Yay! My cousin Matt & girlfriend Suzie have arrived from Australia for their 3 week stay. It's so lovely to see Matt again after 4 years - to me he is like a best friend & brother rolled into one. Meeting Suzie for the first time was great - instantly likable and easy going so I know we'll get on just fine. They landed at Heathrow just after midday and managed to last until about 8:30 before retiring to bed. I'm sure they'll be fully refreshed after a good night's sleep. The next few weeks should be a lot of fun - I'm really looking forward to it. Tomorrow night, the rest of the family are coming round here for dinner so it'll be a house full, just how I like it!
(Posted 18 May 2007)
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Health update
Since my 'Ouchie' blog entry, I've had to take time off work - the pain in my back just isn't budging. Friday 4 May through to yesterday I stayed at home, then decided to go back just to 'test the water' and as a result of boredom. I lasted until 3pm and I was just in too much discomfort to struggle on. When I went to the docs last Thursday, they prescribed me with a muscle relaxant but all they did was make me feel queasy, dizzy and then knocked me out. The pain in my back was still there! I went back to the docs this morning to get certificates for the time I'd had off work - I will be claiming back the next two weeks which I have booked off as leave, as I clearly won't be able to enjoy it as I would normally. However, it's not all doom and gloom because my cousin Matt and his girlfriend Suzie will be arriving from Australia this Friday for a three weeks' stay and so hopefully, that'll take my mind off things a bit.
(Posted 16 May 2007)
(Posted 16 May 2007)
We're going on another European tour!
Spurs 2 Man City 1
Firstly I just have to mention something which is personally thrilling for me. Upon buying the matchday programme, I was reminded of the Q&A feature for my hero Dimitar Berbatov. I had submitted a question via email a couple of weeks ago, naturally hoping that it would be included. I hadn't thought anything more of it...in fact, I very rarely buy a programme but as we had a bit of time before the game, decided on something to read. I went straight to the relevant page and scoured the 3 pages to see if mine was there. No, no, no, no, no...argh....and then the very last question....YES! It was mine! I couldn't believe it - I was literally shaking! MY question to MY hero. OMG!
Anyway, my question was:
"How aware are you of the fans' adoration for you and what does it feel like when your name is being chanted from the stands?"
Dimitar's answer was:
"When the fans are chanting my name, it makes me feel happy, but also makes me feel a little shy. It is a good feeling and I really appreciate that they like me and I will try to continue scoring goals and to entertain them".
--------------------------
The pouring rain tried its hardest to dampen the mood but the fans were having none of it. The stadium started to fill up earlier than usual in anticipation of the prize awaiting the team. We all know there's no atmosphere like White Hart Lane and true to form, the chanting of each song echoed all around. It gets you right in there *hand rests on heart*
Spurs came out in good spirits wearing the brand new 2007/08 all white kit commemorating the club's 125th year, and it looked like it was going to be another good day at the office. The possession was mostly all Spurs from the off with Lennon zipping about again and troubling the opposition. Songs rang out from the fans for individual players 'There's only one Aaron Lennon', 'Dimitar Berbatov', doo doo doo Didier Zokora', 'There's only one Keano' & 'There's only one Michael Dawson'!!
Our first goal came early, on 9 minutes. Berbatov's brilliant piece of skill found its way to King who laid it off to Jenas. With a cleverly chipped pass over the defence, the ball fell into Keane's path who swivvelled and superbly volleyed it home through the legs of the goalie. What a great goal! This was Robbie's 200th appearance for Spurs and it was fitting that he scored on this memorable occasion, with 22 in total this season.
On 20 minutes, Paul Robinson pulled off, what I would say, was the save of the season; better than the one featured in Match of the Day last week. Vassell shot from about 8 yards out and Robbo's reflexes were superb. He's been critised quite a bit this season for some of the long range shots he's failed to save but you can certainly say with positivity that he is one of the best at close range.
Just after the half hour, we got our second. Berbatov had the ball at feet inside the box, and tried a short pass to Lennon which didn't come off. The ball luckily fell back at his feet and this time he made room for himself, firing it past the flayling hands of City's goalkeeper at the near post. Berba's 23rd of the season and needless to say, another crowd pleasing moment! Throughout the match, Berbatov showed off his skills and touches which were a delight to watch; it just makes you wanna kiss the guy's feet.
Then the game seems to change in a click of a finger. How many times has this happened? Spurs were cruising at 2-0, City weren't really in the game and suddenly they conjure a goal out of nothing. Again, our achilles heel if you like - Gardner lost the ball in a dangerous position and City crossed to the far post where Mpenza looped a header over Robbo. Chimbonda was also at fault; he failed to get goal side and clearly forgot to jump and challenge the ball. Almost a carbon copy of the goal we conceded against Blackburn on Thursday - we really must practise those situations more in training!
So 2-1 and not so comfortable. City pressed from then on and made it difficult for us. They really should have levelled when after Robbo made another save leaving him off his line, the ball fell to the head of Johnson who put it over the crossbar. A lucky escape. Spurs were making it difficult for themselves AGAIN! Looking second best, it was good to get to half time.
During the interval, awards were presented to the 22 Spurs stewards who protected our fans in that dreadful episode in Seville. They, of course, received raptuous applause from the crowd.
A minute into the second half, Keano came close but it was City who still had the impetus and Robinson was forced to make yet another outstretched save. Spurs looked a tad tired in my opinion which I can forgive them - this was their 59th match of a very long season. Malbranque came on for Lennon who received a standing ovation. Good game for him today - back to his old self I'd say. On 76 minutes, a quick throw from Chimbonda sent Berbatov on his way down the right flank and had it not been a good interception by Dunne, Keane would have had his second of the afternoon. Robbie was substituted by Defoe ten minutes from time, and he also left the field with a standing ovation.
The last incident of the game came in the 85th minute, when after another of his surging runs, Zokora was bundled over. The contact was just outside the box but the referee pointed to the spot. Jermain stepped up to take the penalty with our usual taker (Keano) no longer available. Sadly, it wasn't a good one and the goalkeeper saved it, and despite the ball bouncing back to Defoe, he shot over the crossbar to the gasps of the fans. I truly hope that's not going to be his last effort in a Spurs shirt - not exactly memorable for him.
In the final minutes, the sun came out. Maybe a sign? We saw the game out at 2-1; not the 5-0 I was hoping for for the final showdown but after Everton only managed a draw at Chelsea, this placed us in 5th and so we're all going on another European tour!!! What a great achievement - 5th two seasons in a row. The question is, do we have the ability to move into the top 4 next season? Only time will tell.
As is tradition with the last game of the season, there were awards to be had and Tom Huddlestone won 'Breakthough Player of the Year', Aaron Lennon 'Young Player of the Year' (again) and Dimitar Berbatov 'Club Member's Player of the Year'. The latter was pretty much a landslide - when I'd voted a couple of weeks ago, he already had 67% of the vote, but I don't know how it ended up. He has become the fans' favourite in his very first season, and although Michael Dawson has probably been the most consistent player, Berba's first touch, skill, clever link up play, superb goals and being a genuinely nice guy, has won everyone over. He truly is a world class player and how proud I am that he plays for my beloved team. Long may it last!
Martin Jol then took the microphone and addressed the fans. The following is his actual words:
"It means the world to us to finish fifth again, we knew we were in a fine position a couple of weeks ago. Although people were saying we had a slight chance, we had two games in hand and we knew we were on a good run".
"In fact, the only game we lost in the final spell was against Chelsea when we had to play 32 hours after playing in Seville. We normally got a result after a European match, but not this time".
"It wasn't easy though. We were the only team to play three games in six days this week and that showed in the second half. But we showed a lot of resilience and character and there were a few heroes out there".
"Of course, I was happy to see Dimitar and Robbie score the goals again, but I'm very proud of them all."
Martin then went on to say how Tottenham fans were the best in the Premiership. Not a truer word was said, even if I'm a tad biased!
The whole team did their lap of honour, clapping and acknowledging the fans and kicking footballs into the crowd as keepsakes. It was a terrific atmosphere and something I shall sorely miss over the summer period. There really is nothing like it. Unless you're a die-hard fan, you'll never understand the passion.
------------------------
Afterwards, John and I met up with our friends Debs, Mick and Craig outside the stand for a bit of celebratory banter and a few pics. A great end to a great day!
(Posted 13 May 2007)
Euro trash?
Well another Eurovision Song Contest has come and gone and it was oh so close to 'NIL POINT' for the United Kingdom. I was actually willing it to stay that way because let's face it, our entry was appalling - no thanks to the public who voted for Scooch to represent us! I think it was only four votes from the end, when Ireland came to our rescue and gave us 7 points. Then Malta gave us the full 12!! They clearly have no taste in that part of the world. So we came second to bottom with surprise surprise, Ireland finishing last! Oh those days of glory have surely gone. Does anyone like us anymore?
(Posted 12 May 2007)
(Posted 12 May 2007)
Agonisingly close now
Spurs 1 Blackburn 1
Well I suppose you could say it was a game of two halves (again)! Not for the first time this season, Spurs came out of the blocks slowly, not creating much in the last third of the pitch. There were a few changes in the side: JJ was out with a back problem so Tainio came into the central midfield, Malbranque on the wing, Gardner took the left back spot due to Rocha being injured in the last game and Defoe came in for Keane.
The first half was pretty uneventful and very frustrating to watch. When you know your team can play good football, this type of display is not pleasing to the eye. However I was delighted to see Lennon back to his normal self, zipping around the pitch, switching flanks and making a nuisance of himself. Berba also made a couple of sublime touches to get the crowd going. A rash challenge on Malbranque in the 19th minute led to Mokoena getting a yellow card and it wasn't long after that, that Steed had to be subbed. Ghaly was his replacement.
Blackburn went 1-0 up after 31 minutes, with their first real attack. Pedersen crossed for McCarthy who lost his marker Ledley King, and headed the ball over Robbo from the right. Their goal didn't really rile us up like you would have expected; I don't know quite what they were waiting for - perhaps an MJ rollicking at half time? We had one chance in injury time when Berbatov was brought down right on the corner of the box but this ended in a weak shot from Ghaly. Since coming on, Ghaly was having an appalling game with so many passes going astray. In fact, when he finally managed to pick out a teammate, the fans cheered him!
Into the second half then and the first real chance came our way when Defoe was felled outside the penalty area (although on watching it again, Pedersen actually got the ball). Berba lined up the free kick which was struck on target but Friedel managed to parry and then clutch right on the goal line.
Martin Jol quite rightly didn't take too long to bring Keano on and the substitute Ghaly was the man to go off after a very poor display. This sparked a very angry reaction from Ghaly who took off his shirt and threw it aside before proceeding down the tunnel. This in turn, sparked a reaction from the crowd and the chanting started "You're not fit to wear the shirt" and another which I'd rather not repeat. In my opinion, the man should never play for Spurs again. This kind of behaviour is disgraceful and the club do not need disrespectful players. I'm sure MJ and the club will take a tough stance on this incident.
There was a scare of going 2-0 down when Samba hit the bar a minute later with a header from a free kick. That was a reality check for Spurs and with Keane on, the game opened up and suddenly they had spirit which they'd lacked in the first half. In fact, Robbie was magnificent and proves he's not the man to leave on the bench. The equaliser came on the 66th minute when Keane played it into Berbatov who turned with strength in the area, his shot parried off the goalkeeper and Jermain was in the right place to slot it home.
This seems to 'spur' the team on even more and suddenly the passion returned. The possession was all ours, chances were being created and a win was definitely on the cards. The best chance for the three points was on 90 minutes when Chimbonda supplied Keane a killer pass and everyone was celebrating the goal before it hit the post! I was almost crying with disbelief! Heartbreaking stuff.
So just a point this time. That result puts us on 57 points with only one point required from our last game to qualify for Europe. However, a win against Man City and Everton losing would put us into 5th, which would be very satisfying indeed, equalling our position last season.
Whilst I remember, I just have to mention the funniest moment of the game which was a song from the Park Lane end. With hardly any Blackburn support to speak of, the chant of "what time's your minibus" echoed out and the rest of the ground applauded them. I believe Spurs must have the largest repertoire of songs of any team. Amongst them tonight were:
Glory glory Tottenham Hotspur
You can stick Sol Campbell up your arse
Dimitar Berbatov
COYS
We are Tottenham super Tottenham from the Lane
Martin Jol's blue & white army
Yid army
There's only one Keano
Jermain Defoe's a Yidio
We're Park Lane/We're Shelf side
If you hate Arsenal stand up
Yids
Are you Chelsea in disguise
Haha! You've gotta love the atmosphere. Anyway, I digress even more with three questions:
1) Why was JD wearing a shirt with a ripped sleeve?
2) Why was Rob Styles squeezing Robbo's bicep?
3) Why was Pascal sporting a girly hairstyle?
Answers on a postcard please...or just leave a comment!
(Posted 11 May 2007)
Well I suppose you could say it was a game of two halves (again)! Not for the first time this season, Spurs came out of the blocks slowly, not creating much in the last third of the pitch. There were a few changes in the side: JJ was out with a back problem so Tainio came into the central midfield, Malbranque on the wing, Gardner took the left back spot due to Rocha being injured in the last game and Defoe came in for Keane.
The first half was pretty uneventful and very frustrating to watch. When you know your team can play good football, this type of display is not pleasing to the eye. However I was delighted to see Lennon back to his normal self, zipping around the pitch, switching flanks and making a nuisance of himself. Berba also made a couple of sublime touches to get the crowd going. A rash challenge on Malbranque in the 19th minute led to Mokoena getting a yellow card and it wasn't long after that, that Steed had to be subbed. Ghaly was his replacement.
Blackburn went 1-0 up after 31 minutes, with their first real attack. Pedersen crossed for McCarthy who lost his marker Ledley King, and headed the ball over Robbo from the right. Their goal didn't really rile us up like you would have expected; I don't know quite what they were waiting for - perhaps an MJ rollicking at half time? We had one chance in injury time when Berbatov was brought down right on the corner of the box but this ended in a weak shot from Ghaly. Since coming on, Ghaly was having an appalling game with so many passes going astray. In fact, when he finally managed to pick out a teammate, the fans cheered him!
Into the second half then and the first real chance came our way when Defoe was felled outside the penalty area (although on watching it again, Pedersen actually got the ball). Berba lined up the free kick which was struck on target but Friedel managed to parry and then clutch right on the goal line.
Martin Jol quite rightly didn't take too long to bring Keano on and the substitute Ghaly was the man to go off after a very poor display. This sparked a very angry reaction from Ghaly who took off his shirt and threw it aside before proceeding down the tunnel. This in turn, sparked a reaction from the crowd and the chanting started "You're not fit to wear the shirt" and another which I'd rather not repeat. In my opinion, the man should never play for Spurs again. This kind of behaviour is disgraceful and the club do not need disrespectful players. I'm sure MJ and the club will take a tough stance on this incident.
There was a scare of going 2-0 down when Samba hit the bar a minute later with a header from a free kick. That was a reality check for Spurs and with Keane on, the game opened up and suddenly they had spirit which they'd lacked in the first half. In fact, Robbie was magnificent and proves he's not the man to leave on the bench. The equaliser came on the 66th minute when Keane played it into Berbatov who turned with strength in the area, his shot parried off the goalkeeper and Jermain was in the right place to slot it home.
This seems to 'spur' the team on even more and suddenly the passion returned. The possession was all ours, chances were being created and a win was definitely on the cards. The best chance for the three points was on 90 minutes when Chimbonda supplied Keane a killer pass and everyone was celebrating the goal before it hit the post! I was almost crying with disbelief! Heartbreaking stuff.
So just a point this time. That result puts us on 57 points with only one point required from our last game to qualify for Europe. However, a win against Man City and Everton losing would put us into 5th, which would be very satisfying indeed, equalling our position last season.
Whilst I remember, I just have to mention the funniest moment of the game which was a song from the Park Lane end. With hardly any Blackburn support to speak of, the chant of "what time's your minibus" echoed out and the rest of the ground applauded them. I believe Spurs must have the largest repertoire of songs of any team. Amongst them tonight were:
Glory glory Tottenham Hotspur
You can stick Sol Campbell up your arse
Dimitar Berbatov
COYS
We are Tottenham super Tottenham from the Lane
Martin Jol's blue & white army
Yid army
There's only one Keano
Jermain Defoe's a Yidio
We're Park Lane/We're Shelf side
If you hate Arsenal stand up
Yids
Are you Chelsea in disguise
Haha! You've gotta love the atmosphere. Anyway, I digress even more with three questions:
1) Why was JD wearing a shirt with a ripped sleeve?
2) Why was Rob Styles squeezing Robbo's bicep?
3) Why was Pascal sporting a girly hairstyle?
Answers on a postcard please...or just leave a comment!
(Posted 11 May 2007)
We're almost there
Charlton 0 Spurs 2 A CLEAN SHEET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The fate of Charlton has been sealed - they are relegated. 'Nuff about them and more about us - Spurs move back up to 6th spot, and in one of the UEFA Cup positions. Only two games to go, both at home against Blackburn and Man City and it should be a formality now.
My man Berba got Spurs off to a great start scoring after only 7 minutes. After a clever flick on the half way line, his strength and speed took him past El Karkouri and running with the ball direct to the goal, he was never going to miss. He's just too good. His 22nd goal of the season and oh what a snip at £10.9m!
Lennon looked very off form tonight and Jol subbed him at the right time, in my opinion. He was playing on his favoured right as well; I dunno what was up, he just didn't make any impact on the game at all. JJ had a decent game with some good defensive tackles. Tainio, back from injury played well too. Despite my luuuuurve for Berba, I was quite surprised that he was awarded man of the match - it seems he gets it automatically every game now! I enjoyed Martin Jol's response after the match when asked about other teams having interest in Berbatov. He said how he'd only yesterday had a conversation and Berba expressed how happy he is at Spurs and that MJ is happy when his players are happy. Let's hope that 'happiness' remains for a good few years yet, because holding on to our best player by a mile is a must for the club if we are to progress to bigger and better things.
Just digressing a little, I watched the dvd of 'Those Glory Glory Days' earlier on today. It's all about a 13 year old girl who's obsessed with Spurs and her idol Danny Blanchflower. I remember watching it in the 80s as a teenager and thinking how that was just like me, my hero being Glenn Hoddle at the time and always wanting to walk onto the White Hart Lane pitch. Anyway, it was great to see that film again approximately 25 years later. Let's hope the glory days return to Tottenham very soon.
(Posted 7 May 2007)
The fate of Charlton has been sealed - they are relegated. 'Nuff about them and more about us - Spurs move back up to 6th spot, and in one of the UEFA Cup positions. Only two games to go, both at home against Blackburn and Man City and it should be a formality now.
My man Berba got Spurs off to a great start scoring after only 7 minutes. After a clever flick on the half way line, his strength and speed took him past El Karkouri and running with the ball direct to the goal, he was never going to miss. He's just too good. His 22nd goal of the season and oh what a snip at £10.9m!
Charlton managed to win plenty of corners which is always a concern for us as we've leaked so many goals this season from set pieces. There were a few heart stopping moments, however, I have to say our defence looked much more solid tonight. I was slightly disappointed with the lack of chances we had in front of goal though. Early in the second half, Berba had a long range shot which quite rightly the goalkeeper saved but had to wait until the last minute of the game before Defoe was put clean through by who else, Berbatov, and he looped it over Carson to make it game over.
Lennon looked very off form tonight and Jol subbed him at the right time, in my opinion. He was playing on his favoured right as well; I dunno what was up, he just didn't make any impact on the game at all. JJ had a decent game with some good defensive tackles. Tainio, back from injury played well too. Despite my luuuuurve for Berba, I was quite surprised that he was awarded man of the match - it seems he gets it automatically every game now! I enjoyed Martin Jol's response after the match when asked about other teams having interest in Berbatov. He said how he'd only yesterday had a conversation and Berba expressed how happy he is at Spurs and that MJ is happy when his players are happy. Let's hope that 'happiness' remains for a good few years yet, because holding on to our best player by a mile is a must for the club if we are to progress to bigger and better things.
Just digressing a little, I watched the dvd of 'Those Glory Glory Days' earlier on today. It's all about a 13 year old girl who's obsessed with Spurs and her idol Danny Blanchflower. I remember watching it in the 80s as a teenager and thinking how that was just like me, my hero being Glenn Hoddle at the time and always wanting to walk onto the White Hart Lane pitch. Anyway, it was great to see that film again approximately 25 years later. Let's hope the glory days return to Tottenham very soon.
(Posted 7 May 2007)
Ouchie!
Had to take the day off work today. Bloody back was so sore yesterday. Seems like the problem has returned with a vengeance - sitting for a living is just not good. My spine felt inflamed and despite taking two painkillers within three hours of each other, all it did was numb the pain for about two hours. Driving home in the car was agony, it was a relief to get in the house. I only sat down for five minutes whilst I ate my dinner but the rest of the evening I spent either exercising in my gym, standing up using my laptop (as I am now) or laying on the floor. If it is sciatica as my useless doctor says, then there's not a lot I can do about it as it affects the nerves. However, I keep thinking about whether I should go private - it will cost me a fortune but the pain may force me to in the end. If the sitting problem continues at work, I will have to have a word with my manager, because although I have a 'special' chair, it's not really helping. I hope this episode doesn't end up with me being off work for a long period of time like I was before. October 2005 to March 2006 was the most miserable time of my life, especially being stuck indoors all over the winter - I nearly went out of my mind.
MEH!
(Posted 1 May 2007)
MEH!
(Posted 1 May 2007)
The Keano & Berba show!
Watched my first ever game on a 'live feed' on my laptop this afternoon. What a treat - much better than waiting for the score to change on teletext! All thanks to http://spursnetwork.com/forum/
The Spurs defence looked solid first half which made a pleasant change. It only took 12 minutes before a good link up between Berbatov and Keane led to our first goal. There's only one Keano! Spurs were on top and playing some good football and had another great chance on 36 minutes when after several neat passes, the ball fell to Zokora 25 yards out and with loads of space. However, true to form, he blasted the ball high and wide! I'm sure it'll come one day Didier! It stayed 1-0 going into the break.
Three minutes into the second half and Berbatov volleyed home from 25 yards. Sensational! One of Spurs' goals of the season without a doubt!
Keano should've made it three on 57 minutes when he was clean through with a one on one with the goalkeeper but nicked it just wide. Surely that would've made it game over, but Spurs always make it hard for themselves and then conceded stupidly when the defence suddenly started playing far too deep and again, were unable to clear it out of the box. 1-2 and we were lookingly decidely shaky and found it difficult to get the ball off Boro. The equalizer was on the cards but fortunately Boro couldn't find the net thanks to some heroics from Robbo. Against the run of play, Spurs went 1-3 up thanks to another goal from Keano and superb work on the wing from Aaron Lennon. Surely we were comfortable now but no! Just a minute from time, Boro scored again and it was a nervous end to the game. The whistle couldn't have come soon enough. Phew! We gained the three points we badly needed which moves us onto 53 and 8th place. Pompey beat Liverpool which didn't do us any favours. Would be good if Reading lose on Monday. So it's still all to play for - bring on Charlton!
(Posted 28 Apr 2007)
The Spurs defence looked solid first half which made a pleasant change. It only took 12 minutes before a good link up between Berbatov and Keane led to our first goal. There's only one Keano! Spurs were on top and playing some good football and had another great chance on 36 minutes when after several neat passes, the ball fell to Zokora 25 yards out and with loads of space. However, true to form, he blasted the ball high and wide! I'm sure it'll come one day Didier! It stayed 1-0 going into the break.
Three minutes into the second half and Berbatov volleyed home from 25 yards. Sensational! One of Spurs' goals of the season without a doubt!
Keano should've made it three on 57 minutes when he was clean through with a one on one with the goalkeeper but nicked it just wide. Surely that would've made it game over, but Spurs always make it hard for themselves and then conceded stupidly when the defence suddenly started playing far too deep and again, were unable to clear it out of the box. 1-2 and we were lookingly decidely shaky and found it difficult to get the ball off Boro. The equalizer was on the cards but fortunately Boro couldn't find the net thanks to some heroics from Robbo. Against the run of play, Spurs went 1-3 up thanks to another goal from Keano and superb work on the wing from Aaron Lennon. Surely we were comfortable now but no! Just a minute from time, Boro scored again and it was a nervous end to the game. The whistle couldn't have come soon enough. Phew! We gained the three points we badly needed which moves us onto 53 and 8th place. Pompey beat Liverpool which didn't do us any favours. Would be good if Reading lose on Monday. So it's still all to play for - bring on Charlton!
(Posted 28 Apr 2007)
St George's Day
23rd April. I'm curious how many English people actually realised it was St George's Day today? I've always wondered why we don't 'celebrate' being English on this
one day; are we embarrassed? Come St Patrick's Day, all the English are partying like maniacs! Now who is the biggest hero? George slew a fire-eating dragon on all accounts, and what did Paddy do? Shoo a few snakes out of Ireland was it? Pah!
It's about time we had an extra bank holiday and made a proper day out of it.
(Posted 23 Apr 2007)
one day; are we embarrassed? Come St Patrick's Day, all the English are partying like maniacs! Now who is the biggest hero? George slew a fire-eating dragon on all accounts, and what did Paddy do? Shoo a few snakes out of Ireland was it? Pah!
It's about time we had an extra bank holiday and made a proper day out of it.
(Posted 23 Apr 2007)
The BIG race
I just want to say GOOD LUCK to my Uncle Mike who is running in the London marathon today. I believe he is the 3rd person in my family to take part. Bloody idiots! Any ordinary person who can get through 26 miles is amazing in my book - I only have to run a few hundred yards and I'm out of breath. Just hope he stays safe and healthy as the weather hasn't been kind to the runners today; it's the warmest temperature in the whole history of the event, so they'll have to take in loads of fluids.
Update: He completed the marathon in around 5 hours. Well done Unc!
(Posted 22 Apr 2007)
JJ saves our blushes
Spurs 2 Scum 2
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRGH! What happened to the passion second half? We came out flying straight from the k/off and the Arse just weren't in the game. Spurs quite deservedly got the first goal but after the break it was like a totally different team....except for Berba who was clearly a class above everyone else & looked like the only one who wanted to win. You could see the frustration in his body language. If he doesn't get the support, he's gonna want to play for a better team and we need to keep him at the Lane for as long as possible. The passing was absolutely dreadful and the defending was woeful yet again.....how many times do we concede from set pieces? OMG! *tears hair out*
Keano celebrating our first goal
Thanks to JJ for saving our blushes with a screamer in the 5th minute of injury time. He did sod all else - proves how inconsistent he is! We really didn't deserve it either considering the Scum hit the woodwork three times and missed God know how many other chances. 'We was lucky'!
Robbo 7 didn't really have to do much, goals not his fault
Chimbonda 5 very poor today - Arse's 1st goal his fault
Rocha 7 average game
King 7 average game - good to have him back
Daws 7 average game for him
Lennon 6 still put on the left IT DOESN'T WORK!!!
Tainio 6 hardly noticed him
Malbranque (sub) 5 awful
Zokora 7 some good surging runs
Huddz (sub) 5 pretty poor
JJ 7 only gets a 7 because of the goal
Keano 7 looked lively 1st half
Berba 8 MOTM by far
JD (sub) 5 did he get a touch?
OK, so we didn't lose (again) but the last time we beat the scum was 1999. It took us 16 years to beat Chelsea - have we really got to wait that long?
Only four games remaining. On paper we should win three of them but who knows the way Spurs are playing at the moment. We have to hope that Reading and Pompey both lose their games which will help a bit but I hate having to rely on others - fate should be in our own hands.
(Posted 24 Apr 2007)
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRGH! What happened to the passion second half? We came out flying straight from the k/off and the Arse just weren't in the game. Spurs quite deservedly got the first goal but after the break it was like a totally different team....except for Berba who was clearly a class above everyone else & looked like the only one who wanted to win. You could see the frustration in his body language. If he doesn't get the support, he's gonna want to play for a better team and we need to keep him at the Lane for as long as possible. The passing was absolutely dreadful and the defending was woeful yet again.....how many times do we concede from set pieces? OMG! *tears hair out*
Keano celebrating our first goal
Thanks to JJ for saving our blushes with a screamer in the 5th minute of injury time. He did sod all else - proves how inconsistent he is! We really didn't deserve it either considering the Scum hit the woodwork three times and missed God know how many other chances. 'We was lucky'!
Robbo 7 didn't really have to do much, goals not his fault
Chimbonda 5 very poor today - Arse's 1st goal his fault
Rocha 7 average game
King 7 average game - good to have him back
Daws 7 average game for him
Lennon 6 still put on the left IT DOESN'T WORK!!!
Tainio 6 hardly noticed him
Malbranque (sub) 5 awful
Zokora 7 some good surging runs
Huddz (sub) 5 pretty poor
JJ 7 only gets a 7 because of the goal
Keano 7 looked lively 1st half
Berba 8 MOTM by far
JD (sub) 5 did he get a touch?
OK, so we didn't lose (again) but the last time we beat the scum was 1999. It took us 16 years to beat Chelsea - have we really got to wait that long?
Only four games remaining. On paper we should win three of them but who knows the way Spurs are playing at the moment. We have to hope that Reading and Pompey both lose their games which will help a bit but I hate having to rely on others - fate should be in our own hands.
(Posted 24 Apr 2007)
Too hot for springtime
Today was undoubtedly the hottest day of the year so far with temperatures reaching around 23 degrees. Lovely to feel the warmth against your face, however, it's only the middle of April and this shouldn't be happening. Many people won't be thinking about the implications of climate change but it's something I've been concerned about for a while.
It's now being predicted that as soon as 2020 the Arctic will have melted. That means the end for the polar bear and many other species. Sea levels rising, a change in vegetation zones, an increase in disease levels and a change in ecosystems are resulting factors of climate change.
I just feel that the world's leaders may have left it too late to save the planet - the issues should have been dealt with 20-30 years ago as the following graphs indicate.
Sorry to be doom and gloom but it's happening and we're all responsible.
(Posted 16 Apr 2007)
It's now being predicted that as soon as 2020 the Arctic will have melted. That means the end for the polar bear and many other species. Sea levels rising, a change in vegetation zones, an increase in disease levels and a change in ecosystems are resulting factors of climate change.
I just feel that the world's leaders may have left it too late to save the planet - the issues should have been dealt with 20-30 years ago as the following graphs indicate.
Sorry to be doom and gloom but it's happening and we're all responsible.
(Posted 16 Apr 2007)
All square at the JJB
Well I'm certain I do need a pacemaker fitted after this game! Why do Spurs leave your heart in your mouth every time the ball goes into their penalty area? It was 54 seconds on the clock when Heskey poked the ball into our net after, you've got to say, some of the worst defending ever witnessed! So head in hands yet again so early into a match. However, Wigan's lead didn't last long fortunately. Keano was given far too much space on the edge of their box and jinked it into the feet of Berba who worked some Bulgarian magic, beating two defenders and shooting home with the outside of his right peg.
Wow! What a game - 1-1 after just 3 minutes! Good for the neutral anyway and very likely there'd be more goals scored. And of course, there were. Spurs had a great deal of good possession and looked on top but Wigan took the lead once again from a magnificent Leighton Baines strike from wide left, taking the slightest of deflections over Robbo's out-stretched hand. Spurs did not hang their heads though, and on 35 minutes after JJ made a dash towards the box, he was pushed by a defender and then when he couldn't regain his balance, was subsequently brought down by the goalkeeper. Graham Poll immediately pointed to the spot, but it was one of those decisions you'd have to look at over and over again as it was by no means clear cut. However, you've gotta take what you can get and Keano, as cool as you like, converted the penalty with ease (as always). So 2-2 at half time.
The second half, the pace was just the same. No immediate goals this time though. Our defence looked very shaky every time Wigan got forward - not for the feint-hearted at all. I Just as I was having a slanging match with the players in front of the TV, Kilbane converted an easy bearly-challenged header into our goal from a corner. I wasn't in the least bit surprised. COYS!! 'Do a West Ham' was my response and it wasn't long before we'd equalised for the third time on 67 minutes. A long kick by Robbo was not cleared by Jackson, letting in Keano who volleyed the ball superbly over their goalie who was way off his line. What a goal!
Just one more and we would pull off another great victory, but no, it stayed 3-3 which did neither side any favours really. One point takes us up to 49 points, leapfrogging over Reading into 8th place. Next home game against the Arse. Boy! Did we ever need a win over our rivals more so than now?
Will be interesting to see if Chelsea now beat Blackburn in the FA Cup semi final as this would mean the UEFA places extend to 7th place. This may have to be our lifeline, although I would hope that we can dig out some results and finish 6th.
(Posted 15 Apr 2007)
Wow! What a game - 1-1 after just 3 minutes! Good for the neutral anyway and very likely there'd be more goals scored. And of course, there were. Spurs had a great deal of good possession and looked on top but Wigan took the lead once again from a magnificent Leighton Baines strike from wide left, taking the slightest of deflections over Robbo's out-stretched hand. Spurs did not hang their heads though, and on 35 minutes after JJ made a dash towards the box, he was pushed by a defender and then when he couldn't regain his balance, was subsequently brought down by the goalkeeper. Graham Poll immediately pointed to the spot, but it was one of those decisions you'd have to look at over and over again as it was by no means clear cut. However, you've gotta take what you can get and Keano, as cool as you like, converted the penalty with ease (as always). So 2-2 at half time.
The second half, the pace was just the same. No immediate goals this time though. Our defence looked very shaky every time Wigan got forward - not for the feint-hearted at all. I Just as I was having a slanging match with the players in front of the TV, Kilbane converted an easy bearly-challenged header into our goal from a corner. I wasn't in the least bit surprised. COYS!! 'Do a West Ham' was my response and it wasn't long before we'd equalised for the third time on 67 minutes. A long kick by Robbo was not cleared by Jackson, letting in Keano who volleyed the ball superbly over their goalie who was way off his line. What a goal!
Just one more and we would pull off another great victory, but no, it stayed 3-3 which did neither side any favours really. One point takes us up to 49 points, leapfrogging over Reading into 8th place. Next home game against the Arse. Boy! Did we ever need a win over our rivals more so than now?
Will be interesting to see if Chelsea now beat Blackburn in the FA Cup semi final as this would mean the UEFA places extend to 7th place. This may have to be our lifeline, although I would hope that we can dig out some results and finish 6th.
(Posted 15 Apr 2007)
Spurs: the hurt
Spurs 2 Sevilla 2
Well I guess it was all over in the first eight minutes. Basically Sevilla tore us apart - our defence was all over the place; disorganisation at its best. Ledley was back to a roarous reception but with so many injuries, Chimbonda was again on the left where he doesn't look comfortable, and Tainio on the right. 2-0 down (Malbranque og & Kanoute) meant Spurs had to score four to win, having lost the first leg 2-1. An impossible task.
The referee stitched us up in Seville and the one tonight wasn't much better! Fooled time and time again by Sevilla players rolling around in apparent agony - it was pathetic. You couldn't fault the fans for trying to gee the team up - it was constant chanting from before the game kicked off right up to the final whistle, and of course I was right in the thick of it in the East Upper Block J. The 'Martin Jol's blue army' chant went on and on and on - it must've been a record. My hands were stinging!
I dunno what MJ said to the players at half time but Spurs returned to the pitch several minutes before Sevilla and looked up for a fight. Suddenly the game was on and they started playing with some energy and enthusiasm. Lennon was darting all over the pitch like we know he can, leaving the opponents for dead, and the majority of the possession was Spurs. Berba came close twice, the second chance hitting the post.
On 65 minues, JD came on for Zokora (much to the amazement of the fans) but what an impact - instantly he popped into the box and scored. One minute later, the stadium erupted when Lennon scored a second. So we had 20 minutes to score two more. However, despite more chances from Berba and Dawson and a much better display of football, it just wasn't to be. The referee wrapped up the night sending off Tainio, after another Sevilla player appeared to play-act. (Will need to watch tv highlights, although it'll probably be unbearable).
Needless to say I am completely gutted. I was really expecting Spurs to get through to the semis. Oh the hurt; football is such a cruel game sometimes. We just have to make sure we qualify for Europe again next season which means winning the majority of our last six Premiership games: Wigan (A), Arsenal (H), Middlesbrough (A), Charlton (A), Blackburn (H), Man City (H).
COYS!!!
(Posted 13 Apr 2007)
Well I guess it was all over in the first eight minutes. Basically Sevilla tore us apart - our defence was all over the place; disorganisation at its best. Ledley was back to a roarous reception but with so many injuries, Chimbonda was again on the left where he doesn't look comfortable, and Tainio on the right. 2-0 down (Malbranque og & Kanoute) meant Spurs had to score four to win, having lost the first leg 2-1. An impossible task.
The referee stitched us up in Seville and the one tonight wasn't much better! Fooled time and time again by Sevilla players rolling around in apparent agony - it was pathetic. You couldn't fault the fans for trying to gee the team up - it was constant chanting from before the game kicked off right up to the final whistle, and of course I was right in the thick of it in the East Upper Block J. The 'Martin Jol's blue army' chant went on and on and on - it must've been a record. My hands were stinging!
I dunno what MJ said to the players at half time but Spurs returned to the pitch several minutes before Sevilla and looked up for a fight. Suddenly the game was on and they started playing with some energy and enthusiasm. Lennon was darting all over the pitch like we know he can, leaving the opponents for dead, and the majority of the possession was Spurs. Berba came close twice, the second chance hitting the post.
On 65 minues, JD came on for Zokora (much to the amazement of the fans) but what an impact - instantly he popped into the box and scored. One minute later, the stadium erupted when Lennon scored a second. So we had 20 minutes to score two more. However, despite more chances from Berba and Dawson and a much better display of football, it just wasn't to be. The referee wrapped up the night sending off Tainio, after another Sevilla player appeared to play-act. (Will need to watch tv highlights, although it'll probably be unbearable).
Needless to say I am completely gutted. I was really expecting Spurs to get through to the semis. Oh the hurt; football is such a cruel game sometimes. We just have to make sure we qualify for Europe again next season which means winning the majority of our last six Premiership games: Wigan (A), Arsenal (H), Middlesbrough (A), Charlton (A), Blackburn (H), Man City (H).
COYS!!!
(Posted 13 Apr 2007)
The power of sunshine
Well we certainly can't complain about the weather this Easter holiday - except if you live in the Orkneys or somewhere. Four days of beautiful warm sunny weather and it's set to continue into next week. Aaah! Definitely puts you in a better mood when you wake up in the morning, don't you think?
(Posted 10 Apr 2007)
(Posted 10 Apr 2007)
Family day
Yesterday was spent with family - first I went to see my Nan who lives in sheltered accommodation. She's doing really well bless her. For those who don't know, she was taken into hospital September last year with pneumonia which she recovered from eventually but then docs discovered that she had heart failure. They only gave her a few months to live which was devastating for the family but Nan accepted it fine and said she's ready to go. She's been so independant all her life, she can't bear not having her health and always says she wishes there was a big red button on her head which she could press to end it all. She'll never lose her sense of humour that's for sure...and if you can get a word in edgeways, you've done well.
Anyway, Nan has one of the best flats there. Her back door overlooks a beautiful garden and she can sit out on nice days. She has to be on oxygen for 12 hours a day so she's hooked up to that whilst she's in bed and whenever required during the day. Nan still has her bad days, but on the good ones, she manages to get down the shops in Rochford with the aid of her stick, which is just around the corner from the flat. She's been told off for going out on her own though but you can't blame her for trying to hang on to that little bit of independance.
On the way back, I stopped by my brother's to drop off some Easter Eggs for Ronnie, Kasey & Ebony, but there was no answer. Turns out, they were in but all upstairs on the computer trying to load music onto an iPod. How rude?!! Anyway, I'll catch them another time.
Last night, went round my parents for dinner. It was yummy - I had tikka style halibut with rice, salad and potato wedges. I could definitely eat that again. Although, I'm a non-meat eater, I still eat fish. That's why I don't call myself a vegetarian (in case of any confusion). The only reason I haven't cut out fish as well is because I'm such a fussy eater and would seriously struggle, especially when we go on holiday.
And so, that was Easter Day.
(Posted 9 Apr 2007)
Anyway, Nan has one of the best flats there. Her back door overlooks a beautiful garden and she can sit out on nice days. She has to be on oxygen for 12 hours a day so she's hooked up to that whilst she's in bed and whenever required during the day. Nan still has her bad days, but on the good ones, she manages to get down the shops in Rochford with the aid of her stick, which is just around the corner from the flat. She's been told off for going out on her own though but you can't blame her for trying to hang on to that little bit of independance.
On the way back, I stopped by my brother's to drop off some Easter Eggs for Ronnie, Kasey & Ebony, but there was no answer. Turns out, they were in but all upstairs on the computer trying to load music onto an iPod. How rude?!! Anyway, I'll catch them another time.
Last night, went round my parents for dinner. It was yummy - I had tikka style halibut with rice, salad and potato wedges. I could definitely eat that again. Although, I'm a non-meat eater, I still eat fish. That's why I don't call myself a vegetarian (in case of any confusion). The only reason I haven't cut out fish as well is because I'm such a fussy eater and would seriously struggle, especially when we go on holiday.
And so, that was Easter Day.
(Posted 9 Apr 2007)
Friends for dinner
We had a house full last night which I always thrive on. Having kept in contact with my school friends from decades ago, eveWry now and then we all manage to get together - partners included (except for Elena who brings her sister as her hubby isn't into 'gatherings')! Leigh (Suk's hubby) is a Chelscum supporter and he'd come straight from the game - could've been tension in the house but nah, it was ok. I'd already accepted the defeat and it wasn't an embarrassing score so we managed to talk about it ok. The Pompey Manure game was on Sky at the time and Praful (Sunita's hubby) is a fan. Never mind eh?! He got a ribbing of course and no-one was more happy than Leigh - only 3 pts gap now. Simon (Ellie's partner) is a Gooner who also got a ribbing as they lost at home to Wet Spam earlier. It's not very often you can get four fans of four top teams in a room together. Anyway, I'm blabbing about footie again - can't help myself.
Dinner was a variety of dishes as three of us are veggies (me included) and we had pasta bake, selection of veg, sauted potatoes, rice and chicken. Dessert was home made trifle or a chocolate gateau made by Asda. It all seemed to go down ok and then John gave everyone a Easter egg. Well it is Easter after all! Sadly Ellie and Si had to leave early as they have a five month old baby who will only take breast milk and not formula so needs were must.
After dinner every one just chatted for a while (as you do). As usual, one of the topics was about how great Walmart is in the States. Suk and Leigh are going to Florida on Wednesday and she always manages to spend a hours on end in there. Four of us: John, Leigh, Praful and myself then had a game of bowling and golf on the Nintendo Wii which is always good for a laugh and then a sports quiz on Buzz. Hehe! I whipped the guys arses!
When it got to 11:30 Leigh and I watched Match of the Day back - a tad unsociable I know but hey, that's what we enjoy and it's nice to chat about football with someone who equally loves the game - John I feel is just being polite when I rabbit on about it!! The highlight of this part of the night was when John made Leigh a cup of tea and presented it to him in my Spurs mug! You should've seen his face! I made a deal with him though - I agreed to let him watch back the Chelscum highlights, if he drank out of the mug!
Everyone left about 12:45 and it had been a good night. Can't wait for the next gathering.
(Posted 8 Apr 2007)
Dinner was a variety of dishes as three of us are veggies (me included) and we had pasta bake, selection of veg, sauted potatoes, rice and chicken. Dessert was home made trifle or a chocolate gateau made by Asda. It all seemed to go down ok and then John gave everyone a Easter egg. Well it is Easter after all! Sadly Ellie and Si had to leave early as they have a five month old baby who will only take breast milk and not formula so needs were must.
After dinner every one just chatted for a while (as you do). As usual, one of the topics was about how great Walmart is in the States. Suk and Leigh are going to Florida on Wednesday and she always manages to spend a hours on end in there. Four of us: John, Leigh, Praful and myself then had a game of bowling and golf on the Nintendo Wii which is always good for a laugh and then a sports quiz on Buzz. Hehe! I whipped the guys arses!
When it got to 11:30 Leigh and I watched Match of the Day back - a tad unsociable I know but hey, that's what we enjoy and it's nice to chat about football with someone who equally loves the game - John I feel is just being polite when I rabbit on about it!! The highlight of this part of the night was when John made Leigh a cup of tea and presented it to him in my Spurs mug! You should've seen his face! I made a deal with him though - I agreed to let him watch back the Chelscum highlights, if he drank out of the mug!
Everyone left about 12:45 and it had been a good night. Can't wait for the next gathering.
(Posted 8 Apr 2007)
Lost 1-0 but I can live with that
Chelscum 1 Spurs 0
Despite being up against it in the first 10 minutes where Chelscum threatened to run riot, it was a goaless first half. Very few chances were made by our boys but they defended well and that's all they could do, considering it was only 39 hours since they'd left the pitch in Sevilla. The second half, we had more possession but then gave Carvalio far too much room and a long range shot ended up beating Robbo who seemed to think that Rocha was gonna deal with it. Our three best chances came from a shot from Tarrabt and headers by Mido and Berba who came on in the last 20 minutes. That was the highlight of the game for me - if you're losing, at least he's a bit of eye candy to take your mind off it!! ;-)
Anyway, I won't blab on and on about it. 1-0...whatever. On to Thursday and more importantly the UEFA Cup where I'm praying we can get thru to the semis.
(Posted 7 Apr 2007)
Despite being up against it in the first 10 minutes where Chelscum threatened to run riot, it was a goaless first half. Very few chances were made by our boys but they defended well and that's all they could do, considering it was only 39 hours since they'd left the pitch in Sevilla. The second half, we had more possession but then gave Carvalio far too much room and a long range shot ended up beating Robbo who seemed to think that Rocha was gonna deal with it. Our three best chances came from a shot from Tarrabt and headers by Mido and Berba who came on in the last 20 minutes. That was the highlight of the game for me - if you're losing, at least he's a bit of eye candy to take your mind off it!! ;-)
Anyway, I won't blab on and on about it. 1-0...whatever. On to Thursday and more importantly the UEFA Cup where I'm praying we can get thru to the semis.
(Posted 7 Apr 2007)
Yet another twat referee stitches us up!
Sevilla 2 Spurs 1
After just 68 seconds on the clock, a good touch by Berbatov put in Keano, who was perhaps a bit fortunate getting the ball back off the defender, but slotted it home for 1-0. I hadn't realised what had happened and had to double-take. I didn't even react like I would do normally, I was totally stunned! Anyway Spurs looked like they were really gonna take the game to Sevilla and were playing nice football, like they had done in previous European matches.
However, the game was well and truly spoiled when the referee awarded the opponents a penalty. Robinson came to claim the ball off the feet of the attacker and managed to get two hands cleanly on it. The Sevilla player then fell over Robbo's hands and that was deemed to be a foul!!! I was completely livid - why does this always seems to happen to us? I've lost count how many times I've said this, but surely video playback has got to be introduced to stop these outrageous decisions which clearly ruin games and have a massive impact on the eventual score. The UEFA Cup is our only hope for a trophy this season and if that goal ends up contributing to putting us out, I will be so gutted. Ex-Spurs player Kanoute scored the penalty so justice was not done. To add insult to injury, Sevilla scored another before half time to make it 2-1.
I was proud of the way the boys played second half. Although not much was being created up front, we held our own and had the majority of the possession.
So one goal in it and the second leg at the Lane a week today. I'm really looking forward to being there - it'll be my first ever trip to a European game.
Good news is that Ledley could be back for the Chelscum game on Saturday, if not, sounds a definite for next week.
I'm not gonna say too much about the trouble in the stadium coz I don't really know what happened, but I did hear on the radio today that a Spanish cop actually battered a Spurs fan in a wheelchair with his batton. Now, that poor chap is hardly gonna be the ringleader of any trouble is he?!!!
Just before I go, a final GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR for that twat of a referee. Someone please send him the tape - hope he's ashamed of himself.
(Posted 6 Apr 2007)
After just 68 seconds on the clock, a good touch by Berbatov put in Keano, who was perhaps a bit fortunate getting the ball back off the defender, but slotted it home for 1-0. I hadn't realised what had happened and had to double-take. I didn't even react like I would do normally, I was totally stunned! Anyway Spurs looked like they were really gonna take the game to Sevilla and were playing nice football, like they had done in previous European matches.
However, the game was well and truly spoiled when the referee awarded the opponents a penalty. Robinson came to claim the ball off the feet of the attacker and managed to get two hands cleanly on it. The Sevilla player then fell over Robbo's hands and that was deemed to be a foul!!! I was completely livid - why does this always seems to happen to us? I've lost count how many times I've said this, but surely video playback has got to be introduced to stop these outrageous decisions which clearly ruin games and have a massive impact on the eventual score. The UEFA Cup is our only hope for a trophy this season and if that goal ends up contributing to putting us out, I will be so gutted. Ex-Spurs player Kanoute scored the penalty so justice was not done. To add insult to injury, Sevilla scored another before half time to make it 2-1.
I was proud of the way the boys played second half. Although not much was being created up front, we held our own and had the majority of the possession.
So one goal in it and the second leg at the Lane a week today. I'm really looking forward to being there - it'll be my first ever trip to a European game.
Good news is that Ledley could be back for the Chelscum game on Saturday, if not, sounds a definite for next week.
I'm not gonna say too much about the trouble in the stadium coz I don't really know what happened, but I did hear on the radio today that a Spanish cop actually battered a Spurs fan in a wheelchair with his batton. Now, that poor chap is hardly gonna be the ringleader of any trouble is he?!!!
Just before I go, a final GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR for that twat of a referee. Someone please send him the tape - hope he's ashamed of himself.
(Posted 6 Apr 2007)
A penalty seals 3 points
Spurs 1 Reading 0
Got to the Lane early today and managed a great parking space, a few feet from the dual carriageway which takes us home. We soon learned after regular visits to Spurs, that there's no point trying to park as near to stadium as possible, because you just sit in traffic for hours afterwards!
Met up with Debs and Mick at the school behind the East stand for a Trust meeting there at 1pm. Never been to one before, and it's interesting to hear what's going on 'behind the scenes'. Most of the meeting was taken up with the big issue of increased ticket prices next season. Spurs are the first club to announce an increase this season, which is not a great advert and needless to say, the fans ain't happy! It already costs £61 for a class A game/European game in the East stand and £71 in the West stand. Other clubs have announced a freeze on prices which are already much lower than ours. You get the feeling our loyalty don't count for nowt?
Anyway...on to the match. Unfortunately I sat next to a young lad with body odour which was not pleasant, and not the first time that has happened! Reading weren't going to be easy. Before the start they were one point behind us in 8th place.
Despite a bright opening 10 minutes, Spurs failed to score when perhaps they should've done, and Malbranque came closest when he hit the woodwork inside 3 minutes. The first half turned into frustraton (yet again)! We had masses of chances, but shooting didn't appear to be our forte today. Reading equally came close hitting the post and Robbo also had to make a great save. Every time they got near or into our box, they did look dangerous, but our back four did a pretty good job today. Five minutes before half time, Keane was making progress into the box when the ball flicked up and wedged between Halford's hand and hip and the ref awarded a penalty. Keano confidently scored from the spot and stood in front of the fans which hands held aloft. It certainly was a feeling of relief.
Jenas was fairly poor in the first half but came out with a little bit more urgency in the second. Again, there were masses of chances each end, but Spurs always looked most likely to score, particularly when Defoe came on for Keane. However, it was a repeat of the first half where the ball just wouldn't go in. I have to say (reluctantly) that Berbatov disappointed me for the second consecutive game, despite my love for the man! He had a couple of shots but he just didn't have any drive - a few times he was seen casually trotting up the pitch when we were on the break, and you could say he looked lazy (God, I hate myself for saying that)! He has such a talent and when he doesn't use it, it's so frustrating to watch.
As much as I hate watching my team defending a 1-0 lead, that's the way it was and stayed, although Spurs did get the ball in the net twice, albeit offside. The second offside goal should have stood as although Berbatov was offside, Defoe was not. Jermain should have surely made it 2-0 near the end when, after a good move, he was in masses of space in front of goal and duly hit it over and wide. Man of the match for me today was Steed Malbranque.
Spurs today didn't play anywhere near their potential. The 3 points were vital - yes - but we've gotta start playing the style of football we were just a few weeks ago. We now have a very difficult week coming up (that's an under-statement) being away to Sevilla on Thurday night in the UEFA Cup and then away to Chelscum at lunchtime on Saturday. A complete joke if you ask me....I know Premiership players are supposed to be ultra fit, but come on!
Having just watched MOTD 2, the game looked absolutely fantastic which is the beauty of highlights. Spurs had more chances on goal than I actually remembered: 10 on target, 10 off target. Good stats - just gotta put em away!
(Posted 1 Apr 2007)
Got to the Lane early today and managed a great parking space, a few feet from the dual carriageway which takes us home. We soon learned after regular visits to Spurs, that there's no point trying to park as near to stadium as possible, because you just sit in traffic for hours afterwards!
Met up with Debs and Mick at the school behind the East stand for a Trust meeting there at 1pm. Never been to one before, and it's interesting to hear what's going on 'behind the scenes'. Most of the meeting was taken up with the big issue of increased ticket prices next season. Spurs are the first club to announce an increase this season, which is not a great advert and needless to say, the fans ain't happy! It already costs £61 for a class A game/European game in the East stand and £71 in the West stand. Other clubs have announced a freeze on prices which are already much lower than ours. You get the feeling our loyalty don't count for nowt?
Anyway...on to the match. Unfortunately I sat next to a young lad with body odour which was not pleasant, and not the first time that has happened! Reading weren't going to be easy. Before the start they were one point behind us in 8th place.
Despite a bright opening 10 minutes, Spurs failed to score when perhaps they should've done, and Malbranque came closest when he hit the woodwork inside 3 minutes. The first half turned into frustraton (yet again)! We had masses of chances, but shooting didn't appear to be our forte today. Reading equally came close hitting the post and Robbo also had to make a great save. Every time they got near or into our box, they did look dangerous, but our back four did a pretty good job today. Five minutes before half time, Keane was making progress into the box when the ball flicked up and wedged between Halford's hand and hip and the ref awarded a penalty. Keano confidently scored from the spot and stood in front of the fans which hands held aloft. It certainly was a feeling of relief.
Jenas was fairly poor in the first half but came out with a little bit more urgency in the second. Again, there were masses of chances each end, but Spurs always looked most likely to score, particularly when Defoe came on for Keane. However, it was a repeat of the first half where the ball just wouldn't go in. I have to say (reluctantly) that Berbatov disappointed me for the second consecutive game, despite my love for the man! He had a couple of shots but he just didn't have any drive - a few times he was seen casually trotting up the pitch when we were on the break, and you could say he looked lazy (God, I hate myself for saying that)! He has such a talent and when he doesn't use it, it's so frustrating to watch.
As much as I hate watching my team defending a 1-0 lead, that's the way it was and stayed, although Spurs did get the ball in the net twice, albeit offside. The second offside goal should have stood as although Berbatov was offside, Defoe was not. Jermain should have surely made it 2-0 near the end when, after a good move, he was in masses of space in front of goal and duly hit it over and wide. Man of the match for me today was Steed Malbranque.
Spurs today didn't play anywhere near their potential. The 3 points were vital - yes - but we've gotta start playing the style of football we were just a few weeks ago. We now have a very difficult week coming up (that's an under-statement) being away to Sevilla on Thurday night in the UEFA Cup and then away to Chelscum at lunchtime on Saturday. A complete joke if you ask me....I know Premiership players are supposed to be ultra fit, but come on!
Having just watched MOTD 2, the game looked absolutely fantastic which is the beauty of highlights. Spurs had more chances on goal than I actually remembered: 10 on target, 10 off target. Good stats - just gotta put em away!
(Posted 1 Apr 2007)
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