http://visionsport.co.uk Classic archive freeviews and DVD trailers It is a little known fact that Bob Wilson became the first English-born footballer to play for Scotland in 1971 – the year Arsenal won the double for the first time. Much has changed in the 40 years since Bob was in goal for the Gunners as they claimed the League and Cup double. Footballers today are paid a king’s ransom for playing just one season at the top level. Many can earn in a week the £250,000 Bob set off trying to raise for charity when he cycled 500 miles in 11 days. But don’t let that overshadow what a great achievement it has been for the former Arsenal keeper in this his 70th year. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/06/01/40-years-on-and-arsenals-double-winner-bob-wilson-is-a-hero-to-be-proud-of-after-his-brave-charity-cycle/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/06/01/40-years-on-and-arsenals-double-winner-bob-wilson-is-a-hero-to-be-proud-of-after-his-brave-charity-cycle/ Wed, 01 June 2011 21:42:44 GMT football Love him or hate him, you have to admire the way Sepp Blatter has expertly navigated the stormy waters of his FIFA re-election like a triumphant admiral who has neatly dodged the pirates trying to sink him. Equally, credit where credit is due and the ice cool Swiss politican has wasted no time in setting about reforming FIFA. The 75-year-old started his fourth term as President after announcing a raft of measures designed to give the world’s governing body greater transparency and accountability. A secret ballot saw Blatter re-elected with 186 votes and 17 abstentions as he stood unopposed as the only candidate, following Mohamed Bin Hammam’s withdrawal on Sunday – hours before he was provisionally banned over allegations that he was involved in Qatar paying bribes to secure the 2022 World Cup. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/06/01/blatter-turns-humiliation-into-triumph-as-fifa-gives-the-pirates-from-the-english-fa-another-good-kicking/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/06/01/blatter-turns-humiliation-into-triumph-as-fifa-gives-the-pirates-from-the-english-fa-another-good-kicking/ Wed, 01 June 2011 20:25:44 GMT football West Ham United fans will have to swallow their pride and their principles next season when new boss Sam Allardyce attempts to get the Hammers back into the Premier League at the first attempt. Big Sam will earn a one million pound bonus – on top of his annual salary of £1.25 million – if he can deliver promotion. And anyone who expects the former Blackburn, Bolton and Newcastle boss to do it playing beautiful football is as deluded as FIFA’s stubborn President Sepp Blatter. The 56-year-old replaces Avram Grant, sacked minutes after West Ham’s relegation was sealed by a 3-2 defeat at Wigan Athletic last month, and Allardyce is too long in the tooth to change his footballing philosphy now. But do not underestimate the ability of the experienced boss who took Bolton into the Premier League and is well equipped to do the same with the Hammers. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/06/01/big-sam-tells-hammers-fans-what-they-want-to-hear-but-in-the-end-the-new-west-ham-boss-will-do-it-his-way/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/06/01/big-sam-tells-hammers-fans-what-they-want-to-hear-but-in-the-end-the-new-west-ham-boss-will-do-it-his-way/ Wed, 01 June 2011 11:50:44 GMT football What a staggering show of defiance by FIFA President Sepp Blatter who has shrugged off the crisis surrounding his governing body at a remarkable press conference in Zurich. And how sad that this FIFA farce should take the spotlight away from the Champions League Final that represented everything good about The Beautiful Game. Blatter has dismissed all allegations of corruption from all quarters including his own vice President Jack Warner who says “Blatter must be stopped” http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/30/why-does-dictator-blatter-think-he-is-good-for-the-game-it-is-time-to-boot-him-out/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/30/why-does-dictator-blatter-think-he-is-good-for-the-game-it-is-time-to-boot-him-out/ Mon, 30 May 2011 18:14:44 GMT football Congratulations to Swansea on becoming the first team from Wales to win a place in the English Premier League. And well done to dignified manager Brendan Rodgers for leading his team to a thrilling 4-2 win over his former club Reading in the Play-Off Final at Wembley. It has been a traumatic year for Rodgers who lost his mother Christina in 2010 and his father Malachy is suffering terminal cancer. It is good to see one of football’s genuine nice guys finally enjoy the sweet taste of success. The former Manchester United youth team player was tipped for the top as a manager by Jose Mourinho back in 2004 when he invited Rodgers to join his backroom staff at Chelsea. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/30/swans-deserve-to-be-first-welsh-dragons-to-play-in-the-english-premier-league/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/30/swans-deserve-to-be-first-welsh-dragons-to-play-in-the-english-premier-league/ Mon, 30 May 2011 16:41:44 GMT football On the weekend that Sir Alex Ferguson was denied a third Champions League triumph by Barcelona, it is worth remembering one of British football’s other great knights who did achieve one of his greatest feats thirty years ago this month. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/29/sir-bobby-robson-was-the-greatest-says-boys-of-81-hero-uefa-cup-winners-reunited-30-years-after-euro-triumph/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/29/sir-bobby-robson-was-the-greatest-says-boys-of-81-hero-uefa-cup-winners-reunited-30-years-after-euro-triumph/ Sun, 29 May 2011 16:21:44 GMT football If there was any doubt before Barcelona’s intoxicating Champions League Final triumph over Manchester United, surely there is no argument now. Barcelona boast the best football team in the world – and their talisman Lionel Messi is the best player on the planet. Still only 23, Messi is the already arguably the greatest player the world has ever seen. Before the Argentinian adopted son of Catalonia came on the scene Pele and Maradona were the undisputed masters of The Beautiful Game. Now the pint-sized genius – around whom Barcelona have built probably the greatest football team ever assembled – is staking his claim to be the No.1 http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/29/sir-bobby-robson-was-the-greatest-says-boys-of-81-hero-uefa-cup-winners-reunited-30-years-after-euro-triumph/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/29/sir-bobby-robson-was-the-greatest-says-boys-of-81-hero-uefa-cup-winners-reunited-30-years-after-euro-triumph/ Sun, 29 May 2011 11:15:44 GMT football Sir Alex Ferguson has predicted that Manchester United and Barcelona are about to produce one of the best Champions League finals ever - and backed his players to win it. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/27/the-clock-is-ticking-lets-see-what-you-got/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/27/the-clock-is-ticking-lets-see-what-you-got/ Fri, 27 May 2011 11:44:44 GMT football How ironic that after years of covering up alleged corruption at FIFA, the dictatorial leader of the governing body of world football is facing the humiliation of having to defend himself against allegations of corruption. The farce engulfing FIFA scaled new heights with the news that president Sepp Blatter will face the body’s ethics committee on Sunday (May 29) to answer charges that he knew about alleged bribes made by other senior figures in the organisation, who were trying to topple him. He will join Mohamed Bin Hammam, his rival in the forthcoming presidential election, and controversial FIFA vice-president Jack Warner of Trinidad and Tobago at the hearing where they will all face claims of corruption and bribery. Absurdly, it means that the three most powerful men in world football must appear before the ethics committee three days before the organisation must pick one of them as its president. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/27/fifa-farce-is-this-the-end-of-the-odious-sepp-blatter-2/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/27/fifa-farce-is-this-the-end-of-the-odious-sepp-blatter-2/ Fri, 27 May 2011 15:48:44 GMT football Whatever you think of the Ryan Giggs affair, do not make the mistake of believing self-publicist Max Clifford when he says Imogen Thomas never had any intention of selling her story to the press. That is complete and utter bunkum from the self-confessed liar and cheat who has spent weeks peddling the Reality TV star’s story of her alleged relationship with Giggs, hitherto the nation’s favourite football role model. It is over 20 years since my first dealings with Clifford who has made himself rich by selling stories based on half-truths and never letting the facts get in the way of the fiction. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/25/first-it-was-david-beckham-now-its-ryan-giggs-why-manchester-united-fans-hate-cheating-max-clifford/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/25/first-it-was-david-beckham-now-its-ryan-giggs-why-manchester-united-fans-hate-cheating-max-clifford/ Wed, 25 May 2011 21:40:44 GMT football Forget the FIFA World Cup Final. This is the big one. The Champions League Final. The biggest game on the planet bar none. And never has a game been more eagerly anticipated. The 2011 Final at Wembley on Saturday (May 28) could be the ultimate showpiece for The Beautiful Game. It will certainly draw one of the biggest TV audiences of all time – and my prediction is that this time we will be treated to a contest to match the hype and delight the purists. There is no doubt it is absolutely the dream final. Between the two most exciting teams in world football, whose history and fans demand entertainment as well as glory. Fortune favours the bold and with both sides committed to goals and glamour the recipe for a classic is surely guaranteed. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/24/why-barcelona-against-manchester-united-at-wembley-could-be-the-perfect-advert-for-the-beautiful-game/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/24/why-barcelona-against-manchester-united-at-wembley-could-be-the-perfect-advert-for-the-beautiful-game/ Tue, 24 May 2011 22:16:44 GMT football On the day Chelsea announced their ridiculous decision to sack manager Carlo Ancelotti for coming second, it was poetic that Manchester City celebrated their arrival as a major force in English football by parading the FA Cup through the streets of Manchester. While Roman Abramovich acts like a spoilt rich kid who throws his toys out the pram when he does not get his own way, there is a growing realisation that Chelsea is a club in decline and Roberto Mancini’s men are not only emerging as the strongest challengers to the mighty Manchester United . . . City have already arrived at the top table, and Chelsea’s seat is no longer to be taken for granted. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/23/city-can-celebrate-replacing-chelsea-as-uniteds-biggest-challengers-as-manchester-puts-london-in-the-shade/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/23/city-can-celebrate-replacing-chelsea-as-uniteds-biggest-challengers-as-manchester-puts-london-in-the-shade/ Mon, 23 May 2011 23:26:44 GMT football It was good to hear David Beckham pay tribute to Manchester United’s record-breaking feat of winning their 19th League title and hit back at the critics who have questioned the quality of Sir Alex Ferguson’s latest trophy winning side. “People have criticised the team this season but you can’t ask much more than winning the Premier League and getting to the Champions League final. They are up there with the best United teams of all time,” says United’s former hero. And Becks has no doubt that Sir Alex has the team to beat Barcelona in Saturday’s Champions League final at Wembley and is clearly 100 per cent behind his former boss. “As a manager he can’t get any better than he already is. But I’m sure it will be an unbelievable moment if he picks up that cup by beating Barcelona who have been talked about as one of the greatest teams ever. If any team can beat Barcelona at their peak it is Man United. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/23/if-anyone-can-beat-barcelona-at-their-peak-it-is-man-utd-says-1999-champions-league-winner-david-beckham/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/23/if-anyone-can-beat-barcelona-at-their-peak-it-is-man-utd-says-1999-champions-league-winner-david-beckham/ Mon, 23 May 2011 19:45:44 GMT football How sad that RYAN GIGGS has been named as the Premier League footballer identified on Twitter as having an injunction over an alleged affair with a reality TV star Imogen Thomas. Giggs has been named in Parliament by Lib Dem MP John Hemming during an urgent Commons question on privacy orders. Using parliamentary privilege to break the court order, Hemming said it would not be practical to imprison the 75,000 Twitter users who had named the player. The media have waged a long campaign to reveal the identify of Giggs. But is it in the public interest to have revealed the identity of a sporting legend in a matter that is private and personal? http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/23/giggs-exposed-by-mp-abusing-parliamentary-privilege-but-he-is-still-a-hero/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/23/giggs-exposed-by-mp-abusing-parliamentary-privilege-but-he-is-still-a-hero/ Mon, 23 May 2011 17:23:44 GMT football The football season is not yet over but the Manchester City rumour mill is already getting boring. And it is only going to get worse. Much worse over the summer months. Today’s headlines are that Carlos Tevez has told an Argentinian Radio station he wants to leave Eastlands. But Roberto Mancini immediately responded by telling his Friday press conference that he is still confident his skipper is staying. Meanwhile, the new gossip in the Spanish press is that the City fat cats are preparing a bid of between 100 and 200 million pounds for Cristiano Ronaldo. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/20/tevez-out-ronaldo-in-is-that-a-pig-flying-from-madrid-to-manchester-city-rumour-mill-is-an-indecent-proposal/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/20/tevez-out-ronaldo-in-is-that-a-pig-flying-from-madrid-to-manchester-city-rumour-mill-is-an-indecent-proposal/ Fri, 20 May 2011 20:31:44 GMT football Love him or hate him David Haye is putting boxing back in the spotlight in the countdown to his World Heavyweight title fight with Wladimir Klitschko in Hamburg on July 2. And you have got to admire the Londoner for putting his reputation on the line on foreign soil against an opponent with such a massive physical advantage. The Ukranian IBF and WBO world champion has three extra inches in height and reach and around two stone extra weight. Haye, despite being the WBA heavyweight champ, has already been written off by some experts as a cruiserweight no-hoper taking on a super heavyweight with superb boxing skills. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/20/give-haye-credit-for-walking-into-the-land-of-the-giants-and-putting-his-world-title-on-the-line-against-klitschko/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/20/give-haye-credit-for-walking-into-the-land-of-the-giants-and-putting-his-world-title-on-the-line-against-klitschko/ Fri, 20 May 2011 12:43:44 GMT football Is it just me or is the sporting world guilty of unbelievable double standards when it comes to comparing bad behaviour in rugby with soccer? When Leicester centre Manu Tuilagi delivered a jarring right hook that rocked back Chris Ashton’s head with alarming force during Saturday’s win at Northampton it was one of the most ferocious attacks ever seen on a football pitch. But because we’re talking rugby football and not association football this horrendous act of gervious bodily harm seems to have escaped the public condemnation it would have received if we were talking Premier League football and not Premiership rugby. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/18/punch-by-manu-tuilagi-was-pure-thuggery-why-do-rugby-players-get-away-with-murder/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/18/punch-by-manu-tuilagi-was-pure-thuggery-why-do-rugby-players-get-away-with-murder/ Wed, 18 May 2011 12:45:44 GMT football Despite a late surge of support for Spain, it is no surprise that France have won the right to stage the 2018 Ryder Cup. The French bid, backed by government backing from president Nicolas Sarkozy, held off the popular call for the event to be staged in Spain in honour of Seve Ballesteros. But the European Tour are promising they will soon announce an alternative tribute to the golfing legend who died of cancer earlier this month. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/17/france-beat-spain-to-win-ryder-cup-vote-despite-popular-support-for-seve-ballesteros-tribute/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/17/france-beat-spain-to-win-ryder-cup-vote-despite-popular-support-for-seve-ballesteros-tribute/ Tue, 17 May 2011 17:04:44 GMT football It was written by Chelsea fan Paul Hardcastle in the 80s - and three decades later the iconic single ’19? is storming the charts in aid of charity thanks to a campaign by Manchester United fans celebrating the club’s record-breaking nineteenth title success. David Beckham used his Facebook page to add his support to the campaign. Hardcastle’s 1985 hit, dedicated to American soldiers who fought in the Vietnam war and whose average age was 19, is now being used by the artist to give money to children whose parents have died fighting for their country. Paul, a lifelong Blues fan, said that if it makes someone smile then he doesn’t care who has won the title. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/16/united-fans-push-iconic-track-19-up-the-charts-in-aid-of-charity-for-children-whose-parents-were-killed-at-war/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/16/united-fans-push-iconic-track-19-up-the-charts-in-aid-of-charity-for-children-whose-parents-were-killed-at-war/ Mon, 16 May 2011 11:28:44 GMT football Walter Smith is arguably the greatest Rangers manager of all time and his achievements at Ibrox – crowned by another Scottish Premier League title – make him one of the most successful bosses in world football. A born and bred Rangers supporter who used to travel from his home in Carmyle in Glasgow’s East End to follow the team, he lived the ultimate dream. He was brought to the Club by Graeme Souness as assistant manager in 1986 and was at the hub of the renaissance of Rangers. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/15/walter-smith-the-greatest-rangers-manager-signs-off-with-a-third-spl-title-in-a-row/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/15/walter-smith-the-greatest-rangers-manager-signs-off-with-a-third-spl-title-in-a-row/ Sun, 15 May 2011 19:59:44 GMT football The future of West Ham United has never looked bleaker because David Gold, David Sullivan and Karren Brady have brought the clubs to its knees – and if ever there was a time to sack the board this is it. A remarkable comeback by Wigan from 2 goals down to relegate the Hammers with a stunning 3-2 win that was completed by Charles N’Zogbia hitting a dramatic injury-time winner put the final nail in the coffin. But the West Ham decline began when the two Davids bought the club. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/15/west-ham-relegated-by-amazing-wigan-fightback-but-you-can-blame-the-board-for-hammers-decline/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/15/west-ham-relegated-by-amazing-wigan-fightback-but-you-can-blame-the-board-for-hammers-decline/ Sun, 15 May 2011 17:43:44 GMT football Welcome to the dawning of a new era with the City of Manchester now well and truly the centre of the footballing universe. And mark my words this is great news for United because there is nothing like a new challenge to keep you on your toes. In case you needed a reminder the United are still the top dog, it was sweet irony that once again United eclipsed City on the day Roberto Mancini’s men claimed their first trophy in 35 years. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/15/manchester-is-the-new-milan-a-city-united-as-the-centre-of-the-footballing-universe-can-liverpool-strike-back/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/15/manchester-is-the-new-milan-a-city-united-as-the-centre-of-the-footballing-universe-can-liverpool-strike-back/ Sun, 15 May 2011 16:16:44 GMT football How ridiculous that Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has been charged with improper conduct by the Football Association for making positive comments about referee Howard Webb. Two days before last weekend’s Premier League title showdown with Chelsea which United won 2-1 Fergie said: “We are getting the best referee, there is no doubt about that.” The United boss – who also said that getting a bad decision ” is definitely our big fear” – added: “We have the players to do it all right. We just hope it’s our turn for a little bit of luck.” As it turned out Webb made a series of bad decisions in Chelsea’s favour in the Old Trafford crunch match – failing to award a couple of blatant penalties – but United still got the win they needed to put them within a point of a record 19th title. The problem is that Fergie contravened the rule which states no manager should speak about a referee in advance of a match being played http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/13/referee-howard-webb-in-more-controversy-but-the-fa-will-be-guilty-of-a-vendetta-if-sir-alex-is-punished/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/13/referee-howard-webb-in-more-controversy-but-the-fa-will-be-guilty-of-a-vendetta-if-sir-alex-is-punished/ Fri, 13 May 2011 12:33:44 GMT football It is heart-warming to see the way the cycling community has pulled together following the tragic death of Wouter Weylandt when he crashed during the third stage of the Giro d’Italia on Monday. Thousands of well-wishers have supported the foundation set up by Weylandt’s team Leopard Trek to provide financial support for the Belgian rider’s family, and donations can be made by following this Facebook link The International Cycling Union has given its full support and invites the whole cycling family to participate in honour of the memory of the 26-year-old rider who died in such tragic circumstances, leaving behind his pregnant girlfriend Sophie Anne, who is due to give birth in September. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/12/cycling-world-unites-to-support-pregnant-girlfriend-of-wouter-weylandt-who-died-in-tragic-race-crash/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/12/cycling-world-unites-to-support-pregnant-girlfriend-of-wouter-weylandt-who-died-in-tragic-race-crash/ Thu, 12 May 2011 20:16:44 GMT football Roy Keane, who famously missed Manchester United’s 1999 Champions League Final triumph, is backing his old club to upset Barcelona at Wembley. United’s legendary former skipper says Sir Alex Ferguson’s men are definitely good enough to beat Barcelona in the final on May 28 to become Champions of Europe for the fourth time. Says Keano: “At Wembley, the United fans will take over the stadium. In a one-off game, with fans behind them, of course they can do it. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/11/keano-believes-reds-have-stronger-squad-than-barca/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/11/keano-believes-reds-have-stronger-squad-than-barca/ Wed, 11 May 2011 18:57:44 GMT football Whatever the fall out over the FIFA corruption claims do not be fooled into thinking England has any right to stage the 2018 World Cup – Russia deserved to win the vote and our team got it hopelessly wrong. For former FA and England 2018 chairman Lord Triesman to allege that four FIFA executive members asked for favours in exchange for World Cup votes – including one who wanted a knighthood – is just sour grapes. Remember we only got two votes anyway. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/11/the-real-world-cup-scandal-is-why-on-earth-did-fifa-choose-qatar-to-be-2022-hosts/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/11/the-real-world-cup-scandal-is-why-on-earth-did-fifa-choose-qatar-to-be-2022-hosts/ Wed, 11 May 2011 11:45:44 GMT football The world of cycling has been stunned by the sad news that Belgian cyclist Wouter Weylandt died after crashing during Monday’s third stage of the Giro d’Italia. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/10/cycling-world-stunned-by-race-death-of-wouter-weylandt/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/10/cycling-world-stunned-by-race-death-of-wouter-weylandt/ Tue, 10 May 2011 14:59:44 GMT football OK it’s never over until the Fat Lady sings and Manchester United still need one more point to confirm that record-breaking 19th title that will finally achieve Sir Alex Ferguson’s mission of “knocking Liverpool off their bloody perch.” http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/08/not-only-has-fergie-knocked-liverpool-off-their-bloody-perch-hes-the-greatest-football-manager-ever/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/08/not-only-has-fergie-knocked-liverpool-off-their-bloody-perch-hes-the-greatest-football-manager-ever/ Sun, 08 May 2011 20:01:44 GMT football Severiano Ballesteros was the Spanish golfing genious who changed the face of golf. And today the sport mourns the passing of a legend who transcended sport to become one of the world’s greatest and most iconic characters His list of achievements in the game is enormous. But it is the swashbuckling way he dominated the sport and raised the profile of the European game that confirmed his greatest. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/07/severiano-ballesteros-was-one-of-the-sporting-worlds-greatest-and-most-iconic-characters/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/07/severiano-ballesteros-was-one-of-the-sporting-worlds-greatest-and-most-iconic-characters/ Sat, 07 May 2011 17:47:44 GMT football Maybe the Football Association woke up fearing a lengthy legal battle and possible humiliation by the fat cats from Formula 1. Maybe it was the criticsim they received overnight from the media after announcing they could not make a decision. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/07/at-last-justice-for-qpr-as-neil-warnocks-men-return-to-premier-league-maybe-it-was-the-as-champions/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/07/at-last-justice-for-qpr-as-neil-warnocks-men-return-to-premier-league-maybe-it-was-the-as-champions/ Sat, 07 May 2011 13:44:44 GMT football There is much more than the Premier League title at stake when Manchester United face down defending champions Chelsea in the mother of all showdowns at The Theatre of Dreams on Sunday. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/07/history-beckons-victory-for-united-over-chelsea-means-title-number-19/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/07/history-beckons-victory-for-united-over-chelsea-means-title-number-19/ Sat, 07 May 2011 04:11:44 GMT football There is much more than the Premier League title at stake when Manchester United face down defending champions Chelsea in the mother of all showdowns at The Theatre of Dreams on Sunday. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/07/history-beckons-victory-for-united-over-chelsea-means-title-number-19/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/07/history-beckons-victory-for-united-over-chelsea-means-title-number-19/ Sat, 07 May 2011 04:11:44 GMT football Only the English Football Association can make such a gigantic mess of an argument that began in September – eight months ago – and a matter of weeks after the season kicked off. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/05/queens-park-rangers-have-earned-their-place-in-the-premier-league-–the-fa’s-handling-of-the-faurlin-affair-is-a-scandal/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/05/queens-park-rangers-have-earned-their-place-in-the-premier-league-–the-fa’s-handling-of-the-faurlin-affair-is-a-scandal/ Thu, 05 May 2011 22:56:44 GMT football Watching Sir Alex Ferguson celebrate Manchester United’s imperious Champions League semi-final demolition of Schalke was the defining moment of yet another masterclass from the greatest football manager the world has ever seen. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/04/wembley-is-the-perfect-stage-for-manchester-united-and-barcelona-to-celebrate-the-beautiful-game/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/04/wembley-is-the-perfect-stage-for-manchester-united-and-barcelona-to-celebrate-the-beautiful-game/ Wed, 04 May 2011 21:37:44 GMT football Barcelona deservedly made it to the final of the Champions League by seeing off Real Madrid – but let’s be honest Pep Guardiola’s team are certainly not unbeatable. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/03/barca-are-the-top-dog-but-theyre-not-unbeatable/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/03/barca-are-the-top-dog-but-theyre-not-unbeatable/ Tue, 03 May 2011 21:30:44 GMT football RIP Sir Henry Cooper – a true gentleman, hero and role model from a bygone era when sporting legends achieved greatness that will live forever. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/02/854/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/05/02/854/ Mon, 02 May 2011 00:04:44 GMT football On a night when the ugly face of Spanish football reared its head at the Bernabeu, the planet’s best footballer Lionel Messi flattened Real Madrid’s 10-men with a devastating double that was out of this world. But this was a shameful semi-final in stark contrast to the breathtaking display of footballing brilliance by Manchester United in Germany 24 hours earlier. With Barca and United now surely destined to meet in the Champions League Final after their respective 2-0 first leg wins at Madrid and Schalke, the purists among us will be hoping for a return to the beautiful game in the Wembley showpiece on May 28 to wipe away the memory of a shocking beast of a match in the Spanish Capital. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/27/magical-messi-the-lone-beauty-in-a-beast-of-a-match-at-the-bernabeu-that-descended-into-a-streetbrawl/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/27/magical-messi-the-lone-beauty-in-a-beast-of-a-match-at-the-bernabeu-that-descended-into-a-streetbrawl/ Wed, 27 Apr 2011 21:33:44 GMT football Tonight’s first installment of the Champions League semi-final between Real Madrid and Barcelona is going to be fascinating. And if it’s half as fierce as the pre-match mind-games it’s going to be another El Classico. In one corner we have Madrid boss Jose Mourinho insisting: “I am not asking the referee to help my team. If the referee is good everyone will be happy – except Guardiola. He wants them to get it wrong.This is something I have never seen in the world of football.” http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/27/mourinho-winning-mind-games-but-will-messi-or-ronaldo-be-star-at-bernabeu/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/27/mourinho-winning-mind-games-but-will-messi-or-ronaldo-be-star-at-bernabeu/ Wed, 27 Apr 2011 16:46:44 GMT football Sir Alex Ferguson’s biggest regret in football is that his Manchester United side have not dominated Europe the way they have conquered the Premier League – but the way his improving side totally outclassed Schalke to all but book a place in the Champions League Final at Wembley on May 28 surely gave him one of his most satisfying nights. The genious of Fergie is the way he knows how to bring his side to their peak at the business end of the season. And make no mistake this United side is good enough to rank alongside any of the great sides the master has produced in his 25 years at Old Trafford. The media have spent all season trying to write off Wayne Rooney following England’s disastrous World Cup in South Africa when United’s marquee player was a pale shadow of his former self. But Rooney is back to his glorious best and adds the priceless touch of a master craftsman to a side bristling with quality in every position. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/26/wayne-rooney-back-to-his-best-and-this-man-united-team-can-still-deliver-sir-alex-ferguson-his-crowning-glory/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/26/wayne-rooney-back-to-his-best-and-this-man-united-team-can-still-deliver-sir-alex-ferguson-his-crowning-glory/ Tue, 26 Apr 2011 22:00:44 GMT football When it comes to upsetting Manchester United, the BBC are in a league of their own. Not content with alienating Sir Alex Ferguson, the broadcaster is now under fire over their portrayal of the Reds other famous managerial Knight, Sir Matt Busby. The son of United legend Sir Matt has strongly criticised a television drama about the Munich air disaster, which BBC2 made the showpiece drama of their Easter weekend. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/25/how-did-the-bbc-set-it-so-badly-wrong-busby-disgusted-at-united-film-and-portrayal-of-his-father/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/25/how-did-the-bbc-set-it-so-badly-wrong-busby-disgusted-at-united-film-and-portrayal-of-his-father/ Mon, 25 Apr 2011 18:05:44 GMT football FOOTBALL FANS and the media are so fickle it is hard to take them seriously when they instantly call for the manager’s head whenever things don’t go according to plan. And this time it is Arsene Wenger who is the target for the baying mob. When Arsenal allowed two points to slip away for the second time in four days and let North London rivals Tottenham fight back from two goals down to earn a 3-3 draw, it was inevitable that radio phone-ins would be swamped with disgruntled Gunners fans calling time on the greatest manager in their history. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/21/how-ridiculous-that-fans-are-turning-on-arsene-wenger-after-another-thrilling-fightback-by-spurs/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/21/how-ridiculous-that-fans-are-turning-on-arsene-wenger-after-another-thrilling-fightback-by-spurs/ Thu, 21 Apr 2011 12:05:44 GMT football Ryan Giggs has come a long way since he first faced the cameras for a one-to-one interview as a Manchester United player in July 1993. Sign up here http://www.facebook.com/manutdtv if you want to be the first to see the full interview http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/20/ryan-giggs-first-tv-interview-at-manchester-united-in-1993/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/20/ryan-giggs-first-tv-interview-at-manchester-united-in-1993/ Wed, 20 Apr 2011 00:45:44 GMT football There is no defence for famous footballers or any other sportsman cheating on their wives and girlfriends – but what do you expect to happen when predatory wannabe wags hunt down their prey when they are playing away from home and promise no strings attached sex. I am sorry but this is blatant prostitution – only worse. The girls dress provocatively and will do anything to bed their idols, invariably promising not to kiss and tell. But it always ends in tears and the guys only realise the true cost when the media magnify their mistakes and take the side of the spurned hussy with unrelenting headlines and huge lashings of spin. The media love nothing better than the chance to destroy the reputation of someone famous. The bigger they are the greater the prize. And the more money to be made by the media and the jilted lover who always says her “heart is broken” and she never intended to bed a married man or ruin his life. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/17/why-do-the-public-care-about-footballers-behaving-badly-behing-closed-doors-the-hypocritical-media-are-nothing-more-than-pimps-encouraging-prostitution/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/17/why-do-the-public-care-about-footballers-behaving-badly-behing-closed-doors-the-hypocritical-media-are-nothing-more-than-pimps-encouraging-prostitution/ Sun, 17 Apr 2011 17:20:44 GMT football Just when it looked like defending world champion Sebastian Vettel was going to turn the 2011 Formula 1 season into a procession with a hat-trick of wins up stepped Lewis Hamilton with one of the best drives of his career. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/17/lewis-hamiltons-thrilling-victory-in-china-puts-formula-1-back-in-the-spotlight/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/17/lewis-hamiltons-thrilling-victory-in-china-puts-formula-1-back-in-the-spotlight/ Sun, 17 Apr 2011 15:50:44 GMT football Jose Mourinho’s declaration that he will return to manage in the Premier League one day guarantees the self-appointed “special one” will be linked with every top job until he is “back home”. The big question is ‘Where will Mourinho end up?’ The truth is you can make a compelling case for the current Real Madrid boss to take the helm at any of the EPL’s Big Six. But my belief is that the Portuguese maestro will wait for the top job, and the chance to succeed his good friend Sir Alex Ferguson – for the next couple of years at least. There is no guarantee Mourinho will even get the job. There is a question mark over whether or not he can deliver the swashbuckling football United fans and their history demand. There is no sign of Sir Alex being ready to step aside as he closes in on the possibility of his greatest ever season in his 70th year. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/15/why-jose-mourinho-will-wait-for-sir-alex-ferguson-to-retire-before-he-returns-to-the-premier-league/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/15/why-jose-mourinho-will-wait-for-sir-alex-ferguson-to-retire-before-he-returns-to-the-premier-league/ Fri, 15 Apr 2011 19:37:44 GMT football LISTENING to Sir Alex Ferguson analyse Manchester United’s comprehensive defeat of Chelsea to march on to the Champions League semi-finals – and inch closer to the dream of another impossible Treble – told you everything you need to know about this incredible human dynamo. Not only is Sir Alex writing himself into the history books as the greatest football manager the world has ever seen, this unrelenting genious is the ultimate role model for every man woman and child who wants to achieve anything in life. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/12/sir-alex-ferguson-the-ultimate-role-model-is-the-greatest-footballer-manager-the-world-has-ever-seen/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/12/sir-alex-ferguson-the-ultimate-role-model-is-the-greatest-footballer-manager-the-world-has-ever-seen/ Tue, 12 Apr 2011 21:30:44 GMT football AFTER all the hysterical criticism of Wayne Rooney over the past few days Chelsea felt the full force of Manchester United’s genious No.10 who was at his imperious best in tonight’s titanic Champions League quarter-final first leg at Stamford Bridge. The game was decided by a dream goal that represented everything great about the beautiful game when Michael Carrick found Ryan Giggs with the accuracy of a quarter-back and the Welsh wizard set up Rooney with an outstanding first touch and inch perfect lay-off that was steered home with inch-perfect precision. But there was a lot more about this majestic performance than a golden strike that gave United the precious away goal and the victory they craved. After a run of four straight defeats on the ground where the Reds have every right to believe results went against because of poor refereeing decisions, Sir Alex Ferguson’s men dug deep to deliver a display of true grit and pure quality. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/06/delicious-irony-as-outclassed-chelsea-blame-referee-and-back-to-his-best-rooney-imperious/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/06/delicious-irony-as-outclassed-chelsea-blame-referee-and-back-to-his-best-rooney-imperious/ Wed, 06 Apr 2011 21:37:44 GMT football How cool was that. With 2 putts to win the Masters at Augusta, Charl Schwartzel sunk a near 20-footer to win it in style – and crown one of the most exciting final day’s play in the history of golf’s greatest tournament in majestic fashion. There is something extra special about the Masters. But you know you have been privileged to witness a piece of genuine sporting greatness when a new hero emerges to claim glory in such swashbuckling manner. Champion Charl is truly a worthy winner after sinking four consecutive birdies at the final four holes of a round that was illuminated by a dazzling array of amazing shots. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/10/champion-charl-takes-the-green-jacket-with-a-brilliant-finish-that-puts-him-in-the-masters-hall-of-fame/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/10/champion-charl-takes-the-green-jacket-with-a-brilliant-finish-that-puts-him-in-the-masters-hall-of-fame/ Sun, 10 Apr 2011 23:36:44 GMT formula 1 After just two races in the 2011 Formula 1 season the big question is – who can stop defending world champion Sebastian Vettel? Red Bull’s Vettel was in a class of his own to win a dramatic Malaysian Grand Prix. McLaren’s Jenson Button was runner-up to go second in the championship and Renault’s Nick Heidfeld was third. In the overall standings Button moves ahead of team-mate Lewis Hamilton, who survived a late clash with Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso as they disputed third and the 2008 Champion finished seventh behind Alonso after a late tyre stop. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/10/who-can-stop-vettel/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/10/who-can-stop-vettel/ Sun, 10 Apr 2011 12:14:44 GMT formula 1 EVEN Wayne Rooney admits he made a big mistake when he swore at the TV cameras after hitting his match-winning hat-trick at West Ham on Saturday. The argument now is over the severity of the punishment. And the previous history is confirmation the FA have overstepped the mark with their 2-match ban, which Rooney has appealed against As Martin Samuel eloquently argues in today’s Daily Mail it is hypocritical of the FA to now suspend Rooney and punish Manchester United when they failed to act over the same offence by the same player during the World Cup. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/05/rooney-must-play-in-fa-cup-semi-final/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/05/rooney-must-play-in-fa-cup-semi-final/ Tue, 05 Apr 2011 20:34:44 GMT football WITHOUT doubt Wayne Rooney’s rant into the TV cameras after scoring his match-winning hat-trick at Upton Park was a big mistake. And he deserves to be punished. The Football Association had no option other than a suspension. But there is another aspect of this story that needs to be aired. Rooney, everyone’s footballer of the year last season when he was universally paraded as England’s finest, has been subjected to levels of criticism from the media since last summer’s World Cup that have been destructive and deliberately provocative. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/04/rooneys-rant-had-to-be-punished-but-the-media-must-share-the-blame-for-their-devisive-obsession-with-baiting-our-sporting-heroes/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/04/rooneys-rant-had-to-be-punished-but-the-media-must-share-the-blame-for-their-devisive-obsession-with-baiting-our-sporting-heroes/ Mon, 04 Apr 2011 23:56:44 GMT football The brand new BOYS OF 81 DVD – 30th ANNIVERSARY EDITION will go on sale for the first time at Ipswich Town Football Club on 9th April 2011 – at the Blues’ home match with Crystal Palace – includes a special 20 minute tribute to football legend Sir Bobby Robson. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/04/tribute-to-sir-bobby-robson-best-manager-i-played-for-says-john-wark/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/04/tribute-to-sir-bobby-robson-best-manager-i-played-for-says-john-wark/ Mon, 04 Apr 2011 12:10:44 GMT football Ian Holloway’s football rants are always entertaining. And this latest blast over FIFA’s reluctance to use TV technology is spot on. Holloway to replace Sepp Blatter as FIFA President. Now that would be good for football. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/03/football-rant-ian-holloway-to-replace-fifa-boss-sepp-blatter/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/03/football-rant-ian-holloway-to-replace-fifa-boss-sepp-blatter/ Sun, 03 Apr 2011 20:55:44 GMT football It’s been a great Cricket World Cup – and what a cool finish when India’s skipper Mahendra Dhoni smashed a massive six into the celebrating fans at Mumbai to claim the victory in majestic style. Gautam Gambhir hit 97 and captain Dhoni an unbeaten 91 to steer India to an emphatic six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka – who set their rivals a massive target of 275 – in an absorbing World Cup final. It seems a long time ago since England shocked the Indians earlier in the tournament to grab a sensational tie in my favorite match of the tournament. And England can be proud of the part they played before going out to beaten finalists Sri Lanka in the quarter-finals. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/02/dreams-are-made-of-this-as-skipper-smashes-world-cup-winning-strike/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/04/02/dreams-are-made-of-this-as-skipper-smashes-world-cup-winning-strike/ Sat, 02 Apr 2011 17:32:44 GMT football It is estimated that the biggest TV audience ever to watch a cricket match witnessed India beat Pakistan by 29 runs in today’s much anticipated semi-final in Mohali. Billed as the Mother of All Cricket Matches, the prize at stake was a place in Sunday’s Final against England’s conquerors Sri Lanka. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/30/india-beat-pakistan-in-front-of-an-estimated-global-tv-audience-in-excess-of-100-million-viewers/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/30/india-beat-pakistan-in-front-of-an-estimated-global-tv-audience-in-excess-of-100-million-viewers/ Wed, 30 Mar 2011 19:43:44 GMT football CREDIT where credit is due. The Football Association deserve enormous praise for bringing Ghana to Wembley for tonight’s friendly international against England. And so does much-maligned boss Fabio Capello for giving the new generation a chance. Ir was so predictable to hear most sections of the blinkered media pack jump on the band-wagon of rubbishing Capello for having the forsight to leave out the old guard, who will be involved in next week’s Champions League quarter-finals. After a series of shocking decisions in his handling of the England captaincy, and giving too much information to a media out to hang him, this was a big night for the Italian. And he got it absolutely spot on with his team selection and tactics. It was good to see Andy Carroll score a stunning first international goal. And there were outstanding displays from Villa wing men Ashley Young and Stuart Downing in a free-flowing 4:3:3 formation. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/29/556/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/29/556/ Tue, 29 Mar 2011 23:21:44 GMT football ENGLAND go home from a World Cup disappointed to go out in the quarter-finals. It sounds all too familiar – but this time it is different because our cricketers have done us proud. When was the last time our over-paid, over-rated English football team beat the best in the world? England began the year by retaining the Ashes It has been a long five months away from home for the cricketers. But during their long haul Andrew Strauss and his team have gloriously retained the Ashes and finally succumbed to co-hosts Sri Lanka after providing the most thrilling matches of the tournament at the Cricket World Cup. Lest we forget it was only last May when England’s cricket team was crowned World champions in the Twenty20. What would England’s footballers – underachievers ever since our sole triumph in 1966 – give to be World Champions at any form of the game. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/27/fabio-capellos-team-will-never-match-the-modern-day-heroics-of-englands-cricket-team/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/27/fabio-capellos-team-will-never-match-the-modern-day-heroics-of-englands-cricket-team/ Sun, 27 Mar 2011 22:19:44 GMT football THERE is nothing in sport that makes me more sick to the stomach than hearing fans boo the national anthem – whatever country we are talking about. And what makes it worse, I am ashamed to admit, is that we the British are the biggest offenders. This time it was the Welsh who were the first to disgrace themselves with an ear-splitting chorus of boos that greeted God Save The Queen before the Euro 2012 Qualifying match against England in Cardiff. But England’s mindless morons responded just as badly. And we all know they would have started the booing if the Welsh anthem had been played first. How pathetic and condescending of England’s tainted captain John Terry, controversially re-instated by Fabio Capello, to infer otherwise when he claimed the boos provided the inspiration England needed to put the Welsh in their place. ‘They were booing the National Anthem and the players were very pumped up because of that,’ he said. ‘The players are very proud and ready for the game but when you hear that you get pumped up even more. We showed that from the start. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/27/only-morons-boo-national-anthems-sadly-the-brits-are-the-worlds-worst/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/27/only-morons-boo-national-anthems-sadly-the-brits-are-the-worlds-worst/ Sun, 27 Mar 2011 19:09:44 GMT football MICHAEL JACKSON was the King of Pop and many of us will love his music forever – but to put his statue outside Fulham’s Craven Cottage is a joke. Jacko famously went there ONCE to watch Fulham beat Wigan 2-0. But do me a favour! This is an embarrassment for the fans of a club that has been graced by many famous players who could have been immortalised with a lasting tribute at the Cottage. Mohamed Al Fayed commissioned the statue of his friend with the intention of putting it outside the Harrods department store. Now Al Fayed, who subsequently sold Harrods, has decided he will unveil it outside his Fulham football ground at midday on April 3. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/18/michael-jackson-statue-at-craven-cottage-even-wacko-jacko-would-say-thats-bad/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/18/michael-jackson-statue-at-craven-cottage-even-wacko-jacko-would-say-thats-bad/ Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:21:44 GMT football ENGLAND are doing their best to make the Cricket World Cup interesting – and for the sake of a competition that is far too long every lover of the one-day game must be praying Andrew Strauss and his men make it through to the quarter-finals. For the sixth match in succession, England were involved in a rollercoaster of a contest. This time it was a thriller against the West Indies which swung back and forth right through to the end before England kept their World Cup campaign alive with a dramatic 18-run win. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/17/cricket-world-cup-needs-englands-entertainers-to-reach-the-quarter-finals/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/17/cricket-world-cup-needs-englands-entertainers-to-reach-the-quarter-finals/ Thu, 17 Mar 2011 00:21:12 GMT football THE PUBLIC debate over Sir Alex Ferguson’s five match touchline ban has been fascinating. the anti-Manchester United brigade on one side and the realists on the other. But the fact remains that Fergie was only telling the truth. And his defiance is actually for the good of the game. Sir Alex has been punished for critcising referee Martin Atkinson over a diabolical performance that cost United defeat by Chelsea in one of the biggest matches of the season. As the Boss says, football is the only industry where you get punished for telling the truth. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/17/what-a-disgrace-touchline-ban-for-fergie-is-punishment-for-telling-the-truth-fa-have-got-it-wrong/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/17/what-a-disgrace-touchline-ban-for-fergie-is-punishment-for-telling-the-truth-fa-have-got-it-wrong/ Thu, 17 Mar 2011 00:12:52 GMT football FABIO CAPELLO may have been a successful club manager in Italy – but the England job is just too big for him. And the latest embarrassing saga of whether or not John Terry will replace the injured Rio Ferdinand as skipper is the last straw. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/16/taxi-for-capello-even-thinking-about-re-instating-john-terry-as-captain-is-the-last-straw-the-italian-must-go/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/16/taxi-for-capello-even-thinking-about-re-instating-john-terry-as-captain-is-the-last-straw-the-italian-must-go/ Wed, 16 Mar 2011 00:21:00 GMT football Pathetic Preston chairman Maurice Lindsay has been moaning about Manchester United recalling all their players on loan at the club when they sacked Sir Alex Ferguson’s son Darren – but what did he expect? The Lilywhites sacked Ferguson Junior in December and United immediately recalled loan players Joshua King and Ritchie de Laet to Old Trafford. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/15/preston-chairman-naive-to-think-he-could-sack-ferguson-and-keep-uniteds-players-on-loan/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/15/preston-chairman-naive-to-think-he-could-sack-ferguson-and-keep-uniteds-players-on-loan/ Tue, 15 Mar 2011 11:36:00 GMT football WHISPER it quietly around the Southern-biased media, but Manchester United are edging closer to a repeat of their famous Treble of 1999. While certain sections of the media continue with their mindless obsession of looking for ways to criticise Sir Alex Ferguson, United’s relentless boss just keeps on driving his club forward in the quest for honours. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/13/treble-chance-a-long-shot-but-nothing-is-impossible-when-fergie-smells-blood/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/13/treble-chance-a-long-shot-but-nothing-is-impossible-when-fergie-smells-blood/ Sun, 13 Mar 2011 01:10:00 GMT football As Tottenham triumphantly march into the last eight of the Champions League, it is time to salute the brilliance of their English boss Harry Redknapp. When Redknapp replaced Spanish disaster Juande Ramos in October 2008, Spurs were four points adrift at the bottom of the Premier League. Now they look comfortable at the top table of European football and it is easy to imagine the best is still to come. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/09/glory-for-spurs-but-miracle-worker-redknapp-is-destined-for-the-england-job/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/09/glory-for-spurs-but-miracle-worker-redknapp-is-destined-for-the-england-job/ Wed, 09 Mar 2011 23:02:00 GMT football BARCELONA totally outclassed Arsenal in both legs of their epic Champions League win. But the contest was effectively decided by a disgraceful red card for Robin Van Persie. It was a shameful, indefensible verdict by Swiss referee Massimo Busacca. A week ago Manchester United made Premier League champions Chelsea look second rate until referee Martin Atkinson allowed the home side back into the game. The official invited allegations of corruption when he failed to punish John Terry’s blatant handball in the box and then gave a string of dubious decisions in Chelsea’s favour. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/08/goals-used-to-change-games-but-now-its-the-match-officials-its-time-for-fifa-to-act/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/08/goals-used-to-change-games-but-now-its-the-match-officials-its-time-for-fifa-to-act/ Tue, 08 Mar 2011 23:02:00 GMT football Michael Owen – Sheffield Wednesday v Liverpool, 1997/98 Michael Owen – one of the best strikers the Premier League has produced who has played for the world’s biggest clubs: Liverpool, Real Madrid, Newcastle United and Manchester United. Shot to fame with an amazing goal for England against Argentina in the World Cup. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/06/classic-goals-michael-owen-199798/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/06/classic-goals-michael-owen-199798/ Fri, 04 Mar 2011 16:42:00 GMT football WHENEVER Eric Cantona speaks about football the legendary Manchester United maverick is guaranteed to make you stop and think – and the latest insight from the controversial Frenchman is another classic. Eric the King, always the master orator who boldly goes where no other sportsmen would dare, has done it again with a rare analysis of his infamous kung-fu kick. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/04/cantona-kung-fu-kick-was-wrong-but-it-felt-great/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/04/cantona-kung-fu-kick-was-wrong-but-it-felt-great/ Sun, 06 Mar 2011 19:36:00 GMT football ROBBIE SAVAGE is the star of BBC Radio Five Live’s Football Phone-In – and tonight’s banter with special guest Ryan Giggs was priceless. Robbie Savage: “Ryan Giggs is the best ever Premier League player. And in the Top 10 the world has ever seen.” The repisote from Giggs when Savage described Man Utd’s 1992 youth team as the best ever: “Yeah we played in the best ever Youth team – and then there was you!. Giggs is a genious and a comedian. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/05/robbie-savaged-by-comedian-giggys-after-his-former-team-mate-says-hes-premier-leagues-best-ever/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/05/robbie-savaged-by-comedian-giggys-after-his-former-team-mate-says-hes-premier-leagues-best-ever/ Sat, 05 Mar 2011 18:43:00 GMT football The bigger they are the harder they fall – and Northampton’s Carling Cup triumph at Anfield has sent Liverpool crashing to a new low http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2010/09/22/kick-in-the-cobblers-brings-kop-to-its-knees/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2010/09/22/kick-in-the-cobblers-brings-kop-to-its-knees/ Wed, 22 Sep 2010 22:00:00 GMT football Andrew Flintoff will always be remembered as the face of England’s Ashes triumph of 2005 – but the larger than life Lancashire legend’s premature, injury-enforced retirement is shrouded with a sense of unfulfilled potential. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2010/09/16/its-all-over-for-andrew-flintoff-the-ashes-hero-who-should-have-achieved-so-much-more/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2010/09/16/its-all-over-for-andrew-flintoff-the-ashes-hero-who-should-have-achieved-so-much-more/ Thu, 16 Sep 2010 20:00:00 GMT cricket Keep up with news updates and the latest freeviews from visionsport.TV on Twitter http://twitter.com/visionsportTV http://twitter.com/visionsportTV Wed, 25 Aug 2010 09:00:00 GMT twitter Sir Bobby Robson saluted his Boys of 81 who won the UEFA Cup for Ipswich Town as his greatest side ever. Exclusive interviews with Sir Bobby and all the highlights from an unforgetable season are featured in the official Boys of 81 DVD. This is our tribute to one of English football's greatest ever heroes. http://www.visionsport.co.uk/trailer/it81-dvd.html http://www.visionsport.co.uk/trailer/it81-dvd.html Fri, 31 Jul 2009 22:00:00 GMT Football When Norwich City won the 1985 Milk Cup Final it was the Canaries' first Wembley triumph. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of that great achievement, manager Ken Brown and Mark Barham re-live that special milestone on the official Milk Cup Heroes DVD. http://www.visionsport.co.uk/sportsshop/nor85-dvd.html http://www.visionsport.co.uk/sportsshop/nor85-dvd.html Mon, 01 Mar 2010 12:00:00 GMT Football Do you remember when Ian Dowie introduced his underachieving players to salsa http://www.visionsport.co.uk/sports/salsa.html http://www.visionsport.co.uk/sports/salsa.html Mon, 28 Jul 2008 23:00:00 GMT Dance FOR INTENSITY tonight’s showdown between Chelsea and Manchester United was arguably the best match of the season – but there is no doubt the final outcome was decided by a woeful display by referee Martin Atkinson. And not for the first time in this fixture! http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/01/titanic-struggle-a-thriller-for-neutrals-but-uniteds-defeat-by-chelsea-was-bad-for-the-beautiful-game/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/01/titanic-struggle-a-thriller-for-neutrals-but-uniteds-defeat-by-chelsea-was-bad-for-the-beautiful-game/ Tue, 01 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT Football THE RECORD BOOKS will show that England and India drew their record-breaking 676 run rollercoaster as one of the most thrilling World Cup matches in the history of cricket ended in a last ball drama. But the nerve-shredding final twist left Andrew Strauss’s men feeling like the victors of a match they deserved to win. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/02/28/it-ended-in-a-tie-but-england-deserved-to-beat-world-cup-hosts-india-in-one-of-crickets-greatest-ever-matches http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/02/28/it-ended-in-a-tie-but-england-deserved-to-beat-world-cup-hosts-india-in-one-of-crickets-greatest-ever-matches/ Mon, 28 Feb 2011 01:47:00 GMT Cricket CUP UPSETS don’t come much bigger than Birmingham beating Arsenal in the Carling Cup Final at Wembley – but make no mistake this was a well deserved win for the underdogs against the most overrated team in football. The truth is this was a great victory for the best of British on a day that the so-called foreign flair of Arsene Wenger’s team of fragile Europeans were outfought and outplayed by a team of mostly home grown talent. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/02/28/birminghams-best-of-british-team-spirit-too-strong-for-fragile-gunners/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/02/28/birminghams-best-of-british-team-spirit-too-strong-for-fragile-gunners/ Mon, 28 Feb 2011 01:15:00 GMT Football THE ROMANCE of the FA Cup is alive and kicking after a weekend of pure drama – but UEFA have cynically brought football fans down to earth with a bump with their disgraceful ticket pricing for the Champions League Final. Wembley stages the Champions League Final on May 28. But UEFA’s determination to maximise their revenue means the cheapest tickets on general sale will cost £150 plus an administration fee of £26. Even fans of clubs involved in the final will have to pay a minimum of £80. It is a cynical exploitation that Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has labelled “disappointing and unbelievable”. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/02/20/late-drama-at-leyton-orient-confirms-the-romance-of-fa-cup-is-not-dead-but-shame-on-greedy-uefa/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/02/20/late-drama-at-leyton-orient-confirms-the-romance-of-fa-cup-is-not-dead-but-shame-on-greedy-uefa/ Sun, 20 Feb 2011 23:00:00 GMT Football WHEN IT COMES to picking a role model there has never been any footballer greater than Ryan Giggs – and it is hard to imagine any athlete in the history of sport with more longevity at the top level than the Manchester United legend. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/02/18/another-milestone-for-giggs-the-ultimate-role-model/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/02/18/another-milestone-for-giggs-the-ultimate-role-model/ Fri, 18 Feb 2011 09:38:00 GMT Football Disc 1: It all begamn in 1885 with a team formed by the workers at Morton's Jam Factory on the Isle of Dogs, on land adjacent to Millwall Docks. Includes highlights from Millwall's historic first season in the top flight of English football Disc 2: Culminating with the glory of the 2010 Play Off Final and a triumphant return to the Championship that crowns the club's 125th anniversary Featuring rare footage exclusive interviews and material previously unseen on TV or DVD. An official DVD production for Millwall Football Club by VISIONSPORT TV http://www.visionsport.co.uk/new.html http://www.visionsport.co.uk/new.html Sat, 04 Dec 2010 09:38:00 GMT Football THE BEAUTY of sport is the way it can stir just about every emotion – and today has been another corker. It was a story of David crushing Goliath as Ireland amazingly humbled England in the latest sensational Cricket World Cup drama. Celtic conquered their Old Firm rivals Rangers 1-0 in a battle of breath-taking intensity at Parkhead, as the beaten Gerrs ended the evening with eight men to crash out of the Scottish Cup. South of the border there was FA Cup drama as Arsenal finally saw off Leyton Orient 5-0 to claim a quarter-final showdown with Manchester United at Old Trafford. And mega rich City kept alive the possibilty of meeting their Mancunian rivals United in the Final when they despatched Aston Villa 3-0 to set up a meeting with Reading in the last eight. But this was a day that belonged to the Irish. http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/02/irish-eyes-smiling-as-england-humbled-by-minnows-in-another-sensational-finish-at-cricket-world-cup/ http://visionsport.wordpress.com/2011/03/02/irish-eyes-smiling-as-england-humbled-by-minnows-in-another-sensational-finish-at-cricket-world-cup/ Wed, 02 Mar 2011 09:38:00 GMT Football