Friday, August 06, 2010
Corner flag (vol 12.13) - Its all about Cesc
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Corner flag (vol 2.12) - Van Persie to score
Spain vs Holland, one of the favourites at the outset vs. a peripheral figure of the elite bunch of footballing nations. Both under achievers on the world stage for the longest time and we will have a new winner. All the chat at office is how the Spaniards are going to cruise it. Another day, another favourite. Not without reason though. Euro '08 champions and a core group of Barcelona players who have won titles together.
The Barcelona core were very effective against a rather polite German side, who were not used to sides not making mistakes in possession - like the Argentinians and the English in the previous rounds. The Germans couldn't get hold of the ball and were slowly worn down. The Dutch, I think, will have more of an edge about them and with players more than capable of scoring goals, its going to be a hard fought game. And of course, the Dutch will emerge as winners.
Either way, Arsenal will soon have a World Cup winner in the squad and I hope its Van Persie scoring the winning goal in the 85th minute of a hard fought game.
Tuesday, July 06, 2010
Corner flag (vol 2.11) - Forget the Germans
is what I have been trying to tell the people at office. After their effortless dispatch of the Argies on Saturday night, not one person can think of any other team but the Germans to win the cup. Yes, they have played some amazing football and with a low-profile, young bunch of talented players, makes them an easy target for the underdog seeking World Cup fan. I can't quite remember the last time there was such overwhelming backing for a team.
So I have gone ahead put a bet on Spain beating them in the semis. Not driven by logic, neither emotion (which I have made clear earlier), but just a counter-consensus punt. Spain have not pulled out the breathtaking football that they are capable of and I wonder if its going to be a case of peaking at the right time. Similar to the Robin Van Persie story for the Dutch, who I obviously think will go through to the finals. And win it. So there.
The time has come to smile - in joy or agony. Its all terribly exciting.
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One of the more talked of episodes this World Cup was Suarez's save. Cheating vs Passion - and as expected, the British bandwagon jumped onto how unjust life is. But on BBC last night, I was watching the presenter speaking to fans in Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, Amsterdam, Berlin and everyone said that any footballer would have done the same. The poor fucker.
So I have gone ahead put a bet on Spain beating them in the semis. Not driven by logic, neither emotion (which I have made clear earlier), but just a counter-consensus punt. Spain have not pulled out the breathtaking football that they are capable of and I wonder if its going to be a case of peaking at the right time. Similar to the Robin Van Persie story for the Dutch, who I obviously think will go through to the finals. And win it. So there.
The time has come to smile - in joy or agony. Its all terribly exciting.
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One of the more talked of episodes this World Cup was Suarez's save. Cheating vs Passion - and as expected, the British bandwagon jumped onto how unjust life is. But on BBC last night, I was watching the presenter speaking to fans in Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, Amsterdam, Berlin and everyone said that any footballer would have done the same. The poor fucker.
Friday, July 02, 2010
Corner flag (vol 2.10) - Maradona is a cat
Not a tiger, but a cat. With 9 lives: Hand of God almost got him lynched, the Camorra nearly bumped him off because even they got tired of his maniacal ways, got thrown out of USA 94 in a drug fueled daze, his dogs ate his ears while sleeping with him, his stomach nearly burst open one morning, was quite close to not qualifying with the most talented side for this world cup and now he is taking on Schweinsteiger over here - hilarious:
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Here is the cat on Mourinho - perfect bedfellows:
"I like Mourinho a lot. I've got his phone number, I might call him. We spent hours talking about football, attacking and defensive tactics. He seemed to me a guy to take to your bedside table and ask him each time you need something."
And on Messi:
"And he talks to [Juan Sebastián] Verón and I spy on them: La Bruja [the Witch] is an intellectual of football, because he knows much more of football than Leo, but they start talking about it and the bastard answers back."
Recounting his days in the psychiatric ward:
"They were all crazy in there. One guy said he was Napoleon and they didn't believe him. I said I was Maradona and they didn't believe me, either."
And here is the wonderful Richard Williams on the cat. He does write well though the fucker.
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The Big Brazilians just went out against the Dutch. Robben, Schneider together quelled a spirited Brazilian set up, but as the game wore on the Dutch were better constructed to pull it off. Even from being a goal down from the 10th minute. Felipe Melo set up the goal, then scored an own goal and finally got sent off - hopefully his market value deteriorates even further; Arsenal can possibly afford him now.
From the Guardian. The two architects of a famous Dutch win
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Here is the cat on Mourinho - perfect bedfellows:
"I like Mourinho a lot. I've got his phone number, I might call him. We spent hours talking about football, attacking and defensive tactics. He seemed to me a guy to take to your bedside table and ask him each time you need something."
And on Messi:
"And he talks to [Juan Sebastián] Verón and I spy on them: La Bruja [the Witch] is an intellectual of football, because he knows much more of football than Leo, but they start talking about it and the bastard answers back."
Recounting his days in the psychiatric ward:
"They were all crazy in there. One guy said he was Napoleon and they didn't believe him. I said I was Maradona and they didn't believe me, either."
And here is the wonderful Richard Williams on the cat. He does write well though the fucker.
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The Big Brazilians just went out against the Dutch. Robben, Schneider together quelled a spirited Brazilian set up, but as the game wore on the Dutch were better constructed to pull it off. Even from being a goal down from the 10th minute. Felipe Melo set up the goal, then scored an own goal and finally got sent off - hopefully his market value deteriorates even further; Arsenal can possibly afford him now.
Thursday, July 01, 2010
Corner flag (vol 2.9) - Its still Holland
There are bets flying all over the place, and most people are snickering at my theory. Especially, when there are the Germans (who rightly bulldozed the English), the Big Brazilians (steadily moving ahead) and the Argentinians (the most talented bunch) still around. But with some of these names playing each other shortly, the big names will eventually drop out - and people will move on. I am still going with my theory and expect either the Dutch or Spain to take it. And given its Orange for me, I am hoping that the Dutch beat my tournament favourites Brazil tomorrow.
1. Holland vs Brazil
The Dutch have been effective, but not anywhere as fluid as I expected them to be. While the Brazilians are playing as expected, it will be an upset if the go out at this stage. Its a Dutch win for me.
2. Uruguay vs Ghana
Tough one - but it will be Uruguay, as they look a good balanced side and not being rated because they have been no where for many years.
3. Argentina vs Germany
Its going to be the Argies, with their experience and quality, that will go through against the quality of the Germans.
4. Spain vs Paraguay
Spain to squeeze it, but with Fabregas not playing, there is only that much (very little) that I think of them.
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An Eboue classic
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Quote of the day from the 20 year old German hero Thomas Muller - on the English:
"England have so many top stars in their squad that they will always be part and parcel of the international football scene. But there are so many 'alpha males' in their squad. It is difficult to have so many alpha males and have them row in the same direction. You don't only need chiefs. You also need a few Indians."
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One of the best players in the tournament for me: Diego Forlan
Courtesy: The Guardian
1. Holland vs Brazil
The Dutch have been effective, but not anywhere as fluid as I expected them to be. While the Brazilians are playing as expected, it will be an upset if the go out at this stage. Its a Dutch win for me.
2. Uruguay vs Ghana
Tough one - but it will be Uruguay, as they look a good balanced side and not being rated because they have been no where for many years.
3. Argentina vs Germany
Its going to be the Argies, with their experience and quality, that will go through against the quality of the Germans.
4. Spain vs Paraguay
Spain to squeeze it, but with Fabregas not playing, there is only that much (very little) that I think of them.
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An Eboue classic
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Quote of the day from the 20 year old German hero Thomas Muller - on the English:
"England have so many top stars in their squad that they will always be part and parcel of the international football scene. But there are so many 'alpha males' in their squad. It is difficult to have so many alpha males and have them row in the same direction. You don't only need chiefs. You also need a few Indians."
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One of the best players in the tournament for me: Diego Forlan
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Corner flag (vol 2.8) - Italy's finest hour
The group phase is over and now its time for tears at the end of every game.
And indeed there were tears at the end of the best game of the World Cup so far - when Italy went out to Slovakia. The defending champions finished last and were booted out. It was quite interesting right from the beginning as the Italians went down a goal early and the Slovaks attacked the pretty heavy legged Italians right through the game.
But in the second half of the second half, the Italians came alive to put together a passionate performance that I haven't quite seen before. So much so that I was hoping they score the requisite number of goals to go through. It was driven by the desperation of the situation that the Italians found themselves having to play out of their shorts to get something - fantastic goal by Quagliarella and they should have had couple more; but time ran out and saw Captain Cannavaro shepherding his players back to the dressing room in a hurry. A bit of irony in all of this - the most ineffective Italian team was by the far the most entertaining Italian side I have seen in a long while. Their finest hour in my opinion.
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Game 1 of Uruguay vs South Korea just finished and Uruguay have won. Which was my prediction. Seriously.
Rest of the games are:
1) USA vs Ghana
Ghana to win 1 nil
2) Germany vs England
Germany through hopefully, though Beckenbaur is shooting his mouth as always and thats not a good sign for the Germans
3) Argentina vs Mexico
Though I have just had a fabulous Mexican meal and been hearing all things bright and beautiful about Mexico, Argentina should win quite comfortably
4) Netherlands vs Slovakia
2 - 1 to Netherlands
5) Brazil vs Chile
Brazil to scrape through
6) Paraguay vs Japan
Paraguay 1 nil
7) Spain vs Portugal
Spain to go through. This will ensure the Year of the Tiger shortlist down to 3.
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If everything works as expected, we could see Netherlands vs Brazil quarters. Which will be quite a game I think.
After the most dramatic game, here goes another stalwart - before he catches the flight to the Middle East and work on his pension fund.
And indeed there were tears at the end of the best game of the World Cup so far - when Italy went out to Slovakia. The defending champions finished last and were booted out. It was quite interesting right from the beginning as the Italians went down a goal early and the Slovaks attacked the pretty heavy legged Italians right through the game.
But in the second half of the second half, the Italians came alive to put together a passionate performance that I haven't quite seen before. So much so that I was hoping they score the requisite number of goals to go through. It was driven by the desperation of the situation that the Italians found themselves having to play out of their shorts to get something - fantastic goal by Quagliarella and they should have had couple more; but time ran out and saw Captain Cannavaro shepherding his players back to the dressing room in a hurry. A bit of irony in all of this - the most ineffective Italian team was by the far the most entertaining Italian side I have seen in a long while. Their finest hour in my opinion.
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Game 1 of Uruguay vs South Korea just finished and Uruguay have won. Which was my prediction. Seriously.
Rest of the games are:
1) USA vs Ghana
Ghana to win 1 nil
2) Germany vs England
Germany through hopefully, though Beckenbaur is shooting his mouth as always and thats not a good sign for the Germans
3) Argentina vs Mexico
Though I have just had a fabulous Mexican meal and been hearing all things bright and beautiful about Mexico, Argentina should win quite comfortably
4) Netherlands vs Slovakia
2 - 1 to Netherlands
5) Brazil vs Chile
Brazil to scrape through
6) Paraguay vs Japan
Paraguay 1 nil
7) Spain vs Portugal
Spain to go through. This will ensure the Year of the Tiger shortlist down to 3.
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If everything works as expected, we could see Netherlands vs Brazil quarters. Which will be quite a game I think.
After the most dramatic game, here goes another stalwart - before he catches the flight to the Middle East and work on his pension fund.
Picture from the Guardian: Fabio Cannavaro wipes away the tears as he leaves the pitch. This could well be his last match. What a stinker
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Corner flag (vol 2.7) - World Cups and the Year of the Tiger
1. A funny forward that I received this morning:
From an English guy: "This World Cup is like WWII. The French surrendered early, the USA arrive at the last minute and we're left to fight the Germans, ahahaha"
2. My "welcome" moment to the city that I live in, happened a few hours before the Italy - France final four years ago. Where I realised the rather scientifc Chinese love for astrology. I call it analysing patterns, which is the eternal truth of life: its all about cycles.
Hypothesis: Extrapolating the theory, a quick run through of World Cup winners in the Year of the Tiger and the following emerges:
1998: France
1986: Argentina
1974: West Germany
1962: Brazil
1950: Uruguay
1938: Italy
Conclusion: there has never been a repeat winner during the Year of the Tiger World Cups.
Inference: Looking at the elite 9, this means 4 possible winners: England, Portugal, Spain and Holland.
Action point: To the lucky few who manage to read this, one should use this path breaking finding at the time of the semi-finals when deciding on whom to bet.
My view: its got 2 of the names I dont want anywhere near the semi-finals, 1 where I didn't think there is any reserve fuel in the radiator and finally the one that I would like to win. So far so good. Lets see how it all develops.
3. Moving 2 dimensions forward into the world of club football and Arsenal Football Club, there is a pretty interesting article on BBC on how Arsenal is well poised at the moment to move ahead of its peers - with the focus on finances. Which is crucial at this time when the Western European economies have got to get used to tighter bank balance sheets.
The article refers to recent Deloitte and Forbes reports on Football clubs, which highlight the uptrend in the financial fortunes of Arsenal - backed by of core footballing business strategy and prudent spending by the manager through the last 6 years or so. Any reader who would like a copy of the Deloitte report can drop his/her email id in the comments section.
Which only leads me to strengthen my belief that the next decade is going to be Arsenal's.Though much work needs to be done this summer: keeping Fabregas, replenishing the defence + goalkeeper smartly and some fresh thinking on the coaching bench.
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Another chap thats done for World Cups and European club football as well. Good night and good luck.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Corner flag (vol 2.6) - France vs England
Before I get to my thoughts on the teams that will make it through to the next round, the most captivating development over the 10 days has been the turmoil at the English and French camps.
Hilarious stuff, especially when Richard Williams writes about how John Terry was right to bring up his issues with Fabio Capello publicly and also when he talks about his immense joy at seeing the French cower in mediocrity. Complete SOB this Williams dick - most English scribes have suddenly forgotten how efficient Capello was in disciplining the team and in driving the team to win all their qualifying games. Oops, who cares about that any more, when English passion (epitomised by the holy cunt John Terry) is at stake? The last I heard, some fucking random English journalist was complaining about cutting the WAGs from the squad.Where is Sven they ask.
It is true that the French have been guilty of revolting against their manager in a manner that only they can (refused to train, some one sniched on the other and got him sent off) and it is also true that English have been rather pathetic as a football team. Fucking idiots is all I can say, once again.
Since I dont read French newspapers, I admit I might not be best representing the case of "Who is the bigger twit?": French journalists vs English journalists & English footballers vs French footballers. Such is life.
Moral of the story: there is no difference between the 2 teams. Twits.
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1 final game to go for each team in the first round, and the winners from each group will be:
1) Group A: Uruguay, Mexico
Will be the end of France and the last we should have hopefully seen of Domenech: a twit beyond redemption.
2) Group B: Argentina, Korea to scrape through
Argentina have been coming together on the pitch and then they do look pretty unbeatable. Until they meet quality opposition I would think, which will be soon. Likely to make it to the semis.
3) Group C: USA, England
Unfortunate, but I hope I am wrong on this one i.e. England should get kicked out
4) Group D: Germany, Serbia
Tough call, as Ghana leads the group as of now - but one has to remain loyal to the initial Serbia call.
5) Group E: Netherlands, Denmark
Pretty scrapy games from the Dutch so far, but being able to grind results without losing their heads is good news. So far. The Danes I believe will have enough to sort the Japs out. Would be interesting how they develop through this tournament, and, of course, much would depend on the availability of Prince Bendtner.
6) Group F: Paraguay, Italy
Must admit that the big surprise was watching the Italians. None of the Armani model look alikes strutting around, but some very lean, balding, young players that want to play football. Clearly they do have the potential to surprise later in the tournament. But their strikers are still quite ugly - footballistically I mean.
7) Group G: Brazil, Portugal
Friday's game should be interesting - will let us know if I was wrong in ruling them out. The Portugal left back has clearly been the player thats caught my eye so far - Fabio Coentrao. And so has
8) Group H: Chile, Spain
Real tough one after the early surprise win for the Swiss against the Spaniards. Nice to see the Spaniards sweat, but should make it through with a win against Chile. Dont think the Swiss will beat Honduras. Their captain however Zokhan Inler has been quite solid at central midfield.
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I think one has finally seen the end of this chap's World Cup career. Adios.
Hilarious stuff, especially when Richard Williams writes about how John Terry was right to bring up his issues with Fabio Capello publicly and also when he talks about his immense joy at seeing the French cower in mediocrity. Complete SOB this Williams dick - most English scribes have suddenly forgotten how efficient Capello was in disciplining the team and in driving the team to win all their qualifying games. Oops, who cares about that any more, when English passion (epitomised by the holy cunt John Terry) is at stake? The last I heard, some fucking random English journalist was complaining about cutting the WAGs from the squad.Where is Sven they ask.
It is true that the French have been guilty of revolting against their manager in a manner that only they can (refused to train, some one sniched on the other and got him sent off) and it is also true that English have been rather pathetic as a football team. Fucking idiots is all I can say, once again.
Since I dont read French newspapers, I admit I might not be best representing the case of "Who is the bigger twit?": French journalists vs English journalists & English footballers vs French footballers. Such is life.
Moral of the story: there is no difference between the 2 teams. Twits.
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1 final game to go for each team in the first round, and the winners from each group will be:
1) Group A: Uruguay, Mexico
Will be the end of France and the last we should have hopefully seen of Domenech: a twit beyond redemption.
2) Group B: Argentina, Korea to scrape through
Argentina have been coming together on the pitch and then they do look pretty unbeatable. Until they meet quality opposition I would think, which will be soon. Likely to make it to the semis.
3) Group C: USA, England
Unfortunate, but I hope I am wrong on this one i.e. England should get kicked out
4) Group D: Germany, Serbia
Tough call, as Ghana leads the group as of now - but one has to remain loyal to the initial Serbia call.
5) Group E: Netherlands, Denmark
Pretty scrapy games from the Dutch so far, but being able to grind results without losing their heads is good news. So far. The Danes I believe will have enough to sort the Japs out. Would be interesting how they develop through this tournament, and, of course, much would depend on the availability of Prince Bendtner.
6) Group F: Paraguay, Italy
Must admit that the big surprise was watching the Italians. None of the Armani model look alikes strutting around, but some very lean, balding, young players that want to play football. Clearly they do have the potential to surprise later in the tournament. But their strikers are still quite ugly - footballistically I mean.
7) Group G: Brazil, Portugal
Friday's game should be interesting - will let us know if I was wrong in ruling them out. The Portugal left back has clearly been the player thats caught my eye so far - Fabio Coentrao. And so has
8) Group H: Chile, Spain
Real tough one after the early surprise win for the Swiss against the Spaniards. Nice to see the Spaniards sweat, but should make it through with a win against Chile. Dont think the Swiss will beat Honduras. Their captain however Zokhan Inler has been quite solid at central midfield.
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I think one has finally seen the end of this chap's World Cup career. Adios.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Corner flag (vol 2.5)
Carrying on from four years ago, listing down my take on what this world cup is likely to offer. I realise that setting targets of this sort is a game of 'analysis' vs 'hope' - and therefore each comment will be qualified as either one of them (A or H).
As I write, its Day 3 already, and have the hindsight of a few games - of which I must admit the England - USA result was reassuring and in line with expectations. Its a nil-nil draw at the Ghana Serbia game at the moment.
1. Favourites to win the World Cup: Brazil (H)
Not the usual flamboyant boys, but its the Dunga boys that will do the job. Dogged and quite solid. There is worry about Luis Fabiano scoring goals, but I reckon Kaka will be ready for this; having had a quiet season at Madrid, he is going to be key behind any success for Brazil.
2. Footballer of the tournament: Kaka (H)
Tough one, considering all the talent that exists in the Spanish side.
3. Teams among the elite lot that look good and that could win: Argentina (H) & Holland (H)
Elite set being Brazil, Spain, Argentina, Germany, Italy, France, England, Portugal and Holland. Obviously Brazil & Spain are universally recognised as the favourites, which I kind of agree with. But its 2 of the others that I am going to have my eye on - Argentina and Holland.
Despite being led by Maradona, Argentina have a crew of top dog, experienced footballers. Will be interesting to watch their progress and a lot would depend on how much the players want to play for each other.
Which has historically been the problem with the Dutch as well, but I think they have an understated coach and team of former hot heads who have matured over the last couple of years. Questions about defence exists, but quality midfield and forward line.
Portugal - they have been awfully quiet all the way to the finals. To quote Jacques Kallis, do they have some reserve fuel in the radiator to surprise? I don't think so.
4. Teams that wont do well: Spain (H) & England (H)
Nothing much to say over here.
5. Teams from the non-Elite lot that will do well: Serbia (H)
Purely intuitive - ok this is how it goes: Croatia did well in 1998, the Czechs did well in Euro 2004, so one of the teams from that region is likely to do well some time soon. Intuition of the Times of India kind I suppose.
Serbia finds itself in a tough group and its the 66/1 odds that make it interesting. Though I have just learnt that the super, talented striker Stevan Jovetic of Fiorentina plays for Montenegro and not Serbia - which was one of the reasons behind my Serbia pick much before the tournament began.
That incidentally just shows the level of analysis thats gone behind this - as any astute reader would have already picked up.
(Ghana just scored - so already getting fucked)
7. Source of likely fuck up for me : Not rating the African teams at all (A)
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Since the first round is well under way, I shall update my picks of teams that are likely to progress by Wednesday.
Though I am loyal to no particular team in such competitions, its going to be the Dutch that I'll be following closely this world cup. Heres to hoping that they win.
As I write, its Day 3 already, and have the hindsight of a few games - of which I must admit the England - USA result was reassuring and in line with expectations. Its a nil-nil draw at the Ghana Serbia game at the moment.
1. Favourites to win the World Cup: Brazil (H)
Not the usual flamboyant boys, but its the Dunga boys that will do the job. Dogged and quite solid. There is worry about Luis Fabiano scoring goals, but I reckon Kaka will be ready for this; having had a quiet season at Madrid, he is going to be key behind any success for Brazil.
2. Footballer of the tournament: Kaka (H)
Tough one, considering all the talent that exists in the Spanish side.
3. Teams among the elite lot that look good and that could win: Argentina (H) & Holland (H)
Elite set being Brazil, Spain, Argentina, Germany, Italy, France, England, Portugal and Holland. Obviously Brazil & Spain are universally recognised as the favourites, which I kind of agree with. But its 2 of the others that I am going to have my eye on - Argentina and Holland.
Despite being led by Maradona, Argentina have a crew of top dog, experienced footballers. Will be interesting to watch their progress and a lot would depend on how much the players want to play for each other.
Which has historically been the problem with the Dutch as well, but I think they have an understated coach and team of former hot heads who have matured over the last couple of years. Questions about defence exists, but quality midfield and forward line.
Portugal - they have been awfully quiet all the way to the finals. To quote Jacques Kallis, do they have some reserve fuel in the radiator to surprise? I don't think so.
4. Teams that wont do well: Spain (H) & England (H)
Nothing much to say over here.
5. Teams from the non-Elite lot that will do well: Serbia (H)
Purely intuitive - ok this is how it goes: Croatia did well in 1998, the Czechs did well in Euro 2004, so one of the teams from that region is likely to do well some time soon. Intuition of the Times of India kind I suppose.
Serbia finds itself in a tough group and its the 66/1 odds that make it interesting. Though I have just learnt that the super, talented striker Stevan Jovetic of Fiorentina plays for Montenegro and not Serbia - which was one of the reasons behind my Serbia pick much before the tournament began.
That incidentally just shows the level of analysis thats gone behind this - as any astute reader would have already picked up.
(Ghana just scored - so already getting fucked)
7. Source of likely fuck up for me : Not rating the African teams at all (A)
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Since the first round is well under way, I shall update my picks of teams that are likely to progress by Wednesday.
Though I am loyal to no particular team in such competitions, its going to be the Dutch that I'll be following closely this world cup. Heres to hoping that they win.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
A world champion
And it all came about, by this innocous link that I saw right at the bottom of the Times of India web page today. A fascinating write up by one Hari Hara Nandan ensured that I managed to read a ToI article from start to finish. Which is a first, I think. Got to reproduce the best bits from this exciting article on the 12th game from Sofia, Bulgaria.
There is a saying in chess that if black is hell bent on going for a draw (of course, in top-flight competition), there is nothing white can do about it. The Bulgarian found a determined black in Anand, who was solid as a rock in defence. A draw was looming ever since Anand made his second move going for the extra-solid Queen's Gambit Declined, which has hundreds of lines analysed deep into the endgames.
But there was a dramatic turnaround in around move 30 when Topalov stretched the position by going all out.
With black, Anand did not want to do anything special, except bore Topalov to death. The Bulgarian, known for his attacking chess and also for scoring points in the last rounds when it mattered the most, tried to break through the Lasker Defence put up by Anand, a line that has been played time and again for a century. Expectedly, the players reeled off the first moves quite fast and then on move 16, Anand followed a road less travelled by posting the knight in the sixth rank. It was time for Topalov to take a break and analyse the position. Whether it surprised him or not, it was clear that Topalov was not completely comfortable with his preparation anymore.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Corner flag (vol 2.4)
Its been days since I've checked football websites, blogs, news. Its the feeling of guilt. Of shame. Of disgust.
Its the final stretch of the season and we, Arsenal fans, are left holding our nuts in full public view. Its that familiar territory of failure that I am staring at - after a horrendous come back defeat to Wigan right after our first loss to the neighbours in over 10 years.
Balls they could become bigger players - the self-destructive ability, which has happened before even with the famous players in the side, has demonstrated yet again the lack of consistency that continues to plague the team. All the Wenger baiters are out in full force - for not having a team that wins things. A valid point I admit. The heat, rightly, should be turned on and the manager made amply aware that not all supporters believe that he is the right person to manage the club.
On such situations in the past, I have had discussions with fellow Arsenal supporters on the reasons behind our frustration. We go through all the well compiled reasons: not spending enough and therefore not having enough experienced players, lots of guys who do not deserve to be part of this team, injuries etc.. yawn. But it does boil down to Arsene Wenger. Doesnt it? Yes. So I then ask the question: do you want a new manager?
Some say yes, while most are agnostic. I belong to the "Wenger should continue" camp (though I am not one to claim something as twitty as "In Arsene We Trust"). But, as I have admitted before, I am a part-time twit and as a general principle of twits, I believe that all focus should be on the "means" and that the "end" will eventually take care of itself. I do realise that it sounds highly wankish but what to do, that's the way it is.
The fact that we have a strong club in terms of ownership, finances and structure is a considerable achievement - especially at a time when the rest of the big 3 are being weighed down by humongous debt. But no one gives a fart about achievements of that sort - as winning is the only thing. Just as building more homes in the US was the only thing a few years ago. Of course, winning is important, but the gumption to chart a different path is way more appealing and with the hope that it will eventually come together. Mr. Wenger has embarked on a path (of some sort of neanderthal philosophical belief - which I completely connect with) that may only be successful in winning sweet fuckall before he leaves or is asked to leave. But then, such is life, such is football and such are the travails of having general principles.
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Third ball has left this planet and that should be the last we've heard from the little fucker. So its back to square one for me and more monkey business.
Monday, April 05, 2010
Corner flag (vol 2.3)
Its only half-way though the QF and with our 2 best players out, its going to be a bigger ask away at Nou Camp. But its all there to play for as Petit declares over here. With our squad decimated, its pointless to analyse our chances in the Champions league and the Premier league. Its down to the 12-14 players that remain to become bigger players (in height, skills and mental ability) - one way that can happen, is to plug into the Matrix.
In other words, I don't expect them to win anything - but have every opportunity to become bigger players by putting on a show - for the club, for us monkeys and for themselves. Its time to hope and only hope - which is not a bad thing honestly.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Corner flag (vol 2.2)
In a few hours, one of the most anticipated games of the season kicks off in North London. Arsenal vs Barcelona Champions league QF. Much has been written of the 2 stylish teams - but they couldn't have been more different - one a champion of all silverware last year and the other, a young, naive lot who have won nothing.
It is going to be tough for Arsenal no doubt. Wenger has, as always before big games, challenged his team to beat the odds and their more accomplished opponents. As I have been saying on Corner flag before, its all down to the mental ability of the team to deliver a balanced performance. Calmness in attacking, defending tightly when not in possession and keeping shape at all times. I continue to think that the ingredients, in terms of players, are there and have developed even further this season. It pretty much boils down to being alive for 90 minutes and not getting excited. Its about learning from the quite a few fuckups that have occurred this year.
Will they do it? We have faced this question a few times before. I remember Feb 2007 Carling Cup finals against Chelsea - there were similar expectations; "could this be the win thats going to kick-start a secular championship winning run?" I remember thinking then: "Could this be the silverware that is going to infuse that mental ability, that confidence, to be feared, to be champions". Balls happened (and a few red cards), as we now know. Following year it was the league that was promising - captain & an ankle exploded and all confidence quickly vanished. Last year, the expectations never really took off - but this year, its all holding together. Strangely.
But, can they beat Barcelona - over 2 legs and do the impossible? I think they will. But I am a monkey, so the fact that I do think Arsenal will beat the greatest club in the world shouldn't surprise you.
The manager has toned down his "public" expectations of his team and has on a few occasions admitted his frustration with the team and shortcomings in crucial games. I am beginning to wonder just as the team has started to mature, he too has evolved i.e. being more open about the weaknesses that persist and "facing it". In a subconscious sort of a way, I think its basically handing over control to his players.
Though, we all know that one day things will click - but the interim period has been terribly painful. Will nothing change this 2 leg clash? Fuck knows.
----------------------------------
Must direct all to this wonderful interview with the greatest legend. For some one who had said when he retired that he will never return to a football pitch, he seems to be revelling in his role at the Ajax youth academy. Its wonderful to come across his thoughts, as he seldom is heard in public. And more importantly for me, it was interesting to read his objective look at Wenger's philosophy and the absolute defence of his old coach's beliefs. For monkeys like me, reassurance is required from time to time. And this has been long overdue.
It is going to be tough for Arsenal no doubt. Wenger has, as always before big games, challenged his team to beat the odds and their more accomplished opponents. As I have been saying on Corner flag before, its all down to the mental ability of the team to deliver a balanced performance. Calmness in attacking, defending tightly when not in possession and keeping shape at all times. I continue to think that the ingredients, in terms of players, are there and have developed even further this season. It pretty much boils down to being alive for 90 minutes and not getting excited. Its about learning from the quite a few fuckups that have occurred this year.
Will they do it? We have faced this question a few times before. I remember Feb 2007 Carling Cup finals against Chelsea - there were similar expectations; "could this be the win thats going to kick-start a secular championship winning run?" I remember thinking then: "Could this be the silverware that is going to infuse that mental ability, that confidence, to be feared, to be champions". Balls happened (and a few red cards), as we now know. Following year it was the league that was promising - captain & an ankle exploded and all confidence quickly vanished. Last year, the expectations never really took off - but this year, its all holding together. Strangely.
But, can they beat Barcelona - over 2 legs and do the impossible? I think they will. But I am a monkey, so the fact that I do think Arsenal will beat the greatest club in the world shouldn't surprise you.
The manager has toned down his "public" expectations of his team and has on a few occasions admitted his frustration with the team and shortcomings in crucial games. I am beginning to wonder just as the team has started to mature, he too has evolved i.e. being more open about the weaknesses that persist and "facing it". In a subconscious sort of a way, I think its basically handing over control to his players.Though, we all know that one day things will click - but the interim period has been terribly painful. Will nothing change this 2 leg clash? Fuck knows.
----------------------------------
Must direct all to this wonderful interview with the greatest legend. For some one who had said when he retired that he will never return to a football pitch, he seems to be revelling in his role at the Ajax youth academy. Its wonderful to come across his thoughts, as he seldom is heard in public. And more importantly for me, it was interesting to read his objective look at Wenger's philosophy and the absolute defence of his old coach's beliefs. For monkeys like me, reassurance is required from time to time. And this has been long overdue.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Corner flag (vol 2.1)
Yes, the Third Ball has been in touch and I have been rather busy, therefore unable to communicate his views in time. I obviously didn't know that the team would run into this patch and things would look so good - but lets listen to the third ball now:
1. "I told you it would yo-yo. And it will still do so. But we will win. Premier league it will be."
Third ball then admitted that if it doesnt happen, he is more than happy to go missing forever. And I would take over. Thats what I am, the third ball.
2. "Champions league - not to worry, we will get through the 4th round and do more damage".
Didn't quite know it will be so easy against Porto. But the team has come together, like the season they did when Flamini was at Emirates and (ironically) before the Eduardo incident, since the Stoke City win.
The quiet hero of all this has been Gael Clichy. When the captain Fabregas and the "new" leader Sol Campbell were busy holding their heads at the ungainly sight of a, yet another, crooked ankle, it was Clichy that caught hold of his team mates and said, 'Lets go do this'. He obviously remembers the story at St. Andrews and took the opportunity to be the real leader. And quietly. Beautiful.
I am possibly a greater twit than the third ball. But then such is the life of a football fan.
3. "And yes, we will be playing Inter Milan some time soon - quarters or even later."
Though Wenger has a funny feeling that its going to be an English team next.
4. More records tumbled in this Champions league campaign. Apparently, its the first time in over 30 years where we reversed a first leg loss to win a tie. First Ronald Koeman, then this and next it will be Jose Mourinho the special cunt. And after that it could be the Champions league itself. But that strangely Third Ball was non-committal about.
1. "I told you it would yo-yo. And it will still do so. But we will win. Premier league it will be."
Third ball then admitted that if it doesnt happen, he is more than happy to go missing forever. And I would take over. Thats what I am, the third ball.
2. "Champions league - not to worry, we will get through the 4th round and do more damage".
Didn't quite know it will be so easy against Porto. But the team has come together, like the season they did when Flamini was at Emirates and (ironically) before the Eduardo incident, since the Stoke City win.
The quiet hero of all this has been Gael Clichy. When the captain Fabregas and the "new" leader Sol Campbell were busy holding their heads at the ungainly sight of a, yet another, crooked ankle, it was Clichy that caught hold of his team mates and said, 'Lets go do this'. He obviously remembers the story at St. Andrews and took the opportunity to be the real leader. And quietly. Beautiful.
I am possibly a greater twit than the third ball. But then such is the life of a football fan.
3. "And yes, we will be playing Inter Milan some time soon - quarters or even later."
Though Wenger has a funny feeling that its going to be an English team next.
4. More records tumbled in this Champions league campaign. Apparently, its the first time in over 30 years where we reversed a first leg loss to win a tie. First Ronald Koeman, then this and next it will be Jose Mourinho the special cunt. And after that it could be the Champions league itself. But that strangely Third Ball was non-committal about.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
The view from a pint (vol 1.1)
Amidst all the world changing developments of the last few weeks, the most critical, in my opinion, sitting where I do - i.e. on a pint - was the filing for bankruptcy by Japan Airlines Corp. Japan's largest non-financial bankruptcy ever. Critical because one would have never expected the Japanese, with their heightened sense of pride led insecurity, to allow loss of face of this scale.Its common knowledge that the land of the rising sun has an enormous task of pulling themselves out of the ever-ballooning debt problem & deadly deflation. Regressive policy making, corrupt politicians are the obvious culprits and nothing seems to have changed with the defeat of the Liberal Democratic Party. But pain, or truth, cannot be postponed for ever and thats precisely where JAL's bankruptcy can play a key role - in demolishing the cosy relationship between the corporate world & spineless politicians/bureaucrats. And while at it, it could also inspire a thought revolution amongst the people (Ahem! I could well be in a bar in Calcutta now).
Have always felt that in many aspects, Japan leads the world. The problems in Japan, which became quite evident in the early 90s, of slowing birth rates, aging population, general discomfort with immigration, huge public debt : are all quite common now in a number of western, developed nations. So its time for a Jake Sully to enter the scene - a person from another land to rescue a society that is falling apart. And what happens in Japan, like it or not, will hopefully help rest of the developed world to figure out their path to survival.
Heres a link to the story on the bankruptcy filing by WSJ's Tokyo correspondents.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Gekiga san
The 74 yr old man walked up to the table laid out for him and sat down facing us, who were waiting to hear him. He was alone as his minders were busy getting ready. In those few minutes he spoke in English - precisely 4 words - "I happy in Singapore". Or something like that.
Then the others, his minders, joined him at the table. One of them being Eric Khoo. Probably Singapore's most well recognised film director (not that I have seen any of his movies). Anyways, Mr Khoo's latest project is to make an animated film out of Yoshihiro Tatsumi's (the 74 yr old) autobiographical graphic novel - A Drifting Life.
So then the questions began: the origins of Gekiga? his feelings about the movie thats being made? his relationship with Adrian Tomine, the fellow responsible for giving him a second lease of life? his inspiration to become a mangaka? and why the Japanese, who are big animated film makers themselves, never approached him to make a film based on his novels?
He answered all of them in great detail and humour. And laced with all the graciousness that one would have expected. Tatsumi was overt in conveying his deep gratitude to Adrian Tomine for taking him global and also towards "Eric san" for taking on the challenge to take his characters onto the big screen. It emerged that he felt unappreciated in Japan - "In Japan, people always feel that only the new things are good"; "I was told that I am too old". Age was also a constant theme in his views: "You are fortunate that you are still young - draw your stories when you are young, at my age I get tired before I begin". He also spoke of the writers block: "When you hit a block, take a break and look around you and bring all thats around you into your work". Ahem. Right at the end, to a query on the city of Hiroshima's influence on his stories, he got quite emotional as he spoke about the bombs and the destruction.
And when the questions were done, and he stood up to do a sketch, it was quite clear that its spontaneity that inspires Yoshihiro Tatsumi.
So then the questions began: the origins of Gekiga? his feelings about the movie thats being made? his relationship with Adrian Tomine, the fellow responsible for giving him a second lease of life? his inspiration to become a mangaka? and why the Japanese, who are big animated film makers themselves, never approached him to make a film based on his novels?
He answered all of them in great detail and humour. And laced with all the graciousness that one would have expected. Tatsumi was overt in conveying his deep gratitude to Adrian Tomine for taking him global and also towards "Eric san" for taking on the challenge to take his characters onto the big screen. It emerged that he felt unappreciated in Japan - "In Japan, people always feel that only the new things are good"; "I was told that I am too old". Age was also a constant theme in his views: "You are fortunate that you are still young - draw your stories when you are young, at my age I get tired before I begin". He also spoke of the writers block: "When you hit a block, take a break and look around you and bring all thats around you into your work". Ahem. Right at the end, to a query on the city of Hiroshima's influence on his stories, he got quite emotional as he spoke about the bombs and the destruction.
And when the questions were done, and he stood up to do a sketch, it was quite clear that its spontaneity that inspires Yoshihiro Tatsumi.
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