Manchester City Top Table, Decimate Spurs 5 – 1 at White Hart Lane

Football

BY NISAR KHAN

TOTTENHAM – Manchester City climbed back to the top of the table with a dominant victory over Spurs at White Hart Lane and roadblocked Tottenham’s hopes of getting fourth place.



Yaya Toure added a goal with a second half penalty. COURTESY: GETTY IMAGES

Kick-Off: Wednesday 29 January at 7:45pm (GMT)
Location: White Hart Lane, Tottenham
Score: Tottenham Hotspur 1 – 5 Manchester City
Goalscorers: Aguero 15′, Y. Toure 51′, Dzeko 53′, Capoue 59′, Jovetic 78′, Kompany 89′
League Positions following game: Manchester City 1st and Tottenham 5th

Sergio Aguero added a goal just fifteen minutes in, but concern from Manchester City would rouse towards the late stages of the first half, as the Argentine suffered a hamstring injury.

SEE ALSO: Everton 5 – 1 Liverpool (Report, Comment & Analysis)

Steven Jovetic scored his first Premier League, while Yaya Toure scored a penalty after Danny Rose was sent off. Edin Dzeko also added to the scoreline culminating a great team goal from the visitors. Vincent Kompany captained his team to an even bigger win, scoring his third goal of the season. With a different scorer for every goal, Manchester City had another clockwork-like performance to top the league.

In one of four simultaneous kick-offs around the league, the rain poured heavily on White Hart Lane with the proceedings underway. There was nothing to differentiate between the teams in the early goings of the game.

Approximately seven minutes in, and Manchester City looked like the team carrying a more legitimate goal-scoring threat. Sergio Aguero, who had been on flying form ever since his return from injury, rattled the woodwork to culminate an exquisite passing build-up from the visitors.

Moments later, his striking partner, Edin Džeko, squandered an opportunity to take the lead with his build-up with Aguero. The ball was blasted over and into the stands.

Manchester City were off to the much better start, with Tottenham failing to register any early scares or threats to the visitors.

Sergio Aguero would score in his eighth consecutive game, affirmatively slotting it past Lloris after David Silva set him up with a delightful through ball. Manchester City instantaneously swung the game in their favour, with Aguero’s twenty-sixth goal of the season.

While it was all-City for the moments following the goal, Tottenham began to make a little more noise to the delight of their home fans at White Hart Lane. Emanuel Adebayor’s surging run, followed by an attempt at goal, was deflected and out for a corner – of which Eriksen swung in brilliantly, only to come off Kompany and into Joe Hart’s hands.

Soon after, almost in a back-and-forth manner, Sergio Aguero would be emphatically denied in doubling the lead. Hugo Lloris made one of the best saves of the season to deny the Uruguayan, as he stuck out a strong hand to keep the deficit down to one goal for the time being.

Sergio Aguero was causing a World of troubles for Tottenham, with another one of his attempts being frantically dealt with. Danny Rose cleared his shot off the line, before his second effort fizzed over the bar.

Manchester City continued to press and put pressure on Spurs throughout the first half. 

Tottenham’s fans momentarily erupted in celebration when Michael Dawson struck the ball into the net from Christian Eriksen. However, as they were running to celebrate, the raising of an offside flag silenced the crowd with Manchester City maintaining their lead.

While it was looking to be a comfortable and promising finish to the first half for The Citizens, a bitter blow was felt when Sergio Aguero pulled up with a hamstring injury. In pursuit with Michael Dawson, the Argentine pulled up with concern on the touchline, considering Aguero’s importance to the side and only returning from injury a few weeks ago,

That would be all for the first forty-five. Manchester City were all over Tottenham for a vast majority of the game, however the hosts had their glimpses and when doing so proved a threat with the likes of Christian Eriksen and Emanuel Adebayor causing some trouble. Meanwhile, Sergio Aguero – who had made the night uneasy for Tottenham’s defenders – suffered an injury blow, leaving for a very open second half that had all to play for.

Goal Machine: Sergio Aguero added to his goals tally at White Hart Lane, but suffered a second half hamstring injury. COURTESY: TWITTER.COM/MCFC

Just minutes into the second half and Manchester City had a slight scare, as their Spanish maestro David Silva was down and injured. After receiving some treatment, he was good to continue.

A controversial penalty award to Manchester City would firmly place the game into the visitors’ grasp. Danny Rose was sent off for a challenge on Edin Dzeko in the box. Later replays showed that the Englishman did get the ball, but also may have got the player. Fans at the Lane were evidently furious at the call. Yaya Toure stepped up to the penalty, striking it right and calmly doubling the lead.

Edin Dzeko scored a terrific third goal for the away side with some excellent build-up from City, defining what a team goal should look like. Firing from close range, Dzeko took advantage of poor work from Spurs’ defense to clear away safely. Nine minutes into the second half and all hope was lost for Tottenham, down by three goals and also lost a player with the red card.

Suddenly the spirit of Spurs would come into play, and White Hart Lane became significantly louder. Etienne Capoue smashed home his first goal for Spurs from a corner, where Fernandinho could easily have been sent off for an attempted stoppage of it. White Hart Lane was roaring, with Spurs getting a goal back and the crowd fully behind them, as they took advantage of City’s slack for the first.

Manchester City enjoyed a lengthy spell of keeping the ball and increasing possession, taking the sting out of the game and extinguishing any hopes refueled by Capoue’s goal. 

Steven Jovetic scored his first Premier League goal to add a fourth and further crush and humiliate Spurs at home. Fernandinho’s run opened up Jovetic, who drove to the side in the box and his shot took a deflection, moving away from Lloris to add a fourth.

Tottenham were looking the side where the final whistle would be welcomed with open arms.

Even captain Vincent Kompany would get in on the act, scoring the rebound after Lloris parried Dzeko’s shot to edge home an unprecedented fifth goal.

With the full-time whistle blowing, it was all over. Manchester City made a masterclass at White Hart Lane, while Tottenham suffer another big loss at home.

Comment & Analysis: “Spurs Simply Outdone” writes Nisar Khan

Manchester City once again re-instate their claim to the title, with another huge win over a big team. 

And they also emphatically dismissed claims of a one-man time, with a different goalscorer for every goal.

Sergio Aguero, scores, in what is becoming a routinely sight now – although causes for concern came with his injury. However, that didn’t stop Manchester City from going on to score four more goals.

The real turning point in this game was Danny Rose’s sending off. Spurs are right to feel hard-done-by from the decision, as it was a speculative call. From then on, it was one steep battle for Tottenham to reduce the deficit, and they were simply outdone.

An interval with optimism for Tottenham would be greeted by a sudden turn of events where it was all turned upside down.

The only positive that can be taken is that Spurs only lost by five goals this time, rather than six in their fixture earlier this season. Hardly an improvement, but that is one of the only takeaways from this game for them, along with not having to face City in the league again this season.

One thing Manchester City need to make sure of is that they are not vulnerable to injuries. When Aguero was injured, concern was high. And even when David Silva and Jesus Navas were down (although they would continue playing after) there were causes for concern on the City touchline. Should they amend their injury issues, they are strong league candidates.

Manchester City were relaxed for everything but around two minutes of the second half. Creative, composed and just having a field day out there, a completely one-sided affair. 

Spurs also clearly missed Paulinho and Sandro among others, they simply were outdone. Another dominant win from City, its becoming nothing out of the ordinary nowadays.

Questions are back around again for Tottenham, with another heavy loss at home.

Manchester City thump Tottenham in emphatic fashion once again. Another away win sees them top the table with a goal difference that is unheard of. Yet again, Manchester City have a goal-fest against a top team.

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

Liverpool Make Title Race Intents in Undoubted Derby Rout, Thrash Everton 4 – 0

Football

BY NISAR KHAN

LIVERPOOL – Daniel Sturridge scored twice in Liverpool’s emphatic four-goal Merseyside Derby win over Everton, in a glorious night for the Reds.



Deadly Duo: Daniel Sturridge scored twice while Luis Suarez added another. COURTESY: TWITTER.COM/LFC

Kick-Off: Tuesday 28 January at 8pm (GMT)
Location: Anfield Football Ground, Liverpool
Score: Liverpool 4 – 0 Everton
Goalscorers: Gerrard 21, Sturridge 33′ & 35′, Suarez 50′

Daniel Sturridge fell short of a hat-trick, in a game where the skipper, and his striking partner hit the back of the net as they thumped four goals past their Merseyside rivals.

An atmospheric Anfield witnessed an opening ten minutes of some good quality football, with great tackles being made around the pitch. Uruguayian Luis Suarez had the closest chance of the game to that point, forcing Everton’s keeper Tim Howard to make a save in the corner.

Jordan Henderson and Ross Barkley were eager to get in the act early on, with long-range efforts, none too troubling for either goalkeeper. 

Rather than a frantic start, it was a good one, with the rain pouring down on the pitch – although not dampening Liverpool’s hopes as we would come to see just minutes later.

Twenty-one minutes in, and the rout would begin. Liverpool’s skipper Steven Gerrard scored in his 31st Merseyside Derby heading in from Luis Suarez’s curled cross. England’s captain left no doubt as he powerfully headed it past the Toffees.

And if conceding the opener was bad, Everton’s fans’ despair would instantly turn up a notch, as Romelu Lukaku was substituted after picking up an injury in the corner. Teammate Gareth Barry collided with the Belgian, resulting in a suspected ankle ligament injury.

It was a Liverpool takeover for the next few minutes to follow, as Everton were on the backfoot and at the verge of breaking point. The hosts were smelling blood early on.

Daniel Sturridge would continue his superb run of goalscoring form, getting on the end of a pin-point ball from Phillipe Coutinho and clipped it past to double the lead.

Just two minutes later and it seemed that the game was up and beyond Everton’s grasp. Daniel Sturridge doubled his goal tally with an excellent lofted ball past the onrushing Tim Howard. Kolo Toure provided the assist for Sturridge’s second.

Liverpool comfortably eased their way towards the interval, while away fans watched in disarray. Roberto Martinez had one tough time talk to ensue during the break, but we would soon realize that it would not turn things around.

Gareth Barry had his name in the books for a foul on Raheem Sterling. Whether it was out of frustration or just a bad tackle, it was reminiscent of what was becoming a very troublesome outing for Everton.

Captain Fantastic: Steven Gerrard celebrates the opening goal. COURTESY: TWITTER.COM/LFC

Everton came out on a roll to start the second half. Liverpool were being pushed back and their resolve was being tested most to that point in the game. Around five minutes of this would amount to nothing, in fact further damage, for Everton.
A defensive mishap from Phil Jagielka would let Luis Suarez through, surging down the middle with two defenders hot on his tails. Keeping composed, he slotted it past Tim Howard to surely seal the game for the hosts.

It had become a game almost contrary to their six-goal thriller earlier this season.

Liverpool continued to dominate the game with a four-goal cushion. Daniel Sturridge scuffed a hat-trick opportunity with a penalty to make it five. The penalty was awarded after Tim Howard fouled Raheem Sterling in the box. Sturridge blasted it over the bar, and would later be replaced for Victor Moses in the 70th minute.

Prior to his substitution, he failed to convert when it was three-on-two, but John Stones managed to clear away – with Suarez and Sturridge in a bit of a disagreement. Goals mean goals, no matter how much you are leading by.

Everton were down and out, but Ross Barkley had other ideas – and so did Mignolet, who batted away his effort to maintain his clean sheet thus far.

With the time slowly ticking down towards the full-time whistle, the fans were as contrasting as each team in the game. Glum Everton fans exited the arena, while Liverpool fans savored every minute as they cruised to a big victory over their neighbors.

Liverpool were unable to get a fifth in the 88th minute, as Victor Moses smashed it over, with Luis Suarez in promising territory, albeit shunned for that chance. 

And it finished 4 – 0, with Liverpool embracing their glory as they picked up a vital win that catapulted them back into possible title contention.

“We wanted to get back to the way we’ve been playing. We’ve been ruthless at home.” Steven Gerrard spoke to BT Sport following the game. The skipper also took responsibility for allowing Daniel Sturridge taking the penalty, “I wanted Daniel to experience the same feeling that I did” of scoring in the Derby.

“We played good football. And the boys created good chances,” double-scorer Daniel Sturridge explained. He also apologized if anyone was offended by his reaction to being substituted off.

Comment & Analysis: “From a thrilling draw last season to an undoubted rout this time round” writes Nisar Khan

A win of this magnitude is simply unheard in the Merseyside Derby.

With Everton placing one of their best Merseyside Derby squads for this game, a lot of questions need to be asked as to how they were so dominated by Liverpool at Anfield.

Quick comparisons of their match and the thriller earlier this season have shown a vast change. Romelu Lukaku, arguably the most significant piece to the puzzle, was taken off twenty-one minutes in, a bitter blow to Everton that the loss will only further worsen. 

While the first goal came from a set-piece, they wouldn’t prove a factor. It would be through balls, that for some reason, Jagielka and his defensive teammates were unable to deal with. Sturridge’s second goal showed it all, how was he let into so much vast space to finish like that?

The number of chances, even with Lukaku on, show Everton’s problem (at least one of them) in the game. In the first twenty minutes, the hosts had six chances to Everton’s one chance – despite a very even and top-quality start for both sides.

Everton no doubt can bounce back from this game, but it will be a real test of their resolve. This acts as encouragement for Liverpool, going six games unbeaten, and now a demolition over their rivals to keep them well-and-truly alive in the title race, taking advantage of Arsenal’s draw on the same night.

Striking prowess was yet again clearly evident for all to see on the Reds’ part. Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge’s partnership is proving to be a lethal one, of which Everton have witnessed firsthand.

Midfielders were yet again influential, with Coutinho working his socks off today, along with Steven Gerrard, thriving in his 31st Merseyside Derby appearance.

Maybe the only negative performances was Aly Cissokho, who was wasteful in possession and messed up on creating assists for the strikers downfield. Meanwhile, Kevin Mirallas stood out for Everton with his vein effort amounting to nothing, except a pinch of recognition.

Everton’s chance to go ahead of Liverpool has been thwarted, and thwarted in some emphatic fashion by the hosts, putting on a superb performance against their rivals.

It’s the biggest win in a Merseyside Derby since 1982.

It’s Liverpool’s day as they leave no doubt to thwart Everton’s chances to go ahead of them. Four goals in a problematic outing for the Toffees, while Liverpool were on another level.

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

Merseyside Derby Retrospective: Reliving Epic Merseyside Clash at Goodison Park Earlier This Season Ahead of Tomorrow’s Derby

Football

BY NISAR KHAN

Ahead of Tuesday evening’s Merseyside Derby clash at Anfield, we look back at Everton and Liverpool’s amazing clash earlier this season, with a dramatic climax seeing the game end with three-goals-a-piece.

Luis Suarez’s extraordinary free-kick was one of six goals in the game. COURTESY: AP

It remains one of the best games of the season thus far, a pulsating, back-and-forth encounter that had drama throughout, goals coming from the very start.

Read the match report here »

Just five minutes in and the goals would get flowing, as Phillipe Coutinho edged his side ahead following an assist from Luis Suarez.

Merely minutes later, Goodison Park would erupt in celebration, as Kevin Mirallas equalized – taking advantage of some poor Liverpool defending towards Leighton Baines’ long-range free-kick.

Liverpool would lead into the interval by way of a free-kick from Luis Suarez, curling it low past Tim Howard, and a poor wall arrangement to score.

In the second half, Romelu Lukaku would spoil the day for Liverpool, with a double within ten minutes to turn the game back into the Toffees’ favor – turning in from Mirallas’ cross first, then heading of a corner to take the lead with eight minutes remaining of regulation.

With the game now looking sealed, we were in for one more twist in the tale, as Daniel Sturridge equalized of a free-kick late on to cap off an incredible tie.

A combination of two significant factors would prove decisive in the match. Set-pieces, with poor defending to back them up.

In their next meeting, it is likely that both teams would have improved from then, with their defense, but as a result improving set pieces will increase the standard and make it harder to defend – proportional improvement. 

Simon Mignolet, who delivered a great goalkeeping performance for the visitors, has been suffering a slump in form as of late – looking far from his best. With his work in between the sticks in the previous encounter, how will Liverpool fare if Simon Mignolet is not at his best?

It’s a Derby. This means we will get ferocious tackles, heated debates and some really competitive football. We’re hoping for better decisions this time round, as Kevin Mirallas could have easily been sent off last time for a harsh foul on Luis Suarez.

This time round. Things have changed.

We are in for another fantastic game of football come Tuesday evening. Anfield will be ready and rocking for more terrific action from this pulsating derby. 

It’s a Derby, with title race chances at stake too. Importance and intensity just multiplied, big time.

Everton and Liverpool are ready to do battle, and if the previous match is anything to come by, we are in for one magnificent game of football.

Watch Liverpool vs. Everton in the UK on Tuesday at 7:30pm on BT Sport

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

Batista Secures WrestleMania 30 Championship Match, Randy Orton Still Champion with the Road to WrestleMania Starting in Pittsburgh

BY NISAR KHAN

WWE

WWE Royal Rumble 2014

Sunday 26 January 2014

Consol Energy Center, Pittsburgh, PA.

PITTSBURGH – The Road to WrestleMania began with Batista securing his place in the main event after prevailing in an epic Royal Rumble match. 



‘Mania Bound: Batista celebrates the win. WWE.com

Roman Reigns delivered a standout performance in the Royal Rumble match, breaking the record for most eliminations in a single match with twelve.

Brock Lesnar and Big Show also had a major collision, plus there was a shocking ending to John Cena’s Championship match with Randy Orton.

The New Age Outlaws def. Cody Rhodes & Goldust
Royal Rumble Kick-Off Show, New WWE Tag Team Champions

The New Age Outlaws turned the clock back on the “Brotherhood” in the Royal Rumble kick-off show to capture the WWE Tag Team Championships and begin their sixth reign.

Cody Rhodes and Goldust were once again linking together with their fantastic teamwork evident as to why they were Champions since October. Cody Rhodes’ momentum continued, with his brother Goldust looking good too.

On the other side of the ring, The New Age Outlaws didn’t miss a beat. Just like their storied days in the Attitude Era, they looked smooth and gave a tough night to the Tag Team Champions.

A timely tag-in from Billy Gunn would ultimately decide the fate. Cody Rhodes was not aware that Billy Gunn had in fact tagged himself in, so focused on defeating Road Dogg. Having delivered a Disaster Kick, Cody Rhodes turned around into the Famousser and after three counts, the tag team Championships had changed hands.

Bray Wyatt def. Daniel Bryan

Bray Wyatt was the victor in an incredible match to begin the Royal Rumble event, with both men delivering phenomenal performances.

Pittsburgh was soon embracing the “YES!” chants as the surrounded the CONSOL Energy Arena. Daniel Bryan was relentlessly kicking away at the torso and legs of Bray Wyatt, softening him up for a match just shy of half-an-hour long.

Soon into the match, Bray Wyatt’s associates in the “Wyatt Family” would get involved, before Bray surprisingly told them to leave the area and put it one-on-one.

True brutality and aggression was on display from the part of Bray Wyatt, as he savagely threw Daniel Bryan into the steel steps, before inflicting more pain with the outside surroundings.

Wyatt would soon feel the wrath of Bryan’s aggression once more, as he delivered a powerful Curb Stomp to Bray Wyatt.

As Daniel Bryan heated up, he was looking to finish the match for good with his signature Knee to the Head – with Bray Wyatt being conscious enough just to escape. But Daniel Bryan refused to let up, and attempted a Suicide Dive. What would follow was truly incredible.

Daniel Bryan was caught mid-air, before Bray Wyatt delivered a thunderous “Sister Abigail” to the barricade, leveling Daniel Bryan then allowing him to be finished in the ring.

An incredible match, acknowledged by the raucous “This is awesome!” chants, truly showed two of WWE’s best young competitors at their finest. Outstanding.

Brock Lesnar def. The Big Show

Brock Lesnar made quick work of The Big Show with an unbelievable F5 to the World’s Largest Athlete with an attack before and after the match.

Strategies were clear before the bell. Brock Lesnar rushed into the ring and attacked The Big Show, before viciously injuring him with a steel chair.

After control was regained a few moments later, the match would begin, with Brock Lesnar’s attempted chair shot met by a huge punch that dazed the Beast Incarnate.

Big Show took control momentarily, with huge punches to the body and punished Brock Lesnar. A survival mode instinct of Brock Lesnar came into play, as he dodged a Knockout Punch from The Big Show to deliver a jaw-dropping F5 to win the match.

Although the match was over, Brock Lesnar wasn’t finished. Using two steel chairs consecutively, The Big Show was left injured and battered following over twenty vicious chair shots. 

Randy Orton def. John Cena
Retains WWE World Heavyweight Championship

WWE World Heavyweight Champion Randy Orton successfully retained his title after capitalizing on a shock interference from the Wyatt Family to defeat John Cena.

The Viper gathered a full head of steam to begin the match, leaving John Cena with little to take advantage on in the opening minutes.

Soon the tables would turn, as John Cena got some payback on Randy Orton, after he savagely attacked John Cena’s father two weeks prior on Raw. As John Cena garnered momentum, the referee felt the full force of the action, knocked down and out for a significant moment in the match.

John Cena went for his signature “STF” submission, and Randy Orton tapped out. Thinking he had now become Champion, John Cena broke the hold to celebrate – only realizing that the referee had been out of the action, leaving Randy Orton to capitalize by knocking John Cena out with the title belt.

That would not prove decisive then, though, with both slugging it out for much longer, even trading their best shots, to the extent of John Cena giving an RKO to Randy Orton.

John Cena was on the verge of becoming Champion, when Randy Orton was merely moments away from tapping out. Then, the Wyatt Family would come, with the arena going pitch dark and then, John Cena was knocking them off the apron.

With the Wyatts temporarily cleared, Randy Orton turned round into an RKO, that would ultimately decide the match.

John Cena falls short again of capturing the unified Championships, but for him, he questions why the Wyatt Family decided to ruin his opportunity.

Batista wins Royal Rumble match
Headlines WrestleMania 30 in April

Batista secured his spot at the WrestleMania 30 main event after his triumph in an epic, back-and-forth Royal Rumble match that saw runner-up Roman Reigns break the record for most eliminations in a single match.

Seth Rollins started things off with CM Punk, but the odds would soon be stacked against the Straight Edge Savior with the arrival of Sandow, teaming up with Rollins to inflict damage on CM Punk. Punk held his own with a double neck-breaker to them.

Damien Sandow was the first to be eliminated, shortly after the arrival of fourth man Cody Rhodes. Damien Sandow’s hopes were tarnished at the expense of CM Punk.

Kane would be a surprise arrival as the fifth entrant, taking part in his fifteenth consecutive Royal Rumble match. Although taking the fight initially to CM Punk, a round-house kick to Kane would daze the Big Red Monster allowing CM Punk to eliminate Kane.

NXT’s Alexander Rusev, who had taken NXT by storm, made an instant impact in the Royal Rumble, demonstrating incredible Muay-Thai technique and outstanding power taking control of the three men currently in the match.

Jack Swagger, another powerhouse, would join them as the seventh entrant. Soon colliding with Alexander Rusev. The Bulgarian, Rusev, would take advantage of the battle, but then Rusev would find himself handicapped against three of the competitors. 

Kofi Kingston would enter in at eighth, with Jimmy Uso coming in ninth. Momentum was swinging like an uncontrollable pendulum. After Goldust arrived at the tenth spot, four superstars would combine their effort to eliminate Alexander Rusev.

Kofi Kingston was expected to follow as he landed in the arms of Alexander Rusev, throwing him onto the barricade, but Kofi was not eliminated since his feet had not touched the floor. Kofi would walk the barricade, and jump all the way onto the apron to survive. Absolutely marvellous. Later on, Kofi Kingston would survive again by hanging onto Jack Swagger’s boot, and using it to hit Swagger and safely get back in the ring.

The Shield would have two members in the match with Dean Ambrose entering at #11. Dolph Ziggler would have the support of the fans in the arena, as he was hot out of the blocks in his entrance at #12. 

R-Truth’s WrestleMania dreams were short lived, as Dean Ambrose eliminated him just seconds in. Soon after, Jimmy Uso was also eliminated by Dean Ambrose. 

Kevin Nash would enter as a surprise entrant, towering above the other competitors in the ring, eliminating Swagger from the start.

Entering at #15, Roman Reigns would complete the trio, with The Shield able to take control. Roman Reigns emphatically eliminated Kofi Kingston, catching his quick in mid-air and tossing him out of the ring. Then, he went on to deliver an incredible spear to Dolph Ziggler before eliminating him. This was followed by pulling the rope when Kevin Nash charged at him, so he went over and out the ring.

Cody Rhodes and Goldust would be eliminated simultaneously, with Goldust eliminating his brother, before Roman Reigns eliminated Goldust.

The Shield would be shcoked by the arrival of Sheamus, who took it to The Shield and was on a huge roll, with a devastating Brogue Kick to Roman Reigns. Later on, The Miz arrived before Fandango was #19.

El Torito, the smallest competitor to ever enter the Rumble, would eliminate Fandango, before Roman Reigns would throw him out the ring at ease. At least he registered an elimination, though.

Antonio Cesaro would come in fresh out of the blocks, taking it to The Shield and dishing out giant swings here and there, including a 22-swing on Seth Rollins.

The Wyatt Family’s Luke Harper got his shot at a WrestleMania main event coming in at #22. Another member as part of a tag team was Jey Uso, who entered at #23, with his brother being eliminated earlier on in the match. 

At #24, came ring commentator, JBL. Entering and shocking the WWE Universe. Unfortunately for him, his downfall would come in his preparation, as he took his jacket of and turned towards the ropes and The Shield threw him out.

The Miz’s dreams of main eventing WrestleMania like he did three years ago were crushed when Luke Harper eliminated him, after his partner in the Wyatt Family, Erick Rowan entered in #25. Ryback was next to enter.

Alberto Del Rio entered in the coveted #27 spot, having won the Royal Rumble in 2011.

The big favorite, Batista came in at #28, instantly eliminating Erick Rowan, then colliding with Ryback and eliminating him shortly after. After Del Rio attacked him, Batista lifted Del Rio up with one arm and threw him out of the ring.

Another powerhouse would join them at #29, with Big E Langston exploding into the match, taking on Batista, then manhandling Sheamus.  

Rey Mysterio was last to enter at the #30 spot. With the crowd voicing their displeasure in the absence of Daniel Bryan.



Big E Langston was eliminated by Sheamus off the apron, with the action coming fast and furious with a WrestleMania opportunity at stake. 

Roman Reigns eliminated Luke Harper, but then Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose argued after Ambrose attempted ot eliminate Reigns. Roman Reigns would eliminate three people at once, getting rid of Luke Harper, Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose to tie Kane’s record for most eliminations.

Kane would get involved again, and screw out CM Punk from the final four, pulling him out the ring, then choke-slamming him through the table. 

Then, Roman Reigns would eliminate Sheamus to break the record for most eliminations in a single Royal Rumble match, leaving him and Batista left to do battle for a WrestleMania main event.

In the end, after a Batista Bomb, and a spear, Roman Reigns was eliminated by Batista, and one half of the WrestleMania event was set.

Comment: WrestleMania Set in Stone, But Have WWE Dropped the Ball Here?

In the kick-off show, The New Age Outlaws turned back the clock and captured their sixth Tag Team Championships. Its another match where Cody Rhodes & Goldust deliver in a top-quality tag team match. New Age Outlaws looked fresh and on the beat, superb match by both sides. Since The New Age Outlaws will be here for a while, they can hold the titles, with the seeds now planted for Cody Rhodes vs. Goldust in the near future.

Wow, an outstanding match between Daniel Bryan and Bray Wyatt. Phenomenal, standout performances by both men. They used the time incredibly well, and the crowd interaction played a vital part. What a finish to the match too, one of the best spots of the night, with the Sister Abigail caught mid-air. Lost for words, an awesome match.

Brock Lesnar vs. The Big Show was surprisingly short, yet achieved what it needed to achieve. Brock Lesnar left looking real dangerous going towards WrestleMania, and The Big Show was dominated. The F5 was crazy, what a scene it was, with Big Show atop Lesnar’s shoulders.

John Cena vs. Randy Orton was solid, but well, “awful” according to the crowd. Since we have seen them wrestle hundreds of times before it was no surprise. Looks like John Cena vs. Bray Wyatt is set for WrestleMania, needs to convince me if it will be good a bit more to be honest. Randy Orton retains, but he needs to retain in much stronger fashion next time round. Regardless, it looks like he’s heading to WrestleMania.

Well, a predictable, to say the least, Royal Rumble winner. Remember when Royal Rumbles used to be unpredictable? Yeah so do I. A great match, Roman Reigns’ night where he stood out, good to have Sheamus back, but not too pleased with the result. And with the crowd booing in the absence of Daniel Bryan, WWE may have dropped the ball with this one.

Batista triumphs in an incredible Royal Rumble match, with a guaranteed shot at the WWE World Heavyweight Championship come WrestleMania 30.

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

Miami Ease Past Spurs, Carmelo Anthony Leads Knicks Over Lakers with First Sunday Showcase of Season

NBA

BY NISAR KHAN

Miami thrived in their Finals rematch, and the Knicks picked up a big win at the Garden with Carmelo Anthony’s shooting form continuing – as the NBA delivered some big games on Grammy Sunday.



Pivotal: LeBron James and Chris Bosh contributed to Miami’s 101 – 113 win over the Spurs. ©

In a rematch from the NBA Finals, San Antonio Spurs traveled to the AmericanAirlines Arena in Miami to face the reigning Champions, while painful memories of the renowned Game 7 loss in the same arena were clear.

Chris Bosh delivered a standout performance for his side, scoring twenty-four points and shooting 9-10, while Dwyane Wade came off the bench to play for only the sixth time in his career having rested the four previous games.

Never trailing in the game, and extending a lead as far as 29 points, Miami comfortably raced away in the game after the first half finished closely. 



Spurs, who were without three of their important players used last season, saw ‘The Big Fundamental’ Tim Duncan score a team-high twenty-three points. Meanwhile, the other part of the duo, Tony Parker, put up eleven points.

Despite the subdued atmosphere at the AmericanAirlines Arena – that seemed to be filling up far too slowly for such a big game – Miami HEAT would thrive on their home court.

Miami got off to a great start with an 8 – 0 run to open the game, moving the ball around well to Ray Allen, wide open in space to nail a three pointer forcing a Spurs’ timeout. 

Ray Allen was short of completing a play completely reminiscent to his Game 6 winner last season, with the same motion to get into his corner three-pointer, only missing this time. 

Mario Chalmers also put on a good performance, with himself receiving praise from many-a-pundit for his important, yet sometimes underrated contributions to the HEAT.

It was set up to be a terrific contest with both teams tied at fourty-four points each before the interval. However, it was a very different story when the third quarter wrapped up.

Post-game, Spurs’ coach Greg Poppovich praised the HEAT, while pointing out his side’s problems. Indeed, the HEAT “brought their ‘A’ game”. 

Heat shot 58%, the best any team has shot vs Spurs this season pic.twitter.com/QKKWL3P82b
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) January 26, 2014

Miami saw off a great first half Spurs effort, to thrive in a decisive third quarter of which Chris Bosh stood out in. 

Madison Square Garden would continue the action for the second part of the NBA on ABC double-header, as the Los Angeles Lakers concluded their GRAMMY Road-Trip with a game against the New York Knicks.

Carmelo Anthony continued his scoring form with 35 points against the Lakers. Having scored an incredible 62 points in his previous game, he was influential in the Knicks’  110 – 103 win.

Both teams started off at a very level footrace to open the game. But eventually, despite a run to get back into the game, the Lakers would suffer their fifth, and to many thankfully final, road trip loss on the GRAMMY Road Trip. 

Los Angeles did themselves justice for a while, staying in it till late, scoring twelve of their eighteen attempted shots in the third quarter.

With the minutes left of the fourth, Knicks were clearly on course to a win, as the clock ticked down, and Knicks eased their way to their second straight win. 

Quick Stats Overview

San Antonio Spurs 101 – 113 Miami HEAT
HIGHEST POINTS: Chris Bosh, 24 pts (MIA)
HIGHEST ASSISTS: Mario Chalmers, 7 (MIA) & Tony Parker, 7 (SAS)
HIGHEST REBOUNDS:  LeBron James, 7 (MIA)

Los Angeles Lakers 103 – 110 New York Knicks
HIGHEST POINTS: Carmelo Anthony, 35 pts (NYK)
HIGHEST ASSISTS: Kendall Marshall, 5 (LAL), Carmelo Anthony, 5 (NYK) & Ray Felton, 5 (NYK)
HIGHEST REBOUNDS: Tyson Chandler, 14 (NYK)

Comment: “From well-contested openings, to runaways – and everything in between”

First of all, like many have noted, the attendance was worse than expected in Miami. For a game which sees two finalists rematch, many wouldn’t expect to see so many empty seats. Such a shame.

It was well-contested to start out, some fine shooting on both ends but the third quarter proved too costly for repair for the visitors. 

Chris Bosh proved not to be the weak-link for the HEAT’s big three, while another member is still in doubt after injuries. A key here is ensuring Dwyane’s health going forward, as he is an important piece to the HEAT’s puzzle – just like Mario Chalmers, who in my opinion had an outstanding performance on Sunday.

For the Spurs, although they lacked three key players, still put up a valiant effort. Even with Miami’s highest lead of twenty-nine points on one occasion, they fought back to reduce the deficit.

Its been a problematic GRAMMY Road Trip for the Lakers, “just bring Kobe back!”. Well, if only things were that simple, in fact far from it. Kobe has some rehabilitation to continue, but will be welcomed with open arms, if not desperate, upon his return to the Lakers.

Games in the near-future will be left to determine how the Knicks can redeem themselves. Carmelo Anthony has quickly went from simmering to stand-out, and now continued form will be pivotal for the Knicks getting back on track.

A big double-header of NBA basketball provides some fantastic sporting action for Sunday, with Miami HEAT getting another one-up over Spurs, while the Knicks continue to build a resurgence.

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

Benson Bounces Back as the Octagon Invades the Windy City

BY NISAR KHAN

UFC

UFC on FOX 10: Henderson vs. Thomson

Saturday 25 January 2014

United Center, Chicago, IL.

CHICAGO – Benson Henderson was victorious in the main event of UFC on FOX 10 in Chicago, defeating Josh Thomson in a well-fought main event.



A total of eleven fights were featured on the whole card in the tenth edition of “FOX UFC Saturday”, coming live from Chicago for the third consecutive year in January. 

Five of those fights featured finishes, with some of the best action coming in the main event and preliminary main-event.

Benson Henderson defeated Josh Thomson via Split Decision in the main event, a decision that was deemed controversial by a few critics as it seemed Thomson’s grappling gave him the edge in the fight. But the arguments went strongly either way.

Preliminary Action Overview

Four out of the seven undercard fights were finishes to kick start a wild night in the Windy City.

It all started just twenty-five seconds into fight action, with Nikita Krylov made quick work of his opponent, Walt Harris. Exchanging strikes early on, Krylov landed a head-kick which dazed Harris, allowing “Al Capone” to relentlessly strike away before the referee stoppage.

George Sullivan, Hugo Viana and Chico Camus were the winners via unanimous decision, defeating Mike Rhodes, Junior Hernandez and Yaotzin Meza respectively.

A stunning wheel-kick with just seconds remaining of Round 2 would prove conclusive as Daron Cruikshank got the win over Mike Rio. The breathtaking kick was followed up by a bombardment of strikes for the stoppage.

Having lost a title fight in September last-year, Eddie Wineland bounced back impressively, landing a ferocious right hand to reply to a leg kick, sending Yves Jabouin to the mat. After some reluctant defense by Jabouin, Wineland managed to get his back and pound away for the victory.

Alex Caceres and Sergio Pettis threw it down in a compelling and back-and-forth preliminary main event, with Caceres emerging as the late victor with a rear-naked choke. With just over twenty seconds remaining, Sergio would be forced to tap out to the choke to culminate a wild encounter in Chicago.

Jeremy Stephens def. Darren Elkins
Unanimous Decision (29 – 28, 30 – 27, 30 – 27)

Jeremy Stephens opened the main card with a comfortable win over Darren Elkins, with his stand-up and takedown prevention proving vital in his victory.

After exchanging early strikes, the fight went to the ground momentarily following Darren Elkins’ slip. However, Jeremy Stephens decided to take it back to the feet, where he was excelling against his opponent and scored affirmatively.

At numerous times during the fight, we saw Darren Elkins diving for either a double-leg or single-leg takedown, but to no significant avail.

A good win for Jeremy Stephens, as he hopes it is one of many to come in the near future.

Donald Cerrone def. Adriano Martins
Knockout (Head-Kick, 4:40 of Round 1) 

Donald Cerrone delivered an incredible highlight-reel head-kick knockout to Adriano Martins in the first round to send a statement to the Lightweight Division.

Despite a lone takedown attempt from the “Cowboy”, in the four-and-a-half minutes of action, the two exchanged on the feet.

Looking focused and aware of the task in hand, Cerrone’s Muay-Thai background was emerging with hard leg-kicks.

Then suddenly, following numerous kicks to the leg, Donald Cerrone landed a perfect shin-to-neck head-kick that knocked Martins completely out, before demonstrating great sportsmanship by not inflicting further damage knowing that Martins was already out.

Donald Cerrone delivered on his promise, with his focused approach definitely working in this fight. Can the Cowboy string together more wins for a title run?

Stipe Miocic def. Gabriel Gonzaga
Unanimous Decision (30 – 27, 29 – 28, 30 – 27)

Stipe Miocic managed to avoid Gabriel Gonzaga’s big shots in a convincing victory for his eleventh career win.

Gabriel Gonzaga had the better in the opening round, with a couple of leg kicks and generally some clean striking.

However, as the bout progressed, it would be Stipe Miocic’s boxing skills that would provide him with the threshold in the bout, keeping Gonzaga well away and jabbing away to pick up points from the judges.

In the final round, Miocic came relatively close to putting Gonzaga away, leaving him dazed for a while as the battle took to the ground, but the clock would tick down.

Back-to-back wins for Miocic, bouncing back from a loss to Stefan Struve in 2012, and Miocic is looking good once again to keep a big-hitter at bay.

Benson Henderson def. Josh Thomson
Split Decision (48 – 47, 49 – 46, 47 – 48)

Benson Henderson prevailed in a well-fought bout with Josh Thomson to bounce back from his title loss and defeat a game opponent.

Benson Henderson was able to escape some early trouble, after Josh Thomson landed an early takedown following a leg kick. For the majority of the round, Thomson worked on his back and looked for the choke, but eventually Henderson managed to escape carrying Thomson’s body weight with him. Soon after, the two would exchange again, before Thomson this time escaped an arm triangle. Josh Thomson landed a big takedown to end the round, indefinitely sealing the first round in his favor.

Back-Off: Benson Henderson upright with Josh Thomson applying pressure up against the fence.

A lot of action in the clinch would ensue in the second round. Benson Henderson scored with some calf-kicks, but yet again Josh Thomson would open up an advantage getting Benson’s back. Yet again, Benson Henderson proved the stronger man, lifting Josh Thomson up and forcing him to release the body triangle. Both had their fair share of strikes too, with the feeling out process well and truly over, as both men got to the action and went for it.

Clinch: Benson Henderson scores on the clinch-game with Thomson

As the fight went through its midpoint, Benson Henderson took more control. Josh Thomson seemed to be carrying a hand injury, with reports that his right hand was broken. Benson Henderson out-wrestled his opponent in the round, despite Thomson still throwing the hand that was damaged. Despite Benson Henderson’s half-attempts to finish the fight, it would go to the main event rounds…

The fourth round was a much more contested one than the previous round. Josh Thomson took away the thoughts of his injured hand and wrestled with Benson Henderson, applying pressure yet again getting on his back. The Chicago crowd embraced a few laughs when Benson Henderson swept hair of his face when Josh Thomson was on his back, but the showboating would then come from Thomson, fist pumping while on Henderson’s back.

Showboating: Josh Thomson hypes up the crowd while on Henderson’s back.

They would complete the fight with another well-contested round in the fifth. Josh Thomson’s numerous takedowns where his standpoint in the round, while hooks to the body and kicks to the body were scoring points for the former Champion.

It was unfortunate for Josh Thomson since he damaged his hand in the second round, and that is what could have held him back. Impressive by both men, and Benson Henderson’s physical strength, striking and wrestling plays a pivotal role in his victory over Josh Thomson.

Comment: Benson Bounces Back in a Wild Night in Chicago

Well that’s it for another FOX UFC Saturday, and it’s another entertaining one.

First of all, a well-contested main event. A lot of justification following this bout could point Josh Thomson’s hand injury as a key part in Benson’s victory – but that takes little away from his fantastic performance today. This could start a resurgence for “Smooth” Benson Henderson.  While Josh Thomson, who was in line for a title shot, deserves credit for taking the fight and taking it to Henderson.

Donald Cerrone delivered some of the best of the night in my opinion, a terrific head-kick. While the main event and preliminary main event were Fight of the Night candidates. Too bad Gonzaga didn’t show up in the expected manner in the co-main event.

Benson Henderson is victorious in what could be the start of his resurgence having lost his title. So long Chicago for now, as the Octagon looks ahead to UFC 169 next week.

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

One Direction Star to Make Debut in Football League Championship

BY NISAR KHAN

One Direction member Louis Tomlinson will make his debut for hometown club Doncaster Rovers.

The boyband star has been a ‘lifelong’ Doncaster Rovers supporter.

First reported by the club’s official website, Louis’ debut will take place next month after his previous attempt at a debut was postponed due to injury.

Chief executive of the club, Gavin Baldwin, said: “We are very much looking forward to Louis making his Rovers debut and I know that he can’t wait either.”

The One Direction star has already a renowned footballing moment to his name, after being leveled by Gabriel Agbonglahor in Stilyan Petrov’s charity match. He was left vomiting with intense impact from the Aston Villa player. 

Specific details remain yet to be confirmed such as his playing time, and if this is his only game, but carrying a strong fanbase behind him, this match is sure to bring plenty of publicity to the club.

Having been a life-long supporter of Doncaster Rovers, Tomlinson now will have an opportunity to play for them.

Reporting on Louis’ “busy schedule”, the club said they had managed to find a time that suits him to play, on the official Doncaster Rovers website.

It will be some sight for Doncaster Rovers when he does make his debut in the Football League, albeit a very crazy story. Nonetheless, there will be plenty of attention on this game, not necessarily from sports fans, but One Direction fans.

And for the people worrying, since this may be the rare occasion in which he plays, he shouldn’t be landing on a FIFA cover anytime soon…

FIFA 14 featuring Louis Tomlinson, not coming soon (we hope).

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

Roger Federer vs. Rafael Nadal: A Storied Rivalry Continues

BY NISAR KHAN

Tennis

Rafael Nadal further extended his lead in a storied rivalry with Roger Federer, defeating him in straight sets in the Australian Open on Friday. With thirty-three games now played between them, we take a look back at one of sport’s greatest rivalries.

Rafael Nadal progressed to the final after defeating Federer in straight sets.  COURTESY: WallStreetJournal (WSJ.com)

Rafael Nadal comfortably beat Roger Federer 7 – 6, 6 – 3, 6 – 3 to progress to the Australian Open final extending his lead in the decade-long rivalry to 23 – 10.

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal’s storied rivalry all began in Miami, Florida, at the Miami masters in March 2004. The Spaniard would win the first encounter with a shock straight-set win at just seventeen years of age in 2005.

In their first match pitted against each other on clay, and their first Grand Slam encounter, Rafael Nadal would see-off Roger Federer in the French Open semifinals before progressing to win the tournament.

The rivalry really rocketed off in 2006, with Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer engaging six times throughout the year, including two Grand Slam Finals (Wimbledon and the French Open). Roger Federer would get the win on grass, with Rafael Nadal winning prior to that.

Mutual Respect: Federer, Nadal have spoken many-a-time of one another’s qualities.

Roger Federer was victorious in the majority of their five matches in 2007. “The Swiss Maestro” put an end to Nadal’s 81-match win streak on clay. Rafael Nadal went on to seek vengeance emphatically, winning his third French Open title in a four-set battle. In the Summer, Roger Federer triumphed in a five-set epic Wimbledon Final. 

With that, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer had already emerged as the key figures in the sport – but that wasn’t even half the story.

With four-out-of-four wins against Federer in 2008, Rafael Nadal extended the total record between the two to a 12 – 6 lead. The “King of Clay” Nadal won his fourth French Open title, and in one of their most anticipated rematches, with rain delays, becoming the longest Wimbledon Final in history, Nadal would come out on top in a five-set thriller with darkness emerging over London.



In 2009 and 2010, Federer and Nadal split the four total matches with two wins each. In the Australian Open Final, Rafael Nadal put an end to King Roger’s hard-court dominance prevailing in an incredible five-set match.  

In 2011, after three matches in minor tournaments along with a lone doubles match, Nadal and Federer engaged in their first Grand Slam meeting since 2009. Yet again, each other pushed one another to the limit, but Rafael Nadal would once again be the victor.

In their two matches in 2012, Rafael Nadal improved on hard-court beating Federer within four sets, but the Swiss Maestro rebounded with a win in the Indian Wells Masters.

Their four encounters last year in minor tournaments saw Nadal completing the accolade of defeating Federer on every surface.

In their most previous encounter, Rafael Nadal proved once again the better man in a comfortable straight sets.

Records & Stats Breakdown

All-Time Record: Rafael Nadal 23 – 10 Roger Federer
All Finals Record: Rafael Nadal 14 – 6 Roger Federer
Grand-Slam Record: Rafael Nadal 9 – 2 Roger Federer
Hard-Court Surface Record: Rafael Nadal 9 – 6 Roger Federer
Australian Open Record: Rafael Nadal 3 – 0 

Comment: One Decade of Two Greats Sharing a Court

It’s clear that throughout their decade-long rivalry, that Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are two of the greatest tennis players to ever brace the court. What is significant is that the bulk of Rafael Nadal’s lead taking over their rivalry came in two separate years of which he beat Roger Federer on two occasions.

According to Roger Federer, his best tennis is still ahead of him, so this rivalry may not be put to rest, just yet.

Rafael Nadal has comfortably extended his lead to 23 – 10 in their all-time games, looking at some of his best.

If we have more games between the two, which is expected, we could be in store for me edge-on-your seat back-and-forth tennis.

Rafael Nadal prevails in the latest installment to an incredible rivalry. With some more duels expected to follow involving these two, the story is far from over.

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

Five Potential Opponents for Batista in 2014

BY NISAR KHAN

WWE

“The Animal” Dave Bautista made his profound return to WWE action on Monday night, and making an impact from the start, Batista could make part of some tantalizing bouts this year.




Back for business, Batista returned on the January 20 edition of WWE Monday Night RAW. The Animal quickly made his intentions clear, stating he was here to capture the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. But by the looks of things, he could also set up for some intense matches.

#5 – Alberto Del Rio

Now this is an obvious one.

Alberto Del Rio holds the position of being the first person to receive a Batista bomb in Batista’s new run with the WWE. However, the Mexican Aristocrat could be subject to a few more in the following weeks.

After trash-talking about Batista’s return, Alberto Del Rio felt the full wrath of Batista, and with this rivalry simmering under the Royal Rumble saga, we could see these two square off at Elimination Chamber.

Now, this is some awkward timing. You never know, this match could happen after WrestleMania, but unlikely to occur at Elimination Chamber and certainly not at WrestleMania.

Typical feud, but one that is intriguing – the powerhouse taking on the crafty technician. 

It is a fresh feud though, and that could be intriguing enough for many to watch the match and buy it on whatever pay-per-view they wish. A win over Alberto Del Rio for Batista would get the Animal would kick-start Batista’s resurgence. 

Batista attacks Alberto Del Rio on his return. COURTESY: WWE.COM

#4 – Randy Orton

Batista against Randy Orton, a match that could happen at WrestleMania, or even earlier with the title hanging in the balance.

Batista has made it clear that he wants to fight for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, and a match against the current Champion Randy Orton is likely. But when?

Will Batista battle Randy Orton in New Orleans at WrestleMania? Do the WWE creative team see money in this match at that time? Or could this sell a pay-per-view elsewhere on the calendar?

Randy Orton and Batista no doubt have a history, and this is a match that can heavily involve Triple H – be it good or bad. 

The two have faced each other, but this match will be much more meaningful with the likelihood of title implications. 

#3 – John Cena

Another rivalry renewal, two stars who have Championship caliber, and two who could sell a WrestleMania main event.

But with this a rematch from WrestleMania 26, how likely is it to happen four years later?

The creative side could easily be put into place, Batista could have come back for some vengeance after the down-spiral of his career following his loss.

But, with Batista not really emerging as a heel yet, and eliminating the unlikelihood of John Cena’s heel turn, this could happen later down in the line, not necessarily at WrestleMania.

This year however, with the New Year just reigning in, any small change could open up for this match. 

Batista and John Cena had an intense rivalry just a few years ago.

#2 – Brock Lesnar

Brock Lesnar’s name has been closely linked with Batista in the previous weeks, with both being said to targeting the Champion.

With both on the Championship chase, could a sudden turn pit two of WWE’s most intense superstars up against each other?

What a huge match it could be, Batista vs. Brock Lesnar – what many see as a dream match, could be more likely than you’d expect.

One person must be ahead of the other in the queue to get a title shot, and when that happens, what if one wins, and then the other is next in line?

How big could this match be?

#1 – The Undertaker

This is the definite wildcard prediction. 

However, with Batista falling to The Undertaker and WrestleMania 23, a quest for vengeance could see the Animal battle to break the renowned streak once again.

But what makes this such a wild prediction is the situation it’s in. The Undertaker may or may not be at WrestleMania 30, and with Batista in search for the title the two are going in very different directions.

Batista would need to pick up a full head of steam and really challenge The Undertaker somehow, but this could result in a heel turn. 

Now doesn’t really seem the time, but if the WWE shocks us again, Batista could find himself attempting to break The Undertaker’s streak.



There’s five potential, albeit some wild opponents for Batista this year. Any is a possibility with the WWE, but then there are some left out too, such as CM Punk, Roman Reigns and a few others. Which match would you most like to see?

Batista is back, but could he be on a collision course with one of these superstars in the near future. With the Road to WrestleMania just days away, business is indeed picking up.

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/

NBA Celebrates MLK Day With Exciting Ten-Game Schedule Which Sees Pacers, Nets Thrive in Road Wins and More

BY NISAR KHAN

NBA pays tribute to Martin Luther King with a line-up of ten games including a battle of New York and the Champions outdone surprisingly in Atlanta. 



Taj Gibson scored an overtime game-winner for the Bulls.

Brooklyn Nets, Indiana Pacers, Houston Rockets and Chicago Bulls were victorious on the NBA’s MLK Day schedule, which also saw the defending Champions fall to the Atlanta Hawks.

In the early tip-offs, Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Clippers and Charlotte Bobcats prevailed, beating the Cavaliers, Pistons and Raptors respectively, while the Washington Wizards also saw off the Philadelphia 76ers in a 107 – 99 home win.

Brooklyn Nets made a dominant show of the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, handing them a fourth consecutive loss to further add to the rising troubles of the Knicks.

Joe Johnson was arguably the best player on the court, picking up 25 points and dishing out 5 assists. While at the other end, Carmelo Anthony was the leading scorer for his side with 26 points, alas in vein as his team were dominated throughout.

Highest Rebounds: Carmelo Anthony (NYK), Andray Blatche (BKN) – 12
Highest Assists:  Raymond Felton (NYK) – 6
Highest Points: Carmelo Anthony (NYK) – 26
Turnovers: Brooklyn Nets (14), New York Knicks (17)
FGM-A %: Brooklyn Nets (49.3%), New York Knicks (33.8%)

New Orleans Pelicans edged out the Memphis Grizzlies by three points in the sixth game of the night, coming back from two down to end the third quarter and pick up a road win in Memphis.

In the PHILLIPS Arena in Atlanta, the Hawks picked up a huge win over defending Champions Miami HEAT. Paul Milsap scored 26 points to contribute to their 121 – 114 win.

Then the attention turned to the United Center as the Chicago Bulls hosted the LA Lakers. It would be ultimately decided by Taj Gibson’s game winner in overtime. D.J. Augustin scored a game-high 27 points. With both teams tied at 100 points just 0.9 of a second remained of overtime, Taj Gibson stepped towards the rim and laid it up for the winner.



In the penultimate game of the night the Houston Rockets blazed bast Portland with a thirteen-point victory. A season-high 31 points for Chandler Parsons was a cornerstone in their victory at the Toyota Center, also emphatically blocking Lillard in the game. LaMarcus Aldridge picked up 20 boards, but Houston would cruise by Portland 126 – 113.

In the final game of the night, Indiana Pacers handed the Warriors another loss at the Oracle Arena in Oakland, CA.  Despite Steph Curry’s game high 24 points and 9 assists, it wouldn’t stop the Pacers on their way to a fifth win.

Comment: Pacers & Nets Stand Tall, Champions Fall in a Celebratory Line-Up of MLK Day Basketball

Brooklyn Nets looked once again great in their win over the New York Knicks. Joe Johnson is putting together a sensational run of form that is carrying his squad on a roll. Meanwhile for the Knicks, it is problematic, we know Carmelo may not be very happy but there is still some time before the trade deadline. A loss in this manner at their home court with some relatively easy games to follow is a pivotal time for the Knicks franchise.

Golden State Warriors are inconsistent as of late, but back-to-back home losses don’t sum up them to be as bad. It was a much better Indiana performance, with them on a roll, to win the war against the Warriors on this occasion.

Much to the surprise of a few, the Miami HEAT fell to the Atlanta Hawks. That’s such a big win for the Atlanta Hawks with them looking real good not just on the court, but on the box score too.

The NBA pays a fitting tribute to Martin Luther King, with dreams living on and beyond the court.

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

Share This Post:

Connect With Us!

/**/

Follow @_TheSportMatrix /**/