Talk Football Here... - Part 1

[Dan_]

Well we lost 3-1 and I couldn't go as I'm not feeling well.So all in all a bad day for me.

[BigSister]

i know was getting slightly miffed too. We lost too but just 1 more point to get and we will be ok. Aldershot never went up too
Hope you feel better too:hug:

[Dan_]

Thanks Becca.To be fair to Torquay the were the better side and throughly deserved the win by the sounds of it.We have to win against Burton next friday.

I wouldn't worry about getting another point now Becca.Mansfield wont win there last 3 games and Wrexham just seem to have accepeted they're down.

[BigSister]

I dont think wrexham played today. I think were safe too but its just knowing your safe. It be nice beating barnet though to know your safe

hope you win friday though

[Dan_]

Wrexham play Shrewsbury tomorrow afternoon.Barnet seem on a very good run of form at the moment.

I'm kind of in two minds about making the play-offs.On one hand it's obviously great to have a chance of promotion and the games are always great to be part, especially with the chance of going to Wembley again.There's also the money the club would get from being in the play-offs which would help whatever league we are in.

On the the other hand I don't think we are good enough to go up.It would also most likely keep Peter Taylor in the job for another season and I'm not exactly happy with things under him.The football isn't very entertaining and I don't think it's going to be good for the club in the long term with him in charge.He doesn't seem to care about the fans and it's all a bit miserable to be honest.

[BigSister]

yeah i thought they play tommorow. Thats why im worried barnet are on agood run and wrexham are fighting for their lives. But we shall see

[Dan_]

For a team trying to avoid relegation,all I hear is how lacking in passion Wrexham seem to be each week.I'm convinced the current bottom 2 will go down.

[BigSister]

oh well thats ok then and mansfield seem to br dropping points every week with drawing

[Dan_]

Draws is what kills you in the end.It's better to lose one then win one.

[BigSister]

true*nods*

[Dan_]

I bet you hope Dagenham go down so the lord of the dance ends up crying :laugh:.

[BigSister]

lol oh i just started laughing really bad then. Yeah i do hehe i wasnt happy when they equalised. lol the lord of the dance:laugh3:

[Dan_]

If we play them again then I'll shout that at him lol.That was a good result for them seeing as Rochdale's won 5 in a row.

[BigSister]

lol yeah see if he reacts lol

[Dan_]

I'm sure he would, anything to draw a bit of attention to himself.He might reply with the moonwalk.

Wrexham got a battering off Shrewsbury earlier.

[BigSister]

yay*dances* thanjks for that
rofl sorry thats funny

[Dan_]

Burton 3-0 Stevenage.

As soon as I saw that Alan Julian was injured for tonights game my confidence in getting a result went right out the window.This was Clark Masters debut but he's been in pretty poor for the reserves, so I kinda knew that this would be a step too far for him.

First half I was actually surprised at how well we played.Having Willock alongside Morison upfront obviously makes a difference and with two guys up top we managed to win more of the long balls which allowed for us to then get the ball down on the deck and create chances.I thought we were actually unlucky to be still level at half time.

Into the 2nd half and everything just went to pieces when we conceded the first goal.Masters should have caught it fairly easily but he just flapped and Brayford was left with the simple task of heading into the net.Then Westwood did his usual trick of dithering on the ball and got the ball nicked off him by Clare and he just made a desperate attempt to stop him.Yet another penalty given against us, feels like it's one every game now.It was clearly outside the penalty area.Clare dispatched the penalty with ease as Masters just flopped the ground.Then came the 3rd goal, short corner and Masters just abonded his goal trying to get to Clare who shot against the post and it was forced in by Brayford.

Then came the daft subs.Fair enough replacing Grant with Berry but why take a striker off and bring a central midfielder on at 3-0 down, the change was decided on when we were still 2-0 down! Then bringing on a right back for a centre back, great move there Taylor :?

We still cling on to the hope of a play-off place but after this defeat I'm almost certain it's not going to happen.Frankly I cannot wait for the season to end now,just to put us out of our misery.We've all heard about Taylor showing great commitment by applying for the Huddersfield job.I'll happily pay for the train ticket if it means he goes.

[BigSister]

aww sorry to hear that Dan ill keep clinging onto hope

I still remain positive that once you go up we will get relegated lol

[Dan_]

I've almost given up lol.It would just be typical if we went up and you went down lol.

[BigSister]

i know lol i always say that to my dad he just looks at me weird lol

[BigSister]

*walks in*

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

*thats better*

[Dan_]

Another loss eh Becca? I bet you wish you would hurry up and get that point just to put your mind at rest.

[BigSister]

heh worked out we are now equal with mansfields gap and how many points left
Ironic its now wrexham im worried about have a match midweek and guess who we are playing next......
hehe if mansfield win next week lord of the dance will be in trouble

[Dan_]

Dagenham could well be the first team relegated one season after winning promotion from the conference.

I'm sure you're safe, just cannot see Wrexham and Mansfield winning both games and even then there's still Chester,Notts County and Dagenham below you.

[BigSister]

yeah i keep saying that too but its just to make me feel better
Haha yeah he wont be dancing anymore.; Maccesfield are behind us too. I cant beileve ill be cheering Hereford on tuesday

[Dan_]

Well at least it's in your own hands and you're not relying on other sides slipping up.

[BigSister]

i supose it be our own fault lol

[Siouxsie]

mmm local newcastle v Sunderland derby game tomorrow
haway the lads come on the black cats i predict a 3 i win to sunderland hehehehe:cheer::cheer::cheer::cheer::cheer::cheer: :cheer:

[Dan_]

Well that's it then.It's finally confirmed that we cannot make the play-offs and finish the season in 6th place.

I'm not in the slightest bit surprised that we lost to Northwich tonight, just more desire on their part and yet again a dodgy display in goal from Clark Masters.Only plus point was the goal from McMahon.Onto the last game of the season now against Halifax, utterly pointless for us now but Halifax need a win to secure their safety for another season.I'd imagine they will find it fairly easy as we are just in holiday mode already.

I sincerely hope that Peter Taylor is given the sack once the season ends.I've not been shy in showing my displeasure at things under Tayor, tonight just topped it all off.I know there's been a whole load of drama rama since he took over, good players leaving and new players needing time to settle in etc.The trouble is when he came we were still in with a shout of winning the league, least I expected was a play-off place but we even managed to blow that.The football has been dire, most of the new signings have been very poor and Taylor's whole attitude to the job has been appalling.Hang your head in shame Mr.Taylor.

[BigSister]

awww sorry to hear that Dan
Wrexham lost which means they are relegated but makes me more nervous for saturday

[Dan_]

Don't be, we didn't deserve to make the play-offs and it might get Taylor the sack.

Wrexham will give up now, their minds will be elsewhere.

[BigSister]

yeah hopefully and if we win then it will make my mind better as i will be slightly hyper saturday after anyway*long story*
Hopefully yeah *crosses fingers* but it means another season*sighs*

[Dan_]

I doubt you'll even need another point but you'll get at least one on saturday.

[LargeAndInCharge]

cant believe john arne riise scored an iwn goel

what a muppet, still a top player tho.

[BigSister]

lol your very positive Dan. I thought we were safe against Dagenham but im not so sure anymore*scowls at Mansfield for going on a winning run*

[Dan_]

I've just worked it out, you cant actually be relegated.Mansfield play Dagenham on the final day of the season meaning that both of them cannot get two wins.So only one of them can overtake you.

[BigSister]

really *raises eyebrow* Yay *dances*:dance::dance:
Although if i say that to my dad he will probably say someting else so ill keep quiet. I never realised that until then but i would laugh if mansfield sent dagenham down

[Dan_]

I only worked it out when I saw that Mansfield were against Dagenham and therefore both cannot get to 48 points.

I'd prefer Daggers to stay up despite that idiot of a goalie.

[BigSister]

Im not sure lol even as much as i would love them to go down we do have a good record against them and mansfield have been in bottom 2 most of the season so i would feel kinda sorry for dagenham.
and hahahaa ive just realised you want dagenham to stay up so you dont have to play them
And the guy who scored the winner last night for northwich byrom he used to be in same classes as me at school

[Dan_]

Dagenham have a couple of our old players so I'd rather they stayed up, not fussed about playing them again or not.

Did Byrom used to play for Accrington too? He's a pretty good player.

[BigSister]

Yeah he did just for one season though. Thats good ^_^

[Dan_]

Just listened to the post match interview done by Peter Taylor on the local radio last night.All I can say is what a rude individual he is! At the start of the interview he just sounded disinterested then he began losing his temper at the questions.

When asked if he would be making changes to the squad over the summer, he just said "erm......I'll think about it".Then he was asked if he was going to be here next season, he could barely wait for the interviewer to finish the question before saying "Yeah yeah.I think so".When pressed if that was a definite he said "You're really starting to drive me crazy, can we end this conversation".Then after 3 minutes of the interview he said "This is truly the longest radio interview I've ever had, goodbye".

Get lost Peter :pat:

[BigSister]

Yay we won ^_^ 3-1. lol not surprisngly really but its good to win. dagenham won too so looks like mansfield are nearly down *scowls*

[Dan_]

I knew you would beat them, they've given up lol.Good for you to get back to winning ways though.

Dagenham are officially safe now.Chester are the ones in danger now but I still think Mansfield are going down.

[BigSister]

ooh when we beat chester some1 said they must be bad if we won how rude. I dunno who i want to go down out of those 2

[Dan_]

I'd rather Mansfield went down, we've played Chester plenty of times in the past so it's nothing new.

We are beating Halifax at the moment, could even send them down.It's just typical we start doing well when there's nothing to play for! If we had won on tuesday and won today we'd have made the play-offs.Just hits home what a wasted opportunity.

[BigSister]

awwww i know thats annoying
Thinking about it i rather chester went down as we have a kinda good record against mansfield but im not too fussed

[Dan_]

That can all change though.We used to have a good record against Exeter but they beat us three times this season.

We finally won a game :banana:.2-1 win against Halifax, good to end the season with a win and they didn't go down so both teams were happy in the end.

[BigSister]

yay thats good news and yay Halifax didnt go down either *dances*
So thats the season over for you now we have one more match next week then its over for us too *sniff*

[Dan_]

I was happy for our season to end, it was just dragging on lol.I'm sure I'll be desperate for a game in a few weeks.

[BigSister]

lol i was like that a few weeks ago but now im gonna be sad its ending. Hopefully next season will be better *crosses fingers*

[Dan_]

Better for both of us hopefully.Transfer rumours will start soon lol.

[BigSister]

Lol yeah theres only about 5 who are contracted so there could be a move out over the summer

[Dan_]

We always seem to have a massive squad overhaul over the summer, don't expect anything different this time.

The only person I'm certain is staying is Ronnie Henry who signed a new 2 year contract yesterday :bigsmile:

[Dan_]

Peter Taylor is going to quit as Stevenage Borough manager tomorrow according to the non league paper :colour:

[BigSister]

yay thats good lol

[Mike]

Completely gutted at our current situation. Personally I don't blame Stimson, he arrived at the club and things were a total shambles from when Jepson left, people try to blame him but at the end of the day the players he's brought in i.e Miller, Nutter, Lewis, Jackson are all more than good enough yet people still try and critisise him on that one. It will take a miracle next weekend for us to survive now, trying to be positive but Leeds away on the last day of the season when you HAVE to win is not exactly the ideal game, even playing them at home would of been a boost but away infront of their biggest crowd since they played in the premiership I just can't see them slipping up. In all honesty despite having quite a few players that could easily play at a higher level I would rather be relegated than end up struggling next season, this season has been terrible, can only realy recall a few "good times".

[Dr43%er]

As a Leicester fan it is now squeaky bum time. If Southampton win their last two, we go down. We need the baggies to beat them tonight as i don't fancy us
for a win at Stoke on the last day.

[BigSister]

sorry to hear that Mike I hope you stay up though *crosses fingers*

[Dan_]

Peter Taylor's officially left his posistion as manager of Stevenage Borough.We hope to name a new boss in 7-10 days.

Never a dull moment with us.

[BigSister]

haha yeah thats true Dan. Hope you get somebody soon somebody good

[Dan_]

I'm hoping for a manager that understands the league and plays football in the style that fans will enjoy, no more of this long ball crap.

[BigSister]

yeah true *nods*

[GiRTh]

Originally posted by Dan_
I'm hoping for a manager that understands the league and plays football in the style that fans will enjoy, no more of this long ball c**p. Did Taylor play long ball? Thats not like him.

[Dan_]

Originally posted by GiRTh
Originally posted by Dan_
I'm hoping for a manager that understands the league and plays football in the style that fans will enjoy, no more of this long ball c**p. Did Taylor play long ball? Thats not like him.

There was only about 3/4 games that he didn't play long ball :rolleyes:.We spent most of the time playing 4-5-1 and all.It drove me nuts.

[GiRTh]

Originally posted by Dan_
Originally posted by GiRTh
Originally posted by Dan_
I'm hoping for a manager that understands the league and plays football in the style that fans will enjoy, no more of this long ball c**p. Did Taylor play long ball? Thats not like him.

There was only about 3/4 games that he didn't play long ball :rolleyes:.We spent most of the time playing 4-5-1 and all.It drove me nuts. Whats gotten into him? He's never been like that. I completely understand your frustration if Boro were hoofing the ball upfield.

[Dan_]

Originally posted by GiRTh
Originally posted by Dan_
Originally posted by GiRTh
Originally posted by Dan_
I'm hoping for a manager that understands the league and plays football in the style that fans will enjoy, no more of this long ball c**p. Did Taylor play long ball? Thats not like him.

There was only about 3/4 games that he didn't play long ball :rolleyes:.We spent most of the time playing 4-5-1 and all.It drove me nuts. Whats gotten into him? He's never been like that. I completely understand your frustration if Boro were hoofing the ball upfield.

I've no idea, seemed very strange and basic tactics from a manager who's managed at higher levels.All the fans were so bored with the hoof and hope tactics that ended with our attendances going down.

Taylor made the rather stupid omission that he signed most of the players without actually ever watching them, instead he just went on the advice of other managers.I don't know what kinda game he thought he was playing.

He had no idea about this level of football and it showed.He said he only took the job as there was a clause in his contract after leaving Palace that said he couldn't take a job at any club above the conference.We are well shot of him.

[GiRTh]

Originally posted by Dan_
I've no idea, seemed very strange and basic tactics from a manager who's managed at higher levels.All the fans were so bored with the hoof and hope tactics that ended with our attendances going down.

Taylor made the rather stupid omission that he signed most of the players without actually ever watching them, instead he just went on the advice of other managers.I don't know what kinda game he thought he was playing.

He had no idea about this level of football and it showed.He said he only took the job as there was a clause in his contract after leaving Palace that said he couldn't take a job at any club above the conference.We are well shot of him. Thats a strange clause to have in his contract. Football managers basically know they're likely to get sacked, so why have a clause like that? I think he's losing his mind and judging by what you're saying he needs help fast. He wont have done his chances of getting another job any favours by his spell at Boro

[Dan_]

Originally posted by GiRTh
Originally posted by Dan_
I've no idea, seemed very strange and basic tactics from a manager who's managed at higher levels.All the fans were so bored with the hoof and hope tactics that ended with our attendances going down.

Taylor made the rather stupid omission that he signed most of the players without actually ever watching them, instead he just went on the advice of other managers.I don't know what kinda game he thought he was playing.

He had no idea about this level of football and it showed.He said he only took the job as there was a clause in his contract after leaving Palace that said he couldn't take a job at any club above the conference.We are well shot of him. Thats a strange clause to have in his contract. Football managers basically know they're likely to get sacked, so why have a clause like that? I think he's losing his mind and judging by what you're saying he needs help fast. He wont have done his chances of getting another job any favours by his spell at Boro

I've never heard of such an odd clause before.I've also heard he never had a proper contract with us, just on a gentlemans agreement until the end of the season.

Quite a few of our fans were baffled by some of the decisions that Taylor was making.He's well and truly lost the plot, any team that ends up with him has my sympathy.

[BigSister]

manfield have gone down as chester drew tonight. So its comfirmed who has gone down this series in league 2

[Dan_]

Been on the cards for a while now, no surprise whatever.

Already seen Wrexham and Mansfield fans saying they will win the league easily :laugh::rolleyes:

[GiRTh]

Originally posted by Dan_
Already seen Wrexham and Mansfield fans saying they will win the league easily :laugh::rolleyes: Stags couldn't win any league easily.

[BigSister]

lol they always say that torquay said they would win last year

[Dan_]

I think these fans would learn their lesson by now.When was the last time a relegated side won the league?

[BigSister]

8shrugs*. Before we were promoted from Northern premier league anyway

[Dan_]

Graham Westley's meant to be coming back to Stevenage :shocked:

[GiRTh]

Originally posted by Dan_
Graham Westley's meant to be coming back to Stevenage :shocked: Is that a good shock or a bad shock.

What about the all English Champions league final? Come on Man Utd.:spin2::hello::spin2::hello:

[Dan_]

Originally posted by GiRTh
Originally posted by Dan_
Graham Westley's meant to be coming back to Stevenage :shocked: Is that a good shock or a bad shock.

What about the all English Champions league final? Come on Man Utd.:spin2::hello::spin2::hello:

Little bit of both to be honest lol.He was a right arrogant prick the last time he was manager and made us a bit of a laughing stock.He claims to be a changed man now though.We shall see.

[GiRTh]

Originally posted by Dan_
Originally posted by GiRTh
Originally posted by Dan_
Graham Westley's meant to be coming back to Stevenage :shocked: Is that a good shock or a bad shock.

What about the all English Champions league final? Come on Man Utd.:spin2::hello::spin2::hello:

Little bit of both to be honest lol.He was a right arrogant prick the last time he was manager and made us a bit of a laughing stock.He claims to be a changed man now though.We shall see. Was he successful last time?

[Dan_]

Stevenage Borough have appointed Graham Westley and John Dreyer on a one year contract to spearhead the club's push for promotion to the Football League next season. 40 year old Westley left Stevenage in 2006 after a 3 year spell which saw them reach the Promotion Final in 2005, narrowly missing out to Carlisle. Westley and Dreyer first teamed up in a short, successful spell at Rushden in season 2006/7 where they suffered 2 defeats in 11 matches towards the end of the season to cast off the threat of relegation.

Graham Westley will head up the new look team as manager and former fans favourite John Dreyer will be assistant manager. A new fitness coach and first team coach will be appointed in the near future from a small list of identified, highly qualified coaches.

Chairman Phil Wallace said “The opinion of the board is that we need a manager who can hit the ground running coming August, so extensive knowledge of the Conference is essential. Graham most certainly has that and is our preferred choice. We also know that we need people around him that are the right types and John Dreyer is most certainly that. The board has no doubt that Graham and John are a formidable partnership and the right people for us, right here, right now. Graham has changed a lot in 2 years but his energy, motivation and desire to succeed are even stronger than before. He’s had a while to gather his thoughts about how to lead a club to success and has learnt over the last few years that Stevenage fans, including myself, want to watch a high tempo passing game played in the right spirit. That is the driver and motivation for everyone employed at Stevenage from now on, irrespective of who the manager is. We’ll be beefing up our coaching staff during the summer with an instruction to deliver winning football with pace and flair and that mindset will determine everything we do from now on”.

He continued “John Dreyer is well known to our fans and well liked by people in football. He’s a great admirer of Graham’s ability to manage and there’s a lot of mutual respect between them. We have three top names on our list for the coaching position but we’ll wait a bit before making that appointment as there are some great coaches out there and we'll see who else applies”

A full statement from the club concerning this appointment will follow.

A press conference will be held on Tuesday 6 May at 3pm and a Fans Forum will be held at the club later in the month at a date to be determined.

Wallace just couldn't help himself.

[Dan_]

Originally posted by GiRTh
Originally posted by Dan_
Originally posted by GiRTh
Originally posted by Dan_
Graham Westley's meant to be coming back to Stevenage :shocked: Is that a good shock or a bad shock.

What about the all English Champions league final? Come on Man Utd.:spin2::hello::spin2::hello:

Little bit of both to be honest lol.He was a right arrogant prick the last time he was manager and made us a bit of a laughing stock.He claims to be a changed man now though.We shall see. Was he successful last time?

Well first season he took us from 2nd bottom to 12th in the space of a couple of months, he did take most of the squad at Farnborough with him though.

2nd season we came 8th despite him saying we'd make the play-offs.3rd season we made the play-offs despite him saying we would win the league.In his last season with us we missed out on the play-offs on the last day of the season after he fell out and sold our star player.

[GiRTh]

Are you happy he's back?

[Dan_]

Originally posted by GiRTh
Are you happy he's back?

Not overly.I've still got the lasting memories of long ball football and his cringeworthy comments in the local paper, including slagging off the fans.

The chairman said he's learnt his lesson's though and his spell as manager of Rushden last year proved that.

[GiRTh]

Long ball eh? I can see why you're not all that happy. Lets hope he has learnt his lesson.

[Dan_]

The chairman said he's putting entertainment before results now and he's emphasised that to Westley.I get the feeling from what Westley's said in his newspaper column of late, he was wanting to get another manager's job and be bold by playing attractive football.

[BigSister]

hope its the right decsion dan

[Dan_]

Me and all lol.It's about time we got promotion out of this league, but appointing someone who failed to do it in the past, just feels like a backward step for me.

[BigSister]

yeah i can see what you mean but you never know he might have learnt his lesson like you said

[GiRTh]

I think you'll be OK Dan.

[Jay]

Anyone see the Exeter Torquay game? i enjoyed the game thought Torquay had it when they went 3-1 up on agg, but in the last 20 minutes bad defending cost them dearly and ended up loosing 5-3 on agg.

[Dan_]

I did mate.It was an very exciting 2nd half half, like you I thought Torquay had booked a place in the final once they scored.Full credit to Exeter for the comeback but I've got question marks over why Torquay were defending so deep, it just invited Exeter onto them.

Torquay need to replace their goalkeeper.Raynor's too error prone.

[Jay]

That's been the problem with Torquay this year goalkeepers think thats there third goalie this year, they have a good enough squad i feel to get back into leauge football next year but as you said Dan they need a solid back four and goalkeeper.

[Dan_]

I suppose the defence cannot get used to a keeper if they are changing them so often, it just leads to uncertainty.

[Jay]

Sure does, who do you think will win the other play off semi?

[InTheHood]

Wooooooooooohooooooooooooooooooooo!

Playoff Final :colour:

What a last 20 minutes, what a last 2 minutes!

Torquay fans thought it was in the bag (and to be honest, so did I)

Even if we don't go up, neither will Torquay :dance2:

Let's hope Heerenveen make it a double tonight and win in Amsterdam v Ajax, although that is fantasy!

Likely to be the last game for the likes of Sulejmani, Pranjic and Bradley before they leave for England I suspect. Sulejmani is wanted by a few and Pranjic - Tottenham, Bradley - Everton

[Dan_]

Ebbsfleet beat Torquay 1-0 to win the FA Trophy.Well done to them! :hello:

[BigSister]

Well done ebbsfleet

[Dan_]

We have signed 7 new players already.

Goalkeeper Ashley Bayes joins from Crawley.
Right back Eddie Anaclet from Oxford.
Winger Andy Drury from Lewes
Striker Anthony Thomas from Barnet
and Kettering trio, Gary Mills,David Bridges and Craig Westcarr.

[BigSister]

not bad *nods*
It just says in our local paper weve signed someone but its not 100% certain yet

[Dan_]

Colin Murdock from Shrewsbury?

[BigSister]

Yeah lol

[Jay]

We have signed David Howell from Rusden and Blackburn who was on loan at Weymouth both usefull players to have.

[Dan_]

Another signing for Stevenage.Michael Bostwick from Ebbsfleet :cheer2:

[Jay]

Another signing for us striker Marvin Morgan from Woking.

[Dan_]

Good signing there mate, he's a very tricky striker.

[Jay]

Yeah i think so, i would say another right back and maybe another midfielder and then we will be done in transfer market.

[BigSister]

Weve kept our goalkeeper for another year which im pleased with ^_^

[Dan_]

Originally posted by Jay
Yeah i think so, i would say another right back and maybe another midfielder and then we will be done in transfer market.

You well covered in the other areas then? I've heard Nikki Bull's not signed a new contract yet, bit odd.

Westley's still on about signing 2/3 more players for us :laugh:

[BigSister]

well hes done well so far ^_^

[Jay]

Nikki Bull has left Aldershot after 6 years wish him all the best been an amazing goalkeeper for us over the past few years.

[Dan_]

Be very tough to replace him mate.

[BigSister]

aww sorry to hear that jay

[Dan_]

Hull City are promoted to the premiership.

[BigSister]

well done Hull but gutted for Bristol city was rooting for them to win

[Mark]

Both teams played pretty well, but Adebolar played pretty bad and I think he was the key to the Bristol win, if it was going to happen.

Hull stayed composed and probably deserved to win at the end of the day - a nice £60million boost to their finance as well, will be interesting to see if they sign anyone new or not.

[Lauren]

Rangers win Scottish Cup against Queen of the South.

Final Score: Rangers 3 - 2 Queen of the South.

Awesome game. Rangers went into it extremely tired but confident with an expected win against a division 1 side. They played well, getting 2-0 ahead, but underestimated QoS, who hit two back within a 3 minute range.

Boyd saved the game, and much embarassment though, and scored his second goal of the game making it 3-2, ensuring Rangers win, and ultimately allowing Rangers to win the cup!

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44686000/jpg/_44686957_gersceleb226.jpg

[Dan_]

Avram Grant has been sacked as manager of Chelsea.Disgraceful decision in my view.I criticised him a few months back but since then he's done a good job and they only just missed out on winning the premiership and the champions league.I think he deserved another season in charge.

[Lauren]

Originally posted by Dan_
Avram Grant has been sacked as manager of Chelsea.Disgraceful decision in my view.I criticised him a few months back but since then he's done a good job and they only just missed out on winning the premiership and the champions league.I think he deserved another season in charge.

Definitely deserved another chance to prove himself. He didn't do that bad this season in the grand scheme of things - he's done a god job with Chelsea.

[Mike]

Avram Grant should never have been sacked, did all he possibly could for Chelsea and without doubt deserved next season at least.

[James]

Originally posted by Lauren
Rangers win Scottish Cup against Queen of the South.

Final Score: Rangers 3 - 2 Queen of the South.

Awesome game. Rangers went into it extremely tired but confident with an expected win against a division 1 side. They played well, getting 2-0 ahead, but underestimated QoS, who hit two back within a 3 minute range.

Boyd saved the game, and much embarassment though, and scored his second goal of the game making it 3-2, ensuring Rangers win, and ultimately allowing Rangers to win the cup!

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44686000/jpg/_44686957_gersceleb226.jpg

That was a relief after QoS came back. We could have used Beasley in a few of the other big games at the end of the season. He played well.

Didn't watch it but Doncaster beat Leeds in League One play-off. Another year in League One for Leeds Utd.

[BigSister]

Well done Doncaster they have done really well ^_^

[Lauren]

I'm pleased for Doncaster. I like both Donny and Leeds, but would've preferred Doncaster to win.

[Dan_]

Well done Doncaster.They have done so well to get to the championship.I remember playing them in the conference only a few years ago.

[BigSister]

ditto here Dan they went up to the football the season before we went into the conference so they have done really well

[Jay]

Well done to Doncaster fully deserve to be in Championship next season.

[Dan_]

We have signed Cambridge United defender Mark Albrighton for an undisclosed fee :hello:

[BigSister]

well done
Your old friend*sarcasm not intended* has joined wycombe as manager

[Dan_]

Poor Wycombe is all I can say :tongue:

[BigSister]

I think i know who you will be supporting when we play them
my dads like oh hes ok him and im like not to dan hes not hehe

[Dan_]

He's pissed me off even more now :mad:.

He was interviewed on Sky Sports and basically said Stevenage needed him more than he needed us. After initially stating he was a manager not just a championship manager and that work was work, he said he belonged in the league.

The plan was never to manage Borough, simply to overview training and the lie about taking over for a season and a half was never true.

I hope you thrash them :thumbs2:

[BigSister]

well we shall try ^_^. I hope we beat them as well

[Jay]

Some weird but great news Nikki Bull has changed his mind and signed a 2 year contract with us.

[BigSister]

lol that is strange but glad hes staying
one of our players did that once but hes now left us

[Jay]

Yeah i find it strange but over the moon hes staying though.

[BigSister]

yeah ^_^

[Dan_]

England C drew 1-1 with Grenada this evening,goal from Stevenage striker,Steve Morison :hello:

[Jay]

Mark Hughes has just been announced as the new Man City manager.

[Dan_]

I think he's slightly silly for taking that job to be honest.If he doesn't get them at least top 6 then he will end up sacked, he was better off building a team at Blackburn.

[GiRTh]

I think he'll do well there but I agree with Dan. He's better off staying at Blackburn.

[Jay]

I thought he should of stayed with Blackburn but it's a new challege for him, one of the favourites for Blackburn job is Big Sam be good to see him back in the game again.

[Dan_]

I think Big Sam would be well suited to a team like Blackburn.I know he didn't do all that well with Newcastle but he wasn't really given enough time to turn things around there.

He showed at Bolton that he's able to build a strong team.

I'm surprised that Hughes didn't wait to see if he would be approached to take over at Chelsea.

[GiRTh]

Big Sam is tailor made for Blackburn. They have a good squad with a few of top quality players. Big sam should be able to get the most out of them.

[Dan_]

I suppose the worry now is Blackburn will lose some of their big names now.I cannot see Bentley sticking around and Santa Cruz might be tempted by a move now.

[GiRTh]

It depends on who they get as manager. If Big Sam is tempted to Blackburn the big players might stay.

[BigSister]

oooooh i hope Sam comes to blackburn that would be a great move
I know it was reported yesterday in local paper that he was first on list so it looks like thats going to come true

[Jay]

I do think with or without Big Sam Bentley will leave, but as he showed at Bolton dont need millions of pounds to build a good team i think at Newcastle he wasnt given a chance.

[Dan_]

I've heard Bentley's been offered a contract at Liverpool, cant see him turning them down to stay with Blackburn to be honest.

[Jay]

The only thing that would put him off i guess would he get games at Liverpool? With Rafa you never no what team will be playing.

[BigSister]

I think he would get games at liverpool and i think he would choose to go to liverpool esp with england in mind

[Dan_]

I think he's got enough confidence in his own ability to think he would hold down a regular spot in the team.Liverpool didn't rotate quite as much last season.

[GiRTh]

I think Liverpool would be a good move especially if they get Barry too. Liverpool dont have great wingers and Bentley would do well there. Shame we sold him in the first place.

[Jay]

Yeah i think he is certainly good enough to play for Liverpool, does that mean Jermaine Pennant will be on his way out?

[Dan_]

I'd imagine Pennant would just end up as back up.

[GiRTh]

I hope Pennant leaves. He's not good enough for Liverpool.

[Mark]

Liverpool offered 10m for Barry, which was declined. Then they offered 12m and it was declined. Latest I heard is O'Neil wants £8m plus Crouch, and Rafa counter offered with a £15m bid.

Interesting stuff :bigsmile:

[GiRTh]

Originally posted by Mark
Latest I heard is O'Neil wants £8m plus Crouch,
If I was Rafa I'd say adios Crouchy. Barry would be great at Liverpool.

[Dan_]

We have made our tenth new signing of the summer,Iyseden Christie from Kidderminster.I'm pretty happy with that as he is a proven goalscorer at this level.

[Jay]

Originally posted by Dan_
We have made our tenth new signing of the summer,Iyseden Christie from Kidderminster.I'm pretty happy with that as he is a proven goalscorer at this level.

Good signing there mate scored quite alot of goals past few seasons.

[Dan_]

Originally posted by Jay
Originally posted by Dan_
We have made our tenth new signing of the summer,Iyseden Christie from Kidderminster.I'm pretty happy with that as he is a proven goalscorer at this level.

Good signing there mate scored quite alot of goals past few seasons.

18 in 34 starts I believe, certainly think he's capable of getting the same again next season.

[Jay]

Would fit quite well in i think, almost got a B team now aint ya the ammount of signings you have made lol.

[Dan_]

Originally posted by Jay
Would fit quite well in i think, almost got a B team now aint you the ammount of signings you have made lol.

Only problem is it looks as though he will be Steve Morison's replacement, loads of rumours that he is off to Crewe.

Seems we have signed a player from half the clubs in the conference lol.

[BigSister]

lol jamie
we were discussing this in the pub tonight and most of the reaction towards sam joining blackburn was quite negative. Apparently the fans want shearer

[Jay]

Alan Shearer would make a great manager one day but out of him and Big Sam i would choose Big Sam because of what he did with Bolton.

[GiRTh]

Shearers far too shrewd to become Blackburn manager. He's waiting for the right time to take over at Newcastle. Big Sam is the best option.

[BigSister]

Yeah most of the people in the pub were blackburn fans though so i think they are dreaming. I want big sam too:cheer:

[Jay]

I think with Big Sam as there manager they can break into top 6.

[Dan_]

I think he would keep sustain their posistion in the top 8.

[Dan_]

We have signed Lee Boylan from Cambridge United after they accepted our 2nd bid for him.We really are splashing the cash this season.

[Razmataz]

As a Manchester City fan, I think Hughes is an amazing appointment.

With any luck, Mr Thaksin will bring in some world class players.

8-1 is just hanging over my head to be honest.

[Dan_]

Romania vs France was one of the most boring game I've had the misfortune of watching.Where was the urgency and creativity from France? If they carry on like this then they may aswell pack their bags.

[BigSister]

lol i know dan i was like nearly falling asleep

holland and italy on the other hand

[Dan_]

I was surprised at how good Holland were.

[Tasha_x]

I'm glad Holland beat Italy 3-0 :spin2:

[BigSister]

I was kinda shocked as well but pleased at the same time

[LargeAndInCharge]

shearer to be blackburn boss you reckon???

[BigSister]

I think so after things ive heard from my dad. he knows some1 whos son works at blackbirn and hes heard things since last week so i would be pretty confident

[GiRTh]

Originally posted by Dan_
I was surprised at how good Holland were. Holland always look good in at least one game of every major championships. Holland have been one of my favourite international teams since I was a kid. The thing is though, can they maintain it, they have the ability to implode.

[LargeAndInCharge]

i want spain to win like.

[Lauren]

I want Spain to win with Torres as top scorer... only cos he's captain on my FF league.

[LargeAndInCharge]

iam a liverpool supporter so i like torress, alonso, and arbeloa

[Stewart]

Spain or Holland are looking good to win at the moment, problem is - they both do this every time - play some lovely football then screw it up

[Matt10k]

Ronaldo is such a diver :mad:

[Kore]

YES half time! Croatia!!

1-0 to Croatia against Germany!!!:dance2:

[Matt10k]

2-0! :hello:

[BigSister]

We got wolves in the carling cup away ^_^

[Jay]

Originally posted by BigSister
We got wolves in the carling cup away ^_^

Good match there Becca, we got Coventry over the moon with the draw.

[BigSister]

Both good draws for us ^_^
Oh and Dan our friend was on football today talking about the draw i shouted shut up riverdance lol my dad just looked at me as if i gone mad lol

[Dan_]

Originally posted by BigSister
Both good draws for us ^_^
Oh and Dan our friend was on football today talking about the draw i shouted shut up riverdance lol my dad just looked at me as if i gone mad lol

:laugh: they got Reading, didn't they?

[BigSister]

yeah...
When he came on i just rolled my eyes in annoyance he was only on 2 minutes though thank goodness

[InTheHood]

Well, i'm proud to say we are the best team at Euro 2008, based on the first 2 rounds of matches :blush2:

The defence has looked fairly solid and we've given a good hiding to the 2006 World Cup Finalists.

Now I hope we lose to Romania - as it will knock France and Italy out :laugh2:

It will be Sweden or Russia on the QF which we have to fancy.

Don't think we'll go and win it - peaked too early :blush:

Good tournament so far - apart from watching Greece :laugh2:

[Dan_]

The Greeks have been atrocious, they're obviously set up to be a defensive team as it served them so well at the last championships but they now have no cutting edge and the defence continually makes stupid mistakes.

I couldn't quite believe my eyes when they just passed it around in their own half.

[Matt10k]

Anyone think the Dutch will let Romania win on tuesday, to knock France and Italy out?!

[Tasha_x]

^I'm not sure, it would be interesting to see France and Italy get knock out though

[BigSister]

lol the greeks were rubbish last night i couldnt beileve they won it 4 years ago
Fixtures out tommorow ^_^ cant wait

[Dan_]

Our fixtures don't come out until July :mad:

[BigSister]

awwwwwwwww thats not nice:mad:

[BigSister]

hehe jay it had to happen didnt it:wink:

[Lauren]

Oooh, fixtures look good.

Home game for me at SoL on boxing day - with Blackburn too, so could be a win - might get tickets for it cos I will be home then.

October 25th is our first Wear-Tyne derby and it's home - extremely excited!

First game is with L'pool - bit scary. (HOME AGAIN!, yey).

[Jay]

Originally posted by BigSister
hehe jay it had to happen didnt it:wink:

Yeah i no, i was hoping it was your lot or Gillingham.

[BigSister]

lol i dunno whenever to be happy about that or not

[Jay]

Should be a good game just wish the season would hurry up.

[BigSister]

oh right thats better then ^_^. And i know

[InTheHood]

Originally posted by Matt10k
Anyone think the Dutch will let Romania win on tuesday, to knock France and Italy out?!

We're not that sort of team.

Had it been Italy/Portugal/Germany et al, i'm sure they would have done their best to knock a big side out in an underhanded way.

[Kore]

Knew the Dutch would beat Romania! If they won then their mentality would be sky high and they won of course!!

Im looking forward to tonights game between Portugal and Germany :cheer2:

[BigSister]

same here Kore im torn between that and BB and Heroes as they will all be on at the same time

[Dan_]

Looks like Paul Ince is going to be the new manager of Blackburn Rovers.Nice to someone that's managed in the lower leagues and done well, given the chance.

[Matt10k]

Originally posted by BigSister
same here Kore Im torn between that and BB and Heroes as they will all be on at the same time

I'll probably end up watching BB on CH4+1. Annoying they couldn't put it on at 10pm again as they have been doing.

And am I the only one wanting Germany to win?!

I predict 2-1 to Portugal though...

[tinkerbell]

ARE YOU ****ING KIDDING ME !!!! WTF WHY IS GERMANY WINNING !!!

[Mark]

Because I have money on them, that's why! :spin::spin::spin:

[tinkerbell]

Noooooo!! Germany cant win !!! Lol i was screaming when they scored a holes.

[AngRemembered]

2-0 now to Germany, I hope that little winker is playing tonight!!!!

[Mark]

nooooo, portugal got one back :sad:

[Dan_]

Fantastic first half,just hope the 2nd isn't a letdown after that.Some of the passing moves have been just a joy to watch.

I'm slightly surprised that Germany have managed to up their game so much.I guess the team changes have a lot to do with it, dropping the hopeless Gomez was long overdue.I can see Portugal getting back into, as the 2nd half wore on, the influence of Ronaldo was apparent.Germany need to carry on making good use of set pieces, that's the real weakness of Portugal.

[AngRemembered]

Originally posted by cc100
My team, Birmingham have got off to a bad start.

I think we could get into a relegation scrap.


Awww bless you, that's my team too:kiss:

[Matt10k]

OMG!!! Loving turkey's late come backs!

[tinkerbell]

Go Turkeh !

[Lauren]

Gutted, I really want the Croats in the Semi.

Hopefully they still will.

[Matt10k]

I want turkey to win. They seem so determined and they are the underdogs!

[BigSister]

that was just so omg

[Lauren]

Personally gutted, but pleased for the Turks.

[Dan_]

Turkey just don't give up, quite remarkable.Still think the Germans will beat them quite comfortably though.

[Captain.Remy]

Russia won against the Netherlands by a score of 3 to 1. That was an amazing moment to watch, 2 really strong teams.
Please let it be Italy against Russia ! My 2 countries of heart. :hugesmile:

[Tasha_x]

I really wanted Holland to win :(. I think Spain will win now

[Kore]

I couldnt believe it when Turkey beat Croatia!! how lucky are they haha!! good finale' though!!

I wish Holland won yesterday, even though i dont mind the Russians! and it seems that Russia have the chance to have revenge againt Spain after Spain beat them in the group stages 3-0.

Germany v Turkey
Russia v Spain

cmon Espania!!!!!

[Lauren]

I knew Spain would win :dance:

Supporting Germany though.

[Dan_]

Spain ftw! Italy were so negative tonight, funny how they seemed to be playing for penalties but then go and lose on them.

[James]

Spain were no great shakes tonight either. If they had lost that they would have kicked themselves, Italy weren't so much negative tactically as very limited in attacking options going forward and were there for the taking in normal time.

Spain will have to improve if they are to get to the final / win.

[BigSister]

I dont really care who wins im only really supporting turkey as my friends mum has them in the sweep. I think Germany will win though them or spain

[Dan_]

Originally posted by James
Spain were no great shakes tonight either. If they had lost that they would have kicked themselves, Italy weren't so much negative tactically as very limited in attacking options going forward and were there for the taking in normal time.

Spain will have to improve if they are to get to the final / win.

It was a bit hard for Spain to break them down though, Italy had so many men behind the ball.Italy just seemed to resort to long balls to Luca Toni as they seemed to have no real width in the midfield, until Camorenasi came on.I found the tactics quite baffling to be honest.

[InTheHood]

Trust Netherlands to go out on my Birthday. :bawling:

Luckily it was late, so didn't spoil my day.

Oh well.....WC 2010 maybe.... :wink:

[Dan_]

Turkey take the lead :shocked:.Lehmann looked totally clueless lol.

[Kore]

Germany 1-1 Turkey.

Hope Turkey cause an upset and win! The storm just caused the picture to go on BBC1 and they switched it to BBC five live for '5 mins'.... picture back now though! Turkey looking more dangerous!! :thumbs:

[BigSister]

lol that really annoyed me kore i was like huh lol

[Dan_]

What a great game that was.I expected a comfortable victory for Germany because of all the suspensions and injuries in Turkey's team but they the Turks played well above their level once again, very unfortunate to not take it to extra time.

Germany made a lot of defensive errors and Lehman looked cumbersome.I think Spain or Russia would really punish them.

[Matt10k]

Originally posted by Dan_
What a great game that was.I expected a comfortable victory for Germany because of all the suspensions and injuries in Turkey's team but they the Turks played well above their level once again, very unfortunate to not take it to extra time.

Germany made a lot of defensive errors and Lehman looked cumbersome.I think Spain or Russia would really punish them.

Great game, really wanted turkey to win :sad:

Still can't believe they scored that 2nd goal. They never give up!

[*mazedsalv**]

I just watched the last 10 minutes. I really thought it would go to ET.

[Spike]

Much better game than I expected it to be
I thought it was going to ET
So glad Germany won
Hope they win in the final

[Kore]

Originally posted by BigSister
lol that really annoyed me kore i was like huh lol

Same here, Although i did prefer Radio 5 lives commentators! They have better personalities.... if you get me... lol

I am gutted Turkey are out, i thought they did it again, but Germany are so lucky!! :(
I want either Russia or Spain to win it now! :dance:

[Stewart]

I have a sneaky feeling the Russians will surprise us all tomorrow, Spain are heavy favourites and have a habit of making a mess of things when they really should do better.
Russia to win 2-1 and then beat the lacklustre Germans in the final

[BigSister]

haha yeah i know what you mean they have more personality in their voices make it more exciting

[James]

I was just glad to get a break from Mark Lawrenson. :tongue: Missed the pictures though.

[Spike]

I also have a feeling Russia will win, Spain out of the 4 on paper should win the competition but they can never do the business.

[Stewart]

Originally posted by James
I was just glad to get a break from Mark Lawrenson. :tongue: Missed the pictures though.

haha so very true, Mark Lawrenson is the most pointless commentator in the world, he just talks for the sake of it - usually things which are only loosely related to whats happening!

[Dan_]

It was strange watching the game with the radio commentary, what with it being so much more detailed and there was like a 1 second delay.I much prefer Alan Green to John Motson though.

[Stewart]

Radio Commentary is good because they actually describe the action in detail - whereas the TV commentary would rather talk nonsense or mention things relating to which english team a person has played for.

[Dan_]

Motson is the worst for doing that.He will make references to stuff from about 40 years ago.I want commentary on the match, not a history lesson pal.

I've never been able to take Motty seriously since he asked Lawro if a guy in the crowd was an Abel Xavier lookalike, when it was actually Xavier! Who on earth else would look like him anyway? :laugh2:

[tinkerbell]

Can't belive Turkey are out ....
Russia to win..

[Matt10k]

It's funniest when they say something will 'definitely happen' then it doesn't or when they say things like 'I don't think there's any chance of ____ getting a goal now' and then 2 minutes later they go and score :bigsmile:

[AngRemembered]

Ive not kept up with the football for a few days now been reading the posts looks like Germany through and Spain

Can someone bring me up to date where we are, the draw teams left ect..thanks:lovedup:

[Dan_]

Germany are through to the final.The second semi-final is tonight between Spain and Russia.