The A-League off-season was dominated by the signings of Harry Kewell and Brett Emerton to Melbourne Victory and Sydney FC respectively however there’s a good argument that it was Adelaide who did more to upgrade their roster than either of the two glamour clubs.
The extended lay-off began ominously for Adelaide when Matthew Leckie packed his bags for Germany, and got worse when reigning player of the year Marcos Flores left to take up a lucrative offer in Asia.
As deflating as both losses were, coach Rini Coolen wasted no time feeling sorry for himself and instead embarked on a dramatic and comprehensive revitalisation of the club.
The first major change took place in the brains department, with Coolen bringing in former Wellington tactical chief Luciano Trani as his right hand man at the expense of Phil Stubbins.
Coolen’s lack of sentiment was extended to captain Travis Dodd, who wasn’t offered a new deal as well as Lucas Pantelis who was released to Wellington.
Paul Reid’s public desire to join Sydney’s Asian Champions League campaign resulted in his exit from the club while Adam Hughes was also shown the door, joining Dodd in Perth.
In a little over twelve months Coolen’s imprint on Adelaide has been as overwhelming as any manager in the league, with the Reds doubtlessly better for it.
Adelaide enters the new season with a midfield now predicated around Uruguayan Francisco Usucar and recent Ukrainian import Evgeniy Levchenko.
Former Gold Coast player Zeno Caravella will assist Ususcar and Levchenko as well as operating as an excellent conduit between the midfield and strikers.
It’s however up-front where the bulk of Coolen’s renovation is most apparent and which the Adelaide top brass have invested so heavily in.
Bruce Djite and Dario Vidosic represent significant inclusions into an Adelaide team already boasting the pedigree of last season’s Golden Boot winner, Sergio van Dijk.
Both Djite and Vidosic started their careers in the A-League before taking their talents aboard.
Though neither exactly lit up their teams in Turkey and Germany respectively, both remain strong Socceroo candidates who importantly are capable of operating as both strikers and creators.
The Reds defence also had a make-over of sorts with fringe Socceroo Jon McKain returning to Australia. As will as being made captain he'll slot into the centre of defence alongside the promising Daniel Mullen.
Adelaide shapes as a serious contender this season after falling away quite drastically last campaign while it’s worth remembering that before Brisbane took all before them it was Adelaide who set the league alight in the initial stages.
The Reds went undefeated in their first 11 games last season, netting 20 times in the process before their campaign ran out of steam and ended with a premature semi-final exit at the hands of the Gold Coast.
Coolen will be demanding and expecting a more protracted period of excellence this time around.
Prediction
Internally Adelaide will be hoping for a top two position to both challenge for silverware and to be in prime position to return to Champions League football.
They boast one of the deepest and most versatile squads in the competition along with some exciting young talent coming through.
With that in mind there’s no reason to think the Reds will be anything but one of the league’s strongest outfits this campaign.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Who'll be the A-League's next poster boy?
When Matt McKay signed for Scottish champions Glasgow Rangers, Brisbane Roar not only lost their inspirational leader and most dynamic midfielder, but the A-League also lost their poster boy.
McKay’s six years at Brisbane demonstrated precisely what can be gained from playing in the Australian game.
He developed an incredibly aerobic capacity, grew exponentially as a leader and developed his game technically to the point that he’s now an integral part of the Socceroos.
His absence will be sorely missed.
Granted, the recent signings of Harry Kewell and Brett Emerton have given the league an almighty boost that will hopefully resonate long beyond their respective playing tenures, however, in losing McKay, the A-League said goodbye to an element neither Kewell nor Emerton can bring.
As phenomenal as those signing were, they don’t necessarily provide the strongest endorsement to the standard the league has graduated to without them.
And while their presences will surely elevate the Australian game to an even higher level, the league could do worse by continually promoting the Australian players yet to leave these shores. Those who for the moment at least feel comfortable that the A-League can take their games, like McKay’s, to the very pinnacle of their potential.
There’s no shortage of Australian talent still playing in Australia who have either resisted international overtures or whose game will soon attract such interest.
Moreover, there are Australian players in this league, like McKay, who will surely remain on Holger Osieck’s Socceroo radar.
Here’s a list comprised of ten players who could be candidates to usurp McKay’s poster boy status – to carry the flame for all that’s excellent about the A-League.
Before, however, a brief criteria needs to be established. A clause if you will, which indicates why the likes of Oliver Bozanic, Eugene Galekovic, Zenon Caravella and Dario Vidosic can’t qualify.
Essentially, all left Australia at some point to pursue a possible European move. And though none of those names can be criticised for leaving – we’re in fact immeasurably blessed to have each back – they don’t have the organic element of the McKay story which underpins this exercise.
The list:
Andrew Durante (Wellington)
A-League championship winner with Newcastle in 2008, Durante’s brilliance and defensive solidity is somewhat masked by the relative obscurity of playing for Wellington.
The 2008 Joe Marsten medal winner was immediately made captain upon his arrival in New Zealand and has hardly missed a match since.
With over 100 A-League appearances, a position within the Socceroo back four shouldn’t be out of the question considering the age of Osieck’s preferred central pairing of Lucas Neill and Sasa Ognenovski.
Though Durante, 29, is yet to represent Australia at any level, such a feat is by no means beyond reach when you consider McKay and Ognenovski made their debuts at 27 and 31 respectively.
Matt Thompson (Melbourne Heart)
Thompson, like McKay possesses all the qualities which propelled McKay’s game to such an esteemed level.
Having just turned 29 and with over 150 A-League appearances- an A-league record- Thompson would be the most logical candidate to take over McKay’s poster boy mantle.
His versatility and leadership qualities were the key tenants behind Melbourne Heart making the former Newcastle captain their inaugural signing.
Thompson performed admirably in Melbourne’s debut season often filling in at centre back as well his preferred central midfield location.
Thompson’s also capable of operating as a creative midfielder scoring 19 times during his five seasons at the Jets.
He’ll likely be used in a more advanced role this season thanks to the signing of Argentinean midfielder Jonathan Germano and the stability of proven Heart midfielders such as Nick Kalmar and Wayne Shroj.
Alex Wilkinson (Central Coast)
Along with Durante it’s hard to think of a central defender over the six previous A-League seasons who’s been more consistent and reliable than Alex Wilkinson.
Only Matt Thompson has suited up for more A-League games than the Mariners captain who’s been a mainstay of Central Coast’s defence having reprasented the club in all three of their grand final appearances.
Wilkinson’s a fearless leader who like McKay sets a strong example both on and off the pitch.
A potential Socceroo birth for Wilkinson remains alive, despite the 27-year-old not wearing the green and gold since junior representation almost 10 years ago.
Stuart Musialik (Central Coast)
Capped more than 30 times for Australia at junior level, recent Central Coast addition Stuart Musialik has been lost in the contemporary Socceroo landscape.
Having recently turned 26, Musialik certainly has time on his side while his move to Gosford will hopefully reinvigorate the talented Novocastrian.
Like former Jets teammate Matt Thompson, Musialik primarily operates as a central midfielder however he’s been used in a variety of roles over his more than 100 A-League appearances.
Musialik was a vital element in Newcastle’s 2008 premiership team before a big money move to Sydney where he was once again instrumental in helping the Sky Blues claim the 2010 crown.
Matt Simon (Central Coast)
Simon would certainly qualify as the most suspect member of the group though it’s often forgotten that the ginger-haired centre forward has represented Australia at both junior and senior level.
Despite being absent from the current Socceroo calculations, one thinks if he keeps scoring goals Osieck may have no other choice but to bring him in for another go.
At just 25, Simon has scored more than 30 goals in all competitions for the Mariners (25 in his past three seasons) which places him in the top five scorers amongst active A-League players.
With the Mariners having strengthed their midfield with the signing of Musialik along with the temporary retention of Mustafa Amini, Simon should continue his impressive goal scoring form.
Jason Hoffman (Melbourne Heart)
At over six feet tall, Jason Hoffman continually shapes as the kind of front-man who’s ready to explode in the A-League.
Remarkably, Hoffman’s the fourth player on this list to have tasted championship success with the Newcastle in the 2008 grand final, though it must be said Hoffman’s career has stagnated somewhat since.
Despite being one of Melbourne’s inaugural signings, Hoffman played fleetingly in the Heart’s debut season managing just a dozen games and failing to trouble the scorers.
Despite his lack of game time there remains a buzz concerning the 22-year-old and with the retirements of John Aloisi and Gerald Sibon, now seems the ideal time for the Newcastle product to really make a name for himself in the Australian game.
And if the pre-season is any guide, Hoffman stands in good stead having scored a remarkable 17 times against an eclectic mix of opposition teams, as well as netting a handful of times for the Olyroos during the Australian winter.
Mitch Nichols (Brisbane Roar)
At just 22 Mitch Nichols has already strung together 75 games for the all conquering Roar, netting no less than 12 times along the way.
A perennial representative at junior level, Nichols will surely have some role to play with the Socceroos with the question of when rather than if being most pertinent.
Nichols will likely have a much more pronounced and responsible role to play both on and off the pitch for Brisbane in the wake of McKay’s departure, with the way he’ll handle such a transition sure to be closely monitored by Osieck and the relevant Socceroo top brass.
The only stumbling block in the way of Nichols immediately taking over McKay’s poster boy status will be how long the Gold Coast product intends to stay in Australia with international overtures doubtlessly already having come his way.
Marko Jesic (Newcastle)
Another Western Sydney product, Marko Jesic shapes as an ideal Socceroos prospect, perfectly encompassing the modern ideal of the low centre of gravity, highly skilled, adaptable player capable of scoring of goals.
It’s a skill set which has seen Jesic not only become a key component of the Olyroos campaign for London, but a mantle which has seen the 22-year-old already become the most integral ingredient of a Newcastle front line in serious transition.
Jesic’s true capability in the A-League has yet to be fully realised having already blown out both of his knees restricting him to just 36 A-League appearances.
Kofi Danning (Brisbane)
Along with Mitch Nichols, Ghanaian-born Danning is the only non New South Wales-born player on this list.
And he’s here not on exposed and consistent A-League form, but because of the sublime potential he has.
Danning’s best can be spellbinding as often demonstrated as a teenager at Sydney FC and for the Joeys however his recent output has been less than satisfactory.
Danning’s performances at the recent under-20 World Cup in Colombia left a lot to be desired while he cobbled together just 12 games for a poor Sydney team last campaign contributing neither a single goal or assist.
Danning’s off-season move to Ange Postecoglou’s Brisbane will hopefully unleash the talent clearly bubbling on the surface as too will perhaps more consistent game time which may come his way as a result of the departures of McKay, Kosta Barbarouses and Jean Carlos Solarzano.
Ben Kantarovski (Newcastle)
Kantarovski signed a professional contract with Newcastle at just 15 and won Newcastle’s player of the year award before turning 18.
In short time he’s emerged as Newcastle’s most important player, more so now with the long term injury status of Jason Culina.
At six-feet tall, Kantarovski shapes as the idea central midfielder or defensive option. He recently captained the under-20 Australian team at the World Cup in Colombia with the team comprehensively falling apart when he aggravated a knee injury in the tournament opener.
Still a teenager, Kantarovski has already represented Australia almost 40 times at junior level while it wouldn’t surprise if he finds himself with a ticket to Brazil should the Socceroos qualify for the World Cup in 2014.
McKay’s six years at Brisbane demonstrated precisely what can be gained from playing in the Australian game.
He developed an incredibly aerobic capacity, grew exponentially as a leader and developed his game technically to the point that he’s now an integral part of the Socceroos.
His absence will be sorely missed.
Granted, the recent signings of Harry Kewell and Brett Emerton have given the league an almighty boost that will hopefully resonate long beyond their respective playing tenures, however, in losing McKay, the A-League said goodbye to an element neither Kewell nor Emerton can bring.
As phenomenal as those signing were, they don’t necessarily provide the strongest endorsement to the standard the league has graduated to without them.
And while their presences will surely elevate the Australian game to an even higher level, the league could do worse by continually promoting the Australian players yet to leave these shores. Those who for the moment at least feel comfortable that the A-League can take their games, like McKay’s, to the very pinnacle of their potential.
There’s no shortage of Australian talent still playing in Australia who have either resisted international overtures or whose game will soon attract such interest.
Moreover, there are Australian players in this league, like McKay, who will surely remain on Holger Osieck’s Socceroo radar.
Here’s a list comprised of ten players who could be candidates to usurp McKay’s poster boy status – to carry the flame for all that’s excellent about the A-League.
Before, however, a brief criteria needs to be established. A clause if you will, which indicates why the likes of Oliver Bozanic, Eugene Galekovic, Zenon Caravella and Dario Vidosic can’t qualify.
Essentially, all left Australia at some point to pursue a possible European move. And though none of those names can be criticised for leaving – we’re in fact immeasurably blessed to have each back – they don’t have the organic element of the McKay story which underpins this exercise.
The list:
Andrew Durante (Wellington)
A-League championship winner with Newcastle in 2008, Durante’s brilliance and defensive solidity is somewhat masked by the relative obscurity of playing for Wellington.
The 2008 Joe Marsten medal winner was immediately made captain upon his arrival in New Zealand and has hardly missed a match since.
With over 100 A-League appearances, a position within the Socceroo back four shouldn’t be out of the question considering the age of Osieck’s preferred central pairing of Lucas Neill and Sasa Ognenovski.
Though Durante, 29, is yet to represent Australia at any level, such a feat is by no means beyond reach when you consider McKay and Ognenovski made their debuts at 27 and 31 respectively.
Matt Thompson (Melbourne Heart)
Thompson, like McKay possesses all the qualities which propelled McKay’s game to such an esteemed level.
Having just turned 29 and with over 150 A-League appearances- an A-league record- Thompson would be the most logical candidate to take over McKay’s poster boy mantle.
His versatility and leadership qualities were the key tenants behind Melbourne Heart making the former Newcastle captain their inaugural signing.
Thompson performed admirably in Melbourne’s debut season often filling in at centre back as well his preferred central midfield location.
Thompson’s also capable of operating as a creative midfielder scoring 19 times during his five seasons at the Jets.
He’ll likely be used in a more advanced role this season thanks to the signing of Argentinean midfielder Jonathan Germano and the stability of proven Heart midfielders such as Nick Kalmar and Wayne Shroj.
Alex Wilkinson (Central Coast)
Along with Durante it’s hard to think of a central defender over the six previous A-League seasons who’s been more consistent and reliable than Alex Wilkinson.
Only Matt Thompson has suited up for more A-League games than the Mariners captain who’s been a mainstay of Central Coast’s defence having reprasented the club in all three of their grand final appearances.
Wilkinson’s a fearless leader who like McKay sets a strong example both on and off the pitch.
A potential Socceroo birth for Wilkinson remains alive, despite the 27-year-old not wearing the green and gold since junior representation almost 10 years ago.
Stuart Musialik (Central Coast)
Capped more than 30 times for Australia at junior level, recent Central Coast addition Stuart Musialik has been lost in the contemporary Socceroo landscape.
Having recently turned 26, Musialik certainly has time on his side while his move to Gosford will hopefully reinvigorate the talented Novocastrian.
Like former Jets teammate Matt Thompson, Musialik primarily operates as a central midfielder however he’s been used in a variety of roles over his more than 100 A-League appearances.
Musialik was a vital element in Newcastle’s 2008 premiership team before a big money move to Sydney where he was once again instrumental in helping the Sky Blues claim the 2010 crown.
Matt Simon (Central Coast)
Simon would certainly qualify as the most suspect member of the group though it’s often forgotten that the ginger-haired centre forward has represented Australia at both junior and senior level.
Despite being absent from the current Socceroo calculations, one thinks if he keeps scoring goals Osieck may have no other choice but to bring him in for another go.
At just 25, Simon has scored more than 30 goals in all competitions for the Mariners (25 in his past three seasons) which places him in the top five scorers amongst active A-League players.
With the Mariners having strengthed their midfield with the signing of Musialik along with the temporary retention of Mustafa Amini, Simon should continue his impressive goal scoring form.
Jason Hoffman (Melbourne Heart)
At over six feet tall, Jason Hoffman continually shapes as the kind of front-man who’s ready to explode in the A-League.
Remarkably, Hoffman’s the fourth player on this list to have tasted championship success with the Newcastle in the 2008 grand final, though it must be said Hoffman’s career has stagnated somewhat since.
Despite being one of Melbourne’s inaugural signings, Hoffman played fleetingly in the Heart’s debut season managing just a dozen games and failing to trouble the scorers.
Despite his lack of game time there remains a buzz concerning the 22-year-old and with the retirements of John Aloisi and Gerald Sibon, now seems the ideal time for the Newcastle product to really make a name for himself in the Australian game.
And if the pre-season is any guide, Hoffman stands in good stead having scored a remarkable 17 times against an eclectic mix of opposition teams, as well as netting a handful of times for the Olyroos during the Australian winter.
Mitch Nichols (Brisbane Roar)
At just 22 Mitch Nichols has already strung together 75 games for the all conquering Roar, netting no less than 12 times along the way.
A perennial representative at junior level, Nichols will surely have some role to play with the Socceroos with the question of when rather than if being most pertinent.
Nichols will likely have a much more pronounced and responsible role to play both on and off the pitch for Brisbane in the wake of McKay’s departure, with the way he’ll handle such a transition sure to be closely monitored by Osieck and the relevant Socceroo top brass.
The only stumbling block in the way of Nichols immediately taking over McKay’s poster boy status will be how long the Gold Coast product intends to stay in Australia with international overtures doubtlessly already having come his way.
Marko Jesic (Newcastle)
Another Western Sydney product, Marko Jesic shapes as an ideal Socceroos prospect, perfectly encompassing the modern ideal of the low centre of gravity, highly skilled, adaptable player capable of scoring of goals.
It’s a skill set which has seen Jesic not only become a key component of the Olyroos campaign for London, but a mantle which has seen the 22-year-old already become the most integral ingredient of a Newcastle front line in serious transition.
Jesic’s true capability in the A-League has yet to be fully realised having already blown out both of his knees restricting him to just 36 A-League appearances.
Kofi Danning (Brisbane)
Along with Mitch Nichols, Ghanaian-born Danning is the only non New South Wales-born player on this list.
And he’s here not on exposed and consistent A-League form, but because of the sublime potential he has.
Danning’s best can be spellbinding as often demonstrated as a teenager at Sydney FC and for the Joeys however his recent output has been less than satisfactory.
Danning’s performances at the recent under-20 World Cup in Colombia left a lot to be desired while he cobbled together just 12 games for a poor Sydney team last campaign contributing neither a single goal or assist.
Danning’s off-season move to Ange Postecoglou’s Brisbane will hopefully unleash the talent clearly bubbling on the surface as too will perhaps more consistent game time which may come his way as a result of the departures of McKay, Kosta Barbarouses and Jean Carlos Solarzano.
Ben Kantarovski (Newcastle)
Kantarovski signed a professional contract with Newcastle at just 15 and won Newcastle’s player of the year award before turning 18.
In short time he’s emerged as Newcastle’s most important player, more so now with the long term injury status of Jason Culina.
At six-feet tall, Kantarovski shapes as the idea central midfielder or defensive option. He recently captained the under-20 Australian team at the World Cup in Colombia with the team comprehensively falling apart when he aggravated a knee injury in the tournament opener.
Still a teenager, Kantarovski has already represented Australia almost 40 times at junior level while it wouldn’t surprise if he finds himself with a ticket to Brazil should the Socceroos qualify for the World Cup in 2014.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Cahill's benching isn't cause for concern
Somewhat dampening the excellent result enjoyed by the Socceroos against Saudi Arabia in Dammam last week was the reaction in some quarters to the presence of Tim Cahill on the bench.
The Saudi match indeed presented a marked improvement by the Australians whose opening World Cup Qualifier against Thailand demonstrated few of the qualities that took Holger Osieck’s team to the Asian Cup final in January.
For the Saudi match, Osieck fiddled with the team’s formation and composition to affect a game plan which was far more midfield and centrally-orientated.
Matt McKay switched to the midfield from left-back, Mile Jedinak returned to the starting line-up while most importantly Brett Holman operated as a shadow striker of sorts, functioning behind Josh Kennedy who scored twice.
The changes were employed to add steel and sharpness in midfield, as well as mitigating the stream of mindless crosses which characterised the Thailand victory.
For some, however, the fact Tim Cahill wasn’t utilised overshadowed what was in effect a brilliant display by Osieck’s charges.
It demonstrated the Socceroos are capable of beating the biggest teams in Asia, with or without the team’s most accomplished players such as Cahill or Harry Kewell.
Indeed Cahill’s temporary omission from the Socceroos starting eleven caused mild hysteria among some pundits who went so far as to question whether Osieck still has plans for the Everton-based player through to the World Cup in 2014.
Furthermore, and equally ludicrous, was the charge that Cahill and Kennedy are perhaps incapable of operating up front together.
To be fair, the Cahill/Kennedy combination against Thailand bore little fruit, however to suggest their combination was the chief factor contributing to the team’s laboured performance in Brisbane is folly.
Rather the duo’s lack of production against the ‘War Elephants’ had little to do with either’s ability to compliment each other’s games, but rather plenty to do with the truckload of crosses sent their way.
That Thailand’s defenders were prepared for the tactic was hardly surprising. That it failed to discourage the Socceroos from sending in more than 50 efforts was surely more worthy of examination and intrigue.
For the Saudi fixture Osieck sort to rid the mistakes of Brisbane and opted for a formation motivated by midfield possession against a team supposedly considered more capable than Thailand and in a hostile environment with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees.
For that specific match, against that specific team and in those specific conditions, Osieck went for a more narrow approach which succeeded in maximising the space afforded to the team’s sole striker, in this case Kennedy.
It was a move that worked to great effect and reduced the tendency to cross it in at the first opportunity.
In this respect, Osieck’s game-plan worked remarkably well. If such a move however casts doubt on Cahill’s green and gold prospects, than I’ve missed something.
Tim Cahill’s benching was neither punishment for a sub-standard showing against Thailand nor does it foretell an immediate Socceroo future which won’t require his premium services.
The Socceroos performance in Dammam should have been celebrated as a resounding success where not only was the coach able to demonstrate his tactical acumen, but to also prove there’s more to the Socceroos attack than Cahill and Kewell – the very issue which was most pressing in the wake of last year’s early World Cup exit.
Cahill will likely play a major role in the upcoming friendly against Malaysia as well as the third Qualifier against Oman. Indeed Kewell won’t be too far behind him either.
However in the meantime Osieck reserves the right to experiment with the squad and the formation, and to continually develop contingency plans for the variety of teams scheduled across the qualifying campaign, and hopefully into the Socceroo’s third straight World Cup.
For sure, sporting personalities shouldn’t be immune from serious analysis or speculation.
However we really should be spared the histrionics where something as bogus as Cahill’s Socceroo future is concerned, at a time where there really is plenty to be celebrating.
The Saudi match indeed presented a marked improvement by the Australians whose opening World Cup Qualifier against Thailand demonstrated few of the qualities that took Holger Osieck’s team to the Asian Cup final in January.
For the Saudi match, Osieck fiddled with the team’s formation and composition to affect a game plan which was far more midfield and centrally-orientated.
Matt McKay switched to the midfield from left-back, Mile Jedinak returned to the starting line-up while most importantly Brett Holman operated as a shadow striker of sorts, functioning behind Josh Kennedy who scored twice.
The changes were employed to add steel and sharpness in midfield, as well as mitigating the stream of mindless crosses which characterised the Thailand victory.
For some, however, the fact Tim Cahill wasn’t utilised overshadowed what was in effect a brilliant display by Osieck’s charges.
It demonstrated the Socceroos are capable of beating the biggest teams in Asia, with or without the team’s most accomplished players such as Cahill or Harry Kewell.
Indeed Cahill’s temporary omission from the Socceroos starting eleven caused mild hysteria among some pundits who went so far as to question whether Osieck still has plans for the Everton-based player through to the World Cup in 2014.
Furthermore, and equally ludicrous, was the charge that Cahill and Kennedy are perhaps incapable of operating up front together.
To be fair, the Cahill/Kennedy combination against Thailand bore little fruit, however to suggest their combination was the chief factor contributing to the team’s laboured performance in Brisbane is folly.
Rather the duo’s lack of production against the ‘War Elephants’ had little to do with either’s ability to compliment each other’s games, but rather plenty to do with the truckload of crosses sent their way.
That Thailand’s defenders were prepared for the tactic was hardly surprising. That it failed to discourage the Socceroos from sending in more than 50 efforts was surely more worthy of examination and intrigue.
For the Saudi fixture Osieck sort to rid the mistakes of Brisbane and opted for a formation motivated by midfield possession against a team supposedly considered more capable than Thailand and in a hostile environment with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees.
For that specific match, against that specific team and in those specific conditions, Osieck went for a more narrow approach which succeeded in maximising the space afforded to the team’s sole striker, in this case Kennedy.
It was a move that worked to great effect and reduced the tendency to cross it in at the first opportunity.
In this respect, Osieck’s game-plan worked remarkably well. If such a move however casts doubt on Cahill’s green and gold prospects, than I’ve missed something.
Tim Cahill’s benching was neither punishment for a sub-standard showing against Thailand nor does it foretell an immediate Socceroo future which won’t require his premium services.
The Socceroos performance in Dammam should have been celebrated as a resounding success where not only was the coach able to demonstrate his tactical acumen, but to also prove there’s more to the Socceroos attack than Cahill and Kewell – the very issue which was most pressing in the wake of last year’s early World Cup exit.
Cahill will likely play a major role in the upcoming friendly against Malaysia as well as the third Qualifier against Oman. Indeed Kewell won’t be too far behind him either.
However in the meantime Osieck reserves the right to experiment with the squad and the formation, and to continually develop contingency plans for the variety of teams scheduled across the qualifying campaign, and hopefully into the Socceroo’s third straight World Cup.
For sure, sporting personalities shouldn’t be immune from serious analysis or speculation.
However we really should be spared the histrionics where something as bogus as Cahill’s Socceroo future is concerned, at a time where there really is plenty to be celebrating.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
NFL 2011- AFC Preview
The AFC has dominated gridiron proceedings over the last decade, bringing home no less than seven Super Bowls.
All the while decent, ten win type teams routinely missed out on post-season play purely because there weren’t enough spots to go around.
The power balance has somewhat shifted in recent years with the NFC bringing home the bacon the last two seasons running.
However, AFC standard bearers Pittsburgh and New England along with upstarts Baltimore and the New York Jets have re-booted their rosters, as too have perennial bridesmaids San Diego, giving the impression that the brief supremacy enjoyed by the NFC may already be under threat.
AFC NORTH
Pittsburgh and the Baltimore Ravens have comprehensively dominated this division in recent years sharing no less than eight of the past nine division titles. Meanwhile there’s little that minnows Cleveland and Cincinnati have done to suggest that ascendancy won’t continue.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of the most impressive franchises in all of US sports. They’ve an air-tight philosophy which preaches defence, a strong running game and consistent quarterback play by Ben Roethlisberger. In recent years such pillars have held the Steelers in good stead as they’ve contested three of the past six 6 Super Bowls, winning two along the way.
The Ravens, as always, will be right on Pittsburgh’s heels, and like Atlanta in the NFC, have drafted in some weapons on offence to compliment the extremely reliable arm of Joe Flacco. Last year the Ravens traded in former Arizona wide-out Anquain Boldin who contributed strongly to an improved passing game while this year they’ve added former Buffalo Bill Lee Evans who’ll provide a consistent down-field threat. To show how serious the Ravens were on offense they used two of the first four draft selections on receivers while also bringing in veteran running-back Ricky Williams to assist Ray Rice in the back field.
Where Cleveland and Cincinnati are concerned the only pertinent question is whether either of these franchises will be good enough to pull off any more than 6 wins- a feat the Browns have accomplished just once in their past eight seasons.
DIVISION TIP: Baltimore
WILD CARD CHANCE: Pittsburgh
AFC EAST
Like the North, the AFC’s East appears to be a match in two with New England and the New York Jets expected to tussle for the crown.
The Patriots and mastermind coach Bill Belichick have been as active as always in their efforts to improve their roster, recently adding resident NFL lunatic Chad ‘Ochocinco’ Johnson as well as the equally mentally unstable Albert Haynesworth.
The Jets have also been busy in the off-season, matching the Patriots where controversy is concerned by granting former Giant wide-receiver and recent convict Plaxico Buress a second chance. The Jets also bought in 37-year old Derrick Mason as another weapon for Mark Sanchez’ often-times wonky arm.
The Jets strength however remains its predatory defence and powerful running game which last season ranked as the second most prolific unit in the NFL behind Kansas City.
Although many feel the Patriots to be Super Bowl favourites the Jets are one team to have consistently troubled their bitter rivals in recent years, winning four of their encounters in recent years. In addition it’s the Jets who have contested the last two AFC championship games and not the Patriots who haven’t appeared in the AFC title game since their barnstorming 2007 season.
The Miami Dolphins are the clear third pick here and if not for residing in one of NFL’s most challenging divisions, they’d perhaps be considered a play-off chance. The Dolphins can boast a consistently good, play-off calibre defence though their offence is highly suspect. Quarterback Chad Henne was repeatedly booed by fans throughout training camp, though some relief arrived when former Heisman Trophy winner Reggie Bush was traded in to assist their struggling ground game.
The less said about the Buffalo Bills the better. A play-off drought now in its 12th year and a defence which last year gave up astonishing 2,700 yards on the ground says just about everything we need to know. Anything but a last place divisional finish would be a mighty surprise.
DIVISION TIP: New York Jets
WILD CARD CHANCE: New England
AFC SOUTH
Unlike the other seven divisions in the NFL, the AFC South has been about two names for the best part of the last twelve years; Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts.
Play-offs in 11 of their past 12 seasons, eight divisional crowns and a Super Bowl to boot, the Colts have been the talking point where the South is concerned. And form a player perspective there’s few bigger names in the NFL than Peyton Manning who’s collected four league MVP awards while not missing a single game since being drafted in 1998.
The natural order of the division is however under threat largely because of degenerative neck problem Peyton Manning was recently been diagnosed with. It’s an injury which threatens to derail the Colts season and which is being treated so seriously the Colts recently coaxed veteran quarterback Kerry Collins out of retirement as insurance for Manning.
The Houston Texans are the popular pick to unseat the Colts should Manning not return.
To do so Houston simply must improve its porous defence which was positively scorched though the air last season, giving up more than 4,200 passing yards and 33 touchdowns.
To Houston’s credit they’ve reacted strongly by hiring Wade Phillips to run the defence with the former Cowboys head coach already promising to overhaul the Texans by implementing a 3-4 defensive scheme which should improve their pass defence, but which may mitigate the effectiveness and sack potential of Mario Williams.
The Tennessee Titans were once a worthy advisory of the Colts however the Nashville-based team are now in a period of significant transition having axed long-time head coach Jeff Fisher as well as trading out Vince Young to the Eagles.
Tennessee have bought in former Seattle quarterback Matt Hasslebeck to groom top pick, Jake Locker, however the Titan’s predominant strength remains its running game which is led by Chris Johnson who’s amassed an incredible 5,500 all purpose yards in his first three season of NFL football.
With some luck, coupled with a relatively easy schedule the Titans could surprise this season, though like Houston, must sharply improve its defence.
A dark cloud hangs over the small-market Jacksonville Jaguars who’ve failed in recent years to generate much local enthusiasm and which has continually seem them linked with a possible relocation to Los Angeles. In the meantime the Jaguars have struggled on the field winning just 20 games over the past three seasons, down from more than 30 over the three prior. A winning season would be considered something of a surprise in Jacksonville this year.
DIVISION PICK: Indianapolis
WILD CARD CHANCE: Houston
AFC WEST
In recent years this division has proven the most deceptive in the NFL with the San Diego Charges perpetual favourites but who’ve inevitably found themselves in trouble due to their habitually slow starts to seasons. Last year they were unable to make up for their 2-5 start and conceded their divisional crown to Kansas City for the first time since 2005.
This season the Charges are expected to reclaim their title and progress deep in the play-offs largely due to a more settled roster thanks to the full-time return of wide-out Vincent Jackson. The Charges have also been granted a much kinder schedule and are entitled to feel extremely comfortable in the hands of standout quarterback Philip Rivers. Last year the hyper-active front-man and MVP contender threw for more yards than any other player in the NFL and tossed more than 30 touchdowns for the second time in his career.
The Kansas City Chiefs turned a 4-12 season into a division title last year on the back of an inspired running game which was the NFL’s most durable and explosive. Meanwhile Matt Cassel threw just seven interceptions all season while making excellent use of the highly talented Dwayne Bowe who caught more than half of Cassel’s touchdown passes.
If the Charges once again fall asleep in the early weeks, expect the Chiefs to take advantage once again despite not playing consecutive years of post-season football since the mid 90s.
The Oakland Raiders were one of the most improved teams last season and like the Chiefs made strong strides largely on the back of a solid running game and limited turnovers from quarterback Jason Campbell. Oakland has made a change at coach, promoting former offensive coordinator Hue Jackson to take over from Tom Cable. They’ve an easy draw and would expect another strong season.
It’s been a sorry fall from grace for the Denver Broncos winning just 4 games last campaign and missing the play-offs for the fifth straight season.
The Broncos have installed former Carolina head honcho John Fox as head coach however he’s sure to find life tough in the Mile High city with innumerable holes which need plugging. Chief among his concerns will be resolving a comical quarterback situation which is currently being fought on three fronts.
On a more positive note the Broncos did land Texas A&M linebacker Von Miller with the number two pick in the draft, a player each and every ESPN expert have nominated as their probable defensive rookie of the year.
DIVISION PICK: San Diego
WILD CARD CHANCE: Kansas City
Predicted AFC seedings following the regular season: Baltimore, New York Jets, San Diego, Indianapolis, Pittsburgh, New England.
Conference Championship Game: Baltimore over New York.
Super Bowl prediction: In what promises to be yet another engrossing NFL season I’m going with a Philadelphia-Baltimore spectacular. At this early stage, and based on Philly’s extremely impressive signings, I’m going with the Eagles.
All the while decent, ten win type teams routinely missed out on post-season play purely because there weren’t enough spots to go around.
The power balance has somewhat shifted in recent years with the NFC bringing home the bacon the last two seasons running.
However, AFC standard bearers Pittsburgh and New England along with upstarts Baltimore and the New York Jets have re-booted their rosters, as too have perennial bridesmaids San Diego, giving the impression that the brief supremacy enjoyed by the NFC may already be under threat.
AFC NORTH
Pittsburgh and the Baltimore Ravens have comprehensively dominated this division in recent years sharing no less than eight of the past nine division titles. Meanwhile there’s little that minnows Cleveland and Cincinnati have done to suggest that ascendancy won’t continue.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of the most impressive franchises in all of US sports. They’ve an air-tight philosophy which preaches defence, a strong running game and consistent quarterback play by Ben Roethlisberger. In recent years such pillars have held the Steelers in good stead as they’ve contested three of the past six 6 Super Bowls, winning two along the way.
The Ravens, as always, will be right on Pittsburgh’s heels, and like Atlanta in the NFC, have drafted in some weapons on offence to compliment the extremely reliable arm of Joe Flacco. Last year the Ravens traded in former Arizona wide-out Anquain Boldin who contributed strongly to an improved passing game while this year they’ve added former Buffalo Bill Lee Evans who’ll provide a consistent down-field threat. To show how serious the Ravens were on offense they used two of the first four draft selections on receivers while also bringing in veteran running-back Ricky Williams to assist Ray Rice in the back field.
Where Cleveland and Cincinnati are concerned the only pertinent question is whether either of these franchises will be good enough to pull off any more than 6 wins- a feat the Browns have accomplished just once in their past eight seasons.
DIVISION TIP: Baltimore
WILD CARD CHANCE: Pittsburgh
AFC EAST
Like the North, the AFC’s East appears to be a match in two with New England and the New York Jets expected to tussle for the crown.
The Patriots and mastermind coach Bill Belichick have been as active as always in their efforts to improve their roster, recently adding resident NFL lunatic Chad ‘Ochocinco’ Johnson as well as the equally mentally unstable Albert Haynesworth.
The Jets have also been busy in the off-season, matching the Patriots where controversy is concerned by granting former Giant wide-receiver and recent convict Plaxico Buress a second chance. The Jets also bought in 37-year old Derrick Mason as another weapon for Mark Sanchez’ often-times wonky arm.
The Jets strength however remains its predatory defence and powerful running game which last season ranked as the second most prolific unit in the NFL behind Kansas City.
Although many feel the Patriots to be Super Bowl favourites the Jets are one team to have consistently troubled their bitter rivals in recent years, winning four of their encounters in recent years. In addition it’s the Jets who have contested the last two AFC championship games and not the Patriots who haven’t appeared in the AFC title game since their barnstorming 2007 season.
The Miami Dolphins are the clear third pick here and if not for residing in one of NFL’s most challenging divisions, they’d perhaps be considered a play-off chance. The Dolphins can boast a consistently good, play-off calibre defence though their offence is highly suspect. Quarterback Chad Henne was repeatedly booed by fans throughout training camp, though some relief arrived when former Heisman Trophy winner Reggie Bush was traded in to assist their struggling ground game.
The less said about the Buffalo Bills the better. A play-off drought now in its 12th year and a defence which last year gave up astonishing 2,700 yards on the ground says just about everything we need to know. Anything but a last place divisional finish would be a mighty surprise.
DIVISION TIP: New York Jets
WILD CARD CHANCE: New England
AFC SOUTH
Unlike the other seven divisions in the NFL, the AFC South has been about two names for the best part of the last twelve years; Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts.
Play-offs in 11 of their past 12 seasons, eight divisional crowns and a Super Bowl to boot, the Colts have been the talking point where the South is concerned. And form a player perspective there’s few bigger names in the NFL than Peyton Manning who’s collected four league MVP awards while not missing a single game since being drafted in 1998.
The natural order of the division is however under threat largely because of degenerative neck problem Peyton Manning was recently been diagnosed with. It’s an injury which threatens to derail the Colts season and which is being treated so seriously the Colts recently coaxed veteran quarterback Kerry Collins out of retirement as insurance for Manning.
The Houston Texans are the popular pick to unseat the Colts should Manning not return.
To do so Houston simply must improve its porous defence which was positively scorched though the air last season, giving up more than 4,200 passing yards and 33 touchdowns.
To Houston’s credit they’ve reacted strongly by hiring Wade Phillips to run the defence with the former Cowboys head coach already promising to overhaul the Texans by implementing a 3-4 defensive scheme which should improve their pass defence, but which may mitigate the effectiveness and sack potential of Mario Williams.
The Tennessee Titans were once a worthy advisory of the Colts however the Nashville-based team are now in a period of significant transition having axed long-time head coach Jeff Fisher as well as trading out Vince Young to the Eagles.
Tennessee have bought in former Seattle quarterback Matt Hasslebeck to groom top pick, Jake Locker, however the Titan’s predominant strength remains its running game which is led by Chris Johnson who’s amassed an incredible 5,500 all purpose yards in his first three season of NFL football.
With some luck, coupled with a relatively easy schedule the Titans could surprise this season, though like Houston, must sharply improve its defence.
A dark cloud hangs over the small-market Jacksonville Jaguars who’ve failed in recent years to generate much local enthusiasm and which has continually seem them linked with a possible relocation to Los Angeles. In the meantime the Jaguars have struggled on the field winning just 20 games over the past three seasons, down from more than 30 over the three prior. A winning season would be considered something of a surprise in Jacksonville this year.
DIVISION PICK: Indianapolis
WILD CARD CHANCE: Houston
AFC WEST
In recent years this division has proven the most deceptive in the NFL with the San Diego Charges perpetual favourites but who’ve inevitably found themselves in trouble due to their habitually slow starts to seasons. Last year they were unable to make up for their 2-5 start and conceded their divisional crown to Kansas City for the first time since 2005.
This season the Charges are expected to reclaim their title and progress deep in the play-offs largely due to a more settled roster thanks to the full-time return of wide-out Vincent Jackson. The Charges have also been granted a much kinder schedule and are entitled to feel extremely comfortable in the hands of standout quarterback Philip Rivers. Last year the hyper-active front-man and MVP contender threw for more yards than any other player in the NFL and tossed more than 30 touchdowns for the second time in his career.
The Kansas City Chiefs turned a 4-12 season into a division title last year on the back of an inspired running game which was the NFL’s most durable and explosive. Meanwhile Matt Cassel threw just seven interceptions all season while making excellent use of the highly talented Dwayne Bowe who caught more than half of Cassel’s touchdown passes.
If the Charges once again fall asleep in the early weeks, expect the Chiefs to take advantage once again despite not playing consecutive years of post-season football since the mid 90s.
The Oakland Raiders were one of the most improved teams last season and like the Chiefs made strong strides largely on the back of a solid running game and limited turnovers from quarterback Jason Campbell. Oakland has made a change at coach, promoting former offensive coordinator Hue Jackson to take over from Tom Cable. They’ve an easy draw and would expect another strong season.
It’s been a sorry fall from grace for the Denver Broncos winning just 4 games last campaign and missing the play-offs for the fifth straight season.
The Broncos have installed former Carolina head honcho John Fox as head coach however he’s sure to find life tough in the Mile High city with innumerable holes which need plugging. Chief among his concerns will be resolving a comical quarterback situation which is currently being fought on three fronts.
On a more positive note the Broncos did land Texas A&M linebacker Von Miller with the number two pick in the draft, a player each and every ESPN expert have nominated as their probable defensive rookie of the year.
DIVISION PICK: San Diego
WILD CARD CHANCE: Kansas City
Predicted AFC seedings following the regular season: Baltimore, New York Jets, San Diego, Indianapolis, Pittsburgh, New England.
Conference Championship Game: Baltimore over New York.
Super Bowl prediction: In what promises to be yet another engrossing NFL season I’m going with a Philadelphia-Baltimore spectacular. At this early stage, and based on Philly’s extremely impressive signings, I’m going with the Eagles.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
NFL 2011- NFC Preview
For the first time in fourteen years the NFC won back to back Super Bowls on the back of an incredible Green Bay team who snuck into the play-offs courtesy of a wildcard.
The Packers will open the new season on Friday when they host New Orleans, winners of the previous Super Bowl.
NFC North
The Super Bowl champion Packers should feel comfortable as favourites to not only win the division but to potentially go back to back as world champs.
They’ve made minimal changes to their roster, host a second place schedule and can boast one of the NFL’s most balanced teams.
Chicago took this division by storm last campaign, won a heap of close matches and ended up clinching home field advantage for the playoffs.
The Bears however are expected to slide (not one of ESPN’s 12 experts have them returning to the playoffs) largely due to a tough schedule and a highly suspect offensive line that gave up no less than 52 sacks last season.
Their offense has been upgraded with the addition of wide receiver Roy Williams who’ll instantly become Jay Cutler’s primary target.
This division will be rounded out by both the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit. The Vikings’ season completely imploded last year which culminated in their stadium literally falling apart.
It was indeed a spectacular fall from a grace from a team who contested the conference championship the season prior.
They’ve a new coach in promoted defensive coordinator Lesie Frazier along with the addition of veteran quarterback Donavan McNabb.
Improvement is expected from the perennially awful Lions who’ll be aiming to use their undefeated pre-season as a springboard to avoiding their 12th straight year without playoffs.
Division Pick – Green Bay
Wild Card Chance – Chicago
NFC East
The Philadelphia Eagles were unquestionably the story of the NFL’s off-season with frenetic activity during free agency inviting comparisons to the NBA’s Miami Heat.
The Eagles have comprehensively bolstered their roster which hopes to be able to progress deep into the play-offs this campaign. Quarterback Michael Vick recently signed a huge contract extension on the back of a stellar season which saw him nearly nab the league’s MVP award.
The New York Giants and the Eagles have been the cornerstones of this division for some time and I don’t expect the pecking order to change.
If the Giants however are to top the Eagles they’ll need Eli Manning to hold his horses where ball release is concerned. The Giants quarterback threw an NFL-high 25 interceptions last season, completely offsetting the career high 31 touchdowns he was good enough to toss.
I have little faith in the Dallas Cowboys making too much of an imprint of the NFL this season.
Despite quarterback Tony Romo suiting up for just six games last year and the requisite pre-season good will which arrives before every Cowboys season, Dallas simply have too many areas which it must improve sharply in; Chiefly their pass defence which gave up a whopping, NFL-worst 33 passing touchdowns last season.
The Redskins, recipients of routine Cowboys-like pre-season hype, will likely struggle once again.
Division Pick – Philadelphia
Wild Card Chance – New York Giants
NFC South
This strange division has not only shown itself to be the NFC’s most consistently good- its sent 6 teams to the past 9 NFC championships games- but has also shown itself to be a remarkably inconsistent division, with not a single team repeating as champion since its inception ten years ago.
Such a stat doesn’t bode well for the incumbent Atlanta Falcons who on paper at least appear to have a team capable of bucking the trend.
The Falcons have invested everything into this season, trading aggressively to bring in elite rookie receiver and former Alabama wide-out, Julio Jones.
He’ll compliment Matt Ryan’s passing game perfectly along with a consistently strong running game led by Michael Turner. On defence the Falcons have recruited former Viking defensive-end Ray Edwards who’s amassed 30 sacks in his first five seasons of pro football.
What’s not in Atlanta’s favour is one of the league’s most challenging schedules which pits them against four play-off teams in their first five games.
The New Orleans Saints are the obvious pretenders to Atlanta’s crown however there’s some serious questions of this team who became decidedly one dimensional last season.
They had little production form their running game which ranked just 28th in the league while their defence came up with just 9 interceptions, significantly down from the 26 they produced in their Super bowl season a year earlier.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers produced one of the more surprising seasons last year winning 10 games, up from 3 the previous year.
They got excellent production from quarterback Josh Freeman who tossed just 6 interceptions in his sophomore season, down from his rookie output of 18.
While playoffs would be an internal expectation for Raheem Morris’ team, continued improvement and another winning season would be viewed as huge gain within an always difficult division. Carolina appears to be the weakest team here and have made some serious changes on and off the field.
Head coach John Fox has left for Denver, replaced by defensive guru Ron Rivera. Top pick from the National Draft and former Auburn Tiger, Cam Newton, is expected to be the team’s starting quarterback.
Division Pick – Atlanta
Wild Card Chance – New Orleans, Tampa Bay
NFC West
Welcome to the worst division in US pro sports. Last season the division’s top seed Seattle qualified for post season play with just 7 victories- 3 less than Tampa Bay and New York who both missed the play-offs.
There’s little to suggest any of the combatants will consistently challenge anyone outside their division. For what it’s worth my pick goes to the Arizona Cardinals predominantly because they’re the most consistent out of this bunch and have strengthened their quarterback situation by bringing in former Eagle, Kevin Kolb.
Most importantly Arizona re-signed perhaps the NFL’s best receiver in Larry Fitzgerald, however significant improvement is needed from a running game which ranked dead last in the NFL last season.
The St Louis Rams may loom as the biggest threat to Arizona on the back of a good season by rookie quarterback Sam Bradford who threw for a highly respectable 3,500 yards in his debut year. The Rams haven’t however seen post-season play in seven years.
The Seattle Seahawks are in a similar position to their divisional foes while a repeat crown wouldn’t exactly shock.
They’ve made same major changes to their roster which boasts a distinct Minnesota feel with former Vikings’ Tavaris Jackson and Sidney Rice expected to fill the quarterback and primary wide receiver roles respectively.
Seattle had the league’s least productive rushing game last season and will need to rely on Marshawn Lynch returning to some of the form he displayed in his first two seasons in Buffalo.
San Francisco remain one of the league’s perpetual disappointments although its hoped former Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh will be able to restore some credibility to this once-great franchise.
Division Pick – Arizona
Predicted NFC seedings following the regular season – Philadelphia, Atlanta, Green Bay, Arizona, New Orleans, Chicago
Conference Championship Game – Philadelphia over Atlanta.
Tomorrow- AFC preview and Superbowl selection.
The Packers will open the new season on Friday when they host New Orleans, winners of the previous Super Bowl.
NFC North
The Super Bowl champion Packers should feel comfortable as favourites to not only win the division but to potentially go back to back as world champs.
They’ve made minimal changes to their roster, host a second place schedule and can boast one of the NFL’s most balanced teams.
Chicago took this division by storm last campaign, won a heap of close matches and ended up clinching home field advantage for the playoffs.
The Bears however are expected to slide (not one of ESPN’s 12 experts have them returning to the playoffs) largely due to a tough schedule and a highly suspect offensive line that gave up no less than 52 sacks last season.
Their offense has been upgraded with the addition of wide receiver Roy Williams who’ll instantly become Jay Cutler’s primary target.
This division will be rounded out by both the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit. The Vikings’ season completely imploded last year which culminated in their stadium literally falling apart.
It was indeed a spectacular fall from a grace from a team who contested the conference championship the season prior.
They’ve a new coach in promoted defensive coordinator Lesie Frazier along with the addition of veteran quarterback Donavan McNabb.
Improvement is expected from the perennially awful Lions who’ll be aiming to use their undefeated pre-season as a springboard to avoiding their 12th straight year without playoffs.
Division Pick – Green Bay
Wild Card Chance – Chicago
NFC East
The Philadelphia Eagles were unquestionably the story of the NFL’s off-season with frenetic activity during free agency inviting comparisons to the NBA’s Miami Heat.
The Eagles have comprehensively bolstered their roster which hopes to be able to progress deep into the play-offs this campaign. Quarterback Michael Vick recently signed a huge contract extension on the back of a stellar season which saw him nearly nab the league’s MVP award.
The New York Giants and the Eagles have been the cornerstones of this division for some time and I don’t expect the pecking order to change.
If the Giants however are to top the Eagles they’ll need Eli Manning to hold his horses where ball release is concerned. The Giants quarterback threw an NFL-high 25 interceptions last season, completely offsetting the career high 31 touchdowns he was good enough to toss.
I have little faith in the Dallas Cowboys making too much of an imprint of the NFL this season.
Despite quarterback Tony Romo suiting up for just six games last year and the requisite pre-season good will which arrives before every Cowboys season, Dallas simply have too many areas which it must improve sharply in; Chiefly their pass defence which gave up a whopping, NFL-worst 33 passing touchdowns last season.
The Redskins, recipients of routine Cowboys-like pre-season hype, will likely struggle once again.
Division Pick – Philadelphia
Wild Card Chance – New York Giants
NFC South
This strange division has not only shown itself to be the NFC’s most consistently good- its sent 6 teams to the past 9 NFC championships games- but has also shown itself to be a remarkably inconsistent division, with not a single team repeating as champion since its inception ten years ago.
Such a stat doesn’t bode well for the incumbent Atlanta Falcons who on paper at least appear to have a team capable of bucking the trend.
The Falcons have invested everything into this season, trading aggressively to bring in elite rookie receiver and former Alabama wide-out, Julio Jones.
He’ll compliment Matt Ryan’s passing game perfectly along with a consistently strong running game led by Michael Turner. On defence the Falcons have recruited former Viking defensive-end Ray Edwards who’s amassed 30 sacks in his first five seasons of pro football.
What’s not in Atlanta’s favour is one of the league’s most challenging schedules which pits them against four play-off teams in their first five games.
The New Orleans Saints are the obvious pretenders to Atlanta’s crown however there’s some serious questions of this team who became decidedly one dimensional last season.
They had little production form their running game which ranked just 28th in the league while their defence came up with just 9 interceptions, significantly down from the 26 they produced in their Super bowl season a year earlier.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers produced one of the more surprising seasons last year winning 10 games, up from 3 the previous year.
They got excellent production from quarterback Josh Freeman who tossed just 6 interceptions in his sophomore season, down from his rookie output of 18.
While playoffs would be an internal expectation for Raheem Morris’ team, continued improvement and another winning season would be viewed as huge gain within an always difficult division. Carolina appears to be the weakest team here and have made some serious changes on and off the field.
Head coach John Fox has left for Denver, replaced by defensive guru Ron Rivera. Top pick from the National Draft and former Auburn Tiger, Cam Newton, is expected to be the team’s starting quarterback.
Division Pick – Atlanta
Wild Card Chance – New Orleans, Tampa Bay
NFC West
Welcome to the worst division in US pro sports. Last season the division’s top seed Seattle qualified for post season play with just 7 victories- 3 less than Tampa Bay and New York who both missed the play-offs.
There’s little to suggest any of the combatants will consistently challenge anyone outside their division. For what it’s worth my pick goes to the Arizona Cardinals predominantly because they’re the most consistent out of this bunch and have strengthened their quarterback situation by bringing in former Eagle, Kevin Kolb.
Most importantly Arizona re-signed perhaps the NFL’s best receiver in Larry Fitzgerald, however significant improvement is needed from a running game which ranked dead last in the NFL last season.
The St Louis Rams may loom as the biggest threat to Arizona on the back of a good season by rookie quarterback Sam Bradford who threw for a highly respectable 3,500 yards in his debut year. The Rams haven’t however seen post-season play in seven years.
The Seattle Seahawks are in a similar position to their divisional foes while a repeat crown wouldn’t exactly shock.
They’ve made same major changes to their roster which boasts a distinct Minnesota feel with former Vikings’ Tavaris Jackson and Sidney Rice expected to fill the quarterback and primary wide receiver roles respectively.
Seattle had the league’s least productive rushing game last season and will need to rely on Marshawn Lynch returning to some of the form he displayed in his first two seasons in Buffalo.
San Francisco remain one of the league’s perpetual disappointments although its hoped former Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh will be able to restore some credibility to this once-great franchise.
Division Pick – Arizona
Predicted NFC seedings following the regular season – Philadelphia, Atlanta, Green Bay, Arizona, New Orleans, Chicago
Conference Championship Game – Philadelphia over Atlanta.
Tomorrow- AFC preview and Superbowl selection.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Dogs must pay a visit to the Butcher
On Monday, Mark Robinson of the Herald Sun reported that four Melbourne-based clubs had shown an active interest in luring Port Adelaide’s John Butcher back to Victoria. The Western Bulldogs were not among them.
In a season which clearly didn’t meet expectations, cost Rodney Eade his job, confirmed Barry Hall’s retirement and looks likely to claim Callan Ward, the Bulldogs ought to be active in the market where out of contract and disgruntled players are concerned.
As disappointing as Ward’s imminent departure is, the Dogs simply can’t afford a woe-is-me approach during what’s an extremely delicate period for the club.
Chief among priorities for the Bulldogs this off season - along with finding a coach- is securing the services of someone capable of fulfilling the power-forward vacuum which for too long has been the Dogs' millstone.
Talk surrounding John Butcher, regardless of its authenticity, is understandable and will remain vibrant until he inks another deal with Port.
Butcher is from Maffra in Central Gippsland. He’s currently part of a Port team seemingly going nowhere fast while his family has expressed a strong desire for him to return home.
Adding to the intrigue is the fact Butcher’s present contract is set to expire; he’s a former top ten pick, whose last three games have been scintillating.
He’s kicked ten goals in his last two games, and is averaging 3.3 contested marks per match, a figure only Travis Cloke can claim supremacy over.
That there would be at least four Melbourne teams acutely interested in the 197cm Butcher is hardly surprising.
That the Western Bulldogs aren’t apparently one of them is baffling.
The Dogs have been crying out for a key forward/goal-kicking option for the last twenty years. An arrival came in the form of Barry Hall, however, his time at the Bulldogs was fleeting and as brilliant as it was, didn’t culminate in a long sort after premiership.
In the meantime, the only key forward to really take genuine strides at the Dogs has been Liam Jones whose sophomore year has been excellent.
He’s operated as a true centre half forward, missed just two games and collected a team high of 43 contested marks, bettered by only four players in the competition.
Jones hasn’t however seriously troubled the scorers this season with Hall and Daniel Giansiracusa preferred inside 50 options. With the former set to play his final game this weekend and Giansiracusa well and truly in the twilight of his career, the Dogs’ forward setup looks as precarious as it was before they landed Hall.
Outside of Big Barry and Giansiracusa, the Bulldogs have had little return from players supposedly equipped to be target men; Jarrad Grant’s form has been patchy, Ayce Cordy’s still extremely raw while Jordan Roughead looks far more adept in the ruck than when operating as a forward.
Most alarming is that the Bulldogs are the only team in the competition to have just one player (Jones) to have taken more than 20 contested marks this season, while only Sydney and the Gold Coast have taken fewer total marks.
Damning statistics and evidence that when it comes to big bodies up forward, the Bulldogs are sorely lacking.
It was reported that in the Dogs’ efforts to keep Callan Ward, they were prepared to part with $1.3 million dollars, spread over three seasons.
Small fry in comparison to the money being offered by the Western Sydney Giants, but proof nonetheless that the Bulldogs indeed have the capacity to get their hands on some serious money where player spending is concerned.
Such money now needs to stay on the table in pursuit of a key forward.
Not that all that money should be offered to Butcher, a veteran of just four senior games, however the Bulldogs simply have to be active in the trading period and must wholeheartedly investigate finding a long-term solution to their power forward dilemma.
At just 20, it’s far too much an ask to expect Liam Jones to carry the forward line by himself.
John Butcher may well stay in Port Adelaide, after all they drafted and nursed him through some serious back injuries in his rookie season. However if clubs are to be linked with him, then the Bulldogs simply must be among the suitors.
In addition, the Bulldogs should be front and square in any conversation regarding want-away Brisbane Lion Mitch Clark.
They’ve nothing to lose by enquiring about Geelong’s Tom Hawkins or even Essendon’s injury-plagued Scott Gumbleton. Jarryd Roughead’s situation at Hawthorn should be monitored.
The Bulldogs must knock on all doors and as potentially laughable as such a mission is, it’s the precise kind of diligence which prized Callan Ward away from the Dogs and the same kind of opportunism which has been responsible for some of the most inspired moves of the last decade.
Nothing can be lost from asking pertinent questions not only of your own squad but the players which comprise other teams’.
No club has ever lost premiership points for making enquiries. Plenty however have failed to win games by sitting on their hands and doing nothing.
If knocking on John Butcher’s door was good enough for four Melbourne clubs, why wasn’t it for the Bulldogs?
In a season which clearly didn’t meet expectations, cost Rodney Eade his job, confirmed Barry Hall’s retirement and looks likely to claim Callan Ward, the Bulldogs ought to be active in the market where out of contract and disgruntled players are concerned.
As disappointing as Ward’s imminent departure is, the Dogs simply can’t afford a woe-is-me approach during what’s an extremely delicate period for the club.
Chief among priorities for the Bulldogs this off season - along with finding a coach- is securing the services of someone capable of fulfilling the power-forward vacuum which for too long has been the Dogs' millstone.
Talk surrounding John Butcher, regardless of its authenticity, is understandable and will remain vibrant until he inks another deal with Port.
Butcher is from Maffra in Central Gippsland. He’s currently part of a Port team seemingly going nowhere fast while his family has expressed a strong desire for him to return home.
Adding to the intrigue is the fact Butcher’s present contract is set to expire; he’s a former top ten pick, whose last three games have been scintillating.
He’s kicked ten goals in his last two games, and is averaging 3.3 contested marks per match, a figure only Travis Cloke can claim supremacy over.
That there would be at least four Melbourne teams acutely interested in the 197cm Butcher is hardly surprising.
That the Western Bulldogs aren’t apparently one of them is baffling.
The Dogs have been crying out for a key forward/goal-kicking option for the last twenty years. An arrival came in the form of Barry Hall, however, his time at the Bulldogs was fleeting and as brilliant as it was, didn’t culminate in a long sort after premiership.
In the meantime, the only key forward to really take genuine strides at the Dogs has been Liam Jones whose sophomore year has been excellent.
He’s operated as a true centre half forward, missed just two games and collected a team high of 43 contested marks, bettered by only four players in the competition.
Jones hasn’t however seriously troubled the scorers this season with Hall and Daniel Giansiracusa preferred inside 50 options. With the former set to play his final game this weekend and Giansiracusa well and truly in the twilight of his career, the Dogs’ forward setup looks as precarious as it was before they landed Hall.
Outside of Big Barry and Giansiracusa, the Bulldogs have had little return from players supposedly equipped to be target men; Jarrad Grant’s form has been patchy, Ayce Cordy’s still extremely raw while Jordan Roughead looks far more adept in the ruck than when operating as a forward.
Most alarming is that the Bulldogs are the only team in the competition to have just one player (Jones) to have taken more than 20 contested marks this season, while only Sydney and the Gold Coast have taken fewer total marks.
Damning statistics and evidence that when it comes to big bodies up forward, the Bulldogs are sorely lacking.
It was reported that in the Dogs’ efforts to keep Callan Ward, they were prepared to part with $1.3 million dollars, spread over three seasons.
Small fry in comparison to the money being offered by the Western Sydney Giants, but proof nonetheless that the Bulldogs indeed have the capacity to get their hands on some serious money where player spending is concerned.
Such money now needs to stay on the table in pursuit of a key forward.
Not that all that money should be offered to Butcher, a veteran of just four senior games, however the Bulldogs simply have to be active in the trading period and must wholeheartedly investigate finding a long-term solution to their power forward dilemma.
At just 20, it’s far too much an ask to expect Liam Jones to carry the forward line by himself.
John Butcher may well stay in Port Adelaide, after all they drafted and nursed him through some serious back injuries in his rookie season. However if clubs are to be linked with him, then the Bulldogs simply must be among the suitors.
In addition, the Bulldogs should be front and square in any conversation regarding want-away Brisbane Lion Mitch Clark.
They’ve nothing to lose by enquiring about Geelong’s Tom Hawkins or even Essendon’s injury-plagued Scott Gumbleton. Jarryd Roughead’s situation at Hawthorn should be monitored.
The Bulldogs must knock on all doors and as potentially laughable as such a mission is, it’s the precise kind of diligence which prized Callan Ward away from the Dogs and the same kind of opportunism which has been responsible for some of the most inspired moves of the last decade.
Nothing can be lost from asking pertinent questions not only of your own squad but the players which comprise other teams’.
No club has ever lost premiership points for making enquiries. Plenty however have failed to win games by sitting on their hands and doing nothing.
If knocking on John Butcher’s door was good enough for four Melbourne clubs, why wasn’t it for the Bulldogs?
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Time for Durakovic to deliver the goods
The Anthony Di Pietro led Melbourne Victory board put everything on the line in its ultimately successful pursuit of Harry Kewell.
From initially compromising their ‘search’ for a new coach to further risking their credibility as each of Kewell's signing deadlines came and went.
Yet the Victory finally did get their man, indeed pulling off the greatest signing in Australian sports history.
Not only will Australia’s most vaunted Socceroo be playing in the A-League for the rest of his footballing days, but the Victory board have comprehensively exonerated themselves from a potential PR disaster.
That the board have done an exemplarary job in pulling off the Kewell deal is unquestionable. Yet the pressure will now be placed firmly on the shoulders of Mehmet Durakovic who’ll have his work cut out to accommodate Kewell amid the plethora of scoring options he inherited.
Durakovic won the Victory job because he was in the right place at precisely the right time. He promised to work cheap and importantly had Kevin Muscat on his ticket- a factor somehow regarded as essential for the future of the club’s brand.
Whether right or wrong, it’ll be with Durakovic where the buck stops regarding the Victory’s performance, with intense scrutiny expected all season upon what’s certainly now one of Asia’s biggest clubs.
To begin with Durakovic will need to demonstrate how he intends to utilise Kewell in a squad blessed with attacking options.
He’ll need to make harsh game to game decisions upon the likes of Archie Thomson and Danny Allsop as well as recent Roar signing Jean Carlos Solórzano.
Durakovic will also have to resolve the increasingly problematic Carlos Hernandez situation which continually finds the precociously talented Costa Rican in substandard physical shape.
Durakovic simply can’t afford to have his club’s second largest asset wasting away in the Victory doghouse and will need to make his mind up quickly about what role-if any- Hernandez has with the club.
Most importantly however Durakovic will need to reconcile a significant imbalance in the Victory squad. While their attacking prowess is without question, Melbourne lags behind their fiercest A-League rivals where defensive depth and midfield grit are concerned.
While Kewell’s capture indeed provides the impression of a slick Ferrari, the reality is that the Victory host an engine underneath which is suspect at best, derelict at worst.
Brisbane launched their rampant season last year not on the back of dynamic strike options, but by an industrious and highly skilled midfield driven by the likes of Eric Paartalu and Matt McKay, complimented by the polish of Thomas Broich, Mitch Nichols and Henrique.
The Central Coast’s biggest off-season recruit Stuart Musialik speaks volumes for Graham Arnold’s commitment to the centre of the park, while Adelaide and Sydney have both focused their player recruitment drives around further developing their respective midfields.
Meanwhile the Victory runs the risk of serious exposure to far more robust, faster and diligent A-League outfits, especially if they’re to rely upon the ageing Grant Brebner and consistently maligned Leigh Broxham.
Billy Celeski is a contender to pick up some of the midfield slack, though his reconstructed knee remains a query. Diogo Ferreira has shown promise but may still be a bit raw where the rigours of midfield combat are concerned.
The Victory is crying out for a midfield enforcer and help for Roddy Vargas and Adrian Leijer in the centre of defence if they are to justify their recent elevation to competition favoritism.
As it stands they have forward options the envy of any team, but a midfield which simply doesn’t look likely to propel them to the top of the table and a potential return to Champions League football.
Melbourne’s pursuit of Kewell was long and drawn-out, however with the start of the A-League just six weeks away, they’ll have to work much quicker to secure areas of the park which really must be addressed.
As comprehensively brilliant as the Kewell capture was, his arrival in Melbourne won’t have the same lustre without a winning team to compliment the celebration.
From initially compromising their ‘search’ for a new coach to further risking their credibility as each of Kewell's signing deadlines came and went.
Yet the Victory finally did get their man, indeed pulling off the greatest signing in Australian sports history.
Not only will Australia’s most vaunted Socceroo be playing in the A-League for the rest of his footballing days, but the Victory board have comprehensively exonerated themselves from a potential PR disaster.
That the board have done an exemplarary job in pulling off the Kewell deal is unquestionable. Yet the pressure will now be placed firmly on the shoulders of Mehmet Durakovic who’ll have his work cut out to accommodate Kewell amid the plethora of scoring options he inherited.
Durakovic won the Victory job because he was in the right place at precisely the right time. He promised to work cheap and importantly had Kevin Muscat on his ticket- a factor somehow regarded as essential for the future of the club’s brand.
Whether right or wrong, it’ll be with Durakovic where the buck stops regarding the Victory’s performance, with intense scrutiny expected all season upon what’s certainly now one of Asia’s biggest clubs.
To begin with Durakovic will need to demonstrate how he intends to utilise Kewell in a squad blessed with attacking options.
He’ll need to make harsh game to game decisions upon the likes of Archie Thomson and Danny Allsop as well as recent Roar signing Jean Carlos Solórzano.
Durakovic will also have to resolve the increasingly problematic Carlos Hernandez situation which continually finds the precociously talented Costa Rican in substandard physical shape.
Durakovic simply can’t afford to have his club’s second largest asset wasting away in the Victory doghouse and will need to make his mind up quickly about what role-if any- Hernandez has with the club.
Most importantly however Durakovic will need to reconcile a significant imbalance in the Victory squad. While their attacking prowess is without question, Melbourne lags behind their fiercest A-League rivals where defensive depth and midfield grit are concerned.
While Kewell’s capture indeed provides the impression of a slick Ferrari, the reality is that the Victory host an engine underneath which is suspect at best, derelict at worst.
Brisbane launched their rampant season last year not on the back of dynamic strike options, but by an industrious and highly skilled midfield driven by the likes of Eric Paartalu and Matt McKay, complimented by the polish of Thomas Broich, Mitch Nichols and Henrique.
The Central Coast’s biggest off-season recruit Stuart Musialik speaks volumes for Graham Arnold’s commitment to the centre of the park, while Adelaide and Sydney have both focused their player recruitment drives around further developing their respective midfields.
Meanwhile the Victory runs the risk of serious exposure to far more robust, faster and diligent A-League outfits, especially if they’re to rely upon the ageing Grant Brebner and consistently maligned Leigh Broxham.
Billy Celeski is a contender to pick up some of the midfield slack, though his reconstructed knee remains a query. Diogo Ferreira has shown promise but may still be a bit raw where the rigours of midfield combat are concerned.
The Victory is crying out for a midfield enforcer and help for Roddy Vargas and Adrian Leijer in the centre of defence if they are to justify their recent elevation to competition favoritism.
As it stands they have forward options the envy of any team, but a midfield which simply doesn’t look likely to propel them to the top of the table and a potential return to Champions League football.
Melbourne’s pursuit of Kewell was long and drawn-out, however with the start of the A-League just six weeks away, they’ll have to work much quicker to secure areas of the park which really must be addressed.
As comprehensively brilliant as the Kewell capture was, his arrival in Melbourne won’t have the same lustre without a winning team to compliment the celebration.
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