The Inaugural "Caught it on the UpBounce"

When a certain Retired Ginger Prince and I are engaged in one of our twice-daily Fifa battles, there will be 25 shots that careen wildly over the net for every one goal from distance. Thus, we've created an excuse to be used in every situation where someone tries to belt one home from distance and ends up decapitating a 2-dimensional fan in row Z. We just exclaim "Whoop, caught it on the upbounce!" The blame is transferred to the game, and everyone goes home happy.

This does not only happen in Fifa, however. Today in the Champions League play-in stages, an unknown midfielder from FC Zurich put on his Gerrard pants and tried to boom one in from many a mile away. Needless to say, he caught it on the upbounce:

Sorry for the shoddy video quality, but shout out to Greg's iPhone for the technology. 

Bayern was 1 goal to the good at this point, and miserable finishing by the Swiss enabled the Germans to move on to the group stage of the Champions League. Stay tuned for exclusive coverage of the UCL all season long!

City Sign Nasri

Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, better known as one Sheikh Mansour, has reached into his bottomless pit of Arabian oil money and emerged with a playmaking midfielder for around £24 million. That's right, one of the longest running transfer sagas of the summer has ended, with the rich boys coming out on top again.

At only 24, Nasri is one of the most exciting and gifted players in world football today, and was considered at one point last season a front-runner for EPL PFA player of the year. The only question is, will he be a victim of the Man City blackhole? Where a gifted player (Edin Dzeko, Emmanuel Adebayor, Mario Balotelli), transfers into the squad only to be shuffled in and out of the starting 11 at the whim of Mancini or the Sheikh.

Regardless, City only benefit from this deal as they receive a distributor on the order of David Silva, someone who can score goals as well as set them up for the aforementioned strikers. Arsenal, meanwhile, seem to be reeling. Coming off a 2-0 home defeat to the resurgently mighty Reds of Liverpool, and having lost their two best players and central midfielders, a fall from their perennial top four status may not be hard to imagine. Heavy incoming transfers in the January window may be the key to an Arsenal resurgence.

Nasri looking spindly-legged and ever so French

Liverpool Interested in Borriello

Marco Borriello, the 29 year old Italian striker, is set to leave AS Roma less than 2 months after signing a deal worth €4.5 million per year. Borriello has scored 54 goals in the last three seasons, making him an enticing target for any squad. Liverpool seem set to sell David N'Gog to Bolton, which would open up a forward spot for the Italian.

The Reds have already splashed serious cash in the transfer market this season, and I wouldn't be surprised to see them dole out a few more million to rake in Borriello. Despite having world-class options Luis Suarez and Dirk Kuyt, as well as highly touted part-dinosaur Andy Carroll, LFC seem to be in serious contention for Borriello as he is cup-tied from his exploits in Europe with Roma. With no European football this season, Liverpool are gearing up for a return to the top of the EPL on the backs of all these new signings. Only time will tell if King Kenny can craft a winning side from so many shiny new pieces.

Article Here

Ridiculous Pay for Eto'o

If you haven't heard...besides having the the hardest name in professional football to announce Russian club, Anzhi Makhachakala, is now the proud owner of Cameroon international Samuel Eto'o. They paid an exorbitant amount of money for him a whopping $39.8 million transfer fee and an equally ridiculous $28.8 per year. This makes him the highest paid player in history by around $11 million over Cristiano Ronaldo.

Why Eto'o wants to go to Russia is beyond me. Its not like he is in the twilight of his career or was on a bad team.

I guess he can buy a wicked expensive fur coat to battle the bitter Russian winters with all that money.

I also hope that he doesn't have a run-in with the great Russian bear...that would be unfortunate

Brief MLS Update

2 big moves in MLS this week: Robbie Keane to the LA Galaxy and Juan Pablo Angel from the Galaxy to Chivas USA. Keane moves to the Galaxy from Tottenham for 2 years and a reported $9.75 million, while Angel has moved over to Chivas USA in exchange for a 3rd-round selection in the 2012 MLS supplemental draft.

With the signing of the still very dangerous 31 year old Keane, the Galaxy had to offload one of their high-earning "designated players", since any MLS team can only have 2. With David Beckham firmly entrenched in the squad, Angel was unceremoniously dumped to Chivas for basically nothing.

Everyone wins in this scenario: Tottenham make money and offload one of their MANY forwards, the Galaxy pick up a 31 year old forward with known scoring prowess (and a serious finesse rip), and Chivas USA have the most prolific scorer in recent MLS history dropped into their laps.

 

Keane's trademark cartwheel celebration

Speculative Rip of the Week

This week's entry comes to you from this past Sunday, when Barcelona and Real Madrid battled to a 2-2 tie in the first leg of the Spanish Super Cup. Barca edged past Madrid 5-4 on aggregate a few days later, but many are still talking about the dipping wonderstrike executed by Barcelona's diminutive Spanish forward David Villa. Have a look-see:





A worthy effort indeed. Villa (like the entire Barcelona roster save Dani Alves) is not known for his long-distance efforts. This was a very out-of-character attempt for a Barcelona player, and it shows the kind of class that David Villa possesses.

2010-2011 Barclays Premier League Season Preview- Part 3

Here's my take on a few of the teams for the upcoming premier league season. Sorry for the late publish but other things (birthday!) have kept me distracted. Anyway, after that amazing last second victory for United over City in the Community Shield, I am officially PUMPED for this weekend's first matchday. So here is part 3 of the Season Preview.

Liverpool

Manager: Kenny Daglish

Recent History: Until recently, Liverpool could always been counted on to be a top 4 threat under former manager Rafa Benitez. However, with the mutual decision for his leave before last season, the reins were turned over to former Fulham manager Roy Hodgson. After his epic disaster to start the season, new owner John Henry turned to the "King" Kenny Daglish to return the Reds to their former glory. While Daglish did a magnificent job in the second half turning Liverpool back into a magnificent attacking team, Liverpool finished a disappointing 6th after finishing 7th the year previous. A highlight for the season was a 3-1 thrashing of eventual champions & hated rivals Manchester United at Anfield.

Significant Changes: Liverpool was active this summer bringing in young midfielder Jordan Henderson, winger Stewart Downing, & keeper Doni. However, their biggest score came from prized midfielder Charlie Adam from Blackpool. Adam's vision on the ball & delivery into the dangerous areas will be an absolute plus this year for the Reds. Also not to be forgotten, Liverpool made a huge splash in the January transfer window bringing in prized strikers Luis Suarez & Andy Carroll while disposing of petulant child Fernando "the Rat" Torres. Suarez and Carroll will compliment each other wonderfully in attack with superb captain Steven Gerrard backing them with his furious cannon of a right foot.

Player to Watch: While Gerrard's health is essential and Carroll's skill, height, hair, and persona will draw him towards the center of attention, for me Luis Suarez will be the biggest player to watch. His on the ball skill is unbelievable and his competitive fire makes him an absolute threat despite his smaller size. His dribbling ability & willingness to run at defenders will prove him to be a huge threat---for me a player of the year candidate.

Predicted Finish: With their brilliance in attack & the managing of King Kenny, look for Liverpool to return to the top 4 this year.

2011-2012 Barclays Premier League Season Preview - Part 2

Good day all,

Bear with me as this is my inaugural blog for 3mw, and everyone knows the first time is always a bit awkward. I'm not really sure what to say, when to say things, or how long it will be until something unexpectedly bad happens. So enough of those sexual innuendos and lets get down to business. The EPL starts tomorrow and I for one cannot wait. I'm sick of watching the MLS (no offense, EPL is just a better league), and all these friendlies (they are friendlies, come on, I want to see players barreling into each other and getting stuck in).

Without any further ado, here's my preseason review

Sunderland: Mgr: Steve Bruce

Recent History: Sunderland has a long history of being a quality and even high quality footballing club. Seriously, they were one of the top teams back in the day. And by back in the day I am of course referring to the 1890's when they won three consecutive league titles. You might be asking yourself, "what happened to them, they were so good?" Well, money issues, player scandals, and being Sunderland, happened. This isn't to say that they don't have some bright spots. Last year Sunderland had a fantastic opening to the '10-'11 season, having a 7 match unbeaten streak that saw them take on the likes of Man U, Man City, Liverpool, and Arsenal. They had huge potential but couldn't keep up with the winning ways but finished a respectable 10th in the Premier League.

Significant Changes: It goes like this. They lost striker Darren Bent in January of 2011 and in June lost Jordan Henderson, a Sunderland Academy player, to Liverpool. They did however, sign Craig Gardner from Birmingham City. He scored 8 league goals last year and should help out Asamoah Gyan in the goal scoring department.

Player to Watch: It’s easy to say Asamoah Gyan for this one, but since everyone knows of him since the last World Cup. I'm going with Stephane Sessegnon. He was a transfer during the middle of last season from PSG. He ended the season on the upswing and should be looking to capitalize on his experience from last year and be solid EPL striker, whether he's on the left, the right, or in the center.

Predicted Table Finish: 10th

Swansea City- Mgr: Brendan Rodgers

Recent History: Ok, I know what you’re thinking, but yes Swansea really is a part of the 2011-2012 Premier League. It’s shocking because they will be the first team from Wales to join the top flight since its inception in 1992. The Swans have come a long way to get to the EPL, having been in the 3rd division as recently as the 2007-2008 season. But they have managed to pull themselves up and got into a playoff last season and beat Reading 4-2 to gain admittance to the big league.

Significant Changes: Swansea City is going to be up for quite a challenge this season now that it is playing with the big boys. They have brought in winger Wayne Routledge from Newcastle United, which should bring some EPL experience to the lineup. Also, they have signed Dutch international keeper Michel Vorm.

Player to Watch: Nathan Dyer. He was named Swansea City Supporters' Player of the Year last season. I don't have much else to say as I've never seen Swansea City play.

Projected Table Finish: Bottom of the pack. I'm expecting a fight to stay up.

Tottenham Hotspur: Boy am I excited to finally write about a team that should have a good season.

Mgr: Harry Redknapp

Recent History: If you followed the Champions League last year at all, you have heard about the remarkable run that this club made. If you lived under a rock, this is what you missed. They stormed onto the international scene when their wonder-boy Gareth Bale notched a hat-trick against Inter in the Champions league and then lead his team to a 3-1 victory against Inter in the second leg to knock out the defending champions though they eventually succumbed to Real Madrid and their mountains of money...I meant talented players. Their efforts thrilled the footballing world, and should serve as inspiration for this upcoming season.

Significant Changes: One of the biggest areas of concern for the Spurs last season was the inconsistency of keeper Heurelho Gomes. Sure he played well and got his team very deep into the Champions league and a top 5 spot in the Premier League, but it was goals like the one Cristiano Ronaldo scored in the Champions League that garnered some concern. So Tottenham went out and signed American Brad Friedel. It is still unsure on where Friedel will be in the depth chart but expect there to be competition throughout the season, unless one keeper stands out among the rest.

Player to Watch: As I've gone with all attacking players so far, I'm going to give a nod the guys in the back who wack and hack and prevent goals from happening (notice the rhyming that just happened). My player to watch is Michael Dawson. Dude's a beast in the backfield. He has great on field awareness and is never afraid of a bone crunching challenge. He excels in the air and has scored some goals for his side. He is also an up-and-coming English international defender so I see nothing but improvement for this lad. I expect a good season out of him.

Projected Table Finish: Fighting for a top 4 finish

West Bromwich Albion- Mgr: Roy Hodgson

Recent History: West Brom enjoyed its season in the Premier League last year, finishing 11^th. They have an up and down history but manager Roy Hodgson is hoping to stay in the league and improve on last year.

Significant Changes: Perhaps the biggest change for West Brom was the hiring of manager Roy Hodgson in last February. He kept the team in the Premier League and looks for a more successful campaign. Also, they have manages to hold on to key striker Peter Odemwingie. He scored 15 goals last season and the club has made it very clear that he is not for sale.

Player to Watch: Clearly Peter Odemwingie is the brightest spot for the baggies. He netted 15 goals and looks to terrorize EPL defenses again. I think it’s pertinent to note that the 15 goals he scored is a club record. Who knows if he can do it again…?

Projected Table Finish: Bottom of the pack

Wigan Athletic: Mgr: Roberto Martinez

Recent History: Martinez used to play for the club in the late 1990’s so he knows the culture well. Despite that, they struggled immensely at the beginning of last season, suffering colossal losses. They managed to turn it around though as the qualified for the Premier league on the last day of the season thanks to a goal by Hugo Rodallega.

Significant Changes: The club signed Nouha Dicko from RC Strasbourg. This lightening quick winger is hailed by manager Martinez as a player of the future. This makes sense as he is just a lad at 19 years old. It’s still surprising to this blogger that players can be that good at that young of an age.

Player to Watch: Gary Caldwell- This versatile defender can play all over the place. He prefers the central defender role but he can also play right back and a defensive midfielder. As the reigning captain of Wigan, and Wigan not being the most glamorous team, I think he’s one name that you will be surely hearing about throughout the year.

Projected Table Finish: Bottom of the pack

Wolverhamption Wanderers: Mgr: Mick McCarthy

Recent History: The Wolves won their admittance to the EPL in the 2008-2009 season and have been flirting with relegation ever since it seems. Perhaps the best thing that’s happened to the club is its planned redevelopment of their stadium.

Players to Watch: Kevin Doyle: Irish International, 21 year old striker. This guy managed 14 goals in 60 appearances for the Wolves last season. This is impressive as for most of the season he was the lone striker for the team. He has become part of the striking force for Ireland and has seen success there too.

Projected Table Finish: Bottom of the pack

Jose Enrique Signs for Liverpool

Former Newcastle United left back Jose Enrique has signed for Liverpool. Counting it as "one of the happiest days of my life", the Spaniard becomes the 5th major signing for LFC this summer. He joins Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam, Stewart Downing, and Doni. I bet Fernando "the Rat" Torres is eating his words right now. Torres said the Reds future wasn't looking bright and that's why he, Alonso, and Mascherano left? How's that future look now, Nando?

Sorry about the mini rant.

Back to the news. Enrique is a 25 year older and at 6 feet, he seems to be solid enough to defend on corner kicks. But we all know the new desirable skill for outside backs is their ability to factor into the attack. The man's got superhuman pace, as he was forced to choose at a young age between training full time to be an Olympic sprinter or a professional footballer. He's good on the ball, but has only 2 career goals. Regardless, he is a fantastic addition to a team that is certainly shaping up to be a title contender.