Welcome to 9th edition of Keep It Simple blogs. Today I am discussing a serious issue of Technology and Human Errors in Sport. Well, you might have already read a lot about use or misuse of technology on other blogs as well. But we have'nt really yet come to a conclusion. WHY??? What's stopppping us humans from making use of advanced technologies created by us humans for betterment of life???
Controversies are part and parcel of any sport and they add a bit of spice to the contest, no doubt. But we must ensure that it doesnt cost an individual or team's fortune for a bigger cause. Just mention to the Irish about 'Henry' OR ask Lampard 'Why could he not score against the Germans?' You will surely get your answers there. How far and fast have the admins moved to change all this? I think so far we have covered a distance of 2mm @ speed of 0.00004 mm per light year.
I will recount two incidents on the weekend from Stoke vs Tottenham game and India vs Sri Lanka game.
Stoke vs Tottenham Spurs:
Did the ball go in? Yes.
Was referee or linesman in right place to view the incident? Yes.
The Result? Stoke denied a point. May be or may be not, Spurs could have scored a 3rd which we'll never know.
Why was there not much of a fuss after this game? Probably lesser known teams. It is just a league match, it may balance off in course of 38 games.
India vs Sri Lanka:
4 umpiring decisions went against India. Umpires were from Sri Lanka and Pakistan none of who have got a great umpiring record broke the spine of Indian batting. The match was of utmost importance to Indians, win it and qualify for the finals. Yes, the rest of the batting was patchy but was largely due to pressure caused by erroneous umpiring.
The Result? Indian suffered another humiliating defeat and are on brink of exiting from the tri-series cup.
Indian fans Reaction: The reasons umpires Dharmasena & Rauf declared them as "Out" were probably due to excessive appealing from Lankans OR to take revenge of the Randiv incident.
What Next? Do the refs own up the responsibility? When will administrators do something to save the integrity of the sport? Or should we fans take everything in stride and carry on thinking it's not our job to change the system?
Said it before as well and saying now again to the FIFA and ICC Chiefs - Technology is there, bloody well USE IT just like you would use condoms when bedding your precious prostitutes; before your prestige will be at stake.
Go Technology!
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Sunday, August 8, 2010
A New Season, But will it be the same old stuff?
Chelsea and Manchester United played out the traditional curtain raiser for the season 2010-11. Red Devils lifted the FA Community Shield with ease by slotting 3 goals past the hibernating Chelsea defence.
Since the world cup, some teams have been busy looking for managers, some teams have been busy retaining their most valuable players and fighting off tipp-tappy media and some teams have been finding it difficult to sell players whilst all teams have built upon their squads and had decent pre-season camping outside of UK.
Fernando Torres and Cesc Fabregas have committed atleast one more year of their professional lives to their respective clubs by quoting "for the love of the fans." But in reality, did they have a second option? NO. So with 5 days to kick off the new season, I wonder we have to ask the question "Will it be the same old stuff?"
Aston Villa havent been able to add significantly to their squad, but are on verge of losing James Milner who was their best player last season but could'nt run half a mile on the pitch in South Africa. Since many of their players did not play world cup, they will be having fresh legs early in the season and may be leading the tables as well.
Tottenham Spurs have an experienced manager who knows how to deal with pressure and with attraction of playing in Europe for the first time will at some stage be in a dilemma of sorts on which cup to concentrate.
Roy Hodgson's first job at Anfield will be to lift the spirits up in the team and especially their captain who had a forgetful winter in Africa. Liverpool may actually do well this season as compared to last, but they are in desperate need of a good first team striker to partner Torres & Ngog!
Chelsea have lost their key midfielders in Ballack and J Cole. In fact they have also lost Belleti and Deco. To me it seems they will be short in midfield as the season progresses and will get beaten more often than they ever have been in their winning seasons.
Man City have enough money to start a league of their own, but because of the new FA rule of 25 man squad, Mancini's going to have to trim a few quality players in order to satisfy greed of those few who joined very recently from well to do clubs.
Arsenal are the only team who have'nt lost a game in pre-season. However, with that said it wasnt the best pre-season as lots of goals were conceded, some early and some late. A good goal keeper signing has become very much a pre-requisite for this season. As far as a center back is concerned, I think Wenger should sign an experienced defender who has atleast 250+ games on his CV in their domestic leagues. Any European experience will be an added advantage.
Certainly the Man Utd fans think its their birth right to win every title cometh every new season. They have made decent purchases buying Hernandez and Smalling. Unfortunately for them, Hargreaves has again got injured but they still seem to have enough firepower in them to launch an attack to get back the title they lost by a mere point. But ofcourse they will have SAF, Fergie Time and Own Goal as tools that will assist them to be on track whenever they are in spot of bother.
Clubs like Newcastle United, Everton, and Bolton to finish in top half of the table. Blackpool, Wolves and West Brom will be relegated again and one of those will set a record for lowest points.
Though Arsenal are my favorites and I would like them to win the PL, I think it would be only wise I tip Man United to win another title this season. (This to please my friends, but God knows my predictions are always wrong :D)
Here are my predictions for the looooooooooooooong season!
1) Manchester United
2) Arsenal
3) Manchester City
4) Chelsea
5) Liverpool
6) Tottenham Spurs
7) Aston Villa
8) Everton
9) Newcastle United
10) Bolton Wanderers
11) Stoke City
12) Fulham
13) Sunderland
14) Birmingham
15) Wigan Athletic
16) West Ham United
17) Blackburn Rovers
18) West Brom
19) Wolves
20) Blackpool
Whaddya think?
Since the world cup, some teams have been busy looking for managers, some teams have been busy retaining their most valuable players and fighting off tipp-tappy media and some teams have been finding it difficult to sell players whilst all teams have built upon their squads and had decent pre-season camping outside of UK.
Fernando Torres and Cesc Fabregas have committed atleast one more year of their professional lives to their respective clubs by quoting "for the love of the fans." But in reality, did they have a second option? NO. So with 5 days to kick off the new season, I wonder we have to ask the question "Will it be the same old stuff?"
Aston Villa havent been able to add significantly to their squad, but are on verge of losing James Milner who was their best player last season but could'nt run half a mile on the pitch in South Africa. Since many of their players did not play world cup, they will be having fresh legs early in the season and may be leading the tables as well.
Tottenham Spurs have an experienced manager who knows how to deal with pressure and with attraction of playing in Europe for the first time will at some stage be in a dilemma of sorts on which cup to concentrate.
Roy Hodgson's first job at Anfield will be to lift the spirits up in the team and especially their captain who had a forgetful winter in Africa. Liverpool may actually do well this season as compared to last, but they are in desperate need of a good first team striker to partner Torres & Ngog!
Chelsea have lost their key midfielders in Ballack and J Cole. In fact they have also lost Belleti and Deco. To me it seems they will be short in midfield as the season progresses and will get beaten more often than they ever have been in their winning seasons.
Man City have enough money to start a league of their own, but because of the new FA rule of 25 man squad, Mancini's going to have to trim a few quality players in order to satisfy greed of those few who joined very recently from well to do clubs.
Arsenal are the only team who have'nt lost a game in pre-season. However, with that said it wasnt the best pre-season as lots of goals were conceded, some early and some late. A good goal keeper signing has become very much a pre-requisite for this season. As far as a center back is concerned, I think Wenger should sign an experienced defender who has atleast 250+ games on his CV in their domestic leagues. Any European experience will be an added advantage.
Certainly the Man Utd fans think its their birth right to win every title cometh every new season. They have made decent purchases buying Hernandez and Smalling. Unfortunately for them, Hargreaves has again got injured but they still seem to have enough firepower in them to launch an attack to get back the title they lost by a mere point. But ofcourse they will have SAF, Fergie Time and Own Goal as tools that will assist them to be on track whenever they are in spot of bother.
Clubs like Newcastle United, Everton, and Bolton to finish in top half of the table. Blackpool, Wolves and West Brom will be relegated again and one of those will set a record for lowest points.
Though Arsenal are my favorites and I would like them to win the PL, I think it would be only wise I tip Man United to win another title this season. (This to please my friends, but God knows my predictions are always wrong :D)
Here are my predictions for the looooooooooooooong season!
1) Manchester United
2) Arsenal
3) Manchester City
4) Chelsea
5) Liverpool
6) Tottenham Spurs
7) Aston Villa
8) Everton
9) Newcastle United
10) Bolton Wanderers
11) Stoke City
12) Fulham
13) Sunderland
14) Birmingham
15) Wigan Athletic
16) West Ham United
17) Blackburn Rovers
18) West Brom
19) Wolves
20) Blackpool
Whaddya think?
Saturday, July 17, 2010
His STORY in MARKETS!!!
The stock market is like a beast creature in itself; at times it makes sense and sometimes no one can explain why it acts the way it does. What is clear is that, over the long run, the stock market will climb faster than any other traditional investment scheme. With that said, it may also happen that the value of the stock gets whacked and economy goes downhill. The story is true in case of our football’s transfer markets also. I’ll try to explain my views below.
Okay. For the beginners, stock market is driven by supply and demand. The stock market is really just a big shopping mall where everyone goes for buying and selling, we also know this mall as an Exchange. If the stock is getting its first look into the market place, we call it as IPO or a Primary Market. Then we move into Secondary Market where stocks are traded after initially being offered in the Primary Market and/or listed on the Exchange. At somewhat advanced stage we also deal with derivatives in secondary markets where the shares are bound by contracts. These contracts can be settled by various types viz. Futures and Options. Now since trading involves money matters between two or more individuals, it always will happen that one person turns out to be over smart than the other; hence we need a regulatory body that can keep an eye such details that all dealings happen within specified time frame abiding all rules that govern the stock markets.
Many football clubs across Europe have setup their coaching academies for young kids across the world. Those who can afford send their children to play football to these schools or else you have to be an exceptionally cute looking kid to be picked up by a reputed visionary coach for a big club to pay for your coaching. As a young boy with ambitions, you join your local academy and you make your parents feel proud of you. You play freely and make friends with a fellow short South American who tells the big club to pay for his illness and somehow help him grow in height. With each year passing by, you make more friends and destroy the U14 teams with slick passing movement and scoring ability. You like being called one of the teenage sensations; but you forget you are being watched by the world and you innocently land yourself in a MARKET.
As your formative years come to end, you are being picked up by a Top 4 club in UK. The new UK life likens the youth in you and you happily accept the offer and get called yourself a Gunner. After being on sidelines and playing multiple FA Cup and League Cup games, you prove yourself as a man ready for the next challenge in PL. After the departure of Patrick Vieira, you get a chance to wear the #4 jersey and establish as midfielder of the PL in seasons to come. In one of the Champions League games, you just tamed your nemesis on his ex-ground and the Arsenal Fans appreciated the show. The legends departed, the seniors cried on the pitch, the young legs got injured as season reached its climax. Wenger sensed that Arsenal needed a new leader on the pitch and he handed the armband to the playmaker. A few high moments that defined the last season were double strike against Aston Villa, a solo run goal against Spurs and numerous assists throughout the season with the killer pass to his friend from native country in the World Cup of 2010. That early reputation has now turned into fame and has an attractive price attached with it.
I think you might have already guessed the name by now, this is about Cesc Fabregas! His story in the transfer market has been very much like that of equity in stock market. The Gunner Fans can cheer for now as Catalonian Chief has expressed defeat in pursuit of Fabregas. Although I feel UEFA could have pitched in earlier and would have made the law breakers pay a hefty fine. But Barcelona being Platini’s favourite club they escaped without any punishment. (Subject to argument later)
But as I said, this is market and it can take its cruel twist anytime. Till then gear up with your FFL teams and watch who’s new on the market post world cup and who is past his sell by date?
Cheers!
Okay. For the beginners, stock market is driven by supply and demand. The stock market is really just a big shopping mall where everyone goes for buying and selling, we also know this mall as an Exchange. If the stock is getting its first look into the market place, we call it as IPO or a Primary Market. Then we move into Secondary Market where stocks are traded after initially being offered in the Primary Market and/or listed on the Exchange. At somewhat advanced stage we also deal with derivatives in secondary markets where the shares are bound by contracts. These contracts can be settled by various types viz. Futures and Options. Now since trading involves money matters between two or more individuals, it always will happen that one person turns out to be over smart than the other; hence we need a regulatory body that can keep an eye such details that all dealings happen within specified time frame abiding all rules that govern the stock markets.
Many football clubs across Europe have setup their coaching academies for young kids across the world. Those who can afford send their children to play football to these schools or else you have to be an exceptionally cute looking kid to be picked up by a reputed visionary coach for a big club to pay for your coaching. As a young boy with ambitions, you join your local academy and you make your parents feel proud of you. You play freely and make friends with a fellow short South American who tells the big club to pay for his illness and somehow help him grow in height. With each year passing by, you make more friends and destroy the U14 teams with slick passing movement and scoring ability. You like being called one of the teenage sensations; but you forget you are being watched by the world and you innocently land yourself in a MARKET.
As your formative years come to end, you are being picked up by a Top 4 club in UK. The new UK life likens the youth in you and you happily accept the offer and get called yourself a Gunner. After being on sidelines and playing multiple FA Cup and League Cup games, you prove yourself as a man ready for the next challenge in PL. After the departure of Patrick Vieira, you get a chance to wear the #4 jersey and establish as midfielder of the PL in seasons to come. In one of the Champions League games, you just tamed your nemesis on his ex-ground and the Arsenal Fans appreciated the show. The legends departed, the seniors cried on the pitch, the young legs got injured as season reached its climax. Wenger sensed that Arsenal needed a new leader on the pitch and he handed the armband to the playmaker. A few high moments that defined the last season were double strike against Aston Villa, a solo run goal against Spurs and numerous assists throughout the season with the killer pass to his friend from native country in the World Cup of 2010. That early reputation has now turned into fame and has an attractive price attached with it.
I think you might have already guessed the name by now, this is about Cesc Fabregas! His story in the transfer market has been very much like that of equity in stock market. The Gunner Fans can cheer for now as Catalonian Chief has expressed defeat in pursuit of Fabregas. Although I feel UEFA could have pitched in earlier and would have made the law breakers pay a hefty fine. But Barcelona being Platini’s favourite club they escaped without any punishment. (Subject to argument later)
But as I said, this is market and it can take its cruel twist anytime. Till then gear up with your FFL teams and watch who’s new on the market post world cup and who is past his sell by date?
Cheers!
Friday, July 9, 2010
WHAT A CONUNDRUM FOR A FOOTBALL FAN!
The semi finals of the World Cup 2010 saw range of emotions flowing from the football fans across the world. The players and the management involved on the match day were probably more tensed than ever as history beckoned on each one of them. Buoyed by the expectations from the fans, the captains of the team led from front; Gio Bronckhorst – a veteran of 3 world cups let one fly from his left boot for the goal of the tournament. Diego Forlan proved why he is still one of the deadliest strikers of the football. He tamed the Jabulani and beat the Dutch keeper with flight and swerves in the air. Carles Puyol, though he’s not leading the team but marshals the back line of Spain side with same vigour as for the Catalan team. His bullet header crashed into the German net and dashed the hopes of millions of German supporters. Philippe Lahm waved generously at the crowd and graciously accepted the defeat.
Not many were surprised by the Netherlands win, but that match went close up to 70 mins until Wesley & Robben show put Uruguay’s defence to mat. A few of my colleagues were absolutely sure about Germany thumping Spain based on the tournament form. The match was played exactly as I had dreamt about with Torres dropping off to bench and Pedro providing width. The pass until death philosophy worked its magic for the first time for Spain in this edition. This intricate style took the life out of young ethnic Germans and they eventually lost the plot. What followed was the outburst from fans. Spaniards are now called a boring team! Some fans have run out of excuses and are ordering for the “Soup of Octopus!”
Two days later we see another Nostradamesque prediction from ‘Psychic Paul’ that it would be EURO 08 repeat. I have been supporting Spain since exodus of Zinedine Zidane from France in 2006. In Euro 2008, the Dutch displayed striking football and I fell in love with their game play too.
At the start of 2010 World Cup, I had 3 wishes:
1) A Gunner to lift the trophy.
2) Netherlands or Spain to win.
3) Cesc Fabregas to stay with Arsenal for another season.
Now is the time to make a call – Van Persie’s Holland or Cesc’s Spain? With Barca continuing their pursuit of Fabregas and him too pledging of his Catalan blood as if it being of the “purest quality”… It prompts me to choose “The Netherlands”
Hup Holland Hup!!!
Not many were surprised by the Netherlands win, but that match went close up to 70 mins until Wesley & Robben show put Uruguay’s defence to mat. A few of my colleagues were absolutely sure about Germany thumping Spain based on the tournament form. The match was played exactly as I had dreamt about with Torres dropping off to bench and Pedro providing width. The pass until death philosophy worked its magic for the first time for Spain in this edition. This intricate style took the life out of young ethnic Germans and they eventually lost the plot. What followed was the outburst from fans. Spaniards are now called a boring team! Some fans have run out of excuses and are ordering for the “Soup of Octopus!”
Two days later we see another Nostradamesque prediction from ‘Psychic Paul’ that it would be EURO 08 repeat. I have been supporting Spain since exodus of Zinedine Zidane from France in 2006. In Euro 2008, the Dutch displayed striking football and I fell in love with their game play too.
At the start of 2010 World Cup, I had 3 wishes:
1) A Gunner to lift the trophy.
2) Netherlands or Spain to win.
3) Cesc Fabregas to stay with Arsenal for another season.
Now is the time to make a call – Van Persie’s Holland or Cesc’s Spain? With Barca continuing their pursuit of Fabregas and him too pledging of his Catalan blood as if it being of the “purest quality”… It prompts me to choose “The Netherlands”
Hup Holland Hup!!!
Sunday, July 4, 2010
The Last Four
Ever since June 11th, ma life's been hectic watching footie. I had been thinking of penning down notes after the group stages where I wanted to abuse the French, Italians and the English badly. But the games flew thick and fast and I found no time to do it. Then, I thought of writing again after the pre-quarters to highlight FIFA's growing negligience towards introducing the simplest of goal-line technologies in their sport. Well I finally found time today, to write this piece of article to talk about Germany's prowess & my thoughts on how semis will unfold.
Meself was nevva a German fan, but I asked one of my friend to start following football by watching the way Germany play and it has been a delight watching them give footballing lessons to proud egoistical nations like England and Argentina. "Blitzkreig" is a famous word in world war history and this German team symbolizes their attacks on the opposition by that word.
Thomas Muller, Lukas Podolski and Miroslav Klose have all been scoring goals but one player that stands out is BASTIAN SCHWEINSTIGER. He's strong on the ball, controls the pace of the game in midfield and sets up those goals for the team. He's playing like Zidane's 1998 & 2006. He's been well supported by Ozil and Khedira who are barely as famous and rich as players playing in established clubs. Germany have hit the jackpot by having a excellent domestic setup run by good administrators and they are reaping the rewards. On the current form, they are favorites to lift the World cup 2010.
A team that has qualified to semis by virtue of "Hand of God" is the only South American team left at this stage of the tournament. With two World Cup titles to their name they are the dark horses to lift the title. Diego Forlan is their most recognized player and he works his socks off every match to ensure they do not get drubbed by the opposition and the young Luis Suarez who has scored one of the goals of the world cup will miss the clash against the Dutch.
Viva Espana!!! The chants can be heard from the Spanish fans who cheer every pass that gets played into path of David Villa. The striker who moved to Barcelona is showing his class to the rest of the world and currently favorite to win the Golden Boot. But, coach Del Bosque will not be satisified with that, he's here to claim the big prize and Spain still have a lot to do to justify their pre-tournament favorites tag. El Nino has not been sharp and they should try his look alike Llorente in game against Germans. The short passing game looks good to eyes but one mistake and Germans are lethal on counter.
Finally, I speak about my team that I picked at the start of the world cup - The Netherlands. Men in Oranje must be high on confidence after beating the world favorites Brazil in intense quarterfinal match. Who would have thought they will turn the tables on Brazil after going a goal down in just ten minutes of the first half? Ofcourse I knew they would! ;) The DUtch are doing an efficient job and are on a 24 match unbeaten streak, a national record. They havent exactly produced Total Football for which they are known, but its been giving them the results wanted. I have been banking upon the trio of Robben, Sneijder and RVP to lead the Dutch to their first ever World Cup victory. Hup Holland Hup!!!
I do not want to jump the gun and give my bold predictions for semis, I will rather sit back, have fun and watch the events unfold themselves.
Cheers!
Meself was nevva a German fan, but I asked one of my friend to start following football by watching the way Germany play and it has been a delight watching them give footballing lessons to proud egoistical nations like England and Argentina. "Blitzkreig" is a famous word in world war history and this German team symbolizes their attacks on the opposition by that word.
Thomas Muller, Lukas Podolski and Miroslav Klose have all been scoring goals but one player that stands out is BASTIAN SCHWEINSTIGER. He's strong on the ball, controls the pace of the game in midfield and sets up those goals for the team. He's playing like Zidane's 1998 & 2006. He's been well supported by Ozil and Khedira who are barely as famous and rich as players playing in established clubs. Germany have hit the jackpot by having a excellent domestic setup run by good administrators and they are reaping the rewards. On the current form, they are favorites to lift the World cup 2010.
A team that has qualified to semis by virtue of "Hand of God" is the only South American team left at this stage of the tournament. With two World Cup titles to their name they are the dark horses to lift the title. Diego Forlan is their most recognized player and he works his socks off every match to ensure they do not get drubbed by the opposition and the young Luis Suarez who has scored one of the goals of the world cup will miss the clash against the Dutch.
Viva Espana!!! The chants can be heard from the Spanish fans who cheer every pass that gets played into path of David Villa. The striker who moved to Barcelona is showing his class to the rest of the world and currently favorite to win the Golden Boot. But, coach Del Bosque will not be satisified with that, he's here to claim the big prize and Spain still have a lot to do to justify their pre-tournament favorites tag. El Nino has not been sharp and they should try his look alike Llorente in game against Germans. The short passing game looks good to eyes but one mistake and Germans are lethal on counter. 
Finally, I speak about my team that I picked at the start of the world cup - The Netherlands. Men in Oranje must be high on confidence after beating the world favorites Brazil in intense quarterfinal match. Who would have thought they will turn the tables on Brazil after going a goal down in just ten minutes of the first half? Ofcourse I knew they would! ;) The DUtch are doing an efficient job and are on a 24 match unbeaten streak, a national record. They havent exactly produced Total Football for which they are known, but its been giving them the results wanted. I have been banking upon the trio of Robben, Sneijder and RVP to lead the Dutch to their first ever World Cup victory. Hup Holland Hup!!!
I do not want to jump the gun and give my bold predictions for semis, I will rather sit back, have fun and watch the events unfold themselves.
Cheers!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
World Cup Parties
Good days are coming soon. Football is returning on the telly again and we all will be praying, celebrating, cherishing, sulking or whining depending on the outcome of the game. Yes, and some of us will be bragging and blogging about the teams assigned to us by Mike.
Everybody needs a reason to party and events like World Cup give us chance to get together with Family, friends and relatives. If you've decided to host a World Cup party, then you'll need to get everything right, otherwise it might not just your team that loses out.
Here's 11 what you need to remember.
1. You'll want somewhere large enough to hold all your friends in comfort. If you're holding it at your home, then you'll want to make sure that all your valuables are out of the way of your TV.
2. You'll want to invite all of your friends to your world cup party, so that they can enjoy the football with you. Why not plan ahead and invite them now, so that there's plenty of time for them to swap work shifts as necessary.
3. Your guests will need somewhere to sit, so you'll have to have plenty of chairs, or large cushions for everyone. Maybe you've got enough seats already, or perhaps you'll have to buy some specially.
4. A large TV is essential, and if you haven't got one big enough for everyone to see, then you'll have to get one. You might want to go for a projector, and have the image displayed on one of your walls rather than on a dedicated screen.
5. You'll need to arrange freebies of that particular day's matches with jerseys, flags, posters & vuvuzela; so you can really soak up the atmosphere of South Africa.
6. You'll need plenty of food to keep your guests going between matches, and during half time. You might want to have a buffet, encourage guests to bring their own food, or arrange a takeaway.
7. You'll want your guests to bring their own drinks, so that you don't spend a fortune on drinks that nobody likes. One advantage of guests bringing their own, is that if they run out, it isn't your fault!
8. Ideally, you'll want someone to bring food and drinks to you, so that you don't miss any of the action.
9. Maybe you'll share goodies/sweets if your team wins, or maybe you'll just sulk if they lose. You'll want to have something planned in case you need cheering up after the game.
10. After a party involving food, drink and fantastic football, you'll hopefully have plenty of people to help you to tidy up afterwards. It's amazing how many people have things to do, and need to be elsewhere as soon as there's cleaning up and washing up to be done.
All in all, it can be too costly time to hold a World Cup Party at your home. Even if you don't buy a bigger TV, and your guests cannot bring their own food and drink, you can still hang out at pubs and each one from friend's circle can take turns in sponsoring the food and drinks bill. However, as the World Cup only occurs every 4 years, you'll want to make the most of it.
Now you know what sort of things you need, you'll be able to plan the perfect World Cup party, and enjoy the match even more.
I will be celebrating Oranje month meself and also brag about Denmark. Up the Dutch & Danes!!! ;)
On your mark, Get Set Go...
Everybody needs a reason to party and events like World Cup give us chance to get together with Family, friends and relatives. If you've decided to host a World Cup party, then you'll need to get everything right, otherwise it might not just your team that loses out.
Here's 11 what you need to remember.
1. You'll want somewhere large enough to hold all your friends in comfort. If you're holding it at your home, then you'll want to make sure that all your valuables are out of the way of your TV.
2. You'll want to invite all of your friends to your world cup party, so that they can enjoy the football with you. Why not plan ahead and invite them now, so that there's plenty of time for them to swap work shifts as necessary.
3. Your guests will need somewhere to sit, so you'll have to have plenty of chairs, or large cushions for everyone. Maybe you've got enough seats already, or perhaps you'll have to buy some specially.
4. A large TV is essential, and if you haven't got one big enough for everyone to see, then you'll have to get one. You might want to go for a projector, and have the image displayed on one of your walls rather than on a dedicated screen.
5. You'll need to arrange freebies of that particular day's matches with jerseys, flags, posters & vuvuzela; so you can really soak up the atmosphere of South Africa.
6. You'll need plenty of food to keep your guests going between matches, and during half time. You might want to have a buffet, encourage guests to bring their own food, or arrange a takeaway.
7. You'll want your guests to bring their own drinks, so that you don't spend a fortune on drinks that nobody likes. One advantage of guests bringing their own, is that if they run out, it isn't your fault!
8. Ideally, you'll want someone to bring food and drinks to you, so that you don't miss any of the action.
9. Maybe you'll share goodies/sweets if your team wins, or maybe you'll just sulk if they lose. You'll want to have something planned in case you need cheering up after the game.
10. After a party involving food, drink and fantastic football, you'll hopefully have plenty of people to help you to tidy up afterwards. It's amazing how many people have things to do, and need to be elsewhere as soon as there's cleaning up and washing up to be done.
All in all, it can be too costly time to hold a World Cup Party at your home. Even if you don't buy a bigger TV, and your guests cannot bring their own food and drink, you can still hang out at pubs and each one from friend's circle can take turns in sponsoring the food and drinks bill. However, as the World Cup only occurs every 4 years, you'll want to make the most of it.
Now you know what sort of things you need, you'll be able to plan the perfect World Cup party, and enjoy the match even more.
I will be celebrating Oranje month meself and also brag about Denmark. Up the Dutch & Danes!!! ;)
On your mark, Get Set Go...
Thursday, May 20, 2010
CUP OF POSSIBILITIES
If one can turn to the Football World Cup itself overlooking the upcoming Champions League Final and the recent most transfer news of a possible World Cup superstar; the picture is becoming a little clearer about the tournament favourites. Did I just say that? Atleast JP Morgan tells us this story about how England are going to win the World Cup. Let us explore each continent and see who the strong contenders are.
The African contingent is led by the home nation South Africa who performed reasonably well in the Confederations Cup. Michael Essien's Ghana had a notable performance in Germany'06 and they will hope to continue their run. It would be foolish to neglect Ivory Coast who I believe are the strongest Africa side who can carry on the Safari Nation to knock-out rounds by eliminating one of the strong contenders in Group Stages.
South Korea? might have performed on big stage under Guus, but without him they do not have any might. Plus the usual fillers from Asia/Pacific are Ozzies and Black Caps.
Brazil? always to be taken seriously. There is plenty of skill, thrust and defensive solidarity in the side. Gilberto has re-invented himself in that defensive-mid role. Kaka, who has had a disappointing first season at Real Madrid remains one of the exciting midfielder's of modern game. And it should be no surprise Brazil's gameplan revolve around him and seek support from Man City exits Robinho, Elano and Luis Fabiano who has scored healthy amount of goals in La Liga. With Argentina, you can never be sure of what to expect. Boasting of a side which has World's best footballer in Messi and his explosive mentor-coach Maradona, they can make a huge difference in te tournament. There is abundant talent in the squad with likes of Tevez, Aguero and Mascherano; but they have only just qualified for the WC Finals. So keep guessing?
It seems to me that Dutch are "coming good" at exactly the right moment, above all in the shape of 3 major stars. And has it not always been said that great team must be built around three or four good players? Especially reassuring for the Dutch has been the recent return of incisive Arsenal forward, Robin van Persie. Our for over 5 months, he returned with a galvanising performance against Spurs in a losing cause. Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder have put inspired performances for their respective clubs and have been largely responsible for helping them reach Saturday's European Showdown @ Santiago Bernabeau. Holland should flourish. Spain still look the justifiable favourites though it remains to be seen whether the prolific strike force, elegant midfield and sturdy back-four can repeat their Euro 08 performance without M Senna. David Villa, Xavi, Alonso are fit and raring to go; If Torres, Fabregas can get over their injuries and with enough quality on subs bench; all the betting money should be in Spain's favor.
England? Unless their allies of World War II (USA) can spring surprise on them in their opening game, they should qualify easily for pre-quarters. But Capello's team still doesnt convince me. No obvious goal keeper - David James or Joe Hart?? Ashley Cole the only real gem in defence; although winning FA Cup might have given Terry huge relief and confidence to overcome media and public rant that he faced during the season. Wayne Rooney too coming back from a less serious injury will be a potent force to deal with for opponents. But again, where's the support? Will it be Defoe or Crouch? And the midfield dualism between Stevie G and Lampard is yet to be resolved at world stage for England. But atleast fast wingers aboard the plane to SA, Beckham wont be missed too much. Lennon has pace, Milner is good on both wings and in central area too. And Walcott waiting in the wings to be an impact sub. All in all, it still looks likey that England only upto Quarter Finals yet again?
Who will win the Jules Rimet trophy? Only time will tell. But what you can say is who do you think are your two most likely "beat me if you can teams" of this edition of the World Cup?
The African contingent is led by the home nation South Africa who performed reasonably well in the Confederations Cup. Michael Essien's Ghana had a notable performance in Germany'06 and they will hope to continue their run. It would be foolish to neglect Ivory Coast who I believe are the strongest Africa side who can carry on the Safari Nation to knock-out rounds by eliminating one of the strong contenders in Group Stages.
South Korea? might have performed on big stage under Guus, but without him they do not have any might. Plus the usual fillers from Asia/Pacific are Ozzies and Black Caps.
Brazil? always to be taken seriously. There is plenty of skill, thrust and defensive solidarity in the side. Gilberto has re-invented himself in that defensive-mid role. Kaka, who has had a disappointing first season at Real Madrid remains one of the exciting midfielder's of modern game. And it should be no surprise Brazil's gameplan revolve around him and seek support from Man City exits Robinho, Elano and Luis Fabiano who has scored healthy amount of goals in La Liga. With Argentina, you can never be sure of what to expect. Boasting of a side which has World's best footballer in Messi and his explosive mentor-coach Maradona, they can make a huge difference in te tournament. There is abundant talent in the squad with likes of Tevez, Aguero and Mascherano; but they have only just qualified for the WC Finals. So keep guessing?
It seems to me that Dutch are "coming good" at exactly the right moment, above all in the shape of 3 major stars. And has it not always been said that great team must be built around three or four good players? Especially reassuring for the Dutch has been the recent return of incisive Arsenal forward, Robin van Persie. Our for over 5 months, he returned with a galvanising performance against Spurs in a losing cause. Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder have put inspired performances for their respective clubs and have been largely responsible for helping them reach Saturday's European Showdown @ Santiago Bernabeau. Holland should flourish. Spain still look the justifiable favourites though it remains to be seen whether the prolific strike force, elegant midfield and sturdy back-four can repeat their Euro 08 performance without M Senna. David Villa, Xavi, Alonso are fit and raring to go; If Torres, Fabregas can get over their injuries and with enough quality on subs bench; all the betting money should be in Spain's favor.
England? Unless their allies of World War II (USA) can spring surprise on them in their opening game, they should qualify easily for pre-quarters. But Capello's team still doesnt convince me. No obvious goal keeper - David James or Joe Hart?? Ashley Cole the only real gem in defence; although winning FA Cup might have given Terry huge relief and confidence to overcome media and public rant that he faced during the season. Wayne Rooney too coming back from a less serious injury will be a potent force to deal with for opponents. But again, where's the support? Will it be Defoe or Crouch? And the midfield dualism between Stevie G and Lampard is yet to be resolved at world stage for England. But atleast fast wingers aboard the plane to SA, Beckham wont be missed too much. Lennon has pace, Milner is good on both wings and in central area too. And Walcott waiting in the wings to be an impact sub. All in all, it still looks likey that England only upto Quarter Finals yet again?
Who will win the Jules Rimet trophy? Only time will tell. But what you can say is who do you think are your two most likely "beat me if you can teams" of this edition of the World Cup?
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