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July 11th
After reporting on 63 games live from South Africa, I thought I would cover the Final Game as well before I take Roseland-online to a tribunal over Payment for my services... [As soon as I get mine, you’ll get yours, Shakey...! don’t hold your breath, though! ED]
Netherlands v Spain at Soccer City with a crowd of 84,490 was due to be a breathtaking game and, to be fair, Spain started brightly. But the game petered out and became dull almost like a game of chess with both sides trying to outwit each other. To be fair, though there was a lot at stake.
The 2nd half was better, with chances either end. The best falling to Arjen Robben on the hour when he raced clear only to be denied by Iker Casillas the Spanish Keeper. Then, later in the game, Cesc Fabregas was denied by the Dutch keeper, which, at the end of the 90th, went into extra time.
Tiring Legs started to take their toll and the passing became sloppy. But the game opened up and more half chances which fell to each side, but no-one could capitalise as both keepers had great games. Extra time saw Fernando Torres replace David Villa, who had a poor game by his standards, and once again the game was drifting to Penalties. But Spain had another chance when John Heitinga picked up a 2nd yellow card with 10 minutes remaining, leaving the Dutch to finish the game with 10 men. The free kick from Xavi flew over the bar. Andres Iniesta scored 4 minutes from the end with a brilliant breakaway goal rifling a right footed drive into the bottom left hand corner. It broke Dutch’s hearts, but made me happy, as they’ve played the best passing football out of the 32 teams in the finals.
Spain beat the 10 spirited men of Holland 1 - 0 to make History, because no side has ever won the Tournament after losing their 1st game. Also, Spain had never won this Competition before in their History.
A quick mention for our English Referee and Assistants - Well done! He had a tricky game to Ref and did well to only show 1 Red Card.
My Team of the Finals is as follows:
Stekelenburg – Holland
Ramos – Spain
Lucio – Brazil
Puyol – Spain
Lahm – Germany
Schweinsteiger – Germany
Iniesta – Spain
Sneijder – Holland
Mueller – Germany
Forlan – Uruguay
Villa – Spain
Over and out until Euro 2012 in Poland!
July 10th
The 3rd place play off saw Uruguay take on Germany this evening at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. It was Germany who drew first blood through my young player of the Tournament, Thomas Muller, on 18 minutes, after reacting fastest to a rebounded effort from Sebastian Schweinsteiger, his 5th of the finals.
Edinson Cavani levelled the scores 10 minutes later when Uruguay stole possession and broke at pace to slot the ball past the German Keeper. Diego Forlan scored his 5th goal of the finals in the 51st minute to edge ahead with a good volley. Then Germany drew level as Marcell Jansen nodded home a cross that the keeper came for and completely missed the punch 56 minutes in. On the 82nd minute Germany’s Sami Khedira scored a scrambled looping header to put them in pole position for a bronze placed 3rd finish at the 2010 finals. And that’s how the game finished; Germany 3rd. But a special mention goes out to Uruguay who have surprised a lot of people, including myself, with their quality football.
Daniel Gift Says: Yes, yes! Once again the Germanys have a medal. Of course we would have liked a gold one, but at least we have already won again. Come on Netherlands!!!!!!!
PS And thank you for your hard work, Mr Shakey. I shall now buy your greatest hits as a thank you!
July 7th
Well, that was perhaps the most one sided game of possession football I have seen in the whole Tournament. Spain dominated from start to finish, but they played such fantasy pretty football the end product was lacking! Germany, who had come into the game in such great form, just didn’t click on the night, even though they had a full strength team, excepting young Thomas Mueller, who had been playing well.
Eventually a typically British goal sealed the victory for Spain when Carlos Puyol powered a header in from a corner, completely unmarked, in the 73rd minute to set up their final with Holland. And I must say, I think both Spain and the Netherlands deserve their places in the showpiece on Sunday. There will be a new name on the Trophy as neither have won the competition before.
Viva Espana!!!!!!!!!
After the final on Sunday I will name my team of the tournament - who would yours be?
July 6th
After a few days break, World Cup 2010 resumed with Uruguay versus Holland. It was the 1st semi final game and was a close run thing with the Dutch triumphing as eventual winners. They will now face Germany or Spain in the Final on Sunday.
Netherlands Skipper Giovanni Van Bronckhorst opened the scoring with a stunning strike hammered home on 18 minutes, but 4 minutes before half time, Uruguay Skipper Diego Forlan Levelled the game with an equally well hit effort from a distance. 1 - 1 at half time. In the 70th minute one of my Players of the Tournament, Wesley Sneijder, struck a dubious goal; as if Robin Van Persie hampered the view of the keeper in an offside position. But the goal stood, making the score 1 - 2. Only 3 minutes later, Dirk Kuyt crossed for Arjen Robben to score a rare header on 73 minutes and effectively seal the match. A few more chances fell to the Dutch, but it was Uruguay who scored again from a well worked free kick in Injury Time taken by Maxi Pereira and despite late pressure, Holland held on. Final Score; Uruguay 2 Holland 3
Come on Spain, it’s not that I dislike Germany, but I like Holidaying in the Balearics and Canaries!
July 3rd
Another shock as the well organised German team turned over 3rd Favourites, Argentina, with Thomas Muller opening the scoring as early as the 3rd minute. Although Argentina had a lot of ball retention, it was the Germans who scored the 2nd goal of the game through Miroslav Klose in the 67the minute, before the Stadium was stunned by a 3rd goal by Arne Friedrich - his 1st for his Country and the Argentines. The Stadium, and I guess many viewers at home (myself included), could not believe it when Klose scored his 2nd in the 89th minute to absolutely knock the stuffing out of an Argentinean side that simply didn’t turn up on the day... but all credit to Germany.
This evening, Paraguay faced Spain for the right to take on Germany on Wednesday. It was a very cagey game with both sides not wanting to concede. Paraguay had the chance to take the lead when awarded a penalty in the 57th minute, which Oscar Cardoza had saved by Iker Casillas. The Spaniards broke straight down the other end of the field and David Villa was fouled; Penalty to Spain inside a minute of the other. Xabi Alonso stepped up and scored to put Spain ahead... oh no he didn’t, as players encroached into the box and a retake was ordered, which he missed. Still 0-0! 8 minutes from time, my player-of-the-finals, David Villa of Spain, followed up an effort from Pedro. His shot hit the right hand post, then the left, and then fell into the net to break South American hearts as Paraguay follow Argentina and Brazil out of the Tournament.
Semi Final Line Up:
Uruguay – Netherlands
Germany - Spain
July 2nd
After a two day break, the Tournament resumed today with Netherlands against Brazil. With the South Americans hot favourites, it was no surprise when Robinho opened the scoring on 10 minutes. But credit to the Dutch drew level in the 53rd minute when Felipe Melo glanced a header past his own keeper from a Dutch free-kick to level the scores. Wesley Sneijder scored a set piece on 68 minutes to put the Dutch ahead, stunning the Brazilians. And it got worse when Felipe Melo saw red on 73 minutes; and that’s how it finished... the favourites are out!
Uruguay were favourites in there tie too, taking on a brave Ghana team. Sully Muntari opened the scoring for them in 1st half stoppage time against the run of play, but Uruguay skipper Diego Forlan scored a cracking Free-Kick on 55 minutes. The score remained the same until Full time. Extra time was inevitable as the clock ran down. Then Luis Suarez handled the ball on the line and saw a straight Red Card. So, Gyan had the chance to win it for Ghana from the spot but missed, meaning a Penalty shootout, which Uruguay won 4 -2.
Mark Says: See you down the club for the Germany match, Shakey?
Daniel Gift Says: Aha! Yes, I back again. Did you miss me Mr. Shakey? I like to come and see the Germany game with you and Ed in your club to, but I must watch it here. I shall have a drink on the England. I found very funny poster here for you. I try to post it here later. Yippee!
To See Daniel's Poster, click here. [ED]
June 29th
Paraguay eventually overcame Japan, winning the game 5 - 3 purely on penalties after a 90 minute game with no goals and extra time. Both teams smothered each other. Although Japan hit the woodwork a couple of times, they still ended up losing after Yuichi Komano was unlucky enough to miss his spot-kick.
This evening, European Champions, Spain, beat arch rivals Portugal 1 - 0 with another cracking goal in the 63rd minute from one of the tournament’s best players, David Villa. Spain dominated the possession and had a few chances to put the game to bed. Ricardo Costa received a late Red Card for challenging with his elbow, and that’s how the tie ended. So much for star players Ronaldo, Rooney, Ribery; they haven’t lived up to their hype!
June 28th
I have finally come to terms with the FACT ENGLAND are not good enough and didn’t have any idea!
Germany, as always, were organised and determined as well as lucky... there’s no doubt about that!
Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podolski put Germany 2 - 0 up after 32 minutes, both unable to hold down a place at their respective clubs, but always effective for the national team. Klose capitalised on school-boy defending to slot one past David James as the centre half’s went walkabout in the 20th. Then Podolski scored from an acute angle as, once again, our defence was found wanting... if only Rio Fredinand had been there to organise them it could and would have been different. Following this, the hopeless Matt Upson redeemed himself a little on 38 minutes with a header as Neuer, the German keeper, flapped about in the air. Then the controversial moment of the match: Lampards Goal. It was seen by everybody in the WHOLE WORLD apart from the blind officials. It may not have changed the outcome, but I feel strongly that it would have!
In the 2nd half, England were once again undone by naive and terrible defending when Germany were on the counter attack and were caught out twice with 2 goals from Thomas Mueller in the 67th and 70th minutes.
4 – 1; a fair result, but who knows what might have been if we’d had officials who could do their job? I dare say we won’t see those referees again at this World Cup; they were a disgrace... as well as our squad and manager!
Today saw the Netherlands beat Slovakia 2 -1 with 2 great goals from Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder, the Flying Dutchmen - by far the best players - on 18 and 84 minutes respectively. Then Slovakia scored a consolation penalty in the last minute of the game through Robert Vittek. But the Netherlands looked strong and powerful and will face Brazil next in the quarter finals.
Brazil progressed after comprehensively beating Chile with goals from centre-half, Juan, a bullet header from a corner 34 minutes in. Luis Fabiano finished off a classy bit of one-touch football and some slick interchaging to slot home the second in the 38th. Then Robinho scored a great goal in the 59th minute and, inevitably, by this time it could have been 5 or 6 nil! But all credit to Chile; they battled on until the end, but unfortunately will now have to fly home... well played Brazil!
June 27th 
The Beard is off!
England were Outclassed!
Germany 4 - 1 England.
A full Report will follow when I have come to terms with another World Cup defeat!
In the 2nd game, Argentina played Mexico for the right to spank the Germans next Sunday! Carlos Tevez opened the scoring in the 25th minute with a very dubious goal scored from an offside position. Then Gonzalo Higuain scored his 4th of the Tournament to put Argentina in the driving seat and Argentina 2 - 0 up in the 33rd minute. Half time saw no change in play and Tevez scored his 2nd, 7 minutes into the 2nd half with a great turn and strike, making it 3 – 0. But the game was not over yet as Javier Hernandez turned and rifled into the net in the 71st and that is how the game ended 3 - 1.
I’m glad my bunch of overpaid muppets are out! I can now enjoy what is left of the Finals and I expect Spain OR Argentina to win it now????
What do you think? Is Shakey’s prediction correct? What are your thoughts on England’s performance?
June 26th
Well, on a lighter note, my Misses hopes England lose tomorrow as I have decided to “Back the Beard” - a campaign created by Funny man, James Corden, with some of the England Football Squad. The idea being, you grow a beard for as long as we stay in the Competition – but and after 2 weeks I hate it. Mind you, not as much as Mrs Shakey "lol". Imagine if we make the Final...? ITCHY!
Uruguay took on South Korea in the first round of 16 games this afternoon, and could have believed they were in for an easy afternoon after Luis Suarez scored from a tight angle to give Uruguay the lead on 8 minutes. But the Koreans worked hard, as they always do, and found a way back into the match when Lee Chung-Yong headed one home in the 68th minute. The clock was running down with the threat of extra time and Penalties when, 10 minutes from time, Suarez scored their 2nd with a fantastic strike cutting in from the left flank and bending a right foot shot into the top right hand corner of the net leaving the Keeper with no chance; so the South Koreans are heading home from the Finals.
This evening, U.S.A took on the last remaining African Nation, Ghana, and fell behind to a goal from Kevin-Prince Boateng in 5 minutes with a left footed drive from just inside the box. They could have doubled their lead on numerous occasions but they were punished for not taking their chances when the U.S.A was awarded a Penalty in the 62nd minute. Landon Donovan stepped up and scored from the spot after grazing the post. It stayed that way until full time. Extra Time saw Ghana rediscover there spirit and take the lead again with Asamoah Gyan’s 93rd minute goal and at half time the score was 1-2. The 2nd period of extra time was hard work with both teams tiring, but Ghana held on and now face Uruguay in the Quarter Finals... WELL DONE!
June 25th
Clash of the Titans; Brazil versus Portugal. This game was going to be fantastic with both sides playing free-flowing attacking Football... well that’s what we all thought. Full Time 0 – 0, so both qualify; Brazil, as group winners and Portugal as runners up - Boring.
In a game that needed the Ivory Coast to score 9 clear goals to take the place of Portugal in the next round, they managed 3 against North Korea, coming from Yaya Toure in the 14th minute, Romaric 20th and Solomon Kalou 82nd to make the final score 3 - 0.
Switzerland took on Honduras in the final round of games in Group H and played out a 0 - 0 draw, so both sides are eliminated.
Chile, another surprise package, dominated early exchanges with Spain, but the European Champions scored against the run of play through a brilliantly taken goal by new Barcelona signing David Villa in the 24th minute. Anders Iniesta scored in the 37th and in the build up to the 2nd goal, Estrada for Chile picked up a 2nd Yellow card and received his marching orders. The balance of the game swung in favour of the Spanish, although the 10 men worked hard and pulled a goal back 2 minutes after the interval through substitute Rodrigo Millar. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough so Spain top the group and now meet Portugal. Chile’s reward is a game against Brazil!
June 24th
Group F concluded this afternoon with Paraquay drawing 0 - 0 with New Zealand and topping the group with this hard earned point against a resilient Kiwi team.
The shock of the group was Slovakia 3 - 2 Italy, this is not a misprint! The reigning champions are eliminated after losing to finalists from 4 years ago, France. Robert Vittek scored a brace in the 25th and 73rd minutes. Then Antonio Di Natale scored on the 81st in an amazing last 10 minutes which saw 2 further goals. Italy showed some belief at 2 - 1 down and had a goal disallowed with an effort cleared off the line. Then, out of the blue on the 89th minute, Slovakian substitute Kamil Kopunek slotted home with his first touch of the game to make it 3 – 1; and we’re not finished yet!. Fabio Quagliarella scored a sublime chip in stoppage time and the game finished 3 – 2, eliminating Italy.
In Group E, Cameroon, who had already been eliminated, took on Netherlands. It was the Europeans who took the lead through Robin Van Persie of Arsenal in the 36th minute, but Cameroon fought back into the game with a penalty from Talisman Samuel Eto'o in the 65th minute after a handball in the box. The game started to fizzle out until the Dutch brought on Elia, Robben and Huntelaar who proved to be the match winner in the 83rd minute, sealing the 3 points to end top of the Group.
Denmark took on the underdogs, Japan but it was the latter who took a 2 goal lead through Honda and Endo, both Free-kicks, in the 17th and 30th minute. They kept the lead through till the end, but it did get hairy latterly as Denmark’s Jon Dahl Tomasson scored a Penalty in the 81st minute. However the fight-back was short-lived as Japan’s Okazaki scored a 3rd before the end.
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June 23rd
Well, we got there at last. It has been a bumpy road but we are in the last 16; although not in the manner I would have liked! Qualification is sorted, but because U.S.A scored in injury time in their game, we now only finish in 2nd place. This means if we win on Sunday against the winner of Group D (Germany) we will have to cross paths with the current tournament favourites, Argentina. I suppose if you want to win a competition like this you have to beat the better teams.
Landon Donovan scored in stoppage time for the U.S.A against Algeria when they were on the brink of elimination. As it stood, England and Slovenia were going through, but the game finished 1 - 0 and the Yanks will play the runners up (Ghana) on Saturday evening.
England finally made changes to their starting 11 with Milner in for Lennon and Defoe in for Heskey, as well as Upson in for the suspended Carragher. Surprisingly, Joe Cole was left on the bench again but did get 20 minutes at the end and Peter Crouch didn’t even get onto the field. Defoe scored for England in the 22nd minute with a brave finish under pressure after a cross from Milner in an open game. But for the 1st time in the Finals, we kept possession better and had several chances. Unfortunately, we only took the 1 goal without a reply from Slovenia, so we play next this Sunday at 3pm.
Ghana took on Germany this evening in a game which had an exciting opening 45. It was lively end-to-end game, but the 2nd half started slowly until Mesut Ozil thumped a brilliant effort into the back of the net on the hour to make it 1 – 0. And that is how it stayed until the end. Germany are Group winners and will take on England this Sunday.
Australia took on Serbia and went 2 goals up, scoring through a Tim Cahill header and a long range strike from Brett Holman on 69 and 73 minutes after a sluggish 1st half. Serbia scored in the 84th minute through Marko Pantelic and then had a goal disallowed which would have put them through. But, in the end it finished 2 - 1.
So to round it all up:
Germany v England
U.S.A v Ghana
Roll on Sunday. At least England go into the game with a bit more belief and as long as we avoid penalties, I think we will be fine???
Shakey Says: (To my comment on facebook: "Shakey lives another day!" Ed.) am i going to die if England are eliminated?
Daniel Gift Says: I don't know Shakey... maybe you will not sing again for a while. This would be a pity as I really like your musik. But one of us will be in tears on Sunday! For your sake I hope that the match are not going to penaltys... then you in the GB may have a problem I think!?
Shakey Says: If England win i will have to leave 'this ol house' and hide behind my 'green door' as Argentina up next for the victors a week on Sunday - come on england...........
Daniel Gift Says: Aha, I knew you be THE Shakey. This is great. Yes, when one of us will have to face Argentina, we will need lots of "Lipstick, Powder and Paint" to win, I think!
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June 22nd
On a lighter more positive note – compared to the doom and gloom surrounding France, which they brought to the game with South Africa today – I found it incredibly amusing as the hosts filed off their team bus on arrival, singing and dancing, even though they’re under intense pressure to win and try to stay in the Finals. Even when lined up in the tunnel before kick off, the whole side were dancing and singing - THANKS SOUTH AFRICA, my best bit of the World Cup by far!
Unfortunately the Bafana Bafana were eliminated, despite beating the French 2 – 1. The hosts scoried through Bongani Khumalo with a far-post header in the 20th minute and Katlego Mphela tapped another in the 37th, just minutes after France’s Yohann Gourcuff was sent off for raising his elbow, which I thought was harsh! Anyway, ten-man France battled on and Florent Malouda of Chelsea scored on the break with 20 minutes left to play. By far the hosts were the better team and their colour will be missed; it is the 1st time the host nation has not progressed from the group stages.
Uruguay topped the group and, despite losing to Mexico, finished 2nd. Uruguay’s Luis Suarez headed home 2 minutes before the break in a game that could have played out a draw, allowing them to qualify, but the incentive of winning was to avoid Argentina in the next round – I’d avoid them too!
Greece versus Argentina was very dull. Greece sat 11 men behind the ball and in the 1st 45 minutes, man-marked Lionel Messi, which was a good tactic; boring to watch, but very effective. The 2nd half was just as negative by Greece, but Martin Demichelis broke the deadlock in the 77th minute, followed by a goal from Martin Palermo in the last minute – who has been in International exile for the last 10 years – to wrap up all 3 points and take top spot in their group with a full 9 points.
Nigeria also took on South Korea to fight for the runners-up spot behind Argentina. It was a tight game in which Kala Uche scored for the Africans in the 12th minute and then Korea drew level through Lee Jung-Soo in the 38th minute. Korea took the lead on 49th again through Park Chu-Young, but a penalty awarded to Nigeria and scored by Yakubu levelled the game again at 2 – 2. However it was the Koreans who progress into the last 16.
Fixtures sorted for the Last 16 so far:
Uruguay v South Korea
Argentina v Mexico
Matt Stephens Says: ScarY?
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June 21st
This world cup is Dull and Lacking Goals and Entertainment – then Portugal and North Korea step up to the mark!
After the bravery shown in the last game against Brazil, North Korea kept Portugal at bay for 29 minutes before Raul Meireles opened the scoring for Portugal. It stayed that way until the 53rd minute when the lead was doubled through Simao which opened the flood gates for the European side as they went on to score a further 5 goals and win 7- 0; the highest scoring match of the Finals so far. Hugo Almeida scored in 56th minute, Tiago scored in 60th and again in the 89th minute, with goals from Liedson and Ronaldo in the 81st and 87th respectively. What a game!
9 yellow cards, 1 red and 1 goal in the game between Chile and Switzerland this afternoon. This wasn’t expected to be thrilling, but what do I know? The Referee never really allowed the game to flow, but it opened right up once Swiss player, Valon Behrami, was sent off after 30 minutes for raising his arms. Chile made the extra man count but could not capitalise until Mark Gonzalez, formerly of Liverpool, headed the ball in at the far post and seal their 3 points 15 minutes from time.
The Evening game saw Spain make amends for their opening game loss to Switzerland with 2 goals from David Villa. They defeat Honduras who offered little opposition to the reigning European champions. The goals came on 17th and 51st minutes and then when he had the chance to make his hat-trick from the penalty spot after Jesus Navas’ trip, he shot wide. Final score; 2 – 0
I have spoken to Capello and picked my team for Wednesday. Will he listen? It’s: James, Johnson, Cole, Upson, Terry, J.Cole, Lampard, Barry, Lennon, Gerrard, Rooney.
What do you think? Did Shakey get it right?
Daniel Gift Says: It is a big day for us both tomorrow, Shakey! I wish England the best but I think they must do some good recovery. So to, Germany! Die mannschaft all the way!!!! May the best teams win!
Shakey Adds: I can not possibly comment, until after the events tomorrow afternoon?
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June 20th
In the early game, the final Score was Slovakia 0 - 2 Paraguay after 2 goals from Enrique Vera and Carlos Riveros on 27th and 86th minutes respectively. The second goal was of some quality, matching the way the South American side played throughout. And in their final group game being against New Zealand they look like being potential group F winners.
The Afternoon game saw a shock as Italy were held to a 1- 1 draw by New Zealand who picked up only their 2nd point in World Cup History (their 1st being in last week’s match). Shane Smeltz was the Kiwi goal hero after scoring 7 minutes in before the Azzuri levelled from the penalty spot through Vicenzo Iaquinta at 29 minutes. It was New Zealand who had the chance to steal all three points when 18 year old substitute Chris Wood from West Bromwich Albion missed by a cats whisker in the closing stages of the game.
Finally, the best game of the day was Brazil versus the Ivory Coast. It included four goals and a sending off. Brazil took the lead through Luis Fabiano who hammered one into the net on 25 minutes before doubling the lead after an individual effort on 50 minutes. Then Elan poked home on 62 minutes to wrap the game up. Unexpectedly, Didier Drogba pulled a goal back in the 79th minute before Kaka was sent off for 2 Yellow cards the second of which was not a push in the face, but a sniper!
Doesn’t Football make enough money to turn to big screens in times like this? The Ivorian blatantly cheated and Kaka, one of the World’s best players, may now miss out on the rest of the Tournament... come on FIFA wake up!
Anyway Brazil join the Netherlands in the last 16: WELL DONE TO THE SAMBA STARS!
Daniel Gift Says: Mr Shakey, you told it as it is alright. Why don't we have referees like in your English rugby? And when you are at it, I think it would be good also to have no arguing with referees. If they do this in your rugby, I believe they are sent of, no? It is not a good way to show children how to behave when their heros argue with the police, I think?
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June 19th
No Hangover for me, just anger at last night’s lacklustre performance... ENGLAND WAKE UP!!!!
Wesley Sneijder scored the only goal of the game for Netherlands in the 53rd minute, with a well hit strike from outside the box to wrap up a 1 - 0 win against Japan in today’s early kick off. The win almost cemented their place in the last 16 with 6 points so far.
Harry Kewell, formerly of Leeds and Liverpool, hand-balled on the line 25 minutes in, and received a straight red card for it. The afternoon fixture also allowed Asamoah Gyan the chance to tuck away the resulting penalty, therefore levelling the score for Ghana after Brett Holman had put Australia ahead after 11 minutes. But the 10 Ozzies put up a real fight and salvaged a point resulting in the game ending 1-1.
Cameroon lost 1-2 to Denmark and are now the 1st team to be eliminated from the 2010 finals despite going ahead through Samuel Eto'o goal in the 10th minute. Nicklas Bendtner drew the Danes level in the 33rd minute before Dennis Rommedhal, who set up the 1st, scored the 2nd in the 61st minute with a cracking solo effort.
Tomorrow Fabio is scheduled to talk to the Press! Excuses? Answers on a Postcard, please!
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June 18th
Well, the day started so well for England with Germany losing to Serbia 1 - 0 through a 38th minute goal from Milan Jovanovic after German Front man Miroslav Klose had been sent off following 2 Yellow Cards. And later in the game Lukas Podolski missed a 2nd half penalty for Germany.
The 2nd game finished a draw, Slovenia 2 - 2 USA, after a late equaliser from Michael Bradley for the USA; coming back from 2 - 0 down and Valer Bursa and Zlatan Ljubijankic scored on 13th and 42nd minutes respectively. Landon Donovan drew the States back into the game on 48th minute with a great strike to beat the Keeper at the near post.
This evening, to celebrate Fabio Capello’s 64th Birthday, he gave his players the night off England 0 - 0 Algeria
Enough said...?
COME ON ENGLAND - WAKE UP!
Daniel Gift Says: Aha, so here you are Mr. Shakey. So, I wait since three oclock for your report. I feel you notgoing to report tonight after such a bad performance from England, but I guess the Germany not play good either... so now we wait! At least England didnt have to have silly yellow cards and a send of. That was very unfair I think for the Germany? Why not more strikers from England, Shakey? Only three is not enough I think... and you?
Matt Stephens Says: Is it too late to call up Gazza?
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June 17th
In the early game today, Argentina beat South Korea comprehensively 4 goals to 1, after moving on from Park Chu-Young’s own goal after 16 minutes. Gonzalo Higuan scored the 2nd on the 33 minute before Korea got back into the game in 1st half stoppage time through Lee Chung-Yong. Argentina continued to dominate with Messi and Di Maria pulling the. But a Double strike from Higuan in the 76th and 80th minutes to complete his hat-trick wrapped the game up for the South American side, who now look a real threat, although who are slightly suspect at the back.
Greece came from behind to beat the 10 man Nigeria team in a really entertaining game. It was a slow start; Kalu Uche took a free kick from a long way out which eluded everyone and flew into the net 16 minutes in. Things were looking good for Nigeria until in the 33rd minute when Sani Kaita needlessly kicked out when the ball was out of play and got a straight Red Card for his efforts. All of a sudden Greece woke up and made the most of the extra man, with Dimitrios Salpingidis scoring a minute before Half Time. Vaseleios Torosidis wrapped the game up for Greece in the 71st minute, making it 2 - 1.
In the Final game of the day, France, managed by the chap out of Thunderbirds, lost to Mexico. They now look like being eliminated next Tuesday if Mexico and Uruguay draw their game leaving both to qualify from that result. New Man Utd player, Javier Hernandez, came off the bench to score in the 64th minute. Then Veteran Cuauhtemoc Blanco, another substitute, stepped up to convert a penalty for Mexico in the 79th minute and condemned France to defeat with just 1 point from a possible 6... oh dear!
DONT FORGET, THE MASSIVE GAME TOMORROW NIGHT 7.30PM - COME ON ENGLAND
My daily report may come on Saturday after work if I get too drunk!
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June 16th
Honduras 0 - 1 Chile was the score in the lunchtime kick-off today in a game that was dominated by Chile. There attacking style of Football, with the goal coming in the 34th minute from Jean Beausejour slotting home at the near post, although the best player was Chile’s Alexis Sanchez.
Tournament Favourites, Spain, lost against a resilient Swiss team. Gelson Fernandes, formely of Manchester City, scored the only goal in the 52nd minute and Spain were unlucky not to get a goal bacause they played some quality football. Spain started the game with a 4-5-1 formation as main striker Fernando Torres was not fit enough to start the game, but when he came on and moved to a more orthodox 4-4-2 their flowing football returned. Nevertheless it finished: Spain 0 - 1 Switzerland.
Once this game was over we had now seen every team play their 1st game, here are my observations so far:
Best Result - Germany 4 - 0 Australia
Best Team Performance - Netherlands 2 - 0 Denmark
Best Individual Performance - Messi, Ozil, Elia
Biggest Upset Spain 0 - 1 Switzerland
Biggest Clanger - Rob Green
Biggest Disappointment – England
Likely Finalists on Form - Germany & Netherlands
My Tips - England & Spain
Finally the 1st game of round second was played this evening between hosts, South Africa, and Uruguay in a game the Bafana Bafana needed to win. Unfortunately they fell behind from Diego Forlan’s strike – former Man Utd Striker – in the 24th minute from long range. It really didn’t threaten the South Americans and, to make matters worse, keeper Itumeleng Khune was shown a straight Red Card in the 76th minutes. Forlan, once again, scored from the spot and In stoppage time a 3rd goal was tapped in from a corner by Alvaro Pereiara.
It now appears that the host nation will not even make the last 16 unless they beat France on Tuesday, which would be heart breaking for the people of South Africa...
...COME ON ENGLAND!
Daniel Gift Says: Well, I have read your Blog, Shakey, and of much of it I do agree with you. But I think your Tips should include our own Germany team. We are looking the strongest of all, I think, or? Also, in view of your words "Biggest Clanger - Rob Green" I suppose you won't be singing one of your biggest hits "Green Door"? for a while...!
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June 15th
I didn’t catch the early game today, I couldn’t bring myself to come down from my ladder and watch paint dry on TV. As it happens, after watching highlights and reading about it, I didn’t miss a thing!
New Zealand scored a header in the 93rd minute through Winston Reid which cancelled out the 50th minute header by Robert Vittek for Slovakia in what I believe was another dull game. Result: 1 - 1.
I did, however, race home from work to catch the eagerly anticipated game between the Ivory Coast and Portugal which surprisingly ended 0 – 0. But this was a fair result in a fair contest with some good football being played. Both teams wanted to win as they are in the same group as Brazil and need points, but, most importantly, neither side wanted to lose.
Brazil v North Korea finished 10 – 0...! Not really, that just the score everyone was expecting. But the 1st half did finish 0 – 0, which was a credit to Korea as they worked harder than any other team I have seen so far at the finals. They smothered the Brazilians, especially Robinho, who was the best player this evening by far. Ten minutes into the 2nd half Brazil made the breakthrough with right fullback Maicon smashing the ball past the Keeper from an acute angle with a thunderbolt drive to make it 1 - 0. Elano scored a second after a great pass by Robinho at 72 minutes, then two minutes from time the unexpected happened; a great goal from Ji Yun-Nam made the final score Brazil 2 North Korea 1 in a really entertaining game.
Daniel Gift Says: I think what you are saying is right, Shakey, but, from a German perspective I think the Ivory Coast players did very well and deserved to win. It would also have been propoer this way. However, Renaldo should not have had a yellow card. By the way, are you the same Shakey that recorded "This Ol' House" in the seventies?
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June 14th:
In the early game today Holland beat Denmark 2 - 0 thanks to two 2nd half goals after an evenly fought 1st 45 minutes.
A mix up between Simon Poulson and his attempted clearance and Daniel Agger, who it deflected off before finding their own net, 46 minutes after Robin Van Persie crossed for the Dutch. He won a deserved 2nd goal after good work from substitute Eljero Elia whose shot hit the post before Dirk Kuyt tapped it in 5 minutes from time.
Japan beat Cameroon 1 - 0 in game 2 of the day. In yet another dull game in this Tournament, the goal came in the 38th minute from Keisuku Honda. Shall we blame the VUVUZELAS? Well, sports fans, FIFA have again today said they will not be banned from the games unless someone throws one onto the field; GO ON, SOMEONE, DO SO, SO WE CAN HEAR OURSELVES THINK!
In the evening game, Italy fell behind to Paraguay. In 39th minute, Antolin Alacarez headed home before Daniele De Rossi poached a goal in the 63rd minute after the Paraguayan keeper came for a corner and missed it by a country mile. Italy grew stronger after the equaliser but Paraguay worked extremely hard as a unit to keep the Italians at bay and gain a valuable point. The game finished 1-1 in Cape Town.
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June 13th:
Former West Brom. midfielder Robert Koren scored the only goal against ten man Algeria in Group C (England's Group) in the early kick off game today in Polokwane after another Keeping Blunder; it must be the new balls fault... of course? Abdelkader Ghezzal had been sent off prior to the twenty yard strike 7 minutes before the ball hit the net in a pretty low key game. Full Time: Algeria 0 - 1 Slovenia
The 2nd game was in Group D where Serbia lost to possibly the strongest African team at the Tournament, Ghana 1 - 0 after conceding a Penalty 5 minutes from time scored by Asamoah Gyan in a lively game. Again, there was a sending off in this game at 74 minutes when Serbian Aleksander Lukovic received his 2nd Yellow card. Ghana will push on from here with a very excitingly paced side that played a lot of good possession Football - Good luck to them for the next game.
Finally dare I say it; Germany played the 1st half of their game against Australia with their normal Swagger. Even when they appear to have a week squad, they tore the down under side apart in the opening 45 with goals from Lukas Podolski and Miroslav Klose on 8 and 27 minutes, respectively, with a left footed rocket and a well taken header. In the 2nd half, Germany was just as strong, especially when, for the 3rd game in a row today, a Red card appeared; this time for Australian Talisman Tim Cahill after what seemed like a Yellow Card offence at most. Thomas Mueller added a third on 68 minutes, then 2 minutes later Cacau scored the 4th from close range after arriving on the pitch as a substitute only 1 minute earlier. Final Score: Germany 4 - 0 Australia.
SO FAR Germany must be the team to beat? What do you think?
Daniel Gift Says: Yes, yes, yes. Once again the Germans will dominate! Smooth, consistent and controlled... even with such a young team!
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June 12th:
I missed most of the South Korea versus Greece game but I understand it was nearly all in the Greek half with Korea having several chances to only Greece’s two efforts at goal. Lee Jung-Soo scored after seven minutes and then the lead was doubled seven minutes into the 2nd half when Manchester United based player Park Ji-Sung scored after a Mazy run with a great solo effort and that is how the game ended, 2-0.
Argentina took an early lead through Gabrielle Heinze against Nigeria with a diving header after six minutes, and that was the way it stayed until full time finishing, 1 – 0
B*****d ENGLAND (ROBERT GREEN)! [other completely understandable but potentially libelous expletives removed. Ed]
The Final Game went as planned as England took the lead through Skipper Steven Gerrard after three minutes; a slick piece of one touch football. But five minutes before half time Rob the K*** [see above. Ed] let a tame 25 yard effort from Clint Dempsey roll out of his hands and into the net, after a half we were totally in control of?!
The 2nd half was mainly England’s with Wayne Rooney not waking up until 20 minutes to go forcing his way into the game and looking dangerous, but all things considered a draw is not the end of the world as we should have two easier games to come, starting with Algeria next Friday at 7.30pm
I am officially Depressed... end of BLOG
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June 11th:
WOW - What a way to start the Tournament, a thunderous strike from South African Siphiwe Tshabalala against Mexico in the opening game from Group A. The goal came against the run of play, 10 minutes into the 2nd half before Mexico deservedly drew level in the 79th minute through Rafael Marquez and even then, South Africa had the chance to steal all 3 points in the last minute when Katlego Mphela slid his shot against the post which would have sent the crowd at Soccer City wild with their vuvuzelas. I feel it was a fair result in the end? Do You?
The evening game between Uruguay and France has Just finished, which was pretty dull, with France's preparation once again being stormy after a fall-out between the French Manager, Raymond Domonech, and Florent Malouda before the game; the pair had to be separated in training! The 1st RED CARD was shown for 2 Yellow cards to Uruguay substitute, Nicolas Lodeiro, in the 81st minute and that was that DULL. So Group A is all square.
Anyway let’s turn our attention to tomorrow - Come on ENGLAND! DO US PROUD! Wear the 3 Lions with Pride!!!
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June 5th:
Oh My God - as if things couldn't get any worse on the injury front? Beckham, Owen and now Ferdinand, our skipper, is ruled out of the World Cup with a Knee Ligament injury that wrecks his Tournament before it even begins, all thanks to a tackle by Heskey in the very first training session in South Africa.
I bet that'll be the only telling contribution Heskey has on the finals, knobbling his own Player?
Steven Gerrard takes over the captaincy and Spurs centre-half Michael Dawson has been flown to Rustenberg to join up with the Squad for the finals to take the place of Rio.... what Next?
COME ON ENGLAND - KEEP THE FAITH!
Matt Stephens Says: I'm surprised Slap & trudgy weren't called up?
Nik Richards Says: Is pete going to unvail any new signings before the world cup, or after ?
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June 1st:
Well, as expected there were a few surprises in the final twenty three players selected to go and WIN the 2010 World Cup for us, most notably, Theo Walcott. Rather unluckily, he misses out, along with Leighton Baines, Michael Dawson, Tom Huddlestone, Adam Johnson, Darren Bent and Scott Parker.
So it’s down to: Joe Hart, Rob Green, David James, Glen Johnson, Jamie Carragher, Ashley Cole, Stephen Warnock, Rio Ferdinand, John Terry, Ledley King, Matthew Upson, Gareth Barry, Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, Michael Carrick, Arron Lennon, Joe Cole, James Milner, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Wayne Rooney, Peter Crouch, Emile Heskey and Jermain Defoe.
They’ll meet on Wednesday Morning and fly from Heathrow later in the day, arriving in South Africa on Thursday.
What are your thoughts on the Final twenty three? Will we miss the pace of Walcott? And perhaps the trickery of Johnson? They’re the only two I would have taken out of the seven and I would have left Barry and Heskey behind.
Matt Stephens says: No, as always. Wouldn't have taken Upson (compared with Dawson this season!), Heskey (Obviously), Wright-Phillips (Not better than Walcott or Johnson, less pace than the former), Carrick (horrible form) and Carragher (not good enough). instead: Johnson (along with J Cole one of the most talented footballers we have), Walcott (PACE), Dawson better season/form than Upson), Parker (the closest we have to a Barry/Hargreaves & not a bad player at all), Huddlestone (a different more powerful option in centre mid). We can cover RB somehow if anything happens to Glen, Gerrard & Walcott are good auxiliary forwards.
Ian Richardssays: Monkey [Matt] I hope we can agree we both want England to win?
Matt Stephens Says: Well I guess so although I will also be rooting for the 2 countries of my Grandmothers' births, Switzerland & New Zealand. By the way, you don't fancy wearing a Crouchy mask and standing in the corner of the club in his shirt during every England game?
Ian Richards Says: Ebay sell Carlton Palmer masks and u r the Cornish version of him and more used to standing in the corner. My 2nd pick is Espana as I holiday there most years.
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30th May:
Well, here we go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
A 2-1 victory against Japan follows last week’s win against Mexico. The final 23 are named late Sunday evening and the lads will fly out to South Africa from Heathrow on Wednesday with our hopes and dreams in their hands.
The two Friendly performances have been far from convincing, but morale will be high with two out of two wins under our belts?
I feel we have a good chance of success and I'll be cheering the boys on with a beer or two to settle my nerves; be it at home, The Plume or The Harbour Club where I expect BEER PROMOTIONS aplenty to pull the punters in and create a great atmosphere? [I can confirm that is the case at the Harbour Club, Ed.]
Where will you be watching the games? Are any of our readers going to South Africa?
Keep checking Roseland-Online for my updates throughout the World Cup and email us your thoughts and predictions so we can share your opinion with everyone on the Roseland... and further afield! Maybe even Wayne, Rio and Co. will be reading this, too?
I’ll be giving my Opinion on the Final 23 as soon as they are announced, so watch this space!
Matt Stephens says: Probably the Club. I think what it needs though is a life-size cardboard cut-out of Peter Crouch to pull the punters in. Watching the world cup with Crouchy - it would be perfect! Consider this a polite request to the club committee, too. [Noted. Ed.]
Ian Richards replies: Monkey, just buy it and use the club as the billing address. Surely an SWP cut-out would be cheaper as it's half the size?
Matt Stephens says: We'll probably be able to get the real SW-P
Nik Richardssays: Hart for England #1
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Well the Provisional England World Cup Football Squad has been named. The 30 players selected are:
Goalkeepers - Joe Hart, David James and Robert Green.
Defenders - Leighton Baines, Jamie Carragher, Ashley Cole, Michael Dawson, Rio Ferdinand, Glen Johnson, Ledley King, John Terry, Matthew Upson and Stephen Warnock.
Midfielders - Gareth Barry, Michael Carrick, Joe Cole, Steven Gerrard, Tom Huddelstone, Adam Johnson, Frank Lampard, Aaron Lennon, James Milner, Scott Parker, Theo Walcott, Shaun Wright-Phillips.
Forwards - Darren Bent, Peter Crouch, Jermain Defoe, Emile Heskey and Wayne Rooney.
So on the 1st June, 7 Players are axed from the squad to make the final 23 from which Capello will pick his starting 11 for the 1st game against the USA at Rustenberg on 12th June
Here's my prediction for the 7 players to be axed: Dawson, Upson, Warnock, Barry, Huddlestone, Wright-Phillips and Bent.
My Revised starting 11 is now Hart, Cole, Johnson, Terry, Ferdinand, Parker, Lampard, Gerrard, Lennon, Heskey and Rooney.
What are your thoughts? Who would you have selected?Email Shakey
Matt Stephens says: Nononono! The 7 to be dropped are blatantly:
Carragher, Warnock, Heskey, SW-P, Upson, Carrick (unless Barry injured), Parker
Starting 11 (4-5-1, or maybe 4-2-3-1) :
Hart, Johnson, King, Ferdinand, A Cole, Gerrard, Lampard (I know, I know, they can't play together. But I blamed the managers, Capello can work it...), Milner, J Cole, Lennon, Rooney.
Not a prediction though really, more a wish.
Jack Tomlinson says: Monkey [Matt]! How dare you suggest dropping the legend, Scott Parker!
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With just over a month to go my marriage is ready to be put to the test once again as our country awaits The World Cup 2010.
Friday 11th June 3pm the tournament kicks off with the Hosts South Africa playing Mexico in Johannesburg.
 Obviously I hope and pray the lads with 3 lions on their shirt finally deliver the Jules Rimet Trophy. Will Rooney shoot us to glory? And who will play up front with him? Will Frank and Stevie G finally realise they’re actually on the same team? Who plays out wide? Will JT keep his eyes on the game and not his teammate’s wives? Is Rio going to be fit enough to lift the trophy if we win it? And who the hell is going to play in goal - Gordon Banks?
My personal starting eleven, if they travel to South Africa, is: Green, Cole, G. Johnson, Ferdinand, Terry, King, Gerrard, A. Johnson, Lennon, Rooney and Defoe – What’s your opinion? Who would you have? Email me
Then there’s the All-Star eleven. Mine would be: Buffon, Evra, Ramos, Ferdinand, Chiellini, Kaka, Xavi, Ronaldo, Ribery, Messi and Rooney.
I just hope for no more bad news, like the loss of Beckham etc. We need a fully fit, focused squad and with Fabio in charge, the discipline is taken care of.
I'm lucky enough to be self employed so will catch 99 % of games. I’ll be giving my opinion here and hope to get plenty of feedback from anyone and everyone who has a view... so I can advise Capello when he rings me for advice!
Finally, my tip for the Cup is England... obviously. But, as always, keep an eye on Brazil, Argentina, Spain and the Ivory Coast!
What's your thoughts? Agree or disagree with Shakey? Email us or leave your comments on Roseland Online's Facebook page and we'll add your views here.
Matt Stephens says: Dear Christ, Shakey! Can't believe Peter Crouch didn't make your all-star 11! I'd have King instead of Terry and put Barry back in there. Hart in goal, too. And Gary Neville up front. Ok, I maybe took it too far there. I fancy Brazil's 6th World Cup myself. Xavi may miss the tournament for Spain, and with Torres & Fabregas unfit, too, Spain [will] have less to fall back on.
Nick Settle says: Not Sure about Green, would much rather have David James due to experience, with Joe Hart on backup. Also I reckon Barry should be in that midfield, not sure for who though, most probably Johnson. Quite surprised at your dream team Shakes? I'd much prefer a line up along the lines of; Ayre, Andrews (x2), Clode, Trudgeon, Hoogelander, Rimmer, Stephens, Harris, Hawke and Copez. |
