Wow. After that Man City game I was really convinced that the title was Liverpool's. But last night Chelsea and Mourinho used the perfect tactics to blow the title race wide open.
1) Tactical Masterstroke I: Parking The Bus
That ol'chestnut. No one does it better than Mourinho. And when he has the right players to execute those tactics well, the results come. Basically Chelsea had 9 men behind the ball all the time, with 5 defenders and 2 defensive mids to shackle, clear and head away just about anything that came into their box. Impressive if he were trying not to concede.
2) Tactical Masterstroke II: Counterattack Ruthlessness
There arn't many players better than a Willian/Shurle + Demba Ba combo if left alone to take on an entire defence on their own (maybe Sturridge and Suarez or RVP and Rooney). Ba holds the ball really well and especially when Willian came on, they were very potent.
3) Tactical Masterstroke III: Frustrating Opponents
No one does it better than Mou. From poking opposing managers in the eye (RIP Tito Vilanova), time-wasting, diving, getting players to get deliberate yellow cards and playing very negative football. He sure knows how to set his team out to frustrate opponents.
4) Poor Steven Gerrard
Even from a Man United fan, I have to say that I respect the guy. Primarily for his unwaivering loyalty, he is one helluva mean midfielder as well, even at his current age (35?). Probably Liverpool's version of our very own Ryan Giggs. His slip was the reason Chelsea managed to score, with Demba Ba able to outpace him and then slip the ball past Mignolet. Considering he's won almost every other club trophy available, if he still doesn't win the league this year (he's never won before), even the neutrals will feel really sorry for him. Or perhaps it's just not meant to be?
5) Title Race Wide Open
This is where it gets really exciting. With Chelsea's win over Liverpool and Man City's win over Crystal Palace last night, the title race is blown wide open yet again. Assuming all three teams win their final remaining two or three games, Man City will win the league on goal difference. However, Man City needs to play one extra game and their next one is against Everton, which is probably the toughest opponents left of all remaining games of those three teams. I have a feeling there will be far more drama to come in the coming weeks.
From a Man United perspective, with Giggsy making a dream start as interim manager and then the reopened wide open title race, this has been a really good weekend.
GGMU!!!
Monday, April 28, 2014
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Manchester United 4 Norwich 0
So it was just Norwich. Yet this was probably the most anticipated game of the season. The only one that comes close was maybe Moyes first league game (4-1 against Swansea).
1) Good Riddance David Moyes
With him finally sacked after that crap performance at Everton last week, as with the whole lousy season we've had, Manchester United was finally allowed to play with swag and aplomb again. Embracing attacking as our best form of defence truly is the United way. Boy did we miss that. Last night's performance really made us think about what might have been if we have a more competent manager at the start.
2) Enter Ryan Giggs
This is the stuff dreams are made of. Every fan's respected player, having watched him journey through the youth academy since he was 12, to tearing teams apart since 1991, to winning almost every trophy imaginable, and now interim manager. Some day he will be full time manager, every fan wants that. Add to that the rest of his Class of '92 backroom staff, Butt, Scholes, Neville, makes things all the more romantic. The mere sight of the four of them walking abreast on the field makes my hair stand with emotion.
3) The Players Are Different
Maybe it was the occasion, maybe there was too much pent up emotions, maybe everyone just wanted to show up finally. Whatever their personal reasons, everyone played with so much more zest and commitment. Players were willing to fight for each other and commitment to let the football flow. I can't even name a handful because the whole team was just playing out of its skin. Even when the team had nerves in the first half and the football wasn't as slick, everyone was still far more committed than any time this season. And once the goals came, the play became more relaxed and our tiki-taka free flow football became such a joy to watch. Even the poor performers IMHO, Cleverley and Young really played with far more commitment.
4) The Star Performers
With our free flowing game, many of our flair players finally got the chance to put in their slick moves. Kagawa and Welbeck were particularly impressive in the first half. Valencia looke rusty but seemed to be back to his bullish ways. He's just so strong. Mata coming on was also very impressive and Evra always does well in attack when he feels it. The back four of Jones, Rio, Vidic and Evra were also very settled, unlike in earlier games where there was so much nerves. Jones is such a monster when he's not playing CB. The one touch passing out of danger was cool as ice. Unlike most games this season, even when we let Norwich come at us, I never felt nervous that they would score. That's how confident the back four were performing.
5) The Manchester United Way
It took Moyes' 10mth tenure to show us fans that there was truly quantifiable in the Manchester United way. We have taken it so much for granted that nobody appreciated it until it was lost. The art of free flowing football, transitioning defence to attack, adopting a philosophy of 'attack, attack, attack', and channeling home grown youths into our teams with the right mindset. It was all summed up by last night's performance that Giggs brought back - 25(11) shots on goal was the most in any MU game this season. Nuff said. Long may this continue.
There may not be anything left to play for this season. We very well will miss out on Europe as well. Louis van Gaal will very likely be the next manager next season. But with the sacking of Moyes and allowing Giggs to take the interim reins, every fan feels alive once more. It's as good a feeling you can get, yesterday was certainly the best game I've watched this season and I'm so excite for our next game against Sunderland.
GGMU!!!
Saturday, April 26, 2014
Class Of '92: From Players To Managers II
Scott from The Republik Of Mancunia really says it all.
Abit sentimental, partly cheesy, but just the way I like it.
There is really a feeling like no other.
Even if we lose today, no one will really blame Giggs, Butt, Scholes or Neville.
I hope we thrash Norwich 7-0!
So excited!
GGMU!!!
Abit sentimental, partly cheesy, but just the way I like it.
There is really a feeling like no other.
Even if we lose today, no one will really blame Giggs, Butt, Scholes or Neville.
I hope we thrash Norwich 7-0!
So excited!
GGMU!!!
Friday, April 25, 2014
Class Of '92: From Players To Managers
Wow. Can't help but smile at the recent developments in Manchester United.
Ryan Giggs is manager. Nicky Butt is no.2. Paul Scholes is back helping out. Phil Neville is still around.
Just left with Beckham and Gary Neville to join the fray that's all.
Really excited for the Norwich game this weekend.
No matter how they perform, they already cannot do worse that all our performances under David Moyes. So glad he is out, although I still wish him all the best in another club.
GGMU!!!
Ryan Giggs is manager. Nicky Butt is no.2. Paul Scholes is back helping out. Phil Neville is still around.
Just left with Beckham and Gary Neville to join the fray that's all.
Really excited for the Norwich game this weekend.
No matter how they perform, they already cannot do worse that all our performances under David Moyes. So glad he is out, although I still wish him all the best in another club.
GGMU!!!
Thursday, April 24, 2014
S. E. A. Aquarium
Was there last weekend with the whole family. Very impressed. Here're some takeaways.
1) Truly World Class
This was my first time there and by golly it really was very impressive. From the opening Shipwreck tank, to the famous underwater observatory in all of Southeast Asia at the halfway mark, to the sheer size, variety and amount of living exhibits, and then the general layout of the aquarium. All too impressive. I generally left the place feeling proud of this being situated in Singapore.
2) Underwater Observatory
This was supposedly one of the largest in the world and true enough, it was impressive. With a huge variety of underwater creatures including barracuda, manta rays and sharks, this alone has become a must-see when coming to Singapore. So big it has it's own Aqua Dome for further viewing, it is indeed something to take time out to marvel at. I think it's called the Open Ocean exhibit.
3) The Little Things
With very impressive living creature exhibits arrange by the different Seas, there came a myriad of sea creatures that looked different even if they were of similar species. There were many interactive stops like touchpools, children arts and crafts stations, video presentations and various information decks to cater to different types of visitors from tourists, couples, locals, families, et al. There was also a typhoon or hurricane simulator which RWSInvites members go in for free with up to 5 guests. Amenities were adequate, staff were friendly, walkways were wide, and had appropriate stairs and ramps for prams.
4) Stacking Up I
From a local perspective, the only competitor the SEA Aquarium has is the Sentosa Underwater World. Before I visited, I had always wondered firstly, what the point was to have two supposedly huge-ass aquariums as tourist destinations in Singapore, much less on Sentosa Island. This was some form of cannibalization wasn't it? Secondly, having visited the Underwater World multiple times since it first opened to much fanfare in the 90s, I didn't think the SEAA could have been far better. Boy I couldn't have been more wrong.
Firstly, the SEAA is far, far, really far, better than the Underwater World. See point 3. Also based on layout and exhibits, the SEAA trumphs its competitor very comprehensively. Secondly, the Underwater World is old. Really. And it looks like it's going out of business, being unable to stand up to the SEAA's competition.
5) Stacking Up II
From a more global or regional perspective, I've been to New Zealand's Kelly Tartan's Underwater World, Australia's Seaworld, Hong Kong's. And I can firmly say that the SEAA stands on its own here. Not because it is definitely the best of the lot, since the other places offer slightly different things as well but it is the most impressive by far in terms of entertainment value.
I will definitely recommend anyone to make a trip down.
1) Truly World Class
This was my first time there and by golly it really was very impressive. From the opening Shipwreck tank, to the famous underwater observatory in all of Southeast Asia at the halfway mark, to the sheer size, variety and amount of living exhibits, and then the general layout of the aquarium. All too impressive. I generally left the place feeling proud of this being situated in Singapore.
2) Underwater Observatory
This was supposedly one of the largest in the world and true enough, it was impressive. With a huge variety of underwater creatures including barracuda, manta rays and sharks, this alone has become a must-see when coming to Singapore. So big it has it's own Aqua Dome for further viewing, it is indeed something to take time out to marvel at. I think it's called the Open Ocean exhibit.
3) The Little Things
With very impressive living creature exhibits arrange by the different Seas, there came a myriad of sea creatures that looked different even if they were of similar species. There were many interactive stops like touchpools, children arts and crafts stations, video presentations and various information decks to cater to different types of visitors from tourists, couples, locals, families, et al. There was also a typhoon or hurricane simulator which RWSInvites members go in for free with up to 5 guests. Amenities were adequate, staff were friendly, walkways were wide, and had appropriate stairs and ramps for prams.
4) Stacking Up I
From a local perspective, the only competitor the SEA Aquarium has is the Sentosa Underwater World. Before I visited, I had always wondered firstly, what the point was to have two supposedly huge-ass aquariums as tourist destinations in Singapore, much less on Sentosa Island. This was some form of cannibalization wasn't it? Secondly, having visited the Underwater World multiple times since it first opened to much fanfare in the 90s, I didn't think the SEAA could have been far better. Boy I couldn't have been more wrong.
Firstly, the SEAA is far, far, really far, better than the Underwater World. See point 3. Also based on layout and exhibits, the SEAA trumphs its competitor very comprehensively. Secondly, the Underwater World is old. Really. And it looks like it's going out of business, being unable to stand up to the SEAA's competition.
5) Stacking Up II
From a more global or regional perspective, I've been to New Zealand's Kelly Tartan's Underwater World, Australia's Seaworld, Hong Kong's. And I can firmly say that the SEAA stands on its own here. Not because it is definitely the best of the lot, since the other places offer slightly different things as well but it is the most impressive by far in terms of entertainment value.
I will definitely recommend anyone to make a trip down.
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
David Moyes Finally Sacked
Such a dream come true!
With all due respect, he really was on borrowed time since that Fulham game.
It feels like we've won the league!
Ryan Giggs to take over as interim manager!
Wonder who the next manager will be. My personal preference is Dortmund's Jurgen Klopp. But odds are that Louis Van Gaal will get the job.
I love that this latest development is taking away all the attention from Liverpool being on the brink of winning their first title in 24yrs, or Chelsea and their UCL pursuits.
Can't wait for Norwich at OT this weekend!
GGMU!!!
Monday, April 21, 2014
Everton 2 Manchester United 0
Sigh.
How many times this season have I said it was the worst performance I've ever seen in a game? Lost count. Add last night's game to the tally.
1) Moyes Is Useless
As I've said almost every game, this guy is useless and clueless. The team doesn't know what it's doing and no one on the pitch or in the dugout knows what kind of tactics are deployed. It all boils down to one incompetent manager. Worse yet his soundbites after the game illustrates our worst fears: he's deluded too. He actually said he thought we played well. Wonder what game was he watching?
2) Players Not Accounting For Themselves Anymore
Almost the entire team didn't look like tey wanted to play for this Moyes team. Or they haven't a clue perhaps. One would think that with the fat paychecks they've got, the players would put shit tactics aside and try harder for the team. Ain't gonna happen. The team looks like they want Moyes out too and they're showing it on the pitch. Can things get even more awful? Quite possibly so.
3) Fletcher Leads By Example
If there's one player I felt made the only effort in the game, it was Darren Fletcher. He wasn't super effective nor was he showing sublime skill or what not, but he really tried his best to get the whole team going. At least he should deserve the captaib's armband.
4) Rooney The Captain
Speaking of the captaib's armband. Wayne Rooney, earner of £300,000/week sure didn't look like he wanted to play. Very off form and unenthusiastic, he must've been leading by example in the zero enthusiasm and communication department
5) Moyes The Inept Team Selector
Yet again, the poor performances boil down to this guy. This time in the department of team selection. Nani hasn't started for half a year and he gets to start such a big game? Someone's desperate to put him on the shop window. Alex Buttner is so shit at LB that it is no wonder Evra has looked complacent over the last few seasons. The guy plays with the same mentality as his current boss - midtable mentality. And don't tell me there are no other options, not when we have such a splendid youth setup and nothin to play for. Phil Jones is my hero at times last season. An absolute monster in tenacity. But now you know why SAF was reluctant to play him at CB. He's too much of a hothead and a tiling time bomb. Too bad Moyes cannot see that. Chris Smalling, another perennial first name on this season's team sheet, plays ok at CB, terribly error prone at RB. Rooney even with his shit performance, gets guaranteed football. Zero communication throughout. Moyes just doesn't get it. Maybe he travels too much watching other players rather than his own.
Ok rant over. Bring on the next game, while I won't mind if we lose, as long as Moyes comes closer to the sack!
#moyesout
GGMU!!!
Sunday, April 20, 2014
Fatherhood - Reflections II
Continuing where I last left off.
My kids are 18mths apart. That's very close in age. The boy was born in the month of September, while the girl was born in the month of March. Now, if like me, you're a fan of Malcolm Gladwell, then you know where I'm getting at with this blogpost. In his book, Outliers: The Story of Success, Malcolm writes about "accumulative advantage", where he asserts that success depends on the idiosyncrasies of the selection process used to identify talent just as much as it does on the athletes' natural abilities.
In my case, the boy, who's older, was born on the tail-end of Singapore's academic school year, while the girl, is in the front-end. As such, I can already see that even though they are academically two years apart, their learning curves are vastly different.
The boy is in a class where all his peers are bigger, stronger, maybe smarter, and faster than he is, as they've got quite a few months on him. Does this affect his confidence? Does it affect the way he reacts to challenges? I'm afraid so. If everyday in school he's made to think that compared to his general cohort, he's slower, weaker and smaller, then this will not be good for his future well-being. As such, I constantly debate with myself over how best to constantly compensate for this (up to 9 month) differential against his peers. Since kids are going to keep growing till their early 20s, the early years are the most crucial in getting them the confidence to grow up with greater ambition, confidence and assertion. It is a challenge that I constantly think about.
The girl, in direct contrast, is in a class where, even with a slight lag to allow her to be in a class where her peers are around her age, she's the one who's bigger, stronger and louder than her peers. In fact compared to many of the boys, my girl is almost gargantuan (I love this bit). Does this affect her confidence? Does it make her more assertive and decisive? You bet so. She's louder, braver and fiercer than almost all her peers (we celebrated her last birthday in school). Heck, even compared to her older brother, she's maybe smaller, but far more confident, assertive and brave. She's not afraid to take risks, get into gung-ho situations, or tell any older kid or adult off ("NO MUMMY FOR YOU!"). So I don't worry about her development so much. I just want to make sure that I'm there with her every step of the way as she grows so that she can be properly guided and to use her confidence and exuberance wisely. It is such a gift to have.
For the boy, I do worry more on a consistent basis. Despite being older and bigger, he can be timid, unambitious, and fearful. One who rather shuns away from a problem or an intimidation than face it head on. One who remembers his fears and restricts himself from trying new things. One who is easily content with little achievements. But he, like his sister, is a very smart child, and I am so blessed for it. I want to make a difference in how he grows up, how his life is shaped, and how he reacts to his own life experiences, both the good and the bad. I want to do all the stuff that rips away all his fearful inhibitions and instill into him a confidence I know he is capable of.
I must make it clear that I am not disappointed one bit. In fact I'm so proud of both my kids. Every little bit they achieve is like a game treasure unlocked, every success in their life is celebrated as much or even more so by me. But while I still can, I want to make a difference in how they grow up, and how they choose to live their lives. Hopefully it will be a long and fulfilling one.
God bless them both. I love you so much!!!
My kids are 18mths apart. That's very close in age. The boy was born in the month of September, while the girl was born in the month of March. Now, if like me, you're a fan of Malcolm Gladwell, then you know where I'm getting at with this blogpost. In his book, Outliers: The Story of Success, Malcolm writes about "accumulative advantage", where he asserts that success depends on the idiosyncrasies of the selection process used to identify talent just as much as it does on the athletes' natural abilities.
In my case, the boy, who's older, was born on the tail-end of Singapore's academic school year, while the girl, is in the front-end. As such, I can already see that even though they are academically two years apart, their learning curves are vastly different.
The boy is in a class where all his peers are bigger, stronger, maybe smarter, and faster than he is, as they've got quite a few months on him. Does this affect his confidence? Does it affect the way he reacts to challenges? I'm afraid so. If everyday in school he's made to think that compared to his general cohort, he's slower, weaker and smaller, then this will not be good for his future well-being. As such, I constantly debate with myself over how best to constantly compensate for this (up to 9 month) differential against his peers. Since kids are going to keep growing till their early 20s, the early years are the most crucial in getting them the confidence to grow up with greater ambition, confidence and assertion. It is a challenge that I constantly think about.
The girl, in direct contrast, is in a class where, even with a slight lag to allow her to be in a class where her peers are around her age, she's the one who's bigger, stronger and louder than her peers. In fact compared to many of the boys, my girl is almost gargantuan (I love this bit). Does this affect her confidence? Does it make her more assertive and decisive? You bet so. She's louder, braver and fiercer than almost all her peers (we celebrated her last birthday in school). Heck, even compared to her older brother, she's maybe smaller, but far more confident, assertive and brave. She's not afraid to take risks, get into gung-ho situations, or tell any older kid or adult off ("NO MUMMY FOR YOU!"). So I don't worry about her development so much. I just want to make sure that I'm there with her every step of the way as she grows so that she can be properly guided and to use her confidence and exuberance wisely. It is such a gift to have.
For the boy, I do worry more on a consistent basis. Despite being older and bigger, he can be timid, unambitious, and fearful. One who rather shuns away from a problem or an intimidation than face it head on. One who remembers his fears and restricts himself from trying new things. One who is easily content with little achievements. But he, like his sister, is a very smart child, and I am so blessed for it. I want to make a difference in how he grows up, how his life is shaped, and how he reacts to his own life experiences, both the good and the bad. I want to do all the stuff that rips away all his fearful inhibitions and instill into him a confidence I know he is capable of.
I must make it clear that I am not disappointed one bit. In fact I'm so proud of both my kids. Every little bit they achieve is like a game treasure unlocked, every success in their life is celebrated as much or even more so by me. But while I still can, I want to make a difference in how they grow up, and how they choose to live their lives. Hopefully it will be a long and fulfilling one.
God bless them both. I love you so much!!!
Playgrounds Of My Time
Courtesy of SGAG.
They sure don't make them like they used to.
Every comment spot on! Except the dunno-how-you-get-up-there trick. Saw a kid get hurt real bad doing that one time...
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Luke's Review
The only reason I get a chance to eat at this place is the fact that it is part sponsored (not by Luke's though!), haha. Luke’s is THE place if you’re trying to burn a hole in your pocket, even if the food is really quite good. At least that’s what I’ve been hearing. So I went with the wife to check it out during lunch. Check out their menu here.
1) Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail
This was supposedly the MUST HAVE at Luke’s. And so it was. The jumbo shrimps were so enormous they could’ve passed off as crayfish! And served in their homemade cocktail sauce which was slightly spicy, this really was the highlight for me.
2) Oysters
We also shared a ½ dozen oysters. Mainly the ones we had were recommended to us because I asked for bigger oysters, so they gave those from Massachusetts (Rip Tide, Wild goose, Marion Point). Considering that I was at Tanuki Raw for cheap oysters and beer the night before, this batch at Luke’s were far larger, tastier and better presented (naturally, given the price differential). Also they help you to slice the oyster meat from the root (or what its called), which is a nice touch.
3) Lobster & Corn Chowder
We said we were sharing the soup, so they actually served this order in two separate bowls. Very thoughtful of them. I am a big fan of lobster bisque in general so this one I felt was quite good. It was tasty and had chunky lobster morsels together with corn and cubed potatos.
4) Luke’s Bone-In Tenderloin Au Poivre + Half Lobster Tail
My goodness. This was huge man. 300g of tenderloin divided by the both of us was still very huge portion. Again they split it nicely to serve two. While the tenderloin was quite good, I was left with a feeling that I’ve had better steak elsewhere. The half lobster was a really nice touch. Else it all seemed like a flood of pure red meat.
5) Asparagus + Lobster Mac & Cheese
Both of these were ordered as sides, but OMG they were so filling. If you are on a tighter budget, both these items are not that necessary. The asparagus was HUGE man! And the wifey loved it. The lobster mac & cheese was a disappointment. Hardly any lobster in it at all.
All in, it was a good meal. The final damage was almost $300. The wife was happy and we had a pretty good time. Service was good and I came out of there feeling like my stomach was about to burst.
1) Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail
This was supposedly the MUST HAVE at Luke’s. And so it was. The jumbo shrimps were so enormous they could’ve passed off as crayfish! And served in their homemade cocktail sauce which was slightly spicy, this really was the highlight for me.
2) Oysters
We also shared a ½ dozen oysters. Mainly the ones we had were recommended to us because I asked for bigger oysters, so they gave those from Massachusetts (Rip Tide, Wild goose, Marion Point). Considering that I was at Tanuki Raw for cheap oysters and beer the night before, this batch at Luke’s were far larger, tastier and better presented (naturally, given the price differential). Also they help you to slice the oyster meat from the root (or what its called), which is a nice touch.
3) Lobster & Corn Chowder
We said we were sharing the soup, so they actually served this order in two separate bowls. Very thoughtful of them. I am a big fan of lobster bisque in general so this one I felt was quite good. It was tasty and had chunky lobster morsels together with corn and cubed potatos.
4) Luke’s Bone-In Tenderloin Au Poivre + Half Lobster Tail
My goodness. This was huge man. 300g of tenderloin divided by the both of us was still very huge portion. Again they split it nicely to serve two. While the tenderloin was quite good, I was left with a feeling that I’ve had better steak elsewhere. The half lobster was a really nice touch. Else it all seemed like a flood of pure red meat.
5) Asparagus + Lobster Mac & Cheese
Both of these were ordered as sides, but OMG they were so filling. If you are on a tighter budget, both these items are not that necessary. The asparagus was HUGE man! And the wifey loved it. The lobster mac & cheese was a disappointment. Hardly any lobster in it at all.
All in, it was a good meal. The final damage was almost $300. The wife was happy and we had a pretty good time. Service was good and I came out of there feeling like my stomach was about to burst.
Monday, April 14, 2014
Liverpool 3 Manchester City 2
Watched last night’s game. Quite gutted actually. Here’re 5 thoughts.
1) Liverpool Will Almost Win It Now
Liverpool really played out of their skins man. You could tell that they really wanted this win. Kudos to them. On paper it was always going to be Man City winning this tie, but given they played at Anfield, with a few lucky breaks here and there (Yaya injured, Kompany fucking up his clearance), they took enough of their chances to win. I never like to see Liverpool win, but last night I would say they deserved their victory.
With 4 more games to go, Norwich (A), Chelsea (H), Crystal Palace (A), Newcastle (H), one could argue that they have the easiest run-in of the three title contenders. The title is really theirs to lose. Win all their games, and the title is theirs. And if they do win the EPL title, then the most deserving player would be Steven Gerrard. I mean heck, Michael Owen has more EPL titles than him!
2) Does Man City Have A Chance?
Being 7pts behind with two games in hand is quite tricky for Man City. Their fixture lineup is as such, Sunderland (H), WBA (H), Crystal Palace (A), Everton (A), Aston Villa (H), West Ham (H). Firstly, more games means higher chances of slip ups. Even the easier games are not sure-win guarantees. Secondly, they still have Everton to play away from home. That’s a tough proposition for anyone. Even Man United is expected to lose this weekend!
Not only does Man City need Liverpool to drop points, they need to pick up maximum points as well. And with Yaya Toure out injured, that is a tough proposition.
3) Does Chelsea Have A Chance?
Being 2pts away means that if all the title contenders theoretically win all their remaining games (impossible since there is a Liverpool v Chelsea tie), Chelsea will finish in 3rd spot. To think that at one stage a few weeks ago they were 4pts in the lead. How different a few weeks can make.
Their fixture lineup is as such, Sunderland (H), Liverpool (A), Norwich (H), Cardiff (A). Basically I think that the away Liverpool game will be the title decider. If Chelsea wins that game, the title will be theirs, whereas Liverpool only need a draw to retain the advantage. Also a relatively easy run-in, they actually just need to focus on winning at Anfield.
4) Gutted I
Not only is Manchester United nowhere near to challenging for the title, not only are we almost certain not to make the Champions League spots, we are currently in danger of not making the Europa Leave spots even! I mean 7th position is really not acceptable for the reigning EPL champions, no matter how you make of it.
Chelsea, Man City, Everton, all have had a change of managers as well, so using the ‘transition’ excuse doesn’t make sense. Not when we have a team that won the title by a mile last season. Moreover, these teams are playing better football and are all in the hunt for the top four spots. Heck even Tottenham, who sacked their manager halfway into the season is above us.
The players don’t look like they are motivated or have the confidence to play for David Moyes. It really all boils down to him, considering that he was almost the only significant thing that changed from last year’s set-up. His tactics are prehistoric and he makes questionable decisions in team selection and substitution. Quite simply, he’s way out of his league and the sooner he goes, the better it will be for the club and all its fans.
#moyesout
5) Gutted II
By rank of who I DO NOT want to win the EPL the most, it goes like that Liverpool, Arsenal, Man City, Chelsea. Very sore for a Manchester United fan, but that’s what happens when your team is absolutely out of the running for just about anything – the true mark of mid-table supremacy.
The primary reason of not wanting Liverpool to win is one of rival pride. We are currently sitting on 20 league titles, while they are on 18. Sir Alex Ferguson took 25 years to ‘knock them off their fucking perch’ and now they’re about to chip our lead away with their first title in 24 years. Not to mention the greatest English football rivalry, I have far more friends who are Liverpool fans than any other club. Here is Asia, it is really Man United and Liverpool that retain the largest fanbases. Damn you David Moyes!
Arsenal is also a matter of rival pride. From the late 90s to early 00s they were our biggest rivals. They’ve also got a fairly large fanbase bourne out of that period. And they haven’t won a trophy for the past 9 years and we sure hope that continues. That being said they are in the FA Cup finals and are odds on to win it, given they will play either Hull or Sheffield United. Boo that. Not qualifying for the Champions League spots might ease the pain.
Man City was the traditional noisy neighbours. A sharer of glory using the same city name. They’d occasionally beat us but we’d still go on to win the title. Not wanting them to win the league is more keenly felt in Manchester, I suppose, due to the inter-city rivalry. Here in our parts, they have no fans, not until now at least. Any people don’t jump on their fanbase for fear of catching the ‘plastics’ or ‘money-buys-everything’ label. Look at what a powerhouse they are now though, and they play very aesthetically-pleasing football to boot.
Chelsea is every Manchester United fan’s choice for the title. They have the ‘money face’ track record already, have very little fans, and no one likes Jose Mourinho (although some MU fans wished it was he who took over). Not to mention that they play the shittiest football of the top contenders, so everyone is going to get upset if they won. Haha, here is where things get a little sore for me as a fan haha.
As long as David Moyes is in charge, even next season looks bleak, squad overhaul or not.
GGMU!!!
1) Liverpool Will Almost Win It Now
Liverpool really played out of their skins man. You could tell that they really wanted this win. Kudos to them. On paper it was always going to be Man City winning this tie, but given they played at Anfield, with a few lucky breaks here and there (Yaya injured, Kompany fucking up his clearance), they took enough of their chances to win. I never like to see Liverpool win, but last night I would say they deserved their victory.
With 4 more games to go, Norwich (A), Chelsea (H), Crystal Palace (A), Newcastle (H), one could argue that they have the easiest run-in of the three title contenders. The title is really theirs to lose. Win all their games, and the title is theirs. And if they do win the EPL title, then the most deserving player would be Steven Gerrard. I mean heck, Michael Owen has more EPL titles than him!
2) Does Man City Have A Chance?
Being 7pts behind with two games in hand is quite tricky for Man City. Their fixture lineup is as such, Sunderland (H), WBA (H), Crystal Palace (A), Everton (A), Aston Villa (H), West Ham (H). Firstly, more games means higher chances of slip ups. Even the easier games are not sure-win guarantees. Secondly, they still have Everton to play away from home. That’s a tough proposition for anyone. Even Man United is expected to lose this weekend!
Not only does Man City need Liverpool to drop points, they need to pick up maximum points as well. And with Yaya Toure out injured, that is a tough proposition.
3) Does Chelsea Have A Chance?
Being 2pts away means that if all the title contenders theoretically win all their remaining games (impossible since there is a Liverpool v Chelsea tie), Chelsea will finish in 3rd spot. To think that at one stage a few weeks ago they were 4pts in the lead. How different a few weeks can make.
Their fixture lineup is as such, Sunderland (H), Liverpool (A), Norwich (H), Cardiff (A). Basically I think that the away Liverpool game will be the title decider. If Chelsea wins that game, the title will be theirs, whereas Liverpool only need a draw to retain the advantage. Also a relatively easy run-in, they actually just need to focus on winning at Anfield.
4) Gutted I
Not only is Manchester United nowhere near to challenging for the title, not only are we almost certain not to make the Champions League spots, we are currently in danger of not making the Europa Leave spots even! I mean 7th position is really not acceptable for the reigning EPL champions, no matter how you make of it.
Chelsea, Man City, Everton, all have had a change of managers as well, so using the ‘transition’ excuse doesn’t make sense. Not when we have a team that won the title by a mile last season. Moreover, these teams are playing better football and are all in the hunt for the top four spots. Heck even Tottenham, who sacked their manager halfway into the season is above us.
The players don’t look like they are motivated or have the confidence to play for David Moyes. It really all boils down to him, considering that he was almost the only significant thing that changed from last year’s set-up. His tactics are prehistoric and he makes questionable decisions in team selection and substitution. Quite simply, he’s way out of his league and the sooner he goes, the better it will be for the club and all its fans.
#moyesout
5) Gutted II
By rank of who I DO NOT want to win the EPL the most, it goes like that Liverpool, Arsenal, Man City, Chelsea. Very sore for a Manchester United fan, but that’s what happens when your team is absolutely out of the running for just about anything – the true mark of mid-table supremacy.
The primary reason of not wanting Liverpool to win is one of rival pride. We are currently sitting on 20 league titles, while they are on 18. Sir Alex Ferguson took 25 years to ‘knock them off their fucking perch’ and now they’re about to chip our lead away with their first title in 24 years. Not to mention the greatest English football rivalry, I have far more friends who are Liverpool fans than any other club. Here is Asia, it is really Man United and Liverpool that retain the largest fanbases. Damn you David Moyes!
Arsenal is also a matter of rival pride. From the late 90s to early 00s they were our biggest rivals. They’ve also got a fairly large fanbase bourne out of that period. And they haven’t won a trophy for the past 9 years and we sure hope that continues. That being said they are in the FA Cup finals and are odds on to win it, given they will play either Hull or Sheffield United. Boo that. Not qualifying for the Champions League spots might ease the pain.
Man City was the traditional noisy neighbours. A sharer of glory using the same city name. They’d occasionally beat us but we’d still go on to win the title. Not wanting them to win the league is more keenly felt in Manchester, I suppose, due to the inter-city rivalry. Here in our parts, they have no fans, not until now at least. Any people don’t jump on their fanbase for fear of catching the ‘plastics’ or ‘money-buys-everything’ label. Look at what a powerhouse they are now though, and they play very aesthetically-pleasing football to boot.
Chelsea is every Manchester United fan’s choice for the title. They have the ‘money face’ track record already, have very little fans, and no one likes Jose Mourinho (although some MU fans wished it was he who took over). Not to mention that they play the shittiest football of the top contenders, so everyone is going to get upset if they won. Haha, here is where things get a little sore for me as a fan haha.
As long as David Moyes is in charge, even next season looks bleak, squad overhaul or not.
GGMU!!!
Friday, April 11, 2014
MUFC Vs FC Bayern Munich II
Ok, so as expected, we bowed out of the UCL with a 1-3 loss to Bayern in the 2nd leg. At least we had a good showing during the first leg.
I don't feel that sad since most fans were expecting a wipeout and a 2-4 aggregate score over two legs isn't half bad. Heck, I didn't even stay up to watch the match.
So what now? There's hardly anything to look forward to this season anymore.
I guess mainly we just hope to win all our remaining games. Hope that Man City or Chelsea can somehow win the league instead of Liverpool. Hope that we have some new players in the bag by now. Hope that we make the UEFA Europa League at least. Hope that Moyes will be shown the door, or make some really radical changes in his backroom staff and working techniques that could bring about some optimism.
Else there really isn’t much to look forward to for the rest of this season.
#moyesout
GGMU!!!
I don't feel that sad since most fans were expecting a wipeout and a 2-4 aggregate score over two legs isn't half bad. Heck, I didn't even stay up to watch the match.
So what now? There's hardly anything to look forward to this season anymore.
I guess mainly we just hope to win all our remaining games. Hope that Man City or Chelsea can somehow win the league instead of Liverpool. Hope that we have some new players in the bag by now. Hope that we make the UEFA Europa League at least. Hope that Moyes will be shown the door, or make some really radical changes in his backroom staff and working techniques that could bring about some optimism.
Else there really isn’t much to look forward to for the rest of this season.
#moyesout
GGMU!!!
Sunday, April 06, 2014
Bully
Today I watched this docu-drama on FX, cable TV, called Bully.
It is about the lives of kids who have been bullied in school in the US. Some ended up committing suicide while their parents pick up the pieces, some found the confidence to stand up for themselves, others got help from the love of their family and loved ones.
It was quite a powerful and poignant film that drove home several messages.
Firstly, all of us naturally discriminate.
Let's not kid ourselves. People different from us are stereotyped and generalized. Whether by LBGTQ, race, gender, nationality, size, history, family background, everything! But it is how we react to overcome these mindsets that make a world of a difference to those around us. And that is the important first step to eliminate bullying, period. Don't be an ignorant bully without even realizing it. As one parent rightly said in the show,"You just don't know what another person's been through until you've walked a mile in their shoes.". The parent who said that lost his son to suicide and only during his search for answers as to what drove his son to do it, realized that so many times his son had tried to reach out to him and others but was never paid heed. So sad. Help before it's too late.
Secondly, bullying happens anywhere.
It doesn't have to be school. It could be at the workplace, in public, in any group, heck, even at home. Recognize it and stand up against it. Of course it's easier said than done, especially in our society where we try to mind our own business all the time. Still, it is prevalent anywhere and everywhere. Whether you choose to step up and make a difference is up to you.
Thirdly, make a difference at home.
The toughest part for me, were the cases where the kids see no way out and choose to commit suicide. Only then did the parents speak up, ask questions about society and themselves, and try to make a difference. It drives home the important point that if we all just communicated more at home, get to know our kids better by listening to them, and respecting them for the individuals they are, we would have less regrets in life. Kids who are better loved also grow up more confident, knowing they have their families who've got their backs. That's just so important.
Game Of Thrones
I've always wanted to know what the big deal was with this whole Game Of Thrones period drama.
Then suddenly I have this window of opportunity and guess what comes up on HBO while I'm away in Jakarta? The Game Of Thrones season 2 marathon!
And in one fell swoop, I catch the final four episodes of the season.
Lovely stuff!
Then suddenly I have this window of opportunity and guess what comes up on HBO while I'm away in Jakarta? The Game Of Thrones season 2 marathon!
And in one fell swoop, I catch the final four episodes of the season.
Lovely stuff!
Stat Bike Ride II
Managed to squeeze in one more stationary bike ride today.
Clocked 12.63km of cycling in 30min on Level 10 normal. This works out to 25.26km/h for my second stat bike cycling training session.
Hopefully I'll be abit more disciplined with my swimming and cycling here on until my surgery.
Clocked 12.63km of cycling in 30min on Level 10 normal. This works out to 25.26km/h for my second stat bike cycling training session.
Hopefully I'll be abit more disciplined with my swimming and cycling here on until my surgery.
Captain America: The Winter Soldier
Managed to catch the movie in Jakarta over the weekend.
1) Awesome As Usual
As with all the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies, this installment was awesome as usual. Funnily enough I didn't really like the first installment.
2) Just Like In The Comics
What I really like about these movies is the fact that I relate a lot of it to the comics I used to read as a teenager. I still have a huge stash of it (some 400-500+) in the storeroom. Tales like The Uncanny X-Men, The Amazing Spiderman, X-Force, The Avengers, all helped me grow up to become what I am. And it's great to see it all come to life in the movies.
3) Them Easter Eggs
'Nuff said.
4) I Love Scarlett Johanson
As the Black Widow, she looks to have aged somewhat (maybe it's her marriage :P) but still looking hot as Agent Romanov. Amazing actress. Hope to see even more of her in the upcoming installments.
5) Can't Wait For Quiksilver And The Scarlett Witch
Set to appear at Avengers: The Age of Ultron, these twins are going to rock! Stay till the end credits!
1) Awesome As Usual
As with all the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies, this installment was awesome as usual. Funnily enough I didn't really like the first installment.
2) Just Like In The Comics
What I really like about these movies is the fact that I relate a lot of it to the comics I used to read as a teenager. I still have a huge stash of it (some 400-500+) in the storeroom. Tales like The Uncanny X-Men, The Amazing Spiderman, X-Force, The Avengers, all helped me grow up to become what I am. And it's great to see it all come to life in the movies.
3) Them Easter Eggs
'Nuff said.
4) I Love Scarlett Johanson
As the Black Widow, she looks to have aged somewhat (maybe it's her marriage :P) but still looking hot as Agent Romanov. Amazing actress. Hope to see even more of her in the upcoming installments.
5) Can't Wait For Quiksilver And The Scarlett Witch
Set to appear at Avengers: The Age of Ultron, these twins are going to rock! Stay till the end credits!
Friday, April 04, 2014
Stat Bike Ride
Clocked a half hour on the stationary bike today.
Haven't exercised since I tore my ACL so I was abit apprehensive about going on the bike for too long. In fact I missed the OCBC Cycling 2014 because of that fear of aggravating the knee again.
Wow I shouldn't have worried too much man.
Firstly, the orthopedic surgeon said I should really work hard on strengthening my quads by cycling and swimming ONLY. These are the only two exercise activities that are intensive and yet don't strain my torn meniscus.
Secondly, the half hour ride on the bike gave me very little pain in the knee. Apart from an initial 5min start where I suspect the pain was due to not exercising for too long, the rest was a breeze. In fact I tested my directional change motions and they were so ok, I feel like I could go play football again!
Anyway I need to put in more effort in the gym. My muffin top is getting too obvious!
Tuesday, April 01, 2014
MUFC Vs FC Bayern Munich
I don't really think we will survive tonight, but then, you never know.
Believe!
GGMU!!!
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