Wednesday, 13 October 2010

Liverpool have their day

Liverpool fans were finally given something to cheer about on Wednesday morning when the High Court ruled in favour of RBS and against the club’s current owners, Tom Hicks and George Gillett, meaning that the sale to American group New England Sports Ventures can now go ahead.

The American pair in charge had tried to block the sale by replacing two members of the board, claiming the bid “undervalued” Liverpool, but the judge deemed otherwise.

It is a crucial victory for the Anfield faithful at a time when they are at a very low point, both on and off the pitch.

The decision owes everything to the fans themselves, whose relentless and, eventually, successful campaign aimed at everyone involved in the matter has seemed to be a vital factor at a moment which may prove a turning point in their illustrious and lengthy history.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=524270

England struggle at Wembley

England stuttered to a dour 0 – 0 draw at home against Montenegro in the qualifiers for the European Championships in 2012.

They seemed to slump to the level or performance which was so present during the world cup in South Africa, with a massive lack in creativity and technical ability on show.

It could have been even worse for the home side. With about eight minutes to go, the left full-back of Montenegro, Milan Jovanovic, hit a screaming, dipping strike which rattled off the crossbar.

That was the closest either side came. England’s main chances came from a strong penalty shout and a couple of Peter Crouch efforts early on.

The result is by no means disastrous for Fabio Capello’s men, but with Montenegro now enjoying the lead in the group, and with a long wait for the next round of matches to be played, there will be some doubt in English minds over their team’s ability during the long winter.

http://thenewsportal.net/?p=463413

Tuesday, 12 October 2010

Nigerians test positive

The Commonwealth Games were overshadowed by controversy again as news came that a second Nigerian athlete had tested positive for a banned substance.

Samuel Okon, who finished sixth in the 110m hurdles, was found to have traces of methylhexaneamine in his system, following on from the discovery concerning his compatriot, Damola Osayemi, who won the 100m women’s sprint.

It is thought they may have been caught out by the drug being added to the banned list within the last year.

Since all the trouble at the start concerning the preparation of the facilities, the Games have progressed quite serenely, with many stories of success, especially concerning British competitors.

This latest story may have cast a shadow over the sport once more though, and many might see reason to continue with some suspicion against the Nigerians.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=490481

England without Terry

England will have to prepare to play Montenegro tonight without their central defender, John Terry.

His unusual absence is the result of a back injury. However, there will be sufficient cover for him in the shape of Joleon Lescott, who should partner the returning captain, Rio Ferdinand.

There are other injuries to players such as Darren Bent and Phil Jagielka, but the apparent fitness of Wayne Rooney will give a big boost to the side.

They will face Montenegro at Wembley, expecting to continue their excellent start to the European qualifying campaign after wins over Bulgaria and Switzerland, although the visitors tonight may produce a sterner test than many suspect.

http://thenewsportal.net/?p=534791

Liverpool seek vital win

Tuesday is a critical day in the history of Liverpool football club as everyone associated watches for the outcome of the case to be decided at the High Court today.

It may be the final chapter in the incredibly long saga which has seen mighty efforts from the club to remove their current American owners from power. The pair is fighting the board’s decision to accept a bid of around £300m from fellow Americans, New England Sport Ventures.

The situation was (somehow) complicated further recently, when Peter Lim, a billionaire from Singapore, announced he still hoped to have a bid for the club accepted.

This is a week full of both hope and danger for the club and its fans. If they lose in court today, they will face administration and possible oblivion, whereas if they win, they can celebrate the departure of their disliked owners, although many doubts remain over those who could replace them.

http://thenewsportal.net/?p=524270

Sunday, 10 October 2010

Miners Set for Rescue

The long, underground ordeal of the thirty-three trapped Chilean miners looks likely to be over on Wednesday. The mining minister has said that the construction of the evacuation tunnel should be complete within a few days.

There were joyous scenes across the country at the news that the mens’ plight, which began on 5 August, could be finished soon.

The tunnel has been drilled, but part of it must be strengthened and made safe before they can finally be brought back above ground.

If it does happen on Wednesday, it should prove to be a day of great celebrations for those involved, and for the many people over the world who have followed this story since it started several months ago.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=396069

Red Bull Dominate in Japan

The Suzuka circuit in Japan hosted the Grand Prix this weekend as the season approaches its conclusion. The track was expected to favour the Red Bull cars.

So it proved during the race, as the team’s two drivers, Sebastien Vettel and Mark Webber, held first and second place almost constantly throughout to finish in a one-two, with the German taking the victory.

Fernando Alonso came third, in front of the British and McLaren duo of Jensen Button and Lewis Hamilton.

Little changed in the championship, apart from Webber extending his lead very slightly, but with three more races to go the overall result remains far too close to predict.

http://thenewsportal.net/?p=381948