She's a heartbreaker...

Over the years, and I'm strictly speaking from experience, I have seen a lot of my good friends depressed, dejected and even upset by their personal relationships with the opposite sex. Now in this context, when I say experience, I mean what I learnt from their mishaps and unfortunate turn of events. And when they have been disheartened by their counterpart, they start feeling dull and miserable which is normal human behaviour. This is how we express ourselves, the way we act is influenced by what we feel or what we have seen within our environment or even beyond it in some cases.

I consider myself a good listener but this does not imply that I may also be good in offering legitimate or appropriate advice. That said, when a friend of mine came to talk to me about the hardships he was facing in his relationship, a notion came to my mind. Why get depressed ?? What is the point of getting sad, dull and low ?? Now, your thinking this idiot is just rambling on and I better hit the close button.

What I would do...

If that person meant a lot to me, I would not get depressed or sulk day in day out. I would turn gay. Now don't get me wrong, I'm not advocating homosexuality or any behaviour of that sort (Family & Friends... Relax, it's not what you think...). Show the world how hurt you were that you had to take this step. It's not revenge, its merely expressing your distress and how troubled your were that you had to march on to the gay-side of life. Turning into a fruit-cake (No disrespect towards anyone) would show people how much the counterpart meant to you and to what extreme's you may go to express inner feelings.

As I said, am a good listener but my advice could raise a few eyebrows.

Sleuth (2007)

Now if I was able to make a significant change in your thinking, I would strongly recommend you watch this re-make from 1972. Sleuth stars Micheal Caine and Jude Law. Caine is an aging writer who confronts an aspiring actor, Jude Law, who has lured his wife away. The movie is crude with respect to the dialogues and language. Both men take part in a game of deceit and trickery. Mind games turn into seduction, and one man prevails in his overtures. Similar concept to what I had been debating, but not quite.

Just to inform all the women out there, no woman has broken my heart yet... ;)

Picture Source : Flickr & Yahoo

Liverpool's Season Review

The previous season could be considered as the most attack-minded season under Rafa Benitez. But as the strike force became positive, the defending put the team down.

A step back into the past...

It all began when Rafa bought the likes of Torres and Babel, also completing the permanent deal for Mascherano, we all knew that something good was to come from the talents that were brought in. Results are visible, Torres scored 33 goals in all competitions in his inaugural season at Liverpool and Babel reached double figures with his goal tally. Not to forget the likes of Kuyt who flourished himself on the right wing and also reached double figures. Benayoun and Crouch had limited appearances due to the good form shown by Kuyt and Babel, but both of them also reached double figures. Another new addition, Voronin, was too injured to be evaluated appropriately. Fears of another Kewell perhaps ??

Captain fantastic, Gerrard, has never let the team down and proved his mettle striking an amazing partnership behind Torres and scoring freely. Midfield duties were on the shoulders of Mascherano and Alonso. The latter struggled with injury and form, presenting a chance for young Lucas to shine when given the opportunity. Pennant carried out his job of supplying strikers. The ever-injured Kewell's doctor hopes he now receives equal rent from Kewell as he has permanently moved into the hospital.

Moving on to the defence. Hyypia had a consistent season after Agger had been crocked, Carragher and Finnan showed signs of age and did not have the best of seasons. Both have retired from international football and can focus completely on the club now. Arbeloa and Aurelio were dependable and steady throughout the season. Riise had a nightmare season with the Reds. Skrtel had a solid debut season and learnt quickly from Carragher.

Reine kept well in goal winning the Golden Gloves Award for the third consecutive time. He received no competition what so ever from Charles Itandje.

Saddest part of the season was that Liverpool finished the season without any silverware. Played well in the Champions League but unfortunately got dumped out by Chelsea in the semi's. Rick Parry has made the League title priority for next season and is still working closely with Rafa to end the boardroom bust-up between the US co-owners. Rafa could have easily left his post when the Klinsmann saga rambled on. But being the bigger man, guided Liverpool safe to the Champions League spot and his now focused on the job at hand for next season.

Liverpool’s league record under Benitez:
04/05:
Home: 12 wins, 4 draws, 3 losses
Away: 5 wins, 3 draws, 11 losses
58 points
05/06:
Home: 15 wins, 3 draws, 1 loss
Away: 10 wins, 4 draws, 5 losses
82 points
06/07:
Home: 14 wins, 4 draws, 1 loss
Away: 6 wins, 4 draws, 9 losses
68 points
07/08:
Home: 12 wins, 6 draws 1 loss
Away: 9 wins, 7 draws, 3 losses
76 points

League goals for and against:
04/05: 52 scored, 41 conceded (82 for in all competitions)
05/06: 57 scored, 25 conceded (104 for in all competitions)
06/07: 57 scored, 27 conceded (90 for in all competitions)
07/08: 67 scored, 28 conceded (119 for in all competitions)

Top scorer:
04/05: Milan Baros - 9 in the league, 13 in total (Gerrard and Luis Garcia also finished the season with the same respective tally)
05/06: Steven Gerrard - 10 in the league, 23 overall
06/07: Peter Crouch - 9 in the league, 18 overall (Kuyt finished top scorer in the league with 12 to his name)
07/08: Fernando Torres - 24 in the league, 33 overall

Clean sheets:
04/05: 7 in the league, 18 overall
05/06: 22 in the league, 33 overall
06/07: 20 in the league, 28 overall
07/08: 18 in the league, 25 overall

Points behind the league winners:
04/05: 37
05/06: 9
06/07: 21
07/08: 11

Back to the present...

Liverpool have sold Riise to Roma. Rafa gave Riise the chance to join a could club as he was not guaranteed first team football anymore. Riise opted to move and is looking forward to the Italian challenge. Le Tallec has been sold to Le Mans. Harry Kewell had been released earlier and has now found a better operation table in the likes of Galatasaray.

Liverpool have signed Phillip Degen on a Bosman-transfer from Dortmund to offer Finnan and Arbeloa competition. And Adrea Dossena has been snapped up by Rafa from Udinese and will go head to head with Aurelio for first team football. Crouch could be on his way to Portsmouth and Alonso could be close to a switch to Juventus. As for the Gareth Barry saga, it seems to be far from done.

As for the future...

It's the balance Rafa's seeking in the team and will need more finances to aid the team. What happens in the coming season ?? Who knows. But attractive football will always be offered by the Reds. Keep up the good work Rafa !!

Picture Source : Flickr

Flashback : Cheerio says Mourinho

In my previous articles, I have openly slaughtered Mr.Grant for his mundane and pathetic management skills both on and off the field of football. So, with respect to all of the above I wont bother myself debating a fact and as to why he was fired on 25th May 2008 or even to justify the decision. I will simply quote 'The Special One' who has now become the jack of all trades for Inter Milan and is currently building a squad to challenge all competitions respectively.

" Chelsea almost won the Carling Cup, almost won the Champions League, and almost won the Premier League. Almost is nothing. After two titles per season for the last three years there were zero titles this season. In my philosophy that means a really bad season. Maybe in the philosophy of a loser this was a great season, which I respect... " --- Jose Mourinho

Picture Source : Sky Sports

European Fame for Spain

Spain ended a 44-year wait for silverware when they outclassed Germany in the Euro '08 Final on 29th June. Aragones set himself a target to win this trophy before the tournament commenced. He did that with ease and also showed the Spanish FA who reluctantly defended Aragones on many of his public outbursts. Aragones is now off to Istanbul, visions of a Turkish Delight with Fenerbahçe soon ??

While the experts were rallying for a midfield battle a certain striker, who had scored 33 goals in all competitions for Liverpool (in his first season in England also surpassing Ruud Van Nistelrooy's record), and having been written off by pundits after scoring just one goal in the competition stepped up and had 'Fiesta' on his mind. Torres was extremely sharp from the first minute and had already threatened Lehmann's goal having hit the post with a downward header. Soon after, Xavi slid one of his trademark slide-rule passes that was perfectly read by Torres and finished the move off with the most sublime of finishes. It could be argued that Lahm should have been a little more alert and stronger but Torres was too hot to handle.

Germany were a goal down and never really looked dangerous. Silva could have doubled Spain's lead but volleyed well over having been left unmarked. Ballack, who passed a late fitness test, had a snap-shot on Casillas' goal but was just wide. Both respective captains were booked for not having controlled their teams in an incident involving Ramos and Ballack. Fabregas was not at his brightest but did contribute in halting the German midfield trio by offering little space to work with. Fabregas was withdrawn on the hour mark and was replaced by another of Liverpool's Spanish quartet, Alonso, who as always did not waste a pass.

Seventy eight minutes, Torres received a standing ovation by the crowd and was replaced by Daniel Guiza. Germany's hard-fought road to the final was subsequently over and Joachim Low was left unsatisfied, dejected and for lack of better English, low. Germany's lack-luster and monotonous football was easily exploited by the Spanish Armada. A look on the brighter side would show that they were lucky to concede just a solitary goal. Germany's defenders looked completely bewildered throughout the match and I can firmly say that Algeria's defence could have urinated all over the Germans.

Spain's triumph was not just celebrated in Spain but also across England. The scousers in the red half of Liverpool are still rejoicing Rafa's spectacular signing. On a final note, the prediction I made turned out to be wrong but the outcome was the same, as well as the goal difference. Torr de force !!

Picture Source : Sky Sports

Euro 2008 Final : Experts Dilemma

Ernst-Happel Stadion in Vienna awaits two European guns that will decide who deserves to be crowned European Champions. Spain have cruised to the finals having been unbeaten in the whole competition but did face a minor glitch in terms of Italy. Spain demolished the Russians again with another three goal margin but are unlucky to have lost their leading scorer Villa. But Fabregas, who came on to replace Villa against the Russians showed his worth with excellent passing and supporting Torres the whole game. Torres was disappointing in the semi-final, but that was supported by the loss of Villa who had sensational understanding with El Nino. Aragones has to decide whether to change formation for the final or to start with Daniel Guiza who did put himself on the score sheet in a flash after substituting Torres. Aragones' no-nonsense attitude has brought out the best from his Spanish contingent, but if I was in his shoes, Fabregas should be on the starting line-up.

Germany awaits Spain on the other side, who have been labeled the under-dogs for the Euro 08 final. I agree that the Germans have stuttered in their goal to reach the finals, but if Spain considers them under-dogs too, the Germans are going to bite hard. Joachim Low has suffered a blow (Lolllll !! But no pun intended) with regards to his captain who could miss the final due to injury. Ballack will surely be missed, but the Germans can adapt as they have a ready replacement in terms of Frings. Gomes is unlikely to start, so the Germans would most probably start with the same team expect for Ballack being replaced by Frings. The Germans will need to focus and a similar performance as against the Turks will cost them.

Pick the winner already... Difficult to say who would win this close encounter, but one thing is for a fact it will be a game to watch. I say 2-1 to Spain or something along those lines. If it does go to penalties, may the best team win...

Picture Source : Sky Sports & UEFA

Euro 2008 : The Final Four

Germany vs. Turkey

The Turks have been labeled the comeback kings of Europe after 3 consecutive comebacks from completely losing positions. And its the team spirit that has brought them to the semi-finals of Euro '08. Germany having outclassed the Portuguese comfortably are said to the favourites to advance but Turkey's reserve team may dent their hopes of advancing to the finals. The Germans have been on target with set pieces but the Turks have introduced a new technique of counter-attacks that has seen them proceed past a tough group and into the semi's. Hate to say it, but i think this Turkish Delight will be Ooogun Shnitenend by the Germans.

Spain vs. Russia

We all know what happened the last time these teams went head to head. The Spanish hit four past the Russians and conceded one. David Villa was clinical with his finishing but owed it all to Fernando Torres for off the ball movement. Their partnership has torn apart any defence, not including the Italy game. Liverpool should be intrigued. As for the Russians, they will not miss Andrei Arshavin as on previous installment he was suspended. Arshavin was the hero when the Dutch were dumped out by the Russians. This will be a game of tactics, and a clash between Aragones and Hiddink. My money is on Spain (thats because I'm a Liverpool supporter - Spanish Connection) but not an easy match for them. The Russians have momentum on their side and could easily cause an upset.

Picture Source : Sky Sports & UEFA

Manchester United... Europe's best ??

Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium : Champions League Final [21st May]

After the opening ceremony was over, both teams walked out lead by England's heartbeat in defense, John Terry of Chelsea and Rio Ferdinand of Man Utd. with their respective teams. The game began with high tempo and it wasn't long before Man Utd. took the lead through, pretty-boy Ronaldo (who now has 42 goals, making him Man Utd.’s most prolific winger or midfielder surpassing George Best’ record), who made Essien look like a fool. If you give anyone a free-header at the back post, guarantee yourself some pleasant words from the keeper. Ten minutes later, Man Utd. could have wrapped up the game with Tevez’ header saved by Cech, who dressed like a Guantanamo inmate cleaned up the mess, resulting rebound hit right back at Cech by Carrick, when he had all the time to place it in the bottom corner. Chelsea though, had their say and deservedly equalized through Lampard after some deflections.

Second half was pretty quiet and perhaps the only highlight was when Giggs was brought in, surpassing Sir Bobby Charlton’s record of most appearances by a Man Utd. player. Also, Drogba hit the post with a curling right footer and soon after was full time. Extra time began, with Lampard hitting the post in the first half and Giggs on the other end could not bury the ball in the net, only for John Terry to save off the line. Extra time second half had scenes of an ugly confrontation between both teams initiated by Tevez which later escalated and followed by Drogba slapping Vidic. The ‘Top Drogg’ was shown red disgracing himself yet again. Some advice for Didier, if you really want to be shown a red card in a final, do it the Zidane way and go for the knock-out. Penalties were inevitable, mostly everyone scored but the misses were the key. Ronaldo’s penalty was saved by Guantanamo inmate 001 expertly. John Terry was the next who missed, slipping on the wet turf and his shot hit the post and out it went. Man Utd. had the advantage and lost it but gained it back again. Anelka stepped up, he needed to score to give Chelsea any chance, and Van Der Sar was out to deny him and successfully completed his business.

So, Man Utd. were crowned champions of Europe. The press were already sniffing, and looking for a scapegoat. They blame John Terry who could have won the Champ’s League for Chelsea if he was to score. If there is anyone to blame, it’s Drogba who didn’t respect his team enough to have carried out those actions. Blame John Terry, who on the last day of the English league suffered a dislocated elbow but had no desire to sit this one out. If anything, John Terry should be shown the most respect because after the game was over he was the only one who actually showed the most sorrow. Blame Mr. Grant for substituting Makélélé who had an excellent game, or for having sent JT rather than Carvalho who has done this before at international level. Reports say Avram Grant threw his medal into the crowd, mimicking Jose Mourinho. Mr. Grant, don’t try to be someone you will never become. As for John Terry, you have my utmost respect.



Hypothesis Test:

Step 1 ~~ Ho : Man Utd. are not Europe’s best... &... Ha : Man Utd. are Europe’s best

Step 2 ~~ Alpha = 0.05

Step 3 ~~ P-Value = 0.0499

Step 4 ~~ Reject Ho if P-Value <= Alpha

Step 5 ~~ Reject Ho because P-Value is less than Alpha, there is just about sufficient evidence to say Man Utd. are Europe’s best.

Good job Sir Alex Ferguson and continue the football Giggsy…

Picture Source : Sky Sports & UEFA

Queens of the Stone Age : Live in Halifax

Four hours of sleep the previous night, a six hour bus ride while having some home-made egg salad on the way and we were finally in Halifax (NS). Downtown was busy, we arrived about lunch time and so had to grab another snack. Walking around the mall we saw a Lebanese Restaurant, so we went wild on the falafel sandwiches. Let’s just say the egg salad didn’t react well with the extra hummus which was requested.

Sightseeing started after lunch, pictures were taking and a little shopping was being done when I sighted a distinct figure outside the glass window. Said to my buddy, "That was the Queens drummer...". We got out and followed while being disregarded as to I was seeing things and needed sleep. It in fact was Joey Castillo but we had no nerve to approach him because while we were waiting for the Queens drummer to get out of a store, friend of mine said, "Any gothic bastard off the street... Queens’s drummer...", with quite a bit of sarcasm in that statement. Oh well, that’s a story we'll be telling our kids.

Anyways, got to the gate four hours in advance so we could get the best place. People kept on coming and lining up. However, people weren’t as well equipped as us when it came to winter wear. No disrespect but a few of the smaller people started turning dead white because of the cold. Gates opened, we were in the premises. Mugison opened for QOTSA and could not have done a better job. Excellent vocals and some good tunes to get the crowd warmed up. Although, the crowd could have given them a better ovation.

Enter Queens... Words cannot describe the experience but to sum it all up, amazing concert. My favourites of the night were 'Little Sister' & 'Songs for the Dead', vocals on some songs were weak but that’s what Queens are all about. The rawness is what matters. It was a diverse crowd, with the majority out there to enjoy the music. But the others just wanted, in the words of Josh Homme, to get f--king loose.

I did wave out to Joey Castillo at the end of the concert, and I really think he knew who we were...

Good night’s rest was needed and all I can say is, "We be chillin' in the Holiday Inn..." ;)

Picture Source : Flickr

Champions League : Moscow '08 Final

So the British have mastered Europe it seems, with Manchester United & Chelsea going head to head this year for the bragging rights to be Europe's best. It's safe to say Man Utd had an easier job of reaching the finals this year, but not because they got weaker teams but because of the consistency shown by this club. Team effort was needed for all this to work, and when you have individuals with the experience such as Giggs and Scholes along with the young guns such as Tevez, Nani, Rooney and who can forget the dazzling brilliance of a Portuguese prodigy that is Cristiano Ronaldo. These are all traits to achieve a season of silverware, and if you have a winger that can pop-up and score 41 goals in all competitions (that's the tally so far), you deserve to be called the best and Sir Alex Ferguson knows all about that. Taking nothing away from Chelsea, Avram Grant had a difficult job of managing 'The Untouchables' after 'The Special One' parted company with mutual consent. Mr.Grant has not done all that bad, guiding Chelsea to their first ever Champions League final is a huge achievement. But Chelsea didn't have it easy, Fenerbahce gave them a run for their money with their fighting spirit and the never say die attitude of Liverpool in the semi's would have tarnished Chelsea's hopes of their first Europoean final. It was not third time lucky for the Reds, who have defeated Chelsea twice in two years at the same stage of this competition.

Man Utd. are said to be favourites and after clinching the league title today, many experts are writting Chelsea off in their quest for a first European title. Hat's off to Man Utd. on winning the league, who have shown beautiful football this season. Unlucky Mr.Grant, your just not as special as 'The Special One'.

Alot of big names on the team sheets in Moscow, 21st May, but two men to watch would be Ronaldo of Man Utd. and Drogba of Chelsea. Drogba has been criticised in the past, but has proved himself over and over again, so Ferdinand watch out !!

The Red Devils have been crowned Englands best, but will they be Europes best ?? Or can the Blues cause an upset and run away with the European title ??

21st May... Moscow '08...

Picture Source : Sky Sports & UEFA

What to expect ??

This is going to a general blog... Expect nothing amazing but just the mundane bullshit we think about sometimes...

Hope everyone enjoys...

Stay tuned...