FM: There may Come a Time When Norwich Goes Down

[Desnudo]

Sun - 8/5/06
Community Shield
Norwich (N) 1 v. Manchester United (N) 2
TV
A: 89,984

-Referee-
Rob Styles

-Yellow Cards-
Norwich City: 7
Man U: 3

-Injuries-
NC: Gilberto - groin, 4 weeks
NC: Benedict Vilakazi - foot, 1 week

- Goals -
NC: Fabrizio Miccoli (85)
MU: Diomansy Kamara (23), Alan Smith (90)

-MOM-
Tim Howard, GK (MU)

Meaningless game to tire players before CL match - check
Rob Styles refereeing - check
Massive amount of yellow cards that count in national play - check
Two injuries to key players - check
Both left wingers now out due to injury or suspension - check
CL match with Parma in 3 days - check
Last minute goal to lose the meaningless game - check
Opposing goalkeeper wins man of the match - check
Taking a long walk - check

[Desnudo]

8/6/07
-News-

Norwich announced the signing of Colombian international Jose Julian De La Cuesta from Spanish 2nd division side, Cadiz, for $8 million. The 24 year old De La Cuesta has 11 caps for Colombia and primarily plays at left back, although he is capable of central play.

Wed - 8/8/07
Champions League 3rd Round Qualifying Leg1
Parma (H) 1 v. Norwich (A) 1
TV

- Goals -
P: Torsten Frings (missed penalty 16), Bernardo Corradi (57)
NC: Yasin Karaca (84)

-MOM-
Fabio Vargas, DMC (NC)

Torsten Frings missed a golden opportunity on a harsh penalty call for jumping unfairly on Nicola Legrotagglie, hitting the ball straight to Sebastien Saja. Corradi managed to give Parma the lead early in the second half, but a late 30 foot Yasin Karaca shot slid behind the keeper to give Norwich the valuable away goal and a draw.

Next up: EPL away v. Aston Villa (TV) - Mon, 8/13/07 and home v. Tottenham - Sat, 8/18/07

8/9/07
-News-

Manchester United paid $30 million to Real Madrid for Turkish forward Sanli Tuncay.

Cristian Chivu's appeal for a work permit was approved and he joined Norwich immediately. Norwich fans are delighted with the signing and Chivu is already a fan favorite. Many young fans are already queuing up to have Chivu printed on the back of their replica shirts.

Arsenal brought Michael Owen home from Spain with a $39 million payout to Real Madrid.

Aston Villa have signed Uruguayan striker German Hornos for $21 million from Sevilla.

[Desnudo]

-Norwich 2007/08 1st Team Roster Preview

Norwich will continue to run variations of the 4-1-2-1-2 wide diamond used last season

Defenders

Left Back

Thomas Holm, 26, Norway, 3 CAPS

Thomas is a very solid left back with great all-around defending skills. only an average offensive fullback, he has fantastic defensive abilities and can mark anyone in the game.

Jose Julian De La Cuesta, 24, Colombia, 11 CAPS

Jose is an up and coming player in Colombia's revival as a nation to be reckoned with on the international scene. Hidden in Spain's division two for several years, he is expected to see plenty of first team action in England's top league. Great in the air, his tackling and marking skills are good, but could use some improvement.


Centre Back

Cristian Chivu, 26, Romania, 44 CAPS

Chivu is a world class defender who also has some dribbling and passing skills. Expected to anchor the Norwich backline for years to come. He was handed the captaincy upon his arrival.

Nicola Legrottaglie, 30, Italy, 8 CAPS

Nicola is a great all around defender. Another excellent passer of the ball. A long time favorite of the coach, he and Chivu are expected to form the core of a great defense.

Carlos Henrique, 17, Brazil

Just 17, Henrique was a starter before Chivu's arrival. Awesome technical abilities on both the offensive and defensive side of the ball. His failings are a lack of an aggressive nature and a somewhat cowardly attitude towards challenges. He also needs to hit the weights to achieve his full potential.


Right Back

Almir, 18, Brazil

Almir is the starter at right fullback for the second season. A lack of a real killer instinct is his only true failing. Very strong and has excellent marking skills. Henrique will spell Almir when necessary.

[Desnudo]

Midfielders

Left Midfield

Gilberto, 31, Brazil, 2 CAPS

Gilberto is an excellent two-way player with excellent decision making and creativity supplementing his outstanding dribbling and crossing skills. No real weaknesses.

Santana, 25, Brazil

A little bit slower than Gilberto, Santana has unsurpassed two-way technical skills and a great mental makeup. Always in the right place at the right time. Can also play in the middle of the pitch if necessary.


Defensive Midfield

Fabian Andres Vargas, 27, Colombia, 29 CAPS

Vargas does not have the best offensive skillset, although he is an above average passer. He has all the skills needed in a DMC though. Great in the air, strong, and an excellent marker/tackler.

Michele Pazienza, 24, Italy

Pazienza is one of the best passers in the league, but his skills in the air leave him second choice behind Vargas. He is excellent in all other areas.

Freddy Guarin, 21, Colombia, 21 U-21 CAPS

Freddy is a set piece and long shot master. Put him in front of a stationary ball and there is a good chance of that ball ending up in the net. Ask him to throw the ball from the touchline to the middle of the 18 yard box and you likely have a goal. Besides his usefulness in set piece situations, Freddy does have solid all around skills, although he still needs to develop more to see consistent first team action.


Attacking Midfield

Benedict Vilakazie, 24, South Africa, 26 CAPS

Benedict inherits the starting AMC role from the departed Ariel Ortega. A true understanding of the game coupled with dribbling and passing skills makes up Benedict's talent base. Is a tireless worker and can jump, if not always accurately head, well.

Yasin Karaca, 23, Turkey/Belgium

Yasin can play any position from the midfield forward. His versatility makes him useful in a variety of situations. A bit on the slow side, his game is an excellent technical makeup combined with a creative and composed approach.

Freddy Adu, 18, USA, 12 CAPS

Even though it feels like he's been around forever, Adu is only 18. Still has a lot of developing to do if he is to gain a permanent spot in the first team. One positive is that he has a knack for scoring in limited opportunities at the right moment.


Right Midfield

Christoffer Andersson, 28, Sweden, 29 CAPS

Andersson has been on the shelf, due to surgery, the past four months and is not expected to be at full strength until the end of September. The team has obviously missed his presence on the field. Considered one of the top wingers in the world, Andersson has great two-way capabilities and can fill in at either left or right fullback in an emergency.

Jermaine Jenas, 24, England, 7 CAPS

Jenas has filled in for Andersson with steady, if not spectacular performances. Really more a true central midfielder, Jenas still has room to develop the ability to play down the wing. Solid in all aspects of his game.

[Desnudo]

Strikers

Lebohang Mokoena, 20, South Africa, 13 CAPS

Lebohang is that rare breed of tall and fast player that gives opposing defenses a headache. Fantastic in the air, he also is developing the ability to break defenses down on the ground. Only 20, he finished second in the EPL with 17 goals in 06/07.

Flavio, 17, Brazil

Flavio is blessed with speed that rivals a track star and technical skills that recall the best Brazil has produced. If he bothered to put in the full effort for the entire match, he would likely be unstoppable.

Fabrizio Miccoli, 28, Italy, 28 CAPS

Miccoli is an incredibly gifted player. Excellent both distributing and receiving the ball, Miccoli's only weakness is a lack of ability in the air.

Claudio Lopez, 33, Argentina, 71 CAPS (retired from intl. play)

Claudio is still more than capable of doing the business at 33. The fan's player of the year in 06/07, he continues to defy time by producing key goals.

[Desnudo]

8/31/07
-Final Summer Window Transfer News-

Reports are that Betis (La Liga) approached Norwich with an interesting offer that contained a rare player for player swap plus cash. Forward Vagner Love was offered with a structured cash payment of $10.2 million in exchange for the Canarie's left winger Santana.

"Love is a fantastic forward and we would love to have him on the team," said Coach Pantalones. "Unfortunately we already have four outstanding strikers and not as many outstanding left wingers, so I don't feel the deal is in our best interests. However, if Betis were to add a $30 million up front payment, we might be willing to reconsider our stance."

Santana inked a new three year Norwich contract paying him $4 million/year.

Norwich sold DMC Michele Pazienza to Bayern Munich for a potential $7 million

Atletico Madrid signed GK Petr Cech from Chelsea for $39.5 million. Former Germany U-21 GK Michael Rensing will assume the duty at Chelsea.

Arsenal signed Paraguayan international Roque Santa Cruz from Bayern Munich for $35 million. Arsenal spent $84 million on transfers this summer.

The Carrow Road expansion has been completed. Capacity is now 30,000.

9/1/07
-England News-

An unnamed ex-England player has voiced doubts about England's ability to handle Croatia in their upcoming Euro Championship qualifying match. Michael Owen shot back that team confidence was high and he hoped to give the home supporters a win done in style.

-News-

Santana has won the EPL Player of the Month award for August. He tallied 3 goals, an assist and an 8.75 average rating in four league matches.

Adios Pantalones has won the EPL Coach of the Month award for August after leading his team to 3 wins and a draw in four league matches.

[Desnudo]

-August Match Round-up-

Mon - 8/13/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 1
Aston Villa (H) 2 v. Norwich (A) 3
TV

-Red Card-

AV: Garreth Barry, second yellow (80)

- Goals -
NC: Lebohang Mokoena (25, 55), Fabrizio Miccoli (88)
T: Leonardo Ponzio (85), Jan Gunnar Solli (90)

-MOM-
Santana, ML (NC)


Sat - 8/18/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 2
Norwich (H) 3 v. Tottenham (A) 1

- Goals -
NC: Fabian Andres Vargas (5), Santana (47), Claudio Lopez (81)
T: Mathew Taylor (2)

-MOM-
Sebastien Saja, GK (NC)

Norwich responed to an early Spurs tally immediately and scored two second half goals to seal the victory.


Champions League 3rd Round Qualifying Leg 2
Norwich (H) 1 v. Parma (A) 0
TV

- Goals -
NC: Freddy Guarin (87)

-MOM-
Santana, ML (NC)

A late strike by Freddy Guarin was enough to see Norwich through to the group stage of the Champions League. Parma will feel somewhat disapointed as they had plenty of chances to force extra time.

-News-

Norwich received $4.6 million for playing in the group stage of the CL

Norwich has been drawn with Bayern Munich, Rosenborg and Galatasaray in Group C of the CL


Sat - 8/25/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 3
Norwich (H) 4 v. Newcastle (A) 0

- Goals -
NC: Fabian Andres Vargas (27), Santana (38, 45), Claudio Lopez (90)
T: Mathew Taylor (2)

-MOM-
Santana, MR (NC)

The match started as a back and forth affair between two teams picked to fight for European spots. By the end of the game, it was clear who would be going home asking questions of themselves. A brace by Santana, bookended by goals from Vargas and Lopez provided the winning margin.


Sat - 8/18/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 4
Middlesbrough (H) 3 v. Norwich (A) 3

- Goals -
M: Massimo Maccarone (52, 76, 85)
NC: Claudio Lopez (14), Yasin Karaca (35), Flavio (82)

-MOM-
Maccarone, SC (M)

Norwich will be scratching their heads at only drawing at Boro' after assuming control with two first half goals. A fantastic individual effort by Maccarone denied the Canaries the win.

Next up: Break for international matches, EPL match away v. Charlton, Sat -9/8/07

[Desnudo]

-2008 European Championship Qualifying Overview-

The championship takes place every four years, in even years when there is no World Cup. Qualifying is divided into 9 groups, each containing 5-6 teams. Home and away legs are played, resulting in 8 or 10 matches for each team. The top team from each group automatically advances to group play in the championship. The top second place teams face another second place team in a home and away playoff to advance to group play. The hosts, Switzerland and Austria, receive bye-ins to the tournament.

England currently sits in first place with 15 points and a +10 goal differential after 5 matches in Group 9, consisting of England, Croatia, Poland, Lithuania and Iceland. Croatia is the only other team capable of capturing first with 12 points and a +4 goal difference.

Remaining matches for England are home versus Croatia - Sat, 9/1/07, away v. Lithuania - Wed, 9/5/07 and home v. Iceland - Wed, 10/10/07

[Desnudo]

-England Match Preview-

England's expected starting eleven have been announced for upcoming matches against Croatia and Lithuania. Adios Pantalones has announced his intention to employ an attacking formation based on a wide diamond midfield. "England will dictate the run of play in matches, beginning immediately," said Pantalones. "For too long, we have been content to lob long balls up the field and sit back in our own half. That is why we always come up short on the world stage. Times change and so must we. Tomorrow against Croatia, you will see what I mean."

Perhaps that is why England stalwart David Beckham has been left out of the lineup. "I want players that can think and run at the same time, I have no other comment," explained Pantalones.

GK: Chris Kirkland
DL: Ashley Cole
DC: John Terry
DC: Rio Ferdinand
DR: Glenn Johnson
DMC: Ledley King
ML: Joe Cole
MR: Jermaine Jenas
AMC: Frank Lampard
FC: Michael Owen
FC: Wayne Rooney

[Desnudo]

England Answers all Questions With Record Setting Performance

England set a modern national record with seven goals in a demolition of Croatia in front of the 78,097 gathered at Wembley. Michael Owen and Frank Lampard both added a brace and Wayne Rooney, Joe Cole and David Prutton rounded out the scoring. With goals in the 4th, 7th and 10th minutes, England came out flying and never looked back.

Sat - 9/1/07
European Championship Qualifying - Group 9, Round 6
England (H) 7 v. Croatia (A) 0

- Goals -
E: Wayne Rooney (4), Michael Owen (7, 55), Joe Cole (10), Frank Lampard(32, 52), David Prutton (87)

-MOM-
Owen, SC (E)

Next up: EC qualifying round 7 at Lithuania, Wed - 9/5/07

[Desnudo]

Wed - 9/5/07
European Championship Qualifying - Group 9, Round 7
Lithuania (H) 0 v. England (A) 2

- Goals -
E: Frank Lampard (pen 68, 71)

-MOM-
Joe Cole, ML (E)

A confident performance from England was enough to see off minnows Lithuania in a match that clinched a berth in the EC for our boys. Frank Lampard knocked in a penalty, and then finished an excellent team move on a cross into the box from Cole for a brace in a span of three minutes.

Next up: EC qualifying round 8, home against Iceland, Wed - 10/10/07

[Desnudo]

Wed - 8/8/07
Champions League Group Stage Round 1
Bayern Munich (H) 0 v. Norwich (A) 4
TV

- Goals -
NC: Lebohang Mokoena (12, 19, 41), Claudio Lopez (77)

-MOM-
Mokoena, SC (NC)

Norwich swept Bayern off the pitch behind a first half hattrick from Mokoena. The Canaries now have a commanding goal differential in their group.

Next up: EPL home v. Southampton - Sat, 9/15/07 and away v. Man U (TV) - Sat, 9/22/07. CL home v. Rosenborg - Wed, 9/26/07

[Desnudo]

Sat - 9/15/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 5
Norwich (H) 2 v. Southampton (A) 0

- Goals -
NC: Fabrizio Miccoli (40), Thomas Holm (pen 82)

-MOM-
Santana, MR (NC)

Goals to close out the first half and the match punctuated the dominance of the Saints by Norwich.


Sat - 9/22/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 6
Manchester United (H) 2 v. Norwich (A) 0
(TV)

- Goals -
MU: Cristiano Ronaldo (4), Wayne Rooney (12)

-MOM-
Rooney, SC (MU)

The Red Devils scored two early goals and then played keep away the rest of the match, owning 61% posession.


Wed - 8/8/07
Champions League Group Stage Round 2
Norwich (H) 1 v. Rosenborg (A) 1
TV

- Goals -
R: Alex Valencia (16)
NC: Claudio Lopez (missed penalty 27, 66)

-MOM-
Ivar Ronningen, GK (R)

Rosenborg held out for an upset draw behind a superb performance from their goalkeeper. Claudio Lopez missed a penalty in the 27th minute that could have provided the difference for Norwich.

Next up: EPL home v. Bolton - Sat, 9/29/07 and away v. Chelsea - Wed, 10/3/07.

[Desnudo]

Sat - 9/29/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 7
Norwich (H) 2 v. Bolton (A) 0

- Goals -
NC: Gilberto (24), Yasin Karaca (83), Freddy Adu (87)

-MOM-
Cristian Chivu, DC (NC)

A late one-two combo from Karaca and Adu blew open what had been a tight match.


Wed - 10/3/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 8
Chelsea (H) 0 v. Norwich (A) 2

- Goals -
MU: Flavio (51), Claudio Lopez (78)

-MOM-
Sebastien Saja, GK (NC)

In an evenly fought match, quality of finishing proved the difference and the Canaries ran out winners.


Next up: Break for internationals then EPL home v. Liverpool - Sat, 10/13/07, CL away v. Galatasaray - Wed, 10/17/07, and EPL away v Leeds - Sat, 10/20/07

[Desnudo]

Sat - 9/1/07
European Championship Qualifying - Group 9, Round 8
England (H) 5 v. Iceland (A) 0

- Goals -
E: Wayne Rooney (19), Michael Owen (30), Frank Lampard (47), John Terry (63), Joe Cole (71)

-MOM-
Joe Cole, ML (E)

In a meaningless match for both teams, England ran Iceland off the pitch in a showcase of flair and creativity. John Terry broke his international duck after heading home a corner in the 63rd minute.

Next up: Friendly away against Serbia and Montenegro - Wed, 11/14/07

[Desnudo]

Sat - 10/13/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 9
Norwich (H) 0 v. Liverpool (A) 0

- Goals -

-MOM-
Santana, ML (NC)

Liverpool showed why they've only conceded one league goal this campaign as Norwich's forwards kept getting hung up on the Reds' backline. The Canaries deserved to take something more than a 0-0 result from the match, having created far more chances.


Wed - 10/17/07
Champions League Group Stage Round 3
Galatasaray (H) 0 v. Norwich (A) 2
TV

- Goals -
R: Alex Valencia (16)
NC: Christoffer Andersson (67), Yasin Karaca (78)

-MOM-
Flavio, SC (NC)

A solid performance from Norwich saw them creep closer to the CL knockout round behind two goals in the latter part of the second half.


Sun - 10/21/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 10
Birmingham (H) 0 v. Norwich (A) 4
(TV)

- Goals -
NC: Flavio (49, 54), Benedict Vilakazi (57), Lebohang Mokoena (87)

-MOM-
Vilakazi, AMC (NC)

Norwich KO'd relegation battlers Birmingham behind four second half goals, including three within the first 15 minutes. Young speedster Flavio, only 17, continues to impress with another strong performance.


Next up: League Cup away v. Scunthorpe - Wed, 10/24/07, EPL home v. Arsenal - Sat, 10/27/07, CL home v. Galatasaray - Tue, 10/30/07

[Desnudo]

Wed - 10/24/07
English League Cup 3rd Round
Scunthorpe (H) 0 v. Norwich (A) 3

- Goals -
NC: Gilberto (20), Lebohang Mokoena (22, 45)

-MOM-
Mokoena, SC (NC)

Norwich took control early and Scunthorpe rarely threatened as the Canaries set it on cruise control in the second half.


Sat - 10/27/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 11
Norwich (H) 1 v. Arsenal (A) 0

- Goals -
NC: Fabrizio Miccoli (20)

-MOM-
Sol Cambell, DC (A)

Norwich gained their first victory in a eight tries against Arsenal during Adios Pantalones tenure as coach. Miccoli struck early for the Canaries, who then proceeded to lock down the explosive Arsenal attack.


Tue - 10/30/07
Champions League Group Stage Round 4
Norwich (H) 0 v. Galatasaray (A) 1
TV

- Goals -
G: Ozcan Ozgurcan (76)

-MOM-
Recber Rustu, GK (G)

Despite possessing the ball for 61% of the match, including 36% in the Galatasaray zone, Norwich could not solve the final problem of putting the ball into the net despite 9 shots on target. "I don't know what I could have changed in this one," said Pantalones.

Next up: EPL away v. Leeds - Sat, 11/3/07, LC home v. Tottenham - Wed, 11/7/07, Two week international break.

[Desnudo]

Wed - 11/3/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 12
Leeds (H) 2 v. Norwich (A) 0

- Goals -
L: Philip Mulryne (8), Andrew Henry (51)

-MOM-
Stuart Taylor, GK (L)

Norwich once again fell at the hands of another a stellar performance from an average goalkeeper. "Frankly, I don't know," said Pantalones. "Perhaps it is because we sit high in the table at the moment, teams see us as a target. Maybe it's something in the water. I just don't know."


Sat - 10/27/07
League Cup 4th Round
Norwich (H) 4 v. Tottenham (A) 3

- Goals -
NC: Fabrizio Miccoli (pen 18), Flavio (34), Gilberto (87), Lebohang Mokoeana (105)
T: Robbie Keane (57, 84), Simon Davies (71)

-MOM-
Robbie Keane, SC (T)

It took extra time, but Norwich saw off a resiliant Spurs side that refused to say die after going down 2-0 early. Three consecutive goals had the Canaries' hopes fading, but a brilliant move by Gilberto relit the torch. Mokoena put home the winner in extra time.


Next up: CL home v. Bayern Munich - Wed, 11/21/07, EPL away against Portsmouth - Sat, 11/24/07, LC QF away against Bolton - Wed, 11/28/07

[Desnudo]

Wed - 11/14/07
International Friendly
Serbia & Mont. (H) 1 v. England (A) 0

- Goals -
S&M: Dejan Stankovic (11)

-MOM-
Vlada Avramov, GK (SM)

Serbia & Mont. scored on their only shot on target and England could not find a way past Avramov in a sloppily played match.


Next up: European Championship group stage - June 2008

[Desnudo]

Wed - 11/21/07
Champions League Group C Round 5
Norwich (H) 3 v. Bayern Munich (A) 1
TV

- Goals -
NC: Flavio (48, 49), Cristian Chivu (84)
BM: Claudio Pizarro (44)

-MOM-
Chivu, DC (NC)

Flavio scored twice in two minutes and Chivu headed home the insurance goal as Norwich put a serious dent in Bayern Munich's hopes of advancing to the CL Knockout Phase.



Sat- 11/24/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 13
Portsmouth (H) 1 v. Norwich (A) 4

- Goals -
NC: Benedict Vilakazi (23), Lebohang Mokoena (31), Flavio (77), Fabrizio Miccoli (90)
P: Yakubu (3)

-MOM-
Vilakazi, AMC (NC)

Pompey got off to a bright start, scoring with just 3 minutes gone by. Unfortunately for the relegation battlers, the next 87 minutes belonged to Norwich.


Sat - 11/27/07
League Cup Quarter Final
Bolton (A) 1 v. Norwich (A) 3

- Goals -
NC: Flavio (31, 59), Santana (43)
B: Maik Wagefeld (61)

-MOM-
Yasin Karaca, AMC (NC)

Norwich continued to pour in goals, seeing off Bolton to advance the semi-finals against Aston Villa.


Sat- 12/1/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 14
Norwich (H) 4 v. Blackburn (A) 0

- Goals -
NC: Santana (31), Benedict Vilakazi (43), Flavio (51), Fabian Andres Vargas (78)

-MOM-
Santana, ML (NC)

Norwich looks unstoppable right now, tallying at least 3 goals for the 5th match in a row. Worldclass left winger Santana has been integral in creating so many chances.


Tue - 12/4/07
Champions League Group C Round 6
Rosenborg (H) 1 v. Norwich (A) 3
TV

- Goals -
NC: Claudio Lopez (4), Freddy Adu (7), Fabrizio Miccoli (45)
R: Almir (own goal 74)

-MOM-
Freddy Adu, AMC (NC)

Norwich scored all the goals, including Rosenborg's in a 74th minute blunder by right fullback Almir. Norwich clinches 1st place in Group C and advancement to the knockout stage. Bayern Munich was eliminated as Galatasaray also advances from Group C.


Next up: EPL home v. WBA - Mon, 12/10/07, away v. Fulham - Sat, 12/15/07, home v. Everton - Wed, 12/19/07, and home v. Aston Villa - Sun 12/23/07

[Desnudo]

Mon - 12/10/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 15
Norwich (H) 3 v. West Brom 0
(TV)

-Red Card-
WB: Thomas Gaardsoe, second yellow (68)

- Goals -
L: Santana (3), Flavio (30), Jermaine Jenas (33)

-MOM-
Santana, ML (NC)

Norwich is a well-oiled machine right now, cutting and slashing through defenses like they weren't even there.


Sat - 12/15/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 16
Fulham (H) 0 v. Norwich (A) 2

- Goals -
NC: Yasin Karaca (43), Lebohang Mokoena (77)

-MOM-
NC: Christoffer Andersson, MR

Fulham can take consolation in preventing Norwich from scoring at least 3 goals. Unfortunately, they still scored 2 to Fulham's nil.


Wed - 12/19/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 17
Norwich (H) 4 v. Everton 0

- Goals -
NC: Santana (7), Flavio (47), Benedict Vilakazi (77), Lebohang Mokoena (90)

-MOM-
NC: Christoffer Andersson, MR

Norwich is currently sitting in 2nd, 6 points behind undefeated Manchester United. If they continue to pound on teams like they have been over the first half of the season, the league might see its first serious title race in three seasons. The Santana-Flavio 1-2 punch is shaping up to be one of the most dangerous around.


Wed - 12/19/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 18
Norwich (H) 6 v. Aston Villa 1

- Goals -
NC: Benedict Vilakazi (45), Lebohang Mokoena (54, 68) Fabrizio Miccoli (73, 79), Yasin Karaca (88)
AV: Jan Gunnar Solli (8)

-MOM-
NC: Santana, ML

Looking at the final scoreline, you would never know that Aston Villa led for nearly half the game. Vilakazi drew Norwich even just before hafltime and the Canaries turned on the jets in the second half to stomp on the poor Villains who looked overmatched and outplayed once things got serious.


Next up: EPL away v. Tottenham - Wed, 12/26/07, home v. Middlesbrough - Sat, 12/29/07, away v. Newcastle, Tue 1/1/07.

[Desnudo]

12/23/07
-News-
Who can Stop the Canaries?

The answer is Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona. The two teams reportedly tabled bids that meet world class left winger Santana's minimum release fee. The fee is rumored to be set at $45 million. Norwich supporters hold their breath as the current shoe-in for EPL, and possibly European, Player of the Year decides between signing a lucrative contract with Norwich or moving on to La Liga.

"When I first signed Santana, he was a relatively unknown player, especially in Europe. I never imagined that $45 million would not be enough to keep him here. If I had known, I would not have allowed a release clause," said Coach Pantalones. "Despite his rocky relationships with some of his teammates, I know everyone would welcome him signing a new deal with us. Unfortunately, I know his ambition, and I see a move as very likely at this point."

[Desnudo]

Wed - 12/26/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 19
Tottenham (H) 1 v. Norwich (A) 2

- Goals -
NC: Fabian Andres Vargas (1), Lebohang Mokoena (82)
T: Frederic Kanoute (40_

-MOM-
NC: Christoffer Andersson, MR

Bookend goals helped Norwich round the corner on the season in fine shape, six points back of Manchester United, having won their last seven league matches. Bookend goals by Vargas and Mokoena supplied the offense.

Wed - 12/29/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 20
Norwich (H) 4 v. Middlesbrough 1

- Goals -
NC: Thomas Holm (22), Benedict Vilakazi (41), Lebohang Mokoena (71), Fabrizio Miccoli (81)
M: Gaizka Mendieta (76)

-MOM-
NC: Benedict Vilakazi, AMC

Norwich came out firing and did not stop until the final whistle. Managing to ignore rumors that Santana had agreed to terms with Real Madrid, the team put two away in each half.


Tues - 1/1/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 21
Newcastle (H) 5 v. Norwich (A) 2

- Goals -
NU: Craig Bellamy (33), Benjamin Lauth (44), Daniel Jensen (62, 88), Stephen Carr (65)
NC: Fabrizio Miccoli (18), Benedict Vilakazi (27)

-MOM-
NU: Davide Narduzzi, GK

Playing their 6th match in 17 days, Norwich finally succumbed to exhaustion and a plucky Newcastle side that rebounded from a 2-0 deficit to score 5 unanswered goals. Norwich came out flying, but soon lost steam as the game wore on. Who can blame them for finally running out of juice after so many matches in such a short span?


Next up: FA Cup home v. Burnley - Sat, 1/5/08, LC away v. Aston Villa - Wed, 1/9/08, EPL home v. Charlton - Sat 1/12/08, and Leicester - Wed 1/16/08.

[Desnudo]

1/1/08
-News-

Santana left Norwich today, joining Real Madrid for a $50 million up front payment. "I wish Santana well and I cannnot fault him for wanting to move to a team such as Madrid," noted Pantalones. "If he ever wishes to return, I would welcome him with open arms."

Norwich Chairman Roger Munby promised fans that Norwich would not stand pat in the winter transfer market. "I cannot reveal who is targeted, but rest assured that we have authorized the use of almost all of Santana's transfer fee for player acquisition. Obviously a replacement left winger to support Gilberto is a priority."

[Desnudo]

Sat - 1/5/08
FA Cup 3rd Round
Norwich (H) 3 v. Burnley (A) 0

-Injured-
NC: Yasin Karaca, 4 months

- Goals -
NC: Freddy Guarin (6), Fabrizio Miccoli (14), Claudio Lopez (39)

-MOM-
NC: Christoffer Andersson, MR

Norwich saw off the challenge of Burnley behind three first half goals. More importanly, Norwich will be without AMC Yasin Karaca for 4 months after he left the game in the 24th minute with a torn groin muscle. With Benedict Vilakazi soon gone for up to three weeks on duty with South Africa in the African Nations Cup, it remains to be seen who will play at the AMC position.


Wed - 1/9/08
League Cup Semi Final Leg 1
Aston Villa (H) 0 v. Norwich (A) 4

- Goals -
NC: Gilberto (1), Benedict Vilakazi (13, 64), Fabrizio Miccoli (29)

-MOM-
NC: Gilberto, ML

Aston Villa really must go back to the basics after another blow out loss to Norwich. It is obvious that what ever they have been trying is not working. The victory gives the Canaries a 8-3-1 record against Villa with a +18 goal difference.


Sat - 1/12/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 22
Norwich (H) 1 v. Charlton (A) 0

- Goals -
NC: Benedict Vilakazi (81)

-MOM-
NC: Christoffer Andersson, MR

Norwich's offense finally cooled in the blustery, damp conditions of January in England. A late goal by Vilakazi salvaged the win and kept Norwich within nine points of still undefeated, and twice-drawn, Manchester United.


Wed - 1/16/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 23
Norwich (H) 1 v. Leicester (A) 0

- Goals -
NC: Freddy Adu (10)

-MOM-
NC: Christoffer Andersson, MR

Norwich's offense continued to sputter, but an early goal and some solid defense, led by Cristian Chivu, was enough to secure the victory.


Next up: EPL home v. Blackburn - Sat, 1/19/08, LC home v. Aston Villa - Wed, 1/23/08, EPL away v. Southampton - Sat 1/26/08, and home v. Manchester United - Wed 1/30/08.

[Desnudo]

1/17/08
-News-

Reports out of Norwich are that Barcelona tabled an offer of $40 million for the Canarie's attacking midfielder Benedict Vilakazi. The rumor mill also has Chelsea in the mix. "We are not keen on selling a talented player like Benedict, and we don't need the money, per say," said Pantalones, "but when someone offers such a large sum, you certainly do not say no without fully considering the offer first. The main question we must ask ourselves is, 'what could we do with such a sum?'"

[Desnudo]

Sat - 1/19/08
FA Cup 4th Round
Blackburn (H) 3 v. Norwich (A) 1

- Goals -
B: Paul Gallagher (42), Dirk Kuijt (81), Jion Douglas (82)
NC: Christoffer Andersson (33)

-MOM-
B: Morten Gamst Pederson, MC

An exhausted, reduced and battered Norwich side succumbed to a relentless Blackburn side that used two goals in the final ten minutes to knock Norwich out in the 4th round of the FA Cup. "I didn't like the draw, playing another EPL away in the 4th round, for starters," noted the coach. "Additionally, with Mokoena and Vilakazi gone for the next three weeks with South Africa, various injuries, and the recent departure of Santana, we are having trouble finding 16 fit men to put in the squad. If I am frank, I welcome this departure as an opportunity to reduce our schedule and focus on Europe and the league."


Wed - 1/23/08
League Cup Semi Final Leg 2
Norwich (H) 0 v. Aston Villa (A) 0

- Goals -

-MOM-
AV: Martin Laursen, DC

An uninspired peformance from an Aston Villa side that seemed reluctant to move the ball forward combined with a tired Norwich side that seemed indifferent on the ball, resulted in a nil-nil draw and an aggregate victory for Norwich. Norwich advances to face Manchester United in the final at Wembley - Sun, 2/24/08. "Great, I guess," said the coach. "Any chance we can play this one out on Pro Evolution? Our best player versus their best player. Sir Alex won't? Damn."


Sat - 1/26/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 24
Southampton (H) 0 v. Norwich (A) 2

- Goals -
NC: Fabrizio Miccoli (72), Flavio (75)

-MOM-
NC: Fabian Andres Vargas, DMC

The offense may have returned to Earth, but the defense of Norwich has really solidified in recent league play, posting 4 shutouts in a row.


Wed - 1/30/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 25
Norwich (H) 3 v. Manchester United (A) 1

- Goals -
NC: Nicola Legrotagglie (29), Flavio (53), Claudio Lopez (83)
MU: Ruud van Nistelrooy (60)

-MOM-
NC: Christoffer Andersson, MR

Norwich handed Manchester United their first league defeat and reeled back the leaders, moving to within six points. "Hopefully we have shown the rest of the league that they can be beaten, the title is still their's to lose," noted Pantalones.


Next up: EPL away v Bolton - Sat 2/2/08 and Charlton - Tue 2/5/08, home v. Chelsea - Sat 2/10/08

[Desnudo]

1/30/07
-Norwich Make Moves-

Norwich unveiled Dutch captain, 25 year old AM LC Rafael van der Vaart and Argentine international, 28 year old AMC Pablo Aimar at a press conference today.

van der Vaart was acquired from Paris-SG for a fee of $19 million and is expected to see time on the wing and in the middle.

Superstar attacking midfielder Aimar was acquired for the bargain basement price of $9 million from Valencia. For reasons unknown, the consistently healthy Aimar had been out of favor at Claudio Ranieri's squad, only starting 11 matches for Valencia over the past three and a half seasons.

"Frankly, it was an incredibly dumb move, not to play one of the top five players in the world regularly," said the Norwich manager.

"I won't pass judgement on Claudio, but for such a competitive and driven player not to be in the first team, it seems ridiculous. Pablo does not have to worry about that happening here."

The moves were made in response to the departure of Santana and the imminent departure of Benedict Vilakazi, who will be joining Barcelona this summer for a fee of $40 million.

Gilberto will also be departing this summer, having signed a pre-contract with Villareal.

[Desnudo]

2/1/07
-Major Transfer Moves, Winter Window-
All numbers in millions

26 year old French AMC, Lionel Mathis, was sold by Auxerre to Lion for $37.5

27 year old German center back, Christoph Metzedler, moved from Dortmund to Chelsea for $28.5

German striker Miroslav Klose, 29, from Bremen to Bayern for $24

Right winger from Germany, Clemens Fritz, 27, HSV to Bayern, $20.5

DMC Matteo Brighi, 27 year old Italian, Paris-SG to Lazio, $20

Ronaldo, from Real Madrid to Valencia, $20

England striker Jermain Defoe, Tottenham to Aston Villa $16.5

[Desnudo]

Sat - 2/2/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 26
Bolton (H) 2 v. Norwich (A) 2

- Goals -
NC: Fabian Andres Vargas (23), Flavio (28)
B: Jon Macken (68, 86)

-MOM-
B: Jon Macken, SC

Norwich blew a golden opportunity for an away win, conceding a goal in the final five minutes.


Tue - 2/5/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 27
Bolton (H) 1 v. Norwich (A) 3

- Goals -
CA: Jasone Euell (26)
NC: Flavio (1), Claudio Lopez (47), Fabian Estoyanoff (87)

-MOM-
NC: Fabian Andres Vargas, DMC

Norwich handed Manchester United their first league defeat and reeled back the leaders, moving to within six points. "Hopefully we have shown the rest of the league that they can be beaten, the title is still their's to lose," noted Pantalones.


Sat - 2/10/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 28
Norwich (H) 2 v. Chelsea (A) 0

- Goals -
NC: Nicola Legrottaglie (11), Flavio (20)

-MOM-
NC: Fabrizio Miccoli, SC

Norwich scored an important win over Chelsea at home. With 8 first teamers either missing due to injury or international duty, the team dug deep and pulled out the win.

Next up: CL away v. PSV - Wed 2/20/08, LC neutral v. Man U - Sun 2/24/08, and EPL away v. Liverpool - Sat 3/1/08

Cristian Chivu is out 3 months with an injured hip

[Desnudo]

(OT) About the end of February I realize that the "Rest players the day after match" box is unchecked, explaining the fatigue and injury problems. I have no idea how it became unchecked, since it was checked all the previous seasons, but damn.

[Desnudo]

Wed - 2/20/08
The Champions League Knockout Stage Leg 1
PSV (H) 3 v. Norwich (A) 2
TV

- Goals -
PSV: Anthony Obadai (48), Mathew Amoah (76), Jan Vennergoor of Hesselink (80)
NC: Flavio (27, 55)

-MOM-
PSV: Tom Muyters, GK

Norwich will feel good about its chance to advance to the quarterfinals after a solid performance that produced two away goals.


Sun - 2/24/08
League Cup Final
Norwich (N) 0 v. Manchester United (N) 2
TV

-Referee-
Rob Styles

-Yellows-
MU: 3
NC: 7

-Red Card-
NC: Fabian Andres Vargas, second yellow (72)

- Goals -
MU: Louis Saha (23), Alan Smith (82)

-MOM-
MU: Ryan Giggs, ML

"What a joke," said an angry Adios Pantalones after the match. "Rob Styles can suck the exhaust pipe on my car. Check his bank account, I'm sure it just increased substantially. The English FA can suck my exhaust pipe too. Why do they keep appointing this guy to championship matches?"


Sat - 3/1/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 29
Liverpool (H) 1 v. Norwich (A) 0

- Goals -
L: Anthony Le Tallec (75)

-MOM-
NC: Gilberto, ML

With a loss to 3rd-placed Liverpool, Norwich's grip on second place has been loosened. The Reds now only trail by 6 points for the final automatic bid to group play in the CL. Norwich falls 9 points behind the Red Devils, who won.

Next: CL home v. PSV - Wed 3/5/08, EPL home v. Birmingham - Sat 3/15/08 and away v. Arsenal - Sat 3/22/08

[Desnudo]

Wed - 2/20/08
The Champions League Knockout Stage Leg 2
Norwich (H) 0 v. PSV (A) 1
TV

- Goals -
PSV: Wilfred Bouma (29)

-MOM-
PSV: Tom Muyters, GK

Norwich will feel extremely upset and unlucky at dropping out of the CL after dominating a match from start to finish and coming away empty handed. Mediocre goalkeeper Tom Muyters turned into a legend the past two weeks, kept PSV from being sent home losers. 20/7 shots for Norwich versus 1/0 for PSV tell the story. PSV's only goal came on an off-target shot that deflected off a Norwich defender into the net.


Sat - 3/15/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 30
Norwich (H) 1 v. Birmingham (A) 0

- Goals -
NC: Flavio (77)

-MOM-
NC: Gilberto, ML

A despondent Norwich side responded to the heartbreaking exit from the CL by holding out for a 1-0 win against lowly Birmingham. Pablo Aimir was injured during the game and will miss three weeks.


Sat - 3/22/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 31
Arsenal (H) 1 v. Norwich (A) 0

- Goals -
A: Thierry Henry (77)

-MOM-
NC: Gilberto, ML

Norwich managed to find 16 relatively fit players to bring to Emirates Stadium and created many good chances, only to get stoned by the goalkeeper. A moment of individual brilliance by Henry provided the game's only goal.


Next: EPL H v. Leeds - Sat 3/29/08, A v. Leicester - Sat 4/5/08, H v. Portsmouth - Sat 4/12/08, A v. Blackburn - Sat 4/19/08

[Desnudo]

Sat - 3/29/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 32
Norwich (H) 1 v. Leeds (A) 0

- Goals -
NC: Rafael van der Vaart (33)

-MOM-
Leeds: Stuart Taylor, GK

Norwich faced another super hot goalkeeper in Stuart Taylor, the legendary third-team Arsenal keeper. Fortunately one shot went in.


Sat - 4/5/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 33
Leicester (H) 0 v. Norwich (A) 3

- Goals -
NC: Flavio (28), Freddy Guarin (33), Fabrizio Miccoli (90)

-MOM-
NC: Freddy Guarin

After managing only two goals in the previous six matches, Norwich finally got off the snide and laid a clinic on Leicester. Mokoena missed Norwich's third straight penalty chance.


Sat - 4/12/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 34
Norwich (H) 4 v. Portsmouth (A) 0

- Goals -
NC: Freddy Guarin (43), Pablo Aimir (63), Flavio (67), Fabrizio Miccoli (87)

-MOM-
NC: Gilberto, ML

Norwich continues to get players back from the injury list and their quality is beginning to show again.


Sat - 4/19/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 35
Blackburn (H) 0 v. Norwich (A) 3

- Goals -
NC: Pablo Aimir (4,69), Christoffer Andersson (51)

-MOM-
NC: Aimir, AMC


Next: EPL final matches A v. WBA - Sat 4/26/08, H v. Fulham - Sat 5/3/08, and A v. Everton - Sat 5/10/08

[Desnudo]

Sat - 4/26/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 36
WBA (H) 2 v. Norwich (A) 0

- Goals -
WBA: Robert Vittek (63, 72)

-MOM-
WBA: Robert Vittek, SC

Norwich were whipped by relegation battling West Brom today. With the victory, WBA all but secure another season in the top flight. Norwich strolled on to the field perhaps a bit overconfident, but their feisty competitors refused to roll over for them. With the loss, Manchester United mathematically clinch the title. With two matches left, Norwich now lead Liverpool by 4 points for second place. Arsenal trail Liverpool by 9 points in 4th.


Sat - 5/3/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 37
Fulham (H) 0 v. Norwich (A) 2
TV

- Goals -
NC: Freddy Guarin (40), Fabrizio Miccoli (81)

-MOM-
NC: Gilberto, ML

Norwich clinched 2nd place and Fulham clinched relegation in a match largely controlled by the visitors. Fulham had some pressure early in the match, but talent tells, and Norwich assumed control halfway through the first half and never relinquished it.


Sat - 5/10/08
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 38
Everton (H) 1 v. Norwich (A) 1
TV

- Goals -
E: Bas Kemble (4)
NC: Fabrizio Miccoli (pen 68)

-MOM-
NC: Gilberto, ML

Everton needed a win to ensure another season in the EPL and came out attacking. After securing an early goal, they went into a shell and it took a penalty by Miccoli in the 68th to open them up again. Norwich created the better chances throughout the game, but in the end the match turned out to be meaningless for both sides as Leicester drew, leaving Everton ahead on goal difference, regardless of their match outcome.

Another exciting season draws to a close.

Still to come: Final standings and statistics and a Norwich supporter season review.

Norwich receive $20 million for their final position of 2nd.

[Desnudo]

Final Standings and Statistics - English Premier League 2007/08

[Desnudo]

Final Norwich Statistics (all Competitions) by Average Rating

[Desnudo]

-Norwich City 2007/08 Supporter Team Review-

The 2007/08 season was an excellent time to be a Norwich fan. The team topped its previous high watermark of 3rd by finishing second in the EPL with 88 points, twelve behind leaders Manchester United. With only two losses, including one to Norwich, and four draws, the Red Devils recorded the highest point total, 100, in recent times. Second is nothing to be ashamed of when faced with such dominance.

Norwich once again made it to the finals of the League Cup and the knockout phase of the Champions League. Bridesmaids once again in the League Cup, they suffered an unfortunate exit at the hands of a lucky PSV team. Hopefully the team will have a chance to avenge their defeat next season.

Injuries are rarely a good excuse for failure, but in the case of this season's Norwich team, we should look at what happened. The months of February and March were especially brutal to a team that uses a much smaller roster than the average EPL team. Keeping a small roster allows a club like Norwich (17th in average attendance) to pay higher salaries, but the risk is always present of a few key injuries seriously impacting the team. The departure of the irreplaceable Santana during the January window marked the first chink in the armor. The loss of Vilakazi and Mokoena to national duty during a critical period also provided challenges.

Total Injury Days by Player - 2007/08 Season:

Nicola Legrotagglie - 21
Carlos Henrique - 28
Almir - 77
Cristian Chivu - 90
Jose Julian de la Cuesta - 14
Thomas Holm - 3
Christoffer Andersson - 112
Freddy Guarin - 3
Fabian Andres Vargas - 35
Gilberto - 84
Jermaine Jenas - 49
Pablo Aimar - 21
Benedict Vilakazi - 28
Yasin Karaca - 112
Flavio - 21
Fabrizio Miccoli - 63
Lebohang Mokoena - 7

The average player from this core group was injured for one and a half months of the season. The largest impact was the loss of Chivu for 3 months from February to May, which tore the heart out of the Norwich central defense and sidelined the captain. No doubt Coach Pantalones will take a long look at his training regime in the offseason.

Despite the loss of Santana and the imminent departures of Benedict Vilakazi and Gilberto, supporters must feel excited for next season with the additions of Pablo Aimir and Rafael van der Vaart to the club. There is still a very strong core at Norwich, and we must be hopeful of an even better 2008/09!

[Desnudo]

-EPL Awards-

Player of the Year

1st - Damien Duff, AM, Chelsea
2nd - Joe Hamill, AM, Tottenham
3rd - C. Ronaldo, AM, Manchester United

Young Player of the Year

1st - Flavio, FC, Norwich
2nd - Lebohang Mokoena, FC, Norwich
3rd - Gareth Stewart, DMC, Charlton

Premier Select

Sebastien Saja, Jose Julian de la Cuesta, Flavio, and Cristian Chivu from Norwich

Manager of the Year

1st - Vincenzo Pincolini, Man U
2nd - Adios Pantalones, Norwich
3rd - Rafa Benitez, Liverpool

Footballer of the Year

1st - Damien Duff, AM, Chelsea
2nd - Joe Hamill, AM, Tottenham
3rd - C. Ronaldo, AM, Manchester United

Top Goalscorer

1st - James Beattie, 20, Southampton
2nd - Sanli Tuncay, 18, Man U
3rd - German Hornos, 18, Aston Villa

[Desnudo]

-European Championship Odds-

Italy goes off as the favorite at 5-2
France and Germany are 5-1
England and Spain are 10-1
Portugal is 14-1

[Desnudo]

-European Roundup-

Iraklis won the Greek National A

Nantes won the French Ligue Un

Gladbach won the German Bundesliga

Ajax won the Dutch League

AC Milan won Serie A

Porto won the Porteguese Superleague

Real Madrid won La Liga

Galatasaray won the Turkish Premier

Chelsea beat Bayern Munich in extra time, 2-1, to win the UEFA Cup

Real Madrid beat Barcelona, 2-0, to win the UEFA Champions Cup

Liverpool beat Manchester United, 2-1, to win the English FA Cup


English Teams Qualified for Europe - 2008/09

Champions League - Man U, Norwich, Liverpool, Arsenal

UEFA Cup - Southampton, Tottenham, Newcastle, Chelsea (holders)

UEFA Vase - Middlesbrough, Aston Villa


Norwich received $20 million in UEFA Champions League TV money

[Desnudo]

-Euro 2008 Groups-



England matches - Croatia on 6/18, Turkey on 6/13, France on 6/18

An anonymous ex-player has once again doubted England's chances against Croatia. David Beckham responded that confidence is high. And it should be, considering the 7-0 drubbing Croatia received last time. Noticably missing will be Joe Cole, out for another two months with a groin strain.

[Desnudo]

-England's Euro 2008 Starting Eleven-

GK: Chris Kirkland
DL: Ashley Cole
DC: John Terry
DC: Rio Ferdinand
DR: Glenn Johnson
DMC: Ledley King
ML: Stewart Downing
MR: Steven Gerrard
AMC: Frank Lampard
FC: Michael Owen
FC: Wayne Rooney

[Desnudo]

England Controls Match, Wins

England did not dominate Croatia like in their previous meeting, but ownership of the ball provided enough quality chances to run out 2-0 winners at Wankdorf Stadium. An excellent ball from Wayne Rooney sent Gerrard in alone on Stipe Pletikosa and the Liverpool man calmly waited for him to commit before slotting it home just inside the right post. Stewart Downing scored his first international goal when Owen played an excellent give and go that gave him an open look just inside the 18.

France beat Turkey, 1-0, in the other Group D match.

Sun - 6/8/07
European Championship Group D
England (N) 2 v. Croatia (N) 0

- Goals -
E: Steven Gerrard (23), Stewart Downing (62)

-MOM-
Downing, ML (E)

[Desnudo]

An ex-England player doubts England's chances against Turkey in their upcoming match. Replied England Manager Pantalones, "If this, or these, anonymous players feel so strongly about their country's lack of chances in these matches, maybe they should be man enough to come forward."

Glen Johnson responded that confidence is high in the England camp.

[Desnudo]

England Squander Chances

In an even affair, Turkey finished their chances, while England sent their opportunities over the bar. Both sides had chances to score, but Turkey showed more composure when it came to finishing.

France drew with Croatia, 1-1, in the other Group D match.

Fri - 6/13/07
European Championship Group D
England (N) 0 v. Turkey (N) 2

- Goals -
T: Ates Necati (39, 65)

-MOM-
Karadeniz Gokdeniz, MR (T)

[Desnudo]

England Strike Lucky, Advance to Finals on Croatia Miracle

England drew with France, 2-2, in the final match of group play. Fortunately for our boys, Croatia beat Turkey, 3-1, to put England through on goal difference. England pulled ahead of France 1-0 and 2-1, but both times France was equal to the task, scoring the next goal.

Stewart Downing bounced a cross off the back of French keeper Sebastian Frey's head to open the scoring, but right before the break Nikolas Anelka struck back for France with a 30-yard laser past Chris Kirkland. James Beattie came on for Michael Owen and scored on a 1 on 1 in the 74th. French substitute David Trezeguet replied for France on a fast counter less than ten minutes later and it appeared England's fate had been sealed until the final score of the Croatia-Turkey fixture flashed on the stadium scoreboard.

Wed- 6/18/07
European Championship Group D
England (N) 2 v. France (N) 2

- Goals -
F: Nikolas Anelka (45), David Trezeguet (83)
E: Sebastian Frey (own goal 23), James Beattie (74)

-MOM-
E: Stewart Downing, ML

-EURO 2008 Final Group Standings-




England face Belgium in the quarterfinals - 6/21/08

[Desnudo]

-Norwich Assessment-

Christoffer Andersson was named player of the year by supporters

Norwich received $24.5 million for Premiership TV rights

The shareholders were given a $24 million payout

The Norwich board authorized a $53 million transfer budget for the upcoming season.

Norwich currently have $91 million in the bank

The board expect the team to achieve a respectable league position this coming season. The supporters expect the team to win the league.

[Desnudo]

England Dominate, Advance to EURO Semifinals

England dominated Belgium and ran out 4-0 victors in a one-sided match that could have ended with an even more lopsided score. Michael Owen got England off to a flyer on a put-back just 4 minutes into the match. David Prutton fired a 25-yard shot into the right corner at 25 minutes and England were in complete control.

Italy beat Spain 2-1 and Denmark beat Ireland 0-0 on penalties in the other quarterfinals played to date. France and Bulgaria meet in the last quarterfinal.

Sun - 6/21/07
European Championship Quarterfinals
England (N) 4 v. Belgium (N) 0

- Goals -
E: Owen (4, 62), David Prutton (25), Jermain Defoe (65)

-MOM-
E: John Terry, DC


England will meet Italy in the semifinals - Thu 6/26

France will meet Denmark in the other match after beating Bulgaria, 5-3.

[Desnudo]

England Exit, Lose on Penalties

England lost to Italy on penalites, 5-3, in the EURO semifinals. In a see-saw match that saw chances squandered by both sides, it eventually came to the dreaded penalty spot after a scoreless period of extra time. David Prutton's miss sealed the loss for England, who can hold their heads high after holding the pre-tournament favorites scoreless for 120 minutes.

Sun - 6/21/07
European Championship Quarterfinals
England (N) O v. Italy (N) 0

- Goals -

-MOM-
I: Alessandro Nesta, DC