Hammers Heading for Europe

Two second half headed goals from the Irons defensive duo of Upson and Ferdinand was enough to give West Ham United their third consecutive win over Manchester United. Having done the double on the Red Devils (and Arsenal) last year West Ham have now proved themselves to be an official bogey team of Sir Alex.

Tevez got the winner for West Ham in the last game of last season, while this year he faced up against his old team mates from the East End.

However there was nothing he could do to stop his team slipping to only their third defeat of the campaign, even Portuguese 'wonder-kid' Ronaldo was unable to procure three points for the traveling team.

Upton Park is an extremely fickle place. Last week the crowd booed the team off following a dismal draw with ten men of Reading. This week the support was positively electric.

Welcome Home

Not many returning Hammers receive a warm reception at Upton Park, Lampard, Cole, Defoe and Ince could all testify to that, but such was the heroic impact of Carlos Tevez last season that he will always be fondly remembered.

It wasn't single handed, and you could argue his arrival with Mascherano was the catalyst for the demise in the first place, but Tevez definitely achieved the status of Hammers Legend in his brief spell at the club.

This latest win will keep West Ham in the hunt for a UEFA cup spot although most fans will be more than happy with a steady top ten finish after the traumas of last year.

The title race however is far from over and it is likely to go right down to the wire. And what price would you get for West Ham to complete a double double over United in the penultimate game of the season, to decide the championship?

Christmas Number One?

If you could personify statistics I fear they would look rather like Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Sometimes invaluably insightful, other times dangerously misleading.

Sport relies on rankings to determine who is the best, who is number one.

In most cases, they are taken as given, for example no-one would argue that Roger Federer is the best men's tennis player in the world, or Tiger Woods the best golfer.
But sometimes the computer throws up some curve balls that surprise even the purest of fans, and call into question how these stats are generated.

Googlies

Cricket is one sport which often has a dark cloud of confusion thrown over it by muddy statistics.

It is impossible to argue that the Aussies aren't the best Test and One Day team in the World, and that's great (really great), but the best of the rest are constantly being muddled.

Maybe it doesn't matter, maybe we should all just make up our own statistics. Opinion based statistics, now there's a good idea!

Pie in the Sky

Another annoyance of statistics is their over-use during live sport for which the blame must lie with the producer.

Sky Sports tend to be the worst offender. At the weekend when watching the first of their 'Grand Slam Super Duper Sunday' football matches, my eyes were distracted from the hi-octane action to a stat-flash letting me know that both teams had won one corner each.

I didn't think it could get much more exciting but it did. The next flash told me that for the last 5 minutes Liverpool had 76% of possession.

Both these stats were not only unnecessary and blindingly obvious but also an annoying distraction from the action.


A Pick of the Rankings

Football, Cricket, Rugby, Tennis, Golf

Black Day for RFU

Last weekend saw the second leg of back to back matches in the Heineken Cup group stages in which the English teams had mixed results, although there was no lack of controversy.

Leicester were always going to lose to Toulouse in France as French teams seem to be almost unbeatable on 'la terre Francais'.

Illustrated by London Irish getting done over in Perpignan in snowy conditions. Although a flying elbow from Englishman Perry Freshwater, which left London Irish flanker Kieran Roche with a broken cheekbone, stole the headlines.
Gloucester continued their imperious form by bludgeoning Bourgoin 51-27 at Kingsholm, they now look set for a home quater-final.

Ryan Lamb was once again man of the match, and today's news that the CPS have dropped their case against him for public affray will give the Cherry-Whites some Christmas cheer.

Black Sting

The highlight of the weekend though was at Adams Park, where London Wasps held on to beat Clermont Auvergne 25-24.

Wasps dominated the first half under the magical control of prodigous new talent, Danny Cipriani.

Three scintilating tries and a penalty put Wasps in total control at half-time, 22-0. But the second half was a different story.

As Wasps went for the kill, they were twice caught on the break, once by Rougerie and once by Delasau.

But the real drama came on the hour when a fight broke out on the touchline, Jamie Cudmore rained down the punches onto the head of Wasps prop, Tim Payne.

As the fight spilled into the hoardings, a Wasps fan leant over and tried to wallop anything French with his programme. This man was Alan Black, a RFU employee, former Wasps captain and club member! He has since apologised and been given a season long ban from England and Premiership games.

Bonus Blunders

On the pitch Wasps contrived to give away the losing bonus point to Clermont as the French team scored a last minute try.

That means three points squandered in the double header, after throwing away a losing bonus point of their own last week, and the double wammy of missing the four try bonus and the losing bonus this week.

A win is a win though and two more against Llanelli (home) and Munster (away) will see them through to the quater finals which should be laden with English teams.

Arsenal's Fate Hinges on the Physio

This Sunday sees the top four of the Premier League going to head to head in what is the biggest day of the season so far.

Both Arsenal and Liverpool slipped up last week dropping valuable points against Middlesbrough and Reading respectively.

Arsenal have been suffering a tough time of it on the injury front, with the midfield torn to shreds and their main goal threat all out of action.

This weekend they will be hoping that they see most of them return to the field. Fabregas and Van Persie have been their two best players over the last 18 months and they are both on the brink of recovering full fitness.

If these two return then I think the Gunners will retain their one point lead over Man United, as I cant see them losing to Liverpool.

Super Sunday

It indeed will be a Super Sunday, two top football games, Leicester vs Toulose in the Heineken Cup, and the BBC have finally got the rights to show the Hatton-Mayweather replay.

I predict, Arsenal, Man U and Leicester to come out on top, although I think Hatton might have met his match in the boxing, possibly a Mayweather win in the 10th?

Family Affair at Awards

One month ago I predicted Joe Calzaghe would win the BBC Sports Personality Award, and your votes supported me. Last night he proved us right. But he wasn't the only Calzaghe to scoop a prize.
Joe's father and trainer Enzo won the award of best coach for his efforts in nurturing three world champions, his son Joe, cruiserweight Enzo Maccarinelli and light-welterweight Gavin Rees.

Calzaghe received his award in Vegas where he had been supporting his friend and boxing counterpart Ricky 'The Hitman' Hatton.

Had Hatton beaten pretty boy Floyd he would have given Calzaghe a much closer run for the top award although with two boxers in the top three, it has been a spectacular year for British pugilism.

A Few Surprises

Although Calzaghe's victory was no surprise, the BBC did throw in a few shocks. Firstly, James Toseland playing the piano (badly) and then Mark Ramprakash dancing (badly). Strange interludes to an otherwise impressive review of the sporting year.

The other shock was the England Rugby Team winning the team of the year award. Those that read my blogs regularly (hi mum) will know that I love rugby, but England did not deserve to win this award.

Two decent wins against the Aussies and Les Bleus in the World Cup in an otherwise dismal year. A poor Six Nations, a terrible tour of South Africa and an abysmal group stage of the RWC, should not have won them the award.

Oh well, I guess the memory of a sports fan is short, and that's probably a good thing anyway.

Here are the full results from last night:

1. Joe Calzaghe 177,748 (28.19%)
2. Lewis Hamilton 122,649 (19.45%)
3. Ricky Hatton 85,280 (13.53%)
4. James Toseland 84,570 (13.41%)
5. Jason Robinson 67,061 (10.64%)
6. Paula Radcliffe 34,895 (5.53%)
7. Jonny Wilkinson 30,302 (4.81%)
8. Andy Murray 13,242 (2.1%)
9. Justin Rose 10,227 (1.62%)
10. Christine Ohuruogu 4,481 (0.71%)

Total votes: 630,455

James Haskell - Part Three

James Haskell has a bright future and if he can continue to improve and learn from those around him he may well earn as many England caps as his hero Lawrence Dallaglio. Today I ask him about his future in the England team and what he has gained from players and coaches at Wasps.
Haskell is a down to earth guy who knows he’s good but also knows he could be better.

“I think I’ve still got a long way to go, I feel confident and pleased with my ability, I’m trying to work as hard as I can in the areas I need to polish up.”

“I always need to improve skills, my tackling, my ball carrying things like that, all the little nuances, the rucking, you can only train so much which its about playing, I’m only 22 and only played about 35 games if that.”

When asked about his chances for selection for the Six Nations, his modesty kicks in.

“To be honest with you, I genuinely haven’t thought about it. I think if you do well playing for your club, especially one like Wasps, then hopefully, you will be considered.”

“Thinking about it now, I would be very disappointed if I didn’t have an opportunity, but nothing is guaranteed and you have to keep playing well, there are so many talented back row guys out there, it’s matter of keeping performing really. I would love to get another opportunity, to be involved again.”

Coaching Cream

At only 22 James is still in the infancy of his career, however he has already the chance to work and play with some of the best in the world.

With Sean Edwards lurking in the background James was quick to praise the coaching team.

“We’ve got a fantastic coaching setup, Sean is a legend an amazing coach and he’s very passionate about the game, he doesn’t just turn up, he thinks about it all the time.”

“Dowdy (Craig Dowd) is the most capped All Black prop, so he keeps our feet on the ground, I’m like a sponge just trying to soak it all up really.”

Welsh Kiwi

He also had the chance to gain experience from Warren Gatland the new Wales Coach.“He was a great man manager, a great coach in terms of the way he gave me and Tom (Rees) opportunities, he brought out the Wasps attitude of work hard play hard.”

And what of Warren’s new job?

“I think it will be very good for Wales, I was disappointed England didn’t look at him and might have taken him, because he is such a good coach.”

Heroes

It’s not just the coaches at Wasps, the players also inspire and encourage Haskell.

“The senior players like Lawrence, that is who I look at, Tom (Rees) and I are still very much learning, these guys have been there done it, witnessed the pitfalls.”

“Reesy and me have been in a similar boat, Tom has forged ahead and had the chance to play four or five games and establish his talent, I want to emulate him and get those opportunities.

“When he got into the World Cup I was gutted he didn’t play as much as he should have done, I would have liked to have done that but u know, I’m still fairly young so we’ve got a lot of time on our side to do things.”

This is the last part of my interview with James Haskell, I would like to thank both James and Wasps for the opportunity to do this.

James Haskell - Part Two

James Haskell has had a varied and exciting career and he is still only 22. Today I ask him about his experiences with the Barbarians and the England Sevens Squad as well as his relationship with Matt Hampson.

Last year James played for an England XV against the Barbarians.

“It was my first real taste of being involved with England, I really enjoyed it.”

“It was a weird weekend, I was in Amsterdam playing Samurai Sevens, in a tournament we won, and I got a call saying ‘listen we want you to be involved in the England team against the barbarians’, I thought it’s a wind up”

“It was a great thing to play at Twickenham with an England squad playing against a team that had a lot of talent, I would love to do it again, whether it was for the Barbarians or England.”

Following the recent controversy with Premiership players being denied the chance to play for the Baa Baas I asked James what he thought of the situation.

“I think it’s disappointing, the Baa Baas will lose their mystique, they will struggle.”

“However, clubs can’t afford to have these players missing, results are so important, because at the end of the day it’s a business I do understand both points of view.”

Sevens

The Barbarians are famous for playing champagne rugby, as style of play which also makes the IRB Sevens Series so exciting.

“I really enjoy sevens, I think it has a really important role. I can see the benefits from working with Phil Greening and Mike Friday, it was invaluable, it helped my game 10 fold”

Although he does admit it has its limitations as far as developing the 15-man game

“I don’t think going to every game would be good for me, but I would like to get a tournament under my belt every season, keep things ticking over. I think it helps you as a rugby player, but it can detract a bit from 15s.”

And as far as future opportunities in 7s go James understands it’s not all in his hands.

“I have spoken to them (Wasps) but I’m not sure they would let me go yet, but I’m sure if I don’t play very well they might boot me out!”

Matt Hampson Trust

As well as all of James’ rugby exploits he also finds time to support the Matt Hampson Trust.

Following the collapse of scrum during England U21 training in 2005 Hampson tragically became a quadriplegic.

However the support he has been given by those in the game has been phenomenal.

“I was obviously there, at the time, playing in the scrum when he hurt himself.”

“I think, its very easy at this time of life to not except your own mortality, and not appreciate what opportunities you have and how lucky you are.”

“I speak to Matt all the time, he so positive about lots of things.”

“If I was in a similar circumstance I wouldn’t be as strong or brave, it’s made me see more of my character, and its puts a perspective on things.”

“Hopefully if I could show half the courage and determination he’s got then I will be able to go a long way.”


This is Part Two of my interview with James Haskell. Tomorrow – Haskell on his future in the England team and the players and coaches who have helped him along the way.

James Haskell - Part One

Wasps have been at the top of English rugby for a number of years. They have consistently challenged for and won silverware and also regularly provided a number of key players for England. Last week I got the opportunity to speak to James Haskell one of their rising stars and find out what the future holds for both himself and the club.

James Haskell is part of one the most exciting and dynamic squads in the Premiership and his talent hasn’t gone unnoticed. Last year he won his first England caps during the Six Nations when he formed an all Wasps back row with Tom Rees and Joe Worsley.

Since then he was unlucky to be cut from the final World Cup Squad but his form for club should ensure he doesn’t remain on the sidelines for long.

“When I came back from the world cup training squad I looked at the guys around the team and there was so much talent”

Slow Start

However it didn’t all go to plan in the early stages of the season.

“The results didn’t go our way but only due to a few minor details, we turned the ball over too much, a lack of discipline, and our leadership and direction.”

“That is the sort of thing the England guys brought back, its pretty good we’ve got the confidence back, because we have a lot of talent.”

Back to back wins over Newcastle and a number of other impressive wins in both the EDF and Heineken Cup have put Wasps’ season back on track.

“We turned the results round in the Heineken Cup and the EDF, and we’ve carried that through. But it’s all down to the hard work we’re putting in and the guys are taking more pride in their performances and lowered the error rate and that’s the key really”

‘A’ Team

Coinciding with the success of the first team the ‘A’ team have also started their season with a bang. Three impressive wins from three have made them early favourites to repeat their glory from last year. Having played a number of games for the A team over recent seasons I asked Haskell if he has had a chance to watch any games.

“Unfortunately I haven’t been able to get down to one, but the good thing about Wasps is that we are all part of one squad, one team.”

“The players try to take an interest in everything that happens, I’m always interested to see them doing well, it’s a mark of the talent in the squad.”

It’s also a good chance for the first team players to keep an eye over their shoulder for up and coming players.

“I’m not a great watcher of games I could potentially be involved in, when you see your competition playing well it's never a nice feeling.”

This is Part One of my interview with James Haskell. Tomorrow – Haskell on the Baa Baas, Sevens and Matt Hampson.

Coventry Teetering on Edge of Abyss

Coventry City fans could be handed a miserable early Christmas present next week if no one decides to buy them out.

The club officially registered to go into administration yesterday and they now have ten days for someone to put an offer in.

If there are no offers they will be docked the mandatory 10 points which will see them move into the drop zone at the foot of the Championship.

It's not all doom and gloom though as the club insist this is a controlled decision which will simply speed up their sale, and ultimatley their revival.

"This is merely a process protecting the bank and its creditors, and should speed up the potential takeover and therefore take Coventry City into a solvent financial situation." the club said.

The expected new owner is Ray Ranson and Sisu Capital, however it is a gamble and if it falls through they could be in serious trouble.

Slippery Slope

Ian Dowie has already threatened to leave if the club lose ten points, and their prospects for survival would be slim, especially as they are currently under a transfer embargo.

If they do go down they could join a host of teams all who have been in the Premiership in recent years.

Oldham (last in the premiership - 94), Leeds (04) and Nottingham Forest (99) are all already in League One, and with Norwich (05) and QPR (96) also in the drop zone, it could be high profile league next season.

Coventry were forced into this situation by debts which reached £38mill, and now they must pray someone will save them, otherwise they will begin the all too familiar slide down the leagues into the footballing wilderness.

Baa Baas Batter Boks

Jason Robinson took his final bow on the international stage on Saturday as the Barbarians provided an apt display to shock the weary World Champions.

I was lucky enough to be at Twickenham for his send off and his team did not disappoint.

Right from the off Justin Marshall and Matt Giteau pulled the strings and although South Africa enjoyed sustained periods of pressure the Baa Baas took the lead through Giteau with a straight forward penalty.

He extended their lead soon after with a magical length of the field team try.

After a couple of missed chances from the Barbarians the Springboks finally crossed the whitewash, as Schalk Burger's late replacement Pieterse leaped over the line.

Rocky

That was all the World Champions would get out of the game with Martyn Williams and Rocky Elsom scoring suitably exciting tries either side of half-time to leave the final score 22-5.

In the second half the rain started to lash down and the quality suffered as a result, although the enterprise and adventure never lacked.

And it didn't dampen the atmosphere in the stadium either as Jason Robinson received a rapturous standing ovation.

Following a peerless career in both codes of rugby Robinson produced a vintage performance and helped set up the second try with a trademark jinking run from the loose.

Minnows Rewarded

The IRB announced today that the 2011 Rugby World Cup to be held in New Zealand will still have 20 teams competing for the Webb Ellis Cup.

After the success of the Minnow nations at this years World Cup the IRB have gone back on an earlier agreement to cut numbers to 16.

Hosts New Zealand will be aggrieved by this decision as it will complicate the logistical organisation of the tournament.

The All Blacks also feel the lack of competitive matches they had in this year's pool games directly resulted in their early exit from the tournament.

For rugby as a global sport this is a huge decision from the IRB, and after their weakness in giving the 2011 tournament to New Zealand instead of Japan, it is a fresh vote of confidence for the emerging nations.

Exciting Emergents

"The developing nations at Rugby World Cup 2007 have produced significantly enhanced performances since RWC 2003." said IRB chairman Dr Syd Millar.

Every team in the recent World Cup provided excellent entertainment for the French crowds.

All of the South Sea Island teams competed ferociously, while Georgia, Romania, Portugal and Namibia also turned in some massive performances.

Hopefully the IRB will also recognise the need for improved investment in these developing rugby nations and a more equal playing field can be created for the greatest sport in the World.

An impressive touchdown, and how American Football should be played!

Scotland Beat Boo

Scotland won the Golf World Cup this weekend for the first time in its 54 year history.

Having just lost out to Germany in a play off last year, this time they clinched the title on extra holes against the US.

Colin Montgomerie and Marc Warren played superbly all week and held off the nerves to beat an unfancied American pairing of Boo Weekley and Heath Slocum.

In a hotly contested final round the French team finished a shot behind with the English pair of Justin Rose & Ian Poulter one behind them.

Guinness Back on Tap

Also this weekend the Guinness Premiership roared back into action after a lengthy European lay off.

Leicester, Gloucester, Bath and Saracens all won, but victories from Wasps and Sale stole the headlines.

Danny Cipriani led Wasps to a convincing win against Newcastle who struggled without a fly half.

And Luke McAlister stole the show on his eagerly anticipated debut for the Sharks in a comprehensive victory over Worcester.

Both Sale and Wasps should mount a strong challenge for the championship now with full squads back in place, although they will not be looking forward to the 6 Nations.

Bent Straight In

Second chances are rare things in sport but England were given a massive life line this weekend as Israel maintained an impressive home record by beating Russia 2-1 in Tel Aviv.

Now all England need to do is not lose to current group leaders Croatia
on Wednesday at Wembley.

This whole qualifying campaign has been embarrassing, but now England have the unexpected opportunity to top the group if they can win 2-0 or by a three goal margin.

That is far from certain however as England's goal scoring options look set to be based on a giraffe and a couple of North London bench warmers.

Crouch will play, but if he has a partner up front he is unlikely to have played much football this season.

Between them, Defoe and Bent have made 10 starts and scored 7 goals, not great figures, but then choices are limited.

The leading English goal scorer in the premiership is U21 player Agbonlahor with 5 and fans favourite Lee Bowyer one behind with 4.

A Long Journey

It has been more than two years since McClaren kicked off his tenure with the England team in the first game of the qualifying tournament.

That day England beat Andorra 5-0 with Defoe scoring twice and Phillip Neville getting an assist. Hmmm.... Phillip Neville....

Anyway, two years and a string of disappointing results later and England look set to have another chance of letting us down at a major championship.

Sadly they look likely to be the only British team, unless David Healy can once again inspire N.Ireland to an historic win in Spain and Latvia win in Stockholm.

Premiership Pitfalls

This weekend the Barclays Premier League will take a rest for some International games but should they carry on regardless?

In football, the top clubs and their managers dominate the game, what they says goes and the rest just follow like sheep.

The Guinness Premiership doesn't stop for anyone, whether there is a World Cup or the annual Six Nations, they keep playing.

This has a two fold benefit to the league.

Firstly it gives the teams lower in the league with less internationals, a chance to gain some momentum and confidence, and record some wins.

Talent Development

It also gives the more successful teams a chance to field some younger players and give them game-time at the top level.

It is accepted in rugby, and the teams have to prepare for these times by trying to make sure they have strength in depth.

There is no doubt that it helps develop domestic emerging talent in the country.

Money Matters

Football is obviously a whole different world, run on ridiculous amounts of money and with entirely different motives.

There are other issues too, many more nations play football and international weekends would hit the lower teams to a similar extent as the top teams.

The real problem with the football league system is the vast divides between the top tier and the rest.

Vicious circles are in abundance, the top teams have more money, brought about by success and this then feeds more success.

Secret Circle

Teams outside the European elite don't stand a chance of ever making a serious impact, and if a team does break through then investment is key, look at Leeds.

They made it, then gambled and then lost it, in the most dramatic of ways.

Even teams just trying to make an impact in the Premier League after promotion from the Championship struggle.

So maybe they shouldn't follow suit of the Guinness Premiership on international weekends but change could definitely make the game more exciting.

Seeds Struggle in Shanghai

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have dominated world tennis over the past two or three years, but now their dominance is under threat.

The season's finale in Shanghai has already thrown up some unexpected results, with Nadal losing to compatriot David Ferrer and Federer losing to Fernando Gonzalez.

Novak Djokovic, the third seed, has already been knocked out following losses to the on form Ferrer and Richard Gasquet.

With the top seeds all struggling to make the semi finals and after David Nalbandian beat Federer and Nadal in back to back Masters Series wins in Madrid and Paris, mens tennis is looking as competitive as ever.

Match Fixing

Although match fixing controversy is lurking over the sport like a menacing storm cloud, the tennis being played is as good as it has been for 20 years.

It seems as if the ATP have taken the easy option of banning a less well known player for betting scandals.

Alessio di Mauro, world number 124 was the player chosen to feel the flex of the ATP's muscles and hopefully it will stem any further scandal in the sport.

How sportsmen who are already making more than enough money could gamble all of their success and morals for a few extra dollars is incomprehensible, and the ATP are right to stamp it out, lets hope the damage done is not irreversible.

Heineken Cup Kicks Off With A Bang

This weekend one of the greatest competitions in world rugby kicked off in superb form.

The Heineken Cup pits the top European club teams against each other in Test like conditions.

This weekend the first round of pool matches began, and a standard was set that wouldn't disappoint the International game.

Defending champions London Wasps sneaked a thrilling victory against perennial hopefuls and past winners, Munster, 24-23.

In the best game of the round a young and dynamic Wasps team twice came from behind to inch past a Munster side full of Irish internationals keen to prove a point following a dire World Cup.

Having made a poor start to the domestic season, Wasps, back with a near full strength team, look like they will once again be fighting to the end for some silver ware.

Danny Cipriani, James Haskell and Tom Rees are the leading force in a young and exciting team which along with some bright prospects at Gloucester are set to form the back bone of the future England squad.

Gloucester themselves won their first round encounter this weekend with a 32-14 away win at Ulster, in a mixed weekend for English teams.

The beauty of the competition is the depth, at least ten teams have a reasonable chance to win it, and nothing less than the best will be enough.

With the prospect of Argentina joining the 'Six Nations', Europe and the Northern Hemisphere is looking like maintaining a formidable opposition to the ever imposing South.

BBC Sports Personality Awards

Six months ago, there wouldn't have been a bookies in the land who didn't have Lewis Hamilton as their favourite for this year's award, however now the field is wide open, and the contest looks set to be the most exiciting for years.

Careers and seasons are made in moments and as one rash overtaking move at Interlagos undid all of Hamilton's good work, one putt on a play off hole made Justin Rose's season.

Hamilton is still favourite to win the prize on Sunday 9th December and he probably will, however he faces stiff competition from competitors in a wide range of sports.

Two boxers stand a good chance, and if Ricky Hatton wins his big fight against Floyd Mayweather the night before the awards, he is sure to improve his odds.



The other boxer, Joe Calzaghe, affectionately know as 'The Italian Dragon', has been a dominating force in boxing for an entire decade, 44 undefeated bouts is incredibly impressive and there have been few boxers in the world to come close to this feat.

Other athletes in with a chance include: Paula Radcliffe, Frankie Dettori, Jonny Wilkinson, Justin Rose, Christine Ohuruogu and the now retired Tim Henman.

However this throws up the age-old problem of, what requirements are there to win the award?

Is it a personality award, for the person who has brought the most to sport? Or is it an award for the greatest achievment in sport over the past year?

Personally I feel it should go to the individual who has consistantly achieved the most over the year in their sport.

Therefore I don't think Hamilton should win because... well he didn't win, he choked. You can't give the award to a loser!

Harsh maybe, but either Calzaghe or Rose should win in my book, consistantly at the top of world sport and both winners.

Who do you think should win?

THE PAST TEN CHAMPIONS:

2006: Zara Phillips
2005: Andrew Flintoff
2004: Kelly Holmes
2003: Jonny Wilkinson
2002: Paula Radcliffe
2001: David Beckham
2000: Steve Redgrave
1999: Lennox Lewis
1998: Michael Owen
1997: Greg Rusedski

Rose Finally Blossoms

Justin Rose tried his best to emulate Lewis Hamilton on Sunday by throwing away a four shot lead on the final round of the Volvo Masters.

In the end Rose hung on to win a three-way play-off against compatriot Simon Dyson and Denmark's Soren Kjeldsen.

In doing so, the 27 year old did enough to snatch the European Order of Merit from the controversially absent leader Ernie Els.

Els' absence was a further sign of the power of money and sponsorship disrupting the world of sport.

The Big Easy was obliged to leave the European Tour for the final weekend and fulfil a three year commitment at the Singapore Masters, where he missed the cut.

Money Matters

Ernie won the Order of Merit in 2003 and 2004 and after winning the World Matchplay at Wentworth (£1mill) held a slender lead over Rose and last years winner, Padraig Harrington.

It was never going to be enough though and Rose, who has been one of the most consistent players at the Majors this season fully deserved the crown.

Now he needs to really focus his game on winning a Major, he definitely has the swing and composure to do it, so good luck to him.

Tv Picks

This weekend marks the closing stages of some long seasons, and maybe the defining moments of those recently underway.

The MOTOGP season comes to a close in Valencia on Sunday at 12.45 and the New York Marathon featuring Paula Radcliffe follows on BBC TWO.

There is more EDF cup rugby this weekend on BBC ONE, Leicester hosting Cardiff in what should be a humdinger, sensible money on the Tigers though, kick off Saturday 2.15pm.

ATP tennis is on the tennis channel and it is a crucial weekend, the closing stages of the Paris Masters which will decide who reaches the end of season finale in Shanghai, Murray in with a good shout if he can beat Gasquet.

Make sure you grab updates on BBC Sport online.

The New Boys

Setanta continue to build their way in the sports market with some tasty treats this weekend.

From the SPL they have Celtic vs Kilmarnock at midday on Saturday and the Edinburgh derby between Hearts and Hibs on Sunday at one.

Premiership wise they are showing Blackburn vs Liverpool on Saturday evening.

They also have some Magners league action Saturday evening and a variety of European football over the weekend if that is your thing.

The big event for Setanta this week however is the Joe Calzaghe fight which should start about half one Sunday morning, either set your alarm, or leave the club early!

The Big Game

The second rugby league test between Great Britain and New Zealand is again on Sky, Saturday evening with Sunday Highlights on the Beeb 1130-1230.

SkySports also have full coverage of the Volvo Masters from Valderrama where Justin Rose, currently 4 shots ahead, is battling it out with Padraig Harrington to win the European Order of Merit aka the 'richest guy on tour'.

Sky's coup de grace however is 'the big game', Arsenal vs Man United, Saturday lunchtime.

Personally I will be getting geared up for my big game, St Lawrence Reserves vs Chipstead 3rds, come on the Saints!

Oh just incase you were wondering what ITV are up to this weekend... bugger all... they seemed to peak a couple of weeks ago and are still recovering.

By Popular Demand

Sam Mcguffie - some sort of all american football hero/freak.

Olympic Team Dreams

Much debate is going on at the moment whether or not Great Britain will field an Olympic football team in 2012.



Some of the home nations are keen and some aren’t.

It would be bizarre to see a 'Lions' football team and if it did happen what would the team look like?

Even though England are struggling at the moment, it's hard to see many none English players forcing their way in, maybe in 5 years time though.

The notion of Team GB is intriguing mainly because football does not mix it up enough.

In rugby union and league there are the Lions, the Barbarians and occasionally Hemisphere teams, all of which add an extra dimension to the game.

You also have rugby sevens, which is constantly growing in popularity and narrowly missed out on inclusion in the Olympics.

Fair enough, there are plenty of football games in the calendar already, a league of 20 teams, European club football, two domestic cups and the demands of international football, but maybe there should be space for some fun.

How about 7-a-side football!

I would love to see Fabregas roaring round a pitch showing off his skills, I doubt Wenger would share my enthusiasm though.

Maybe that's a non starter but why not organise a couple of friendly invitational matches or even a short Lions tour.

I can guarantee that no Premiership managers would support these games, but I feel there is too much emphasis placed on club football.

In rugby, playing for your country or the Lions is the highlight of a career, in football playing in the Champions League would be the pinnacle.

This is evident in the passion and determination shown in international players of both sports.

I welcome the idea of Team GB and other one off teams, and I think the relevant governing bodies should also show their support.

Globalisation of Sport

What's wrong with a bit of individuality and personality these days?

It seems there is an insatiable need for every corner of the world to look the same. Now this is not a political blog so I'm not going to get involved in any anti-capitalist, globalisation rant. I do however feel that there should be space for each country to maintain its unique identity.

American sports are great and they form a massive part of American culture. Likewise rugby, cricket and football provide the backbone to English culture.

We don't need 'Global Sport', soccer or cricket are never going to rival the big four sports in the US and vice versa in the UK. Why try? Some things just aren't meant to be.

I used to really look forward to catching the US sports run down on Trans World Sports on a Sunday morning, but that's where it should stay.

Stick to what you do best, I say.

What's On The Box?

This will be quite a busy weekend of sport, and there is some good coverage on the BBC.

The Anglo-Welsh Cup kicks off this weekend, and going on last night's opener between Sale and Cardiff it should be another great tournament. Worcester vs Ospreys and Bristol vs Scarlets are the games featured on the BBC.

There is also the usual mix of horse racing (boring!) and football coverage.
For me one of the most interesting watches will be the highlights from the NFL match at Wembley, come on the Phins!

And the final treat on the Beeb is highlights of the bound to be bruising rugby league international between Great Britain and New Zealand.

Also on terrestrial, Five have their dubious Football Italiano show on Sunday which will have Roma vs Milan. Having stolen all the big shows in recent weeks, ITV seem to be all out of excitement this weekend.

Sky

Sky Sport have some rather uninteresting Championship football games this weekend, although they make up for it with some belting live rugby games scheduled.

It is Currie Cup Final weekend, South African rugby's domestic competition in which the Cheetahs and Lions fight it out this year. The rugby League (GB vs NZ) is also live on Sky Sports.

The new boys on the TV, Setanta have also bagged some action, they have the Hammers vs Pompey game live and a host of other shows including some tennis, Magners league highlights and various other random sports.

Springboks Sidestep Soweto

Sadly I have already written about the demise of Spurs this week and I don't want to keep kicking them while they are down... well maybe I do... but I won't.

Instead I want to look at race and rugby in South Africa.

The history of the Springboks is fairly eventful to say the least.

It wasn't until 1992 that the current Rugby Union was established with the unification of the former whites-only South African Rugby Board and the non-racial South African Rugby Union.

This led to readmission into international rugby after eight years of isolation due to apartheid.

Episode One

During the 1995 RWC, hosted and won by SA, the Springboks were the toast and hope of the 'Rainbow Nation'. An emotional closing ceremony with Mandela passing over the Webb Ellis Trophy to Pienaar was meant to be symbolic. Chester Williams was the first post-apartheid black player to where the green and gold and it was expected that the sport would now reach out into the townships.

However for various reasons this never happened.

Ten years of scandal, misery and embarrassment meant that it wasn't until Jake White stepped up from U21 coach that there was any hope.

A New Hope

Having comfortably won this year's World Cup it was once again hoped that rugby in South Africa could reach out to the clearly fervent support in the black regions, and discover more players.

I strongly believe that the strongest XV players should line up at kick off, no matter their colour, I also feel that rugby is a sport that should support all corners of all countries. Coaching and money should be invested in the game where there are people who want to play, and South Africa as World Champions should set a standard.

The Empire Strikes Bok

Unfortunately it looks like Sarfu have not learned any lessons from 1995. Yesterday the planned visit of the returning champions to the Township of Soweto was canceled and the disappointment was clear to see.

"We're devastated about it. We were expecting to see our heroes within the backyard of Soweto," said Johannes Mhlongo, captain of the Soweto Rugby Club.

Lets hope I'm wrong and they have learned some lessons.

Try of the World Cup

Now I watched most of the games in the RWC but I did miss USA Vs South Africa, so it wasn't until yesterday that I saw Takudzwa Ngwenya's try. Simply because he skinned Habana is why it gets my vote as try of the tournament, although there was some tough opposition, and Corleto's try in the 3rd place game was a tight second. What do you think, which was the try of the tournament for you? I have posted a video of Takudzwa Ngwenya's try, enjoy...

Easy for Arsenal

It doesn't get much more comprehensive than 7-0 in the Champions League, in fact Arsenal's hammering of Slavia Prague last night equaled the biggest ever win in the tournament's history.

A fresh faced Gunners squad seem to back at their free flowing best, and they have a good chance of winning some serious silver ware this season. Even Walcott scored and maybe 12 months after he was a 'guest' in the England World Cup Squad, he might start proving that Sven was actually on to something.

Spurs can't defend manager

Tottenham continued their dreadful start to the season last night with a 3-1 defeat up at Newcastle.

It's been the same story for a while now, Spurs can't defend, one clean sheet all season is not going to get you into Europe. Last night was no different, Michael Dawson being the main offender as he was responsible for Newcastle's first two goals.

There's no doubt that they have the talent up front, any team in the league would take their attack. But the fact is they have conceded on average over two goals a game, meaning they need to score two just to get a point.
Only Derby have conceded more goals, and only by one goal, and don't forget they lost 5-0 to Arsenal and 6-0 to Liverpool.

I'm a West Ham fan, so seeing the demise of Spurs isn't exactly upsetting me, in fact it's put a bounce in my step. Martin Jol is surely about to be thrown into the Exhange and Mart of football managers, and whoever comes in needs to spend wisely in January.

NO MORE STRIKERS! It's simple, spending £16m on Bent (more than Henry don't forget)when you already have Defoe, Berbatov and Keane is confused to say the least.

Sadly I don't think Spurs will be in this position come May, the Hammers of 2003 were the best team to get relegated and that's not going to change this season. They could easily still finish in the top ten and I fancy they will.

Good thing we didn't watch the game in Sevenoaks!

Sevenoaks in the Dark

Memorable Week For English Sport

Hamilton threw it all away, Macca lost the plot, and an Australian and Irishman successfully conspired against us in Paris.
All this shows the brilliance and unpredictability of sport, if it always went your way it wouldn't be the same when you win.
Four years ago it went our way, this time it didn't. That's sport.

Although Hamilton could still steal the title following an alleged breach of regulations by Williams and BMW, his immaturity showed at the first corner at Interlagos.
Raikkonen, although possibly the most boring guy in sport, still deserves the title, and it would be a shame if the stewards decided the championship. One thing we can be sure of, F1 is on the up, and next season will attract big crowds.

Definite Try?

I think we all know it was a try, even the Saffas in the pub agreed, but did any of us really expect an Aussie to do us a favour. "We all hate England" was the quote from John O'Neill, well you know what, we're not all that keen on most of you either.


Anyway enough moaning, it was a great World cup, and of the five I can just about remember it tops the bunch, even the third place game was a classic, and as far as the poll at the bottom goes, the Pumas get my vote.

Cherry Whites Keen On Guinness

While all eyes have been firmly fixed on the Rugby World Cup over the past couple of months, the Guinness Premiership has been racing through the gears.

Gloucester set the early tone with a five try haul from ex Bradford Bulls star Lesley "the volcano" Vainikolo, closely followed with a win away at Leicester.
Still unbeaten the young squad with the likes of Ryan Lamb and Anthony Allen at the fore will surely be top of the tree come May.
Oh and don't forget they have Chris Patterson, the leading International goal kicker and Jeremy Paul, former Wallabies hooker, still to make their debut against London Irish on Sunday.

Elsewhere, the end of a World Cup always signals an exodus of Southern Hemisphere talent around the country, and this year is no different.

Luke McAlister, was arguably the one man to eclipse Dan Carter in the All Blacks team in France (and Wales), and his game is sure to bring more smiles to the Edgeley Park faithful up at Sale. Rory Lamont, another promising signing by Saint-Andre, continued his impressive World Cup form for Scotland with a try scoring debut for the Sharks in a win over Saracens last night.

Boks and All Blacks

Chris Jack, although nearing the end of an illustrious career, will still attract crowds at Saracens, even if just to rib him over getting knocked out by France again.

Carl Hayman regarded as the best tight-head prop in world rugby, will add some much needed steel and nouse to the Newcastle front row, while Springboks Butch James(World Cup runner up 2007) and Michael Claasens will offer that extra bit of class down at Bath.

Aaron Mauger is another silver fern on his way over, and could form an exciting centre partnership with England hopeful Dan Hipkiss in the Tigers midfield.

Also All Blacks star Rico Gear, along with fellow Kiwis Greg Rawlinson and Sam Tuitupou have been lured to Worcester by Mike Ruddock to form a squad which should now avoid the dreaded drop to League One.

These are just the pick of the signings, and there will no doubt be a number of new names popping up who could feature in a new look England squad come the Six Nations. All in all the Guinness Premiership is set for an exciting year, and once teams have full squads again, it will really hit top gear.

Van Persie out as Internationals take their toll

Robin van Persie will be out for at least a month after injuring his knee playing for Holland.
Now although hating Arsenal with a passion is a past time of mine I am actually upset by this news, he was the key striker in my fantasy team.
Van Persie is going to miss a number of crucial games for the Gunners. Both Champions League matches and fixtures against Liverpool and Manchester United back to back after this weekend's Bolton match.
Arsenal have shown some impressive form this season, and have scored freely and defended strongly.
Fabregas has been the key player for them without a doubt, but missing Van Persie could seriously damage their run. He has scored some absolute humdingers this year, and although Adebayor has shown glimpses of class, he is not yet a complete premiership player.
So anyway, I'm going to have to find a replacement for Van Persie which does upset me, but the thought of Arsenal dropping down the table puts a wry smile on my face.

British teams humbled in Europe

What a night, in contrast to some awe inspiring weekends of rugby, last night was an abysmal evening of sport.

Only Wales could manage a win, while England and Scotland lost out to Russia and Georgia, and Northern Ireland drew with Sweden, the best result of the night.
After a brief purple patch England returned to old ways yesterday afternoon, and are now relying on Israel nicking some points off the Russians to have a chance of reaching the finals.

I can just about remember when England failed to qualify for the '94 World Cup when we conceded an early yet crucial goal to San Marino. I remember being dumbfounded then, and now it's happening again.

To be honest watching England play football has never been something I enjoy or look forward to, and secretly I would be quite relieved if England don't reach the finals.
It is a shame though, I honestly thought the team had turned a corner after recent results, but I guess that was fairly naive of me, England football will always be the same, disappointing.

Murray marches on in Madrid

Two comfortable wins now for Murray, as he progressed into the third round of the Madrid Masters last night.
Now he will face either Marcos Baghdatis or second seed Rafael Nadal and it will be interesting to see if can maintain his impressive form.
It is the one thing lacking in his game, consistency. He can have two or three cracking matches in the early rounds, but too often he then loses form and comes unstuck.
He needs to keep reaching finals if he wants to get himself set in the top ten and start challenging for Grand Slams.
What better way to start than by seeing of Nadal in the next round.

Can Tait keep pace with the cheetah?

Having taken the World Sevens stage by storm, Matthew Tait was quickly thrown into the lions den of international rugby and promptly chewed up and spat out by Gavin Henson.
Now he faces a new challenge, Bryan Habana.
The fastest player in international rugby, and the deadliest finisher. If he scores in the final he will have scored the most tries in a World Cup, eclipsing the mighty Jonah Lomu.
Matthew Tait is likely to be the guy given the task of keeping Habana in check and it will not be easy, but if anyone can keep up with him then it's Tait.