Martin O’Neil – Often Underestimated, Rarely Defeated.

Unusually, in football, Martin O Neil gives off the impression of intelligence that is not restricted to his chosen sport. Having stalled a law degree, to attempt to make the grade at Nottingham Forest, he was christened Dr.,by Brian Clough, due to this intelligence popping up at times that the maestro found irritating. An immense playing career followed the arrival of Clough at Forest, The … Continue reading Martin O’Neil – Often Underestimated, Rarely Defeated.

Grand Slam of Darts 2015 – Part III – The Last 16

So, with the preliminaries and mini drams are over its time for the survivors to battle it out over a longer stretch. This years group stages have been full of emotional value, a few controversial elements and a very high standard of darts. The sheer number of players, from both codes, averaging over 100 during the group stages gives an indication but the the number … Continue reading Grand Slam of Darts 2015 – Part III – The Last 16

Two Shots for Double Dekker?

PDC Dart player Jan Dekker, exploits ranking system to perfection as UK players disadvantaged. Jan Dekker is a Dutch dart player of considerable talent. He has reached the later stages of the BDO ( British Darts Organisation) Lakeside World Championship on more than one occasion and has shown a strong big game temperament. He has always appeared an intelligent and well-informed person and player. He … Continue reading Two Shots for Double Dekker?

Premier League Fan Rip Off ? Think Again.

During a recent lively social media exchange, with a friend, the claim was made that, in 1968, it was possible to see the league champions for a small sum of what previous generations called “old money”. This claim was used as a stick with which to berate the devil that is modern football, specifically The Premier League. Being a glass is half full type of … Continue reading Premier League Fan Rip Off ? Think Again.

In praise of Gerrard : A Titan amongst Pygmies!

The statement of his intention to leave Liverpool at the end of the season sums up Steven Gerard in many ways. His influence and value to the history laden club is less easy to understate. Now into his 17th year of 1st team action it is impossible to separate the captain from the 21st century chapter in Liverpool FC history. Gerrard’s debut came in 1998 … Continue reading In praise of Gerrard : A Titan amongst Pygmies!

Always back Harry Redknapp!

The above phrase has been a mantra in our house for over a decade. I have always liked a bit of a gamble and over the years Harry has provided me with family holidays, consumer goods and a great deal of smug satisfaction. Yet for reasons best known to themselves there have always been a large and loud group who decry Harry both personally and … Continue reading Always back Harry Redknapp!

Brian Clough, Memories & Legacy.

The 10 year anniversary of the passing of the man many call the Master Manager has not gone unmarked. Time will not fade the memories of those who watched,  the man himself, playing for Middlesborough or Sunderland, scoring two hundred and fifty plus league goals in record time. Nor will they forget watching the teams he went on to manage. Starting, as the league’s youngest … Continue reading Brian Clough, Memories & Legacy.

Era of the Super Coach? True Beginnings.

A few years ago a top British sportsman took an innovative approach to a problem he had been experiencing in his chosen field. The results of that decision make it appear as if it was an easy one and that success would certainly follow. Yet at the time the decision, to appoint a new coach/manager, was not universally applauded and brought much doubt and some … Continue reading Era of the Super Coach? True Beginnings.

Athletics’ most exclusive club? Meet the holders of the Grand Slam.

The Grand Slam In what is proving a golden age, for GB Athletics, a rare opportunity exists for another to enter a very exclusive club. The unofficial grand slam for UK athletes involves the winning of every major championship available to them. The Olympic Games, The World Championships, The Commonwealth Games and The European Championships. For those wishing to add ever more levels of differentiation, … Continue reading Athletics’ most exclusive club? Meet the holders of the Grand Slam.