What a difference a year makes... 8742 little hours... After their complete obliteration at the hands of Atletico Madrid, and in particular Radamel Falcao, in the UEFA Super Cup in 2012, Chelsea this time lined up against Bayern Munich for the same trophy last night. Unlike last year, in which Chelsea had started the night as Champions League champions, and favourites, last night the Londoners began as distinct outsiders, and Europa League holders. With Bayern Munich sweeping all aside on their route to the Champions League title last year, and with the highly sought-after Pep Guardiola now at the helm, there were few that suggested that Chelsea would realistically win. However, with Mourinho back at his spiritual home, Chelsea were quietly confident. And history was on their side...
Last May, Chelsea were in a vastly similar position, in which they lined up against a heavily favoured Bayern Munich side. This was not for the UEFA Super Cup, but for the most impressive European accolade available, the Champions League. Further supporting Munich's tag of favourites was the fact that they were playing on home soil, at the Allianz Arena. The early predictions looked fairly accurate, as the Bavarians set about their English opponents. Chances came and went, with Olic, Gomez and Robben all coming close, with the latter rapping the post with a low drive. Chelsea offered little in the way of forward motion, with Solomon Kalou having their best opportunity. However, as the game moved towards the last ten minutes, Bayern upped the pace, which paid off almost immediately. Toni Kroos placed an excellent cross to the far post, which was met by Muller. His downwards header bounced off the floor and into the roof of the net, handing Bayern a valuable 1-0 lead. With time ticking down, Chelsea won a corner. Another fantastic delivery from Juan Mata found Didier Drogba, who powered the header past Manuel Neuer to send the game into extra time.
In extra time, the pattern of Bayern dominance continued. Just 5 minutes into the extra period, a poor challenge by Drogba on Franck Ribery earned the Bavarians a penalty. However, Robben's spot-kick was poor and easily saved by Cech. The rest of the extra time was tight and uneventful, meaning that the game went to the lottery of a penalty shootout. After Bayern scored their first, Mata could only find Neuer, handing the Germans the advantage. The next four penalties were all scored, including one by Manuel Neuer himself. Ivica Olic was the next man up, but his tame penalty was saved by Cech to his left. After Ashley Cole levelled the match at 3-3, Bastien Schweinsteiger would take the critical penalty. The Bayern captain could only hit the post, meaning that Drogba had the chance to win the Champions League for Chelsea. The Ivorian striker, who had already agreed to move to China with Shanghai Shenhua, knew that this would be his last kick as a Chelsea player. Placing the ball confidently, he sent Neuer the wrong way to win the trophy for the Londoners. Just one year and a few months later, few would see the replay being as similar.
However, it is worth examining the recent history of this Super Cup. Bearing in mind the reputation of the respective competitions from which the two clubs qualify, you would always expect the Champions League winners to be victorious in these games. However, if we look at the last ten matches in the Super Cup, the record is much more even than would be anticipated. Based on the last 10 editions, including last night, the score is Champions League 5 Europa League 5. Even more startling is the fact that the winner has alternated between the Champions League winner and Europa League winner for the last 10 years. Particularly surprising results over the last decade include the 2006 final, in which Sevilla demolished a Ronaldinho inspired Barcelona side 3-0. The 2010 final was also shocking, as the Jose Mourinho managed Inter Milan side was comprehensively beaten by Atletico Madrid, with goals from Forlan and Aguero condemning Mourinho to his second Super Cup defeat. It remains the only trophy that Mourinho has competed for and not won. Last year's final also involved Atletico, as they destroyed the Chelsea side 4-1, with a first half hat-trick from Falcao.
With the evidence of the last decade, it should not have come as too much of a surprise that Chelsea performed admirably during last night's encounter. From the beginning, they made it clear that they would not simply defend, and that they were highly capable on the break. This was proven just 8 minutes in, as a lightning fast counter from Eden Hazard found new-boy Andre Schurrle. The German's cut-back fell neatly into the path of Fernando Torres, who expertly volleyed past the helpless Neuer. Every year there is speculation over whether the Spaniard would reclaim his form, but this finish implies that form is temporary but class in permanent. After the goal, Chelsea had to withstand some heavy pressure from the German champions, but they continued to pose a threat on the break. As the half-time break drew close, Brazilian midfielder Ramires picked up a silly yellow card for a challenge on Ribery, which would come back to haunt him later. Nevertheless, the English side managed to hang onto their lead going into half-time.
Mourinho's team talk would have been very much along the lines of 'keep going, and do not concede early'. But this team talk went out of the window within two minutes of the restart. After a good attacking start, Chelsea lost the ball to Franck Ribery. He jinked inside a couple of defenders before unleashing a powerful shot. Though the shot was close to the goalkeeper, and error by Cech allowed the ball to fly off his hands and into the net to level the scores. Chances then came by for both sides, with Oscar wasting the best one for the Londoners. However, the game turned after 85 minutes. After a poor touch, Bayern substitute Mario Gotze went into a challenge second favourite with Ramires. The Brazilian's challenge was robust, and arguably two footed, leaving the German prostrate on the floor. This prompted a second yellow card for the midfielder, leaving Chelsea in trouble. The remainder of the match took place in Chelsea's half, with long range shots peppering Cech's goal. But the breakthrough did not come, meaning that another 1-1 draw after 90 minutes, and another 30 minutes of extra time.
Extra time started with a bang for the English side, as they reclaimed the lead just three minutes into the extra period. Eden Hazard, who had dominated the Bayern defence all game, managed to skip inside of Phillip Lahm and fire a shot towards goal. Similarly to Bayern's goal, questions must be asked about the goalkeeper, who failed to deal with the shot, allowing it to fly past him. Having claimed the lead, Chelsea then decided to shut up shop, defending deeply and requiring their goalkeeper to redeem himself. And that he did, making stunning saves to deny Mandzukic from point blank range. As time ran out, the shots were coming in from long range, and Bayern had resorted putting crosses into Chelsea's box. It looked impossible to break through the wall of blue defenders, until the very last kick of the game. A hopeful ball was flicked on by Mandzukic to the feet of Javi Martinez, and the Spanish international managed to beat Cech at his near post to ensure that the contest went to penalties.
Remembering the events of May 2012, both sides would have been well aware of each other. This time, the penalties began with 8 consecutive successful penalties, taking the contest effectively into sudden death. After Xherdan Shaqiri found the net (just) for Bayern, the weight fell onto the shoulders of Romelu Lukaku. After a stuttering start, the penalty was weak, and easily saved by Neuer. This ensured that Bayern earned revenge on their English opponents, and claimed the Super Cup, retaining the incredible alternating run between Champions League/Europa League clubs. Chelsea will take solace in the fact that Bayern are currently considered the best team in the world, and Chelsea were within one kick of beating them. This will not prevent the agony for Lukaku and the rest of the squad, but it does show just how far the Londoners have come.
Analysis of sporting events, talking points and controversies.
Saturday 31 August 2013
Friday 30 August 2013
UEFA Champions League Draw: Fairness or Retain the Status Quo?
Today was the day in which Europe's elite learnt their fate for the next few months of continental competition. For some, this was considerably more daunting than others. With the way in which the groups are determined, plenty of good sides end up with with groups far harder than others, which some people have argued is unfair. This post will explain the current way of determining the 'pots', and analyse its fairness based on the accusations made of it. I will then try and give another viable alternative to the current system, that could work out in a fairer way. Finally, I will examine the current season's groups, assessing the relative difficulty of them, and who is likely to progress.
If we begin with the way in which the groups are drawn, it is first important to explain some of the relevant terminology. The way European competitions are drawn is this: the sides are divided into four seeded 'pots'. Each group will have one team from each of the four 'pots'. Rules also dictate that teams from the same country cannot meet one another in the group stages, often leading to a set of complicated circumstances. However, the most complex of the issues is how the 'pots' are decided, that is, which teams are placed into which 'pots'. With the exception of the holders, who automatically go into pot 1, the way in which this is determined is by the 'European Club Coefficients'. This is calculated from two sets of data. The most important of these is the previous European results in each of the last 5 seasons. A team receives a number of points for qualifying for the Champions League group stage (4), and more for subsequent wins and draws whilst in the competition (2 and 1). Should the side reach the last 16, a further 5 points are added, and an extra point is added for every round they progress past that point. This contributes for 80% of the overall coefficient. The other 20% consists of the club's 'association coefficient', meaning that the league in which the side plays contributes to their overall coefficient. Combined, these create a system in which teams can be ranked and, from this, pots and subsequently groups are decided.
However, arguments have been raised that this system of determining groups is flawed and militates against up-and-coming clubs, whilst allowing established mediocre clubs to retain their status. There are several examples of this, and especially in recent years. Firstly, the treatment of Manchester City in the Champions League draw in comparison to their English counterparts. In both of their previous seasons in this competition, they have been awarded 'groups of death'. In their inaugural season, they faced the German giants and eventual finalists Bayern Munich, Italy's high-flying Napoli side and Spain's dangerous Villareal. Year 2, if anything, got even harder, pairing City with three fellow champions of their respective leagues. Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund and Ajax is a ridiculously tough group, and one that may well have unfairly been dealt. Had that group occurred in City's first season, when they had zero European experience, and had only managed to finish 3rd in the Premier League, it would have been excusable. As a result we can write off the first season as an unfortunate by-product of their inexperience. However, after a year in which they narrowly missed out on qualification from the toughest group in the competition, and claimed their domestic league title, I think the second year group is absurd. If we compare their plight to the fortune that Arsenal usually receive, we see a startling contrast. Arsenal, although they have qualified for the Champions League every year for the last 15 years, have not threatened to win the competition in the 5 years measured by the coefficient. In terms of their league form, they have made a habit of scraping a 4th place finish in recent years. As league form is not taken into account, Arsenal are consistently placed in the 1st pot, ensuring that they receive a greater chance of progression from the group stages. I believe this is incredibly unfair, as it somewhat undermines the idea of 'Champions' League. If those who finish 4th are placed in a vastly easier group to the league champions, what is the point of winning the domestic competition?
In case you just think that this is a City fan out for a bit of a rant, I will cover a couple more examples. What this system appears to do is not account for who has the best team, and judge accordingly. I accept this would be incredibly difficult to do in a way that is not already covered. For example, good sides in poor leagues can often rest players in their domestic campaigns and still win, guaranteeing qualification for next season, and ensuring that the entirety of their focus is on getting out of their group. Sides like Ukraine's Shakhtar Donetsk typify this, as they were placed in Pot 2 this time around, despite most agreeing that most of Pot 3 were also better than the Eastern Europeans. In the last couple of years, Celtic have attempted this, with it coming to fruition last season. If we compare this with non-champion sides from highly competitive leagues, we see another unfair area. Looking at Napoli in particular, they were unable to rest any of their top players in their domestic league or the Champions League campaign of 2 years ago, inevitably taking its toll on one. For the side from Naples, this took its toll on their league form, meaning that they failed to qualify for the following year's competition. This has a disastrous effect on their coefficient, ensuring that they receive a far tougher group than the sides from easier leagues.
Finally, for those who are interested in conspiracy theories, or just really dislike Michel Platini (the second of which I probably fit into), there is another criticism of the system. As the coefficients are decided by UEFA themselves, which Platini heads, he arguably could be biased one way or another. Given his hypocrisies over the spending of English clubs whilst exonerating his own Paris Saint Germain side, it seems an odd coincidence that PSG, who have had minimal European experience over the last few years, and only reached the quarter-finals last time around, have moved into Pot 2 this season, whilst last-years finalists Borussia Dortmund, who also have a stronger European pedigree, remain stuck in Pot 3. Whether this is truly a sign of corruption, or simply an insufficient prize given to those that progress to the latter stages, it is difficult to tell. As much as I would like Platini to be dethroned and disgraced, I think that the system simply fails to adequately reward the semi finalists and finalists.
Looking at the system, I would change it in the following ways to rectify some of the problems listed above. Firstly, the coefficient system as a whole is not a bad idea, however, I feel the 80:20 ratio of European to domestic competition is too much. I think 70:30 or even 65:35 would be more appropriate to prevent the smaller teams resting players and gaining an unfair advantage. I also think that the top leagues' champions should also be guaranteed places in the top 2 pots. This would prevent the unfair treatment of teams like City, and would also prevent just top 4 sides like Arsenal constantly being placed in the top pots. I do not advocate placing champions all in pot 1, as that completely ignores previous European experience, but the top 2 leaves sufficient wiggle room. Finally, I would also scale down the bonus for getting out of the group to 3, and then add 1 point for every round negotiated, and 5 to the eventual runner-up. This will allow those that have been most successful in the previous campaign to reap the full reward for their efforts. Though I am certain that this system would have alternative problems, I am sure that it would solve many of the current ones.
The result of this system is this year's draw, which has shown the benefits and problems with the current system. Based on the club coefficients, pot 1 consisted of holders Bayern Munich, along with Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Benfica and Porto. Pot 2 had Atletico Madrid, Schalke 04, CSKA Moscow, AC Milan, Marseille, Shakhtar Donetsk, Paris Saint Germain and Juventus. In Pot 3 was Manchester City, Ajax, Borussia Dortmund, Basle, Bayer Leverkusen, Galatasaray, Olympiakos and Zenit Saint Petersburg. Finally, Pot 4 had Real Sociedad, FC Copenhagen, Viktoria Plzen, Celtic, Steaua Bucharesti, Anderlecht, Napoli and Austria Vienna.
Group A: Manchester United, Shakhtar Donetsk, Bayer Leverkusen, Real Sociedad
Not the easiest group, but by no means the hardest. After the second pot was drawn, fans of Manchester United and David Moyes would have been very happy. The final two sides will make life difficult for the new United manager. I would still expect the English champions to get out of the group, but there may well be one or two bumps along the way. Bayer Leverkusen would be my tip for second, unless United have another 2011/2012 style capitulation.
Group B: Real Madrid, Juventus, Galatasaray, Copenhagen
A case of three into two doesn't go in this group, with Copenhagen seemingly destined for the nul point mark. Despite Galatasaray's impressive performances against Madrid last season, I expect them to be the side that has to exit. As for the winner of the group, I think a Madrid side consisting of Bale, Ronaldo, Casillas, Benzema et al will have enough, but I expect it to be a close run thing with Juve.
Group C: Benfica, Paris Saint Germain, Olympiakos, Anderlecht
One of the contenders for easiest group of the night, with PSG the likely beneficiaries. After another summer spending spree, the Parisians should find this group fairly straight-forward, leaving Olympiakos and Benfica to fight it out over the final qualifying position. Benfica get my vote, with the previous experience of Champions League qualification vital.
Group D: Bayern Munich, CSKA Moscow, Manchester City, Viktoria Plzen
Though the holders will present a challenge, this is a considerably easier group than either of the two previous draws for the English side. With the quality they have in their ranks, I fully expect them to get themselves out of the group stage for the first time, though perhaps only as runners-up. I expect that escaping the group is the expectation this year, with anything else seen as a bonus. Bayern should win the group, and I wouldn't bet against them reaching a third consecutive final.
Group E: Chelsea, Schalke 04, Basel, Steaua Bucharesti
Probably my pick for easiest group, with Chelsea the firm favourites to progress as winners. Schalke only qualified in 4th place in Germany, and the other two have come from less well know footballing nations. I expect the Germans to join the Londoners in the last 16, but I wouldn't be surprised if either of the other two upset the apple cart a little.
Group F: Arsenal, Marseille, Borussia Dortmund, Napoli
Certainly a contender for the hardest group of the night, with all four coming from competitive footballing nations. Though the Gunners were top seeds, I would not be at all surprised to see them fall at the first hurdle this time around. The pedigree and experience of the Borussia Dortmund side, along with the expensively assembled and impressive Napoli outfit will present an incredibly difficult test. Without significant spending on improvements, I think this could be the first English side out of this year's Champions League.
Group G: Porto, Atletico Madrid, Zenit Saint Petersburg, Austria Vienna
Though not the toughest group, this has the potential to be one of the most intriguing. All three of the top pots have the realistic potential to make it through, and though one would expect Austria Vienna to perish, they could be the APOEL Nicosia of this season.
Group H: Barcelona, AC Milan, Ajax, Celtic
And we finish with the hardest group of them all. As Neil Lennon visibly sunk into his chair at the announcement of his team's participation in this group, this said all that needed to be said about the state of Group H. Unlike others, which will have a handful of interesting fixtures, this group has the potential to have an enthralling game every time (especially if Celtic perform against Barcelona the way they did last time around!)
The draw for this season's Champions League has thrown up a few gems, with a couple of classics in the offing. I do hope that the hardest groups live up to expectation, and we genuinely see the best 16 teams in the competition progress. Unfortunately, thanks to the coefficient system, I fear that this will not be the case.
If we begin with the way in which the groups are drawn, it is first important to explain some of the relevant terminology. The way European competitions are drawn is this: the sides are divided into four seeded 'pots'. Each group will have one team from each of the four 'pots'. Rules also dictate that teams from the same country cannot meet one another in the group stages, often leading to a set of complicated circumstances. However, the most complex of the issues is how the 'pots' are decided, that is, which teams are placed into which 'pots'. With the exception of the holders, who automatically go into pot 1, the way in which this is determined is by the 'European Club Coefficients'. This is calculated from two sets of data. The most important of these is the previous European results in each of the last 5 seasons. A team receives a number of points for qualifying for the Champions League group stage (4), and more for subsequent wins and draws whilst in the competition (2 and 1). Should the side reach the last 16, a further 5 points are added, and an extra point is added for every round they progress past that point. This contributes for 80% of the overall coefficient. The other 20% consists of the club's 'association coefficient', meaning that the league in which the side plays contributes to their overall coefficient. Combined, these create a system in which teams can be ranked and, from this, pots and subsequently groups are decided.
However, arguments have been raised that this system of determining groups is flawed and militates against up-and-coming clubs, whilst allowing established mediocre clubs to retain their status. There are several examples of this, and especially in recent years. Firstly, the treatment of Manchester City in the Champions League draw in comparison to their English counterparts. In both of their previous seasons in this competition, they have been awarded 'groups of death'. In their inaugural season, they faced the German giants and eventual finalists Bayern Munich, Italy's high-flying Napoli side and Spain's dangerous Villareal. Year 2, if anything, got even harder, pairing City with three fellow champions of their respective leagues. Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund and Ajax is a ridiculously tough group, and one that may well have unfairly been dealt. Had that group occurred in City's first season, when they had zero European experience, and had only managed to finish 3rd in the Premier League, it would have been excusable. As a result we can write off the first season as an unfortunate by-product of their inexperience. However, after a year in which they narrowly missed out on qualification from the toughest group in the competition, and claimed their domestic league title, I think the second year group is absurd. If we compare their plight to the fortune that Arsenal usually receive, we see a startling contrast. Arsenal, although they have qualified for the Champions League every year for the last 15 years, have not threatened to win the competition in the 5 years measured by the coefficient. In terms of their league form, they have made a habit of scraping a 4th place finish in recent years. As league form is not taken into account, Arsenal are consistently placed in the 1st pot, ensuring that they receive a greater chance of progression from the group stages. I believe this is incredibly unfair, as it somewhat undermines the idea of 'Champions' League. If those who finish 4th are placed in a vastly easier group to the league champions, what is the point of winning the domestic competition?
In case you just think that this is a City fan out for a bit of a rant, I will cover a couple more examples. What this system appears to do is not account for who has the best team, and judge accordingly. I accept this would be incredibly difficult to do in a way that is not already covered. For example, good sides in poor leagues can often rest players in their domestic campaigns and still win, guaranteeing qualification for next season, and ensuring that the entirety of their focus is on getting out of their group. Sides like Ukraine's Shakhtar Donetsk typify this, as they were placed in Pot 2 this time around, despite most agreeing that most of Pot 3 were also better than the Eastern Europeans. In the last couple of years, Celtic have attempted this, with it coming to fruition last season. If we compare this with non-champion sides from highly competitive leagues, we see another unfair area. Looking at Napoli in particular, they were unable to rest any of their top players in their domestic league or the Champions League campaign of 2 years ago, inevitably taking its toll on one. For the side from Naples, this took its toll on their league form, meaning that they failed to qualify for the following year's competition. This has a disastrous effect on their coefficient, ensuring that they receive a far tougher group than the sides from easier leagues.
Finally, for those who are interested in conspiracy theories, or just really dislike Michel Platini (the second of which I probably fit into), there is another criticism of the system. As the coefficients are decided by UEFA themselves, which Platini heads, he arguably could be biased one way or another. Given his hypocrisies over the spending of English clubs whilst exonerating his own Paris Saint Germain side, it seems an odd coincidence that PSG, who have had minimal European experience over the last few years, and only reached the quarter-finals last time around, have moved into Pot 2 this season, whilst last-years finalists Borussia Dortmund, who also have a stronger European pedigree, remain stuck in Pot 3. Whether this is truly a sign of corruption, or simply an insufficient prize given to those that progress to the latter stages, it is difficult to tell. As much as I would like Platini to be dethroned and disgraced, I think that the system simply fails to adequately reward the semi finalists and finalists.
Looking at the system, I would change it in the following ways to rectify some of the problems listed above. Firstly, the coefficient system as a whole is not a bad idea, however, I feel the 80:20 ratio of European to domestic competition is too much. I think 70:30 or even 65:35 would be more appropriate to prevent the smaller teams resting players and gaining an unfair advantage. I also think that the top leagues' champions should also be guaranteed places in the top 2 pots. This would prevent the unfair treatment of teams like City, and would also prevent just top 4 sides like Arsenal constantly being placed in the top pots. I do not advocate placing champions all in pot 1, as that completely ignores previous European experience, but the top 2 leaves sufficient wiggle room. Finally, I would also scale down the bonus for getting out of the group to 3, and then add 1 point for every round negotiated, and 5 to the eventual runner-up. This will allow those that have been most successful in the previous campaign to reap the full reward for their efforts. Though I am certain that this system would have alternative problems, I am sure that it would solve many of the current ones.
The result of this system is this year's draw, which has shown the benefits and problems with the current system. Based on the club coefficients, pot 1 consisted of holders Bayern Munich, along with Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Benfica and Porto. Pot 2 had Atletico Madrid, Schalke 04, CSKA Moscow, AC Milan, Marseille, Shakhtar Donetsk, Paris Saint Germain and Juventus. In Pot 3 was Manchester City, Ajax, Borussia Dortmund, Basle, Bayer Leverkusen, Galatasaray, Olympiakos and Zenit Saint Petersburg. Finally, Pot 4 had Real Sociedad, FC Copenhagen, Viktoria Plzen, Celtic, Steaua Bucharesti, Anderlecht, Napoli and Austria Vienna.
Group A: Manchester United, Shakhtar Donetsk, Bayer Leverkusen, Real Sociedad
Not the easiest group, but by no means the hardest. After the second pot was drawn, fans of Manchester United and David Moyes would have been very happy. The final two sides will make life difficult for the new United manager. I would still expect the English champions to get out of the group, but there may well be one or two bumps along the way. Bayer Leverkusen would be my tip for second, unless United have another 2011/2012 style capitulation.
Group B: Real Madrid, Juventus, Galatasaray, Copenhagen
A case of three into two doesn't go in this group, with Copenhagen seemingly destined for the nul point mark. Despite Galatasaray's impressive performances against Madrid last season, I expect them to be the side that has to exit. As for the winner of the group, I think a Madrid side consisting of Bale, Ronaldo, Casillas, Benzema et al will have enough, but I expect it to be a close run thing with Juve.
Group C: Benfica, Paris Saint Germain, Olympiakos, Anderlecht
One of the contenders for easiest group of the night, with PSG the likely beneficiaries. After another summer spending spree, the Parisians should find this group fairly straight-forward, leaving Olympiakos and Benfica to fight it out over the final qualifying position. Benfica get my vote, with the previous experience of Champions League qualification vital.
Group D: Bayern Munich, CSKA Moscow, Manchester City, Viktoria Plzen
Though the holders will present a challenge, this is a considerably easier group than either of the two previous draws for the English side. With the quality they have in their ranks, I fully expect them to get themselves out of the group stage for the first time, though perhaps only as runners-up. I expect that escaping the group is the expectation this year, with anything else seen as a bonus. Bayern should win the group, and I wouldn't bet against them reaching a third consecutive final.
Group E: Chelsea, Schalke 04, Basel, Steaua Bucharesti
Probably my pick for easiest group, with Chelsea the firm favourites to progress as winners. Schalke only qualified in 4th place in Germany, and the other two have come from less well know footballing nations. I expect the Germans to join the Londoners in the last 16, but I wouldn't be surprised if either of the other two upset the apple cart a little.
Group F: Arsenal, Marseille, Borussia Dortmund, Napoli
Certainly a contender for the hardest group of the night, with all four coming from competitive footballing nations. Though the Gunners were top seeds, I would not be at all surprised to see them fall at the first hurdle this time around. The pedigree and experience of the Borussia Dortmund side, along with the expensively assembled and impressive Napoli outfit will present an incredibly difficult test. Without significant spending on improvements, I think this could be the first English side out of this year's Champions League.
Group G: Porto, Atletico Madrid, Zenit Saint Petersburg, Austria Vienna
Though not the toughest group, this has the potential to be one of the most intriguing. All three of the top pots have the realistic potential to make it through, and though one would expect Austria Vienna to perish, they could be the APOEL Nicosia of this season.
Group H: Barcelona, AC Milan, Ajax, Celtic
And we finish with the hardest group of them all. As Neil Lennon visibly sunk into his chair at the announcement of his team's participation in this group, this said all that needed to be said about the state of Group H. Unlike others, which will have a handful of interesting fixtures, this group has the potential to have an enthralling game every time (especially if Celtic perform against Barcelona the way they did last time around!)
The draw for this season's Champions League has thrown up a few gems, with a couple of classics in the offing. I do hope that the hardest groups live up to expectation, and we genuinely see the best 16 teams in the competition progress. Unfortunately, thanks to the coefficient system, I fear that this will not be the case.
Thursday 29 August 2013
The Ashes 2013 Review: Are We Seeing A Reversal In Fortunes?
This summer's Ashes series has seen the pendulum swing massively. Gone are the days of Australian dominance, aided by the likes of McGrath, Warne and Ponting, and emphatically so. The complexion of the current Ashes landscape sees the English, for arguably the first time in decades, in the drivers seat. There are some that will argue that this was confirmed by the historic English victory in the 2009/2010 Ashes victory down under, but for me, I consider this to be the clincher. An individual series can be a flash in the pan, but to consolidate without losing a Test in the next series is highly impressive, and indicative of a shift in power. Of course, winning a series comfortably is a lot easier on home soil than it is away, and therefore any claims of an English Ashes dynasty will have to wait until after this winter. Should England win the next series in three months' time, I would expect the urn to be residing at Lord's for quite some time. This post will review this summer's Ashes series, giving my personal high points and lows, before asking whether the momentum has swung full circle, and it is England that now have the dominance that the Australians enjoyed throughout the 1990's and early 2000's.
High Points:
1) Ian Bell's Breakthrough Series?
Ian Bell has been a regular in the England side for some time now, so perhaps the sub-heading is a little misleading. I am not suggesting that he really needed to prove himself, being under pressure for his place. Nevertheless, it could certainly be argued that Bell has produced his best cricket, and more importantly, his most consistent performances of his career. The Warwickshire man had never really starred in Ashes series, with 2005 being a particularly poor showing, but he has completely redeemed himself this time around. At times keeping England in the Tests, his 3 centuries had the Australian bowlers quaking when he strode to the crease. Beginning with his vital century at Trent Bridge, which gave England the lead that enabled them to take the opening Test, he continued that form into the Lord's Test. At the home of cricket, a 109 gave Bell his second consecutive ton, helping England to a seemingly unassailable 2-0 lead. Finally, arguably his most pivotal contribution occurred in the 4th Test at Durham. With England in real trouble at 49-3, Bell stepped in to produce a magnificent 113 not out, and once again set England on the path to victory. All of the English victories owe something to the middle-order batsman, and proved why he is one of the best with the willow worldwide.
2) The Nerves and the Drama
The first and final Tests are the ones that I am referring to here. Trent Bridge was reminiscent of that classic Test at Edgebaston in 2005, and ended with the same result: an English win. A quite incredible Test, which had the most enthralling final day. With England looking nailed on for victory, needing just 4 wickets to take the opening Test, Australia fought back, getting to within 15 runs of their 310 target. A controversial decision ended the game, with Australian wicketkeeper Haddin being dismissed after a DRS review indicated a small mark on the bat. The final Test at the Oval was equally as dramatic, but for different reasons. Instead of allowing the game to peter out into a boring draw, Aussie captain Clarke rolled the dice and tried to win it. Instead, they very nearly lost it, with another controversial decision this time costing the English the win.
3) So Near and Yet So Far For Agar
Arguably my favourite moment could also go in one of the worst moments. At the beginning of the Trent Bridge test, the name Ashton Agar meant nothing to the world of cricket, with the 'mystery spinner' being handed his Australian Test debut. By the end of it, he was a household name (for the next week at least!) in cricket homes up and down the country. After Australia followed England's example, collapsing to just 117-9, the 19-year-old stepped onto the park knowing his country needed him. Another 3 hours later, the number 11 was still there, having broken record after record in the meantime. Some of his records now include: highest score by a debutant number 11, first ever half century by a debutant number 11, world record 11th wicket partnership, highest ever score by a number 11. Unfortunately, it could not have a fairy-tale ending, as he fell for 97. Despite being an England fan, I have to admit I was willing the young man on to his century. However, having seen the narrow margin of victory three days later, I am not so certain I would have been as sporting had I known! Nevertheless, his 97 put Australia into the lead after the first innings, and put them back into contention.
4) The Best Batsman In The World?
Challenging the likes of Ian Bell for the title of 'World's Best Batsman' is Michael Clarke. To make a comparison, the Australian captain is arguably the Robin van Persie of cricket, with the middle-order batsman seemingly carrying his side, having scored an alarming percentage of the visitors runs. Most notably was an exceptional century in the 3rd Test at Old Trafford, where the captain scored a classy knock of 187 to put his side in a dominant position. Had it not been for the downpour, the Australians would almost certainly have registered, and that century could have been the moment that swung the momentum to the Aussies. The most consistent performer of the Australians, the captain is exceptional with the bat and in the field. If anything, the only aspect he lacks is the ability to judge the technology, something that frequently haunted the Australians. If he can learn from Cook in that regard, he will be a phenomenal captain for the Aussies down under.
5) The Marmite Man (1): Chester-le-Street
The 'love him or hate him' man of this series has undoubtedly been Stuart Broad. The seamer has been in the news for both positive and negative reasons, but we will start on his high moment. Day 4 of the 4th Test was the hero moment for Broad, who almost single-handedly destroyed the Australian batting, and claimed the Ashes victory for the English. Finishing with bowling figures of 6-50 in the second innings, and 11 wickets in the match, his was the outstanding contribution in Durham, ensuring that the English did not just retain the urn, but actually won the series as well. However, unfortunately for Broad, it was not all light moments...
Low Points:
1) 'Punchgate' and David Warner
Even before the Test series began, controversy surrounded the Ashes. With the news that after a night out, Australian opener David Warner had launched into an 'unprovoked attack' on English opener Joe Root, which was later confirmed as a punch on the English man. This saw Warner dropped for the opening two Tests, returning for the Old Trafford contest. Cue boos from all areas of the ground when the Australian entered the pitch or touched the ball, but what did he expect? In fairness to him, the opener did not allow it to distract him from his job, often bringing a rye smile to his lips. Eventually, the Aussie fought back to record two half centuries in the series, but Joe Root's dismissal of him brought smiles to the faces of all Englishmen concerned.
2) The Marmite Man (2): Trent Bridge
I said Stuart Broad's performance wasn't entirely flawless... In the very first Test, Broad got involved in a moment of controversy that would continue burning until the very end of the season, and I suspect will see the seamer treated like David Warner when England visit Australia for the return series this winter. On the 3rd day at Trent Bridge, and with England on 297-6, Broad clearly edged an Agar delivery. However, having ballooned off the pads of Brad Haddin and into the grateful hands of Michael Clarke, the umpires refused the requests, much to the disbelief of the Australian captain. Given how obvious the edge was, it is amazing that the umpires missed it, but even more amazing and disturbing was Stuart Broad's refusal to walk. This threw questions of gamesmanship, with the phrase 'it's not cricket' being thrown around, which were even more so when Broad admitted he knew he had hit it. Even more so, it escalated into Australian coach Darren Lehmann accusing Broad of cheating, and asking the Australian people to 'make him cry' in the return series. Though the Aussie has apologized for those comments, the issue will remain in the minds of the Australian people, and I expect the Englishman to recieve a particularly hostile reception.
3) I Thought We Got Rid Of Human Error?
Unfortunately, for all the good cricket that has been played this summer, there are countless examples of DRS and umpiring controversies. Beginning with the Broad-walking issue, and finishing with the 'Bad Light' fiasco at Lord's, this series has rarely been without incident and controversy. Though no-one would ever accuse them of corruption or cheating, the vast majority of the controversial decisions have gone in the favour of England. So bad were a couple of the decisions, the Australian Prime Minister got involved on Twitter. After Usman Khawaja was dismissed after a review in the Old Trafford Test, despite the video clearly showing no contact between bat and ball, the Aussie PM took to Twitter to announce his displeasure, with the comment 'one of the worst umpiring decisions I have ever seen'. Technology has been blamed for the inconsistencies and errors, but for me, it is the lump of flesh working the technology that has seemed to have crashed on all too many occasions.
4) Kevin Pietersen and the Silicone Tape of Deceit
Until the events of the final night, I would have said that this was the most ridiculous controversy of the entire series. In the lead up to the 4th Test at Chester-le-Street, reports circulated that an Australian paper had accused English batsman Kevin Pietersen of cheating. Rather than the Broad 'non-walking' element of cheating, which the Aussies had a case for, they chose an altogether more non-sensical tack. They made the assertion that the South African-born batsman had been using silicone tape to prevent the thermal imaging part of the DRS system, Hotspot, to detect nicks through to the wicketkeeper. This would make complete sense as an argument if caught behind was the only way of getting out. The Australians clearly did not think about lbw claims. If, as they suggested, the batsman had been using tape to prevent any evidence of the ball on Hotspot, it would actually work against him on lbw claims. Both sides confirmed this as ridiculous, and nothing came of it since.
5) The Ridiculous Celebrations
The story that broke relatively recently arguably tops the lot in terms of controversy. A story that would be more appropriate in Mario Balotelli's house or among the stories of dwarf throwing in the England Rugby Union World Cup camp, reports emerged that the English players had been seen urinating on the Oval turf after the finish of the final Test. This was practically confirmed when, just this morning, the England players came out and apologized for what they called 'inappropriate behaviour'. Why anyone would consider this to be an ordinary thing to do is beyond me, and it simply put a downer on the end of what had been a tremendous summer for the English boys. They will have to redeem themselves when they travel to Australia, and behave in an impeccable manner. However, as we have seen, that appears to be easier said than done...
Has It Swung All The Way?
Such has been the dominance of the English team at times this series, that the question now has to be raised about whether the balance of power has shifted the full 180 degrees from the 90's. Personally, I think that we saw enough from the Australians in the latter parts of the series to suggest that they will fight back this winter. However, should the English dominate that series down under, we could be on for a good few years of English success, which may see the Aussies put into the wilderness in terms of the Test game, at least for the time being.
High Points:
1) Ian Bell's Breakthrough Series?
Ian Bell has been a regular in the England side for some time now, so perhaps the sub-heading is a little misleading. I am not suggesting that he really needed to prove himself, being under pressure for his place. Nevertheless, it could certainly be argued that Bell has produced his best cricket, and more importantly, his most consistent performances of his career. The Warwickshire man had never really starred in Ashes series, with 2005 being a particularly poor showing, but he has completely redeemed himself this time around. At times keeping England in the Tests, his 3 centuries had the Australian bowlers quaking when he strode to the crease. Beginning with his vital century at Trent Bridge, which gave England the lead that enabled them to take the opening Test, he continued that form into the Lord's Test. At the home of cricket, a 109 gave Bell his second consecutive ton, helping England to a seemingly unassailable 2-0 lead. Finally, arguably his most pivotal contribution occurred in the 4th Test at Durham. With England in real trouble at 49-3, Bell stepped in to produce a magnificent 113 not out, and once again set England on the path to victory. All of the English victories owe something to the middle-order batsman, and proved why he is one of the best with the willow worldwide.
2) The Nerves and the Drama
The first and final Tests are the ones that I am referring to here. Trent Bridge was reminiscent of that classic Test at Edgebaston in 2005, and ended with the same result: an English win. A quite incredible Test, which had the most enthralling final day. With England looking nailed on for victory, needing just 4 wickets to take the opening Test, Australia fought back, getting to within 15 runs of their 310 target. A controversial decision ended the game, with Australian wicketkeeper Haddin being dismissed after a DRS review indicated a small mark on the bat. The final Test at the Oval was equally as dramatic, but for different reasons. Instead of allowing the game to peter out into a boring draw, Aussie captain Clarke rolled the dice and tried to win it. Instead, they very nearly lost it, with another controversial decision this time costing the English the win.
3) So Near and Yet So Far For Agar
Arguably my favourite moment could also go in one of the worst moments. At the beginning of the Trent Bridge test, the name Ashton Agar meant nothing to the world of cricket, with the 'mystery spinner' being handed his Australian Test debut. By the end of it, he was a household name (for the next week at least!) in cricket homes up and down the country. After Australia followed England's example, collapsing to just 117-9, the 19-year-old stepped onto the park knowing his country needed him. Another 3 hours later, the number 11 was still there, having broken record after record in the meantime. Some of his records now include: highest score by a debutant number 11, first ever half century by a debutant number 11, world record 11th wicket partnership, highest ever score by a number 11. Unfortunately, it could not have a fairy-tale ending, as he fell for 97. Despite being an England fan, I have to admit I was willing the young man on to his century. However, having seen the narrow margin of victory three days later, I am not so certain I would have been as sporting had I known! Nevertheless, his 97 put Australia into the lead after the first innings, and put them back into contention.
4) The Best Batsman In The World?
Challenging the likes of Ian Bell for the title of 'World's Best Batsman' is Michael Clarke. To make a comparison, the Australian captain is arguably the Robin van Persie of cricket, with the middle-order batsman seemingly carrying his side, having scored an alarming percentage of the visitors runs. Most notably was an exceptional century in the 3rd Test at Old Trafford, where the captain scored a classy knock of 187 to put his side in a dominant position. Had it not been for the downpour, the Australians would almost certainly have registered, and that century could have been the moment that swung the momentum to the Aussies. The most consistent performer of the Australians, the captain is exceptional with the bat and in the field. If anything, the only aspect he lacks is the ability to judge the technology, something that frequently haunted the Australians. If he can learn from Cook in that regard, he will be a phenomenal captain for the Aussies down under.
5) The Marmite Man (1): Chester-le-Street
The 'love him or hate him' man of this series has undoubtedly been Stuart Broad. The seamer has been in the news for both positive and negative reasons, but we will start on his high moment. Day 4 of the 4th Test was the hero moment for Broad, who almost single-handedly destroyed the Australian batting, and claimed the Ashes victory for the English. Finishing with bowling figures of 6-50 in the second innings, and 11 wickets in the match, his was the outstanding contribution in Durham, ensuring that the English did not just retain the urn, but actually won the series as well. However, unfortunately for Broad, it was not all light moments...
Low Points:
1) 'Punchgate' and David Warner
Even before the Test series began, controversy surrounded the Ashes. With the news that after a night out, Australian opener David Warner had launched into an 'unprovoked attack' on English opener Joe Root, which was later confirmed as a punch on the English man. This saw Warner dropped for the opening two Tests, returning for the Old Trafford contest. Cue boos from all areas of the ground when the Australian entered the pitch or touched the ball, but what did he expect? In fairness to him, the opener did not allow it to distract him from his job, often bringing a rye smile to his lips. Eventually, the Aussie fought back to record two half centuries in the series, but Joe Root's dismissal of him brought smiles to the faces of all Englishmen concerned.
2) The Marmite Man (2): Trent Bridge
I said Stuart Broad's performance wasn't entirely flawless... In the very first Test, Broad got involved in a moment of controversy that would continue burning until the very end of the season, and I suspect will see the seamer treated like David Warner when England visit Australia for the return series this winter. On the 3rd day at Trent Bridge, and with England on 297-6, Broad clearly edged an Agar delivery. However, having ballooned off the pads of Brad Haddin and into the grateful hands of Michael Clarke, the umpires refused the requests, much to the disbelief of the Australian captain. Given how obvious the edge was, it is amazing that the umpires missed it, but even more amazing and disturbing was Stuart Broad's refusal to walk. This threw questions of gamesmanship, with the phrase 'it's not cricket' being thrown around, which were even more so when Broad admitted he knew he had hit it. Even more so, it escalated into Australian coach Darren Lehmann accusing Broad of cheating, and asking the Australian people to 'make him cry' in the return series. Though the Aussie has apologized for those comments, the issue will remain in the minds of the Australian people, and I expect the Englishman to recieve a particularly hostile reception.
3) I Thought We Got Rid Of Human Error?
Unfortunately, for all the good cricket that has been played this summer, there are countless examples of DRS and umpiring controversies. Beginning with the Broad-walking issue, and finishing with the 'Bad Light' fiasco at Lord's, this series has rarely been without incident and controversy. Though no-one would ever accuse them of corruption or cheating, the vast majority of the controversial decisions have gone in the favour of England. So bad were a couple of the decisions, the Australian Prime Minister got involved on Twitter. After Usman Khawaja was dismissed after a review in the Old Trafford Test, despite the video clearly showing no contact between bat and ball, the Aussie PM took to Twitter to announce his displeasure, with the comment 'one of the worst umpiring decisions I have ever seen'. Technology has been blamed for the inconsistencies and errors, but for me, it is the lump of flesh working the technology that has seemed to have crashed on all too many occasions.
4) Kevin Pietersen and the Silicone Tape of Deceit
Until the events of the final night, I would have said that this was the most ridiculous controversy of the entire series. In the lead up to the 4th Test at Chester-le-Street, reports circulated that an Australian paper had accused English batsman Kevin Pietersen of cheating. Rather than the Broad 'non-walking' element of cheating, which the Aussies had a case for, they chose an altogether more non-sensical tack. They made the assertion that the South African-born batsman had been using silicone tape to prevent the thermal imaging part of the DRS system, Hotspot, to detect nicks through to the wicketkeeper. This would make complete sense as an argument if caught behind was the only way of getting out. The Australians clearly did not think about lbw claims. If, as they suggested, the batsman had been using tape to prevent any evidence of the ball on Hotspot, it would actually work against him on lbw claims. Both sides confirmed this as ridiculous, and nothing came of it since.
5) The Ridiculous Celebrations
The story that broke relatively recently arguably tops the lot in terms of controversy. A story that would be more appropriate in Mario Balotelli's house or among the stories of dwarf throwing in the England Rugby Union World Cup camp, reports emerged that the English players had been seen urinating on the Oval turf after the finish of the final Test. This was practically confirmed when, just this morning, the England players came out and apologized for what they called 'inappropriate behaviour'. Why anyone would consider this to be an ordinary thing to do is beyond me, and it simply put a downer on the end of what had been a tremendous summer for the English boys. They will have to redeem themselves when they travel to Australia, and behave in an impeccable manner. However, as we have seen, that appears to be easier said than done...
Has It Swung All The Way?
Such has been the dominance of the English team at times this series, that the question now has to be raised about whether the balance of power has shifted the full 180 degrees from the 90's. Personally, I think that we saw enough from the Australians in the latter parts of the series to suggest that they will fight back this winter. However, should the English dominate that series down under, we could be on for a good few years of English success, which may see the Aussies put into the wilderness in terms of the Test game, at least for the time being.
Monday 26 August 2013
The Ashes 2013: 5th Test, The Oval: It Ends As It Began
Whilst this 5th Ashes Test had very little meaning in terms of the result of the series, it was at the very least a chance for the Australians to regain some pride after a summer of being dominated. This led to arguably the most interesting of all the Tests this series. It had everything that we had been so accustomed to seeing in an Ashes Test: great batting, fantastic bowling, batting collapses, DRS and umpire controversies and, of course, bad weather. All of this led to the manic finish that we saw yesterday, giving us an indication of what may happen in six months time, where the Australians will hope to reclaim to historic urn.
There were two big controversies that occurred before the test had even begun. The first involved Australia coach Darren Lehmann. In an interview conducted with Australian radio channel Triple M, he made the statement that English seamer Stuart Broad should be considered a 'blatant cheat', and that he hoped the Australian fans 'made him cry' in the return series down under this winter. This sparked a backlash from ex-professionals and commentators alike. Whilst some of Broad's conduct has been questionable during this series (e.g. the admission of guilt over 'Walkgate'), to use this 'eye for an eye' style morality is not in the spirit of the game, and will only be counter-productive. Also, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to realise that the Australian people were going to give him a hard time anyway. If we look at the way that David Warner has been treated since his return in the 4th Test, I would expect to see more of the same down under. At least this will arguably be more appropriate, as the pantomime season will be in full swing, and the viewers will need a villain!
The second controversy involved the vast array of changes made to the England side, opting instead to play quite a few of the stars of the English Lions squad. Players like Simon Kerrigan and Chris Woakes were handed their debut Tests, leaving many English fans disillusioned. Their argument: why should we take our foot off the gas and play a weakened team, even when the series has been sewn up. Personally, I understand the frustration of the fans, especially those that had paid to see the first team perform. However, if England can give inexperienced players a chance to make a name for themselves, it may make all the difference when it comes to the return series. Look at the Root innings in the second Test if you want to see the value of trialling the younger players.
The first day began in beautiful sunshine, and having won the toss, Australia elected to bat, hoping to lead off in the same manner which saw them post a formidable total in the first innings at Durham. After Warner made a good start with the bat, he fell just a few overs in to James Anderson. At 11-1, Shane Watson came to the crease. The usual opener has struggled for consistent runs this series, failing to convert any of his innings into the century Australia have been needing. Today would be a different story. Whilst opener Chris Rogers took a fairly relaxed pace to proceedings, the big number 3 quickly pushed onto his half century before the lunch break. As soon as he managed that, he scored even faster, reaching a strike rate that would be impressive in the one-day forms of the game, never mind in a Test. After reaching his half century at just after 12:30, the big Australian had got to 80 by the time lunch was called half an hour later, with the new bowler Kerrigan taking most of the flack. If this formidable rate continued, England may have found themselves in a hole far deeper than even that in Durham.
After lunch, England desperately searched for that elusive second wicket. Though the bowlers did manage to calm the scoring rate of Watson, the number three remained firm at the crease. Instead, their attentions turned to Rogers, and after probing for an hour, Swann finally got the breakthrough. At 118-2, Clarke came to the crease, and threatened to form another game-changing partnership. After a couple of painful blows from Stuart Broad, Watson was on the verge of his first Test century in this series when his captain went. A stunning delivery from Anderson sent the stumps cartwheeling and sent Clarke back to the pavilion with only 7 to his name. This had the potential to unsettle Watson, especially given the magnitude of the knock. However, he dug deep to grind out that first century, and seemed to kick on once the nerves had settled. With Watson and new man Steve Smith settled at the crease, the Australians reached 181-3 at tea without much fuss. After tea, the assault did not relent, with the impressive Watson still knocking the spinners to all four corners to bring up his 150. By half past 5, Smith too had brought up his fifty, meaning that England were once again caught in the midst of a terrific middle order partnership. As the day drew to a close, it looked as though Australia were going to begin the second day in a tremendous position, suggesting that the squad changes were entirely the wrong decision. Then, a moment of brilliance in the field from Kevin Pietersen changed the complexion of the game. After hooking a Broad delivery, Watson could only watch as Pietersen sprung full length to take a magnificent diving catch, before walking to a standing ovation from all corners of the Oval. The new batsman Siddle barely had time to settle in before the close of play was announced, with Australia sitting pretty on 307-4.
As has so often been the case this series, when England have been struggling, they can count on the rain to bail them out. The 5th Test was no different, with bad weather delaying the start of play until 14:30. Once play did resume, England managed to get rid of Siddle very quickly, before turning their attention to the tail. However, Australia fought back, with Smith and Haddin going strongly. Smith in particular was impressive, moving past his Old Trafford total and into the 90s by 4:00. And just before tea, the all rounder brought up his maiden Test century, to the delight of the Australian balcony. No sooner had he done so as his foil Haddin relinquished his wicket to the bowling of Trott. Often the part-timers get the most difficult wickets, but it is always embarrasing as a batsman to go in that fashion. At 397-6 by tea, Australia knew that another 100 or so before the close would see them into a commanding position for the remaining three days. And once again they set off like a train, with new man Faulkner smashing fours all round the ground. However, his brief cameo came to an end on 19, when he attempted one shot too many, pulling Woakes into the hands of Trott at the boundary. This handed the newbie his first Test wicket, and after all the controversy, I believe he bowled well enough to justify his selection. Further cameos from Starc (11) and most notably Harris (33), meant that Australia were able to declare on 492-9, leaving Steve Smith unbeaten on 135, and still time to set about the English batsmen on day 2. Thankfully for the English, there was to be no late-night batting collapse, with the opening pair of Root and Cook able to see their team through to the close, finishing at 32-0.
Day 3 saw the pendulum swing once again, however. The Australians would have been wanting to take an early wicket, but the English openers foiled them, moving towards the hundred partnership by the drinks break. Immediately after that, the partnersip was broken, with Cook edging a delivery to Haddin for 25. Root and Trott then set about re-anchoring the innings, getting easily to lunch, with Root claiming his half-century. The partnership continued in a similar vein after the break, with both playing shots. Unfortunately for the youngster, he played one shot too many, hooking Nathan Lyon straight to Australian hero Watson for 68. Once again, stability was required, but this time it was Trott and Pietersen who needed to keep the innings going for the home side. That they did, managing to pass 175 before Trott was trapped lbw off the bowling of Starc after a successful review by the Australians. At tea, it was Pietersen and Bell at the crease, with England desperately needing their batsmen to do more than just get in and then out in quick succession. Unfortunately, that pattern continued after tea, with Pietersen, having just brought up his half century, perishing off the bowling of Starc. At 217-4, England were struggling to avoid the follow on, and needed their tail to wag to have any chance of competing in this match. Bell and Woakes managed to keep their wickets to the close, leaving England a full 245 behind, with a first innings total of 247-4.
With the Australians seemingly in complete control of the final Test, fate got in the way once more, again favouring the English. Day 4 was a complete washout, with the rain preventing any play and making a draw seem the most likely outcome. However, the events of Day 5 were arguably some of the most exciting of the series, bringing a remarkable finish. After a brief cameo at the start of day 5, Woakes fell with a whimper, with Bell going soon after. Stuart Broad also didn't last long, having his stumps rearranged by a cracker from Harris. A period of incredible attack from Prior and Swann followed, with a partnership totalling almost 50 runs from very few overs. Eventually, Prior had to go before reaching his personal half century, bringing the tail enders of firstly Anderson, and then Kerrigan to the crease. Neither of these had any real impact on the scoreline, leaving England still 115 runs in arrears by the time all of the wickets had fallen. Clarke, knowing that there were only 60 overs remaining in the Test match, opted to treat the game like a 20/20 one, sending his batsmen out with the motif of slog everything that moves. A high-risk strategy, and not one that paid off for the Aussies. Though Warner and Watson started well, reaching 30-0, Warner went to a brilliant c&b from Anderson. This precipitated the collapse of the Australian second innings. Watson went next, scoring 26, and leaving Australia on 44-2. Haddin, the next man in, was well and truly beaten by Broad, sending him back to the pavilion without scoring. After a good cameo, new boy Faulkner was next to perish, with Broad the tormentor in chief, forcing an edge. With the Australian lead only 183, a few more quick wickets could actually put England back in control of their own destiny this Test, and they could begin to think of winning it! Those two wickets did fall quickly, with firstly Smith, and then Harris both falling before reaching double figures, leaving Australia on 85-6, and leading by 201. By tea that lead had stretched to 226, at which point Clarke decided to have a go at bowling the English out. With only 44 overs in the day, that seemed quite a tall order. Amazingly, come the final session of a Test so affected by rain, all three results were still possible!
Australian hopes of victory were boosted by the quick dismissal of Joe Root. The young batsman, gone for 11, will be disappointed not to have taken advantage of the frantic situation. Unlike the Australian innings, this was not the catalyst for an English batting collapse, with Trott and Cook taking the home side to the drinks break at 85-1. With 27 overs remaining, the English side found themselves needing 142 to win. Anyone who has watched 20/20 cricket will tell you that that total is eminently gettable. However, their push to victory was instantly checked after the break, with the captain going to a fine delivery from Harris. Pietersen was the next batsman in, and he and Trott once again set about reducing the run rate, bringing the score to 139-2 by 18:30. Despite this being the normal close of play time, the rain had meant that another half hour or so would be allowed, giving England the chance to win the game. In that next half-hour, both Pietersen and Trott passed their half-centuries, taking the target down to just 68 from 11 overs. And still the two sides played on, with both Pietersen and then Trott falling in quick succession as England valiantly continued their chase. With just 5 overs left, England had just 33 runs to make, meaning an average of just over a run a ball. This was looking like being another tight finish. After a fantastic first 5 balls from an England point of view, adding 12 runs, Ian Bell was run out in the final ball of the over. However, if we thought that was the end of the drama and controversy, we were wrong. At the end of that over, with just 21 runs required from 24 balls, the umpires decided that the light was not sufficient to continue, meaning that the match was drawn. Cue angry responses from the English players, who believed that a 4-0 series win was within their grasp. Instead they had to settle for 3-0, their largest margin of victory since 1978.
Whilst there are those that complained, at both the ICC, and more bizarrely, Michael Clarke for the players being brought off, I think that they are being ungrateful. The Australians would have been well within their rights to bat through the whole day, boring the crowds and ensuring that the game resulted in a draw. Instead, they rolled the dice and caused the nerve-jangling final moments. The game was extended a full hour and a half over the usual closing time of 18:00 in order to try and find a conclusion. However, at the end of it all, we have no different result than that that was expected. We have only been treated to a far more exciting draw! Nevertheless, the series finished in exactly the same way to which it started: engulfed in controversy.
There were two big controversies that occurred before the test had even begun. The first involved Australia coach Darren Lehmann. In an interview conducted with Australian radio channel Triple M, he made the statement that English seamer Stuart Broad should be considered a 'blatant cheat', and that he hoped the Australian fans 'made him cry' in the return series down under this winter. This sparked a backlash from ex-professionals and commentators alike. Whilst some of Broad's conduct has been questionable during this series (e.g. the admission of guilt over 'Walkgate'), to use this 'eye for an eye' style morality is not in the spirit of the game, and will only be counter-productive. Also, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to realise that the Australian people were going to give him a hard time anyway. If we look at the way that David Warner has been treated since his return in the 4th Test, I would expect to see more of the same down under. At least this will arguably be more appropriate, as the pantomime season will be in full swing, and the viewers will need a villain!
The second controversy involved the vast array of changes made to the England side, opting instead to play quite a few of the stars of the English Lions squad. Players like Simon Kerrigan and Chris Woakes were handed their debut Tests, leaving many English fans disillusioned. Their argument: why should we take our foot off the gas and play a weakened team, even when the series has been sewn up. Personally, I understand the frustration of the fans, especially those that had paid to see the first team perform. However, if England can give inexperienced players a chance to make a name for themselves, it may make all the difference when it comes to the return series. Look at the Root innings in the second Test if you want to see the value of trialling the younger players.
The first day began in beautiful sunshine, and having won the toss, Australia elected to bat, hoping to lead off in the same manner which saw them post a formidable total in the first innings at Durham. After Warner made a good start with the bat, he fell just a few overs in to James Anderson. At 11-1, Shane Watson came to the crease. The usual opener has struggled for consistent runs this series, failing to convert any of his innings into the century Australia have been needing. Today would be a different story. Whilst opener Chris Rogers took a fairly relaxed pace to proceedings, the big number 3 quickly pushed onto his half century before the lunch break. As soon as he managed that, he scored even faster, reaching a strike rate that would be impressive in the one-day forms of the game, never mind in a Test. After reaching his half century at just after 12:30, the big Australian had got to 80 by the time lunch was called half an hour later, with the new bowler Kerrigan taking most of the flack. If this formidable rate continued, England may have found themselves in a hole far deeper than even that in Durham.
After lunch, England desperately searched for that elusive second wicket. Though the bowlers did manage to calm the scoring rate of Watson, the number three remained firm at the crease. Instead, their attentions turned to Rogers, and after probing for an hour, Swann finally got the breakthrough. At 118-2, Clarke came to the crease, and threatened to form another game-changing partnership. After a couple of painful blows from Stuart Broad, Watson was on the verge of his first Test century in this series when his captain went. A stunning delivery from Anderson sent the stumps cartwheeling and sent Clarke back to the pavilion with only 7 to his name. This had the potential to unsettle Watson, especially given the magnitude of the knock. However, he dug deep to grind out that first century, and seemed to kick on once the nerves had settled. With Watson and new man Steve Smith settled at the crease, the Australians reached 181-3 at tea without much fuss. After tea, the assault did not relent, with the impressive Watson still knocking the spinners to all four corners to bring up his 150. By half past 5, Smith too had brought up his fifty, meaning that England were once again caught in the midst of a terrific middle order partnership. As the day drew to a close, it looked as though Australia were going to begin the second day in a tremendous position, suggesting that the squad changes were entirely the wrong decision. Then, a moment of brilliance in the field from Kevin Pietersen changed the complexion of the game. After hooking a Broad delivery, Watson could only watch as Pietersen sprung full length to take a magnificent diving catch, before walking to a standing ovation from all corners of the Oval. The new batsman Siddle barely had time to settle in before the close of play was announced, with Australia sitting pretty on 307-4.
As has so often been the case this series, when England have been struggling, they can count on the rain to bail them out. The 5th Test was no different, with bad weather delaying the start of play until 14:30. Once play did resume, England managed to get rid of Siddle very quickly, before turning their attention to the tail. However, Australia fought back, with Smith and Haddin going strongly. Smith in particular was impressive, moving past his Old Trafford total and into the 90s by 4:00. And just before tea, the all rounder brought up his maiden Test century, to the delight of the Australian balcony. No sooner had he done so as his foil Haddin relinquished his wicket to the bowling of Trott. Often the part-timers get the most difficult wickets, but it is always embarrasing as a batsman to go in that fashion. At 397-6 by tea, Australia knew that another 100 or so before the close would see them into a commanding position for the remaining three days. And once again they set off like a train, with new man Faulkner smashing fours all round the ground. However, his brief cameo came to an end on 19, when he attempted one shot too many, pulling Woakes into the hands of Trott at the boundary. This handed the newbie his first Test wicket, and after all the controversy, I believe he bowled well enough to justify his selection. Further cameos from Starc (11) and most notably Harris (33), meant that Australia were able to declare on 492-9, leaving Steve Smith unbeaten on 135, and still time to set about the English batsmen on day 2. Thankfully for the English, there was to be no late-night batting collapse, with the opening pair of Root and Cook able to see their team through to the close, finishing at 32-0.
Day 3 saw the pendulum swing once again, however. The Australians would have been wanting to take an early wicket, but the English openers foiled them, moving towards the hundred partnership by the drinks break. Immediately after that, the partnersip was broken, with Cook edging a delivery to Haddin for 25. Root and Trott then set about re-anchoring the innings, getting easily to lunch, with Root claiming his half-century. The partnership continued in a similar vein after the break, with both playing shots. Unfortunately for the youngster, he played one shot too many, hooking Nathan Lyon straight to Australian hero Watson for 68. Once again, stability was required, but this time it was Trott and Pietersen who needed to keep the innings going for the home side. That they did, managing to pass 175 before Trott was trapped lbw off the bowling of Starc after a successful review by the Australians. At tea, it was Pietersen and Bell at the crease, with England desperately needing their batsmen to do more than just get in and then out in quick succession. Unfortunately, that pattern continued after tea, with Pietersen, having just brought up his half century, perishing off the bowling of Starc. At 217-4, England were struggling to avoid the follow on, and needed their tail to wag to have any chance of competing in this match. Bell and Woakes managed to keep their wickets to the close, leaving England a full 245 behind, with a first innings total of 247-4.
With the Australians seemingly in complete control of the final Test, fate got in the way once more, again favouring the English. Day 4 was a complete washout, with the rain preventing any play and making a draw seem the most likely outcome. However, the events of Day 5 were arguably some of the most exciting of the series, bringing a remarkable finish. After a brief cameo at the start of day 5, Woakes fell with a whimper, with Bell going soon after. Stuart Broad also didn't last long, having his stumps rearranged by a cracker from Harris. A period of incredible attack from Prior and Swann followed, with a partnership totalling almost 50 runs from very few overs. Eventually, Prior had to go before reaching his personal half century, bringing the tail enders of firstly Anderson, and then Kerrigan to the crease. Neither of these had any real impact on the scoreline, leaving England still 115 runs in arrears by the time all of the wickets had fallen. Clarke, knowing that there were only 60 overs remaining in the Test match, opted to treat the game like a 20/20 one, sending his batsmen out with the motif of slog everything that moves. A high-risk strategy, and not one that paid off for the Aussies. Though Warner and Watson started well, reaching 30-0, Warner went to a brilliant c&b from Anderson. This precipitated the collapse of the Australian second innings. Watson went next, scoring 26, and leaving Australia on 44-2. Haddin, the next man in, was well and truly beaten by Broad, sending him back to the pavilion without scoring. After a good cameo, new boy Faulkner was next to perish, with Broad the tormentor in chief, forcing an edge. With the Australian lead only 183, a few more quick wickets could actually put England back in control of their own destiny this Test, and they could begin to think of winning it! Those two wickets did fall quickly, with firstly Smith, and then Harris both falling before reaching double figures, leaving Australia on 85-6, and leading by 201. By tea that lead had stretched to 226, at which point Clarke decided to have a go at bowling the English out. With only 44 overs in the day, that seemed quite a tall order. Amazingly, come the final session of a Test so affected by rain, all three results were still possible!
Australian hopes of victory were boosted by the quick dismissal of Joe Root. The young batsman, gone for 11, will be disappointed not to have taken advantage of the frantic situation. Unlike the Australian innings, this was not the catalyst for an English batting collapse, with Trott and Cook taking the home side to the drinks break at 85-1. With 27 overs remaining, the English side found themselves needing 142 to win. Anyone who has watched 20/20 cricket will tell you that that total is eminently gettable. However, their push to victory was instantly checked after the break, with the captain going to a fine delivery from Harris. Pietersen was the next batsman in, and he and Trott once again set about reducing the run rate, bringing the score to 139-2 by 18:30. Despite this being the normal close of play time, the rain had meant that another half hour or so would be allowed, giving England the chance to win the game. In that next half-hour, both Pietersen and Trott passed their half-centuries, taking the target down to just 68 from 11 overs. And still the two sides played on, with both Pietersen and then Trott falling in quick succession as England valiantly continued their chase. With just 5 overs left, England had just 33 runs to make, meaning an average of just over a run a ball. This was looking like being another tight finish. After a fantastic first 5 balls from an England point of view, adding 12 runs, Ian Bell was run out in the final ball of the over. However, if we thought that was the end of the drama and controversy, we were wrong. At the end of that over, with just 21 runs required from 24 balls, the umpires decided that the light was not sufficient to continue, meaning that the match was drawn. Cue angry responses from the English players, who believed that a 4-0 series win was within their grasp. Instead they had to settle for 3-0, their largest margin of victory since 1978.
Whilst there are those that complained, at both the ICC, and more bizarrely, Michael Clarke for the players being brought off, I think that they are being ungrateful. The Australians would have been well within their rights to bat through the whole day, boring the crowds and ensuring that the game resulted in a draw. Instead, they rolled the dice and caused the nerve-jangling final moments. The game was extended a full hour and a half over the usual closing time of 18:00 in order to try and find a conclusion. However, at the end of it all, we have no different result than that that was expected. We have only been treated to a far more exciting draw! Nevertheless, the series finished in exactly the same way to which it started: engulfed in controversy.
Sunday 25 August 2013
The 2013 Belgian Grand Prix: Questions Asked, Questions Answered?
After the traditional four week break, Formula 1 was back with a bang this weekend, travelling to the idyllic and historic Spa-Francorchamps circuit in Belgium. With recognised corners like Eau Rouge and Pouon, the longest circuit in Formula 1 is also a drivers and fans favourite, making up one of the traditional 'big 3'-Monaco, Italy and Belgium. Those races were always the ones to win to be a successful race driver. The considerable break did nothing to prevent the rumours and gossiping up and down the paddock about potential changes and moves among the drivers and teams. Top of the list was the second Red Bull seat. With the news that Mark Webber will be leaving Formula 1 at the end of the season a few weeks ago, several names have been put into the frame, making it one of the most hotly debated topics in the sport. As the team currently lead both the Drivers' and Constructors' championships, it was assumed that a big name would be announced.
The initial reports suggested that the race was between Fernando Alonso, who had seemingly become disenchanted with Ferrari, and the Lotus driver Kimi Raikkonen. The Finn, being the most consistent driver in the field, having just broken Michael Schumacher's record for the most consistent points finishes, has yet to be in a title challenging car since his return to Formula 1. The thinking was that the Finn would jump at the chance to join a title-winning team. Those reports were refuted by Alonso, albeit after a reprimand from the head of Ferrari, Luca Demontezemalo. Nevertheless, Alonso's chances were seemingly kai-boshed by Sebastien Vettel's admission that he would far rather see Raikkonen at Red Bull than the Spaniard. However, after extensive negotiations between Raikkonen's representatives and Red Bull, no agreement was made, and the Finn decided that Lotus was his preferred destination. With the two obvious big-name options extinguished, a third contender had been quietly but effectively putting his name forward. Australian youngster Daniel Ricciardo, who drives for Red Bull's sister team Toro Rosso, has been putting in remarkable performances so far this season, finishing consistently in the points in a much weaker car, and regularly getting into the final session of qualifying. For me, he is the sensible choice, as Red Bull have always attempted to bring through the younger drivers in the sister team (with the likes of Vettel, Sebastien Buemi and John Eric-Vergne all coming through Toro Rosso's ranks). To bring in a big name seems to undermine the work that that team does.
Moving back to the events in Spa, qualifying proved one of the most exciting and unpredictable of the season. With rain teeming down before the session, only to stop minutes before the drivers were to begin their qualifying, the changeable conditions meant that tactics would play a bigger part than in many other grand prix. Fortunately for the top drivers, they managed to negotiate session 1, with the main casualty being the man touted for the Red Bull job, Daniel Ricciardo. With both Toro Rossos and Williams out of contention, the Caterham of Guido van der Garde and both of the Marussias made the cut, thanks mainly to the risky, but ultimately justified decision to swap to slicks before the end of the session. Q2 saw a relatively dry session, meaning that the top teams could return to the normal setup. Once again, this saw little in the way of surprises, with the mid-grid teams the ones that perished. Q3 was the one where all the action lay. With rain threatening to arrive, there was a queue of drivers at the pit exit waiting for the beginning of the session. As the rain will inevitably slow the cars down, the one that can get a dry lap in will be the one on pole. Unfortunately for those cars, the rain began heavily on their outlaps, meaning that none were able to set a fast lap on the dry tyres. With the weather only looking likely to deteriorate, it was Paul Di Resta that took full advantage. The Scot had elected to run on the intermediate tyres, meaning that he was able to take advantage of the conditions before they worsened. His 2:02 time seemed nailed on for pole, especially with his closest challenger Massa a full 0.5 seconds behind. However, events took another twist, with the weather clearing again as the clock ticked down. As the flag dropped, Nico Rosberg beat Di Resta's time by 0.08 seconds, ensuring that the Force India driver's heart did the same. However, the two Red Bulls and Lewis Hamilton had played the clock to perfection, meaning that they had an additional lap in the drying conditions in which to take the pole. All three went massively faster than Rosberg's time, as firstly Webber took pole, before Vettel and finally Hamilton beat the time. This meant that the Mercedes driver took his fourth consecutive pole, and 7th consecutive front row start.
In order for the Mercedes man to take his second consecutive win, a good start would also be required. Off the line, it looked as though he had got the jump on the Red Bull, with both Vettel and Webber struggling. Webber in particular had an atrocious start, falling from 3rd to 6th within a matter of moments, threatening to wreck his race. Vettel fought hard to keep both Rosberg and Button behind him, coming under pressure from the German into turn 1. Further back, Fernando Alonso once again proved his ability to start quickly in his Ferrari, moving from his 9th slot to an impressive 5th by the end of the first sector. After a good start from Hamilton, he struggled at the top of Eau Rouge, giving Vettel the chance to slipstream him down the back straight. The triple world champion seized the opportunity to gain an early advantage, taking the lead at Les Combes. He then set about breaking the DRS zone, a feat he had achieved by the end of the lap. With a comfortable 3.5 second lead within 5 laps, the German was instructed to keep an eye on his tyres, as wear would become increasingly important as the race went on.
Vettel's tyre issues were not the only concern in the paddock, however. Just behind, Kimi Raikkonen was struggling with brake problems. Almost from the very beginning of the race, his front left brake duct seemed to be pouring smoke at every braking zone, with the disc glowing a bright shade of orange. This was a danger warning for what was to come. On lap 26, after a long and protracted battle with the Ferrari of Felipe Massa, the Finn attempted to overtake down into the Bus Stop chicane. Instead of making the pass stick, the Lotus driver was unable to slow his car down for the turn, indicating that his brakes were in severe risk of failure. As the speeds reached at part of this track are unthinkable, risking a failure was not an option, forcing Kimi to retire the car. A shame, as this broke his record of 30 consecutive points paying finishes, eclipsing the record held by Michael Schumacher, however we always knew that eventually the run would come to an end.
The pit stop began for the top teams on lap 12, with Lewis Hamilton coming in and rejoining behind Romain Grosjean. Despite the Frenchman being on much older tyres, he struggled to pass the Lotus driver, losing time to both Vettel and Alonso. The Frenchman's reluctance to allow the Briton to pass was perhaps born out of the events of a few laps ago, where Grosjean got into a battle with the McLaren driver Sergio Perez. After the Mexican reeled in the Lotus in the DRS zone, overtaking him, he then forced Grosjean off the road, leaving the Frenchman angered, and the McLaren with a drive through penalty. Hamilton's inability to pass Grosjean was compounded by Alonso rejoining from his pit stop directly behind. After the Brit finally passed the Lotus, he was hunted down and eventually passed by the Ferrari. This battling allowed Vettel to extend his lead to nearly 8 seconds. There was more memorable battling down the field, as both of the Force Indias' and Perez attempted to go through Eau Rouge together, with a perfectly organised overtake the end result.
After the final stops, Alonso had managed to extend his lead over Hamilton to 3.5 seconds, whilst Vettel had a full 13 seconds over the pair. With the result of the race seemingly decided, the most exciting thing that happened was further down the field. In a four way battle, Esteban Gutierrez attempted to overtake Pastor Maldonado around the outside in the final sector, before being forced off the road by the Venezuelan. Though it seemed that the move was over, the Mexican appeared on his inside at the Bus Stop chicane, forcing the Williams driver wide. In trying to rejoin ahead of the Force Indias behind, Maldonado firstly clipped Sutil, before smashing into the side of Di Resta. Questions were raised as to whether this would bring out the safety car, meaning that Vettel's substantial lead would be erased. Fortunately for the Red Bull, the car was cleared, and the German could continue on his path. The only further excitement in the final few laps was the idea that Webber could be able to chase down and overtake both Mercedes' drivers. As it was, that never materialised, with the Red Bull having to settle for a respectable 5th place. For Vettel, this grand prix represented a Sunday afternoon stroll, with the German eventually winning by almost 17 seconds from Alonso, and a full half minute in front of Lewis Hamilton, the man he started on the front row with.
Before Spa, questions were being asked over whether Vettel was under threat from those behind him in the championship race. After this response, the firm favourite for this year's title is unequivocally the Red Bull driver. Something is going to have to go seriously wrong to prevent the German from taking his fourth consecutive world title, and I simply do not see it happening. Are we in for a reign of dominance that eclipses even that of Schumacher?
The initial reports suggested that the race was between Fernando Alonso, who had seemingly become disenchanted with Ferrari, and the Lotus driver Kimi Raikkonen. The Finn, being the most consistent driver in the field, having just broken Michael Schumacher's record for the most consistent points finishes, has yet to be in a title challenging car since his return to Formula 1. The thinking was that the Finn would jump at the chance to join a title-winning team. Those reports were refuted by Alonso, albeit after a reprimand from the head of Ferrari, Luca Demontezemalo. Nevertheless, Alonso's chances were seemingly kai-boshed by Sebastien Vettel's admission that he would far rather see Raikkonen at Red Bull than the Spaniard. However, after extensive negotiations between Raikkonen's representatives and Red Bull, no agreement was made, and the Finn decided that Lotus was his preferred destination. With the two obvious big-name options extinguished, a third contender had been quietly but effectively putting his name forward. Australian youngster Daniel Ricciardo, who drives for Red Bull's sister team Toro Rosso, has been putting in remarkable performances so far this season, finishing consistently in the points in a much weaker car, and regularly getting into the final session of qualifying. For me, he is the sensible choice, as Red Bull have always attempted to bring through the younger drivers in the sister team (with the likes of Vettel, Sebastien Buemi and John Eric-Vergne all coming through Toro Rosso's ranks). To bring in a big name seems to undermine the work that that team does.
Moving back to the events in Spa, qualifying proved one of the most exciting and unpredictable of the season. With rain teeming down before the session, only to stop minutes before the drivers were to begin their qualifying, the changeable conditions meant that tactics would play a bigger part than in many other grand prix. Fortunately for the top drivers, they managed to negotiate session 1, with the main casualty being the man touted for the Red Bull job, Daniel Ricciardo. With both Toro Rossos and Williams out of contention, the Caterham of Guido van der Garde and both of the Marussias made the cut, thanks mainly to the risky, but ultimately justified decision to swap to slicks before the end of the session. Q2 saw a relatively dry session, meaning that the top teams could return to the normal setup. Once again, this saw little in the way of surprises, with the mid-grid teams the ones that perished. Q3 was the one where all the action lay. With rain threatening to arrive, there was a queue of drivers at the pit exit waiting for the beginning of the session. As the rain will inevitably slow the cars down, the one that can get a dry lap in will be the one on pole. Unfortunately for those cars, the rain began heavily on their outlaps, meaning that none were able to set a fast lap on the dry tyres. With the weather only looking likely to deteriorate, it was Paul Di Resta that took full advantage. The Scot had elected to run on the intermediate tyres, meaning that he was able to take advantage of the conditions before they worsened. His 2:02 time seemed nailed on for pole, especially with his closest challenger Massa a full 0.5 seconds behind. However, events took another twist, with the weather clearing again as the clock ticked down. As the flag dropped, Nico Rosberg beat Di Resta's time by 0.08 seconds, ensuring that the Force India driver's heart did the same. However, the two Red Bulls and Lewis Hamilton had played the clock to perfection, meaning that they had an additional lap in the drying conditions in which to take the pole. All three went massively faster than Rosberg's time, as firstly Webber took pole, before Vettel and finally Hamilton beat the time. This meant that the Mercedes driver took his fourth consecutive pole, and 7th consecutive front row start.
In order for the Mercedes man to take his second consecutive win, a good start would also be required. Off the line, it looked as though he had got the jump on the Red Bull, with both Vettel and Webber struggling. Webber in particular had an atrocious start, falling from 3rd to 6th within a matter of moments, threatening to wreck his race. Vettel fought hard to keep both Rosberg and Button behind him, coming under pressure from the German into turn 1. Further back, Fernando Alonso once again proved his ability to start quickly in his Ferrari, moving from his 9th slot to an impressive 5th by the end of the first sector. After a good start from Hamilton, he struggled at the top of Eau Rouge, giving Vettel the chance to slipstream him down the back straight. The triple world champion seized the opportunity to gain an early advantage, taking the lead at Les Combes. He then set about breaking the DRS zone, a feat he had achieved by the end of the lap. With a comfortable 3.5 second lead within 5 laps, the German was instructed to keep an eye on his tyres, as wear would become increasingly important as the race went on.
Vettel's tyre issues were not the only concern in the paddock, however. Just behind, Kimi Raikkonen was struggling with brake problems. Almost from the very beginning of the race, his front left brake duct seemed to be pouring smoke at every braking zone, with the disc glowing a bright shade of orange. This was a danger warning for what was to come. On lap 26, after a long and protracted battle with the Ferrari of Felipe Massa, the Finn attempted to overtake down into the Bus Stop chicane. Instead of making the pass stick, the Lotus driver was unable to slow his car down for the turn, indicating that his brakes were in severe risk of failure. As the speeds reached at part of this track are unthinkable, risking a failure was not an option, forcing Kimi to retire the car. A shame, as this broke his record of 30 consecutive points paying finishes, eclipsing the record held by Michael Schumacher, however we always knew that eventually the run would come to an end.
The pit stop began for the top teams on lap 12, with Lewis Hamilton coming in and rejoining behind Romain Grosjean. Despite the Frenchman being on much older tyres, he struggled to pass the Lotus driver, losing time to both Vettel and Alonso. The Frenchman's reluctance to allow the Briton to pass was perhaps born out of the events of a few laps ago, where Grosjean got into a battle with the McLaren driver Sergio Perez. After the Mexican reeled in the Lotus in the DRS zone, overtaking him, he then forced Grosjean off the road, leaving the Frenchman angered, and the McLaren with a drive through penalty. Hamilton's inability to pass Grosjean was compounded by Alonso rejoining from his pit stop directly behind. After the Brit finally passed the Lotus, he was hunted down and eventually passed by the Ferrari. This battling allowed Vettel to extend his lead to nearly 8 seconds. There was more memorable battling down the field, as both of the Force Indias' and Perez attempted to go through Eau Rouge together, with a perfectly organised overtake the end result.
After the final stops, Alonso had managed to extend his lead over Hamilton to 3.5 seconds, whilst Vettel had a full 13 seconds over the pair. With the result of the race seemingly decided, the most exciting thing that happened was further down the field. In a four way battle, Esteban Gutierrez attempted to overtake Pastor Maldonado around the outside in the final sector, before being forced off the road by the Venezuelan. Though it seemed that the move was over, the Mexican appeared on his inside at the Bus Stop chicane, forcing the Williams driver wide. In trying to rejoin ahead of the Force Indias behind, Maldonado firstly clipped Sutil, before smashing into the side of Di Resta. Questions were raised as to whether this would bring out the safety car, meaning that Vettel's substantial lead would be erased. Fortunately for the Red Bull, the car was cleared, and the German could continue on his path. The only further excitement in the final few laps was the idea that Webber could be able to chase down and overtake both Mercedes' drivers. As it was, that never materialised, with the Red Bull having to settle for a respectable 5th place. For Vettel, this grand prix represented a Sunday afternoon stroll, with the German eventually winning by almost 17 seconds from Alonso, and a full half minute in front of Lewis Hamilton, the man he started on the front row with.
Before Spa, questions were being asked over whether Vettel was under threat from those behind him in the championship race. After this response, the firm favourite for this year's title is unequivocally the Red Bull driver. Something is going to have to go seriously wrong to prevent the German from taking his fourth consecutive world title, and I simply do not see it happening. Are we in for a reign of dominance that eclipses even that of Schumacher?
The 2013 Challenge Cup Final: Living Up To The Hype
With this year's Challenge Cup Final taking place in the shadow of the upcoming Rugby League World Cup, players from both Wigan and Hull would both have been looking to illustrate to selectors exactly why they deserve a place in the squad for this autumn. However, the hype around this particular match goes far deeper than just the prospect of improving an individual's chances. All of the headlines in the days leading up to the British rugby league showpiece have been harking back to the classic 1985 final between the two teams. On that day, in a topsy-turvey contest, it was the Warriors that came out victorious. The game had it all, with drama, wonderful tries and a sting in the tail. With Wigan 28-12 ahead with just 16 minutes left, they looked to be cruising, especially after a scintillating try from Brett Kenny, who went the length of the Wembley pitch before touching down. However, Hull were not dead yet, fighting back to make it a 1 score game, with tries from Leuluai and another stunner from Divorty, along with penalties from Crooks. This took the score to 28-24, with the most unlikely of comebacks on the cards. But time ran out on the Black and Whites, leaving them to rue the 5 missed conversion attempts that they had throughout the match. And today, Wigan and Hull resumed that rivalry, with the expectation heavily on the match to live up to the standard of 28 years ago.
In setting up the repeat of that historic contest, both sides have had to come through arduous examinations of their credentials. As Super League sides are given byes through to the fourth round, there is an obvious advantage of being in the top tier of British rugby league. For Wigan, a home tie against Championship side Leigh kicked off their Challenge Cup campaign. An emphatic win for the Super League team, with tries from Charnley (3), Richards (3), Tomkins (4) and Williams ensuring a 60-10 win. In the fifth round they travelled to Hull to face fellow Super League side Hull KR. In a much tighter affair than the previous round, the prolific Tomkins scored another 4 tries to ensure that the Warriors progressed. Other scores from Richards, Charnley, Thornley and Farrell gave the scoreline a more emphatic feel, with a 46-14 final result. Wigan managed to avoid the other top sides in the competition in the quarter finals, facing a visit from Widnes Vikings. Once again, another routine victory for the home side, with tries from Charnley (3), Tomkins, Smith, Farrell, Hampshire and Green sending the Warriors into the final 48-4. Another favourable draw saw Wigan face another of Super League's struggling sides: London Broncos. In a complete demolition job of the side from the capital at Leigh Sports Village, Wigan equalled the record margin of victory in a semi final, winning 70-0. Tries from Goulding, Mossop, Tomkins, Green, Richards (2), Charnley (2), Taylor, Smith, Farrell and Thornley allowed Wigan to cruise to Wembley, humiliating the Broncos in the process.
Hull's progress, on the other hand, had been far from simple. Though their campaign began with a comfortable victory over Crusaders in the fourth round, where tries from Horne (2), Westerman, Crooks, Yeaman (3), Lineham, Cunningham and Shaul (3) gave Hull a 62-6 victory, that ease would not last long. Their fifth round tie was a nip-and-tuck affair against Wakefield Trinity Wildcats. In a scrappy game, a few moments of brilliance ensured that it would be the Hull side that progressed. Tries from Horne, Ellis, Yeaman and Pitts (2) gave Hull a hard-fought 24-6 win, and set them up for a quarter final trip to the South of France. A difficult tie against Catalan Dragons was the reward for that win, and that match would prove to be every bit as difficult. In a rollercoaster game, in which both sides held the lead, and thought they had the momentum, with the half-time score 7-8. This time, it was the English side that progressed to the semi-final, with the promise of Wembley now just one game away. Tries from McDonnell (2), Lineham and Briscoe gave the Yorkshire side the narrowest of 13-24 wins. They saved the tightest game for last however. At Huddersfield's John Smith's Stadium, Hull were the underdogs for their clash with Challenge Cup holders Warrington Wolves. In order to win that game, they required a scrappy and tense affair. Fortunately, the Black and Whites got it, defending fantastically well against an out-of-sorts Warrington, and hitting them with 3 great tries. Lineham, Whiting and Heremaia gave them a lead to protect, and once they had held off a late Warrington charge, they claimed a fantastic 16-12 victory to take them to rugby league's showpiece.
In order for this game to be considered in the same breath as its 1985 predecessor, it had to start quickly. Unfortunately, the nerves, and the dismal weather obviously got to the players, as the opening 20 went by without incident. It seemed to be a case of not wanting to take too many risks, as the game became a scrappy affair, but it maintained the intensity that one would expect from a cup final. After the initial sparring between the two teams, it was Wigan who struck the first blow. After some quick hands, Warriors wing Ian Thornley went over in the corner. With Pat Richards adding the two points, the Warriors took a 6-0 lead. Immediately after the try, Hull struggled to cope with a rampant Wigan side, with McIlorum breaking the line and only last ditch defending preventing a second. After riding the initial shock, Hull began to work themselves back into the game. However, the niggly errors continued from both sides, meaning that the fluidity of the game was regularly interrupted. This was particularly evident in the statistics for Hull at half time. In terms of set completion, Hull managed only 50% to Wigan's 82%. The final real chance of the first half fell to the Black and Whites, with a Wigan knock-on handing Hull a good field position. After further possession, the underdogs were handed a penalty. However, instead of the common sense option to kick the points and go in just four points down, Hull chose to tap and go. Almost immediately, the ball was lost forwards and the chance was gone. The question was raised about how valuable those points may be come the end of the game as the hooter went.
In complete contrast to the rather lacklustre start to the match, the second half started at a much higher pace, with Wigan forward Taylor coming within inches of a try. Having been given an advantage, the centre was dropped short of the line. If Hull thought that that would be the end of the danger, they were mistaken, as the referee pulled the game back for the penalty. Richards stepped up and put the two points over, making it a 2 score game. After this, the game once again returned to the scrappy and error-strewn affair that it was before the break, meaning that chances were few and far-between. When one did arrive, it was Hull that profited. After another period of Wigan pressure, Jamie Shaw intercepted a ball and broke the Wigan line. His path to the try line looked straight-forward, putting the game back in the balance. However, the Hull man did not reckon on the pace of Josh Charnley. The Wigan winger, who is arguably the fastest player on the field, chased Shaw down and managed to tackle him, thus saving his side 6 points. However, with the Hull crowd lifted, would that break lead to a comeback? Unfortunately for Hull, the momentum that threatened to shift was checked almost immediately by the seemingly serious injury to the Wigan forward Goulding. In a tough tackle with a Hull player, Goulding failed to put his head in the right place, knocking him unconscious and leaving him prone on the Wembley turf. After a good few minutes of treatment, he left the field on a stretcher. The latest reports suggest that he will make a full recovery, which is very good news.
Once the game restarted, any momentum Hull may have gained had well and truly gone. Every time they progressed into the Wigan final third, the Hull players dropped the ball. Wigan also began to get into that pattern, with the second half slowed to a crawl, punctuated by the mistakes and errors. Eventually, one of those errors lead to a kickable opportunity for Wigan's Richards. The kicker remained composed, taking the score to 10-0. As the final 10 minutes moved into focus, Hull were in desperate need for a try, and they began to put pressure on the Wigan defence. It was met by excellent defence, at times last-ditch, with only one clear cut chance to show for it. Yeaman charged down a Wigan clearance, knocking it forwards for Briscoe to chase. Had the winger dived onto the ball, the arrears may have been reduced. As it was, a last ditch tackle ensured that Wigan's scorecard remained unblemished. After all that pressure, it was Wigan that finished the scoring, with the excellent Sam Tomkins going over to cap a magnificent performance. The full back has had a fantastic campaign once again, and if this is to be his Wigan swansong, with rumours that he is on the move to the NRL, he has acquitted himself admirably during his time at the DW Stadium.
After the Tomkins try, there was barely time for Richards to add the 2 points before the final hooter sounded, ensuring that the score finished 16-0, handing Wigan another trophy. They will be hoping for the more elusive one in a couple of months, where they will have to wrestle their way past sides like Warrington, Huddersfield and Leeds to win the Super League title. Hull will be disappointed, but they have shown enough to suggest that this won't be the last time we see them at Wembley. The showcase was a touch more one-sided and error-strewn than we are used to seeing, but it still proved an entertaining game, needing that final Tomkins try to put it to bed.
In setting up the repeat of that historic contest, both sides have had to come through arduous examinations of their credentials. As Super League sides are given byes through to the fourth round, there is an obvious advantage of being in the top tier of British rugby league. For Wigan, a home tie against Championship side Leigh kicked off their Challenge Cup campaign. An emphatic win for the Super League team, with tries from Charnley (3), Richards (3), Tomkins (4) and Williams ensuring a 60-10 win. In the fifth round they travelled to Hull to face fellow Super League side Hull KR. In a much tighter affair than the previous round, the prolific Tomkins scored another 4 tries to ensure that the Warriors progressed. Other scores from Richards, Charnley, Thornley and Farrell gave the scoreline a more emphatic feel, with a 46-14 final result. Wigan managed to avoid the other top sides in the competition in the quarter finals, facing a visit from Widnes Vikings. Once again, another routine victory for the home side, with tries from Charnley (3), Tomkins, Smith, Farrell, Hampshire and Green sending the Warriors into the final 48-4. Another favourable draw saw Wigan face another of Super League's struggling sides: London Broncos. In a complete demolition job of the side from the capital at Leigh Sports Village, Wigan equalled the record margin of victory in a semi final, winning 70-0. Tries from Goulding, Mossop, Tomkins, Green, Richards (2), Charnley (2), Taylor, Smith, Farrell and Thornley allowed Wigan to cruise to Wembley, humiliating the Broncos in the process.
Hull's progress, on the other hand, had been far from simple. Though their campaign began with a comfortable victory over Crusaders in the fourth round, where tries from Horne (2), Westerman, Crooks, Yeaman (3), Lineham, Cunningham and Shaul (3) gave Hull a 62-6 victory, that ease would not last long. Their fifth round tie was a nip-and-tuck affair against Wakefield Trinity Wildcats. In a scrappy game, a few moments of brilliance ensured that it would be the Hull side that progressed. Tries from Horne, Ellis, Yeaman and Pitts (2) gave Hull a hard-fought 24-6 win, and set them up for a quarter final trip to the South of France. A difficult tie against Catalan Dragons was the reward for that win, and that match would prove to be every bit as difficult. In a rollercoaster game, in which both sides held the lead, and thought they had the momentum, with the half-time score 7-8. This time, it was the English side that progressed to the semi-final, with the promise of Wembley now just one game away. Tries from McDonnell (2), Lineham and Briscoe gave the Yorkshire side the narrowest of 13-24 wins. They saved the tightest game for last however. At Huddersfield's John Smith's Stadium, Hull were the underdogs for their clash with Challenge Cup holders Warrington Wolves. In order to win that game, they required a scrappy and tense affair. Fortunately, the Black and Whites got it, defending fantastically well against an out-of-sorts Warrington, and hitting them with 3 great tries. Lineham, Whiting and Heremaia gave them a lead to protect, and once they had held off a late Warrington charge, they claimed a fantastic 16-12 victory to take them to rugby league's showpiece.
In order for this game to be considered in the same breath as its 1985 predecessor, it had to start quickly. Unfortunately, the nerves, and the dismal weather obviously got to the players, as the opening 20 went by without incident. It seemed to be a case of not wanting to take too many risks, as the game became a scrappy affair, but it maintained the intensity that one would expect from a cup final. After the initial sparring between the two teams, it was Wigan who struck the first blow. After some quick hands, Warriors wing Ian Thornley went over in the corner. With Pat Richards adding the two points, the Warriors took a 6-0 lead. Immediately after the try, Hull struggled to cope with a rampant Wigan side, with McIlorum breaking the line and only last ditch defending preventing a second. After riding the initial shock, Hull began to work themselves back into the game. However, the niggly errors continued from both sides, meaning that the fluidity of the game was regularly interrupted. This was particularly evident in the statistics for Hull at half time. In terms of set completion, Hull managed only 50% to Wigan's 82%. The final real chance of the first half fell to the Black and Whites, with a Wigan knock-on handing Hull a good field position. After further possession, the underdogs were handed a penalty. However, instead of the common sense option to kick the points and go in just four points down, Hull chose to tap and go. Almost immediately, the ball was lost forwards and the chance was gone. The question was raised about how valuable those points may be come the end of the game as the hooter went.
In complete contrast to the rather lacklustre start to the match, the second half started at a much higher pace, with Wigan forward Taylor coming within inches of a try. Having been given an advantage, the centre was dropped short of the line. If Hull thought that that would be the end of the danger, they were mistaken, as the referee pulled the game back for the penalty. Richards stepped up and put the two points over, making it a 2 score game. After this, the game once again returned to the scrappy and error-strewn affair that it was before the break, meaning that chances were few and far-between. When one did arrive, it was Hull that profited. After another period of Wigan pressure, Jamie Shaw intercepted a ball and broke the Wigan line. His path to the try line looked straight-forward, putting the game back in the balance. However, the Hull man did not reckon on the pace of Josh Charnley. The Wigan winger, who is arguably the fastest player on the field, chased Shaw down and managed to tackle him, thus saving his side 6 points. However, with the Hull crowd lifted, would that break lead to a comeback? Unfortunately for Hull, the momentum that threatened to shift was checked almost immediately by the seemingly serious injury to the Wigan forward Goulding. In a tough tackle with a Hull player, Goulding failed to put his head in the right place, knocking him unconscious and leaving him prone on the Wembley turf. After a good few minutes of treatment, he left the field on a stretcher. The latest reports suggest that he will make a full recovery, which is very good news.
Once the game restarted, any momentum Hull may have gained had well and truly gone. Every time they progressed into the Wigan final third, the Hull players dropped the ball. Wigan also began to get into that pattern, with the second half slowed to a crawl, punctuated by the mistakes and errors. Eventually, one of those errors lead to a kickable opportunity for Wigan's Richards. The kicker remained composed, taking the score to 10-0. As the final 10 minutes moved into focus, Hull were in desperate need for a try, and they began to put pressure on the Wigan defence. It was met by excellent defence, at times last-ditch, with only one clear cut chance to show for it. Yeaman charged down a Wigan clearance, knocking it forwards for Briscoe to chase. Had the winger dived onto the ball, the arrears may have been reduced. As it was, a last ditch tackle ensured that Wigan's scorecard remained unblemished. After all that pressure, it was Wigan that finished the scoring, with the excellent Sam Tomkins going over to cap a magnificent performance. The full back has had a fantastic campaign once again, and if this is to be his Wigan swansong, with rumours that he is on the move to the NRL, he has acquitted himself admirably during his time at the DW Stadium.
After the Tomkins try, there was barely time for Richards to add the 2 points before the final hooter sounded, ensuring that the score finished 16-0, handing Wigan another trophy. They will be hoping for the more elusive one in a couple of months, where they will have to wrestle their way past sides like Warrington, Huddersfield and Leeds to win the Super League title. Hull will be disappointed, but they have shown enough to suggest that this won't be the last time we see them at Wembley. The showcase was a touch more one-sided and error-strewn than we are used to seeing, but it still proved an entertaining game, needing that final Tomkins try to put it to bed.
Saturday 17 August 2013
West Ham United: Are Hammers Nailed On For Safety?
2012/2013: 10th
Transfer(s) In: Stuart Downing (Liverpool, £5 Million), Andy Carroll (Liverpool, £15 Million), Adrian (Atletico Madrid, Free), Razvan Rat (Shakhtar Donetsk, Free), Danny Whitehead (Stockport, Undisc)
Transfer(s) Out: Carlton Cole, Gary O'Neil, Frederic Piquionne (Released)
Transfers Review:
Big Sam has been active in this transfer window, bringing in several new faces, a couple of which are truly impressive captures. If we look at my West Ham season review from last season, we can see that I suggested the area that they most needed to strengthen was in central defence. However, West Ham have done exactly opposite, choosing to sign more attack minded players. Andy Carroll was a signing that we all knew was on the horizon at the end of the last season. After a successful loan spell at Upton Park, the tall Geordie was always likely to go where he was wanted. The more impressive signing is that of Stuart Downing for a fee of just £5 Million. Having said publicly that he felt Downing was priced out of their league, Allardyce must have performed well in the negotiations, as he got his man. After a much more encouraging season last campaign, the formed England winger has a chance to carry that form into his new club.
Other than raiding Liverpool, the Hammers have brought in an attacking midfield in the shape of Atletico Madrid's Adrian. He looks a prospect, with an eye for goal, as well for a pass, and I am certain he will chip in with a goal or two this season. At the back, one of the earliest signings of the summer was Shakhtar Donetsk's experienced wing back Razvan Rat. Having experienced World Cups with Romania, as well as Champions League and Europa League football, he will be a valuable asset to West Ham, both on the field and off it.
Another transfer area that Big Sam will be pleased with is that fact that they have managed to retain their core squad from last season. The impressive Matt Jarvis remains with club, as does the defensive duo of James Collins and James Tomkins. This will allow the Hammers to build upon their relatively comfortable season from last time around, and they will hope to consolidate and push on this time around.
Pre-Season:
West Ham have had a pre-season that has been undertaken mostly in the British Isles. Starting with a trip to Ireland to play Cork City Foras, a game that the East London club won emphatically. Goals from Diarra, Cole, Taylor, McCallum, Noble and Morrison left the scoreline at a comfortable 6-2. 3 games against lower league English opposition followed in July, with the Hammers seeing off Boreham Wood 3-0 before beating Bournemouth by 2 goals to 0, and finishing the mini-tour off with a 2-1 success over Colchester. The games in July came thick and fast, and the Hammers finished their unbeaten month with the best result yet. A trip to Germany to face Hamburg resulted in a 3-1 success, setting them up nicely for their tour of Portugal in August.
That tour, however, did not start as successfully. Against Champions League opposition in the form of Braga, the Hammers tried valiantly, but eventually had to succumb to a 1-0 defeat, ending their 100% pre-season record. Just one match remained in West Ham's preparations for the new season, against Portuguese top division side Pacos Ferreira. Allardyce's side will be pleased to have ended in the manner they did, with a 2-1 success. This will give them confidence going into the opening weekend of the season.
Key Players:
Jussi Jaaskelainen was, in my opinion, the club's best player last time around, and the Hammers will need the veteran keeper to be at his best again this term. He led the league in terms of shots stopped, and the ex-Bolton man seems to like the East End, as he is playing some of his best football. His reflexes are superb, and his understanding and anticipation make him one of the most respected goalkeepers in the league.
Sam Allardyce has spoken at length about how expects this to be the breakthrough season for youth prospect Ravel Morrison. After several troubles at Manchester United, including run-ins with the police, Big Sam insists that the young man has changed his mindset, and is now able to deal with the pressure of the Premier League. He clearly has talent, but whether he will simply become another Mario Balotelli is yet to be seen. It will certainly be a interesting watch though.
Key Fixture Dates:
24/08/2013: Newcastle vs West Ham United
15/09/2013: Southampton vs West Ham United
02/11/2013: West Ham United vs Aston Villa
30/11/2013: West Ham United vs Fulham
14/12/2013: West Ham United vs Sunderland
01/01/2014: Fulham vs West Ham United
18/01/2014: West Ham United vs Newcastle
08/02/2014: Aston Villa vs West Ham United
22/02/2014: West Ham United vs Southampton
29/03/2014: Sunderland vs West Ham United
Top Goalscorer:
After he bedded in so quickly at the Hammers last time around, I think that this year could see Andy Carroll back to his Newcastle form that saw Liverpool pay £35 Million for his services. The Hammers' style of play suits the big powerful striker, and we will see him terrorise defences in the air lots this season. Not many of his goals will be the pretty kind, but they all count!
Prediction:
Threats of the 'Second Season Syndrome' will always be ever present, and I feel this will have an effect on the Hammers this season. However, they have the squad to deal with the pressure, and after a couple of worrying times in the season, I am certain that they will finish in a very comfortable mid-table position. They may not hit the heights of a top-10 finish, but I am sure that they will be safe from the drop, which I am sure will please Hammers' fans.
West Ham United 2013/2014: 13th
Transfer(s) In: Stuart Downing (Liverpool, £5 Million), Andy Carroll (Liverpool, £15 Million), Adrian (Atletico Madrid, Free), Razvan Rat (Shakhtar Donetsk, Free), Danny Whitehead (Stockport, Undisc)
Transfer(s) Out: Carlton Cole, Gary O'Neil, Frederic Piquionne (Released)
Transfers Review:
Big Sam has been active in this transfer window, bringing in several new faces, a couple of which are truly impressive captures. If we look at my West Ham season review from last season, we can see that I suggested the area that they most needed to strengthen was in central defence. However, West Ham have done exactly opposite, choosing to sign more attack minded players. Andy Carroll was a signing that we all knew was on the horizon at the end of the last season. After a successful loan spell at Upton Park, the tall Geordie was always likely to go where he was wanted. The more impressive signing is that of Stuart Downing for a fee of just £5 Million. Having said publicly that he felt Downing was priced out of their league, Allardyce must have performed well in the negotiations, as he got his man. After a much more encouraging season last campaign, the formed England winger has a chance to carry that form into his new club.
Other than raiding Liverpool, the Hammers have brought in an attacking midfield in the shape of Atletico Madrid's Adrian. He looks a prospect, with an eye for goal, as well for a pass, and I am certain he will chip in with a goal or two this season. At the back, one of the earliest signings of the summer was Shakhtar Donetsk's experienced wing back Razvan Rat. Having experienced World Cups with Romania, as well as Champions League and Europa League football, he will be a valuable asset to West Ham, both on the field and off it.
Another transfer area that Big Sam will be pleased with is that fact that they have managed to retain their core squad from last season. The impressive Matt Jarvis remains with club, as does the defensive duo of James Collins and James Tomkins. This will allow the Hammers to build upon their relatively comfortable season from last time around, and they will hope to consolidate and push on this time around.
Pre-Season:
West Ham have had a pre-season that has been undertaken mostly in the British Isles. Starting with a trip to Ireland to play Cork City Foras, a game that the East London club won emphatically. Goals from Diarra, Cole, Taylor, McCallum, Noble and Morrison left the scoreline at a comfortable 6-2. 3 games against lower league English opposition followed in July, with the Hammers seeing off Boreham Wood 3-0 before beating Bournemouth by 2 goals to 0, and finishing the mini-tour off with a 2-1 success over Colchester. The games in July came thick and fast, and the Hammers finished their unbeaten month with the best result yet. A trip to Germany to face Hamburg resulted in a 3-1 success, setting them up nicely for their tour of Portugal in August.
That tour, however, did not start as successfully. Against Champions League opposition in the form of Braga, the Hammers tried valiantly, but eventually had to succumb to a 1-0 defeat, ending their 100% pre-season record. Just one match remained in West Ham's preparations for the new season, against Portuguese top division side Pacos Ferreira. Allardyce's side will be pleased to have ended in the manner they did, with a 2-1 success. This will give them confidence going into the opening weekend of the season.
Key Players:
Jussi Jaaskelainen was, in my opinion, the club's best player last time around, and the Hammers will need the veteran keeper to be at his best again this term. He led the league in terms of shots stopped, and the ex-Bolton man seems to like the East End, as he is playing some of his best football. His reflexes are superb, and his understanding and anticipation make him one of the most respected goalkeepers in the league.
Sam Allardyce has spoken at length about how expects this to be the breakthrough season for youth prospect Ravel Morrison. After several troubles at Manchester United, including run-ins with the police, Big Sam insists that the young man has changed his mindset, and is now able to deal with the pressure of the Premier League. He clearly has talent, but whether he will simply become another Mario Balotelli is yet to be seen. It will certainly be a interesting watch though.
Key Fixture Dates:
24/08/2013: Newcastle vs West Ham United
15/09/2013: Southampton vs West Ham United
02/11/2013: West Ham United vs Aston Villa
30/11/2013: West Ham United vs Fulham
14/12/2013: West Ham United vs Sunderland
01/01/2014: Fulham vs West Ham United
18/01/2014: West Ham United vs Newcastle
08/02/2014: Aston Villa vs West Ham United
22/02/2014: West Ham United vs Southampton
29/03/2014: Sunderland vs West Ham United
Top Goalscorer:
After he bedded in so quickly at the Hammers last time around, I think that this year could see Andy Carroll back to his Newcastle form that saw Liverpool pay £35 Million for his services. The Hammers' style of play suits the big powerful striker, and we will see him terrorise defences in the air lots this season. Not many of his goals will be the pretty kind, but they all count!
Prediction:
Threats of the 'Second Season Syndrome' will always be ever present, and I feel this will have an effect on the Hammers this season. However, they have the squad to deal with the pressure, and after a couple of worrying times in the season, I am certain that they will finish in a very comfortable mid-table position. They may not hit the heights of a top-10 finish, but I am sure that they will be safe from the drop, which I am sure will please Hammers' fans.
West Ham United 2013/2014: 13th
Friday 16 August 2013
West Bromwich Albion: Can The Baggies Bounce Back Into The Top Half?
2012/2013: 8th
Transfer(s) In: Matej Vydra (Udinese, Loan), Diego Lugano (Paris Saint Germain, Free), Nicolas Anelka (Shanghai Shenhua, Free), Goran Popov (Dinamo Kiev, Loan), Scott Sinclair (Manchester City, Loan), Victor Anichebe (Everton, £5 Million), Stephane Sessegnon (Sunderland, £6 Million), Morgan Amalfitano (Marseille, Loan)
Transfer(s) Out: Marc-Antoine Fortune, Gonzalo Jara, Jerome Thomas (Released), Peter Odemwingie (Cardiff City, £2 Million)
Transfers Review:
West Brom are in the very fortunate position this season of being able to make only a couple of changes to a squad that has proven to be highly successful in the Premier League, finishing in an all time high of 8th. If we look at the predictions that I made at the end of the season, I said that a central defender and a more creative wide player would be required, citing Ryan Shawcross and Scott Sinclair as potential targets. Whilst Shawcross was never talked about as a target in reality, they certainly filled that position with Lugano. The addition of Scott Sinclair certainly fill that void of a winger. As I stated in my review post, I think he would add a lot to West Brom, and they would be doing him a favour by playing him regularly.
In terms of who they have brought in thus far this summer, they have a good mix of youth and experience. The major loss to the Baggies happened up front, with the in form Romelu Lukaku returning to his parent club Chelsea. After such an excellent season on loan to West Brom, they will miss his strength and goals. In order to replace those goals, Clarke moved quickly to bring in the ex Bolton, Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka. His experience will inevitably be as valuable as his goals, especially when considering the young striker he has signed since. Matej Vydra, after a fantastic goalscoring season on loan from Udinese, has been loaned in again. I have no doubt about his ability to step up, and with a partner in the form of Anelka, he will learn much from the Baggies. Similarly, in central defence, the more experienced Diego Lugano, who is quite a capture for West Brom, being the Uruguayan national captain, will train the young centre-back Popov. I full expect all to be important in West Brom's season.
Pre-Season:
West Brom began their pre-season preparations with a friendly match in Hannover, a match that ended with a 2-1 defeat. Bearing in mind that this Hannover side was recently playing European football, this cannot be considered a complete disaster. The Baggies then took part in three further matches during the month of July, giving themselves little time to rest or recuperate. They began with an exhibition game against a Puskas FC Academy XI, which they dominated from start to finish, with a comfortable margin of victory, winning by 3 goals to 0. Next, they returned to England to face Derby County. Once again, the Premier League side were victorious, though this was by a slimmer margin that they perhaps would have liked, winning only 2-0. They finished July with a home game against Greek side Atromitos. After a poor start, which saw them fall behind to a Karagounis goal, they fought back after the break, with goals from Anelka, Berehino and Rosenberg rounding off a 3-1 victory to keep the Baggies tremendous run of form going.
August proved as busy a month as the one before, with three pre-season games in nine days. However, the period did not start well, with a home loss against Genoa. After just a five day rest, the Baggies travelled to Ireland to take on Cork City Foras. The defeat seemed not to affect the confidence of the players, who turned on the style for their manager. A 6-0 thrashing was handed out to the Irish Premier League side, boosting morale in the West Brom camp. They finished their preparations with a more challenging game against Bologna, and they came away with arguably, an even more impressive result than the one that came before it. A 2-0 win over the Serie A side finished the pre-season tour in the best possible manner, and gave them the perfect pedestal to move into the league season.
Key Players:
A key player for the Baggies this campaign will undoubtedly be Chris Brunt. The creator of many of West Brom's opportunities last season, the captain will have a crucial role to play once more this year. His deadly delivery from set pieces and his vision with a through ball will make him a vital asset this time around. If they are to repeat last year's heroics, a solid season from their captain will be required.
If they are to replace Romelu Lukaku's goals, Shane Long will also have a critical role to play. His pace and skill make him a threat to any defence in the Premier League, but he will need to be more clinical when he gets his chances if he is to hit the 15 goal mark.
Key Fixture Dates:
31/08/2013: West Brom vs Swansea
21/09/2013: West Brom vs Sunderland
25/11/2013: West Brom vs Aston Villa
30/11/2013: Newcastle vs West Brom
28/12/2013: West Ham vs West Brom
01/01/2014: West Brom vs Newcastle
28/01/2014: Aston Villa vs West Brom
01/03/2014: Sunderland vs West Brom
15/03/2014: Swansea vs West Brom
26/04/2014: West Brom vs West Ham
Top Goalscorer:
If Long adds goals to his ability to irritate defences, I am certain that he will claim this accolade. As it is, the experience of Anelka, along with his goalscoring ability, makes me think that the Frenchman will claim it this season. He has scored goals at every club he has been, and while I do not expect him to hit 20 this season, the mid teens is quite possible, especially if the club performs as they did last time around.
Prediction:
I have a feeling that West Brom have got themselves out of the 'boing boing' mentality now, with the Baggies repeatedly safe from relegation, culminating in the fabulous success of last season. Whether it was a flash in the pan, or the beginning of a push for Europe will only be seen in time. I think that we will see a repeat of their last season form, resulting in them finishing in the same end result.
West Bromwich Albion 2013/2014: 8th
Transfer(s) In: Matej Vydra (Udinese, Loan), Diego Lugano (Paris Saint Germain, Free), Nicolas Anelka (Shanghai Shenhua, Free), Goran Popov (Dinamo Kiev, Loan), Scott Sinclair (Manchester City, Loan), Victor Anichebe (Everton, £5 Million), Stephane Sessegnon (Sunderland, £6 Million), Morgan Amalfitano (Marseille, Loan)
Transfer(s) Out: Marc-Antoine Fortune, Gonzalo Jara, Jerome Thomas (Released), Peter Odemwingie (Cardiff City, £2 Million)
Transfers Review:
West Brom are in the very fortunate position this season of being able to make only a couple of changes to a squad that has proven to be highly successful in the Premier League, finishing in an all time high of 8th. If we look at the predictions that I made at the end of the season, I said that a central defender and a more creative wide player would be required, citing Ryan Shawcross and Scott Sinclair as potential targets. Whilst Shawcross was never talked about as a target in reality, they certainly filled that position with Lugano. The addition of Scott Sinclair certainly fill that void of a winger. As I stated in my review post, I think he would add a lot to West Brom, and they would be doing him a favour by playing him regularly.
In terms of who they have brought in thus far this summer, they have a good mix of youth and experience. The major loss to the Baggies happened up front, with the in form Romelu Lukaku returning to his parent club Chelsea. After such an excellent season on loan to West Brom, they will miss his strength and goals. In order to replace those goals, Clarke moved quickly to bring in the ex Bolton, Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka. His experience will inevitably be as valuable as his goals, especially when considering the young striker he has signed since. Matej Vydra, after a fantastic goalscoring season on loan from Udinese, has been loaned in again. I have no doubt about his ability to step up, and with a partner in the form of Anelka, he will learn much from the Baggies. Similarly, in central defence, the more experienced Diego Lugano, who is quite a capture for West Brom, being the Uruguayan national captain, will train the young centre-back Popov. I full expect all to be important in West Brom's season.
Pre-Season:
West Brom began their pre-season preparations with a friendly match in Hannover, a match that ended with a 2-1 defeat. Bearing in mind that this Hannover side was recently playing European football, this cannot be considered a complete disaster. The Baggies then took part in three further matches during the month of July, giving themselves little time to rest or recuperate. They began with an exhibition game against a Puskas FC Academy XI, which they dominated from start to finish, with a comfortable margin of victory, winning by 3 goals to 0. Next, they returned to England to face Derby County. Once again, the Premier League side were victorious, though this was by a slimmer margin that they perhaps would have liked, winning only 2-0. They finished July with a home game against Greek side Atromitos. After a poor start, which saw them fall behind to a Karagounis goal, they fought back after the break, with goals from Anelka, Berehino and Rosenberg rounding off a 3-1 victory to keep the Baggies tremendous run of form going.
August proved as busy a month as the one before, with three pre-season games in nine days. However, the period did not start well, with a home loss against Genoa. After just a five day rest, the Baggies travelled to Ireland to take on Cork City Foras. The defeat seemed not to affect the confidence of the players, who turned on the style for their manager. A 6-0 thrashing was handed out to the Irish Premier League side, boosting morale in the West Brom camp. They finished their preparations with a more challenging game against Bologna, and they came away with arguably, an even more impressive result than the one that came before it. A 2-0 win over the Serie A side finished the pre-season tour in the best possible manner, and gave them the perfect pedestal to move into the league season.
Key Players:
A key player for the Baggies this campaign will undoubtedly be Chris Brunt. The creator of many of West Brom's opportunities last season, the captain will have a crucial role to play once more this year. His deadly delivery from set pieces and his vision with a through ball will make him a vital asset this time around. If they are to repeat last year's heroics, a solid season from their captain will be required.
If they are to replace Romelu Lukaku's goals, Shane Long will also have a critical role to play. His pace and skill make him a threat to any defence in the Premier League, but he will need to be more clinical when he gets his chances if he is to hit the 15 goal mark.
Key Fixture Dates:
31/08/2013: West Brom vs Swansea
21/09/2013: West Brom vs Sunderland
25/11/2013: West Brom vs Aston Villa
30/11/2013: Newcastle vs West Brom
28/12/2013: West Ham vs West Brom
01/01/2014: West Brom vs Newcastle
28/01/2014: Aston Villa vs West Brom
01/03/2014: Sunderland vs West Brom
15/03/2014: Swansea vs West Brom
26/04/2014: West Brom vs West Ham
Top Goalscorer:
If Long adds goals to his ability to irritate defences, I am certain that he will claim this accolade. As it is, the experience of Anelka, along with his goalscoring ability, makes me think that the Frenchman will claim it this season. He has scored goals at every club he has been, and while I do not expect him to hit 20 this season, the mid teens is quite possible, especially if the club performs as they did last time around.
Prediction:
I have a feeling that West Brom have got themselves out of the 'boing boing' mentality now, with the Baggies repeatedly safe from relegation, culminating in the fabulous success of last season. Whether it was a flash in the pan, or the beginning of a push for Europe will only be seen in time. I think that we will see a repeat of their last season form, resulting in them finishing in the same end result.
West Bromwich Albion 2013/2014: 8th
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