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The Independent Fulham Forum

Hangeland new deal!! -- Fulfan, Monday, November 23, 12:41:28pm (86.135.126.173)
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_5713742,00.html?

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Replies:
- YEEEEEHAWWW (NT) -- Trick, Monday, November 23, 12:42:59pm (137.205.69.157)
- In here -- Peyton, Monday, November 23, 12:43:05pm (217.44.95.108)
- ...hopefully a good sign that RH will put pen to paper soon as well. You feel Brede is pretty loyal to him based on interviews etc. (NT) -- Spud, Monday, November 23, 12:44:14pm (137.132.250.14)
- Only minor details need to be resolved, those minor details may not become minor if Spurs/Liverpool come calling ....I will believe this when I see it on the official (NT) -- Appers, Monday, November 23, 12:45:44pm (87.194.216.204)
  - My attitude as well. Welcome news, but until its official its just talk (NT) -- The Doctor, Monday, November 23, 12:48:08pm (193.62.153.38)
    - Totally agree, until it's on the official site I will ignore it. (NT) -- North Walsham White, Monday, November 23, 12:49:44pm (82.71.231.125)
- Great stuff! (NT) -- theresonlyonesteviemilton, Monday, November 23, 12:51:06pm (81.35.62.114)
- Good....but nothing in it for the club to leak this, so presumably his agent soliciting last minute interventions. (NT) -- b+w geezer, Monday, November 23, 12:56:07pm (217.154.31.33)
  - Speaking to someone yesterday who works at the club, Its very hard to get any info on contracts or signings, its dealt with by the MD and he runs a very watertight ship. (NT) -- MJG, Monday, November 23, 01:02:30pm (217.154.221.186)
    - Ta. The agent it is then. Imagine, however, that any club wishing to intervene would have long since done so. And the 16th minute on Saturday won't have awoken their interest. (NT) -- b+w geezer, Monday, November 23, 01:06:01pm (217.154.31.33)
      - A valid point, it was a dreadful piece of defending by BH. He played him onside, then confounded the error by stepping up away from Bowyer and consequently Schwarzer had to come and try and save it. Good news about contract though if true. We need to get Hughes and Hodgson signed up too - the Holy H trinity if you will. (NT) -- Cuse, Monday, November 23, 02:18:05pm (195.26.238.196)
        
        Who was supposed to be tracking Bowyer's run then? (NT) -- Glide, Monday, November 23, 02:32:00pm (62.6.159.206)
        
        Exactly. Instead of tracking his man , Greening just stood there and watched Bowyer make his run. In fairness though Greening did raise his arm and point his finger to alert others to the threat that Bowyer's run posed. Hangeland was made to look at fault but Bowyers run was in the zone that Hughes was supposed to be covering . There was no way that Hangeland could get across to cut Bowyer off. By moving out to try and make Bowyer offside he did the only thing possible at that late stage to try and rescue the situation . You could argue he should have seen it quicker but the goal was a collective defensive error beginning with Greening not doing his job. (NT) -- Barry E, Monday, November 23, 02:46:30pm (82.68.230.222)
        
        Yeah, Greening's very good at that... pointing. (NT) -- Caught in possession, Monday, November 23, 03:07:39pm (81.142.120.89)
        
        In truth it was one error not two. He stepped up too late thus playing Bowyer on side, but once done it was done - there was no compounding of the error as that was not possible. It was all over in a split second (NT) -- Chesh, Monday, November 23, 02:44:37pm (80.176.93.177)
- ..... but didn't he sign for Arsenal in the last transfer window? (NT) -- Senior Supporter, Monday, November 23, 01:32:58pm (86.147.150.7)
- Bowyer was being tracked by Greening, who was completely static & flat footed when Bowyer made his run. Hangeland, just tried to play the offside trap, which did not work! (NT) -- D.A., Monday, November 23, 02:46:18pm (89.243.216.219)
  - But Gera tamely surrendered possesion in the first place. Looked like he reverted to his normal form in this game. (NT) -- SHOG, Monday, November 23, 02:49:29pm (84.64.218.240)
    - So (sort of on the bright side, we all like to be, don't we), to score against us took a top-notch pass and finish plus three of our lot falling short at once. A conjunction of events unlikely, touch wood, to be common. (NT) -- b+w geezer, Monday, November 23, 03:29:00pm (217.154.31.33)
- Great news but facts are Fulham would of sold him in the summer if we would of received a bid. Glad he is staying though (NT) -- gazza, Monday, November 23, 03:20:44pm (57.66.103.6)
  - Might it have depended on the bid? (NT) -- b+w geezer, Monday, November 23, 03:30:59pm (217.154.31.33)
- Hope we sell him and get some decent money for him, replace him with Sean St Ledger. (NT) -- Mike, Monday, November 23, 03:27:45pm (89.101.95.229)
Podcast -- TIFF Mods, Monday, November 23, 02:22:38pm (94.6.88.45)
Posted as requested:

We have just launched the Inside Fulham FC podcast: http://www.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/series/iffc

Presented by BBC London 94.9, it covers the latest team news, player and manager interviews as well as features involving the club's community initiatives. It's published every Friday and I would appreciate it if you could post a message on the FOF message board with the link below as I think its users will find the podcast very interesting and would want to subscribe

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Replies:
- Cheers - looks good. I've just put the link up on FoF. (NT) -- The Equalizer, Monday, November 23, 02:34:06pm (83.244.146.130)
- ...Eq has as he said done this, excellent work thanks. By the way, in the Fulham Sites box at the top of the page, any chance you could add a Friends Of Fulham link there too? When we get our re-vamped site up and running we will of course reciprocate, many thanks... (NT) -- LBNo11, Monday, November 23, 03:30:53pm (80.46.46.74)
Henry 'almost quit' over handball -- Caught in possession, Monday, November 23, 10:50:23am (81.142.120.89)

No, you didn't... did you?

"Henry also admitted he "shouldn't" have celebrated the crucial goal.

Thierry Henry thought about quitting international football following his handball in last week's World Cup play-off win over the Republic of Ireland."

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/internationals/8373804.stm

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Replies:
- 7 game WC ban for bringing the game into disrepute would get his PR people working a bit harder (NT) -- Thurbs, Monday, November 23, 10:51:40am (203.51.20.72)
- Gotta love his PR people - soon he'll be made to look the victim in all this (NT) -- Pennywise, Monday, November 23, 10:58:52am (146.23.212.22)
  - I'm still dumbfounded as to why he's not already been given a World Cup Winners medal. I mean, he has probably lost almost a minute's sleep over this entire incident since then, not including the time he's spent emailing his mates YouTube coverage of it. (NT) -- BalDrick, Monday, November 23, 11:14:19am (86.178.228.83)
- Is it my imagination or has Thierry Henry hired Max clifford to do some spin for him. First he admits the handball - Playing the honest Villain and worst case if there is any fallback than he gets domenech fired. Second he backs the calls for a replay - knowing there was a bigger chance of all four beatles reuniting. Now he plays the victim - "I thought of quitting", please save of us the tabloid tripe. Next thing we know he will be dating Jordan and doing bushtucker trials as he attempts to get the public back on his side.I hope he realises not everyone is so fickle and can see through this charade, I have zero respect for the man after this latest PR tripe. (NT) -- RB, Monday, November 23, 01:00:32pm (80.235.229.194)
  - eh? why does he need the public on his side? Maradona blatantly cheated, laughed about it, celebrated the fact to the extent of calling it the hand of god and is still celebrated around the world. SO wtf? Could it be possible that Henry DIDn't goto cheat instead an instictive action that he now has regret over? It was an incident that officials should of seen. (NT) -- Lol in H7, Monday, November 23, 01:08:28pm (86.180.16.234)
- disagree with you lot, i dont think he cheated, he handballed it yea but didn't cheat. The problem was the referee didn't see it and we should have a video ref for this incidents. (NT) -- Lol in H7, Monday, November 23, 01:04:51pm (86.180.16.234)
  - how does that work - this wasnt ball to hand, he scooped in back into play....for me he sheated - same as 90% of fotballers do sadly. I dont like it, but I dont give that much of a shit to worry over it... (NT) -- nice, Monday, November 23, 01:46:04pm (217.150.120.50)
    - it was an instictive but deliberate thing and so a foul but not cheating. Deliberating handbaling it and disguising that would be cheating. It should of been spotted thats all. (NT) -- Lol in H7, Monday, November 23, 03:19:27pm (86.180.16.234)
TIFF Access -- Balti, Monday, November 23, 10:25:30am (82.132.139.57)
Anyone else having problems accessing TIFF from a laptop. Page loads, but then it hangs. Curently on a PDA

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Replies:
- Mines fine (NT) -- Mick, Monday, November 23, 10:35:50am (91.104.174.79)
- Had this problem in IE on my laptop. Switched to Firefox ands it's fine now. (NT) -- Alanovich, Monday, November 23, 11:13:46am (15.203.169.123)
- I'm having the same problem from my desktop PC at home - every time I load the home page, it just hangs forever (and then goes into "Not responding" so I have to close down my browser). (NT) -- FCS, Monday, November 23, 02:44:57pm (193.111.24.186)
Boxing Day -- Godfrey, Monday, November 23, 11:26:42am (194.60.38.198)
Unfortunately i will be unable to go to Spurs at home on Boxing day, i have 3 season tickets which me and my brothers can't use. Could i use seat wave to sell the 3 tickets even though they are loaded to the the season tickets. Thank's in advance

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Replies:
- on seat wave you dont get the match ticket price back mate.....you got to divide your season ticket price into 19 games and thats how much you get. (NT) -- John, Monday, November 23, 11:29:44am (82.133.8.86)
  - Less a 10% commission for Seatwave. I think Seatwave only start selling when FFC sell out. Best bet is to keep an eye on the tickets page (NT) -- The Doctor, Monday, November 23, 11:33:59am (193.62.153.146)
    - really 10%.....do they keep the difference between what they sell it for and what they buy it for aswell ? (NT) -- John, Monday, November 23, 11:35:34am (82.133.8.86)
      - I've no idea where the extra ends up - I'd like to think FFC see some of it. In answer to Godfrey's original question: yes, you can sell them if Seatwave opens for the Spurs game. Your STs will be disabled for that game and paper tickets issued to the buyers (NT) -- The Doctor, Monday, November 23, 11:40:02am (193.62.153.146)
- Cheers for the info. (NT) -- Godfrey, Monday, November 23, 11:41:46am (194.60.38.198)
- Mines available for �20 as will be away for Xmas. Suec? -- Si, Monday, November 23, 12:34:35pm (80.42.5.75)
  - Hi Si where bouts in the ground is it? The girlfriendv wont let me go boxing day unless she goes to !! Cheers Neil (NT) -- Thamesbank Terror, Eastbourne, Monday, November 23, 01:49:23pm (194.140.226.190)
  - Thanks Si. I'll take you up on that and Daniel can have it.. thank you. -- suecsw6, Monday, November 23, 02:41:37pm (94.194.131.129)
Breaking News -- JCKent, Monday, November 23, 01:49:30pm (81.137.198.165)
Following Paul Scharner's handball, Wigan have graciously offered Tottenham the chance to replay yesterday's game

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Replies:
- On a vaguely serious note, that's 2 drubbings they've bene on the end of lately. Had assumed it'd be Bolton in the relegation race, but maybe them too? (NT) -- BalDrick, Monday, November 23, 01:58:38pm (86.178.228.83)
- I liked the one "after the Ireland game the French have called up Franc riberry's brother to the squad, first name Daylight. (NT) -- Roycboyc, Monday, November 23, 02:30:24pm (213.48.46.141)
A New Striker -- Fulfan, Monday, November 23, 11:44:31am (86.135.126.173)
There has been a lot of talk on here recently about the need for a new striker. The problem is that there have been many comments arguing for a 20 goals a season striker.

Here is last years top scorers list-

1 Nicolas Anelka Chelsea 19

2 Cristiano Ronaldo Man Utd 18

3 Steven Gerrard Liverpool 16

4 De Souza Robinho Manchester City 14

5 Fernando Torres Liverpool 14

6 Gabriel Agbonlahor Aston Villa 12

7 Darren Bent Tottenham 12

8 Kevin Davies Bolton 12

9 Dirk Kuyt Liverpool 12

10 Frank Lampard Chelsea 12

11 Wayne Rooney Man Utd 12

12 John Carew Aston Villa 11

13 Peter Crouch Portsmouth 11

14 Ricardo Fuller Stoke City 11

15 Robin van Persie Arsenal 11

16 Emmanuel Adebayor Arsenal 10

17 Djibril Cisse Sunderland 10

18 Carlton Cole West Ham Utd 10

19 Jermain Defoe Tottenham 10

20 Kenwyne Jones Sunderland 10

Now, there are only a few names on that list that we could potentially afford, and of those names they would be at least �10m not including wages.

I just do not see where we are going to get this amazing new striker from?

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- Also, only 1 of the top 3 is a striker. (NT) -- Alan, Monday, November 23, 11:47:13am (90.206.77.151)
- A striker that is capable of scoring 20 goals a season in the Premier League will be one of three types: 1, Very expensive to buy and on big wages. 2, A remarkable find from the lower divisions/overseas who can make the step up or 3, from the youth ranks and can make the step up. Not a great choice for a club like Fulham because we cant afford big fees/wages and cannot afford to take a chance on a striker to see if they can make the grade. (NT) -- Peyton, Monday, November 23, 11:48:56am (217.44.95.108)
  - number 1 is not an option for us and if option 2 or 3 happens they wont remain with us for very long. (NT) -- flipper, Monday, November 23, 11:50:23am (207.45.249.139)
- 20 goals a season....Ill be happy with a 10 goal a season striker. Collins John was the last man to do that for us with 11 and before that it was Andrew Cole with 12...Collins John could have done been out 10-15 goal a season man if he wasn't such a tosser.. (NT) -- John, Monday, November 23, 11:52:18am (82.133.8.86)
- If, and it is a big if, we were ever really in for Crouch, and that sort of money in wages IS available then I would love to see us make a serious bid for either Carlton Cole or my preference Kenwyn Jones. (NT) -- Caught in possession, Monday, November 23, 11:53:14am (81.142.120.89)
  - im thinking it could be Pavlyuchenko (NT) -- flipper, Monday, November 23, 12:09:56pm (207.45.249.139)
- I am afraid that Roy Hodgson is not an attack minded Manager - so the possibility of getting one of the above in is remote. We should be looking to other Leagues than the Premier for a decent goal scoring player, he does not have to be the most classical footballer in the world, but a real striker, who has the reactions, speed, & positional sense needed to be effective. Owen at his peak was not a great passer of a ball, header of a ball etc. but he was a leathal finisher, as was Greaves, (NT) -- D.A., Monday, November 23, 11:54:50am (89.243.216.219)
  - ....and of course Greaves was omitted from the World Cup Winning team in favour of relative journeymen, because he was just a goal-hanger. It's a perennial issue. Topically, J.Defoe struggled for years to become a regular even at club level. On the foreign leagues aspect, what you wish for Hodgson would surely apply to any other manager -- yet there's such a low success rate in coming up with the goods. If there is a lack of imagination and daring to be alleged, he's not the only candidate, is he. (NT) -- b+w geezer, Monday, November 23, 12:27:57pm (217.154.31.33)
- I really wish we'd taken a punt on Ricky Lambert, now at Southampton. V good striker who doesn't miss many when presented with an opportunity. Elm may prove to be decent from bits I've seen, but I'd like to think we'll be after a pacy striker. By the way, has Zamora been doing sprint training? He's looking really quick! (NT) -- Jim�, Monday, November 23, 12:17:36pm (93.174.8.253)
  - Bobby Z IS really quick Jim... I remember a game at home last season, Everton I think but I couldn't be sure, when he picked the ball up on the right and set off and just left the full back for dead... I'll make no comment about what happened next though. I've been one of Bobby's fiercest critics but he definitely has something about him and I just hope that Roy can add that bit more to his already improving game to turn him into a top class goalscorer. (NT) -- Caught in possession, Monday, November 23, 12:28:09pm (81.142.120.89)
    - Maybe I'm just starting to notice, but he did it 3 or 4 times on Sat! BZ is playing well, but now suffering from playing with a new partner each week upfront. Bobby seemed to play everything on his chest! (NT) -- Jim�, Monday, November 23, 01:36:27pm (93.174.8.253)
- I'm sure it has been discussed on here before - our strikers are not necessarily there to score 20 goals. I was just watching Sky Sports News and apparently the best chance/goal completion rate historically in the prem in 25 percent (until defoe this season so far). Zamora and Johnson defend from the front - that is their primary objective. Of course we're not going to get the same amount of chances in a game as Defoe/Ronaldo/Bent etc. We had 2 players finish on 7 goals last season. Not too bad considering. In my opinion, bringing in an out and out striker would disrupt the balance of a primarilly defensive 11 and lead to more goals conceded. Our strikers will always look terrible statistically because of this. (NT) -- Rossi, Monday, November 23, 12:25:30pm (86.142.208.246)
- Darren Beckford at Leeds would be my choice - and probably affordable. (NT) -- Doodles, Monday, November 23, 12:47:38pm (94.6.88.45)
  - Too much of a gamble we can`t afford to take. I`m sure BZ,AJ,EN and even EJ would look just as good and more against the rubbish in that league. (NT) -- theresonlyonesteviemilton, Monday, November 23, 12:55:01pm (81.35.62.114)
    - Sorry,obvisouly BZ was a world-beater against that oppo for Brighton. (NT) -- theresonlyonesteviemilton, Monday, November 23, 12:57:23pm (81.35.62.114)
  - Darren Beckford? Didn't he sign for us once already, but walk out without playing a game? BTW, I think you mean Jermaine Beckford. (NT) -- FFC4Life, Monday, November 23, 01:47:57pm (83.217.105.69)
    - Well, at least I got the Beckford bit right! (NT) -- Doodles, Monday, November 23, 02:14:08pm (94.6.88.45)
- Ivor never defended from the front ! No one expected him to, but he kept players breaking forward, because he was too much of a threat to leave as he was liable to break through and score. That is stopping pressure on your defence in the first place. "The best form of defence is attack" is the old adage, but it should be - keeping dominance. Coleman was very lax in that aspect, and invited pressure while here. Tigana thought that possession was the total answer, but would not add the hard edge to the team. (NT) -- D.A., Monday, November 23, 02:27:19pm (89.243.216.219)
- above should read "from breaking forward" (NT) -- D.A., Monday, November 23, 02:28:47pm (89.243.216.219)
NFR but advice would be welcome, thank you. -- Anne Onymous, Monday, November 23, 10:59:22am (94.194.131.129)
Any advice please for a relatively new driver involved in a minor prang at the weekend in that horrible rain? Moving from the inside lane to overtake roadworks, he slowed down, indicated, waited for a gap in the traffic and started to move out, only to have the driver behind in the outside lane speed up and scrape along the side. Other driver is blaming our Fulham fan for entire incident. Workmen nearby didnt want to get involved, but the other driver now says one of them is backing his story. Other driver also had scrapes down the side of his car which could not have been caused by said incident, but we suspect he will say they were. Is it best to wait and see what he comes up with? Go back to the roadworks and see if the workers there have changed their minds about being witnesses? Any other course of action or non/action?

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- Vehicle forensics can usually substantiate claims of this sort. It's true, I seen it done on CSI Miami. Seriously, they can usually generate a pretty comprehensive picture of the victim and the aggressor in these situations. (NT) -- PaNdy, Monday, November 23, 11:03:36am (83.244.137.162)
- I would just hand it all over to the insurance company to sort out... just give your version to them honestly and as you saw it and leave it to them. It invariably comes down to one person's word against anothers and will probably end up the insurance companies sharing the blame. (NT) -- Caught in possession, Monday, November 23, 11:08:58am (81.142.120.89)
- Personally as im reading it wouldnt it be the person waiting to move ins fault ? Surely if the other car had enough time to scrape down the side of the car then the gap couldnt have been that big ? Did he ever indicate he was going to let you move over ? (NT) -- John, Monday, November 23, 11:15:58am (82.133.8.86)
  - but as everyone else says just say what happpened and they will decide. I remember when i first passed my test had somebody reverse into the side of my car when THEY were coming out a parking space.......I got hit with even when it was clear what happened only because the bloke had been driving for some 20 + years and me only a few weeks. (NT) -- John, Monday, November 23, 11:19:15am (82.133.8.86)
  - I can see why you would think that. There was enough room but the other driver sped up as if he didnt want to let our bloke out. He says he didnt see the indicators but they were definitely on and had been for 5 - 6 seconds before attempting to pull out.. Seems like a 'knock for knock' situation to me. But galling and horrible when you've only been driving for a year or so. -- Anne Onymous, Monday, November 23, 11:30:14am (94.194.131.129)
- Sounds like you (sorry, your friend) is being bullied by the other driver. As CIP says, tell your insurance company your version and leave it at that. Actually, were the OB called? (NT) -- BalDrick, Monday, November 23, 11:15:58am (86.178.228.83)
  - No they weren't. If it had been me, I would have called them if the other driver was being arsey as he was. -- AO, Monday, November 23, 11:32:28am (94.194.131.129)
- The "workman now backing the other driver" sounds like him putting the pressure on in an attempt to get your driver to 'fess up. Hand it all over to insurers - its what they're paid for. Make sure everyone in the car (if they're willing) is prepared to provide a "witness statement" to the insurers. You can bet the other car will be doing that. Chances are the insurers will just apportion blame equally (NT) -- The Doctor, Monday, November 23, 11:31:23am (193.62.153.146)
  - Yeah, that's what I thought. I reckon he's bluffing. I thought that passengers are not allowed to be witnesses? -- AO, Monday, November 23, 11:33:49am (94.194.131.129)
    - I've provided a statement to insurers when a friend's car was hit at a roundabout a few years ago (minor prang, we were all OK). Don't know if they took any notice of it, but it certainly can't hurt. In that case justice was done as it was completely the other car's fault. You might have to be persistant though (NT) -- The Doctor, Monday, November 23, 11:37:27am (193.62.153.146)
- Definitely report it to the insurance company and as others have said, I would hand it over to the insurance company providing the driver is fully comp, if not they will have to handle any claim they may make themself. I fear though that it may be difficult to prove that the other driver sped up and in that case your friend may be on to a loser here but insist on it going through the insurers rather than settling in cash as that may scare off the other driver. (NT) -- Peyton, Monday, November 23, 11:44:46am (217.44.95.108)
- Thanks for all replies. You lot are the best. -- Ann Onymous, Monday, November 23, 11:47:17am (94.194.131.129)
  - Best of luck to your driver. I can sympathise with them - I'd only had a licence for three months when some prick stoved into my parked car. They just fecked off and I found the damage the next day. Not the same scenario, but don't let it put the newbie driver off - as long as he/she learns the lesson that all other drivers are c***s and can't be trusted some good can at least come from it an hopefully repeats can be avoided (NT) -- The Doctor, Monday, November 23, 11:52:34am (193.62.153.146)
    - Cheers Doc. Most important part of this story is of course that nobody was hurt.. -- AO, Monday, November 23, 11:58:23am (94.194.131.129)
- My Mrs had a prang at the weekend. Brand bloody car aswell, haven't even been able to drive it yet as reovering op - she was driving too fast in wet conditions and slid and hit someone - why is it all women brake at the last minute in slippery condition - i mean throw me a fricking bone - I have no idea why their insurance premiums are so low - everyone I know's girlfriends/wife has had a prang in the last 3 years - one of life's mysteries. (NT) -- Appers, Monday, November 23, 12:39:29pm (87.194.216.204)
  - Its because when they have crashes they are smaller bumps, but generally when blokes crash its expensive or a right off. It DOESN't mean they are better drivers because quite frankly there not (NT) -- John, Monday, November 23, 01:09:28pm (82.133.8.86)
- Do NOT admit any blame, or say any of it was your fault. Explain the story to your Insurers but never say it was your own fault, lay it on as if the other party were driving dangerous etc as it sounds, IMO, that the other party are in the wrong. (NT) -- JCKent, Monday, November 23, 12:58:10pm (81.137.198.165)
jamie o,hara -- wadey, Monday, November 23, 11:30:36am (193.116.24.210)
it dosent look he will get back into spurts midfield...so should we put in a bid in january for him???

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- I think the priority for me is a proven goalscorer... we're well stocked for 'run-of-the-mill' midfielders. Unless there's someone out there with a bit of flair that can unlock defenses I don't think O'Hara would be required. (NT) -- Caught in possession, Monday, November 23, 11:37:53am (81.142.120.89)
  - yer Striker would be first thing on my list aswell, the 15 goal a season man...AJ doesn't look it, Bobby doesn't play that sort of role and wouldnt do it anyway....who though is the hard part. (NT) -- John, Monday, November 23, 11:41:17am (82.133.8.86)
    - Saha would have done nicely , Everton have got a bloody good deal for him with the pay as you go deal. (NT) -- John, Monday, November 23, 11:45:09am (82.133.8.86)
      - Whilst I agree a fit Saha would have been ideal... he always gives the impression that he's one game away from another lengthy injury lay off. (NT) -- Caught in possession, Monday, November 23, 11:51:00am (81.142.120.89)
- I think he has looked good sometimes for Tottenham although hes a left winger and we have Duff at the moment plus dempsey can play their as too can Davies so see no need to get him.......Although I wouldnt mind his bird down the cottage. (NT) -- John, Monday, November 23, 11:39:26am (82.133.8.86)
- the problem for us now is that if we are going to bring in a player that will demand a 1st team place straight away we are looking at �10m+ players. (NT) -- flipper, Monday, November 23, 11:41:55am (207.45.249.139)
  - True, but that's the level we've got to isn't it? Players being sold for half that are frankly not going to be good enough on the whole. Agree with above, a striker absolutely has to be requirement #1, and indeed was in the summer by the sounds of it, but we missed out on the ones we were after, including Crouch who I assume sat on the bench yesterday afternoon watching his team mates put 8 past Wigan (plus the one Kirkland managed, whatever's happened to him?). (NT) -- BalDrick, Monday, November 23, 11:46:35am (86.178.228.83)
    - he started yesterday and scored (NT) -- flipper, Monday, November 23, 11:52:03am (207.45.249.139)
      - Oh right, well he still had to watch other players score plenty didn't he? (NT) -- BalDrick, Monday, November 23, 12:05:10pm (86.178.228.83)
        
        He had a fair few chances to score himself before he got the opener (NT) -- The Doctor, Monday, November 23, 12:06:34pm (193.62.153.38)
- Do you not think we have enough competition for places in midfield? Greening, Baird, Dempsey, Davies, Etuhu, Gera, Seol(!), Riise, Dikgacoi. Also, do we need an already proven player when Roy can make Championship players like the ones I've just mentioned play so well. (NT) -- Rossi, Monday, November 23, 12:29:11pm (86.142.208.246)
  - and Wayne Brown. (NT) -- Caught in possession, Monday, November 23, 12:59:32pm (81.142.120.89)
Sorry if already posted (NWS) -- Thurbs, Monday, November 23, 10:54:44am (203.51.20.72)
http://www.facebook.com/2012lisasimpson

A strange and vaguely disturbing take on the 2012 logo - you will never look at it again without thinking of this

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Fulham Alliance -- F5, Sunday, November 22, 11:45:05pm (90.215.168.248)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSqkdcT25ss

Monty Python, Twit of the year - Filmed at Hurlingham Park (the place where Fulham FC (St Andrews) played their first games!)

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Replies:
- Fulham St Andrews played their first games on Star Road before moving on to Ranelagh Gardens. I don't think we ever played home fixtures at Hurlingham... (NT) -- The Equalizer, Monday, November 23, 08:13:45am (83.244.146.130)
  - Says on Wikipedia. Does anyone know for sure we didn't? (NT) -- F5, Monday, November 23, 10:50:55am (90.215.168.248)
- Fulham used to train on the cinder pitch at Hurlingham... I watched the Maestro, Terry Dyson, Budgie Byrne et al train on there and later had the pleasure of my first training session/trial there as a 15 year old with Bobby Robson refereeing and encouraging me on... extremely happy days. (NT) -- Caught in possession, Monday, November 23, 08:35:23am (81.142.120.89)
Philosophy football -- JoeT, Sunday, November 22, 10:10:53pm (82.11.13.166)
One of Monty Python's most memorable moments.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ur5fGSBsfq8

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Replies:
- Indeed, one of their many memorable moments. (NT) -- CB, Sunday, November 22, 11:02:28pm (86.167.154.255)
- Hegel is arguing that the reality is merely an a priori adjunct of non-naturalistic ethics, Kant via the categorical imperative is holding that ontologically it exists only in the imagination, and Marx is claiming it was offside - absolute class! (NT) -- Andy Sayers Personal Trainer, Sunday, November 22, 11:39:19pm (60.240.61.84)
- Sorry ASPT:relative class! (NT) -- thin(er) white duke, Monday, November 23, 10:32:59am (62.140.196.147)
Jonathan Greening's best game? -- Caught in possession, Monday, November 23, 08:38:48am (81.142.120.89)

Not even having seen the highlights of Saturday's game I see on Fulhamweb Roy is quoted as saying Jonathan Greening had his best game in a Fulham shirt. Can anyone who went confirm this, and, is he likely to keep DM out of the side?

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Replies:
- I watched the game and I thought Greening was poor. Of course, that doesn't necessaril contradict Roy's statement. (NT) -- FFC1, Monday, November 23, 08:39:52am (79.69.50.211)
- Only saw the game through Justin TV & Sky excerpts, but I did see that he was short of the pace of the game, & was marking Bowyer, lost him for the goal - so very poor IMHO. (NT) -- D.A., Monday, November 23, 08:55:06am (89.243.216.219)
- I went and dont think I really noticed him much to be fair, although I didnt notice anyone to of had a stand out game either. Defo thought Kelly looked weak at right back though. I was probably too worried about how I would be getting home as my windscreen wipers were broken and only worked on the slowest speed. (NT) -- John, Monday, November 23, 08:59:23am (82.133.8.86)
- completely anonymous throughout the whole game IMHO (NT) -- roycboyc, Monday, November 23, 09:18:01am (213.48.46.141)
  - watched most of it on the internet & tbh I thought it was a pretty typical game for him - i.e. poor -- HC, Monday, November 23, 09:24:59am (80.194.194.72)
    - to look on the bight side the jumbo sausage was excellent after the game a bargain @ �3 (NT) -- roycboyc, Monday, November 23, 09:48:42am (213.48.46.141)
      - Chicken Balti, Chips and a Lager - £8.40 .... quality pie though, highly recommended! (NT) -- db, Monday, November 23, 10:06:15am (82.23.53.213)
- Reminds me a bit of Etuhu's start with us - safety first & we could have done with some attacking passes. Think Greening is sound - apart from some reckless tackles - but we need to see more flair from him. (NT) -- Bishop's Steps, Monday, November 23, 09:57:12am (193.132.193.251)
Birmingham -- LD, Monday, November 23, 01:16:28am (75.84.243.49)
Why is everyone so amazed we lost? Their defense is very good. They are the second hardest side to score on, the weather was terrible, they were at home, attack is not our strong point. Stay positive and check the facts. We'll be fine.

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Replies:
- Plus we were without our 1st, 2nd and 3rd choice strikers to partner BZ, and our captain. (NT) -- Mike H, Monday, November 23, 03:20:20am (211.26.61.26)
- They certainly never looked like scoring again and they stopped us going forward - much like we do sometimes, though naturally I'd rather watch us! (NT) -- C, Monday, November 23, 07:37:37am (86.154.151.138)
- Hart and Johnson in Garth Crooks' team of the week says something too. (NT) -- Peyton, Monday, November 23, 08:09:54am (217.44.95.108)
- Second half I think we played well up until the final 3rd were we just ran out of ideas with soo many Birmingham players back.......Oh well we move on atleast were not Wigan. (NT) -- John, Monday, November 23, 08:55:45am (82.133.8.86)
- On balance we were well worth a draw - but need to create more chances. To be fair, their goal was very well orchestrated. (NT) -- Bishop's Steps, Monday, November 23, 09:59:25am (193.132.193.251)
Some good news at last on here -- Peyton, Monday, November 23, 08:08:36am (217.44.95.108)
Source: www.networkrailmediacentre.co.uk
The busy section of railway track between Feltham and Twickenham which was closed following flood damage to the bridge over the River Crane last weekend is scheduled to re-open on Monday.

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Replies:
- And now they've got delays on that line because of signal trouble! (NT) -- C, Monday, November 23, 08:20:07am (86.154.151.138)
- Saw that this morning on the local news. Seems they've pulled out all the stops to install a new bit of track, so credit where its due. Link inside for full details -- The Doctor, Monday, November 23, 09:35:50am (193.62.153.38)
Maybe he could've played up front -- Sherman, Sunday, November 22, 12:21:58am (86.151.204.68)

Find more videos like this on Cottage Corner

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Replies:
- fantastic hold up play (NT) -- 321p, Sunday, November 22, 09:46:36am (90.210.103.111)
- Who is it? (NT) -- Fulhams Finest, Sunday, November 22, 12:56:34pm (84.69.59.169)
- Why the hell isn't he in the team? (NT) -- FFC1, Sunday, November 22, 07:43:57pm (79.69.38.43)
  - Because he makes Zamora look like Defoe when in front of goal! (NT) -- 321p, Monday, November 23, 09:11:57am (192.71.68.101)
FAO MODS Accessing this site from my phone -- Jack, Sunday, November 22, 04:14:29pm (86.153.47.111)
I have been viewing this site from my mobile for about 2 months now but this weekend every time I try I get the "you're banned from this site" type message. I rarely post from my mobile does anyone know why this is?

I'm using my contract internet as opposed to a wireless network if that helps.

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Replies:
- Don't know. Please contact us using the Contact Forum Admin button near top of page and we'll look into it. (NT) -- TIFF Mods, Sunday, November 22, 05:44:24pm (94.0.199.109)
- I have this problem quite regularly but if I reload the page a few times eventually the site comes up. Try that and see if it works. (NT) -- cooperiser, Monday, November 23, 08:14:00am (212.74.97.195)
- I used to be able to reload, but now I am completely banded by VOY (NT) -- Jamie, Monday, November 23, 09:08:43am (86.155.49.30)
When did they move Ipswich then Daily Star? -- Peyton, Monday, November 23, 08:27:54am (217.44.95.108)
Ipswich boss Roy Keane is on the brink of being sacked by the Norfolk club following a series of meetings on Sunday regarding his future. Town currently sit second bottom of the Championship. (Daily Star)

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How much was Darren Bent? and How much is he worth to Sunderland? -- CB, Sunday, November 22, 02:34:34pm (86.167.154.255)
The reason being a Sunderland fan said last night and IMO quite rightly 'he's been the difference between us fighting for relegation or a top 10 finish'. Exactly what we're still! missing even with a fully fit squad. We're that close to getting it right, a natural predatory striker (and maybe attacking mid fielder). Thin on the ground, and costly? but this club needs to bite the bullet at the next opportunity, it'll be well worth it

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Replies:
- Having been at Spuds, he's guaranteed to be on silly money, which I imagine is why we didn't get him, or at least try. It's that whole conundrum isn't it, keep players' wages vaguely sensible or bite the bullet and risk looking silly. Most of the time I'm glad we do it the way we do, but watching MoTD last night reminded me we were only a good striker (and a ref that didn't out up with cheating twats) away from doing the arsewipes yet again. (NT) -- BalDrick, Sunday, November 22, 03:03:34pm (86.178.228.83)
- Only slightly, I'd say. (NT) -- Mike H, Monday, November 23, 12:35:19am (211.26.61.26)
My thoughts on yesterday's performance -- DigglyDan, Sunday, November 22, 12:54:08pm (82.44.163.161)
From being there yesterday I thought I would post my views on the game and how I saw it...

Personally, like a few others that I've read on here, thought we were very poor yesterday, and our players appeared to show absolutely no fight, no bottle and just a bit lacklustre really....

It showed in great amounts, that their players were a lot more "up for it" than our players ever seemed to be, our players seemed to give the impression "we beat Liverpool, there is no way we need to be at our best to beat this lot, if we play half as well as we did vs Liverpool then we'll be fine"... This was obviously wrong, and rightly so, Birmingham themselves have shown some good fight in their recent games (Liverpool away and Man Citeh at home stand out...) and we really did under estimate them, no question about it.

The tactics right from the offset were incorrect I feel, there is no way that Dempsey is a striker (as we've seen in the past), and is at his most effective when he gets the free role in midfield and can attack the defences and feed the strikers to then finish it off. When playing up front he requires someone else to do that job and with Davies just getting back from injury and Gera not at his best (yesterday anyway), the service wasn't coming in and we were left to playing long balls up to Zamora and Dempsey to try and do something with...

I don't want to hammer into Zamora as I know he's had his fair share of stick from people, but yesterday I really did think he was poor, when balls were played into him, he didn't try and hold it up at all, he just flicked it on and with Dempsey often not along side him (as someone liked AJ would be), it ended up in another lost ball, I thought Bobb would've been more effective feedings the wingers and then positioning himself in the box

As I've already touched upon, the players obviously thought they didn't need to be at 100% and for a team like us, that isn't good enough. If we're to win in the Premier League we have to continually play at 100%, we're not good enough to turn up, play at 80% and expect to win or get a draw...

As for their goal, who the hell was picking up Bowyer when he burst into the area. I think it was Hangerland that stayed back when we attempted to play the offside trap on that certain attack, which backfired and Schwarzer did all he could do stop Bowyer but obviously and evidently wasn't enough...

To only muster one shot on target against a team who are likely to be fighting relegation at the end of the season, is very poor and we need a much improved performance on Wednesday night if we are to beat Blackburn at the Cottage...

On a positive note, I thought our fans were great throughout the game yesterday, especially during the second half

COYW

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Replies:
- If we had effective wingers, Zamora is the last sort of player you require - he is no good in the air, has not got the quick reactions required for a Striker, in fact he requires 2 decent goalscorers alongside, which unfortunately you cannot have, as you need a good midfield. We had the possession yesterday, but Dempsey was the only threat to their goal, & he is not a striker, but an attacking midfielder, & should be used as such. RH is quoted as saying Greening had a good game - where does he find that? He was again one paced, & was to blame for the Birmingham goal, as he was marking Bowyer, and did not respond to his run ! (NT) -- D.A., Sunday, November 22, 01:13:32pm (92.29.111.1)
- You have to remember that Birmingham only have one current international playing for them so they had the luxury of a 2 week rest, while a number of our players played 1 or 2 games in that period. We made one mistake and they score,I think we should just have to put it as one of those days and move on. (NT) -- Nikipedia, Sunday, November 22, 01:24:15pm (188.220.18.165)
- Can I refer you to Roy's reaction which is baffling compared to the majority of fan's observations:- "It was a very good performance from the team but a bad result. We had a few players missing but the players who came in did really well."We lost Erik Nevland through illness so Clint Dempsey had to go up front. I don�t think anything would have made much difference tody because we dominated but the goal eluded us. "We did our very best to score a goal but when we did get an opportunity the goalkeeper was in fine form or someone got in a good block. "I don't think we could have had more possession, more crosses or corners, it was just a question of the ball not falling kindly enough. �I can�t be too disappointed because we played very well. I don�t think we had any glaring misses but most of it was us creating dangerous situations in the box and Birmingham being able to deal with it." (NT) -- CB, Sunday, November 22, 01:27:01pm (86.167.154.255)
  - Roy is spot on. (NT) -- Mike, Sunday, November 22, 01:32:22pm (89.101.95.229)
  - I hadn't read Roy's comments when I posted below, but I saw it pretty well exactly as he sums it up. (NT) -- Senior Supporter, Sunday, November 22, 01:32:54pm (86.147.150.7)
  - I can't fathom Roy sometimes - in what way did we play well? Their keeper had the deckchair out and was smoking a cigar...... (NT) -- Cheggers, Sunday, November 22, 01:36:15pm (94.194.22.36)
    - We played well in the sense that we controlled the game, quite obvious really. (NT) -- Mike, Sunday, November 22, 01:38:48pm (89.101.95.229)
    - "We did our very best to score a goal but when we did get any opportunity the goalkeeper was in fine form" - How can he tell that the goalkeeper was in "fine form" when he made one save where you'd expect a keeper to save, and if he didn't fans would be rightly annoyed, he took about three steps back and was back in the correct position. You can have all the possession, corners, crosses you like but if you don't take your chances then you are bound and likely to lose the game, which is exactly what happened to us, sadly. (NT) -- DigglyDan, Sunday, November 22, 01:44:26pm (82.44.163.161)
      - That's absolutely right about possession - perhaps the most meaningless of many meaningless stats in football. Every week, you can look at the papers and see lots of games won by teams who have less of the possession. Essentially, after half time, Birmingham were happy to concede time on the ball to us, defend rigorously and play on the break. We do that at home to teams all the time. We didn't 'control' that game yesterday - Birmingham did, with a fiendishly tight grip. Another meaningless stat is our 5 shots on target. Shots? Trickles, more like. Incidentally, I'm not 'panicking' or saying that everything is terrible! (NT) -- Frank Bacon, Sunday, November 22, 02:01:48pm (82.3.42.166)
        
        Being honest, I didn't see the game but always concerns me, Roy's relative contentment in defeat. I know you have to take the positives but we did the same against Wolves, another relegation candidate. (NT) -- CB, Sunday, November 22, 02:31:01pm (86.167.154.255)
- There's no way you can say Dempsey played up front yesterday. We basically played 4-5-1 and Dempsey just fannied around doing what he liked..... (NT) -- Cheggers, Sunday, November 22, 01:31:10pm (94.194.22.36)
  - So Roy's a liar now? (NT) -- SS, Sunday, November 22, 01:35:35pm (86.147.150.7)
  - Quite a few people who saw the game live (rather than watch it on the tele) have quite clearly pointed out that Dempsey was played as a striker. I was also there, and for most of the game he was more advanced than Bobby. Ok, we lacked quality on the day (both upfront and in central midfield) but to say we did not have a go is very wide of the mark imo. We did not turn our second half possession (during which we always tried to go forward) into enough chances. An off day in that department, but hardly the manager going for a draw as you seem to keep insisting. (NT) -- Chesh, Sunday, November 22, 03:37:35pm (81.129.65.34)
  - Total, utter bollocks. Were you there yesterday? Dempsey played as a striker. FACT. -- Bananaman, Sunday, November 22, 03:53:45pm (89.242.150.188)
- Some of Roy's after match comments are truly not reflective of the true events on the pitch lately. (NT) -- D.A., Sunday, November 22, 01:32:31pm (92.29.111.1)
  - I'll take Roys comments as fact every single day of the week over someone who thinks that Kris Boyd would do well in the Premiership. (NT) -- Mike, Sunday, November 22, 01:41:33pm (89.101.95.229)
    - Under Roy's management who is to say that Kris Boyd couldn't be an 8-10 goal a season striker, which is the sort of players we have to be looking at, we're not high profile/wouldn't spend enough on wages to attract a 20-25 goal a season Centre Forward, we rely on players to chip in from midfield and defence, as we have done throughout recent years. (NT) -- DigglyDan, Sunday, November 22, 01:46:52pm (82.44.163.161)
      - We've got 4 8-10 goal a season forwards here already (NT) -- Lork, Sunday, November 22, 02:40:21pm (129.11.187.214)
- They scored a very good goal and after that were content to sit back. Do some people expect us to win every game? (NT) -- alanos, Sunday, November 22, 09:23:48pm (86.134.200.166)
- Do you know I think some do sometimes! (NT) -- C, Sunday, November 22, 10:26:32pm (86.156.212.74)
any idea who this is referring to? -- fb, Sunday, November 22, 01:55:43pm (81.99.159.117)
"Heid, so little ability, so many offers. Or so you would believe if you listened to people who claim to know whets happening out there in HeidWorld. Unlike us who openly declare it�s all lies and we know he�s already agreed a deal with Fulham on far more wages than SPLOB believes he�s worth. Look for the clubs agreeing a transfer deal in January similar to that which seen wee Shaun join Villa a couple of years back."

have we signned any celts? i'd take brown, hinkel, mcgeady or n'guemo...but can't see past them.

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Replies:
- A quick google search of "heid celtic" let me know that it's Gary "Heid" Caldwell the poster is referring to. Central defender and captain who always seems to put the ball in his own net. (NT) -- twang, Sunday, November 22, 02:07:06pm (217.210.94.237)
  - don�t watch this guy before transfer time or you�ll be reaching for the razor blades! brede�s replacement or back up? thought smalling was the guy to fill that spot?hope its hot air but who knows, roy seems to have the touch when it comes to getting the best out of his charges (NT) -- baz, Sunday, November 22, 02:12:17pm (80.129.195.228)
    - roy seems to have the touch when it comes to getting the best out of his charges ..................... there are limits though. (NT) -- Barry E, Sunday, November 22, 03:05:54pm (82.68.230.222)
  - jebus! i had a hunch it might be caldwell...if i didn't have faith in roy, i'd be calling samaritans right now. hate t osay it but the site i found that on is usually quite close with its rumours. (NT) -- fb, Sunday, November 22, 02:58:23pm (81.99.159.117)
- Of their current team, can't see any of their players fitting our system. Brown is a good player, but more of a combative type. McGeady showed promise but his own fans don't even rate him now - always looks unfit to me. Samaras maybe? (NT) -- NotN, Sunday, November 22, 02:12:01pm (92.19.5.239)
- I think theres a big thing about him not getting what he wants from his new contract up there so its probably just to do with that (NT) -- Jack, Sunday, November 22, 04:11:30pm (86.153.47.111)
- What does SPLOB mean? (NT) -- Just wondering....., Sunday, November 22, 09:33:29pm (79.70.68.228)
One to look out for on MoTD2 - Bolton v Blackburn -- k, Sunday, November 22, 03:35:03pm (79.73.64.48)
Blackburn goal: A more laughable goal you will not see this season. Brett Emerton swings over a hopeful ball and Jussi Jaaskelainen comes charging out of his area, but clearly doesn't tell Sam Ricketts, who heads it to where he thinks Jaaskelainen should be - only to see the ball drift into the net.

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Replies:
- I said after they lost to Villa that they look a very poor side this year. They're conceeding far too many goals, particularly soft ones (who'd have ever thought that a defence containing Zat Knight would be accused of that!!) and seem to rely heavily on hoofing it onto Kevin Davies' bonce for goals. Wouldn't surprise me at all if they either went down or Megson was sacked before too long. -- Bananaman, Sunday, November 22, 04:03:12pm (89.242.150.188)
- I get very annoyed with this Zat bashing. He's a kid, who is learning the game. He's got bags of potential and as he develops I fully expect him to be a leading player up there with Terry Angus as the best Centre half's ever to play for the club (NT) -- Big Time Charlie, Sunday, November 22, 04:35:10pm (86.3.246.115)
  - Yes - he has all the tools in his locker..........now if only he could find the key to that locker. (NT) -- k, Sunday, November 22, 04:37:42pm (79.73.64.48)
- Zat was dropped for this one. (NT) -- roy tund, Sunday, November 22, 05:01:23pm (90.198.69.169)
  - Rested you mean (NT) -- Glide, Sunday, November 22, 07:04:54pm (86.160.28.201)
- You mean this? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBil8NJhxhk (NT) -- kov, Sunday, November 22, 07:32:41pm (74.73.180.160)
Sky Sports News -- Severin, Sunday, November 22, 03:55:52pm (91.84.177.61)
Do yourself a favour and check out the facial hair monstrosity being sported by Alan McInally on SSN at the moment.

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Replies:
- Did I dream it or did I see Merson with a Mexican gangster/Nick Cave 'tache yesterday (somewhat worrying if I am dreaming things like that!)? (NT) -- BalDrick, Sunday, November 22, 04:08:23pm (86.178.228.83)
- Google 'Movember' (NT) -- Mitch, Sunday, November 22, 04:19:14pm (81.140.75.94)
  - I'll make a donation to charity for him to get off the screen. I'm writing out at cheque for "Vacuous Pundits Anonymous" immediately. Apparently Alan Shearer's the patron, and Mark Bright's the treasurer. (NT) -- Severin, Sunday, November 22, 04:32:01pm (91.84.177.61)
- The whole Aussie team againts Scotland yesterday had Harry Flashman moustaches (NT) -- Glide, Sunday, November 22, 07:02:42pm (86.160.28.201)
Injuries -- 321p, Sunday, November 22, 05:44:52pm (90.210.103.111)

How long are AJ and Danny out for.. was expecting them back after the int'l break

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Replies:
- I think Roy said they would be back in training this week. Dunno if that means therell be fit for Wednesday, maybe the bench? (NT) -- The Babbler, Sunday, November 22, 06:18:16pm (94.194.21.233)
Spurs 4 Wigan 1 - Defoe with a 7 minute hat-trick!!! -- CB, Sunday, November 22, 04:20:59pm (86.167.154.255)
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Replies:
- he's scored 4 now (NT) -- Lork, Sunday, November 22, 04:30:34pm (129.11.187.214)
- 6-1!! Defoe 4! and that's with Keane, Pavlyuchenko and Bentley on the bench! (NT) -- CB, Sunday, November 22, 04:31:07pm (86.167.154.255)
  - Defoe with 5! (NT) -- 321p, Sunday, November 22, 04:48:08pm (90.210.103.111)
    - 8 bloody 1!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Reminds me of an old Michael Palin sketch. Is Defoes 5 in 36mins a prem record? (NT) -- CB, Sunday, November 22, 04:52:48pm (86.167.154.255)
      - Apparently Shearer and Cole have scored 5 in a game.. fastest hat trick remains Robbie Fowler.... Oh and that's 9 to spurs! (NT) -- 321p, Sunday, November 22, 04:54:46pm (90.210.103.111)
- can i be first with 8-1? (NT) -- roy tund, Sunday, November 22, 04:50:20pm (90.198.69.169)
  - Our loss yesterday is now looking slightly better. (NT) -- theresonlyonesteviemilton, Sunday, November 22, 04:51:29pm (81.35.62.114)
    - Well we should have some perspective. We lost but were the better side. we'll win on wednesday. (NT) -- roy tund, Sunday, November 22, 04:58:41pm (90.198.69.169)
      - I meant it tongue in cheek...but you`re right about yesterday, just one of those things..always hard to score against a team with 10 players behind the ball no matter how bad they are. (NT) -- theresonlyoneteviemilton, Sunday, November 22, 05:02:58pm (81.35.62.114)
- Hahahahahah!!!! 9 - 1!!!!!!!! (NT) -- CB, Sunday, November 22, 04:54:38pm (86.167.154.255)
- gutted they conceded a goal, corluka and huddlestone are in my final fantasy side (NT) -- Lork, Sunday, November 22, 04:57:16pm (129.11.187.214)
  - Luckily subbed Kirkland for Sorensen!! (NT) -- 321p, Sunday, November 22, 05:37:48pm (90.210.103.111)
    - I got defoe and bent upfront :) awesome (NT) -- HVK, Sunday, November 22, 05:43:49pm (129.12.134.24)
Kirkland for England ! -- LOL, Sunday, November 22, 04:58:13pm (92.1.73.11)
How embarrassing .

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Replies:
- How many were his fault? The goal for number 8 was unlucky. (NT) -- roy tund, Sunday, November 22, 05:00:17pm (90.198.69.169)
Birthday Boy -- Olly, Sunday, November 22, 09:29:47am (81.153.99.180)
Happy birthday to Barra Boy - have a nice one mate

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Replies:
- Happy Birthday mate (NT) -- c, Sunday, November 22, 09:31:36am (149.254.51.9)
- Have a great day mate - see you Wednesday -- Si, Sunday, November 22, 10:32:56am (80.42.5.75)
- Happy Birthday, Barra. I hope that you asked for 6 pts in the next 2 matches! (NT) -- Tom the Yank, Sunday, November 22, 02:12:44pm (68.171.234.138)
- Happy Birthday young Barra (NT) -- Southfield White, Sunday, November 22, 04:33:26pm (86.178.25.219)
Something Is Very Rotten in the State of Soccer -- Jay, Sunday, November 22, 03:30:52pm (86.160.9.188)

Something Is Very Rotten in the State of Soccer
By ROB HUGHES

For many years, European soccer has looked east toward China, Hong Kong and Singapore hoping that the day would never dawn when its own sports were contaminated by match fixing on anything like the levels of Asia.

Events in Bochum on Friday killed that hope. There, at police headquarters in the heart of the industrial Ruhr Valley, law enforcement officials announced that 15 suspects in Germany and two in Switzerland were under arrest. This, apparently, is the tip of an iceberg. The police claim they have evidence implicating the corrupting of some 200 professional matches across nine central European countries during 2009 alone.

The suspect matches range from minor regional leagues in Germany to top Champions League and Europa League encounters, the two most glamorous club tournaments in the global sport.

UEFA, the European soccer authority responsible for the sport in 53 counties, had been in denial about such widespread corruption right up until the eve of the news conference in Bochum.

UEFA�s disciplinary officer, sitting beside the police chiefs in Bochum, looked and sounded dumbfounded at the scale of the allegations. But the detectives of Germany�s police force said their inquiries so far pointed to the corrupting of games in the country�s own leagues and across borders in Belgium, Switzerland, Croatia, Slovenia, Turkey, Hungary, Bosnia and Austria.

A Swiss league team, FC Thun, reportedly banned its forward Omar Faye from playing Sunday because he had been questioned by the police. The club declined to say what his implication might be.

The inquiries are ongoing. The police say that other police criminal investigation units are cooperating, including Scotland Yard in London.

No names were named at the conference. So while the net closes in on suspects, the law enforcers will not be specific on games, players, referees, club officials or fixers.

But, now that it has gone this far, now that one nation�s police are on the trail and others are assisting their inquiries, we had better believe it.

Something sinister is happening in the sport and in other sports under investigation, including tennis, horse racing and anything, it seems, that attracts the gamblers who stand to make tens of millions of dollars, euros, pounds or yen.

Bochum�s police had been bounced into their hastily called news conference by a story in the Berlin newspaper Morgenpost on Thursday. It stated that another match-fixing scandal was about to break, and it implicated Ante Sapina, the head of a Croatian syndicate, who was jailed with four others convicted of bribing a German referee, Robert Hoyzer, to rig matches in 2005.

The police did not confirm or deny that Sapina was again under arrest. They did say that one method of entrapment used to gain evidence was phone tapping � the tactic that exposed corruption in Italy�s top league, Serie A, before the 2006 World Cup.

Until or unless the police bring their evidence before courts of law, we have no option but to trust their detective work and to exercise patience before condemning anyone or anything.

Theo Zwanziger, the president DfB, the German governing body, reacted to the announcement by pledging: �As soon as we know who is under investigation, we will give prosecutors everything they need. It�s in our interest that the prosecutors are aggressive... Nothing will be swept under the carpet.�

From Nyon, Switzerland, UEFA�s general secretary, Gianni Infantino, said: �UEFA will be demanding the harshest of sanctions before the competent courts for any individuals, clubs or officials who are implicated in this malpractice, be it under state or sports jurisdiction.�

But from FIFA, the global governing body of soccer that funds its own watchdog monitoring games for suspicious betting patterns, there was silence.

We deserve better than this. Soccer is the global sport. FIFA and UEFA are the guardians not only of the immense money-making machine that feeds off it but of its reputation and legality.

Denial won�t do any more. We are fully aware of the sinister element. The fact that betting cartels in China, with links to gangs, had infiltrated the sport at all levels became public a year ago when a Chinese man was convicted of a horrendous murder of two Chinese students in Newcastle, England.

The murderer went to jail for life refusing to confirm the soccer link, although the students had been paid by someone to act as �spotters,� advising a betting ring of the form of players in lower-division soccer.

The chief of police involved in that trial is on record as saying that the evidence leans toward the involvement of criminal gambling elements in Asia. But his force could not crack the paymasters or break the silence of the killer.

It becomes one more whisper in the long and perpetual saga of Asian betting, fixing or attempting to fix the odds.

There have been threats to close down China�s top soccer league altogether. Last month, the police in Liaoning Province began interrogating scores of people, including Chinese soccer officials and club management, after claims that a 5-1 victory for Guangzhou Pharmaceutical over Shanxi in 2006 had been rigged.

The proliferation of online betting, with FIFA and UEFA condoning countless clubs, and even leagues, in Europe to advertise them, is an anomaly that does not occur, for example, in the United States.

Europe has an unholy alliance between betting promotion and the game. The United States runs the opposite way, which is why Gary Kaplan, a New York bookmaker turned Internet betting mogul, has just been sentenced to 51 months in prison for operating an illegal sports betting organization.

His company, based in Panama City and registered in London, flouted the law that forbids Americans to bet on sports online.

The bookie and his associates thumbed their noses at the 2006 Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act by taking bets from Americans, albeit from abroad. They were pursued by the F.B.I., brought to trial in Missouri and jailed. They had to surrender more than $50 million in assets.

The United States, despite Las Vegas and all it stands for, has exhibited zero tolerance toward the betting that can lead to sporting corruption.

Meanwhile, Zara Phillips, granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II and 12th in line to the British throne, became world equestrian trials champion, riding horses sponsored by Cantor Index, a spread betting company.

What is taboo in the United States is legal in Europe. And some people from Asia to Russia to the heart of Europe can profit from that.

[Edit]

Replies:
- Re: Something Is Very Rotten in the State of Soccer -- Jay, Sunday, November 22, 03:48:30pm (86.160.9.188)
A little bit hypocritical??? -- Crash, Sunday, November 22, 01:54:21pm (86.140.180.249)
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_5710423,00.html

[Edit]
Today -- mullet, Saturday, November 21, 11:44:24pm (81.111.11.137)
A strange performance really not our best and not our worst.
I thought that 3 points was there for the taking, god we miss that 15-20 goal a season man, without him I dont see us climbing into the top 8-10.
Other than that you could not blame effort all the players battled really well and looked solid all round in dire conditions.
Hopefully we will be a touch stronger in the next 2 games and we will get 6 points.
Just a footnote I think Zamora is def looking alot more of a centre forward in the last 4 games and deserves his spot in the 11.
I know we lost but I dont think damage has been done and look forward to more wins.
COYW

[Edit]

Replies:
- I think Zamora has been superb this season to be honest, has always put in 100% unlike some games last year where he just looked like he couldn't be bothered. Keep it up Bobby (NT) -- Trick, Saturday, November 21, 11:50:13pm (137.205.69.157)
  - I agree 100% but I can't help feeling that if he had been more aware of all his options before his attempt on goal early in the game, after fantastic work down the right hand side, he would have simply squared it to Gera who was unmarked and had the goal at his mercy. I also feel that if we had taken the lead then we would have gone on to win the game quite comfortably! This is an area of Bobby's game that he is, no doubt, working on, given his number of assists this season but I can also understand that, as a striker, he is trying to score at every opportunity. (NT) -- Jimbo, Sunday, November 22, 11:36:15am (92.5.45.130)
- I don't blame the players - that defeat was down to Roy and Roy alone. He set us up to contain Birmingham rather than impose our game on them. Very disappointing because points were there for the taking...... (NT) -- Cheggers, Sunday, November 22, 08:30:40am (94.194.22.36)
  - Sounds like we're on the verge of a renewed "Roy is senile, Roy must go" campaign. (NT) -- Mike H, Sunday, November 22, 09:08:53am (211.26.61.26)
  - He played 4-4-2, with three attacking midfielders. Yeah, that's really setting us up to contain them. We had 65% of possession, the problem was (and I take it you were at St Andrews as you know so much about the game?) was that we only had one recognised forward, and lacked any kind of cutting edge, particularly in the second half when Birmingham just sat five along the 18 yd line with two, sometimes three midfielders sitting just in front of them. Do us all a favour and change the bleedin' record. -- Bananaman, Sunday, November 22, 10:00:55am (89.242.150.188)
- Zamora may well "hold up" the play, but it is not inducive of good attacking flair. I may not have seen him, & he is considered to be a lazy player, but Kris Boyd has been very effective, north of the border, and should be worth a punt. He is now only a few goals short of Heinrik Larson's goalscoring record amount in the Scottish Premier, & he is a younger player. I hope RH drops Greening soon, as he is so one paced, & lost Bowyer for us to concede the goal yesterday. (NT) -- D.A., Sunday, November 22, 09:08:41am (89.241.155.241)
  - Kris Boyd? His goals per game ratio is getting worse by the year. And to think how poor that league is. If we sign him, I'm going to get my boots ready. (NT) -- Alan, Sunday, November 22, 10:15:28am (90.206.77.196)
- Not to mention Zamora is constantly held back and hauled down in the area. Clint was also trying evrything yesterday but neither of them can do it in their way, we need one of the others back so they can all play their own game . (NT) -- C, Sunday, November 22, 09:23:17am (86.158.178.219)
- Didn't see or follow it, but have now read the various facts and watched the goal, which was down to good play plus Hangeland spoiling the offside trap. Since I can't truthfully dispute Hodgson's lack of faith in EJ or Seol, I can't fault his offensive selections. AJ, Kamara or Nevland would undoubtedly have played if available, as Dunn will on Wednesday. Apart from a possible case for Riise (not IMO compelling) that was about it, wasn't it? Obviously if we continue to have 4/5 first-choice attackers unavailable as starters that will prove a problem, as it would for most, so let's hope not. (NT) -- b+w geezer, Sunday, November 22, 11:12:50am (213.162.109.12)
- The trouble with Zamora, is he is so easily held back - how often do you notice other players being so easily brushed aside? (NT) -- D.A., Sunday, November 22, 01:28:19pm (92.29.111.1)
Lets be Realistic -- Senior Supporter, Sunday, November 22, 11:56:23am (86.147.150.7)
I looked at the post match comments on here yesterday, and was disappointed to read that we played one up front, Birmingham's work rate in midfield was twice ours, our players didn't "turn up" and that we were shite.... all Roy's fault because he had set us up to contain them.

Then I watched Sky match choice and quickly realised that either I had pressed the wrong button, or all of the above was rubbish. I thought everyone gave 100%, and that we controlled most of the match. Sadly we were unable to convert that into a goal/goals, but we played some good football in atrocious conditions. I think credit must be given to the Brum defence. They were exceptional, giving us no room or time around the box, and getting in more blocks than I have seen in some time. I went to look at their defensive stats. Do you realise only Chelsea have conceded fewer goals at home? No surprise then that, given the makeshift attack we were forced to field, we couldn't break them down.

[Edit]

Replies:
- Agree with all of that that, I was there yesterday and was surprised to read the stuff further down. (NT) -- Mark, Sunday, November 22, 11:59:32am (92.239.47.121)
- Yes, fair enough, that's a good argument. Like many people, I tend to think mainly about my own team and ignore the opposition, especially when they're an unglamorous, unnoticed lot like Brum. I would say that we can be just as toothless against sides who don't have their defensive strength - we were feeble for most of the game at Wolves, for example. I think, for a well-organised side like Birmingham, our cautious, predictable approach is an easy one to deal with. But maybe we just have to accept that - the cautious approach is serving us reasonably well, after all. (NT) -- Frank Bacon, Sunday, November 22, 12:10:36pm (82.3.42.166)
- It was Gera fault we lost, and Hangeland and Grenings but mostly Geras. (NT) -- Mike, Sunday, November 22, 12:37:25pm (89.101.95.229)
- We've not lost in the league for ages so we were probably due a howler, no need to hit the panic button just yet. We've got two very winable home games next plus players coming back from injury so we're still good. If only Bobby had scored when he was clean thru on goal instead of scuffing it across the box ey Mike? (NT) -- South London White, Sunday, November 22, 12:45:55pm (82.132.136.141)
  - At least he got in the position to score eh SLW? (NT) -- Mike, Sunday, November 22, 12:54:04pm (89.101.95.229)
- Indeed. A bit like Gera who you're always so keen to dig out. (NT) -- South London White, Sunday, November 22, 12:59:18pm (82.132.139.187)
  - If Gera actually gave a toss then I wouldn't mind him being shite. (NT) -- Mike, Sunday, November 22, 01:02:05pm (89.101.95.229)
- I was there too and I can't believe some of the stuff on here. Different match (most of), obviously. (NT) -- C, Sunday, November 22, 01:16:45pm (86.151.126.14)
Chin up -- Pensioner, Sunday, November 22, 10:09:41am (83.67.80.102)
Given the awful weather, the lack of a second striker and the failure of ref to protect BZ from repeated fouls........what was there to cheer?

1 The Wellington - top beers and civilzed folk
Had a most interesting chat with three Baggies who liked G annd G more than Joe K

2 Impressive noise from FFC fans. Brum crowd almost silent and failed to answer the FFC "hush in"

3 Duff's 15 mins proved that quality crosssing causes mayhem in danger
area

4 FFC players came over in numbers to thank the fans

5 fast train out of Brum

[Edit]

Replies:
- Be happy that it is raining and not 46 degrees like it tipped here - how did I celebrate? Locking myself in a room 1.3m X 2.8m with no ventilation and built a wardrobe! (NT) -- Andy Sayers Personal Trainer, Sunday, November 22, 10:13:57am (60.240.61.84)
- Fucking 44 on C Coast today- its 9.20pm and still in the high 30's. (NT) -- Thurbs, Sunday, November 22, 10:19:17am (203.51.20.72)
  - Hi, what's it like in Melbourne.. will be heading down there next week... (NT) -- 321p, Sunday, November 22, 11:19:36am (90.210.103.111)
    - they had more rain in 1c hour today than they expected in November! it is Melbourne - you will see all weathers, with dramatic change every hour! (NT) -- Andy Sayers Personal Trainer, Sunday, November 22, 12:18:25pm (60.240.61.84)
  - My sympathies. We had about 10 days of 35-42 until last Friday. Now a merciful 21. But don't worry. Barnaby Joyce says there's no such thing as climate change. (NT) -- Mike H, Sunday, November 22, 11:53:31am (211.26.61.26)
- I don't disagree with your main points, but 'repeated fouls' on Bobby Z? Bobby's tendency to take one step backwards into the defender and then spend the next 30 seconds whining to the ref is just one of several things that get entirely on my breasts about our legendary hold-up artist. Doesn't he know that 'hold-up play' necessitates a certain amount of physical contact? Joe Jordan wouldn't even have noticed the stuff that Bobby complains about. Grow a spine, man! (NT) -- Frank Bacon, Sunday, November 22, 11:26:44am (82.3.42.166)
  - Walking backwards into a defender worked for Craig Fagan yesterday (NT) -- Alan, Sunday, November 22, 01:15:47pm (90.206.77.196)
- Couldnt have put it better myself Frank...Yesterday Zamora spent more time trying to win a foul than trying to win the ball.... (NT) -- FFCWeybridge, Sunday, November 22, 12:11:13pm (94.4.185.246)
Season Compare -- Si, Sunday, November 22, 11:25:17am (80.42.5.75)
Comparing like for like results over this and last season then we are on track for the same finish.

I have swapped the relegated three with the promoted three and if we use the same results from last season for those games we have yet to play then we are on target for 53 points again which would be 7th!

For example, I have used West Brom and Burnley so based on last years games against the Baggies we would have a home win and an away loss against Burnley this year.

Hope that makes sense!

[Edit]

Replies:
- I was thinking (without having done the analysis you have, for which thanks) much the same yesterday. Just look at the table as it stands now and it it is hard to expect that Stoke and Burnley will stay above us and of those below Everton will surely pull up to around level with us, Sunderland are surely destined to be significantly better than last year and Man City likewise so 8th-10th, with few points between those places, is my estimation. (NT) -- k, Sunday, November 22, 11:55:04am (79.73.64.48)
- and we have been pretty much in every game to date as well. Just looking ahead a little and we have some interesting batches of fixtures where we can build some momentum, especially in Jan/Feb (NT) -- 321p, Sunday, November 22, 12:47:29pm (90.210.103.111)
- Over all it also shows that our home record has improved to what is expected, but the away form is even worse than the form last year. It was only slightly better than Newcastle's record last year, so it does not auger that well for any trips away. (NT) -- D.A., Sunday, November 22, 01:02:22pm (92.29.111.1)
- Minor correction: we drew away to Middlesboro last season. We didn't lose, should be 14 points. (NT) -- Dougie, Sunday, November 22, 01:13:13pm (78.105.149.240)
Team -- Si, Saturday, November 21, 02:34:09pm (80.42.5.75)
Fulham
01 Schwarzer
02 Kelly
03 Konchesky
05 Hangeland
06 Baird
18 Hughes
11 Gera
23 Dempsey
27 Greening
29 Davies
25 Zamora
Substitutes
19 Zuberbuhler, 04 Pantsil, 26 Smalling, 16 Duff, 17 Riise, 20 Etuhu, 21 Johnson

[Edit]

Replies:
- Is that the worst midfield in the Premiership? Davies, Baird, Greening, Gera. (NT) -- Ian, Saturday, November 21, 02:40:19pm (91.109.220.80)
  - No. Birmingham City's midfield is worse. (NT) -- FFC1, Saturday, November 21, 02:45:12pm (79.69.84.238)
    - Re: No. Birmingham City's midfield is worse. -- Bertie Auld (Seen Worse), Sunday, November 22, 11:23:33am (90.214.174.148)
  - In Roy we thrust! (NT) -- Fitzgerald, Saturday, November 21, 02:47:35pm (81.191.24.102)
- brownie gets into pompys midfield xD (NT) -- BlaWharmy fan, Saturday, November 21, 02:43:06pm (212.219.74.13)
- Re: Team -- John Dough, Saturday, November 21, 02:47:12pm (71.192.46.54)
- Apart from Zube and the yank, our bench looks good (NT) -- CB, Saturday, November 21, 02:47:32pm (86.167.154.255)
- i assume ur refering to EJ, but you'll regret those words when he comes off the bench and scores the winner! (NT) -- BlaWharmy fan, Saturday, November 21, 02:49:08pm (212.219.74.13)
- Anyone know what's wrong with Nevland? (NT) -- Daffy, Saturday, November 21, 02:52:35pm (207.204.79.64)
  - Commentary just said he had to return to London after falling ill at the team hotel (NT) -- BR, Saturday, November 21, 03:01:00pm (124.169.162.68)
Oh dear....... -- Cheggers, Saturday, November 21, 06:15:28pm (94.194.22.36)

Roy is not the Messiah after all........

[Edit]

Replies:
- lol. (NT) -- Mike, Saturday, November 21, 06:19:55pm (89.101.95.229)
- Bit of an over reaction to 1 defeat. Granted not a game we should have lost or should be losing but an over reaction I think (NT) -- FB2, Saturday, November 21, 06:21:03pm (81.151.230.90)
  - Did you watch the game? We were shite and Roy did very little about it. It's as if he'd given it up as a defeat...... (NT) -- Cheggers, Saturday, November 21, 06:26:41pm (94.194.22.36)
    - Proves he has NO faith in EJ the only 'striker' haha! on the bench, and didn't use him. (NT) -- CB, Saturday, November 21, 06:37:53pm (86.167.154.255)
- No, he's a very naughty boy (NT) -- Hugh, Saturday, November 21, 06:26:02pm (82.132.139.151)
- He certainly doesn't walk on water! or. A bit out of his depth? or. A leaky defence and no flowing football! (NT) -- CB, Saturday, November 21, 06:27:12pm (86.167.154.255)
- Yeah lets get Cookie back.......right Cheggers! lol (NT) -- RB, Saturday, November 21, 06:28:48pm (92.25.92.148)
  - What are you talking about you twat? (NT) -- Cheggers, Saturday, November 21, 06:40:31pm (94.194.22.36)
    - A pathetic post deserves a stupid reply you TWAT! How can you judge Roy on that one performance? Without his guidance we would be languishing mid table in the championship if it was not for Roy. (NT) -- RB, Saturday, November 21, 08:03:50pm (92.25.92.148)
      - So explain to me what Cookie has to do with anything? TWAT...... (NT) -- Cheggers, Saturday, November 21, 09:22:30pm (94.194.22.36)
        
        Well it's common knowledge that you back cookie to the hilt on this board, my comment was in jest to your intial post. TWAT...... (NT) -- RB, Saturday, November 21, 10:28:35pm (92.25.92.148)
- 65% possession, they parked the bus, we couldn't get through. This happens, surely we're not at the level where we can expect to walk into any team's house in the pissing rain and walk away with all three points? Birmingham did draw with liverpool at anfield just the other day, they are a premiership team. No easy games, lots of injured strikers. Shit happens. (NT) -- withaplum, Saturday, November 21, 06:31:59pm (72.177.80.145)
  - Of course "shit happens" when we only play one up front....... (NT) -- Cheggers, Saturday, November 21, 06:39:03pm (94.194.22.36)
- Mhmmm. All Roy's pedigree and everything he's done is discredited because of today. (NT) -- Pat, Saturday, November 21, 06:41:07pm (114.76.153.194)
  - Did I say that? No..... But I do expect us to "turn up" for a game........ (NT) -- Cheggers, Saturday, November 21, 06:43:03pm (94.194.22.36)
- Prick! (NT) -- Peyton, Saturday, November 21, 06:56:08pm (217.44.95.108)
  - It's cheggers, he'll be sucking balls again once we win a game. (NT) -- Mike, Saturday, November 21, 07:42:20pm (89.101.95.229)
    - Really? Nor very bright are we? Can you not just accept we were shit and Roy is to blame? (NT) -- Cheggers, Saturday, November 21, 07:47:24pm (94.194.22.36)
      - NO (NT) -- mullet, Saturday, November 21, 08:03:05pm (81.111.11.137)
      - Your quality Cheggers. Hilarious. (NT) -- Mike, Saturday, November 21, 08:07:50pm (89.101.95.229)
- So what would Cheggers have done? I didn't think you were EJ's biggest fan,and he was the only other striker available.How precisely was the defeat Roy's fault? (NT) -- alanos, Saturday, November 21, 08:35:45pm (86.134.200.166)
  - Er....well......setting us up as 4-5-1 wasn't too bright. I don't expect you to get it ANALos but we do need to be able to mount an attack once in a while....... (NT) -- Cheggers, Saturday, November 21, 09:24:24pm (94.194.22.36)
    - Fck me, Cheggers has turned into an obnoxious teenager just because most don't agree with him. (NT) -- Jim�, Saturday, November 21, 10:29:13pm (90.194.16.196)
    - "ANALos" and "mount an attack" Calm down dear. (NT) -- ., Saturday, November 21, 10:32:48pm (86.15.155.119)
      - You calm down, blithering idiot. (NT) -- mike, Saturday, November 21, 10:56:39pm (89.101.95.229)
    - 4.5.1 are you sure you watched the same game we did Cheggers? As Dempsey played up front with Zamora! Lol (NT) -- RB, Saturday, November 21, 10:49:20pm (92.25.92.148)
- I assume Cheggers thinks Roy should have partnered Eddie Johnson up front with Zamora.Well that's a viewpoint I have a bit of sympathy with but than I don't see the players in training every day.I can't understand how playing Dempsey upfront instead of Eddie makes it Hodgson's fault we lost the game.Is Cheggers certain we would have won with Eddie? (NT) -- alanos, Sunday, November 22, 11:08:27am (94.194.61.128)
Clueless? -- Ctobyps, Sunday, November 22, 10:15:14am (192.39.113.67)
Lawro, Lawro Fun

It's no surprise that Lawro once again tips Fulham to lose again this weekend at Birmingham - after all, he's tipped them to lose ten times already this season and in the Premier League table compiled from his predictions, the Cottagers are rock bottom with just six points. Hull are in ninth. Lucky Hull.

In Lawro's world, Liverpool are still unbeaten (of course), while Chelsea are top of the table and haven't been beaten in two seasons. Mind you, in Miller's World, Nottingham Forest are probably in a Champions League place.

[Edit]
Fulham Midfield -- Dad's Army, Saturday, November 21, 05:15:16pm (78.147.86.130)
Birmingham's work rate in midfield, was twice as high in comparison to our pathetic showing.
Baird we know is one paced, Greening is & never was dynamic by any means, Zoltan(The Hound from Hell?) Gera is as he always shows lightweight - never the strongest, Davies - just coming back from injury could not be relied on either.
All in all we never really got going, until Damien came on to the field to add some bite to the team. Dempsey's work rate was sorely missed in the middle of the park, although he was the only real threat up front, and would have been missed there.

[Edit]

Replies:
- I didnt see it, only heard the commentary. Seems like we did OK in midfield - possession was even - shots on target were 5-2 to us, off target 7-1 to us, and corners 7 0 to us. They dont always give the whole picture but sounds like we were the stronger team. (NT) -- Seano, Saturday, November 21, 06:24:53pm (82.45.195.109)
  - Possession was even? According to OPTA we had 65% possession, 7 corners to nil, 2 each shots on target, and 12 shots off target/blocked to their 1. If the situation had been reversed I guess we would all be saying that it was a magnificent defensive effort but, as it is, I guess we have to accept that it was a miserable failure to capitalise on our superiority. (NT) -- Senior Supporter, Saturday, November 21, 06:39:44pm (86.147.150.7)
- The final ball was not of the best quality, & most of the shots were half chances (except Zamora's which was a clear cut one, which he of course missed.) (NT) -- D.A., Sunday, November 22, 09:31:41am (89.241.155.241)
Last 3 seasons -- kef, Saturday, November 21, 06:45:34pm (80.0.56.253)
We have scored an average of 38 goals in the last 3 seasons, this is our problem, if we were prepared to spend �12m on Crouch, then for Christ sakes get 2 decent goal scorers in, none of the forwards we have could score in a brothel.
Todays substitution in the last 15 minutes Etuhu for Baird!!!!!! yeah, thats going to put the wind up Brum.
Sometimes I think that RH has not got the killer instinct.

[Edit]

Replies:
- Exactly........ (NT) -- Cheggers, Saturday, November 21, 06:49:03pm (94.194.22.36)
- Let's be sensible. If AJ, Joe or Nevland had been available today, we would surely have looked more threatening. And from what I saw/heard of the match, we missed DM and a fit Duff, plus Dempsey is better in midfield than up front. Clearly an off day by a much changed side. No need to panic, however. Our present strike force and management system got us to seventh place last season, remeber. (NT) -- Daffy, Saturday, November 21, 06:56:08pm (207.204.79.64)
  - Be sensible? The point of a football messageboard is to be a short-termist reactionary and believe that either the sky has fallen in or the sky's the limit based on one result! Surely?! (NT) -- NYCk, Saturday, November 21, 07:50:16pm (78.86.148.167)
  - No need to panic and still happy with the squad that did so well last season but we really do need a forward who knows where the goal is. Unfortunately, there's not much quality available in January with our budget. Going to be another miserly season at both ends. (NT) -- sydneyffc, Saturday, November 21, 08:26:48pm (144.132.145.203)
- Nearly all intelligent professional commentators say Zamora does an excellent job ,even without scoring much himself. Paired with Kamara or Johnson and with Nevland available in the second half, he provides excellent options.Which 6 million pound striker had you in mind,Dave Kitson perhaps? (NT) -- alanos, Saturday, November 21, 08:23:57pm (86.134.200.166)
  - You are a mug alanos. BZ's chesting is world class. The rest of his game today was at best mediocre and at worst clueless. (NT) -- TheCruelTruth, Sunday, November 22, 04:26:22am (71.162.255.211)
- The killer instinct? So which "killer" did Roy not use as a substitute today? Had he brought on EJ without effect (which would have been more than likely) no doubt the usual suspects would be complaining that he should not change things when we had them under the cosh. Still you'll always have Cheggers' support, who still nurses the forlorn hope that he will eventually convince us all that Coleman was a better manager than RH! (NT) -- Senior Supporter, Saturday, November 21, 08:39:41pm (86.147.150.7)
- Well, regarding Coleman at least,Cheggers is on the side of the angels. (NT) -- alanos, Saturday, November 21, 08:57:10pm (86.134.200.166)
- For a man of his height & weight, Zamora is too easily knocked off the ball. The commentators were praising the Brumie Central Defence for beating him in the air - but in reality HE is very poor in that & most ATTACKING attributes. For older contributors to this board - think back to George (Arthur) Rowley - did he ever get knocked off the ball by any defender - no it was the other way around - he was not the best footballer in the league, by far, but he could score goals from chances he made, by being unconventional. I remembering him often, for the way he just pushed the ball to the side of the Centre Half, and just threw himself to complete a hitch kick, and score. He is by a country mile, the top goalscorer in League Records. (NT) -- D.A., Sunday, November 22, 09:25:27am (89.241.155.241)
This results been coming.... -- BlaWharmy fan, Saturday, November 21, 10:03:21pm (212.219.74.13)
i believe it was only a matter of time before our slow starts to games cost us. We were slow in getting out of the traps against both liverpool and wigan, however on those occasions a couple of things went our way imo and we got two decent results. in the premiership the first goal is so vital in any game and teams like fulham cant expect to show up just for the second half and continually expect to get a result.

hopefully we can put things right on wednesday against blackburn because the next two games are crucial for me. getting off to a good start could well be the difference in those games.

[Edit]

Replies:
- Errr... Nevland hit the post about ten minutes in to the Wigan game. (NT) -- twang, Saturday, November 21, 10:47:47pm (217.210.94.237)
- yeah bobby scored first against liverpool too it wasnt against the run of play or anything (NT) -- BlaWharmy fan, Saturday, November 21, 11:08:31pm (212.219.74.13)
- were you there? tosser (NT) -- maybe you were playing?, Sunday, November 22, 12:22:40am (80.41.87.199)
- ahahahahahaaha. i make a logical point that was clearly had an impact on the result today and somebody almost has a coronary reading it. brilliant (NT) -- BlaWharmy fan, Sunday, November 22, 01:02:38am (212.219.74.13)
- We actually had a pretty good start yesterday, unfortunately they scored early and it went backwards for a while from there. (NT) -- C, Sunday, November 22, 09:25:03am (86.158.178.219)
Usual story -- Depressed (Sad), Saturday, November 21, 05:06:24pm (92.29.151.160)
Same old story we dominate match but lose. We need a striker who can score on a regular basis as we have no such person in our current squad. Iam sure RH is aware of the problem and hopefully has someone lined up in the transfer window. If not we could find ourselves in a relagation battle.

[Edit]

Replies:
- Hang on a minute, three of our four first-choice strikers are injured... (NT) -- Daffy, Saturday, November 21, 05:08:52pm (207.204.79.64)
- Re: Usual story -- Depressed (sad), Saturday, November 21, 05:11:44pm (92.29.151.160)
  - Re: Usual story -- Depressed, Saturday, November 21, 05:14:00pm (92.29.151.160)
- strikers need chances to create goals. We had all the ball but created a sum total of absolutely nothing. (NT) -- Matt@MK - Fulham Legend, Saturday, November 21, 05:16:12pm (217.171.129.69)
- Only A.J. of our Forwards is up to the mark - the rest are only bench warmer quality (Clint is not included in my eyes as an out & out forward player, but someone who can run through from deeper positions) (NT) -- D.A., Saturday, November 21, 05:19:40pm (78.147.86.130)
- and there's the R-word. Right on time. (NT) -- withaplum, Saturday, November 21, 05:44:58pm (72.177.80.145)
- If you really think we are in for a relegation battle take some of the 25-1the bookies are offering against Fulham going down. (NT) -- alanos, Saturday, November 21, 08:41:46pm (86.134.200.166)
- What do you mean, dominate a game but still lose? Villa and Wolves away and Chelsea home? Don't think we dominated those games. The only game we have lost this season unluckily was Arsenal at home. (NT) -- JoeT, Sunday, November 22, 02:22:08am (82.11.13.166)
Nevland -- Sherman, Saturday, November 21, 11:58:12pm (86.151.204.68)
What's the latest with him? I thought he was due to start.

[Edit]

Replies:
- Flu - according to MOTD. (NT) -- Arfa Mo, Saturday, November 21, 11:59:17pm (86.152.54.249)
  - Thanks, yeah just saw that. -- Sherman, Sunday, November 22, 01:03:50am (86.151.204.68)
Damien Duff blames Adidas for Republic of Ireland�s defeat to France -- MOR :, Saturday, November 21, 10:05:53pm (79.66.145.57)
Got this from "Off the post" - a football blog.

It was posted by Rob Parker.

Winger offends his own boot suppliers as he clutches at straws.

Damien Duff has claimed that the Republic of Ireland�s controversial World Cup qualification play-off defeat to France was the result of a conspiracy between FIFA and Adidas. The Fulham man, who picks up �100,000 a year for wearing Adidas boots (for now at least), reckons football�s governing body was desperate to make sure France�s three stripe-clad kit was on show in South Africa.

He said: "FIFA want the big teams in the World Cup, they want France in the World Cup, and it may sound silly but they want teams sponsored by Adidas".

�Adidas sponsor the World Cup, they sponsor France. Michel Platini has a lot of influence as well. Maybe we�d have had a better chance of going to the World Cup if it was sponsored by Umbro.�

I think that might be the sound of the last shred of Irish dignity disappearing over this incident.

[Edit]

Replies:
- If that were true Russia, not Slovenia would be going and they'd have figured out a way to get China in there... also they would have called the penalty when Anelka came down in the box. Get over it Duff, that's sport. (NT) -- BustaKaps, Sunday, November 22, 12:15:08am (202.156.14.245)
Back from the game -- Trick, Saturday, November 21, 07:51:25pm (137.205.69.157)
Seen it all before and haven't really got anything to add about the game itself.

Thought our fans were great today, particularly the 10 minute rendition of 'take me home' in the second half. Certainly got behind the boys much better than the brummies did for their mob.

[Edit]

Replies:
- Was there and thought our fans, although limited in numbers, made up with it with the noise. Especially the 15 and a half minutes of 'Take me Home'. Inspiring. (NT) -- American Mike, Saturday, November 21, 09:53:07pm (86.151.204.68)
- Take me home was heard loud and clear, around the world, by those who watched the streaming coverage - good show by those who went (NT) -- Tom the Yank, Saturday, November 21, 10:12:48pm (206.53.147.92)
- I only realised there was a home crowd when they scored and once or twice after that. They were incredibly quiet. (NT) -- C, Saturday, November 21, 10:21:58pm (86.151.122.173)
  - The quietest team I've heard at home in a very, very long time. (NT) -- Sherman, Saturday, November 21, 10:56:32pm (86.151.204.68)
Turning out to be a bad sports day -- gj, Saturday, November 21, 03:49:12pm (86.3.246.115)
us losing, chelsea winning, Bullard inspired Hull winning, England rugby losing.

Oh well, things can all change in the 2nd half

[Edit]

Replies:
- haha! 20 mins later it's Zola for the chop! (NT) -- CB, Saturday, November 21, 03:50:49pm (86.167.154.255)
  - Things could have been different if Cheggers had gone to the match, instead of sipping his shandy at The Cazbar with Mr POD (NT) -- Tom the Yank, Saturday, November 21, 03:53:47pm (24.93.136.253)
- Can't agree with Trevor Francis that Brum good value for their lead - not in my book. We're not out of this but need some more piercing passes in midfield. Keep it up lads - Dempsey playing well as makeshift co-striker. (NT) -- Dab, Saturday, November 21, 03:52:17pm (86.13.18.10)
- absolutely mental half of football up there from the sounds of it (NT) -- BlaWharmy fan, Saturday, November 21, 03:52:30pm (212.219.74.13)
- Glad Bullard is doing well he deserves a bit of luck.................................. (NT) -- RB, Saturday, November 21, 03:55:39pm (92.25.92.148)
  - sod him! (NT) -- malcbridger, Saturday, November 21, 03:56:34pm (94.189.170.200)
    - I was waiting to see how long someone will bite! Lol (NT) -- RB, Saturday, November 21, 03:57:30pm (92.25.92.148)
      - I did guess that by the 'morse code' rb, lol (NT) -- malcbridger, Saturday, November 21, 04:00:01pm (94.189.170.200)
- Is doing for Hull what he did for us.What a brilliant guy. (NT) -- alanos, Saturday, November 21, 08:53:03pm (86.134.200.166)
Ridgewell -- BlaWharmy fan, Saturday, November 21, 03:44:29pm (212.219.74.13)
just another thug playing premiership football. clearly intended that on his former team mate hughes. i hope birmingham get relegated with these bunch of thugs

[Edit]

Replies:
- and now bullard is keeping phil brown in a job, this day is getting worse and worse (NT) -- BlaWharmy fan, Saturday, November 21, 03:48:49pm (212.219.74.13)
- like to see that incident again from one of the many camera angles..intent?..we are slowly back in this game, mcfadden looking the only threat in the brum team...hope pants and duff have 45 mins in thier tanks because its screaming for a bit more pace in movement to unlock this lot. having said that, the weather is not helping us playing a quick passing game and could be that brede�s mistake could cost us but heres hoping!!!!COY WET W!!!!! (NT) -- baz, Saturday, November 21, 03:53:39pm (80.129.183.178)
- If Jimmy keeps Hull up the 5 million will seem a bargain. Well done JIMMY. (NT) -- alanos, Saturday, November 21, 08:51:31pm (86.134.200.166)
injury list: AJ, Dio, Nevland, Murphy. Dickson and Davies only just coming back. Duff exhausted. With this context, don't think we did too badly -- White, Saturday, November 21, 07:31:41pm (86.136.205.219)
[Edit]

Replies:
- It's about time a number of them returned from injury. Good too see Davies playing. (NT) -- Dougie, Saturday, November 21, 07:37:10pm (78.105.149.240)
The substitute issue and the why we dont turn up in the first half of games (again) -- Bishopstokewhite (confused), Saturday, November 21, 06:38:23pm (86.130.6.96)
Any reason why Roy cant deliver his usual half time team talk at 2.50pm in future? Much better at keeping possession in the second half and more urgency.. Too bad about the lack of penetration ..

Re: the question of subs... why, when we are already losing and with no evidence of the opposition goalkeeper having to do very much to keep us out, does Roy rarely change our formation to leave more men upfield and choose not to use all of our subs (one of whom is a striker)?

There may indeed be questions about EJ's ability. Roy clearly has reservations about him but if there was ever a time to bring on a forward surely it's got to be when we are a goal down and with just a few minutes left ? If Roy's not prepared to use him in such circumstances I really cant see the point of having him on the bench at all.

EJ's finish after charging down Rob Green's clearance against the Spammers was indeed woeful but he at least got there and made a nuisance of himself in the danger area against tiring defenders. Whose to say that he might not have done something similar to fashion a chance today?

Anyone close enough to the management team to figure this one out?

[Edit]

Replies:
- I'd like to think that if Nevland had been there, Roy would've had him on, and not in the 85th minute! But Roy does have previous with regards to subs and judging by his post match interview he was happy with how we played? (NT) -- CB, Saturday, November 21, 07:15:11pm (86.167.154.255)
It Could Be Worse.................. -- JK69, Saturday, November 21, 05:41:08pm (92.29.56.88)
............. We could all be followers of the worlds biggest club who lost 2-0 at Doncaster Rovers today!

[Edit]

Replies:
- presume that you are talking about QPR and if so what a pathetic post.Why not grow up and get a life you pratt (NT) -- stevie boy, Saturday, November 21, 05:44:21pm (86.151.128.175)
  - Thought it wasnt that bad meself (NT) -- FB2, Saturday, November 21, 05:45:50pm (81.151.230.90)
  - That's a bit unnecessary, isn't it? (NT) -- Daffy, Saturday, November 21, 05:52:47pm (207.204.79.64)
  - I enjoyed it! Carry on! (NT) -- PaNdy, Saturday, November 21, 05:53:21pm (78.149.129.23)
  - whats the problem with that post? And prat only has one t. (NT) -- Matt@MK - Fulham Legend, Saturday, November 21, 05:54:19pm (217.171.129.69)
    - Unless your name is Gary Pratt (NT) -- RB, Saturday, November 21, 06:05:22pm (92.25.92.148)
  - Very good deduction Inspector Clouseau (NT) -- Seano, Saturday, November 21, 05:55:45pm (86.157.25.159)
  - well (NT) -- JK69, Saturday, November 21, 06:02:11pm (92.29.56.88)
  - Well yes the mighty QPR lost at Doncaster today so not sure why you are presuming anything. Bit of a closet Hoops fan are we?????? (NT) -- JK69, Saturday, November 21, 06:03:23pm (92.29.56.88)
- sorry prat is spelt wrong, apologies for being rude, but the constant slagging off of qpr and chelsea and everything not Fulham is childish.I will scroll by next time. My grandad was avid Fulham and his best mate sid was mad qpr, best mates with different teams I cannot fathom why people have to be so nasty and petty. (NT) -- stevie boy, Saturday, November 21, 06:01:47pm (86.151.128.175)
  - its footballing rivalry nothing personal. I want qpr to lose all the time and take pleasure when they do but have a couple of good mates that are rangers fans. Its banter. (NT) -- Matt@MK - Fulham Legend, Saturday, November 21, 06:05:04pm (217.171.129.68)
  - Christ you really need a chill pill mate. Do the last 12 words of your message apply to you? (NT) -- JK69, Saturday, November 21, 06:06:28pm (92.29.56.88)
  - its baner, local rivalry and i hate them after the merger years and giving the biggun. I have several qpha fans, we join forces onto the drunken onslaught onto chavski, but on the occassions we turn on each other is where the banter really kicks in, but doesn't go beyond that. (NT) -- Lol in H7, Saturday, November 21, 06:22:34pm (86.180.146.194)
- post of the day!! (NT) -- Lol in H7, Saturday, November 21, 06:11:50pm (86.180.146.194)

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