Archive for the ‘Fixtures’ category

Manchester United v Chelsea Live

May 7th, 2011

Watching Man Utd v Chelsea Live should be a tense affair, because this is simply the game of the season. At one stage, it seems Chelsea were too strong to be stopped. Then, came United’s fine run, which at one stage saw them having a 12 point lead over Chelsea. However, a recent dip in form, has seen Manchester United’s hopes of landing a record 19th premier league title suffer a major blow.

Manchester United remain in command of the premier league and are 3 points clear of second placed Chelsea, going into the weekend. This 6 pointer will most certainly decide the destiny of the premier league title. Chelsea know a win will take them top, courtesy of a slightly better goal difference. Manchester United on the other hand know that a win will all but guaratee the premier league title. Indeed, should Manchester United win the game, they would have to lose their final 2 games to lose their grasp on 1st place-something unconceivable really.

With a Champions League final beckoning, Alex Ferguson will be looking to wrap up the title by next week. But, they know that they must avoid defeat against Chelsea at all cost. A conservative approach at The Emirates cost Manchester United dear at the end. They most certainly went to Arsenal aiming to earn a draw. A win was not necessary for United. Their negative approach helped Arsenal, as United lost the game, and rarely troubled the Gunners.

Sunday will be a different game though. Chelsea know they must win the match and United know they cannot afford to lose it. It remains to be seen whether United will attack Chelsea or go with the same negative approach that saw them lose at Arsenal. Man Utd v Chelsea Live should be the most explosive and controversial game you will ever watch this season.

Stoke v Arsenal Live

May 7th, 2011

Tony Pulis has made Stoke a premier league side you would not fancy playing every weekend. He has also ensured The Britannia has become a fortress. Arsenal visit Stoke on Sunday, still holding some faint hope of finally ending the season with a trophy. Stoke v Arsenal Live coverage starts at 1405.

Arsenal fans will be buoyed for this encounter, especially after getting the better of Manchester United last weekend. Aaron Ramsey’s winner at the Emirates last Sunday, has ensured that Arsenal could be within 3 points of Manchester United and Chelsea with just 2 games left at the end of the weekend. Indeed, should Chelsea win at Old Trafford, the premier league title which since the turn of the year, seemed destined for Manchester United, could go to right to the end of the season, with 3 sides still in contention. In fact, goal difference could prove an important factor this season.

Stoke meanwhile know that they are virtually qualified for the Europa League next season, after reaching the FA cup final. Stoke currently lie in 10th position and could even finish as high as 7th this term. Added to that, they have a chance of laying their hands on some silverware, albeit, they will be underdogs for the final. Arsenal will know better than others how difficult it can be to be favorite for a final, having lost to Birmingham City in the Carling Cup final.

Stoke have been synonymous with Rory Delap’s long throws in their first season in the top flight. However, Tony Pulis side have shown this season that they can also kick the ball around. The 5-0 win over Bolton Wanderers at Wembley serve as a perfect example of Stoke’s form right now. Stoke are a difficult side to play, especially at home, while Arsenal will aim to keep their title dreams alive. This is why you should watch Stoke v Arsenal Live.

Wolves v West Brom Live

May 7th, 2011

At one stage in the season, Wolves and West Bromwich Albion were two of the favorites to go down. While Wolverhampton Wanderers remain strong contenders to be a championship side next term, West Brom have experienced resurgence since the appointment of former Fulham and Liverpool manager, Roy Hodgson. Indeed, it seems Roy Hodgson, sacked by Liverpool after just a few months in the job, can cope better with the stress associated with being manager of a smaller side. The 3 points are what the home side will be looking for. You should definitely watch Wolverhampton v West Brom Live.

West Brom have been lurking in and around the relegation zone for most of the season under Roberto Di Matteo, until the Italian tactician, who guided the side back into the premier league, was sacked. There is no doubt, that West Brom plays one of the most exciting football in the country. What was lacking under Di Matteo was probably the ability to kill off games and a tighter defense. This was brought by Hodgson, whose tactical ability brought Fulham to a Europa League final last season.

Mick McCarthy knows his side needs to start winning the games that count. Surprisingly enough, Wolves fans have seen their side beat the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool this season, but still find their side rooted in 19th place currently. It is still more amazing that wolves have only won 4 other games this season. One thing the fans know though is that Wolves play some exciting football, especially at the Moulineux. Whether or not luck will be on their side this time around remains to be seen. Wolves will go out to win the game and if they do, they could move out of the relegation zone if results go their way. You should watch Wolverhampton v West Brom Live.

Tottenham v Blackpool Live

May 7th, 2011

The 2010/2011 premier league season has seen Tottenham fans experience both extreme joy and sadness. White Hart Lane welcomed so many of Europe’s finest players this season in the Champions League, and it seems that this could be a one off for all those hardcore Spurs fans. At one stage, Tottenham were being lined up as possible winners of the Champions League. They were just fantastic in Europe, beating the likes of Inter Milan in the group stage and getting past AC Milan so easily in the knockout stages. However, European commitments have affected Tottenham’s premier league form. They now need to catch up and you should definitely watch Tottenham v Blackpool Live.

Tottenham have often failed to reproduce their European form in the league, especially after a European match. It is well known that it is so difficult to catch up with the pace of the premier league after a European encounter. Tottenham have experienced that in their first season in the Champions League. They also focussed more on getting further in the competition, rather than trying to get back into the competition it seems.

Tottenham have for most of the season been touted as possible championship candidates. However, all the hopes started to vanish, once the knockout stages of the Champions League started. They turned from championship candidates to Champions League hopefuls, and now are likely to miss out on European football completely. Indeed, their recent controversial defeat at Stamford Bridge, has seen Manchester City create a gap between themselves and Tottenham, and seen Liverpool overtake Tottenham into 5th position-the qualifying spot for the Europa League. Meanwhile Blackpool which has impressed lots of people through their hard work and entertaining football at the start of the season, lie just above the relegation zone. With points so costly at this stage of the season, Tottenham v Blackpool Live should be an exciting game to follow.

West Ham v Blackburn Live

May 7th, 2011

West Ham United know they no longer have their own destiny in their hands. They have been mediocre throughout the season, and few give them a chance to survive again this season. Indeed, West Ham have been relegation candidates for most of the premier league era. They have survived at times, but have also been relegated not so long ago. Most West Ham supporters have lost faith in the club’s ability to prevent the drop this term, and even club owner, David Gold, seems resigned. He has even conceded that the team might not be able to retain its best players if they play in the Championship next season. West Ham v Blackburn Live will see two sides fighting for relegation go head to head.

West Ham are known for escaping relegation right at the death. Just a few seasons ago, they somehow beat Manchester United at Old Trafford on the final day of the season to miraculously stay up. They will need to inspire themselves from that achievement. Indeed, they need to win at least 2 of their final 3 games to have any realistic chance of staying up. West Ham know how significant a win could be. If they beat Blackburn Rovers on Saturday, they could not only get out of the relegation zone at the expense of Blackpool, if results go their way, but they could even drag another candidate into the red zone-Blackburn Rovers. Blackburn Rovers are currently 4 points clear of the first relegation place, but know that a defeat against West Ham could affect the morale of the team, and make relegation possible.

West Ham will need much luck if they are to have any chance to stay up. They are likely to be without their inspirational captain and current football writers’ player of the season, Scott Parker and will probably also miss the influential Mark Noble. It is unclear where the creativity will come in a West Ham side that seems destined for the drop. If the relegation battle is tempting you, you should certainly watch West Ham v Blackburn Live.

Newcastle v Birmingham Live

May 7th, 2011

Newcastle and Birmingham are just 2 points apart in the league, but such tight has been this current season that a win for Birmingham would see them move from 15th to 12th, and they could even end up in the top half of the league if results go their way between now and the end of the season. Of course, Newcastle United are better placed right now to achieve this feat. Newcastle v Birmingham Live could have been a Championship match, but Newcastle have managed to bounce back into the top flight at the first attempt, while Birmingham have emerged as a surprise package in recent seasons.

Newcastle United have defeated the odds after the sale of top scorer, Andy Carroll to Liverpool. Few had expected Newcastle to be a mid table side after losing their best player so far. However, a consistent display by the likes of Joey Barton and Tiote, and goals coming from various sources has ensured that Newcastle lie in 12th position, and have now guaranteed their place in the league for next season.

Newcastle United have won only once in their last 6 outings, while Birmingham have registered 2 wins during that time. The Carling cup winners will look to add a few more points till the end of the season to add a honorable position to their first piece of silverware in years. Both sides will be without a number of first team players for this encounter. Newcastle United will miss Stephen Ireland, Alan Smith, Guthrie and Ben Arfa. Meanwhile, Birmingham will be without McFadden, Martins, Dann and Jiranek. Birmingham’s leading scorer, Craig Gardner, will also miss the game at St James’ Park after receiving his second red card of the campaign in the game against Wolverhampton Wanderers last weekend. Newcastle v Birmingham Live should be an open game, with both sides playing for pride.

Everton v Manchester City Live

May 7th, 2011

With nothing at stake but comforting their current league position, Everton FC will go out with little pressure against Manchester City this Saturday. Everton v Man City Live will see 2 sides with different financial backings and recent success come face to face. Everton have been very miserly when it comes to investing in players in past seasons and have been unable to move into a new stadium due to the inability to attract investors, despite being one of the premier league’s finest and most consistent sides. However, Everton have been known over the years to unearth and produce exceptional talents. Wayne Rooney is possibly the most remarkable player to have emerged from their academy in the past decade. Jack Rodwell is the latest product of Everton’s excellent academy, but is expected to leave soon due to the large amount he can bring to a club, needing money to bring in fresh faces.

One of the sides linked with Rodwell is of course Man City. The club, powered by billionaires from the Emirates, knows no limits to spending, when it comes to buying the players they want. When Everton and Man City get onto the field on Saturday, it is only the players on show that will count, not the financial strength off the field, although City have been able to assemble an exceptional side thanks to the money of their owners. City might just be about to start ticking as a team. Recent success again Manchester United in the FA cup semi final has given their season a huge boost, and they seem to have found the good momentum at the right time. They have virtually guaranteed the 4th Champions League spot and are hot favorites to win the FA cup final. Everton v Man City Live should be an exciting game with Everton known for their never die attitude and City with their team rich in attacking options.

Bolton v Sunderland Live

May 7th, 2011

Sunderland have experienced a season of ups and downs so far. Steve Bruce’s side were vying for a Europa League place just a couple of months ago, but a dismal second half of the season has seen them fighting for their lives for the best part of 2011. With 41 points achieved, Steve Bruce knows that his side are all but safe for the next season. But as previously announced by club chairman, Nial Quinn, Sunderland will look at their collapse more closely during the summer break. Watching Bolton v Sunderland Live should be far from being a waste of time.

Bolton Wanderers currently lie in 8th position and a strong finish will ensure their best end of season place in years. Owen Coyle’s side have won 5 on the drop at home and will be looking to add another victory to their impressive home run. The only thing that is at stake for both sides at this stage of the season is to improve their current position. The incentive for Sunderland is the fact that their arch rivals, Newcastle United are ahead of them on goal difference. Bolton meanwhile know that the best position they can achieve now is 7th. With higher positions come higher earnings at the end of the season and some extra budget to recruit new players. This could serve as the perfect impetus for both sides to attack each other on Saturday.

Sunderland could again be without any of their strikers. Welbeck and Ghana international, Gyan, are currently sidelined. This could mean another start in a more forward role for Sessegnon. However, injuries have rocked Sunderland recently, and they would certainly be content with a draw. If you are watching Bolton v Sunderland Live, you should see plenty of goals, with both sides having leaked nearly 50 goals each this term.

Aston Villa v Wigan Live

May 7th, 2011

Aston Villa go into the weekend knowing that their safety in the top flight is all but assured. Despite their recent loss in the Midlands derby against West Bromwich Albion, Villa have reached the magical 40 point mark, and will go out on Saturday with nothing but pride at stake. Meanwhile Wigan have all to play for. They are currently in the red zone courtesy of an inferior goal difference to Blackpool. They will be out to attack Houiller’s side, and you should definitely watch Aston Villa v Wigan Live.

Aston Villa will again be without their manager, Gerard Houiller. Despite having been discharged recently after a health scare, it is not known yet whether the Frenchmen will be back on the sidelines before the end of the season, or even at all. Indeed, doubts continue to surround the Frenchmen’s future at Villa Park, given his poor reputation among Villa fans. Gary McAllister will again be the interim manager for this clash.

Wigan know that they have to take points from this weekend’s clash if they are to maintain their status in the top flight for yet another season. After an indifferent season, where Wigan have lurked in and around the relegation zone, Martinez will be looking for some improvement. He can definitely count on two of his side’s best performers this term- Charles N’zogbia and on loan star, Tom Cleverley. The later will be hoping to impress again, with widespread reports suggesting that Paul Scholes might not continue beyond the current season. A good performance at Villa Park will all but enhance his credentials as Scholes’ successor at Old Trafford. With little pressure on Aston Villa, and Wigan needing points, Aston Villa v Wigan Live should be an interesting game. Villa will hope a few more points between now and the end of the season will make their final league position more honorable.

Chelsea v West Ham Live

April 21st, 2011

At one stage, it looked like Chelsea could have finished outside the top 4 for the first time in years. Surely, that would have been unthinkable for club owner Roman Abramovich. Yet, it was a possibility for much of this season. The reason being that Chelsea have been very shaky this season. They have lost 7 games so far, and most of the losses coincided with the poor form of the club’s strikers Drogba and Anelka. Fernando Torres was brought in from Liverpool. This has somehow revitalized Chelsea’s season. However, it is not Torres who is bagging the goals. His presence, considered disruptive by many, has inspired Kalou, Drogba and a few other players to start scoring goals that have helped the club climb the table again. Even the other January signing, David Luiz, has been among the goals in vital games against the two Manchester clubs. Chelsea v West Ham Live coverage starts at 17:30 GMT. The game will see former Interim Manager, Avram Grant, return to the club he led to a Champions League Final a few years ago.

Two Arsenal draws in a row has allowed Chelsea to take over as Manchester United’s main rival in the title race. At the turn of the year, nobody would have thought Chelsea would find a Championship winning rhythm again. Yet, Chelsea have won all but one their last 6 premier league games. On this form, and no more Champions League commitment, Chelsea have re emerged as title contenders. Indeed, their run in looks easier than the other contenders. They now have the chance to close in on the current leaders, who face a tough task against a stubborn Everton side on Saturday. Chelsea v West Ham will be a game between two sides geographically close. This is where the similarities end. West Ham are fighting for their place in the top flight, and are currently 2 points away from safety. After coming out of the red zone, 3 consecutive defeats have sent Grant’s side back down. The latter is rarely welcome back at the Bridge. However, he will need all 3 points if he is to keep the Hammers in the premier league for another season. The stakes are high at both ends of the table, and this is why you should watch Chelsea v West Ham Live.