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http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_5953518,00.html

Double deal for Imps


Broughton joins from Millers and Saunders re-signs from Fulham


Last updated: 16th February 2010   

Lincoln City have signed Drewe Broughton on a month's loan from Rotherham United and brought Fulham midfielder Matthew Saunders back to the club.

Broughton has started just four games in League Two for Rotherham this season and has accepted a move to struggling Lincoln.

He will go into the squad for the Imps' game against Accrington Stanley on Tuesday night and will help to solve Chris Sutton's problems up front after Delroy Facey returned to Notts County last week.

Rotherham's chief operating officer Paul Douglas said: "Drewe hasn't been in the first XI of late, Lincoln have had injury problems so came in with an offer and Ronnie (Moore) felt that this is an opportunity for Drewe to get some games.

"We wish Drewe well for the month ahead and then we look forward to seeing him back here for what will be an important run-in."

Meanwhile, Lincoln have regained the services of Saunders, who played three games for the club in January before injury cut short his spell, on a one-month loan deal.

The 20-year-old is back after proving his fitness and is set to go straight into manager Sutton's squad for the match against Accrington.

Darijo Srna out to impress Tottenham and Chelsea as Shakhtar star faces Fulham



By Sportsmail Reporter


Last updated at 6:28 PM on 16th February 2010

Tottenham Hotspur are ready to check out Shakhtar Donetsk captain Darijo Srna at Craven Cottage this week.

Spurs are ready to make a new move for the Croatia captain, according to reports in the Ukraine, and have the chance to see how he performs against Fulham in the Europa League last 32 tie on Thursday.

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti is also an admirer of the raiding right-back, but was put off by his wage demand when mulling over a January bid.

The 27-year-old, who has also appeared on Bayern Munich's radar, is keen to test himself at a higher level after winning the UEFA Cup with the side he joined seven years ago.

Redknapp has made no secret of his joy at working with Croats and currently has Vedran Corluka, Luka Modric and Niko Kranjcar on the books at White Hart Lane, with keeper Stipe Pletikosa expected to join from Spartak Moscow in the summer.

Srna can also play on the right side of midfield as well as defence, while Corluka is often deployed at centre half when they play together at international level.

Srna was last week named the best foreign footballer in Ukraine for 2009.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1251503/Darijo-Srna-impress-Tottenham-Chelsea-Shakhtar-star-faces-Fulham.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0fjMk5tgf (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1251503/Darijo-Srna-impress-Tottenham-Chelsea-Shakhtar-star-faces-Fulham.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0fjMk5tgf)

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_5953402,00.html

Pilgrims in Stockdale talks


Mariner optimistic Fulham will agree to extension

Plymouth Argyle boss Paul Mariner is in talks with Fulham over a deal to extend the loan of goalkeeper David Stockdale.

The 24-year-old has made five appearances for Plymouth since arriving on a month's loan in January and his initial deal expires after Tuesday's game against Swansea City.

However, Mariner is keen to keep Stockdale at Home Park and is optimistic that Fulham will agree to an extension.

Mariner told The Herald: "We are trying to extend David's loan and it's looking extremely positive.

"I will probably have more information after the game tonight.

"He has fitted into the squad very well. He's an amiable lad and he works very hard at his game.

"I think he has proven to everyone that he's very commanding in the box.

"He's a young goalkeeper so he has still got things to learn. He's by no means the finished article and David understands that."

Loan Star

Tuesday 16th February 2010


Fulham FC News

Roy Hodgson's decision to sign Nicky Shorey on loan for the remainder of the season looks like being one of the most astute signings of the January transfer window.

Since the left back arrived at the Club on transfer deadline day, Fulham's defensive record makes for impressive reading. The Whites have yet to concede since Shorey was handed his debut against Portsmouth, notching up four successive clean sheets.

Shorey's recent performances for Fulham have impressed supporters and pundits alike and when the question of a recall to the international fold was posed to him by journalists on Sunday evening, the defender's response was typically modest.

"I don't know about that," said Shorey of an England recall. "I'm just enjoying playing my football. I really enjoyed playing for my country, it was great, but I'll leave that for other people to talk about.

"It's nice to be out there playing and being a part of the Team. There's nothing worse as a player than not playing and it's nice to come back and play in the Premier League with Fulham.

"I'm enjoyed it and the games have come thick and fast since I joined which is the best way for it to be when you join a new club. The lads have made it easy for me – they're a good group and it's a good setup at Fulham. I'm just glad I could come in and help out when they needed someone to fit in there."

Whilst stating that Fulham are 'taking it one step at a time,' Shorey admitted that he is desperate to help Fulham through to the Semi-Finals of the FA Cup, a competition he clearly adores, after overcoming Notts County on Sunday.

"The main aim was just to get a win on Sunday and I don't think the score line reflected how hard it was," Shorey explained. "It was a tough game and they made it that way.

"We're just taking it one step at a time. Sunday's match was always going to be a tricky tie so it's just nice that we got through. When I was at Reading we didn't get too far because we were so focused on staying in the Premier League.

"This is the furthest I've been in the competition. Sunday was my first game in the competition for Fulham so the lads have to take the credit for getting us this far. It would be a great experience to be involved in the Quarter Final - I love the FA Cup."

Shorey was full of praise for striker Bobby Zamora after Fulham's FA Cup victory and having played with the striker at youth level, the left back is more than qualified to discuss the striker's pedigree.

"I've known Bobby for a long time and he's always been a good player," said Shorey. "It's nice to see him getting the credit he deserves at the minute. I used to play with him and Konch as we were from the same area of Essex and it's great to see him doing well – he's a big target man but he can do the lot."


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ShoreysCupReaction.aspx#ixzz0fjOEfJXv (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ShoreysCupReaction.aspx#ixzz0fjOEfJXv)

Leading the Line

Tuesday 16th February 2010


Fulham FC News

 
With preparations well under way for Thursday evening's game against Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Europa League Round of 32, Fulham striker David Elm is expecting a challenging encounter. 

Elm watched his former side, Kalmar FF, lose to two-nil to Shakhtar in the recent Copa del Sol tournament in Marbella and he was certainly impressed with what he saw.

"They're a very skilful team with many Brazilian players," Elm told fulhamfc.com. "So we have to really be on top of our defensive game and make sure we keep a good shape.   

"I'm not sure if they played their best team against Kalmar because they have a big squad - but they still have good players. 

"It's important for us not to concede any goals in the home leg and hopefully we'll be able to score one or two."

Elm played a starring role in Fulham's Barclays Premier League victory over Burnley and once again led the line in fine fashion with Bobby Zamora just days later as Fulham put four goals past Notts County. Indeed, Elm's fledgling partnership with Zamora is showing positive signs for the future.

"It's very easy to play with Bobby he's such a good player and he makes it easy for his team-mates," Elm explained. "He also takes some of the physical focus away from me so I really enjoy working with him. Most of the people in Sweden would probably say that I'm a target man but I think I've developed the other side to my game too.

"It's worked really well with Bobby so far, he maybe plays a little higher up the pitch than I do.  But I can work in the space behind and do a lot of running - I like working hard.

"It took me about four or five months just to settle down and adjust to the tempo and the aggression here. I think I'm just starting to learn how to play the English game and where to be on the pitch so I can link up better with my team-mates. 

"I just want to keep working as hard as I can. I think the fans have been great and I'll be very pleased if I can help the Team."


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ElmShakhtarPreview.aspx#ixzz0fjOUaCEa (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ElmShakhtarPreview.aspx#ixzz0fjOUaCEa)

Saunders Loan Extended

Tuesday 16th February 2010


Fulham FC News


The Club can confirm that Matthew Saunders'| loan spell with Lincoln City has been extended.

The Fulham Academy Graduate impressed during his three appearances for the Imps in January before injury ruled the midfielder out of action.

Having returned to full fitness Saunders will return to Lincoln ahead of Tuesday night's game against Accrington Stanley at Sincil Bank. Saunders will remain with Lincoln until the 16th March 2010.


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/SaundersLoanExtended.aspx#ixzz0fjOhNnHK (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/SaundersLoanExtended.aspx#ixzz0fjOhNnHK)

Shakhtar Preview

Tuesday 16th February 2010

Fulham FC News

Fulham v Shakhtar Donetsk

UEFA Europa League, Round of 32 First-leg

Thursday February 18th 2010, KO 8.05pm


It's a return to European action on Thursday evening as we welcome UEFA Cup holders and Ukrainian powerhouses Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Europa League Round of 32.

Having navigated our way through the qualifying rounds and group stages, the competition now reverts to a two-legged format, and the winners of this tie will face either Ajax of Holland or Italian giants Juventus in the last 16.

After finishing second in the Ukrainian Premier League last season, Shakhtar initially started this season in the Champions League, but a shock qualifying round defeat, albeit on away goals, to Romanian side FC Timisoara meant that they dropped into the Europa League where they qualified for the group stage courtesy of a 5-0 aggregate win over Turkish club Sivasspor.

Shakhtar were also decisive in the group stage, winning their first four games including a double against Toulouse, before easing slightly in the final two games with a home draw against Club Brugge and a defeat in the last match at FK Partizan of Belgrade. The Donetsk club are no strangers to success on the European stage having beaten Werder Bremen 2-1 in last season's UEFA Cup final.

When the Ukrainians arrive next week it will be their first competitive action since December 16th, as the Ukrainian Premier League is currently in the midst of its winter break. At the halfway stage they are currently second, two points behind Dynamo Kiev who inflicted their only defeat to date, a 3-0 reverse in Kiev. Shakhtar have won all eight of their home games and gained four victories from their nine away trips.

A large number of the Shakhtar squad are home-based players, although there is a considerable Brazilian influence in midfield with Fernandinho, Jadson and Ilsinho all regulars.

The club captain is Darijo Srna who appeared against Fulham in the UEFA Cup in 2002 for Hajduk Split. Their top scorer is Luiz Adriano who has nine goals in 14 League appearances as well as five in European competition. 

Ticket Information (General Sale)

Season Ticket Holder prices:
- Adults £15
- Concessions £10
- Juniors £5


Non-Season Ticket Holder and Match day prices:
- Adults £20
- Concessions £15
- Juniors £5
 
How To Buy Tickets:

- Online| or by Phone on 0870 442 1234  (24 hours a day, 7 days a week). Alternatively tickets can be bought in person from the Craven Cottage Ticket Office which is open Mon-Fri 9am to 5pm.


Fulham's Complete Home European Record

P12 W8 D4 L0 F18 A6

Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/NextUpShakhtar.aspx#ixzz0fjTBLQgG (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/NextUpShakhtar.aspx#ixzz0fjTBLQgG)

Shakhtar Travel

Tuesday 16th February 2010


Fulham FC News

Due to high demand on the Official Fulham flyer| , more seats have just been added to accommodate our fans.

Fulham's away UEFA Europa League tie against Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday 25th February presents Fulham fans with not only the chance to witness Roy Hodgson's side take on last season's UEFA Cup winners in the last 32 of the competition, but also the opportunity to visit Shakhtar's magnificent Donbass Stadium. 

If you are a Season Ticket Holder, or Club Member, you can now book your place| to Donetsk and enjoy another magical night of European football at one of Europe's highest rated stadiums.

With a capacity of 55,000 and built to UEFA's five-star standard, the Donbass Stadium was unveiled in August 2009 and has already been earmarked as a flagship stadium for the UEFA Euro 2012 Tournament. The soaring roof effect resembles a flying saucer, whilst the glazed façade – a huge glass wall of 24,000 square meters – also give the venue iconic status on the landscape of Eastern European stadia.

Book your place today| . Prices start from only £474pp .

The Official Fulham Flyer trip includes:

Direct return flights from Gatwick to Donetsk
One night's accommodation
All overseas private coach transfers
Your ticket to the match
Please note flight times are:

25 Feb 10  Thursday  MON9132  LGW-DOK  0825-1410
26 Feb 10  Friday      MON9133  DOK-LGW  1400-1620

For more information, or to secure your seat on the plane please visit the Official Flyer website| or get in touch with a member of our team.

Fulham Flyer to Donetsk, book now|


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ShakhtarTravel.aspx#ixzz0fjTmT51C (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ShakhtarTravel.aspx#ixzz0fjTmT51C)

http://www.thisisplymouth.co.uk/argyle/Pilgrims-hoping-extend-Stockdale-stay/article-1835357-detail/article.html

Pilgrims are hoping to extend Stockdale stay


Tuesday, February 16, 2010, 07:00

3 readers have commented on this story.

ARGYLE are close to reaching an agreement on extending the loan spell of Fulham goalkeeper David Stockdale.

His initial one-month stint with the Pilgrims is due to end after the Championship clash against Swansea City at Home Park tonight.

But Argyle have been in talks with Fulham about 24-year-old Stockdale staying at Home Park.
He can spend a maximum of three months on loan to the Pilgrims, which would take him up to late April.

Stockdale was signed from Fulham on January 22 and has started the last five matches for Argyle, taking over between the posts from club captain Romain Larrieu.

His debut came in the 1-0 home defeat of Derby County on January 26.

Argyle head coach Paul Mariner said: "We are trying to extend David's loan and it's looking extremely positive.

"I will probably have more information after the game tonight.

"He (Stockdale) has fitted into the squad very well. He's an amiable lad and he works very hard at his game.

"I think he has proven to everyone that he's very commanding in the box.

"He's a young goalkeeper so he has still got things to learn. He's by no means the finished article and David understands that.

"We have a fantastic rapport with (Fulham manager) Roy Hodgson and Mike Kelly (the Premier League club's goalkeeping coach).

"Roy has let David out to us, and Mike Kelly, who is his mentor, speaks very highly of him. So we are thankful to them for letting us have him so, all in all, we are very happy."

http://thelinc.co.uk/2010/02/big-match-preview-lincoln-city-v-accrington-stanley/

Big match preview: Lincoln City v Accrington Stanley


By Adrian Bell


| Published On February 16, 2010 | In Lincoln City


Lincoln City will be looking to end a run of five games without a win as they host Accrington Stanley tonight. Photo: Lincoln City Football ClubLincoln City will look to end a winless run of five league matches as they host Accrington Stanley at Sincil Bank on Tuesday night (kick off 7-45pm)

Imps manager Chris Sutton has been boosted with the arrival of two loan signings as they look to steer themselves away from the League Two relegation zone. Experienced striker Drewe Broughton has penned a one-month loan deal, while Matthew Saunders returns to Sincil Bank from Fulham on a similar loan deal.

Broughton signs from League Two rivals Rotherham United, who beat City 2-1 in an action-packed encounter at the weekend. Meanwhile Saunders, signed for Lincoln on a loan deal in January, before returning to his parent club following an injury which cut short his loan spell.

Broughton will add vital experience to the Lincoln City frontline following the end of Delroy Facey's loan last week. The 31-year-old is no stranger to the lower echelons of the Football League, having played for 16 clubs before signing for Lincoln. Michael Saunders, back from Fulham, was impressive in his three games for the Imps in January, and his arrival will bolster Sutton's midfield. Both should be available for Tuesday's encounter.

City will look to bounce back from Saturday's 2-1 defeat to Rotherham, as they host mid-table Accrington Stanley. Goals from Adam Le Fondre (penalty) and a Gary Roberts strike put the Millers 2-1 up, before Rangers loanee Steven Lennon pulled a goal back for the Imps. City had to play 75 minutes with just ten men following the sending off of centre-half Moses Swaibu, who is suspended for tonight's game.

Paul Green will again miss out due to a groin injury, whilst both Ian Pearce and Michael Gordon are struggling with illness. England Under-19 international defender Nathan Baker, who has missed the last three games through injury, may make his return.

Stanley have had an impressive season to date, sitting just three points outside of the League Two play-off places. Stanley's form has been stuttering of late, losing to Northampton Town and recording a goalless draw at Macclesfield Town on Saturday. Leam Richardson looks set to miss out on the game with a groin injury whilst Luke Joyce is struggling with a dead leg.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/feb/16/the-fiver-milan-manchester-utd-preview

This is about the time it used to get good, with English teams excited about their chances of European glory. However thanks to Uefa's constant meddling, insisting on turning the tournament into an ill-designed bloated mess, excitement is low: Liverpool players have been notoriously sniffy about it since being expelled from Big Cup, while Fulham's Roy Hodgson is rumoured to be simply not bothered, as he'd rather stay at home and finish the JP Donleavy novel he's halfway through.

http://www.scarborougheveningnews.co.uk/sport/Fulham-ace-Jono-Greening-looks.6073545.jp


Fulham ace Jono Greening looks to the future

Published Date: 16 February 2010


By Staff Copy

SCARBOROUGH-born Jono Greening is aiming to stay in football when his career comes to an end.

The midfielder has signed a contract at FA Cup quarter-finalists Fulham that will keep him at Craven Cottage until the age of 33, and he is relishing another shot at the big time of the Premiership after making the move south from West Brom earlier this season.

"I was offered a new five-year contract at West Brom, but I thought that if I didn't go for it now with Fulham then I might not get another chance.

"Things are going really well at Fulham. I haven't played in every game, like I might have done at West Brom, but it is just great being involved at the top level.

"I have played in the away game at Basle in the Europa League and in both legs against Roma, which was another great experience.

"My aim is to prove myself in the remaining few years of my contract.

"If I can keep free of injury then I don't see why I can't carry on for some time yet, a lot of players do now - look at Gary Speed, Teddy Sheringham and my good friend Kevin Phillips."

Jono is already taking the first steps on the path into coaching and added: "I took my level two coaching badge last year and now I'll be looking to bag my level three and four.

"The level four allows you to coach at youth and reserve team level, so that could be an option when I do pack in.

"Coaching is about being in the right place at the right time and if you are given an opportunity, then you need a bit of luck in the early days.

"There is the chance of working in the media, although I'm not sure that many people would be able to understand my Yorkshire accent.

"Who knows, I could finish up coaching a Scarborough team, although it would be difficult if my brother Josh was playing for them.

"He already tells me that I do a lot of things wrong when I'm on the pitch - but it's easy for him to say when he's watching a game at home with a beer in his hand."

http://www.adifferentleague.co.uk/default.aspx?Tab=1&Page=6&Article=1482

Club Focus - Fulham - Small squad, limited options for Hodgson


By Matt Domm


Before the 2009/10 season kicked off most Fulham fans would have gladly taken a top-half Premier League spot, an FA Cup quarter-final and progression from the Europa League group stage.

Half way through February the above is exactly how the season has panned out. And there is a real chance for further progression on all three fronts. Players are returning to both fitness and form just in time for a push for the European places in the league - with Birmingham, slightly above the Whites in the league, hitting a slump just in time for the weekend's clash at Craven Cottage. The FA Cup quarter-final draw provided another home tie and, although it will be against top-flight opposition, a genuine opportunity for a last-four spot. And this Thursday sees Europa League holders Shakhtar Donetsk arrive in town for what must be a solid home win if the Cottagers are to have a chance of reaching the latter stages of the tournament. Undoubtedly, the visit of the Ukrainian side is the toughest tie of recent weeks, but games are starting to come thick and fast so Roy Hodgson will have to decide whether to stick with his strongest possible side to have the best chance of taking a solid lead to Eastern Europe, or whether to rotate (as much as the still-thin squad will allow) his line-up with his priorities in mind.

Just has he did throughout the group phase, Hodgson will most likely try to rest as many league players as he can. This would mean drafting Stefano Okaka, who finally opened his Fulham account against Notts County at the weekend, into the starting XI - most likely to replace Bobby Zamora, who is seen by his manager as the Whites' star striker - were he not cup tied. The Italian, Okaka, has already featured in two of Fulham's European games this season, playing against his current employers for parent club Roma in both group games. Having scored a good header in Rome, he would certainly cause problems for the Donetsk defence. Of course, so limited are Hodgson's rotation options that there have been several fringe players masquerading as first-teamers in recent weeks, and thus there are positions on the pitch where those playing need all the football they can get, rather than be rested. One such position is right-back. Even before John Pantsil's injury, Stephen Kelly was the regular for European games, and he performed adequately, until he was called upon in the league. Since the Ghanaian has been out, Kelly has vied with Chris Baird to play on the right, but neither has proven himself to be a comfortable replacement. Baird has had the nod in his unfamiliar position in recent league and FA Cup fixtures, although he was skinned a few too many times by the League Two opposition to make the role his own, and so rather than Hodgson deciding which man to rest, he will instead be trying to choose which one will cope better with the Shakhtar left.

At least the midfield competition is starting to heat up. Since he recovered from his knock Danny Murphy has been present in every game, what with his back-up, Jonathan Greening, being forced to cover the weak left flank. But Simon Davies is now back - finally getting through full games, and even scoring - and Zoltan Gera is close to a return, meaning the wings have enough cover for Greening to be called upon in the middle should Murphy's 32-year-old legs become tired. The inclusion of Murphy will depend on whether Hodgson sees the Europa League as second or third priority. If it is third choice, then his captain will likely be rested, or possibly taken off with 20 or more minutes to spare as he was at the weekend, even if the result is not certain by that time.

Whether Hodgson picks the same team again or a freshened-up XI, whoever is on the field needs to be at their best in the toughest home fixture for some time. There is no saying whether Pantsil, Paul Konchesky, Clint Dempsey or Andy Johnson would have been selected on Thursday if fit, such has been the manager's selection policy, but his second-string progressed well from a difficult group and they will have his faith against Donetsk. A good win and this already successful season could become one that every Fulham fan hoped for last summer.

http://www.southendunited-mad.co.uk/news/tmnw/loanee_shrimpers_england_under19_call_up_will_not_miss_charlton_game_496253/index.shtml

Loanee Shrimpers England Under-19 Call Up: Will not miss Charlton game 

By westfield shrimper Monday, 15th February 2010


Southend's two premiership loanees, Arsenal's Sanchez Watt and Wolverhampton's Scott Malone, will join the England Under-19 squad the day after Blues play the Addicks.

Winger Sanches Watt and left-back Scott Malone have been called up into the the England Under-19 international squad for the match against Holland on Tuesday, March 2nd.

The good news for Blues boss Steve Tilson is that if fit and selected they will be able to play in the Shrimpers match with Charlton at Roots Hall on Friday February 26th, as they do not have to join their team mates until 24 hours later on the Saturday.

Friday night football, better atmosphere and Tilly gets a full set of players to choose from!

England squad: Baker (Lincoln, on loan from Aston Villa), Bostock (Spurs), Briggs (Fulham), Brown (Man Utd.), Caulker (Yeovil, loan from Spurs), Clyne (Crystal Palace), Deacon (Arsenal), James (Preston NE, loan from Man. Utd.), Malone (Southend, loan from Wolves), Mason (Yeovil, loan from Spurs), Mellis (Chelsea), Noble (Sunderland), Nouble (WBA, loan from West Ham), O'Brien (Portsmouth), Parrett (Spurs), Ranger (Newscastle), Rudd (Norwich), Watt (Southend, loan from Arsenal.) 

http://www.twtd.co.uk/news.php?storyid=16020

Aspiring to reach the Premier League is fine and a target for many clubs but these clubs are not prepared for the financial strains placed on a Premier League club. More clubs should model themselves on Fulham, who have sustained their top flight place while being financially prudent, and are now reaping the benefits. All newly promoted Premiership teams need a financial plan - and be more prepared for the worst case scenario, relegation.

http://www.fulhamusa.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=934

UEFA Cup holders very confident coming to Craven Cottage to play Fulham

   
Shakhtar Donetsk won the 2009 UEFA Cup against Werder Bremen 2 -1 last season. They come to play Fulham at Craven Cottage this Thursday Night at 8:05PM UK time and 3:05 EST. This is the first leg of the Round of 32 in the Europa League. The second leg will be played the following Thursday at home to Shakhtar Donetsk. This Ukranian club is definitely going to be a huge challenge for Fulham.

Shakhtar Donetsk finished their league last year in second place. They currently sit second in the Ukrainian Premier League. They are 2 points behind Dynamo Kiev halfway through their season. What is interesting is they have not played a league game since mid December. The Ukranian Premier League has a winter break. The team should be fairly fresh.

The Ukrainian team actually has been training in England. According to the club's official website the team went to the F A Cup match that Fulham played on Sunday against Notts County. The article has some thoughts on Craven Cottage and also that some of the players were recognized in the crowd.   
The article from the Press Office of FC Shakhtar on the official website also has some interesting thoughts on Fulham. According to the Press office of FC Shakhtar states " By and large the Shakhtar players agreed that our future rival hasn't amazed us by anything special. To play against them is possible,very possible. Of course, we shouldn't play relaxed and should concetrate fully." The article by the Press office of FC Shakhtar continues to go on and has some praise for Bobby Zamora and Fulham's defenders. Finally, According to the Press office of FC Shakhtar also has praise for the fans.

Based on the official website of Shakhtar Donetsk, it sounds like to me the Ukranian team is very confident going into the Europa league match. I am fine with Fulham playing a team that believes they should win. If Fulham want to move forward in the Europa League why not take on the champion. If Fulham win in the round of 32 it should give them more confidence heading into the last part of the season.

http://fulhampatsfan.blogspot.com/

Stockdale praise from the Plymouth official -

http://www.pafc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10364~1968196,00.html

http://www.cityam.com/news-and-analysis/sports-minister-joins-debate-over-football-club-debt-levels

Sports minister joins debate over football club debt levels



Wednesday, 17th February 2010


STEVE DINNEEN

THE government is to press ahead with calls for tougher financial controls for football clubs, despite widespread criticism from within the industry.

Sports minister Gerry Sutcliffe yesterday weighed into the debate, calling for an overhaul of the way teams' finances are regulated.

The move follows increasing concern about the long-term viability of debt-laden clubs in the wake of the meltdown of teams including Portsmouth, Cardiff City, Crystal Palace and Southend. The Premier League reacted to criticism by implementing a new "early warning" system that requires clubs to make regular account statements but critics have warned this may not be enough.

Last week Whitehall debated the formation of a new football regulator that would effectively mean the game was run in the same way as privatised utilities firms. But one analyst told City A.M. the game needed government regulation "like a hole in the head."

Another top football chairman said: "The government hasn't made a good job of regulating anything so the idea they could get involved in football amazes me."

Earlier this week Wigan chairman Dave Whelan proposed a borrowing cap of 25 per cent of turnover. The league table opposite shows by how much Premier League teams would have exceeded (or undershot) Whelan's cap in the 2008 season. Fulham came bottom, exceeding the debt limit by 1,437 per cent.

Plymouth 1 Swansea 1


Published: Today

SWANSEA boss Paulo Sousa was left fuming after a twice-taken penalty ruined his night.
Damien Johnson's first effort was saved by Dorus de Vries, only for referee Keith Hill to rule the Swans keeper had moved from his line too early.

Johnson duly netted the 85th-minute retake and Sousa raged: "Everyone in the ground could see what I saw. The keeper's foot stayed on the line."

Darren Pratley had given Swansea a 46th-minute lead, racing onto Angel Rangel's pass before firing home a 20-yard screamer.

The same combination almost worked again on the hour, but this time David Stockdale saved.

Kari Arnason had an effort cleared off the line at the other end.

And after Andrea Orlandi's handball led to Johnson's equaliser, it took a superb save by Fulham loanee Stockdale to deny Gorka Pintado.

Plymouth boss Paul Mariner revealed Stockdale had extended his stay for a month, adding: "David made three great saves, especially the one in stoppage time."



Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2856888/Plymouth-1-Swansea-1.html#ixzz0fm3HLgzv (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2856888/Plymouth-1-Swansea-1.html#ixzz0fm3HLgzv)

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/hold_ye_front_page/2703529/red1963red-blue33-years-at-the-top-Sir-Stans-amazing-careerblue.html

Matthews rejoined Stoke in 1961 and two years later helped them to the Division Two title and was named Footballer of the Year for the second time. Five days after his 50th birthday, the newly-knighted Sir Stanley Matthews ended his remarkable career.

After 710 games for Stoke and Blackpool and 54 England caps, his last game was a league match against Fulham on 6th February 1965. Matthews set up Stoke's only goal in a 1-1 draw.

He later said he had retired too soon.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/european/championsleague/7252698/Rush-for-Champions-League-riches-may-kill-the-golden-goose.html

Rush for Champions League riches may kill the golden goose


It should come as no surprise that proposals for a play-off to decide the Premier League's fourth Champions League place have been largely well received by those clubs with most to gain.

By Paul Kelso, Chief Sports Reporter

Published: 7:30AM GMT 17 Feb 2010

Extending European promise down to seventh in the League would undoubtedly enhance opportunity for those clubs currently concerned only with avoiding a relegation scrap.

It would also significantly increase interest in mid-table at the fag end of the season, particularly now that the Europa League has become a burden rather than an incentive.

Harry Redknapp was ambivalent last May when Tottenham missed out on seventh place by two points. You can bet the manager will be less sanguine were the prize a trip to the San Siro rather than an endurance test against Europe's also-rans.

The knockout element would also make for compelling television, with a three-game play-off series worth upwards of £15 million to domestic broadcasters already paying £4.5 million a game for regular season matches.

At £750,000 per club, it is not the general good that is motivating those clubs in favour. Rather, it is the prospect of a knockout shot at Champions League riches currently beyond the reach of perhaps two-thirds of them.

Uefa argue that its competition contributes less than 15 per cent of English club's revenues, but Manchester United earned £33 million for reaching last season's final and Chelsea £30 million for getting to the semis, huge sums to mid-ranking clubs.

The League will add more details to its proposal at a meeting next month, but if play-offs are approved it will say much about the ambitions and financial imbalances of clubs in a League where finances have never been so closely scrutinised.

It is generally accepted that no more than five clubs – the big four plus Manchester City – harbour genuine prospects of winning the title with perhaps Spurs, Aston Villa, Everton and Sunderland possessing the resources to challenge for a Champions League place.

For the rump, each season is a battle for mid-table security, with the battle to avoid a relegation scrap a major contributor to the financial stresses felt.

With two-thirds of the League ruled out of the title race at the start of each season it is easy to see why the play-offs appeal. They offer the best chance of bridging the divide. Perversely, in a League predicated on elitism, seventh may soon represent the pinnacle of achievement for two-thirds of its members.

While there is a will for play-offs, finding a way remains problematic. The League is understood to be working on plans to play three games – two semi-finals and a final – in a week, but a clash with other competitions seems inevitable.

Move the season back a week and it clashes with the Football League climax.

Play the semi-finals midweek before the FA Cup final, with the final a week later, and they would intrude on the build-up to the Wembley showpiece as well as disrupting preparations for a club also in the Champions League final. Wait until after the European finale and the teams will have had a fortnight with no football.

There is also a strong counter-argument in favour of elitism that the big four clubs can expect to make. The fourth Champions League place is not in the gift of the League, but rather is dependent on English teams succeeding in the competition and boosting the coefficient that governs entry.

By admitting teams from lower down the league England risks reducing the overall level of European performance, lowering the coefficient and eventually losing the fourth berth.

It may be a risk the majority of clubs are willing to take for a share of the Champions League pie.

http://www.lincoln.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=188548

Pearce Slays Stanley But Sincil Stank


West Ham legend Ian Pearce has been waiting to be the hero ever since his arrival in Lincolnshire. We got to see a last gasp winner from the cult hero who wears the number 13 shirt last night against Accrington as Pearcy rammed one right up the fates. We also saw further evidence of the emergence of an elusive Sincil Bank Goal machine from Glasgow Rangers, Lennon the red, on a night that saw the Imps escape by the skin of our teeth. For 80 minutes we`d had it and those with fancy mobiles were Googling a blue Square Ground guide 'Apple APP`. Yep we were that bad and that close. But football being football two late smash and grab goals ensured the kebabs burgers and fish suppers went down well.

The Imps got out of jail against Accrington last night with a last gasp own goal giving us an unlikely and in fairness ill deserved win. That said we will take given it could change the cause of our history after a pig of a 125th centenary season. When Accrington Stanley come to Sincil Bank N-I-N-E places above the Imps and T-O-Y with us in spells, something is dramatically W-R-O-NG. The introduction of Fulham midfielder Matthew Saunders, for Oakes on 53 ensured we at least started to compete in midfield, an area that despite a cast of thousands coming through this club, and the fact that we have 5 playing there each week, we cannot win a second ball to save our football league lives. Though Sutton has tinkered with almost 20 players, Jacko`s Rob Burch with another 4 vital saves last night, has been the instrumental factor in keeping us up.

Accy deserved to win this comfortably and should have had 2 or 3 with Miles getting booked for a penalty shout - exactly the same as Saturday`s and in the same position, but we got the rub of the green this time. It was not the forwards night with a full stretch Burch making a massive full length save as the Imps limped through the second half as Saunders began to change the face of the midfield with Kerr happy to have some help at last. Am I alone in thinking we have not learned that in order to play this game you have to win it first? The rose tinted brigade won`t like this but we were absolutely dire for the vast majority of this game and Accrington thoroughly deserved the points.

Keeping this short and sweet - for all the good news came in the last 7 minutes - to allow us to go to Grimsby heads held high, the Imps came back from the dead. In the 83rd minute Steven Lennon the goal machine, now 3 in his last 3 starts in all fixtures swept in from 12 yards following a low ball from Drew Broughton who had done well for most of the evening. He should deservedly get the assist but Lennon should get the freedom of the City for an unlikely goal at just the right time, LJL may try to claim something but in reality his keeping out of the way was the best policy. The Imps drove forward - the spirit was willing though the style and content suggested only a fluke was going to give us the three points we really needed having failed to perform against any of our lowly peers in 2010. It came after Andersons hopeful though wayward punt found Pearce who has been aching to become a hero since his arrival. His diagonal grass cutting cross come shot into the crowded penalty area cannoned off Darran Kempson before hitting the sodden turf and trickling over the line with keeper Dunbavin unable to keep it out.

Unfair but we will take it. Who`s off to Grimsby to gloat or have more teeth extracted depending on your perspective?

Lincoln City
1 Burch 22 Adam Watts 33 Baker (Pearce 36) 38 Anderson 7 Oakes (Saunders 53) 11 Kerr 16 Lennon 25 Hughton 34 Herd 35 Gilmore (John-Lewis 64) 15 Broughton
Subs
20 Musselwhite, 2 Green, 6 Hone, 13 Pearce,19 Clarke,39 Saunders,14 John-Lewis

Goals Lennon 83 Kempton (og) 90+1


Accrington Stanley
25 Dunbavin 5 Kempton 12 Edwards 15 Winnard 26 Lees 6 Procter 11 Grant 14 Ryan 17 McConville 7 Miles 19 Symes
Yellow card - Miles
Subs
1 Bouzanis, 20 Murphy, 31 Flynn, 16 Turner, 18 Mullin, 24 King, 9 Kee

Goal Grant 30
Ref: Mr Shoebridge
Crowd: 2,779 (110 visitors so 2679 Imps were tempted by £1 a Kid)

Stats
Possession Lincoln City 52% Accrington 48%
Shots On Lincoln City 6 Accrington 5
Shots Off Lincoln City 9 Accrington 12
Corners Lincoln City 4 Accrington 5
Fouls Lincoln City 16 Accrington 13

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=742574&sec=england&root=england&cc=5739

Play-off idea could do more harm than good


By Dale Johnson


February 17, 2010


When Aldershot FC became the first ever winners of English football's play-offs in 1987, the competition was treated with much scepticism by both clubs and supporters.


After spending a century with automatic promotion and relegation, the decision to give other clubs the right to move up a division, when they had not earned it over the course of a season, seemed absurd.

Today, the play-offs are very different. A welcome part of the Football League calendar, it gives many clubs who would never have a prayer of playing at Wembley the chance of their big day out. Very few would vote to scrap them.

From their humble beginnings as a promotion/relegation play-off, which saw the team in the final relegation place from one division play three from the division below with a two-legged final, the end-of-season competition has evolved into a straight play-off between the four sides directly below the promotion places in a given division.

Granted, it probably wasn't until the play-off finals moved to a one-legged Wembley final in 1990 that they finally began to capture the imagination of the fan. A certain Dion Dublin, then of Cambridge United, was the first player to score in a Wembley play-off final as they beat Chesterfield 1-0 in the old-Fourth Division showpiece in front of 26,404 supporters.

In recent years, the Football League powerbrokers have been more eager to see the play-offs expanded. In 2003, plans were afoot to make the play-offs a six-team affair, with an advantage given to the team which finished the league season highest.

It was an attempt to copy rugby league's Super League play-offs and was the brainchild of Phil Alexander, the chief executive of Crystal Palace. Although it was approved by the Football League clubs, pressure from both the Premier League and the Football Association saw the idea thrown on the scrapheap.

Seven years on, and the most radical idea yet for play-offs in the English leagues is set to be put before Premier League chairmen. Not since 1988, when Middlesbrough beat Chelsea 2-1 on aggregate to win promotion to the top flight and send the west London club into the second tier, has the top flight had any involvement in the play-offs.

The suggestion that the final Champions League place - which confusingly enough earns a place in the European play-off round - could be decided by a play-off which mirrors that of the Football League has been met with a mixed response. It's been far better received than the embarrassing "39th Game" fiasco which threatened to do irreparable damage to "The Brand" of the Premier League around the world and in this country.

Of course, there is still the chance that the ££ signs could lead the Premier League to use the play-offs as a way of resurrecting the "global game" idea, but again it is one which would only serve to further alienate the fan base. The whole proposal will cause enough headeaches without the added complexity of holding the match overseas.

There are far more questions than answers right now, with considerations for international championship years, especially a World Cup year like this one, leaving very little room for manoeuvre. Exactly how you could fit a two-legged semi-final and a Wembley final into the schedule is anyone's guess.

Take this season as an example, with the Champions League final on May 22, the last game which FIFA allow to be played by top flight clubs, paving the way for World Cup preparation. And with the Premier League's regular season due to finish on May 9, plus the FA Cup final on May 16, there would be no room.

Any plans for these play-offs would not come into force until 2013 when the next television deal begins, which suggests talk of an add-on for the Pay-Per-View model unlikely. It allows time to look into the football calendar, though 2013-14 would be another World Cup season. But any team which reaches the Premier League play-offs and either or both of the FA Cup and Champions League finals in the same season would present a logistical nightmare, and surely one which would be almost impossible to plan for in advance with far too many variables.

Then comes the question of financial fairness, which hasn't been at the forefront of Premier League planning. The Football League play-offs are specifically designed so that the four teams who compete gain limited financial benefit. In fact, most of the gate receipts from all five games in each division are redistributed among the other teams in that same division. It means that by the time the clubs do their sums they will probably only make a minor gain on commercial activities and merchandise.

Would Premier League clubs be as happy to accept a similar profit-sharing scheme, with the riches of a sell-out Wembley final being spread amongst the other clubs? It would surely only be fair to add integrity and give the impression of a level playing field, otherwise the unfair advantage of the "Big Four" would, in time, surely spread to the "Big Seven".

The Champions League play-off model is not an innovation which the Premier League can claim as its own; it was introduced by the Dutch Eredivisie in 2006. It lasted for just two seasons, with clubs finishing second to fifth involved, before being scrapped. Now Holland runs just one play-off for the final berth in the Europa League.

The play-offs were poorly received in the Netherlands and the expected bumper crowds never materialised; that scenario seems unthinkable in England. Organising the play-offs, which ran for three weeks, did prove extremely difficult in a tournament year too.

Although second-placed Ajax won the play-offs in 2007, they missed out to fourth-placed FC Twente in 2008 despite being runners-up again. FC Twente then failed to get past Arsenal to reach the group stage. It proved to be the final nail in the coffin.

Some claimed the decision to scrap the play-offs in Holland was purely down to Ajax flexing their muscles after being denied Champions League football, others felt Twente's failure was a poor reflection on the league but most felt it was only fair that the runners-up got their true reward.

Granted, with discussions in England being over fourth place the same concerns may not apply. But you can guarantee that the moment one of the "Big Four" were to miss out the complaints would begin

The Netherlands also found a headache in deciding the remaining European places, especially when they were completely unaware of how many places would be on offer until the Cup winners were known, something else which created a planning nightmare.

In 2008 there was a third/fourth place play-off between the semi-final losers, Heerenveen and NAC, for a guaranteed UEFA Cup place. The same could happen in England, unless rules stated that Europa League places automatically reverted to the losing team(s) placed highest in the league.

There's no doubt that the idea will have clubs outside the establish top four salivating at the prospect of the Champions League millions, but if the Premier League is not careful then unprepared sides will drag down England's co-efficient and that fourth place will be surrendered to another league, such as the Bundesliga.

In previous seasons, Fulham, Blackburn Rovers, Bolton Wanderers, Middlesbrough and Charlton would all have been in the Champions League play-offs. Blackburn, as Premier League champions, finished bottom of their Champions League group when they graced the stage in 1995 in a group which contained Legia Warsaw, Rosenborg and Spartak Moscow.

It may seem attractive, with a top seven full of relatively wealthy and stable clubs looking to push on. But that is not always the case and in the chase for "brand enrichment" through what many consider a lottery the Premier League chairmen could actually do more harm than good.

Everton manager David Moyes, one of those who could benefit from the change, spoke cautiously about the idea rather than hailing it as the advent of a brave new world.

"While it might be quite exciting, we play 38 Premier League games and that is where you should be judged," he said. "Where are you going to fit this programme in with all the international and European games that are flying round at the end of the season?"

Sage words indeed. Sometimes there is no need to look for a solution to a problem which does not exist.

Fourth place already rewards mediocrity. Why make that situation any worse?

http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/34304/Best_and_Worst_Fulham_Premier_League_Kits.aspx

Best and Worst: Fulham Premier League Kits


Author:  Jonny Abrams



Posted on:17 February 2010 - 09:43

 

From Fulham's rise to the top flight under Kevin Keegan through to the brief promise of Jean Tigana, the sporadic successes of Chris Coleman and the admirable reign thus far of Roy Hodgson, Fulham have had some pretty horrible kits - a crime not unique to the Cottagers, admittedly, given the collective loss of plot apparently suffered by kit designers across the country at the beginning of the 1980s. But there have also been some pretty smart numbers amongst the dross.

Using the Premier League era as our source, Sport.co.uk picks the best and worst Fulham kits to have coloured Craven Cottage over this period...


FULHAM'S BEST: 2008-2009 home kit


(http://www.sport.co.uk/public/fulham-08-09-home-kit.jpg)



A smart and sophisticatedly simple design, this is a classic football jersey as re-imagined with modern day football trends. Unnecessary lines and squiggles are kept to a bare minimum, which is a commendable decision given that kit makers seem to justify their employment by adding such nonsense. What's more, Fulham finished 7th and qualified for Europe. Pats on the back all round.



FULHAM'S WORST: 2003-2004 away kit


(http://www.sport.co.uk/public/Fulham-03-Away-USE.jpg)



This looks like the kind of pattern that psychologists hold up on pieces of card in films and ask "what do you see now?". The labial red stripes were obviously more than one person's idea of a nice touch, given that it actually got made, but we're damned if we know why, how or whom. In fact, it looks rather like a huge, gaping......er, failure. Why, what did you think we were going to say?

No Fear

Wednesday 17th February 2010


Fulham FC News

Fulham midfielder Dickson Etuhu says his side fear no team – including last season's UEFA Cup winners and Thursday night's opponents Shakhtar Donetsk.

The Ukrainian flyers come to Craven Cottage with an impressive reputation, especially in European knockout competition, having claimed the 2009 UEFA Cup.

Many see Shakhtar, coached by the experienced Mircea Lucescu and financed by the richest man in Europe, Rinat Akhmetov, as one of the favourites to reach the UEFA Europa League final.

But the Whites also start Thursday's game in confident mood, with Nigerian international Etuhu insisting Roy Hodgson's side are ready and waiting.

He told fulhamfc.com: "Some people say that Shakhtar come here as the favourites, and we have to respect that they are a very good side. They're well-organised and have some very good players.

"We know that they will be strong, of course they are – they won the UEFA Cup last season.

"But we certainly do not fear them. You shouldn't forget that we face some of the best players and best teams in the world every week in the Premier League. And teams don't get much bigger than Manchester United and Chelsea do they?

"It's a different type of football, sure. But we have a lot of experience with a lot of our players playing European and international football. So that shouldn't be a problem."

The 27-year-old, who has featured in Fulham's last three fixtures having missed the month of January as a result of his participation in the African Cup of Nations, is relishing the chance to show what he can do, after a frustrating season so far.

"It has been a frustrating one me for personally, although it's good that the team is doing well," he said. "It's good to be back in contention again having missed games through injury and the African Cup of Nations.

"Like the rest of the team I have been working hard all week and as always we are well prepared for the game ahead. This is an exciting one to be part of and I'm certainly looking forward to seeing what Shakhtar have got.

"It is a big game, but we have shown in the past that we are more than a match for anyone."

Don't miss a special night of European football at the Cottage on Thursday night. Tickets are now on General Sale!|


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/EtuhuShakhtarPreview.aspx#ixzz0fn6tuqcK (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/EtuhuShakhtarPreview.aspx#ixzz0fn6tuqcK)

Fulham v Shakhtar Donetsk

UEFA Europa League

Thursday, 18 February 2010


Kick-Off 20:05

On-sale Now
Tickets are now on General Sale   

Buy tickets online|

 

On Thursday 18th February, Kick-Off 8:05pm , reigning UEFA Cup Champions FC Shakhtar Donetsk visit Craven Cottage in arguably the biggest ever night of football in the Club's history.

With a last 16 Europa League tie against either Juventus or Ajax at stake, the Whites will be looking for a convincing victory to take into the second leg in Ukraine a week later.

The Club is expecting a full house, so make sure you purchase your tickets now to avoid missing out on a thrilling evening.

Prices
The first 10,000 tickets have now SOLD OUT .  Ticket prices are now as follows:

Season Ticket Holders (Advance Bookings)

£15 Adults
£10 Concessions (under 21 / over 65)
£5 Juniors (under 16)
Non-Season Ticket Holders and Matchday prices

£20 Adults
£15 Concessions (under 21 / over 65)
£5 Juniors (under 16)
How to Buy
buy tickets online  - 7 days a week, 24 hrs a day. Save on booking fees by booking online*
by phone on 0870 442 1234 (option 1) - 7 days a week, 24 hours a day
in person from the Ticket Office: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; non-match day Sat 10am-12pm
by fax 0207 384 4810 (download printable form )
by postal application to FFC Ticket Office, Stevenage Road, Fulham, SW6 6HH enclosing a stamped addressed envelope (download printable form )
* Lower booking fees compared to telephone booking

UEFA Seating Requirements
Please note that UEFA regulations mean that we are required to make special alterations to the seating arrangements for all European matches being held at the Cottage. As we have now progressed to the Round of 32 the media requirements imposed on us by UEFA have increased significantly. Where necessary we will be relocating a number of supporters to alternative seats, and we will endeavour to assign the best available seats to anyone affected. There is also a possibility that additional seats will be required therefore we may need to relocate supporters once tickets have been booked for the game. Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience that this causes.


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/tickets/games/FulhamvShakhtarDonetsk.aspx#ixzz0fn79hcDH (http://www.fulhamfc.com/tickets/games/FulhamvShakhtarDonetsk.aspx#ixzz0fn79hcDH)

http://shakhtar.com/en/news/12214

London: clothes counts for first impressions

16-02-10 21:17:49


On February 16 FC Shakhtar Donetsk finished training in St. Albans and moved to London itself. This means only that the first official match of this year - the Europa League clash against Fulham is to come very soon.

After the quiet English town, where there were not so much things to make bright impressions, the footballers decided to have some fun in lively and hectic London. To stroll along the streets of one of the most famous cities of the world, to watch the people and buy some souvenirs for the relatives. Fortunately, Mircea Lucescu allowed the players to have some spare time.

But here came a curious thing. Anyhow, the Miners haven't had such experience in any city of the world. The players decided to increase the earnings of one of London's reputable shops – Harrods. The footballers, who have money and are eager to buy a lot were certain to leave there the big sum. But...

You may be surprised, but the Miners weren't allowed to enter the shop. The staff said that the group of customers was too big and suspicious. All of them were wearing similar tracksuits. The players explained that this was the football team and they had no habit of taking tuxedos to the training camp to go shopping. But those explanations were fruitless.

They say, when in Rome do as the Romans do... The players bought the presents for their relatives in another shop and its owner was very glad. We only hope that if in London clothes so funnily counts for the first impression, after the match the Londoners will treat our team with respect.

FC Shakhtar
Press Office

http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3964534

Chicago Fire Take Down Whitecaps FC 4-1


February 15, 2010 - North American Soccer League (NASL) Vancouver Whitecaps

Vancouver Whitecaps FC suffered a 4-1 defeat to Major League Soccer (MLS) club Chicago Fire in the second match of their two-week pre-season trip to Arizona on Monday.

A pair of first-half goals by Dutch striker Collins John set Chicago on their way to victory in their first match of the pre-season, despite Whitecaps midfielder Ricardo Sánchez scoring from the penalty spot just before the break for the USSF D-2 Pro League outfit. The Fire sealed the win at Arizona State University Soccer Stadium when second-half substitute Stefan Dimitrov scored twice shortly after halftime.

Following on from last Thursday's 3-2 friendly defeat to MLS club Seattle Sounders FC, Whitecaps head coach Teitur Thordarson made three changes to his starting XI for Monday's match in Tempe, Arizona. Trialist Dan Pelc replaced Jay Nolly in the Vancouver goal, while Nelson Akwari came in for trialist Wesley Charles at centre back. New 'Caps signing Zourab Tsiskaridze replaced Randy Edwini-Bonsu to partner Marlon James in attack.

On a typically warm and sunny Arizona afternoon, it was the Fire that made the most of their 4-1-4-1 formation set out by new head coach Carlos de los Cobos, with Monday's friendly played over the course of two 40-minute halves.

Chicago needed little time to take the lead. From their first corner of the match on 17 minutes, John took advantage of a partially cleared Joao Baptista set-piece, as he turned and powered home a right-footed shot for 1-0. The Fire doubled their advantage through another strike by John on 36 minutes. The trialist, who enjoyed a spell in the English Premier League with Fulham FC, struck a half-volleyed effort past Pelc to make it 2-0.

Two minutes after the second goal, however, the Whitecaps pulled one back after English defender Izzy Iriekpen brought down James in the Fire box for a penalty. Sánchez stepped up to convert his spot kick past Fire goalkeeper Andrew Dykstra for a 2-1 Chicago lead at the break.

The second half saw youngster Alex Semenets replace Tsiskaridze in attack, but it was the Fire that sealed the friendly with two goals from Bulgarian midfielder Dimitrov. He made it 3-1 with a strike from the top of the Vancouver box five minutes after the break, while his second goal was a header from a Mark Blades cross on 58 minutes.

Though Semenets and fellow Whitecaps substitute Cornelius Stewart had opportunities to reply for the Blue and White, Chicago ran out comfortable winners in the end.

Thordarson believes his players will learn from Monday's friendly. "Though we were never outplayed, what let us down were bad mistakes on the goals we conceded," he told whitecapsfc.com. "As difficult a match as it was, these games provide great experience for our players, as it shows them the level that they need to achieve. MLS clubs keep better ball possession than most of the teams we play in our league. It makes matches like today an important exercise for our team."

The Whitecaps will continue their pre-season camp in Arizona with a week of training before concluding the trip with a friendly versus 2009 MLS Cup champions Real Salt Lake at Grande Sports World in Casa Grande, Arizona, on Saturday afternoon. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. PT.

http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/yorkcityfc/matchreports/5011846.York_City_0__Luton_0/

Alex Lawless then went close to opening the scoring with three edge-of-the-box efforts in as many minutes.

The former Fulham midfielder bent the first inches wide of Tyler's left-hand post and then narrowly cleared the crossbar with the next two attempts – one with his right foot and the other with his left.

http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_5955089,00.html

FRESH REID BLOW FOR BLACK CATS


Posted 17/02/10 10:48



Sunderland midfielder Andy Reid faces another month-long spell on the sidelines with a fresh hamstring injury.

Reid, who was out for four weeks after Christmas with a hamstring problem that saw him miss three games, sustained the latest blow in the 1-1 draw at Portsmouth.

"Unfortunately Andy has suffered a new hamstring injury," confirmed club physician Dr Glen Rae on the club's official website.

"He is working with the medical team, but is likely to be missing from training for around four weeks."

Reid could potentially miss Sunderland's next five Barclays Premier League games, starting at Arsenal on Saturday before matches with Fulham, Aston Villa, Bolton and Manchester City.

http://www.thisiscroydontoday.co.uk/latestnews/Football-clubs-Croydon-College-join-fight-youth-unemployment/article-1824612-detail/article.html


Football clubs and Croydon College join to fight youth unemployment

Wednesday, February 17, 2010, 11:00


by Ian Austen

[email protected]


Croydon College is entering the big league in its ongoing drive to help young people into employment.

Working in partnership with football clubs Spurs, Arsenal, West Ham, Fulham, Charlton Athletic and Brentford, the college has won a £400,000 contract from the Department of Work and Pensions to create 60 jobs for 18 to 24 year olds.

The youngsters will be employed for six months with the clubs' community trusts, and will work towards gaining qualifications as football coaches.

The young people will be provided with mentors from coaching staff, while the college will provide courses in literacy, numeracy and equipping them for employment.

Claire Parry, managing director of Croydon Skills and Enterprise College, which is part of Croydon College, said: "The contract is a real coup for us and shows we're dedicated to working innovatively in partnership with other organisations to support the development of both individuals and businesses in an unpredictable economic climate.

"It is great for Croydon that we have been chosen to take the lead and manage the programme."

The youngsters joining the scheme have been drawn by the college from unemployment hotspots across London, identified with the football clubs involved.
Half the youths starting out on the programme will be offered permanent jobs at the end of it.

Those chosen will then be offered an apprenticeship programme by the college.

The scheme is part of the Government's Future Jobs Fund which provides cash to projects creating jobs for young people.
Ms Parry is hopeful that if it is successful it could be extended to bring in other London clubs in the future.

Grant Cornwell, chief executive of the Tottenham Hotspur Foundation, which is leading the clubs in the partnership, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for football clubs to work together addressing and impacting positively on employment in their local communities.

FA Cup Confirmation

Wednesday 17th February 2010


Fulham FC News


The Club can confirm that Fulham's FA Cup Quarter Final clash against either Bolton Wanderers or Tottenham Hotspur at the Cottage will be played on Saturday 6th March. The game will kick-off at 5.20pm and will be shown live on ITV1.

FA Cup Ticket Information:
Tickets will go on sale Season Ticket Holders on Wednesday 17th February at 3pm (max 4 tickets). Season Ticket Holders seats will be held until 9am on Monday 22nd February.

Tickets will be made available to Fulham Club Members from 9am on Friday 19th February before going on General Sale at 9am on Monday 22nd February.

Season Ticket Holders who are on the Home Cup Tie Scheme will automatically have their ticket loaded onto their Season Ticket Access Card.

Season Ticket Holders on the Cup Scheme must inform the Ticket Office if their credit card has recently changed so their details can be updated.

Ticket Prices:
Advance price:
- Adults £25.00
- Over 65's/ under 21's £15.00
- Under 16's £10.00

Matchday price
- Adults £30.00
- Over 65's/under 21's £20.00
- Under 16's £15.00

Please note tickets will only be available to supporters purchasing in person on Thursday up to 7pm and on Sunday up to 2pm. Tickets will be available to purchase after the match on Sunday.


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/FACupConfirmation.aspx#ixzz0fnH5Hlfv (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/FACupConfirmation.aspx#ixzz0fnH5Hlfv)

Roman Pavlyuchenko: Why won't Harry Redknapp let me leave when I never play for Tottenham Hotspur

By Ashley Gray


Last updated at 12:02 PM on 17th February 2010

Roman Pavlyuchenko has pleaded with Harry Redknapp to stop making fun of him before he becomes a forgotten man.

The Tottenham Hotspur striker is baffled that his boss refused an offer from Lokomotiv Moscow, despite hardly calling on the 28-year-old this season.
Pavlyuchenko is heartened by support from the White Hart Lane faithful, but believes he has no future at the club who paid £13.8million for him after Euro 2008.

Lokomotiv Moscow claim Spurs chiefs were happy to sell them Pavlyuchenko this week, only for Redknapp to block a deal till the summer.

'Sometimes I have a feeling that Redknapp is just making fun of me,' he told Russian newspaper Sport Express. 'I told him that this can not go on, since I wouldn't help my team with sad thoughts in my mind.

'I need to play football, otherwise people will have only memories of the footballer Pavlyuchenko and they won't need him anymore.
'Lokomotiv made really worthy offer and if I sit on the sub's bench they won't offer the same sum in summer.'

Redknapp has remained an admirer, despite the striker making public his desire to return to Russia, and Robbie Keane was offloaded to Celtic on loan in the summer at the expense of Pavlyuchenko leaving the club.

Peter Crouch and Jermain Defoe are Spurs favoured frontline partnership, restricting the import to just four Barclays Premier League appearances from the bench this season.

When Pavlyuchenko asked to leave in August, he was convinced that he still had a role to play in north London, but injuries have compounded a continuing lack of opportunities.


'Redknapp said that I would play for sure,' he said. 'As the result I featured in six or seven games having 10 minutes of playing time. I am absolutely sure that it will be the same in the next three months.
'I don't see any future for myself in Tottenham. They are a really big club with super fans, who liked me, however I think it's the end of the affair, not with the team but with the head coach.'
Birmingham came closest to agreeing a fee with Spurs in the January transfer window, but Pavlyuchenko has his heart set on a return to Russia. Liverpool, West Ham and Fulham also expressed and interest in taking him on loan.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1251691/Roman-Pavlyuchenko-Why-wont-Harry-Redknapp-let-leave-I-play-Tottenham-Hotspur.html#ixzz0fnPWKHEB (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1251691/Roman-Pavlyuchenko-Why-wont-Harry-Redknapp-let-leave-I-play-Tottenham-Hotspur.html#ixzz0fnPWKHEB)

http://fulhampatsfan.blogspot.com/2010/02/5-reasons-why-i-think-fulham-can.html



5 Reasons Why I Think Fulham Can Conquer America

This entry is in response to the great article I just read on EPLtalk.com. The article on EPLtalk.com is entitled " 5 Reasons Why Manchester City Can Conquer America". The writer discusses that Manchester City are considering a preseason tour of the United States. The writer mentions this could be an opportunity for Manchester City to become popular in the U.S. He then breaks down the 5 reasons why Manchester City can conquer America. The writer makes a very good argument for Manchester City in the U.S. Below I am going to give you the" 5 Reasons Why I think Fulham can Conquer America." If you want to read the reasons for Manchester City here is a link to the article. I think Roy Hogdson and Fulham have the potential to grow its fanbase in America. Please read below the link to see my reason for Fulham.

http://www.epltalk.com/5-reasons-why-manchester-city-can-conquer-america/15821#more-15821 (http://www.epltalk.com/5-reasons-why-manchester-city-can-conquer-america/15821#more-15821)



1. Americans love a great manager of a club. In American football, baseball, basketball and hockey the manager or coach is under the microscope of the fans of their teams. For example I will use Bill Belichick the Head Coach of the New England Patriots. In my opinion he might be the greatest coach in NFL history. He is constantly under scrutiny and is a polarizing figure. Belichick though is a 3 time Super Bowl champion ,who whether "you like him or hate him" has the respect of the media and the fans as a great head coach. As a fan I know the Patriots are always going to be well prepared and be put in the best situation to win. Roy Hogdson has put his club in the best position to win every week. As a fan their is not more than you can ask from your manager. I think Americans would be intrigued by Hogdson's history with the team and how he dug them out of possibly being relegated in 2007 - 2008 season. They will also appreciate how he started to rebuild Fulham on defense. Americans love a team that plays strong defense in any sport I would argue. It is a major key to victory. What also makes Hogdson appealing is his personality. In interviews and during games the man seems under control and confident. Roy would be a huge hit in America.

2. Fielding a strong international squad. As stated in the EPLtalk.com article America is a melting pot of many nations. What is great about Fulham is that the team like the EPL in general have an international makeup to its squad. The strikers are Bobby Zamora fom England and David Elm from Sweden. In the midfield you have Damien Duff from Ireland, Danny Murphy from England, Clint Dempsey from the United States, and Dickson Etuhu from Nigeria. In the back on defense you have Chris Baird from Northern Ireland, John Pantsil from Ghana, Brede Hangeland from Norway, and Aaron Hughes from Northern Ireland. Finally you have Mark Schwarzer in goal from Australia. Americans tend to be attracted to players they can relate to. The makeup of this team has someone for every fan.

3. Americans love to get behind the underdog. I think Americans like to get behind a team that doesn't have all the money in the world to spend on players. I think Americans are attracted to teams that have a strong work ethic and have to try harder to work with what they have. A team like Fulham reminds me of the 2001 New England Patriots. They did not have the most talent, but they played together as a team. Another team I would compare them to is the Minnesota Twins in baseball. This team does not have a huge payroll, but year after year they field a team that contends for their division. I think Fulham can be a team that contends for a Europa League spot consistently each year. They are not going to be a Champions League Team. I know if Americans watched Fulham beat Manchester United earlier this year they would be hooked on this team. The underdog beat one of the best teams in the world. Americans definitely would be behind a team like Fulham.

4. An American Player on the team and a past that has had several Americans on the squad. This goes back to the melting pot theory. Americans can relate to a team that has one of their own on it. Clint Dempsey is a very good player for Fulham. He is I would say a star on the U.S. World Cup Team. As we go into the summer many Americans will be watching the World Cup. Since Clint Dempsey plays for Fulham it will give fans a chance to see a prominent Fulham player. This could very well attract new fans to the club.

5. Fulham selected Fenway Sports Group as exclusive North American Agency. The Fenway Sports Group I have written a few months back about. This sports marketing agency could be a huge help with the growth of Fulham. Their main responsibility is finding corporate sponsorships including on the jersey for the 2010 - 2011 season. This organization is closely affiliated with the Boston Red Sox. The Red Sox have to be considered one of the best marketers of there brand in American Sports. This marketing has helped the Red Sox funnel money to pay for players. There is no question that marketing has had a huge positive effect on the Boston Red Sox. The result is they have won 2 World Series titles in the last 6 years. I think this firm could potentially help market Fulham better and build its brand. This could help the team have more money to spend on players.


I think these are 5 very good reasons why Fulham could become a favorite in the United States. I do think at some point they need to plan a summer preseason trip to America again. Seeing the team in person would definitely help build fan interest as well. They did come several years ago for a summer trip.

Maybe you don't think it is important for a team to breakthrough in America? I certainly can see that. If you are a fan of Fulham you want to see them compete every year in the EPL. The more fans of the team can mean more money which can be used to upgrade the team. I am of the mindset the more fans the better wherever they come from.

Posted by Fulham-Pats Fan at 8:02 AM 

http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/10/02/17/SOCCER_Fulham.html&TEAMHD=soccer


KONCHESKY REMAINS SIDELINED


Fulham defender Paul Konchesky is unlikely to be available for Thursday's League clash with Shakhtar Donetsk.

Konchesky has returned to light training after recovering from his foot injury but the first leg of the last-32 match appears too early for his comeback.

Zoltan Gera returns from his knee problem but long-term casualties Kagisho Dikgacoi (ankle), Andrew Johnson, Clint Dempsey and John Pantsil (all knee) are out.

Team:

Fulham (from): Schwarzer, Zuberbuhler, Baird, Kelly, Stoor, Hangeland, Hughes, Smalling, Shorey, Gera, Duff, Murphy, Greening, Davies, Etuhu, Riise, Nevland, Okaka, Elm, Zamora.

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12874_5955614,00.html


Elm eyes new Fulham deal


Striker keen on longer Craven Cottage stay



Last updated: 17th February 2010   


Skysports.com understands David Elm is keen on signing a new deal at Fulham.

The Swedish striker has enjoyed a run in the side in recent weeks after injuries sustained by Andy Johnson and Clint Dempsey.

The 27-year-old, who joined Fulham in the summer from Kalmar FF, has impressed in the last few games, including scoring his first goal for the club in the 3-0 success over Burnley last week.

Elm originally signed a one-year deal at Craven Cottage with the club holding the option to extend it.

The player's agent, Patrick Mork, has revealed Fulham have indicated they are ready to take up the option to extend Elm's deal for a further two years and that they have up until the end of March to activate the clause in his contract.

"Nothing about a new deal has happened as yet, but we have got indications off Fulham that they want keep David," Mork told skysports.com.

"They have shown positive indications about taking up a two-year option in his contract and I would be surprised if they didn't.

"David would be delighted to sign a longer contract at Fulham as he is enjoying himself there.

"They have until March 31st to take up the option and if they don't I am sure there will be other clubs who will be interested in David.

"He is getting more confident now he is playing regularly and he is happy playing under Roy Hodgson."

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_5955715,00.html


Argyle extend keeper deal


Stockdale stays on at Home Park


Last updated: 17th February 2010   

Plymouth Argyle have extended the loan spell of David Stockdale for a second month.

The Fulham goal keeper has spent an initial month on loan with the Championship club, making six appearances to date.

He has impressed Argyle manager Paul Mariner, who has now moved to extend the stay of the 24-year-old.

"David is returning for another month on loan," said Stockdale.

"We are trying to get a rolling deal but we are happy with what Roy Hodgson and his staff have asked.

"My viewpoint is he has improved the team. He helps the unit and the back four so we are delighted he joined us - and is staying for another month."

http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/football-ealing/fulham-fc-ealing/2010/02/17/fulham-defender-brede-hangeland-hoping-for-shakhtar-success-64767-25854220/

Fulham defender Brede Hangeland hoping for Shakhtar success


Feb 17 2010 By Yann Tear


Brede Hangeland

FULHAM boss Roy Hodgson should not be surprised if Brede Hangeland starts offering to carry his bags and make him extra cups of tea in the next couple of days.

The big Norwegian is desperate to play in tomorrow's mouth-watering Europa League tie against last year's Uefa Cup winners Shakhtar Donetsk and will do his best to persuade the boss he should play.

Fulham boss Hodgson is almost certain to select his centre-half against the Ukranians, but Hangeland was rested for half of the European group ties and he does not want to miss out again.

"I always want to play, whether it's a friendly, the League Cup, or the European Cup, even if you feel sometimes you are a bit tired and the body could use a rest," he said.

"When you see the game kick off and you're not a part of it, you always feel disappointed. But I trust the manager's judgement and hopefully I can get to play against Shakhtar.

"The atmosphere for the game against Roma was fantastic and it could be like that again. They are the big nights you look forward to as players and they are a really nice break from the league."

Hangeland will not be dropped because of his form, even though he conceded it took a slight dip last month.

"I'd like to think I was at a decent level, but I've definitely played better games than the ones in January. It's easier to play well when the team's doing well and when we as a team struggle, I think all individuals find it a bit harder to raise their standards.

"What's more, I've been having trouble with my knee injury for a while. It seems to have settled down now, but it wasn't very comfortable during the games in January."

http://www.voiceofbolton.com/latest-news/match-reports-section/56-season-2009--2010-match-reports/800-wanderers-0-fulham-0

Wanderers 0 Fulham 0 - The Keighey Report

Sunday, 07 February 2010 06:26 Brian Keighley   


The problem with being a Messiah is that people anticipate instant miracles. The more realistic might settle for some early signs of gradual change but they too would have been disappointed by this performance. I know Rome wasn't built in a day but surely Romulus, gazing down from his hill, would have expected to see a few cranes and bulldozers before he rode off to find some Sabine women to help populate his new city. There were no such harbingers of transformation on display at the Reebok yesterday. The game, particularly in the first half, was distinctly Megsonian. Given the enforced absence of Cahill and Steinsson, who were replaced by Andy O'brien and Robinson, pre-match hopes were that we would score more than them; it soon became apparent that goals would be as rare as Sabine virgins.

Some of the blame for this lay in the initial selection and tactics. It appears that OC sees Mark Davies as a Teddy Sheringham or Peter Beardsely, playing behind the main striker and producing probing passes, which result in lots of goals. It didn't work, partly because Davies Minor isn't that kind of player, partly because Davies Major doesn't score lots of goals, and partly because the defence habitually play the ball direct to Davies Major anyway. The result was that for an hour we had the familiar lack of co-ordination with the ball in the air as often as it was on the floor.

 
The first half had only one memorable moment. It brought me out of my seat celebrating the opening goal, only to find that, incomprehensibly, play was still continuing. The move involved the two Davieses. Kevin's header for once found its target and set up Mark. His shot from close in struck Schwarzer but rather than ricocheting into the goal it struck the underside of the bar and bounced back into play.

 
After an hour of largely aimless endeavour OC brought on Elmander in place of Mark Davies and we reverted to a more conventional 4-4-2. It made little difference; we were still awful and Fulham were worse. Things appeared to deteriorate even further when O'Brien was injured and the defence had to be re-jigged with Basham at right back and Ricketts switching to left centre back. Fortunately even this makeshift line up was adequate to contain the impotent Fulham attack.

 
Finally, with just twenty minutes left, Weiss replaced Taylor and things improved. Virtually all the action and excitement occurred after this substitution. Weiss made an instant impact, remained busy, and things started to happen. Cohen put Chung through but as the Korean rounded Schwarzer, the keeper thrust out a paw and palmed the ball away. Muamba almost bundled the ball in at the near post and Elmander missed a sitter when put through by Davies. Weiss himself had a shot that cannoned off a defender and ballooned over the bar. At last, in the final minute Kevin Davies scored with a header from a Chung free kick. Once again I was out of my seat rejoicing but again my elation was short lived. Mr. Clattenburg saw a push that even the Match of the Day cameras failed to pick up.

 
Bad as we were for most of the game we ought to have won against a poor Fulham side and, given the late rally, the win would have been deserved. However, the referee's defective eyesight and an inability to convert chances meant that we lost two precious points. It's ironic that under the defence obsessed Megson we scored plenty of goals but leaked them at the other end, whilst under the attack minded Coyle the goals have dried up but we have kept three clean sheets.

 
Individual heroes were few and far between but one man in a white shirt was outstanding. Jim was less than complimentary about Fabrice Muamba in his account of the Burnley game and in conversation his criticism was even stronger. Another friend, John, is habitually critical of the midfield player. For various reasons neither Jim nor John were at this game and they won't believe my praise is justified. Nevertheless, he was magnificent. Whilst Mark Davies was on the pitch, Muamba lay deep and I thought this was the reason for his improved display, but later, when we reverted to 4-4-2, he was equally good. And this against a midfield that included Danny Murphy, Jonathon Greening and Damien Duff, who can all play a bit.

 
Another player that did well was Zat Knight. Without Cahill, Knight was the cornerstone of a generally sound defence, commanding both in the air and on the ground. My praise is only qualified by the fact that the Fulham attack was woeful and that, together with the rest of the defence, Knight's distribution was weak. O'Brien and Robinson were the worst offenders but they all tended to play the ball in the air.

 
Elsewhere there was only disappointment. Chung flitted in and out, a shadow of his best. Kevin Davies had his moments and did some good things but his technique was unreliable. Cohen remains a trier, and his pass to Chung was a peach, but he isn't really up to the task. When Elmander came on Cohen was the player that should have left, with Mark Davies dropping back into a more conventional midfield role. Taylor was once again poor and, on current form, he adds nothing to the game. The introduction of Weiss was the catalyst to improvement and the change should have been made sooner.

 
So, a few criticisms of St. Owen in this report. I haven't lost the faith, I believe our play will become easier on the eye but not everyone will be patient. At a guess, there were more Bolton fans present at this game than for some time. Some of them won't come again and there was even a faint suggestion of booing at half time.

 
Those of you that live in Bolton might be aware that the current production at the Manchester Exchange theatre is Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun. I'm still dreaming of a golden future for the Wanderers but the title of the play is taken from a poem by Langston Hughes, which contains the ominous lines

'What happens to a dream deferred?Does it dry upLike a raisinin the sun?' Come on Owen. You've improved the defence, now trust your instincts and play those that are comfortable on the ball. Chung, Weiss, Wilshire, Mark Davies, Ricky, not a long list, but enough to make a difference.   

Quote from: White Noise on February 17, 2010, 11:30:32 AM
http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3964534

Chicago Fire Take Down Whitecaps FC 4-1


A pair of first-half goals by Dutch striker Collins John set Chicago on their way to victory in their first match of the pre-season,

The trialist, who enjoyed a spell in the English Premier League with Fulham FC, struck a half-volleyed effort past Pelc to make it 2-0.

Well, I'm glad SOMEBODY bloody enjoyed it!  >:(

Quote from: HatterDon on February 18, 2010, 05:19:42 PM

Quote from: White Noise on February 17, 2010, 11:30:32 AM
http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3964534

Chicago Fire Take Down Whitecaps FC 4-1


A pair of first-half goals by Dutch striker Collins John set Chicago on their way to victory in their first match of the pre-season,

The trialist, who enjoyed a spell in the English Premier League with Fulham FC, struck a half-volleyed effort past Pelc to make it 2-0.

Well, I'm glad SOMEBODY bloody enjoyed it!  >:(

aw... Collins John was exciting for a minute or so, wasn't he?