Speaking to Tribunesports Wednesday at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan, during a friendly match between Dream Team V and Westerlo FC, Dosu said Siasia has helped the country to build a strong team and there was the need for him to continue to make the Eagles stronger .
Dosu stated " We should remember that the same Siasia has won for this country the African Youth Championship and has also helped the counrty to earn the Silver Medal in 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup and 2008 Beijing Olympics football tournament. It is unfortunate that he could not qualify Nigeria for the 2012 AFCON but we can still hope he can do better, we should not sack him but give him the chance to redeem himself.''
The former Julius Berger FC of Lagos goalkeeper feared that the notion of immediate results from Nigerian teams would only give the country temporary relief.
''If we are looking to the future and with the team Siasia has now, then we have to let him be, our penchant for quick results will always backfire.''
He reasoned that if Nigerians could endure with Dutch coach, Clemens Westerhof for five years, then asking Siasia to go after less than a year could be destructive. "Westerhof didn't do very well in his first year but in another four years, we were proud of the team he raised for us at USA '94 World Cup. On this premise, I urge more time for Siasia.''
Monday, October 31, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
Oliseh inexperienced for Eagles -Peters
Renowned coach, James Peters, has frowned at the planned hiring of former Nigerian skipper, Sunday Ogochukwu Oliseh, as the chief coach of the Super Eagles, insisting that he lacks the cognate and requisite experiences to take over the job.
Speaking to the media at the Glass House recently, the former Nigeria Football Association (NFA) assistant general secretary technical, emphasized that the proposed hiring of Oliseh is a breach of professional ethics, likening it to conferring a fresh Law School graduate with the title of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), just as he maintained that the former Eagles midfielder must start from junior team or clubside.
“I won’t support the proposal to give Oliseh Super Eagles’ job because he lacks the cognate experience.“It is wrong to give our highest national team to a coach without experience. “It can only happen in the coaching profession. It is not possible for the law profession to confer a SAN on a fresh graduate who just passed out of the Law School.
“We need indigenous coaches to handle the Super Eagles but not Oliseh.
“He is not ripped for the job. If Oliseh must coach our national team, he should start with the junior teams not our most senior national team. He can only do that if he gathers the prerequisite coaching experience,” JP noted.
Asked if he was rooting for the sacking of Coach Samson Siasia and Super Falcons’ Chief Coach, Uche Eucharia, the former BCC Lions handler quipped that a coach is as good as his last match, insisting that having failed, they should honourably resign or be booted out.
“What was obvious is that they have failed and must pay the ultimate penalty of failure.“Coaching job is all about hiring and firing and anybody who is afraid of sack has no business taking up coaching as career.“Siasia and Uche have failed the nation, they should be sacked,” he said.
Speaking to the media at the Glass House recently, the former Nigeria Football Association (NFA) assistant general secretary technical, emphasized that the proposed hiring of Oliseh is a breach of professional ethics, likening it to conferring a fresh Law School graduate with the title of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), just as he maintained that the former Eagles midfielder must start from junior team or clubside.
“I won’t support the proposal to give Oliseh Super Eagles’ job because he lacks the cognate experience.“It is wrong to give our highest national team to a coach without experience. “It can only happen in the coaching profession. It is not possible for the law profession to confer a SAN on a fresh graduate who just passed out of the Law School.
“We need indigenous coaches to handle the Super Eagles but not Oliseh.
“He is not ripped for the job. If Oliseh must coach our national team, he should start with the junior teams not our most senior national team. He can only do that if he gathers the prerequisite coaching experience,” JP noted.
Asked if he was rooting for the sacking of Coach Samson Siasia and Super Falcons’ Chief Coach, Uche Eucharia, the former BCC Lions handler quipped that a coach is as good as his last match, insisting that having failed, they should honourably resign or be booted out.
“What was obvious is that they have failed and must pay the ultimate penalty of failure.“Coaching job is all about hiring and firing and anybody who is afraid of sack has no business taking up coaching as career.“Siasia and Uche have failed the nation, they should be sacked,” he said.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
I'm interested in Eagles' Job Amokachi Galadima backs Siasia
AS uncertainty surrounds the sack of the Super Eagles coach, Samson Siasia over his failure to qualify the country for the Africa Cup of Nations final by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), former national team midfielder, Daniel 'The Bull' Amokachi has declared his interest in coaching the national team.
Amokachi said on Monday Night football show on Supersport that he is as qualified as any other interested coach to handle the Super Eagles anytime the post is declared vacant.
According to the USA 94 star, he has what it takes to be next coach of the Eagles going by his experience as a player, former national team assistant coach and a certified coach who is also and instructor to the bargain .
Amokachi who also revealed that the immediate past Super Eagles coach, Amodu Shuaibu is interested in the job said,'' I, Daniel Amokachie is interested in Super Eagles job, I have worked in various areas in the past, I have won WAFU cup with arguably unknown players, played at the World Cup, have coaching certificate, so who says I am not qualified or cannot coach the Super Eagles,'' he asked.
The former Everton player addded, ''are you saying Stephen Keshi who qualified an unknown Togolese team to the World Cup is not qualified or Amodu Shuaibu who also qualified the country for the world cup cannot coach the Super Eagles, so we are all interested and as for me I will apply for the job once it is time to apply.
It will be recalled that another former Super Eagles midfielder and captain, Sunday Oliseh has also shown interest in the national team job.
Meanwhile,FORMER Chairman of Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Galadima has profe solutions to the recent dwindling fortunes of the national teams, the Super Eagles and Super Falcons.
To him the issue should be treated with utmost care and those that are knowledgeable in the game of football should rally round to find lasting solutions to this mirage of problems on time to save the game from total collapse.
"Since I am not an insider, I am not privy to what is happening in the Nigerian Football Federation. It is somebody that is involved in the day to day administration of football that would be able to tell you what the problem is. I have been out of the scene for six years so I will not be able to know what exactly is happening.
"Yes we are all disappointed with the current situation as regards football in our country but it is normal in football and it happens in sports generally. What is important for us is to get ourselves together and sit down and see what we can do to address the issue.
"This can only be done by getting those people who are knowledgeable in the game. Millions of Nigerians who are out there can offer suggestions and are even more knowledgeable than me and have seen it all. What is important is for us to try and win peoples' confident at the moment.
"The Football Federation has the responsibility of trying to win peoples' confidence for now and try to prove the ability to run the game in the country. The people have lost confidence in what is happening today. I think we have to restore our confidence before anything is done.
On the recommendation of the NFF Technical Committee who called for the sack of Super Eagles Chief Coach, Samson Siasia for failing to qualify the team for the 2012 Africa Nations Cup, Galadima stated that Siasia should not be totally blamed for the failure but Nigerians should accept the failure as a nation and try to bounce back from the disappointment .
Amokachi said on Monday Night football show on Supersport that he is as qualified as any other interested coach to handle the Super Eagles anytime the post is declared vacant.
According to the USA 94 star, he has what it takes to be next coach of the Eagles going by his experience as a player, former national team assistant coach and a certified coach who is also and instructor to the bargain .
Amokachi who also revealed that the immediate past Super Eagles coach, Amodu Shuaibu is interested in the job said,'' I, Daniel Amokachie is interested in Super Eagles job, I have worked in various areas in the past, I have won WAFU cup with arguably unknown players, played at the World Cup, have coaching certificate, so who says I am not qualified or cannot coach the Super Eagles,'' he asked.
The former Everton player addded, ''are you saying Stephen Keshi who qualified an unknown Togolese team to the World Cup is not qualified or Amodu Shuaibu who also qualified the country for the world cup cannot coach the Super Eagles, so we are all interested and as for me I will apply for the job once it is time to apply.
It will be recalled that another former Super Eagles midfielder and captain, Sunday Oliseh has also shown interest in the national team job.
Meanwhile,FORMER Chairman of Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Galadima has profe solutions to the recent dwindling fortunes of the national teams, the Super Eagles and Super Falcons.
To him the issue should be treated with utmost care and those that are knowledgeable in the game of football should rally round to find lasting solutions to this mirage of problems on time to save the game from total collapse.
"Since I am not an insider, I am not privy to what is happening in the Nigerian Football Federation. It is somebody that is involved in the day to day administration of football that would be able to tell you what the problem is. I have been out of the scene for six years so I will not be able to know what exactly is happening.
"Yes we are all disappointed with the current situation as regards football in our country but it is normal in football and it happens in sports generally. What is important for us is to get ourselves together and sit down and see what we can do to address the issue.
"This can only be done by getting those people who are knowledgeable in the game. Millions of Nigerians who are out there can offer suggestions and are even more knowledgeable than me and have seen it all. What is important is for us to try and win peoples' confident at the moment.
"The Football Federation has the responsibility of trying to win peoples' confidence for now and try to prove the ability to run the game in the country. The people have lost confidence in what is happening today. I think we have to restore our confidence before anything is done.
On the recommendation of the NFF Technical Committee who called for the sack of Super Eagles Chief Coach, Samson Siasia for failing to qualify the team for the 2012 Africa Nations Cup, Galadima stated that Siasia should not be totally blamed for the failure but Nigerians should accept the failure as a nation and try to bounce back from the disappointment .
Monday, October 24, 2011
Durant's Team Wins Charity Basketball Game
OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Kevin Durant had 42 points, 26 rebounds and 11 assists for a triple-double in his charity basketball game Saturday night, leading his team to a 176-171 victory in overtime.
Durant and a star-studded White team including LeBron James and Oklahoma City Thunder teammate Russell Westbrook overcame a fourth-quarter deficit to beat a Blue team that featured All-Stars Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul.
It was the latest in a series of exhibition games across the country as NBA players stay in the spotlight while locked out by the league.
Players and owners have an ongoing dispute over how the league's revenue should be split up and what salary cap system should be in place.
At halftime of the game, Durant presented an oversized check for $100,000 to Single Parents Support Network of Oklahoma City.
Durant and a star-studded White team including LeBron James and Oklahoma City Thunder teammate Russell Westbrook overcame a fourth-quarter deficit to beat a Blue team that featured All-Stars Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul.
It was the latest in a series of exhibition games across the country as NBA players stay in the spotlight while locked out by the league.
Players and owners have an ongoing dispute over how the league's revenue should be split up and what salary cap system should be in place.
At halftime of the game, Durant presented an oversized check for $100,000 to Single Parents Support Network of Oklahoma City.
Friday, October 21, 2011
L.S.U. Suspends 3 Players for Game Against Auburn
Top-ranked Louisiana State will be without its two best players for Saturday’s game against Auburn, according to multiple reports.
Tyrann Mathieu, left, has emerged as one of the college game's top defensive players.
The dynamic cornerback Tyrann Mathieu and the bruising tailback Spencer Ware have been suspended, along with a reserve defensive back, Tharold Simon. In a news conference Wednesday night, L.S.U. Coach Les Miles would not confirm the suspensions, calling the situation a matter of “internal discipline.”
After overcoming an early suspension to the starting quarterback Jordan Jefferson, L.S.U. (7-0, 4-0 Southeastern Conference) appeared to be on a seamless path to meet No. 2 Alabama in Tuscaloosa on Nov. 5 for a slot in the SEC title game. The winner of that contest is expected to have an inside track to the national title game.
But Saturday’s game in Baton Rouge against No. 19 Auburn (5-2, 3-1), the defending national champion, suddenly becomes more problematic. L.S.U. had been listed as a three-touchdown favorite.
Mathieu, a New Orleans native, has emerged as a folk hero in Louisiana, earning the nickname Honey Badger for his fearless play. He has been considered an outside contender for the Heisman Trophy after beginning the season by scoring a special-teams touchdown after ripping the ball away from Oregon’s Kenjon Barner on a punt return in the season-opening blowout of the Ducks.
Since then, Mathieu has emerged as the country’s most aggressive ball hawk. He has forced fumbles, nabbed two interceptions and registered 1.5 sacks. At just 5 feet 9 inches and 175 pounds, Mathieu has become a larger-than-life figure, with Honey Badger Takes What He Wants T-shirts becoming the rage on campus.
Ware is not as flashy, but his 512 yards lead L.S.U. and his 6 touchdowns are tied with the backup Michael Ford for the team lead.
Simon’s absence will also hurt the Tigers. He is the team’s fourth-leading tackler and might have started against Auburn, which runs a frenetic spread offense that forces teams into schemes that employ multiple defensive backs.
Tyrann Mathieu, left, has emerged as one of the college game's top defensive players.
The dynamic cornerback Tyrann Mathieu and the bruising tailback Spencer Ware have been suspended, along with a reserve defensive back, Tharold Simon. In a news conference Wednesday night, L.S.U. Coach Les Miles would not confirm the suspensions, calling the situation a matter of “internal discipline.”
After overcoming an early suspension to the starting quarterback Jordan Jefferson, L.S.U. (7-0, 4-0 Southeastern Conference) appeared to be on a seamless path to meet No. 2 Alabama in Tuscaloosa on Nov. 5 for a slot in the SEC title game. The winner of that contest is expected to have an inside track to the national title game.
But Saturday’s game in Baton Rouge against No. 19 Auburn (5-2, 3-1), the defending national champion, suddenly becomes more problematic. L.S.U. had been listed as a three-touchdown favorite.
Mathieu, a New Orleans native, has emerged as a folk hero in Louisiana, earning the nickname Honey Badger for his fearless play. He has been considered an outside contender for the Heisman Trophy after beginning the season by scoring a special-teams touchdown after ripping the ball away from Oregon’s Kenjon Barner on a punt return in the season-opening blowout of the Ducks.
Since then, Mathieu has emerged as the country’s most aggressive ball hawk. He has forced fumbles, nabbed two interceptions and registered 1.5 sacks. At just 5 feet 9 inches and 175 pounds, Mathieu has become a larger-than-life figure, with Honey Badger Takes What He Wants T-shirts becoming the rage on campus.
Ware is not as flashy, but his 512 yards lead L.S.U. and his 6 touchdowns are tied with the backup Michael Ford for the team lead.
Simon’s absence will also hurt the Tigers. He is the team’s fourth-leading tackler and might have started against Auburn, which runs a frenetic spread offense that forces teams into schemes that employ multiple defensive backs.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Russell Wilson Puts Wisconsin on Target for Title Run
MADISON, Wis. — The legend of Russell Wilson as a Wisconsin quarterback began with a dare from Badgers receiver Nick Toon on the 30-yard line of Camp Randall Stadium: “Bet you can’t hit the crossbar from here.”
Wilson flashed a quick smile before unleashing a 40-yard spiral that collided with the crossbar with such force that the sound — DOINGGGGGGG! — echoed through Camp Randall.
“I just shook my head,” Toon said of his reaction that July afternoon.
With his arrival as a one-year transfer from North Carolina State, Wilson is ringing in a new era of Wisconsin football, which has always been heavy on steak and light on sizzle. The addition of the dynamic Wilson marks an evolution for the Badgers from their between-the-tackles roots.
Wisconsin will still have plenty of tight ends and fullbacks lumbering onto the field, but the skills Wilson displayed in amassing 76 passing and 17 rushing touchdowns during his three years as the starting quarterback at N.C. State will add a shot of third-down innovation to the methodical Badgers.
“He’s so accurate on the move; that’s the part that amazes me,” Wisconsin Coach Bret Bielema said. “It’s kind of overwhelming.”
Wilson’s most notable pass may have been forgoing the chance to play in Auburn’s productive spread offense for the Badgers’ pro-style attack, a choice that puts No. 11 Wisconsin on the outskirts of the national title conversation. Wilson arrives as a complete package: athletic enough to be picked in the fourth round of the baseball draft, magnetic enough to be elected a Wisconsin captain after less than two months on campus, and smart enough to graduate from N.C. State in three years.
He is also preparing for his final college football season in the aftermath of a difficult year, one in which he struggled to hit minor league fastballs, endured a public break from N.C. State’s football program and buried his father.
But the legend of Wilson is growing here. Asked about the crossbar strike, he said with a smile: “I thought I was standing on the 40. But whatever.”
A Positive Upbringing
Wilson’s grandfather Harrison Wilson Jr. served as the president of Norfolk State. His father, Harrison Wilson III, attended Dartmouth and bypassed a chance to play in the N.F.L. to attend law school at Virginia. After law school, he went to training camp with the San Diego Chargers and earned the nickname Professor before being released when the team made its final roster cuts.
Harrison Wilson III and his wife, Tammy, sent their three children to the prestigious Collegiate School in Richmond, Va., a K-12 private school with an annual tuition that starts at more than $17,000. Russell’s older brother, Harrison IV, said that he and Russell “stuck out like sore thumbs” because they were African-Americans in a school in which about 90 percent of the students were white.
So when Charlie McFall, who coached Russell and Harrison IV, received a complaint that he recruited Russell to play sports there, he replied, “If I recruited him, I did when he was in kindergarten.”
The tales of Russell Wilson’s athletic prowess began in fifth grade, when he was the ball boy for his brother’s high school games. During a game, a referee hollered over to the Collegiate sideline for a ball, and Russell responded by throwing a laser across the field.
“The official said, ‘Oh my goodness.’ And I thought to myself, I’m going to hang around for Russell,” said McFall, who retired as the coach and athletic director after Wilson led Collegiate to three straight state titles and a 31-2 overall record. “He’s very accurate with a great touch, and he’s been that way since elementary school.”
Wilson watched his older brother go to Richmond and play baseball and football, the sports their father played at Dartmouth.
Wilson flashed a quick smile before unleashing a 40-yard spiral that collided with the crossbar with such force that the sound — DOINGGGGGGG! — echoed through Camp Randall.
“I just shook my head,” Toon said of his reaction that July afternoon.
With his arrival as a one-year transfer from North Carolina State, Wilson is ringing in a new era of Wisconsin football, which has always been heavy on steak and light on sizzle. The addition of the dynamic Wilson marks an evolution for the Badgers from their between-the-tackles roots.
Wisconsin will still have plenty of tight ends and fullbacks lumbering onto the field, but the skills Wilson displayed in amassing 76 passing and 17 rushing touchdowns during his three years as the starting quarterback at N.C. State will add a shot of third-down innovation to the methodical Badgers.
“He’s so accurate on the move; that’s the part that amazes me,” Wisconsin Coach Bret Bielema said. “It’s kind of overwhelming.”
Wilson’s most notable pass may have been forgoing the chance to play in Auburn’s productive spread offense for the Badgers’ pro-style attack, a choice that puts No. 11 Wisconsin on the outskirts of the national title conversation. Wilson arrives as a complete package: athletic enough to be picked in the fourth round of the baseball draft, magnetic enough to be elected a Wisconsin captain after less than two months on campus, and smart enough to graduate from N.C. State in three years.
He is also preparing for his final college football season in the aftermath of a difficult year, one in which he struggled to hit minor league fastballs, endured a public break from N.C. State’s football program and buried his father.
But the legend of Wilson is growing here. Asked about the crossbar strike, he said with a smile: “I thought I was standing on the 40. But whatever.”
A Positive Upbringing
Wilson’s grandfather Harrison Wilson Jr. served as the president of Norfolk State. His father, Harrison Wilson III, attended Dartmouth and bypassed a chance to play in the N.F.L. to attend law school at Virginia. After law school, he went to training camp with the San Diego Chargers and earned the nickname Professor before being released when the team made its final roster cuts.
Harrison Wilson III and his wife, Tammy, sent their three children to the prestigious Collegiate School in Richmond, Va., a K-12 private school with an annual tuition that starts at more than $17,000. Russell’s older brother, Harrison IV, said that he and Russell “stuck out like sore thumbs” because they were African-Americans in a school in which about 90 percent of the students were white.
So when Charlie McFall, who coached Russell and Harrison IV, received a complaint that he recruited Russell to play sports there, he replied, “If I recruited him, I did when he was in kindergarten.”
The tales of Russell Wilson’s athletic prowess began in fifth grade, when he was the ball boy for his brother’s high school games. During a game, a referee hollered over to the Collegiate sideline for a ball, and Russell responded by throwing a laser across the field.
“The official said, ‘Oh my goodness.’ And I thought to myself, I’m going to hang around for Russell,” said McFall, who retired as the coach and athletic director after Wilson led Collegiate to three straight state titles and a 31-2 overall record. “He’s very accurate with a great touch, and he’s been that way since elementary school.”
Wilson watched his older brother go to Richmond and play baseball and football, the sports their father played at Dartmouth.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Don't blame me for Eagles' loss – Ayenugba
AS Nigerians continue to ponder the way forward for football, the man at the centre of the Eagles heart-breaking 2-2 draw with Syli Nationale of Guinea who pushed the Eagles out of the 2012 African Cup of Nations, Dele Ayenugba has exonorated himself from blame for the loss.
Eagles coach, Samson Siasia placed the burden of the goalkeeping on the shoulders of Ayenugba after he suspended first choice Vincent Enyeama. Many Nigerians expressed fear over the absence of Enyeamah but Siasia and goalkeeper's trainer, Ike Shorunmu assured that Dele was as good as Enyeamah.
But after conceding two goals, many blamed him, saying that Enyeamah would not have conceded the goals that brought misery and pain on the nation.
But Dele Ayenugba spoke for the first time after the disastrous outing in Abuja and said that nobody should hold him responsible for the loss.
"Nobody should point accusing fingers at me. It was a collective thing. We played as a unit and lost collectively", the man who said that he was still feeling the pangs of defeat said. "It's sad that we did not qualify for the Nations Cup.
But trying to find scape goats is not necessary. We played as a unit and there is no need for buck-passing", the former Enyimba keeper said.
Eagles coach, Samson Siasia placed the burden of the goalkeeping on the shoulders of Ayenugba after he suspended first choice Vincent Enyeama. Many Nigerians expressed fear over the absence of Enyeamah but Siasia and goalkeeper's trainer, Ike Shorunmu assured that Dele was as good as Enyeamah.
But after conceding two goals, many blamed him, saying that Enyeamah would not have conceded the goals that brought misery and pain on the nation.
But Dele Ayenugba spoke for the first time after the disastrous outing in Abuja and said that nobody should hold him responsible for the loss.
"Nobody should point accusing fingers at me. It was a collective thing. We played as a unit and lost collectively", the man who said that he was still feeling the pangs of defeat said. "It's sad that we did not qualify for the Nations Cup.
But trying to find scape goats is not necessary. We played as a unit and there is no need for buck-passing", the former Enyimba keeper said.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Odemwingie lifts West Brom out of relegation zone
West Bromwich Albion condemned struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers to a fifth straight Premier League defeat thanks to goals by captain Chris Brunt and substitute Peter Odemwingie in a 2-0 win at the Hawthorns on Sunday.
Brunt opened the scoring in the Midlands derby in the eighth minute by running on to Billy Jones' cut-back, smashing a powerful shot into the roof of the net. Odemwingie made the game safe in the 75th-three minutes after coming off the bench-when the Nigerian striker arrowed a low finish into the corner after Paul Scharner's backheel.
West Brom's first home win of the season lifted the team into mid-table, while Wolves remained just a point above the relegation zone.
Odemwingie responded to being dropped by scoring the decisive second goal as West Brom gained its first top-flight win over Wolves for 29 years in a pulsating Hawthorns clash.
It condemned Wolves to a fifth successive defeat - their worst sequence at the top level since 1984.
Baggies head coach, Roy Hodgson, also celebrated his first managerial win over his Wolves counterpart, Mick McCarthy, at the sixth attempt. Wolves had more of the play during the opening 45 minutes but the home side looked dangerous on the counter-attack.
Shane Long was a constant threat and caused plenty of problems for Wolves skipper, Roger Johnson, and his fellow defenders. After the break, Albion took command with Paul Scharner excelling in midfield and Jerome Thomas impressing on the flank. Wolves were the first to threaten and a cross from Stephen Ward found its way to Jamie O'Hara on the far side of the Albion box but his left-footed shot was blocked by debutant Billy Jones.
Baggies keeper, Ben Foster, turned aside a cross-shot from Adam Hammill after he had skipped past the challenge of Jones. But Albion went ahead through their first meaningful attack via Brunt after eight minutes.
Youssouf Mulumbu picked out the run of the over-lapping Jones and he cut the ball back across the area to Brunt who hammered a rising shot past Wayne Hennessey from 12 yards out.
Wolves retaliated and came close to equalising five minutes later. Foster blocked Milijas's low drive but the rebound fell to Doyle inside the six yard box only for Albion defender Jonas Olsson to make a superb block tackle. Wolves defender Christophe Berra became the first player to be booked after 26 minutes after a mis-timed challenge on Long.
Albion were now looking more menacing on the counter-attack. It needed a fine tackle from Ward to prevent Long doubling his team’s lead after Thomas had sent the ball into the danger area. Long then burst clear down the left flank before squaring the ball for the recalled Paul Scharner but he needed a second touch and curled his shot past the far post.
Brunt opened the scoring in the Midlands derby in the eighth minute by running on to Billy Jones' cut-back, smashing a powerful shot into the roof of the net. Odemwingie made the game safe in the 75th-three minutes after coming off the bench-when the Nigerian striker arrowed a low finish into the corner after Paul Scharner's backheel.
West Brom's first home win of the season lifted the team into mid-table, while Wolves remained just a point above the relegation zone.
Odemwingie responded to being dropped by scoring the decisive second goal as West Brom gained its first top-flight win over Wolves for 29 years in a pulsating Hawthorns clash.
It condemned Wolves to a fifth successive defeat - their worst sequence at the top level since 1984.
Baggies head coach, Roy Hodgson, also celebrated his first managerial win over his Wolves counterpart, Mick McCarthy, at the sixth attempt. Wolves had more of the play during the opening 45 minutes but the home side looked dangerous on the counter-attack.
Shane Long was a constant threat and caused plenty of problems for Wolves skipper, Roger Johnson, and his fellow defenders. After the break, Albion took command with Paul Scharner excelling in midfield and Jerome Thomas impressing on the flank. Wolves were the first to threaten and a cross from Stephen Ward found its way to Jamie O'Hara on the far side of the Albion box but his left-footed shot was blocked by debutant Billy Jones.
Baggies keeper, Ben Foster, turned aside a cross-shot from Adam Hammill after he had skipped past the challenge of Jones. But Albion went ahead through their first meaningful attack via Brunt after eight minutes.
Youssouf Mulumbu picked out the run of the over-lapping Jones and he cut the ball back across the area to Brunt who hammered a rising shot past Wayne Hennessey from 12 yards out.
Wolves retaliated and came close to equalising five minutes later. Foster blocked Milijas's low drive but the rebound fell to Doyle inside the six yard box only for Albion defender Jonas Olsson to make a superb block tackle. Wolves defender Christophe Berra became the first player to be booked after 26 minutes after a mis-timed challenge on Long.
Albion were now looking more menacing on the counter-attack. It needed a fine tackle from Ward to prevent Long doubling his team’s lead after Thomas had sent the ball into the danger area. Long then burst clear down the left flank before squaring the ball for the recalled Paul Scharner but he needed a second touch and curled his shot past the far post.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Jazz ahead Kirilenko indicators along with Euro group
Utah Jazz forward Andrei Kirilenko has signed a 3-year contract with Russia's CSKA team that he can terminate if the NBA lockout ends.
The deal was announced on the team's website.
Kirilenko will become an unrestricted free agent once the 2011-12 NBA campaign begins but has expressed a desire to play for the team that drafted him 24th overall in 1999.
The 30-year-old grew up in Russia but gained dual citizenship recently.
He averaged 11.7 points and 5.1 rebounds last season but battled injuries.
Kirilenko started his pro career in St. Petersburg when he was 16 and joined CSKA a year later.
Kirilenko said on the website he was glad to be back where he spent his adolescence.
He said the money he earns in Russia will go to his Kirilenko's Kids charity.
The deal was announced on the team's website.
Kirilenko will become an unrestricted free agent once the 2011-12 NBA campaign begins but has expressed a desire to play for the team that drafted him 24th overall in 1999.
The 30-year-old grew up in Russia but gained dual citizenship recently.
He averaged 11.7 points and 5.1 rebounds last season but battled injuries.
Kirilenko started his pro career in St. Petersburg when he was 16 and joined CSKA a year later.
Kirilenko said on the website he was glad to be back where he spent his adolescence.
He said the money he earns in Russia will go to his Kirilenko's Kids charity.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Tom announces $3000 incentives for MVP
PRESIDENT of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator David Mark will be special guest of honour at tomorrow's 2012 African Cup of Nations qualifying cracker between Nigeria and Guinea at the National Stadium, Abuja.
Also expected are Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, Governors of Bayelsa, Delta and Nasarawa States, cabinet ministers, senators, members of the House, the Inspector General of Police and other highly-placed Nigerian political and business leaders.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has also invited the three children of deceased Eagles' legend Mudashiru Babatunde Lawal who are based in Nigeria. Olatunde, Bolanle and Abosede Muda-Lawal will all be part of the crowd cheering the Eagles to qualify for the African Cup of Nations, 31 years after their father scored the final goal that nailed Algeria and handed Nigeria her first Cup of Nations trophy.
Meanwhile,PEPSI, the official beverage of the African Cup of Nations has announced a whopping N50 million winning bonus for the Super Eagles of Nigeria should they beat Syli Stars of Guinea tomorrow and qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations in 2012.
There is also a princely some of N100 million for the Super Eagles players should they repeat the feat of the 1994 Eagles in Tunisia by winning the next edition of Africa's world cup being hosted by Gabon and Equatorial Guinea.
Announcing these motivational packages for the Super Eagles at a media briefing in Lagos yesterday, Mr. Jimi Awosika, Managing Director, Insight Communications and Spokesman for Pepsi said the N50 million bonus award to the players is a clarion call to the players to fight for the honour of their fatherland and ensure that the glory of our football is restored.
Meanwhile,TOMTOM, the Official Candy of the Nigeria national football teams, has announced incentives for the Super Eagles who are in a must-win situation as they line up against the Syli Nationale of Guinea at the National Stadium, Abuja.
The Most Valuable Player will receive a reward of $3,000 (about N475,000), among other incentives for the Nigerian team which is fired up to deliver the ticket for the 28th edition of the African Cup of Nations to be co-hosted by Gabon and Equatorial Guinea next January.
For every shot on target, the Super Eagles will have $500 (about N80,000), courtesy of TomTom.
According to Mrs Bimbo Alabi, Senior Manager (Medicated Candies), Cadbury Nigeria Plc, TomTom would always go all out to motivate the Super Eagles and all other national football teams to deliver soothing results to the teeming Nigerian football supporters.
Also expected are Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, Governors of Bayelsa, Delta and Nasarawa States, cabinet ministers, senators, members of the House, the Inspector General of Police and other highly-placed Nigerian political and business leaders.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has also invited the three children of deceased Eagles' legend Mudashiru Babatunde Lawal who are based in Nigeria. Olatunde, Bolanle and Abosede Muda-Lawal will all be part of the crowd cheering the Eagles to qualify for the African Cup of Nations, 31 years after their father scored the final goal that nailed Algeria and handed Nigeria her first Cup of Nations trophy.
Meanwhile,PEPSI, the official beverage of the African Cup of Nations has announced a whopping N50 million winning bonus for the Super Eagles of Nigeria should they beat Syli Stars of Guinea tomorrow and qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations in 2012.
There is also a princely some of N100 million for the Super Eagles players should they repeat the feat of the 1994 Eagles in Tunisia by winning the next edition of Africa's world cup being hosted by Gabon and Equatorial Guinea.
Announcing these motivational packages for the Super Eagles at a media briefing in Lagos yesterday, Mr. Jimi Awosika, Managing Director, Insight Communications and Spokesman for Pepsi said the N50 million bonus award to the players is a clarion call to the players to fight for the honour of their fatherland and ensure that the glory of our football is restored.
Meanwhile,TOMTOM, the Official Candy of the Nigeria national football teams, has announced incentives for the Super Eagles who are in a must-win situation as they line up against the Syli Nationale of Guinea at the National Stadium, Abuja.
The Most Valuable Player will receive a reward of $3,000 (about N475,000), among other incentives for the Nigerian team which is fired up to deliver the ticket for the 28th edition of the African Cup of Nations to be co-hosted by Gabon and Equatorial Guinea next January.
For every shot on target, the Super Eagles will have $500 (about N80,000), courtesy of TomTom.
According to Mrs Bimbo Alabi, Senior Manager (Medicated Candies), Cadbury Nigeria Plc, TomTom would always go all out to motivate the Super Eagles and all other national football teams to deliver soothing results to the teeming Nigerian football supporters.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Pistons' Wallace waives hearing in DUI case
Detroit Pistons centre Ben Wallace has waived his right to a preliminary hearing on charges of drunken driving and unlawfully carrying a concealed weapon.
Wallace and his attorney were in 48th District Court in Bloomfield Hills on Monday and they indicated they would waive a hearing to determine whether there was enough evidence for him to stand trial. The case will move to Oakland County Circuit Court.
Defense attorney Steve Fishman said he would look at reports in the case before deciding how to proceed.
Police in nearby Bloomfield Township said the 37-year-old Wallace was arrested during a traffic stop about 3 a.m. Sept. 24 after officers observed a Cadillac Escalade being driven erratically. Police said they found an unloaded pistol in a backpack.
Wallace and his attorney were in 48th District Court in Bloomfield Hills on Monday and they indicated they would waive a hearing to determine whether there was enough evidence for him to stand trial. The case will move to Oakland County Circuit Court.
Defense attorney Steve Fishman said he would look at reports in the case before deciding how to proceed.
Police in nearby Bloomfield Township said the 37-year-old Wallace was arrested during a traffic stop about 3 a.m. Sept. 24 after officers observed a Cadillac Escalade being driven erratically. Police said they found an unloaded pistol in a backpack.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Agent for Browns' Hillis told him not to play sick
Fearing Peyton Hillis was weakened from strep throat and could risk injury, his agent advised the Browns' bruising back not to play on Sept. 25 against Miami.
Hillis left Browns Stadium about two hours before kickoff, a decision that has led to speculation he was upset over ongoing negotiations with the club on a contract extension.
However, agent Kennard McGuire told The Associated Press that Hillis was too sick to play, and that he could have jeopardized his career if he played at less than 100 per cent.
"I would give him the same advice to him or any of my clients as if he were my son," McGuire said in a phone interview. "The game is physical enough, and the way Peyton plays the game, he needs all the elements of his physical game. Him being sick, and the level of his sickness, is the equivalent of being injured.
"Not only could he have hurt himself but he could have hurt his team. Nobody embodies Cleveland like Peyton Hillis. If anyone wants to point a finger, point it at me."
In the aftermath of Hillis' decision not to play, suspicions have been raised about the 25-year-old's motives and some have questioned if he sat out in protest.
On Sunday, citing unidentified sources, ESPN reported that some players in Cleveland's locker-room wondered if Hillis' contract situation was a factor in him deciding not to play.
McGuire, like coach Pat Shurmur, was disturbed that if there were teammates who felt that way, they should have had the "courage" to speak out publicly.
McGuire said Hillis, who rushed for nearly 1,200 yards and 11 touchdowns in his first season with Cleveland, has been affected by contract talks with the club.
"He's human, of course it's on his mind," said McGuire, adding he has been in "constant contact" with the Browns. "Would it affect him being a pro? No. Does he feel underappreciated? Yes. He's human. We all in life have a perceived value of our worth now, and he doesn't take for granted what he's earning now.
"But we do believe that he's deserving of something that mirrors his production of last year."
Hillis carried Cleveland's offence in 2010 under former coach Eric Mangini. Acquired in a trade from Denver for quarterback Brady Quinn, Hillis didn't take long to storm into the hearts of Browns fans with a bulldozing running style that matched this blue-collar football city's hard-working identity.
During the off-season, Hillis won a fan vote over Philadelphia quarterback Michael Vick to grace the cover of the Madden 12 video game.
Last season, Hillis caught 61 passes and became the first player in team history to rush for more than 1,000 yards, make 50 catches and score 10 TDs in the same season.
He's in the final year of a rookie contract that will pay him $600,000 US and Hillis wants to be rewarded for his breakout season.
In the past month, the Browns have given contract extensions to several players they have identified as part of their future "core." Pro Bowl offensive tackle Joe Thomas, tight end Evan Moore, defensive tackle Ahtyba Rubin and linebacker Chris Gocong have all received new deals.
Hillis would figure to be in line for an extension, but McGuire indicated the sides aren't near a deal.
"Both the Browns and I are in constant communication," he said. "The fact that the Browns are in contact sends a message that both sides want to procure an agreement. It's just that we are not aligned at this time as to what that value is. Details of these talks will always remain between me and the organization."
There are other factors that may be holding up an extension for Hillis.
Shurmur has installed a West Coast offence, which puts a premium on passing and could significantly reduce Hillis' carries. Also, second-year back Montario Hardesty is healthy after missing his rookie season with a knee injury, and the Browns are trying to figure how to best use him and Hillis in the same backfield.
The Browns may also be wary of giving Hillis a huge contract for fear his aggressive, pounding style will take its toll, lead to injury and shorten his career.
Hillis only had 10 carries in Sunday's 31-13 loss to Tennessee, fuelling belief the Browns might be punishing him for the contract issue — or not playing a week earlier.
Afterward, Hillis said he wanted the ball more, but didn't complain about the low number of touches.
"Take it up with the coach," Hillis said. "I'm just running the plays that he tells me to do. I'm just riding the tide and waiting my chances and opportunities and trying to get things done when I can."
On Monday, Shurmur, who is filling the dual role of offensive co-ordinator, insisted Hillis' attempts were not limited because the Browns were trying to "devalue" the back or for any other off-field reason.
"Absolutely not," Shurmur said. "It's a non-issue."
Shurmur said Hillis remains a major piece in Cleveland's offence as the Browns head into their bye week.
"He's a terrific player," he said. "He's a big part of what we do. And again, if I were here a year ago and I could have felt all this, I might have a different answer. The running back in any offence, especially ours, is a very important piece and he needs to touch the football."
Also this week, several of Hillis' teammates defended his decision to sit out a week earlier.
"You've got to be at your best to play this game," said linebacker Titus Brown. "This is the NFL. If Peyton was able to play, he would have played. He loves this team."
Hillis left Browns Stadium about two hours before kickoff, a decision that has led to speculation he was upset over ongoing negotiations with the club on a contract extension.
However, agent Kennard McGuire told The Associated Press that Hillis was too sick to play, and that he could have jeopardized his career if he played at less than 100 per cent.
"I would give him the same advice to him or any of my clients as if he were my son," McGuire said in a phone interview. "The game is physical enough, and the way Peyton plays the game, he needs all the elements of his physical game. Him being sick, and the level of his sickness, is the equivalent of being injured.
"Not only could he have hurt himself but he could have hurt his team. Nobody embodies Cleveland like Peyton Hillis. If anyone wants to point a finger, point it at me."
In the aftermath of Hillis' decision not to play, suspicions have been raised about the 25-year-old's motives and some have questioned if he sat out in protest.
On Sunday, citing unidentified sources, ESPN reported that some players in Cleveland's locker-room wondered if Hillis' contract situation was a factor in him deciding not to play.
McGuire, like coach Pat Shurmur, was disturbed that if there were teammates who felt that way, they should have had the "courage" to speak out publicly.
McGuire said Hillis, who rushed for nearly 1,200 yards and 11 touchdowns in his first season with Cleveland, has been affected by contract talks with the club.
"He's human, of course it's on his mind," said McGuire, adding he has been in "constant contact" with the Browns. "Would it affect him being a pro? No. Does he feel underappreciated? Yes. He's human. We all in life have a perceived value of our worth now, and he doesn't take for granted what he's earning now.
"But we do believe that he's deserving of something that mirrors his production of last year."
Hillis carried Cleveland's offence in 2010 under former coach Eric Mangini. Acquired in a trade from Denver for quarterback Brady Quinn, Hillis didn't take long to storm into the hearts of Browns fans with a bulldozing running style that matched this blue-collar football city's hard-working identity.
During the off-season, Hillis won a fan vote over Philadelphia quarterback Michael Vick to grace the cover of the Madden 12 video game.
Last season, Hillis caught 61 passes and became the first player in team history to rush for more than 1,000 yards, make 50 catches and score 10 TDs in the same season.
He's in the final year of a rookie contract that will pay him $600,000 US and Hillis wants to be rewarded for his breakout season.
In the past month, the Browns have given contract extensions to several players they have identified as part of their future "core." Pro Bowl offensive tackle Joe Thomas, tight end Evan Moore, defensive tackle Ahtyba Rubin and linebacker Chris Gocong have all received new deals.
Hillis would figure to be in line for an extension, but McGuire indicated the sides aren't near a deal.
"Both the Browns and I are in constant communication," he said. "The fact that the Browns are in contact sends a message that both sides want to procure an agreement. It's just that we are not aligned at this time as to what that value is. Details of these talks will always remain between me and the organization."
There are other factors that may be holding up an extension for Hillis.
Shurmur has installed a West Coast offence, which puts a premium on passing and could significantly reduce Hillis' carries. Also, second-year back Montario Hardesty is healthy after missing his rookie season with a knee injury, and the Browns are trying to figure how to best use him and Hillis in the same backfield.
The Browns may also be wary of giving Hillis a huge contract for fear his aggressive, pounding style will take its toll, lead to injury and shorten his career.
Hillis only had 10 carries in Sunday's 31-13 loss to Tennessee, fuelling belief the Browns might be punishing him for the contract issue — or not playing a week earlier.
Afterward, Hillis said he wanted the ball more, but didn't complain about the low number of touches.
"Take it up with the coach," Hillis said. "I'm just running the plays that he tells me to do. I'm just riding the tide and waiting my chances and opportunities and trying to get things done when I can."
On Monday, Shurmur, who is filling the dual role of offensive co-ordinator, insisted Hillis' attempts were not limited because the Browns were trying to "devalue" the back or for any other off-field reason.
"Absolutely not," Shurmur said. "It's a non-issue."
Shurmur said Hillis remains a major piece in Cleveland's offence as the Browns head into their bye week.
"He's a terrific player," he said. "He's a big part of what we do. And again, if I were here a year ago and I could have felt all this, I might have a different answer. The running back in any offence, especially ours, is a very important piece and he needs to touch the football."
Also this week, several of Hillis' teammates defended his decision to sit out a week earlier.
"You've got to be at your best to play this game," said linebacker Titus Brown. "This is the NFL. If Peyton was able to play, he would have played. He loves this team."
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Buchanon back with Redskins after 4-game suspension
Wa cornerback Phillip Buchanon had been back again about the area Wednesday, getting offered their four-game suspension with regard to violating the actual NFL's plan upon performance-enhancing ingredients.
Buchanon experienced the actual gentle exercise prior to the gamers became popular for any five-day bye-week split.
The actual 10-year experienced was not permitted to possess any kind of connection with the actual group throughout their suspension.
"It had been various personally, inch he or she stated. "Honest error. Points occur, and so i simply place it within The lord's fingers, as well as We anticipate attempting to help to make performs. inch
Buchanon rejected to express that material triggered him or her to become hanging.
The actual Redskins will have to reduce a person in the 53-man roster to create space with regard to Buchanon. Trainer Paul Shanahan stated he'll help to make which proceed later on 7 days, along with Buchanon possibly actively playing towards Philadelphia following the l8rs.
"He's likely to assist all of us immediately, inch Shanahan stated. "I've obtained to look at right here within the next little while which kind of form he is within, as well as ideally he is able to assist all of us towards Philly. inch
Buchanon hurt their make throughout the pre-season, however Shanahan stated this "looked fairly good" throughout the exercise. Due to the damage, Buchanon is going to be confirming towards the Redskins Recreation area instruction space with regard to remedy this particular 7 days whilst their teammates tend to be aside taking pleasure in time away.
"I experienced my personal l8rs 7 days the very first a month, inch he or she stated.
Buchanon, within their 2nd 12 months using the Redskins, is actually likely to lead about the pennie deals. DeAngelo Corridor as well as Josh Wilson would be the beginners, whilst Kevin Barnes, Brandyn Thompson as well as Byron Westbrook possess just about all observed actively playing period from cornerback this year.
Buchanon experienced the actual gentle exercise prior to the gamers became popular for any five-day bye-week split.
The actual 10-year experienced was not permitted to possess any kind of connection with the actual group throughout their suspension.
"It had been various personally, inch he or she stated. "Honest error. Points occur, and so i simply place it within The lord's fingers, as well as We anticipate attempting to help to make performs. inch
Buchanon rejected to express that material triggered him or her to become hanging.
The actual Redskins will have to reduce a person in the 53-man roster to create space with regard to Buchanon. Trainer Paul Shanahan stated he'll help to make which proceed later on 7 days, along with Buchanon possibly actively playing towards Philadelphia following the l8rs.
"He's likely to assist all of us immediately, inch Shanahan stated. "I've obtained to look at right here within the next little while which kind of form he is within, as well as ideally he is able to assist all of us towards Philly. inch
Buchanon hurt their make throughout the pre-season, however Shanahan stated this "looked fairly good" throughout the exercise. Due to the damage, Buchanon is going to be confirming towards the Redskins Recreation area instruction space with regard to remedy this particular 7 days whilst their teammates tend to be aside taking pleasure in time away.
"I experienced my personal l8rs 7 days the very first a month, inch he or she stated.
Buchanon, within their 2nd 12 months using the Redskins, is actually likely to lead about the pennie deals. DeAngelo Corridor as well as Josh Wilson would be the beginners, whilst Kevin Barnes, Brandyn Thompson as well as Byron Westbrook possess just about all observed actively playing period from cornerback this year.
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