Week One: Aguero late show, Rodgers on thin ice and sad day for Cricket

Sometimes I get the urge to start a new blog, or pass my opinions on different sporting topics, despite them mostly being a load of toss.
However I wanted to come up with some new, quick and snappy that will hand my views and opinions to the top sporting topics and funny sporting topics each week.
Here is the first installment of that, with ups and downs hitting this week, as well as a much loved football star entertaining the country on I'm a Celebrity.

Aguero late show proves he is one of the best!

City needed to win, badly, however they nearly cocked it all up again.
1-0 up, with an extra man, they should have pressed for a second and cruised to win.
But against the class of Andy Tate's idol 'Pep Guardiola' City couldn't handle Bayern's 'barca style of play' as Alonso, the man who ages like a fine wine drew them level.
And then Lewandowski grabbed another, however as the clocked into the last ten minutes I had a feeling the little man would pop up.
That is what he did, and he capitalised on calamity defending to keep his side in the CL.
Big shout out to Frank Lampard as well. Still kicking it at the top, didn't look out of place at the age of 36.

Rodgers on the thinnest of thin ice.

I used to like Brendan Rodgers, last season that was.
However after his Spurs rant last year, he has gone and done the same and signed some tripe in the process.
Replacing Suarez with Lambert. Awful. And with the likes of Lovern, it is interesting that they can do so well with Southampton, leave for the big time, and play terribly. Southampton in second makes that better.
However Balotelli seemed a panic buy, and they lack cutting edge.
Ludogarets was shocking, and terrible defending, and a decision that has always baffled me is giving Reina the can for Mignolet.
Shape up or ship out Brendan.

Keano wants to concentrate on two games in four months.

This morning we woke to the news that Royston Keane, or Roy, has left Villa as assistant manager to concentrate on work with Republic of Ireland.
Jesus Roy, two games in fourth months is hardly stressful.
To be fair Villa have been awful and it seemed an odd appointment in the first place.
However Villa are a sinking ship and need saving, fast.

Rovers refuse rapist Evans.

Tranmere Rovers chairman Mark Palios has turned down the chance to sign convicted rapist Ched Evans, no great surprise there.
Evans was relived from training with Sheffield United last week amid wide spread anger from fans and sponsors alike.
It is believed he is now training with his local side Rhyl, and was at their game against The New Saints last weekend.
Will Evans play again? With the current attitude towards him, it is hard to see where.

£25 to sit behind a post? No thanks.

Social media blew up in the week after a Bolton fan paid £25 to watch his side from behind a pillar at Blackpool's Bloomfield Road.
Unlucky to the fan who had to sit behind the pillar, but what a joke from Blackpool.
The club is already the laughing stock of the Championship, and this highlights even more how badly run that club must be.

Humble move from Mr Klopp

To the surprise of dog walkers and romantic strollers this week, Jurgen Klopp took his Dortmund team training in Regents Park prior to their CL clash with Arsenal.
What a great move from Klopp to interact with fans, and show that his super stars can relax from time to time.
Didn't really help them though as Wenger's boys turned them over.

Thierry Henry back to the Prem?

The Metro reported this week that Henry has hinted at yet another Arsenal return.
To be honest it is getting boring by now, but he would be the best striker to Gunners have had in recent years.
And everyone loves Mr Va Va Voom don't they.

Jimmy lights up the jungle.

No one, and I mean no one can dislike Jimmy Bullard.
The man was a genius on the pitch in his short lived career, and he is without doubt a genius off it.
Bullard entered the jungle after making a bad investment, so like all competitors he needed the money.
However he has lit the jungle up alongside Carl Fogarty, and looks set to be crowned King Of The Jungle next week.
The show can make or break people and I think this will make a career after football in TV for Jimmy, that is for sure.

Fantastic mark of respect to the late Phil Hughes.

This week saw the sporting world shocked by the death of 25-year-old cricketer Phil Hughes.
Hughes was struck on the neck and broke an artery which caused a bleed on his brain.
Hughes never re-gained consciousness and died in hospital.
A tragic and sad day for the world of cricket, however unbelievable marks of respect have been given.
The #63notout has been trending world wide, and the fact that over the week people have been leaving their bats on all over the world has been incredible.
Also a mention for the bowler Sean Abbott. It was a freak accident, but you have to feel sorry for the man who delivered that fateful ball.
The helmet safety needs to be reviewed, however for the time being, RIP Phil Hughes.

Albion almost faultless but LVG has his work cut out

Currently I label myself as a bad Albion fan.
Due to work commitments I haven't been to watch the Baggies for nearly two years, which is shocking.
I could have found the time to go to a midweek Carling Cup clash but it hasn't happened. And then I return for the big Manchester United clash last night.
Some could call me a glory supporter, but there isn't much bloody glory watching the Baggies until last night.
To be honest in the summer, I wanted Sherwood, however Jeremy Peace opted for Irvine, a manager he knew well.
It was well known in footballing circles that Irvine was one of the best on the training field there is no doubt about that, but the manager is a different story, sorry 'Head Coach' as Albion like to refer to them as.
However Irvine seems to have slotted in like the piece of the jigsaw that seemed to be missing from the box last season.
Clarke was booted out, when he shouldn't have, Mel was the right man, but the wrong time, but now Irvine has gone about his business quietly and seems to have set Albion up considerably well.
Neat and tidy signings, coupled with the class of Dorrans, Morrison, Brunt and Foster and we seem to be coming good.
Last night I thought we were exceptional. We came out of the blocks, hit them and they couldn't handle us early doors.

Sessegnon's goal was out of this world, and then couple that with a highly solid defensive display against United and you are on to a winner, or so it seemed.
Yes they had a total of 22 shots, but around 18 of them were over the bar, hardly troubled. Myhill was called into action and dealt with it well and the Berahino goal was scored by a man who looked like he had 150 goals behind him.
We maybe could have kept the ball better at times, and kept LVG's men out late on, but Blind's goal was a great strike.
Walking into the ground I would have taken a point, 86 minutes in I wanted three, but looking back I would say 2-2 is a fantastic result.
Credit to Irvine. He failed at PNE and Wednesday, however now it could finally be coming good for the man regarded as one of the countries top coaches.
Saying that Clarke was on fire early on at Halfords Lane, that ended on a sour note, but something tells me this could be the best Premier League side I will have seen at The Hawthorns.
On the other hand, United were woeful. Di Maria looked awful, he was off form. The likes of Rojo and Blind looked average, and they had no sharpness.
RVP got in positions he would have finished from a few years ago, but he looked goal shy, and with 0% confidence.
Work to do, they will probably make the Champions League, but it will be a struggle.
Here is how I rated the Baggies and the Reds last night.

Boaz Myhill 7
Solid, did well when called upon, didn't flap. More than capable replacement

Andre Wisdom 7
Didn't rate the loanee going into the game, but burst past Di Maria for the opener, and provided solid cover.
Would like to see Gamboa given a go though.

Craig Dawson 8 MOM
Dawson was exceptional. Seems to have waited his chance because it would have been so easy to leave.
Lescott has had his influence on him.

Joloen Lescott 7
Few errors, one for the goal, but Lescott was class, a man mountain. Million times better than Olsson.

Sebastien Pocognoli 6
Not impressed with the Belgian. Did the simple things, but lost the ball a lot, however he was solid.

Chris Brunt 8
Didn't deserve the flack he had and showed it last night.

Craig Gardener 7
Great addition, midfield general and keeps us ticking over.

James Morrison 7
Pivotal role in the Albion side, should never be left out. Compliments Gardener well.

Graham Dorrans 8
Always been my favourite player in the current player. Always has time and his so calm on the ball.

Stephane Sessegnon 8
Wonder goal from the Benin international. Great technique, and seemed to make life on the pitch look so easy.

Saido Berahino 8
Finishing made the striker look like an accomplished forward with 300 games under his belt. Will go in the summer but I don't think he should.
Could end up like Izzy Brown.

De Gea 7
Rafeal 5
Evans 5
Rojo 5
Shaw 7
Januzaj 5
Blind 5
Herrara 5
Di Maria 6
Mata 5
RVP 4

Fellaini - 6
Falcao 5
Young 4

Oswestry Football Predictions Week 6

Not a bad week last time out, but with less games, I want full marks/

Carmarthen Town vs TNS
DRAW

Wellington vs Ellesmere Rangers
AWAY WIN

FC Oswestry Town vs Wroxeter Rovers
HOME WIN

Highley Miners Welfare vs Gobowen Celtic
AWAY WIN

Flint Town United vs Guilsfield
DRAW

Llansanffraid Village vs Carno
HOME WIN

Aberystwyth University vs Four Crosses
AWAY WIN

FINALLY sometime stands up to Fergie.

Reading the leaked extracts from Roy Keane's book 'The Second Half' this week spurred me on to buying the midfielders career pages.

And at a price of £8.99 it is a bargain, and from the extracts leaked by some tit in a Tesco in Burnley, everyone knows what happens in the book now, with all the nationals printing extracts within hours.

However Keane officially launched the book yesterday, and immediately went about slamming Ferguson, Mourinho and a host of new players, and I think he is quiet right to.

On the BBC website this morning a small clip showed him claiming people were actually scared of Ferguson, and it is a breath of fresh air to see someone like Keane standing up to Fergie.

Now don't get me wrong United fans will see this and think, he is talking bollocks because he hates United. Yes I do hate United, but I do agree that Ferguson is an amazing manager, one of the best of all time. However for years he has had the media, managers, referees and the majority of players all wrapped around his little finger.

Keane has laid bare his relationship with Ferguson, and to be honest I would side with Keane because in my opinion, Keane's time line of affairs is more credible.

Ferguson manipulated people in to doing it his way, he twisted interviews, got refs on side, and I think that is why you wouldn't trust much Ferguson has to say. And coming out  slamming players who won him titles in his own book, that is terrible.

I think Keane wasn't a saint by any stretch of the imagination, but his version of events is more credible and believable than Ferguson's.

I haven't read the full version yet despite it due to arrive yesterday, but Royal Mail are shit (cheers Rob Drury, Nathan Leonard, Dylan Ellis), but from what I see that 'Keano' has said on the Ferguson matter is quite right.

He has made his millions, got his statue, his stadium, his knighthood, all these things from having top quality players.

Yes Ferguson has to take some credit there is no denying that, but slamming them players is wrong and disrespectful. They made Ferguson and he ended up shitting on them.

Another thing that I found interesting from the leaked parts of the book is his take on the Class of 92, and I think the Irishman has hit the nail on the head with that too.

Yes the Class of 92 are special, six of seven players from the same generation all world beaters, however there were other players in that team, and people forget about them.

I think the Keane book has the potential to be great, but I will let you know when I finish.

But the bottom line is, he speaks the truth, he doesn't care who he upsets, and he causes entertaining confrontation.

But that sells books right?

Oswestry Football Predictions - Week 5

Shocker last week. Absoloute 'mare.' Hopefully better this week. In two minds whether to go against FC Oswestry Town. Everytime I go against them they win, so might be a good luck charm for them. We will see.

The New Saints vs Prestatyn Town
Foregone conclusion.
HOME WIN

Ellesmere Rangers vs Pegasus Juniors
Rangers won again last week and are flying high and will be fully expected to win against their lower placed opponents.
HOME WIN

Worcester Raiders vs St Martins
St Martins are flying at the moment with three wins on the bounce, however they travel to second placed Worcester. Long way and very tough opponents.
DRAW

Whitchurch Alport vs FC Oswestry Town
Town are one place above Alport and are looking impressive thus far.
AWAY WIN (cursed)

Childs Ercall vs Weston Rhyn
Disappointing to see Rhyn down the bottom because they are such a good club.
Fancy them this week to level with Ercall on points.
AWAY WIN

Gobowen Celtic vs St Martins Village
Massive derby clash in Gobowen. Maybe a fired up crowd, and definately fired up players.
Two revived clubs going for the first bragging rights of the season, but I think Celtic have too much in their squad.
HOME WIN

Llanrhaeadr vs Four Crosses
Another tasty derby this time over the border.
Llanrhaeadr with an average start after relegation and Crosses always likely to score goals. Could be a few bulging the net this week.
DRAW

Tywyn vs Llansanffraid Village
Fraid on the up with a few good signings lately, and Tywyn struggling down the bottom despite giving Crosses a run for their money last week.
AWAY WIN

Four Crosses Reserves vs Morda United
Yellows had a tough trip to Guilsfield Reserves in the week, but spirited. A lot of fight there and I can see them getting the three points this weekend.
AWAY WIN

Oswestry Football Predictions: Week 4

There was a weeks break in my football predictions last week but we are back this weekend, hoping for the first clean sweep of the season.
Have a look what you think, and have a go against me.

Airbus UK vs The New Saints
Airbus looking good this season, and the Saints were held by Newtown at home last week. And the key Sam Finley is sidelined, so I could see a dent in the Saints title charge tomorrow.
HOME WIN

Wellington Amateurs vs Ellesmere Rangers
Rangers lost last week, and this week lost the services of Mason Springthorpe to Market Drayton Town. However with Ams languishing down the bottom, the mere should win this one.
AWAY WIN

St Martins vs Bustlehome
I have been going against St Martins recently, but they have picked up two impressive wins in recent weeks, and are above Bustlehome in the league, so I am backing Ryan Butcher's men this week.
HOME WIN

Wroxteter vs FC Oswestry Town CUP
Junior Cup action as the inform Town travel to Wroxeter. I can see this one going all the way to extra time, and I think I will have go favour the home side.
HOME WIN

Weston Rhyn vs Prees CUP
After a tough start, the Rhyn have a welcome break with the cup this weekend, and a great chance to kick start their season.
HOME WIN

Spalaig Britannia vs Morda United CUP
Morda venture back into Shropshire for one weekend, and on current form should make light work of their Mercian Division Two opponents.
AWAY WIN

Four Crosses vs Tywyn
Crosses dominated Llansanffraid in the derby last week, and against the basement boys Tywyn at home should expect to win.
HOME WIN

Machynlleth vs Llansanffraid
Ffraid had a good cup win in the week, and rescued a point in last weekend's derby.
Tommy Lewis seems to be a key signing for them, and they looked good going forward, however Mach have been impressive so far and sit fourth with Ffraid 7th.
DRAW

Oswestry Football Predictions Week 3

Nearly a clean sweep last week, seven out of nine.
A vast improvement from the week before, but to be fair it couldn't have got any worse really.
However this week I can see it being more like the first week, a tough round of fixtures to call.
A few surprises in there this week as I mix them up. So how will I get on?
I have only picked six games, so check out my predictions below and see what you think.

Bala Town vs The New Saints
First against second in the Welsh Prem on Friday night and you would expect the full timers and champions to come out on top.
However I think this one could go to the wire.
Bala have had a great start after a pretty poor campaign last time out, and with players in their ranks such as David Artell and Mark Jones, they could push Craig Harrison's Saints all the way.
DRAW

Haughmond vs Ellesmere Rangers
Another crunch match in the West Midland Premier.
Ellesmere are re-vitalised under Dan Stevens and currently sit fifth, with Haughmond sixth.
The Shrewsbury side have been on a rapid rise in recent years and have excelled.
Haughmond do have quality in there ranks in terms of Steve and Carl Rogers, and I think it could be there day.
HOME WIN

St Martin's vs Wren's Nest
It hasn't been the best of starts for Ryan Butcher's side with just four points from four and the side sitting in 12th position.
Last week they narrowly went down in Hereford and with this week's opponents flying high in third, it could be more of the same.
AWAY WIN

Morda United vs Welshpool Town Reserves
It was Colin Turner's sides first defeat back in Wales last week against local rivals Trefonen.
Morda battled hard and took the game to extra time, but it is back to the league this week and Welshpool.
They sit above Morda with an extra point so it is hard to call this one at such an early stage.
Got to go with Morda though haven't I.
HOME WIN

Madeley Sports vs FC Oswestry Town
Four impressive points from two tough games see's Oswestry currently in 11th with Saturday's opponents two places behind.
Madeley stormed from Division One two years ago, but have struggled this campaign to get points on the board.
Another tough clash for Oswestry, but I have gone against them before and they have won, so I will give them a little more credit this week.
AWAY WIN

Gobowen Celtic vs Whitchurch Alport Reserves
Like I predicted it was a goal fest for Gobowen last week, and I think they might bag a few more this week looking at the table.
The management team from last seasons Cross Foxes side have done well to put such an impressive outfit together, and that shows in their league position of fourth.
With their opponents in 12th, I back Gobowen.
HOME WIN

Oswestry Football Predictions Week 2

After last week's disaster with just three right, and an earful in The Bell on Saturday night I could have quit.
But I haven't, because I think this week the fixtures look easy, and I am going for a clean sweep of results.
Saying that it will probably go against me now but I will have a go.
TNS have an easy game really, as do the likes of Gobowen Celtic. 9 results this week, I will tip myself for eight.

The New Saints vs Port Talbot Town
Despite Port Talbot looking good in pre-season and having a good start to the season, they rarely take anything from The Venue.
Saints are top and in form once again so only going one way.
PREDICTION - HOME WIN

Ellesmere Rangers vs Wellington
Dan Stevens side are sitting pretty in third and have won the last four.
Wellington are currently 11th having just won two of the first five, and I can only see this going one way.
PREDICTION - HOME WIN

Hereford Lads Club vs St Martins
To the West Mids One now and St Martins will be looking to kick start their season after an average start.
However Hereford are sitting 7th with two wins and a draw from the opening four, and I think the result could go their way this weekend.
PREDICTION - HOME WIN

Four Crosses vs Machynlleth
The Foxen Manor side picked up a valuable point last week at Bow Street and now sit 7th in the pile, with their opponents Mach down in 10th.
Crosses have had a good start and will be boosted by the signing of striker Chris Bishop. I am backing Nick Popyk's boys this weekend.
PREDICTION - HOME WIN

Caersws vs Guilsfield
The most interesting clash on the prediction list this weekend and a close one to call.
Guilsfield picked up a great result last week against Denbigh, with Caersws losing to Llandudno.
Despite this the Bluebirds have had a superb start under Graham Evans, and it will be a tough afternoon for the Guils
PREDICTION - DRAW

Morda vs Trefonen
First cup game back in Wales for Morda and they will be looking to take the local bragging rights.
The Yellows picked up a great win back in Wales last week as Ollie Jackson led the way with all four.
Only one way I see this cup clash going.
PREDICTION - HOME WIN

Church Stretton vs FC Oswestry Town
My prediction was wildly wrong last week for the town as they beat Ketley 4-1.
They sit 10th with Stretton 12th but it seems as if they have had a poor start.
I think their position is deceiving as their squad looks strong.
But I can see the town getting a result in South Shropshire this weekend.
PREDICTION - DRAW

Gobowen Celtic vs Denso
Anyone who has heard of Denso will know I don't need to say much.
Goal scoring avalanche.
PREDICTION - MASSIVE HOME WIN

Riverside vs St Martins Village
All the new sides seem to be mixing things about in the bottom league.
But Riverside have had a top start with the new St Martins side struggling.
PREDICTION - HOME WIN

Jackson delighted with dream Morda start

Jackson also grabbed four in his previous Morda outing

IN THEIR historic return to the Welsh system, Morda United could not have hoped for a better start.
An away day to Llansanffraid Reserves was a great fixture to begin to new era with. And after five minutes Morda were in dream land thanks to a five minute hat-trick from Ollie Jackson.
Ffraid pegged them back to 3-2 at the break, however Jackson added another to complete an historic return to the Welsh system.
And speaking on Monday morning, Jackson described it as a dream start.
He said: "It was an amazing to get four goals on another Morda debut.
"There was so much energy in the changing rooms before and every was buzzing for it.
"And you could see that as soon as we got on the pitch.
"We won everything in the first half hour and luckily for me everything I hit went in.
"If only we had the fitness to carry it through the game, however that is what we need to work on and if we do we will have a really strong team."
Jackson has played for both Morda first team and reserves in the past, but he admitted going into this season he didn't see himself playing for anyone.
He said: "I didn't expect to be playing for anyone this season at all.
"However when I had the text off Matty Owen about the club potentially folding and that he wanted me back at Morda with a host of other people, I couldn't resist."
All the players on show had played for Morda in the past and Jackson has given credit to Matty and Morda stalwart Colin Turner for getting the side up and running once more.
He said: "The team is made up of all players who have played together somewhere along the line.
"And all credit to Matty and Col for getting the lads there.
"Everyone is there for the same reason, to turn up on a Saturday, have a game of football with their mates and enjoy it, win, lose or draw.
"At this level I think that is what local football is really about.
"There is a lot of quality throughout the team and it bodes well for a really good season."
The Morda fixture was one of only three I got right in my weekend predictions, so I need to get improving on them!
In other results locally, The New Saints demolished GAP Connah's Quay 5-1 thanks to a double from Greg Draper.
Llansanffraid Village came away 2-1 winners against Berriew in the Spar Mid Wales League with Four Crosses sharing the spoils with Bow Street.
Guilsfield picked up an impressive 1-0 home win over Denbigh Town with Gareth Jones' volley settling the matter.
Oswestry Town beat Ketley Bank Utd 4-1 away (had a shocker there).
St Martin's Village lost 6-4 in a thriller against Stoke Heath Prison and Gobowen Celtic thrashed Shifnal Harriers 8-2.
I will be back next week with some more fixtures, hopefully more right that wrong next time.

Weekly Feature - Oswestry Football Predictions

It seems as I am writing a lot of posts about Oswestry Football at the moment and putting my views across.
As everyone knows I have strong views, positive and negative about what goes on in the local football scene.
So I thought on a weekly basis I would begin to give my spin on the results, a prediction post, and a review post.
So here is the first prediction post with a host of Oswestry teams in action this weekend!

GAP Connah's Quay vs The New Saints

GAP have been lacklustre after signing a host of new players, as they do.
The Saints have had their usual good start, but they are yet to fire into top gear yet.
Only one winner.
Prediction: 1-4

Ellesmere Rangers vs Stone Old Alleynians

Under Dan Stevens and with a host of young talent, the meresiders are buoyed and currently sit 3rd in the West Midland Regional League table.
They have had a great start with some thumping wins, as they have the likes of ex Shrewsbury men Carpenter and Ryan.
Also ex Shrews and Everton man Mason Springthorpe has made the step down after his release and he could be key to them this season.
Prediction: 3-1

St Martins P-P Worcester Raiders

Berriew vs Llansanffraid

Average start by Ray Jones side, with a difficult start against Welshpool.
They face a Berriew side that have also struggled for their standards after a good season last time.
Ffraid will be looking for a kick start but I can see a stalemate in this one.
Prediction: 2-2

Bow Street vs Four Crosses

In my memory Crosses always seem to be quick starters.
Fifth in the table at the moment has seen them off to a flyer, and I think they will be on top again this weekend.
Looked good in pre-season with the likes of Richards and Gerrard, and they will be key this weekend.
Prediction: 1-3

Guilsfield vs Denbigh Town

The Guils have impressed me in pre-season and their Alliance start.
Added to the squad well under Mike Parry with Richards, Davies and Jones coming in.
However Terry Ingram and Dave Taylor have gone into Denbigh with what I am guessing is a big budget.
Tough one to call, but an away win I think. Sorry lads.
 Prediction: Guilsfield 1-2 Denbigh Town

Llansanffriad Village Reserves vs Morda United

Historic day. Morda first team are back in the Welsh system, and I think they will enjoy opening day success.
Col Turner has got them well drilled now, and with good quality running through the team.
Ffraid struggled last time, and I think it will be a yellow win this weekend.
Prediction: Llansanffraid Village Reserves 1-2 Morda

Ketley Bank Utd vs FC Oswestry Town

Town seem to be struggling in the top division so far but I am sure they will be fine with the talent on show they have.
However I made my Morda debut at Ketley, and it is a tough place to go. Not because they are good, but because the pitch in the middle of a housing estate is small, terrible, and they are an tough bunch.
Another tough day for the town.
Prediction: Ketley 3-1 Town

St Martins Village vs Stoke Heath Prison

Gobowen struggled their last week, and to be honest I haven't seen a lot of either side.
However St Martins have looked good so far in terms of results.
Prediction: St Martins Village 1-1 Stoke Heath Prison

Gobowen Celtic vs Shifnal Harriers

Don't know anything about Shifnal apart from they are in the top three.
But to me Celtic have one of the best squads in that division, and they could have a good chance of winning it.
Had a tough start but I think they will continue to grow.
Prediction: Celtic 1-0 Harriers

Oswestry football would have lost it's identity without Morda United

IN recent weeks the Oswestry football scene has been rife with rumours that Morda United were no more.
The small club on the border of Oswestry that is known far and wide was on the brink, and at times I think that was the case.
As most people know I am heavily connected to the yellows with my dad being a former player, secretary, interim manager, groundsman, net putter upper, to name a few, and personally I have played for the first and reserve team (not very well, but they all count).
And some people might see this post as being a little biased towards the club, but I think if Morda did go under, and didn't come back, Oswestry would lose some of it's identity in football circuits.

Morda were once a giant in football in these parts, and judging by the reaction to the back page of the Advertiser a few weeks ago, they still are a giant.
They won numerous trophies in the 70's and 80's which people like myself and Matt Turner have heard about countless times from our fathers. But there is no doubt Morda were a power house around here.
Both in the Welsh system and the English system they were so well known and are still so well known.
You go right down to Aberystwyth and then across through the Midlands, and teams remember the name Morda United.
At once stage at the start of the 90's Morda were in the top Welsh League with the likes of Newtown and Llansanffraid (Now TNS), and they even won that league in 1991.
They moved to England, were successful, then dropped back into the County League due to financial issues.
And after a recent purple patch in the new 'Mercian League' the club have made a sad, but very very wise choice to move back to Wales.
The powers that be and the politics that come with football seem to be trying to stop that, but for the sake of the historic club and for Oswestry football, I hope the move comes off.

Like I have said in the past there is a lot of clubs in Oswestry, maybe too many. Other clubs further out such as St Martins and Ellesmere have great histories.
But clubs that have been in recent years, FC Oswestry Town and Oswestry Villa, Lynclys, aren't as well known for their history as Morda.
(FC Oswestry Town are different, could be argued they have the history, but also argued that the history lies with TNS).
Currently when people look at Oswestry football, they look at TNS. A huge name as they are a pro club, but that is in Wales.
I think in terms of Amateur clubs Morda lead the way though, and people look to Morda when they think of football in the area.

Some people will look at a Welsh move as a step backwards. In terms of playing, maybe it is, but after the turbulent summer that Morda have had, it is the way forward.
People will look at the move in a negative light because of the success Morda have had, but remember, Morda is a small village that in terms of football have been punching above their weight for years.

At the moment, with a Welsh move hopefully imminent, there is renewed optimism.
An old head back in charge in the form of Colin Turner, a bunch of young and hungry lads looking for success.
That can only be good for the village and for the Oswestry football scene.
Morda will survive, and I am certain they will be the driving force in the area again, in terms of name, and in terms of playing.

Back on the air with #RobinsRadio

Thursday night felt like the start of a new season, and it is good to be back.
There is a full month left yet before the Welsh Premier League season, with the other leagues starting a week before that. I don't get the logic of it either.
But with a month to go, we began our previews in the run up to the start of the season on Thursday with The New Saints striker Greg Draper and Rhyl stopper Alex Ramsay on Robins Radio
Ramsay returned to the show for a second time, and will be expecting a Soccer AM style hat-trick ball on his next appearance.
But it was good to be back and discuss the goings on in the league since we last went on air.
Draper gave his reaction to the Champions League exit was good, and we discussed a number of goings on in the league.
The biggest talking point was Cefn Druids and the amount of signings Chris Herbert and John Keegan have made at The Rock.
Al and Greg believe it could be a bit of a disaster down there, but that remains to be seen.
However it  now feels like the season is kicking off again.
After trialing the show every week at the back end of the season, I have decided to now go with every two weeks, which gives us plenty to talk about when the season kicks off.
Next week, August 7, we have Nicky Ward on the show making his debut, and Matt Cook returning for a second appearance.
What has been pleasing has been the reaction to the show coming back. A three figure amount of views already and that is still rising.
It is nice to see that people are looking forward to tuning in.
However in the coming weeks after that we hope to have two high profile guests.
Chris Coleman is set to appear on the show on August 28 at Latham Park. Chris was ill for his last appearance, but he is set to come on to talk all things Wales and Welsh Premier in a few weeks time.
And after agreeing to come on the show, Wales and Celtic legend John Hartson will join me in the coming months.
A date should be finalised with John on Wednesday and myself and the club are extremely excited about the prospect of having him on the show.
And if you missed last weeks show, you can catch a listen by following this link - https://audioboo.fm/boos/2349620-new-season-robins-radio-opening-show

Too many clubs for the town?

Below the ground of professional and semi-professional football are the forgotten reaches of amateur Saturday football.
It has been well publicised in lower working football circles that the Sunday game is dying, and along with that so is Saturday adult football. There are a number of reasons, but in Oswestry one sticks out to me. There are simply TOO MANY teams.
This isn't something you hear in many towns that are the size of Oswestry but here that is the case. I was counting up and I come up with a considerable amount of teams in the area. And it is concerning:

The New Saints - PROFESSIONAL
Ellesmere Rangers
St Martins
Morda United
FC Oswestry Town
Weston Rhyn
St Martins Village
Lynclys
Gobowen Celtic
Llanymynech
Four Crosses
Four Crosses Reserves
Llansanffraid
Chirk AAA

14 sides there, in and around the Oswestry area, and I have probably missed one or two. Granted no one from Oswestry really plays for TNS, however the other 13 sides will be out to attract similar players.
Last season we had Oswestry Villa and Oswestry Villa Reserves which I feel is great, bringing back names such as them and old names such as Gobowen Celtic is great for tradition and it takes Oswestry back to old times.
However I think in this day and age it might be killing off local football, or making a mockery of it. It can be argued that these teams that come and go will sustain the amount of sides there are.
But wouldn't people rather have four or five teams in the English leagues, and the traditional ones over the border like Ffraid and Crosses who will raise good sides and compete, rather than have 13 sides battling for players and struggling to stay afloat.
It seems there is a merry-go-round of players and clubs, but I wish the new clubs well and admire their ambition to get teams going. I hope they will be sustained.
Another reason could be the lack of commitment by players. In my view, the commitment of players is lower than it used to be when I watched Morda as a child.
And it is a million miles away from the commitment showed in the 70's and 80's so I am told. But there are other forms of football people concentrate on like six a side league's. That could be another factor clawing down Saturday football.
At the end of the day, at any level of football, it comes down to one thing and one thing only. Money.
At amatuer level money is everything. Unless there is a big financial backer then clubs will struggle. They do there own fundraising things, sponsors, and run little ideas here and there to stay afloat and that shows the commitment that still runs through the committee's.
Some clubs have everything done for players, such as nets up, kits washed, fees paid. But most don't and I think some players get tired of paying 'subs' every week. Again that boils down to the fact the English FA don't look at grass roots football, even though at times it is one of the most important aspects of the game.
That is where the Welsh FA towers above them, with the grants they give out every year. Maybe that is another thing that needs to be addressed.
And finally, a point that not too many people seem to grasp is the fact that junior football is hurting adult amatuer football.
Children now play in competitive leagues from say the age of nine. Most teams have a manager and an assistant from under 9's to under 18's. That is nine years of training once a week, ringing players, washing kits, turning up to a sloping pitch with no lines in the pouring rain every week to give kids the chance to play.
By the time that is over and adult football comes along, most players will step up, but the majority of managers won't.
It is a shame but you can't blame them, as they have had nine years of it already.
All these points I think add up to explain why adult football sometimes suffers in Oswestry, and is definately suffering all over England.
Maybe someone with some power might read this, but I doubt they will.
However I think it is pretty obvious to most involved with local Oswestry football, that big problems need to be addressed.

All ready for a top heavy South American knockout round - PREDICTIONS

Group stage over. Thank god. England's utter humiliation can move into the background and the real business can begin.
The last 16 begins tomorrow and it looks to be epic. South America is over ruling the six European countries left in the World Cup, with the two african minnows still in their.
And it is just too close to call, everyone has an opinion, every has a prediction. But I don't think they matter because no one knows on this World Cup.
Saying that this is a prediction blog so I wouldn't listen to me after that statement.
However the best prediction I have heard so far is from David Moyes. The genius that over saw the slump that Manchester United had last season believed Spain would win because the climate suits them. Great shout Dave!
Anyway here we go, I will now and try and predict who will win what, I hope it comes off, but I'm almost certain it won't!

Saturday June 28
Brazil vs Chile
Live on BBC

The host nation in terms of performances have under achieved, but in terms of results Neymar and his samba boys have got the job done.
Neymar himself has been the only standout man so far for the Brazilians, but I am sure some of their flair players will come to the forefront soon enough.
However Chile are looking more than impressive as they are led by Neymar's fellow Barca boy Alexis Sanchez.
Another one too close to call, but here is my shout.
Brazil 3-2 Chile (AET)

 

Can golden boy strike again?

Saturday June 28
Columbia vs Uruguay
Live on ITV (Won't be watching because of Adrian Chiles)

Another all South American on Saturday with the over achieving Columbians leading the way as one of the World Cups top sides.
Not much to say on this one really other than the Columbian players can breath easy at the fact they won't have to wear bite proof clothing as Luis Suarez has been sent home.
And the fact that with Suarez going home, means Uruguay are major underdogs.
Columbia 3-1 Uruguay

 Don't worry boys you're safe!

Sunday June 29
Holland vs Mexico
Live on ITV

For me this is the standout game going into the last 16.
Mexico solid at the back and have rarely conceded, but in this World Cup the dutch look unbelievable going forward.
Providing there is no superman show from RVP, Robben and co, the Mexicans a chance.
And I would like to see Mexico go through just to see their manager go mental on the touchline again.
But to be honest I can't really see it.
Holland 4-2 Mexico

 10, 10, 10, 10!

Sunday June 29
Costa Rica vs Greece
Live on ITV

Most will regard this to be a low profile clash in the last 16.
However after the unpredictable poor games we have had so far in this tournament, this could be the dark horse of the group.
Costa Rica have looked class and Greece have got the job done, but I am going for another big Greek show to upset the apple cart.
Costa Rica 1-2 Greece

Monday June 30
Germany vs Algeria
 Live on TV

Could be a bit of squeaky bum time in this one for Germany, because Algeria have been another underdog to flourish in this tournament.
And fresh in the memory will be the 1982 fiasco which saw Algeria bow out on their World Cup debut.
The only result that would see them go out was a 1-0 win for Germany over Austria.
Guess what happened? The Algerians were up in arms and they will be out for revenge, and I think they will be close to getting it.
However I do hope Klose scores. He has been fantastic for Germany, a fox in the box who has never scored a World Cup goal from further out than the penalty spot.
Germany 2-1 Algeria

 Can be beat fat Ronaldo's record?

Monday June 30
France vs Nigeria
Live on BBC

France for me have been by far and away the best team in this competition.
Maybe not far and away but the best side and that is without Ribery and Nasri.
This one for more is a foregone conclusion.
France 4-1 Nigeria

Tuesday July 1
Argentina vs Switzerland
Live on BBC
Messi and co are hitting top form on the break, but are still in first gear at the back.
The handy work from the little Barca man is being undone by defensive frailties and this could go against them.
The Swiss are looking good going forward, however the Argie's could be too strong.
Argentina 2-1 Switzerland (AET)

Tuesday July 1
Belgium vs USA
Live on ITV

Massive, massive banana skin here. USA are killing it, Klinsmann is changing the landscape of American 'Soccer.'
Expectation seems to have weighed down the Belgians.
Dempsey can lead his side to glory. USA USA USA.
Belgium 1-2 USA (AET)

Saaaaaccceeerr legend!

Hope these predictions don't end up like Moysey's!

The biter should be banned, but Mills wants jail time? Really?

One, two, three bites and you're out. That should be the message sent from FIFA to the utterly disgusting and disturbed Luis Suarez.
I have nothing against Suarez the player, but as a human being and as a person the man is vile, he is mental.
He has previous and should be punished, heavily punished. He got just two games for biting Otman Bakkal whilst playing for Ajax.

 

STRIKE ONE!

Ten games for biting Chelsea's Branislac Ivanovic followed, and in between that there was an eight game ban for racial abuse.
He is just a disgusting man, he treated Liverpool like dirt after they stuck by him following his flesh eating antics.

 

STRIKE TWO!

Everyone thought he was revived, a new man after seeing top doctors and so on, but he wasn't. A little peckish in the World Cup and he bits Giorgio Chiellini.
In front of millions world wide, and dozens of cameras and he expects to get away with it. He claims he ran into the shoulder of the Italian defender.
Going down holding his teeth was pretty conclusive evidence he laid his fangs into him.
But it's okay, he should get away with it really because the English press are campaigning to get him banned, they have a vendetta against him.
That's according to the Uruguayan press. Saying that they're arguing that the photo of Chiellini's shoulder is photo shopped.  I don't think they will be getting a job on CSI any time soon.
The book should be thrown at Suarez, six month ban, two year ban, wear a muzzle for the rest of his career, they are all valid points.

 

AND YOUR OUT!

I very rarely look at two sides to an argument because I am a stubborn person, but after reading Danny Mills' comments, I had a think about it and took a step back.
The average former England full back said this:
"It has to be the longest ban in football ever. A worldwide ban, not just an international ban.
"It is the third time it has happened and it is a clear bite this time, in a tournament of this magnitude, the most watched tournament in the world. They have got to throw him in jail and lock him up forever."
 Sorry jailed forever? Are you off your chops Danny?
If something like this happened on the street, yes someone would maybe go to court and get a record. But they shouldn't go to jail forever. What is he talking about?
Think of all the footballers playing now or in the past who should never play football again because of their off the field misdemeanors.
Lee Hughes was my childhood hero. Scored for fun for my boy hood club West Brom, lightening pace and a great celebration.
However he was involved in a hit and run and killed someone prompting a lengthy jail term. Since release Hughes has gone on to play for Port Vale, Oldham, Notts County and Forest Green Rovers. In my eyes this shouldn't have happened. He has killed someone and he shouldn't have the privilege of playing football again, especially after an early release.

 

Hughes should never have returned to football

Marlon King. A string of high profile court appearances and run ins with the police. A sexual assualt was probably the biggest crime he has committed, yet he returned time after time playing in decent leagues, but he still continued to break the law.
Plymouth stopper Luke McCormick was convicted of causing death by dangerous driving when driving with excess alcohol.
He killed two children and was sentenced to seven years, of which he served four. He is back playing for the Pilgrims now. That is utterly disgracful.
And another one in the pipeline is Ched Evans. Convicted for raping a 19-year-old girl. The Sheffield United forward is completing a five year sentence, and he is expected to be released in the near future.
The Blades are set to offer him a new contract. That is disgraceful Mr Mills. Yes biting someone is bad, three times is even worse. But it doesn't warrant a life time ban or a life time jail sentence.
These players, Hughes, King, Evans, McCormick. They didn't get lifetime jail terms, so how can you expect Suarez to get one.
Lifetime football bans should be given to these criminals.
However it could be argued that if Suarez had bitten someone in the street and not on a football field he would be a criminal. That is another matter though.
The fact is Danny Mills' comments are some of the most absurd I have ever seen in football.
Sort yourself out Danny. And get of the TV your punditry is terrible.