Rabu, 27 Juni 2012

Bud Selig: Expand Instant Replay

Being an umpire in Major League Baseball is harder then refereeing in any other sport as last night's Dewayne Wise drop that the umpire assumed was caught could have been a game-changing play as if the call was not wrong and called a dropped foul ball, Jack Hannahan could have hit a home run and changed the momentum and led the Indians to a comeback win which would put them in the playoffs, and instead, Hannahan gets ejected and the Indians lose, costing them a playoff spot. Now this is a very extreme and highly unlikely scenario but the point is, these calls can possibly change games and baseball needs to make sure they get it right.

Bud Selig has been hesitant to expand instant replay beyond fair and foul home run calls but we need to expand it to include other calls like safe/out calls at first base just like the Armando Galarraga almost perfect game call at first base by one of baseball's best umpires Jim Joyce. This expanded replay should also improve the trapped catches to see if an outfielder caught the ball before it hit the ground or if it bounced into the glove. Also, this replay can be used to decide whether a ball landed in fair or foul territory as there have been foul calls when the ball hit the line. So, the main question is how is this applied?

Major League Baseball should look at the way Little League Baseball has done their replay as they have it in the camera area right behind home plate with another umpire in there to help the umpire determine the call. Major League Baseball can look at the NFL in how they have someone in the press box looking at it and they can have the umpire go just off the field to one of the camera areas next one of the dugouts. This would allow calls to be quick and it would only add a couple of minutes to the game. The technology is good enough for Major League Baseball to expand instant replay and until they do, all these missed calls are Bud Selig's fault.

Selasa, 26 Juni 2012

A Nostalgic Korean Summer

The K-League All Stars game is a regular part of the Korean football calendar and a much-loved fixture at that. The format changes as in the past, northern teams have played southern teams, the K-League team has played J-League counterparts and two years ago, even Barcelona provided the opposition.

This time though, the team lining up against the All-Stars on July 5, made up of players who won the most votes in a nationwide poll, are special. It is the 2002 World Cup team. As this month marks the tenth anniversary of that glorious run to the semi-final, the authorities have seen fit to mark the occasion with what should be a sell-out exhibition at Seoul World Cup Stadium, where the run came to an end at the hands of Germany.

It is being organized by the star of the show Ahn Jung-hwan. The recently retired striker who headed Italy out of the competition on that unforgettable night in Daejeon, an incredible night in both football terms and what happened in the country in the following hours and days, is heading the marketing campaign. He has already been seen calling captain Hong Myong-bo who then gets hold of Guus Hiddink. Both will be present.

It remains to be seen if Park Ji-sung will make it though it doesn’t look likely and Lee Young-pyo will be busy in MLS with Vancouver Whitecaps. Most of the others will be there – Seol Ki-hyeon, Kim Nam-il and Lee Woon-jae are still active in the K-League while the likes of Ahn and Song Chung-guk have just recently retired. Hwang Sun-hong and Yoo Sang-chul, who scored in the opening round 2-0 win over Poland, are now K-League coaches with Pohang Steelers and Daejeon Citizen respectively.

It promises to be quite a night.  

FA Cup fighting

There was a good deal of hand-wringing after the fist-flinging at Seoul World Cup Stadium on June 20 in the fourth round of the FA Cup between bitter rivals FC Seoul and Suwon Bluewings. Once again, Suwon got the better of the capital club with a 2-0 win although the goals will not be remembered long. What will stick in the memory are 42 fouls, one red card (and there really should have been more with some of the wild challenges) and the mass brawl that broke out at the end of the game.

It didn’t stop there as Korean media reported that a Seoul marketing officials was hospitalized by a member of the Suwon staff. After a fifth straight defeat against Suwon, a number of Seoul fans then protested outside the stadium against their own team (sitting top of the league at this point) and lay down in front of the team bus.  

Back to the league

Jeonbuk Motors are the form team at the moment with five straight wins which contained 19 goals. Chile recruit Hugo Droguett has found his feet in the league and is starting to shine after a slow start. Lee Dong-gook is never far from the scoresheet and netted a hat-trick in a recent 5-3 win at home to Gyeongnam FC, goals 124, 125 and 126 in the K-League. Nobody has scored more.

 There are worries for Seongnam. Three straight defeats in the league and an elimination from the FA Cup, the club’s best hope of a place in the 2013 Asian Champions League (they were eliminated from the 2012 version recently) have put the pressure on Shin Tae-young. If it wasn’t for the fact that he had led the team to the 2010 Asian title, he may be in a little danger. As it is, he can stand by the sidelines looking annoyed.

There have been many changes at the club since that 2010 win and just as the team was starting to settle in the second half of 2011, there was another raft at the end of the season. Too many good players have left for the liking of fans who have demanded a meeting with the club.

Daejeon Citizen seem to going in the opposite direction. A truly dreadful start to the season in which they lost nine out of the first ten games, had everyone tipping the Purple Emperors for the drop. But three wins out of the last four – including a 3-0 victory at Seongnam – have seen Yoo Sang-cheol’s men start to pull away from the basement.

Belgian striker Kevin Oris has started to look very good and if former injury-prone national team midfielder Kim Hyeung-beom can keep fit and scoring the kind of screamer that did for Seongnam, the future may be bright.

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Matt Kenseth leaves Rosuh-Fenway Racing

It seemed like Matt Kenseth would retire at Roush-Fenway Racing but it was announced today that Kenseth would leave Roush and be replaced in the 17 by 2011 Nationwide Series Champion Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Stenhouse will be a good Cup Series driver but it is definitely a surprise to see Kenseth out at Roush especially since he is the points leader on the Cup series. Kenseth has had some sponsorship issues and Kenseth's salary would had been way more than the up-and-coming Stenhouse. However, Kenseth might have a deal already in place as he will be in a top quality ride next season. Kenseth will not end up at another Ford team most likely as Ford said they were sad to lose Kenseth from a Ford team which means he will not be headed for Penske or Richard Petty Motorsports. Kenseth is likely to end up at Joe Gibbs Racing as they have thought about expanding to four teams and Kenseth could also replace Joey Logano as Home Depot may want an upgrade in the 20 car. This could move Joey Logano to a fourth car sponsored by possibly Dollar General and GameStop. If Kenseth does not end up at Gibbs, he could end up at Michael Waltrip Racing as they have thought about expanding to four teams with Kenseth possibly being a third full time driver. Kenseth could definitely look at going to Waltrip as their two full time drivers (Clint Bowyer and Martin Truex Jr) are in the top 10 in points. Logano could also end up at Waltrip if Kenseth replaces him at Gibbs as Toyota would love to keep one of the Cup Series's biggest up-and-comers. Matt Kenseth will be in a quality ride as the first domino has fallen in the 2012 NASCAR silly season.

The Bradley Beal Sweepstakes

Beal has become the second best prospect in this year's draft
Bradley Beal has emerged as arguably the second best player in this year's draft after Anthony Davis  but the Charlotte Bobcats are looking to move their number two overall pick as they have no interest in Beal since they already have DJ Augustin, Kemba Walker, and Gerald Henderson in the back court. The Bobcats will have some suitors for that pick as Bradley Beal is potentially the next Ray Allen. So, who could the Bobcats trade the Bradley Beal pick to?

Trade Proposal Number One
Washington Wizards send: First Round Pick 3, SF Trevor Ariza
Charlotte Bobcats send: First Round Pick 2
The Wizards could very well get Beal with the third pick if Charlotte stays at two but the Bobcats will most likely move this pick and the Wizards want to get Beal. Beal would allow the Wizards to go with a smaller starting lineup with John Wall and Jordan Crawford. Beal would give Wall another shooter to give the ball and having two sharp shooters in Beal and Crawford will be a hard thing challenge defensively for opponents. The Bobcats will get Trevor Ariza which will allow them to upgrade at small forward as Ariza is still only 26 and is still developing. A change in scenery is exactly what Ariza need and has already received once already since he is at least going to DC. This trade can work well for both sides as both teams can get the players they could use.

Trade Proposal Two
Cleveland Cavaliers send: First Round Pick 4, First Round Pick 24
Charlotte Bobcats send: First Round Pick 2
The Cavaliers have multiple picks that they can use in a trade for the second overal pick as they can send the Bobcats both of their own first round picks for the second pick. The Bobcats need a shooter that Kyrie Irving can drive and kick the ball out to and Beal is that player. The Cavs need a 2 guard and Beal is definitely the best  option in this year's draft. The Bobcats need picks and this can allow them to take Thomas Robinson or Michael Kidd-Gilchrist here, whichever one is still on the board and they can also get another role player later on in the draft. This trade fits well for both teams as this proposal would make the Bobcats think.

Trape Proposal Three
Toronto Raptors send: First Round Pick 8, SG/SF DeMar DeRozan
Charlotte Bobcats send: First Round Pick 2
The Raptors are not convinced about DeRozan and his future as a shooting guard as the Raptors could use him as a piece of a trade for the number 2 pick and Bradley Beal. Beal would give Toronto the sharp shooter from beyond the arc that they have been lacking. DeRozan can move to the three as he has the size to do that and that would give the Bobcats a young scorer at the three that can attack the basket and find his own shot. The Bobcats could look at Andre Drummond at the eigth pick as a high upside center as they could use a young center to put beside Bismack Byombo in the future. This deal would give the Bobcats a proven scorer while the Raptors would get a playmaking shooting guard that can make some big shots.

Trade Proposal Four
Indiana Pacers send: First Round Pick 26, SF Danny Granger, 2013 First Round Pick
Charlotte Bobcats send: First Round Pick 2
The Pacers have wanted to move Paul George to the three and have lookedd at trading Danny Granger as they look to gain more cap space so they can keep their stars and build a stronger team. Beal would give the Pacers a true 2 guard and anothr strong shooter from beyond the arc with Paul George. The Pacers cold also bring in Ray Allen to mentor Beal as Beal could have less pressure in that role while Allen would get to still be on a contender. Beal would also give them a guarantee  at shooting guard as it is unlikely that Eric Gordon will leave New Orleans for Indiana. Danny Granger could be a star in Charlotte as that would give Michael Jordan's team a veteran leader that is a proven scorer while they can also get a couple of first round picks that they can work with as they build this team for the future. This might be a longshot but Indiana could be the big sleeper in the Bradley Beal sweepstakes.

Senin, 25 Juni 2012

NBA Mock Draft 2

The NBA Draft is not too far away now as everybody is preparing for the draft on June 28 which could be one day after a possible game 7 in Oklahoma City. Now, here is our latest NBA mock draft. Remember, we will have live NBA Draft coverage Thursday night.

1. The New Orleans Hornets select Kentucky PF Anthony Davis.
Anthony Davis will be the number one pick as we all know that the Charlotte Bobcats are really on the clock with the number two pick. Davis will allow the Hornets to not worry about resigning Chris Kaman and it will also allow them to get rid of Emeka Okafor as he could end up having the amnesty clause used on him. Davis can be an immediate starter in New Orleans and his defense will impress fans and his teammates as he will be like Dwight Howard defensively. Davis still has soem work to do on his low post game on the offensive side of the game but Davis will be a star player in New Orleans for a long time.

2. The Charlotte Bobcats select Kentucky SF Michael Kidd-Gilchrist.
Many people have been thinking that Thomas Robinson will go here but that does not make any sense as Bismack Byombo is the power forward of the future. The Bobcats need a high energy small forward who can help turn around the Bobcats and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is the right man for the job. Kidd-Gilchrist's high motor will make him a difference maker in the NBA as he will do tons of things that will not show up on the box score but will help the Bobcats win more games. Kidd-Gilchrist also is very good at attacking the basket and getting the easy points or kicking out to a wide open shooter. Kidd-Gilchrist needs to improve his mid-range game some but with his high work ethic, Kidd-Gilchrist will become a very good NBA player and could make an All-Star appearance or two in his career.

3. The Washington Wizards select Florida SG/SF Bradley Beal.
Bradley Beal has shown a strong ability to be an effective player on the wing as Beal showed some sgins of improvement from beyond the arc by the end of his season at Florida. Beal is a very similar player to Ray Allen in his shooting ability and his scoring ability reminds me a lot of Brandon Roy at his peak as he his very good at scoring from mid-range and attacking the basket. Beal will be allow the Wizards to move to a smaller, more athletic lineup with three guards starting in Beal, John Wall at the point, and Jordan Crawford at the two. A guy like Beal fits perfectly in DC as this gives John Wall another shooter that he can kick the ball out two.

4. The Cleveland Cavaliers select Syracuse SG Dion Waiters.
Reports have emerged that a team in the lottery has told Dion Waiters that they will take him and that team is high enough up that he will not do any more workouts. I think it is the Cavaliers as they need another scorer in the back and Waiters is exactly that player. Waiters might not have started for the Orange but Waiters knows how to score whether it be a pull-up jumper or if it is driving to the basket and getting a layup. Waiters would be a great pick hre as he can be a very good scorer that can get baskets in key moments from mid-range, at the basket, or beyond the arc.

5. The Sacramento Kings select Kansas PF Thomas Robinson.
The Kings need a power forward to put beside their young center DeMarcus Cousins as they look to build a dominant front court. Thomas Robinson might not be on the board at this point as teams are looking at trading up to snag the Kansas power forward but if their are not any trades before the fifth pick, then Robinson will be available and the pick here. Robinson is a well-developed big man that will be a very effective ply. Robinson can be a Al Jefferson type force in the post as he knows how to dominate the board and score easy points on post moves. Robinson also has a high-level of maturity which can definitely be used to help out the aforementioned DeMarcus Cousins. The Kings would love to get Robinson here as I think that could very well happen Thursday night.

6. The Portland Trail Blazers select Weber State PG Damian Lillard.
The Trail Blazers need a young point guard and Weber State's Damian Lillard can definitely be that as he already has the skills to start in the NBA from the first game. Lillard was a very dangerous playmaker last year at Weber State as he was one of the best players in all of college basketball last season despite playing in the weak Big Sky conference that has produced the Detroit Pistons' Rodney Stuckey. Lillard point guard that teams are looking for as he can definitely be at least as good as the Houston Rockets' Kyle Lowry. Lillard also is a good enough player that he can start from day one. Lillard can be a piece of a Portland team that could very well make a quick return to the postseason.

7. The Golden State Warriors select North Carolina SF Harrison Barnes.
Harrison Barnes was able to have success last year at North Carolina as a complementary player that Kendall Marshall was able to get the ball to when he had open, mid-range jump shots. Barnes is a good shooter that can be a solid NBA player as he can definitely be a fit at the Oracle Arena. Barnes can be an upgrade over Dorell Wright who is looking like a one year fluke. Barnes was one of the most highly-rated players coming out of high school but he has not shown the skills to be a star player and a leader for a team. Barnes can fit well as a complementary piece for the Warriors as he can help the Warriors build a playoff contender.

8. The Toronto Raptors select Conneticut SG Jeremy Lamb.
Jeremy Lamb is an all-around scorer as he has great explosiveness which allows him to create space to get mid-range or drive to the basket and get the easy layup. Lamb also is a decent three-point shooter as Lamb was key for UCONN this past season as they probably would have missed the NCAA Tournament if it wasn't for Lamb's season. Jeremy Lamb already knows what it takes to win from UCONN's national championship in 2011. Lamb is a great scorer and he can fit perfectly in Toronto's starting lineup at shooting guard with DeMar DeRozan at small forward as he has the size to play there. Lamb will be an excellent choice for the Raptors as he could definitely be an Eric Gordon-like scorer for the Raptors.

9. The Detroit Pistons select Kentucky PF Terrence Jones.
Terrence Jones lost his starting spot at the beginning of the season for the Wildcats but he regained it when they decided to use Darius Miller is a sixth man role. Jones was able to be a part of a dominant low post game for Kentucky with Anthony Davis. Jones has refined his post game over the last two years and he has been a good post player and rebounder. The Pistons need help at power forward as they already have a strong center in Greg Monroe. Jones can be a quality power forward in the NBA as he can be another piece to the puzzle in Detroit as they look to get back to the playoffs.

10. The New Orleans Hornets select Conneticut C Andre Drummond.
Kendall Marshall would be a good fit here as the replacement for Jarrett Jack at point guard but I think the chance to get a high ceiling center in Andre Drummond will be too tempting for the Hornets to pass up. Drummond has the potential to be a dominant center in the NBA as Drummond could be a complete NBA center that can do it all from score to rebound to block shots. However, Drummond is far from a sure thing as he will need to improve his work ethic or he will become a draft bust. Drummond is a gamble as the Hornets should really think about taking UNC PG Kendall Marshall over him. However, the prospects of Drummond will be too hard for New Orleans to resist.

11. The Portland Trail Blazers select North Carolina C Tyler Zeller.
The Trail Blazers are prepared to win now as long as they find the right center and Zeller can be an immediate impact starter for the Trail Blazers in the post. Zeller is already a well developed center as he is a very good scorer inill allow him to be effective since he will be playing beside an excellent post player in LaMarcus Aldridge. Tyler Zeller has been a key player in taking the Tar Heels to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament as he knows how to be an all-around post player. Zeller will be a very good fit as the Rose Garden as the Trail Blazers look to make a very quick return to the playoffs.

12. The Milwaukee Bucks select Iowa State SF Royce White.
Royce White was an excellent player for Iowa State last year especially in the biggest games in the NCAA Tournament as he was ver effective in the first two rounds. White is a well-rounded player that can distribute the ball to teammates which makes him a good fit with Brandon Jennings and Monta Ellis. White is also effective at crashing the boards and that makes him a very big threat for Milwaukee. Most people are worried about White's anxiety but I do not think that will impact his NBA career as he will be taken near the end of the lottery and could be an immediate starter for Milwaukee.

13. The Phoenix Suns select North Carolina PG Kendall Marshall.
Kendall Marshall can be the point guard of the future for the Suns as Steve Nash will probably leave in his pursuit of a ring while Aaron Brooks will probably look to go to a contender with cap space like Orlando or Utah. Marshall is a great distributer that was able to turn North Carolina into a national title contender as they could have won it all if it wasn't for the injury Marshall picked up. At the end of the season, Marshall started to become an excellent scorer as he showed the explosiveness necessary to get to the basket to get easy layups. Marshall is still an old-school distributing point guard like John Stockton and that is exactly who Marshall can be like. Marshall has the tools to become a great point guard as his scoring is getting better but he knows how to bring the best out of his teammates.

14. The Houston Rockets select Illinois C Meyers Leonard.
Meyers Leonard has impressed at all of his workouts and the NBA combine as he has shown great arm length which is key to be a great shot blocker. Leonard was a very good shot blocker at Illnois and he can be an effective player for the Rockets. Leonard also was a good post player but he still has some developing to do offensively as he can be the Rockets center of the future. Leonard will get some time to develop as the Rockets will bring a veteran center in to allow Leonard to develop. Leonard can be a quality starting center in the NBA as he has all the potential to be the exact player Houston needs.

15. The Philadelphia 76ers select Baylor PF Perry Jones III.
Perry Jones III was key to the success of the Baylor Bears over the past two seasons despite the fact that he was never able to achieve his potential. Jones has a high ceiling but his post game is not that strong right now and the 76ers will definitely have to work with him on that. The 76ers need a power forward to replace Elton Brand in the near future as Jones would definitely be a good candidate. 76ers coach Doug Collins knows how to get the best out of his players and he will do that with Jones as he can be a perfect fit for Philly. Jones has work ethic concerns but Doug Collins and the 76ers will force him to get rid of that.

16. The Houston Rockets select Washington SG Terrence Ross.
Terrence Ross starred in this year's NIT as he showed how great of a scorer he was and what he could have done if Washington was in the NCAA Tournament. Ross was an effective shooter from getting the easy layups to making some big shots from beyond the arc. The Rockets need a replacement for Kevin Martin as he will be a free agent after next season and Ross can be that. Ross will get some time to develop but he can be a part of a young Rockets nucleus with Kyle Lowry, Chandler Parsons, Patrick Peterson, and Chase Budinger. Ross is the right fit for a Rockets team that will contend for a playoff spot next season.

17. The Dallas Mavericks select St John's SF Moe Harkless.
Moe Harkless was the star this year for St John's as he was able to be the lead scorer under interim coach (and new Bobcats head coach) Mike Dunlap. Moe Harkless was an effective mid-range shooter and he showed that again when he impressed many scouts at the NBA Combine in Chicago. Harkless is also a strong defensive player as he can fit right in with the veterans that the Mavericks already have. Harkless still has some developing to do as he can be a qaulity small forward that can replace Shawn Marion. Harkless can be a really good player and a great pick here at number 17.

18. The Minnesota Timberwolves select Duke SG Austin Rivers.
Austin Rivers has been rumored with lottery but he is not a lottery-caliber player and this would be a good fit at pick 18. The Timberwolves need a young shooting guard as Wayne Ellington has not gotten the job done and Rivers would be the right fit. Rivers has made some big shots on the wing but he is lacks a lot of explosiveness which could cause him problems. Rivers has also been used as a point guard but his court vision is not good enough for him to be there. Austin Rivers is a good player with tons of upside but he will have to become more explosive if he wants to become a bigger playmaker and elite shooting guard.

19. The Orlando Magic select Washington PG Tony Wroten Jr.
Tony Wroten Jr was an effective player at the point for the Huskies in his one and only season at Washington as Wroten showed tons of potential. Wroten is a very explosive player that knows how to attack the basket but that is about the end of his scoring ability. Wroten is a very raw prospect as he has to develop his overall shooting ability and his vision. Wroten will get some time to develop as he will have Jameer Nelson as a mentor in Orlando. Some people have Wroten falling into the second round but he has too much potential to fall down as the Magic need a point guard of the future.

20. The Denver Nuggets select North Carolina PF John Henson.
John Henson was a very good player last season for the North Carolina Tar Heels as he will be the fourth from that team to go in the first round of this year's draft. John Henson was an elite rebounder for the Tar Heels last season as he was also excellent defensively as a dominant shot blocker. Henson will be able to make an immediate impact defensively and he has a good post game that still could use some developing. Henson could fall here because he does not have the same upside as some top prospects but he can be a steal at this point in the draft. Henson's great work ethic will allow him to fit in immediately with George Karl's team as he will be an immediate impact player for Denver.

21. The Boston Celtics select Syracuse C Fab Melo.
The Celtics need a young center that can replace Kevin Garnett and Fab Melo has the potential to be exactly that. Fab Melo has a lot of raw talent as he was key for the Orange this season as without him, Syracuse was not the same team. Melo knows how to crash the boards and be an all-around big man but he was limited in game appearances due to his academic problems. This could be a red flag as it could be a sign of a bad work ethic. However, Doc Rivers is one of the best coaches in the game and he get the best out of all of his players so Fab Melo can fit in Boston. Fab Melo has the potential to be a big time center especially on the defensive side of things.


22. The Boston Celtics select Vanderbilt SG John Jenkins.
John Jenkins is a very similar player to Ray Allen as he was one of the best three-point shooters in college basketball last season. Jenkins has already shown his skill from beyond the arc from his time at Vanderbilt as he is one of the best three-point shooters in the draft. Jenkins can make an immediate impact because of his abilities to shoot the three as he could be a very solid 2 guard in the NBA. Jenkins also is a player you want in at the end of games as he can make the big three or make a couple free throws to ice a game. Jenkins is a similar player to Ray Allen and seems like a good fit for the Celtics.

23. The Atlanta Hawks select Kentucky PG Marquis Teague.
The Hawks need help at point guard as Jeff Teague has not proven himself to be a NBA starting caliber point guard. Marquis Teague would give them a good distributer who can definitely be a starter in the NBA for multiple years. Marquis Teague also is good at getting to the basket and getting easy shots but his explosiveness is not elite as he will have some developing to do if he wants to become a quality NBA point guard. However, Teague has the work ethic to be a solid starting point guard as he will be a good player for the Hawks.

24. The Cleveland Cavaliers select Mississippi State PF/C Arnett Moultrie.
The Cavaliers need a young center who can play beside Tristan Thompson in the future and Moultrie is exactly that player as he can also make an immediate impact in this league. The Cavs do not have a long term center to replace Anderson Varejao and Moultrie can be that replacement as he was a very successful player at Mississippi State that was able to be a dominating force in the post. Moultrie can be an immediate impact player in the Cavs rotation as his skills are refined enough to make an impact off the bench. Moultrie can be a very solid starting big man in the NBA for Cleveland as they look to get back to the playoffs.

25. The Memphis Grizzlies select Memphis SG Will Barton.
The Grizzlies are going to need a shooting guard as OJ Mayo has not been able to have success in Memphis while Tony Allen is more of a defensive specialist and not much of an offensive force. Will Barton si an explosive player that knows how to attack the basket and score. Barton was very effective for the Memphis Tigers as he was able to be very dangerous in a speedy Tigers team. Will Barton also knows how to attack the glass and get rebounds as he is an impressive rebounder for a shooting guard. Will Barton will be a very good player for the Grizzlies as he can make a huge impact in Memphis, this time in the NBA.

26. The Indiana Pacers select Ohio State PF Jared Sullinger.
The Pacers need a long term power forward to pair up with Roy Hibbert as Tyler Hansbrough is not the answer at that position. Jared Sullinger has taken a huge slide down many draft boards after he was medically red flagged by NBA doctors for back concerns. Sullinger is still a talented big man and someone will take a chance on Sullinger. The Pacers make sense as they need a young power forward and Sullinger is a player that they can take a chance on and see what happens. There might be surer things available like Andrew Nicholson but Sullinger has a much higher ceiling and is worth the risk at this point in the first round.

27. The Miami Heat select St. Bonaventure PF Andrew Nicholson.
Chris Bosh has been playing more at center this season as the Heat have had success while doing that as LeBron has proven his verstility as a forward. Andrew Nicholson would give the Heat another scorer off the bench as he already has a very good mid-range shooting ability and is a very refined player with high energy and that knows how to score. Nicholson can become a starter after a couple of seasons in Miami and he can make this team even better then the current Miami Heat that just won the NBA title.

28. The Oklahoma City Thunder select Baylor SF Quincy Miller.
Quincy Miller porbably should have returned to Baylor to polish his game more as he is a very raw prospect that could have been a lottery pick in next year's draft. The Thunder have shown tons of patience in the past in developing players as that is a lot of the reason why the Thunder made the NBA Finals this year. In a year or so, Miller can be an impact player off the bench and if Kevin Durant moves to power forward, Miller could start at small forward or move to the four while Serge Ibaka moves to center as teams are looking at smaller, faster lineups. Miller is the type of player that the Thunder will look at as they look to keep this team a consistent winner just like San Antonio.

29. The Chicago Bulls select France SG Evan Fournier.
Fournier will probably not come over to the NBA for a couple seasons as he will get the chance to develop overseas before coming across the pond to the NBA. The Bulls currently have Richard Hamilton at shooting guard and they do not need to find a replacement for him that is ready next season so Fournier is a guy that can start overseas before coming over to America. Fournier is a fairly unknown player but he can be a NBA starter as he will get the playing time he needs to develop overseas before coming to the NBA.

30. The Golden State Warriors select Norfolk State C Kyle O'Quinn.
The Warriors need to add some depth in the front court as Andrew Bogut has been injury-plagued recently and Kyle O'Quinn would be a solid, refined player for the Warriors to draft here at the end of the first round. O'Quinn knows how to crash the boards as he proved that last year at Norfolk State and he showed the country how good he is when he led Norfolk State to the first round upset of Missouri in the NCAA Tournament. O'Quinn will be a good, solid pick for the Warriors at the end of the first round as he will be a good rotational player in the NBA.

More Great Articles on This Year's NBA Draft
For More Mock Drafts:  http://dcprosportsreport.com/mocks/NBAMocks.htm
For Three Underrated Draft Prospects: http://thetruefansports.blogspot.com/2012/06/nba-draft-sleepers.html
For Three Overrated Draft Prospects: http://thetruefansports.blogspot.com/2012/06/overrated-nba-draft-prospects.html
Will the Bobcats Trade The Number Two Pick: http://thetruefansports.blogspot.com/2012/06/bradley-beal-sweepstakes.html

Italian stallions break the English resistance

England v Italy was expected to be the least entertaining of the quarter-finals and so it proved.

A largely turgid tale of massed English defending and missed Italian chances was put out of its misery by a penalty shoot-out, won 4-2 by the Azzurri, after Ashleys Cole and Young fluffed their spot-kicks for England.

Pre-match expectations of a level playing-field seemed correct as Italy struck the woodwork in the opening minutes through Daniele De Rossi and Glen Johnson almost netted at the other end. England had some delightful touches, but as the first half wore on Italy began to control the midfield.

The second half and extra-time saw Italy firmly bossing the game and England reverting to a siege mentality. England's two banks of four and one forward tracking back resembled table football in its rigid formation, but succeeded in not conceding. The Three Lions offered no attacking threat to Italy as recompense and Gianluigi Buffon enjoyed a pleasant summer evening in Kiev. Penalties were certain.

Andrea Pirlo was by far the best player of the evening, his telegraphed passes and elegant playmaking a joy to admire. Italy used the flanks well, Ignazio Abate whipping in dangerous crosses, while Mario Balotelli sprang the England offside trap on a number of occasions. Riccardo Montolivo was a roving danger, while subsitutes Alessandro Diamante and Antonio Nocerino proved more effective than England's Andy Carroll and Theo Walcott.

For the Three Lions, Joe Hart's acrobatics and John Terry's lionheart defending saved many a goal and Steven Gerrard ran his socks off as usual, but Glen Johnson made some key errors and Ashley Young again was anonymous, as if the switch from Fabio Capello's 4-3-2-1 to Roy Hodgson's 4-4-2 has unnerved England's best player from qualifying.

England were afraid of committing men upfield, which left their players isolated when they won the ball, leading to yet more Italian possession.

Italy looked a little fitter, but extra-time and two days less rest than Germany may tell come Thursday's semi-final.

That said, a well-drilled Italian team with some dangerous elements should not be written off, no more than their World Cup winning teams of 1982 and 2006 should have been in the opening rounds of those competitions.

For Hodgson, the real work starts now with overseeing the national training centre project, 2014 World Cup qualification and hopefully, an overhaul of the national playing style. England have fallen short so many times playing their natural attacking game it was time to try a different approach.

For the first time, England approached a tournament with low public expectations and playing safety first, if not catenaccio, aiming for penalties by the knock-out stages. But against Italy they failed to apply Walcott's speed on the counter while their other flying wingman Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was left on the bench. The statistics for passing and possession tell a shocking story. Plan B worked up to a point.

Going forward, England will have to open up, pass more and hold the ball longer. Jack Wilshere is hopefully the first of a new generation to have learnt this.

An exit is always depressing, but England should take inspiration from Germany, who were abject at Euro 2000 but overhauled their country's coaching and brought through a new generation of players to become the awesome team they are in 2012.

Semi-Finals

Weds, Donetsk: Portugal v Spain

Thu, Warsaw: Germany v Italy


(c) Sean O'Conor & Soccerphile

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Minggu, 24 Juni 2012

NBA Offseason: The New Orleans Hornets Offseason Makeover

The New Orleans Hornets will have tons of cap space this offseason to keep Eric Gordon and bring in talent to surround the young guard as they could have 42 million dollars in cap space if they amnesty Rashard Lewis. If the Hornets make the right moves, they will be able to make the playoffs next season and possibly contend for a title. This may seem crazy but it will take only a few simple steps to build this team into a contender after amnestying Rashard Lewis.


Gordon can be a star in the Big Easy
1. Resign Eric Gordon
Eric Gordon has become one of the best shooting guards in the NBA as he is an elite scorer who can give them 20 plus points a game. Eric Gordon is an elite guard that can definitely make some appearances in the NBA All-Star game in the near future. The Pacers will look to rival the Hornets in trying to get the former Hoosier star as Gordon will probably get a five-year deal in the 70 million dollar range. Eric Gordon will take up about 12 million dollars of their cap space for next season as it will definitely be worth it to bring him in.
Cap Space Remaining: $30 million


Anthony Davis is ready to be a star in New Orleans
2. Draft Anthony Davis First Overall, Draft Kendall Marshall Tenth Overall.
Everybody knows that the Hornets will take Anthony Davis number one overall in the draft as he will be anh immediate starter and a great defensive player. Davis can be a star in New Orleans as he can definitely defend the best NBA big men. The Hornets will have to see who is on the board at the tenth pick as I think Damian Lillard will be off the board but I think that Andre Drummond and Kendall Marshall will both still be on the board. The Hornets will probably be too intrigued by the upside of Andre Drummond that they will take him but I think they should take Marshall. Kendall Marshall has the skill set to be the next Rajon Rondo as he can replace Jarrett Jack after he becomes a free agent next year. Marshall knows how to make the right play whether it is setting up a teammate or getting it to the basket and making an easy layup. Davis and Marshall can be key pieces of a winning New Orleans Hornets team. The Hornets also have a couple of second rounders that they can deal for a future, late first roun pick as they only need to pick up a couple of players.
Cap Space Remaining: $24 million

Gerald Wallace will test the free agent market
3. Sign SF Gerald Wallace
Gerald Wallace has been a solid starting NBA small forward as he is a very good scorer and he can be a good member of a contending team. Wallace can immediately be the starting small forward for this team as he is a quality player that wants to win. Wallace will have a decision to make as he could stay in Brooklyn and play for the Nets if they keep Deron Williams. However, the Nets could use him in a trade for Dwight Howard if he stays and that will probably not interest him. Wallace will be able to start in New Orleans and be an effective scorer as he will probably need a three-year deal of around $24 million to sign him. He will cost $8 million a year but it will be worth it.
Cap Space Remaining: $16 million




Howard or Bynum could end up in New Orleans
4. Sign veterans Marcus Camby and Antawn Jamison. Resign Marco Belinelli.
The Hornets will need a center and if they sign Jamison and Camby, they will have some versatility in their lineup. Davis can play center and if the Hornets want a speedier, smaller lineup, they can start Jamison and Davis with Camby and Gustavo Ayon coming off the bench. When the Hornets play teams that play large in the post, they can put Marcus Camby at center and Davis at power forward with Antawn Jamison coming off the bench. Marco Belinelli was a productive player for the Hornets this year as he is a good scorer that can make an impact as a rotational player on a contender. All three players will sign one-year deals that are worth a combined $16 million (Jamison $6 million, Camby $5 million, Belinelli $4 million). These move give them $20 million dollars for next offseason that they can spend on an elite big man to put with Anthony Davis like a Al Jefferson, Paul Millsap, Serge Ibaka, Josh Smith or even a big name like Dwight Howard or Andrew Bynum. The Hornets are prepared to win now as Tom Benson is getting a franchise that can be great.

Sabtu, 23 Juni 2012

Highs and Löws of the Tournament

Having just witnessed my ninth and final match of the tournament, I thought I should look back at my experiences during this trip.

Before I set off I was aware of the negative publicity, but as a football supporter and traveller, I don't pay too much attention to people who consistently look for easy stories to create headlines. Instead I believe in finding out for myself. I can report that I have witnessed no problems between supporters and no incidents of racism at all. I have already commented on the exorbitant prices being charged for ( very) basic accommodation and personally believe that this is the reason that supporters have not travelled in the numbers I would expect. The exception being the Irish.

Gdansk Stadium, Poland


During the last fortnight I have visited six of the eight venues. I have been impressed with every one, to such an extent that I cannot believe there is such a thing as a restricted view ticket. (The only restricted view I heard of was a travelling fan's view blocked by an Irishman standing in the aisle. When the Irishman was confronted he simply smiled looked down, picked up a pint from the row of them he had and gave it to his new friend, and stayed where he was). My only complaint would be that Kiev has a running track meaning that behind the goal you are a long way from the action.

During my trip I met a German who managed to take advantage of the free accommodation in Kiev, by responding to the adverts I had seen (see 15th June), countering my earlier comments and offering a positive perspective on the situation. He rang a phone number, was picked up by his host, driven to the accommodation and then left the key as his host went to work. Then in the evening his host treated him to a sumptuous meal.


Euro food


Individuals in both countries have been eager to meet and talk to you as a visitor to their country. This wasn't difficult in Poland, but in Ukraine, where less people speak English once a local starts a conversation with you, you can see all the non English speaking people want to join in with this and hijack the local to act as translator.

The culinary highlight for me has been the pierogi (Poland) and varenki (Ukraine) which are simply dumplings with different fillings e.g. cheese or meat.

Polish food..delicious


Having been eating cakes and desserts since before you were aware of James Richardson I can recommend Blinkle in Warsaw and Veronika's in Lviv.

At this tournament I personally believe the quality of the football in the Group stages, has been better than ever before, with most teams having a chance of qualifying, maybe due to the new rules!

The hosts both played their part enthusiastically supporting the games, and had visiting supporters joining in the chants for the two home nations, as I left the stadium for the last time on Friday "Polska biało czerwoni," rang round the ground as the Poles in Gdansk also bade the tournament farewell.

The number of travelling fans has been much lower than at previous tournaments. Although I didn't see them I have heard that the Irish supporters made a favourable impression on the residents of Poznan, where around 30,000 were seen, teaching the locals to "stand up for the boys in green."

As ever the Italians and French did not have the support to match their teams. The Swedes had the luck of the draw and set up camp in Kiev, whilst The Netherlands total of points matched their interest in their base of Kharkiv.

St Andrews Church, Kiev, Ukraine


The Russian supporters I see were promised free flights to the Quarter Finals if the team progressed that far as part of Vladimir Putin's election campaign.

The Germans were present in good numbers at all three of their games that I saw, and have a strong belief that they will end their 16 years of hurt.

So those were some of the highs.

As for Löw, just remember Markus's words, as Germany edge ever Klose!

© Ross Clegg & Soccerphile

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France fire Blancs as Spanish sail on to the semis

France are the latest team heading for the airport, well beaten 2-0 by Vicente del Bosque's men in Donetsk this evening.

Spain did not play fluently and a fine goal apart were never thrilling, but still won comfortably enough. The French had already lost their way in their abject 2-0 defeat to Sweden in Kiev on Tuesday, which was followed by the sort of changing-room row they hoped they had left behind in South Africa two years ago.

Watching tonight's meek surrender in the Shakhtar stadium, it is worth remembering Les Bleus were on a 23-game unbeaten run a week ago and were the last team to eliminate Spain from a competition - the 2006 World Cup. France suffered from nerves throughout Euro 2012, and bottled it tonight. Coach Laurent Blanc admitted in his pre-match press conference what most of us had been thinking - the best tactic is to keep Spain at bay for the first twenty minutes and then think about attacking. Unfortunately for France, the defensive mindset going into the game found itself outflanked by events on the pitch.

As it happened, Xabi Alonso, on his 100th appearance, scored in the 19th and his team never looked back, apart from the first ten minutes of the second half when the French pressed and had Spain backpedalling. Alonso added a penalty in injury time for the coup de grace.

France never truly threatened to score due to an incoherent forward line and lack of team spirit. While Frank Ribery twisted and turned dangerously on the left, Karim Benzema misfired at centre-forward and attacking substitutes Olivier Giroud, Jeremy Menez and Samir Nasri all failed to make an impression.

Content to sit back and soak up Spanish attacks in the first half, they failed to put their opponents on the ropes after the break when they needed an equaliser. As the minutes ticked away, Blanc's men were reluctant to throw men forward at 0-1, presumably for fear of leaving gaps at the back.

Spain won 55% of possession, low by their standards, but registered five shots on target to France's one. Cesc Fabregas looked out of sorts as the 'false No.9', while substitute Fernando Torres had another limp display, offside more than dangerous.

Winning while playing badly is a sign of great teams of course, but all Spain knows La Roja must up their game on Wednesday to beat their Iberian neighbours Portugal and on-fire Cristiano Ronaldo, the player of the tournament so far.

Tonight: England v Italy
Weds: SF Spain v Portugal
Thurs: SF Germany v England/Italy
Sun: Final

(c) Sean O'Conor & Soccerphile


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Greece bails out as Germans advance

The markets don't lie. Germany holds the whip-hand over Greece. And despite a heroic comeback straight out of Euripides, Teutonic willpower triumphed and the odyssey ended in Gdansk.

Georgios Samaras' unlikely equaliser came courtesy of a cheeky shirt-pull, an infringement all too visibly unpunished throughout Euro 2012.

4-2 was a convincing result and Germany's 15th consecutive competitive win, although let us not get carried away about the DFB. Greece had a straggly defence and were probably waiting to be exposed by a good team after surprisingly edging past Russia in the group stage.

If their game-plan was based on defending in deep and hitting Germany on the break and at set-pieces, they did not play the counter-attack well enough and allowed their opponents too many scoring chances. Croatia by comparison, did a far better job of trying to beat Spain, frustrating La Roja's superiority for most of the game and almost nicking the game with timely raids, foiled by bad finishing.

Germany obviously were a good bet to win the tournament going into Euro 2012 and they remain so. But however clinically they finished their chances last night, it is premature to etch their name on the trophy. Spain, Portugal, England and Italy are all still in the competition and none of them will submit so feebly as the Greeks did in Gdansk.

Their elimination came as no surprise but was still a big disappointment for the European nation in the direst straits right now. Success on the international stage can inspire a nation, or at least dull the pain for a while. Greece has more pressing matters to deal with at home now, and may have to look to its illustrious past for inspiration.





- Sean O'Conor


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Overrated NBA Draft Prospects

The NBA Draft is less then a week away now as all of the basketball world's attention is on it after the Heat won the NBA Championship in game five of the NBA Finals. We have already talked about some of the underrated players in this year's NBA Draft so which players are overrated. Also, we will have live NBA Draft coverage this Thursday.

North Carolina SF Harrison Barnes
A lot of scouts think Barnes can be a strong player that can create his own shots and can be a prolific scorer but his time at North Carolina proved otherwise. When the Tar Heels had a weak point guard in Larry Drew Jr, Barnes was forced to create most of his opportunities and he struggled to do that. Barnes was awful at creating his own opportunities and he has shown a poor ability at attacking the basket. Barnes has not developed any sort of post game which a lot of starting NBA small forwards have. A good defender can contain Barnes on the wing as he is most effective in the 15 to 20 feet shooting range. Barnes did better when he had a strong point guard in Kendall Marshall who knew how to set up Barnes. Barnes can be a solid small forward in the NBA with the right point guard but he is definitely not a top five pick.

Ohio State PF Jared Sullinger
Jared Sullinger was one of the most successful basketball players in Ohio State's history as Sullinger was a good college player but there are problems that make him a gamble for NBA teams. Sullinger was medically red flagged by NBA doctors for a bad back which is a major problem for a post player who needs a strong back to post up on defenders. Any concerns about back problems can cause him to be hesitant on the floor as he could very well have tons of back injuries. Sullinger also plays small for his size as his post game has shown tons of weaknesses. Sullinger is going to need a lot of developing and taking a chance on a somewhat raw power forward with back problems is not worthy about a top 20 first round pick.

Duke SG Austin Rivers
Austin Rivers made some big shots for Duke this year as Rivers is not a true shooting guard but he soes not have the skills set to be a point guard. Rivers is a good perimeter player but Rivers is not the best at getting to the basket and being an all-around scorer. Rivers also is not a distributer which is why he is not a point guard and Rivers also lacks the explosiveness to get to the hoop which makes him very containable for defenders. Rivers is a true perimeter player and many teams will be able to contain Austin Rivers. Rivers is not a great three-point shooter either and he should not be picked in the lottery. Rivers has a high ceiling he should not be a lottery pick as he will take some time to develop. Dion Waiters and Jeremy Lamb are better options at shooting guard as Rivers would be a huge mistake if he was taken in the lottery.

Jumat, 22 Juni 2012

England v Italy Free Bet Offer with bet365

bet365 has a fantastic free bet offer to add to the excitement as England take on Italy in the quarter-finals of Euro 2012.

Place a pre-match bet on this thrilling quarter-final on Sunday 24th June and you will receive a free In-Play bet to the same stake on the big match.

To qualify for your free In-Play bet, simply place a bet before kick-off, then once the game starts place another bet on any In-Play market. If your FIRST In-Play bet loses bet365 will refund this stake, up to the same value as your largest pre-match bet.

As always, there'll be plenty to choose from with over 70 In-Play markets available throughout the game including Next Goal, Match Goals, Total Corners, Half-Time Result, Full-Time Result and much more.

With an extensive range of pre-match and In-Play markets and a fantastic free bet offer, bet365 is the number one place for all your Soccer betting during Euro 2012.

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Kamis, 21 Juni 2012

The Joel Peralta Pine Tar Glove Situation

There has been tons of controversy recently surrounding whether the Nationals broke an unwritten rule of baseball when the Nationals had Joel Peralta after they were suspicious of him having a foreign substance which was a correct suspicion. Davey Johnson did the right thing in calling out Joel Peralta and Joe Maddon has said that Johnson was the real one that broke the rules because he broke an unwritten rule while Peralta a written down, official baseball rule. If a rule isn't written, then you do not have to follow it and Maddon can complain all he wants but his reliever got caught and now he is just embarrasing himself by putting his foot in his mouth. Maddon called the actions of Johnson "cowardly" and Maddon has no right to call out a guy who was following the official rulebook. Maddon is making himself look like a fool right now and Rays general manager Andrew Friedman should probably tell his manager to stop talking about the situation before he look really bad. Maddon is annoyed by this as most big leaguers do not care if the opposing pitcher is using pine tar but the written rules are the actual rules and that is the ultimate rules authority, not the unwritten rules that Maddon is saying Johnson violated. Davey Johnson did not break an unwritten rule of baseball as he knew he could give his own team momentum by getting the Rays reliever ejected before he threw a pitch. Davey Johnson knew exactly what he was doing, and he would do that again no matter what.

Euro 2012 Prediction

We are down to the knockout stages of this year's Euro 2012 as 8 teams remain with a great shot at winning this year's Euro 2012. There have been some surprises as the Netherlands, Russia, and both hosts plus four other nations have been eliminated. So, who will win this year's Euro 2012.

Cristiano Ronaldo will lead Portugal to the semifinals
Quarterfinals
Portugal vs Czech Republic
Petr Cech is going to fact his toughest challenge yet as he is going to have to be prepared for a lot of dangerous shots on target. The Czechs will probably be without captain and midfield playmaker Tomas Rosicky as that will make this a really tough matchup for the Czechs. Portugal is loaded with talent from Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani in attack to Raul Meireles and Miguel Veloso in midfield to Pepe and Bruno Alves on the back line to Rui Patricio in goal. The Portuguese will be able to dominate possession as the Czechs best chances will be on counter-attacks. However, Cristiano Ronaldo is starting to really take off at this and the Portuguese are in their best form so I think Portugal will win 3 to 1.


Andres Iniesta and Spain will be in the semis
Spain vs France
This is one of the more interesting quarterfinals as two world powers take one each other with the defending champs taking on a French team that disappointed against Sweden. After France's disappointing loss, I would expect manager Laurent Blanc to put Yohan Cabaye and Jeremy Menez back in the lineup for Yann M'Villa and Hatem Ben Arfa. Laurent Koscienly will have to step up against Spain in the spot of the suspended Philippe Mexes as this Spanish attack has shown some weakness against team that are aggressive at disrupting possession. That will be the key for the French as disrupting possession allowed Croatia to stay in the game against Spain. The Spanish need to run their attack through striker Fernando Torres as he is starting to show his elite goal-scoring form. Also, Vicente Del Bosque need to keep using Jesus Navas off the bench as his pace as been able to change games and make the Spanish pressure even tougher to handle. This will be an exciting game as the French will need Karim Benzema to be on his best form to have a good chance at winning. However, the French will come up short as the Spanish will win 2 to 1 and book a ticket in the semis against Portugal.

Ozil is going to help take the Germans to the quarterfinals.
Germany vs Greece
The Germans have been the most impressive team at this year's Euros as the Greeks will need a Euro 2004 size miracle if they want to upset the Germans. The Greeks do have some talent in attack Dimitris Salpigidis and Theofanis Gekas and the Greeks have a solid back line. However, the Gemans have some great chemistry with most of the starters playing for Bayern Munich. Mario Gomez is in the best form of his career internationaly as he is on pace to win the Golden Boot for Euro 2012. Mesut Ozil and Bastian Schweinsteiger have been key in setting opportunities for Gomez as the Germans have been very dangerous throughout this Euro 2012. Mats Hummels has proved that he is one of the best defenders in the world as he impressed in every game during the group of death. This is the easiest opponent that the Germans have faced so far and they will easily defeat the Greeks 4 to 0.




Rooney has shown his top goal scoring form for the English
England vs Italy
This will be the most exciting game of the quarterfinals as both these teams are on a very similar level. The English have done very well at staying organized and using a conservative attacking style which helped them come back to beat Sweden and then cruise against the co-host Ukraine. Wayne Rooney is already showing his true number nine ability as his ability to be in the right place at the right time allowed him to put James Milner's cross in the back of the net. Rooney and Danny Welbeck are the right pair of strikers as they are both used to each other from playing for Manchester United and regularly starting together at Old Trafford. Steven Gerrard has worn the captain's armband well as he has been playing at the high level that you would want your captain playing at. Ashley Cole has been a constant at left back as his ability to get up the wing from his left back position is part the reason why he still starts for the Three Lions. Joe Hart has given the English a rock in goal as he has become the number one keeper they have been looking for after the disappointments in goal from two years ago. The Italians changed to a 4-1-3-2 against the Irish as that was their best goal scoring day of the tournament as they scored two goals. It might have been the Irish but this formatiob can definitely work for the Italians. Mario Balotelli has finally found his goal scoring form as he came off the bench to score a spectacular goal to extend the Italian lead to two goals. Andrea Pirlo might be playing in his final major international tournament but the 33-year-old is still one of the best playmaking midfielders in the world and he will cause some problems for the English. Gianluigi Buffon has once again proved why he is one of the best goalkeepers in the world as he has been in top form in this tournament. The English and Italians both are elite teams but the English will be able to book a semifinal ticket against Germany by beating the Italians 2 to 1.

Torres is ready to help Spain go to a final
Semifinals
Spain vs Portugal
It is always exciting when we get to see a great rivalry in the semifinals of a major tournament and the battle between the two Iberian nations will definitely be an exciting battle. The chance to see Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal take on Xavi and Spain will be an exciting match. Pepe is the tough type of player that the Spanish struggled against when they played the Croatians and the Spanish could struggle to get a consistent attack while Portugal's lack of an elite striker in the middle will allow Pique and Sergio Ramos to shut down tons of attacks. This game will probably come down to one or two chances for each side as whoever takes advantage of the opportunities better will have more success. Andres Iniesta and David Silva are going to have to take advantage of whatever chances they have as they also can look to get it to Fernando Torres as he has regained some confidence. The Portuguese will need to attack the Spanish wing backs if they want to have the most success as Jordi Alba and Arbeloa will have to step up their play to contain Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani on the wings. The Spanish and Portuguese will have a very exciting game as both of these teams could very well win but the Spanish will get the chance to repeat as European champs as Iniesta will get the one goal that the Spanish need to win 1 to 0.

Philipp Lahm and Germany are headed for the final
Germany vs England
This game should also be really good as the English have the organization to be competitive with the Germans in this semifinal as both teams have the goal scoring ability to go to the final in Kiev. John Terry is probably going to be given the task of marking Mario Gomez in this game as how Terry defends will be key in England's hopes to advance to the final. Roy Hodgsen will have to think about starting Theo Walcott as his speed is something that the Germans lack and that could make the English attack very dangerous. Mesut Ozil and Bastian Schweinsteiger versue Scott Parker and Steven Gerrard in the center of midfield will be the key matchup as this could even decide who wins the match. Mats Hummels and Holger Badstuber will have the job of containing Wayne Rooney and Danny Welbeck as this will not be an easy job for the two centerbacks. The Germans and the English will provide an high scoring game as both Mario Gomex and Wayne Rooney will score some big goals in this game. The English are proving to be a very tough side to beat but the Germans will send them home as the Germans will beat the English 3 to 2 and book their ticket to the final in Kiev.

Final
Germany vs Spain
This will be one of the best finals as UEFA is getting exactly what they want with the two best teams in Europe facing off in the finals of Euro 2012 in Kiev. This should be an instant classic of a game as both teams have great attacking prowess so we should see plenty of goals in this finals. The Spanish and the Germans both are very good at running organized attacks but a key difference in this game will be which team can have more success on the counter attacks as there will be a few of those in this game. Fernando Torres and Mario Gomez will probably both score as Gomez will wrap up the Golden Boot in this final. The matchup of Xavi versus Mesut Ozil should be exciting as these are two of the best midfield maestros in the world and both know how to make plays. The backlines of Spain and Germany will be tested as goalkeepers Iker Casillas and Manuel Neuer will have to be prepared to handle tons of shots in this final. Tactics and making the right substitutions will be key for each manager as Vicente Del Bosque and Joachim Low will both have to make the right decisions to win as one piece of abd tactics or one wrong substituion could cost either side. The Spanish have the chance to win their third straight major, international competition but it will not happen as the Germans will win all of their games at Euro 2012 and lift the trophy in the final by defeating the Spanish 3 to 2 with two goals from Mario Gomez.

The Germans will be celebrating a European Championship in Kiev this year

Rabu, 20 Juni 2012

Where will Brandon McCarthy end up?

Brandon McCarthy has had another excellent season for the Oakland Athletics despite the fact that the Athletics are not in contention to make the playoffs this year. Brandon McCarthy is a free agent after the season and is a less expensive version of Ryan Dempster as both have been excellent this year but McCarthy is younger and costs a lot less. Oakland has traded tons of their best pitchers in the past to build for the future in 2014 or 2015 which could be played in a new stadium in San Jose. The Athletics are building for the future and despite McCarthy not being rumored with a move away from Oakland, a move will probably happen before the deadline so where will he end up?

Cleveland Indians
The Indians need help in their rotation as Justin Masterson and Ubaldo Jimenez have been major disappointments so far this season while Derek Lowe has cooled off after his hot start. The Indians desperately need an upgrade or two in their rotation if they want to stay in the AL Central hunt and McCarthy is the ideal upgrade. McCarthy would give them a true ace in their rotation as McCarthy could very well end up in Kansas City for the All-Star game this year. McCarthy has been able to get out of a lot of jams when he allows tons of hits but recently, he has come back from injury and been more dominant on the mound. The Indians could use Lonnie Chisenhall as a center piece of a deal as they could also try to get Brandon Inge from Oakland to play third base. Chisenhall would give the A's their third baseman of the future. The Indians could also throw in a young shortstop Tony Wolters in a Brandon McCarthy deal. The Indians have the potential to make the playoffs this year but they have to upgrade their rotation if they want to have a shot and McCarthy would definitely be that upgrade.

Chicago White Sox
The White Sox have been a major surpise as they are currently in contention right behind the Indians in the AL Central. The White Sox need to improve their rotation as it is weak after the dangerous duo of Chris Sale and Jake Peavy at the top of the rotation. John Danks and Gavin Floyd have been disappointments while Philip Humber is proving that he should not be in the White Sox rotation. McCarthy would be the player that could right in the number three spot in the rotation and replace Humber as McCarthy would give the White Sox another strong starter. McCarthy would take some pressure off of Chris Sale and Jake Peavy whenever they are on the mound as this would only leave any concerns about the rotation with John Danks and Gavin Floyd. The White Sox could center a trade around young pitcher Nestor Molina as the White Sox will have to throw multiple prospects at the Athletics. GM Kenny Williams will definitely have to consider making a move for Brandon McCarthy as he could be the final piece that Chicago needs to get back to the playoffs.

Atlanta Braves
The Braves are going to be in playoff contention this year as they have had a solid season so far but they need to improve their rotation if they want to stay in the hunt to win the NL East. Mike Minor has struggled this year while ace Brandon Beachy has just gone on the disabled list as the Braves could use a pitching upgrade. McCarthy would be a good fit in Atlanta as they could use another pitcher to strengthen their rotation to help their push to win the NL East. McCarthy has never pitched in the National League as he would have to get used to all the NL hitters but McCarthy would still be just fine in Atlanta. Pitcher Arodys Vizcaino could be the center piece of the deal as he would give the Athletics another exciting young pitcher. The Braves have all the pieces needed to make a move for McCarthy and it would not be a surprise if Frank Wren pulls off a trade to bring McCarthy to Turner Field.

Detroit Tigers
The Tigers have been the biggest disappointment in baseball as Detroit has struggled so far with a record of 33-34. However, the Tigers are only two games out of the AL Central but they do need to strngthen their rotation as Rick Porcello and Max Scherzer have both been disappointing and reasons why Detroit is not leading this division. Brandon McCarthy is the right person for the job in Detroit as he could definitely be an upgrade over Porcello or Scherzer as he would complete their rotation. McCarthy would mae the Tigers even better and they could take off in the weak AL Central and do what they were expected to do this year in the AL Central. The Athletics will probably start by asking for Jacob Turner but that is definitely not realistic. However, Oakland could get Detroit's young third base prospect Nick Castellanos as he would be the third baseman of the future in Oakland as he could be major league ready by this time next season. Rick Porcello could also be a trade chip or center piece in a McCarthy deal as he may need a change of scenery now to turn around his career. The Tigers are starting to chase down the AL Central leaders and McCarthy would make them unstoppable in the AL Central.

A Day Off At Euro 2012

As there is no football today I thought I'd send you a few postcards from Kiev. For anyone that didn't receive theirs in the post, here they are!

St Andrews Church, Kiev, Ukraine


All these were taken today and you will note there is almost no football involved.

Andriyivsky Hill, Kiev

Kiev Pechetrsk Lavra, Kyev

Church in Kyev

Entrance to Lobanovsky Stadium home of Dinamo Kiev, Ukraine

St. Michael's Golden-Domed Cathedral, Kiev

Monument dedicated to the founders of Kiev, with Mother,Motherland



© Ross Clegg & Soccerphile

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Selasa, 19 Juni 2012

Rewriting the rules

Today I have a relatively short train journey taking me from Lviv to Kiev, only nine hours.

So I thought I could use the time to understand the rules UEFA have issued to decide how group placings are decided in the event of teams finishing level on points.

Euro 2012 rules on groups


a) Higher number of points obtained in the matches played between the teams in question.

OK, I understand this and know this system is used in leagues in Europe, in the U.K. we are used to using goal difference first, and then goals scored.

As a) is clear why do we need,

b) Superior goal difference resulting from the matches between the teams in question.

c) Higher number of goals scored in the matches played between the teams in question.

If there were two teams then it would not apply, but if there were 3 or even 4 teams it could come into effect.

Ok, so far.

d) If, after having applied criteria a) to c), two teams still have an equal ranking criteria a) to c) are then reapplied exclusively to the matches between the teams in question to determine the final rankings.

It is beginning to make sense.

e) superior goal difference in all group matches

f) higher number of goals scored in all group matches

So these two are the ones that I personally am used to, and would have been a) & b) in the past.

g) position in the UEFA coefficient national team ranking

h) fair play conduct of the teams (final tournament)

i) drawing of lots

So, it is quite simple after all.

A slight rewording to a), adding in the event of three or more teams finishing level on points, then it does become clearer.

My guess is that someone from UEFA was on a long journey and decided to have some fun.

Did you see that at the press conference before the Italy v Ireland game, that there was a score of 2-2 projected on a screen for the Croatia v Spain game, a result that would knock Italy out . So clearly there is at least one person in UEFA with a sense of humour.

Maybe that same person had too much time to spend on a long train journey, and created the new rules for their own personal amusement, and left them in amongst a number of items due to be released to the press.

Now my journey isn't over yet so I thought I should finish the task that they started, surely we could incorporate some of the statistics that are produced for every game.

For example, shots on target, surely the team with the most shots on target have been trying to provide the most entertainment.

In the past the number of corners, have been suggested as a means of deciding games.

A new set of statistics shown at these games is the one that shows the distance the players have covered. Now obviously each team would have to employ a specialist just to ensure they understand these rules, South Africa of course would need more than everyone else following their failure to understand previous rules when they were happy to play for a draw thinking they would qualify, when they actually needed a win.

Now if things were looking tight they could advise the goalkeeper to start running around his area. This could leave him vulnerable to long range speculative efforts, but provided his team can hang on to the ball at the other end of the pitch then he could quickly build up the miles. The speedy winger (who is on the bench as he consistently fails to deliver crosses to his team mates) could be brought on to run up and down or even across the pitch so that he doesn't get caught offside.

© Ross Clegg & Soccerphile.com

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Timnas U-22 Menang Tipis Atas Persibangga Purbalingga

Timnas U-22 Indonesia berhasil mengalahkan tuan rumah Persibangga Purbalingga 1-0 dalam laga persahabatan di Stadion Goentoer Darjono, Purbalingga, Minggu petang.

Pertandingan yang disaksikan sekitar 10.000 penonton ini berlangsung seru sejak wasit Sabar Murfianto meniup peluit tanda dimulainya babak pertama.

Para pemain Timnas U-22 binaan Aji Santoso ini langsung melancarkan serangan ke pertahanan Persibangga. Akan tetapi, berbagai upaya Garuda Muda untuk membobol gawang Persibangga yang dijaga kiper Suchaimin selalu kandas di tengah jalan.

Salah satu peluang gol yang dimiliki Timnas U-22 terjadi pada menit ke-17, namun bola yang ditendang oleh Didik Ariyanto dapat ditangkap oleh kiper Suchaimin.

Demikian pula bola yang ditendang Agung Supriyanto pada menit ke-20 terlalu tinggi sehingga hanya melintas di atas mistar gawang Persibangga.

Hal yang sama juga terjadi pada Persibangga Purbalingga. Sejumlah peluang gol yang dimiliki anak-anak asuhan Ahmad Muhariya gagal dimanfaatkan dengan baik.

Seperti yang terjadi pada menit ke-29, bola umpan dari Gunaryo, gagal ditendang oleh Harry Nur Y yang berada di depan gawang Timnas U-22 yang dijaga kiper Dhika Bayangkara.

Menjelang berakhirnya babak pertama, salah seorang pemain belakang Persibangga, Upi Hi Azis, harus meninggalkan lapangan karena mengalami cedera engkel.

Hingga turun minum, kedudukan masih tetap bertahan 0-0.

Memasuki babak kedua, permainan Timnas U-22 semakin garang dengan melancarkan serangan yang bertubi-tubi ke pertahanan Persibangga, hingga akhirnya sebuah gol dapat diciptakan oleh Fandi Eko pada menit ke-48.

Bola yang ditendang Fandi Eko berkat umpan datar dari Kurniawan ini bersarang di gawang Persibangga sehingga kedudukan berubah menjadi 0-1 untuk Timnas U-22.

Pertarungan pun semakin sengit dan sebuah pelanggaran dilakukan pemain Timnas U-22 terhadap Saeful Amar sehingga wasit memberikan hadiah penalti bagi Persibangga.

Akan tetapi, tendangan penalti yang dilakukan oleh Gunaryo gagal dieksekusi dengan baik.

Hingga peluit panjang tanda berakhirnya pertandingan ditiup oleh wasit Sabar Murfianto, kedudukan tak berubah untuk keunggulan Timnas U-22.

Kompetisi Liga Indonesia Musim Depan Dikelola Pihak Asing

Rencana PSSI untuk menyatukan dua kompetisi di Indonesia tampaknya bukan isapan jempol belaka. Kabarnya PSSI meminta pihak ketiga untuk mengelola kompetisi yang lebih baik untuk musim depan.

Ketua Umum PSSI, Djohar Arifin Husin, mengatakan bahwa penunjukan pihak asing yang profesional dan bebas dari keberpihakan mungkin diperlukan untuk mengelola kompetisi yang lebih fair. Sebagaimana diketahui, ISL dan IPL dikelola oleh dua pihak yang berbeda, yaitu PT Liga Indonesia untuk ISL dan PT Liga Prima Indonesia Sportindo untuk IPL.

"Usulan untuk menjaga independensi dan fairness bisa saja ditunjuk operator yang berisi pihak profesional dari konsultan asing yang berpengalaman," jelas Djohar Arifin.

Namun PSSI tak ingin memutuskan terlebih dahulu mengenai kepastian kompetisi musim depan. Pasalnya PSSI telah menyerahkan sepenuhnya semua hal terkait dualisme kepada keputusan Joint Committee.

"Pada prinsipnya apabila hal tersebut merupakan keputusan terbaik dariJoint Committee dan berdampak positif dan disetujui oleh Task Force AFC, kami akan mempertimbangkannya,” ujar Djohar Arifin Husin.

Syamsir Alam Dipanggil Timnas U-22


PSSI dikabarkan tengah mengupayakan kehadiran Syamsir Alam. Salah satu pemain muda Indonesia yang kini berlaga di kompetisi Divisi II Liga Belgia bersama CS Vise itu diharapkan bisa memperkuat tim nasional U-22 dalam babak kualifikasi Grup E Piala Asia U-22, 5-15 Juli mendatang.

Untuk merealisasikannya, Koordinator timnas, Bob Hippy mengungkapkan, PSSI harus menunggu kesepakatan dengan pihak-pihak terkait, seperti pemilik klub Vise, Nirwan Bakrie. Bob mengakui bahwa sejauh ini langkahnya lancar, bahkan kedua pihak akan segera bertemu dalam waktu dekat.

"Saya sudah janjian sama dia (Nirwan), dan mau ketemu juga dalam waktu dekat ini. Apalagi, Syamsir juga mengaku tertarik membela timnas. Jadi, kita tinggal tunggu saja bagaimana kesepakatan nanti," ungkap Bob kepada Kompas.com di Jakarta, Selasa (19/6/2012).

Untuk memperkuat timnas ini pula, PSSI juga telah memanggil sejumlah pemain yang berkompetisi di Indonesian Super League (ISL). Pemanggilan juga menjadi ajang pembuktian langkah rekonsiliasi yang sudah menghasilkan nota kesepahaman antara PSSI dan KPSI beberapa waktu lalu di Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

"Jadi semua pemain ISL sudah dipanggil, termasuk juga Syamsir Alam dan kawan-kawan untuk turnamen Piala Asia U-22 nanti," tegas Bob.

Sebelumnya, Syamsir sempat diminta masuk skuad timnas saat melakoni turnamen Al-Nakbah di Palestina beberapa waktu lalu. Akan tetapi, striker jebolan Sociedad Anonima tersebut batal membela skuad "Merah Putih". Klubnya tidak memberikan izin karena liga Divisi II Belanda masih bergulir. Saat ini, tercatat empat pemain Indonesia bermain di CS Vise, yakni Syamsir Alam, Alfin Tuasalamony, Yandi Munawar, dan Yericho Christiantoko.

Sementara itu, Indonesia menjadi tuan rumah grup E dalam babak kualifikasi Piala Asia U-22 bersama sejumlah tim kuat Asia, seperti Australia, Singapura, Timor Leste, Makau, dan Jepang. Hanya juara dan runner-up masing-masing grup, satu peringkat terbaik, plus tuan rumah yang akan lolos ke putaran final.