Earlier this week, I was the editor of a news website for a day, and I'll tell you one thing - it is rather stressful!
I'm in my final year of study at Southampton Solent University, studying for a degree in Multimedia Journalism. It has challenges, rewards and a LOT of work, but I have enjoyed my time there very much. One of the unique elements of my course is 'news-days' - a day dedicated to us, the students, finding stories and reporting on them, through the use of a multimedia package. This includes various different media platforms, mainly video, audio and photography, as well as a copy. Over the past three years, we have learnt this skills and our lecturers have let us loose on rather expensive camera equipment - but it is worth it.
Everyone in my year on my course has two weeks of being on the editoral team; there's five of us, working together to gather content from the third and second years, which will then be published on our course website. I'll admit, I was nervous at first, walking into our 'newsroom' early Wednesday morning but really, I shouldn't have worried.
My fellow editors and I had spent the week before talking to the different years and our lecturers to keep them up to date with stories we were expecting - which was a lot. Both third and second years were expected to submit a full multimedia news package, as for both it was part of our assessment. The week before the actual news-day is what we call a 'prep' news-day - it's just us organising ourselves and our colleagues for the following week. We would give those who were struggling stories, ideas on what to film and what angle to take.
The day of the news-day arrived and to everyone's joy, it was a big success. My team and I worked incredibly well together - it's an amazing thing, team-work. We communicated well between ourselves and our lecturers, as well as our friends and colleagues who were working feverishly hard at their stories. Nearly 30 stories were submitted in that one day, but thanks to our organisation, we pulled it off well. We tweeted various snippets of information through our Twitter account, we overtook a whiteboard to note the stories we were expecting and whose were completed, and we worked simultaneously together to sub news stories. Our course leader was very happy with how it all went when we held our meetings throughout the day - so much so, that my team will be the one that will be helping out on a very important news-day in the upcoming months!
It is incredibly stressful being an editor, I discovered that. Running around like a headless chicken (not literally) is not my idea of fun, but if you communicate, it will work. Every news-day, we film bulletins, small snippets of the local, national and sport news throughout the day. Having told those we were meant to be on this bulletin team the week before and reminding them of this fact, it was hugely frustrating for them not to turn up, bar one. A couple of them did appear later in the day but to start with, we had problems with getting our bulletins online by the deadline. It's annoying when you rely on people and they don't bother, but hopefully we have suggested a few ideas to rectify this in the future; some very kind course-mates of mine oversaw the bulletins section and when they were recorded and published, it was very successful. We also could have used our Twitter a lot more to publish stories, but having nearly 30 pieces to sub, we lost track of time - another idea we'll do in the future is to designate one of the team solely on Twitter.
Overall, despite the stresses, we pulled it off well - aided with a large can of energy drink - and really, communication is the key to success. If you work as a team, altogether, you can achieve good work from hard work.
If you'd like to look at the stories we do, please go to www.solentjournalism.co.uk
Friday 15 November 2013
Tuesday 15 October 2013
Dicing with death; is Motorsport really the safest it can be?
Today, the sad news that British racing driver Sean Edwards had been killed in a crash in Australia filtered through - another tragic and young life lost to Motorsport. May I extend my condolences and prayers onto the Edwards family, and all those who knew Sean. It is a sad, sad loss.
The news comes days after former Formula 1 test driver Maria De Villota was found dead in her hotel room in Seville, little over a year after her crash in straight-line testing for Formula 1 team Marussia. The crash left De Villota without the use in her right eye, and lengthy treatment after sustaining serious head and facial injuries in the crash in June 2012. Her family and doctors have since confirmed that her tragic death was linked to that crash.
Another British driver, Dario Franchitti, was also involved in a heavy crash during the Houston Grand Prix, fracturing his ankle, breaking two vertebrae and two ribs. The IndyCar driver has since had numerous operations since the incident. These stories also tragically coincide with the anniversary of the death of British IndyCar driver Dan Wheldon two years ago, after a horror collision at the IZOD IndyCar World Championship in Las Vegas.
All of these tragic accidents led to the one question - is Motorsport really safe for drivers?
Motorsport is often considered as the most dangerous sport, with drivers regularly putting their lives and their trust in the hands of their cars and mechanics. There is no doubt that safety has much improved as cars and technology has envolved over the years, with the safety of drivers - in Formula 1 in particular - extremely safe. Formula 1 cars now compared to 20 years ago are much different; for example, the drivers sit much further down in the cockpit of the car, so their head is more protected should a crash occur. The cockpit dimensions are also wider, to aid a drivers escape should he/she crash - we often the drivers removing part of the car to help them get out. The FIA have also made a ruling that all Formula One cars must have a fire extinguisher system in place, automatically spreading foam across the chassis should a fire be detected. If we go back to 1980, it was only then that a permanent medical facility was required at all tracks, and it was only six years later that a medevac helicopter became mandatory at races.
The safety within Formula One can be seen by the fact the last fatality of a driver during a race, was the late Ayrton Senna, during the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix. Since then, we have seen big accidents; Felipe Massa's crash during qualifying for the 2009 Hungarian Grand Prix and Robert Kubica's big crash during the 2007 Canadian Grand Prix just to name a couple. Although serious injuries have been sustained, no fatalities have occured, which is perhaps a testimony to safety in Formula One nowadays. Another example was when Mark Webber completely somersaulted his Red Bull at the European Grand Prix in 2010, yet the Australian walked away from his car relatively unscathed.
Of course, the safety measures are different in other concepts of Motorsport, such as IndyCar, but there is no doubt safety has improved greatly. We should acknowledge that sadly, Motorsport is extremely dangerous and tragedies continue to occur, but we can also acknowledge the lengths manufactuers and governing bodies will go to protect those in the driving seat.
In rememberance of Sean Edwards, Maria De Villota, Dan Wheldon and all those who have tragically lost their lives doing something they love - may they rest in peace.
The news comes days after former Formula 1 test driver Maria De Villota was found dead in her hotel room in Seville, little over a year after her crash in straight-line testing for Formula 1 team Marussia. The crash left De Villota without the use in her right eye, and lengthy treatment after sustaining serious head and facial injuries in the crash in June 2012. Her family and doctors have since confirmed that her tragic death was linked to that crash.
Another British driver, Dario Franchitti, was also involved in a heavy crash during the Houston Grand Prix, fracturing his ankle, breaking two vertebrae and two ribs. The IndyCar driver has since had numerous operations since the incident. These stories also tragically coincide with the anniversary of the death of British IndyCar driver Dan Wheldon two years ago, after a horror collision at the IZOD IndyCar World Championship in Las Vegas.
All of these tragic accidents led to the one question - is Motorsport really safe for drivers?
Motorsport is often considered as the most dangerous sport, with drivers regularly putting their lives and their trust in the hands of their cars and mechanics. There is no doubt that safety has much improved as cars and technology has envolved over the years, with the safety of drivers - in Formula 1 in particular - extremely safe. Formula 1 cars now compared to 20 years ago are much different; for example, the drivers sit much further down in the cockpit of the car, so their head is more protected should a crash occur. The cockpit dimensions are also wider, to aid a drivers escape should he/she crash - we often the drivers removing part of the car to help them get out. The FIA have also made a ruling that all Formula One cars must have a fire extinguisher system in place, automatically spreading foam across the chassis should a fire be detected. If we go back to 1980, it was only then that a permanent medical facility was required at all tracks, and it was only six years later that a medevac helicopter became mandatory at races.
The safety within Formula One can be seen by the fact the last fatality of a driver during a race, was the late Ayrton Senna, during the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix. Since then, we have seen big accidents; Felipe Massa's crash during qualifying for the 2009 Hungarian Grand Prix and Robert Kubica's big crash during the 2007 Canadian Grand Prix just to name a couple. Although serious injuries have been sustained, no fatalities have occured, which is perhaps a testimony to safety in Formula One nowadays. Another example was when Mark Webber completely somersaulted his Red Bull at the European Grand Prix in 2010, yet the Australian walked away from his car relatively unscathed.
Of course, the safety measures are different in other concepts of Motorsport, such as IndyCar, but there is no doubt safety has improved greatly. We should acknowledge that sadly, Motorsport is extremely dangerous and tragedies continue to occur, but we can also acknowledge the lengths manufactuers and governing bodies will go to protect those in the driving seat.
In rememberance of Sean Edwards, Maria De Villota, Dan Wheldon and all those who have tragically lost their lives doing something they love - may they rest in peace.
Thursday 30 May 2013
Myself and my football ramblings.
Hiya all!
Apologies for not having posted in a little while - for the last month or so, I've pretty much been full speed ahead with a lot of things!
First off, I have finally finished my second year of University! As much as this year went quickly for me, the work seemed to drag on and on, so it's more of a relief than anything that I've finished for the summer. Four months of summer holiday await for me, and I cannot wait.
However, I have actually been fairly busy recently since I left University to come home! The last week, I have been completing work experience at the Independent newspaper, based in Central London. I have found the experience different to my time spent at magazines earlier in the year, but I have found it an enjoyable one! It's given me vital experience and guidance on where I possibly will want to go after University next year - and I'm looking forward to coming back in July for another week. At this moment in time, the big dream is to go to New York and work there - if not full-time then I'd like to do an internship first and go from there. I also have been job-hunting for a summer job, to keep me busy! I successfully got a job working at the South of England show for a few days, as well as a interview on Saturday for working at Gatwick Airport; keep your fingers crossed for me please people!
I've been to a few football matches - one of them seeing my beloved Brighton and Hove Albion losing in the play-offs to our arch rivals Crystal Palace. That was a horrible match - I think most of us Brighton fans were fairly confident going into the play-offs, and how that came back to bite us. It's all gone downhill since, with our management all suspended, players leaving and whatnot... It's not been the toughest time being a Brighton fan to say the least, but it has been very testing. I have full faith in Tony Bloom and the club however - as much as it is frustrating not knowing anything, it's better this way than things being leaked all the time. It's being handled internally for a reason - and it's very professionally done by the club.
If he was to stay, would Gus be welcomed back? Half and half I reckon; on one hand, he's done fantastically with us and taken us to the play-offs within two seasons of being back in the Championship. On the other, he's fast becoming a little unpopular with the fans - has his ego gotten to big for the club? Most likely. It'd be hard to see him stay after all this, but it's not impossible. I hope it is sorted sooner rather than later, so the club can focus on next season and rebuilding to challenge for the play-offs once more - I hope!
I've seen a couple of women's football matches recently - both at Premier League grounds. One was Arsenal Ladies v Liverpool Ladies at the Emirates; although the result was very disappointing from a Arsenal perspective, I found the Emirates very impressive. What would have been better, is a bigger crowd. I believe there was only a crowd of around 2,000 for the game, which me and my football team found rather disappointing. It probably felt a lot less too, due to the size of the Emirates.
The second game me and my football team-mates went to was the women's Champions League at Chelsea's stadium, Stamford Bridge. That was impressive, and the crowd was a staggering 19,258 - impressive for a women's football game in the UK outside of the Olympics. I really hope that the Olympic legacy will help women's football continue to grow - with the women's FA Cup Final shown on the TV and the Euro's due to be shown in the summer, the coverage of the sport is beginning to grow. I'm so pleased - I know women's football may never be as 'big' as the men's game, but it is growing, slowly but steadily.
I believe that is all for now, so I shall end my little ramblings. Any comments on the issues above, just drop one below! Always be glad to hear from you lovely lot.
Adios, and happy reading x
Apologies for not having posted in a little while - for the last month or so, I've pretty much been full speed ahead with a lot of things!
First off, I have finally finished my second year of University! As much as this year went quickly for me, the work seemed to drag on and on, so it's more of a relief than anything that I've finished for the summer. Four months of summer holiday await for me, and I cannot wait.
However, I have actually been fairly busy recently since I left University to come home! The last week, I have been completing work experience at the Independent newspaper, based in Central London. I have found the experience different to my time spent at magazines earlier in the year, but I have found it an enjoyable one! It's given me vital experience and guidance on where I possibly will want to go after University next year - and I'm looking forward to coming back in July for another week. At this moment in time, the big dream is to go to New York and work there - if not full-time then I'd like to do an internship first and go from there. I also have been job-hunting for a summer job, to keep me busy! I successfully got a job working at the South of England show for a few days, as well as a interview on Saturday for working at Gatwick Airport; keep your fingers crossed for me please people!
I've been to a few football matches - one of them seeing my beloved Brighton and Hove Albion losing in the play-offs to our arch rivals Crystal Palace. That was a horrible match - I think most of us Brighton fans were fairly confident going into the play-offs, and how that came back to bite us. It's all gone downhill since, with our management all suspended, players leaving and whatnot... It's not been the toughest time being a Brighton fan to say the least, but it has been very testing. I have full faith in Tony Bloom and the club however - as much as it is frustrating not knowing anything, it's better this way than things being leaked all the time. It's being handled internally for a reason - and it's very professionally done by the club.
If he was to stay, would Gus be welcomed back? Half and half I reckon; on one hand, he's done fantastically with us and taken us to the play-offs within two seasons of being back in the Championship. On the other, he's fast becoming a little unpopular with the fans - has his ego gotten to big for the club? Most likely. It'd be hard to see him stay after all this, but it's not impossible. I hope it is sorted sooner rather than later, so the club can focus on next season and rebuilding to challenge for the play-offs once more - I hope!
I've seen a couple of women's football matches recently - both at Premier League grounds. One was Arsenal Ladies v Liverpool Ladies at the Emirates; although the result was very disappointing from a Arsenal perspective, I found the Emirates very impressive. What would have been better, is a bigger crowd. I believe there was only a crowd of around 2,000 for the game, which me and my football team found rather disappointing. It probably felt a lot less too, due to the size of the Emirates.
The second game me and my football team-mates went to was the women's Champions League at Chelsea's stadium, Stamford Bridge. That was impressive, and the crowd was a staggering 19,258 - impressive for a women's football game in the UK outside of the Olympics. I really hope that the Olympic legacy will help women's football continue to grow - with the women's FA Cup Final shown on the TV and the Euro's due to be shown in the summer, the coverage of the sport is beginning to grow. I'm so pleased - I know women's football may never be as 'big' as the men's game, but it is growing, slowly but steadily.
I believe that is all for now, so I shall end my little ramblings. Any comments on the issues above, just drop one below! Always be glad to hear from you lovely lot.
Adios, and happy reading x
Wednesday 8 May 2013
Gone... But not goodbye
The footballing world was undoubtedly beyond shocked, as Manchester United gave confirmation that long-serving manager Sir Alex Ferguson was to retire at the end of the season; just two weeks after leading the Red Devils to their record 20th title.
No-one saw this coming. At all. It's a major shock - personally, I thought he could have gone a couple more seasons at least, maybe even longer until his health physically wouldn't let him manage anymore. That's one thing we have to remember; no-one is invincible. The man is 71, he cannot go on forever - as much as we may all want him to.
Regardless of whoever you support, you cannot deny the man is a legend. The greatest manager possibly ever, definitely the best manager in the English league. And quite frankly if you don't agree with that, you do not understand football.
In his 26 years at United, Fergie has won 38 trophies - that impressive haul includes 13 league titles, two Champions League crowns, five FA Cups and four League Cups. That record is undisputed - and yet we remember his first two seasons in charge of United were unsuccessful. In fact, United were going to sack him! But they stuck with him, and now, they have knocked Liverpool off their perch to be the most successful club in England.
He may be hypocritical, he may be arrogant but my goodness, he is utterly brilliant. I don't think any manager will eclipse quite what Fergie has done in his wonderful United career, and the respect he has gained throughout the World for this, is enormous. This is clearly evident from the amount of people who today, have said publicly spoke about how brilliant the man is. He's the man who could get his team to turn a game around and do the impossible. He puts his faith in the youth of today, and can make little known teenagers turn into some of the best footballers on the planet. There's just something about Fergie which makes him just pure brilliance.
Whoever his successor may be (I think David Moyes would be perfect for the job), they have certainly massive boots to follow. But I stand up and applaud a brilliant manager, one that has done a lot for the game. He may be going, but this is not goodbye.
So I say,
Farewell Fergie. And thanks for everything.
No-one saw this coming. At all. It's a major shock - personally, I thought he could have gone a couple more seasons at least, maybe even longer until his health physically wouldn't let him manage anymore. That's one thing we have to remember; no-one is invincible. The man is 71, he cannot go on forever - as much as we may all want him to.
Regardless of whoever you support, you cannot deny the man is a legend. The greatest manager possibly ever, definitely the best manager in the English league. And quite frankly if you don't agree with that, you do not understand football.
In his 26 years at United, Fergie has won 38 trophies - that impressive haul includes 13 league titles, two Champions League crowns, five FA Cups and four League Cups. That record is undisputed - and yet we remember his first two seasons in charge of United were unsuccessful. In fact, United were going to sack him! But they stuck with him, and now, they have knocked Liverpool off their perch to be the most successful club in England.
He may be hypocritical, he may be arrogant but my goodness, he is utterly brilliant. I don't think any manager will eclipse quite what Fergie has done in his wonderful United career, and the respect he has gained throughout the World for this, is enormous. This is clearly evident from the amount of people who today, have said publicly spoke about how brilliant the man is. He's the man who could get his team to turn a game around and do the impossible. He puts his faith in the youth of today, and can make little known teenagers turn into some of the best footballers on the planet. There's just something about Fergie which makes him just pure brilliance.
Whoever his successor may be (I think David Moyes would be perfect for the job), they have certainly massive boots to follow. But I stand up and applaud a brilliant manager, one that has done a lot for the game. He may be going, but this is not goodbye.
So I say,
Farewell Fergie. And thanks for everything.
Monday 29 April 2013
Iron Man 3 review
The wait is over - Tony Stark is back in UK cinema screens as Iron Man 3 hit on Thursday and boy, have we all missed that self-confessed genius, billionaire, play-boy and philanthropist.
Being a massive Marvel and general super-hero fan, I could barely wait for the next addition of this adventure to arrive and I was not disappointed. At all. Here is the trailer to give you all a refresher of what to expect...
WARNING - probable spoilers below video.
Rating: 10/10
So we see the irresistible and wonderful Robert Downey Jr return in his fourth outing as Tony Stark/Iron Man - and once again I say whoever did the casting for the first Iron Man deserves a medal; absolute genius. He fits the role so perfectly, you begin to wonder whether he is actually Tony Stark away from the big screen. It was another stellar performance from the main man - we see a totally different side to the cocky Tony Stark we are now used to seeing in the cinematic Marvel universe. We see Stark struggling to deal with the impact of his near-death experience in Avengers Assemble, and his worries to keep his assistant-turned-girlfriend Pepper Potts (the wonderful Gwyneth Paltrow) safe. It's actually refreshing to see another side to Iron Man, a side that when the first Iron Man arrived, that we wouldn't have expected to have seen but it was wonderfully portrayed by Downey Jr. But don't fret; you of course do see the confident side of Tony Stark we've all grown to love. The film still has all of the funny one-liners and great scenes - it just wouldn't be a Marvel film without them and once again, there are scenes which will have you in stitches. Look out in particular for the duo of Stark with his Colonel friend, James Rhodes (Don Cheadle), with wonderfully hiliarious scenes with the pair of them.
But we can't just mention the actors; once again, the script and the visual effects do make the movie as incredible as it is. I won't spoil it for those who haven't seen this but there is a MASSIVE plot twist - the villains aren't who you expect and it is wonderfully written, with the plot twist having you gasp in your seats. Mentions must go to the performances of Sir Ben Kingsley and Guy Pearce, as the Mandarin and Aldrich Killian - both were fantastic and put in performances that you would not expected had you read the press releases before the film. The twists and turns of this story are really something.
The visual effects once again are stellar - the scenes in particular where all of Tony's Iron Man seats (majority of them unseen until now) arrive to fight, and also when Tony mind controls the newest suit (Mark 42) to attach to him. It's amazing stuff - that is one major part of what makes the film so incredible. The choice of director must also be applauded - the fact that Shane Black had worked with Robert Downey Jr before the film Kiss Kiss Bang Bang was always going to work out well, and it really was a good performance from the director. He has made a quite frankly 'awesome' film, which can be viewed as one for all of the family to enjoy.
And I loved this film so much, I have rated 10/10. So if you are into Marvel films, or just like Robert Downey Jr or like the look of the trailer, I implore that you go and watch this film immediately. It is not one to be missed.
Iron Man 3 is out in UK cinemas now, and opens in the USA on the 3rd of May.
Being a massive Marvel and general super-hero fan, I could barely wait for the next addition of this adventure to arrive and I was not disappointed. At all. Here is the trailer to give you all a refresher of what to expect...
WARNING - probable spoilers below video.
Rating: 10/10
So we see the irresistible and wonderful Robert Downey Jr return in his fourth outing as Tony Stark/Iron Man - and once again I say whoever did the casting for the first Iron Man deserves a medal; absolute genius. He fits the role so perfectly, you begin to wonder whether he is actually Tony Stark away from the big screen. It was another stellar performance from the main man - we see a totally different side to the cocky Tony Stark we are now used to seeing in the cinematic Marvel universe. We see Stark struggling to deal with the impact of his near-death experience in Avengers Assemble, and his worries to keep his assistant-turned-girlfriend Pepper Potts (the wonderful Gwyneth Paltrow) safe. It's actually refreshing to see another side to Iron Man, a side that when the first Iron Man arrived, that we wouldn't have expected to have seen but it was wonderfully portrayed by Downey Jr. But don't fret; you of course do see the confident side of Tony Stark we've all grown to love. The film still has all of the funny one-liners and great scenes - it just wouldn't be a Marvel film without them and once again, there are scenes which will have you in stitches. Look out in particular for the duo of Stark with his Colonel friend, James Rhodes (Don Cheadle), with wonderfully hiliarious scenes with the pair of them.
But we can't just mention the actors; once again, the script and the visual effects do make the movie as incredible as it is. I won't spoil it for those who haven't seen this but there is a MASSIVE plot twist - the villains aren't who you expect and it is wonderfully written, with the plot twist having you gasp in your seats. Mentions must go to the performances of Sir Ben Kingsley and Guy Pearce, as the Mandarin and Aldrich Killian - both were fantastic and put in performances that you would not expected had you read the press releases before the film. The twists and turns of this story are really something.
The visual effects once again are stellar - the scenes in particular where all of Tony's Iron Man seats (majority of them unseen until now) arrive to fight, and also when Tony mind controls the newest suit (Mark 42) to attach to him. It's amazing stuff - that is one major part of what makes the film so incredible. The choice of director must also be applauded - the fact that Shane Black had worked with Robert Downey Jr before the film Kiss Kiss Bang Bang was always going to work out well, and it really was a good performance from the director. He has made a quite frankly 'awesome' film, which can be viewed as one for all of the family to enjoy.
And I loved this film so much, I have rated 10/10. So if you are into Marvel films, or just like Robert Downey Jr or like the look of the trailer, I implore that you go and watch this film immediately. It is not one to be missed.
Iron Man 3 is out in UK cinemas now, and opens in the USA on the 3rd of May.
Friday 19 April 2013
PFA Player of The Year nominations
You know that the football season is nigh, when word comes through of who has been shortlisted for this season PFA Player of the Year award in the Barclay's Premier League. This season has felt like it has flown by, but here we are again - facing another two or three months without Football; I don't know how we're all going to cope!
The six players nominated for the prestigious award are:
In my view, I think this man without a shadow of a doubt will swoop the prize - and that man is Gareth Bale. Bale this season has been outstanding for Spurs, jinxing his way through opposition teams and scoring 17 goals, with half of them probably being goal of the season contenders. There's no doubt that this season has been one of Bale's best; Spurs will need to keep him if they want to aim for Champions League football next season, or if in fact they do qualify this year. Bale is like Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in ways - he makes dribbling and everything he does easy, with a venomous left foot and such grace and balance when he plays. It's hard to believe that Spurs were set to loan him out to Birmingham at one point earlier in his career - now the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid are after his services. He surely will sweep the board and win this award and quite frankly, I can't think of a more deserving winner.
A note on the other contenders - it is nice to see Carrick nominated, a pleasant surprise. He has been outstanding this season, and having ousted his way back into contention for the England squads, it is very much deserved. He has been the unsung hero of United's campaign, with all of the limelight mainly on their star signing Robin van Persie - who's nomination is nothing than you expected but is equally deserved. Suarez has been stellar all season and profilic, whilst Mata and Hazard have been at the heart of Chelsea's campaign, the clogs in the machine of their midfield. One player that should have been nominated I felt is Swansea's Michu - he is one, if not, of the signings of the summer, and has been prolific since his arrival in Wales. Outstanding striker, and does deserve a mention.
Who do you think will swoop the prestigious Player of the Year? Let me know!
The six players nominated for the prestigious award are:
- Gareth Bale
- Luis Suarez
- Michael Carrick
- Robin van Persie
- Eden Hazard
- Juan Mata
In my view, I think this man without a shadow of a doubt will swoop the prize - and that man is Gareth Bale. Bale this season has been outstanding for Spurs, jinxing his way through opposition teams and scoring 17 goals, with half of them probably being goal of the season contenders. There's no doubt that this season has been one of Bale's best; Spurs will need to keep him if they want to aim for Champions League football next season, or if in fact they do qualify this year. Bale is like Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in ways - he makes dribbling and everything he does easy, with a venomous left foot and such grace and balance when he plays. It's hard to believe that Spurs were set to loan him out to Birmingham at one point earlier in his career - now the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid are after his services. He surely will sweep the board and win this award and quite frankly, I can't think of a more deserving winner.
A note on the other contenders - it is nice to see Carrick nominated, a pleasant surprise. He has been outstanding this season, and having ousted his way back into contention for the England squads, it is very much deserved. He has been the unsung hero of United's campaign, with all of the limelight mainly on their star signing Robin van Persie - who's nomination is nothing than you expected but is equally deserved. Suarez has been stellar all season and profilic, whilst Mata and Hazard have been at the heart of Chelsea's campaign, the clogs in the machine of their midfield. One player that should have been nominated I felt is Swansea's Michu - he is one, if not, of the signings of the summer, and has been prolific since his arrival in Wales. Outstanding striker, and does deserve a mention.
Who do you think will swoop the prestigious Player of the Year? Let me know!
Wednesday 17 April 2013
Odd Football ramblings
Football. I don't know about you guys, but I'm pretty sure I live and breathe it. I'd be so lost if I didn't play Football. It's odd how one sport can make someone have so much emotion towards just 22 players kicking a ball around, but we do. I do. And a lot has happened in the football world, which this blog is about - football ramblings!
First of, I want to extend my congratulations to everyone connected to Cardiff City FC - their players, staff, fans etc. I for one is pleased to see them in the top flight; they've deserved it for so long and they've got a good manager and squad. For a team that has been always challenging the top of the Championship, it's no more than they deserve than to finally end 51 years of hurt and go up to play with the big guns.
I'm also sad to see Portsmouth relegated, a football club which has so much history. It's hard to believe that it was only in 2009 that they had top class players such as Niko Kranjcar and Kevin-Prince Boateng in their starting line-ups - now they have had big financial trouble, in administration and will be playing their football in League Two next season. I know it must be fantastic for Southampton fans that their arch rivals are down, but I'm sad for them and their fans. At least now, with Pompey's Supporters Trust in charge of the club, they can rebuild from stratch. I have no doubt that they will be back challenging in the Championship in no time, so keep the faith Pompey fans!
I come onto now the amount of violence and hooglanism football has seem to have over the last few days - quite frankly, I am appalled. For starters, I really don't see why some Millwall supporters (a minority may I add) found the need to scrap amongst themselves and the Police? It's done nothing but let their club down, who already have a bad enough reputation as it is. It was utterly stupid for them to behave like that, and I feel for their 'proper' fans - fans who were there just to watch their team. To then have the following day Newcastle fans riot in their OWN CITY was just disgraceful - again, was there really any point? Once again I say, all they have done is brought shame on their club - and once again I shall say this was a minority. I hope the authorites and the Football Association take swift action with both incidents.
And my final rambling focuses on the FA, and their lack of punishment for both Callum McManaman's horrendous challenge on Newcastle defender Massadio Haidara, as well as Sergio Aguero's two-footed stamp on Chelsea's David Luiz at the weekend. Both men should have received red cards for their appalling challenges at the time, and should have also received bans. However, thanks to the FA's rule, both escaped bans. Why? The FA say they don't 'have enough authority' to punish both, thanks to their ruling which states if a match official saw the challenge in question, yet didn't act on it, nothing can be done. Basically. Which is a load of tripe. The FA need to change their rulings or risk continuing to make themselves look like a laughing stock organisation, by letting horrific challenges such as McManaman's go unpunished.
And here, I shall conclude on my ramblings. As always, I would love to hear your thoughts - do you think the FA should change their rules? How do you think Cardiff will fare in the Championship next season? Let me know below!
P.s. I'm incredibly sorry for neglecting this blog for such a long time - I could give a long list of excuses but none would be acceptable... The obscene amount of second year uni work though may be a factor.
Friday 8 February 2013
My top five deals in the January transfer window!
In the life of any football fan, transfer deadline day is the day when all work is put on hold, sick days are pulled and the home television set is purely reserved for Sky Sports News and the likes of Jim White. This one day every year in January and August excites football fans across the land, as tension builds up towards the dreaded deadline with questions being thrown about everywhere - will my club sign anyone? How many will 'Arry Redknapp sign today? Will Ronaldinho move to Blackburn!? Oh what a wonderous day.
But alas, it has been and gone. Until August we must wait... But last month's transfer window brought the excitement we all needed, with big deals being concluded throughout the land. One of my teams' did sign a big player - Matthew Upson went to Brighton AH - and the other signed a player to start in the Summer - Wilfred Zaha to Manchester United, even more AH - but it was other clubs were my eye was caught for the majority of the window. So low behold, here are my top five transfer window deals!
1. Lewis Holtby
Signed to Tottenham Hotspur from Schalke. £1.75m
This, for me, was one of the best deals I had seen in the January transfer window for a while - Lewis Holtby. As an attacking midfielder, Holtby had been catching Premier League clubs (and my) eye for a number of seasons and finally, it was announced he'd sign for Spurs in the Summer. However, Spurs' injury woes forced the club to sign the highly-rated German international sooner - and to be honest, I couldn't wait until the summer to see him in the Premier League! Outstanding player who is bound to settle in well and make a big impact; he's the midfielder England have missed out on terribly. His vision and his passing will work well with Tottenham's play - absolute bargain too at £1.75 million.
2. Moussa Sissoko
Signed to Newcastle United from Toulouse. £2.5m
Another fantastic signing who is already showing his worth in the Premier League. A bargain at £2.5 million, a part of Newcastle's new French legion is strong, pacy and attacking; just the player Newcastle needs after letting star player Demba Ba leave. We all saw how easily he got past Ashley Cole - yes ASHLEY COLE - the other day against Chelsea, and then scoring the equalising and winning goals; making him an instant Toon favourite. Only 23, this player is a star for the future.
3. Daniel Sturridge
Signed to Liverpool from Chelsea. £12m
A good move by Brendan Rodgers and Liverpool has seen English international Daniel Sturridge make to Merseyside, and switched for blue for the red of Liverpool. Quite frankly, a very decent signing - Sturridge is a good quality, young striker but he needed (and deserved) to be at a club where he is going to get playing time. Liverpool on the other hand, only had Luis Suarez as their recongized striker, so this move works out well for all parties. Maybe 12 million is a bit excessive, but a very good player with lots of potential - could force his way back into Roy Hodgson's England plans with more playing time.
4. Mathieu Debuchy
Signed to Newcastle United from Lille. £5m
This saga threatened to rival the Cesc Fabregas 'will he-won't he' tale between his move from Arsenal to Barcelona but finally, Newcastle landed their man - left back Mathieu Debuchy. Debuchy impressed with his performances for both former club Lille and for the French international team during Euro 2012, and I really rate this player. He's solid at the back, but he's also great at attacking and getting forward with his team - your perfect left-back so to speak. I'll tip him to impress in the Premiership - really is a top player.
5. Demba Ba
Signed to Chelsea from Newcastle United. £7m
I do feel sorry for Newcastle fans by the way Ba acted but hey, at least it wasn't as bad as Peter Odemwingie! Demba Ba has proved himself as a profilic goal-scorer in the Premier League, and he's your typical centre forward - powerful, good in the air and he has that goal scoring instinct. He'll do well at Chelsea - how long he'll stay there is anyone's guess - and he'll provide good competition for Fernando Torres. He's the striker Chelsea needs up front to replace the big hole Didier Drogba left.
Who is your top five transfer deals? Were you happy with who your club signed? Drop a comment below!
But alas, it has been and gone. Until August we must wait... But last month's transfer window brought the excitement we all needed, with big deals being concluded throughout the land. One of my teams' did sign a big player - Matthew Upson went to Brighton AH - and the other signed a player to start in the Summer - Wilfred Zaha to Manchester United, even more AH - but it was other clubs were my eye was caught for the majority of the window. So low behold, here are my top five transfer window deals!
1. Lewis Holtby
Signed to Tottenham Hotspur from Schalke. £1.75m
This, for me, was one of the best deals I had seen in the January transfer window for a while - Lewis Holtby. As an attacking midfielder, Holtby had been catching Premier League clubs (and my) eye for a number of seasons and finally, it was announced he'd sign for Spurs in the Summer. However, Spurs' injury woes forced the club to sign the highly-rated German international sooner - and to be honest, I couldn't wait until the summer to see him in the Premier League! Outstanding player who is bound to settle in well and make a big impact; he's the midfielder England have missed out on terribly. His vision and his passing will work well with Tottenham's play - absolute bargain too at £1.75 million.
2. Moussa Sissoko
Signed to Newcastle United from Toulouse. £2.5m
Another fantastic signing who is already showing his worth in the Premier League. A bargain at £2.5 million, a part of Newcastle's new French legion is strong, pacy and attacking; just the player Newcastle needs after letting star player Demba Ba leave. We all saw how easily he got past Ashley Cole - yes ASHLEY COLE - the other day against Chelsea, and then scoring the equalising and winning goals; making him an instant Toon favourite. Only 23, this player is a star for the future.
3. Daniel Sturridge
Signed to Liverpool from Chelsea. £12m
A good move by Brendan Rodgers and Liverpool has seen English international Daniel Sturridge make to Merseyside, and switched for blue for the red of Liverpool. Quite frankly, a very decent signing - Sturridge is a good quality, young striker but he needed (and deserved) to be at a club where he is going to get playing time. Liverpool on the other hand, only had Luis Suarez as their recongized striker, so this move works out well for all parties. Maybe 12 million is a bit excessive, but a very good player with lots of potential - could force his way back into Roy Hodgson's England plans with more playing time.
4. Mathieu Debuchy
Signed to Newcastle United from Lille. £5m
This saga threatened to rival the Cesc Fabregas 'will he-won't he' tale between his move from Arsenal to Barcelona but finally, Newcastle landed their man - left back Mathieu Debuchy. Debuchy impressed with his performances for both former club Lille and for the French international team during Euro 2012, and I really rate this player. He's solid at the back, but he's also great at attacking and getting forward with his team - your perfect left-back so to speak. I'll tip him to impress in the Premiership - really is a top player.
5. Demba Ba
Signed to Chelsea from Newcastle United. £7m
I do feel sorry for Newcastle fans by the way Ba acted but hey, at least it wasn't as bad as Peter Odemwingie! Demba Ba has proved himself as a profilic goal-scorer in the Premier League, and he's your typical centre forward - powerful, good in the air and he has that goal scoring instinct. He'll do well at Chelsea - how long he'll stay there is anyone's guess - and he'll provide good competition for Fernando Torres. He's the striker Chelsea needs up front to replace the big hole Didier Drogba left.
Who is your top five transfer deals? Were you happy with who your club signed? Drop a comment below!
Les Miserables review
Review time!
So in between my rather busy schedule recently, I (of course) just had to make time to see Les Miserables hit the big screen and I'll tell you simply now - I was blown away.
Here's the trailer before, and caution - there are spoilers beyond it...
So I'll make a little confession before I start... Before I went and watched this film, I actually hadn't seen Les Mis before. I KNOW, I'M SORRY! But like most people, I had of course heard the majority of the songs and I had watched a little bit of my Mum's tenth anniversary DVD with her. But that was all my knowledge of Les Miserables expanded to.
So for my first time ever seeing Les Mis all the way through, I can tell you now I loved every second of it. I found the story was relatively easy to follow - probably a little easier than I may have done on the stage. Although the ending is sad (incredibly sad may I add), I left the cinema so happy because I was just blown away by what I had just watched; no wonder it has been nominated for so many awards, and any award it does win, will be fully deserved.
The cast was a stellar, blockbuster cast that you'd expect with a big film such as this, easily one of the many anticipated films to come out recently. Hugh Jackman was wonderful as the lead of Jean Valjean, displaying his versatility and talent within not just his singing voice, but also his acting. It was a wonderful performance; however, I feel that Jackman didn't have the best voice of the cast. I'd give this award to Eddie Redmayne, though I suppose it's hardly surprising with Redmayne having ample experience on the Broadway and West End. But his voice was to perfection, and I felt Redmaybe played Marius wonderfully - this performance has definitely proved he is one to look out for in the future. The women of the cast were equally as fantastic - Anne Hathway's rendition of 'I Dreamed A Dream' was beautiful enough to give anyone goosebumps, and Amanda Seyfried displayed her singing talent very well, despite having a lesser role. Even Helen Bonham Carter and Sacha Baron Cohen were hiliarious as the Thenardiers, a wonderfully cast pairing.
I mean, even Russell Crowe wasn't bad! I thought his singing voice was not too shabby at all - his performance of Javert was actually one of my favourite performances in the film, displaying the ruthless and cold persona you'd expect from his character. He and Jackman worked together very well, the relationship between their characters was very well exploited. So before you slate him, please take a look at the video underneath and remind yourselves of Pierce Bronson 'singing' in Mamma Mia.
Just so I thought.
Full credit must go to the producers and the director, Brit Tom Hooper, for the wonderful cinematography provided throughout the entire film. The beginning scene with the prisoners pulling the ship, to the ending scene with the entire cast who had deceased in the film singing "Do You Hear The People Sing?". Just stunning.
Rating out of 10 - I'd give it 9/10. I really couldn't find any flaws to this masterpiece and I for one, will be hoping it sweeps the board at the BAFTA's on Sunday. Bravo!
Look out soon for more trailer reviews and for you Football fans, my top five transfer window deals - coming soon to a computer screen near you!
So in between my rather busy schedule recently, I (of course) just had to make time to see Les Miserables hit the big screen and I'll tell you simply now - I was blown away.
Here's the trailer before, and caution - there are spoilers beyond it...
So I'll make a little confession before I start... Before I went and watched this film, I actually hadn't seen Les Mis before. I KNOW, I'M SORRY! But like most people, I had of course heard the majority of the songs and I had watched a little bit of my Mum's tenth anniversary DVD with her. But that was all my knowledge of Les Miserables expanded to.
So for my first time ever seeing Les Mis all the way through, I can tell you now I loved every second of it. I found the story was relatively easy to follow - probably a little easier than I may have done on the stage. Although the ending is sad (incredibly sad may I add), I left the cinema so happy because I was just blown away by what I had just watched; no wonder it has been nominated for so many awards, and any award it does win, will be fully deserved.
The cast was a stellar, blockbuster cast that you'd expect with a big film such as this, easily one of the many anticipated films to come out recently. Hugh Jackman was wonderful as the lead of Jean Valjean, displaying his versatility and talent within not just his singing voice, but also his acting. It was a wonderful performance; however, I feel that Jackman didn't have the best voice of the cast. I'd give this award to Eddie Redmayne, though I suppose it's hardly surprising with Redmayne having ample experience on the Broadway and West End. But his voice was to perfection, and I felt Redmaybe played Marius wonderfully - this performance has definitely proved he is one to look out for in the future. The women of the cast were equally as fantastic - Anne Hathway's rendition of 'I Dreamed A Dream' was beautiful enough to give anyone goosebumps, and Amanda Seyfried displayed her singing talent very well, despite having a lesser role. Even Helen Bonham Carter and Sacha Baron Cohen were hiliarious as the Thenardiers, a wonderfully cast pairing.
I mean, even Russell Crowe wasn't bad! I thought his singing voice was not too shabby at all - his performance of Javert was actually one of my favourite performances in the film, displaying the ruthless and cold persona you'd expect from his character. He and Jackman worked together very well, the relationship between their characters was very well exploited. So before you slate him, please take a look at the video underneath and remind yourselves of Pierce Bronson 'singing' in Mamma Mia.
Just so I thought.
Full credit must go to the producers and the director, Brit Tom Hooper, for the wonderful cinematography provided throughout the entire film. The beginning scene with the prisoners pulling the ship, to the ending scene with the entire cast who had deceased in the film singing "Do You Hear The People Sing?". Just stunning.
Rating out of 10 - I'd give it 9/10. I really couldn't find any flaws to this masterpiece and I for one, will be hoping it sweeps the board at the BAFTA's on Sunday. Bravo!
Look out soon for more trailer reviews and for you Football fans, my top five transfer window deals - coming soon to a computer screen near you!
Thursday 7 February 2013
New year, new challenges
Helloooo everyone!
Many apologises for the lack of posts on this blog, but as you're about to find out, I've been hugely busy the last few weeks... oh the life of a Journo student!
As you may be aware, I'm currently studying Multimedia Journalism for my degree and as part of our course, we are encouraged to take up work experience. Anyone who knows the world of Journalism, gaining experience is hugely important. It's a great way of gaining contacts, becoming familiar of that environment of working and it looks great on your CV to future employers. It's so important - my Uni tutor hasn't got off my back nagging to complete some!
A couple of weeks back, I completed two weeks work experience at football magazine FourFourTwo. For my first proper placement, it was perfect - I love football, so to spend two weeks writing about a sport I play and love was great. And to make things better, some of my work got recently published in the latest issue of the magazine, as well as a news story also published online. I loved every minute of it, and left after the two weeks supremely happy.
But my work experience was not to end there! I emailed the editor I kept in contact with at FourFourTwo once I got back to University, thanking him for the opportunity and asking if I could come back in the Summer months to complete some more experience. What I didn't expect was an reply back asking if I was interested in completeing another two weeks work experience the following week, at another magazine run by the same publication - Haymarket. This magazine was What Hi Fi - at first I was a little unsure admittedly; I'd only just gone back to University and wanted to spend time back there with friends and carry on with my studies yet, this was another fantastic opportunity. So I said yes, and low and behold, I'm currently sitting in the What Hi Fi office, writing this blog whilst doing work with FourFourTwo just down the corridor. Again, I have thoroughly enjoyed this experience (despite being ill with the Flu the last few days, and trains being delayed every day) and I'm so glad I decided to do this. Furthermore, I am receiving pay for this so I guess this kind of makes me a freelance Journalist. Awesome.
It's also been so nice to spend more time at home; before the Christmas holidays, I didn't go home as much as I did last year, preferring to work more at my job down there but also it's always nice to spend time with my friends at University. However, I found myself pining for home - particularly after New York - so it's nice being home and being to catch up with friends who are also away studying in different parts of the country at Christmas, and see my family. I've also been able to play football more back home over the last few weeks - albeit only training, having only played one whole game of football due to the snow arriving and the adverse rain! But it has been nice - it'll be weird going back to University again and getting back into the swing of things, and dealing with new assignments. Oh joy...
So that's just about my round up of the last few weeks for me - I did go and see Les Miserables in the cinema in between all that, so I shall write a review for that soon - I SHALL!
I'd also like to thank everyone - because you guys - yes YOU - this blog has received over 1,000 views! Yippee! Thank you all so much, it is such a comfort to know that people are actually reading my ramblings.
Take care, and watch out for my review of Les Miserables heading to a computer screen near you!
Many apologises for the lack of posts on this blog, but as you're about to find out, I've been hugely busy the last few weeks... oh the life of a Journo student!
As you may be aware, I'm currently studying Multimedia Journalism for my degree and as part of our course, we are encouraged to take up work experience. Anyone who knows the world of Journalism, gaining experience is hugely important. It's a great way of gaining contacts, becoming familiar of that environment of working and it looks great on your CV to future employers. It's so important - my Uni tutor hasn't got off my back nagging to complete some!
A couple of weeks back, I completed two weeks work experience at football magazine FourFourTwo. For my first proper placement, it was perfect - I love football, so to spend two weeks writing about a sport I play and love was great. And to make things better, some of my work got recently published in the latest issue of the magazine, as well as a news story also published online. I loved every minute of it, and left after the two weeks supremely happy.
But my work experience was not to end there! I emailed the editor I kept in contact with at FourFourTwo once I got back to University, thanking him for the opportunity and asking if I could come back in the Summer months to complete some more experience. What I didn't expect was an reply back asking if I was interested in completeing another two weeks work experience the following week, at another magazine run by the same publication - Haymarket. This magazine was What Hi Fi - at first I was a little unsure admittedly; I'd only just gone back to University and wanted to spend time back there with friends and carry on with my studies yet, this was another fantastic opportunity. So I said yes, and low and behold, I'm currently sitting in the What Hi Fi office, writing this blog whilst doing work with FourFourTwo just down the corridor. Again, I have thoroughly enjoyed this experience (despite being ill with the Flu the last few days, and trains being delayed every day) and I'm so glad I decided to do this. Furthermore, I am receiving pay for this so I guess this kind of makes me a freelance Journalist. Awesome.
It's also been so nice to spend more time at home; before the Christmas holidays, I didn't go home as much as I did last year, preferring to work more at my job down there but also it's always nice to spend time with my friends at University. However, I found myself pining for home - particularly after New York - so it's nice being home and being to catch up with friends who are also away studying in different parts of the country at Christmas, and see my family. I've also been able to play football more back home over the last few weeks - albeit only training, having only played one whole game of football due to the snow arriving and the adverse rain! But it has been nice - it'll be weird going back to University again and getting back into the swing of things, and dealing with new assignments. Oh joy...
So that's just about my round up of the last few weeks for me - I did go and see Les Miserables in the cinema in between all that, so I shall write a review for that soon - I SHALL!
I'd also like to thank everyone - because you guys - yes YOU - this blog has received over 1,000 views! Yippee! Thank you all so much, it is such a comfort to know that people are actually reading my ramblings.
Take care, and watch out for my review of Les Miserables heading to a computer screen near you!
Thursday 24 January 2013
The crazy world of Football
Ah Football. What a crazy world it has become; we've seen chickens and cats invade pitches before, we've seen fans run onto the pitch to attack players... but never have we seen a player sent off for kicking a ball-boy.
Yep, you red that right - last night during Chelsea's League Cup semi-final away against Swansea, midfielder Eden Hazard was sent off. Why? Because he kicked a ball-boy. Never has this happened in the beautiful game. This could quite possibly be the most bizarre sending off ever to occur on the pitch, but I feel Chris Foy had no option but to send Hazard to an early bath. I mean, the ball-boy didn't help matters; he decided to lay on the ball, prompting Hazard to try poke at it with his foot. A swift little kick and the boy was sent sprawling, chaos erupting. Both were in the wrong - the ball-boy should have just returned the ball, Hazard should have kept a clear head.
But it is downright bizarre, and it's not the only bizarre sending off the game has seen.
Eric Cantona - Eric 'the King' Cantona was not so high and mighty during a game between Crystal Palace and Manchester United. Cantona was already being sent off for kicking out at Palace defender Richard Shaw, and decide to launch 'kung-fu' style at Palace fan Matthew Simmons. This resulted in a 8 month ban for Cantona, and him almost quitting United.
Kieron Dyer and Lee Bowyer - A very bizarre incident between the then team-mates; Newcastle were nearing the end of a 3-0 thrashing at home by Aston Villa, when a brawl broke out between the pair, causing stunned team-mates and opposition players to seperate them. Dyer was banned for three matches, whilst Bowyer was banned for four - it was judged he had been the aggressor. Not sure how they figured that one out.
Arsene Wenger - during Arsenal's 2-1 defeat at Manchester United back in 2008, Arsene Wenger was seen gleefully celebrating what he thought was an equalising goal by Robin Van Persie - which was then disallowed. Of course outraged, Arsene decides to vent his anger by kicking a water bottle, who is promptly sent to the stands by ref Mike Dean. For kicking a water bottle. Oh deary me.
Esteban Alvarado - AZ Alkmaar goalkeeper Esteban Alvarado was sent off for kicking a fan that tried to attack him. An Ajax fan ran onto the pitch whilst the two sides were contesting a last-16 tie in the Dutch Cup and attempted to kick the keeper - only for Esteban to trip the offender up and land a few kicks himself. Despite protesting his innocence, the ref showed the goalkeeper the red card and in pure anger, AZ Alkmaar's manager ordered his players off the field, resulting in the game being abandoned.
Oh the wonderful and crazy world of Football.
Your thoughts? Remember any other bizarre sending offs? Drop a comment below if you may!
Yep, you red that right - last night during Chelsea's League Cup semi-final away against Swansea, midfielder Eden Hazard was sent off. Why? Because he kicked a ball-boy. Never has this happened in the beautiful game. This could quite possibly be the most bizarre sending off ever to occur on the pitch, but I feel Chris Foy had no option but to send Hazard to an early bath. I mean, the ball-boy didn't help matters; he decided to lay on the ball, prompting Hazard to try poke at it with his foot. A swift little kick and the boy was sent sprawling, chaos erupting. Both were in the wrong - the ball-boy should have just returned the ball, Hazard should have kept a clear head.
But it is downright bizarre, and it's not the only bizarre sending off the game has seen.
Eric Cantona - Eric 'the King' Cantona was not so high and mighty during a game between Crystal Palace and Manchester United. Cantona was already being sent off for kicking out at Palace defender Richard Shaw, and decide to launch 'kung-fu' style at Palace fan Matthew Simmons. This resulted in a 8 month ban for Cantona, and him almost quitting United.
Kieron Dyer and Lee Bowyer - A very bizarre incident between the then team-mates; Newcastle were nearing the end of a 3-0 thrashing at home by Aston Villa, when a brawl broke out between the pair, causing stunned team-mates and opposition players to seperate them. Dyer was banned for three matches, whilst Bowyer was banned for four - it was judged he had been the aggressor. Not sure how they figured that one out.
Arsene Wenger - during Arsenal's 2-1 defeat at Manchester United back in 2008, Arsene Wenger was seen gleefully celebrating what he thought was an equalising goal by Robin Van Persie - which was then disallowed. Of course outraged, Arsene decides to vent his anger by kicking a water bottle, who is promptly sent to the stands by ref Mike Dean. For kicking a water bottle. Oh deary me.
Esteban Alvarado - AZ Alkmaar goalkeeper Esteban Alvarado was sent off for kicking a fan that tried to attack him. An Ajax fan ran onto the pitch whilst the two sides were contesting a last-16 tie in the Dutch Cup and attempted to kick the keeper - only for Esteban to trip the offender up and land a few kicks himself. Despite protesting his innocence, the ref showed the goalkeeper the red card and in pure anger, AZ Alkmaar's manager ordered his players off the field, resulting in the game being abandoned.
Oh the wonderful and crazy world of Football.
Your thoughts? Remember any other bizarre sending offs? Drop a comment below if you may!
Tuesday 1 January 2013
Films to watch out for in 2013!
First of all - happy new year one and all! Hope 2013 is a great year for you all.
And with a new year comes a new lot of films being released of course! I cannot wait, and 2013 is shaping up to be a good year for the film industry once more. So here is my quick guide for the films to look out nex- I mean this year!
And with a new year comes a new lot of films being released of course! I cannot wait, and 2013 is shaping up to be a good year for the film industry once more. So here is my quick guide for the films to look out nex- I mean this year!
- Iron Man 3 - the return of Robert Downey Jr as Iron Man is hugely anticipated, and the trailers so far promise to be an excellent journey with the self-confessed billionaire, genius and playboy all rolled into one. In Iron Man 3, we see Tony Stark's (RDJ) whole world as he knows it threatened by new villain the Mandarin (Ben Kingsley), as he battles also his own personal demons. The trailer seems to show a certainly different and more subdued side of Tony Stark, and I for one cannot wait to see this film. Out in UK cinemas on the 26th of April and USA cinemas on the 3rd of May.
- Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters - this story is said to be promising gore and comedy, and previously I did not quite what to think due to the trailers. But if your into fantasy and a certainly different twist on a old fairy-tale, then this is the film for you. Starring Jeremy Renner and Gemma Arterton, the cast is certainly hopeful of becoming a potentially good film if that is what you are interested in. It may be hit and miss, but hopefully the talents of both leads will carry this film through if needed be. Out in UK cinemas on the 22nd of February and USA cinemas on the 25th of January.
- The Impossible - This film tells the despairing true story of a family separated during the 2004 Tsunami in Thailand, who all survive and so begin a desperate search to be reunited with one another. Starring the marvellous Ewan McGregor and Naomi Watts, this tale promises to be emotional which will tug at the heart-strings of many but which will hopefully be heart-warming too. Definitely one to watch. Out now in both UK and USA cinemas.
- Oblivion - This upcoming science fiction film stars Tom Cruise as drone repairman Jack Harper, after Earth was evacuated following a war with an alien kind. However after rescuing a female who seems to know him, he faces a whole host of questions and the very survival of humanity is then laid in his hands. It certainly looks very interesting, and the fact that the director also happens to be the same man who wrote the book (Joesph Kosinski) will bode well for the film. Well worth a watch if you like sci-fi. Out in UK and USA cinemas on the 12th of April.
- The Hunger Games: Catching Fire - next installment in the Hunger Games trilogy is set to be released this year and it promises just to be as great and as jam-packed with action as the first film was. Based on the second book by Suzanne Collins, Katniss and Peeta are determined to prove that their actions in the arena was not to spark a rebellion, but with the 75th Hunger Games coming up, will the President of Panem punish them even more? Starring the fantastic Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson, if the film is anything to go as a great as the book then we'll be in for a treat. Out in UK and USA cinemas on the 22nd of November.
Also watch out for films such as Man of Steel, Anchorman: The Legend Continues, Monsters University and many more!
Let me know what you think, and hope you all have a great 2013 once more!
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