A DREAM COME TRUE! The `pilgrimage' to Anfield on 3 Oct 2010

A shopping spree in the merchandise store in the stadium... more like a shopping orgy!

In front of the Paisley gateway, with the new jacket I bought for 50 pounds.

With Bill Shankley's statue, there's nothing can beat the feeling I felt then (& now).

1. REGARDLESS of the result where the Liverpool team lost to Blackpool on that day, I personally think my trip was worth every penny! I was on a business trip to Paris for 5 days when I got the good news from a dear friend who is pursuing his Phd. in John Moore University in Liverpool that he managed to secure 2 tickets for the match. It was 39 pounds each. Never mind. It's all on me! The most important thing is to be there ON A MATCH DAY. To be able to sing along the Kops singing YOU'LL NEVER WALK ALONE on the top of your voice, and felt the shivering within yourself of the anxiety & pride, that won't be able to be asses with any monies.
   
   
2. I flew in from Paris on the first flight to Liverpool. Never mind I had to be at Charles de Gaul airport as early as 6am, in order to catch a 7.50am flight. The journey took about one & a half hour but due to the time different (UK is an hour late than France), I arrived in Manchester airport at about 8.30am. I was wearing a LFC cap & of course, caught the attention of the immigration officer who questioned me more on the football aspect & wanted to know how did I got the ticket & where I would be sitting. Apparently, he & his mates are season ticket holder and even quipped to me that they might be seeing me later in the stadium. If that's not a warmth welcome for a far far away Liverpool fan like me, I find it so fun and `at home' when a few more people like cab drivers greeted me while mentioning about my cap. Seriously, I feel at home (even though it was Manchester's territory but I do suspect majority of the people working there are Liverpool fans).
   
   
3. The weather was lousy. It was heavy rain. The distance between Manchester to Liverpool is about 55km. Due to the nice motorway, the trip was easy. My friend, Masrur Mohd Khir fetch me and brought me to his house in Speke, quite close to the John Lennon airport in Liverpool. We then embarked on the trail of Anfield road, together with many local football fans.
   
   
4. Upon arriving at the stadium compound, my heart was pounding hard, the adrenaline were rushing in and I keep on telling myself to steady my reaction... as not to attract funny stares from the people who were in fact, looking at me with interest (hey mate, you're must be a Chinese fans of ours) if I could get their Scousers accent correctly.
   
   
5. Before the match kick-off, I participated in the sing-aloud of YNWA. Funny thing was that the ref had to wait until we finished the chorus. Steven Gerrard was in no hurry, even though he kept his eyes on the ref who anxiously slotted the whistle on his mouth a few times. But we didn't allowed him to blow as yet.
   
   
6. I won't be commenting on the game. Most of you have seen it. Miserable.
   
   
7. After the match, many of the fans converged into the merchandised store. Some just walk through, but in my case, I had a mission. I am looking for the new jacket. And I got it for 50 pounds (picture above). The weather in Liverpool was so cold. I came from Paris but you can still walk steadily on the streets. But in Liverpool, the wind didn't allowed you to do so, particularly for those coming from hot tropical country like Malaysia. I am not used to this kind of coldness. Thus, the jacket.
   
   
8. It's almost 3.30am now, I am experiencing the jet lag. I tried to sleep at 11.30pm just now but managed only for 15 minutes before my eyes were wide open. hmmm.... I will end my memoir now and try to get some decent sleep. That's all for now folks! YNWA...
   

(More photos can be found in my facebook account. Click here at :

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=221497&id=550474122&l=9ecdc5c982)

LFC 1 - Arsenal 1

Javier Mascherano... please stay in Liverpool...

1. Many would prefer to dwell on the blunder made by Pepe Reina, to give Arsenal the lucky 1 point in the evidently surprising performances by the Liverpool squad who were down to 10 men after the 2nd half due to the dismissal of Joe Cole a few minutes before the interval.
   
   
2. I don't like to blame Reina for that one blunder, it's a one off thing from our number one. He might excused himself for being late to intercept the corner ball. Well, let it be. One thing for sure, the game was exhilarating and never failed to made us sat on the edge of the sofa (it happened to me!)
   
   
3. It was a night to forget for Joe Cole. Everybody be it fans alike, even the former fans in Chelsea were looking forward what kind of impact he might bring to Anfield. Unfortunately, that silly tackled and that obnoxious ref, abruptly ended Cole's game and we have to wait for another three games before he can be reproduced into the first team.
   
   
4. There were so many things to comment. As many of you would agree, Javier Mascherano was instrumental in the match. He assisted David Ngog for that unexpected-goal strike from him. Boy! The more we want this French kid to leave (to West Brom) the more he scored... hahaha
   
   
5. Another alive & kicking and convincing new lad is of course, Mr Jovanovic. He is so strong. He successfully outmanoeuvred three young Arsenal defenders and managed to hold on to the ball. Perfect! We want that kind of tough guys. That is the virtue that has been constructed in the original Liverpool DNA as proven by our own Captain Steven Gerrard (who stopped Arshavin so many times with his bulldozing technique) and Jamie Carragher no-nonsense clear-off the ball.
   
   
6. At first, I never thought Liverpool could muster a lively attack as soon as Joe Cole is red-carded. But with 10 men, Liverpool was different in the 2nd half and scored! Of course, the continuous attack by the two Arsenal subs, changed the whole scenario. We could have both of them locked outfield. But somehow the new manager decided to rest Javier Mascherano and brought in Lucas Leiva (I thought he is already sold...).
   
   
7. It's not a doom & gloom prospect season for Liverpool. Based on the performances against those Arsenal kids, Liverpool can absolutely mount a serious challenge to any team this season. Wait til you guys see what Fernando Torres could inflict on them, when he is 100% fit. You just wait!
   

Liverpool consider Chinese takeover (wow!!!)

1. LONDON (AFP) – Premier League club Liverpool could be bought by a Chinese business tycoon within days, according to reports here on Monday.
   
   
2. Kenny Huang (pic above), head of Hong-Kong based investment company QSL Sports Ltd, is reported to be in talks with the Royal Bank of Scotland with the aim of taking full control of the club which has been up for sale since April.
   
   
3. "A deal has to be done before the transfer window closes (on 31 August)," a source close to Huang told BBC Sport.
   
   
4. "Huang has made a firm proposal. The club's board has to sanction the sale and it could be sewn up in days."
   
   
5. Huang is offering to clear Liverpool's debt to RBS and hand new manager Roy Hodgson funds to do business in the transfer window. The tycoon also plans to build the club a new stadium.
   
   
6. Huang reportedly turned down the chance to buy Liverpool in 2008 because he felt a valuation of 650 million pounds was too high, and it is believed he now values the club at around 350 million pounds (423 million euros).
   
   
7. The current owners, Americans Tom Hicks and George Gillett, bought the club in March 2007 in a deal worth 218.9 million pounds.
   
   
8. The pair refinanced with a 350-million-pound package from two banks the following year but it left the 18-time English champions with a debt in the region of 105 million pounds.
   
   
9. The pair have had a difficult tenure at Anfield, with supporters regularly protesting at the level of debt taken on by the club after the buy-out, and new stadium plans.
   
   
10. If RBS decide to turn down the proposal - and no new viable bidders are forthcoming - the bank has the option of calling in their loan in October, making it important for the Reds to resolve the ownership issue as soon as possible.
    
    
11. Huang, who is backed by one of the wealthiest investment funds in the Far East, was first linked with a buyout at Liverpool two years ago.
    
    
12. He is well known in China for his interests in baseball and basketball, and last year bought a 15 percent stake in NBA side Cleveland Cavaliers.
    
    
13. Huang is believed to have already spoken to senior figures at Anfield to express his seriousness about a buy-out and in the hope that his message filters down to help persuade top stars like Fernando Torres, who returned to training on Monday after his post-World Cup break, the club does have a better future.
    

FK Rabotnicki : A name so tempting to mock

1. Roy Hodgson's first competitive game in charge of Liverpool will be against Macedonian club FK Rabotnicki in the third qualifying round of the Europa League this early Friday morning Malaysian time 2 am.
   
   
2. I stopped for awhile... thinking and thinking what can I write about our first opponent this season. It is practically unknown and according to wikipedia, ``this club is has been regarded as a famous football club from Skopje, a city in a former communist country of formerly known as Yugoslavia (now it is called The Republic of Macedonia). The breaking-up of this country in the 1990's saw one of the worst genocide the world has ever saw since Vietnam War.
   
   
3. In its first ever World Cup match in Montevideo, Yugoslavia managed a famous 2-1 win versus mighty Brazil. The national team consisted just of Serbian players as it was boycotted by Croation players at this World Cup due to the relocation of football association's headquarters from Zagreb to Belgrade.
   
   
4. So FK Rabotnicki is also known as ‘railway football club’ and was formed in 1937.
   
   
5. If my memory serves's me right, Yugoslavia once upon a time, was a team of a real force in the World Cup during the Cold Wars.
   
   
6. We know now that Liverpool would be lining the `B' Players as all the stars that were involved in the World Cup are still on holiday. But there is a good chance we might see Joe Cole playing, though he too, was in the England squad. Hodgson even gave signal that due to the current situation, he might as well focus more on domestic cups, rather than the Europa Cup. Either way, I don't mind. But I hope we can beat Rabotnicki, which if we have the full 1st eleven available, could be just a walk on the park.
   

Bitterness from rivals with the inclusion of Joe Cole to Liverpool

1. SO BE IT! Your lost is our gain... hahaha. Such is the bitterness shown by some of the rival fans when they heard that Joe Cole has chosen Liverpool as his next club, that they tried in vain to denied that their respective managers ever said anything official about wanting him in the first place. Or so it seems. ``Arsene Wenger never said anything! It's merely the press speculation!'', said one Arsenal fan. I replied `Your ejaculation! What Speculation? That's your annihilation!'' hahaha
   
   
2. Mind you, when the so-called speculation first popped-up linking Cole and Liverpool, the initial reaction by Roy Hodgson was `coyed' and `mild'. He even quoted as mentioning words like ``betting'' and `` I'm not betting man''. So it shows that every manager that were linked to him is playing the strategy. Cole apparently met all of them (may be through his agent) and tried to get the best deal. It is unfortunate that some labelled him as `money-crazy' for choosing Liverpool. My argument is simple: Cole asked for a consistent playing time, which Hodgson said he would get it. I doubt if 90,000 pounds a week is such a huge number that Arsenal or Hotspur couldn't entertained. The only reason is that Arsenal couldn't promised Cole of the only most important thing for him : the opportunity to play more. Same goes to Hotspur.
   
   
3. In that, Liverpool has the upper hand. Cole was guaranteed more playing time, and the salary is just the icing on the cake. To which I think, a player of his calibre and high-profile, is entitled to. It's not like Cole is a nobody from foreign countries, suddenly put into the team and paid that massive amount. No. In fact, Cole is widely regarded as one of England's most technically-gifted players. I didn't bothered too much when Chelsea bring on the African players when ever they play Liverpool. But when Cole comes in, I said to myself, the fullbacks must stop Cole, which unfortunately they failed to do so... Now that Cole is in our team, ohhhh MY GOD!... the special player will be a bomb for Liverpool this season.
   
   
4. According to the news report, Cole will be wearing the sacred no.7 jersey. I think, he deserves to wear it. Joe Cole, welcome to Anfield! And hopefully, sometime this season, I could watch you playing in Anfield with me in the Kops section...
   

JOE COLE AGREE TO JOIN LIVERPOOL ! Yahoooooo

1. It's 9.40pm and it's so cold in the office at this hour. All of that changed when I saw the news of Joe Cole's agreeing to join Liverpool. This has been the best news so far for all of us. The talent and the inspiring performances he showed even when he was subbed during the World Cup, made all of us really satisfied with this latest coup.
   


2. Congratulation Roy Hodgson! You suddenly exceeded our expectation!

Below is excerpt from Soccernet news :

Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole has agreed sign for Liverpool on a free transfer, subject to a medical. It has been reported that Cole, 28, was offered wages of £90,000-a-week to stave off interest from Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur. Cole left Stamford Bridge at the end of last month after Chelsea decided not to offer him a new deal.

Farewell Emiliano Insua : GOOD LUCK BRO!

1. As I've said before, when there is a new manager in town, he'll definitely arrange to have his own players in the team. This is good news, so that Roy Hodgson can get rid of many untalented ones whom Rafael Benitez deemed to be so great. Players like Alberto Reira, Lucas Leiva and David Ngog should be shown the door. While Reira is definitely on his way out, we're still waiting for a more concrete action on the other two.
   
   
2. However, the news of Emiliano Insua departure to Fiorentina is a bit frustrating. This Argentinian lad is still young. At 21 years old, he has matured last season and should have been nurtured further by the club. But because of the age factor also, Insua can be sold to the highest bidder.
   
   
3. I suspect Hodgson is trying to find a way to raise money from Insua's sale, in order to find his own mould of players. I try to understand his strategy at this time of moment.
   
   
4. According to some news report, Hodgson is recognised as someone who can bring out the best from the so-called `average players' but could be attain in a more `cheaper' price. I don't know if this works on Liverpool. We have our own tradition but to think about all the misfit that the previous managers has brought into the club, I tend to believe Hodgson's formula could do some good for us. At this time of moment, he looks like more inclined to find players within the UK itself.
   
   
5. The best part is that we yet to hear Hodgson bringing in any of his former players in Fulham. If you dare Mr Hodgson, bring in Clint Dempsey to us.

Europa Cup : To Macedonia or Armenia

1. Yes, liverpoolfc.tv dubbed the match as `going to the unknowns'. This is the reality that as sitting on no.7th slot in the English Premier league chart gives us. We get to play the unknowns and unheard of. The names are even funnier. Rabotnicki sounds like a name from the Star Trek drones character while Mika FC reminds me very much of that one famous F1 driver...
   
   
2. Who are we to complaint now of who should or shouldn't fight us? In that 2nd grade European football league, you get to fight anyone. We're lucky we didn't get to go to Israel. Not only that is a far far place from Europe (it's Middle East, you idiot!) but risk of being caught in the Middle East political armed-conflict. Never mind, having to fly off as far as Armenia or Macedonia is as good a punishment could be, for that lousy performances last season. The only lucky culprit now is in Italy, and gets to play in the elite group as a title holder.
   
   
3. What does this mean to us, in particular Liverpool fans in Malaysia and Asia? We could missed the live telecast altogether! I hope our satellite tv is wise enough to prepare us the live feed from either country. I am eager for the next week match. Let the new season begin.

David Ngog, go away now!

1. Remember this chap? He's name is David Ngog. He was highly regarded by Rafael Benitez, thus last season our former manager opted to kick-out Robbie Keane, instead of this boy. According to news report, the new boss wanted to `loan' him out and the only interested club at the moment is West Bromwich Albion. But the boy's agent claimed that Ngog refuse to go, insisting on fighting for a place in Anfield.
   
   
2. And our simple question to the agent is that can't you do your job properly? By giving Ngog a well-deserved advice that every time a new boss comes in, he will pick his own players. Ngog is obviously forgotten that he was the blue-eye boy to Rafa. Now it's Hodgson era. The spelling on the wall is loud & clear: GET OUT OF ANFIELD!
   
   
3. Some of us might think that Ngog has performed well last season in the absence of our superstar and a ready available strikers. My reply is quick: thus the no.7 spot. Ngog inability to convert goals were legend in its own. He's playing is dubbed as too soft, fit for French matches but no way in the blood & leg-breaking styles in England.
   
   
4. Ngog, go away. It's time for you to do so. You can join Rafa for he was the reason you're in Anfield in the first place. But Rafa seems to be neglecting Ngog since he joined Inter Milan. Why is that so? And I start to wonder. Ngog, you're not good enough. Go away!

War Against Gillette & Hicks in Malaysia!

1. This is the new t-shirt I just acquired last night, thanks to two of our fellow Liverpool fans that have an edge in creativity side. This limited edition t-shirt has its own significant, as you know majority of the Liverpool FC fans all over the world now are going against the current owner of the club, Mr Gillette & Mr Hicks. I don't know if owning this t-shirt could do them harm but I read that by not buying the adidas or official merchandise, that would eventually send a strong signal to the management in Anfield. I don't know about this because there is a proverbs in Malay saying, ``angry at a mosquito, you don't burn the malaria-net''. Meaning, by boycotting the merchandise, it surely give a noted signal to them but at the same time, that would also affect the club as a whole. hmmm... speaking of Catch 22.
   
   
2. Now let me introduce you guys to the brilliant folks behind the design. The couple, one Mr Navin and Ms Aishah, whom I had the honour to meet last night during the transaction, were a typical Liverpool fan - like you and me. Who will wear the colour, where ever, when ever permit (You don't wear the kit at your work place...do you?)
   
   
3. Apparently, they have design quite a few, including designs on Rafa, Paisley. According to Navin, it's just to supplement the non-existent of such icon in the Malaysian market. Which I agree nonetheless. So now they have received a lot of request for the current designs i.e Jamie Carragher, Daniel Agger, Javier Mascherano (we have to wait til the next announcement if Roy Hodgson can persuade him to stay a bit longer in the Europa Cup).
   
   
4. Get in touch with Aisha through her facebook account: www.facebook/.aishahmohamedshah

Aren't they a cute couple in Red? hehehe... SALUTE ! SALUTE ! SALUTE !

Torres's injured : What does it mean to us?

Couldn't score a single goal makes Torres a dull prospect for Chelsea. Yeaaay!

1. Fernando Torres pull a hamstring in the last minutes of the extra time in clash against Holland last night. Immediately the UK media reported that the Chelsea deal of £50m to take him to Stamford Bridge is now in doubt or dead altogether.
   
   
2. I find some amusement in this report as Chelsea's lost is our gain. If the deal is dead, Torres will remain in Anfield. Well, he won't be fit for a month or two... never mind, let him recover and then help Liverpool to regain the Top 4 spot when it matters. Or so I hope.
   
   
3. Meanwhile, I like to record here that Spain has been my first choice since the beginning of the World Cup tournament in South Africa. Except the shocking defeat in the hands of the Swiss, the journey has been `profitable' for myself, personally. hehehe... Viva Spain!
   
   

Another Milan arrived in Anfield

Liverpool fans all over the world (including Malaysia) are happy to wish Jovanovic ``WELCOME! From today, you know that you'll never walk alone!''.

1. First & foremost, we share the delights of having our superstars both in the Spanish & Dutch squad in the finals of World Cup at 2am Monday, Malaysian time. If you ask me which team would I go, I have to admit that Spain has been my choice simply because of Fernando Torres. He was not started in the massive win against Germany on Thursday and not really sure if he would be benched again in the finals.
   
   
2. We also have Dirk Kuyt in the Holland outfit and he has been among the lively star in that orange shirt. He even scored, remember? I rooted for the Holland team all the way but for the final, it has to be Spain.
   
   
3. Back home in Anfield (well, my home is in Malaysia!!!), there is some good news to share. Apparently there is a new player coming-in. He was the star for Serbia that beat Germany in the group matches. He scored the winning goal!
   
   
4. Below is the news from Soccernet dated 8 July 2010:

• Liverpool have confirmed the signing of highly-rated Serbia international Milan Jovanovic from Standard Liege on a three-year contract.
• Jovanovic, who scored the winning goal when Serbia beat eventual World Cup semi-finalists Germany 1-0 in South Africa, has joined on a free transfer.
• Liverpool's move for the striker was lined by up former manager Rafael Benitez before his departure at the start of June and there were fears his new club Inter Milan might make a late bid to scupper the deal.
• But Jovanovic, who scored two goals in this season's Champions League group stage, said he was delighted to seal his move to Anfield.
• "It is an honour for me to sign for one of the biggest clubs in football,'' said the 29-year-old. "I cannot wait to start working with the manager and I'm looking forward to joining up with my new team-mates on our Swiss training camp.''

Yossi Benayoun completed his move to Chelshit

1. Chelsea have completed the signing of Yossi Benayoun from Liverpool on a three-year contract for an undisclosed fee. Many of you would have read the news. One peculiar slant emanated from Soccernet, claiming that `` The sale of Benayoun to Chelsea was completed personally by owner Roman Abramovich, who will now step up his efforts to capture Torres''.
   
   
2. All this augurs bad news for Liverpool. While many of us would prefer to focus on the World Cup and try to ignore what is happening in Anfield at the moment, the potentiality of losing our star players are nerve-cracking. I personally hated this moment of time as an ardent loyal supporter of Liverpool FC. This could have been the most challenging time I have ever been since the departure of Michael Owen and Steven Gerrard some 5 years ago. We were relieved when Gerrard made a U-turn and became the backbone of our wins in the final of Champions Cup in 2005 and FA Cup the next year.
   
   
3. However, the situation now is a bit different from then. While the departure of Owen (and supposedly Gerrard) was instigated by the sacking of Houllier and the luring of big clubs as huge as Real Madrid (Chelshit was only starting then). Now, the push factor has been added not only because of the sacking of the manager but also the sad position of LFC in the league last season. Sitting at number 7 is not beautiful. It's bloody difficult. And now we are faced with the reality of being at number 7. Our star players are beginning to talk to other clubs. Mascherano has been linked to Rafa in Italy. Torres is wanted by the whole big clubs in the world, with the exception of any American clubs (hahaha) and even though many tried to paint the picture of Gerrard is also wanting to go away, I sincerely hope he won't but try his luck with the new manager in Roy Hodgson.
   
   
4. Sometimes I just want the World Cup to end now, so that all the uncertainties in Anfield would be cleared off.

Roy Hodgson - a splendid choice

1. I didn't posted any news yesterday when I first read the news of Roy Hodgson's confirmation as the new Liverpool FC manager. I took some time to read the comments and evaluate a bit. However, given his pedigree with Fulham, there is no short of hope in Hodgson even though some people tend to think that a club such as Liverpool must have a foreign manager always. We had a French and a Spaniard. So it's time to go back to the homegrown managers.
   
   
2. Forget about those sentimental. Hodgson had done tremendous thing and achieved a lot with Fulham. Even though that club is owned by a millionaire, but the former Harrod's owner doesn't spend like the Russians or Americans. So basically, Hodgson couldn't get 5-stars players that he wanted there. I don't know if Hodgson would get any in Liverpool, not with its current financial situation but the real onus on Hodgson is how to retain the superstars, in particular Fernando Torres.
   
   
3. Players as great as Torres won't settled for Europa Cup, what more being in the 7th spot of the league. But if Hodgson can convinced them that only with them, and a new spirit, together him and the players can return Liverpool to where it is belong.
   
   
4. I would like to think Hodgson is a splendid choice. Two names that have been cropped up last week has their own attraction but not necessarily suitable with the way Liverpool has been nurtured. Can't wait to see what and how Hodgson be able to rejuvenate the squad. This is so true because inadvertently, we are somehow similar to Valencia at the moment. Burdened with massive debts, Valencia had to sell its two most valuable players. Liverpool has lost Yossi Benayoun, it seems and most probably Javier Mascherano, if the press reports can be trusted. They could be some more to follow suit. This is alarming.
   
   
5. Hodgson first hurdle is to stop the outflow of our valuable players.
   

Yossi Benayoun is joining Chelsea

According to news reports, which I tend to believe is genuine - Yossi has decided to depart and join Chelsea, for money and glory. We wish him luck and may his butt won't get stiff with all the many hours he will be spending on the bench.

Yes, we the Liverpool fans find this news as disheartening to the most. It's inevitable. We lost the chances to play in the Champions League. Sat awkwardly at no.7 and all the juices and the attraction for top players to join Liverpool are all but diminished now. Lets hope Torres will stay. hmm...

Liverpool doesn't want Sven-Goran Eriksson

I don't know which one is funnier. Reading Sven-Goran Eriksson's `desire' to manage Liverpool or reading his past performances with England, Man.City and what ever nowadays. I say :

NO WAY SVEN!

LIVERPOOL DOESN'T NEED YOU.

FORGET ABOUT IT! go elsewhere...

Farewell Rafael Benitez, it was ISTANBUL!

What if Torres do the Titanic version? If Rafa jump, I jump...?????

1. A football club such as Liverpool FC which is known as a stable club, in terms of management - having to see three managers come & go within this 2 decades, is acceptable. First it was Roy Evans who eventually lost out to Gerard Houllier, then Rafa in 2004. It's a good record, compare to Chelsea or Real Madrid or Japanese government.
   
   
2. I will not write too much about him today since I'm not an advocate to his dismissal.
   
   
3. The concerned now is who will take over from him? Apparently, one Mr Kenny Daglish has been appointed to oversee the candidates. So, I'm not at all that worried. Mr Daglish won't settled for a sissy to manage his beloved club.
   
   
4. The next important question is what would be the reaction from the squad themselves? Would they be professional or would they also leave?
   
   
5. For this, I yet to purchase the new LFC jersey with that particular bank's logo on the chest.

Jose Morinho will be the most sought after manager this summer

Is Inter Milan deserved to win the Champion Cup? I don't care.  HAHAHAHA   But one thing for sure, The Special One is one FREAKING HOT PROPERTIES now. He definitely IS the MOST SOUGHT AFTER manager in the world. He has been linked with Real & Barca but don't be surprised if Man.U is looking for his signature too.

Who is your pick tonight? Inter or Bayern?

You really wanna fight with me, The Special One?

1. I still contemplating if I want to or not, watch the match tonight. As a neutralised observer, I reluctant to watch games that I don't have emotion-attached to. A waste of time, actually. But as a football aficionados and Liverpool fan 1st & foremost, I have to give it a thought (to watch or not to).
   
   
2. I hardly watch both teams play this season. Simply because they didn't go head on with Liverpool. I only remember we beat Inter Milan last season. That goal from Torres and the red card by that master-provocateur Matterazzi. Then I don't know much about Bayern except that Ribery won't be playing and the German is hoping that their new winger in Arjen Robbin would do the demolition.
   
   
3. In that, I am happy that the final of Champion Cup is tonight. This is the culminating match of the season. End of our own misery season. Tomorrow we really can look up for a better time next season. And hopefully, with Torres & Gerrard remains in the squad...
   
   
4. As for tonight, I like to see The Special One to win. Nothing sentimental but it would be a historic feat for this man. He is on the verge of winning treble cup this season. Wow...
   
   

CARRAGHER SAID BEST : GET OUT IF YOU WISH!

GET OUT if you don't believe in Scousers!

1. The day when we left Elciego in Spain, heading to Paris, some of my mates said that I will always be a Liverpool fan even if the club melted like Leeds United or turned into a cricket club. That was the banters that I had to endure in the bus and in the plane before the Paris landscape changed the topic. It was the morning after that saw Liverpool lost to Atletico Madrid. I was gutted. But as what had been uttered by my mates, I will stay loyal.
   
   
2. Yesterday, Carragher made a remark that echoed species like me. He said it bluntly that if any of the Liverpool stars i.e Torres or Benayoun or even the heartbeat of Merseyside, Mr Gerrard himself wishes to leave, so be it. According to him, Liverpool will survive with or without them. The most important thing here is the club - Liverpool FC. Not the personnel.
   
   
3. In my clouds of anxiety I try to read between the lines. I try to rationalised. Yes, for those who wants to leave (Mr Reira, you especially), just go. I agree with Carra in that aspect. However, to lose a great striker in Fernando Torres and a bastion in Steven G. is something that would spell catastrophic to the club. I think. I believed so.
   
   
4. But again, if Carra's remark is meant to signal to everyone that the club doesn't bothered that much if they lose their superstar because in the end, it is up to the club itself to lift their fortune. Believed in the club, thou shall be rewarded with satisfaction.
   
   
5. Even then, there is a case on hand now - Valencia. They had to sell off David Villa to Barca. Another David could be next. But that David Silva has a remote chances of landing in Anfield. Not with the current status as a club that will fight only in the 2nd class Europa Cup next season.
   
   
6. So the potential for Torres to remain in Anfield this summer is 50-50. Barca has made their intention loud & clear with some huge offerings. What if they get Torres and send us Iniesta and Xabi. That will do. hahaha...

Chelsea to buy Torres for 70 million pounds?

1. I cannot hide my cynical and at the same time, a bit concerned of all the speculations involving Fernando Torres's position in Liverpool. The spin doctors over in London are trying their best to create such animosity by creating almost daily news about Chelsea's huge ambition to steal Torres away from Liverpool.
   
   
2. As of now, I don't want to believe any of it. Yet.

Can't even beat Hull City. Liverpool in 7th Heaven?

1. I don't remember since the explosion of Malaysian satellite TV in 1997 that broadcast English Premier League live into our living room that saw Liverpool positioned at a lowly 7th place. Somehow the team of Houllier never got down to No.5 in the chart. Under Benitez, we found ourselves at 5th position during his 1st year tenure but was forgotten due to Istanbul victory. Last season could be his best, when we got to second runners-up and beaten by a merely 4 points. Then now, we're at no.7. The myth of the Big Four has been broken. It's unfortunate that it was on our expense.
   
   
2. While some of us trying hard last night, to watch the two games on a separate channels : Chelsea vs Wigan and the other ManU vs Stoke... I indulged myself with an old movie of Angelina Jolie : Tomb Raider on HBO. I went to sleep at 12.30pm and didn't bother to wait for the result. Because when I glanced through slightly after the 55th minutes of the match, Chelsea already scored 2 goals and to my surprised, I got to watch the 3rd goal. Forget about it. Bye bye Man.U. I don't want to thank Chelsea. Just beat it.
   
   
3. The melancholy of our own team will prolonged. During the summer break and in-between the World Cup, we might be given a shock or two. I dread to think that some of our 1st eleven would leave the squad. Simply because we're not in the Champions League. I am so nervous to wait if Fernando Torres can be retained in the squad or not. Some of the UK media even played the notion that Steven Gerrard might be making his long-overdue move away.
   
   
4. However, Rafael Benitez must realised that his time with Liverpool is up. He must go.
   

Crazy crazy car owned by multi-millionaire footballer

Who owns this `golden ' Ford Escalade SUV with a bling-bling sports rim? I give you a hint. He was a Liverpool player, then off to Bolton and most recently, Sunderland. He likes to spit.

You know who. hehehe...

Let Chelsea wins the title!

1. Apparently, many Man U fans are still fretting and questioned Steven Gerrard's back-passed which was intercepted by Didier Drogba to score in last Sunday's match. Since we have nothing to win and nothing to lose, I wish not to include myself in the debate.
   
   
2. Though I must say, a player of Gerrard's stature won't be easily sway to sell-off the game simply to achieve a `sinister' hidden agenda. For example, Torres did mentioned in his interview that he has reduced his tendency to be easily downed by any of his defenders because the captain doesn't like it. Such is the standard that we know persist within the squad. So to accuse Gerrard deliberately passing the ball to Drogba is a total malice.
   
   
3. However, we must see the incident on a case by case basis. On a normal day, say if the match is early in the season, it would be deemed simply as `another lost' by Liverpool. It's unfortunate that the game was the crucial last two of the season, that has a very strong point in influencing the outcome of the whole season. People prefer to see, Liverpool demised equals Man.U's failure too. And in Scourser's mind, that's fine alright!!! hahaha...

If Fernando Torres decided to leave Liverpool

This stadium was not Anfield but Singapore. Will give it another shot to reach Anfield next season!

1. Fernando Torres is obviously one precious asset that we must hold on to, in this trying time. He has expressed his wishes that the squad need at least 5 more quality players to play along side of him. That statement was not construed as arrogant but a reality check. The current LFC squad is not sustainable to win anything, not even the No.4 slot...!!!
   


2. Rafa gave his reason as lack of money to find those who really excel. Many would argue and many would also presented the lists of players that he have brought in over the years. The most sickening business was with the Robbie Keane thing. For a £20m deal, the striker was sold back to Tottenham after just seven goals for a 50% discount!
   


3. My personal grudges towards Rafa is his decision to let go Peter Crouch. We were supposed to have two options in attacking the opponent. One in Torres who could slipped through defenders like Speedy Gonzalez and an aerial bombardment with Crouch as the target (which Hotspur is enjoying with Crouch & Defoe combination at the moment).
   


4. So while we wait for the new owner (if there is any), I guess it is better for Rafa to go. He can't have that legacy such as Ferguson or Wenger. He obviously has tripped himself with the lousiest performance ever in the Premier League, this season. Rafa kept on complaining the lack of money but I think it is a good time to learn from the others who could be in a more dire financial situation than Rafa, and buy cheaper players but managed to develop them into a classy star. I meant David Moyes. What he did with Tim Cahill is crazy. From nowhere, the nobody Aussie is now a big name in the English League. He could be in the England squad but since Australia is also in the World Cup Finals next month, I think we would see Cahill became the main protagonist in South Africa.
   


5. One supposed 'solution' is for Liverpool to trade in Torres and use the money. If they take that route, they might as well run the white flag up outside the ground. Torres offers Liverpool their best chance of salvation. Replacing one genuine world-class talent with four or five mediocre performers is not going to do anything to restore Liverpool's prestige, it will just drag them down further.
   


6. They probably have one season to prove to the likes of Torres that they remain contenders. But a continuation of the bickering between Benitez and the board will prove otherwise, spark an exodus and leave Liverpool stranded in the margins for years.
   

LFC 0 - Chelsea 2 (The end of a poor season...)

1. People prefer to see last night's match as more to a battle between Chelsea and Man.U for the title. As for us, it was more like a matter of pride. We would have prefer if we won the game but the Man.U fans could have been more frustrated than us when Steven Gerrard presented Drogba with a neat back-pass. And we know, once Chelsea is in the lead, it would be a mountain too high to climb. So we've lost the minute Drogba slotted the first goal.
   
   
2. There could be reasons for the lousy result. The LFC players were forced to play extra time in the Europa Cup just 3 days prior to Sunday. So many were tired and jaded. Gerrard was already thinking of the World Cup, as he wasn't that aggressive on the pitch. He tried his best but with the rest were not really on the same par with him, he knew the best he could do was to ensure that he won't get injured.
   
   
3. The real reason is not that we've lost Torres the whole season or Gerrard's failure to find his form. The real reason is that LFC simply doesn't have dept in the squad. When Torres is out, we don't have a ready replacement in his calibre. I doubt if we can even if we have money but at least the number one forward must be an established striker. Instead, we were presented with David Ngog who has proven not suitable for LFC or English Premier League.
   
   
4. Then Benitez had to shuffle between Dirk Kuyt and Ryan Babel at the front. These two could be the most lousy Dutch players we've seen in the league this season. While we appreciate Kuyt's industrious job every time he is on the pitch, we would have prefer him to score like what he did last season.
   
   
5. I shall not prolonged this condemnation. Because I don't believed in Liverpool-bashing concept. I am a true fan and I shall preserved my dignity and honour my team. There will be changes, definitely for the club during the summer.
   
   
6. Remember, in every crises, there will always be an opportunity. That is to reanalyse, rejuvenate, retool and reborn the team. If that means Rafa Benitez must go, so be it. This season is a total catastrophe for Benitez. I don't think he will have any more sympathy from the fans around the world. We need a new input, a new injection and new direction.
   
   
7. Perhaps, above all, a new investment so that the new owner can provide the necessary fund to buy not only new, but most importantly, the established and proven players.
   

The Final of our lives!!! Liverpool vs Atletico Madrid

1. Once in a blue moon, I get to travel on the same time when a crucial game is on. The challenge would be - how to find the time to run to the nearest TV that shows the match! It was the case in 2005 when I had to travel to Tokyo during the final of the historical come-back of Liverpool in Istanbul. The commentary was in Japanese & fortunately I recognised the whole squad back then, especially Jimi Traore...
   
   
2. Im now in Elciego, southern Spain for a motoring event. The lousiest scenario is that the launch will be on the same time with the kick-off tonight. How to skip without invoking wrath on my host!
   
   
3. My title says the final of our lives. Is it true? I would say that. In a season such as lousy as we are having now, to win the game against Atletico Madrid will be a huge moral booster and get to the final of Europa Cup is something that can erased the whole bad episode of season 2009/2010 especially when we get to win it.
   
   
4. Trailing Atletico by a single goal is not much of a task, though having Kun Aguero on their side will be a tall order for our fullbacks. Hey... Carra did well to stop the likes ofmanytop top striker... what is the different with Kun? One thing for sure, I will be wearing Liverpool shirt tonight in southern Spain. Viva le Liverpool!
   
   
5. Thats all for now. Adios amigos!!!

Liverpool to assist Man.U for its 19th title. Obnoxious thinking!

1. It is heavily debated now, still very much on people's mind and been analyse thoroughly since yesterday of this notion that `Liverpool have to beat Chelsea, thus in directly help its own bitter rival, Man.U to win the 19th premiership title'.
   
   
2. I am a bit offended on that very thought. In any way, Liverpool will never, must not, don't have to, help Man.U - be it directly or indirectly. It's a blasphemy to even suggest it. Let the nature of football take its own course. Let the goals-scored be the one to determine it. Not the interested parties who are in a foolish way, trying to belittle another party with their stupid thinking.
   
   
3. I prefer to see it solely on Liverpool requirement. Of course Liverpool need to win, because the need to pursue for the No.4 spot, no matter how remote it could be at this juncture with 2 other teams are in a better position to gain it! So we must beat Chelsea. And because of that, Chelsea could lost its opportunity to grab the title, well... we can't do much about that.
   
   
4. Liverpool must win for its own survivability. Even so, if Liverpool were already secured for the Champions Cup, I don't think we will give Chelsea any quarter. Liverpool is simply not a team that would do that.
   
   
5. On the other hand, with a hugely depleted squad - without Torres and possibly Kuyt (let's hope he'll recover by Sunday), Liverpool has lost its threatening charm. Chelsea don't see anything to fear of from this ordinary-looking Liverpool team. They will go for easy tactical, stop Gerrard from playing and Liverpool will stop playing altogether! So still, Chelsea come into this game as a favourite to beat Liverpool.
   
   
6. If you ask my opinion, I think if Liverpool is to win, they might come out as a winner with a margin of a single goal only. Chelsea is on the high at the moment. They were surprisingly beaten by Tottenham but that could be a one-off situation.
   
   
7. With so many focus on the Chelsea vs Liverpool match and how the outcome would decide who'll win the title, I think it is wrong to suggest that Man.U is having a free-ride for its remaining matches.
   
   
8. The same evening, Man.U will be going against Sunderland. On paper, this is another frustrating team. But if you watch them play, Sunderland is a team that gives themselves a 100% effort. They have a good attacking-minded team, though something must be done for its fullbacks - who kept on losing the plot!
   
   
9. So I think, Sunderland could spring a shocking result against Man.U. Realistically, it's hard to imagine that Sunderland can beat Man.U. but if they can hold them to a draw, that is a great achievement for the average team in Sunderland.
   

Burnley 0 - LFC 4 (when TV commentators became annoying!)

Bunley should have more respect towards Gerrard and not trying to spark anger in him. After 1st half of taunting by the crowd, Gerrard returned the fire with a double... so are you talking to me?

1. Prior to the game, many of us would have expect a sure win for Liverpool. But who would score? Because aside than Torres, we really have striking issues. Fortunately, it was Gerrard. And he's double open the others (the goal-shy fellas) to emulate. The first half was horrible for Liverpool. Well... after a torrid week of Le Tour de Europe, some of them look a bit slower than the usual.
   


2. One thing was clear, it was the inclusion of Benayoun that changed our luck. Not to say Kuyt was the blunder (and hopefully his injury is just temporary and be available for Atletico match). I must also comment on Aqulaini. Now we start to see bit by bit he's real value. It's never too late because he will be good for Liverpool next season, if he stays fit majority of the season.
   


3. What anger me most last night was not the match, the ref, the pitch or even the players. It was the freaking weird TV commentator. I didn't get his name because I am a bit pissed off. He mentioned that Burnley was unfortunate to let in the first goal. Then he repeated it again when Gerrard blazed his screamer onto the left side of Burnley goal.
   


4. Fine. Burnley was dominating but nothing can be deemed as `life threatening' effort, because none of their players could beat Pepe Reina. But the TV commentator repeated the same sentences... ``Bad Luck... simply Bad Luck. The score didn't give Burnley a fair assessment by the way they play...''. Excuse me Mr Bias, you can say it once or twice but when Babel scored Liverpool's fourth goal, those words confirmed you as a `bias dim-witted S.O.B.' Who is in the right mind to say ``4-0 is not fair to a side that plays better''? Jose Morinho, may be!
   


5. Burnley play better. But in football, no matter how good you control the ball, it mean nothing if you don't freaking score. Ask Mr Arsene Wenger. He knows very well of that theory. Liverpool may have played one of their lousy game, but remember the fact that they had just travel to Spain via ferry, buses and train. Then go against a formidable opponent in Atletico Madrid's den. Rushing back, luckily with a flight available at last to face the Burned-really team.
   


6. Any team that scored four is a manifestation of a good team, in actuality. Because even when you play lousy, but managed to score... that's just fine with me.
   
   

Atletico Madrid is not invincible. Liverpool can go to the final of Europa Cup

Not me! Not me! It was him!... Not Gerrard nor Lucas or even Kuyt ready to accept any card and pointed the finger to some one... though I'm pretty sure it wasn't Johnson that they referring to. hahaha

1. wow... this could be the longest time I didn't post anything in this blog. My sincere apology. I must admit that the current situation of LFC is one of the many reasons why I don't have any motivation to write. Also because that I am a bit hooked up with Facebook and my new hand phones. hahaha...
   


2. Let's talk a bit on the last Europa match against Atletico Madrid last Friday. The goal by Forlan was a fluke but effective. But I must say, the best player on the field that day was no other than David Ngog. Again, he show his true value to the club. Not valuable. But worthless. He failed to hold the ball AT ALL...!!! He can't stop the ball, not even passing a normally simple knock-on-the-front tips of his boot. Really pissed off.
   


3. Regardless of the 0-1 deficit, if this is the way Atletico is playing (with all the superstars like Forlan, Simoa, Reyes and next Aguero), I think Liverpool can contain them in Anfield. We don't have a ready solution because Torres won't be playing, unlike Aguero who was benched because of one-match suspension. So who do we have? Ngog again? hmmm...
   


4. Many would agree if the number one slot should be given to Babel. And the three powerful forwards of Gerrard in the middle, Benayoun on the left and Kuyt on the right, would do the pounding.
   


5. I agree but not really agree on the tactic. Imulating Serbegeth Singh... if I'm the manager (wow!), I'll put Kuyt as the number 1 striker, get Benayoun on the right, and Babel on the left. Gerrard middle. Two Latinos, Mascherano will be the holding midfielder and our beloved Blondy, Lucas Leiva as his assistant.
   


6. And also, to ensure a fair match, UEFA should enforce the ruling that Atletico Madrid to travel by bus, train and ferry to Liverpool. At least, while Liverpool had to endure the agony of traveling thanks to the Icelandic volcano, the Madrid team failed to capitalise the situation and should have been scoring more. Our key to that success of containing the margin is none other than the superb Jose Reina.

LATEST MESSAGE FROM LSCM

Friday, 05 March 2010

1. We are often too obsessed with team line-ups and quick to blame the manager for not picking Yossi Benayoun or Albert Aquilani that we seldom pause to think the factors behind Rafael Benitez's team selection. In response to this, we explore the evolution of the Reds under him in the last six years.
   


2. There are no matchday gatherings this weekend as our league game against Wigan Athletic is on Tuesday morning while the Europa League tie against Lillle is on Friday morning.
   


3. But the LSCM have been very much busy on the ground trying to get our second Family Day moving. The event will take place at Padang (1 Utama) on April 11 and we are expecting members to come out in full support for all the activities we have in store.
   


4. For starters, we need eight teams for our Mini Futsal Tournament: four for the men's section and two each for women and children.
   
   
5. We also welcome suggestions on alternative activities to make the Family Day - held in conjunction with the Hillsborough Memorial - a lot better and since we know that members are good with ideas, we direct you to cameron@padang.com.my.
   


6. The deadline for team registration for the Mini Futsal Tournament is April 3, 2010 and must be confirmed at the email above and the same applies for proposals for the event. Get cracking!
   
   
7. Regards, BOOTROOM BOYS.
   
   -------------------------------------------------
   


8. You guys who are yet to be a member of LSCM, this is the good time to do so. LSCM has a lot of programmes, not only viewing party but also family-oriented activities such as the family day and futsal matches. Click on the LSCM link in this blog. Then do what you have to do. Register! - utusanLFC

LFC 2 - Blackburned 1 (Match day 28th Feb)

1. Yesterday was so hectic that I couldn't find a fine time to post anything here. Due to the shortest month of February, I had to do all the late-payment chores. A Maybank call centre lady called me twice on my credit card. Your payment of RM160 is overdue. And I laugh. She was offended and asked why did I laugh. My reply was - it's only RM160 and yet you waste your time calling me. If you look through my record, I never pay the minimum amount. It's just February and I didn't have a proper timing to do so. Why didn't I use the online? There's another side of the story. Never mind. hahaha
   
   
2. Regardless of what Allardice said and what Rafa have replied, I think the match itself is one of the best we ever seen the squad play this season. Simply because we have all the 1st 11. We have Gerrard, Torres, Benayoun, Kuyt at the front. Though Mascherano was positioned at the right back, I didn't really noticed it. While he was in the middle, he did his job with the same vigour. I thank God that Mascherano is in our team.
   
   
3. Now that we have about 10 games left or less, apparently we have to win all of it to ensure the last spot to the Champions League. Man.City is doing well, same goes to Hotspur. another threat is Aston Villa. The dark horses would be Everton. If Torres stays fit and soon Johnson will be back, then we have the perfect idea of our main strike force. Perhaps, we shall achieve that target. Though Man.United is next, very soon.
   
   

Uniera 1 - LFC 3 (Agg: LFC 4 - 1 Unirea)

Mascherano scored his : 2 goal of the season and 3rd overall. Never mind. We know his true value is stiffling the advancement of the opposition. Viva Mascherano!

1. When that tall Unirea defender leap for their first goal, without any cover by LFC players - then only the game start to get some life. LFC played economically because Unirea decided to put 10 men in front of their goal keeper. By flooding the entire own half, they somehow have only one thing in their mind - to stop LFC from playing. But the surprised element is their fast advancing during the counter-attack. Thus the resulting corner and then the equaliser.
   


2. However, our back are filled with experienced bunch. And no match for the Unirea. Pity them. Gerrard was hungry for goals. And the one that he scored, was powerful strike and a bit dangerous because two Unirea were trying to stop him which if he is late by a second, could see him injured instead. The skipper rounded off a convincing Europa League win with a 57th-minute strike to become Britain's highest scorer in Europe, eclipsing Alan Shearer's tally of 32 goals.
   


3. Mascherano goal was superb. Especially from a guy who's main job is to stop the ball in the middle, not really scoring. Then of course, Babel who we have been asking a few questions about his ability, managed to score. Good for him.
   


4. The remaining silly player we have to cope is David Ngog. Utterly useless. Can't stop the ball. Can't control the ball. Can't beat his marker. Didn't make any shot at all. He is one good dummy in the team. Simply because the opposition have to dedicate a defender to shadow him the whole time he is on the pitch and were conned when the real zest comes not from him, but other LFC players.
   

Unirea? Care to watch?

C'mon you Kops! Wake up and give us a support... says Carragher to the fans around the globe. And it's gonna be 4am here in Malaysia. hmmmm....

1. ohhhh there is a small matter of the second-leg of Europa Cup. Since all of us have seen the returned of our best players, Torres & Benayoun... perhaps this is one game we should be watching. Since 26th is on Friday and coincide with the Holy Day for our Prophet Muhammad Birthday, I am declaring now that I shall be watching the game.
   


2. It won't be that difficult because I am declaring myself to be on leave that day too. Care to join me?

ManCity 0 LFC 0 (The most BORING game, EVER!)

Mancini couldn't stand the way his team played. Similar with Rafa who look bewildered...

1. When I said BORING, it doesn't mean only when we win it's not. It's so boring when there was hardly any attempt on the goal, either side. It was like a test of defensive tactics. Whom ever make a mistake, they would be the losing side. Both teams had their moments of stupidity, luckily the finishing was lousier. Or the goalkeeper was better.
   


2. It was a handball by Adebayor but ``missed'' by the ever so-lenient ref (who gave us 6 yellows) and made a good shot at Reina. It could have gone in and another sorry misery.
   
   
3. Rafa tinkered again in this match by having Kuyt as the number one forward with Gerrard behind him. It was good. But also bad. Simply because all this while, Kuyt from the right flank who have been supplying the crosses. When he's up there, no one managed to replicate that. And I don't even want to mention Babel. 15 minutes to the end, with Benayoun on the left and Torres at the front, only then did Kuyt returned to his habitat. But the defence of Man City was so tight and for that, we must commended them. No wonder the newly-rich club managed to dent Man.United and Arsenal with their new line-up.
   


4. Some of the news report, is so funny when they presented their case as Liverpool `failure' to defeat Man.City. I think it is incorrect. With a 200 million pounds squad, it is Man. City who `failed' to topple a depleted Liverpool. Torres was there but he just came in for the last 15 minutes, after four weeks of medical leave. Same goes to Benayoun.
   


5. But look at Man. City, the Chelsea-pretender. Even without Tevez, they still have Adebayor and Bellamy. And that newly-acquired Adam Johnson from Middlesborough. What a revelation he was! He actually dancing on the pitch. And what was the respond of our defenders? Clipped him! hahaha...
   


6. But the game is a dour. Boring. I hardly could forced myself to sit up on the sofa. There's nothing to get excited about. Boring. Boring. Boring.

We can beat Manchester City, right?

1. If you an avid reader like me, you might came across some strange news in the UK online newspapers pertaining to Manchester City. The most bizarre would be from the Daily Sports, claiming that Mancini has lost the plot when he can't controlled his players any more. Not that I am interested or what so ever, it's just that our next match (less than 2 hours to go) is Man.City.
   
   
2. A couple of days ago I saw that Mancini had a bust-up with our former golfer... errr Craigh Bellamy. Speaking of a bust-up, who doesn't when it concerns Bellamy. But then, Mancini denied it yesterday and today, the story has evolved into total chaos. How true is it, can only be seen in tonight's match. If it's true, then the whole squad will play awful. If not, then the story is just another sorry story.
   
   
3. So do you think we can make it tonight? I sincerely hope so. I have prepared myself a massive stocks of peanuts and hot drinks. But not, at this very moment I'm still in the office. Will only leave at 10pm. That's when my shift ends. Let's cheer it for Liverpool ....!!!

LFC 1 - Unirea 0

Ngog scored. If only he could do the same in other matches...

1. I assumed Khan would be delighted that David Ngog scored last night. I didn't watch the match, simply because that game didn't appeal to me that much. The 4am kick-off is not really an issue. Have been waking up at that hour for decades already! I do have a futsal game tonight, I have to keep my fitness intact. So the combination factors, in particular `who is Unirea?', didn't excite me at all.
   
   
2. Even though the hapless boy scored, Ngog wasn't mentioned in most of the UK media as the starlight of the match. But it was the new boy, Dani Pacheco who was plucked from Barcelona two years ago and play his role as a substitute in last night's match. He did gave quite an impression apparently, if not those UK media won't be so kind to admit that they were impressed by the young boy.
   
   
3. Another reason for me not to be bothered as yet with Europa Cup is that : I am more focus on the EPL matches. The game on Sunday against Manchester City will be another heart-stopping match. Simply because at this stage, ManCity is a point more and a game less than LFC. Beat them, we get more points and reduce the deficit. Provided that we won't lose again when the tough gets going.

EUROPA CUP : FIRST GAME FOR THE 2nd CLASS

FC Unirea have a Lion King head as their mascot. Should be a good showdown against our Liver bird.

1. FC Unirea Urziceni is a Romanian professional football club from Urziceni, south-east Romania. They are the most successful football team from Ialomiţa County, winning the Liga I in the 2008-09 season. This performance granted them the right to participate in the group stage of the 2009-10 UEFA Champions League. After finishing third in their group, behind Sevilla and Stuttgart, they have been drawn to play Liverpool FC of England in the Europa League.
   
   
2. So in terms of performance, Unirea is on the same level with Liverpool. Third place in the group. And mind you, without hesitation the club's manager, Rony Levy spoke of getting a draw as their target and may be, just may be win by an away goal in the returning match in Romania. Silly as it can be but for a small team like them, that is the most sensible thing to aim for, against the might of not-so-mighty-anymore Liverpool.
   
   
3. Unirea are in only their second season of European football, having failed to get past the first round of the UEFA Cup last season.
   
   
4. However, the Romanians surprised many by almost qualifying for the knockout stages of the Champions League in a campaign which saw them beat group winners Sevilla, thrash Rangers 4-1 at Ibrox and draw with Stuttgart.
   
   
5. Unirea's last competitive match was on December 14 as the Romanian League took a two-month winter break so Levy's side have been training in the north west for the last week and played a friendly against Conference North side Northwich Victoria on Monday, which they won 1-0.
   
   
6. Not having Torres is expected because Rafa is eyeing not really for season last minute push, but I gues it is more about next season. Since Torres will be playing in the World Cup, Rafa is calculating way to the future. Sounds funny, isn't it?
   
   
7. Anyway, who among you will sacrifice your beauty sleep tomorrow at 3.45am to watch this game? I am still contemplating the pro's & the con's. hehehe
   
   
   

Arsenal 1 - LFC 0 (Fabregas a cheater!)

Fabregas wasn't even jumping when he raised his left hand to stop Gerrard's free-kick. But the stupid referee didn't see it.

1. Did we denied a blatant penalty in the dying minute? Cesc Fabregas was at the centre of controversy in stoppage time when he block a free-kick from Steven Gerrard with his arm. Nothing was given by referee Howard Webb. This is bad luck, I summarised.
   


2. But in David Ngog, luck was not the issue. He was simply retarded in front of the goal. He had that one and only chance to score, but yet he fumbled again and again. He is nothing but stupid. Next game, if Torres is still not available, I guess we have to try Ryan Babel at the front. At least he did managed to get a shot to the goal. Ngog was really a disappointment. If he had scored, the game would have been different.
   


3. Still, it was a bad luck situation. When Carragher left the pitch and substituted by Degen, I know then that we will not win the match. True to my notion, Arsenal increased their attack as they see the Liverpool's great wall already crumbled.
   


4. Most of the time I don't have any grudges if we lose to Arsenal. We know the kids are really free-flowing in terms of passes and they have pace. Which we are lacking. They took out Arshavin, yet they still have the likes of Theo Welcott. We lost Torres, we only have Ngog and Babel. hmmm... But when Fabregas resorted to cheat like what he did last night, I lost my respect at that boy.