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..::Football II::..
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AVB: Moutinho deal was close
Andre Villas-Boas has said Tottenham came very close to signing Jose Moutinho on transfer deadline day, only for a breakdown in contract negotiations to prevent the deal from happening.
Moutinho, 25, is a long-time Tottenham target, with some observers seeing him as an essential signing for Villas-Boas following the departure of Luka Modric to Real Madrid.
The Spurs manager, however, insists there is enough cover in his squad and that the failure to sign Portugal international Moutinho should not overshadow the surprise deadline day purchase of Fulham's Clint Dempsey."We were covered because of the fact it could not happen, bearing in mind they [Porto] are a difficult club to deal with," he said.
"We agreed terms late but there were situations regarding the contract that were night right. But, again, we had solutions and we had enough cover."Moutinho's transfer not happening shouldn't overshadow the fact we got one of the coups of the transfer marker in Clint Dempsey."
Villas-Boas would not be drawn on whether Spurs would go back in for Moutinho in the next window, saying: "It's extremely difficult. For the moment, let's give the speculation a rest. It's the rest of the season."
Andre Villas-Boas has said Tottenham came very close to signing Jose Moutinho on transfer deadline day, only for a breakdown in contract negotiations to prevent the deal from happening.
Moutinho, 25, is a long-time Tottenham target, with some observers seeing him as an essential signing for Villas-Boas following the departure of Luka Modric to Real Madrid.
The Spurs manager, however, insists there is enough cover in his squad and that the failure to sign Portugal international Moutinho should not overshadow the surprise deadline day purchase of Fulham's Clint Dempsey."We were covered because of the fact it could not happen, bearing in mind they [Porto] are a difficult club to deal with," he said.
"We agreed terms late but there were situations regarding the contract that were night right. But, again, we had solutions and we had enough cover."Moutinho's transfer not happening shouldn't overshadow the fact we got one of the coups of the transfer marker in Clint Dempsey."
Villas-Boas would not be drawn on whether Spurs would go back in for Moutinho in the next window, saying: "It's extremely difficult. For the moment, let's give the speculation a rest. It's the rest of the season."
Arsenal defend transfer dealings
Arsenal have defended their lack of movement in the transfer market on deadline day after seeing North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur make late moves for personnel.
This summer, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has sold last season's top goalscorer Robin van Persie to Manchester United while Alex Song has also left for Barcelona.The French coach moved early in the market by signing Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski before landing Santi Cazorla for £16 million from Malaga.
But the sales of Van Persie and Song led to suggestions further investment was needed from the Gunners, and on deadline day they were linked with a loan move for Chelsea's Michael Essien.
Essien, though, ultimately signed a loan deal with Real Madrid, and Arsenal have insisted there was no serious interest in the Ghana midfielder.An Arsenal source told ESPN: "Regarding the squad, there were no close, late attempts and we were never in for Essien.
"Arsene feels with the three signings, together with (Abou) Diaby back, and (Jack) Wilshere, (Tomas) Rosicky and (Bacary) Sagna close to fitness, the squad is strong.
"There are obviously resources to spend and he's given the freedom to do so."The Gunners' rivals Tottenham, meanwhile, were active on deadline day, as they landed France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris and Clint Dempsey from Fulham.
Arsenal have defended their lack of movement in the transfer market on deadline day after seeing North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur make late moves for personnel.
This summer, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has sold last season's top goalscorer Robin van Persie to Manchester United while Alex Song has also left for Barcelona.The French coach moved early in the market by signing Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski before landing Santi Cazorla for £16 million from Malaga.
But the sales of Van Persie and Song led to suggestions further investment was needed from the Gunners, and on deadline day they were linked with a loan move for Chelsea's Michael Essien.
Essien, though, ultimately signed a loan deal with Real Madrid, and Arsenal have insisted there was no serious interest in the Ghana midfielder.An Arsenal source told ESPN: "Regarding the squad, there were no close, late attempts and we were never in for Essien.
"Arsene feels with the three signings, together with (Abou) Diaby back, and (Jack) Wilshere, (Tomas) Rosicky and (Bacary) Sagna close to fitness, the squad is strong.
"There are obviously resources to spend and he's given the freedom to do so."The Gunners' rivals Tottenham, meanwhile, were active on deadline day, as they landed France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris and Clint Dempsey from Fulham.
Manchester City 3-1 QPR: Mancini's men survive scare with Tevez in top form
Edin Dzeko and Carlos Tevez scored second-half goals as Manchester City secured a 3-1 victory over QPR after once again being temporarily pegged back at the Etihad Stadium.
Yaya Toure gave the defending champs a first-half lead in what was a one-sided fixture, finishing from the center of the penalty area after an unfortunate deflection had diverted the ball directly into his path.
Not for the first time this season, however, the home crowd was stunned by the less illustrious visitors when Bobby Zamora converted from point-blank range after good work from Andy Johnson.
It took City less than two minutes, though, to restore its advantage as Dzeko headed home Tevez's cross before the Argentine deflected his strike partner's shot into the back of the net in added time.
Roberto Mancini reverted to a 4-2-3-1 after the mixed success of his recent 3-5-2 experiment, with Dzeko starting in attack in the absence of Sergio Aguero. Mario Balotelli, despite his eye problem, was on the bench.
Esteban Granero made his debut for QPR, with Alejandro Faurlin making his first league appearance after a long-term knee injury alongside him. Andy Johnson partnered Bobby Zamora in attack.
It was one-way traffic from the start. Corners looked City's most likely route to goal in the early stages, with Dzeko missing the target with one attempt and seeing another cleared off the line.
QPR sat extremely deep in its own half and, in bizarre fashion, its best chance of the opening 15 minutes did not come courtesy of one of the club's own players. Jack Rodwell had Joe Hart scrambling after an attempted tackle in the middle of the pitch flew towards the City goal and narrowly over the crossbar.
Eventually, the set-plays paid off. When Tevez attempted to return Silva's deep corner to the centre of the box, a deflection took the ball into the path of Toure, who swept a shot home with his left boot from 10 yards.
Robert Green may find himself quickly ousted as QPR's first-choice goalkeeper when Julio Cesar becomes available to Mark Hughes but if not for an excellent save from the England international, Silva would have doubled the lead after wriggling through a number of defenders and stabbing the ball towards goal from close range.
Silva had another chance when he raced on to Aleksandr Kolarov's fine through pass but Fabio chased back quickly to block the Spaniard's shot.
Matters did not immediately improve for QPR after the break. Superb play between Silva and Pablo Zabaleta saw the right back overlap his winger to run on to a delicate through ball that he curled on to the crossbar with his weaker left foot from a tight angle.
Once again, though, the defensive shortcomings and carelessness that City have suffered from this season surfaced. QPR equalized with near enough their first chance of the entire encounter when Johnson robbed Silva of possession and forced an excellent save from Hart, leaving Zamora to tap in the rebound.
This time, unlike against Southampton two weeks earlier, City recovered by scoring the next goal. Tevez latched on to a pass down the left-hand side of the penalty area and fired a head-high cross that Dzeko nodded in from a yard or two out to score the 200th league goal of Mancini's 100 match-long reign.
QPR might have made it a less than impressive six goals conceded in three games when substitute Nedum Onuoha headed a corner back across the penalty area but Ryan Nelsen skewed a volley well wide.
Indeed, Hughes' team enjoyed by far its best spell of the match in the closing stages as City backed off into their own half, but could not carve out the last chance they needed to steal a point.
And Tevez added a gloss to the result after the visitors' attacks had petered out by diverting a wild Dzeko shot past the unfortunate Green.
Edin Dzeko and Carlos Tevez scored second-half goals as Manchester City secured a 3-1 victory over QPR after once again being temporarily pegged back at the Etihad Stadium.
Yaya Toure gave the defending champs a first-half lead in what was a one-sided fixture, finishing from the center of the penalty area after an unfortunate deflection had diverted the ball directly into his path.
Not for the first time this season, however, the home crowd was stunned by the less illustrious visitors when Bobby Zamora converted from point-blank range after good work from Andy Johnson.
It took City less than two minutes, though, to restore its advantage as Dzeko headed home Tevez's cross before the Argentine deflected his strike partner's shot into the back of the net in added time.
Roberto Mancini reverted to a 4-2-3-1 after the mixed success of his recent 3-5-2 experiment, with Dzeko starting in attack in the absence of Sergio Aguero. Mario Balotelli, despite his eye problem, was on the bench.
Esteban Granero made his debut for QPR, with Alejandro Faurlin making his first league appearance after a long-term knee injury alongside him. Andy Johnson partnered Bobby Zamora in attack.
It was one-way traffic from the start. Corners looked City's most likely route to goal in the early stages, with Dzeko missing the target with one attempt and seeing another cleared off the line.
QPR sat extremely deep in its own half and, in bizarre fashion, its best chance of the opening 15 minutes did not come courtesy of one of the club's own players. Jack Rodwell had Joe Hart scrambling after an attempted tackle in the middle of the pitch flew towards the City goal and narrowly over the crossbar.
Eventually, the set-plays paid off. When Tevez attempted to return Silva's deep corner to the centre of the box, a deflection took the ball into the path of Toure, who swept a shot home with his left boot from 10 yards.
Robert Green may find himself quickly ousted as QPR's first-choice goalkeeper when Julio Cesar becomes available to Mark Hughes but if not for an excellent save from the England international, Silva would have doubled the lead after wriggling through a number of defenders and stabbing the ball towards goal from close range.
Silva had another chance when he raced on to Aleksandr Kolarov's fine through pass but Fabio chased back quickly to block the Spaniard's shot.
Matters did not immediately improve for QPR after the break. Superb play between Silva and Pablo Zabaleta saw the right back overlap his winger to run on to a delicate through ball that he curled on to the crossbar with his weaker left foot from a tight angle.
Once again, though, the defensive shortcomings and carelessness that City have suffered from this season surfaced. QPR equalized with near enough their first chance of the entire encounter when Johnson robbed Silva of possession and forced an excellent save from Hart, leaving Zamora to tap in the rebound.
This time, unlike against Southampton two weeks earlier, City recovered by scoring the next goal. Tevez latched on to a pass down the left-hand side of the penalty area and fired a head-high cross that Dzeko nodded in from a yard or two out to score the 200th league goal of Mancini's 100 match-long reign.
QPR might have made it a less than impressive six goals conceded in three games when substitute Nedum Onuoha headed a corner back across the penalty area but Ryan Nelsen skewed a volley well wide.
Indeed, Hughes' team enjoyed by far its best spell of the match in the closing stages as City backed off into their own half, but could not carve out the last chance they needed to steal a point.
And Tevez added a gloss to the result after the visitors' attacks had petered out by diverting a wild Dzeko shot past the unfortunate Green.
Martin Rogers: Clint Dempsey's move to Tottenham makes him highest-paid U.S. soccer player ever
Clint Dempsey will become the highest-paid American soccer player in history after sealing a blockbuster transfer to leading English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur.
The United States national team forward completed a switch from his previous club Fulham with just minutes left before European soccer's trade deadline expired after agreeing to a contract worth an estimated $22.2 million over three years.
The terms of EPL contracts are not made public, but a source close to the deal confirmed that Dempsey is committed to Tottenham until 2015, with Fulham receiving a transfer fee of $9.6 million as compensation for losing its biggest star.
Brad Friedel was previously the highest-paid American, with the goalkeeper having earned $6.59 million per season since he joined Tottenham last year.
Friday's deal brought to an end a transfer saga that had rumbled on for most of the summer off-season, with Liverpool the strongest contender for Dempsey's signature for much of that time. Fulham even put in an official complaint about Liverpool's conduct after a story appeared on a club-related website insisting a move was imminent.
Another EPL team, Aston Villa, also got involved in the action, having an $11 million offer accepted by Fulham, before Dempsey quashed that deal by refusing to move to the Birmingham-based club.
In the end it was the last entrant into the race that got the prize. Tottenham left it late but came in strong on the final day of the transfer window and provided the 29-year-old Texan with the kind of move he was desperate for.
After five years of outstanding service for Fulham, it was, quite simply, time to move on for Dempsey. The west London club served him well, allowing him to blossom from an unproven youngster fresh from the NCAA college system (and then a brief stint in Major League Soccer) into one of the finest players in the EPL, arguably the world's best domestic club competition.
"To play under [Tottenham head coach Andre Villas-Boas] and play for this club is a dream come true," Dempsey said. "I want to make the most of it. There are a lot of great players here; I'm looking forward to training and playing with them."
Dempsey deserves huge credit himself for having forged such a productive spell in Europe, and few will begrudge him this opportunity to take another potential step forward in his career. Along with Landon Donovan, Dempsey is part of the core of the national team and has always delivered loyal and passionate service to his country, having taken part in the 2006 and 2010 World Cups.
Now he has the chance to elevate himself to the next level, and this move will also add to his profile stateside. Though most EPL games are available on U.S. television, Tottenham draws a considerably bigger audience than Fulham.
Furthermore, the north London club is likely to challenge for a place in the Champions League next season. Indeed, it would have been in the event this year after finishing fourth in last season's EPL. However, Chelsea's victory in the Champions League final meant the Blues, not Tottenham, took the last English qualifying place.
Dempsey's transfer will be rubber-stamped on Saturday, assuming he passes a physical examination that should be little more than a formality. Neither he or fellow new signing, French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, was available to play for the club against Norwich City on Saturday.
Last season was Dempsey's finest yet in England and provided further confirmation of his rising star. A return of 17 goals in 37 games was impressive in itself, but more than anything it was his confidence and no-nonsense approach that won the most plaudits. The irony of this move and his newfound status as the highest-earning American soccer player is that financial reward is one aspect that seems to mean less to him that many of his fellow professionals.
For him it has always been about the improvement and the challenge, which is why this move and the chance to fulfill the dream of playing for a big club will be extra sweet.
Clint Dempsey will become the highest-paid American soccer player in history after sealing a blockbuster transfer to leading English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur.
The United States national team forward completed a switch from his previous club Fulham with just minutes left before European soccer's trade deadline expired after agreeing to a contract worth an estimated $22.2 million over three years.
The terms of EPL contracts are not made public, but a source close to the deal confirmed that Dempsey is committed to Tottenham until 2015, with Fulham receiving a transfer fee of $9.6 million as compensation for losing its biggest star.
Brad Friedel was previously the highest-paid American, with the goalkeeper having earned $6.59 million per season since he joined Tottenham last year.
Friday's deal brought to an end a transfer saga that had rumbled on for most of the summer off-season, with Liverpool the strongest contender for Dempsey's signature for much of that time. Fulham even put in an official complaint about Liverpool's conduct after a story appeared on a club-related website insisting a move was imminent.
Another EPL team, Aston Villa, also got involved in the action, having an $11 million offer accepted by Fulham, before Dempsey quashed that deal by refusing to move to the Birmingham-based club.
In the end it was the last entrant into the race that got the prize. Tottenham left it late but came in strong on the final day of the transfer window and provided the 29-year-old Texan with the kind of move he was desperate for.
After five years of outstanding service for Fulham, it was, quite simply, time to move on for Dempsey. The west London club served him well, allowing him to blossom from an unproven youngster fresh from the NCAA college system (and then a brief stint in Major League Soccer) into one of the finest players in the EPL, arguably the world's best domestic club competition.
"To play under [Tottenham head coach Andre Villas-Boas] and play for this club is a dream come true," Dempsey said. "I want to make the most of it. There are a lot of great players here; I'm looking forward to training and playing with them."
Dempsey deserves huge credit himself for having forged such a productive spell in Europe, and few will begrudge him this opportunity to take another potential step forward in his career. Along with Landon Donovan, Dempsey is part of the core of the national team and has always delivered loyal and passionate service to his country, having taken part in the 2006 and 2010 World Cups.
Now he has the chance to elevate himself to the next level, and this move will also add to his profile stateside. Though most EPL games are available on U.S. television, Tottenham draws a considerably bigger audience than Fulham.
Furthermore, the north London club is likely to challenge for a place in the Champions League next season. Indeed, it would have been in the event this year after finishing fourth in last season's EPL. However, Chelsea's victory in the Champions League final meant the Blues, not Tottenham, took the last English qualifying place.
Dempsey's transfer will be rubber-stamped on Saturday, assuming he passes a physical examination that should be little more than a formality. Neither he or fellow new signing, French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, was available to play for the club against Norwich City on Saturday.
Last season was Dempsey's finest yet in England and provided further confirmation of his rising star. A return of 17 goals in 37 games was impressive in itself, but more than anything it was his confidence and no-nonsense approach that won the most plaudits. The irony of this move and his newfound status as the highest-earning American soccer player is that financial reward is one aspect that seems to mean less to him that many of his fellow professionals.
For him it has always been about the improvement and the challenge, which is why this move and the chance to fulfill the dream of playing for a big club will be extra sweet.
Essien hails Mourinho relationship after completing loan move from Chelsea to Real Madrid
Michael Essien has credited his season long loan move from Chelsea to Real Madrid to his special relationship with Jose Mourinho.
The pair originally worked together in London when the Portuguese trainer brought Essien to Stamford Bridge from Lyon in 2005 and the midfielder is now relishing the opportunity to work under his former mentor again.
"Everything happened so fast," reflected the 29-year-old at a press conference. "Mourinho called me and said he was ready to take me. I said yes immediately.
"That was more than enough for me to come here. I see him as a father because he was the one responsible for my move to Chelsea. We have a very good relationship, with a clear understanding of each other."
Essien has enjoyed several injury-laden campaigns at Stamford Bridge in recent years, struggling to only 14 appearances last season, something he is keen to change.
"I have had some fitness problems in the past, but I'm strong. If I wasn't ready to play here in the first place, I wouldn't have signed on.
"Real Madrid has very, very good players, but I'm ready to feature anywhere Mourinho asks me to. It'll be a great feeling to win titles this way," Essien concluded.
Michael Essien has credited his season long loan move from Chelsea to Real Madrid to his special relationship with Jose Mourinho.
The pair originally worked together in London when the Portuguese trainer brought Essien to Stamford Bridge from Lyon in 2005 and the midfielder is now relishing the opportunity to work under his former mentor again.
"Everything happened so fast," reflected the 29-year-old at a press conference. "Mourinho called me and said he was ready to take me. I said yes immediately.
"That was more than enough for me to come here. I see him as a father because he was the one responsible for my move to Chelsea. We have a very good relationship, with a clear understanding of each other."
Essien has enjoyed several injury-laden campaigns at Stamford Bridge in recent years, struggling to only 14 appearances last season, something he is keen to change.
"I have had some fitness problems in the past, but I'm strong. If I wasn't ready to play here in the first place, I wouldn't have signed on.
"Real Madrid has very, very good players, but I'm ready to feature anywhere Mourinho asks me to. It'll be a great feeling to win titles this way," Essien concluded.
Bologna 1-3 AC Milan: Pazzini hat trick sees off stubborn host
A Giampaolo Pazzini hat trick was eventually enough for AC Milan to see off an Alessandro Diamanti-inspired Bologna at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara.
The controversial new arrival put the visitors ahead from the spot, and capitalized on a terrible error from Rossoblu goalkeeper Federico Agliardi to regain the lead for his side after Diamanti had leveled with a spot kick of his own in the first half.
And with the host scrambling to get itself back in the game late on, he deflected in Antonio Nocerino's shot from 12 yards to wrap up a win that was far less comfortable than the scoreline suggests.
It was the Rossoneri who started brightest, and they were ahead when Nicolo Cherubin conceded a controversial penalty. After being caught out by a chipped ball over the top from the impressive Kevin-Prince Boateng, the defender dragged down Pazzini, who made the most of his fall. Cherubin was a little unlucky to have the decision go against him, let alone to receive a yellow card as well.
Either way, Pazzini's firm penalty gave Agliardi no chance and handed the visitor a much-needed goal after its opening-day defeat by Sampdoria last Sunday.
The host tried to gain a foothold on the match and Taider did well to create space for himself after 31 minutes, but miscued his shot and fired well over the bar with his left foot. It was a good opportunity for the host, which hitherto had only threatened through Diamanti's driving runs.
The Rossoneri's deadline-day signing Nigel De Jong was introduced to the action somewhat earlier than he would have expected when Riccardo Montolivo went off with a hamstring injury four minutes before the break, but within seconds his new side had conceded a penalty.
It was Robert Acquafresca who earned it when he nipped in front of Nocerino and was caught by the Italy international on the corner of the area. Diamanti - Bologna's best player by far - stepped up and sent Christian Abbiati the wrong way to draw his side level.
The Rossoblu flew out of the blocks after half time and they almost went ahead when Tiberio Guarente fired wide from Acquafresca's cut-back.
Boateng continued to provide Milan's biggest threat and showcased his talents brilliantly after 56 minutes when he produced a clever turn and snap shot that flew just wide of the post.
And the Ghanaian was prominent on the hour mark when he first slipped in Nocerino with a sublime first-time pass that eventually earned his side a corner, before then making space for himself on the right-hand side of the area and forcing a smart save from Agliardi, and then finding the side netting with a clever flick from yet another corner of his creation.
Marco Motta wasted a good opening for the host after being played in by substitute Alberto Gilardino, who came on for Acquafresca. Milan responded by making a change of its own, and threw on former Barcelona forward Bojan, who arrived on loan from Roma late in the transfer window.
Fellow debutant De Jong was booked for unceremoniously bringing Archimede Morleo's forward surge to an end, and Gilardino should have done better when he headed Diamanti's resulting free kick over the crossbar.
But it was Milan which got the third goal thanks to a horrendous error from Agliardi. Antonini's cross from the left looped up in the air off Motta and was fumbled by the home goalkeeper, allowing Pazzini to fire home the loose ball from close range after 77 minutes.
And Pazzini bagged his third with five minutes on the clock when he deftly flicked in Nocerino's low shot after the host had failed to clear its lines.
The former Inter man may not have been a popular arrival when he joined from the Nerazzurri in part exchange for Antonio Cassano, but he put in a heroic performance here to earn his side a much-needed victory. There were encouraging signs for the host, but after two defeats from two it will have to hope it can turn its spells of dominance into goals.
A Giampaolo Pazzini hat trick was eventually enough for AC Milan to see off an Alessandro Diamanti-inspired Bologna at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara.
The controversial new arrival put the visitors ahead from the spot, and capitalized on a terrible error from Rossoblu goalkeeper Federico Agliardi to regain the lead for his side after Diamanti had leveled with a spot kick of his own in the first half.
And with the host scrambling to get itself back in the game late on, he deflected in Antonio Nocerino's shot from 12 yards to wrap up a win that was far less comfortable than the scoreline suggests.
It was the Rossoneri who started brightest, and they were ahead when Nicolo Cherubin conceded a controversial penalty. After being caught out by a chipped ball over the top from the impressive Kevin-Prince Boateng, the defender dragged down Pazzini, who made the most of his fall. Cherubin was a little unlucky to have the decision go against him, let alone to receive a yellow card as well.
Either way, Pazzini's firm penalty gave Agliardi no chance and handed the visitor a much-needed goal after its opening-day defeat by Sampdoria last Sunday.
The host tried to gain a foothold on the match and Taider did well to create space for himself after 31 minutes, but miscued his shot and fired well over the bar with his left foot. It was a good opportunity for the host, which hitherto had only threatened through Diamanti's driving runs.
The Rossoneri's deadline-day signing Nigel De Jong was introduced to the action somewhat earlier than he would have expected when Riccardo Montolivo went off with a hamstring injury four minutes before the break, but within seconds his new side had conceded a penalty.
It was Robert Acquafresca who earned it when he nipped in front of Nocerino and was caught by the Italy international on the corner of the area. Diamanti - Bologna's best player by far - stepped up and sent Christian Abbiati the wrong way to draw his side level.
The Rossoblu flew out of the blocks after half time and they almost went ahead when Tiberio Guarente fired wide from Acquafresca's cut-back.
Boateng continued to provide Milan's biggest threat and showcased his talents brilliantly after 56 minutes when he produced a clever turn and snap shot that flew just wide of the post.
And the Ghanaian was prominent on the hour mark when he first slipped in Nocerino with a sublime first-time pass that eventually earned his side a corner, before then making space for himself on the right-hand side of the area and forcing a smart save from Agliardi, and then finding the side netting with a clever flick from yet another corner of his creation.
Marco Motta wasted a good opening for the host after being played in by substitute Alberto Gilardino, who came on for Acquafresca. Milan responded by making a change of its own, and threw on former Barcelona forward Bojan, who arrived on loan from Roma late in the transfer window.
Fellow debutant De Jong was booked for unceremoniously bringing Archimede Morleo's forward surge to an end, and Gilardino should have done better when he headed Diamanti's resulting free kick over the crossbar.
But it was Milan which got the third goal thanks to a horrendous error from Agliardi. Antonini's cross from the left looped up in the air off Motta and was fumbled by the home goalkeeper, allowing Pazzini to fire home the loose ball from close range after 77 minutes.
And Pazzini bagged his third with five minutes on the clock when he deftly flicked in Nocerino's low shot after the host had failed to clear its lines.
The former Inter man may not have been a popular arrival when he joined from the Nerazzurri in part exchange for Antonio Cassano, but he put in a heroic performance here to earn his side a much-needed victory. There were encouraging signs for the host, but after two defeats from two it will have to hope it can turn its spells of dominance into goals.
Barclays Premier League 2012.09.02 Fixtures
Liverpool Vs Arsenal
Southampton Vs Manchester United
Newcastle United Vs Aston Villa
Barclays Premier League 2012.09.02 Fixtures
La Liga 2012.09.02 Fixtures
La Liga 2012.09.02 Fixtures
Rayo Vallecano Vs Sevilla
Athletic Bilbao Vs Valladoid
Levante Vs Espanyol
Real Madrid Vs Granada
Barcelona Vs Valencia
Athletic Bilbao Vs Valladoid
Levante Vs Espanyol
Real Madrid Vs Granada
Barcelona Vs Valencia
Serie A 2012.09.02 Fixtures
Serie A 2012.09.02 Fixtures
Udinese Vs Juventus
Cagliari Vs Atalanta
Catania Vs Genoa
Inter Vs Roma
Lazio Vs Palermo
Napoli Vs Fiorentina
Parma Vs Chievo
Sampdoria Vs Siena
Udinese Vs Juventus
Cagliari Vs Atalanta
Catania Vs Genoa
Inter Vs Roma
Lazio Vs Palermo
Napoli Vs Fiorentina
Parma Vs Chievo
Sampdoria Vs Siena
Liverpool 0-2 Arsenal: Podolski and Cazorla strikes hand Gunners impressive Anfield victory
First goals for Lukas Podolski and Santi Cazorla ensured that an impressive Arsenal saw off Liverpool 2-0 in its Premier League clash at Anfield.
Both strikes were the products of a brilliant combination between the two new signings, each taking a turn to finish off a one-two with each other, though Steven Gerrard's lazy pass set up the counter for the German's opener.
Arsenal saw plenty of the ball in the early stages but Liverpool threatened first, Fabio Borini finding space from 30 yards out to swipe wide. It was a sign of the visitors’ high defensive line which was nearly exploited moments later when Luis Suarez shot past Per Mertesacker, who could only clumsily tug him back for a booking.
The Reds came close after 12 minutes when, thanks to Carl Jenkinson awkwardly clearing behind, Daniel Agger failed to get his head on Gerrard’s corner. The Dane had been totally unmarked and should have put his side ahead.
Arsenal had the better of possession in an otherwise even period, Suarez being cut off in the box by Mertesacker when he did get forward, as the midfield base of Mikel Arteta and Abou Diaby impressed.
The Spaniard was deservedly booked, though, when Raheem Sterling burst past him on a dangerous dribble, tripping him up when it was clear that the forward could not be caught. Gerrard’s free kick, though, was wasted.
The captain was at fault, too, on the half hour when he lazily misplaced a pass in the Arsenal half. The Gunners brought the ball out on a swift counter, Cazorla racing through the middle before threading it through to Podolski, whose finish under pressure from the tracking-back Suarez was as cool as it was accurate.
Liverpool, shocked, came close a few minutes later when the gambling Sterling stepped around a marker in the box and cut a high-difficulty shot against the outside of the post. The Anfield crowd appealed for a penalty when the 17-year-old went down in the box moments later but Mertesacker had got enough of the ball with a fine tackle.
Arsenal could have gone into the break two up if Olivier Giroud had not snatched at his effort lamely wide when played in by a neat pass down the inside-left channel, with the waiting Kieran Gibbs’ unmarked status going unexploited. The visitors went into half-time deservedly leading, though.
Suarez tested Mertesacker five minutes after the break when he appealed for a push by the German in the box. There appeared to be some contact but the forward went down a little quickly; his reputation may have swayed the benefit of the doubt against him.
The pressure on the Uruguayan went up when Borini’s withdrawal for Stewart Downing left him as the only remaining recognised striker for the Reds and he came close to rewarding that faith when Vito Mannone tipped over Liverpool’s first shot on target shortly before the hour mark.
Sterling continued to pose the most consistent threat for the hosts as they dominated proceedings in search of an equaliser, his jinking run and cross unrewarded with a missed header.
Cazorla came forward with a reminder of Arsenal’s potency moments later, though, slicing a shot a whisker past the post as well as Reina’s outstretched hand, with the Gunners content to wait for opportunities on the counter.
The Spaniard got that opportunity in the 67th minute. It came from another fine combination with Podolski, the German this time taking his turn to play Cazorla in with a one-two. The import from Malaga picked it up and thrashed it off a helpless Reina into the net.
With Liverpool looking downcast and unlikely to overturn the visitors’ superiority, Gerrard was very lucky not to get at least a yellow card for a rasping challenge on Vermaelen, catching the Belgian’s leg when he had no hope of beating him to the ball. It should have made worse an already humbling showing from the veteran midfielder.
It seemed only a question of whether Arsenal would score any more and Giroud got in the hunt, being fended off well by Jose Enrique after nodding a set-piece over the bar from a decent position.
The Reds nearly got back in it with a late scramble, substitute Jonjo Shelvey forcing Mannone into a save, with Vermaelen on hand to smartly clear the rebound before the hosts could pounce. What further possession that Liverpool had was unpenetrative and Arsenal held on for its first league win of the season.
First goals for Lukas Podolski and Santi Cazorla ensured that an impressive Arsenal saw off Liverpool 2-0 in its Premier League clash at Anfield.
Both strikes were the products of a brilliant combination between the two new signings, each taking a turn to finish off a one-two with each other, though Steven Gerrard's lazy pass set up the counter for the German's opener.
Arsenal saw plenty of the ball in the early stages but Liverpool threatened first, Fabio Borini finding space from 30 yards out to swipe wide. It was a sign of the visitors’ high defensive line which was nearly exploited moments later when Luis Suarez shot past Per Mertesacker, who could only clumsily tug him back for a booking.
The Reds came close after 12 minutes when, thanks to Carl Jenkinson awkwardly clearing behind, Daniel Agger failed to get his head on Gerrard’s corner. The Dane had been totally unmarked and should have put his side ahead.
Arsenal had the better of possession in an otherwise even period, Suarez being cut off in the box by Mertesacker when he did get forward, as the midfield base of Mikel Arteta and Abou Diaby impressed.
The Spaniard was deservedly booked, though, when Raheem Sterling burst past him on a dangerous dribble, tripping him up when it was clear that the forward could not be caught. Gerrard’s free kick, though, was wasted.
The captain was at fault, too, on the half hour when he lazily misplaced a pass in the Arsenal half. The Gunners brought the ball out on a swift counter, Cazorla racing through the middle before threading it through to Podolski, whose finish under pressure from the tracking-back Suarez was as cool as it was accurate.
Liverpool, shocked, came close a few minutes later when the gambling Sterling stepped around a marker in the box and cut a high-difficulty shot against the outside of the post. The Anfield crowd appealed for a penalty when the 17-year-old went down in the box moments later but Mertesacker had got enough of the ball with a fine tackle.
Arsenal could have gone into the break two up if Olivier Giroud had not snatched at his effort lamely wide when played in by a neat pass down the inside-left channel, with the waiting Kieran Gibbs’ unmarked status going unexploited. The visitors went into half-time deservedly leading, though.
Suarez tested Mertesacker five minutes after the break when he appealed for a push by the German in the box. There appeared to be some contact but the forward went down a little quickly; his reputation may have swayed the benefit of the doubt against him.
The pressure on the Uruguayan went up when Borini’s withdrawal for Stewart Downing left him as the only remaining recognised striker for the Reds and he came close to rewarding that faith when Vito Mannone tipped over Liverpool’s first shot on target shortly before the hour mark.
Sterling continued to pose the most consistent threat for the hosts as they dominated proceedings in search of an equaliser, his jinking run and cross unrewarded with a missed header.
Cazorla came forward with a reminder of Arsenal’s potency moments later, though, slicing a shot a whisker past the post as well as Reina’s outstretched hand, with the Gunners content to wait for opportunities on the counter.
The Spaniard got that opportunity in the 67th minute. It came from another fine combination with Podolski, the German this time taking his turn to play Cazorla in with a one-two. The import from Malaga picked it up and thrashed it off a helpless Reina into the net.
With Liverpool looking downcast and unlikely to overturn the visitors’ superiority, Gerrard was very lucky not to get at least a yellow card for a rasping challenge on Vermaelen, catching the Belgian’s leg when he had no hope of beating him to the ball. It should have made worse an already humbling showing from the veteran midfielder.
It seemed only a question of whether Arsenal would score any more and Giroud got in the hunt, being fended off well by Jose Enrique after nodding a set-piece over the bar from a decent position.
The Reds nearly got back in it with a late scramble, substitute Jonjo Shelvey forcing Mannone into a save, with Vermaelen on hand to smartly clear the rebound before the hosts could pounce. What further possession that Liverpool had was unpenetrative and Arsenal held on for its first league win of the season.
Congratulations Manchester United!!!
Southampton 2-3 Manchester United: Van Persie hat trick seals dramatic late comeback victory
A Robin van Persie hat trick saw Manchester United come from behind twice to beat a resilient Southampton side 3-2 in Sir Alex Ferguson’s 1000th league game in charge.
Rickie Lambert gave the hosts an early lead before Van Persie equalized on the half-hour mark for his second goal in as many starts for his new side.
Morgan Schneiderlin headed his side back in front soon after the break before Van Persie first missed a penalty and then completed his hat trick by first reacting first to Rio Ferdinand’s header coming back off the post and then heading come from a corner two minutes into added time.
Anders Lindegaard was given the nod by Sir Alex Ferguson to take his places in between the posts, with Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic holding the fort together in the center of defense for United, with Nigel Adkins opting to hand 17-year-old midfielder James Ward-Prowse only the second start of his career.After a nervy opening 15 minutes where United appeared comfortably on top, the hosts pounced.
Schneiderlin got the better of Shinji Kagawa in midfield before finding James Puncheon on the corner of the penalty area. A quick turn later and the former Blackpool attacker sent a hanging cross towards Lambert to head back across Lindegaard to give Southampton a surprising lead.United responded well, with Kagawa trying to make amends almost immediately with a strong, low drive from 25 yards, which Davis struggled to contain, before the Japan international started the move that resulted in a the away side’s equalizer.
Twisting to avoid Steven Davies in midfielder, Kagawa found Danny Welbeck trotting towards goal. With his path blocked by red shirts, the striker – in for the injured Wayne Rooney – played in Antonio Valencia on the right wing to send a lofted cross towards Van Persie at the back post. A slip by Southampton right-back Nathaniel Clyne then gave the new signing time to set himself and stroke the ball past the helped Davis.
Whereas United was in rampant mood during weekend’s 3-2 victory over Fulham after going behind early on, Southampton were not only able to keep their opposition contained but create many threatening attacks of their own – with Lambert, Puncheon and Adam Lallana pulling the strings.
United started to kick into gear as the first half drew to a close, with first Van Persie with a bending free kick from the edge of the area before Patrice Evra’s header from another fine Valencia delivery but they could not find the decisive finish before the referee’s whistle.
The away side continued their new-found impetus into the second half with Kagawa and Van Persie combining well in the opening minutes for the former to flash a shot wide of goal.
However, Southampton again took full advantage of the profligacy of United by going back in front with another well-worked move. This time Lambert turned provider and Schneiderlin, skipping away from Evra who lost his footing inside the area, headed home past Lindegaard.
United was given a lifeline in just minutes later, however, when Valencia pounced on Davis’ poor goal kick to find Kagawa inside the area – only for Jos Hooiveld to lunge in recklessly from behind to concede a penalty.
Van Persie duly stepped up and attempted to chip Davis, who had enough time to dive to the ground and flick the ball away for a corner.
However, Van Persie was to have the last laugh when he found himself in the right place at the right time to capitalize on Ferdinand’s header pinging back off the post from Kagawa’s pin-point cross to draw level late on.
As the game headed into extra-time, Southampton was hanging on – in drastic contrast to the rest of the game – and eventually succumbed to Van Persie once more as he latched onto Evra’s late corner to complete his hat-trick and tie up the win late on in, fittingly, Sir Alex’s 1000th league game in charge.
Southampton 2-3 Manchester United: Van Persie hat trick seals dramatic late comeback victory
A Robin van Persie hat trick saw Manchester United come from behind twice to beat a resilient Southampton side 3-2 in Sir Alex Ferguson’s 1000th league game in charge.
Rickie Lambert gave the hosts an early lead before Van Persie equalized on the half-hour mark for his second goal in as many starts for his new side.
Morgan Schneiderlin headed his side back in front soon after the break before Van Persie first missed a penalty and then completed his hat trick by first reacting first to Rio Ferdinand’s header coming back off the post and then heading come from a corner two minutes into added time.
Anders Lindegaard was given the nod by Sir Alex Ferguson to take his places in between the posts, with Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic holding the fort together in the center of defense for United, with Nigel Adkins opting to hand 17-year-old midfielder James Ward-Prowse only the second start of his career.After a nervy opening 15 minutes where United appeared comfortably on top, the hosts pounced.
Schneiderlin got the better of Shinji Kagawa in midfield before finding James Puncheon on the corner of the penalty area. A quick turn later and the former Blackpool attacker sent a hanging cross towards Lambert to head back across Lindegaard to give Southampton a surprising lead.United responded well, with Kagawa trying to make amends almost immediately with a strong, low drive from 25 yards, which Davis struggled to contain, before the Japan international started the move that resulted in a the away side’s equalizer.
Twisting to avoid Steven Davies in midfielder, Kagawa found Danny Welbeck trotting towards goal. With his path blocked by red shirts, the striker – in for the injured Wayne Rooney – played in Antonio Valencia on the right wing to send a lofted cross towards Van Persie at the back post. A slip by Southampton right-back Nathaniel Clyne then gave the new signing time to set himself and stroke the ball past the helped Davis.
Whereas United was in rampant mood during weekend’s 3-2 victory over Fulham after going behind early on, Southampton were not only able to keep their opposition contained but create many threatening attacks of their own – with Lambert, Puncheon and Adam Lallana pulling the strings.
United started to kick into gear as the first half drew to a close, with first Van Persie with a bending free kick from the edge of the area before Patrice Evra’s header from another fine Valencia delivery but they could not find the decisive finish before the referee’s whistle.
The away side continued their new-found impetus into the second half with Kagawa and Van Persie combining well in the opening minutes for the former to flash a shot wide of goal.
However, Southampton again took full advantage of the profligacy of United by going back in front with another well-worked move. This time Lambert turned provider and Schneiderlin, skipping away from Evra who lost his footing inside the area, headed home past Lindegaard.
United was given a lifeline in just minutes later, however, when Valencia pounced on Davis’ poor goal kick to find Kagawa inside the area – only for Jos Hooiveld to lunge in recklessly from behind to concede a penalty.
Van Persie duly stepped up and attempted to chip Davis, who had enough time to dive to the ground and flick the ball away for a corner.
However, Van Persie was to have the last laugh when he found himself in the right place at the right time to capitalize on Ferdinand’s header pinging back off the post from Kagawa’s pin-point cross to draw level late on.
As the game headed into extra-time, Southampton was hanging on – in drastic contrast to the rest of the game – and eventually succumbed to Van Persie once more as he latched onto Evra’s late corner to complete his hat-trick and tie up the win late on in, fittingly, Sir Alex’s 1000th league game in charge.
Congratulations Manchester United!
Congratulations Manchester United!
VAN The Man!
Mamanam Hithuwa kawa thamai kiyala,But niyama Comeback 1kak
Patta Match 1ka
VAN The Man!
Mamanam Hithuwa kawa thamai kiyala,But niyama Comeback 1kak
Patta Match 1ka
patta pata pata
Liverpool 0-2 Arsenal
Podolski (31) Cazorla (68)dennama score kala
Congratzzzzzzz Arsenal!
We will achieve great things with Cazorla and Podolski - Arsenal midfielder Diaby
Arsenal midfielder Abou Diaby believes the Gunners can achieve great things with Santi Cazorla and Lukas Podolski in their side.
The summer signings both found the net in Arsene Wenger’s team’s win over Liverpool breaking its scoring duck as they sealed their first win of the season.Diaby feels the quality possessed by the two players will enough to fire the Gunners to success in future.
He told Sky Sports: "We were waiting for those kinds of players to be in the team and today they showed great quality. We are really happy to have them in the team."I think we are going to achieve something really good with them."
The midfielder suffered a frustrating year last season when he failed to start a single game for his side due to a string of injuries, however, he’s now pleased with his performances and is hopeful of staying fit for the duration of the campaign.
He added: "It means a lot [to be back]. Last season was very difficult for me and I was desperate to be back. Now I'm very happy. I'm hoping I can stay on my feet and play for the whole season."
Meanwhile, Podolski expressed his delight after registering his first goal for Arsenal following his move from Koln in the summer and is looking to add to his tally in the coming weeks.
He said: "It was a great pass, I had the ball on my left foot and I scored and I'm very happy."It was a good match. We played very well. The two goals were amazing. We passed very well, it was a good day for us and a good day for me, my first goal for Arsenal. I'm very happy and now we'll look forward."Despite picking up their first win of the season, the German international isn't getting carried away and believes there's a lot more work to be done this season.
He added: “We've only played three matches. We must stay quiet; we have five points now. We must play like this today, and we'll win a lot of matches. It was a good start today and we have three points and we’ll go back to London happy."
Arsenal midfielder Abou Diaby believes the Gunners can achieve great things with Santi Cazorla and Lukas Podolski in their side.
The summer signings both found the net in Arsene Wenger’s team’s win over Liverpool breaking its scoring duck as they sealed their first win of the season.Diaby feels the quality possessed by the two players will enough to fire the Gunners to success in future.
He told Sky Sports: "We were waiting for those kinds of players to be in the team and today they showed great quality. We are really happy to have them in the team."I think we are going to achieve something really good with them."
The midfielder suffered a frustrating year last season when he failed to start a single game for his side due to a string of injuries, however, he’s now pleased with his performances and is hopeful of staying fit for the duration of the campaign.
He added: "It means a lot [to be back]. Last season was very difficult for me and I was desperate to be back. Now I'm very happy. I'm hoping I can stay on my feet and play for the whole season."
Meanwhile, Podolski expressed his delight after registering his first goal for Arsenal following his move from Koln in the summer and is looking to add to his tally in the coming weeks.
He said: "It was a great pass, I had the ball on my left foot and I scored and I'm very happy."It was a good match. We played very well. The two goals were amazing. We passed very well, it was a good day for us and a good day for me, my first goal for Arsenal. I'm very happy and now we'll look forward."Despite picking up their first win of the season, the German international isn't getting carried away and believes there's a lot more work to be done this season.
He added: “We've only played three matches. We must stay quiet; we have five points now. We must play like this today, and we'll win a lot of matches. It was a good start today and we have three points and we’ll go back to London happy."
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