Full Round-Up & Recap of Week 12 in the Premier League

BY NISAR KHAN

Football

Premier League

WEEK 12

The Premier League indeed hit the ground running following the International break. With Manchester City quick out of the blocks decimating Tottenham, an epic derby, thrilling draws and plenty of late goals, it was another remarkable weekend of Premier League action.

In the weekend’s games, all matches saw at least one goal following the 80th minute. Late drama struck proving for some edge-of-your-seat entertainment.

An enticing three-all draw between Merseyside rivals would prove for the best game of the season to date.

Everton 3 – 3 Liverpool

GOALSCORERS: Coutinho 5′, Mirallas 8′, Suarez 19′, Lukaku 72′ & 82′, Sturridge 89′
MAN OF THE MATCH: Romelu Lukaku
REPORT: Read the match report here
HEADLINE: Daniel Sturridge Scores Late Equalizer in Six-Goal Merseyside Thriller

Daniel Sturridge scored on the 89th minute to pull back a point for Liverpool in an incredible Merseysid Derby.

Philipe Coutinho scored his first goal in the derby just five minutes in, scoring after Luis Suarez flicked the ball onto him from Gerrard’s corner.

Kevin Mirallas would hit back for the hosts merely minutes after, capitalizing on poor defense of Leighton Baines’ free-kick to equalize.

Luis Suarez took advantage of a poor wall set-up to curl a free-kick into the bottom right which gave Liverpool the lead going into the break.

Simon Mignolet had a busy afternoon in between the sticks having to defy fellow Belgian Romelu Lukaku time and time again. But eventually, Lukaku would score twice within ten minutes of two set-pieces to put the Toffees ahead once again.

Referee Phil Dowd came under some criticism for a delayed sanctioning of Kevin Mirallas as he only received a booking for a high challenge on Luis Suarez that could have easily made him see red. That was one of a few typical Derby fouls that included Steven Gerrard colliding with fellow compatriot Gareth Barry mid-air.

Trailing by a goal, Brendan Rogers looked towards Daniel Sturridge and the potent SAS striking partnership, as he substituted Daniel Sturridge on. And that would have an impact, as Daniel Sturridge scored from a header off Steven Gerrard’s free quick to score the sixth goal of the game.

Daniel Sturridge heads home a huge equalizer. Image Courtesy: Reuters

Stoke 2 – 0 Sunderland

GOALSCORERS: Adam 30′, N’Zonzi 81′
MAN OF THE MATCH: Geoff Cameron
HEADLINE: Stoke Topple Controversial 10-man Sunderland

Charlie Adam and Steven N’Zonzi scored in Stoke’s home win over Sunderland in a game where Wes Brown was controversially sent off.

Right on the half-hour mark, Charlie Adam scored off N’Zonzi’s assist to put Stoke ahead at the Britannia.

Wes Brown was controversially sent off six minutes following the goal for a challenge on Charlie Adam. On further inspection, Adam seemed to win the ball cleanly, yet was the recipient of a red card.

After assisting the first, N’Zonzi scored with minutes remaining of the game to secure the victory.

Outrage: Stoke’s players debate the decision.

Hull City 0 – 1 Crystal Palace

GOALSCORERS: Bannan 81′
MAN OF THE MATCH: Barry Bannan
HEADLINE: Late Bannan Goal the Difference as Eagles Tame Tigers

Barry Bannan scored in the 81st minute to record Crystal Palace’s second league win as they beat Hull City away.

It was Crystal Palace’s first win since beating Sunderland in August.

Goalless up to the late stages, Tony Pulis watched from the stands having signed a deal as manager earlier on that day.

Yannick Bolasie was sent off with around twelve minutes remaining and the odds were stacked against the visitors.

But, the 10-man Palace side would take the lead with nine minutes of normal time remaining. Fantastic work by Cameron Jerome allowed him to cut back to Barry Bannan to score an easy goal from close-range.

Hang-Time: Barry Bannan leaps to the air as he celebrates the winner. Image Courtesy / Copyright: Getty

Newcastle 2 – 1 Norwich

GOALSCORERS: Remy 2′, Gouffran 38′, Fer 80′
MAN OF THE MATCH: Shola Ameobi
HEADLINE: Magpies Comfortably Fly to Win over Canaries

Gouffran and Remy’s first-half goals picked up three points for Newcastle when they eased to victory at St James’ Park.

Loic Remy scored just two minutes into the action with a header off Yohan Cabaye’s corner kick. The goal was significant for the hosts with an early lead established.

Yoan Gouffran fired the second for the Magpies following John Ruddy’s parry from Shola Amerobi’s shot, giving the home-side a threshold of the game going into the break.

Newcastle were in for a shaky finish to the game with Leroy Fer’s header to pull one back for the Canaries, but alas in vein as Newcastle went on to take all the points.

Fulham 1 – 2 Swansea

GOALSCORERS: Hughes 56′ (OG), Parker 64′, Shelvey 80′
MAN OF THE MATCH: Scott Parker
HEADLINE: Jonjo Shelvey Scores Winner off the Bench to Ground Fulham

Jonjo Shelvey was substituted on and scored in the 80th minute as Swansea picked up their first win in six games.

Fulham had a lackluster start to the game of which was symbolized with Aaron Hughes’ own goal, summing up a frustrating day for Martin Jol.

Captain Scott Parker put his side on level terms with a curled shot to put Fulham back into it, but it would soon change again.

Jonjo Shelvey came off the bench to fire past the keeper on the edge of the area, a winner that would pick up a big win for the Swans and further diminish Fulham, and Martin Jol, who came under more criticism following the loss. 

Arsenal 2 – 0 Southampton

GOALSCORERS: Giroud 22′ & 82′ (pen)
MAN OF THE MATCH: Olivier Giroud
HEADLINE: Giroud Double Topples Third Place Saints as Arsenal Go Four Points Clear

Olivier Giroud scored two for Arsenal to hold off an impressive Southampton performance to put the Gunners four points clear at the top of the table.

It was a gift of a goal for Giroud in his first, as keeper Boruc messed up with a backpass allowing the Frenchman to fire the opener.

GIF: Giroud is gifted the goal.

Giroud’s second came in the form of a penalty, as Jose Fonte was caught pulling Per Mertesacker’s shirt.

Southampton, proving their worth with a high position in the table, made it a hard task for Arsenal to pick up the win as Adam Lallana came close.

Arsenal went four points clear following their win.

Double-Delight: Giroud. Image Courtesy: TheTimes.co.uk

West Ham United 0 – 3 Chelsea

GOALSCORERS: Lampard 21′ & 82′, Oscar 34′
MAN OF THE MATCH: Frank Lampard
REPORT: Read the match report here
HEADLINE: Lampard Ends Goal Drought With Double as Chelsea Knock Down Hammers

Frank Lampard ended an 11-game goal drought to score twice in Chelsea’s dominant performance over West Ham at Upton Park.

Chelsea started the game with a bombardment of pressure to the hosts. With a few chances coming in the opening minutes, it was becoming clear that Sam Allardyce was in for a tough evening.

Oscar was brought down in the box in the 20th minute by Jussi Jääskeläinen with some poor communication by the players leading up to the penalty. Frank Lampard fired it straight down the middle to beat the Finn and open the scoring.

Jussi Jääskeläinen was beaten thirteen minutes later with a goal that looked so simple, yet so good from Oscar. Dribbling the ball down the centre, he turned and struck it low to silence Upton Park.

West Ham came out looking revitalized in the second half, but were still unable to score as Ivanovic and others provided a stable defense for the Blues.

Frank Lampard scored from 18 yards out after picking up the ball when Oscar’s shot was blocked to score Chelsea’s third impressively.

Demba Ba could have made it fourth, but celebrations were premature with the disallowed goal as it was offside.

Manchester City 6 – 0 Southampton

GOALSCORERS: Navas 1′ & 90+2′, Sandro (OG) 34′, Agüero 41′ & 50′, Negredo 55′
MAN OF THE MATCH: Sergio Aguero
HEADLINE: City Thrash Tottenham in Six-Goal Masterclass

Manchester City made a bold statement at the Etihad Stadium as they reinstated title hopes in a 6 – 0 win over Tottenham.

Jesus Navas scored Manchester City’s quickest league goal within 14 seconds, capitalizing on Lloris’ poor clearance to strike into goal from the right, clipping the post then going in.

Alvaro Negredo’s shot was blocked by Sandro before going into goal as Negredo tangled up two defenders on the goalline for City’s second.

Sergio Aguero scored off a cross for the Blues’ third goal before half time.

A surging run by Yaya Toure before squaring it across to Aguero for the fourth goal would be the cornerstone of a masterclass performance from Manchester City.

Alvaro Negredo scored from 18-yards out with a lovely turn before beating Lloris to further bury the Spurs.

In stoppage time, Jesus Navas scored the sixth goal with a side footed shot. An absolutely dominant performance from Manchester City.

Cardiff 2 – 2 Manchester United

GOALSCORERS: Rooney 15′, Campbell 33′, Evra 45′, Kim 90+1′
MAN OF THE MATCH: Fraizer Campbell
HEADLINE: Cardiff Stun Champions with Stoppage Time Equalizer

Kim Bo-Kyung scored a stoppage time header as Cardiff City stole back a point in triumphant fashion at the Cardiff City Stadium.

Wayne Rooney’s opening goal was criticized as many thought that he should have been sent off for kicking a player of which the referee did not fully enforce the sanctions.

Fraizer Campbell scored against his former club for the equalizer, but Evra pulled one back before the half.

As Manchester United looked closer and closer to the win, Kim Bo-Kyung would score a header off a free-kick for the equalizer to cap off a monumental day for Cardiff.

West Brom 2 – 2 Aston Villa

GOALSCORERS: Long 3′ & 11′,  El Ahmadi 67′, Westwood 76′
MAN OF THE MATCH: Shane Long
HEADLINE: Aston Villa Pull Two Back Quick in Dramatic Draw

Aston Villa scored twice within nine minutes to turn the game around and steal back an away point from West Brom.

Shane Long had his side ahead within eleven minutes, scoring two goals as West Brom took control of the game.

However, late surges by Villa and goals from El Ahmadi and Westwood caught West Brom off guard and Aston Villa got back the point.

League Table 

Powered by Google

That’s a wrap for week twelve.

Another thrilling weekend delivers some tantalizing action, with Man City re-instating title hopes, epic encounter in Merseyside, triumphant draw for Cardiff and much more.

Sunderland and Crystal Palace are tied on seven points each at the bottom, while the Gunners are four points clear at the top.

We’ll have plenty more football coming your way, starting with Champions League coverage on Tuesday 26 November with all the action from every game live. More football on TheSportMatrix.com »

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

Viper Strikes Fatally to Retain Gold as Sole Survivors Emerge in Boston

BY NISAR KHAN

WWE
SURVIVOR SERIES 2013

BOSTON – Randy Orton knocked off The Big Show to retain his WWE Championship in a night where the other World Champion, John Cena, made a big statement in his hometown for the new possible face of the WWE.



Sole-survivors emerged from the tag team matches with stand-out performances from Roman Reigns and Natalya.

Mark Henry made a return as he accepted Ryback’s open-challenge to set up for an impromptu rematch from this past WrestleMania.

The Miz def. Kofi Kingston

Kofi Kingston was left appalled as he conceded a pinfall victory to The Miz in the 
Survivor Series kick-off show.

It all initially came out on the RAW prior to Survivor Series, as The Miz left Kofi Kingston hanging in a tag team match with the Wyatt Family.

Quick paced from the outset, the familiarity between the two was clear as a lot of the action resembled that off their numerous encounters in the past. 

The Miz looked for an early victory with a quick roll-up, but soon after he would find himself on the backfoot dwelling against Kofi Kingstons unorthodox offence.

As the match concluded, Kofi Kingston hit The Miz with kicks to the face three times, but on his fourth attempt, he would miss leading up to an exchange where The Miz rolled up Kofi Kingston for the three-count to win.

Kofi Kingston showed his disgust at the lost, savagely slapping The Miz following the bout then exiting the ring.

Kofi Kingston’s high-flying game was not enough to beat The Miz on this occasion. Image Courtesy WWE.com

The Shield & Real Americans def. The Usos, Cody Rhodes, Goldust & Rey Mysterio

Roman Reigns delivered one of the best individual Survivor Series performances to date with four emphatic spears to eliminate his opponents in the opening match of the main card.

Dean Ambrose was eliminated early in the match by Cody Rhodes. Ambrose was arguing with the referee when Cody Rhodes rolled him up to eliminate one third of The Shield. Chaos then broke out with The Usos flying high eliminating the factors outside momentarily.

Further woes were added when Jack Swagger was eliminated. Having controlled Rey Mysterio earlier, he was the recipient of a 619 followed by an Uso super-kick, before a Samoan Splash to eliminate one half of the Real Americans.

Antonio Cesaro demonstrated his brute strength with a Cesaro swing to both of the Usos. However, Cody Rhodes would score another elimination with a roll-up pin when Antonio Cesaro lost concentration, making it two-on-five.

Roman Reigns made two eliminations in quick succession with a spear to Jimmy Uso and taking out Cody Rhodes with some clever tag-teaming with Seth Rollins. 

Seth Rollins evened the odds taking advantage of a distracted Jey Uso, who was pursuing Roman Reigns outside the ring, with a head stomp to make it two-on-two. 

Rey Mysterio managed to eliminate Seth Rollins when the odds were looking against him. Just getting into the ring before the countout after Reigns tossed him out of it like a ragdoll, the Master of the 619 went on to counter an Electric Chair attempt from Seth Rollins for a quick pin. 

Goldust momentum was quickly thwarted by Roman Reigns spear when he came off the ropes. When Rey Mysterio almost caught him off guard, but Roman Reigns hit him with a colossal spear to win the match.

Sole Survivor: Roman Reigns triumphant following the match. Image Courtesy: WWE.com

Big E Langston def. Curtis Axel
Retains Intercontinental Championship

Big E Langston put a “Big Ending” to Curtis Axel as he retained his Championship in a rematch from this past week.

The Master of the Five Count bombarded Curtis Axel in the early stages of the match, using his power game to take a full threshold of the match.

However, Curtis Axel took advantage of the outside to take control momentarily, but it would not last as Langston took control once again.

Former Intercontinental Champion Curtis Axel looked to dodge Big E Langston in order to take an advantage, but was shocked when Big E Langston managed to kick out of the Perfectplex.

Moments later, Curtis Axel would find himself on Big E’s shoulders followed by a Big Ending as the Intercontinental Championship was emphatically retained.

Total Divas Cast def. Team AJ Lee
7-on-7 Divas Elimination Tag Match

The Total Divas cast prevailed amid chaos in a 7-on-7 Divas’ tag-team match where Natalya got the decider after submitting Divas Champion AJ Lee.

After AJ Lee’s team began to fall fast, Kaitlyn restored order with eliminations of the Funkadactyls.

Natalya submitted Tamina Snuka before submitting AJ Lee to score the win for her team after other chaotic eliminations.

Mark Henry def. Ryback

Mark Henry returned from injury as he accepted Ryback’s open challenge to make an emphatic statement.

In a rematch from WrestleMania 29, both men looked to enforce their power games early on with strength being the obvious imperative factor of the match.

Ryback took it to Mark Henry straight from the bell, stomping him to the ground and keeping a few steps ahead of the World’s Strongest Man to control the match. But Mark Henry would soon get back into his flow, looking a lot faster than in recent memory.

Some huge feats of strength including a Spine-buster and Super-plex from Ryback were not enough to put Mark Henry away, and after one of the biggest Cross-Bodies ever, Mark Henry finished the Human Wrecking Ball with the World’s Strongest Slam.

John Cena def. Alberto Del Rio
Retains World Heavyweight Championship

John Cena embraced in home-coming triumph as he defeated Alberto Del Rio in his hometown to retain the World Heavyweight Championship emphatically.

Despite being in his hometown however, John Cena received mixed reactions upon his entrance to the arena.

Alberto Del Rio’s early game plan of targeting the arm was not successful as John Cena was too quick. Also exploiting the power game, John Cena made it tough for Alberto Del Rio.

It took a while for John Cena to make an error, but when he did, Alberto Del Rio capitalized to take control of the match, taking it to the outside of the ring too, further damaging the Champion.

Alberto Del Rio came close to tapping when John Cena had the STF locked in, but the ropes acted as a lifeline allowing the Mexican Aristocrat to escape.

Early attempts for a Cross-Arm Breaker were unsuccessful, but when Alberto Del Rio turned out from a cross-body to lock it in, John Cena was in dire straits. 

Those dire straits however, didn’t last long. In an insane feat of strength, John Cena lifted Del Rio up to drop him on the canvas, soon after followed by an Attitude Adjustment to finish the match.

Defiant: Alberto Del Rio’s Cross-Arm Breakers did not succeed in beating John Cena. Image Courtesy: WWE.com

CM Punk & Daniel Bryan def. Erick Rowan & Luke Harper

The Best & The Beard knocked off the Wyatt Family in a thrilling tag-team match as CM Punk and Daniel Bryan got revenge. 

Just as they needed to do, Daniel Bryan and CM Punk assembled substantial and early offense against the Wyatt Family with combinations of YES! kicks, along with rope-to-rope action.

Soon into the match, the Wyatt Family would dictate the action, using their strength and size advantage to take control. 

Luke Harper power-bombed Daniel Bryan from the top rope, while Erick Rowan tossed CM Punk to the outside when the action epitomized with “This is Awesome” chants from the Boston crowd.

CM Punk paid homage to the late “Macho Man” Randy Savage, delivering an elbow to the heart in the latter stages of the match. 

Daniel Bryan knocked out Erick Rowan with a Flying Knee, followed by CM Punk finishing the match with a GTS to Luke Harper.

Bray Wyatt was on the brink of stepping in the ring after to brawl Punk and Bryan, but ended up not doing so, indicating that the feud is far from an end.

Randy Orton def. The Big Show
Retains WWE Championship

Randy Orton brought back the infamous punt to defeat The Big Show in the main event after the timely arrival of The Authority.

The WWE Champion took long to get into the thick of the action, fleeing The Big Show immediately following the bell.

The Big Show would soon get his hands on Randy Orton, punishing him with huge handslaps to the chest, with Randy Orton firing back from a DDT.

Referee Charles Robinson was knocked down following a collision, and during that time, Randy Orton was knocked out by The Big Show outside the ring.

When things got back into the ring, The Authority made an all-too timely appearance, distracting Big Show as Randy Orton set him up and gave him an RKO.

What followed would secure the Championship, as Randy Orton knocked out The Big Show with a punt to retain the Championship.

Randy Orton’s title celebrations were cut short however as John Cena came out in front of his home crowd to hold the belt, and possibly claim himself as the face of the WWE.

There are plenty of questions to follow, as chaos erupts in tag matches, Mark Henry returns and the altercation between the two World Champions.

Roman Reigns delivered the performance of the night with four emphatic eliminations in the 10-man tag team match.

Randy Orton is the WWE Champion, but someone who just made some noise was the World Heavyweight Champion, John Cena. Who really is the face of the WWE?

Sole survivors emerge from Boston, but what may be of more significance is a possible new face of the WWE.

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

NCAAB: Carolina Upsets Louisville

BY Neil Mehta

The North Carolina Tar Heels Upset The Defending National Champion Louisville Cardinals On Sunday To Win The Hall-Of-Fame Tip-Off Tournament

Sophomore Stud Marcus Paige During Carolina’s Win Over Louisville.

 

After last Sunday’s loss against Belmont, things weren’t looking good for the Heels. It was different today. After beating Richmond yesterday, Carolina had a game against #3 Louisville for the Hall-Of-Fame Tip-Off Championship. Many notable analysts and fans speculated a Carolina loss. But you can’t doubt Carolina! The Heels beat the defending National Champions 93-84 to win the Hall-Of-Fame Tip Off Championship on Sunday. Marcus Paige lead the Heels, with 32 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists. Brice Johnson and Kennedy Meeks finished up nicely too, with 13 points each. James Michael McAdoo was solid with 9 points too. Louisville did have the game’s leading scorer with Russ Smith and his 36 points. Chris Joseph also had 18 points and 7 rebounds for the National Champions. With this win, the #24 Tar Heels are 4-1 and should be expecting a Top 15 rank in this week’s AP Poll.

BY Neil Mehta

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

Carl Froch Retains Championships After Controversial Groves Stoppage

Boxing

BY NISAR KHAN

MANCHESTER – Carl Froch retained his WBA and IBF World titles after George Groves was controversially stopped in the ninth round at the Phones4U Arena in Manchester.



Carl Froch stops George Groves in the ninth round. Image Courtesy / Copyright: PA

With plenty of heated build-up prior to the fight, many fans were very interested to see how the fight would pan out. George Groves entered to many boos from the fans in Manchester, while Carl Froch had home advantage – in spite of both men being Brits.

George Groves, eleven years younger than Froch, was looking sharp from the first round. Knocking Carl Froch down with around half-a-minute remaining in the first round, Carl Froch was dazed with his legs rocking, and any further damage was restricted by the bell.

Just a few rounds in and George Groves had already made a huge statement in the fight, winning exchanges and outclassing Froch. Much to the surprise of many, George Groves in fact followed up on his promise to hit Froch with two right hands, and those right hands hurt him.

As the rounds progressed further, Groves was slowing down but still had the Cobra in trouble. The duo were providing some fantastic action with thrilling exchanges of which Groves was winning time and time again with the right hand.

Carl Froch definitely improved in the latter rounds, but it was looking unlikely that Froch would manage to win on points.

In Round 9, a combination of huge punches from Carl Froch stunned George Groves and had him in trouble. The fights continued to come in before the referee stopped the fight controversially.

It was met with boos from around the arena, as the referee pulled Groves away, and furthermore the manner in which the referee removed it was speculated as rough too, pulling Groves away in a headlock allowing Froch to land one more shot on the ribs.

George Groves stuck to his plan and performed at the top, yet it seems clear that it was robbed from him.

The fact of the matter is that the referee could have stopped the fight went Froch went down in Round 1. Had the referee followed the same criteria for stopping the fight as he did in Round 1, Carl Froch would have lost.

Carl Froch was also lucky to not have been deducted of a point with punches after the clinch, and unauthorized strikes, but the referee did not deduct any points. 

Its the manner of losing that may come as the biggest blow, George Groves would have preferred to lose after a defiant effort, not lose to an appalling decision. The only thing going forward now is a rematch. 

What said it all was the reactions from the fans in the arena. Having booed Groves upon his entrance, he was cheered following the fight as they acknowledged their appreciation for his valiant effort. George Groves may have lost the fight, but he won the fans and earned respect from many in the boxing World.

A great fight is ended in unjust fashion. Carl Froch retains his Championship, but for how long is now the question, as George Groves is surely set for the rematch following the controversial stoppage.

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

Bayern Go Seven Points Clear of Dortmund With Second Half Domination

BY NISAR KHAN

Football

Bundesliga

BORUSSIA DORTMUND 0 – 2 BAYERN MUNICH

Gotze 66′, Robben 85′, Muller 86′

Mario Gotze scored against his former club as Bayern Munich put on a second half show to thump an exhausted and injury-filled Dortmund in a rematch from the Champions League final.



Robert Lewandowski got the first big chance of the game four minutes in, with his volley going over from a few yards. Some great work by Mkhitaryan from the right set up the Pole to score, but he was also wrongly ruled offside.

Bayern had a majority of possession in the opening ten minutes, but Lewandowski came closest up to that point.

It was a quiet start to the game with no major chances coming except for Lewandowski’s chance, but Bayern’s early threshold of the game in regards to possession was beginning to wither.

Blaszczykowski blasted the ball past a defender but was not quick enough to follow it up after Lewandowski set him up.

Reus picked up another decent chance for Dortmund, but Neuer was able to save reluctantly and keep Bayern in it.

Bayern’s fluidity had drastically changed and Dortmund were giving them a hard time. The hosts were controlling the game much better now, while the league leaders were quiet and relatively slow.

Jerome Boateng picked up the first booking of the game after thirty-six minutes for grabbing Lewandowski to stop the attack.

With five minutes remaining of the first half, it was a game for the taking as neither team had full control as the game progressed. A few balls coming in here and there, but none being too lethally struck at goal.

Bayern got encouraged late with fine work from Munich’s Mandzukic, but the first half finished goalless.

Deadlock: The first half finished even. Courtesy / Copyright: Reuters

Sven Bender responded to Bayern’s early dictatorship of the game to chip a cross in but Lewandowski missed the header and it went just wide of the post. Major let-off for Bayern.

Muller almost scored an audacious goal with a flick of Kroos’ poor cross, but attention soon turned to Mario Gotze who came on for Munich to play against his former club.

Bayern Munich were defending well, but it seemed clear that there was a lack of urgency to attack and their decision making in the final third was ineffective.

Jerome Boateng did some extraordinary defending to deny Reus that included a nutmeg, as the German composedly got the ball to safety.

Mario Gotze would make an impact and score against his former club. Lahm passed it to Muller, who sent it to Gotze. One touch, then a lovely shot to score followed by a muted celebration against his former club.

GIF: Mario Gotze scores after coming off the bench

Manuel Neuer denied Marco Reus from scoring the equalizer with an emphatic save.

Arjen Robben scored in the 85th minute with a sublime cross that was looking for Gotze but in fact went into goal, a great finish no matter what the intention was.

Bayern Munich further took advantage of the hosts’ exhausted defense as Thomas Muller scored of Lahm’s set up. A contrast from a player who had a great game, Lahm, to assist a player who had a poor game, Muller.

GIF: Muller scores the third goal.

Bayern would go on to comfortably control the game before the full-time whistle.

Bayern Munich go seven points clear with a dominant performance over Dortmund. Initally the hosts looked well in it, but a late runaway with the inclusion of Mario Gotze would seal the deal. Dortmund’s quest for retribution following the Champions League final continues.

BY NISAR KHAN

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

Lampard Ends Goal Drought With Double as Blues Thwart Hammers

BY NISAR KHAN

Football

Premier League 
WEEK 12

WEST HAM 0 – 3 CHELSEA

KICK-OFF: 23 Nov 2013 at 5:30pm, Upton Park
Lampard 21′ & 82′, Oscar 34′

LONDON – Frank Lampard ended an eleven-game league goal drought to fire two past West Ham as Chelsea dominated the Hammers at Upton Park.



Goal Drought No More: Lampard scores a penalty for his first. Image Courtesy: PremierLeague.com

SEE ALSO: Everton, Liverpool Hit Three Each in Derby Classic

West Ham got things underway at Upton Park, but in the early stages they were bombarded by some Chelsea pressure, as the visitors pressed forward.

Chelsea edged the first few minutes in regards to control of the game, but despite numerous crosses, nothing much was achieved with it. 

Oscar has the closest chance after around fifteen minutes, but although getting into dangerous territory, his shot was far from goal, going wide.

On the 20th minute mark, Jaaskaleinen brought Oscar down in the box after Guy Demel’s poor back pass. Sloppy work from Demel, and a bad challenge from Jaaskaleinen could have resulted in the Hammers going down to ten men, but Frank Lampard would take the penalty.

Frank Lampard scored his first League goal in eleven games as he fired the penalty right down the middle.

The goal was a bitter blow to West Ham, whose fans quietened down significantly following the goal. Meanwhile, Chelsea were looking comfortable in a very quiet spell of the game.

With not much going on, Oscar slowly made his way to the edge of the box with the ball, before a nice turn to strike it low past Jaaskaleinen and score Chelsea’s second. Upton Park just got quieter at that moment, while Oscar celebrated his goal calmly. Simple… for Oscar at least.

Sam Allardyce indeed drastically made two changes in the 39th minute, with a double subsitution of which West Ham fans showed they didn’t like. Mohamed Diame and Modibo Maiga came on for the Hammers, a big gamble from the hosts’ manager.

Jaaskaleinen denied Eto’o from scoring Chelsea’s third as he stood firm to deny the Cameroonian’s curled effort.

The half-time whistle blew with a contrast of opinions as West Ham had a lot of work to do over the break, while Chelsea were cruising.

Chelsea resumed play in the second half, in a comfortable state with two goals scored. West Ham were trying to assemble a few attacks though, as it looked like Allardyce’s words over half-time were being responded to by the Hammers.

Cahill almost scored the third after 53 minutes in off a corner, but it was stopped on the line and cleared.

Chelsea were playing even more wonderful football with a dispossession that lead to a light cross for Oscar to volley, just going wide – a rare error from the Brazilian who was having a great game.

Oscar scores the second for Chelsea. Image Courtesy: AP

It was a significantly busier spell for Chelsea as West Ham pressed. An hour in and West Ham almost grabbed a lifeline from a corner, but Cech was fouled and a free-kick was awarded to the visitors.

Samuel Eto’o was off target after the hour mark with his shot at the edge of the box, another chance for Chelsea’s third went begging.

West Ham had another chance with Madibo Maiga, who missed off the back post after Guy Demel’s troubling run.

Frank Lampard impressively ended his goal drought with an 82nd minute goal after scoring 18 yards out from Eden Hazard’s blocked shot.

As many home fans exited the Stadium, Chelsea calmly played out in stoppage time with Demba Ba pushing for a chance but his goal went offside. Cech also had to make a late save before the full-time whistle.

A fantastic performance by Chelsea who pick up points that keep them well in the Top 4. For West Ham, its another bad outing as Sam Allardyce’s woes continue. A man of the match performance by Frank Lampard proves dividend at Upton Park.

 By Nisar Khan – Read more articles from this author

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

Everton, Liverpool Hit Three Each at Incredible Derby Classic

BY NISAR KHAN

Football

Premier League
WEEK 12

EVERTON 3 – 3 LIVERPOOL

KICK-OFF: 23 Nov 2013 at 12:45pm, Goodison Park
Coutinho ‘5’, Mirallas 8′, Suarez 19′, Lukaku 72′, Lukaku 82′, Sturridge 89′

EVERTON – Daniel Sturridge scored an 89th minute equalizer to tie it all up in an incredible game at Goodison Park in the Merseyside Derby.




Philipe Coutino edged his side into the lead early on after Luis Suarez provided the assist.

But minutes later, Kevin Mirallas would equalize off some poor-defending after Leighton Baines’ long-range free-kick.

Luis Suarez would take advantage of defensive errors as he beat the wall, and Tim Howard with a curled, low shot to put Liverpool ahead.

In the second half, a double from Romelu Lukaku within ten minutes would set Goodison Park up for a huge win.

But it was not to be, as a late goal from Daniel Sturridge, coming off from the bench, finished the game with both scoring three each.

In a game filled with talking points, every goal coming from a set-piece, fouls and speculation, it was an absolute classic.



A huge roar was greeted as the hosts got the game underway. With an electric atmosphere at Gooidson Park, Everton passed the ball around for the opening stages with Liverpool putting on the pressure.

The Toffees provided early encouragement for the home fans with the majority of early possession while Liverpool looked to settle them down.

Steven Gerrard had the first corner of the game four minutes in. It would fall to Luis Suarez, flicking it on to Coutinho – who controlled the ball before striking it into goal, scoring his first Derby goal after just four minutes.

GIF: Philipe Coutinho scores in the fifth minute to open the scoring. Courtsesy: OffThePost

While Liverpool’s early goal was the start needed, Everton would look to fire back, and that they did.

Kevin Mirallas flicked the ball in from close range of Leighton Baines’ distant free-kick. An acrobatic effort would put Everton back in it, capitalizing of poor defending from Liverpool. It was even once again, with Goodison Park with an even more electric atmosphere.

GIF: Kevin Mirallas equalizes quickly following Liverpool’s goal. Courtesy: OffThePost

Everton came close to a second, minutes after, but Romelu Lukaku was thwarted by Simon Mignolet who risked life and limb (and a red card maybe) to deny him on the edge of the area.

Following a frantic start to the game, around eighteen-minutes in and the game had finally settled. Liverpool were putting together a string of passes, while Everton were still well in contention.

Luis Suarez had a free-kick in the 19th minute in some promising territory. Tim Howard set the wall up, but the wall would not stop it, as Suarez curled it low beating Howard with a stunning free-kick to put Liverpool ahead. 

GIF: Luis Suarez scores a free-kick to put his side back in the lead. Courtesy: theScore

With half-an-hour of play passed, Liverpool were still in the lead. The game had quietened down with no refereeing issues up to that point. Everton were trying for the equalizer but found themselves playing from the back far too often. 

Ross Barkley was the recipient of the first booking of the game when he dived from Lucas’ challenge. That was the busiest that Phil Dowd had to be thus far.

But he was busier, just moments later. Kevin Mirallas’ fouled Luis Suarez with a high foot that resulted in a very lengthy stoppage, as Phil Dowd took his time to present a yellow card to Kevin Mirallas.

Should Kevin Mirallas have been sent off for this foul?

With half-time approaching, Liverpool finished with a threshold of the game as Everton grew frustrated. More ‘Derby’ fouls were coming in, but Liverpool finished with the lead. 


Luis Suarez gingerly made his way back on to the pitch for the second half, but despite his injuries, Leighton Baines would be replaced by Gerard Deulofeu. Deulofu would almost make an impact as Liverpool were sloppy of a throw-in. Going one-on-one with Mignolet, he hit in straight at Liverpool’s keeper.

A let off for Liverpool so to speak, but it was a word of warning from the Toffees.

Everton’s chances increased, but Joe Allen could have well and truly settled it for the visitors when it was him and Suarez up against the keeper. Allen could have tapped it past Howard or passed it to Suarez for a tap-in, but he chose neither and hit it wide.

Romelu Lukaku caused another scare, but another save from Simon Mignolet – keeping Everton once again at bay in the 63rd minute.

On the 70th minute, Lukaku’s goalless game would continue as he was once again thwarted by fellow Belgian Simon Mignolet, who made a much more comfortable save. A few minutes later, Lukaku would finally beat Mignolet.

After his free-kick was deflected but strongly saved from Mignolet, Lukaku got into the box and struck it low to equalize in the 72nd minute, setting the fans on euphoria at Goodison Park with their team back in it.

GIF: Romelu Lukaku equalizes for Everton

Brendan Rogers looked to make an attacking statement by putting on Sturridge as he replaced Lucas.

Set-pieces would once again come into play as Romelu Lukaku scored in the 82nd minute with a powerful header of a corner just ten minutes after equalizing.

With Liverpool looking to equalize late, a foul in the third quarter of the pitch had Gerrard standing over a long range free-kick.

Gerrard whipped it in, with Sturridge getting the header on to it, beating Tim Howard to equalize making it 3 – 3, a huge impact off the bench.

Daniel Sturridge thought he scored the winner in stoppage time but was offside.

And with that, the final whistle would blow with both teams going off satisfied after a hard-fought game. Even by Derby standards, an absolutely fantastic game of football.

THE BREAKDOWN
Breaking down the game with analysis and the main headlines

SET PIECES: The Difference as Every Goal Came from a Set Piece

Coutinho scored of a set-piece early on to give Liverpool the lead. But just minutes after, when Mirallas scored of a set piece, it was clear – Liverpool were vulnerable and defedning set-pieces was their weakness. Then, it was possibly the opposite when Luis Suarez scored in the 19th minute of a poor defensive set-up by the Toffees. Later on, Lukaku would score twice off set pieces, before Sturridge headed the equalizer from Gerrard’s free kick.

SUAREZ FREE-KICK: Sublime Goal, But Could Everton have done btter?

Luis Suarez scored a stunning free-kick to put Liverpool ahead. But after watching the goal again, the wall was a huge issue. Tim Howard made a mistake with a well, as it was just to easy for Suarez to curl it round and creep in from the bottom corner.

PHIL DOWD: Should there have still been 22 players on the pitch after the first half?

Kevin Mirallas may have only Phil Dowd to thank after him still being on the pitch when the first half whistle blew. His rash challenge on Luis Suarez left the Uruguayian with big marks on his leg and was very dangerous. Yet Phil Dowd’s hesitation and taking too long just left him to only justify the yellow.

SIMON MIGNOLET: Incredible Goalkeeping Performance Kept Game in Sight

Simon Mignolet had a fantastic performance in between the sticks. The amount of saves he had to make was unreal, although conceding two late on. Had he not have been on top form, Everton may have dominated.

MAN OF THE MATCH: Romelu Lukaku

Lukaku’s chances came throughout the game. In spite of him missing out, he continued to work and deservedly scored the double. Simon Mignolet deserves recognition too after fantastic goalkeeping.

Everton Thwart Liverpool’s Chance to go Top

Liverpool were on course to go top, but Everton were defiant and kept them at bay. Outstanding.

GAME OF THE SEASON CANDIDATE? No Doubt!

Well, well, well. What a game. Props to both managers, and players. It did not come down to refereeing despite the numerous fouls. The highest scoring Merseyside Derby in over 80 years provided great entertainment. No doubt game of the season thus far.

THE FINAL SAY
Opinions on the game from the reporter

What a treat. An oustanding game of football to watch. It provided drama, plenty of goals, and everything you wanted from a derby. Both teams can be satisfied as they threw it all at each other. It comes down to the little things, even with these don’t give either team the win. A thriller of a draw.

The best game of the season to date, as Everton and Liverpool provided a derby for memory.

Set-pieces proved the difference in the game, as all goals came from them.

Goodison Park witnesses a superb game. Just like a derby should be, it was thrilling and dramatic.

Everton and Liverpool battle end-to-end in an extraordinary game. Goals, drama, tension, thrilling moments and speculation – it had it all. 

 By Nisar Khan – Read more articles from this author

Image Courtesy: PremierLeague.com, LiverpoolFC.com

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

Broncos Hand Chiefs First Loss

NFL

BY NEIL MEHTA

The Kanas City Chiefs Are No Longer Undefeated, After Falling To Peyton Manning And The Denver Broncos.

Peyton Manning In His Signature Quarterback Stance.

The Kanas City Chiefs fell to 9-1 on Sunday night after a 27-17 loss to The Denver Broncos. Peyton Manning had an average “Peyton Manning” game, throwing for 323 yards and 1 touchdown. Deymarius Thomas was the leading receiver in the game, catching 5 ball for 121 yards. Knowshon Moreno was the leading rusher with 79 yards on 27 carries. Montee Ball also had a big night running for 2 touchdowns, and 25 yards. The Chiefs weren’t that shabby with with Alex Smith throwing for 230 yards and 2 touchdowns, Jamal Charles also had a pretty good night rushing 78 on 16 carries. Dwayne Bowe was also decent night with 57 yards and 1 touchdown. With the wins the 9-1 Denver Broncos are now 1st in the AFC West and the #1 seed in the AFC. The Chiefs who are also 9-1 fall 2nd in the AFC West and 5th in the AFC. The Broncos will face the New England Patriots on SNF next week. On the other hand, the Chiefs will play the Chargers in Week 12. 

BY NEIL MEHTA

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

Carolina Panthers Extend Win Streak

NFL

BY NEIL MEHTA

The Carolina Panthers Beat The New England Patriots To Move To 7-3 And Make An Even Bigger Statement. 

Cam Newton Celebrating During Carolina’s Victory Over The Patriots.

The Carolina Panthers are on a six-game win streak, a streak that now includes wins over the 49ers and Patriots. The 24-20 win on Monday Night Football, added to the statement Carolina made last week after beating San Francisco. Cam Newton was outstanding, with 3 touchdowns, 0 interceptions and 209 passing yards . Steve Smith, Brandon LaFell, and Greg Olsen were also all equally impressive. Catching for a combined 174 yards and 2 touchdowns. Carolina’s rushing attack wasn’t as impressive, but Cam Newton did have 62 yards on the ground. On the other side, Tom Brady threw for 296 yards, 1 touchdown and 1 touchdown. Shane Vereen, Rob Gronkowski, Kenbrell Thompkins, and Danny Amendola all left it out on the field with a combined 229 yards. This however,  only amounted to 1 touchdown. The Panthers and Patriots are now both 7-3 and hold the 5th and 3rd playoff spots, respectively. 

BY NEIL MEHTA

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

Brazilian Grand Prix: Race Preview For Final Grand Prix on F1 Calendar

BY KEITH MEHAFFEY

F1

For the last race of the season, Formula One
returns to the magical Interlagos circuit, Sao Paulo, Brazil.

It was a fast and furious start to last year’s race.

For me the Brazilian Grand Prix is one of the highlights of the season. So many great races down the years, so many dramatic wins, this has been the venue for many championship deciding races. The Brazilian fans make for a special atmosphere too and are fiercely patriotic!

The circuit itself lies in a district of Sao Paulo called Interlagos , meaning `between the lakes`. The Brazilian Grand Prix was first held in 1972 here on the bumpy and very demanding longer circuit. The first GP to be included in the F1 World Championship was held the following year and won by defending champion and Sao Paulo resident Emerson Fittipaldi, a very popular win.

The circuit was revised for the 1990 season. It was modernised and shortened in length but still retained its demanding nature. That year saw Alain Prost win, his sixth Brazilian Grand Prix win and one of the most unpopular due to his coming together the previous year with the fans hero Ayrton Senna in Japan. He later complained to the stewards after the race and Senna was stripped of the win that cost him a World Championship.





 
Senna himself had mixed fortunes in his home Grand Prix. He tried many times to win but something would always happen to prevent him from doing so. That all changed in 1991. In one of the most amazing and emotional races, Senna eventually took the chequered flag after nursing his McLaren round with his car stuck in sixth gear! He was so exhausted afterwards he had to be helped out of his car by doctors. Probably one of the most celebrated home wins by any driver ever!

In 2005 Fernando Alonso became the youngest World Champion by finishing 3rd giving him enough points to take the title that year. Just three years later Lewis Hamilton won in dramatic fashion to replace Fernando Alonso as the youngest World Champion! He went for a cautious race strategy needing only 5th place to secure the Championship. Late on in the race it started to rain causing all sorts of trouble for the drivers. Lewis dropped to 5th after Timo Glock stayed out on intermediate tyres and with 3 laps left Lewis was caught and passed by Sebastian Vettel to drop to 6th. However on the last lap both Vettel and Hamilton caught up with Glock who had little grip left and Lewis passed the German on the very last corner before the finishing straight to deny race winner Felipe Massa the Championship win! Still recovering from that unforgettable night in Brazil even now!

The race on Sunday will be 71 laps in total on the 2.7 mile track. My favourite part of the circuit without a doubt would be the Senna `S` which is the first S shape corner after the start finish straight. Named after Ayrton Senna as he had a hand in its design for the 1990 season. Normally a few shunts there at the start! So who will win? Come on, you know the answer to that!

Its always a spectacular way to end the F1 season, bring on Sunday as the F1 2013 season culminates in Brazil.

In memory of Ayrton Senna da Silva 1960 – 1994

BY KEITH MEHAFFEY

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/