The Toronto Blue Jays, on the NFL jerseys other hand, haven't been to the post-season party for 16 years. Koskie played for the Jays in 2005 and wasn't surprised at last week's firing of general manager J.P. Ricciardi.
"It was just a matter of time," said Koskie. "It was a tough fit when J.P. brought me to Toronto. In Minnesota we preached pitching and defence, but with the Jays it was all about getting on base and hoping somebody would hit a home run."
Strategy aside, however, Koskie believes it was a difference in attitude that truly separated the two organizations.
"We (the Twins) were really aggressive on the base paths to force the issue and cause the other team to make errors," he said. "But how can you teach that philosophy (in Toronto) when your big guns don't run out balls hard?" With the Twins, there's not one guy who's bigger than the team. That's been a problem with the other organizations I played for (Toronto and Milwaukee). A lot of times, the best players got treated as if they were bigger than the organization and even bigger than baseball."
Koskie is too classy to name any ex-Toronto mates who might fall into that category, but he was quick in pointing to an old Minnesota buddy who does things the right way; a fellow-Canadian named Justin Morneau.
In July of 2006, Corey Koskie was playing third base for the Milwaukee Brewers when he attempted to track down a shallow pop-up in the outfield. While diving for the ball, however, Koskie's head hit the turf and caused a concussion that effectively ended his career.
Fortunately, after almost three years of suffering, Koskie has finally recovered and the native of Anola, Manitoba makes his home in Minnesota where he spent the first seven years of his Major League career with the Twins. After a nail-biting win in Tuesday's tiebreaker against Detroit, Minnesota has now qualified for the playoffs in five of the last six seasons.
"You've got an American League MVP running hard to make a double out of a single," marveled Koskie. "Morneau always does what it takes to be successful and in Toronto, we just didn't do the little things to win ball games."
Unfortunately, Morneau is out for the season with a back injury but the Twins still found a way to go 17-6 down the stretch in nailing down yet another play-off spot.
"I had surgery on my thumb the winter before I signed with Toronto. But there was a problem with the operation and I had a wire sticking out of my thumb for most of the season. I don't want to make excuses, but it's kind of tough to hit with a wire sticking out of your thumb."
And when it comes to Toronto, Koskie and Bad Karma seem to go hand-in-hand.
With his concussion troubled cleared up, Koskie attempted a comeback by suiting up for Team Canada at the World Baseball Classic in Toronto last March. The Canucks, though, ended up getting knocked out in the first round and Koskie didn't get a single at-bat.
"You look at the Twins line-up and wonder how these guys even made it to the tiebreaker against the Tigers," said Koskie. "But Morneau goes down and the Twins operate just like a factory. Kubel, Cuddyer, Mauer; There's always someone to pick up the torch and that's because the least amongst the players in Minnesota are treated exactly the same as the best players on the ball club."
Obviously, Koskie doesn't exactly have the best memories when it comes to his time in Toronto. After signing as a free agent in '05, the veteran slugger was expected to provide some punch to the Jays offence and ended up hitting just .249 with 11 home runs and 36 RBI. But Koskie says his biggest mistake was trying to play through an injury.
"It was very, very frustrating," he admitted. "I came out of camp hitting every ball on the screws. I have no idea what happened, but I've got to try and bite my lip."
But three years ago, Koskie's concussion made his head hurt so badly that it was difficult to roll around on the floor and play-wrestle with his three young sons.
"During my comeback, I spent a couple of weeks training at the Twins facility by myself," recalled Koskie. "I really missed my family and I realized that I'd rather play with my kids than play in the Majors."
Still, don't be surprised if Koskie sneaks a peak at his old pals from Minnesota as they attempt to slay the big bad Yankees in the first round of the playoffs.
And Koskie's former team in Toronto?
If they're smart, they'll be keeping a close eye on the Twins, too.
Despite the bad taste from his WBC experience, Koskie continued his comeback by signing a minor league deal with the Chicago Cubs last summer. However, after just a few weeks, he decided it was time to call it quits at the age of 36. It wasn't easy, as Koskie definitely misses the camaraderie of the clubhouse. This is a guy, after all, who pulled off one of the best practical jokes in baseball history by placing peanut butter in the underwear of an unsuspecting David Ortiz, Koskie's former Twins teammate who moved on to become Boston's "Big Papi".
2010年5月15日星期六
2010年5月14日星期五
Ask Jim Lang: Touchy questions edition
Thanks Jim - keep up the great work!
Answer: NHL Jerseys
Andrew my friend, believe me, I did not duck the question. This one took a lot of work and a great deal of research. I am thrilled to report that I was finally able to track down your answer. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, it has NEVER happened.
Since the Jets moved to Phoenix, there have been 32 nights when all six Canadian NHL teams played an American opponent. Not once have all six come out a winner. There have been a number of nights when five of the six teams won, but all six teams winning still hasn't happened. Apparently the odds off all six Canadian teams winning on the same night are around one per cent.
Andrew, this was a fascinating question to research, thanks for the early Christmas gift.
Name: Scott from Hardisty, Alberta
Comment:
Hey Jim, I notice that sometimes during hockey games there will be a face-off at center ice, but it isn't the start of the period or after a goal.
Why is this?
Answer:
Hi Scott, nice to hear from someone from Hardisty.
That's not far from Wainwright I believe. I e-mailed a friend of mine, veteran NHL referee Stephen Walkom and asked him that very same question, here's his answer:
"Hey Jim that happens on a deflection or offside that is caused by the non-defending team so they don't get a territorial advantage by moving the face-off ahead to a dot closer."
Hi Jim, I love the column but I think you're ducking my question, or it requires some serious investigation. Either way, here goes try No. 3: I'm wondering, have all six Canadian NHL teams won on the same night? It seems rare that they are all in action on the same night and if they are, there's at least one match featuring two Canadian teams. If not, what's the closest we've come?
Hi, Jim, which one of the retro jerseys do you think is the ugliest, and where would it rank on your list of Top 10 ugly hockey jerseys?
Answer:
Hi, Jim, which one of the retro jerseys do you think is the ugliest, and where would it rank on your list of Top 10 ugly hockey jerseys?
Answer:
Hi Richard, this is a very interesting question. It pains me to say this because I have the utmost respect for the Montreal Canadiens organization. But the Habs' barber pole retro uniforms from the 1912-1913 season are brutal.
That was ugly, but nowhere near as ugly as the ill-fated New York Islander jersey's with the angry looking Captain Highliner logo on it.
Even the hockey gods were angered by those ugly uniforms and the Islanders ended up with an embarrassing 22-50-10 in the 1995-1996 season.
I think that Leaf Nation and management have come to the realization that Luke Schenn will not develop into a No. 1 or No. 2 defenceman.
He will never be a Brian Rafalski or a Drew Doughty. The best he may develop into is a Mike Komisarek-type. Do you agree with that statement?
Name: Michael MD
Comment:
Hey Jim. I'm a great big fan of you and Sportsnet in general. I was just wondering: do you think there should be a second team in Toronto? I hear many sides to this, and I prefer that there should be another one because it gives die-hard hockey fans like me to cheer a team which ISN'T the Leafs for once. Thanks again.
Answer:
Hi Michael, short answer, yes. There is no question whatsoever that the greater Toronto area has the population, economy and corporate wealth to support two NHL teams. Even the NHL head office is conceding that there will be a second franchise in Southern Ontario/Toronto in the near future.
With so many American franchises struggling to sell tickets, even at a reduced price, two teams in Toronto has to happen for the NHL to remain a profitable league.
Name: Bobby T
Comment:
I am not a Luongo fan and living in Vancouver and admitting that is dangerous, but - is Luongo the Joe Thornton of goalies? He has had good--to-great regular seasons and has failed his team in the playoffs over and over again.
Answer:
Hi Bob, you are a very brave man asking a question like that while you're living in Vancouver. I must admit, you bring up a valid point. In the NHL, it's not enough to be just a great player in the regular season; success in the playoffs is the true measuring stick. Don't forget, it took Steve Yzerman 14 years before he won his first Stanley Cup.
Not only does Luongo have the pressure of trying to lead the Canucks to the Promised Land, he also needs to help lead Canada to a gold medal at the Winter Olympics. If Luongo can lead the Canucks to the Western Conference Final, I would take the Joe Thornton tag off of him.
Name: B.T.
Comment:
Since you are a huge Second World War buff like me, not sure if this has been asked already, but what is your favourite Second World War movie out there, or war movie in general?
Answer:
Hi B.T., actually I have been asked this same question quite a bit. There are so many that I have grown to love over the years, it's really hard to pick just one. As far what I think is the best Second World War movie ever made, it has to be Saving Private Ryan. As far as which ones are my favourites, here's the list:
Patton: George C. Scott's finest performance. My favourite scene takes place during the height of the Battle of the Bulge as Patton watches his pride and joy, Third Army, march into battle
Answer:
Hi Greg, what a timely question. First off, just because you don't put up big offensive numbers doesn't mean you can't be a team's No. 1 or No. 2 defenceman. There's nothing wrong with a defenceman who is tough, physical and rock solid in his own end. The problem is that Luke Schenn is learning the finer points of being a professional defenceman while he's playing in the NHL. Give him some time and Schenn could turn out to be a solid, shut-down defenceman. I just wonder how badly his confidence is getting crushed by playing in an insane hockey market like Toronto.
The Great Escape: The scene with Steve McQueen trying to get away from the Germans on that motorcycle is incredible. In the movie, Charles Bronson played the role of the "Tunnel King." In real life, Chatham, ON native and RCAF Spitfire pilot Wally Floody was the true "Tunnel King"
Hi Trevor, thanks for the question. First off, to go from 162 games to an 82-game season is never going to happen. Now, if you came to the table with a proposal for something like a 148 to 154 game season, you might be on to something. A reduction of eight to 14 regular season games doesn't sound like much, but it would prevent the World Series from being played in November. I am a big believer in less regular season games in Major League baseball and an expanded wild card system with more teams eligible to make the playoffs.
The mail bag is taking a break until the New Year. Keep the questions rolling in and we will kick off 2010 with a new edition of "Ask Jim Lang" on Jan. 4th.
Since we began starting "Ask Jim Lang," well over 300,000 people have taken the time to check out the blog. To all of my loyal readers and to everyone who have sent me so many amazing questions, I want to wish you all the best for the holiday season and a healthy and happy New Year.
The Devil's Brigade:- The story of the mixed Canadian and American commando unit known as the First Special Service Force. It's most decorated soldier was an aboriginal hero from Manitoba by the name of Tommy Prince.
A Bridge Too Far: I have read numerous historical novels on Operation Market Garden and this movie does a solid job of re-creating one of the Second World War's most epic battles. Edward Fox's portrayal of Lt. General Brian Horrocks is remarkable. To this day, the people of Arnhem, Holland still refer to the site of the epicenter of the fighting as John Frost Bridge, in honour of the indomitable fighting spirit of Lt. Colonel John Frost from the British Airborne.
Kelly's Heroes: I don't know why, but after all these years, I still love this movie. There are some great shots of the interior of a Sherman tank during some of the battle scenes. I have met both Len Lesser (Uncle Leo from Seinfeld) and Gavin MacLeod (Captain Stubing of the Love Boat). Both men had roles in the movie and said it was the ultimate guys' experience. Filming a war movie by day, drinking gallons of wine and eating like kings by night.
Answer: NHL Jerseys
Andrew my friend, believe me, I did not duck the question. This one took a lot of work and a great deal of research. I am thrilled to report that I was finally able to track down your answer. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, it has NEVER happened.
Since the Jets moved to Phoenix, there have been 32 nights when all six Canadian NHL teams played an American opponent. Not once have all six come out a winner. There have been a number of nights when five of the six teams won, but all six teams winning still hasn't happened. Apparently the odds off all six Canadian teams winning on the same night are around one per cent.
Andrew, this was a fascinating question to research, thanks for the early Christmas gift.
Name: Scott from Hardisty, Alberta
Comment:
Hey Jim, I notice that sometimes during hockey games there will be a face-off at center ice, but it isn't the start of the period or after a goal.
Why is this?
Answer:
Hi Scott, nice to hear from someone from Hardisty.
That's not far from Wainwright I believe. I e-mailed a friend of mine, veteran NHL referee Stephen Walkom and asked him that very same question, here's his answer:
"Hey Jim that happens on a deflection or offside that is caused by the non-defending team so they don't get a territorial advantage by moving the face-off ahead to a dot closer."
Hi Jim, I love the column but I think you're ducking my question, or it requires some serious investigation. Either way, here goes try No. 3: I'm wondering, have all six Canadian NHL teams won on the same night? It seems rare that they are all in action on the same night and if they are, there's at least one match featuring two Canadian teams. If not, what's the closest we've come?
Hi, Jim, which one of the retro jerseys do you think is the ugliest, and where would it rank on your list of Top 10 ugly hockey jerseys?
Answer:
Hi, Jim, which one of the retro jerseys do you think is the ugliest, and where would it rank on your list of Top 10 ugly hockey jerseys?
Answer:
Hi Richard, this is a very interesting question. It pains me to say this because I have the utmost respect for the Montreal Canadiens organization. But the Habs' barber pole retro uniforms from the 1912-1913 season are brutal.
That was ugly, but nowhere near as ugly as the ill-fated New York Islander jersey's with the angry looking Captain Highliner logo on it.
Even the hockey gods were angered by those ugly uniforms and the Islanders ended up with an embarrassing 22-50-10 in the 1995-1996 season.
I think that Leaf Nation and management have come to the realization that Luke Schenn will not develop into a No. 1 or No. 2 defenceman.
He will never be a Brian Rafalski or a Drew Doughty. The best he may develop into is a Mike Komisarek-type. Do you agree with that statement?
Name: Michael MD
Comment:
Hey Jim. I'm a great big fan of you and Sportsnet in general. I was just wondering: do you think there should be a second team in Toronto? I hear many sides to this, and I prefer that there should be another one because it gives die-hard hockey fans like me to cheer a team which ISN'T the Leafs for once. Thanks again.
Answer:
Hi Michael, short answer, yes. There is no question whatsoever that the greater Toronto area has the population, economy and corporate wealth to support two NHL teams. Even the NHL head office is conceding that there will be a second franchise in Southern Ontario/Toronto in the near future.
With so many American franchises struggling to sell tickets, even at a reduced price, two teams in Toronto has to happen for the NHL to remain a profitable league.
Name: Bobby T
Comment:
I am not a Luongo fan and living in Vancouver and admitting that is dangerous, but - is Luongo the Joe Thornton of goalies? He has had good--to-great regular seasons and has failed his team in the playoffs over and over again.
Answer:
Hi Bob, you are a very brave man asking a question like that while you're living in Vancouver. I must admit, you bring up a valid point. In the NHL, it's not enough to be just a great player in the regular season; success in the playoffs is the true measuring stick. Don't forget, it took Steve Yzerman 14 years before he won his first Stanley Cup.
Not only does Luongo have the pressure of trying to lead the Canucks to the Promised Land, he also needs to help lead Canada to a gold medal at the Winter Olympics. If Luongo can lead the Canucks to the Western Conference Final, I would take the Joe Thornton tag off of him.
Name: B.T.
Comment:
Since you are a huge Second World War buff like me, not sure if this has been asked already, but what is your favourite Second World War movie out there, or war movie in general?
Answer:
Hi B.T., actually I have been asked this same question quite a bit. There are so many that I have grown to love over the years, it's really hard to pick just one. As far what I think is the best Second World War movie ever made, it has to be Saving Private Ryan. As far as which ones are my favourites, here's the list:
Patton: George C. Scott's finest performance. My favourite scene takes place during the height of the Battle of the Bulge as Patton watches his pride and joy, Third Army, march into battle
Answer:
Hi Greg, what a timely question. First off, just because you don't put up big offensive numbers doesn't mean you can't be a team's No. 1 or No. 2 defenceman. There's nothing wrong with a defenceman who is tough, physical and rock solid in his own end. The problem is that Luke Schenn is learning the finer points of being a professional defenceman while he's playing in the NHL. Give him some time and Schenn could turn out to be a solid, shut-down defenceman. I just wonder how badly his confidence is getting crushed by playing in an insane hockey market like Toronto.
The Great Escape: The scene with Steve McQueen trying to get away from the Germans on that motorcycle is incredible. In the movie, Charles Bronson played the role of the "Tunnel King." In real life, Chatham, ON native and RCAF Spitfire pilot Wally Floody was the true "Tunnel King"
Hi Trevor, thanks for the question. First off, to go from 162 games to an 82-game season is never going to happen. Now, if you came to the table with a proposal for something like a 148 to 154 game season, you might be on to something. A reduction of eight to 14 regular season games doesn't sound like much, but it would prevent the World Series from being played in November. I am a big believer in less regular season games in Major League baseball and an expanded wild card system with more teams eligible to make the playoffs.
The mail bag is taking a break until the New Year. Keep the questions rolling in and we will kick off 2010 with a new edition of "Ask Jim Lang" on Jan. 4th.
Since we began starting "Ask Jim Lang," well over 300,000 people have taken the time to check out the blog. To all of my loyal readers and to everyone who have sent me so many amazing questions, I want to wish you all the best for the holiday season and a healthy and happy New Year.
The Devil's Brigade:- The story of the mixed Canadian and American commando unit known as the First Special Service Force. It's most decorated soldier was an aboriginal hero from Manitoba by the name of Tommy Prince.
A Bridge Too Far: I have read numerous historical novels on Operation Market Garden and this movie does a solid job of re-creating one of the Second World War's most epic battles. Edward Fox's portrayal of Lt. General Brian Horrocks is remarkable. To this day, the people of Arnhem, Holland still refer to the site of the epicenter of the fighting as John Frost Bridge, in honour of the indomitable fighting spirit of Lt. Colonel John Frost from the British Airborne.
Kelly's Heroes: I don't know why, but after all these years, I still love this movie. There are some great shots of the interior of a Sherman tank during some of the battle scenes. I have met both Len Lesser (Uncle Leo from Seinfeld) and Gavin MacLeod (Captain Stubing of the Love Boat). Both men had roles in the movie and said it was the ultimate guys' experience. Filming a war movie by day, drinking gallons of wine and eating like kings by night.
2010年5月11日星期二
Blanket coverage
Sunday nights are the NBA jerseys night we take out the trash in our neighborhood.
But last night, in addition to the usual collection of Kraft Dinner boxes, popsicle sticks and dirty diapers, we had something else in the garbage: My favourite childhood NHL blanket.
It was an official NHL sheet from the early 1980s. It had only 21 teams on the blanket and could fit easily over a twin bed.
It featured classic teams like the Hartford Whalers and Colorado Rockies.
It was the blanket that comforted me when my dad told me that the Expos traded Gary Carter. It kept me safe when I was pretty sure that Gremlins were going to bust into my room after midnight. And it was the structural backbone of most of the forts I made in my room.
But now it was lying in the trash. And there was only one suspect in this horrific crime: My hockey-hating, childhood-memento-trashing wife.
So I attempted to approach my wife in a non-confrontational manner. Of course, I had to go through my mental checklist before proceeding.
Is she pregnant?
Is it "that time of the month?"
Have I done anything really obnoxious in the past 48 hours?
If the answer to all three questions is "No," then I have the green light to proceed. (Well technically, it's always a yellow light).
Gritting my teeth and trying to sound as pleasant as possible, I asked her, "Why did you throw away my favourite childhood blanket?"
"Oh, I didn't think you'd want it with all the paint on it," she said nonchalantly.
"Ummm…why was there paint all over the blanket?" I asked while trying to cover the bulging vein of anger on my forehead.
"Because my dad used it as a dropsheet when he painted our garage," she replied in a matter-of-fact fashion.
My wife can sometimes show off her resourceful German heritage at the oddest moments. You see, German people think you can use everything over and over again. Her mother would probably collect all of the cotton balls you get in the top of an aspirin bottle and make a pillow out of them for the guest room.
Absolutely.
I'm pretty sure that is grounds for divorce in six provinces and one territory. Can you imagine if the roles were reversed and I damaged one of her precious childhood keepsakes?
"I'm sorry honey. I was just doing some work under the hood of the car and I used your Cabbage Patch Doll as an oil rag. Hope you don't mind. I think I can still salvage the birth certificate."
I would be in the doghouse for years.
So realizing that she had hurt my fragile ego and destroyed a part of my childhood, my wife tried to mend the fence.
"I can try and take it out of the garbage and wash the paint off," she cheerfully offered.
But it was too late. The damage was done. You weren't getting an oil-based paint stain off from Mike Palmateer. And that Hartford Whalers logo was now damaged beyond recognition.
I thought about taking one of her Strawberry Shortcake dolls hostage, or maybe taking a baseball bat to her Easy-Bake Oven. But that would only be temporary enjoyment for me. And nothing was bringing that blanket back.
So, let this blog serve as a reminder to all men out there: Don't let your girlfriends, wives or mothers steal your childhood away.
But last night, in addition to the usual collection of Kraft Dinner boxes, popsicle sticks and dirty diapers, we had something else in the garbage: My favourite childhood NHL blanket.
It was an official NHL sheet from the early 1980s. It had only 21 teams on the blanket and could fit easily over a twin bed.
It featured classic teams like the Hartford Whalers and Colorado Rockies.
It was the blanket that comforted me when my dad told me that the Expos traded Gary Carter. It kept me safe when I was pretty sure that Gremlins were going to bust into my room after midnight. And it was the structural backbone of most of the forts I made in my room.
But now it was lying in the trash. And there was only one suspect in this horrific crime: My hockey-hating, childhood-memento-trashing wife.
So I attempted to approach my wife in a non-confrontational manner. Of course, I had to go through my mental checklist before proceeding.
Is she pregnant?
Is it "that time of the month?"
Have I done anything really obnoxious in the past 48 hours?
If the answer to all three questions is "No," then I have the green light to proceed. (Well technically, it's always a yellow light).
Gritting my teeth and trying to sound as pleasant as possible, I asked her, "Why did you throw away my favourite childhood blanket?"
"Oh, I didn't think you'd want it with all the paint on it," she said nonchalantly.
"Ummm…why was there paint all over the blanket?" I asked while trying to cover the bulging vein of anger on my forehead.
"Because my dad used it as a dropsheet when he painted our garage," she replied in a matter-of-fact fashion.
My wife can sometimes show off her resourceful German heritage at the oddest moments. You see, German people think you can use everything over and over again. Her mother would probably collect all of the cotton balls you get in the top of an aspirin bottle and make a pillow out of them for the guest room.
Absolutely.
I'm pretty sure that is grounds for divorce in six provinces and one territory. Can you imagine if the roles were reversed and I damaged one of her precious childhood keepsakes?
"I'm sorry honey. I was just doing some work under the hood of the car and I used your Cabbage Patch Doll as an oil rag. Hope you don't mind. I think I can still salvage the birth certificate."
I would be in the doghouse for years.
So realizing that she had hurt my fragile ego and destroyed a part of my childhood, my wife tried to mend the fence.
"I can try and take it out of the garbage and wash the paint off," she cheerfully offered.
But it was too late. The damage was done. You weren't getting an oil-based paint stain off from Mike Palmateer. And that Hartford Whalers logo was now damaged beyond recognition.
I thought about taking one of her Strawberry Shortcake dolls hostage, or maybe taking a baseball bat to her Easy-Bake Oven. But that would only be temporary enjoyment for me. And nothing was bringing that blanket back.
So, let this blog serve as a reminder to all men out there: Don't let your girlfriends, wives or mothers steal your childhood away.
2010年5月10日星期一
Ask the expert
I led off the scrum and I asked two questions to him, the NHL Jerseys second of which was: "Could you walk me through the hit on Leopold and let us know what happened from your perspective?"
Sutton responded that he thought it was a clean hockey hit and he's been doing it all season.
Fair enough, but the hit was certainly controversial and more questions were going to be asked.
Two members of the Ottawa media had follow-up questions, which Sutton answered while reiterating that he thought it was a clean hit. It was pretty clear that he had nothing else to say about the matter after the third question. He didn't feel it was a worthy of a suspension. He didn't feel like he targeted the head. What else could we ask him?
But because "Genie in a Bottle" rules don't apply to NHL post-game scrums, a fourth question was granted.
And that's when things went south.
A reporter from Pittsburgh asked: "Did you know that you got your elbow up on that hit?"
As one of the seven people who were standing in this infamous scrum, I would like to paint a picture of what actually happened on Friday night.
First of all, Andy was not in a foul or tense mood when he came out to speak with the media. In fact, he made a joke to me about the smell inside the dressing room at Mellon Arena when he walked out to meet us.
Sutton replied, "Are you asking me, or are you telling me?"
In Sutton's defense, the question was awkwardly worded. It was more of a statement than a question; and it was a loaded one at that.
So he went back at Sutton again, when he didn't get a response.
Sutton might have come out of that scrum looking like an unapologetic, nasty and sarcastic man who eats journalists for lunch. But that couldn't be further from the truth. He initially answered the questions about the hit with no issues. The scrum only turned sour when the reporter turned it in that direction.
Upon reviewing the replay in my hotel room, it was a good, clean hockey hit. It's not Andy Sutton's job to make sure Jordan Leopold has his head up coming through the neutral zone. It's not Sutton's fault that he's six inches taller, either. So naturally, his point of contact is going to be higher on Leopold when he has his head down.
And because this was a "north-south" hit, there was no blind-side element that is even up for debate. Leopold was the puck-carrier as well. Every mitigating factor is in Sutton's favour on this one.
Penguins fans shouldn't hold their breath waiting for discipline from the NHL.
But the problem here is that instead of re-phrasing his question, the reporter asked the same question again, with the same intonation in his voice. Again, it didn't sound like a question to me; it sounded like a statement.
So Sutton started his "Are you an expert?" rant and the two went back and forth in a tennis match of verbal volleys, until the Senators PR staff finally called game, set and match.
Sutton responded that he thought it was a clean hockey hit and he's been doing it all season.
Fair enough, but the hit was certainly controversial and more questions were going to be asked.
Two members of the Ottawa media had follow-up questions, which Sutton answered while reiterating that he thought it was a clean hit. It was pretty clear that he had nothing else to say about the matter after the third question. He didn't feel it was a worthy of a suspension. He didn't feel like he targeted the head. What else could we ask him?
But because "Genie in a Bottle" rules don't apply to NHL post-game scrums, a fourth question was granted.
And that's when things went south.
A reporter from Pittsburgh asked: "Did you know that you got your elbow up on that hit?"
As one of the seven people who were standing in this infamous scrum, I would like to paint a picture of what actually happened on Friday night.
First of all, Andy was not in a foul or tense mood when he came out to speak with the media. In fact, he made a joke to me about the smell inside the dressing room at Mellon Arena when he walked out to meet us.
Sutton replied, "Are you asking me, or are you telling me?"
In Sutton's defense, the question was awkwardly worded. It was more of a statement than a question; and it was a loaded one at that.
So he went back at Sutton again, when he didn't get a response.
Sutton might have come out of that scrum looking like an unapologetic, nasty and sarcastic man who eats journalists for lunch. But that couldn't be further from the truth. He initially answered the questions about the hit with no issues. The scrum only turned sour when the reporter turned it in that direction.
Upon reviewing the replay in my hotel room, it was a good, clean hockey hit. It's not Andy Sutton's job to make sure Jordan Leopold has his head up coming through the neutral zone. It's not Sutton's fault that he's six inches taller, either. So naturally, his point of contact is going to be higher on Leopold when he has his head down.
And because this was a "north-south" hit, there was no blind-side element that is even up for debate. Leopold was the puck-carrier as well. Every mitigating factor is in Sutton's favour on this one.
Penguins fans shouldn't hold their breath waiting for discipline from the NHL.
But the problem here is that instead of re-phrasing his question, the reporter asked the same question again, with the same intonation in his voice. Again, it didn't sound like a question to me; it sounded like a statement.
So Sutton started his "Are you an expert?" rant and the two went back and forth in a tennis match of verbal volleys, until the Senators PR staff finally called game, set and match.
2010年5月9日星期日
Tkachuk, Blues rally past Ducks 6-3
Rookie Matt Beleskey scored twice for the Soccer jerseys first time and Bobby Ryan got his 35th goal and added an assist for the Ducks, who had gone to a shootout the previous four games. Anaheim also is out of the playoff race.
Tkachuk has been with the Blues since a trade from Phoenix in 2000-01 aside from a brief stint during the Thrashers' playoff drive in 2006-07 and received a prolonged standing ovation after he was introduced on the starting line along with Paul Kariya and Brad Boyes. A prototype power forward in his prime, he's one of only four players to accumulate 1,000 points and 2,000 penalty minutes.
Surrounded by three children, his wife and parents, Tkachuk was honored in a postgame ceremony and told fans "Thank you very much, you'll be seeing me in St. Louis the rest of my life."
Tkachuk has 427 points in 541 games with St. Louis, along with 676 penalty minutes.
The Ducks lost for only the second time in regulation (25-2-7) when leading after two periods.
Among the tributes to Tkachuk during the game was a fan sign that read "Thanks for the Teeth, Walt." _ a reference to Tkachuk losing four teeth and undergoing seven root canals after taking the puck in the mouth from the stick of teammate T.J. Oshie earlier in the season.
Beleskey scored unassisted for the game's first goal, also his first point in eight games, after stealing an outlet pass from Brad Winchester. He put Anaheim ahead 3-2 at 15:35 of the second on a shot that trickled past goalie Chris Mason.
NOTES: The Blues announced their 33rd sellout of 19,150, although it appeared there were several hundred no-shows. ... Five Ducks veterans, including Teemu Selanne, Scott Niedermayer and Saku Koivu, didn't even make the trip. Ryan Getzlaf missed his eighth game with a left ankle sprain. ... The Blues have shut down defensemen Barret Jackman and Roman Polak, both with upper body injuries, along with forwards Patrik Berglund (shoulder) and T.J. Oshie (upper body). ... Ryan, who scored unassisted in the second, had four goals in four games against St. Louis.
ST. LOUIS (AP) - Keith Tkachuk set up the tying goal in his home finale and assisted on an insurance goal, adding meaning to the St. Louis Blues' postgame tribute to the 38-year-old forward in a 6-3 victory over the Anaheim Ducks on Friday night.
Jay McClement scored the go-ahead goal with 3:50 to go and Andy McDonald scored 23 seconds later off Tkachuk's shot from a tough angle for the Blues, who rallied from a 3-2 deficit after two periods to finish with a six-game winning streak at home. They wound up at 18-18-5 at home, still among the worst in the NHL and the biggest reason they couldn't repeat last season's playoff drive.
Tkachuk has been with the Blues since a trade from Phoenix in 2000-01 aside from a brief stint during the Thrashers' playoff drive in 2006-07 and received a prolonged standing ovation after he was introduced on the starting line along with Paul Kariya and Brad Boyes. A prototype power forward in his prime, he's one of only four players to accumulate 1,000 points and 2,000 penalty minutes.
Surrounded by three children, his wife and parents, Tkachuk was honored in a postgame ceremony and told fans "Thank you very much, you'll be seeing me in St. Louis the rest of my life."
Tkachuk has 427 points in 541 games with St. Louis, along with 676 penalty minutes.
The Ducks lost for only the second time in regulation (25-2-7) when leading after two periods.
Among the tributes to Tkachuk during the game was a fan sign that read "Thanks for the Teeth, Walt." _ a reference to Tkachuk losing four teeth and undergoing seven root canals after taking the puck in the mouth from the stick of teammate T.J. Oshie earlier in the season.
Beleskey scored unassisted for the game's first goal, also his first point in eight games, after stealing an outlet pass from Brad Winchester. He put Anaheim ahead 3-2 at 15:35 of the second on a shot that trickled past goalie Chris Mason.
NOTES: The Blues announced their 33rd sellout of 19,150, although it appeared there were several hundred no-shows. ... Five Ducks veterans, including Teemu Selanne, Scott Niedermayer and Saku Koivu, didn't even make the trip. Ryan Getzlaf missed his eighth game with a left ankle sprain. ... The Blues have shut down defensemen Barret Jackman and Roman Polak, both with upper body injuries, along with forwards Patrik Berglund (shoulder) and T.J. Oshie (upper body). ... Ryan, who scored unassisted in the second, had four goals in four games against St. Louis.
ST. LOUIS (AP) - Keith Tkachuk set up the tying goal in his home finale and assisted on an insurance goal, adding meaning to the St. Louis Blues' postgame tribute to the 38-year-old forward in a 6-3 victory over the Anaheim Ducks on Friday night.
Jay McClement scored the go-ahead goal with 3:50 to go and Andy McDonald scored 23 seconds later off Tkachuk's shot from a tough angle for the Blues, who rallied from a 3-2 deficit after two periods to finish with a six-game winning streak at home. They wound up at 18-18-5 at home, still among the worst in the NHL and the biggest reason they couldn't repeat last season's playoff drive.
2010年5月8日星期六
Illinois to meet Northwestern at Wrigley
Wrigley was home to the Soccer jerseys Chicago Bears from 1921-1970. On New Year's Day 2009, it was also the site of the NHL's Winter Classic between the Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks.
Northwestern and Illinois will play a Big Ten game at the storied baseball park on Nov. 20. The Chicago Cubs and Northwestern have scheduled a news conference for Friday to announce the details.
Wrigley Field, built in 1914 and the second-oldest baseball venue in the major leagues, has hosted plenty of football _ just not in a while.
Northwestern and Illinois will play a Big Ten game at the storied baseball park on Nov. 20. The Chicago Cubs and Northwestern have scheduled a news conference for Friday to announce the details.
Wrigley Field, built in 1914 and the second-oldest baseball venue in the major leagues, has hosted plenty of football _ just not in a while.
2010年5月7日星期五
Reports: NHL wants to impose head-shots rule now
TORONTO (AP) - The NHL wants to adopt a new rule against blindside hits to the head before the end of this season, according to two reports Wednesday.
The league is hoping to fast-track the proposed rule and is preparing a DVD package after a number of soccer jerseys players suffered concussions this season. The highlight package will illustrate what would, and wouldn't, be allowed under a proposed rule change adopted by general managers at meetings in Florida last week.
The NHL plans to circulate the highlight package to all 30 teams within the next week or so, according to the reports.
"It's a process that has never been done before in the season," NHL senior vice-president of hockey operations Colin Campbell told the Globe and Mail in a story published online early Wednesday. "But this is so important an issue that if we can possibly avoid just one concussion, we should do this."
In order to get the new rule in place, the NHL needs to get the players, coaches, management and officials involved, Campbell added. Also, the NHL board of governors would have the final say on any change.
Meanwhile, deputy commissioner Bill Daly told the Toronto Star the new rule could be in place by the end of the regular season and in time for the playoffs.
"We are working to see if the new rules can be implemented as quickly as possible, and perhaps as early as before the end of the season," Daly said. "We are proceeding on the basis (of) doing what is best for the game and the players on a responsible timetable within the parameters of our legal and contractual obligations."
The league is hoping to fast-track the proposed rule and is preparing a DVD package after a number of soccer jerseys players suffered concussions this season. The highlight package will illustrate what would, and wouldn't, be allowed under a proposed rule change adopted by general managers at meetings in Florida last week.
The NHL plans to circulate the highlight package to all 30 teams within the next week or so, according to the reports.
"It's a process that has never been done before in the season," NHL senior vice-president of hockey operations Colin Campbell told the Globe and Mail in a story published online early Wednesday. "But this is so important an issue that if we can possibly avoid just one concussion, we should do this."
In order to get the new rule in place, the NHL needs to get the players, coaches, management and officials involved, Campbell added. Also, the NHL board of governors would have the final say on any change.
Meanwhile, deputy commissioner Bill Daly told the Toronto Star the new rule could be in place by the end of the regular season and in time for the playoffs.
"We are working to see if the new rules can be implemented as quickly as possible, and perhaps as early as before the end of the season," Daly said. "We are proceeding on the basis (of) doing what is best for the game and the players on a responsible timetable within the parameters of our legal and contractual obligations."
2010年5月5日星期三
Stars beat Kings 4-1 with 4 power-play goals
LOS ANGELES (AP) - Brad Richards scored two power-play goals less than 5 minutes apart in the second period, Brenden Morrow and Steve Ott also connected during man-advantages, soccer jerseys and the Dallas Stars avoided a six-game sweep by the Los Angeles Kings with a 4-1 victory on Saturday night.
Mike Ribeiro and Stephane Robidas each had two assists, and Kari Lehtonen made 29 saves in his sixth start with Dallas since being acquired from Atlanta.
Richards' 17th career multi-goal effort, along with an assist on Ott's goal, gave him 85 points.
The Kings, vying for their first postseason berth since 2002, lost their third straight and are 5-6-2 since the Olympic break. Los Angeles is eighth in the Western Conference with a seven-point lead over Calgary and eight games remaining.
The four power play goals were a season high for Dallas and equaled the most allowed by Los Angeles.
Michal Handzus opened the scoring at 15:52 of the first period on a rebound of Anze Kopitar's shot. But staggered penalties to Wayne Simmonds and Kings teammate Sean O'Donnell during the final 47 seconds of the period gave Dallas a two-man advantage that led to the tying goal by Morrow 17 seconds into the second period.
The Stars have scored five goals with a two-man advantage this season, but haven't allowed any in 11 5-on-3s against them.
Richards made it 2-1 when his intended centering pass to Steve Ott from the left circle caromed off defenseman Rob Scuderi's right skate and into the net while Jarret Stoll was off for high-sticking at 4:20.
The Stars, 1 for 20 on the power play in their other five meetings with the Kings, connected again at 9:15 of the second during 4-on-3 advantage _ 10 seconds after defenseman Drew Doughty was sent off for tripping.
Richards fired wide on a one-timer from the slot, and the puck caromed to Robidas at the left boards, Robidas sent the puck back to Richards for another long one-timer that beat Quick for a 3-1 lead.
Ryan Smyth got an interference penalty with 35 seconds left in the second period, and the Stars again cashed in. Just 48 seconds into the third, Ott converted a rebound of James Neal's one-timer from the right circle for his 16th goal.
NOTES: Dallas is the only NHL team that hasn't had a winning streak of more than two games this season. They had a five-game streak last season from Jan. 31 through Feb. 3. ... The Stars will miss the playoffs in consecutive seasons for the first time since 1987 and 1988, when the franchise was based in Minnesota. ... The Stars haven't gone an entire season without beating the Kings since 1995-96, when all four games ended in ties. ... Kopitar has a team-high 75 points. The last Kings player to finish a season with more than 80 points was Ziggy Palffy, who had 85 in 2002-03.
Mike Ribeiro and Stephane Robidas each had two assists, and Kari Lehtonen made 29 saves in his sixth start with Dallas since being acquired from Atlanta.
Richards' 17th career multi-goal effort, along with an assist on Ott's goal, gave him 85 points.
The Kings, vying for their first postseason berth since 2002, lost their third straight and are 5-6-2 since the Olympic break. Los Angeles is eighth in the Western Conference with a seven-point lead over Calgary and eight games remaining.
The four power play goals were a season high for Dallas and equaled the most allowed by Los Angeles.
Michal Handzus opened the scoring at 15:52 of the first period on a rebound of Anze Kopitar's shot. But staggered penalties to Wayne Simmonds and Kings teammate Sean O'Donnell during the final 47 seconds of the period gave Dallas a two-man advantage that led to the tying goal by Morrow 17 seconds into the second period.
The Stars have scored five goals with a two-man advantage this season, but haven't allowed any in 11 5-on-3s against them.
Richards made it 2-1 when his intended centering pass to Steve Ott from the left circle caromed off defenseman Rob Scuderi's right skate and into the net while Jarret Stoll was off for high-sticking at 4:20.
The Stars, 1 for 20 on the power play in their other five meetings with the Kings, connected again at 9:15 of the second during 4-on-3 advantage _ 10 seconds after defenseman Drew Doughty was sent off for tripping.
Richards fired wide on a one-timer from the slot, and the puck caromed to Robidas at the left boards, Robidas sent the puck back to Richards for another long one-timer that beat Quick for a 3-1 lead.
Ryan Smyth got an interference penalty with 35 seconds left in the second period, and the Stars again cashed in. Just 48 seconds into the third, Ott converted a rebound of James Neal's one-timer from the right circle for his 16th goal.
NOTES: Dallas is the only NHL team that hasn't had a winning streak of more than two games this season. They had a five-game streak last season from Jan. 31 through Feb. 3. ... The Stars will miss the playoffs in consecutive seasons for the first time since 1987 and 1988, when the franchise was based in Minnesota. ... The Stars haven't gone an entire season without beating the Kings since 1995-96, when all four games ended in ties. ... Kopitar has a team-high 75 points. The last Kings player to finish a season with more than 80 points was Ziggy Palffy, who had 85 in 2002-03.
Ibrahimovic Considering Retirement
Tuesday, November 10, 2009 -- Barcelona striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is considering taking a bow from international football, according to the Swedish national team coach.
Sweden have failed to qualify for the 2010 World Cup finals and this had set rumours suggesting that star striker Ibrahimovic could quite international football.
Erik Hamren, coach of the Swedish national team, told Fotbollskanalen:
"I spoke to him and he confirmed to me that he has doubts over his future with the national team. I’ve spoken with Zlatan and, until he has made a decision, I won't call him to the squad. You can lead a horse to the water, but he has to World Cup Soccer Jersey drink himself."
Sweden have failed to qualify for the 2010 World Cup finals and this had set rumours suggesting that star striker Ibrahimovic could quite international football.
Erik Hamren, coach of the Swedish national team, told Fotbollskanalen:
"I spoke to him and he confirmed to me that he has doubts over his future with the national team. I’ve spoken with Zlatan and, until he has made a decision, I won't call him to the squad. You can lead a horse to the water, but he has to World Cup Soccer Jersey drink himself."
2010年5月4日星期二
Where the action will be at UEFA Match day 6
Match day six will culminate in filling up the remaining slots of the first round knock out phase of NHL jerseys the UEFA Champions League. Eight teams that have already qualified and can afford to pop up the champagne bottle to celebrate their achievement. For the remaining eight slots, it will go down the wire in the following perspective:
Group A
With Bordeaux already through the battle will be between the Old Lady of Turin Juventus and Bayern Munich. The German side has to beat the Italians otherwise any other outcome would send them to the Europa cup. Juventus are fortunate to be hosting that match at the Delle Alpi.
Group B
Other than last season finalist, Man Utd having booked their place, any team among the remaining three has a chance of qualifying, Wolfsburg will host Man Utd, while Besiktas will be doing the same against CSKA. It’s interesting to note that Wolfsburg and Besiktas are tied with seven points, they have scored the same number of goals but the Germans have conceded fewer goals. This means that winning might not be enough for either team but more importantly is the number of goals a team will have won its respective match.
Group C
Two clubs that have won the champions league more than anyone else are yet to qualify in this group. A win by AC Milan and Real Madrid against Zurich and Olympique Marseille respectively would be enough for the European giants to finish the job. The only worrying thing is that they will be playing away. Olympique Marseille optimism lies in beating Real Madrid by a big margin and hoping that AC Milan will not win at Zurich.
Group D
This group has already been decided and the last fixture will be for formality purposes. Chelsea and Porto have qualified at the expense of Atletico Madrid and APOEL. However the Europa cup slot will be up for grabs.
Group E
This is the second group in which the qualified teams are also known. Olympique Lyonnais and Fiorentina being the teams in question. It will be remembered that it’s in this group that Liverpool was eliminated.
Group F
This is the only group that all the four teams have a chance of qualifying. Contrary to what many expected that the defending champion, Barcelona and Italian Champions, Inter Milan would comfortably sail through, Dynamo Kiev and Rubin Kazan have made things difficult for them. The best card for the four managers to play safe is to make sure their respective teams wins. Its only Barcelona who just need a draw. For Rubin Kazan they are 90 minutes away from making club history, if they qualify in their debut season. They will have to do this the hard way at the intimidating San Siro where Jose Mourinho will be waiting.
Group G
Spanish outfit Sevilla have already qualified leaving VfB Stuttgart to battle it out with Unirea Urziceni. Stuttgart will approach that game knowing quite well that a win is the only thing needed to qualify. The major advantage they have is that they will be playing that game at home.
Group H
The Greek side Olympiacos needs a draw when they host Arsenal, who have qualified. The only threat they have is coming from Standard de Liege who will meet AZ Alkmaar. If Olympiacos fail to get their much needed point and Standard de Liege wins, then the superiority of goal difference will decide who joins the gunners in qualifying from this group.
Group A
With Bordeaux already through the battle will be between the Old Lady of Turin Juventus and Bayern Munich. The German side has to beat the Italians otherwise any other outcome would send them to the Europa cup. Juventus are fortunate to be hosting that match at the Delle Alpi.
Group B
Other than last season finalist, Man Utd having booked their place, any team among the remaining three has a chance of qualifying, Wolfsburg will host Man Utd, while Besiktas will be doing the same against CSKA. It’s interesting to note that Wolfsburg and Besiktas are tied with seven points, they have scored the same number of goals but the Germans have conceded fewer goals. This means that winning might not be enough for either team but more importantly is the number of goals a team will have won its respective match.
Group C
Two clubs that have won the champions league more than anyone else are yet to qualify in this group. A win by AC Milan and Real Madrid against Zurich and Olympique Marseille respectively would be enough for the European giants to finish the job. The only worrying thing is that they will be playing away. Olympique Marseille optimism lies in beating Real Madrid by a big margin and hoping that AC Milan will not win at Zurich.
Group D
This group has already been decided and the last fixture will be for formality purposes. Chelsea and Porto have qualified at the expense of Atletico Madrid and APOEL. However the Europa cup slot will be up for grabs.
Group E
This is the second group in which the qualified teams are also known. Olympique Lyonnais and Fiorentina being the teams in question. It will be remembered that it’s in this group that Liverpool was eliminated.
Group F
This is the only group that all the four teams have a chance of qualifying. Contrary to what many expected that the defending champion, Barcelona and Italian Champions, Inter Milan would comfortably sail through, Dynamo Kiev and Rubin Kazan have made things difficult for them. The best card for the four managers to play safe is to make sure their respective teams wins. Its only Barcelona who just need a draw. For Rubin Kazan they are 90 minutes away from making club history, if they qualify in their debut season. They will have to do this the hard way at the intimidating San Siro where Jose Mourinho will be waiting.
Group G
Spanish outfit Sevilla have already qualified leaving VfB Stuttgart to battle it out with Unirea Urziceni. Stuttgart will approach that game knowing quite well that a win is the only thing needed to qualify. The major advantage they have is that they will be playing that game at home.
Group H
The Greek side Olympiacos needs a draw when they host Arsenal, who have qualified. The only threat they have is coming from Standard de Liege who will meet AZ Alkmaar. If Olympiacos fail to get their much needed point and Standard de Liege wins, then the superiority of goal difference will decide who joins the gunners in qualifying from this group.
2010年5月2日星期日
Diego Admits Juventus Failed
Tuesday, December 8, 2009 -- Juventus playmaker Diego has admitted that Juventus were below par against Bayern Munich on Tuesday night.
Juventus were knocked out of the Champions League on Tuesday night as they suffered a 4-1 humiliation at home to Bayern Munich. Juve now have to settle with a Europa League spot while Bayern progress through to the last 16 stage of the competition.
Speaking to Corriere Dello Sport, Juventus trequartista Diego said:
"The Champions League was one of our clear objectives of the club. We lacked personality, and Bayern Munich were superior to us, and that is why they won.
"We are not finished in Europe, as it occurred to other teams such as Liverpool. We must now focus on winning the Europa League.
"The whistles directed towards me? I accept them and I know that I can give more. They are right to do so, and they didn't hurt or offend me.
"It is normal that the fans react this way, and I am the first to say that we must do better.
"Therefore, we need to train harder to getSoccer jerseys even better."
Juventus were knocked out of the Champions League on Tuesday night as they suffered a 4-1 humiliation at home to Bayern Munich. Juve now have to settle with a Europa League spot while Bayern progress through to the last 16 stage of the competition.
Speaking to Corriere Dello Sport, Juventus trequartista Diego said:
"The Champions League was one of our clear objectives of the club. We lacked personality, and Bayern Munich were superior to us, and that is why they won.
"We are not finished in Europe, as it occurred to other teams such as Liverpool. We must now focus on winning the Europa League.
"The whistles directed towards me? I accept them and I know that I can give more. They are right to do so, and they didn't hurt or offend me.
"It is normal that the fans react this way, and I am the first to say that we must do better.
"Therefore, we need to train harder to getSoccer jerseys even better."
Leeds Prove FA Cup Romance Still Alive
After an all-too-predictable Saturday of NFL jerseys FA Cup results, Leeds United’s 1-0 triumph at Old Trafford against Manchester United on Sunday was just what the neutrals ordered.
Leeds, who nowadays ply their trade in England’s third tier, were given odds of 12/1 by some betting outlets ahead of the third-round tie.
And considering the rivalry of the two clubs, who a decade ago were battling it out at the top of the English Premier League, it seemed unlikely the Red Devils would be kind enough to offer their lower-ranked opponents a chance.
The fixture offered a game of intrigue considering the history, but realistically Leeds stood little chance. Apparently at least.
Jermaine Beckford’s 20th minute strike gave Leeds the advantage and the Mancunians had no reply, meaning the Whites ended Manchester United’s FA Cup run at the earliest stage since 1984.
Sure, the Red Devils were short of several stars but there’s no avoiding the size of this upset. It was massive. It was pure drama. Footballing theatre.
But after all, results like this are just what the FA Cup is all about. Well, that is at least what it used to be about.
Indeed, Saturday’s offering of third-round fixtures provided no genuine upsets whatsoever, with the only Premier League clubs to bow out, Blackburn and Hull, falling at the hands of another top flight club.
And in the last 15 years only once has the FA Cup been won by a club outside the big four of Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United.
That rare glitch, of course, being Portsmouth two seasons ago when they defeated second-tier Cardiff City in the final at Wembley.
But given the relative strength and professionalism of the Premiership’s big boys these days, the romance of the FA Cup seems a mere memory.
And you fancy dream cup runs like Wycombe Wanderers’ journey to the semi-finals in the 2000-2001 FA Cup have becoming an extreme rarity.
Nevertheless, Leeds’ triumph at Old Trafford on Sunday sparked some of that old FA Cup romantic sense amongst the neutral fans.
It was a result which was simply stunning. And it could only happen in England’s FA Cup, one of the truly great competitions of world football.
Leeds, who nowadays ply their trade in England’s third tier, were given odds of 12/1 by some betting outlets ahead of the third-round tie.
And considering the rivalry of the two clubs, who a decade ago were battling it out at the top of the English Premier League, it seemed unlikely the Red Devils would be kind enough to offer their lower-ranked opponents a chance.
The fixture offered a game of intrigue considering the history, but realistically Leeds stood little chance. Apparently at least.
Jermaine Beckford’s 20th minute strike gave Leeds the advantage and the Mancunians had no reply, meaning the Whites ended Manchester United’s FA Cup run at the earliest stage since 1984.
Sure, the Red Devils were short of several stars but there’s no avoiding the size of this upset. It was massive. It was pure drama. Footballing theatre.
But after all, results like this are just what the FA Cup is all about. Well, that is at least what it used to be about.
Indeed, Saturday’s offering of third-round fixtures provided no genuine upsets whatsoever, with the only Premier League clubs to bow out, Blackburn and Hull, falling at the hands of another top flight club.
And in the last 15 years only once has the FA Cup been won by a club outside the big four of Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United.
That rare glitch, of course, being Portsmouth two seasons ago when they defeated second-tier Cardiff City in the final at Wembley.
But given the relative strength and professionalism of the Premiership’s big boys these days, the romance of the FA Cup seems a mere memory.
And you fancy dream cup runs like Wycombe Wanderers’ journey to the semi-finals in the 2000-2001 FA Cup have becoming an extreme rarity.
Nevertheless, Leeds’ triumph at Old Trafford on Sunday sparked some of that old FA Cup romantic sense amongst the neutral fans.
It was a result which was simply stunning. And it could only happen in England’s FA Cup, one of the truly great competitions of world football.
2010年5月1日星期六
Two U.S. Citizens Charged With Supporting Al Qaeda
NEW YORK -- Two U.S. citizens have been charged in New York with conspiring to provide material support to Al Qaeda. soccer jerseys
An indictment unsealed Friday accuses Wesam El-Hanafi of traveling to Yemen to meet with members of Al Qaeda in February 2008. Prosecutors say he later took an oath of allegiance to the terror group.
Federal prosecutors in Manhattan also accused Sabirhan Hasanoff of "performing assignments" for Al Qaeda in New York.
The men were to make an initial court appearance in Virginia Friday afternoon. The names of their lawyers were not immediately available.
An indictment unsealed Friday accuses Wesam El-Hanafi of traveling to Yemen to meet with members of Al Qaeda in February 2008. Prosecutors say he later took an oath of allegiance to the terror group.
Federal prosecutors in Manhattan also accused Sabirhan Hasanoff of "performing assignments" for Al Qaeda in New York.
The men were to make an initial court appearance in Virginia Friday afternoon. The names of their lawyers were not immediately available.
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