text:
Olympic Qualifier, Australia vs Saudi Arabia
Neil Kilkenny (pictured) and three other overseas-based Olyroos have been selected for the Australia squad to meet Saudi Arabia, at under 23 level, in a crucial qualifying match for the 2008 Beijing Olympics on Wednesday at Hindmarsh Stadium.
Two major announcements from Perth Glory.
Saudi Arabia are top of group D on six points, with Australia second on two points following a disappointing home draw against Jordan a fortnight ago.
Australia 1 (Kristian Sarkies 58') vs Jordan 1 (Ahmad Alzugheir 86')
Australian line-up against Jordan: Danny Vukovic (gk); Ben Griffin, Adrian Leijer, Nikolai Topor-Stanley, Adam D'Apuzzo; Leigh Broxham, Kristian Sarkies, Nick Ward (Vince Lia 82'); Nathan Burns, Bruce Djite, Mark Bridge (Troy Hearfield 82')
Substitutes not used: Peter Eleftherakis, Jason Naidovski, Robert Cornthwaite, Tando Velaphi (gk)
It is crucial that the Olyroos get something out of the match at home against Saudi Arabia. The top two teams in the group will progress to the third and final stage of qualifying, where 12 nations will be split into three groups and the winners of these groups will represent Asia at the Beijing Olympic Games.
Olyroos squad:
Leigh Broxham (Melbourne Victory), Mark Bridge (Newcastle Jets), Nathan Burns (Adelaide United), Adam D'Apuzzo (Newcastle Jets), Bruce Djite (Adelaide United), Ben Griffin (Queensland Roar), Troy Hearfield (Newcastle Jets), Neil Kilkenny (Birmingham City, England), Vince Lia (Melbourne Victory), Adrian Leijer (Melbourne Victory), Philip Makrys (Bankstown City, NSW), Trent McClenahan (Hereford United, England), Mark Milligan (Sydney FC), Jason Naidovski (AIS), Kristian Sarkies (Melbourne Victory), Nikolai Topor-Stanley (Sydney FC), Tando Velaphi (Perth Glory), Dario Vidosic (Queensland Roar), Danny Vukovic (Central Coast Mariners), Nick Ward (Brighton & Hove Albion, England, loan from QPR, England), David Williams (Brondby, Denmark), Ruben Zadkovich (Sydney FC).
As you can see from the above squad Neil Kilkenny, Trent McClenahan, Nick Ward and David Williams are overseas-based players who have been made available for this match.
Neil Kilkenny has finally been allowed to play for the Olyroos after his club manager at Birmingham City, Steve Bruce, had been reluctant to release him. Kilkenny would have certainly appeared in the previous qualifiers against Iran and Jordan had he been allowed to by his club.
Neil Kilkenny to play for Olyroos (photo: Tim Clayton)
Australia vs Saudi Arabia
Wednesday 28 March 28, 7pm CDT (7.30 AEST)
Hindmarsh Stadium, Adelaide
Major announcements from Perth Glory
Scott Gooch (ex-West Coast Eagles' Relationship Marketing Manager) has been appointed to the role of Chief Executive Officer.
Chinese steel company Delong Holdings joins Perth Glory as joint major-sponsor alongside Western QBE Insurance. The Delong Holdings deal is worth $750k and their logo will appear on the back of the Perth's playing strip.
Back to The Flog index.
I would love to go watch the Olyroos play tomorrow night, but unfortunatly have training. This will be my first training before the season starts which is in 2 weeks, so i have to make an appearence.
As for the Perth deal - sounds good. One of only a couple of Asian investments so far in the a-League. Is this the start of a wave of Asian money coming into Australia?? I guess it all depends on how well Adelaide and Sydney do in the ACL.
- Posted by: cheech on March 27, 2007 3:41 PM
I thought this was the off season, when does it all stop? Never I hope.
Does anyone know much about Kilkenny, comes with a huge wrap, but he hasn't been running around with Birmingham much this year. Where does he play & how good is he?
Huge sponsorship for a club that a few months ago had no owners & was being run by the FFA & would have been favourites, with the new Wellington franchise, for the wodden spoon. 750K for a back of shirt logo is very high by A-League standard. Especially with a Asian company, who has no chance of ACL competition for another 2 years.
Are the Glory days back for the Glory? Can this be the 2nd super club in the A-League.
- Posted by: Robbos on March 27, 2007 3:43 PM
Posted by: kavorka at March 27, 2007 4:00 PM
Ha Ha, I think Melb V are stuffed and will finish mid-table next season; with no Fred the writing is on the wall.
Is there any Fox coverage for the Olympic game?
- Posted by: Koala Bear on March 27, 2007 4:11 PM
And the all important question, does anyone have a link to a stream of the game?
If I get a chance I'll have a look around tonight.
- Posted by: djebella on March 27, 2007 4:13 PM
Posted by: kavorka at March 27, 2007 4:00 PM
No very true, but the ability to draw an average 27k in through the gates does, the ability to draw 50K to a normal round match does, the ability to sell out MCG for GF does (they would've). Melbourne Victory has set the standards for all of us to follow.
BTW I hate them I'm a SFC fan.
- Posted by: Robbos on March 27, 2007 4:14 PM
This is a pretty serious Olympic qualifier - and no coverage!! Why??!!
" Scott Gooch (ex-West Coast Eagles' Relationship Marketing Manager) has been appointed to the role of Chief Executive Officer. "
Let us hope he has a bit more success handling relationships than what has been displayed at the Weagles the past year or so.
- Posted by: pippinu on March 27, 2007 4:53 PM
Speaking of superclubs, is anyone else slightly worried by Branko's latest missives:
Yes, you read correctly, we will be playing counterattack football against a pony indonesian side.
I gave him the benefit of the doubt when he subbed Zrilla for Mcfly (upon hearing Zrilla was injured), but:
1. Half a game against Urawa with brosque on his own up front; and
2. Plans to revert to a counter-attacking game against clearly inferior opposition...
make me pose the following question: Is he Butcher with a better taste in clothes and coffee?
Someone needs to make it clear to all prospective coaches for V3:
In Sydney, you are paid to attack.
If someone (pippu?) could do me the honour of translating that into Latin, I think I will nominate it as the club motto.
- Posted by: md on March 27, 2007 5:08 PM
Ben Willing: Chinese tycoon and chairman of Delong, Liguo Ding, is also owner of Chinese Premier League side, Zhejiang Lucheng. I guess there is a good chance of some friendly matches between Perth and Zhejiang.
- Posted by: Ben Willing on March 27, 2007 5:14 PM
Sorry md - latin's a bit rusty - maybe something like:
Pagan attaccum
and even if that's incorrect, which I'm sure it is, it sounds pretty neat anyway, as in: Kill all pagans!! (which gets the gist of the matter)
- Posted by: pippinu on March 27, 2007 5:44 PM
md at March 27, 2007 5:08 PM
I like your motto idea, but in Branko's defence ... actually he defends his position pretty well in that article. It is pretty clear that Sydney has faded in the two ACL games we've played so far. Persik will have watched the games (unless Terry Butcher is now their manager) and will be on the lookout for a smash and grab start. He acknowledged the side's inability to go the full ninety minutes with his mates on TWG on Sunday too - the way I see it at least he isn't sticking his head in the sand about it.
Clearly inferior opposition? They beat Shanghai the other day, they could still trouble us, but I think we should account for them.
I gather the FFA has some outstanding business with Olympic which is why they wont let them play them but surely they'll play some other NSWPL team in the meanwhile ... Ben, any inside info?
I'd be very surprised if Branko didn't go back to a more attacking style with a match-fit team. Have faith md and be glad he's at least thinking about football rather than trying to remember the way back to the local Vintage Cellars.
Ben Willing: Well ... another possible training match (against Mt Pritchard on Wednesday night) was cancelled by Branko. As for the Olympic match - that was down to "copyright issues with their logo" - although there was speculation that there were other reasons, such as the ethnicity issue that the A-League is trying to avoid.
- Posted by: Vicentin on March 27, 2007 7:18 PM
Ha Ha, I think Melb V are stuffed and will finish mid-table next season; with no Fred the writing is on the wall.
Is there any Fox coverage for the Olympic game?
Posted by: Koala Bear at March 27, 2007 4:11 PM
You must be thinking that they will do a SFC when they lost Captain Dwight Yorke but the difference is that they will win next season final without fred because unlike SFC Melb Victory has more depth and will cover freds lost.
- Posted by: Mick on March 27, 2007 7:28 PM
# Posted by: md at March 27, 2007 5:08 PM
actually i quiet agree with culina, clearly teams know now that bling can only last 45mins so they will come prepared for an early onslaught by playing a defensive tactic.
so in order for bling to change i recokon counter attack is the only option, counter attack is good to watch too given if they know what they doing like some of the MV moves latter in the finals
bling should sign BHP as a shirt sponsor, given the fact that resources is in need in most parts of the developing world esp in asia.
and boy china played crap that night I am ashamed of them, went back into their old mental shell which ibramvich (can't remember the WC cup coach of theirs) clearly wanted to end in 2002.
- Posted by: Eddie on March 27, 2007 9:03 PM
Thanks Ben for the info on the Mt Pritchard match ... or non-match as the case may be. Interesting. Mixed messages there from Branko really, is he looking for matches or not?
I'm keeping the faith!
- Posted by: Vicentin on March 27, 2007 10:01 PM
"unlike SFC Melb Victory has more depth and will cover freds loss.
Posted by: Mick at March 27, 2007 7:28 PM "
Maybe they did last season, but now they have released half their squad. How do you know how much depth they will have next year?
Also, does anyone else remember me saying I think Perth will have a killer season in 2007/2008 3/4 of the way through last season. (if not, I did.) I said they will definitely make the finals, get good crowds, sponsorship etc.
Now it may be a bit early still to see if I was right about the first two, but it looks like the last one is coming true.
Re Superclubs.
I really hope the Roar really fire this year, throughout the year as well. We need Melboure, Queensland, but especially Sydney to become superclubs. When the two best ranked of these three in a certain year (face it, crowds are fickle) are averaging 30k crowds and the other is averaging 20k+, usually have attractive styles and well known players, they consistently get past the first round of the Champions League, and almost always is at least one of the three as either champions or premiers, I would say they are superclubs.
Why especially Sydney? Almost every club claims to have some sort of rivalry with them.
vs Melbourne, two biggest cities in Australia
vs Queensland, state of origin, but not as you know it
vs Adelaide, we hate each other
vs Mariners, closest team to us, easy to get between.
vs Newcastle, fairly close team location wise.
Even Perth and NZ seem to generally have bigger crowds when playing Sydney. Which is why a Sydney superclub is essential.
- Posted by: tintin1989 on March 27, 2007 10:32 PM
I went to see a game at Perth in the NSl and I have to say they had a good crowd and quite a lot of women in groups which was nice to see... if they could become competetive they could be getting 20000 a week. I hope they do, it would be good for the league, a challenge to the rest. Have the new Wellington team got a team yet?? They need to get on with the recruitment, so they can be up in time for pre season, or will they draft in players from the NZ league for some games?? Still need to get them entry for the Oceania comp, even if they cant play in the wcc, it would give them a chance to win their comp!! They do it in South America with the Mexicans etc, they can do it here too.
- Posted by: juanpabloangel on March 28, 2007 6:09 AM
tintin1989 i don't beleive that half the squad is release but point taken that some of the players won't be there next season but apart from fred and storey the rest wasn't in the starting lineup.I would of been not has confident in my perdiction if they didn't get rid of a few players because lets face it the rest of the teams will also be having a cleanout. If Melb V stayed with the current line up they would of definitly had gone backwards so getting rid or losing players is sometimes not a bad things its a sign of continuely improving because thats what the other clubs will also be doing . Remember everyone else is now playing catchup while Melb V is fine tuning but not to say that i want the other teams not to be competative far from it, the new Aleague can only go forward if the rest of the clubs can go in the same direction as Melb Victory.
- Posted by: Mick on March 28, 2007 8:12 AM
Ok, Les' has a new column up. Largely about the changes in fortune and style at Sydney under Culina, though also heavily criticising the decisions made at board level over years one and two at Sydney. Then goes to talk about how the coaching culture has really changed in the A-League with now a much greater emphasis on passing the ball around and possession football. Worth a read - if not overly enlightening or surprising. I guess we all know Les' views ... and support most of them too I suspect. He clearly reads the FLOG ;0)
Its a massive turnaround and tantamount to a technical revolution in the fledgling A-League. The penny, it appears, has dropped. Clubs and their coaches are now realising that playing real football, knocking the ball around rather than just hoofing it, is an avenue to both better results and swelling attendances.
- Posted by: Vicentin on March 28, 2007 9:32 AM
Did you guys hear about the Italian Mens Water Polo Team in the FINA world championships?
When they dived into the pool they expected a penalty........
- Posted by: Syd Knee on March 28, 2007 9:36 AM
Wembley: Is there really no one else with a reminiscence of a journey to the old Wembley?
Posted by: eddie reynolds at March 27, 2007 4:09 PM
1986.FULL MEMBERS CUP FINAL or The Milk Cup(I'll have to look it up when I get home).
Chealsea 5 v Man. City 4
Yes I witnessed 9 goals at a Wembly cup final.
Alright it was a mickey mouse tornament because England had been kicked out of Europe.
Still have the ticket & match report in the photo albumn.
It was a freezing stadium.
Chealsea supporters national front,thugs.
They caused a riot.
Get off the train your herded staight down a tunel,bobbies at either end,pissed poms pissing in the street all the way to the stadium.
- Posted by: EJ on March 28, 2007 10:29 AM
Eddie Reynolds?? I have a replica shirt of his from the '63 Amateur Cup Final in my cupboard...
- Posted by: michael wdsa on March 28, 2007 11:23 AM
Michael wdsa: 'Eddie Reynolds?? I have a replica shirt of his from the '63 Amateur Cup Final in my cupboard...'
Wonder what that would fetch on ebay....
During a recent visit to the UK we went to Plough Lane where I passed the derelict football ground... enough to bring tears to your eyes
- Posted by: eddie reynolds on March 28, 2007 11:48 AM
Ben Willing: On the topic of practice matches for Sydney FC, the following was reported in todays SMH (from this article).
"Meanwhile, Sydney FC hope to warm up for their next ACL assignment, a tricky trip to East Java to play Persik Kediri, with a game against NSW Premier League side Marconi Stallions at Bossley Park next Wednesday.
A planned game against Mt Pritchard tonight has been cancelled."
- Posted by: Ben Willing on March 28, 2007 12:06 PM
Posted by: Ben Willing at March 28, 2007 12:06 PM
Next Wednesday??? Isn't that when they are scheduled to play Persik Kediri??
Ben Willing: The next 2 matches are Persik Kediri AWAY on April 11 (the week after next Wednesday) and then HOME on ANZAC Day, April 25.
- Posted by: cheech on March 28, 2007 12:19 PM
bling should sign BHP as a shirt sponsor, given the fact that resources is in need in most parts of the developing world esp in asia.
Posted by: Eddie at March 27, 2007 9:03 PM
BHP should be backing the Wollongong bid,100%,now,there being pumping crap into the air there for over 100 years,the big Australian seems a bit tight fisted.
Expansion areas NRL crowds.
ACT- 9,500 (Raiders tipped for wooden spoon)
- Posted by: EJ on March 28, 2007 12:36 PM
Re Les' latest.
I think he's being a bit harsh re the three clubs yet to get footy religion, considering that two (Roar & Glory) were in turmoil for most of the season & CCM had an injury list just a bit shorter than the playing roster.
Admittedly Mckinna looked short on ideas a couple of times last season, but his options were limited to say the least.
* Mrdja out bar 2-3 games
* Gumprecht out for 2 long stints
* Spencer's body running around - god knows where his brain was.
* Kwasi unable to hit a bull in the bum with a bat.
* Beauchamp & Heff gone
* Ogrady injured
Wasnt pretty, but not necessarily Lawrie's fault.
- Posted by: TimmysDad on March 28, 2007 1:02 PM
Re Les' latest.
I think he's being a bit harsh re the three clubs yet to get footy religion, considering that two (Roar & Glory) were in turmoil for most of the season & CCM had an injury list just a bit shorter than the playing roster.
Admittedly Mckinna looked short on ideas a couple of times last season, but his options were limited to say the least.
* Mrdja out bar 2-3 games
* Gumprecht out for 2 long stints
* Spencer's body running around - god knows where his brain was.
* Kwasi unable to hit a bull in the bum with a bat.
* Beauchamp & Heff gone
* Ogrady injured
Wasnt pretty, but not necessarily Lawrie's fault.
- Posted by: TimmysDad on March 28, 2007 1:40 PM
Guys, thanks for all great posts, its now my favourite football site.
Some questions/ statements I need to get off my un hairy chest!
Sbs reported EXCLUSIVELY!! that the gold coast is joining the A league next year? yeah right
I think everything sbs does is political.
I smell a rat! Last month Les (the chain smoker who will continue to choke thru twg, count them ) did a feature on olympic, me wonders what was behind this?
Will Branko be THEIR golden boy even when things go wrong.
ps went to uruwa v SFC game, best game ever.(lost my voice).. Not bad for a Jets supporter
- Posted by: Brampston Pickle on March 28, 2007 2:11 PM
HA...to all those nay sayers who tried to convince us all that the Asian move would offer little to the A-League in terms of investment despite the repeated "you'll sees" from Football fans I think the example of the Perth Glory deal is a very big "I told you so" moment in the development of Australian Football.
So we have now graduated from being "you'll sees" we are now "but wait, there's more to comes".
I foresee a number of Asian multinationals with deeper pockets than ours getting on board in the coming season and we have AFC participation to thank.
- Posted by: Jed Petersen on March 28, 2007 2:18 PM
Me thinks Les forgets that the Mariners played Sydney off the park in the first half of the first Grand Final...NB Les Murray - the Mariners are an attacking footballing side - watch tham next year!
- Posted by: michael on March 28, 2007 2:29 PM
if they could become competetive they could be getting 20000 a week.
Posted by: juanpabloangel at March 28, 2007 6:09 AM
In MES? at the moment I think not. Maybe you were there before the redevelopment.
Remember everyone else is now playing catchup while Melb V is fine tuning.
Posted by: Mick at March 28, 2007 8:12 AM
Yeah, I agree. But I still don't think Melbourne will be runaway premiers and champions next year, at least not both. Fred will be hard to replace, but also non starters like Sarkies, he's a lot of quality to lose from the bench. Remember, there's only so much you can do to improve a squad that's just won a final 6-0. Also, the Victory were pretty lucky, barely an injury all year. Next year, who knows.
Think how well you would have gone if "Posted by: TimmysDad at March 28, 2007 1:02 PM" what happened to the Mariners happened to you.
Thompson "out bar 2-3 games"
Fred "out for two long stints"
Brebner with "body running around, god knows where his brain was."
Allsop "unable to hit a bull in the bum with a bat"
Muscat and Vargas "gone" overseas
Leijer "injured"
I think you too may not have made the finals, or if you did, not won anyway. Same could happen next season.
- Posted by: tintin1989 on March 28, 2007 2:39 PM
Ben Willing: FYI - I have added a link to a slideshow presentation of more of Dom Postiglione's photos from the Urawa match. There is a link which has been added at the end of my FLOG article for the Sydney FC v Urawa photos thread.
- Posted by: Ben Willing on March 28, 2007 3:04 PM
Is it just me or do the Mariners look pretty good for next season. (I know, some of these players aren't quite signed yet, but assuming the list ends up like this...) With a couple of extra signings, (eg, perhaps a good left defender) they are definite contenders for the finals. Their goal scoring problems should be fixed with the additions of Owens and Petrovski hopefully.
Right Defender- Wilkinson (c)
Central Defenders- Vidmar, and O'Grady
Left Defender- ???
Right midfielder- Owens
Central midfielders- Gumprecht, Pondeljak
Left midfielder- Jedinak
Strikers- Petrovski and Mrdja
Some may dispute some of these positions, which shows there is also a little bit of depth. With a bit of luck they will go well.
- Posted by: The Marinators on March 28, 2007 3:14 PM
Haven't been able to find a link to live stream of tonight's game, maybe if I knew Arabic...
Anyway thinking about the match fitness issues that AU and SFC are having in the champions league and remembering that Arnie was saying hat the A-leaguers pick for the China game were lacking fitness. I've decided that two birds could be killed with one stone by creating a semi Socceroos B/A-league All-stars team and have them play against either AU and SFC on alternate fortnights.
- Posted by: djebella on March 28, 2007 3:22 PM
Posted by: The Marinators at March 28, 2007 3:14 PM
Its not just you but remember Mrdja is an injury risk and Sydney FC show what can happen to a team that suffers a few key injuries...at this stage the A-League is as much about a little good fortune as it is quality. You'll need both to be successful.
- Posted by: Jed Petersen on March 28, 2007 3:28 PM
Italy v Scotland is shaping up to be a crunch game, whilst Pedersen's suspension probably scuppers Norway's chances against Turkey.
Both Ukraine and Lithuania will be looking to make up ground when they clash.
- Posted by: David V. on March 28, 2007 3:51 PM
Posted by: funkymarinette at March 28, 2007 3:40 PM
I think that Les thinks were a long ball team, from a previous piece
, he says:
Example: the Mariners cannot forever maintain their provincial penchant for combat and dull competitiveness as the be all and end all of their existence. Sooner or later they will also have to have some class.
Maybe the only game he's seen the Mariners play was the first game against New Zealand this season just past.
- Posted by: djebella on March 28, 2007 4:06 PM
Posted by: The Marinators at March 28, 2007 3:14 PM
I think it's just you.
- Posted by: pippinu on March 28, 2007 4:11 PM
I meant, I don't think that Les thinks were a long ball team
- Posted by: djebella on March 28, 2007 4:17 PM
A big BOO-HISS to SBS for their choice of game to creen tomorrow.
England v Andorra
Playing with 10 men behind the ball, this aint going to be pretty. I'll choose some extra sleep thankyou very much.
Les, what are you thinking mate?
- Posted by: Glebeboy on March 28, 2007 4:22 PM
When Les talks about AU playing entertaining football, is that a direct reference to their willingness to allow the Vics to waltz unopposed into their box for plenty of target practice?
Personally, I would be very happy if the teams playing the Vics carried this philosophy into the game - that's entertainment!
- Posted by: pippinu on March 28, 2007 4:25 PM
Sarkies (MV) will/has signed with Adelaide United.....
I heard this from a reliable contact at Adelaide United.
Ben Willing: Yes - this appears to be the world's worst kept secret.
- Posted by: Whisper on March 28, 2007 4:31 PM
I was cleaning out the shed the other day & I found a Johny Warren coaching real in mint condition,sponsered by the Wales bank,1978 WC qualifiers.How much on E-bay?
- Posted by: EJ on March 28, 2007 4:48 PM
Northern Ireland v Sweden could be a blockbuster with Sweden so far unbeaten and Northern Ireland on the way back up.
- Posted by: David V. on March 28, 2007 4:50 PM
I'm gonna say it again: I think it is a disgrace that the Olyroos are not on TV.
They are our 2nd most important national team and they are playing against a top 5 Asian team - surely it should be shown on TV?!
I ask again - does anyone know why it won't be?
- Posted by: pippinu on March 28, 2007 5:16 PM
Wellington Phoenix has been confirmed as the new name for the NZ team apparently:
Ah well, lets just hope they don't end up thrashing about outside the viper room.
- Posted by: Laszlo FC on March 28, 2007 5:58 PM
Morten Olsen is clearly upset that Germany will field an understrength side for tonight's friendly with Denmark. He says he wasn't even told by the DFB that this was going to be the case!
- Posted by: David V. on March 28, 2007 6:17 PM
Posted by: Vicentin at March 28, 2007 9:32 AM
Geez 'big picture' Les is full of himself. That first couple of paragraphs is like me saying that I am to be credited for Butcher's sacking because I posted a flog entry in May saying he was a longball clogger better suited to league one than SFC. The rest of the article is a job reference for one of his mates.
'Big picture' Les also ignores one bleeding obvious thing about SFC's role in v1 of this competition. We might have gone 7 million into the red on V1, but that money is the reason the A-League took off. People in Sydney turned up to see Dwight and (the allegedly "lousy") Pierre with their excellent credentials and good football and then made the decision that 'hey, this is alright'. People in each of the other centres with a team turned up in droves when Sydney played, to see Dwight and "lousy" Pierre, and also thought 'hey, this is alright'.
Those people who thought 'hey, this is alright' have come back to support their clubs - particularly if their clubs have been winning. In Melbourne, they have outgrown 2 stadiums with a crowd who's biggest motivation for winning was because Sydney won it last year. (before you butt in, do you really think there would have been the same interest if you were taking the title off the decent but dull Mariners - the "lousy" Litti for that one)!!!
If SFC had Branko and a team of rebranded NSL players in V1, there would have been no press interest, no new TV deal, much lower average crowds and a much dimmer competition than we currently have.
The A-league has taken off because V1 was popular. It was popular because of Sydney. People turned up to see them play, the papers talked about Yorke (who was a brilliant ambassador, it must be said), everyone liked "lousy" Litty's football and, if they weren't from Sydney cheered like hell for their club to beat the bling and if they couldn't be there watched the game on fox. Because it was popular, foxtel (rightly) pumped a small shedload of money back into the game, sustaining it for the forseeable future. Pretty good result for $7 million.
Because Sydney spent the money to be the best in V1, they got into the ACL.
Sydney is now leading the A-league into another new frontier, where they will once again sustain a huge loss (unless they win it). Should they be continue to be successful there - as they have every chance of being - then they will once again cause a huge upswing in the fortunes of the other clubs, because the A-league will be seen as one of the premier leagues in Asia, on a par with the K-league and J-league in quality if not finances. That will allow the league to command even better broadcast rights and will allow every club in the league to attract better players.
Thats a hell of a lot of common A-league good to come from just $7 million.
Happily, the SFC board don't agree with 'big picture' Les' view and have committed to a marquee player this year. They have also indicated that if Culina doesn't work, they will pay the money to get the right coach, who, unless it is Fozzy or Shleinflug or another of his croneys, Les will probably also think is "lousy". Culina looks like he might just step up (though his comments about counter-attack football this week have been dodgy), so hopefully they can save that money.
If V3 looks like being a cracker - all because SFC gambled $7 million in V1.
- Posted by: md on March 28, 2007 6:29 PM
Ben Willing: The match has kicked off.
Australian starting line-up: Daniel Vukovic (gk), Ruben Zadkovich, Adrian Leijer, Mark Milligan (c), Nikolai Topor-Stanley, Leigh Broxham, Neil Kilkenny, Nicholas Ward, Bruce Djite, Mark Bridge, Kristian Sarkies.
Available Substitutes: Trent McClenahan, Adam D'Apuzzo, David Williams, Benjamin Griffin, Dario Vidosic, Nathan Burns, Tando Velaphi (gk)
- Posted by: Ben Willing on March 28, 2007 7:40 PM
Ben Willing:
Still 0-0 after 18 minutes. Milligan just picked up a yellow card.
- Posted by: Ben Willing on March 28, 2007 7:51 PM
Ben Willing:
0-0 at half time.
Aussies had the best of the opening 30 minutes, but the Saudis were on top for the rest of the half.
- Posted by: Ben Willing on March 28, 2007 8:20 PM
Asian Champions League
RE: Persik Kediri game
Sydney FC new strategy.
I think Culina is foxing; I could be wrong, but for a team to counter attack they have to be put under pressure and I don't think that will happen.
I was very surprised the way Culina had his charges go out from the start to run at Urawa the way they did and we were great for 30 min and then lost control of the midfield because we ran out of puff.
I think we were lucky to get the early goals because if we had failed to do so we would have lost 2 nil.
I think, to play that way is dangerous and even if your team had all of the match fitnesss they needed you are going to run out of puff with that sort of strategy.
I think Culina was fortunate that he did not get punished for doing so, but lucky, it worked.
For me the first 20 min is to gain control of the midfield and keep possession this is what most European teams do with great success and we should do the same and play from the back with safe possession football.
Then mix in a bit of hell for leather when the opposition gets tired in chasing shadows.
In our game with Urawa we ran out of puff not because of no match practice games (we had those games) but because we came out of the blocks at breakneck speed and relentlessly pressed for 30 mins non stop. So they tired and that would have happened to anyone.
That is why Culina is rethinking, of now changing his tactics. He knows that the opposition is a wake up to that tactic now and they will be waiting for it.
Hence his comments; he is the best manager SFC to date without costing the club unrealistic demands. Les Murray is spot on with his article. Melb Vic did it for far less then $7 mil and still had great support in V1.
Yes, BHP as a shirt sponsor in Asia who better.... Rio Tinto ?
Is John O'Neill sniffing around for a return to the FFA? I hope he is.
Former FFA chief executive John O'Neill, who was the driving force behind Australia's push in to Asia two years ago, was thrilled to bits with the Sydney-Urawa match.
"This is the start of something big. We are now in a proper football economy. Urawa hired two jumbos to bring hundreds of fans with them."
John ONeill
- Posted by: Koala Bear on March 28, 2007 8:43 PM
Ben Willing:
Nick Ward off, David Williams on.
Nearly 70 minutes gone, still 0-0, Australia dominating possession.
- Posted by: Ben Willing on March 28, 2007 8:59 PM
Ben Willing:
Djite picks up a yellow card for a crude tackle and is promptly subbed off. Burns comes on.
- Posted by: Ben Willing on March 28, 2007 9:02 PM
Ben Willing:
Australia 1-0
Topor-Stanley heads in after a Sarkies free kick.
- Posted by: Ben Willing on March 28, 2007 9:05 PM
"Melb Vic did it for far less then $7 mil and still had great support in V1."
But did not have nearly as much away support as Sydney did, look at the stats. Face it, the $7million was a worthwhile sacrifice for the future of the whole league, not just selfishly trying to buy a title.
But now you are right, Culina is much better value than an overseas coach who will take half a season to get used to the players and conditions. But I believe we still should search for the right marquee player. That Culina is being consulted is a good sign, as we won't just be getting an old celebrity I bet.
And Wellington Phoenix, I'm very happy with that name. Better than Hornets or Thunder.
But if they are planning on playing in yellow and black, won't that be remarkably similar to the Mariners and Jets uniforms. It will have to be mainly black.
Now for some players!
- Posted by: tintin1989 on March 28, 2007 9:09 PM
Thanks for the updates Ben. Hopefully the Aussies get stay in front for a good win.
Posted by: Koala Bear at March 28, 2007 8:43 PM
Great article KB, I have to agree the atmosphere at the game was the best I had experience at club level in 2 years of going to Aussie Stadium following SFC including last year's GF.
It wouldbe great to get John O'Neill back into football in some way,it was his vision after Johnny Warren to go to Asia.
- Posted by: Robbos on March 28, 2007 9:14 PM
Ben Willing:
Both teams having a couple of chances now ... and only 5 minutes to go before injury time.
- Posted by: Ben Willing on March 28, 2007 9:15 PM
Ben Willing:
Australia come oh so close, with Sarkies' shot going over the bar. In to injury time now ...
- Posted by: Ben Willing on March 28, 2007 9:20 PM
Ben Willing:
Sarkies makes amends for the previous miss.
2-0 in the 93rd minute. And that's full time.
- Posted by: Ben Willing on March 28, 2007 9:22 PM
Brillant, go you Olyroos.
- Posted by: Robbos on March 28, 2007 9:25 PM
Ben: Thanks for the constant updates. I spent the hour before kick-off trying to find a web page that was allowed through my works fire wall with no luck. You had me a little worried at the 9:15 post... Brilliant Result!
- Posted by: Mad Dave on March 28, 2007 9:37 PM
Sounds like Sarkies was a star!
Ben Willing: He had a good game but - to be fair - his (possibly soon to be Adelaide) team mate, Nathan Burns, set up both his chances in the final minutes.
- Posted by: tintin1989 on March 28, 2007 9:40 PM
"Former England captain and Sydney FC coach Terry Butcher claims watching the national team is "like a nagging toothache" and does not believe Steve McClaren will be in charge this time next year.
Butcher, who won 77 caps for his country, does not think McClaren can survive following a mediocre start to his regime as England manager."
Why doesn't Butcher take a look in the mirror. Those things sound exactly like what people were saying about HIS coaching at Sydney. He was complaining about them criticising him, now he's doing it himself. What a hypocrite.
He probably wants the job himself. That would be funny, England under Butcher: "we ground out a 1-0 victory with lots of determination, passion, and Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerard playing long balls to nobody, which eventually resulted in Liechtenstein scoring an own goal from a wayward backpass. We overcame all the adversity (eg he couldn't get his favorite brand of instant coffee) to get this brilliant result."
After he gets fired- "The English national team (comprised of Premier League players) is playing at a standard of about League One, perhaps below..."
- Posted by: tintin1989 on March 28, 2007 11:29 PM
md at March 28, 2007 6:29 PM
Who'd want a modest Les?
I take your point about the 7m that Sydney spent in year one having a positive knock-on effect for the rest of the League. I also can't agree with Les regarding Dwight, who did deliver and was probably the most important factor in Sydney's V1 performances.
I was a bit underwhelmed by Littbarski's management and while I have the utmost respect for him courtesy of his playing career I still think he's got a lot to learn about management - the difference with Litti is that he isn't afraid to keep learning and will one day become a really good manager whereas Butcher thinks he knows it all already. Noticed a piece on him commenting on England and McClaren on TWG - maybe he's going for that job now?! ;0)
In terms of the dreaded Bling factor - due to this country's anglo-centric football obsessions (which is why SBS are showing England playing a ski resort tomorrow - i.e. just for the ratings) Litti's name didn't create as much interest as Dwight even with his WC winner's medal. So there probably wouldn't have been that much of a difference (crowd-wise and interest wise) with Branko, rebranded NSL players (ie everyone but Dwight) and Dwight in V1.
I was disappointed to see Litti go, but mainly because it was so poorly handled and because they got Butcher to replace him - a decision that will give Bugno something to repent to his priest about before he shuffles off his mortal coil. I also think there is a lot of validity in the idea that clubs should have footballing philosophy - Foster often brings this up, so that there is continuity in the type of playing style, and players that a club follows or recruits. Hopefully it starts now with Sydney.
I don't think your comment on Les' cronies, or other blogger's comments about SBS "agenda" etc are terribly helpful though. Sure, they're probably disappointed that SBS isn't more heavily involved, but I'm sure they're all pragmatic enough to know the League needs Fox's money. Infact, I quite like SBS' outsider stance in a lot of this, because it allows them to critical - and not detrimentally so, about the A-League in a way that Fox won't, or can't.
Speaking of "cronies", how would you describe the relationship between Arnold, Slater and Farina? How many favours have these guys done for each other over the years?
Anyway, still think you are being overly pessimistic re Branko "counter attack" comments. This is the direct quote and it follows on from a comment about conserving energy ...
"Really, it's about making sure that we're able to manage (the lack of games) and we may have to look at how we play," Culina said.
"Maybe instead of playing attacking football from the beginning, we might need to change that to a slightly more counter-attacking system to be able to last the distance."
Note the words "slightly more counter-attacking"...
anyway, onwards and upwards with the ACL and A-League V3. It is going to be great.
- Posted by: Vicentin on March 28, 2007 11:54 PM
Yes I went to see Glory in the Nsl days before they changed things, but why did they make their capacity go down?? There were 16000 there, if I remember correctly and there was a lot of space still. Anyway well done Olyroos.. and hopefully Sarkies will make a good difference in Adelaide, when he finally arrives!
- Posted by: juanpabloangel on March 29, 2007 4:52 AM
SBS showing England this morning just for the ratings?
Surely it's because in this troubled world we are all in need of some light relief!
Actually, it's about to start...
- Posted by: pippinu on March 29, 2007 5:00 AM
What was that I was saying about light relief?
0-0 at half time.
At the very start the commentator assured us that England could cause Andorra some problems if there's a bit of width to their game (I would have thought, wide or narrow, it shouldn't matter).
Decades ago, England could travel to Luxembourg (the great European minnow of the time) assured of a 9-0 victory without raising a sweat.
- Posted by: pippu on March 29, 2007 5:52 AM
They must read the flog.
I have been critical in the past of football teams not getting involved with wider local communities as the other codes do,esp. the Wolves.
Even though the Wolves are no longer in the top league,they are having a kids day this afternoon at Bomaderry,via Nowra,at 3.30 to 5.30pm.
Well done lads.
- Posted by: EJ on March 29, 2007 7:29 AM
With all respect to The Marinators and Funky - of course I was just kidding around.
When the Marinators said: Is it just me... I was immediately reminded of a Seinfeld episode where Kramer is bewildered that someone is not seeing things the way he is, and he says to Jerry: "Is it just me?" And Jerry says, without a hint of irony and a slow nod of the head: "umm, I think it's just you."
I saw two games this morning for the first time since perhaps the WC, and I have to say, they were a bit disappointing.
England managed to make the scoreline look quasi-respectable, but nothing could really disguise the absolute ineptitude of Andorra (who must have been reading the FLOG and resorted to the Nerds FC tactic), and ipso facto, England's ineptitude in the face of it in the first half. Honestly, it was painful watching both teams. Although it must be said, the Andorra goalie was pretty good (although at one stage he did the hard work, made the save, and when the ball was safely in his hands, it comically and inexplicably popped out again at the feet of an English player, who was so surprised by the turn of events that he didn't take advantage of it).
When Gerrard broke through with two very close to each other soon after the restart, I thought, well, yes, of course, play through the D - what are you blokes thinking? It's not as if Andorra have Cannavarro holding the middle of the defence together. If you are going to cross it in high everytime directly to an Andorran head - well, that ain't gonna work too often.
In the 2nd game, it was good to see that Italy remains Italy. What do I mean by that? Win the WC and then go on to look absolutely deplorable in the next two years. Don't be fooled by the 2-0 scoreline, Italy was really not that much better than what England has been in recent times. Speculative balls to no one, shoddy short passing, misunderstandings, long range balloon balls and zero tempo (although it improved a bit in the 2nd half, and they did open the game with a bit of promise, only for it to deterioriate rapidly).
Scotland is probably looking the best they have in at least 15 years but they do find themselves in the group of death (Scotland has a habit of always landing in the group of death).
The one postive - Gattuso continues in his junkyard dogging way. He put his head on the chopping block, and helped set up the 2nd goal, playing Camarese in (who had struggled all game) and his cross was perfectly weighted for a regulation Luca Toni header. He scored the first too after 9 minutes off a free kick, which wasn't too bad, but was clearly allowed a bit too much room to move.
By the way, watching these two games made me realise just how endemic this diving, falling over, feigning injury business has become - it get's more pathetic by the year - it has to be stopped - Ben Cubby: where's that article of yours?!
Congrats on the Olyroos - I would much rather have watched them play than have watched these two games, let me put that on the record.
- Posted by: pippinu on March 29, 2007 9:50 AM
Do worry about Pippinu, he is just jealous that per capita, the Central Coast is truly the centre of football in Australia.
- Posted by: Robbos on March 29, 2007 9:56 AM
Firstly - well done the Olyroos - - - as all Australian sports supporters jump on their bandwagon, especially if there's a chance of Olympic gold.
(btw - still dirty that a team like soccer/hockey/water polo can win a single medal for the overall tally, yet we walk away with maybe 15 people with a medal around their neck - and yet a freestyle swimmer can swim any number of distances from 50m to 1500m, and join relays and medly relays etc etc and still all the Olympic soccer tournament provides is 1 Gold, 1 Silver & 1 Bronze (hmmm, could be a John Lee Hooker song in that one)
btw - Pippinu and I would like to refer your attention to the previous flog for some of our best work......
Posted by: EJ at March 29, 2007 7:29 AM
I'll just mention this, as your comment about community involvement as well as on previous flog installments there's been some discussion re aboriginals.
This was announced earlier this week re AFL (where 12% of listed players are 'indigenous', whilst they make up 3% of Aust total population).
The AFL and Fed Govt launched a program:........
"The program will be divided into two parts. The AFL Club Fostering Program will see AFL clubs adopt an indigenous community. This club will then conduct classes covering a variety of topics, from football clinics, to coaching courses to how to live a healthy lifestyle. The All Stars program will see AFL clubs mentor fifteen youths, and assist them in finishing school and securing a job. The cost will be split evenly between the Australian government and the AFL."
Just thought you might be interested in this from a conceptual perspective. Not trying to put down anyone or promote anyone. And certainly a lot of inter-community sports involvement goes under reported whilst a small handful of ratbags grab all the headlines.
- Posted by: Michael C on March 29, 2007 10:12 AM
Looks like the sarkis - Adelaide move is close to being announced.
How many quality palyers have MV now lost?? and how many quality players have AU now gained???
- Posted by: cheech on March 29, 2007 10:23 AM
Even though the Wolves are no longer in the top league,they are having a kids day this afternoon at Bomaderry,via Nowra,at 3.30 to 5.30pm.
Well done lads.
Posted by: EJ at March 29, 2007 7:29 AM
When I was a lad that would have been a massive thing for Bomo, not so sure now. I remember the Hawks turning up at the stadium and the Shoalhaven Tigers staff having to turn people away, I wonder if that would happen if SFC came to town.
- Posted by: Brickowski on March 29, 2007 10:41 AM
For all the talk about Litti being an average or a good coach, you have to admire a man who can coach in a brown suit, brown shirt and orange tie.
I actually thought he was pretty good, he had the team playing a nice balanced game, strong defence and getting forward in numbers, particularly when Ceccers and Donkey Boy were getting forward and overlapping.
I hope the Mariners can get it together for v3, it makes it more exciting for SFC fans if we have a strong local opposition, if things don't go well, or if your midfield fails, look for big tantrums from Sash.
- Posted by: Brickowski on March 29, 2007 10:45 AM
Posted by: Michael C at March 29, 2007 10:12 AM
When are yoo going to get it through your thick head that most if not ALL floggers dont care about AFL and the crap they're doing.
- Posted by: cheech on March 29, 2007 10:52 AM
"Liechtenstein claimed just their second ever win in European Championship qualifying with a 1-0 victory over Latvia." And there I was using them as the first example of a pathetic minnow which came to my mind in my Butcher/England post! Looks like they are getting better (or more lucky). I will now show them more respect.
- Posted by: tintin1989 on March 29, 2007 11:20 AM
It also looks like Sarkies, Burns and Djite will be a great combination at Adelaide, if their Olyroo performances are anything to go by.
- Posted by: tintin1989 on March 29, 2007 11:23 AM
"...a small handful of ratbags grab all the headlines."
Posted by: Michael C at March 29, 2007 10:12 AM
A small handful of ratbags or a deep seeded cultural problem within the game...?
Bashing women, bashing men, raping women, recreational drug abuse and sales, performance inhancing drug use...and has a ball even been bounced yet?
Talk about a cultural cringe.
Posted by: EJ at March 29, 2007 7:29 AM
Its good to see these NSWPL Clubs getting around and doing their bit for the little lads within their community. Full marks to the Wolves.
- Posted by: Jed Petersen on March 29, 2007 11:31 AM
The Vics have lost plenty. I wrote recenty that half of their list of 20 at the start of v2 have already gone Of the starting 11, there's just Storey and Fred. Storey can be replaced, although it must be said he had a magnificent season. Fred may never, ever be replaced - ever (big call, someone prove me wrong please).
But the rub is that someone was recently talking about depth - and the Vics clearly will not have the depth that they had in v2 (in fact, it's hard to imagine that anyone will have that sort of depth for a very long time to come). When you look at the 20 as a whole - it was the best Australian club team ever - no one will ever convince me otherwise.
Losing Sarkies is such a massive blow. He was clearly about to work his way into the starting 11 big time. The Vics' hopes of defending their championship may well rest in how quickly Broxham comes on, and whether Alessandro can find a role befitting of his natural skills and instinct that fits with the Vics' current structure (and left back does not appear to be it).
BTW - that was a bit harsh on my songwriting partner! The FLOG has touched on indigenous issues in the past, so I didn't see his contribution as being out of place. Take an aspirin an relax already!
Did you see Italy this morning and what did you think?
- Posted by: pippinu on March 29, 2007 11:47 AM
you're absolutely right - the AU front three is starting to look like half the Olyroo squad!
But is AU bold enough to play them permanently as an attacking three?
- Posted by: pippinu on March 29, 2007 11:51 AM
question: where is kaz patafta? he wasn't even named in the side?
is he just too young to be involved in the under 23's or was it an issue with his club?
- Posted by: jaxxon on March 29, 2007 12:07 PM
Posted by: pippinu at March 29, 2007 11:51 AM
I think their big off season buy, Paul Agostino might have something to say about this. But yes it would be great to say the club level duplicated at Olyroos level.
- Posted by: Robbos on March 29, 2007 12:17 PM
Posted by: Jed Petersen at March 29, 2007 11:31 AM
"Bashing women, bashing men, raping women, recreational drug abuse and sales, performance inhancing drug use...and has a ball even been bounced yet?"
Jed, Jed, Jed....
Be careful how hard you throw stones from within a glass house.
(I would prefer to leave it as above, but I'll expand a fraction)
When the FFA have over 600 professional players on their books, all living in Australia all year round, and they actually run an out of season illicit drug testing program - then let's see how they go? I think you'll find that it's a social issue - such that grandstanding and bragging rights don't really exist. But good luck to you if you believe not having an out of season illicit testing program is better than having one, recognising a problem and dealing with it????? (perfect?, of course not, but there is no perfect model). Is 'social' drug use more widespread than testing indicates? no doubt - heck, I went to Uni 15-18 yrs ago and I'd think that at least half dabbled at least once or twice - let alone 'wealthy' footballers of whatever code.
Remember, that 10-20 ratbags out of 640 equates to 2-3% of total. Given the A-League had 160 players on roster (although there was a turn over within the season) - that equates 3-5 players. Now - that discussion about mainstream could be defined by the newsworthiness of off-field misdemeanors.
btw - performance enhancing - who, what, when? There weren't any match day positives to anything - they at least play clean!! (I believe in general soccer can claim that too! - there's stupid and then just plain stupid!!!)
(be careful getting too confused with the NRL (current rape case - innocent 'til proven guilty) and ARU (Wendall match day positive) - or are you lumping together all the Not-Soccer football codes??)
- Posted by: Michael C on March 29, 2007 12:23 PM
As you know, I saw two very ordinary games this morning (as others may have, I don't know, no one has said boo about it).
These are the scores in the other games:
Azerbaijan 1 (Imamaliev 82) Finland 0
Ukraine 1 (Gusev 48) Lithuania 0
Malta 0 Greece 1 (Basinas 65-pen)
Czech Republic 1 (Koller 21) Cyprus 0
Republic of Ireland 1 (Doyle 12) Slovakia 0
Spain 1 (Iniesta 81) Iceland 0
Liechtenstein 1 (Frick 17) Latvia 0
Slovenia 0 The Netherlands 1 (Van Bronckhurst 86)
I don't know, is it my imagination or is there something eerily familiar about all these scores.
I tell you what's not familiar, teams like Malta, Cyprus and Iceland getting respectable looking scorelines. These are all island nations who in the past have been privy to the severest of shellackings.
What's going on here? I'll tell you what: as I have predicted, and the trends over the last 50 years bear this out, we have reached a stage where pretty much any tin pot place can scrounge a 0-1 result. You might think that's great! The minnows are improving. But that's nonsense, just like Andorra this morning, these other nations will barely have worried the opposition keeper.
So for me, it's not about minnows becoming better (Andorra was as hopeless as their population would suggest they should be), it's about teaching teams of mediocre talent how to play with 10 defenders in front of your own goal (the Nerds FC strategy).
Is it really good that a tin pot team can lose by a bare goal, if they barely ever venture past the half way line? What's good about it? Add to that, all the time wasting I saw this morning, the feigning of injury (by all 4 sides) and even match winner Gerrard took a dive (and really, did he have to resort to crap like that, when he's got the ability to score goals at will against a mob like Andorra - let me say straight out, I like Gerrard as a player a lot - it was just disappointing to see him try it on against an inept mob like Andorra).
Yes, please see this as a critique of the modern game. We saw plenty of glimpses of all of this last WC, I don't need to remind you of what I am talking about. I personally think the game is heading somewhere ugly. Lots of dollars swilling around the world may be able to disguise it, but I repeat that I don't like the direction of the modern game.
Getting back to Arnies performance against China. When one sees how the rest of the world plays, well, why wouldn't you practice defending in the 2nd half with 10 defenders? Isn't that now the norm?
- Posted by: pippinu on March 29, 2007 12:27 PM
"...a small handful of ratbags grab all the headlines."
Posted by: Michael C at March 29, 2007 10:12 AM
25 AFL players tested positive for drugs in the last two years.
Any suspensions?
25 in 2 years is more than a hand full,but it football was the #1 code would it be any better.The scarey thing is you young guys & girls are taking serious drugs.In my day a tote on a joint would have had you kicked out of any club,any code,& that was the 70's.
- Posted by: EJ on March 29, 2007 12:29 PM
Posted by: pippinu at March 29, 2007 11:47 AM
Yes, i did see Italy this morning. Was impressed with the win with they players they had. Scotland never looked like threatning Italy - however not happy with a few of Donadoni's decisions. Why wasn't Pirlo playing??
Squad depth - I think Au have built a good squad for next season. Agostino and Sarkis coming in, Giraldi back from injury - old farts out - and still a few more signings to come.
Sorry Mr C for my harsh response.
- Posted by: cheech on March 29, 2007 12:30 PM
good call - I forgot about Ago - that's a pretty impressive attacking quartet!
Are either of Sarkies or Ago available for the ACL at any stage?
- Posted by: pippinu on March 29, 2007 12:33 PM
I find the result between Liechtenstein and Latvia more interesting than the West Coast cockers and their image problems.
Great result for the Olyroos!!
Milligan out for the Indo game... who will fill in for him and what formation do we think we will play?
I reckon the Wolves will be @ Thurgate Oval in Bomaderry (hallowed turf that!!).
Trivia fact: Thurgate Oval is named after a prominant family in early days of the area. The Thurgate family still live there and Nanna Thurgate is actually Steve and Mark Waughs Aunty. Shannon Knoll is also one of their cousins...
- Posted by: sampsonobrian on March 29, 2007 12:46 PM
Posted by: Brickowski at March 29, 2007 10:45 AM
For all the talk about Litti being an average or a good coach, you have to admire a man who can coach in a brown suit, brown shirt and orange tie.
So, Brick have you been taking any sartorial tips from Litti? Is this what I should be looking out for round Leichhardt to uncover your identity?
I didn't think he was a bad manager but even having Checkers and Donkey overlapping on the flanks was hardly rocket science - checkers has been doing it all his career except under Butcher. He was also the perfect manager to have for the World Cup Championship with his Japanese connections and perhaps in the overall marketing of the club his appointment was hard to fault. Note, I'm not down on him at all, but he certainly wasn't/isn't ten (or choose some multiple) times the manager that Branko is ... which is what his salary might suggest.
I thought (not that anyone's asking) the Italy game wasn't too bad. I jus watched the second half properly then - I had to get the kids off to school earlier and didn't watch properly - and there was some really sweet passing.
In places it was played at walking pace, with the Italians just picking up the tempo whenever they needed to. Seems that Pirlo is not considered to be in good form at present, and expecting Scotland to be fairly muscular they opted for De Rossi in central midfield with Gattuso. De Rossi is no Pirlo but he is very capable (infact capable of a lot more that what his often muscular performances show) - Pirlo was good when he did come on.
There was a really sweet move which begins at 33.59 in the second half when De Rossi intercepts a Scottish pass about 20metres from the Italian line on the right hand side. There follows lots of nice fast passing (triangles), some spreading of ball from ones side of the park to the other and which ends up with Rossi again on the edge of the box (about 40sec and 14 passes later) who feints a few times and eventually decides to put into the path of the oncoming Oddo on the right wing, who smashes a cross/shot which Toni just fails to get his head to. 15 passes, one end to the other across the pitch and nearly resulting in a goal. Nice.
Del Piero's touch was excellent - lovely backheel along the line with two defenders in front of him etc, shame he's so slow these days. Would like to have seen more of Quagliarella. I thought Donadoni did pretty well in the circumstances, with the press on his back, Totti not coming back until September (when he gets some metal plates taken out after his legs after last year's breaks apparentely) etc - they were never truely troubled by Scotland who also played some nice passing football albeit not enough of it.
Donadoni shouldn't really be coaching the national team, he's largely there because FIGC (italian football fed) wanted someone "clean" with "no baggage". I think he'll end up an excellent manager largely because he was such an intelligent player on the park (and skillful) ... in that respect not unlike Littbarski. He's a very reserved guy though, so it will be interesting to see how he handles the side's more volatile personalities.
Oh, and on the Wellington logo - don't you love the way his cousin "designed" it. Seeing the AEK logo I think I know from whence inspiration came! Imagine if one of our A-League clubs tried such an obvious "ethnic" link.
- Posted by: Vicentin on March 29, 2007 12:48 PM
Mr C,
"Statistics can used to prove anything, 40% of the population know this". Homer Simpson
- Posted by: sampsonobrian on March 29, 2007 1:05 PM
Re the Wolves community arvo:-
This is one area where CCM are leading the pack. Theyre constantly on the road in the community doing promo work, and last year visited a lot of local clubs to run training nights for the juniors.
The session at our club involved the mariners players pairing up & training an age group for about an hour, after which the boys sat down & signed stuff for another hour or so.
This probably put as many bums on seats as the advertising did.
- Posted by: TimmysDad on March 29, 2007 1:29 PM
Posted by: pippinu at March 29, 2007 12:33 PM
No, they wont be available for the ACL this year. But AU are in it next year.....
- Posted by: cheech on March 29, 2007 1:35 PM
Sydney your team is great
CC your team is fantastic
im from NCLE, out team is up there too,
But please dont chant
"we hate you cause your from Newcastle"
mate, I live just down the road, just a stones throw, sitting next to you on the train, dont hate my for that, leave this garb in europe, Marinators this means you. Looking forward to watching all 3 teams in V3
Oh, its ok to hate the victory (lol)
- Posted by: Brampston Pickle on March 29, 2007 1:37 PM
Posted by: pippinu at March 29, 2007 12:33 PM
My AU team line-up for next season.
Alagich Kemp
Dodd Spagnoulo
Agostino Djite
With a number of very talented bench warmers:
Cornthwaite (Olyroo squad memner aswell)
- Posted by: cheech on March 29, 2007 1:45 PM
you are full of it.
drugs in sport are not restricted to one code nor are they a cultural thing connected to the game itself.
our game has never been a sin bin. It has always had a strong family following with everyone from Grandma to the kids attending the games.
The A League has yet to produce a player/coach scandal, although Kosmina is enough to make you cringe.
Overseas, soccer has had its share of trouble, why? same problem, a few with too much money tarnish the image of the rest.
How embarassed you must be that a former Indonesian coach has to come out and warn Sydney FC for enjoying themselves too much on the sidelines in their upcoming ACL match. The fans may riot if you win, yeah great PR. Don't question the Ref, the fans might riot. Great message to the kids wathcing from home, don't play too well coz your opposition fans might revolt.
so get back in your glass house and look out, coz they'll be plenty of ammo for fans of other codes when the time is right.
- Posted by: Redb on March 29, 2007 1:50 PM
It's a pretty strong line up all right (with a handy bench to boot).
Did you try and use tabs or spaces to show the positions? Coz I think they have gone a bit wonky on you (which has happened to me in the past).
Are you showing Sarkies pretty much as a defensive midfielder in a diamond 4?
I can sort of see why you have because of the personnel in front and either side of him (hadn't even got round to mentioning Dodd and Spags earlier) - but do we know whether Sarkies can play that possie? (I'm not saying he can't, I just sort of imagine him as a more attacking player).
I really see AU holding their place in the top 3 next season. SFC is already showing us that they are back in business and are unlikely to drop out of the top 4.
Who of the Vics and the Jets are the most vulnerable to giving up their top 4 possie?
Another interesting question: does the ACL mean both SFC and AU have a better chance of hitting the new season running? One wonders how it will affect them for the duration (if at all). We may well argue, they're professional now and it shouldn't be an issue. I agree, but for domestic clubs, it's all new territory.
- Posted by: pippinu on March 29, 2007 2:11 PM
Ben Willing: Adelaide Coach Aurelio Vidmar has denied that the Sarkies deal is done, saying that the player is still considering his future.
- Posted by: Ben Willing on March 29, 2007 2:30 PM
Posted by: cheech at March 29, 2007 1:45 PM
Very good team going forward Cheech, a couple of issues, no ball winner or holding midfielder in the midefield (I'd have Salley in the side) & you need a marquee player to make it all happen, but overall a strong side.
- Posted by: Robbos on March 29, 2007 2:31 PM
Posted by: EJ at March 29, 2007 12:29 PM
That's exactly it. As some people point out, the kids these days are exposed to it at High School - and often the better 'class' the school the more likely they have already come across drugs.
The AFL tests, yeah, 28 in 2 years, 25 individuals. 19 down to 9. All out of competition, so no WADA suspensions required there. None at 3 strikes, so no AFL suspensions required there. I assume these guys are all targeted, so the longer that we go that no-one gets to 3 strikes, then we must assume it's working.
Easily we can say that there's never enough tests.
At present, I'm choosing to trust the experts who continue to back the AFL approach, irrespective of what Federal Politicians say. I choose to believe that each of those 25 is on the path to sorting themselves out, and won't repeat that particular mistake.
But, because the media don't know - then it really irks them.
OUt of it all, some coaches say they want to know. Well - just what would they do? Nice article today from SMH sister paper in MElb.
Some parents want to know? Well, it's between player and doctor initially, nobody else. When else would a parent be told if we're talking about an 18+ yr old young man other than by he himself.
we could guarantee that if A-League were number one sport in town then their high profile players with money to spend would be top of the list of drug dealer targets.
And you can't keep the players under 'club-house arrest' either.
Anyway, I think I'm happy enough with the AFL approach. Oh for the days when the players might just have a few too many beers on board.
Posted by: sampsonobrian at March 29, 2007 1:05 PM
Sometimes statistics are all we have that's considered proof.
But certainly, one can never argue the philosophy of Homer:
Homer: Fame was like a drug, but what was even more like a drug were the drugs.
Homer: Weaseling out of things is important to learn. It's what separates us from the animals ... except the weasel.
- Posted by: Michael C on March 29, 2007 2:41 PM
Posted by: pippinu at March 29, 2007 2:11 PM
I had constazo in the defencive mid/stopper position. Sarkis further up front just behind Burns.
Also I forgot to mention Petta.
Posted by: Ben Willing at March 29, 2007 2:30 PM
What else who Aurelio say? Nothing has been announced yet, so you would think he'll try to keep a lid on it till then..
Ben Willing: Vidmar says the club will not know if Sarkies will choose to join Adelaide until at least next week.
- Posted by: cheech on March 29, 2007 2:44 PM
Posted by: Redb at March 29, 2007 1:50 PM
How embarrassed? not even slightly...if "hypothically" your game was played by other countries a match against the lunatics Indonesia would bring the same result...duh.
You are right, the problems I mentioned are not exclusive to tardball but why does it seem that they have a monopoly on it?
By plenty of ammo for other fans to fire when the time is right interprets as "we have nothing to fire at Football in Australia but rest assured we will should the opportunity present itself".
Posted by: Michael C at March 29, 2007 12:23 PM
Please, to defend sports people by saying that drug use is practiced by the general public is failing to address the broader issue of the role famous sports people have in influencing the decisions made by their young fans.
- Posted by: Jed Petersen on March 29, 2007 2:48 PM
A lengthy article by Craig Foster on TWG about possession football. As someone who coaches a kids team I have to say I fully endorse it. It is harder work getting the kids to play this way but ultimately more rewarding and beneficial for everyone. Give it read if you coach or have kids playing football - if their coach makes them run around a park without a ball or tells them to hoof it to the fast guys consider having a word to him
If we want kids to be good footballers in their late teens and beyond it really doesn't matter if their team win in their under 7,8,9,10 ... comp if they didn't learn some skills and how to play the game intelligently.
Tactically and technically world class article.
- Posted by: Vicentin on March 29, 2007 2:49 PM
Just keep the generalisations under control.
To use your logic would suggest, that no recreational boats should enter Sydney Harbour now for fear of being run over by a ferry.
Or cars should stay out of the tunnel in Melb as all trucks can't be trusted not to explode.
I don't think erratic fan behaviour is isolated to Indonesia either or restricted to wogball.
- Posted by: Redb on March 29, 2007 3:09 PM
Michael C
You at at it again mate. Your first post in a thread about the Olyroos and Saudi Arabia, and you bring up the AFL, and away we go again.
Please stop hijacking these threads. If you cannot make a single post without making some AFL reference, please don't make any at all.
Every time you make some AFL reference that is totally unrelated to the topic being discussed, you will see a post from me calling you on it.
I am sure you must work for the AFL in some capacity.
- Posted by: Griffo on March 29, 2007 3:11 PM
Re the Wolves community arvo:-
This is one area where CCM are leading the pack. Theyre constantly on the road in the community doing promo work, and last year visited a lot of local clubs to run training nights for the juniors.
The session at our club involved the mariners players pairing up & training an age group for about an hour, after which the boys sat down & signed stuff for another hour or so.
This probably put as many bums on seats as the advertising did.
- Posted by: TimmysDad on March 29, 2007 3:31 PM
Same old going on I see.
To Mr C, punching up football fans is like a bout of Kemotherapy for the cancer that grows within.
The cancer is the fact that football is actually gaining momentum in this coutry on field and off it, in all aspects of the game.
Sadly for Mr C, the cancer is un-cureable, the cancer will continue to grow and spread.
- Posted by: Fred on March 29, 2007 3:39 PM
Speaking of drugs in sport. Maradonna is in hospital again link
- Posted by: djebella on March 29, 2007 3:49 PM
Posted by: Griffo at March 29, 2007 3:11 PM
Excuse me - my input while referencing a Fed Govt partnership with the AFL was very topical regarding the mention of community involvement given that several on this blog have discussed a desire to see more aboriginal Australians in the A-League. It may not interest you, that's fine.
Apparently Jed didn't care too much either, but it is Jed who has come in all guns blazing. Poor old Jed who seems unable or unwilling to separate issues. Apparently no topic is safe from the hijacking prowess of Jed.
Posted by: Jed Petersen at March 29, 2007 2:48 PM
The role famous people play is very important - infact, given that AFL is but a small fry domestic sport practiced only in Australia - the AFL anti-drugs presentation delivered to the players does include references to George Best (alcoholism) and Diego Maradone (cocaine) as prime examples of high-profile ("role models"?) that have come undone. Some people do more good by being a 'fallable' role model or 'fallen' star than by being an absolute 'clean skin'.
Anyway, how was I defending the drug use?? I don't/didn't condone it? By anyone. I just recognise that it's out there, and it's looking for people with money to spend.
How then does a sporting body handle it?
And who better to draw up the guidelines than the good folk who deal with it everyday - the Australian Drug Foundation. Take them to task; not me; not the AFL.
Do you need to know names that badly??
But maybe if you were only to import cheap Brazilian and third world players - then you wouldn't need to consider your players within the context of Australian Society??
Posted by: cheech at March 29, 2007 12:30 PM
That's cool. I was trying my darndest not to offend anyone and earnestly believed that there were several folk who would be well interested in the snippet - more from the perspective of the FEDERAL GOVT involvement in partnership with a(could've been any) sporting body. It's certainly indicative of the style of 'competition' in the market place that we all know is using the guise of community consciousness but hoping the end result is potential players.
oh yeah,
pleased to see that England scored 3-0 win over the might and power of Andora. They surely can take much from that game, about as much as India clobbering Bermuda in the cricket.
I can't help but gain the impression that MVFC might not be damaging the fabric that made them so good - as it's not just sporting talent (team of champions) that makes a premier side, it's also the personalities etc - but then perhaps Sarkies is a ratbag and they want to be rid of him?!??!?! Shouldn't Sarkies see it as his personal challenge to proove himself good enough to break into the premier teams starting line up? rather than ratting off to Adelaide (old/wearing, too easy for him to walk up start).
(why did I include this - well, people can't help themselves, so if you got this far you'll probably be disappointed!!!!! teehee) - - - hmm, if not for daylight saving finishing it'd be knock-off time now....
- Posted by: Michael C on March 29, 2007 3:59 PM
Posted by: funkymarinette at March 29, 2007 3:16 PM
Don't forget that pre-season starts next Wednesday night at Pluim park
- Posted by: djebella on March 29, 2007 4:10 PM
Posted by: Vicentin at March 29, 2007 2:49 PM
Possession is paramount to success in Football. Otherwise you are just hoping to get lucky and hit a team on the break.
If you have the ball in possession confidently, your opposition cannot score, get tired faster chasing and become frustrated. With possession, you control the tempo of the game, allow players to play themselves into the game and more likly to score goals whilst conceding less.
I agree with it. Coaching it to young kids is very difficult, best to let them enjoy the game, fall in love with it first and as they reach 12/13 start to introduce the concept.
- Posted by: Jed Petersen on March 29, 2007 4:29 PM
Homer: Weaseling out of things is important to learn. It's what separates us from the animals ... except the weasel.
Posted by: Michael C at March 29, 2007 2:41 PM
That's very funny.
Honestly, I don't quite understand why everyone is getting hot under the collar here. I get the impression that many do not quite understand the facts of this particular matter. I am not about to get into it, but if anyone wants to know for real, then they can ask.
Does that mean you had a back 3? Or you had Costanzo acting as both a CB and holding midfielder - pardon my ignorance.
By the way, I don't think you can include Petta because the laws of the game state quite clearly that only 11 can be on the field at any one time.
- Posted by: pippinu on March 29, 2007 4:48 PM
Posted by: Fred at March 29, 2007 3:39 PM
Who's punching up football fans?
What planet are you on? The lunar cycle perhaps is having too great an impact on the chemical inbalance within your cranium.
And again, the lack of response to the last 'weekend hangover', I imagine Pippinu as well as myself feel a little underwhelmed.
- Posted by: Michael C on March 29, 2007 4:48 PM
Posted by: pippinu at March 29, 2007 4:48 PM
I meant Petta on the bench - I hadn't included him.
And yes I had Costanzo acting as both a CB and a defensive midfielder - all depending on what the situation required.
- Posted by: cheech on March 29, 2007 5:05 PM
Don't forget that pre-season starts next Wednesday night at Pluim park
Posted by: djebella at March 29, 2007 4:10 PM
Please be sure to give proper instructions to Pippinu of the whereabouts Plium park is Djebella, he is not too familiar with the central coast.
"By the way, I don't think you can include Petta because the laws of the game state quite clearly that only 11 can be on the field at any one time."
I laughed. Very dry.
- Posted by: Robbos on March 29, 2007 5:09 PM
jed, I agree except for the bit about 12/13 year olds. I've always done "technique" work with the kids since under 7s but in hindsight wish I'd spent even more time on it - but I was a novice then (still am) and didn't have the persistance or techniques in dealing with kids that I'm slowly developing. Technique and small sided games to maximise the number of touches and make
sure all the kids are involved is all you need for the first few years. It is all very "organic" but the kids are doing the decision making and that's the most important thing ... with your guidance of course.
I've just watched the video (and managed to download it - cool) for which there is a link at the bottom of the Foster article. It is worth a look though it'll chew up your bandwidth - it goes for about 35min and was 216Mb once I'd converted it to a quicktime file. Watching the film you realise just how destructive having instruction-shourting parents on the sideline is - the examples are from the U.S. and Brazil and suffice to say the differences are glaring if not surprising...
Anyway I'll be sending a link to that article to all the coaches I know - and my Club President. Spread the word.
- Posted by: Vicentin on March 29, 2007 5:11 PM
Another English international, and more good reading in the Guardian.
This para sums up the game very well:
" Andorra are hardly the equal of England but they stayed level for far too long. If there was time-wasting from David Rodrigo's players, the visitors misused the passing minutes in their own way. It was remarkable how little McClaren's side created prior to the interval. "
As usual, Rob Smyth is very funny. How's this for a prescient pre-match report:
" Tonight's episode in Barcelona threatens to be even more serotonin-sapping than usual; not because they won't win - Andorra are an absolute shower who are ranked 163rd in the world, level with the Soloman Islands - but because they'll blunder to a 3-0 victory and then we'll have to endure the usual 'professional job ... promising signs ... three points are all that counts ... no I don't paint my teeth' ... "
They certainly did blunder to a 3-0 win. That tells us a lot as well - level with the Solomon Islands - remember them?
More quotes:
" Andorra (10-0-0-0):
15 min Still absolute rubbish - just passing it around on the halfway line...
16 min Hargreaves has just taken an elbow in the face from Ruiz and it looked pretty deliberate. They're a dirty bunch of pub-team cluggers!
30 min At the risk of not labouring a point sufficiently, this is hilariously bad. Seriously. One shot on goal, and that a snapshot from 30 yards.
Half-time OK. I think that may well have been the worst half of football I've ever witnessed.
147 half-time emails put through the blender and distilled into four words "It's a bloody disgrace."
GOAL! Andorra 0 England 1 (Gerrard 53) A shockingly inappropriate, sliding celebration from Gerrard after he smacks an awkward, bouncing ball into the corner from the edge of the box. It was a good finish, set up by a lovely touch from Rooney, but what the hell was that celebration? Where's the dignity? "
Well, there you have it. As you can see, I certainly was not exaggerating when I posted very early this morning.
Where's the dignity indeed!
- Posted by: pippinu on March 29, 2007 5:14 PM
At the risk of being accused of bias, I thought I would look up a match report of the Italy v Scotland game in La Repubblica.
In summary (which accords with how I viewed the game):
In between scoring the first and second goals, the Azzurri fumbled around a fair bit against a competitive but uneven Scotland.
I thought that after Italy scored the first goal, they struggled to get into any real tempo for the remainder of the first half (a solid 35 minute period), and I thought Scotland matched Italy for much of that period. The 2nd half was certainly much better for Italy and the victory was ultimately deserved.
Incidentally the Azzurri have played 6 games at Bari for 6 victories. They should make it their home stadium!
- Posted by: pippinu on March 29, 2007 5:27 PM
Mad Dave - thanks for that run down - I had no idea about the conditions (and that would certainly explain a lot!).
We've had dry conditions in Australia for so long now that we've forgotten what wet weather football is like (in any code) - allow me to remind everyone - it's the pits!
I think there is a growing level of support for what you suggest, and I hope it's with us before the next WC (things move slowly in the world game).
- Posted by: pippinu on March 29, 2007 5:38 PM
Posted by: Vicentin at March 29, 2007 12:48 PM
Damn straight mate, if you see a tall dude with spikey hair, eyebrow ring, brown suit and orange tie in Leichhardt, you can safely walk up and say "Hey, Brickowski, how're you doin'?"
Ben Willing: Brown suit and orange tie, eh? Would you like a job as a football coach?
- Posted by: Brickowski on March 29, 2007 5:39 PM
Posted by: Redb at March 29, 2007 3:09 PM
We can debate the various merits and otherwise of our favourite sports, we can use the words WIAP, AFL, Footy, Soccer, Football and the world game, but I think we can all agree that the word wogball should never be used. Can i get an agreement of all FLOG participants that this word never be uttered again in this forum?
- Posted by: Brickowski on March 29, 2007 5:43 PM
wooo i just became the coach for the uni second division outfit, girls though lol
Ben Willing: Which Uni?
- Posted by: Eddie on March 29, 2007 6:05 PM
sarkis, come to bling
- Posted by: Eddie on March 29, 2007 6:13 PM
From the News in Brief section of The Guardian's Football Fiver column:
"Motherwell's Aussie striker Scott McDonald has agreed to join the Queen's Celtic in the summer."
Apparently The Guardian think it's funny to label Celtic 'The Queen's Celtic' and the other one 'The Pope's O'Rangers'. Funny indeed.
- Posted by: Brickowski on March 29, 2007 7:29 PM
Posted by: Vicentin at March 29, 2007 2:49 PM
That was a very inspiring link to what is happening in the Americas.
Footsal is the way forward, for the introduction and teaching football in our schools. I thought it was brilliant. Craig Foster is a recreation of the late Johnny Warren.
I take it all back what I said about him in my first ever posts.
- Posted by: Koala Bear on March 29, 2007 7:46 PM
Brickowski - well, I'll be looking out for ya but on second thoughts maybe I won't be introducing myself. Ever thought of going the 'fro - huggy bear style? Cheers.
KB, glad you enjoyed it. Hope it doesn't blow your internet usage for the month - lucky it's the 29th I guess.
Since possession football is the flavour of the month 'round my way at least, here is a cool youtube collection of goals - the difference is they all feature intricate passing in the lead-up. This is how football should be played ( courtesy of The Guardian's thursday best youtube links.)
Also great article by Marcela Mora y Araujo on the same site about Mario Kempes. I've often wished I knew more about South American football and courtesy of this unlikely source (a UK Newspaper's website) it is slowly happening.
- Posted by: Vicentin on March 29, 2007 11:04 PM
Eddie at March 29, 2007 6:05 PM
Eddie, you might want to have a word to Brickowski about what to wear to get full RESPECT from your team.
- Posted by: Vicentin on March 29, 2007 11:20 PM
I would say the biggest shock has to be the Sweden v North Ireland game. What a win and two great goals... two hat tricks and two goals in three games for him. Outstanding. What price the Ulstermen qualifying, and or in the future joining with Eire.
Maradona is in hospital but is ok, just a bit too much of the good life!! River plate v LDU Quito of Ecuador tonight... vamos river!! I am getting my live fix of football!! I am coming to Australia in October so I will have to plan it around the fixture list!!
- Posted by: juanpabloangel on March 30, 2007 1:34 AM
great gig.
I recall about 20 years ago I offered to coach a netball team.
But they saw through me when the (very charming) ladies realised I knew nothing about netball and that I most likely had ulterior motives.
Luckily enough, I did last 2 or 3 training sessions before I was inevitably sacked.
My advice to you Eddie is:
1. When giving your pep talk, maintain eye contact at all times;
2. When talking strategy and positional play, don't mistakenly refer to midriffs while talking about the mid-field (e.g. now Jessica, I want you to hold your midriff, I mean the...);
3. When talking tactical play with your strikers, try and maintain a straight face as you explain to them what you are hoping they will be able to achieve up front;
4. Dont' misconstrue things when one of your players says to you after training that they would prefer to stay back;
5. Try and feign being encouraging, sympathetic and sensitive without falling into the trap of listening to all their personal problems - otherwise you'll become suicidal yourself!
6. Be very clear and unambiguous whenever you talk to them about playing one touch football.
Follow these simple guidelines, and you should be ok.
- Posted by: pippinu on March 30, 2007 6:48 AM
Posted by: Vicentin at March 29, 2007 11:04 PM
Thanks Vicentin, great youtube. This is what this great game is all about.
A great advertisment on why this game is also called FOOTball.
Viva le FOOTBALL.
- Posted by: Robbos on March 30, 2007 8:20 AM
Soc: Melbourne's Fred joins DC United
Soccer MLS
WASHINGTON, March 29 AFP - Brazilian playmaker Fred, who led the Melbourne Victory to the Australian club championship last month, has signed with DC United, the Major League Soccer club announced today.
- Posted by: pippinu on March 30, 2007 8:27 AM
Posted by: Vicentin at March 29, 2007 5:11 PM
Man you are good (or at least persistent)...I have a hard enough time getting under 7's to stop just chasing the person with the ball all day! its like wtching a flock of seagull s squabling over a hot chip.
- Posted by: Jed Petersen on March 30, 2007 8:31 AM
Posted by: Koala Bear at March 29, 2007 7:46 PM
KB, I agree with you about Craig Foster. He cops alot about his so called anti English views.
Well he got it right with Butcher's style under Sydney FC & there is no way would I want Australia or any Australian teams playing like England.
Butcher did make sense with one comment, he said everyone says Gerrard & Lampard can't play in the same team, but why then did Mourinho want to sign Gerrard.
It's the style of play that matters, see Vicentin's youtube.
The English style is hoofing the ball up to Rooney & Crouch & hoping for Lamapard & Gerrard to pick up the scraps from behind.
Let's hope Australia go down another road.
Viva le Craig Foster & his arrogrance.
- Posted by: Robbos on March 30, 2007 8:36 AM
I was just watching the youtube goals and saw a link to that Argentina/Cambiasso goal again and had to watch it. This version one is great - spanish (language) commentary from ESPN - adds another dimension to the goal for me.
Jed - not good but getting better anyway ... most of the time ...
- Posted by: Vicentin on March 30, 2007 8:53 AM
Mr C
My analogy was perhaps a bit colourful and certainly was not implying that you are a sick man, just trying to find a motive as to why someone who clearly does not like football spends so much time on a football blog (and many others) trumpeting the same old stuff. I am sure you are just trying to get down with the football folk on a street level and embrace the game faults and all.
- Posted by: Fred on March 30, 2007 9:13 AM
Very good article in the SMH on Rob Baan & the Olyroos & his problems with the club v country situation that so hurts this country.
I asked the question about Kilkenny, who plays for Birmingham & how good is he, Rob Baan is reading this blog & answers me.
"Kilkenny, it was the first time I have seen him, and I could put him straight into my starting XI because he is a very good player," Baan said.
Another players I would like see playing for the Olyroos are James Troisi of Newcastle, Matthew Spiranovic, Aaron Downes (who has won player of the month for 3 months straight), Kaz Patafta (someone else mentioned him), Rostyn Griffiths & James Wesolowski.
And he mentions some of them as well,
He [Troisi] is only playing in the reserves. We have been having discussions, and I believe the player wants to come," Baan said. "I want to see him play, as I also want to see Aaron Downes [Chesterfield, UK] and Matthew Spiranovic [FC Nurnberg, Germany], who I haven't yet been able to bring into camp. But we must take one step at a time."
- Posted by: Robbos on March 30, 2007 9:47 AM
Michael C
You justify your post by picking up what EJ wrote, which is basically a notice that Wollongong Wolves are holding a kids day in Bomaderry. Pretty tenuous link I think.
All I am asking is to actually discuss football. I think a lot of us would be keen to hear your opinions on the benefits and drawbacks of a 442 formation over a 352 one.
You may also have noticed that it is not just me that has started to take issue with your posts.
I am sure you understand that FLOG is a Sydney based blog about football. The message in that is that most, if not all who contribute, have no real interest in AFL.
I respect your opinions on AFL and you have every right to express them, but just do it in an AFL forum.
- Posted by: Griffo on March 30, 2007 9:59 AM
Ben Willing: Sydney FC to play Marconi Stallions. The match is now confirmed for
Marconi Stadium on April 4.
The game will kick off at 7pm. Admission is $5 for adults - FREE for under 18s (with proof of age).
- Posted by: Ben Willing on March 30, 2007 10:15 AM
Posted by: Fred at March 30, 2007 9:13 AM
There are so many levels of soccer - not everybody has to unconditionally love them all.
if I had access to a coverage of Liverpool vs Arsenal I'd probably watch it on Saturday night -
if I didn't have young kids, then it'd be a perfect evening to watch the footy first and soccer after and then the cricket from the Windies - that'd be a sporting feast.
Maybe May 19 is the next game I'll see (is FA Cup final on FTA??).
Am I hoping for a Man U v Chelsea FA cup - maybe,
or would a Blackburn vs Watford be a victory for the 'little guys' (relatively speaking!!!).
But would I watch an A-League game just for the sake of it - no.
Would I watch a WAFL game just for the sake of it - no.
Would I watch a VFL game - well, only if it's one of the feeder teams for my Rooboys.
Would I have watched Aust v Denmark friendly had it been on SBS - yes.
Would I watch any other Aust friendly - I wouldn't go out of my way.
Do I sometimes get bored watching any sport - yes, because with 3 kids 4 and under - there's always something to do. So if a game of footy, soccer, cricket etc is getting dull - then I'll satisfy myself with the results in the paper.
And perhaps since having the kids, and realising that Foxtel wasn't a worthy investment because I was time poor - I think that's made me more selective in what I'll commit to watching (FTA live on Friday night is always a winner - althoug is a comotosed state on the couch really considered 'watching'??)
And I have noticed that there seems a difference in supporter attitude.
Hardline soccerheads seem more likely to accept that things happen slowly & not waste breath on negative/critical comment other than domestic coaches/squads; The game as a whole stuff - it's out of our hands (Domestic-FFA) and in the hands of FIFA. Perhaps - AFL types can tend to moan and whinge and be negative a heap more because there is just a chance that Andy D might be listening in from the office or while driving home.
So - it's not necessarily 'hate', more that there are things that perhaps only asking the silly question will answer. And like romance and religion, a lot of it is stored in 'tradition'.
And you should see me and my boys playing a weird sport combining all the best aspects of soccer, rugby, footy, and golf - in the backyard....
btw - I could have just mentioned the AFL-Fed Govt-Aboriginal program to Pippinu on the Slog - however, it WAS relative to previous flog mini threads and therefore I presume of interest to a couple of folk - otherwise I had zero reason to be on this thread!!! I had no intention otherwise, and had Jed just been willing to leave it, but noooo, he had to go the cheap shot.
- Posted by: Michael C on March 30, 2007 10:26 AM
Posted by: Jed Petersen at March 30, 2007 8:31 AM
nothing wrong with that their U7, they should be getting their technique and ball skills, then hand me some decent players when they get to uni :D.
but i read somewhere it wont happen overnight but it will happen, soon enough they will learn not to chase after the bloke with the ball, took me 2 games to learn that lol, not sure how quick they will learn though
Posted by: pippinu at March 30, 2007 6:48 AM
yeah all downhill from now on....
lol na I be alright, they got no idea about keeping possession in the uni teams, the coaches are still pretty much safty first and english.
I had a problem with that when i was playing for them, and thus now I will change it with the girls team. I just hope they know when to push the FB up and when not to.
Some of the goals were scored against us when I was playing, where completly not the defenders fault, it was the damn coach waiting the defenders to push up against strikers who are clearly faster.
so first time I meet the team will be on sunday when they have a game, then I be drilling into them hard the tactics for zone defence, how to work from defence into attack, how to support the player with the ball, how to cut angles and read a game, how to defend a through ball or a long ball with a zone defence things like that, I might work on the attack a bit later on when I get to know them a bit better. Alot of hard work is ahead, they can't be too good in division 2 when the division 1 is on the bottom of the ladder. Pitty the team wont be together long enough, I always wanted to try "total football" with a team.
it be hard not to get ideas mate particularly i am around about the same age as them lol
so did you get ur hands on anyone with netball coaching? or was that another reason y u were sacked lol
Eddie at March 29, 2007 6:05 PM
Eddie, you might want to have a word to Brickowski about what to wear to get full RESPECT from your team.
Posted by: Vicentin at March 29, 2007 11:20 PM
nothing wrong with a bit of that, all the pleasures of been a single man, oh yeah and their over 18 too hahahah
Ben Willing: Which Uni?
oh only UNSW soccer, sydney is better i think in the soccer department anyway... which one u go to
Ben Willing: I played for UTS for over a decade (in the KDSA). I am now President of Lokomotiv Cove FC (in the ESFA), so we play against both UNSW & USyd. We aren't fielding a team in SW2 this season. I'm playing in the AA2 team. I'm sure we'll cross paths a couple of times this season.
- Posted by: Eddie on March 30, 2007 10:59 AM
Posted by: Michael C at March 30, 2007 10:26 AM
Mr C, it's not one or two posts recently, it's just about all your posts since I've been on. It's all very defensive on the WIAP game & very negative on the football on this flog.
You keeping harping on about a different perception. It's hard for any of us to respect your PERCEPTION, when it is clear to most of us that, as Fred said, you clearly do not like the game.
While I sometimes also struggle to understand Pippinu's perception of the game (changes in scoring mainly) & though he clearly is a WIAP fan, he has a genuine like for the world game.
- Posted by: Robbos on March 30, 2007 11:02 AM
Eddie at March 29, 2007 6:05 PM
Eddie, you might want to have a word to Brickowski about what to wear to get full RESPECT from your team.
Posted by: Vicentin at March 29, 2007 11:20 PM
ops read the post wrong, um yeah so what do u wear?
Vicentin, and Brickowski
- Posted by: Eddie on March 30, 2007 11:06 AM
Posted by: Eddie at March 30, 2007 11:06 AM
Style straight from early 80s West Germany, of course. Doesn't everybody?
- Posted by: Brickowski on March 30, 2007 11:18 AM
Posted by: Vicentin at March 29, 2007 11:04 PM
Although i could probably very easily grow the 'fro it would get in the way of my oversized purple velvet pimp hat, compete with feather.
- Posted by: Brickowski on March 30, 2007 11:22 AM
Swifty at March 30, 2007 10:02 AM
Sorry to disillusion you but I/we have some pretty crap sessions too - was it just coincidence that a migraine struck me down about an hour after training the other day? Probably not!
And of course it doesn't neccessarily get easier - you just get different issues (and ATTITUDE) as they get older. But I do feel it is getting better. I might test myself with a younger age group next year if my daughter wishes to play - see how I go with the really young ones again.
Secrets? I don't have any but here are my tips ..
Look like a coach (not a brown suit at training) - seriously it'll buy you some respect, don't turn up in your work clothes or jeans etc.
Set out your playing areas before the session starts - before the kids arrive is best.
Keep your talks to them to a minimum - they have NO attention span.
More than anything in those younger years you've got to have other people helping you. Have two or more games or activities going at the same time with two or more groups if you can. It is a big ask (and unreasonable) to have one adult trying to control this many kids, get other parents help you out - it certainly gave me added respect for what teachers do!
Yes, play games, but play small games (2 v 2 etc) so at least the ratio of seagulls to chip is smaller ie each of the gulls gets a peck at the chip. Also there's less chance of those on the periphery to be kicking Billy/watching bats etc.
Always have a second ball in your hand so that if the game ball goes out you aren't wasting time, and increasing the opportunity for distractions! Throw the other ball in and keep them playing while someone (you probably) gets the first. It is also a good way of getting those kids less involved into the game - throw the ball to them!
Regarding technique - trying to teach a kid just how to kick a ball properly can seem impossible but repetition of the same messages (in small doses) is important but they'll hopefully get it one day. Encourage them to do simple things with the underside of their feet, side of their feet etc. I'm sure it all helps - and praise them if they do it one of the small sided games.
They all develop at different rates too both in their physical ability and their spatial awareness. Keep it simple.
Really praise the good stuff - great pass, good position, nice run etc just really encourage them. Even when they make some "mistake" don't discourage them from doing it but if you feel it neccessary show them another way - it is training afterall and they're all learning.
I do think you need some rules and you need to set them out early - they're only allowed to kick the ball (but not away), no kicking Billy, no kicking the cones/markers etc.
ah hindsight ...
that's a start anyway ... all the best. It is not an easy gig, it is rarely very smooth - but it can be very rewarding. And remember the results are watching the kids and the team improve, not the scoreline at the game. All the best!
ps, I've seen some teams where the coach seems to have got absolute attention etc and I've never been able to do that. :0(
Eddie, on game day - ALWAYS the brown suit, preferably corduoroy!
- Posted by: Vicentin on March 30, 2007 11:37 AM
Ben Willing: A few reports flying around that Englishman (Left back or midfielder) Joe Keenan has signed for Melbourne Victory. I guess that signals the last of the Brazilians at the club.
- Posted by: Ben Willing on March 30, 2007 11:39 AM
Ben Willing,
Posted by: Eddie at March 30, 2007 11:06 AM
did my long post before this one get blocked?
Ben WIlling: Refresh the page. Is it the one I responded to? Because that one intially went to the junk folder, before I recovered it).
- Posted by: Eddie on March 30, 2007 11:44 AM
Posted by: Ben Willing at March 30, 2007 11:39 AM
Unless you know something we don't, that still leaves 1 place left for the foreigners, so they may still kepp Alessandro.
Joe Keenan was a Chelsea player before, the Great Man took over at Chelsea, had a bad injury.
- Posted by: Robbos on March 30, 2007 11:48 AM
It's great reading all your posts about coaching little kids.
My son has only just turned 6 and I can see that he will most likely grow up to be a bit unco. I tell my wife he takes after her, and she insists it's from my side of the family. So at the moment we are both disowning him.
I'm trying to teach him to stop the ball with his foot and hit it back gently in roughly my direction, rather than smacking it anywhere, but he's got such a testa dura!
- Posted by: pippinu on March 30, 2007 12:42 PM
Posted by: juanpabloangel at March 30, 2007 1:34 AM
Yes, I was going to post this yesterday but time got the better of me.
Northern Ireland are top of their group (although they have played more games) above Spain, Denmark and Sweden.
David Healy (9 goals in 5 games - 2 hat-tricks and another 2 goals against Sweden) > the Titanic. If only he could score for Leeds! :o)
Now, a little bit of food for thought...
A certain Sydney player in Terry McFlynn once captained the Northern Ireland Under 21's side - so I've read. So, what does everyone think about him getting a call up to the squad? I had a quick glance at the Norn Iron team-sheet v the Swedes and most of the players play in the CC Championship with one defender playing in the Scottish Div 1 league. I'm assuming the rest of the squad would be playing in teams lower than that, so it is a good possibility for him to get the nod. It'd be good publicity for the game here too!
P.s. Great video, Vicentin!
- Posted by: bubblgum on March 30, 2007 12:50 PM
Can someone, who knows or cares, please tell Michael C and EJ where to find the AFL site (Or NRL).
They seem to have lost there way and entered a site for REAL Football.
Or for that matter any other loser who need to justify the existence of there own code by attacking our Football.
Michael C for someone who has no time why are you wasting ours?
On Footballing matters. I saw highlights of the Olyroo game. Our main problem in both the Saudi and Jordan the teams finishing needs work. All other aspects are good.
- Posted by: AL BUNDY on March 30, 2007 12:54 PM
definitely not!! (denying all charges of fraternising with team members) I got the sack because basically I didn't know what I was doing (a bit like McLaren). They also had thought that I might be able to assist them with fitness - but boy did they get that wrong! (my wife calls me Mr Shortcut, i.e. I don't believe in doing the hard yards, give me the easy way out any day - it is a philosophy that has served me well in life, although it is probably why I am now trying to scrounge a living out in the middle of nowhere)
- Posted by: pippinu on March 30, 2007 12:56 PM
This stuff is a bit late but I am going to post it anyway.
Posted by: Robbos at March 28, 2007 9:14 PM
Yes, Robbos, it was a very good piece and if John O'Neill was still connected with the FFA the Asians Champions League will be the premier competition in Australia in three years; as it is so tailored-made for his appetite for Asia. It is really his baby isn't it?
I can't see Ben Buckley promoting this league, as he just doesn't have J. O'Neill credentials.
We are yet to see a comment form Ben on the ACL anywhere. Has anyone on the blog read any of his thoughts on anything yet on the ACL??
"Adelaide United and Sydney FC will not have their Olyroos players for their next Asian Champions League matches, after Baan said he needed the under 23s to train with his squad for its next match against Saudi Arabia in a fortnight." said Bann
How many bloggers agree with Bann?
I am starting to think that the ACL should come first.
I think European managers would never release their players for an Olympic tournament, pitted against an important ECL match.
I am torn between ACL's importance and the Olympics. I am starting to sway towards the international club competition rather than the Olympics.
Posted by: tintin1989 at March 28, 2007 9:09 PM
Yes, $7mil spent to kick-start the SFC was going to help get it off to a brilliant start. But it was not coming out of Walter's bank account, most of it came out of the Lowy family's bank account.
That's why Walter Bungo was shafted no question about that. The only thing that was worth the money was Yorke turning out for SFC; no argument about that.
Litti's demands were over the top. The CEO at the time remuneration was in the six figures and his support staff was over paid and a few training staff were getting a bit more than they deserved. This is all very nice if it is someone else's money.
And we were lucky that the Lowy family just didn't pull the plug on the whole thing.
How much did Walter put into the kitty? Or how much did any of the board members put into the kitty? Or how much did anyone else put in? I bet zilch.
So the point Les Murray is trying to make here is it was a very bad administrative team that forced the Lowy family to act and act they did as quickly as it could to save the club from folding.
Remember, this league is only 3rd in the pecking order at the moment and if we make a comparison to say Carlton FC (AFL) in a league which is at the moment awash with money, Carlton FC were in the tune of $6mil in debt for a number of years until "Money bags Dicky Pratt" bailed them out and cleaned the slate to everyones relief in the AFL or they were going to go under. I bet he will not do it a second time.
We are lucky at SFC that we have benefactors in the "Lowy family" who love football and will do everything possible to keep the club afloat; however, their patients ran out with version one administration with their spent thrift attitude to everything or anything that they thought was a great idea.
Let's not get too arrogant that it was SFC that was the reason of the A-Leagues success. It was going to succeed because of John O'Neill's design of the A-league in how it was all going to be shaped.
The other clubs had contributed a lot to the success without going over board with over spending on staff and marque players; although Dwight was the only good decision the last administration made.
And the manager was ordinary for the money he wanted and received in my opinion. I would like to know how much Ian Cook and Jimmy Frazer had played in his success.
I don't think erratic fan behaviour is isolated to Indonesia either or restricted to wogball.
Posted by: Redb at March 29, 2007 3:09 PM
that was a low punch; are we now suppose to refer to AFL as coonball as the Tasmanian Aboriginals claim to have kicked a stuffed dead possum around first that led to its invention. (The Indigenous Game.) I hope not; it is "Garbage Racist Redneck Language." And not to be tolerated on the Blog.
I started a new month on the 28th, I thought it would be safe to stream the Craig Foster link Video and blew 95mgs (just about a quater of my allowance) of my new increased 400mg plan. I won't be doing that too often. IT is not my go, being an old senior citizen it is all a bit too hard to understand.
- Posted by: Koala Bear on March 30, 2007 1:30 PM
Posted by: pippinu at March 30, 2007 12:42 PM
but he's got such a testa dura!
then of course he takes after you! ... unless your wife's from Calabria ;0)
I remember a joke a friend of mine (from Benevento - Napoli) told me about a guy from Napoli using his head to hammer a nail in to a wall (as you do...). It'll only go in so far but no further - so he goes round to the other side where he finds a Calabrese leaning with his head against the wall ...
make of it what you will...
- Posted by: Vicentin on March 30, 2007 1:31 PM
Posted by: Koala Bear at March 30, 2007 1:30 PM
AU and Sydney players will be released for the ACL games.
Posted by: Vicentin at March 30, 2007 1:31 PM
Hahahahaha!!! Thats why dad always warned me not to marry a Calabrese.....
- Posted by: cheech on March 30, 2007 1:44 PM
Posted by: Vicentin at March 30, 2007 1:31 PM
ha ha, yes, very good.
I have been told in the past that I'm a bit soft in the head.
- Posted by: pippinu on March 30, 2007 1:54 PM
Posted by: Robbos at March 30, 2007 11:02 AM
"Just thought you might be interested in this from a conceptual perspective. Not trying to put down anyone or promote anyone."
This was how I finished, you were well able to say thanks but no thanks. Effectively this was the case via the silence of many --- that was until Jed piped up and ranted off topic, presumably just trying to annoy others for his own amusement - ask him then whether he was delighted or disappointed with the response??????
Don't you go moral high horsing to me - if you want I'll trawl thru the old flogs and find the discussion around aboriginals such as Williams and North and attracting them to soccer in Australia.
Do you deny that this discussion occurred?
I do believe the snippet I put forward was as relevant for example as comparing MVFC membership packages to Western Bulldogs memberships
comparing Sydney sporting culture to Melbourne
comparing Sydney public transport to Melbourne
comparing thee with a summer's day
or rhyming "Wellington" with "BHP Billiton"
I rest my case.
btw - how come only KB joined me in querying the role of Ben Buckley at present - given that his promotional silence is deafening (which doesn't surprise those that understand his history) which brings into question just why he was hired and who else was supposed to fly the PR flag. Maybe just KB and I will mull over that one - because apparently it's too negative for someone not born in Medina or Birmingham to ask!!!
and Al Bundy - work is my rest!! Just don't let the wife know.
I would never call it 'w*gball'.
and finally Robbos - where's your critique of "Well-ing-ton" to the tune of "Song, sung, blue"!!!!!! (or is that considered too negative too? - surely single sport pedigree isn't required to kiwi bash - ah heck, again, just don't let my wife know....)
- Posted by: Michael C on March 30, 2007 1:58 PM
I married one!!!! but her fathers home made SALAMI PICANTE makes up for it all..
- Posted by: Fred on March 30, 2007 2:09 PM
Ben W: I'll see you on Sunday at 1pm Tempe.....
- Posted by: Ben G on March 30, 2007 2:17 PM
Posted by: Ben G at March 30, 2007 2:17 PM
Is this sampsonobrian's cousin Ben? From the other SMH blog?
- Posted by: Brickowski on March 30, 2007 2:51 PM
Dad i dont want to go to great nans!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ..................................................................................Im very tired
- Posted by: timmy on March 30, 2007 3:30 PM
Now Timmy, don't you be so disrespectful to your dad, and do as he says, or he'll give you an almighty great hiding!
- Posted by: pippinu on March 30, 2007 3:46 PM
Hey Mad Dave,
What happens when they review an incident after the game and determine that the player dived?
If you think there's controversy in our game now what will it be like when we get headlines like this :
OFFICIAL : Southern Stars Under 12's cheat to win Big Mac Cup!
I think that's why FIFA have rejected that proposal. At least you're thinking about solutions instead of just complaining.
- Posted by: LC on March 30, 2007 3:48 PM
Mr C,
This is a SMH flog, a Sydney paper & some on here are also Rugby League fans, I myself am a Dragons fan, but you don't see us comparing everything back to the NRL.
It's just plain boring.
- Posted by: Robbos on March 30, 2007 3:48 PM
Fred at March 30, 2007 2:09 PM
I'm sure there are positives, and that sounds like a very definate one. Haven't heard from BossleyParkRules ... oh, wait a minute I think the Boss is Calabrese! mmmm....
Michael C - I enjoy your posts when they're vaguely on topic but will admit to moving on if too AFL focussed. Ben Buckley? Yes, please discuss I know nothing about him so pleased to hear from others about what we might expect. Certainly the (promotional) silence is deafening at the moment.
Is it beer o'clock yet?
- Posted by: Vicentin on March 30, 2007 3:57 PM
There was a great article today in SMH's sister paper about pay TV, in particular, the growth that FOX is experiencing, and where it is trending (ever upwards, and through the roof).
Last month it experienced it's single biggest number of new subscribers ever - ever! I didn't want to explain why in case I got hounded off the FLOG like Michael C has been lately.
I've decided I'm going to cough up about month before the Asian Cup starts. I simply can't imagine not being able to see the Socceroos in the comfort of my own home, and there'll still be about two-thirds of you-know-what left, along with the opportunity to watch the Vics defend their title - and then the ACL with the Vics in it, and then you-know-what again...
How long can I keep operating as a down-and-out private eye in this dusty old town in a rat infested office? The only people that want my services are married couples wanting to find out what extra-curricular activities their spouses are up to. It's fun and all, but it's such a small town! So when Jack comes in wanting to know if his Suze is having a fling with Smithy, I tell him I can help, but I have trouble staying composed (because inside I'm thinking, mate, Smithy is the least of your problems!).
I hear there's a mining boom happening somewhere...
- Posted by: pippinu on March 30, 2007 3:59 PM
Posted by: pippinu at March 30, 2007 3:46 PM
Swimming coach, swimming coach!!!!!!
- Posted by: Robbos on March 30, 2007 4:19 PM
Posted by: Robbos at March 30, 2007 3:48 PM
YEah, blimey, you're right,
might be a bit because NRL has always been a little reactive more than proactive -
however, for us in Melb, NRL is a valid comparison - Storm vs Victory, the Rectangular stadium, drugs in sport, and whole list of other issues that JEd referred to.
However, the way you howl down Pippinu whenever he's looked at other sports for ideas of improvisation, innovation, comparison and otherwise - it does imply that for you it is a very singular focus at any given time.
You're right - it's just plain boring.
btw -have a good weekend, hope your team(s) win whatever they're playing and that it rains on your fields and those of your ancestors!!
- Posted by: Michael C on March 30, 2007 4:26 PM
Posted by: Michael C at March 30, 2007 1:58 PM
Mind your bu11sh1t Mike C.
I ranted did I? Hardly, I quite eloquently drew your attention to the shortcommings of the sport you profess to be the sum that is all that is good in Australia.
My reasons were for the reason that, like the clear majority on the FLOG, I was growing tired of your constant and overly boring attempts to draw everything back to AFL despite repeated polite (and not do polite) requests to refrain from doing so.
Whenever you make reference to you game and why its so wonderful I feel quite entitled on this here Football BLOG to draw attention to its many failings. I cannot understand why you continue to be so obtuse as to expect an alternate outcome.
As others have pointed out you are on a Sydney media website with, wait for it... Sydneysiders who on the whole place your 1st beloved sport somewhere down near lawn bowls and table tennis championships from China. Why are you still so suprised to be constantly retorted by myself and others? Do you think you'll win support for that sport? I mean really?
Hows about you make a choice? Either get with the program and discuss Football only or as many of us have welcomed you to do, consider going to an Aussie Rules BLOG, I think we have one here. Can someone perhaps post a link for Mike C please?
Your call.
- Posted by: Jed Petersen on March 30, 2007 4:33 PM
Mr C,
Here we go again!!!
The NRL is reactive.
Football needs changes
AFL is proactive & perfect.
- Posted by: Robbos on March 30, 2007 5:17 PM
All the tips you have had on coaching are on the money.
But some times (always) its the other things that helps the season be successful,whether its the friendship,the improvment in individual players ect.
I took an U12 team to the GF. a few years back.We have unlimited inter change in that age group so all players got fairly even time on the pitch.I stopped this in the first semi & kept a slightly hanpicapped kid on the side line for extended periods & we lost to the minor premiers.I reintroduced it for the rest of the season.Winning the next semi we were down 0-1 in the GF.The ball bounced sharply at the h/capped kid & he hand balled in our own half.A father standing next to me frustratedly says "you f. wit",I said steady up it speard into him like a cricket ball,I had an urge to turn a round,& when I did the kids fathers eyes were piercing right through me & I guess but the father eyes were coming at me his mother was next to him,I didn't say it,I stood up for him.Anyway this leads on to
My Greatest move in coaching.
Down 1-0 at h/time to the M-Premiers & looking like they wanted to be somewhere else,I had said how to get back into the game & so forth,I had promised the kids two bungers each at a bbq I put on after the game(you put in orders for crackers when someone does a run to Canberra 2.5hrs).
When they headed back on the field I said if your going to lose still enjoy it,& as a throw away line I said & if you lose you don't get the bungers.Thankfully one of my better players at r/c/half was a piro cracker maniac.With about 10m to go a good run down the guts & a great shot he'd got us back on level terms.Then with 5 to go he made a run down the line,a great cross found a team mates head,& he got illegal fireworks.
By Edward Jay.
3 time premiership winning coach.
1 competition championship(m/prems)
Veteran of around 40 ametuer football seasons.
Life member of current club,
& a supporter of both football & rugby league to mention two.
- Posted by: EJ on March 30, 2007 9:04 PM
I don't think anyone on this flog would mind if Michael C was banned from the flog. Who cares if it's not politically correct. He has constantly been asked to refrain from all these comparisons with a sport most people on this blog don't care about. Get rid of him please...it has stopped me coming back yet again
- Posted by: Please... on March 30, 2007 9:37 PM
Is it just me or is Michael C an inimitable toolbag?
- Posted by: aussie jambo on March 30, 2007 11:53 PM
Posted by: LC at March 30, 2007 3:48 PM
I think I only came up with the solution because I get fed up with screaming at the tv.
If in post review it was determined to be a dive, they are given a red card. Sure they are off the field by that stage, but the rules could be altered slightly for this. What it means though is that the diver will miss a match or more, the team will be disadvantaged, he will be shamed in the press, and it might reduce the frequency of diving occurring.
I understand that the outcome of the game would not be changed, and that the acting may still occur in GF matches, but not every solution is perfect.
- Posted by: Mad Dave on March 31, 2007 12:09 AM
Stop bickering you lot.
Its boring me.
Timmy, appreciate your great nan, she wont be here forever. Go and give her a hug.
Northern Ireland.... Davis is a Villa player and very good, for a young international, and me thinks plays in Mcflynns position. Dont think Lawrie Sanchez is looking at Sydney fc for his players... maybe he should do a Jackie Charlton and invent a few extras.. ie Tony Cascarino, hahahah. Ulsters win over Sweden is amazing but the goals were great. Maybe Leeds should take on Sanchez as coach, he wants to do the two jobs! Will you ever get to play United of Manclandia again?? Just for the record, River 0 0 Quito... played ok except for the fact we are not shooting enough. Its all very pretty though. I would love to see a few Argentines getting a chance in the A League... there is plenty of talent here. A tie up with one of the teams here might be good..
- Posted by: juanpabloangel on March 31, 2007 12:20 AM
some snippets from this:
FOUNDING Sydney FC director Peter Turnbull has been pushed off the board
Turnbull, a property developer, said he would turn his attention to establishing a western Sydney franchise.
Now this is what you want western sydney, a pissed of bloke with plenty of cash.
Now all that is needed is gong, North Q, Gold coast and canberra.
- Posted by: Fred on March 31, 2007 8:02 AM
Hey juanpabloangel arent there 3 or 4 Argentines playing in A League already?Isnt Adrian Caseras from Argentina?
- Posted by: timmy on March 31, 2007 8:06 AM
I am spewing we lost sarkies to Adelaide, with fred now gone it would have been perfect for him to step up, but I hear from within that MVFC where not too disapionted because apperently he has a bit of a discipline problem. He scores goals so who cares anyway!
- Posted by: Fred on March 31, 2007 8:07 AM
Posted by: EJ at March 30, 2007 9:04 PM
that was a nice story, and I had a go at coaching under 10s teams with little success in winning any comps. However, it was a very enjoyable experience and it made me feel good about myself at a time I needed to.
So, all of those dads and mums in what ever code you are coaching you are contributing to help a kid in acertaining character and pride in themselves; especially the handicap boys and girls who get a fair go.
I salute you all..!!..
Now, Eddie, if you are a young fella, make sure you get names and phone numbers. They come in handy later on.
- Posted by: Koala Bear on March 31, 2007 8:12 AM
A couple of pieces of interesting news this morning:
Newcastle after an expansion of Energy Australia Stadium to 40000 after the local swing against Labor in the State Election.
They also claim Rodriguez may come back in time for the next A-League season as the season in Columbia finishes before then.
Also Adam Griffiths may be coming back to play for Newcaslte.
Jade North Being chased by Queensland.
Spase Dilevski being chased by Sydney.
Sarkies (one year) and Djite (2 years) signed by Adelaide.
- Posted by: tintin1989 on March 31, 2007 11:21 AM
Also Turnbull kicked off Sydney FC board and wants to start Western Sydney franchise.
Thinks it would benefit Sydney FC cause they would be guaranteed 4 capacity crowds each season.
I don't get this point, can someone please explain. Wouldn't they have only one or two games against West Sydey each year, and these may not even be capacity?
- Posted by: tintin1989 on March 31, 2007 11:24 AM
I guess Partick Thistle weren't put off by our comments on our recent sojourn on the Herald (Glasgow) blog. He's just the assistant which I guess will be a relief for their supporters ...
- Posted by: Vicentin on March 31, 2007 11:37 AM
# Posted by: EJ at March 30, 2007 9:04 PM
thanks for that lol that were all da illegal crackers come from?
where u get them? i am a crazy one too i haven't handled a cracker since 9 i think
and brown suite aye..... hmmm ben willing u seen any uni coaches wear suites to games?
- Posted by: Eddie on March 31, 2007 11:49 AM
ooo fozzy replied to my email about books and stuff for total football and possession football... it be on the website soon apparently
- Posted by: Eddie on March 31, 2007 12:21 PM
Posted by: Koala Bear at March 31, 2007 8:12 AM
Sorry EJ,
I wrongly opened with Eddie instead of EJ.
Second part was for Eddie.
As they say, I am sorry for any inconvenience.
- Posted by: Koala Bear on March 31, 2007 2:14 PM
Ben Willing: Soccer NSW today held an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) and voted that the governing body will be known as Football NSW as of April 1 (ie tomorrow). Football NSW members voted 'yes' to accept a new state constitution, as recommended by the Crawford Report.
Soccer NSW (or Football NSW from tomorrow) website reports in this article.
- Posted by: Ben Willing on March 31, 2007 2:29 PM
Go the Mariners!!! :)
1. If you think they will win 2007-08 season.
2. If you think they will make the top four.
3. They will finish 5th
4. They wont imporve from last year.
Please reply :)
- Posted by: timmy on March 31, 2007 2:55 PM
No probs Timmy, only too happy to reply.
They will battle it out with Perth Glory for 8th position, the new Wellington team will finish 6th, Victory 5th, Adelaide 4th, Queensland 3rd, Newcastle 2nd and Sydney 1st, undefeated throughout the home and away season, Sydney will smack Newcastle 5-0 over 2 legs and then beat Queensland 2-1 in the final.
Thank you for the question, now go and finish your homework.
- Posted by: Brickowski on March 31, 2007 3:10 PM
"Also Adam Griffiths may be coming back to play for Newcastle"...got this from Brentford site - "Not quite sure how he managed to come on after 89 mins yet still get a yellow. He's had 8 in the league this season, most in the squad" and"Let someone else take on the biggest attitude problem I've ever seen on a football pitch." Must run in the family LOL
- Posted by: michael on March 31, 2007 3:27 PM
As a Mariners fan I would say they will be much improved next season and may still only finish 5th as I reckon the whole League is about to improve outta sight...
- Posted by: michael on March 31, 2007 3:30 PM
You seem like a good kid, except for the fact that you are occasionally disrespectful to your elders.
I don't wish to be the bearer of bad news, but just as fans of the mighty Pompey look back to 1949 and 1950 with great longing, I can't help thinking that CCM's inaugural year will forever be remembered by their fans as their golden era - never to be repeated.
- Posted by: pippinu on March 31, 2007 4:55 PM
Posted by: Ben Willing at March 31, 2007 2:29 PM
- Posted by: cheech on March 31, 2007 5:36 PM
There's a bizarre article in the Guardian today, with Sir Alex Ferguson blaming the mocking culture created by reality television Steve McClaren's current plight.
Now, as people will remember, I don't like people lazily coining the term "English football" or "English coach" to explain away any little thing they may be discussing, and I do believe that Fos occasionally goes over the top with this line of argument. I also felt there were mitigating circumstances in Butcher's inaugural year. But having said all that, no matter which way you look at it, the choice of McLaren as the English manager was always a bit of a strange one. Not claiming to be an expert, but I instance the following points:
1. He was the assitant to someone who now is not all that fondly recalled - so could the people who appointed McLaren have expected all that much more?
2. His coaching CV appears surprisingly slim.
3. Take the top 20 nations on Earth, hell, take the top 50 nations on Earth, and it is hard imagining any of them employing McLaren - so why on Earth would England employ him? It's not as if they are short of two bob.
Not intending any disrespect on Mr McLaren, who I am sure is a top bloke.
Russell Brand is thinking along similar lines when he writes: "Though Steve McClaren is out of his depth he doesn't deserve to be victimised. "
And Kevin McCarra writes a very good article today on the predictable nature of the Premiership: " There is a Do Not Disturb sign at the top of the Premiership. It is taken so seriously that no one knocks, let alone kicks the door down. For the third time in four seasons the coveted places will surely be filled by Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool. "
Of course this is not new to England, I wrote recently that AZ is the only team to have broken up the triumvirate of PSV, Ajax and Feyenoord in the last 40 years in Holland, and while things may not be as bad in Spain and Italy, at the start of each new season, we usually know there are no more than three serious contenders for the championship.
Virtually all of these clubs are guaranteed spots in the Champions League, and with success breeding success, they pretty much become entrenched. The difference in turnover of the top 4 or 5 teams and the bottom 4 or 5 is now so large that your average calculator would not be able to compute it.
It's too early to say whether the A-League will go down that route, we obviously have a different structure in place. The Vics no longer look like they are about to monopolise top spot - although I am confident it is a different story off the field. What that will mean in the long run only time will tell.
- Posted by: pippinu on March 31, 2007 6:31 PM
"but head says 2 is probably more likely."
Posted by: funkymarinette at March 31, 2007 4:58 PM
Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha, oh stop it, you're making my stomach hurt.
- Posted by: Brickowski on March 31, 2007 7:58 PM
ooo fozzy replied to my email about books and stuff for total football and possession football... it be on the website soon apparently
- Posted by: Eddie on March 31, 2007 8:57 PM
Hey Timmy!
1. Unless some very good signings are made in the last few spots they will definitely not be premiers. However, in the finals anything can happen.
2. I believe they are a very good chance to make the finals. I have already said what I hope will happen this year. I can't quite remember, but it was something like this.
Central Coast
It will be a tight race though, no Victory or Knights teams this year. 1st spot only sealed in the 2nd last week of the comp.
3. 5th, if not the finals, 5th is very possible.
4. I cannot see how anyone would think the Mariners will do worse than last year. Look at all the injuries, players out of form etc mentioned in previous posts. With Owens and Petrovski their attack will be a lot better.
- Posted by: tintin1989 on March 31, 2007 9:57 PM
Finally last piece of the jigsaw Football NSW. On Peter Turnbull everytime I heard him talk on radio he sounded very passionate about SFC and football he obviously saw his future elsewhere and would be good for new Sydney team as he was there from the start for SFC it's a worry for SFC that there are not too many football people left at boardroom level
- Posted by: fcstan on April 1, 2007 12:14 AM
Certainly Funky, now just remind me where I have made an error about central coast geography?
I have 12 or 13 major clients on the coast from Ettalong to Wyong, unfortunately I am up there a fair bit and I have acquired quite a decent knowledge of the area.
I believe the statement was made once about my assertion that most teenage girls on the coast were either pregnant or already mothers, this was countered by someone saying Toukley does not represent the whole central coast.....
...I stand by my earlier assertion.
- Posted by: Brickowski on April 1, 2007 2:16 AM
thanks for that lol that were all da illegal crackers come from?
where u get them? i am a crazy one too i haven't handled a cracker since 9 i think
Posted by: Eddie at March 31, 2007 11:49 AM
In Europe they have those little tax haven states with their own laws.In Australia we have the ACT where you can buy crackers over the counter.However, if your in Sydney,story goes you can also get them in Cabbra.
- Posted by: EJ on April 1, 2007 8:09 AM
Good game by Liverpool last night,its good value when we get a premier league game broadcast at 9.30pm,more of it FOX,even if I was working on the computer Crouch kept me looking up at the football.
- Posted by: EJ on April 1, 2007 8:24 AM
Australians in action in England last night included:
- Neill, Schwarzer and Viduka all on the park as West Ham claimed a priceless 2-0 win over Middlesbrough.
- Richard Garcia scored for Colchester United in their 3-0 win over Norwich.
In other news, the most amazing result of the day was Wolves' 6-0 win at Southampton.
In League One, Huddersfield's 2-2 draw with Port Vale saw Mark Hudson- who had fallen out with the now-departed Peter Jackson- start for the first time in a while.
In League Two, Richard Money's Walsall side managed a 3-2 win over Accrington Stanley. Dean Keates scored another penalty to further his personal best goal tally for a season. They are now 2nd, but still no sign of Allan Picken (ex-Jets) featuring...
- Posted by: David V. on April 1, 2007 10:36 AM
Interseting to see the amount of people already discounting Melbourne Victory defending its crown and even making the final four.The lost of Fred is going to make it tough but in saying that Melb have signed some very good players so we have to wait and see if its going to make any different to the final outcome. But you got love this new A league and can't wait to what series 3 has got in stall for us.My prediction still stands Melb to successfully defend its crown.
- Posted by: Mick on April 1, 2007 11:16 AM
Posted by: Ben Willing at March 31, 2007 2:29 PM
Good to hear!
- Posted by: Laszlo Fc on April 1, 2007 11:17 AM
Posted by: tintin1989 at March 31, 2007 9:57 PM
Please explain why you think Adelaide will be last next year?? They seemed to have improved their playing squad from last year - yet you are predicting a drop from 2nd to last?
With the AU coaching job application period closed, a new coach maybe appointed soon. Apparently, the great Walker Zenga has shown interest.
- Posted by: cheech on April 1, 2007 12:08 PM
Central Coast is pretty easy to find... its the slum off the freeway as the song goes.
Or, of course, you can just look for what the Central Coast is best know for... single teenage mothers. Kids with prams with kids
CCM will be lucky to make the semis... i reckon Perth will sign some quality players withthis new money that they have..could be a challenger
- Posted by: sampsonobrian on April 1, 2007 12:53 PM
jimboinho at April 1, 2007 10:55 AM
Thanks for the info re Renato Colusso ... I'd remembered his name as something like Caruso but had never had any luck on my searches. Not important but just a strong a childhood memory so thanks for filling in the blanks. Hadn't realised he went on to play for Australia. As I mentioned in one of my posts, I was in the same Psych tutorial at Uni with Berti ... which I'm sure I would have done better in if I hadn't been playing indoor immediately before.
Re Colusso and Mariani, did they end going to Brazil and train there? Have they ever discussed it?Could be good subject matter for some kind of documentary or extended story on SBS/TWG at least...?
Three footballaroos, that's pretty good. I was in the same year/class as one footballaroo, and in the same team till U15s as two ... I think yours trumps mine.
Thanks for the insider info on Capon too - good to hear that he is passionate about his football. As someone who regularly steps inside an art gallery it isn't such a stretch for me to believe the two can co-exist. Football when played properly is art anyway! Cheers.
- Posted by: Vicentin on April 1, 2007 7:15 PM
# Posted by: EJ at April 1, 2007 8:09 AM
sick, i will plan a trip to act.. or i can get my mate to get them, they got comets and stuff there too?
we lost 0-3, with the old coach in charge, I am going to take over the training from this Wednesday, and I already have a list of things to improve, which is pretty much all across the park exp for fitness.
ball control is a big issue, they cant seem to handle balls in the air, a few hurried clearnances where passing it backwards woulda been a much better choice, they can't keep possession as well,
they were playing a back 4, but I only really see one FB staying on our half, the rest of them all pushed up and formed a line with midfield, so heaps of formation work to go through as well.
and lastly, I have to improve the defence, some zone positioning and defence should do the trick. at the moment they getting pulled everywhere with man on man defending sorry, girl on girl.
anyone got any tips for all that in a training session thats going to last 2 hours?
- Posted by: Eddie on April 1, 2007 7:25 PM
Apologies to all for use of the word w**ball. It was and I guess most of you missed it, a reply post directed at Jed petersen after he referred to AFl as tardball, as in retard ball. Just as offensive I think, as a wog or retard aren't exactly civilised way to describe any popular pursuit.
Anyways it was a rash statement and I should not have lowered myself to Jed's mediocrity.
- Posted by: Redb on April 1, 2007 7:47 PM
I think you were mucking around in class a bit too much with your Socceroo mates when you went to school, and you weren't paying attention to the teacher!
It's absolutely impossible that the NRL would out rate the AFL in Victoria, considering that the vast majority of the population still don't even know that it exists. The NRL guy may have been saying that if you add up the ratings for all of Qld, NSW and Vict, that the NRL comes out on top for the total of all three states (that's possible, but I don't really know to be honest).
I did a quick scout around and couldn't find anything except this table of the top 5 rating shows in all of Australia in 2005:
Rank Program Network Audience
1 AFL: Grand Final - Sydney vs West Coast Ten 3,386
2 AFL: Grand Final Wrap Up Ten 2,981
3 AFL: Grand Final Pre Match Ten 2,593
4 NRL: Rugby League Grand Final Nine 2,563
5 The 2005 Melbourne Cup Carnival Seven 2,506
(incidentally the Aust v Uruguay game got 2.48 mill.)
- Posted by: pippinu on April 1, 2007 7:57 PM
Cheech: "Please explain why you think Adelaide will be last next year?? They seemed to have improved their playing squad from last year - yet you are predicting a drop from 2nd to last?"
This is what I actually said: "I have already said what I hope will happen this year." HOPE is the key word. I said what I hope, eg, QLD 1st so the big 3 cities have had success and champions league, Perth 5th (or better) so their crowds get up a bit, Wellington not last, so the Knights fiasco doesn't repeat. So I hope Adelaide comes last mainly because I come from Sydney so I despise them (in a friendly way!) and they have had too much success recently, but I think that they will actually get maybe 4th?
"i reckon Perth will sign some quality players withthis new money that they have..could be a challenger" talking about Perth signing some new players:
There is a very entertaining April Fools day joke that lots of people fell for on the Glory Boys forum under the topic about Topor-Stanley moving there (hey yeah, has anyone mentioned that yet?). Have a look, it was really well done.
"rugby league out rated AFL on the TV in all the Easten states, that's right, even in Victoria.
Bit hard to believe, but he maintained the avge NRL television audience was bigger than the avge AFL TV audience, including Foxtel.
Posted by: jimboinho at April 1, 2007 1:22 PM"
He's probably right,the key word is AVERAGE, not total. When the lowish audiences for non Sydney/Brisbane/Finals games in NSW and QLD are averaged with the massive numbers for VIC, it would drop quite a bit.
With NRL, there is only one weak state, VIC, so the average is probably higher.
BTW, my "security code" this time was 999999, fancy that! Is something wrong Ben?
Ben Willing: Whaddayamean?
- Posted by: tintin1989 on April 1, 2007 9:18 PM
Where's my reply to funky from late last night/this morning?
Ben Willing: I just rescued it from the junk. It should be up there now.
- Posted by: Brickowski on April 1, 2007 10:09 PM
Posted by: funkymarinette at April 1, 2007 7:41 AM
It's quite simple really, most of the rest of the league has been moving forward with player acquisitions, style and formation changes to produce better football and upgrades in coaching style and personell. Gosford Single Mothers Group, on the other hand, have stagnated, they have a solid group of hardworking players without much flair or talent, the move for Sasho was predictable but, I don;t think will bear much fruit as he needs an active and quick mudfield to work with.
For these reasons and these reasons only, I predict that your team will fight it out for 8th. I could be wrong, I never claimed to be a psychic or a soothsayer, just answering young Timmy's question.
Regarding the homeowrk, see my answer at 2:16 AM.
- Posted by: Brickowski on April 1, 2007 11:22 PM
Ben Willing: Whaddayamean?
You know, the code thing you have to enter at the bottom of each post on this site for it to work, eg, this time it is 210269, it isn't noramlly a number like 999999.
Or maybe you don't know cause you have some special login or something, I don't know, don't worry if you can't understand what I'm saying.
Back to football.
Craig Moore got injured yet again and there are hints he may be leaving Newcastle at the end of the year and possibly coming back to the A-League. The calm of Moore to balance the fire of Tiatto. I'm scared already.
- Posted by: tintin1989 on April 1, 2007 11:26 PM
Posted by: jimboinho at April 1, 2007 1:22 PM
"Other surprising thing is that I heard a pro NRL commentator say on the Footy Show this morning that rugby league out rated AFL on the TV in all the Easten states, that's right, even in Victoria.
Bit hard to believe, but he maintained the avge NRL television audience was bigger than the avge AFL TV audience, including Foxtel."
I think the nrl guy is clutching at straws. Firstly its Ch 9 and they are going to pump up nrl against afl when its on another tv station. then there is the obvious fact that the afl season only started this weekend and was only half way through. I can see nrl outrating in qld and nsw, but Vic, no way in the world, would have to be a statistical freak and will average out very quickly. If most floggers think the Swans are barely on the radar in Sydney (despite 62,000 at the game on sat night) , then the Storm are about a third of that support in Melb. All nrl games but Storm games are televised around midnight, hardly prime time. Foxtel has always been a NSW rugby league thing, its not big in Vic, which is why they dropped the fox footy channel.
But lets's talk crowd, the nrl announced it had a record attendance of 180,000 for its first round. First round of AFL with same number of games, was 364,000 (second best of all time, best was 367,000), thats an average crowd of 45,500!
- Posted by: Redb on April 2, 2007 7:29 AM
Just one more stat to put things in perspective and I'll keep it brief here at the flog, but 102,472 (ave 51,236) attended the two AFL games in Melb yesterday against the Melb storm's crowd of 12,874.
- Posted by: Redb on April 2, 2007 7:41 AM
Posted by: Redb at April 1, 2007 7:47 PM
Jed sucked in everybody -
Jed - the Blackhole of the flog...
Posted by: tintin1989 at April 1, 2007 9:18 PM
Ave TV audience also a function of the following:
AFL fixtures are set Oct year before, unlike NRL - so AFL more of a lottery about having the 'biggest' game on in 'prime time' - Friday nights etc - even last year they never scheduled Storm either, despite being top team - they stuck with the 'high interest' Syd teams. Even as the season progressed. AFL now tries to work on a bit of a function of success in the previous year allows access to Friday nights.
Traditionally the Foxtel figures factor down for the AFL by having the least appealling games. I gather their formula should be a bit different this year. See how it pans out, but it's still a case that the AFL figures very importantly need to include Adelaide and Perth - so to exclude them and only point out Eastern seaboard is a micro distortion of the total figures to allow the NRL folk to claim an apparent positive somewhere.
Don't forget the massive figures for SA and WA (for the appropriate games!!).
Posted by: jimboinho at April 1, 2007 1:22 PM
'even in Victoria'??? What, 1.30 am at on Sunday morning?
If it ain't on, then we can't NOT watch it!!
Swannees 62K attendance doubled the NRL Sat attendance total for 2 games - so they go grasping at straws. Even SFC would've beaten both those NRL crowds.
- Posted by: Michael C on April 2, 2007 8:39 AM
I should have said Southampton's 6-0 win at Wolves, not the other way around. Sincere apologies :o
Everton away to Aston Villa tonight, an away win for us would take us back into the top six.
- Posted by: David V. on April 2, 2007 8:46 AM
Great news for you SFC supporters who want an over 40 at FC.
Glory have signed Nikolia Topor-Stanley.
Now SFC can sign the retiree you guys always wanted.
- Posted by: EJ on April 2, 2007 9:40 AM
jimboinho at April 1, 2007 11:26 PM
Hey thanks again for filling in the blanks jimboinho! Really appreciated. I was about nine years old when they played that Santos game so the details have always been sketchy, but I'd thought they were going over not only for a trial but for an extended stay to train at Santos' academy (or similiar). By the way you tell it, it doesn't sound like they were there for very long at all. Fascinating (to me) regardless.
I too reckon there's a few stories in there. Everyone reads the FLOG so SBS researchers will be on to it as I write ... ok, just in case I'll send them an e-mail with this as a story suggestion.
PS Vicenza back to winning ways in Serie B ... perhaps dreaming of a late run and return to Serie A isn't so ridiculous after all. Another dud weekend for the Sicilian's Pippu! Palermo's 0-0 the best result.
- Posted by: Vicentin on April 2, 2007 9:42 AM
All this talk about AFL/NRL crowds,I could help with the answers but I don,t want to annoy Al Bundy.
Bugger him.He can go back to Scotland.
You all seem to miss when talking crowds that out of the top 10 shows on pay TV last year,7 were NRL.
In mentioning A-league crowds I always bat for Sydney that they aren't Melbourne,you can't expect big crowds always.People in Sydney will ask where your going to watch the big game,what pub?If you say your actually going to the game they think your crazy.I feel its the opposite in Melbourne.
- Posted by: EJ on April 2, 2007 9:51 AM
thanks for the explanation - I too was taken aback by your reference to wogball, although I had half guessed there was some sort of point that you were trying to make to Jed, but I, like pretty much everyone else, had missed it.
I think the discussion on crowds, etc. has been well and truly covered, so I won't add my 2 cents worth (note for Timmy: that used to be a big copper coin that would buy you four lollies when I was in prep).
Accounting for the fact that the A-League has half the teams and half the games per round, I have always maintained that a good achievable benchmark for the medium term is to average half the crowds of the AFL, which would get it around the NRL level, i.e. say 90,000 per round, or 22,500 per game.
That's the standard that the A-League needs to aim for over the next few years (which is quite achievable on current trends). The Vics alone will be in a position to contribute over one third of what is required by all 8 clubs.
- Posted by: pippinu on April 2, 2007 10:05 AM
Palermo continues to lose its trip on a Championship league spot (drawing away 0-0 to Torino), and Catania continue to look like a team that doesnt' belong in the Serie A (Messina started looking like one a long time ago).
Some results from the Serie A:
ROME, April 1 Reuters:
Udinese 2 Antonio Di Natale (58pen), Vincenzo Iaquinta (90+2)
Lazio 4 Guglielmo Stendardo (18), Stefano Mauri (50), Valon Behrami (51), Tommaso Rocchi (60pen)
Halftime: 0-1; Attendance: 15,000
- - -
Atalanta Bergamo 2 Simone Loria (39), Cristiano Doni (65pen)
Fiorentina 2 Reginaldo Ferreira (27), Giampaolo Pazzini
Halftime: 1-2; Attendance: 13,000
- - -
Cagliari 2 Davide Biondini (12), Alessandro Budel (24)
Messina 0
Halftime: 2-0; Attendance: 8,000
- - -
Chievo Verona 1 Matteo Brighi (34)
Sampdoria 1 Fabio Quagliarella (27)
Halftime: 1-1; Attendance: 5,000
- - -
Empoli 4 Nicola Pozzi (44,74), Luca Saudati (53pen,71)
Ascoli 1 Andrea Soncin (50)
Halftime: 1-0; Attendance: 4,000
- - -
Inter Milan 2 Maxwell (56), Hernan Crespo (70)
Parma 0
Halftime: 0-0; Attendance: 40,000
- - -
Livorno 4 Cristiano Lucarelli (20,83pen,90+2), Stefano Fiore (45)
Catania 1 Andrea Sottil (14)
Halftime: 2-1; Attendance: 5,000
Incredibly, Empoli (Vinnie's old team), who got an attendance of only 4,000 at its shellacking of Ascoli, is in 5th spot.
As Vicentin once mentioned, Palermo is clearly missing its Brazilian striker Amauri - things have gone downhill ever since they lost him through injury.
- Posted by: pippinu on April 2, 2007 10:14 AM
'Just on the battle of the codes - very surprised at the lack of ads for the AFL in Sydney this week, given the season kick off.
The only one pushing it really was Ch 10, who televised the Swans game.
Sydney's still a rugby league town.
Other surprising thing is that I heard a pro NRL commentator say on the Footy Show this morning that rugby league out rated AFL on the TV in all the Easten states, that's right, even in Victoria.
Bit hard to believe, but he maintained the avge NRL television audience was bigger than the avge AFL TV audience, including Foxtel.'
Maaate...surely you don't get sucked in to the relentless
'league is ALWAYS the winner' propoganda the NRL and itsa media cartel spinmeisters always pump re selective stats to somehow 'prove' how popular/big/successful league is..
- how does so-called 'National' NRL rate nationally? oh..they don't play league in Adelaide/perth so somehow they doesn't count
-league was happy to trumpet its round 1 crowds on the front page.. not a peep about the 33% drop in round 2
-( or 7% drop of NRL last year )
- how about only 11k turning out at SFS for the Woosters v Manly on a geourgous sunny day with FTA promotion ( and a very questionable "11k" NRL crowd SFS again..more like 7 for those who were there)
- last year: the total silence over the embarrassing half-filled aussie stadium for leagues trumpeted 'tri-nations' world final
- but hey..the Rabbitohs are winning and thats 'good for league' blah blah..
btw ...are the poor performing Dragons and roosters still hogging the SFS on Anzac day while Sydney FC has been brushed to parra stadium for its ACL match?
maybe demand a swap ??
- Posted by: steven eelis on April 2, 2007 10:22 AM
MVFC had until the end of march to sign on as tenant at new rectangular stadium in melbourne, any info ben?
Speaking of stadia, the G is virtually sold out for Argentina game, basically scattered seats and $100 plus tickets left.
Ben Willing: Rumour has it that MV will turn their back on the rectangular stadium deal, and will sign with the Telstra Dome. The club might just be playing hardball, so we'll need to wait for some official announcement.
- Posted by: Fred on April 2, 2007 10:28 AM
Perth Just signed Topor Stanley and we still haven't offered Culina the job full time-
Is Sydneys board insane? Whay are they sacking each other and not securing vital signatures??? After letting both Ceccoli (How'd that flank look without him against Urawa!) and Petrovski (love or hate him our top goal scorer for two seasons speaks for itself).
Topor Stanley was improving with every game and unless Sydney can sign a better player with more potential...
Will the board ever stop being it's own worst enemy?
- Posted by: LoS on April 2, 2007 10:29 AM
Re the Inter V Parma game, Maxwell's goal is beauty (actually they both were).
Now this is a fullback - Brazilian style of course. This youtube vid is very compressed (there might be a better longer version but I'm at work...) but you should get the idea - damn fine footwork and composure for a fullback once he gets in the area! He starts the move as well.
- Posted by: Vicentin on April 2, 2007 10:54 AM
Posted by: EJ at April 2, 2007 9:51 AM
The thing about watching from a pub - very, very true. ONly hard up nags punters go to the pub. Since Crown Casino came along, sports bars became more popular - but in the main, people still prefer to go to the game (better place for the kids).
Thinking about the comment about ads and 'still a Rugby league town'.
Surely, only Soccer can really fight for Sydney. The AFL is niche - a reasonable niche. In the short term it'll be the A-League who get's a 2nd team plus min 2 other NSW sides if not 3 if 'Gong join up. That'll be full scale fight for Syd and NSW between A-League and NRL.
Advertising - with no ads and they got 62K. That'll do I guess. SFC is only 2 yrs old, Swans are 25 years in town. SFC was having an average year, Swans are riding a wave. So, certainly, where were all the ads for SFC last season?
But - ENUFF, ENUFF of the cross code discussion - - - get back to Football only you ratbags....
as per the many, many postings of Al Bundy, the most regular of football fans on the flog whose delightful insights have driven countless threads discussing transfer, formations, classic goals, classic games and classic discussion.......
- Posted by: Michael C on April 2, 2007 11:19 AM
I too was surprised to hear that Torpor-Stanley had gone to Perth. For someone who was supposedly a fringe player at SFC - he had a pretty good season! I thought he would be a cert to resign (and after seeing his goal for the Olyroos...)
Speaking of goals for the Olyroos, Sarkies showed again that he is all class - what's his story at the moment? I'm still holding out that small glimmer of hope that he might stay with the Vics.
Other than that , I didn't get to see much of TWG yesterday. You know how it is, you-know-what season opener, my bullies were on TV - and the rest of the family went out for the day to leave me to it while I ranted and raved and paced around the house.
don't worry about Bricks - you have to fight fire with fire - his shoulders are broad, his head is as hard as a brick, and he can take anything you can throw at him. His nick name "Bricks" gives you plenty to start with.
If you want help, I (and a few other musos on this blog) can help you create a chant around the 40 minute long Jethro Tull classic.
- Posted by: pippinu on April 2, 2007 11:43 AM
You bring up a good point regarding crowds, we have to define what succesful means when it comes to crowds and half the AFL in the mid term is a good target.
The A-league has to try and work itself into the 'second favourite' of the football codes in each relevant state. Second to AFL in its hearland and Second to NRL in its heartland.
- Posted by: Fred on April 2, 2007 12:01 PM
Ah yes the slum on the freeway line!
At the v1 GF we had a delightful specimen getting in our face & singing that one, which made us laugh. He looked like he couldn't spell slum OR freeway, so we forgave him.
As we forgive you Brick, (except the fashion thing)& wish Syderney (& AU)luck in the ACL.
Our Karma will run over your Dogma, to borrow someone's witty riposte.
- Posted by: TimmysDad on April 2, 2007 12:47 PM
Michael C
I would like to retract the remark made to you about "wasting our time". I understand the point you where making and the manner in which you used all codes as an example.
I just get frustrated that a blog for Football is continually taken over with mention and comparisions to ARL, NRL and RU.
We do not need other codes to justify our own.
The potential is there as the A-League and the recent world cup has shown.
- Posted by: AL BUNDY on April 2, 2007 1:39 PM
Posted by: pippinu at April 2, 2007 11:43 AM
Sorry to dash any hope - but if you read a bit further up - Sarkis has already signed a contract with AU. Therefore, there is NO hope he will stay in Victory.
- Posted by: cheech on April 2, 2007 1:42 PM
Michael C
I forgot to mention why I retact my comment "wasting our time".
I have chosen to ignore you. I have this found this easy to do.
To the other Football fans.
Ive heard the latest that Torpo-Stanley has been sold to the Glory. SFC loss as far as Im concerned . He was going from strength to strength for SFC in the ACL games. Although he was a little off the pace (Second half of the Shangi game) in the first game of the ACL. But did well in the Uruwa game and from what I have seen in the Olyroos highlights.
As a SFC fan I hear/read other clubs in the A-League buying well and nothing of SFC. Are they in the market?
- Posted by: AL BUNDY on April 2, 2007 2:10 PM
right you are - I missed that morsel of info - bloody hell, everyone kept that pretty quiet!
With all these signings by AU, I reckon your barefooted organic vegie growers are paying for their boots and/or giving them cash only jobs at the markets to get under the cap! Only in Adelaide!
- Posted by: pippinu on April 2, 2007 2:17 PM
From Oct '06 to Feb '07 the A-League had a higher television audience and more people attended games than the NRL, Super 14s and AFL combined.
Posted by: jimboinho at April 2, 2007 10:22 AM
I love this statement - and this is the wonderful reality in Australia - there's something for everybody.
Posted by: AL BUNDY at April 2, 2007 1:39 PM
I was so so close to not 'sharing' that bit of info, however, I'd hope that the A-League might somehow push some co-ordinated programs targeting perhaps aboriginals, (they do don't they for 'refugees'??) - as the reports today listing Australia at the bottom of a particular table regarding aboriginal health means that anything that raises the profile of and provides pathways for young aboriginals must be seen as a good thing amongst the wider community.
I'm still waiting to see aboriginal girls coming to the fore in netball or basketball for Australia??? Certainly not many aboriginal boys in top level cricket circles.
Posted by: jimboinho at April 2, 2007 11:02 AM
I'm only making one last comment about this - when I remembered the Storm was playing on the Sunday!!!
- based on only the Fri and Sat games he therefore was managing to avoid Storm vs Warriors - gee, did that rob him of huge numbers there?
Missing from the AFL that werer on the Sunday were 3 of the Victorian big 4 clubs - Carl, Ess and Rich. The Sat included 2 totally non-Vic matches plus Coll vs Roos (Roos being lowest supported club).
To that point in time - yeah, I'd dare say AFL viewer figures might be down a bit by comparison averaged across Bris, Syd and Melb.
Personally, Sunday arvo - the suns out then I'm in the backyard with the footy on the radio!!
And just what were the NRL figures in Tasmania???????
- Posted by: Michael C on April 2, 2007 2:24 PM
As a SFC fan I hear/read other clubs in the A-League buying well and nothing of SFC. Are they in the market?
Posted by: AL BUNDY at April 2, 2007 2:10 PM
The're looking for a new coach to replace Culina,then they expect to start winning.
I'm sick of supporting a badly run club,BRING ON THE GONG!
- Posted by: EJ on April 2, 2007 2:48 PM
At the risk of being jumped on from above, I would like to share a couple of quotes describing my team's victory yesterday, which I believe are equally transferable to describing the very best in the world game:
1. There's a neat trick you see the really good sides perform. It's the ability to simultaneously have numbers at almost every contest, yet almost seem to have a player or three, free and peeling off further afield.
Who does that remind you of? It reminds me of Brazil. Often people mistakenly think that Brazil's great weakness is its defence (which ignores the capability of their back 4 the past 15 years or so). But further to that, Brazil rapidly switch from attacking mode to defensive mode right across the park in a split second. They are the masters at hassling ball carriers, no matter where they are on the field. Not only does Brazil use the ball cleanly, they are the best at dispossessing cleanly - this is certainly something the Socceroos could learn as they seek to improve in the world rankings. This quality is a combination of tactical nous, awareness, skill and fitness.
2. The *** seem to seek risks rather than recoil, robotically, from them. They can run quicker than any other side but...they think quickly too.
Alas, there is very little reward for risk takers in the modern form of the world game and recent history tells us that fortune does not favour the brave (one need look no further than the top 4 of the last WC and Greece being the current Euro champion, funnily enough, Germany was perhaps the most adventurous of the top 4 at the last WC - now that's saying something!).
But there is definitely a place for that last point - quick thinking. It's one thing to vary the tempo of a game to suit yourself and the position at which the game is at, it's quite another to grasp that window of opportunity that is open for perhaps one second, requiring 2 or 3 players to be on the same wavelength at that very instant. That's when things can really happen: I instance some of the goals that SFC have manufactured in the first two games of the ACL and even the first Olyroo against Saudi Arabia - all examples of good technique and execution, but equally examples of ultra quick thinking.
As I once said, at its barest, all ball games can be reduced to contests of decision making.
- Posted by: pippinu on April 2, 2007 2:48 PM
Mystery solved by Jimboinho
"Renato Colusso" It was still on my mine too, but I couldn't crack it.
Those Italian league attendances are low. Any theories on that apart from the trouble they had a little while ago. Maybe they are at home reading the SMH Flog, and don't no how to post one.
I watched two games of Friday night football (NRL) over the weekend; fairly entertaining stuff which ended up in draws; so we had to go to a golden point and it took away the feeling I was watching a premiership match.
So maybe that could be the end of the NRL season for me as I think the Grand Final was played at the beginning of the season and not at the end.
I watched the Nth Melb chockers go down to the Magpies and I think we need a rule change in the AFL.
What I propose, is to enlist old football (soccer) players to sit on the bench; say someone around the other side of sixty yrs old who lives on the Gold Coast to come on to take vital kicks, 9 metres out and who can kick both feet, bend the ball around the marker, or just put it over his head for a six pointer, no worries.
My old friend Bazza Cassidy (ABC Offsiders) still on the drugs theme but now has also included thorpey and still ignores the ACL and no Ben Buckley to interview.
Cassidy's Daughter has now weighed in with comment that the Magpies are definitely not on performance enhancing drugs. So the stewards should now look for fowl play or tranquilliser usage of Nth Melb players.
Finally TWG had some very interesting segments as usual to watch.
There has been a book published about the history on Australian Soccer. I shall save my pennies and buy it soon.
- Posted by: Koala Bear on April 2, 2007 3:07 PM
Posted by: jimboinho at April 2, 2007 3:31 PM
ha ha - good call Jimbo! It certainly sounds par for course!
- Posted by: pippinu on April 2, 2007 3:40 PM
And just what were the NRL figures in Tasmania???????
Posted by: Michael C at April 2, 2007 2:24 PM
I am not quite sure but I think they were higher in Sheffield.
- Posted by: Koala Bear on April 2, 2007 3:41 PM
Just waiting for him to get out of a Swiss hospital, where he is being treated for alcoholic poisining and obesity.
Posted by: jimboinho at April 2, 2007 3:31 PM
It's not Bottalico is it? Or Len Marsdon?
- Posted by: Koala Bear on April 2, 2007 3:48 PM
Posted by: funkymarinette at April 2, 2007 9:57 AM
People in glass house's.
It goes back 25 years.People on the Central Coast would call people from Sydney "Parra's" & form groups that would go around to beat up smaller groups of Parra's,mainly around The Enrtance.Of all the comments I think it was Bricks was the classic,Mt Druitt with sea gulls.
I had close ties with the Coast,& still have a third share in Nana's house at Killarney Vale,& if I knew they were going to last I could have even supported them until the Gong team gets going.
You'll have to ask one of your fathers why they started this name calling,which now spreads to the football stand.
For you interstate people you want to go & visit The Entrance,they have a KFC,& it's a mad hang out.
- Posted by: EJ on April 2, 2007 3:54 PM
pippinu at April 2, 2007 2:48 PM
I was having a "conversation" on another blog with a guy Rubens (who I think has been on here once - hope you're cool about me re-posting some of it here, I think it is excellent) about the way Brasil play, about how Sydney's fitness dies in the second half & about coaching kids' teams etc. I've re-posted some of his observations about the way Brasil plays here - I think it is a very descriptive and accurate representation of many of their attacks.
When those teams are on song, they play a game that is almost at walking pace for about 80% of the time when in possession. The other 20% is the time when they explode into action with quick sprints, fast ball movement and raids in numbers.
They do this spasmodically throughout the game and it usually follows a sudden raise in the level of pressure applied in defence to their opponents. They jockey the ball for long periods in defence, only attempting to stop their opponents 30 metres out. Suddenly though they act like pack hunting dogs. They target a player and drive the pass to him by closing on others. As soon as he gets the ball, usually near a touch line they pounce. Three sometimes four players will surround the target.
If the ball is won, they then go into overdrive. Three or four players will race towards the box from the midfield and wing positions.
This scares the beejeesus out of defences and makes them wary and uncertain as to when it will happen again. Its the mental edge Brazil has over most opponents. As gifted as they are, if you look closely at their game, 98% of it is as simple as 1 2 3. One touch to control, two = pass, 3 = move.
I know nothing (meaningful) about AFL but I can see how the same qualities can be replicated in other codes.
Re Sydney and left backs - isn't Nick (the Greek) Tsattsalios supposed to be pretty good? A bit green I gather but may well be up to speed come V3. Any thoughts Ben? Topor might turn into a decent player, but my observations of him are that he is excellent in the air, but is kinda slow, has difficulty changing direction quickly and either slices or overhits 60% of anything on his left-foot. I think he popular with female fans too... I genuinely wish him the best and hope he continues improving but I'll be very surprised if he is ever a "great" player.
- Posted by: Vicentin on April 2, 2007 3:56 PM
Posted by: jimboinho at April 2, 2007 11:02 AM
"You guys weren't paying attention. He said avge television audience east coast states, not attendances at games.
His figures were I think - attendance Sydney Swans 62k, television audience 118k.
Attendance Melb storm 14k, television audience 1,400k."
sorry Jimbo, but theres no way in the world those numbers are correct. Attendances at games are a very good indicator of real support.
re Melb rectangular stadium for the Victory. I'm not surprised they might be staying with the Dome. But theres a few more years to go before its actually built and both parties may choose to get back in bed together if it suits anyway.
- Posted by: Redb on April 2, 2007 4:12 PM
Mystery solved by Jimboinho
"Renato Colusso" It was still on my mine too, but I couldn't crack it.
Those Italian league attendances are low. Any theories on that apart from the trouble they had a little while ago. Maybe they are at home reading the SMH Flog, and don't no how to post one.
I watched two games of Friday night football (NRL) over the weekend; fairly entertaining stuff which ended up in draws; so we had to go to a golden point and it took away the feeling I was watching a premiership match.
So maybe that could be the end of the NRL season for me as I think the Grand Final was played at the beginning of the season and not at the end.
I watched the Nth Melb chockers go down to the Magpies and I think we need a rule change in the AFL.
What I propose is to enlist old football (soccer) players to sit on the bench; say someone around the other side of sixty yrs old who live on the Gold Coast to come on to take vital kicks, 9 metres out and who can kick both feet, bend the ball around the marker or just put it over his head for a six pointer, no worries.
My old friend Bazza Cassidy (ABC Offsiders) still on the drugs theme but now has also included thorpey and still ignores the ACL and no Ben Buckley to interview.
Cassidy's Daughter has now weighed in with comment that the Magpies are definitely not on performance enhancing drugs. So the stewards should look for fowl play or tranquilliser usage on Nth Melb players.
Finally TWG had some very interesting segments as usual to watch. There has been a book published about the history on Australian Soccer. I shall save my pennies and buy it.
- Posted by: Koala Bear on April 2, 2007 4:25 PM
Still on the drug theme.
It was good seeing a doctor on the telly saying "what do you mean cocaine & speed aren't performance enhancing type drugs"?
I remember Robin Williams getting interviewed & saying when he was on coke he was unstopable,full of confidence,not to mention it's a very addictive drug,it is a performance enhancing drug.
What do I tell my kids when they say we're going to a party,will they have all the party drugs on the tables with the white paper table cloths next to the lollies?
- Posted by: EJ on April 2, 2007 5:01 PM
Ben Willing: FYI - A new Flog thread has just been started.
Back to The Flog index.
- Posted by: Ben Willing on April 2, 2007 5:04 PM
Posted by: Koala Bear at April 2, 2007 4:25 PM
(please, nobody else need read this - I am responding very specifically to KB)
Thanx KB, thanx for bringing that up the one place I should've been (half) safe.
Certainly though, poor Shagger is great from further out, but doesn't have an alternate technique for close shots - however - it points out my main gripe about games that allow for the specialist to be called in to take said close shot on goal!!
Hmmm, also illustrates how an apparent 'gimme' really just sets a fellow up for embarrasment.
Anyway - the tally of behinds showed how wasteful they had been - where as if it were only goals vs goals, then a casual glance at the score would only tell a margin of the story.
So, alas, even that element of the game just further rubs in to us that it was a choking performance (however, with 4 debutants on show, and a lot of young players in key roles - it was at least something to build on - - - that's what I'm hoping at least!!).
If I had of had foxtel it would've been a magic night on Sat to finish watching the Syd v WCE game, then over to Liverpool v Gunners then ..... the cricket!! and sit through hours of waiting for the groundsmen to get off their whatevers, and get something working to mop up the water.......gotta be a huge plus for A-League in summer - you can pay your dollars no matter the weather and not have to fear for sitting through hours of watching the weathter (only).
- Posted by: Michael C on April 2, 2007 5:06 PM
Thanks for that post (and thank you to Rubens!) - that's precisely what I was picturing as I was writing my post although Rubens has put it far more eloquently than I was able, and it is also precisely why many often underestimate the defensive qualities of the Brazilians - they don't just do it round their own box like the Italians - they can do it almost anywhere!
It's also good that you mention the psychological edge - I think that's critical to their success. It's not just about doing party tricks and great technique - there are a whole range of qualities they possess that sets them apart (although the occasional party trick never goes astray!).
I really think it is one area that the Socceroos could improve on - although it's probably something that can't simply be taught over the odd training session whenever the full squad is able to get together (which is quite rare).
- Posted by: pippinu on April 2, 2007 5:08 PM
From Oct '06 to Feb '07 the A-League had a higher television audience and more people attended games than the NRL, Super 14s and AFL combined.
Posted by: jimboinho at April 2, 2007 10:22 AM
Hahahahaha! Nice work! That's really funny. You really can get the statistics to say anything.
- Posted by: tintin1989 on April 2, 2007 5:39 PM
Gary Cole from MVFC on SEN on the way home.
Talking about the loss of Sarkies - and how he'd had a larger role in season 1, but less so season 2 with the obvious issue of when he was not playing being that he was NOT playing.
Cole stated that that issue of no 2nd tier was number 2 of key issues.
Number 1 still being to have 8 viable clubs.
When does the season 2 financial reporting season occur?
Pippinu - inspired a little by your points:
I think that the A-League should be able to do some 'unique' things specific to the 'limitations' of the structures in place.
Because if there is no 2nd tier, and the season is only 21 rounds - then there needs to be greater scope for giving guys match time.
Especially Season 3 with 23 man squads.
I reckon introduce a limited 'interchange' - thus allowing players to not just get 5 token mins at the end, but to maybe get 10 mins in the 1st half, another 10 in the 2nd, and then return to the 'A' structure at the death.
This would also allow a higher intensity game for more of the 90 mins - which would be beneficial from the points that Pippinu talks of about quick decision making etc.
Obviously the trade off is in endurance - but that's just fitness, decision making under pressure can't be achieved on the training track nearly as easily.
Actually, the rotation of players may mean less 'time wasting' and more actual 'play time' and develop better high intensity endurance anyway.
(still curious about by what criteria FIFA 'stopped the clock' for the WC2006 actual time stats)
Just thoughts.
- Posted by: Michael C on April 2, 2007 9:09 PM
Michael C
If half your list can't play for months on end because there is no reserves or state league, then the interchange idea comes into its own. What's the bet that it's one of the ideas that Buckley would be floating as we speak (with intense opposition!).
I wonder whether that sort of thing is allowed within the existing rules. By that, I mean whether it's one of those things that leagues can play around with (as we already know, there are many areas in which leagues have great discretion).
Personally - I'd love to see something like it, even if it's limited - because it raises the stakes as to what's possible within 90 minutes of play and coaches have to be even more on their game than is the case currently.
- Posted by: pippinu on April 2, 2007 10:15 PM
Posted by: pippinu at April 2, 2007 10:15 PM
I'm curious now about this discretion that may be available.
As, I've oft wondered about the ability to really create an 'Australian' style of play.
Already being a summer comp means that a more flowing, skillful, 'passingful' game should be possible - I can see that while TB may have had best of intentions, perhaps he was still coaching as though he was coaching a winter sport in a city with only 6.75 hours of daylight.
How much of the possible discretion still has to be approved by FIFA?
I could imagine people saying that interchange would be too defeating by players less able to run out a 90 min game under regular rules.
Simple then, include extra time up front - make 'em play for 2hrs (but then 2 * 60 min halves are probably too long - anyway, I'll stop there!!).
The main point is, what degree of 'change' could be applied??
- Posted by: Michael C on April 2, 2007 10:37 PM
Posted by: Michael C at April 2, 2007 9:09 PM
Posted by: pippinu at April 2, 2007 10:15 PM
FIFA rules are FIFA rules. If they dont change it, FFA cant.
- Posted by: cheech on April 3, 2007 8:42 AM
Pippinu and Mr C,
I have always liked the idea of an interchange for all team sports, coming from a basketball background I can appreciate the tactic of giving a couple of your best players 5 minutes to rest midway through the last term, and then bringing them on to blast the opposition away at the death.
However, I think this is one of the things that leagues have no discretion over, otherwise it would probabluy have been a feature of the MLS long before now. If someone out there knows, please feel free to correct me, but I think this is one of the inviolable laws of FIFA.
I always thought the introduction of a third card was a good idea too, in specific conditions a player can be sent off, but can be replaced.
- Posted by: Brickowski on April 3, 2007 8:56 AM
I like your 3rd card idea as well.
Cheech and Michael C.
There are some things that leagues have discretion over, we've seen the Japanese league and the American league try different things, we know that FA is throwing some extreme ideas around, and presumably it is something they can control (but I don't know for sure).
Re the interchange - yes - it does sound like a rule set in concrete - but we have to be careful - some rules can be rock solid for international comps, and optional for domestic leagues - and we already know that friendlies can have different subbing rules - so I wouldn't dismiss it out of hand (but once again, I really don't know the ins and outs of what is and isn't inviolable).
- Posted by: pippinu on April 3, 2007 9:30 AM