Saints unbeaten home record came to an abrupt end last night after losing 3-2 to high flying Bristol Rovers. The visitors fell behind twice, but were able to stay in the game and grab a winner with virtually the last kick of the game.
Southampton started the brighter side and deservedly took the lead on 34 minutes when Adam Lallana finished from close range after some good build up play. But Rovers pulled themselves level before the end of the first half, with Chris Dickson rounding Kelvin Davis to comfortably slot home.
Saints went ahead for a second time early in the second half, with Papa Waigo being credited with his first goal for the club, making sure the ball went over the line after Rickie Lambert's header had hit the bar. After the game the referee confirmed the ball had already crossed the line before Waigo touched it, but the crowd at St Marys were not too fussed and enjoyed seeing the Senegalese international celebrate with his trademark dance.
However, Bristol Rovers equalised for a second time on the night when Jo Kuffour took advantage of Saint's complete failure to deal with a left wing cross to make it 2-2.
Both sides had opportunities to take the three points, but it was Rovers who went home with the victory, Andy Williams scoring from a great long range effort in the 5th minute of stoppage time.
From a Saints point of view, there are some real concerns over the team's inability to kill off the game. Both times after taking the lead, the players seemed happy just to sit back and let the opposition attack when they should have been pressing for further goals.
Saints player ratings-
Kelvin Davis - 5 - Was caught out of position for Rover's first goal. Everyone makes mistakes, but when the 'keeper does it proves to be more costly.
Lloyd James - 6 - Played some good balls into the Rover's box, but was playing too far forward for a right back.
Neal Trotman - 6 - Competent, but didn't deal with the threat for Rover's second goal.
Radhi Jaidi - 6 - Dominated in the air, however there are some concerns over his lack of pace.
Dan Harding - 6 - Worked tirelessly as always, error prone at times though.
Papa Waigo N'diaye - 7 - Always an attacking threat, caused problems for Bristol Rovers down the right wing.
Dean Hammond - 6 - Was booked for diving, then didn't back quick enough to help prevent Rover's first goal.
Morgan Schneiderlin - 6 - Some good long range passing, but didn't have a huge effect in the middle of the park.
Jacob Mellis - 5 - Did plenty of running, but was terrible every time he got the ball.
Adam Lallana - 7 - A great composed finish for the first goal, was Saints main creative spark.
Rickie Lambert - 8 - SAINTS MAN OF THE MATCH - Was heavily involved in both goals against his former club.
Subs-
Joseph Mills (on for Mellis) - 6 - Didn't have much effect on the game.
Marek Saganowski (on for Waigo) - 6 - Never really got going.
Paul Wotton (on for Schneiderlin) - 6 - Worked hard when brought on for the last few minutes, but couldn't help prevent the late winner.
So after grabbing a late equaliser away to Carlisle on Saturday, last night it was Saint's turn last night to feel the pain of conceding in stoppage time. I'm sure I'm not the only one worried about the player's fitness and concentration, the majority of goals conceded this season have been towards the end of the game.
We go into October still on minus points, not what we were expecting at the beginning of the season but a win at home to Gillingham on Saturday will finally put Saints into plus figures.
Apologies if there are a few inaccuracies, the Saints official website is down, so I haven't been able to check the match facts, all of this is written from my memory of last night's game.
Wednesday 30 September 2009
Monday 28 September 2009
Monday 28th September 2009
Labour this week hope to convince the electorate they should stay in power with their annual party conference in Brighton.
The big issue so far has been about Gordon Brown's health, with Andrew Marr 'intrusively' quizzing the Prime Minister about whether he has been on prescribed medication to help with the pressures of the job. Once again a row has erupted between Labour and the BBC (remember The Hutton Report), but this time I'm going to have to take the side of the politicians. It appears the rumours of the PM using painkillers circulated from an Internet blog, which isn't the most trustworthy source of information. I'm sure if I had enough people reading this blog I could make up some crazy rumour which I could convince the world to be true. If this blog is the only source of information the BBC had on Brown's health, then perhaps it wasn't a very suitable subject area for Andrew Marr's interview yesterday.
Lord Mandelson has slammed the rumours as mere "right wing smears and slurs" and not for the first time in recent weeks I find myself agreeing with 'The Prince of Darkness' (see blog entry 17th September), as there appears to be no concrete proof. You never no, these "slurs" may work in Brown's favour, as I think he does need to show he has a human side to relate to voters.
Key individuals involved with Labour, including John Prescott, have expressed concerns over the defeatist attitude within the party, but this week is a chance to inject some much needed confidence.
I'm one of the many who need to be convinced to vote Labour and as well as the autumn conference, the election manifesto could persuade potential voters to mark a cross next to their party come the general election. Environment Secretary Ed Miliband is the man who has the job of manifesto coordinator, an "impossible task", according to the BBC. Mr Miliband follows me on twitter, so on the very slight chance he's reading this (I don't expect him to be, he is after all, a very busy man), all the best, if you're manifesto appears to me the most appealing then you may have my vote. A year ago I had no intention of voting Labour, but after much pondering and influence from my left wing friends every day there is more and more chance I will vote for them on election day.
Going back to the issue of BNP leader Nick Griffin appearing on Question Time (see blog entry 7th September), I'm pleased to see Justice Secretary Jack Straw has announced he will appear alongside Griffin on the BBC panel show. Surely Straw is a much more able and intelligent debater than this fascist and will show him up to be the lightweight amateur that he is. I hope to see some other capable debaters from the the Conservative and Lib Dem frontbenches join Straw in the argument against fascism. As long as the anti fascist protesters don't grab the headlines then on 22 October Griffin will be exposed as an idiot for everyone to see.
The big issue so far has been about Gordon Brown's health, with Andrew Marr 'intrusively' quizzing the Prime Minister about whether he has been on prescribed medication to help with the pressures of the job. Once again a row has erupted between Labour and the BBC (remember The Hutton Report), but this time I'm going to have to take the side of the politicians. It appears the rumours of the PM using painkillers circulated from an Internet blog, which isn't the most trustworthy source of information. I'm sure if I had enough people reading this blog I could make up some crazy rumour which I could convince the world to be true. If this blog is the only source of information the BBC had on Brown's health, then perhaps it wasn't a very suitable subject area for Andrew Marr's interview yesterday.
Lord Mandelson has slammed the rumours as mere "right wing smears and slurs" and not for the first time in recent weeks I find myself agreeing with 'The Prince of Darkness' (see blog entry 17th September), as there appears to be no concrete proof. You never no, these "slurs" may work in Brown's favour, as I think he does need to show he has a human side to relate to voters.
Key individuals involved with Labour, including John Prescott, have expressed concerns over the defeatist attitude within the party, but this week is a chance to inject some much needed confidence.
I'm one of the many who need to be convinced to vote Labour and as well as the autumn conference, the election manifesto could persuade potential voters to mark a cross next to their party come the general election. Environment Secretary Ed Miliband is the man who has the job of manifesto coordinator, an "impossible task", according to the BBC. Mr Miliband follows me on twitter, so on the very slight chance he's reading this (I don't expect him to be, he is after all, a very busy man), all the best, if you're manifesto appears to me the most appealing then you may have my vote. A year ago I had no intention of voting Labour, but after much pondering and influence from my left wing friends every day there is more and more chance I will vote for them on election day.
Going back to the issue of BNP leader Nick Griffin appearing on Question Time (see blog entry 7th September), I'm pleased to see Justice Secretary Jack Straw has announced he will appear alongside Griffin on the BBC panel show. Surely Straw is a much more able and intelligent debater than this fascist and will show him up to be the lightweight amateur that he is. I hope to see some other capable debaters from the the Conservative and Lib Dem frontbenches join Straw in the argument against fascism. As long as the anti fascist protesters don't grab the headlines then on 22 October Griffin will be exposed as an idiot for everyone to see.
Thursday 24 September 2009
Thursday 24th September 2009
Nick Clegg yesterday drew the Liberal Democrat conference to a close with a speech which clearly indicated he wants to become Prime Minister.
With the possible likelihood of a hung Parliament after the next general election, the Conservatives and Labour may both look for a deal with the Liberal Democrats, but Clegg has stated he wants to be the man in number 10.
However, opinion polls since July put the Lib Dems on an average of 18.7%, which is 7% behind Labour and 22% adrift of the Conservatives, which suggests the electorate aren't in favour of a Liberal Democrat government. Realistically, I can't see the Lib Dems, who haven't had a Prime Minister since coalition leader David Lloyd George was ousted in 1922, returning to power any time soon and I think a successful election for them would be just improving on their 22.6% share of the vote from four years ago.
It is difficult to foresee when the Liberal Democrats will challenge Labour and the Tories for power. Lib Dem MPs weren't implicated in this years huge political story, the expenses scandal as much as other MPs. According to the BBC website, The Daily Telegraph exposed 12 Liberal Democrat MPs of abusing the system, compared with 112 Labour MPs and 80 Tory MPs ,but there are far less Lib Dems in the House of Commons and the claims of some key individuals in the party, including home affairs spokesman Chris Huhne (who claimed £119 for a Corby trouser press), were brought to public attention. If the Lib Dems had no dodgy expenses claims they could have labelled themselves as the clean and fair party and may have won over the electorate at a time when trust in politicians is at an all time low, but it looks as though all MPs, no matter what party the represent, have been tarred with the same brush. The expenses scandal could have been the big opportunity for the Liberal Democrats to challenge for government, but their poll rating hasn't significantly improved since the story broke, so it looks like they will remain as the third party of the House for some time yet.
So the Liberal Democrats have made their intentions clear in their last autumn conference before the general election. Next week the Labour party will be in Brighton for their conference as they look to convince voters that they should remain in power for a fourth consecutive term.
With the possible likelihood of a hung Parliament after the next general election, the Conservatives and Labour may both look for a deal with the Liberal Democrats, but Clegg has stated he wants to be the man in number 10.
However, opinion polls since July put the Lib Dems on an average of 18.7%, which is 7% behind Labour and 22% adrift of the Conservatives, which suggests the electorate aren't in favour of a Liberal Democrat government. Realistically, I can't see the Lib Dems, who haven't had a Prime Minister since coalition leader David Lloyd George was ousted in 1922, returning to power any time soon and I think a successful election for them would be just improving on their 22.6% share of the vote from four years ago.
It is difficult to foresee when the Liberal Democrats will challenge Labour and the Tories for power. Lib Dem MPs weren't implicated in this years huge political story, the expenses scandal as much as other MPs. According to the BBC website, The Daily Telegraph exposed 12 Liberal Democrat MPs of abusing the system, compared with 112 Labour MPs and 80 Tory MPs ,but there are far less Lib Dems in the House of Commons and the claims of some key individuals in the party, including home affairs spokesman Chris Huhne (who claimed £119 for a Corby trouser press), were brought to public attention. If the Lib Dems had no dodgy expenses claims they could have labelled themselves as the clean and fair party and may have won over the electorate at a time when trust in politicians is at an all time low, but it looks as though all MPs, no matter what party the represent, have been tarred with the same brush. The expenses scandal could have been the big opportunity for the Liberal Democrats to challenge for government, but their poll rating hasn't significantly improved since the story broke, so it looks like they will remain as the third party of the House for some time yet.
So the Liberal Democrats have made their intentions clear in their last autumn conference before the general election. Next week the Labour party will be in Brighton for their conference as they look to convince voters that they should remain in power for a fourth consecutive term.
Monday 21 September 2009
Monday 21st September 2009
The political party conference season has kicked off this week with the Liberal Democrats in Bournemouth. I like to see myself as a politically motivated journalist, but not in the party political sense. On this blog at least, I try to be impartial. However, as a supporter of democracy, if there was a general election tomorrow I would have to vote so would most likely vote for the Lib Dem party, so I'm taking a particular interest in this conference.
Unfortunately I've been working today, so missed the keynote speech by Dr Vince Cable, the man who I think should be leading the party. But just reading up on the speech, I agree with their plans to tax owners of £1 million plus homes. Only 250,000 people would be affected and the proposed 0.5% annual levy would raise £1 billion. No doubt, the Conservatives aren't going to like this idea, but I'm sure those with a £1 million home can afford to pay the levy.
Dr Cable is a credit to his party and its a shame he's a member of the country's third party, as he would be very useful in government. I don't like the idea of a coalition government, but at least if we ever were to have one in the near future it would give Cable the opportunity to run the economy, I'm certain he would do a better job than Alastair Darling or George Osbourne. This is the man who forecast the credit crunch long before the economic collapse last year, if only the powers that be had listened to his warnings.
Vince Cable is probably the most respected individual in the House of Commons and I have nothing against Nick Clegg, but I think having Cable as leader of the Liberal Democrats could be worth plenty of more votes.
All three major party conferences this Autumn will focus on public spending cuts and today the Lib Dems have made clear what services they would cut, I agree with them that Trident should be scrapped.
However, the Lib Dems are treading on dangerous ground if they abandon their pledge to abolish student tuition fees. When I interviewed a Lib Dem councillor last year, I asked him why a young person should support his party and he reminded me that they are the only major party which consistently pushes for the abolition of student tuition fees. I think its safe to say that a large slice of Lib Dem voters are students, so abandoning this pledge will cost them in the polls. And today's students are tomorrow's politicians, company chairmen and newspaper editors, so it will be good to keep them in their good books. There is growing pressure on targeting students to fill the hole in the budget deficit after a report from business leaders says students should accept higher tuition fees and pay more for their loans, but we shouldn't discourage young people from going to university and gaining a degree.
That's all for me for now, I look forward to updating this blog more during the conference season.
Unfortunately I've been working today, so missed the keynote speech by Dr Vince Cable, the man who I think should be leading the party. But just reading up on the speech, I agree with their plans to tax owners of £1 million plus homes. Only 250,000 people would be affected and the proposed 0.5% annual levy would raise £1 billion. No doubt, the Conservatives aren't going to like this idea, but I'm sure those with a £1 million home can afford to pay the levy.
Dr Cable is a credit to his party and its a shame he's a member of the country's third party, as he would be very useful in government. I don't like the idea of a coalition government, but at least if we ever were to have one in the near future it would give Cable the opportunity to run the economy, I'm certain he would do a better job than Alastair Darling or George Osbourne. This is the man who forecast the credit crunch long before the economic collapse last year, if only the powers that be had listened to his warnings.
Vince Cable is probably the most respected individual in the House of Commons and I have nothing against Nick Clegg, but I think having Cable as leader of the Liberal Democrats could be worth plenty of more votes.
All three major party conferences this Autumn will focus on public spending cuts and today the Lib Dems have made clear what services they would cut, I agree with them that Trident should be scrapped.
However, the Lib Dems are treading on dangerous ground if they abandon their pledge to abolish student tuition fees. When I interviewed a Lib Dem councillor last year, I asked him why a young person should support his party and he reminded me that they are the only major party which consistently pushes for the abolition of student tuition fees. I think its safe to say that a large slice of Lib Dem voters are students, so abandoning this pledge will cost them in the polls. And today's students are tomorrow's politicians, company chairmen and newspaper editors, so it will be good to keep them in their good books. There is growing pressure on targeting students to fill the hole in the budget deficit after a report from business leaders says students should accept higher tuition fees and pay more for their loans, but we shouldn't discourage young people from going to university and gaining a degree.
That's all for me for now, I look forward to updating this blog more during the conference season.
Saturday 19 September 2009
Saturday 19th September 2009
Saints finally won their first league game of the season after a comfortable 2-0 victory at home to Yeovil this afternoon.
Penalties in each half from Rickie Lambert were enough to ensure three points in a game which Saints controlled from the start. The home side started out stronger and won a penalty just after 15 minutes when Marek Saganowski was fouled in the box. Lambert made no mistake from 12 yards out and despite some pressure from Yeovil, Southampton went into half time with the lead. Lambert then effectively killed the game off on 51 minutes with his second penalty which came about from a Yeovil hand ball in the area. With Saints 2-0 up the St Marys crowd could relax and enjoy themselves as the away team rarely threatened to pull one back.
To be fair, at the time I didn't think either penalty should have been given (I'll take a proper look at the highlights tomorrow), but after no wins in our first seven games I would've taken a win today in any shape or form.
Saints player ratings-
Kelvin Davis - 7 - Made some good saves when called into action and collected well from crosses.
Wayne Thomas - 6 - Did what was needed to be done at right back, offered little going forward though.
Neal Trotman - 7 - Strong in the air, but wasn't kept too busy by the Yeovil attack.
Radhi Jaidi - 7 - Formed a good partnership with Trotman, encouraging home debut.
Dan Harding - 8 - Didn't put a foot wrong and played some good long balls down the left wing.
Lloyd James - 6 - Played some good passes, but some poor balls as well.
Morgan Schneiderlin - 7 - Made some great runs and put a few decent tackles in too.
Dean Hammond - 9 - MAN OF THE MATCH - Brilliant box to box play, protected the defence and was a creative spark.
Adam Lallana - 7 - Made some good runs and was an important component of the counter attack.
Marek Saganowski - 8 - Worked tirelessly and formed a strong partnership in attack with Lambert.
Rickie Lambert - 8 - Spot on with both penalties, played better than last week as he wasn't stranded up front on his own today.
Subs-
Jospeh Mills (on for Schneiderlin) - 7 - Energetic, made a crucial six yard box interception late on.
Papa Waigo N'Daiye (on Marek Saganowski) - 7 - Showed a glimpse of his skill with some creative attacking play.
Paul Wotton (on for Thomas) - 7 - Won the ball and kept it well in the middle of the park.
So there is a lot of positives to take from today's game, now with their first win under their belts we're all helping Saints can go on a winning streak, starting with the long trip to Carlisle next Saturday.
Penalties in each half from Rickie Lambert were enough to ensure three points in a game which Saints controlled from the start. The home side started out stronger and won a penalty just after 15 minutes when Marek Saganowski was fouled in the box. Lambert made no mistake from 12 yards out and despite some pressure from Yeovil, Southampton went into half time with the lead. Lambert then effectively killed the game off on 51 minutes with his second penalty which came about from a Yeovil hand ball in the area. With Saints 2-0 up the St Marys crowd could relax and enjoy themselves as the away team rarely threatened to pull one back.
To be fair, at the time I didn't think either penalty should have been given (I'll take a proper look at the highlights tomorrow), but after no wins in our first seven games I would've taken a win today in any shape or form.
Saints player ratings-
Kelvin Davis - 7 - Made some good saves when called into action and collected well from crosses.
Wayne Thomas - 6 - Did what was needed to be done at right back, offered little going forward though.
Neal Trotman - 7 - Strong in the air, but wasn't kept too busy by the Yeovil attack.
Radhi Jaidi - 7 - Formed a good partnership with Trotman, encouraging home debut.
Dan Harding - 8 - Didn't put a foot wrong and played some good long balls down the left wing.
Lloyd James - 6 - Played some good passes, but some poor balls as well.
Morgan Schneiderlin - 7 - Made some great runs and put a few decent tackles in too.
Dean Hammond - 9 - MAN OF THE MATCH - Brilliant box to box play, protected the defence and was a creative spark.
Adam Lallana - 7 - Made some good runs and was an important component of the counter attack.
Marek Saganowski - 8 - Worked tirelessly and formed a strong partnership in attack with Lambert.
Rickie Lambert - 8 - Spot on with both penalties, played better than last week as he wasn't stranded up front on his own today.
Subs-
Jospeh Mills (on for Schneiderlin) - 7 - Energetic, made a crucial six yard box interception late on.
Papa Waigo N'Daiye (on Marek Saganowski) - 7 - Showed a glimpse of his skill with some creative attacking play.
Paul Wotton (on for Thomas) - 7 - Won the ball and kept it well in the middle of the park.
So there is a lot of positives to take from today's game, now with their first win under their belts we're all helping Saints can go on a winning streak, starting with the long trip to Carlisle next Saturday.
Thursday 17 September 2009
Thursday 17th September 2009
No matter who is in government after the next general election, the chances of heavy public spending cuts are looking more and more likely, with Lord Mandelson hinting this week that Labour cannot solve problems simply by throwing money at them.
The debate over which services will be cut will be brought up constantly in the build up to the election and has become a big issue already. Conservative leader David Cameron will decrease ministerial pay and reduce the number of government cars if he becomes Prime Minister, but these cuts won't make huge savings.
Now I'm not a huge admirer of Lord Mandelson, but I think he's spot on with these alleged suggestions that the Trident nuclear submarine programme and ID cards could be abandoned or delayed to save money. Introducing compulsory ID cards costing £100 is hugely unpopular, I'm yet to meet someone who is in favour of the idea, its seen as just another way of taking away civil liberties and a complete waste of money.
Opposition will welcome abolishing ID cards, but failing to renew Trident will no doubt split opinion. We know the Liberal Democrats are not in favour of renewing the nuclear deterrent system, with Nick Clegg believing the world has moved on. I can't imagine the Tories will approve of this though, as the traditional Conservative wants Britain to continue to be a world superpower which they believe can only be achieved if Trident is renewed.
I don't see a need for Trident to be renewed, as its a luxury which we can only afford when finances are more stable. I would much rather see the money saved from Trident go towards providing our soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq with proper equipment.
It will be interesting to see which public spending cuts will be announced over the next few months.
Going back to my blog on a televised leaders debate in the lead up to the election (see September 3rd entry), Gordon Brown is considering the offer, which Cameron and Clegg have already accepted. Sky has said they will leave an empty chair where Brown would have sat if he refuses the debate and this will be embarrassing for the Prime Minister, so its important for him and his party he takes up the offer. However, whilst doing some research for my dissertation last week, I was interested to find that in the build up to the 1992 general election Prime Minister at the time John Major refused to take part in a TV debate. Major and his Conservative party were still in power after Britain went to the polls, which suggests that if Brown spurns the opportunity to go head to head with his counterparts on live television it won't be the be all and end all.
The debate over which services will be cut will be brought up constantly in the build up to the election and has become a big issue already. Conservative leader David Cameron will decrease ministerial pay and reduce the number of government cars if he becomes Prime Minister, but these cuts won't make huge savings.
Now I'm not a huge admirer of Lord Mandelson, but I think he's spot on with these alleged suggestions that the Trident nuclear submarine programme and ID cards could be abandoned or delayed to save money. Introducing compulsory ID cards costing £100 is hugely unpopular, I'm yet to meet someone who is in favour of the idea, its seen as just another way of taking away civil liberties and a complete waste of money.
Opposition will welcome abolishing ID cards, but failing to renew Trident will no doubt split opinion. We know the Liberal Democrats are not in favour of renewing the nuclear deterrent system, with Nick Clegg believing the world has moved on. I can't imagine the Tories will approve of this though, as the traditional Conservative wants Britain to continue to be a world superpower which they believe can only be achieved if Trident is renewed.
I don't see a need for Trident to be renewed, as its a luxury which we can only afford when finances are more stable. I would much rather see the money saved from Trident go towards providing our soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq with proper equipment.
It will be interesting to see which public spending cuts will be announced over the next few months.
Going back to my blog on a televised leaders debate in the lead up to the election (see September 3rd entry), Gordon Brown is considering the offer, which Cameron and Clegg have already accepted. Sky has said they will leave an empty chair where Brown would have sat if he refuses the debate and this will be embarrassing for the Prime Minister, so its important for him and his party he takes up the offer. However, whilst doing some research for my dissertation last week, I was interested to find that in the build up to the 1992 general election Prime Minister at the time John Major refused to take part in a TV debate. Major and his Conservative party were still in power after Britain went to the polls, which suggests that if Brown spurns the opportunity to go head to head with his counterparts on live television it won't be the be all and end all.
Sunday 13 September 2009
Sunday 13th September 2009
Saints ended Charlton's 100% league record yesterday with an entertaining 1-1 draw at The Valley.
The away team, whose 3,000 traveling fans created a great atmosphere, took the lead towards the end of the first half when Adam Lallana converted a low Wayne Thomas cross. But Charlton rallied in the second half when Deon Burton capitalised on a defensive mix up to equalise from close range within 5 minutes of the restart. Southampton then rode their luck a bit, with the home team having plenty of opportunities to kill the game, but were denied by the woodwork. In reflection, a draw seems a fair result, Saints played better in the first half, whereas Charlton looked stronger in the second half.
One concern for Saints fans after today would be the team's lack of confidence in front of goal. Plenty of opportunities were created in the first half, but there was no composure in the penalty area. The 4-5-1 tactic adopted by Pardew for this game suggests a priority was avoiding defeat, rather than taking all three points, as Lambert didn't get much support from the midfield.
Southampton are the first team to take any points from table topping Charlton, so this is a positive and something to build on in the next few games, as they look for their first league win of the season.
Saints player ratings-
Kelvin Davis - 6 - Didn't take the cross that led to Charlton's goal, but redeemed himself later with a good near post save.
Wayne Thomas - 6 - Played a good ball into the box for Lallana to score, but was lacking defensively.
Chris Perry - 8 - Dominant in the air, outstanding considering his limited height.
Neal Trotman - 8 - Another encouraging performance from the Preston loanee, like Perry he won most of the balls in the air.
Dan Harding - 7 - Showed grit and determination, not afraid to get stuck in.
Adam Lallana - 7 - Took his goal well, was a constant attacking threat.
Dean Hammond 8 - SAINTS MAN OF THE MATCH - Was always involved in the action, covered a lot of ground in protecting defence and setting up attack.
Morgan Schneiderlin - 7 - Played some good long balls and had a few shots on goal from a distance.
Lloyd James - 6 - Was solid, but didn't offer much in attack, would've preferred to have seen another striker instead of packing the midfield with him.
Joseph Mills - 6 - Struggled to cope with Charlton's physical approach and took a few knocks, but tried hard to be involved in the game.
Rickie Lambert - 6 - Looked isolated up front on his own, always outnumbered by the Charlton defence.
Subs-
Radhi Jaidi (on for Perry) - 6 - The debutant gave confidence to defence when brought on, wasn't afraid to get forward.
Jacob Mellis (on for Mills) - 6 - Best used as an impact sub, unlucky not to win a penalty late on.
Papa Waigo N'diaye (on for Lallana) - 6 - His very brief appearance delighted the away crowd, made a good tackle in stoppage time to prevent a Charlton counter.
I can't complain too much about an away point against the promotion contenders, it was an enjoyable day out, but Saints are still looking for their first league win, which we all hope will come at home to Yeovil next Saturday.
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A special thank you to Martin Barrett for sorting out the website and linking my old page to this blog. If anyone needs a professional website created then visit http://www.mediapictures.co.uk/ for more information.
The away team, whose 3,000 traveling fans created a great atmosphere, took the lead towards the end of the first half when Adam Lallana converted a low Wayne Thomas cross. But Charlton rallied in the second half when Deon Burton capitalised on a defensive mix up to equalise from close range within 5 minutes of the restart. Southampton then rode their luck a bit, with the home team having plenty of opportunities to kill the game, but were denied by the woodwork. In reflection, a draw seems a fair result, Saints played better in the first half, whereas Charlton looked stronger in the second half.
One concern for Saints fans after today would be the team's lack of confidence in front of goal. Plenty of opportunities were created in the first half, but there was no composure in the penalty area. The 4-5-1 tactic adopted by Pardew for this game suggests a priority was avoiding defeat, rather than taking all three points, as Lambert didn't get much support from the midfield.
Southampton are the first team to take any points from table topping Charlton, so this is a positive and something to build on in the next few games, as they look for their first league win of the season.
Saints player ratings-
Kelvin Davis - 6 - Didn't take the cross that led to Charlton's goal, but redeemed himself later with a good near post save.
Wayne Thomas - 6 - Played a good ball into the box for Lallana to score, but was lacking defensively.
Chris Perry - 8 - Dominant in the air, outstanding considering his limited height.
Neal Trotman - 8 - Another encouraging performance from the Preston loanee, like Perry he won most of the balls in the air.
Dan Harding - 7 - Showed grit and determination, not afraid to get stuck in.
Adam Lallana - 7 - Took his goal well, was a constant attacking threat.
Dean Hammond 8 - SAINTS MAN OF THE MATCH - Was always involved in the action, covered a lot of ground in protecting defence and setting up attack.
Morgan Schneiderlin - 7 - Played some good long balls and had a few shots on goal from a distance.
Lloyd James - 6 - Was solid, but didn't offer much in attack, would've preferred to have seen another striker instead of packing the midfield with him.
Joseph Mills - 6 - Struggled to cope with Charlton's physical approach and took a few knocks, but tried hard to be involved in the game.
Rickie Lambert - 6 - Looked isolated up front on his own, always outnumbered by the Charlton defence.
Subs-
Radhi Jaidi (on for Perry) - 6 - The debutant gave confidence to defence when brought on, wasn't afraid to get forward.
Jacob Mellis (on for Mills) - 6 - Best used as an impact sub, unlucky not to win a penalty late on.
Papa Waigo N'diaye (on for Lallana) - 6 - His very brief appearance delighted the away crowd, made a good tackle in stoppage time to prevent a Charlton counter.
I can't complain too much about an away point against the promotion contenders, it was an enjoyable day out, but Saints are still looking for their first league win, which we all hope will come at home to Yeovil next Saturday.
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A special thank you to Martin Barrett for sorting out the website and linking my old page to this blog. If anyone needs a professional website created then visit http://www.mediapictures.co.uk/ for more information.
Tuesday 8 September 2009
Tuesday 8th September 2009
Tory MP Alan Duncan has been demoted from shadow leader of the Commons after the comments he made last month whilst being secretly filmed. Duncan caused a stir in the wake of the expenses scandal by claiming MPs were expected to live off "rations". He will now take on the role of shadow prisons minister, while former transport secretary Sir George Young replaces him as shadow leader of the Commons.
I'm sure Tory leader David Cameron was reluctant to demote Duncan, who is seen as part of the modern and liberal wing of the party. He is the first openly gay Conservative MP, which means he has a big following in the gay community, so plays a big part in helping the party appeal to that area of the electorate. However, this whole "MPs living off rations" business was one gaff too many for Duncan, who has been heavily implicated in the expenses scandal. He has a big public profile thanks to his regular appearances on Have I Got News For You, a show which has seen him been ridiculed on due to his role in the scandal.
This is the second time this year Alan Duncan has attracted negative media attention after opening his mouth and saying the wrong thing. In April he made some questionable comments about Miss California USA 2009 publicly opposing same sex marriages on Have I Got News For You.
This expenses scandal is no doubt the political story of the year and refuses to go away. Cameron has pledged to cut costs by ending subsidised food and alcohol for MPs and cutting ministerial salaries if he becomes Prime Minister. This continues to ask the question are Members of Parliament paid too much or too little for the amount of work they do? Ministers, who have many more responsibilities than the average MP, can earn between £92,000 and £139,000 a year, a nice amount to take home, but not as much as investment bankers, footballers Chief Executives of some firms.
A political expert I spoke to recently about the matter of politicians pay said that MPs are poorly paid and he was not surprised that they had been abusing the system by claiming expenses on ridiculous purchases. However, I'm sure the general public will feel it should be an honour and a privilege to serve the UK in Westminster and the amount MPs get paid should not be an issue.
This week I've been re watching the brilliant BBC sitcom The Office on DVD and had forgot how genius the show is. At the time, the fly on the wall format of the show was unique and groundbreaking and has been copied on many other shows internationally. Ricky Gervais has since gone on to make it big in America, but he'll do well to write anything better again than The Office. There are some truly cringe worthy moments when you watch David Brent's antics through your fingers and think "what the hell is he doing?!?" and everyone knows a Gareth Keenan. In fact, just the other day my friend was telling me he works with a "Gareth" at Somerfields and from what he tells me there are many similarities between the fictional office worker and the supermarket checkout assistant. The Office was first shown on our screens in 2001 and I believe that since then the only sitcom that has come close to the genius and brilliance of Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant's work is The Thick Of It, which also goes with the fly on the wall style, but set in a government department. If you liked The Office then chances are you'll love The Thick Of It as well.
I'm sure Tory leader David Cameron was reluctant to demote Duncan, who is seen as part of the modern and liberal wing of the party. He is the first openly gay Conservative MP, which means he has a big following in the gay community, so plays a big part in helping the party appeal to that area of the electorate. However, this whole "MPs living off rations" business was one gaff too many for Duncan, who has been heavily implicated in the expenses scandal. He has a big public profile thanks to his regular appearances on Have I Got News For You, a show which has seen him been ridiculed on due to his role in the scandal.
This is the second time this year Alan Duncan has attracted negative media attention after opening his mouth and saying the wrong thing. In April he made some questionable comments about Miss California USA 2009 publicly opposing same sex marriages on Have I Got News For You.
This expenses scandal is no doubt the political story of the year and refuses to go away. Cameron has pledged to cut costs by ending subsidised food and alcohol for MPs and cutting ministerial salaries if he becomes Prime Minister. This continues to ask the question are Members of Parliament paid too much or too little for the amount of work they do? Ministers, who have many more responsibilities than the average MP, can earn between £92,000 and £139,000 a year, a nice amount to take home, but not as much as investment bankers, footballers Chief Executives of some firms.
A political expert I spoke to recently about the matter of politicians pay said that MPs are poorly paid and he was not surprised that they had been abusing the system by claiming expenses on ridiculous purchases. However, I'm sure the general public will feel it should be an honour and a privilege to serve the UK in Westminster and the amount MPs get paid should not be an issue.
This week I've been re watching the brilliant BBC sitcom The Office on DVD and had forgot how genius the show is. At the time, the fly on the wall format of the show was unique and groundbreaking and has been copied on many other shows internationally. Ricky Gervais has since gone on to make it big in America, but he'll do well to write anything better again than The Office. There are some truly cringe worthy moments when you watch David Brent's antics through your fingers and think "what the hell is he doing?!?" and everyone knows a Gareth Keenan. In fact, just the other day my friend was telling me he works with a "Gareth" at Somerfields and from what he tells me there are many similarities between the fictional office worker and the supermarket checkout assistant. The Office was first shown on our screens in 2001 and I believe that since then the only sitcom that has come close to the genius and brilliance of Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant's work is The Thick Of It, which also goes with the fly on the wall style, but set in a government department. If you liked The Office then chances are you'll love The Thick Of It as well.
Monday 7 September 2009
Monday 7th September 2009
The British National Party have made the headlines again after it was revealed the BBC may invite their leader Nick Griffin to appear as a panellist on Question Time.
This has caused a bit of an uproar and many feel the BNP shouldn't be allowed to have their views represented on one of the BBC's most watched political shows. Griffin is bound to get a hostile reception from the audience, maybe similar to what we saw when he was pelted with eggs at Westminster after being elected to the European Parliament (see June 9th post on here).
But perhaps the best way to approach this character is to give him an opportunity to debate so he can be showed up as a lightweight politician whose party only get so much media attention because of their far right beliefs. What we need are a few senior MPs and one or two other political experts to appear on Question Time with Griffin to engage in debate with him and show that his ideas won't work in a modern Britain without causing a small civil war. Add a few intelligent members of the audience to ask questions and a decent chair in David Dimbleby and we have all the ingredients for demonstrating to everyone that Nick Griffin is not a politician, but an idiot whose ideas will simply not work.
I have nothing against the anti fascist protesters who threw eggs at Griffin back in June, but I think that if he does appear on Question Time they should let him speak and hopefully get then he will be shown up as the lightweight that he is who only gets more attention than other small parties because of his controversial opinions.
This has caused a bit of an uproar and many feel the BNP shouldn't be allowed to have their views represented on one of the BBC's most watched political shows. Griffin is bound to get a hostile reception from the audience, maybe similar to what we saw when he was pelted with eggs at Westminster after being elected to the European Parliament (see June 9th post on here).
But perhaps the best way to approach this character is to give him an opportunity to debate so he can be showed up as a lightweight politician whose party only get so much media attention because of their far right beliefs. What we need are a few senior MPs and one or two other political experts to appear on Question Time with Griffin to engage in debate with him and show that his ideas won't work in a modern Britain without causing a small civil war. Add a few intelligent members of the audience to ask questions and a decent chair in David Dimbleby and we have all the ingredients for demonstrating to everyone that Nick Griffin is not a politician, but an idiot whose ideas will simply not work.
I have nothing against the anti fascist protesters who threw eggs at Griffin back in June, but I think that if he does appear on Question Time they should let him speak and hopefully get then he will be shown up as the lightweight that he is who only gets more attention than other small parties because of his controversial opinions.
Sunday 6 September 2009
Sunday 6th September 2009
Saints are still looking for their first league win of the season after drawing 0-0 at home to Colchester yesterday in a very boring game.
The visitors had Kemel Izzet sent off in the first half, but Saints failed to make the numerical advantage count and were reduced mainly to long shots.
This has been a very disappointing start to the season, no wins, four draws and two defeats, a win is desperately needed soon to build confidence at St Marys. New loan signing Papa Waigo was unveiled to the crowd before the game and most of us are hoping he can inspire his under performing team mates to victory. There was a real lack of creatively yesterday and the final ball into the box was always poor for Saints. On the plus side, things look to be improving defensively, with Neal Trotman playing well at centre back and new signing Radhi Jaidi will add steel to the back four.
Saints player ratings-
Kelvin Davis - 7 - Didn't have much to do, but as captain was constantly giving instructions to team mates trying to motivate them.
Wayne Thomas - 7 - Much better at right back than at centre back, looked a threat going forward.
Chris Perry - 7 - Dealt with rare Colchester attacks effectively, always in the right place at the right time at the back.
Neal Trotman - 8 - SAINTS MAN OF THE MATCH - Strong in the air and competent on the ground, hardly put a foot wrong.
Dan Harding - 6 - Did OK, but nearly gifted Colchester a goal with a poor clearance in the first half, resulting in them hitting the bar, which was their best chance.
Jacob Mellis - 5 - Hardly saw the ball, had little effect on the game before being subbed at half time.
Dean Hammond - 7 - Solid as the holding midfielder, limited his former side's opportunities in the final third of the pitch.
Lloyd James - 6 - Looked much more comfortable in midfielf rather than at right back, passing was hit and miss.
Adam Lallana - 7 - Energetic on the left wing in the first half, has less impact on the game in the second half when moved.
Rickie Lambert - 6 - I expected better from him, didn't connect often with crosses into the box.
Matt Paterson - 4 - Missed two great first half chances and was caught offside far too often.
Subs-
Joseph Mills (on for Mellis) - 5 - Made some good runs, but terrible at crossing.
Jake Thomson (on for Paterson) - 5 - Played some dreadful passes, very ineffectual.
Morgan Scheiderlin (on for Perry) - 6 - Solid defensively, but offered very little threat in attack.
Worrying times at St Marys, most of us were expected Saints to be out of minus points by now, but they still sit firmly at the foot of the League One table on -6. Next Saturday we travel to London to watch Saints take on Charlton, who are top of the league and have won all six of their games so far this season. If there's a time to turn around this dismal form its now, I'll be going to the game to support the team, but I suppose if we don't expect much we won't be too disappointed!
The visitors had Kemel Izzet sent off in the first half, but Saints failed to make the numerical advantage count and were reduced mainly to long shots.
This has been a very disappointing start to the season, no wins, four draws and two defeats, a win is desperately needed soon to build confidence at St Marys. New loan signing Papa Waigo was unveiled to the crowd before the game and most of us are hoping he can inspire his under performing team mates to victory. There was a real lack of creatively yesterday and the final ball into the box was always poor for Saints. On the plus side, things look to be improving defensively, with Neal Trotman playing well at centre back and new signing Radhi Jaidi will add steel to the back four.
Saints player ratings-
Kelvin Davis - 7 - Didn't have much to do, but as captain was constantly giving instructions to team mates trying to motivate them.
Wayne Thomas - 7 - Much better at right back than at centre back, looked a threat going forward.
Chris Perry - 7 - Dealt with rare Colchester attacks effectively, always in the right place at the right time at the back.
Neal Trotman - 8 - SAINTS MAN OF THE MATCH - Strong in the air and competent on the ground, hardly put a foot wrong.
Dan Harding - 6 - Did OK, but nearly gifted Colchester a goal with a poor clearance in the first half, resulting in them hitting the bar, which was their best chance.
Jacob Mellis - 5 - Hardly saw the ball, had little effect on the game before being subbed at half time.
Dean Hammond - 7 - Solid as the holding midfielder, limited his former side's opportunities in the final third of the pitch.
Lloyd James - 6 - Looked much more comfortable in midfielf rather than at right back, passing was hit and miss.
Adam Lallana - 7 - Energetic on the left wing in the first half, has less impact on the game in the second half when moved.
Rickie Lambert - 6 - I expected better from him, didn't connect often with crosses into the box.
Matt Paterson - 4 - Missed two great first half chances and was caught offside far too often.
Subs-
Joseph Mills (on for Mellis) - 5 - Made some good runs, but terrible at crossing.
Jake Thomson (on for Paterson) - 5 - Played some dreadful passes, very ineffectual.
Morgan Scheiderlin (on for Perry) - 6 - Solid defensively, but offered very little threat in attack.
Worrying times at St Marys, most of us were expected Saints to be out of minus points by now, but they still sit firmly at the foot of the League One table on -6. Next Saturday we travel to London to watch Saints take on Charlton, who are top of the league and have won all six of their games so far this season. If there's a time to turn around this dismal form its now, I'll be going to the game to support the team, but I suppose if we don't expect much we won't be too disappointed!
Thursday 3 September 2009
Thursday 3rd September 2009
It’s been a while since I’ve written anything political on this blog, so here goes…
Sky are trying to sort out a live televised debate between the leaders of the three big parties in the lead up to the next general election, which I think is a good idea and would add an extra dimension.
One of the most interesting parts of the US Presidential election is the live televised debate, as seen last year when Obama and McCain went head to head and attracted large audiences. Many will agree that seeing Brown and Cameron clash at Prime Minister’s Questions on a Wednesday afternoon is as entertaining as British politics gets and that we need this entertainment to engage more potential voters.
Both David Cameron and Nick Clegg have stated they are keen for televised leader’s debate so the pressure is now on Gordon Brown to accept their challenge. Ever since he failed to call an autumn election almost two years ago Brown has been seen as a bottler so this is the perfect opportunity for him to prove his doubters wrong. I’m sure Tony Blair would’ve relished taking part in a televised debate with his opponents, but as we know, his successor prides himself on substance over style.
Brown’s party will be behind him and will want him to take on the leaders of the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats. On his twitter account, former Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott claims “Gordon can beat Cameron any day of the week. Doesn’t need to go on Sky to prove it.”
And my friend Sam Elliott, a member of the Labour Party, thinks Brown should “accept the debate and show Cameron to be the same old tax-cuts-for-the-rich Tory that he is.”
Prescott also argues that if the debate takes place, it should take place on BBC television and not on Sky and I agree with him. I think Jeremy Paxman would be the perfect candidate to chair the debate between Gordon Brown, David Cameron and Nick Clegg, as we all know Paxman would not let any of them off the hook and make sure all three answer the question being asked.
We’re just waiting now for Gordon Brown to accept the challenge laid down before him, a televised debate could really get the public’s interest before the general election, so watch this space…
Sky are trying to sort out a live televised debate between the leaders of the three big parties in the lead up to the next general election, which I think is a good idea and would add an extra dimension.
One of the most interesting parts of the US Presidential election is the live televised debate, as seen last year when Obama and McCain went head to head and attracted large audiences. Many will agree that seeing Brown and Cameron clash at Prime Minister’s Questions on a Wednesday afternoon is as entertaining as British politics gets and that we need this entertainment to engage more potential voters.
Both David Cameron and Nick Clegg have stated they are keen for televised leader’s debate so the pressure is now on Gordon Brown to accept their challenge. Ever since he failed to call an autumn election almost two years ago Brown has been seen as a bottler so this is the perfect opportunity for him to prove his doubters wrong. I’m sure Tony Blair would’ve relished taking part in a televised debate with his opponents, but as we know, his successor prides himself on substance over style.
Brown’s party will be behind him and will want him to take on the leaders of the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats. On his twitter account, former Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott claims “Gordon can beat Cameron any day of the week. Doesn’t need to go on Sky to prove it.”
And my friend Sam Elliott, a member of the Labour Party, thinks Brown should “accept the debate and show Cameron to be the same old tax-cuts-for-the-rich Tory that he is.”
Prescott also argues that if the debate takes place, it should take place on BBC television and not on Sky and I agree with him. I think Jeremy Paxman would be the perfect candidate to chair the debate between Gordon Brown, David Cameron and Nick Clegg, as we all know Paxman would not let any of them off the hook and make sure all three answer the question being asked.
We’re just waiting now for Gordon Brown to accept the challenge laid down before him, a televised debate could really get the public’s interest before the general election, so watch this space…
Wednesday 2 September 2009
Wednesday 2nd September 2009
The transfer window closed yesterday and, as expected, there were no huge surprises on the scale we witnessed on last year's deadline day.
The biggest deal of the day was Niko Kranjcar's move from Portsmouth to Tottenham, Harry Redknapp raiding his old club for yet another player, not that I'm complaining though!
Saints have made one addition to their squad, finally announcing the signing of Tunisian centre back Radhi Jaidi this morning, subject to work permit clearance. At 6'4", he should plug the hole at the back and will go some way towards solving the defending set pieces problems. If only he had been signed earlier in the summer.
It would have been nice to have signed a striker and winger as well, but if Marek Saganowski starts to show a bit more commitment and Pardew uses Lee Holmes effectively on the left then these issues will be resolved.
Pardew hasn't brought in a replacement for the injured Greame Murty at right back, but the loan window for League One clubs reopens in a week and Wayne Thomas can be played there until Murty returns.
If it was up to me, here's the strongest team I would put out:
In Goal------------------ Davis -----------------------
Defence --- Thomas -- Jaidi --- Trotman ----- Harding
Midfield -- Mellis -----Hammond --- Lallana ---- Holmes
Up front------------ Lambert------ Saganowski --------
I imagine Pardew would opt for something similar, but based on his team selection so far this season he seems to prefer playing Adam Lallana on the left wing and partnering Dean Hammond with either Lloyd James, Paul Wotton or Morgan Schneiderlin in central midfield. However, I think Lallana is more effective playing through the middle and Holmes will give the team the width that is needed.
Saints are at home to Colchester on Saturday and really need to pick up their first league win of the season soon.
The biggest deal of the day was Niko Kranjcar's move from Portsmouth to Tottenham, Harry Redknapp raiding his old club for yet another player, not that I'm complaining though!
Saints have made one addition to their squad, finally announcing the signing of Tunisian centre back Radhi Jaidi this morning, subject to work permit clearance. At 6'4", he should plug the hole at the back and will go some way towards solving the defending set pieces problems. If only he had been signed earlier in the summer.
It would have been nice to have signed a striker and winger as well, but if Marek Saganowski starts to show a bit more commitment and Pardew uses Lee Holmes effectively on the left then these issues will be resolved.
Pardew hasn't brought in a replacement for the injured Greame Murty at right back, but the loan window for League One clubs reopens in a week and Wayne Thomas can be played there until Murty returns.
If it was up to me, here's the strongest team I would put out:
In Goal------------------ Davis -----------------------
Defence --- Thomas -- Jaidi --- Trotman ----- Harding
Midfield -- Mellis -----Hammond --- Lallana ---- Holmes
Up front------------ Lambert------ Saganowski --------
I imagine Pardew would opt for something similar, but based on his team selection so far this season he seems to prefer playing Adam Lallana on the left wing and partnering Dean Hammond with either Lloyd James, Paul Wotton or Morgan Schneiderlin in central midfield. However, I think Lallana is more effective playing through the middle and Holmes will give the team the width that is needed.
Saints are at home to Colchester on Saturday and really need to pick up their first league win of the season soon.
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