Title hopefuls Rennes and Toulouse stayed locked together in Ligue 1 after sharing a goalless draw.
The defences were largely on top with Toulouse striker Andre-Pierre Gignac the only player who looked likely to break the deadlock.
The stalemate dropped the pair to fifth and sixth, with Rennes ahead on goal difference, four points behind leaders Lyon, who have a game in hand.
Paris St Germain climbed above Rennes and Toulouse as goals from Guillaume Hoarau and Peguy Luyindula in the space of 10 second-half minutes earned the capital club all three points against Caen.
Hoarau opened the scoring after 48 minutes and Luyindula added a second 10 minutes later as the home side made their dominance pay with a 2-0 victory that saw them move up to third.
Monaco brought an end to a five-match winless run by posting a smash-and-grab victory over Grenoble at Stade Louis II.
Alexandre Licata scored the only goal of the game after 67 minutes to lift the principality club to mid-table safety, eight points from the drop zone.
Nantes took a huge leap away from the relegation zone with a convincing 2-0 win at Le Mans.
Yoann Poulard and Frederic Da Rocha both scored in the second half to lift Nantes up to 12th place on 26 points, leapfrogging Le Mans, who slip to 13th.
A goal by Landry Nguemo in the third minute of injury time earned Nancy a 3-2 victory over Le Havre after the home side looked to have earned a draw with a late strike of their own.
Le Havre led early on through Amadou Alassane only for Julien Feret and Jonathan Brison to put the visitors ahead by half-time.
Le Havre were back on level terms a minute into stoppage time through Alassane but Nguemo snatched a dramatic winner.
Valenciennes earned a timely boost in the battle to avoid relegation thanks to Gregory Pujol's second-half goal in a 1-0 win over Nice at an icy Stade Nungessar.
Struggling Auxerre avoided a fifth league defeat in a row as they battled to a goalless draw with mid-table Lorient.
Both teams had chances to claim the victory with home keeper Olivier Sorin producing a brilliant second-half save to deny Kevin Gameiro.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
VOLENDAM MAKE THEIR POINT
NAC Breda's European aspirations took a knock as they were surprisingly held to a draw at home to basement side FC Volendam.
After Volendam spurned the chance to go ahead when Bernard Hofstede blasted a first-half penalty over the bar, NAC opened the scoring after 64 minutes through Joonas Kolkka.
Volendam refused to lie down, however, and levelled through Rowin Van Zaanen just six minutes later.
The draw meant NAC missed the chance to climb into fifth place in the Eredivisie standings while Volendam remain four points adrift at the foot of table.
The visitors will reflect on what might have been after missing a great chance to nose ahead after 25 minutes.
Tyrone Loran felled Person Sheotahul in the area after 25 minutes giving Hofstede the chance to break the deadlock from the spot only to blaze over the bar.
NAC's best chance of the half came on the stroke of half-time as Volendam goalkeeper Jeroen Verhoeven failed to intercept Czaber Feher's cross at the near post but none of the home attackers could react to poke the ball into the yawning net.
The hosts made amends just after the hour when Kolkka picked up the ball outside the Volendam box and advanced a few paces before unleashing a shot into the bottom-right corner of Verhoeven's goal.
Volendam hit back quickly, however, and made sure they left with a point when Van Zaanen found himself all alone in front of goal after latching on to a through ball and had the simplest of tasks to steer his effort beyond Jelle ten Rouwelaar.
After Volendam spurned the chance to go ahead when Bernard Hofstede blasted a first-half penalty over the bar, NAC opened the scoring after 64 minutes through Joonas Kolkka.
Volendam refused to lie down, however, and levelled through Rowin Van Zaanen just six minutes later.
The draw meant NAC missed the chance to climb into fifth place in the Eredivisie standings while Volendam remain four points adrift at the foot of table.
The visitors will reflect on what might have been after missing a great chance to nose ahead after 25 minutes.
Tyrone Loran felled Person Sheotahul in the area after 25 minutes giving Hofstede the chance to break the deadlock from the spot only to blaze over the bar.
NAC's best chance of the half came on the stroke of half-time as Volendam goalkeeper Jeroen Verhoeven failed to intercept Czaber Feher's cross at the near post but none of the home attackers could react to poke the ball into the yawning net.
The hosts made amends just after the hour when Kolkka picked up the ball outside the Volendam box and advanced a few paces before unleashing a shot into the bottom-right corner of Verhoeven's goal.
Volendam hit back quickly, however, and made sure they left with a point when Van Zaanen found himself all alone in front of goal after latching on to a through ball and had the simplest of tasks to steer his effort beyond Jelle ten Rouwelaar.
CAGLIARI DENT JUVE'S TITLE HOPES
Juventus's title challenge was dealt a major blow by a carefree Cagliari, who stunned the Bianconeri at the Stadio Olimpico tonight.
Davide Biondini put Massimiliano Allegri's side ahead in the 16th minute, but the home side recovered to turn the game around before half-time with goals from Mohamed Sissoko, in the 31st minute, and Pavel Nedved, seven minutes later.
Jeda brought Cagliari back on terms in the 54th minute and Alessandro Matri sealed the win with just over 10 minutes remaining to maintain the Sardinians' unlikely charge for a place in Europe next season.
It took Cagliari six games to register their first points this season, but they have not looked back since, moving up to seventh place with this latest win.
Meanwhile, Juve could find themselves nine points behind league leaders Inter Milan and behind AC Milan if results go against them tomorrow.
Juve defender Nicola Legrottaglie was the unlikely source of their first chance in the 12th minute when he volleyed straight at Federico Marchetto from 10 yards after staying up following a corner.
Moments later, Sissoko juggled the ball into the penalty area where he played a neat one-two with Amauri only to hit his shot wide.
Cagliari took the lead with their first attack, stunning Juve when Biondini beat Marco Marchionni at the far post to head past Gianluigi Buffon in the 16th minute.
Juve reacted well and levelled with just over half an hour gone.
Alessandro Del Piero's corner from the left tempted both Legrottaglie and Sissoko and the latter got the telling touch with his head to beat Marchetti from eight yards.
Cagliari then had the chance to restore their lead when Michele Fini volleyed wide after being found by Andrea Cossu.
But it was Juve who went ahead in the 38th minute - Nedved beating Marchetti low into his bottom right corner when Cristian Molinaro's cross was headed back to him 10 yards out by Daniele Conti.
Juve were made to rue missed chances as Cagliari fought back in the second half to turn the game in their favour.
Jeda brought them level nine minutes in, finishing off an excellent break with a cool finish from Cossu's cross.
Another quick break took Cagliari ahead for the second time in the game.
Andrea Lazzari squared the ball for substitute Matri, who picked his spot to the left of Buffon from just outside the penalty area.
Juve finished the game with three strikers when Vincenzo Iaquinta came on, but they rarely looked like equalising as they lost their second consecutive game to lose further ground on the Serie A summit.
Davide Biondini put Massimiliano Allegri's side ahead in the 16th minute, but the home side recovered to turn the game around before half-time with goals from Mohamed Sissoko, in the 31st minute, and Pavel Nedved, seven minutes later.
Jeda brought Cagliari back on terms in the 54th minute and Alessandro Matri sealed the win with just over 10 minutes remaining to maintain the Sardinians' unlikely charge for a place in Europe next season.
It took Cagliari six games to register their first points this season, but they have not looked back since, moving up to seventh place with this latest win.
Meanwhile, Juve could find themselves nine points behind league leaders Inter Milan and behind AC Milan if results go against them tomorrow.
Juve defender Nicola Legrottaglie was the unlikely source of their first chance in the 12th minute when he volleyed straight at Federico Marchetto from 10 yards after staying up following a corner.
Moments later, Sissoko juggled the ball into the penalty area where he played a neat one-two with Amauri only to hit his shot wide.
Cagliari took the lead with their first attack, stunning Juve when Biondini beat Marco Marchionni at the far post to head past Gianluigi Buffon in the 16th minute.
Juve reacted well and levelled with just over half an hour gone.
Alessandro Del Piero's corner from the left tempted both Legrottaglie and Sissoko and the latter got the telling touch with his head to beat Marchetti from eight yards.
Cagliari then had the chance to restore their lead when Michele Fini volleyed wide after being found by Andrea Cossu.
But it was Juve who went ahead in the 38th minute - Nedved beating Marchetti low into his bottom right corner when Cristian Molinaro's cross was headed back to him 10 yards out by Daniele Conti.
Juve were made to rue missed chances as Cagliari fought back in the second half to turn the game in their favour.
Jeda brought them level nine minutes in, finishing off an excellent break with a cool finish from Cossu's cross.
Another quick break took Cagliari ahead for the second time in the game.
Andrea Lazzari squared the ball for substitute Matri, who picked his spot to the left of Buffon from just outside the penalty area.
Juve finished the game with three strikers when Vincenzo Iaquinta came on, but they rarely looked like equalising as they lost their second consecutive game to lose further ground on the Serie A summit.
SIX WINS IN A ROW FOR REAL
Raul equalled Real Madrid's all-time scoring record to send his side on their way to victory at lowly Numancia.
The 31-year-old striker netted his 307th goal for the Real, where he has spent his entire professional career, and Arjen Robben added a classy second to narrow the gap on leaders Barcelona, who play Racing Santander on Sunday.
The gap is still nine points and may be back to 12 in 24 hours' time, but tonight's win was Real's sixth in a row in the league at least maintains the pressure on their arch-rivals.
In contrast, Numancia are becoming increasingly embroiled in a relegation battle having lost three on the bounce, although it could have been a story had they taken their early chances at La Parajeto.
The hosts tasted first blood when Gonzalez Boris headed straight at goalkeeper Iker Casillas from Jose Barkero's cross and that set the tone for much of the first half as they refused to be daunted by their superior opponents.
Javier Del Pino had the best chance in the 27th minute, his header crashing back off the right post with Casillas helpless, and Gorka Brit also squandered a good opportunity when his half-volley from a tight angle squeezed the wrong side of the near post.
Madrid also had their chances. Gonzalo Higuain's long-range shot was gathered at the second attempt by keeper Colinas Juan Pablo early on and Gabriel Heinz had a header cleared off the line by Boris.
In between those chances, Robben set up Fernando Gago after a jinking run down the right, but the midfielder mistimed his shot and it scuffed harmlessly wide.
Higuain again tried his luck from distance as half-time approached, and Madrid perhaps would have considered themselves fortunate to reach the break with 11 men still on the pitch as Sergio Ramos, booked in the seventh minute for a hack on Del Pino, committed a series of untidy fouls.
The second half was just three minutes old when Madrid broke the deadlock. Robben, lively all game, surged into the heart of the Numancia defence before laying off to Higuain, whose shot was palmed away by Juan Pablo.
The rebound fell straight to Raul though, who bundled home from close range for his 307th goal, equalling Alfredo di Stefano's all-time record.
Eight minutes later Robben doubled the lead with his fifth goal of the season. The diminutive Dutchman, having just been fouled, took a quick free-kick, received the ball straight back and slalomed in between Numancia's defence before swerving to his left on the edge of the box and dispatching a low shot into the bottom left corner.
Thereafter the chances dried up, the champions seemingly happy to sit back on their lead.
Jose Barkero tried his luck from a 25-yard free-kick in the 74th minute but curled it well over, and Numancia were then given a lifeline when Gago was dismissed five minutes later for a second booking.
It proved irrelevant to the result, however, as Real shut up shop for the final 10 minutes.
The 31-year-old striker netted his 307th goal for the Real, where he has spent his entire professional career, and Arjen Robben added a classy second to narrow the gap on leaders Barcelona, who play Racing Santander on Sunday.
The gap is still nine points and may be back to 12 in 24 hours' time, but tonight's win was Real's sixth in a row in the league at least maintains the pressure on their arch-rivals.
In contrast, Numancia are becoming increasingly embroiled in a relegation battle having lost three on the bounce, although it could have been a story had they taken their early chances at La Parajeto.
The hosts tasted first blood when Gonzalez Boris headed straight at goalkeeper Iker Casillas from Jose Barkero's cross and that set the tone for much of the first half as they refused to be daunted by their superior opponents.
Javier Del Pino had the best chance in the 27th minute, his header crashing back off the right post with Casillas helpless, and Gorka Brit also squandered a good opportunity when his half-volley from a tight angle squeezed the wrong side of the near post.
Madrid also had their chances. Gonzalo Higuain's long-range shot was gathered at the second attempt by keeper Colinas Juan Pablo early on and Gabriel Heinz had a header cleared off the line by Boris.
In between those chances, Robben set up Fernando Gago after a jinking run down the right, but the midfielder mistimed his shot and it scuffed harmlessly wide.
Higuain again tried his luck from distance as half-time approached, and Madrid perhaps would have considered themselves fortunate to reach the break with 11 men still on the pitch as Sergio Ramos, booked in the seventh minute for a hack on Del Pino, committed a series of untidy fouls.
The second half was just three minutes old when Madrid broke the deadlock. Robben, lively all game, surged into the heart of the Numancia defence before laying off to Higuain, whose shot was palmed away by Juan Pablo.
The rebound fell straight to Raul though, who bundled home from close range for his 307th goal, equalling Alfredo di Stefano's all-time record.
Eight minutes later Robben doubled the lead with his fifth goal of the season. The diminutive Dutchman, having just been fouled, took a quick free-kick, received the ball straight back and slalomed in between Numancia's defence before swerving to his left on the edge of the box and dispatching a low shot into the bottom left corner.
Thereafter the chances dried up, the champions seemingly happy to sit back on their lead.
Jose Barkero tried his luck from a 25-yard free-kick in the 74th minute but curled it well over, and Numancia were then given a lifeline when Gago was dismissed five minutes later for a second booking.
It proved irrelevant to the result, however, as Real shut up shop for the final 10 minutes.
Liverpool vs. Chelsea
Rafa Benitez and Luiz Felipe Scolari are feeling the pressure of Sunday's showdown
An upbeat Rafael Benitez on Friday laughed off suggestions he was "cracking up" under the pressure generated by Liverpool's faltering form.
A run of seven draws in their last 11 league matches has seen Benitez's men hand the initiative in the title battle to champions Manchester United and made Sunday's Anfield meeting with Chelsea a critical encounter.
The Reds' loss of momentum has increased the critical focus on Benitez's team selection and tactics at a time when his outburst against United boss Sir Alex Ferguson and a string of cryptic comments in press conferences have contributed to a sense that the pressure was beginning to tell on the Spaniard.
That is an impression he was at pains to dispel on Friday as he went through his reasons for substituting both Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard in the midweek draw at Wigan (tiredness and fear of injury), while insisting there was much for Liverpool fans to be cheerful about.
"We are eight points better off than we were at this stage last season," Benitez pointed out. "We are very positive and if we can beat Chelsea everybody will be talking in a different way about us.
"We are in our best position for the last 10-15 years. So we have to enjoy it and try to keep doing our best.
"There is no extra pressure on me. I can guarantee that I have not read a newspaper, listened to radio or watched TV since the Wigan game.
"I spent Thursday enjoying some time off with my family because I knew there would be a lot of people trying to talk about things they do not know about."
Benitez did not deny that the Chelsea match had become a must-win clash.
"We showed character and quality to beat them earlier in the season, and we showed the same things in beating Manchester United here.
"Now if we can continue to show those qualities and beat Chelsea again, maybe we will be in the headlines for something positive.
"It has always been important to beat sides who are at the top, but maybe this year even more because we are very close to them."
Benitez also insisted he did not regret any of the decisions he has made this month, which have included the controversial dropping of Robbie Keane for an FA Cup match against Everton as well as going public with his feelings about Ferguson.
"It has a bad month but the only thing that I would have done differently would have been to drink more water to maybe avoid the kidney stones trouble I have had," Benitez insisted.
"But on the pitch, no. There have been very fine details that have cost us points. At Stoke in the final minutes Steven Gerrard hit a post. Against Everton we conceded a very late free-kick that should have bee avoided when they equalised.
"And at Wigan we gave away a late penalty. You cannot control everything, but we should have six more points."
Benitez added: "This has always been a must-win-game. As they all are. After my comments about Mr Ferguson we knew we still had to win at Stoke, those words didn't change anything on the pitch. It doesn't matter what is being said off the pitch."
An upbeat Rafael Benitez on Friday laughed off suggestions he was "cracking up" under the pressure generated by Liverpool's faltering form.
A run of seven draws in their last 11 league matches has seen Benitez's men hand the initiative in the title battle to champions Manchester United and made Sunday's Anfield meeting with Chelsea a critical encounter.
The Reds' loss of momentum has increased the critical focus on Benitez's team selection and tactics at a time when his outburst against United boss Sir Alex Ferguson and a string of cryptic comments in press conferences have contributed to a sense that the pressure was beginning to tell on the Spaniard.
That is an impression he was at pains to dispel on Friday as he went through his reasons for substituting both Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard in the midweek draw at Wigan (tiredness and fear of injury), while insisting there was much for Liverpool fans to be cheerful about.
"We are eight points better off than we were at this stage last season," Benitez pointed out. "We are very positive and if we can beat Chelsea everybody will be talking in a different way about us.
"We are in our best position for the last 10-15 years. So we have to enjoy it and try to keep doing our best.
"There is no extra pressure on me. I can guarantee that I have not read a newspaper, listened to radio or watched TV since the Wigan game.
"I spent Thursday enjoying some time off with my family because I knew there would be a lot of people trying to talk about things they do not know about."
Benitez did not deny that the Chelsea match had become a must-win clash.
"We showed character and quality to beat them earlier in the season, and we showed the same things in beating Manchester United here.
"Now if we can continue to show those qualities and beat Chelsea again, maybe we will be in the headlines for something positive.
"It has always been important to beat sides who are at the top, but maybe this year even more because we are very close to them."
Benitez also insisted he did not regret any of the decisions he has made this month, which have included the controversial dropping of Robbie Keane for an FA Cup match against Everton as well as going public with his feelings about Ferguson.
"It has a bad month but the only thing that I would have done differently would have been to drink more water to maybe avoid the kidney stones trouble I have had," Benitez insisted.
"But on the pitch, no. There have been very fine details that have cost us points. At Stoke in the final minutes Steven Gerrard hit a post. Against Everton we conceded a very late free-kick that should have bee avoided when they equalised.
"And at Wigan we gave away a late penalty. You cannot control everything, but we should have six more points."
Benitez added: "This has always been a must-win-game. As they all are. After my comments about Mr Ferguson we knew we still had to win at Stoke, those words didn't change anything on the pitch. It doesn't matter what is being said off the pitch."
Manchester United manager ready for title twists
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said he expected there to be tricky moments between now and the end of the season after seeing his side extend their Premier League lead.
United's 1-0 win over Everton at Old Trafford here Saturday left then five points clear at the top of the table with 15 league games remaining and ideally placed to claim a third successive Premier League title.
But Ferguson refused to get carried away after Cristiano Ronaldo's first-half penalty earned his side a seventh straight league win.
"The important thing is we keep the form going," said Ferguson. "We have a difficult game away to West Ham next week. All teams drop points in the run-in. We just hope we don't drop as many as the rest," the Scot added
"It's an advantage (being top). It's not a great advantage because there are still 15 games left. But it's always better to be top of the league than anywhere else."
Having started January third in the table, United ended the month with a significant advantage over closest challengers Liverpool and Chelsea and a game in hand.
Michael Carrick, sent tumbling by Mikel Arteta in the 44th minute for the spot-kick which allowed Ronaldo to notch his 13th goal of the season, said: "Who know how decisive our five-point advantage can be?
"We've done our bit this weekend," added Carrick. We're happy with 1-0, we've got another clean sheet and we had chances to score a few more."
And the England midfielder was adamant that United had yet to hit top form.
"We can be satisfied with the three points, but there's still more to come from us."
United's latest victory saw their Dutch goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar set an all-time English record for the most number of minutes without conceding a league goal.
His latest top-flight, shut-out meant van der Sar had not conceded a goal in 18 hours and 42 minutes of action in the top tier.
Frenchman Samir Nasri was the last player to beat the 38-year-old in the Premier League during Arsenal's 2-1 home win over United on November 8.
Since then van der Sar has gone 12 league games without letting in a goal, an achievement not lost on his manager.
"The composure he brings, the experience he brings…Edwin has been outstanding for us," said Ferguson.
"I couldn't believe it when I read that the last goal we conceded in the league was at Arsenal back in November. It's incredible. Edwin brings a calm and an assurance to the players in front of him.
"I don't know how many times w"But the record says a lot for the players that have come in. You really have to pay credit to Edwin," the boss of the English, European and world champions added.
Ferguson insisted United should have been awarded another penalty after Joleon Lescott fouled Carrick in the second-half.
"I think (Lescott on Carrick) was a clear penalty. No question about that. It was more of a penalty than the first one."
Everton manager David Moyes had few complaints about the match-winning penalty and praised his side for frustrating United for long spells.
"I'm always proud of my players because they always do a good job," said Moyes, after his side's first defeat in 10 matches. "They have come here and done another one for me."
Moyes will now turn his attention to Wednesday's FA Cup fourth round replay with Merseyside neighbours Liverpool.e have had to change the back four over the last 12 games.
United's 1-0 win over Everton at Old Trafford here Saturday left then five points clear at the top of the table with 15 league games remaining and ideally placed to claim a third successive Premier League title.
But Ferguson refused to get carried away after Cristiano Ronaldo's first-half penalty earned his side a seventh straight league win.
"The important thing is we keep the form going," said Ferguson. "We have a difficult game away to West Ham next week. All teams drop points in the run-in. We just hope we don't drop as many as the rest," the Scot added
"It's an advantage (being top). It's not a great advantage because there are still 15 games left. But it's always better to be top of the league than anywhere else."
Having started January third in the table, United ended the month with a significant advantage over closest challengers Liverpool and Chelsea and a game in hand.
Michael Carrick, sent tumbling by Mikel Arteta in the 44th minute for the spot-kick which allowed Ronaldo to notch his 13th goal of the season, said: "Who know how decisive our five-point advantage can be?
"We've done our bit this weekend," added Carrick. We're happy with 1-0, we've got another clean sheet and we had chances to score a few more."
And the England midfielder was adamant that United had yet to hit top form.
"We can be satisfied with the three points, but there's still more to come from us."
United's latest victory saw their Dutch goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar set an all-time English record for the most number of minutes without conceding a league goal.
His latest top-flight, shut-out meant van der Sar had not conceded a goal in 18 hours and 42 minutes of action in the top tier.
Frenchman Samir Nasri was the last player to beat the 38-year-old in the Premier League during Arsenal's 2-1 home win over United on November 8.
Since then van der Sar has gone 12 league games without letting in a goal, an achievement not lost on his manager.
"The composure he brings, the experience he brings…Edwin has been outstanding for us," said Ferguson.
"I couldn't believe it when I read that the last goal we conceded in the league was at Arsenal back in November. It's incredible. Edwin brings a calm and an assurance to the players in front of him.
"I don't know how many times w"But the record says a lot for the players that have come in. You really have to pay credit to Edwin," the boss of the English, European and world champions added.
Ferguson insisted United should have been awarded another penalty after Joleon Lescott fouled Carrick in the second-half.
"I think (Lescott on Carrick) was a clear penalty. No question about that. It was more of a penalty than the first one."
Everton manager David Moyes had few complaints about the match-winning penalty and praised his side for frustrating United for long spells.
"I'm always proud of my players because they always do a good job," said Moyes, after his side's first defeat in 10 matches. "They have come here and done another one for me."
Moyes will now turn his attention to Wednesday's FA Cup fourth round replay with Merseyside neighbours Liverpool.e have had to change the back four over the last 12 games.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Galaxy’s best shot at keeping Beckham
The wheels of soccer politicking are turning at high speed as David Beckham seeks a permanent move to AC Milan.
Some of the biggest names in the sport – Beckham, Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti, England manager Fabio Capello and Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi – are being whisked along in the slipstream as the saga reaches its most critical juncture.
However, as the end of the January transfer window and D-Day edges ever closer, there is one person who can not be overlooked in the whole process.
Victoria Beckham, the England midfielder’s wife of nearly 10 years and mother of his three children, could be the Los Angeles Galaxy’s best hope of holding on to their most famous player as the tides of his career flow increasingly toward a permanent rest in Italy.
Some of the biggest names in the sport – Beckham, Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti, England manager Fabio Capello and Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi – are being whisked along in the slipstream as the saga reaches its most critical juncture.
However, as the end of the January transfer window and D-Day edges ever closer, there is one person who can not be overlooked in the whole process.
Victoria Beckham, the England midfielder’s wife of nearly 10 years and mother of his three children, could be the Los Angeles Galaxy’s best hope of holding on to their most famous player as the tides of his career flow increasingly toward a permanent rest in Italy.
Canales Daily: Donovan Wish vs Galaxy Need
It’s now or never for American striker Landon Donovan to make such an impression at Bayern Munich that the club will consider making a serious offer for his services on a permanent basis.
His league debut for the German club is likely to come this Friday.
Donovan’s statements not only to the German media, but to American outlets before he left, have made clear his desire to continue his career at a notable club in Europe, which Bayern certainly qualifies as.
His friends had no doubts as to Donovan’s intentions.
“He’s desperate to prove it, I think not only to himself, but perhaps some of his critics as well, that he can make it in Europe,” said Galaxy teammate Eddie Lewis to Goal.com exclusively. “If it works out for him, I’d be pleased for him personally, and obviously disappointed to lose a great player. But I know those are his ambitions.”
His league debut for the German club is likely to come this Friday.
Donovan’s statements not only to the German media, but to American outlets before he left, have made clear his desire to continue his career at a notable club in Europe, which Bayern certainly qualifies as.
His friends had no doubts as to Donovan’s intentions.
“He’s desperate to prove it, I think not only to himself, but perhaps some of his critics as well, that he can make it in Europe,” said Galaxy teammate Eddie Lewis to Goal.com exclusively. “If it works out for him, I’d be pleased for him personally, and obviously disappointed to lose a great player. But I know those are his ambitions.”
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Man U, Chelsea get second-tier opponents in FA Cup
Manchester United and Chelsea have drawn League Championship opponents in the fifth round of the FA Cup.
Premier League leader United will play at either Derby or Nottingham Forest, while Chelsea travels to Watford.
The draw for the last 16 of soccer’s oldest and most famous domestic competition was made Sunday. The matches will be played on Feb. 14-15.
Liverpool and Everton drew 1-1 Sunday and a Feb. 4 rematch will decide which hosts either Aston Villa or Doncaster, who played out a scoreless draw Saturday.
If Arsenal gets past a replay with Cardiff after a 0-0 draw Sunday, Arsene Wenger’s side will face either West Bromwich Albion or Burnley.
After ousting defending champion Portsmouth, second-tier Swansea has a home match with Fulham.
West Ham and Middlesbrough will contest the only guaranteed all-Premier League contest.
League Championship side Coventry will play topflight opposition, visiting either Sunderland or Blackburn. Hull, in its first ever season in the topflight, travels to Sheffield United.
Premier League leader United will play at either Derby or Nottingham Forest, while Chelsea travels to Watford.
The draw for the last 16 of soccer’s oldest and most famous domestic competition was made Sunday. The matches will be played on Feb. 14-15.
Liverpool and Everton drew 1-1 Sunday and a Feb. 4 rematch will decide which hosts either Aston Villa or Doncaster, who played out a scoreless draw Saturday.
If Arsenal gets past a replay with Cardiff after a 0-0 draw Sunday, Arsene Wenger’s side will face either West Bromwich Albion or Burnley.
After ousting defending champion Portsmouth, second-tier Swansea has a home match with Fulham.
West Ham and Middlesbrough will contest the only guaranteed all-Premier League contest.
League Championship side Coventry will play topflight opposition, visiting either Sunderland or Blackburn. Hull, in its first ever season in the topflight, travels to Sheffield United.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Manchester United counting cost of five-trophy assault
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson saw his dreams of landing five trophies kept alive, but admitted that the 2-1 FA Cup fourth round win over Tottenham came at a cost.
Dimitar Berbatov's first-half strike against his former club settled the tie in United's favour at Old Trafford after a Tom Huddlestone own goal had cancelled out Roman Pavlyuchenko's early opener.
But Ferguson's team didn't emerge unscathed.
"Cristiano Ronaldo had a stomach bug and it showed because he was nowhere near the player we know he can be," said the United manager.
"Fabio da Silva picked up a calf injury and Danny Welbeck has injured his knee. The full-back positions are causing us a bit of concern at the moment."
United have already won the European Super Cup this season, are on top of the Premier League, in the last 16 of the Champions League and have an English League Cup final date with Spurs in March.
"We gave Spurs a start, but we recovered well. We played some good stuff and their keeper made some great saves, but Paul Scholes got us back into the game with his deflected goal," said Ferguson.
"It was a great strike from a fantastic cross by Michael Carrick. It's a dangerous game when you are only winning 2-1, but we were always comfortable."
Ferguson, who dismissed claims that he had attempted to forego a replay for this tie as 'absolutely scandalous,' insisted that neither he nor United had any intention of calling for the game to be settled on the day.
He said: "There was never any issue of me not wanting a replay and I said that on Friday. How can you deny the likes of Torquay or Southend the chance of a big gate against one of the big clubs? It's scandalous."
Scholes, whose deflected shot opened the scoring, admits he is not certain whether the goal will be marked down as his first of the season.
He said: "If it was on target, then it's my goal. If it wasn't, then I won't claim it.
"If it takes so long to score a goal, it isn't great. We are in January now, the second half of the season, so you want to be scoring a lot sooner than that."
Meanwhile, Spurs manager Harry Redknapp accused Teddy Sheringham of talking 'absolute rubbish' after the former Tottenham and United striker claimed the Londoners 'lacked fight and looked happy to be out of the FA Cup'.
Spurs' failure to turn the tie around earned scathing criticism from television pundit Sheringham.
Despite his team's exit, however, Redknapp refused to accept the hard-hitting analysis of Sheringham, who spent a season under Redknapp at Portsmouth.
"I'm disappointed to hear Teddy Sheringham saying things like that. He ought to know better," said Redknapp.
"It's very unfair and I don't what he is getting at. How can people say that the players weren't trying?
"People are just jumping on the bandwagon at the moment, though, and getting on our back. It's not as if we were beaten 6-1 here. We have lost 2-1 and we had chances to get a draw from the game."
Dimitar Berbatov's first-half strike against his former club settled the tie in United's favour at Old Trafford after a Tom Huddlestone own goal had cancelled out Roman Pavlyuchenko's early opener.
But Ferguson's team didn't emerge unscathed.
"Cristiano Ronaldo had a stomach bug and it showed because he was nowhere near the player we know he can be," said the United manager.
"Fabio da Silva picked up a calf injury and Danny Welbeck has injured his knee. The full-back positions are causing us a bit of concern at the moment."
United have already won the European Super Cup this season, are on top of the Premier League, in the last 16 of the Champions League and have an English League Cup final date with Spurs in March.
"We gave Spurs a start, but we recovered well. We played some good stuff and their keeper made some great saves, but Paul Scholes got us back into the game with his deflected goal," said Ferguson.
"It was a great strike from a fantastic cross by Michael Carrick. It's a dangerous game when you are only winning 2-1, but we were always comfortable."
Ferguson, who dismissed claims that he had attempted to forego a replay for this tie as 'absolutely scandalous,' insisted that neither he nor United had any intention of calling for the game to be settled on the day.
He said: "There was never any issue of me not wanting a replay and I said that on Friday. How can you deny the likes of Torquay or Southend the chance of a big gate against one of the big clubs? It's scandalous."
Scholes, whose deflected shot opened the scoring, admits he is not certain whether the goal will be marked down as his first of the season.
He said: "If it was on target, then it's my goal. If it wasn't, then I won't claim it.
"If it takes so long to score a goal, it isn't great. We are in January now, the second half of the season, so you want to be scoring a lot sooner than that."
Meanwhile, Spurs manager Harry Redknapp accused Teddy Sheringham of talking 'absolute rubbish' after the former Tottenham and United striker claimed the Londoners 'lacked fight and looked happy to be out of the FA Cup'.
Spurs' failure to turn the tie around earned scathing criticism from television pundit Sheringham.
Despite his team's exit, however, Redknapp refused to accept the hard-hitting analysis of Sheringham, who spent a season under Redknapp at Portsmouth.
"I'm disappointed to hear Teddy Sheringham saying things like that. He ought to know better," said Redknapp.
"It's very unfair and I don't what he is getting at. How can people say that the players weren't trying?
"People are just jumping on the bandwagon at the moment, though, and getting on our back. It's not as if we were beaten 6-1 here. We have lost 2-1 and we had chances to get a draw from the game."
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Manchester City Want Didier Drogba
According to The Sun, mega-rich Manchester City are preparing a £15 million swoop for Chelsea’s unsettled forward, Didier Drogba.
The Sky Blues are in need of an out-and-out striker, as the likes of Jo, Benjani and the injured Valeri Bojinov have failed to make much of an impression at Eastlands.
City boss Mark Hughes has long wanted Roque Santa Cruz to lead the line, but Blackburn Rovers continue to jack up the price on the Paraguayan hitman.
Thus, ‘Sparky’ has begun scouting out other potential targets, and it is thought his new favorite currently resides on the fringes at Stamford Bridge.
Drogba has fallen out of favor at Chelsea this season, as a combination of off-field drama and Nicolas Anelka’s red-hot form have seen him relegated to second choice in the club’s one-striker system.
Indeed, following a meek display in the Blues’ recent defeat to Manchester United, the Ivorian was banished to the reserves and missed out on the FA Cup replay with Southend United.
He was also excluded from the squad for last weekend’s narrow win over Stoke City, with youngsters Miroslav Stoch and Franco di Santo filling the bench instead.
There has been considerable speculation as to where the 30-year-old’s future lies, with former club Olympique Marseille touted as a likely destination, but Luiz Felipe Scolari has dismissed those rumors.
However, the Chelsea manager could be tempted by the possibility of a swap deal involving Robinho, with Drogba replacing Anelka in the supposed four-man trade reported yesterday involving Florent Malouda, Salomon Kalou and Alex.
It remains to be seen whether Robinho is eligible to move this month, but it is nonetheless highly unlikely that City would swap him for a player who, on paper, seems an ideal strike-partner for the samba star.
The Sky Blues are in need of an out-and-out striker, as the likes of Jo, Benjani and the injured Valeri Bojinov have failed to make much of an impression at Eastlands.
City boss Mark Hughes has long wanted Roque Santa Cruz to lead the line, but Blackburn Rovers continue to jack up the price on the Paraguayan hitman.
Thus, ‘Sparky’ has begun scouting out other potential targets, and it is thought his new favorite currently resides on the fringes at Stamford Bridge.
Drogba has fallen out of favor at Chelsea this season, as a combination of off-field drama and Nicolas Anelka’s red-hot form have seen him relegated to second choice in the club’s one-striker system.
Indeed, following a meek display in the Blues’ recent defeat to Manchester United, the Ivorian was banished to the reserves and missed out on the FA Cup replay with Southend United.
He was also excluded from the squad for last weekend’s narrow win over Stoke City, with youngsters Miroslav Stoch and Franco di Santo filling the bench instead.
There has been considerable speculation as to where the 30-year-old’s future lies, with former club Olympique Marseille touted as a likely destination, but Luiz Felipe Scolari has dismissed those rumors.
However, the Chelsea manager could be tempted by the possibility of a swap deal involving Robinho, with Drogba replacing Anelka in the supposed four-man trade reported yesterday involving Florent Malouda, Salomon Kalou and Alex.
It remains to be seen whether Robinho is eligible to move this month, but it is nonetheless highly unlikely that City would swap him for a player who, on paper, seems an ideal strike-partner for the samba star.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Beckham makes home debut for AC Milan
David Beckham made his home debut for AC Milan on Saturday, playing 81 minutes in a 1-0 victory over Fiorentina in the Italian league.
Beckham is on loan from the Los Angeles Galaxy and hopes to stay sharp in hopes of earning a spot on the English national team. He played his first Serie A match a week ago.
He had a busy night on the right side of midfield before being replaced by defender Philippe Senderos in the game at San Siro.
Just before halftime, Beckham had an excellent chance. The ball was worked across to him on the right side of the penalty box, but goalkeeper Sebastien Frey was able to push his low shot away for a corner kick.
Alexander Pato scored in the seventh minute for the only goal in what many expect to be Kaka’s last game before joining Manchester City for more than $130 million. At the start of the second half, Kaka had three good opportunities, but each time the Fiorentina defense was able to block his shots.
The win leaves Milan in third place, six points behind leader Inter Milan and two behind Juventus. Both teams play Sunday.
Beckham is on loan from the Los Angeles Galaxy and hopes to stay sharp in hopes of earning a spot on the English national team. He played his first Serie A match a week ago.
He had a busy night on the right side of midfield before being replaced by defender Philippe Senderos in the game at San Siro.
Just before halftime, Beckham had an excellent chance. The ball was worked across to him on the right side of the penalty box, but goalkeeper Sebastien Frey was able to push his low shot away for a corner kick.
Alexander Pato scored in the seventh minute for the only goal in what many expect to be Kaka’s last game before joining Manchester City for more than $130 million. At the start of the second half, Kaka had three good opportunities, but each time the Fiorentina defense was able to block his shots.
The win leaves Milan in third place, six points behind leader Inter Milan and two behind Juventus. Both teams play Sunday.
Americans in the UK: Friedel Cements Villa’s Spot
In what was a rather boring weekend for the Americans in the UK, Brad Friedel managed to help create some headlines as Villa continued their majestic run amongst the top four in the Premiership.
The 37-year-old keeper was impressive on Saturday as Villa grabbed a controversial victory at the Stadium of Light Saturday. After Ashley Young was sent off in the 72nd minute, Gabriel Agbonlahor was awarded a questionable penalty by referee Mike Dean in the 80th which Gareth Barry blasted home. Friedel made a few nice saves including a great footed stop of Dean Whitehead’s first half effort. Friedel and company now sit three points ahead of Arsenal and are in control of third place, just three points behind leaders Manchester United.
The 37-year-old keeper was impressive on Saturday as Villa grabbed a controversial victory at the Stadium of Light Saturday. After Ashley Young was sent off in the 72nd minute, Gabriel Agbonlahor was awarded a questionable penalty by referee Mike Dean in the 80th which Gareth Barry blasted home. Friedel made a few nice saves including a great footed stop of Dean Whitehead’s first half effort. Friedel and company now sit three points ahead of Arsenal and are in control of third place, just three points behind leaders Manchester United.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Fergie relishes United's durability
BOLTON, England, (AFP) - Sir Alex Ferguson admits he is delighted with Manchester United's durability after his side moved to the top of the Premier League with a 1-0 win over Bolton.
Last season's English and European champions have had a slow start to the campaign but since they returned from winning the Club World Cup in Japan, Ferguson's team have won five straight league matches.
That run has erased the seven-point advantage Liverpool held over them just a month ago. United's victory at the Reebok Stadium on Saturday not only edged them above the Reds - ahead of their match at home to Everton on Monday - but also equalled Chelsea's record of 10 straight clean sheets in the Premier League.
Having built a reputation for attacking football last season, it was United's seventh 1-0 victory in the league this season and Ferguson believes it is a significant indicator about his team's mentality.
Last season's English and European champions have had a slow start to the campaign but since they returned from winning the Club World Cup in Japan, Ferguson's team have won five straight league matches.
That run has erased the seven-point advantage Liverpool held over them just a month ago. United's victory at the Reebok Stadium on Saturday not only edged them above the Reds - ahead of their match at home to Everton on Monday - but also equalled Chelsea's record of 10 straight clean sheets in the Premier League.
Having built a reputation for attacking football last season, it was United's seventh 1-0 victory in the league this season and Ferguson believes it is a significant indicator about his team's mentality.
Mark Hughes is confident that Kaka will join Manchester City when he learns of the club's grand ambitions.
Milan confirmed on Thursday they were considering a £107million bid for the former world footballer of the year and, privately, City owner Sheikh Mansour is confident the offer will be accepted. Speculation in Italy has indicated that the player will stay at the San Siro as he believes the club cannot match his ambition, but Hughes does not feel there will be a problem. ''We are all working to the same end; trying to be successful on a regular basis,'' he said. ''You do that by bringing good players to the club to supplement those we already have. ''It is not something that will happen overnight and we have to let people understand what we are trying to do and understand where this club will go in the next few years. ''Once they understand that and recognise the people driving it forward they will become excited by what we can offer.'' Kaka's spokesman Diogo Kotscho admitted that although a deal was not close the Rossoneri had granted permission to open talks. "Milan has authorised the negotiation with Manchester City," he told AP. "The next step now is that Kaka's father will eventually talk to Manchester City. "It's an exaggeration what they are saying in England that it's almost a done deal and it's an exaggeration that Kaka has rejected the offer. ''I have no idea whether he will end up here,'' admitted Hughes. ''It is dependent on too many factors. However, people should not think this is just being done on a whim. ''(Executive chairman) Garry Cook, (chairman) Khaldoon al-Mubarak and I have discussed this for numerous months and Kaka was in our thoughts right from the outset. ''It is not something we have only thought of in the last week and decided to act and it would be naive of people to think I have not been involved in the process. ''It has moved forward at a pace this week. It is a football decision that has been done with a structure and an understanding that we can move it forward.''
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Cristiano Ronaldo voted FIFA player of year
Cristiano Ronaldo won the FIFA World Player of the Year award Monday to complete a sweep of soccer’s top individual honors for 2008.
The Portugal winger led Manchester United to the Premier League and Champions League titles in May. He scored 42 goals in all competitions last season and became the first English Premier League player to win the honor in the award’s 18-year history.
“It is an overwhelming moment, a very special moment in my life,” Ronaldo said. “I would like to say to my mother and sister that the fireworks can be fired off now.”
Brazil’s Marta won the women’s award for the third year in a row. She earlier announced she is joining the Los Angeles Sol in the Women’s Professional Soccer League.
Ronaldo received 136 first-place votes and 935 points in a worldwide poll of national team captains and coaches. He was followed by Barcelona and Argentina midfielder Lionel Messi (678) and Liverpool and Spain striker Fernando Torres (203), with the results announced by Brazilian great Pele.
AC Milan and Brazil midfielder Kaka, the 2007 winner, was fourth (183), followed by Barcelona and Spain midfielder Xavi Hernandez (155), Liverpool and England midfielder Stephen Gerrard (98) and Barcelona and Cameroon striker Samuel Eto’o (58),
The Portugal winger led Manchester United to the Premier League and Champions League titles in May. He scored 42 goals in all competitions last season and became the first English Premier League player to win the honor in the award’s 18-year history.
“It is an overwhelming moment, a very special moment in my life,” Ronaldo said. “I would like to say to my mother and sister that the fireworks can be fired off now.”
Brazil’s Marta won the women’s award for the third year in a row. She earlier announced she is joining the Los Angeles Sol in the Women’s Professional Soccer League.
Ronaldo received 136 first-place votes and 935 points in a worldwide poll of national team captains and coaches. He was followed by Barcelona and Argentina midfielder Lionel Messi (678) and Liverpool and Spain striker Fernando Torres (203), with the results announced by Brazilian great Pele.
AC Milan and Brazil midfielder Kaka, the 2007 winner, was fourth (183), followed by Barcelona and Spain midfielder Xavi Hernandez (155), Liverpool and England midfielder Stephen Gerrard (98) and Barcelona and Cameroon striker Samuel Eto’o (58),
Benitez edges closer to new Liverpool contract
Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez is close to signing a new contract after reaching an agreement on his salary.
Benitez still has 18 months remaining on his existing contract, but announced in November that negotiations had begun on new terms and that he wanted a deal signed by the end of the month. He denied reports that he is at odds with the club’s American owners over controlling transfers.
The Spanish manager expressed frustration last week about the lack of progress, but insists there is no conflict with co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett Jr.
“My agent only received the draft document of my contract yesterday evening,” Benitez said Tuesday. “We have agreed the length of contract and we have agreed the salary. Now we have to discuss my role and my responsibilities as manager of the club.”
Benitez has enjoyed success in Europe, winning the 2005 Champions League at the end of his first season and returning to the final two years later. His priority is to secure Liverpool’s first league title since 1990. The Reds top the standings, but Manchester United is five points back with two games in hand.
Benitez was thrown into the middle of a power battle between Hicks and Gillett, with the former publicly offering him a one-year extension in April despite sounding out Juergen Klinsmann as a replacement months earlier.
Benitez still has 18 months remaining on his existing contract, but announced in November that negotiations had begun on new terms and that he wanted a deal signed by the end of the month. He denied reports that he is at odds with the club’s American owners over controlling transfers.
The Spanish manager expressed frustration last week about the lack of progress, but insists there is no conflict with co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett Jr.
“My agent only received the draft document of my contract yesterday evening,” Benitez said Tuesday. “We have agreed the length of contract and we have agreed the salary. Now we have to discuss my role and my responsibilities as manager of the club.”
Benitez has enjoyed success in Europe, winning the 2005 Champions League at the end of his first season and returning to the final two years later. His priority is to secure Liverpool’s first league title since 1990. The Reds top the standings, but Manchester United is five points back with two games in hand.
Benitez was thrown into the middle of a power battle between Hicks and Gillett, with the former publicly offering him a one-year extension in April despite sounding out Juergen Klinsmann as a replacement months earlier.
Torres admits Man Utd now in pole position
Fernando Torres has admitted that Manchester United's demolition of Chelsea at the weekend has put them in pole position to claim a third consecutive Premier League title.
But the Liverpool striker remains confident that Sir Alex Ferguson's side can be knocked off their perch and has billed the meeting between the two clubs at Old Trafford on March 14 as a potential title decider.
A 3-0 win over Chelsea on Sunday means United will displace Liverpool at the top of the table for the first time this season if they beat Wigan on Wednesday evening then take all three points from their trip to Bolton on Saturday.
"United are the champions right now, they are the favourites," Torres told reporters at FIFA's World Player of the Year award in Zurich on Monday evening.
"They have shown in the last few years that they're a very strong side. Look at the great players they have, and they have played two matches fewer, so they could catch up and even go top."
But the Liverpool striker remains confident that Sir Alex Ferguson's side can be knocked off their perch and has billed the meeting between the two clubs at Old Trafford on March 14 as a potential title decider.
A 3-0 win over Chelsea on Sunday means United will displace Liverpool at the top of the table for the first time this season if they beat Wigan on Wednesday evening then take all three points from their trip to Bolton on Saturday.
"United are the champions right now, they are the favourites," Torres told reporters at FIFA's World Player of the Year award in Zurich on Monday evening.
"They have shown in the last few years that they're a very strong side. Look at the great players they have, and they have played two matches fewer, so they could catch up and even go top."
Thursday, January 8, 2009
United lose 1-0 at Derby in semi-final first leg
Manchester United suffered a 1-0 defeat by Championship (second division) side Derby County in the first leg of their League Cup semi-final at Pride Park on Wednesday.
Kris Commons fired the only goal with half an hour gone and Derby could have taken a two-goal advantage to Old Trafford for the second leg in two weeks’ time had Rob Hulse not wasted a glorious late chance.
United manager Alex Ferguson fielded an under-strength side but introduced Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo late on with the latter almost equalising with a trademark free kick that brushed the post.
Until then the Premier League champions had rarely tested their former keeper Roy Carroll in the Derby goal.
Derby, relegated from the top flight last season with a record low points total and languishing in 18th place in the Championship, had new manager Nigel Clough watching in the stands as he prepared for his first day in charge.
Clough, confirmed as the club’s new manager on Tuesday, must have been impressed by the organisation and spirit of Derby who fully deserved their first leg advantage.
United came under pressure early on, with Jonny Evans forced to clear one effort off the line. Andy Todd then lifted a good chance over the crossbar.
The hosts were rewarded for their enterprise when Commons surged into space midway inside the United half and advanced to smash a shot past Tomasz Kuszczak from 25 metres.
United, who host Chelsea in the Premier League this weekend, were subdued throughout, although they will start the second leg as favourites to reach the final.
Holders Tottenham Hotspur beat Championship side Burnley 4-1 at home in the first leg of their semi-final on Tuesday.
Kris Commons fired the only goal with half an hour gone and Derby could have taken a two-goal advantage to Old Trafford for the second leg in two weeks’ time had Rob Hulse not wasted a glorious late chance.
United manager Alex Ferguson fielded an under-strength side but introduced Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo late on with the latter almost equalising with a trademark free kick that brushed the post.
Until then the Premier League champions had rarely tested their former keeper Roy Carroll in the Derby goal.
Derby, relegated from the top flight last season with a record low points total and languishing in 18th place in the Championship, had new manager Nigel Clough watching in the stands as he prepared for his first day in charge.
Clough, confirmed as the club’s new manager on Tuesday, must have been impressed by the organisation and spirit of Derby who fully deserved their first leg advantage.
United came under pressure early on, with Jonny Evans forced to clear one effort off the line. Andy Todd then lifted a good chance over the crossbar.
The hosts were rewarded for their enterprise when Commons surged into space midway inside the United half and advanced to smash a shot past Tomasz Kuszczak from 25 metres.
United, who host Chelsea in the Premier League this weekend, were subdued throughout, although they will start the second leg as favourites to reach the final.
Holders Tottenham Hotspur beat Championship side Burnley 4-1 at home in the first leg of their semi-final on Tuesday.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Gerrard hailed as 'model pro' after Liverpool win
Steven Gerrard was labelled a "model professional" by Liverpool assistant manager Sammy Lee after capping a troubled week off the pitch by inspiring the Reds to a 2-0 FA Cup win over Preston.
The Liverpool captain, charged by police with assault and affray over an alleged incident in nearby Southport following the Premier League leaders win against Newcastle last Sunday, led from the front as goals from Spanish duo Albert Riera and Fernando Torres sealed victory at Deepdale.
Gerrard's driving display and unselfish creation of Torres's injury-time goal here Saturday were the hallmarks of the kind of effort Reds' fans have come to expect from the Liverpool-born, 28-year-old, England midfielder.
"Steven is a top professional and he produced a terrific performance out there," said former Liverpool and England midfielder Lee. "He is a model professional and he certainly has our full support.
The Liverpool captain, charged by police with assault and affray over an alleged incident in nearby Southport following the Premier League leaders win against Newcastle last Sunday, led from the front as goals from Spanish duo Albert Riera and Fernando Torres sealed victory at Deepdale.
Gerrard's driving display and unselfish creation of Torres's injury-time goal here Saturday were the hallmarks of the kind of effort Reds' fans have come to expect from the Liverpool-born, 28-year-old, England midfielder.
"Steven is a top professional and he produced a terrific performance out there," said former Liverpool and England midfielder Lee. "He is a model professional and he certainly has our full support.
Wenger backs Ferguson in fixture row
Arsene Wenger has backed Sir Alex Ferguson's claim that the Premier League fixture list is unfair and should be changed.
Ferguson has been highly critical this week of the scheduling that has led to his Manchester United side playing a majority of weekend Premier League games away from home following a midweek Champions League clash.
Wenger took the unusual step of agreeing with his longstanding rival after his Arsenal team's 3-1 FA Cup third round victory over Plymouth Argyle at the Emirates Stadium here Saturday.
The Gunners boss believes Ferguson has a case - and pointed to the imbalance of home fixtures across the four Champions League teams to reinforce his claim.
"I saw Ferguson made the case about fixtures," Arsenal manager Wenger said. "And we checked because we are always curious. And he has a case, and in this case so do we.
Ferguson has been highly critical this week of the scheduling that has led to his Manchester United side playing a majority of weekend Premier League games away from home following a midweek Champions League clash.
Wenger took the unusual step of agreeing with his longstanding rival after his Arsenal team's 3-1 FA Cup third round victory over Plymouth Argyle at the Emirates Stadium here Saturday.
The Gunners boss believes Ferguson has a case - and pointed to the imbalance of home fixtures across the four Champions League teams to reinforce his claim.
"I saw Ferguson made the case about fixtures," Arsenal manager Wenger said. "And we checked because we are always curious. And he has a case, and in this case so do we.
United, Villa ease through in FA Cup
Premier League sides Manchester United and Aston Villa reached the fourth round of the FA Cup on Sunday after seeing off lower league opponents Southampton and Gillingham.
United beat Championship (division two) strugglers Southampton, who played for almost an hour with 10 men, 3-0 at St Mary’s Stadium and will now meet Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford in the fourth round.
Aston Villa won 2-1 at League Two (fourth division) Gillingham with James Milner celebrating his 23rd birthday by scoring both goals. Villa will travel to play the winners of the postponed tie between Cheltenham Town and Doncaster Rovers in the fourth round in three weeks’ time.
United beat Championship (division two) strugglers Southampton, who played for almost an hour with 10 men, 3-0 at St Mary’s Stadium and will now meet Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford in the fourth round.
Aston Villa won 2-1 at League Two (fourth division) Gillingham with James Milner celebrating his 23rd birthday by scoring both goals. Villa will travel to play the winners of the postponed tie between Cheltenham Town and Doncaster Rovers in the fourth round in three weeks’ time.
Rampant Robben hands Real win over Villarreal
Arjen Robben’s superb run and curled shot gave Real Madrid a 1-0 win over Villarreal on Sunday, moving the champions up to third in the Primera Liga.
Sevilla dropped to fourth after conceding a dramatic late equaliser in a 1-1 draw with bottom club Osasuna and Barcelona’s 3-1 win over Real Mallorca on Saturday means the Catalans are 11 points clear at the top.
Dutch winger Robben was rampant throughout at the Bernabeu, receiving a standing ovation when he was replaced near the end, and he nearly opened the scoring on 12 minutes when his deflected shot looped onto the top of the crossbar.
Sevilla dropped to fourth after conceding a dramatic late equaliser in a 1-1 draw with bottom club Osasuna and Barcelona’s 3-1 win over Real Mallorca on Saturday means the Catalans are 11 points clear at the top.
Dutch winger Robben was rampant throughout at the Bernabeu, receiving a standing ovation when he was replaced near the end, and he nearly opened the scoring on 12 minutes when his deflected shot looped onto the top of the crossbar.
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