably playing with high pressure, as a lot of teams do when playing against Barcelona. The difference today being that the Basque club were able to keep it up all game.

Barca conceded their first goal in nine games (all competitions) when Herrera curled it past Valdes. They weren't great defensively without Puyol. Mascherano seemed to drift away from centre back as you expect with the high pressure Barca play, but when you play high pressure you take a risk and leave space.

The weather was atrocious, it was pouring down the whole match. A few puddles formed in different parts of the pitch. Amorebieta tried to dribble through one, leaving the ball behind. Iniesta pounced on the ball and tried to lob the keeper to no avail. 

The last ten minutes were all Barca, Amorebieta didn't help his sides chances of keeping hold of the three points as he got sent off in the 87th minute for a second bookable offence.

Messi has broken all sorts of records; 14 hatricks, 200 goals, 1 million nutmegs all at the age of 24, but today was his first La Liga goal away from home this season - isn't he slacking!

Stoke 1 vs. 3 Newcastle

0-1: Krul thumped it upfield, Best flicked it into Obertan's path who blitzed down the flank to cross to Demba Ba , he then headed past Begovic. Stoke left back was positioned badly, neither challenged Best nor covered the run of Obertan. (12)

0-2: Best fluffed his shot from close range, it fell to Ba showing his poaching instinct. (40)

1-2: Crouch went down inside the box, Ba looked to have pushed him. It didn't seem as though Mike Dean would give a penalty, but you could just about make out the blow of the whistle as the Stoke fans bellowed. Walters converted (75)

1-3: You could see it as a very soft penalty decision. Although Huth did shove Best, he stayed on his feet and didn't appeal. Outside the box it's a freekick so why shouldn't it be a penalty? Good refeering! Ba scored to get his hatrick. (81)

Demba Ba will be getting the headlines tomorrow, deservedly so. He's very quick, strong and good in the air. He's also good with the ball at his feet, you often see quick players who aren't so great technically, he drifts across to the wings and comes deep, and can do so with effect.

Stoke were either playing it long to Crouch who didn't have players around him to flick it to, or going down the right with Pennant, so they should he is great at crossing. It's made difficult when The Magpies doubled up on him with R.Taylor at full back as well as Gutierrez blocking off the crossing option. If the Argentine wasn't there, Cabaye would go across to cover. Great work from The Geordies.

The first ten minutes were the least entertaining you'll see in the Premier League. Both teams playing direct to their target men with nothing coming of it, until the first goal that is.

Newcastle have are looking great, one of only two unbeaten sides in the league. They don't have fantastic players individually but as a team they work well. Solid defence, hard working and fast wingers, Cabaye and Guthrie both with their accurate passing and tracking back and Best and Ba forming a dangerous partnership up front.

Tiote was out injured but Cabaye and Guthrie were both very defensive and managed to keep Stoke out. You would think that with Newcastle's good passers, Pulis would have played someone who can shut down players quickly as they have been doing, Palacios is a hard working midfielder who doesn't give opponents time on the ball. Stoke normally play high pressure but lacked that tonight.

Alan Pardew isn't a manager who has the most boisterous personality like other Premier League managers we've become accustomed to, but he's getting results and have gone up to third above Chelsea. Can they keep it up? Yes, if they stay injury free and if Ba can keep scoring, looks on course to bag 20+ for certain.

Newcastle 2 vs. 2 Tottenham

 

0-1: Livermore won the ball deep in Newcastle's half snatching it off Cabaye, this set up a chance for Adebayor who was brought down by S.Taylor inside the box. Newcastle players protested but if you hadn't made your mind up, looking at Taylors body language it's obvious he felt he'd made a mistake.  Van der Vaart put the penalty away. (40)

1-1: Superb, old-fashioned wing play by Gutierrez who got past both Modric and Walker in quick succession. He then floated it in, it was too high for Cabaye at the near post but fell perfectly for Ba to equalize. (48)

1-2: Redknapp brought Defoe on at the right time, Spurs were putting pressure on the Magpies and the Englishman got the ball on the edge of the box, turned and hit it with his right foot, the ball curling into the bottom corner. R.Taylor who was marking him seemed to stick to his right in an attempt to force Defoe onto his weaker, left foot. But this is the Premier League and you would hope top strikers would be competent on either foot.

2-2: Lethal finishing might not be a word most would associate with Ameobi, but his goal to equalize was that of a striker with something to prove. He got the ball and ran into the space vacated by the wondering Walker, he then drilled his shot across Friedel and into the bottom right.

Defoe could've helped Spurs to a winner if he had either finished his chance or squared it to either Livermore or Adebayor who were positioned better, although S.Taylor blocked his initial strike well. Coloccini could've won it for the Geordies late on but he had to stretch on the volley inside the six yard box and hooked it away from goal as opposed to giving it the delicate flick towards goal. He then fired wide from the rebound as he spun - Would've called it great defending had he been at the other end!

Tiote got Man of the Match, he was all over the pitch. Shielding his back four best he could as well as getting forward in support. He plays in a position where most people may not appreciate his input for the team, but those around will give him the recognition. He intercepted many passes and stopped potential counter attacks well.

Other stand out performers were Livermore who played alongside Parker and manged to cut out attacks and tackled well. Bale was also good, retaining the ball giving Spurs a chance to get players up into the opposing half. 

 All in all a fair result. Spurs keep the ball well and look to have more about them with Bale having great ball retention and Modric and Van der Vaart's ability to pick out a pass. You don't feel Newcastle quite have the same as they relied on getting it to Ba and Best as quickly as they could, although Gutierrez was up and down the wing tirelessly. 

Norwich 2 vs. 1 Sunderland

Before the game had started Sunderland 'keeper, Simon Mignolet had to cut his sleeves because of a kit clash!

Elliott Bennett played a good one-two and placed the ball across the six yard box for Leon Barnett to tap into an empty net. Bramble looked to have him covered, but was flat footed as Barnett scored his first Premier League goal. (31)

Tierney who had been defending well the first half, gets forward for the first time early on in the second. He put in a great ball for Morison to head home. (48)

Sunderland play some nice one touch football, Richardson gets it out wide on the left and blasts it across goal into the bottom right corner. The box was crowded and the shot got deflected in, giving Ruddy no chance. (86)

 

 
Norwich gave Sunderland some early worries, by not giving them any time on the ball as well as having some shots at goal. Mignolet didn't help the cause by slicing a clearance that went out for a corner, as well as charging out beyond his box as Hoolahan lobbed him, with the shot going over.

Although The Canaries had less possession, they looked the more dangerous. Sunderland took a while to string some passes together because of the pressure, but Larsson and Gardner were able to show off their passing ability, linking up with Bendtner well.

Sunderland played too cautiously, they had the two banks of four which were set out well, but they backed off and gave The Canaries time to create some play. Norwich couldn't keep up the high pressure and allowed Sunderland to pass it around leading up to the goal. The last ten minutes were end to end, Grant Holt winding the clock down at one, with Sunderland looping the ball into the penalty area in an attempt to get a late equaliser at the other.

Sunderland could've done with a striker up front with Bendtner as the Dane held the ball up well, but Sessegnon didn't seem to be on the same wavelength.

Good to see Norwich with 9 English and 2 Irish players that made up their starting eleven.

Villarreal 0 vs. 2 Bayern Munich

Manchester City and Napoli complete Group A, surely making it the strongest group. You'd think all 4 clubs would fancy themselves to progress to the knockout phase.

A host of internationals on show; Rossi, Ribery, Nilmar, Muller, Senna, Neuer, Marchena and Schweinsteiger...

Good play by Ribery on the left, he got to the byline and cut it back to Kroos who finished well, finding the far right corner. 0-1 (7)

Rafinha came across from the right to nutmeg Bruno, he then blasted a shot at Diego Lopez but he couldn't get enough behind it to stop it going in. 0-2 (76)

Bayern Munich dominated the first half. Never have I seen a team keep the ball so well and restrict the opposition to just a couple of half chances away from home. Bayern kept the ball well and when Villarreal did have it they were kept well away from Neuer's box.

The second half was better for the Spanish side, they worked the ball well, Rossi and Bruno had good shots saved. Ribery was the star player though, dribbling past the Villarreal right back, Mario at ease. He was able to drift across to the middle and give Villarreal more problems as he'd link up well with Muller.

Manuel Neuer has had a perfect start to the season with his new club, he's now kept nine clean sheets out of nine. Tymoschuk and Schweinsteiger have to be mentioned as they protected their back four brilliantly.

Bayern Munich v Manchester City looks to be a great game!

Barcelona 2 vs. 2 A.C Milan

 

A clash between European giants, they've won the Champions League eleven times between them.

Neither of Barcelona's summer signings started, Alexis is out injured and Fabregas made the bench. Mascherano and Busquets start at centre half.

Familiar faces for Milan, Nesta and Seedorf both 35 start, Ibrahimovic and Robinho out injured, Pato started up front.

Pato got on the end of a lofted ball by Abbiati and blitzed past the Barca defence to place it past Valdes in 25 seconds. 0-1 (1)

Messi gets the ball on the edge of the box and drives forward, he skips past Nesta and then brushes off Abate. It looks as though the ball gets away from him but he somehow gets to it, even when gets there it looks as though nothing is on, but great players make something out of nothing and he plays it along the six yard box for Pedro to tap in. 1-1 (36)

Villa had a quiet game but stepped up to take a free kick from 25-30 yards, he fired empatically past the helpless Abbiati. 2-1 (50)

Thiago Silva heads an equaliser in the 92nd minute from a corner to steal a point at Nou Camp. (90+2)

Shocked in front of their own fans by the early goal, Barca kept the ball in their usual style but couldn't break down the disciplined Italians. Their best chance came as Messi hit the post from a free kick. Whilst others around him were wasting half chances, Messi was able to get a couple of shots on target.

Going in at half time, Milan soaked up the pressure from the Catalans well, although they never threatened, Pato's pace did expose Barcelona's makeshift defence at times. 

Not long after Villa's goal, Messi went on another one of his sensational runs, just as it looked like he was going to shoot, Nesta lunged across to tackle.

Dani Alves got away with only a booking for a two footed tackle. Milan started to press with more urgency by the 70th minute.

Barca stroked the ball about nicely as they do, but didn't create any clear chances. Milan's only chance of scoring was either a counter attack or a set piece. It was a corner that lead to the equaliser.

FA Cup Final: Man City 1 vs. 0 Stoke City

Before today's game Mancini's side had the chance to prove many people wrong by clinching their first piece of silverware since the new owners revolutionized the club.

Stoke are a team who have great support and their fans will have been right behind them for today's Cup Final at Wembley.

Man City had the better of the first half with great chances for Silva and Balotelli. Silva's shot was drilled into the ground and bounced over the bar. Balotelli's attempt drew a brilliant save from Sorensen.

Stoke struggled and couldn't create any chances where they'd look like scoring. They had to defend well to keep Man City at bay. Huth was lucky to stay on the pitch after an off the ball incident which involved him elbowing Balotelli in the face.

The second half started at a high tempo with Stoke putting pressure on the Man City defence. Wasteful isn't a word you'd use to describe David Silva, but he was when City countered. Stoke were caught short at the back when Tevez slid Silva through, but he wanted to shift the ball to his stronger left foot, giving the Stoke defenders time to get back and clear.

Joe Hart made a good save from Kenwyne Jones. The Stoke striker was one on one but couldn't get to the ball quick enough.

Good play by Silva and Balotelli led to a chance for Yaya Toure. The ball fell kindly to him and he thumped it into the back of the net to give City the victory.

Manchester City win their first trophy since Tony Book from Bath guided a City side who won the League Cup in 1976. Book also captained City when they won the FA Cup in 1969 once said; "..it would be great to talk about the modern-day heroes rather than always harking back to my day." 

Maybe now the players of today will go on and fulfill their potential.

West Brom 2 vs. 2 Wigan

Transfer stories have been dominating the media, even making front page headlines with Torres' big money move to Chelsea, but there was great drama at The Hawthorns this evening!

 

West Brom got off to a great start as Odemwingie was put through and managed to out pace the Wigan defence to slip the ball past the oncoming Al Habsi. 

Charles N'Zogbia who was the talk of a move himself was the outstanding player of the first half with his mazy runs. It was he who won a free kick for the Latics, and it was he who took the free kick that deflected off Mulumbu's shin to zip past the helpless Myhill to pull Wigan level.

Ben Watson managed to put Wigan 2-1 up within minutes of half time as his inswinging cross got the better of Myhill. Watson managed to get a lot of power behind the low cross that evaded the Baggies defence as Myhill hesitated whilst the ball ghosted into the bottom corner.

From half time up until the 70th minute it was end to end. But West Brom began to gain control after Fortune saw his effort smash off the post. Good possession play meant that Brunt picked the ball up just outside the box to curl an effort on goal that also came off the post. The pressure finally took its toll as Fortune rose well to guide the ball into the bottom corner of the net as his header pulled West Brom back level.

Before today's game Wigan had only scored 20 goals in 24 games. N'Zogbia is a different class to the rest of the side and a move away from the DW Stadium in the summer wouldn't come as a surprise. West Brom will be pleased with Jerome Thomas' input as he looked dangerous when he had the ball, Carlos Vela was average and would've got on the score sheet had he taken an opportunity he fired straight at the keeper.

Wigan stay just inside the drop zone on goal difference, West Brom two places above in 16th.

Bolton 0 vs. 4 Chelsea

Chelsea have won every game at the Reebok in the League for the past seven seasons, doing so without conceding a goal. Before todays match both teams paid tribute to Bolton legend Nat Lofthouse, who scored an impressive 30 goals in 33 matches for England.

Chelsea opened their account after Steinsson had given the ball away as Malouda tackled, Drogba pounced on the loose ball and drove towards goal unleashing a thunderbolt from over 30 yards out that flew over Jaaskelainen.

The second came after the ball fell nicely for Malouda who was in space at the back post to see his shot blocked, before composing himself to slot it home.

Bolton were punished for leaving themselves short at the back when Essien drilled in a cross towards the front post when Zat Knight tackled Drogba well, only to see Anelka capitilize and fire it low into the bottom corner.

Essien got down the left hand side again as his cross found Anelka, who's shot was blocked and again the ball fell kindly for a Chelsea player, this time for Ramires to hammer it in.


Bolton started the better of the two sides, Holden mis-hit shot not troubling Cech but he had to be alert to save a header from Kevin Davies. They have players who are dangerous in the air but Taylor isn't regarded as one of them, it was he who had the best attempt on goal bringing the best out of Cech who dived low towards his left post to save. Bolton weren't able to break down the Chelsea defence all game but looked dangerous after Mark Davies had come on linking up well with Elmander.

Drogba and Steinsson were comparing their abs during the second half as the Ivorian pulled his shirt up after a high foot from Taylor. If it weren't for Jaaskelainens few saves at the end it could've been five. Could've also been five if Foy had spotted a clear penalty when Robinson smashed Anelka inside the box. Chelsea got themselves a 3pt cushion from Spurs in 5th, but are still 7pts behind Man Utd.

Wolves 0 vs. 3 Liverpool

Before today's early kick-off, Liverpool fans would've realised that this game was Dalglish's best chance to get his first win after returning to Anfield. 

Two goals from under-performing Fernando Torres and a volley from Raul Meireles sealed all three points for the Merseyside club as Wolves' poor run continues, losing five on the bounce now.

The first goal came in the 35th minute as Poulsen played a fantastic ball into the path of Meireles down the right wing who then cut across to play it square to Torres to slot it into an empty net. Zubar was argubly to blame for the goal as he didn't keep the line in the Wolves defence, keeping Meireles onside.

Liverpool were on the back foot as Wolves came out in the second half peppering the Liverpool box. But it shows it's the taking of chances that could cost Wolves dear as when the ball dropped to Meireles on the edge of the area he cooly volleyed it as the ball dipped wickedly over Hennessey and into the back of the net.

The final goal came in injury time as Kuyt drove into the Wolves box when Stearman tackled, before the ball trickled across the box to fall kindly to Torres to smash home.

The match began at a high pace with both teams pouring men forward. They both seemed desperate to get the first goal. The first real chance went to Liverpool inside ten minutes when Johnson played a one-two with Torres before he spotted the run of Lucas who then in turn played it across to Poulsen to drill it at Berra who blocked well.

Wolves bombarded the Liverpool box everytime they got the ball, which turned out to be their downfall as they only created two clear cut chances. The first of which was when the ball fell to Milijas at the back post who got the ball stuck under his feet before Reina shut him down. The second real chance they had was when Fletcher squared it to Hammill just outside the six yard box as he scuffed his shot, they were 2-0 down at the time in the 75th minute so they could've mounted a comeback.

The match was entertaining in the sense that both teams were going for it. Torres played well and seemed fired up after a scuffle with Stearman, nicknamed 'Sternsy' because of ex-teammate Nigel Quashie's misunderstanding of his original nickname 'Stearsy'. The Spaniard linked up well creating chances for others. Liverpool missed Gerrard as their ball retention at times was poor, although Wolves did pressurise well like a pack of hyenas around a fresh piece of meat.

Overall it was the cutting edge and diverse play that Wolves lack, whereas Liverpool look to go upwards and onwards after todays confidence boosting victory.

Cesc Fabregas

Anyone who watches Arsenal play will know how much of a quality player this guy is. He made his debut in October 2003, the season that went on to be considered one of the greatest title wins in the history of the top English Division. Known as 'The Invincibles' for going the entire season unbeaten in the league, it was the Arsenal squad that contained a solid defence, an all-round, brilliant midfield as well as a classy attack force. Players like Martin Keown, Sol Campbell, Patrick Vieira, Robert Pires, Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp were an integral part of the championship winning side. So for a sixteen year-old youngster trying to make a name for himself, it couldn't have been easy. 

When Wenger gave Fabregas an opportunity in the League Cup vs. Rotherham, he ensured he put in a good performance, getting on the scoresheet in the process as Arsenal ran out 5-1 victors - he was the youngest ever player to score for Arsenal, a record that still stands today. He wasn't to play a part in the League in that memorable season which meant he wasn't able to receive a winner’s medal.

Fabregas in action in 2005/2006

During his second season the young Spaniard was lucky enough to have been given four league appearances in a row, due to an injury to Vieira. He was given heaps of praise during these games as well as scoring his first League goal in a 3-0 win over Blackburn Rovers. He went on to start twenty four Premier League games during the 04/05 season, winning the F.A Cup. As Vieira had left Highbury for Juventus at the close of the season, Fabregas' Arsenal career had begun to take off.

In the 05/06 season it was he and Gilberto Silva who filled the centre of midfield with Gilberto playing a holding role, allowing Fabregas the freedom to get forward and create play, as we have come to know his style of play. Arsenal reached the Champions League Final, losing out to Cesc's former club, Barcelona. At the end of the season his performances hadn't gone unnoticed by Luis Aragones, who decided to call him up to the Spanish national squad for a friendly vs. Switzerland - Fabregas became the youngest player to represent Spain for seventy years.

Celebrating a goal

Despite being only nineteen years of age, Fabregas was beginning his fourth season at Arsenal. He signed an eight year contract and stated that he'd like to play his best years at the North London club. Arsenal had moved to the Emirates Stadium by now and were looking to revolutionise the team by moving on players. Reyes, Pires, Campbell, Lauren and Cole had all left Arsenal as Rosicky and Gallas were introduced to the squad. Arsenal finished 4th in the League for the second successive season.

All-time goalscorer, Thierry Henry had left at the beginning of the 07/08 season. This was a blow to the side, but many had suggested that Henry was too big an ego within the dressing room, and that it was time for the youngsters to stand up and be counted. Fabregas did just that scoring an impressive thirteen goals for the season, one of which was a memorable strike in the Champions League vs. AC Milan to ensure a Quarter-Final spot.

Winning PFA Young Player of the Year in 2008

In 2008, influential players were sold. Flamini, Gilberto and Hleb being the most noticable. Nasri, Ramsey and Vela had joined, these players were considered potential stars for the future and were hoping to stop the recent dominance of their massive rivals, Manchester United. Fabregas had replaced William Gallas as club captain in November and as Arsenal's season looked to be on the up, he was injured during a big match with Liverpool, where he was sidelined for four months. He only made twenty two appearances that season and his side were unable to prevent United from winning a third successive Premier League trophy.

The beginning of last season saw vital players exit, goal-getter Adebayor and key defender Kolo Toure both left for Manchester City, who were on a mission of their own after being taken over. Fabregas made twenty six starts, scoring fifteen goals. He was a part of the Spanish squad who lifted the ultimate, World Cup trophy in July of last year.

Cesc fulfulling a boyhood dream

 

After the jubilant celebrations had come to an end and players returned to their clubs, there was serious talk of Fabregas returning to his homeland. 

A €35M offer from former club Barcelona had been rejected from Arsenal but the rumours hadn't settled down. Fabregas himself had stated he'd like to fulfil his boyhood dream and play for Barcelona, and who could blame him with the star-studded team they currently have. Josep Guardiola already has to make tough decisions in regards to making line-up selections, Busquets, Mascherano and Keita can all play the holding role well. Whereas Iniesta and Xavi is a partnership that is second to none. Villa, Pedro and world-class Messi often make up the rest of the attacking force. 

Ex team-mate Gilberto Silva said it was a matter of time before he'd join Barca. Messi stated he was confident that Cesc would be playing alongside him. They were both wrong. Fabregas has reiterated his passion for the club, when many others had questioned his desire to stay at Arsenal in an attempt to win trophies that fans have yearned, for so long.

With the transfer window now open again, speculation will continue, renewed interest coming from Jose Mourinho's, Real Madrid. But Fabregas has ruled himself out of a move at all anytime soon by saying in recent weeks, “I love this club so much, I want to give everything”. To me that doesn't sound like a man who wants to leave his beloved club. Arsenal fans would have very much appreciated these comments, as they know how important he has become over the years. 

The Arsenal captain enjoying his football

 

Arsenal's current style of play is easy on the eye; they often enjoy most of the possession in games and look to cut open defences with fantastic intricate football. Attacking prowess such as; Van Persie, Arshavin, Nasri, Walcott and Wilshere show just how dangerous they can be. Their defence is the main topic of discussion, with top pundits suggesting that they need to bolster their back four in order to be considered a serious title threat. Their goalkeeping situation has also been debated.

One thing that doesn't need debating is the fact that Fabregas wants to lead his beloved side towards trophies.

Stevenage Story Uncovered

After the Stevenage/Newcastle third round F.A Cup tie on Satruday, Scott Laird, Stevenage's full-back had been floored by a clean hook that was caught on live TV.

It turns out Rob Fitzgerald was the offender who had embarrassingly shown up at his local police station on Monday to confess. Fitzgerald's current lover (Jade Coles) had a relationship with Scott Laird in recent years and it's thought that yob had been drinking before knocking Laird down. "Rob was at the game celebrating on the pitch. He saw Scott and just lost his temper. He was being protective." Jade stated.

He is to appear before Stevenage Magistrates on January 26th.

By the way Stevenage won 3-1.

Ancelotti's Agony

Top Premier League managers have put themselves under immense pressure in recent times, with Roy Hodgson, Avram Grant and Gerard Houllier's results being closely inspected. But more noticeably than others is Carlo Ancelotti. Reason being is that he'd guided his Chelsea side to Premier League success just eight months ago, setting records for putting so many goals past their opposition. At the end of last season he allowed Ballack, Carvalho, Deco and Joe Cole to leave Stamford Bridge.

 

Many had viewed these players as being 'past it' and that the first team squad were strong anyway. There were also those who viewed the squad as being 'aged' with Terry, Lampard and Drogba all in their thirties. There is no doubt that the strength of Chelsea's first team squad is fantastic, but are their current lot of back-up players up to the task of replacing key members of the team?

People will be quick to blame the departure of Ray Wilkins as the reason of the poor recent form, but it proves that injuries to key players at Chelsea have cost them dear. Ramires seems to be a hard working player who suits their style of play, although he has shown that he is too slow on the ball and isn't able to handle the fast paced English football. Benayoun may have been unlucky in regards with his injuries, whereas Zhirkov has played almost twice as many games as the talismanic Lampard has done this season, with his only memorable contribution coming in the Champions League. Maybe this is where Ancelotti wants success - after all Chelsea have yet to win the coveted tournament in their history. 

Fact of the matter is they currently lie 5th in the table, 9pts behind Man Utd who hold top spot. Both Manchester clubs, United and City as well as Spurs have quality back up players to call upon when required. United have International players on the bench, City are able to spend an infinte amount of money and Spurs have players such as Bentley, Jenas and Keane battling for a first team place. Chelsea's fringe players include Kakuta, McEachran, Borini and Bruma.

Chelsea have to act fast. They need their top players to remain fit as well as end their bad run of form. Failing this they have to delve into the transfer market to bring in two or three new faces, which seems improbable during this transfer window. 

Can Ancelotti's depleted squad turn their fortunes around?

Is Carlo up to the job?

Beckham Return?

Over the past few days the media have been going barmy at a possible return to the Premiership for the worldwide icon. Not surprisingly, fourteen clubs are said to be interested in getting a hold of his signature. It seems ridiculous to have so much speculation and talk for a player to join a side for only a three month loan period. Nevertheless he has always been talked about, whether it's been his family, fashion, football or hairstyles.

On previous occasions Beckham has been loaned out to AC Milan, at the end of the MLS season in the winter of 2008 and 2009. His latest loan spell ended in disaster as he was injured and forced to miss the World Cup. His last appearance came for LA Galaxy in November. 

It is his current club that are rarely talked about although his services are paid for by them. There may be such high interest in him but do the Galaxy want to let him go? If he is such a good player, why don't they do all they can to get him to stay? Perhaps his manager at Galaxy, Bruce Arena has suggested that he stays put and remains with the squad for pre-season that is likely to begin over the next month. So that he is ready for the start of the MLS season that is due to start in March.

As long as he joins a team that has a target man for him to deliver his signature crosses, I have no doubt he'll do well if it turns out he does return.

Arsenal 0 vs. 0 Manchester City

A disappointing game for the neutrals, as a high scoring game was anticipated with quality players such as Nasri, Fabregas, Tevez and Milner on show. Arsenal started off brilliantly with Wilshere having a couple of good chances, one of which was a comfortable save for Hart, whereas on the second instance he rolled it across the face of the goal as Van Persie came inches from making contact to knock it in.
There were only eight minutes on the clock by the time Van Persie had hit the post. The Dutch International created himself enough space to strike fiercly with his left foot. Walcott saw plenty of the ball and was brought down in the penalty area by Jo. No real appeals by the Arsenal players, more importantly Walcott got up and carried on, presuming the honest-natured youngster realised he'd gone down easily.
Man City had a free kick on the far right where Barry was able to deliver an in-swinging cross to evade the Arsenal defence as Tevez was alone at the back post to disappointingly, scuff his volley.
Fabregas struck the post after some quality possession from the Gunners. Nasri played it across for Fabregas to shoot towards the near post as the rebound fired back out for Walcott to then smash the opposite post, albeit in an offside position.

On numerous occasons throughout the match Tevez was having to protect the ball as he held it up to bring others into play. David Silva was a noticable absentee as they lacked any real imagination going forward, four shots on goal with neither of them hitting the target.

Arsenal begun the second half the way they begun the first, by playing their typical intricate style of football. They continued to dominate up until the hour mark where Van Persie managed to force a brilliant save out of Hart. From around twenty five yards out he blasted the ball towards the top left corner as Hart flung himself across the goal to stop it from going in.

The last half an hour of play had become scrappy, although Wenger's side were having the better of the ball, neither team created a clear cut chance. De Jong played well protecting his back four, where Kompany and Kolo Toure also had good games. The Ivory Coast International intercepted a good ball in from Walcott as Van Persie was behind him ready to pounce. De Jong cut out a number of Arsenal attacks, frustrating them more and more as the game wore on. Fouls were being conceded by both teams and in the eighty eighth minute a tangle of legs between Pablo Zabaleta and Bacary Sagna led to a clash of heads where Sagna appeared to be the more aggressive. Referee sent both players off although Zabaleta didn't do an awful lot to even receive a booking.

Ultimately Arsenal were unable to break through the tough Man City defence. Mancini's team were happy to sit back and absorb the pressure, hoping to pinch a goal on the counter attack.

Fulham 3 vs. 0 West Bromwich Albion

Fulham score three goals but more importantly, earn three points as they climb out of the relegation zone to go thirteenth in the table. Prior to todays fixture they'd only scored eleven goals in their ten home games in the Premier League. Goals courtesy of Simon Davies, Clint Dempsey and Brede Hangeland earned the Cottagers a well-deserved victory.

1-0
West Brom had been defending well before their hard work had been thrown away on the stroke of half time as Mulumbu was dispossessed on the edge of area by Etuhu, who then passed to Davies to fire his shot through the hands of Carson. The shot was powerful and moved in the air but the Baggies keeper would've been annoyed at himself for not keeping the effort out.

2-0
The second goal came in the 55th minute as Simon Davies was involved again, this time he swung in a corner that was met by the head of Clint Dempsey.


3-0
West Brom hadn't learned their lesson as Davies took another in-swinging corner into a similar area, but on this occasion Brede Hangeland powered it into the back of the net after arriving late at the back post.


West Brom were forced to play four full backs to form their defence. Debutant James Hurst, the Dutch Zuiverloon, Chilean International, Gonzalo Jara and the Slovakian Marek Cech were the players asked to shut out the Fulham attack.

They defended reasonably well but only had themselves to blame for the consistent Fulham pressure as every time they snatched the ball from them, they failed to clear their lines, allowing another attack from Fulham. They're going to need key players such as Olsson and Scharner to return if they're to stop their freefall down the table as they have Blackburn, Blackpool and Wigan to play over the next four weeks. They've lost eight of their last eleven league games, so it doesn't look promising.
The Midlands club were lacking any real firepower as Odemwingie played as a lone striker. Miller, Fortuné and Cox were all on the bench but Di Matteo didn't bring Fortuné on until after Fulham had scored their second goal.


Mark Hughes will be happy with his teams performance as they defended well whilst keeping the ball and playing patiently. Stockdale looked solid as he replaced Schwarzer who jetted off for the Asia Cup. Hughes will also be relieved seeing as it was their first home win in five matches. With Wigan, Stoke, Liverpool and Villa all to play by the end of February, Hughes will want his side to carry tonights form into his upcoming games so they can sustain a reasonable league position.

Getafe 2 vs. 3 Real Madrid

A Ronaldo brace ensured his Real Madrid side took all three points from this local derby, as he takes his personal scoring tally to 46 goals in 46 games since joining the European giants.


0-1: The game started with the Galacticos dominating possession and having numerous attempts on goal inside the first 10 minutes. A penalty shout as well as an overhead kick from Ronaldo was an early warning to the Getafe defence as to what they had in store for them. The persistence paid off when Di Maria drove at Getafe's full back Mané inside the box who in turn brought him down. Ronaldo's penalty was well placed in the bottom left corner, regardless of the placement it had far too much power for Codina. Couldn't help noticing the fact that the Getafe goalkeeper was wearing pink gloves along with his pink top - interesting!


0-2: Two Getafe players pick up a yellow card, one of which goes to hard working Derek Boateng who has played reasonably well helping to cut out Madrid attacks. Ronaldo had a couple of free kicks, one of which whizzes over the bar and the second pummels into the wall. Di Maria was involved in a number of dangerous looking moves in this game and one of which resulted in a goal when he cut in from the right wing to play it to Ozil who cooly dribbled it around the keeper to slot it into an empty net.


1-2: The first 25 minutes were hectic and Real Madrid slowed the pace of the game down. Promising youngster and ex-Madrid player Daniel Parejo skipped past two defenders and fired from outside the area past Casillas' near post. Some more Getafe pressure followed Gavilan and Manu combine well on the left wing, followed by a poor effort by centre forward Miku. Getafe's pressure continued up until half time.


HT: Good to see Gaizka Mendieta doing punditry for the game. We British will remember him for his four year stint at Middlesbrough, although he spent almost ten years in his native Spain, at Valencia where he scored this fantastic strike! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVRru7CGqQI


1-3: Getafe came out in the second half dominating play again with Gavilan having two shots in quick succession, both comfortably saved by Casillas. Their dominance wasn't to last a slow pass between the defenders was picked up by Benzema, who rolled it across to Ronaldo inside the box who then slot it into the bottom corner.


2-3: Arbeloa got sent off in the 81st minute for a second bookable offence after he deliberatly handled the ball as he shut down Mané's deep cross attempt. Just three minutes later and a poor clearance from Marcelo allowed Juan Angel Albin to score from close range. Mourinho didn't waste any time to adjust the team and brought on Garay for Ozil to fill the vacated right back position. Getafe left it too late as Ronaldo managed to relieve pressure from the Madrid defence by winning his team a free kick far up the pitch. Four minutes were added on but Madrid hung on to claim victory and go just two points behind arch rivals - Barcelona.


Madrids Attack: Regarded as one of the best players in the world, Kaka hasn't appeared for Madrid in the past eight months due to injury, meaning this was to be his first match under the current manager Jose Mourinho. He came on in the 75th minute to replace Benzema. The Brazilian had a good run out playing simple passes and having an attempt on goal. Karim Benzema has been the topic of discussion himself and could be on his way out of the Bernabeu. It is said that Benzema doesn't fit in with the Madrid style of play and after seeing him tonight I can understand, as when Ozil created himself some space and drilled the ball across to the space at the near post, Benzema didn't seem interested was still being tightly marked. With Higuan out for the season, Mourinho will be in need of an additional striker and interestingly commentators mentioned Emmanuel Adebayor.