tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17008628412972788032012-01-23T16:50:30.830-08:00"Whoever invented soccer should be worshipped as a God."~ UnknownMike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.comBlogger1711100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-88240697995467014762011-09-03T10:59:00.000-07:002011-09-03T11:00:08.344-07:00

For those for those of you who live in Toronto and did not attend the Canadian Men's National Team's (CMNT) 4-1 victory last night against St.Lucia, you missed a special evening. The stadium was not at capacity, but if you were standing outside BMO you would have thought it was ram packed. The atmosphere from the Canadian supporters in the south end was absolutely amazing. Last night was my first

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-1542722778245273562011-09-01T17:02:00.000-07:002011-09-01T17:02:26.818-07:00

It's always interesting to step back and look at the business clubs made at the end of the busy summer transfer window. The high priced, star laden transfers always get the attention, however it's always good to look further down the transfer list and find those potential diamonds in the rough. Who knew that after his low cost 6 million pound move, Javier Hernandez would turn out the way he did

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-64041196063801087482011-08-31T18:06:00.000-07:002011-08-31T18:06:22.804-07:00

Hargreaves to Man city...Will he be able to show his fitness as the 7th best midfielder? I'll have some reactions to transfer deadline day, as I like a few moves but not others. I've added a full transfer list courtesy of Goal.com. You can filter by league. Enjoy! Cheers, Mike

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-1573422284203132202011-08-29T18:42:00.000-07:002011-08-29T18:42:34.230-07:00

In the 75th minute you could feel the anxiety in the air, the sense of ininevitability that 1-0 just wasn't enough.  At the 85th minute Saturday night you could have come up with about 100 different cliches to describe TFC's capitulation of its slender one goal lead. Granted TFC were robbed of a goal as Joao Plata was clearly onside when he seemingly put the Reds two up. By the 90th minute you

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-4036524618077259132011-08-23T19:08:00.000-07:002011-08-23T19:08:09.699-07:00

When football supporters think about the El Classico many envision football being played at its highest level. Wonderful passing, excellent tactics, and intense play. Last season the age long Barcelona v Real Madrid derby had a new dimension added to it with the appointment of the "special one" José Mourinho as Madrid manager. His tactical ability having beaten Barca in the previous year's

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-57626939783820925212011-08-15T17:53:00.000-07:002011-08-15T17:53:35.803-07:00

The start of a new European club season always brings about a sense of renewal and excitement that is rarely rivialed in world sport. Fans forget the bickering over match fixing allegations, the wild and ridiculous transfer rumors, the long some time painful to watch overseas tours and just get down to watching their club for the next 9 months. The glitter than comes with watching the big new

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-22032237459847504502011-08-02T18:34:00.000-07:002011-08-02T18:35:17.788-07:00

They say love is fleeting and this may well be true but do you remember that feeling? That certain sense of excitement and fear? Like the beautiful painting you can't help but stare at for hours on end. The beauty I'm about describe is not of paint on canvass, but of sweat and skill on pitches lush and green. Of course I'm sugaring my word for dramatic effect, however football does provide its

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-325870881202357672011-07-28T08:57:00.000-07:002011-07-28T08:57:39.690-07:00

He might have struggled a bit under the spotlights of Copa America earlier this month for his native Brazil, but Neymar is still the boy wonder of the moment. I submit this goal from is first game back at club side Santos as evidence. Enjoy! P.S: The announcer is just as entertaining.

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-48059928456614109332011-07-28T08:45:00.000-07:002011-07-28T08:45:36.137-07:00

Over the past few months those of us immersed in the football world have been collectively shaking our heads, disbelief etched on our faces as FIFA's credibility has been eroded by vote buying scandals and a general lack of ethics. We, at least those of us who chose to open our eyes,  have known for quite sometime that FIFA was dodgy. We knew that there were things behind the scenes that would

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-42243659880886577402011-07-19T18:11:00.000-07:002011-07-19T18:11:56.440-07:00

Japan lift their first Women's Wold Cup trophy "I wasn't really a fan before the world cup, in fact I didn't really think of it at all. But after today I'm in!" ~ Random guy at the Football Factory bar in TorontoSunday's epic Women's World Cup final between the United States and Japan was on of the best played, and most exciting games of football I've watched all year. I just wanted to get

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-28011900196361251252011-07-18T19:49:00.000-07:002011-07-18T19:49:14.921-07:00

                                   It's that time of year again! It's July, birds are chirping, the sun is shining, Toronto is melting under another heat wave, and it's international transfer window time in the world of the beautiful game. For those are not familiar with what exactly I'm talking about, the transfer window in football is like what the free agency period is for the NHL right

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-69489229176228295632011-05-26T20:48:00.000-07:002011-05-26T20:48:09.803-07:00

 I was at the game and I can tell you the game was unplayable after a while.  Wednesday May 25th, in the 29th minute, Vancouver Whitecaps forward Eric Hassli curled a low left footed shot into the bottom corner of Toronto FC's goal in the second leg of the Voyageurs Cup final, it seemed they were on the way to their first Canadian title....Then the skies over Toronto opened up. The lightning

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-82668037472383110402011-05-24T18:55:00.000-07:002011-05-24T18:55:28.444-07:00

I remember in 2006 when it was officially announced that Toronto was going to have a professional soccer team in the MLS. I was immediately excited and hoped that this would translate to long term success for the Canadian national team.  5 years later, and my excitement for both club and country has not ebbed. However it's a bit disappointing that we still have very poor attendance for Canada

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-61506267669427523592011-05-23T12:26:00.000-07:002011-05-23T12:26:37.876-07:00

I know I'll mainly be focusing on Canadian soccer and the CMNT. However since the U.S will be going in as a top 3 favorite, and the CMNT plays them in the opener in June 7th I've posted the 23 man roster announced by head coach Bob Bradley. U.S. ROSTER BY POSITION CLUB TEAMS IN BRACKETS. GOALKEEPERS (3): Marcus Hahnemann (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Tim Howard (Everton), Nick Rimando (Real

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-48321545710834377422011-05-23T11:55:00.000-07:002011-05-23T11:56:08.650-07:00

Canadian Men's national team head coach Stephen Hart named his 23 man squad for the upcoming CONCACAF Gold Cup. The tournament is CONCACAF's championship and names the top team in the region. Canada's tournament begins June 7th in Detroit against the hosts United States. I'll have my reactions to the team a bit later, but here's the full roster with club teams in brackets. Goalkeepers: Lars

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-74373341157251768962011-05-18T19:06:00.000-07:002011-05-18T19:06:36.162-07:00

I enjoyed coming up with my favorites at the end of 2010. Now that the EPL season is ending this weekend, I figured I'd present you with some of my end of year favorites and awards. Today...Goal of the year. I've already devoted a blog post on this goal but when watching it again, it brings it all home. My EPL goal of the year is the Wayne Rooney over head kick to win the 2nd round of the

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-89554380840797322092011-05-16T18:31:00.000-07:002011-05-16T18:31:20.475-07:00

Just as I complete my Tifo post yesterday and think I've seen some awesome work, I check my twitter and get this... Uruguayan power club Penarol create a massive Tifo flag that celebrates the club's 120th birthday. It's 1017 feet by 157 feet and weighs just over two tons. It took over 300 people to carry it!!!! Click here to read the great post by Andrew Das of the New York Times. If you

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-44129986446942881172011-05-15T20:09:00.000-07:002011-05-15T20:09:32.809-07:00

You can put this  under the What the F!@$k file. Manchester United got the draw they needed to secure their record breaking 19th English league title. It will put them one up on bitter rivals Liverpool and will serve to be one of manager Alex Ferguson's greatest achievements. It'll also be a massive achievement for one Wayne Rooney. Considering how poorly the the last half of 2010 went for him,

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-58166634483152302772011-05-15T16:39:00.000-07:002011-05-15T16:39:55.788-07:00

An excellent example of a North American Tifo from Seattle. Among being an avid Football fan and club supporter, I am a massive art fan. However since you will not see me hitting up the next big thing's art exhibit in downtown Toronto anytime soon, I needed a way to meld two of my passions into one. Then I watched a Milan derby game and everything changed. The game ended up being a fairly

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-42478408586741879642011-05-02T21:22:00.000-07:002011-05-02T21:23:21.940-07:00

Saturday was a disaster. A 3-0 loss is always a better pill to swallow for any team, but for one trying to re-built both on a off the pitch it is extremely harsh. While most Toronto sports fans had their eyes glued to the blood and glory at Rogers Centre Saturday night, a small dedicated group of football supporters gather at bars or around t.v's to watch their ever evolving Reds take on the

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-53111868228605268902011-04-25T20:32:00.000-07:002011-04-25T20:37:46.181-07:00

 Tony Tchani celebrates..to his own dimise.  Tony Tchani had a day to remember on Saturday as he scored his first goal for the Reds since being traded for Dwayne De Rosario, and then had his first sending off all in the span of a minute as TFC remained winless lifetime against the Crew drawing 1-1. Following the recent comments from David Beckham and other MLS players in regards to referees

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-86585420227945781802011-04-22T10:40:00.000-07:002011-04-22T10:40:38.799-07:00

Now I'll never call myself the most co-ordinated person on earth, however watching Sergio Ramos on the top of an open top bus with the Spanish Cup makes even me look like Fred Astaire! I laughed a lot when I watched this the first 6 times, but then I started to wonder if this is a bad sign for Madrid. With a Champions league tie against their hated rivals Barcelona coming up, was the

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-63569114540363384822011-04-06T20:35:00.000-07:002011-04-06T20:35:51.833-07:00

Normally I don't like to post a ton of goal videos unless they are really, really good...or if Messi scores..because most of his goals are highlight reel worthy. This week however there were two outstanding goals that I have to share with you.  The first goal was in the Inter v Schalke match on Tuesday from the San Siro. In fact the goal with in the 1st minute of the game and is a stunning volley

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-426873310669225712011-04-03T20:33:00.000-07:002011-04-03T20:33:18.633-07:00

Things looked to be going against the home team early as Alejandro Moreno scored off bad TFC defending in just the second minute, however former Chivas striker Alan Gordon tied the game in the 36th minute off a whipped in set piece from midfielder Jacob Peterson. Much of the buzz around the stadium had little to do with the match however as club supporters were still coming to grips with the

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-10837513666682917372011-04-01T22:16:00.000-07:002011-04-01T22:16:05.767-07:00

 De Rosario in his last game for Toronto FC  It sucks...plain and simple, no football supporter even wants to lose their clubs best player, leading goal scorer and icon at anytime, but especially at a time in which the club is forging a new identity. However this is what has happened again to Toronto Football Club supporters. After today's confirmation that club Captain Dwayne De Rosario had

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-69510225327149166022011-03-30T20:10:00.000-07:002011-03-30T20:10:07.488-07:00

Over the past few years I've been hearing a growing contingent of football supporters who have spoken out against international week breaks, especially during the middle of the European domestic season. For those who are fairly new to the game FIFA,UEFA etc just like a league, has it's own match calendar which decides when national teams will play each other. The past week was just such an

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-29493744336585805092011-03-27T19:06:00.000-07:002011-03-27T19:06:22.928-07:00

I'll be honest right off the bat, I will not provide to many tactical views on Saturday's game as I was both freezing in the 200 level at BMO and slightly drunk by the 70th minute. As mentioned in the previous post it was a cold one for the opener and I was prepared for it, however it still made it difficult to grasp all the tactical displays on the pitch. What I will provide is the aspect of

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-73431814657772973752011-03-24T19:13:00.000-07:002011-03-24T19:13:51.583-07:00

 Bundle up Saturday!  Many of you will think I'm just about nuts to be willing to stand outside near Lake Ontario for 2 hours to watch a soccer game. Especially to watch Toronto FC after their dreadful display last weekend against Vancouver. In some ways I actually might be a bit nuts but that's another post for another day. Everything leans to the team playing another sub-par game, another

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-27173343823888988412011-03-21T08:41:00.000-07:002011-03-21T08:41:27.707-07:00

There are a lot of negative stories that float around the game of soccer. From corruption at FIFA, to racism, homophobia to fan violence. There are plenty of things I could cover, and have covered over the past year that show the ugly side of the game. But today I'm more that happy...thrilled in fact to post this one, the remarkable come back of U.S international striker Charlie Davies. I funny

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-60030953625265942952011-03-20T19:39:00.000-07:002011-03-20T19:39:10.941-07:00

At the beginning of the pre-season, much was made of Aron Winter's new approach to TFC's on pitch tactics. He preached a possession game utilizing a 4-3-3 formation, with an emphasis on passing and good decision making with the ball. Most supporters and journalists who followed the club and knew the make up of the roster understood that this transition would take a good deal of time. Although

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-6309382485382098722011-02-28T19:01:00.000-08:002011-02-28T19:01:40.816-08:00

  Justin Fashanu in his England Kit.  The topic of gay footballers in the modern game is a touchy subject, so touchy that last year when I tried to broach the subject with some football fans in Barcelona I was promptly told "There are no gays in world football". In that weird moment of awkwardness all I could think about was Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's speech at Columbia

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-43215982053246847112011-02-21T19:25:00.000-08:002011-02-21T19:25:03.483-08:00

I love the game of football, and all of the wonderful things that the game can stand for when treated with the utmost respect it deserves. However there is one aspect of the game that still leaves a bitter taste in my mouth and it has little to do with on pitch performance. In the 21st century it still at times baffles the mind that archaic ways of thinking could still penetrate the minds of a

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-40158550001253560572011-02-14T19:36:00.000-08:002011-02-15T17:49:32.359-08:00

I haven't posted in a while, but I had to take a moment a provide another reason as to why I love this game. Forget the fact that this moment was provided by my favorite club or that the goal was against a bitter rival. Even remove the fact that I had to work that Saturday and posted an illegal Internet feed of the game on my work T.V's. Just remember that Wayne Rooney's over head bicycle

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-59826225282676973742011-01-20T18:43:00.000-08:002011-01-20T18:43:38.429-08:00

Hello all, I'm taking a break from blogging on this platform for a while. I'm looking to expand my idea and bring a fresh perspective to my love of football. By no means is this the end of Football Saves All, but after a year I think this is a great chance for me to sit back and look at where I can take this blog next. I never started out with a plan, or a set thing within the game I wanted to

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-5033581251150071692011-01-12T05:25:00.000-08:002011-01-12T05:25:38.825-08:00

On the last post, I realized I spelt Edinson Cavani's name incorrectly. I apologize for that. Also I realized after watching the third goal again and again, he actually put it in with his heel! Which actually makes it even more incredible. Sorry for the errors. Mike

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-71567566599912894562011-01-11T05:31:00.000-08:002011-01-11T05:36:32.848-08:00

 Edison Cavani- Showing you how it's done!  Aside from the F.A Cup this weekend we had the return of Serie A in Italy and we had ourselves a match between Napoli and Juventus. The final was a resounding 3-0 for Napoli which put them into second place in  Serie A. All three Napoli goals were scored by Uruguayan international Edison Cavani who became a bit more of a house hold name

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-75068288035884498412011-01-10T18:32:00.000-08:002011-01-10T18:32:58.165-08:00

Ok so this didn't end up in a goal...in fact the game ended in a 0-0 draw between Chevio and Palermo but the pass Josip Illicic of Palermo makes to try and set up Javier Pastore is in a few words...fucking ridiculous! No I don't swear often to make a point but it's that good! It takes a while to get there, the magic happens at 2:30 seconds into the video. Please...please enjoy. Cheers, Mike

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-38647918818363159812011-01-10T18:13:00.001-08:002011-01-10T20:42:30.730-08:00

I'll be the first to admit I don't know that much about non league club Crawley Town. In fact though my travels through England I've never been anywhere close to Crawley, but I do know they just beat Derby County to progress to the 4th round of the F.A Cup. I know I probably have some disappointed and slightly embarrassed cousins in the midlands right now, but even they will admit the thrill of

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-20489235717957982202011-01-05T20:12:00.000-08:002011-01-05T20:12:42.579-08:00

Hello all! Welcome to 2011! I hope you had a great holidays. As for TFC supporters they are about to get a welcome post Christmas gift with the official announcement of the new football management team. Tomorrow's press conference at the Air Canada Centre will confirm the news that has pretty much been known since Monday, Former Dutch international Aron Winter will be the clubs new technical

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-58415739526428274112010-12-31T10:59:00.000-08:002010-12-31T10:59:42.285-08:00

Well this is the last post for 2010, it's been a great year for me starting up this blog. I really had no idea what I was getting myself into when I decided finally decided to put all these thoughts I had on the game onto paper, or in this case cyberspace. The initial intent of Football Saves All was to bring up issues or match's in the game that intrigued me and then start a conversation about

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-89463352426395859232010-12-30T15:56:00.000-08:002010-12-30T15:56:09.526-08:00

So I know it's pretty cliche to put together year end lists, but I though I'd put some together. Please note these lists are completely subjective based on my ideas on how the game should be played, you are free to rip them all you like, personally I believe that what these lists are meant to do! So with further a do I present my first ever top 5 year end list: Top 5 exciting club teams of the

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-47596502502557969552010-12-29T15:46:00.000-08:002010-12-29T15:46:20.744-08:00

Over the last few days long suffering Toronto FC supporters have been watching an evolving soap opera of events take place at the club between management and its best player Dwayne DeRosario. And just like a soap there is a third party to complete the sordid triangle in legendary Scottish club Celtic. All jokes aside this trial...or training or tryout whatever DeRo's camp is calling it is

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-90985645424844336212010-12-19T20:15:00.000-08:002010-12-20T05:01:54.696-08:00

The Women's national team made it a national record 10 unbeaten as they drew with 3rd ranked Brazil in Sao Paulo 2-2 to capture the Torneio Internacional Cidade de Sao Paolo tournament on goal differential. This caps on of the most successful years for the senior Women's side who end 2010 with a overall record of  13 wins 3 draws and 2 losses. This tournament title is also the third this year for

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-75925338421793795392010-12-17T06:07:00.000-08:002010-12-17T06:08:33.679-08:00

I'll have thoughts on these match ups a bit later, but the draw shook down pretty much the way I though it would, especially for Arsenal and Spurs. Real Madrid are out for revenge against Lyon for last years dismissal at this stage, and finally we have a rematch of last years final between Bayern Munich and Inter Milan. Great match up, however both sides are a shadow of the sides that played in

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-70439557468463189242010-12-16T21:48:00.000-08:002010-12-16T21:48:51.523-08:00

The Champions' League starts in earnest today with the drawing of match ups for the round of 16 which starts in February. The potential exists for some seriously sexy match ups like another Manchester United v AC Milan showdown or Barcelona v Inter Milan...tell me you wouldn't watch that!  Who's playing who?  See this is the thing about Champions League I love, the potential for amazing

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-599514204352226292010-12-14T20:10:00.000-08:002010-12-14T20:10:03.301-08:00

 Tevez, should he stay or should he go?  Manchester City supporters were feeling pretty good about themselves Saturday afternoon, the squad had just hammered West Ham 3-1 and looked very good doing it. Fans were finally seeing the free flowing, silky beautiful football they had been craving since the Abu Dhabi group took over the club and promised the world. Roberto Manchini's team were,

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-39153702321295924362010-12-12T20:10:00.000-08:002010-12-12T20:10:52.307-08:00

I'm excited as this is a new feature that I hope to make a regular part of the site so please let me know what you think through comments or at miken4@telus.blackberry.net. This week our feature young star is Eden Hazard of French side Lille and the Belgian national side. The most exciting part of watching football is finding that new or raw talent and watching that player develop into a world

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-27109390265120583332010-12-07T20:53:00.000-08:002010-12-07T21:08:18.976-08:00

With tonight's entertaining 3-3 draw against Holland's FC Twente, Tottenham Hotspur took top spot in their Champions League group. They avoid a potential round of 16 match up with the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester United. While no knock stage tie is a given some would really like Spurs chances on advancing to Europe's elite 8....but what are realistic chances that

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-79108650303958777252010-12-06T20:35:00.000-08:002010-12-06T20:35:54.996-08:00

"It makes no sense. Here is a guy who has done an unbelievable job" Newcastle defender Sol Campbell "Chris Hughton has brought dignity, stability and a respectable Premier League placing to Newcastle United - so it should be no surprise that his reward from owner Mike Ashley is the sack" - Phil McNulty's blog So after some time off I'm back reflecting on an issue that will become more

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-6287345951397195822010-11-17T18:08:00.000-08:002010-11-17T18:08:33.771-08:00

Due to the popular demand from my FIFA Goals of the year post yesterday I've added Two of my favorite goals. One is over 20 years old and the other is when people started to realize Leo Messi was for real. The first is the classic Marco Van Basten goal from the 1988 European championship tournament. It is THE goal that most volleys are now measured. I know I've chosen Linus Hallenius goal as the

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-86120872075740828572010-11-16T21:23:00.000-08:002010-11-16T21:23:09.625-08:00

As we get closer to the end of the year FIFA begins it mass of useless awards season, but there are two that are always the most debated. With the Ballon d'or now rolled into the FIFA world player of the year award, there will be endless debate about who the best is. Though I've already answered that (wink..wink). The other surprises me a bit. FIFA goal of the year is always a debate starter as

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-89904906377188017272010-11-16T20:29:00.000-08:002010-11-16T20:29:08.780-08:00

This is the second time in little over a week that I'm writing something about the Canadian women's national team which is probably a record for me, but it also outlines that lack of coverage about the team in Canada. Did you know you know that Canada's national women's team just became the Continental champions by winning the CONCACAF Gold Cup? Did you also know what win got them automatic

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-88609004036230688142010-11-11T20:56:00.000-08:002010-11-11T20:57:23.679-08:00

So It's official, the long rumored decision has been made...and it's not good for Canadian soccer. Kansas City Wizards forward Teal Bunbury Has chosen to play his international football with the U.S.A. I've blogged in the past about other Canadian born players like Owen Hargreaves, Johnathan DeGuzman, Asmir Begovic etc choosing other nations to play for ahead of Canada. I was disappointed then

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-82086079039621616502010-11-10T05:45:00.000-08:002010-11-10T05:45:23.779-08:00

Former Germany keeper Robert Enke passed away one year ago today.  I'll be posting some regarding Enke and the issue of suicide in football later this week. For now let's remember the man, the father and the footballer. Cheers, Mike N

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-66844113277641352392010-11-09T20:43:00.000-08:002010-11-09T20:43:34.098-08:00

As I sit here on the eve of what could be the biggest Manchester Derby at least in my life time, I find it hard to be objective while writing this post. As I've stated on several occasions I am an unapologetic Manchester United supporter. I want...no wait, expect them to win tomorrow night. However these feelings of needing to beat Manchester City are new to me, it comes from the fact that City

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-14894741177504634472010-11-04T19:47:00.000-07:002010-11-04T19:47:53.863-07:00

Interesting developments out of Toronto FC this week, it was rumored for about a week, but it was made official by the club today. German legend Juergen Klinsmann and his company Soccer Solutions has been hired by TFC to help consult with the entire operation of the club. From identifying and hiring the new head coach and GM, to working on the football operations of the club right down to the

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-25841684278514212802010-11-04T13:00:00.000-07:002010-11-04T13:00:02.158-07:00

Back in March I posted about who was the best player in the world was, and at that time I chose Leo Messi. Now I won't go into all the reasons I chose him again, but the main one was that in terms of value to his team Messi trumped Ronaldo and....Wayne Rooney. Yes at that point Rooney was in the conversation, wow what a difference 9 months can make! As the first installment of the the game

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-6503990297380792932010-11-02T20:47:00.000-07:002010-11-02T20:47:16.448-07:00

 Canada's captain, and one of the top 10 strikers in the world Male or Female.  With her four goal performance against Guyana in the Women's World Cup qualifiers on Sunday, Burnaby B.C's Christine Sinclair proved why she is Canada's best soccer player Male or Female. Now lets put aside the quality of the opposition for a second and look at the big picture within her performance. Which other

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-20654475310704627452010-10-27T21:03:00.000-07:002010-10-27T21:03:12.367-07:00

I've been a strong advocate for building the skills of youth players, while protecting them form the harsh lime light of the football media. I'm hoping at some point there will be a Canadian kid who has the skills that will light up the world and propel the national team to the World Cup. Until then we have to satisfy ourselves with young talent over seas. Like this kid! His name is Noah Shawn

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-58870875542011432642010-10-26T20:19:00.000-07:002010-10-26T20:19:02.118-07:00

This is probably going to be the most uncomfortable post I've written so far, as most of you know I am an unapologetic Manchester United supporter and have been since I was a kid. I'm 27 now which means I followed the club through the beginning of the Premier League era which means I watched Fergie's golden generation win title after title, cup after cup. A major part of those title winning

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-72088743272463414352010-10-25T19:55:00.000-07:002010-10-25T19:55:55.589-07:00

When the final rosters were announced for the 2010 World Cup squads, one name what was ominous by its absence was that of Brazilian super star Ronaldinho. After being frozen out by then manager Dunga it seemed Ronny's time on the international stage was over. At 30 and struggling for a glint of the form that made him the best player in the world at one point, the questions surrounding him were

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-24983261732034012642010-10-24T20:47:00.000-07:002010-10-24T20:47:10.945-07:00

A few weeks back I got into a heated conversation with a Scotland supporter after their loss to the Czech Republic in which Scotland boss Craig Levein decided to play what was in a sense a 4-6-0 formation. After watching that the supporter openly questioned the quality and importance of the Scottish Premier League. I responded to him by saying that Scotland needs to continue to have it's top

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-87622690765708543332010-10-23T14:37:00.000-07:002010-10-23T14:37:54.579-07:00

So three days of uncertainty, speculation, anger and hurt feelings have led to this... I can't say I'm not happy that Rooney has changed his mind about leaving United and signing a new 5 year deal, however this last week has left a bit of a sour taste in my mouth for the player and the business of modern football. The posturing by Wazza and his agent Paul Stretford was clearly a ploy for more

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-51101427915532790942010-10-20T20:30:00.000-07:002010-10-20T20:30:29.733-07:00

 Guessing on where Rooney is going has gripped the English press  So I've been off the grid for a while but I'm back and a bit perplexed by some of the events of the past few weeks in the world of Football. From the unexpected purchase of Liverpool by NESV (New England Sports Ventures) owners of baseballs Boston Red Sox, and the subsequent legal battle. To Wayne Rooney's demand

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-13764271186394704302010-09-27T18:24:00.000-07:002010-09-27T18:24:34.699-07:00

As a key date for the potential sale or take over by The Royal Bank of Scotland approaches, you have to wonder why no real contenders are stepping up to buy the legendary Liverpool FC. The answers lay in the the position of RBS who is the major creditor against LFC and The Kop Holding company, which is the company which co-owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks set up back in 2005. The situation is

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-35918810937592462932010-09-21T21:54:00.000-07:002010-09-21T21:54:32.781-07:00

This was from Sunday's match between Manchester United v Liverpool, the score ended up being 3-2 in favor of Man U, but the story of the game aside from the face John O'Shea probably should have been sent off was Dimitar Berbatov. He scored a hat trick of goals and the second one was sheer genius, an excellent over head kick. The video below is a full match highlight, but really enjoy Berba's

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-9219249853262795802010-09-21T21:36:00.000-07:002010-09-21T21:36:02.229-07:00

First things first, you have to complement the club on gaining 4 points on the road which is very difficult given the team's history with away fixtures. However I'm not so pleased with the performance by TFC. Granted they were playing at altitude in Mexico City against the group leaders, but the inability to even retain a small bit of possession became irksome during the match. The broadcast

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-76884890836072610882010-09-20T19:40:00.000-07:002010-09-20T19:40:28.450-07:00

I've been pondering this question for quite sometime now and I not sure if I'm any closer to finding an answer than I was when I began looking into the idea. I have quickly learned that to build a coast to coast professional first division league in this country is extremely difficult. The logistical issues of a proper balanced fixture list, finding financing, getting corporate Canada on board,

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-27413712641166868322010-09-16T22:05:00.000-07:002010-09-19T07:48:51.220-07:00

It's still early in the new European season but as Champions league proper has now started up we already have as goal of the year nominee. Thomas Muller of Bayern Munich scores a absolute beauty of a left foot volley with the outside of his boot against AS Roma on Wednesday night. I've added the video below, I don't know how long it'll be up but enjoy it while you can! This kid is only 20 and

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-89232069932345932962010-09-14T20:26:00.000-07:002010-09-14T20:30:28.715-07:00

 Mo Johnston and Preki were fired on Tuesday  When it was announced that TFC executive vice president and chief operating officer Tom Anselmi had called a news conference for Tuesday afternoon people knew someone was out of a job. After the team's worst performance of the season against DC United at BMO field in do or die game, Anselmi clearly had seen enough. On Tuesday director of soccer

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-21614226335933724632010-09-12T21:43:00.000-07:002010-09-12T21:43:22.980-07:00

Just added two videos highlighting the skills of Dimitar Berbatov, the first video is from a few years ago against West Ham, when he torches the defender on the goal line. The second is the recent demolishing on the same West Ham side in which Berbatov scores a fantastic goal. Forgive the second video with the K'naan waivin' flag song, but it was the only highlight reel I could find. Enjoy, Mike

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-83502468609689467772010-09-12T15:16:00.000-07:002010-09-13T05:51:03.415-07:00

For anyone who watched TFC's lacklustre loss to DC United on Saturday afternoon you could tell that something was off, broken if you will. Put aside the fact that the Reds lost to the worst team in the league, or that they dropped more important playoff points; The most disappointing thing about Saturday and even back to Wednesday night against Chicago is that you realized this team is just not

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-33503157080511080762010-09-08T06:01:00.000-07:002010-09-08T06:01:22.010-07:00

Even with kick off moments away, BMO Field stood half empty as the Canadian Mens national team took on Peru in friendly competition, although it should be noted that Toronto sports fan are notoriously late when showing up for matches. Both small sets of supporters though were in good voice as the game kicked off. For Canada this was in earnest the start of their Mission: 2014 Campaign. In

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-79806315058777332572010-09-06T21:43:00.000-07:002010-09-06T21:43:13.596-07:00

Me in front of the Camp Nou On August 25th 2010, yours truly went to cover a game at one of the most hallowed football grounds on the planet. I was at the Camp Nou in Barcelona to witness for myself what football was like in the capital of Catalunya. Before I go into the details of that wonderful evening, I have to explain how and why this night came to be. Currently I'm writing for 90:00

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-86866865813442837112010-08-30T16:30:00.000-07:002010-08-30T16:39:11.547-07:00

Over the past year many clubs have come under greater scrutiny in regards to their player spending at overall financial stability. With several top flight clubs around Europe's biggest leagues either at the brink of, or falling into administration, UEFA has begun to take action against reckless spending by club management. Starting in the 2011-2012 season, teams who spend more than they make in

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-23985718924291170852010-08-28T03:54:00.000-07:002010-08-28T03:54:04.851-07:00

In front of a completely sold out Camp Nou, FC Barcelona defeated 3-1 on penalties after the game ended in a 1-1 draw to capture the Gamper Trophy. The crowd of 98,787 were entertained by an overpowering display by the home team as they out passed their Italian counterparts for the majority of the match. The night was also a chance for the supporters to celebrate and properly send off

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-68635460801160020892010-08-25T15:38:00.000-07:002010-08-25T15:38:07.938-07:00

Hello all!  As some of you might know I'm currently on vacation in Europe and this the reason the post have been few and far between over the past few weeks. I'll have a new one soon on my experience watching FC Barcelona at the Nou Camp soon. Cheers, Mike

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-29261121825961206322010-08-20T17:34:00.000-07:002010-08-20T17:43:02.525-07:00

Even though I'm currently on "Vacation" I couldn't leave the football alone! I visited my Uncle and Aunt's local EPL club team Birmingham City at their home pitch St.Andrews to get a feel for what the club is after at the start of the new EPL season. Plus it was an awesome way to get a mini tour of the grounds. I would like to thank BCFC for their hospitality, especially to Chris Kershaw the

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-27419839399875865202010-08-19T05:09:00.000-07:002010-08-19T05:10:28.790-07:00

In front of an announced 16,892 at BMO Field Toronto FC put forth it's most dominating performance of the 2010 season, defeating 5 time CONCACAF Champions League winners Cruz Azul of Mexico 2-1. First half goals from Martin Saric and newest DP signing Mista sealed the three points for the MLS side. Mista celebrates after scoring his first TFC goal Tuesday night Although the scoreline

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-53485483001491666442010-08-18T11:17:00.000-07:002010-08-18T11:18:43.366-07:00

(Written on Aug16th) As I currently crusing at an altitude of 35,000 feet, on a course to England all I can really think about is Barcelona. Don't get me wrong I'm excited to be back in the U.K, beyond the football possibilities to explore there, I'll be in the good hands of family as we prepare for the wedding of my cousin. I'm hoping to catch a match while I'm here although I'll be pretty

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-91462936752545919422010-08-15T21:20:00.000-07:002010-08-15T21:28:19.149-07:00

Frank Yallop (On the right) head coach at San Jose Earthquakes. One of the few Canadian managers at the pro level. Earlier this week former Canadian International Paul James floated the idea that foreign managers bring a much needed tactical and physical expectation with them to Canada. He pointed out two managers in particular, The Vancouver Whitecaps Teitur Thordarson and Toronto FC's Preki.

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-34539695268147082102010-08-14T00:25:00.000-07:002010-08-14T00:25:20.356-07:00

Some of the stuff happening or might happen this weekend. Short one for this weekend, just enjoy the start of the EPL! Europe: David Bond talks the business of football and how Arsenal are the blue print for better finanical practices. Mancini tells Ireland to leave City- In adisgusting move Man city are going to force out a boy that has been with the club since he was 15. EPL kicks off this

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-18322403834018834452010-08-13T05:41:00.000-07:002010-08-13T05:41:52.025-07:00

North America: Moreno confirms his D.C. United exit- Jaime Moreno's illustrious playing career with D.C. United appears to have just a few more months remaining. Emilio Izaguirre close to a Toronto FC move?- More noise today about Emilio Izaguirre and a move to TFC Toronto FC not so good against Red Bulls- Paul James reviews TFC's loss to New York Red Bull USA boss Bob Bradley has resigned from

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-70126056099984923402010-08-12T18:36:00.000-07:002010-08-12T18:36:07.054-07:00

As this season began Toronto FC's expectations were high. The club set three major goals with new head coach Preki, 1) Retain the Nutrilite Canadian championship 2) Qualify for the group stages of CONCACAF Champions League and 3) Make the playoffs for the first time in club history. After a sluggish pre-season filled with poor play and roster issue it seemed the team would have been hard pressed

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-68928488067176574412010-08-11T04:09:00.000-07:002010-08-11T04:09:25.339-07:00

It seems that people like this idea of selected footy headlines from around the world, so I'll continue doing this for a while. Suggestions always are welcome! Prandelli off to losing start, Italy lost their first match post World Cup 1-0 to Ivory Coast, this was Italian national team manager Cesare Prandelli first game in charge. Chelsea set to sell Ricardo Carvalho to Real Madrid, Carvallho is

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-49419184077242032772010-08-10T18:27:00.000-07:002010-08-10T18:27:02.001-07:00

It has been interesting to watch the first few friendlies that United have played in the run up to the start of the Premier League season, especially watching the play of Javier Hernandez since his debut against the MLS all stars two weeks ago. Hernandez joined the club officially in July 1st, although he was actually signed back in May. At the time of his signing the news flew under the radar, 

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-1206726917442879842010-08-10T05:14:00.000-07:002010-08-10T05:14:04.734-07:00

Enjoy some footy news and highlights/lowlights with your cup of coffee. Finally able to get LEGAL highlights of the 2010 Community Shield game between Manchester United and Chelsea from Sunday, courtesy of F.A TV. Pay particular attention to Javier Hernández's goal and how it goes in (laughed my ass off!) View below. Aston Villa Boss Martin O'Neill quits 5 days before the clubs first game of

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-77225868695479908612010-08-09T20:37:00.000-07:002010-08-09T20:40:37.152-07:00

As I was watching the last 10 minutes of a thrilling Community Shield game between Man United and Chelsea, I began to wonder why I was so fixated on a match that was in the words of Mark Lawrenson was a "glorified friendly". Even in recent times Manchester United Manager Sir Alex Ferguson has down played the significance of the game by saying "It's always a game we never quite use of a do or

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-80832746452310303362010-08-08T20:34:00.000-07:002010-08-08T20:34:07.687-07:00

As we turn the calender from July to August, we in the football world begin the dream. August signals the start of the European football season, this weekend we saw the start of the English season as league football began its regular season and the Community Shield was played on Sunday. Also France began it's league play as it's top division got started. The beauty of the start of a new season

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-14622164193692681322010-08-05T21:21:00.000-07:002010-08-05T21:21:50.290-07:00

Consider this an add-on to Monday's Toronto FC post. After Tuesday's 2-2 draw against Motagua in Honduras, TFC's place in the CONCACAF Champions League group stages was confirmed winning the two leg match by a 3-2 aggregate score. Some Reds supporters can be forgiven if they think this is the greatest result in the club's short history, as the greatest triumph still lies ahead. As I mentioned on

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-15229118139623327652010-08-05T18:57:00.000-07:002010-08-05T18:57:01.512-07:00

In the this age of modern football where multi millionaire players, owners and administrators get the lion's share of headlines, especially during this time of the year. It is always good to make a moment and recognize when the game and the people surrounding it are finding ways to give back. Kickball for kids is a non for profit organization which has one simple but very important goal, get

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-60543341498227904722010-08-02T19:38:00.000-07:002010-08-02T19:38:34.170-07:00

Another chapter in the ownership battle for Liverpool FC was written today, as they announced up to 6 bids to buy the club from the American duo of Tom Hicks and George Gillette have been recieved. The only confirmed bidder for the club is Kenny Huang a multi billionaire businessman based out of Shanghai, the rest are thought to be multi national consortiums. It is little secret that the current

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-29772099681470969742010-08-01T21:57:00.000-07:002010-08-01T21:57:01.001-07:00

Hilarious video from the boys at xtra normal.com, clearly written by a Spurs supporter but funny none the less. Enjoy and let me know what you think. Cheers, Mike

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-47285240995640271502010-08-01T21:23:00.000-07:002010-08-01T21:23:25.919-07:00

Saturday was another tough night for TFC as they traveled to Kansas City to take on the Wizards. Since the inception of the club the on major issue that has followed the club though all 4 seasons has been the inability to consistently win away fixtures. Saturday was no exception as the Reds fell 1-0. Many have pointed to Adrian Cann's sloppy back pass that lead to Teal Bunbury's goal as being the

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-81958215497257202782010-07-31T14:43:00.000-07:002010-07-31T14:43:47.042-07:00

After the disaster that was France's run at this summer's World Cup, the FFF (French Football Federation) got to see some light at the end of and very long tunnel as the French under 19 squad won the European championship Friday with a 2-1 win over the Spanish. No one has ever accused the French of producing bad footballers, Clairefontaine is one of the premier training academies in the world.

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-20442063414192268192010-07-31T11:57:00.000-07:002010-07-31T11:57:55.718-07:00

As most people here in Toronto it's Caribana weekend, I'm taking a year off from the parade as I've been about 16 times in my life, and frankly they have become less appealing as its become more corporate (it's now called Scotiabank Caribana). With that said I read an interesting post from Duane Rollins on the 24th minute blog regarding a Caribana international soccer tournament. The idea is

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-38735763401592286852010-07-29T18:31:00.000-07:002010-07-29T18:31:35.264-07:00

Today was an exciting day for soccer fans in Canada as 3 teams, Edmonton FC, Ottawa Fury FC and Highlanders FC out of Victoria are applying for entry into the NASL. This would be the level just below the MLS. The details in terms of stadiums and league approval have yet to be determined by all three teams could be up and running by as early as next season, though it's more likely that Ottawa and

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-3194969752158491632010-07-29T18:17:00.000-07:002010-07-30T05:18:42.706-07:00

After Toronto FC's important 1-0 win of Honduran side Club Deportivo Motagua, I began to read the debate around how important or not the tournament is to TFC. For those who oppose TFC taking the tournament seriously, the argument goes; TFC is in the hunt for its first MLS playoff in club history, therefore the club needs a less crowded fixture list down the stretch in order to help qualify. This

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-49158741199377797162010-07-29T06:07:00.000-07:002010-07-29T06:07:31.387-07:00

The first half of 2010 has been up and down for the various levels of the England squad. This summer's latest venture to the World Cup produced another disappointing result as the senior team crashed out to a young rebuilding Germany squad. An up is the fact that the U-17 squad won the European Championship earlier this summer. However things were brought down a bit by England's U-19 team being

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1700862841297278803.post-34667708829870372282010-07-28T18:52:00.000-07:002010-07-28T18:52:58.857-07:00

Today began a new era for one of Spain's greatest players as Raul officially joined German club Schalke. Raul who is Spain's all time leading goal scorer ended his 18 year tenure with Real Madrid on Monday. Although his release from Real had long been speculated, it was still a bit of a shock for long time football fans to see captain Madrid announce that he was leaving the club. Although he has

Mike Newellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00649221997362745389noreply@blogger.com0