Sunday, February 7, 2010
Birmingham City 2-1 Wolves: Super sub Phillips
espnstar.com
Kevin Phillips came off the bench to earn a victory for Birmingham with a two-goal blast against local rivals Wolves.
Kevin Doyle looked to have given Wolves boss Mick McCarthy the perfect present on his 51st birthday by breaking the deadlock shortly before half-time.
But then 36-year-old Phillips replaced the injured Christian Benitez and struck twice in six minutes to leave the visitors in the bottom three.
It was rough justice for Wolves, who had been a match for Blues for lengthy periods with Doyle a constant threat to the normally solid Blues rearguard.
But Birmingham's battling spirit again surfaced, with midfielder Barry Ferguson driving them on before Phillips' decisive contribution.
There was a minute of applause before the game in memory of former Blues player and manager Gil Merrick, who died earlier in the week aged 88 and rival goalkeepers Joe Hart and Marcus Hahnemann laid wreaths in the two goalmouths.
The home side were the first to settle and a superb pass from Ferguson picked out the run of Lee Bowyer. However, the former England midfielder - who scored the winner in the match between the sides at Molineux earlier in the season - was denied a shooting opportunity by a fine tackle from Ronald Zubar.
Wolves midfielder Michael Mancienne blocked a close-range header from Cameron Jerome after Liam Ridgewell had turned James McFadden's corner back across goal.
Blues forced six corners in the first 15 minutes and, from one of them by Sebastian Larsson, Hahnemann blocked a close-range attempt by Jerome after the ball had bounced back across goal off Benitez.
Hart became the first player to be booked after 25 minutes for bringing down Doyle after the goalkeeper came racing out of his area.
Wolves came more into the game and made use of their extra man in midfield via a 4-5-1 formation - and Zubar wasted a great chance to put them in front after 32 minutes.
A free-kick from the left flank by Matt Jarvis found its way to the unmarked Zubar at the far post - but he sent his header back across goal when he should have at least tested Hart.
Jerome had a third opportunity when a dummy by Benitez allowed him a run at goal but Hahnemann was able to block the low shot with his feet.
Scott Dann was only a couple of feet wide with a low shot on the turn after Hahnemann only half punched clear Larsson's corner.
Kevin Foley volleyed straight at Hart from eight yards out before Doyle put Wolves ahead with his sixth goal of the campaign.
There was an element of good fortune as Jarvis' low centre hit Roger Johnson, ricocheted onto a post and fell perfectly for the striker to convert the rebound - but it was no more than the visitors deserved after overcoming a sticky start.
Wolves continued to look the more impressive and composed and Jarvis had a shot blocked after Mick McCarthy's side had failed to cash in on a three versus two numerical advantage on the counter-attack.
Doyle was making life uncomfortable for Johnson and shot into the side-netting after more good play.
Blues boss Alex McLeish made his first substitution after 63 minutes with Phillips replacing Benitez, who was injured in a challenge by Hahnemann and eventually carried off on a stretcher.
Doyle continued to give the City defence headaches and Dann was booked for a challenge on the Republic of Ireland international.
Wolves newcomer Adlene Guedioura came on for Jones after 67 minutes and a minute later the ineffective Larsson made way for Blues' January capture Craig Gardner. McLeish made his final change after 74 minutes with Keith Fahey replacing McFadden.
Hart got his body behind a shot from Foley and Guedioura was only a couple of feet too high with a 25-yard drive.
Jerome had a shot deflected wide as Blues tried to salvage a point - and then Phillips dramatically turned the game on its head.
With 10 minutes remaining he levelled from close range after Gardner had turned a Fahey centre back across goal.
And Phillips won it in the 85th minute when he chested down Stephen Carr's cross and beat Hahnemann with an angled drive into the corner of the net.
Source: espnstar.com
espnstar.com
Kevin Doyle looked to have given Wolves boss Mick McCarthy the perfect present on his 51st birthday by breaking the deadlock shortly before half-time.
But then 36-year-old Phillips replaced the injured Christian Benitez and struck twice in six minutes to leave the visitors in the bottom three.
It was rough justice for Wolves, who had been a match for Blues for lengthy periods with Doyle a constant threat to the normally solid Blues rearguard.
But Birmingham's battling spirit again surfaced, with midfielder Barry Ferguson driving them on before Phillips' decisive contribution.
There was a minute of applause before the game in memory of former Blues player and manager Gil Merrick, who died earlier in the week aged 88 and rival goalkeepers Joe Hart and Marcus Hahnemann laid wreaths in the two goalmouths.
The home side were the first to settle and a superb pass from Ferguson picked out the run of Lee Bowyer. However, the former England midfielder - who scored the winner in the match between the sides at Molineux earlier in the season - was denied a shooting opportunity by a fine tackle from Ronald Zubar.
Wolves midfielder Michael Mancienne blocked a close-range header from Cameron Jerome after Liam Ridgewell had turned James McFadden's corner back across goal.
Blues forced six corners in the first 15 minutes and, from one of them by Sebastian Larsson, Hahnemann blocked a close-range attempt by Jerome after the ball had bounced back across goal off Benitez.
Hart became the first player to be booked after 25 minutes for bringing down Doyle after the goalkeeper came racing out of his area.
Wolves came more into the game and made use of their extra man in midfield via a 4-5-1 formation - and Zubar wasted a great chance to put them in front after 32 minutes.
A free-kick from the left flank by Matt Jarvis found its way to the unmarked Zubar at the far post - but he sent his header back across goal when he should have at least tested Hart.
Jerome had a third opportunity when a dummy by Benitez allowed him a run at goal but Hahnemann was able to block the low shot with his feet.
Scott Dann was only a couple of feet wide with a low shot on the turn after Hahnemann only half punched clear Larsson's corner.
Kevin Foley volleyed straight at Hart from eight yards out before Doyle put Wolves ahead with his sixth goal of the campaign.
There was an element of good fortune as Jarvis' low centre hit Roger Johnson, ricocheted onto a post and fell perfectly for the striker to convert the rebound - but it was no more than the visitors deserved after overcoming a sticky start.
Wolves continued to look the more impressive and composed and Jarvis had a shot blocked after Mick McCarthy's side had failed to cash in on a three versus two numerical advantage on the counter-attack.
Doyle was making life uncomfortable for Johnson and shot into the side-netting after more good play.
Blues boss Alex McLeish made his first substitution after 63 minutes with Phillips replacing Benitez, who was injured in a challenge by Hahnemann and eventually carried off on a stretcher.
Doyle continued to give the City defence headaches and Dann was booked for a challenge on the Republic of Ireland international.
Wolves newcomer Adlene Guedioura came on for Jones after 67 minutes and a minute later the ineffective Larsson made way for Blues' January capture Craig Gardner. McLeish made his final change after 74 minutes with Keith Fahey replacing McFadden.
Hart got his body behind a shot from Foley and Guedioura was only a couple of feet too high with a 25-yard drive.
Jerome had a shot deflected wide as Blues tried to salvage a point - and then Phillips dramatically turned the game on its head.
With 10 minutes remaining he levelled from close range after Gardner had turned a Fahey centre back across goal.
And Phillips won it in the 85th minute when he chested down Stephen Carr's cross and beat Hahnemann with an angled drive into the corner of the net.
Source: espnstar.com
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Saturday, February 6, 2010
Hull City 2-1 Manchester City: Boateng 25 yards volley
espnstar.com
Hull followed up Tuesday's draw with Chelsea by defeating Manchester City to climb out of the relegation zone.
Phil Brown's side had not won since November but were buoyed by their performance against the Blues and deservedly took a 31st-minute lead through the impressive Jozy Altidore.
City then found themselves two down nine minutes after the break thanks to a rocket from George Boateng and, although Emmanuel Adebayor quickly pulled one back, they rarely threatened to equalise.
The talking point before the game was the inclusion in the City side of Wayne Bridge after two months out with a knee injury and amid the fall-out from John Terry's alleged affair with his former partner.
Craig Bellamy and youngster Dedryk Boyata also returned to the City starting XI while January signings Adam Johnson and Patrick Vieira were among the substitutes.
Hull boss Phil Brown named an unchanged XI from the side that drew with Chelsea.
Having booed Terry relentlessly when Chelsea visited the KC Stadium in midweek, the Hull fans also subjected Bridge to some taunts.
It was the hosts, clearly buoyed by their performance against the league leaders, who began the brighter and Altidore won a free-kick 20 yards out when he was felled by Kolo Toure, who picked up a yellow card.
The USA striker had looked lively from the start but his set-piece was deflected behind by the visitors' wall.
Boyata looked nervy and he became the second City defender to be booked inside 20 minutes when he pulled back Altidore after the striker had out-muscled him.
Stephen Hunt's free-kick from the left was headed away but, when it was launched back in, Steven Mouyokolo headed on for Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink, who fired wide of the far post from 10 yards.
City simply could not get into their rhythm and it was Hull who deservedly took the lead in the 31st minute.
Boateng played the ball into Vennegoor of Hesselink just inside the area and his lay-off was expertly curled round Shay Given by Altidore for his first Premier League goal.
The visitors finally threatened in the final moments of the half but Mouyokolo did well to block Carlos Tevez's close-range effort and Bridge then saw his shot saved by Boaz Myhill after a neat move down the left.
Hull again came out of the blocks the faster at the start of the second half and Altidore felt he should have had a penalty for a challenge by Nigel de Jong but referee Phil Dowd waved play on.
But the home fans did not have long to wait for a second, and there cannot have been many better goals scored at the KC Stadium.
Hunt's corner, which came after Bridge was beaten for pace by Craig Fagan, was cleared but only as far as Boateng 25 yards out and his beautifully-struck volley flew past Given.
That gave Hull breathing space after only nine minutes of the half but five minutes later City were back in it.
Johnson came on for his debut in place of Stephen Ireland and it was his corner, after Myhill had pushed Tevez's shot round the past, that eventually resulted in Adebayor netting from inside the six-yard box.
City boss Roberto Mancini chose that moment to reintroduce former Arsenal midfielder Vieira to English football in place of Bellamy.
The momentum was now with the visitors and Myhill had to be alert to tip Johnson's free-kick behind while Amr Zaki replaced Altidore for Hull.
The home side were mostly playing on the break and Zaki got away down the left but his shot was easily saved by Given.
Bridge's afternoon ended five minutes early as Mancini sent on Martin Petrov as a final throw of the dice and Johnson then almost caught out Myhill with a cross from the right that the keeper was grateful to see drop behind for a corner.
Tevez's snapshot drew another stop from Myhill while a late barrage ended with Adebayor poking a tame shot at the keeper as Hull celebrated a priceless win.
Source: espnstar.com
espnstar.com
Phil Brown's side had not won since November but were buoyed by their performance against the Blues and deservedly took a 31st-minute lead through the impressive Jozy Altidore.
City then found themselves two down nine minutes after the break thanks to a rocket from George Boateng and, although Emmanuel Adebayor quickly pulled one back, they rarely threatened to equalise.
The talking point before the game was the inclusion in the City side of Wayne Bridge after two months out with a knee injury and amid the fall-out from John Terry's alleged affair with his former partner.
Craig Bellamy and youngster Dedryk Boyata also returned to the City starting XI while January signings Adam Johnson and Patrick Vieira were among the substitutes.
Hull boss Phil Brown named an unchanged XI from the side that drew with Chelsea.
Having booed Terry relentlessly when Chelsea visited the KC Stadium in midweek, the Hull fans also subjected Bridge to some taunts.
It was the hosts, clearly buoyed by their performance against the league leaders, who began the brighter and Altidore won a free-kick 20 yards out when he was felled by Kolo Toure, who picked up a yellow card.
The USA striker had looked lively from the start but his set-piece was deflected behind by the visitors' wall.
Boyata looked nervy and he became the second City defender to be booked inside 20 minutes when he pulled back Altidore after the striker had out-muscled him.
Stephen Hunt's free-kick from the left was headed away but, when it was launched back in, Steven Mouyokolo headed on for Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink, who fired wide of the far post from 10 yards.
City simply could not get into their rhythm and it was Hull who deservedly took the lead in the 31st minute.
Boateng played the ball into Vennegoor of Hesselink just inside the area and his lay-off was expertly curled round Shay Given by Altidore for his first Premier League goal.
The visitors finally threatened in the final moments of the half but Mouyokolo did well to block Carlos Tevez's close-range effort and Bridge then saw his shot saved by Boaz Myhill after a neat move down the left.
Hull again came out of the blocks the faster at the start of the second half and Altidore felt he should have had a penalty for a challenge by Nigel de Jong but referee Phil Dowd waved play on.
But the home fans did not have long to wait for a second, and there cannot have been many better goals scored at the KC Stadium.
Hunt's corner, which came after Bridge was beaten for pace by Craig Fagan, was cleared but only as far as Boateng 25 yards out and his beautifully-struck volley flew past Given.
That gave Hull breathing space after only nine minutes of the half but five minutes later City were back in it.
Johnson came on for his debut in place of Stephen Ireland and it was his corner, after Myhill had pushed Tevez's shot round the past, that eventually resulted in Adebayor netting from inside the six-yard box.
City boss Roberto Mancini chose that moment to reintroduce former Arsenal midfielder Vieira to English football in place of Bellamy.
The momentum was now with the visitors and Myhill had to be alert to tip Johnson's free-kick behind while Amr Zaki replaced Altidore for Hull.
The home side were mostly playing on the break and Zaki got away down the left but his shot was easily saved by Given.
Bridge's afternoon ended five minutes early as Mancini sent on Martin Petrov as a final throw of the dice and Johnson then almost caught out Myhill with a cross from the right that the keeper was grateful to see drop behind for a corner.
Tevez's snapshot drew another stop from Myhill while a late barrage ended with Adebayor poking a tame shot at the keeper as Hull celebrated a priceless win.
Source: espnstar.com
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Manchester United 5-0 Portsmouth: Rooney 23rd goal
espnstar.com
Wayne Rooney helped steer Manchester United back to the top of the table with a resounding victory over Portsmouth.
The England striker broke Pompey's resistance with his 23rd goal of the season, equalling a career-best total.
The only surprise, given United's possession, was it took them until the 40th minute to make the breakthrough.
However that goal gave Sir Alex Ferguson's side the impetus they needed and Portsmouth collapsed.
United added a second on the stroke of half time with Nani's effort taking two deflections.
Michael Carrick had similar luck in the second half and Dimitar Berbatov was also on target before Marc Wilson put the ball into his own net.
It was poignant day at Old Trafford as the club commemorated the 52nd anniversary of the Munich Air Disaster in which 23 people, eight of them players, died.
Old Trafford boss Ferguson will no doubt feel the result did the occassion justice.
United began on the front foot and Jonny Evans headed narrowly wide after a cross from the edge of the area by Gary Neville.
Portsmouth, however, launched a swift counter attack and Edwin van der Sar did well to parry a powerful shot from Anthony Vanden Borre.
Rooney tried to work an opening in the 22nd minute but his effort came off the back of Tal Ben Haim and was taken by David James.
Then Nani released Rooney after skipping down the wing in the 33rd minute and he turned quickly only to fire a shot over the bar.
Portsmouth, however, almost opened the scoring a minute later with a spirited response.
Nadir Belhadji got into a good position only to see his effort cleared off the line by Evans and he then failed to make good use of the rebound.
Play switched back down the other end and Berbatov was wasteful in front of the posts.
He somehow managed to turn his effort wide in the 35th minute when it seemed easier to score after Antonio Valencia and Neville cut Portsmouth open.
United did not have to wait long before going ahead and inevitably it was Rooney who scored.
He got on the end of a cross from Darren Fletcher in the 40th minute to send a header beyond James.
United added a second on the stroke of half time, Nani's close range effort taking a deflection first off Anthony Vanden Borre and then James.
The home side restarted in the same vein and Nani sent a shot high over the bar in the 49th minute after a cut-back from Berbatov.
United almost added a third in the 54th minute but James turned Valencia's effort around the post after the winger had played a neat one-two with Berbatov.
Four minutes later James was again cursing his luck as Carrick's drive took a wicked deflection off Michael Hughes and left the goalkeeper stranded.
United maintained the momentum and made it 4-0 on the hour with Berbatov regaining possession and sending a low shot into the corner after Portsmouth failed to close him down.
It was becoming a rout and manager Avram Grant was left scratching his head in disbelief at the way his team had collapsed.
Rooney then picked out Darren Fletcher at the back post but Richard Hughes read the situation well and headed to safety.
Even though United were poised to go back to the top of the table the home supporters were anxious for their side to improve their goals tally.
They got their wish in 69th minute when Wilson turned Patrice Evra's cross into his own net to make it 5-0 to the champions.
Substitute Mame Biram Diouf should have added a sixth goal but skied a shot over the bar in the 80th minute.
United, however, had to be content with a five-star show which was good enough to overtake Chelsea at the top of the table.
Source: espnstar.com
espnstar.com
The England striker broke Pompey's resistance with his 23rd goal of the season, equalling a career-best total.
The only surprise, given United's possession, was it took them until the 40th minute to make the breakthrough.
However that goal gave Sir Alex Ferguson's side the impetus they needed and Portsmouth collapsed.
United added a second on the stroke of half time with Nani's effort taking two deflections.
Michael Carrick had similar luck in the second half and Dimitar Berbatov was also on target before Marc Wilson put the ball into his own net.
It was poignant day at Old Trafford as the club commemorated the 52nd anniversary of the Munich Air Disaster in which 23 people, eight of them players, died.
Old Trafford boss Ferguson will no doubt feel the result did the occassion justice.
United began on the front foot and Jonny Evans headed narrowly wide after a cross from the edge of the area by Gary Neville.
Portsmouth, however, launched a swift counter attack and Edwin van der Sar did well to parry a powerful shot from Anthony Vanden Borre.
Rooney tried to work an opening in the 22nd minute but his effort came off the back of Tal Ben Haim and was taken by David James.
Then Nani released Rooney after skipping down the wing in the 33rd minute and he turned quickly only to fire a shot over the bar.
Portsmouth, however, almost opened the scoring a minute later with a spirited response.
Nadir Belhadji got into a good position only to see his effort cleared off the line by Evans and he then failed to make good use of the rebound.
Play switched back down the other end and Berbatov was wasteful in front of the posts.
He somehow managed to turn his effort wide in the 35th minute when it seemed easier to score after Antonio Valencia and Neville cut Portsmouth open.
United did not have to wait long before going ahead and inevitably it was Rooney who scored.
He got on the end of a cross from Darren Fletcher in the 40th minute to send a header beyond James.
United added a second on the stroke of half time, Nani's close range effort taking a deflection first off Anthony Vanden Borre and then James.
The home side restarted in the same vein and Nani sent a shot high over the bar in the 49th minute after a cut-back from Berbatov.
United almost added a third in the 54th minute but James turned Valencia's effort around the post after the winger had played a neat one-two with Berbatov.
Four minutes later James was again cursing his luck as Carrick's drive took a wicked deflection off Michael Hughes and left the goalkeeper stranded.
United maintained the momentum and made it 4-0 on the hour with Berbatov regaining possession and sending a low shot into the corner after Portsmouth failed to close him down.
It was becoming a rout and manager Avram Grant was left scratching his head in disbelief at the way his team had collapsed.
Rooney then picked out Darren Fletcher at the back post but Richard Hughes read the situation well and headed to safety.
Even though United were poised to go back to the top of the table the home supporters were anxious for their side to improve their goals tally.
They got their wish in 69th minute when Wilson turned Patrice Evra's cross into his own net to make it 5-0 to the champions.
Substitute Mame Biram Diouf should have added a sixth goal but skied a shot over the bar in the 80th minute.
United, however, had to be content with a five-star show which was good enough to overtake Chelsea at the top of the table.
Source: espnstar.com
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Liverpool 1-0 Everton: the hot Merseyside derby
espnstar.com
Striker Dirk Kuyt's goal gave his side a 1-0 victory in the Merseyside derby which saw both teams reduced to 10 men.
The Dutchman scored for the fourth time in as many games with a close-range header 10 minutes after half-time.
Liverpool played the last 55 minutes at a numerical disadvantage after Sotirios Kyrgiakos was dismissed for a two-footed challenge on Marouane Fellaini, while Steven Pienaar was shown a second yellow in second-half injury time.
The red cards took the tally to 19 in the last 13 years but referee Martin Atkinson somehow missed Marouane Fellaini's stamp on the Greek defender's right shin in the same incident which led to his red card.
It threatened to overshadow a fiercely-contested encounter until Kuyt struck early in the second half to ensure Everton's winless run at Anfield since 1999 continued.
Liverpool have now gone seven Barclays Premier League matches without defeat, keeping six clean sheets in the process.
By contrast, Everton's nine-match unbeaten run came to an end. The last team to beat them before today had been Liverpool at Goodison in late November and they have now won just two of the last 21 league derbies.
The tone for the match was set in the opening 15 seconds with Jamie Carragher's strong but fair challenge on Pienaar which left the South Africa midfielder rolling on the ground holding his shoulder.
Unfortunately, it was only to get worse in the first half as Atkinson's leniency saw a number of over-the-top tackles escape the required action.
Fellaini, competing for the ball, kicked Kuyt in the face as the Dutchman lay on the ground without censure, while Pienaar was only cautioned for a challenge which started at Javier Mascherano's right knee and worked its way down.
Carragher went into the book for going through the back of Pienaar in retaliation while the other booking of the first half went to Kuyt for tripping Landon Donovan.
In between all the flying tackles there was very little football played in the opening 45 minutes.
Steven Gerrard's inswinging fourth-minute free-kick forced Tim Howard to punch out from under his own crossbar while Daniel Agger, on his first appearance for nearly a month, fired a right-foot shot a couple of yards over from a corner.
David Ngog fired a shot well wide after Maxi Rodriguez and Gerrard had combined while late in the half the Liverpool captain rattled Howard's crossbar with a 25-yard free-kick.
For Everton, Leighton Baines' left-footed free-kick was tipped over by Jose Reina while Tim Cahill directed a free header over from seven yards in added time.
Liverpool began the second half well and Ngog saw an early left-foot shot deflected wide by Sylvain Distin.
And they were rewarded in the 55th minute when Kuyt, despite being clung onto by Phil Neville, nodded in Gerrard's inswinging corner from three yards with Howard left flapping.
Johnny Heitinga's foul on Rodriguez earned him a booking but Gerrard hit the free-kick straight at Howard.
In the 63rd minute Ngog was replaced by Ryan Babel, who was given a rare outing in his preferred position up front.
Everton manager David Moyes sent on Aiyegbeni Yakubu and Victor Anichebe for Saha and Leon Osman in an attempt to find the equaliser.
A scuffle broke out seven minutes from time when Gerrard caught Pienaar after clearing the ball and bizarrely Atkinson, having not blown for a foul, booked the Liverpool captain and then Anichebe for his part in the retaliation.
Liverpool were content to defend their lead and counter-attack when possible but Reina had to be alert to tip behind Yakubu's shot on the turn.
In the fifth minute of added time Pienaar was sent off after jumping into Gerrard as the hosts hung on to maintain their momentum going into an equally-important match at Arsenal on Wednesday.
Source: espnstar.com
espnstar.com
The Dutchman scored for the fourth time in as many games with a close-range header 10 minutes after half-time.
Liverpool played the last 55 minutes at a numerical disadvantage after Sotirios Kyrgiakos was dismissed for a two-footed challenge on Marouane Fellaini, while Steven Pienaar was shown a second yellow in second-half injury time.
The red cards took the tally to 19 in the last 13 years but referee Martin Atkinson somehow missed Marouane Fellaini's stamp on the Greek defender's right shin in the same incident which led to his red card.
It threatened to overshadow a fiercely-contested encounter until Kuyt struck early in the second half to ensure Everton's winless run at Anfield since 1999 continued.
Liverpool have now gone seven Barclays Premier League matches without defeat, keeping six clean sheets in the process.
By contrast, Everton's nine-match unbeaten run came to an end. The last team to beat them before today had been Liverpool at Goodison in late November and they have now won just two of the last 21 league derbies.
The tone for the match was set in the opening 15 seconds with Jamie Carragher's strong but fair challenge on Pienaar which left the South Africa midfielder rolling on the ground holding his shoulder.
Unfortunately, it was only to get worse in the first half as Atkinson's leniency saw a number of over-the-top tackles escape the required action.
Fellaini, competing for the ball, kicked Kuyt in the face as the Dutchman lay on the ground without censure, while Pienaar was only cautioned for a challenge which started at Javier Mascherano's right knee and worked its way down.
Carragher went into the book for going through the back of Pienaar in retaliation while the other booking of the first half went to Kuyt for tripping Landon Donovan.
In between all the flying tackles there was very little football played in the opening 45 minutes.
Steven Gerrard's inswinging fourth-minute free-kick forced Tim Howard to punch out from under his own crossbar while Daniel Agger, on his first appearance for nearly a month, fired a right-foot shot a couple of yards over from a corner.
David Ngog fired a shot well wide after Maxi Rodriguez and Gerrard had combined while late in the half the Liverpool captain rattled Howard's crossbar with a 25-yard free-kick.
For Everton, Leighton Baines' left-footed free-kick was tipped over by Jose Reina while Tim Cahill directed a free header over from seven yards in added time.
Liverpool began the second half well and Ngog saw an early left-foot shot deflected wide by Sylvain Distin.
And they were rewarded in the 55th minute when Kuyt, despite being clung onto by Phil Neville, nodded in Gerrard's inswinging corner from three yards with Howard left flapping.
Johnny Heitinga's foul on Rodriguez earned him a booking but Gerrard hit the free-kick straight at Howard.
In the 63rd minute Ngog was replaced by Ryan Babel, who was given a rare outing in his preferred position up front.
Everton manager David Moyes sent on Aiyegbeni Yakubu and Victor Anichebe for Saha and Leon Osman in an attempt to find the equaliser.
A scuffle broke out seven minutes from time when Gerrard caught Pienaar after clearing the ball and bizarrely Atkinson, having not blown for a foul, booked the Liverpool captain and then Anichebe for his part in the retaliation.
Liverpool were content to defend their lead and counter-attack when possible but Reina had to be alert to tip behind Yakubu's shot on the turn.
In the fifth minute of added time Pienaar was sent off after jumping into Gerrard as the hosts hung on to maintain their momentum going into an equally-important match at Arsenal on Wednesday.
Source: espnstar.com
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Thursday, February 4, 2010
Intermilan 1-0 Fiorentina: Milito winning strikes
afp
Inter Milan striker, Diego Milito, scored a decisive 1-0 victory over Fiorentina team in the first leg Italian Cup semi-final at San Siro on Wednesday (3/2/2010). Results were made Inter set one foot in the final round.
In general, the action open and balanced way. Almost no control of the ball game or pressing, the second team as a direct attack thoroughly every opportunity.
Even so, both Inter and Fiorentina are equally difficult to create chances. In addition to its frequent feedback error, the attack seemed done in a hurry. Execution, the ball alive or dead ball, done in less mature, so the ball is often hit an opponent's body or deviating from the target.
In the middle of the impasse, the Inter first able to excel thanks to Diego Milito scored in the 34th minute. In a counterattack, Mario Balotelli managed to control the ball on the right side Fiorentina defense. He then sends feedback to Milito, who emerged from behind the goal directly in front of Fiorentina. In the escort of two opposing players, Milito managed to send the ball into the middle of the goal Sebastian Frey.
Goal was not much change the situation. The game continues the liquid, but the lack of opportunity. In fact, when Inter Coach Jose Mourinho to replace Goran Pandev put Sulley Muntari at the beginning of the second half, the game had not changed much.
Fioretina also tried to change their fortunes by entering Stevan Jovetic replaces Massimo Gobbi in the 58th minute. After all, the situation had not changed much and the numbers 1-0 on the scoreboard did not change until the end of the fight.
Lineup:
Inter: Toldo; Zanetti, Materazzi, Lucio, Maicon, Santon, Cambiasso, Muntari (Pandev 46), Sneijder; Milito (Mariga 90), Juventus (Thiago Motta 68)
Fiorentina: Frey, Gamberini, Comotto, Natali, Pasqual (Ljajic 83), Vargas, Santana (Marchionni 75), Gobbi (Jovetic 57), Montolivo, Bolatti, Gilardino
afp
In general, the action open and balanced way. Almost no control of the ball game or pressing, the second team as a direct attack thoroughly every opportunity.
Even so, both Inter and Fiorentina are equally difficult to create chances. In addition to its frequent feedback error, the attack seemed done in a hurry. Execution, the ball alive or dead ball, done in less mature, so the ball is often hit an opponent's body or deviating from the target.
In the middle of the impasse, the Inter first able to excel thanks to Diego Milito scored in the 34th minute. In a counterattack, Mario Balotelli managed to control the ball on the right side Fiorentina defense. He then sends feedback to Milito, who emerged from behind the goal directly in front of Fiorentina. In the escort of two opposing players, Milito managed to send the ball into the middle of the goal Sebastian Frey.
Goal was not much change the situation. The game continues the liquid, but the lack of opportunity. In fact, when Inter Coach Jose Mourinho to replace Goran Pandev put Sulley Muntari at the beginning of the second half, the game had not changed much.
Fioretina also tried to change their fortunes by entering Stevan Jovetic replaces Massimo Gobbi in the 58th minute. After all, the situation had not changed much and the numbers 1-0 on the scoreboard did not change until the end of the fight.
Lineup:
Inter: Toldo; Zanetti, Materazzi, Lucio, Maicon, Santon, Cambiasso, Muntari (Pandev 46), Sneijder; Milito (Mariga 90), Juventus (Thiago Motta 68)
Fiorentina: Frey, Gamberini, Comotto, Natali, Pasqual (Ljajic 83), Vargas, Santana (Marchionni 75), Gobbi (Jovetic 57), Montolivo, Bolatti, Gilardino
more
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Leeds United 1-3 Tottenham: Defoe brace hat-trick
reuters
Tottenham Hotspur finally passes to make sure the FA Cup fifth round in 2010. Hattrick Jermain Defoe took care of Harry Redknapp's squad won 3-1 on action replay against Leeds United on Wednesday (3/2/2010).
Yes, the North London club had to rematch after being held 2-2 at White Hart Lane on Sunday (24.1.2010). This action determines the fate of the Lily Whites who preyed on the last ticket and was waiting for Bolton Wanderers in the quarter-finals later on.
Since the beginning of action, Spurs have shown determination to lock the victory over the host. Direct Defoe got a golden opportunity in the second minute when midfielder Andy's action failed to anticipate the feedback Hughes Niko Kranjcar. Unfortunately, the British international bomber has not been able poured the ball into the goal Ankergen Casper.
Although the status of third division team, Leeds certainly not be underestimated. Foster children who get rid of Simon Grayson looks competent enough to stem the attacks the visitors. Leeds get the first chance through Jermaine Beckford in the 19th minute after throw-ins welcome Leigh Bromby. Beckford who became responsible for the removal of your favorite candidate Manchester United have actually managed to fool the goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes in front of goal. Unfortunately, Beckford Leeds not been able to take advantage.
At 37 minutes, Tottenham finally managed to end the impasse over Defoe, who booked his first goal. Starting from the action from David Bentley, Hughes, Defoe, Bentley welcomes feedback and release the kick to the far right Ankergen goal after a spin and control the ball.
Three minutes later, Leeds almost equalized when Slovak defender Michalik L'ubomir gore ball with his head in the penalty box. Gomes glorious rescue action to cancel the attack succeeded.
However, the relief did not last long. Entered injury time, Leeds successfully forcing Gomes picked up the ball thanks to the cooperation Beckford and Argentine striker Luciano Becchio. Beckford tried to greet the bait ball with a volley long. Gomes tried to move forward hold the ball. However, he finally could not do much when Becchio Beckford sodoran ball went into the empty goal.
The visitors could protest it and call a goal Beckford and Becchio was in offside position. However, the referee decided legitimate goals.
Spurs struggled to restore the advantage in the second half. Defoe dominance in Elland Park looks back 27 years when the striker was again score goal for the Lily Whites on 69 minutes after Kranjcar maximize cross from the left sector. Unfortunately, the referee immediately annul Defoe scored for the offside position.
However, four minutes later Defoe managed to pay for failure. Bentley returned the actor behind the goals through the feedback Defoe's cross from the right sector. Defoe, who squeezed into the front of the goal past the ball directly Ankergen poured.
Disadvantaged 1-2, Leeds apparently had no intention of giving up. Fleet The Peacocks kept trying to score goals while maintaining strict replies courtiers after Spurs are still the third goal.
Unfortunately, efforts to Leeds ended in vain. At the last minute game, Defoe insists Spurs victory through individual action carried the ball from midfield and break down the goal for the third time .
reuters
Yes, the North London club had to rematch after being held 2-2 at White Hart Lane on Sunday (24.1.2010). This action determines the fate of the Lily Whites who preyed on the last ticket and was waiting for Bolton Wanderers in the quarter-finals later on.
Since the beginning of action, Spurs have shown determination to lock the victory over the host. Direct Defoe got a golden opportunity in the second minute when midfielder Andy's action failed to anticipate the feedback Hughes Niko Kranjcar. Unfortunately, the British international bomber has not been able poured the ball into the goal Ankergen Casper.
Although the status of third division team, Leeds certainly not be underestimated. Foster children who get rid of Simon Grayson looks competent enough to stem the attacks the visitors. Leeds get the first chance through Jermaine Beckford in the 19th minute after throw-ins welcome Leigh Bromby. Beckford who became responsible for the removal of your favorite candidate Manchester United have actually managed to fool the goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes in front of goal. Unfortunately, Beckford Leeds not been able to take advantage.
At 37 minutes, Tottenham finally managed to end the impasse over Defoe, who booked his first goal. Starting from the action from David Bentley, Hughes, Defoe, Bentley welcomes feedback and release the kick to the far right Ankergen goal after a spin and control the ball.
Three minutes later, Leeds almost equalized when Slovak defender Michalik L'ubomir gore ball with his head in the penalty box. Gomes glorious rescue action to cancel the attack succeeded.
However, the relief did not last long. Entered injury time, Leeds successfully forcing Gomes picked up the ball thanks to the cooperation Beckford and Argentine striker Luciano Becchio. Beckford tried to greet the bait ball with a volley long. Gomes tried to move forward hold the ball. However, he finally could not do much when Becchio Beckford sodoran ball went into the empty goal.
The visitors could protest it and call a goal Beckford and Becchio was in offside position. However, the referee decided legitimate goals.
Spurs struggled to restore the advantage in the second half. Defoe dominance in Elland Park looks back 27 years when the striker was again score goal for the Lily Whites on 69 minutes after Kranjcar maximize cross from the left sector. Unfortunately, the referee immediately annul Defoe scored for the offside position.
However, four minutes later Defoe managed to pay for failure. Bentley returned the actor behind the goals through the feedback Defoe's cross from the right sector. Defoe, who squeezed into the front of the goal past the ball directly Ankergen poured.
Disadvantaged 1-2, Leeds apparently had no intention of giving up. Fleet The Peacocks kept trying to score goals while maintaining strict replies courtiers after Spurs are still the third goal.
Unfortunately, efforts to Leeds ended in vain. At the last minute game, Defoe insists Spurs victory through individual action carried the ball from midfield and break down the goal for the third time .
more
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Hull City 1-1 Chelsea: Drogba comeback goal
afp
Chelsea only drew 1-1 against Hull City during a duel continued in the Premier League, Tuesday (2/2/2010). These results are slightly improved chance of champions Arsenal.
Now, Chelsea are top of the standings with 55 points, or six points ahead of Arsenal in third place. Given Arsenal will face Chelsea this weekend, the difference could be trimmed three points.
Chelsea's problems did not end there. The results draw them within reach Manchester United (MU), which currently occupies the second position with 53 points.
Chelsea itself since the beginning know the importance of three points from Hull. However, unexpectedly, Hull could provide serious resistance since the early minutes.
In addition to diligently pursue the ball and cut the flow of feedback Chelsea, Hull are also capable of creating several goal opportunities. Hull could even lead first through Steven Mouyokolo goal in minute 30. From the middle of the penalty box, bait Mouyokolo Stephen Hunt's butt into the middle of the Chelsea goal.
Goals that boosted morale Hull. They also insist spoil the Chelsea game and did not hesitate prop opponent, when the situation is dangerous.
Though distraught, Chelsea had a few times off the threat of goals. However, the action goalkeeper Boaz Myhill, really makes Michael Ballack and Frank Lampard frustrated.
In the middle of that impasse, Chelsea managed to equalize through a Didier Drogba free-kick on 42 minutes. Goalkeeper Boaz Myhill could actually read the ball. However, due to hit the wall, the ball changed direction and slid into the lower left corner of the goal.
Goal was not necessarily discourage Hull. They desperately try to defend a point to keep trying to break the opponent's attack in the middle. These efforts have consistently done to fight them over.
Throughout the game, Chelsea had the ball as much as 65 percent and scored just seven shots on goal from 16 effort. Hull are capable of producing two golden opportunities from eight efforts.
Lineup:
Hull: Myhill; Dawson, Gardner, Mouyokolo, McShane (Zayatte 90); Hunt, Cairney, Boateng, Fagan; Vennegor (Zaki 66); Altidore (Kilbane 86)
Chelsea: Cech; Zhirkov (Ashley Cole 81), Terry, Carvalho, Ivanovic; Lampard, Deco, Ballack (Joe Cole 72); Drogba, Malouda, Anelka (Sturridge 82)
afp
Now, Chelsea are top of the standings with 55 points, or six points ahead of Arsenal in third place. Given Arsenal will face Chelsea this weekend, the difference could be trimmed three points.
Chelsea's problems did not end there. The results draw them within reach Manchester United (MU), which currently occupies the second position with 53 points.
Chelsea itself since the beginning know the importance of three points from Hull. However, unexpectedly, Hull could provide serious resistance since the early minutes.
In addition to diligently pursue the ball and cut the flow of feedback Chelsea, Hull are also capable of creating several goal opportunities. Hull could even lead first through Steven Mouyokolo goal in minute 30. From the middle of the penalty box, bait Mouyokolo Stephen Hunt's butt into the middle of the Chelsea goal.
Goals that boosted morale Hull. They also insist spoil the Chelsea game and did not hesitate prop opponent, when the situation is dangerous.
Though distraught, Chelsea had a few times off the threat of goals. However, the action goalkeeper Boaz Myhill, really makes Michael Ballack and Frank Lampard frustrated.
In the middle of that impasse, Chelsea managed to equalize through a Didier Drogba free-kick on 42 minutes. Goalkeeper Boaz Myhill could actually read the ball. However, due to hit the wall, the ball changed direction and slid into the lower left corner of the goal.
Goal was not necessarily discourage Hull. They desperately try to defend a point to keep trying to break the opponent's attack in the middle. These efforts have consistently done to fight them over.
Throughout the game, Chelsea had the ball as much as 65 percent and scored just seven shots on goal from 16 effort. Hull are capable of producing two golden opportunities from eight efforts.
Lineup:
Hull: Myhill; Dawson, Gardner, Mouyokolo, McShane (Zayatte 90); Hunt, Cairney, Boateng, Fagan; Vennegor (Zaki 66); Altidore (Kilbane 86)
Chelsea: Cech; Zhirkov (Ashley Cole 81), Terry, Carvalho, Ivanovic; Lampard, Deco, Ballack (Joe Cole 72); Drogba, Malouda, Anelka (Sturridge 82)
more
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