ranting about my football team May 20, 2012
Posted by garysbloggything in Uncategorized.add a comment
This time last week, Liverpool FC had a manager. A manager who had brought us our first trophy in 6 six years and had taken us to two finals in 10 weeks, after not getting to a final of any sort for 5 years. To counter that, our league results were generally terrible for a number of recurring reasons which did not seem able to be overcome.
Given that, in my opinion, the football played was mostly good (some of its participants were average at times) and on only 4 occasions I can think of did we actually stink the place out for 90 minutes, I thought that with a couple more players added to those here, together with improvement from last years signings (or plans to move them on if nothing consistent from them by Christmas), the manager would get at least one more season in charge to see if the league form improved.
The owners had other ideas and last Wednesday sacked Kenny Dalglish. I wasn’t the only one who was upset by this. Not just because it meant yet another change of manager, but with the apparent cold way a club legend was treated. I realise that some fans thought a change was for the best and I respect that. However what I don’t respect is the shouty opinions of some people so far up their own backsides that if they hold the opposite opinion to you, they speak to you (either in person or online) in such a condescending manner, belittling your views.
I know full well how a top four finish is important for revenue, these days. However, I also know that Liverpool FC used to exist to win trophies. I’m not saying this season was successful, but as I thought it was the start of 3 years of Kenny Dalglish in charge, I thought on balance, it was a good starting point. The owners thought differently, and that’s modern football for you.
What I’ve not enjoyed this week is basically being told by some who thought it right for Kenny to go (both online and in person), to not be upset or annoyed and more or less to shut up because their opinion was the right one.
Well excuse me for being gutted that the one person (football wise) that I’ve idolised since I was 5 years old, was discarded by the club he loves as much as the most devoted supporter does, like some nobody.
That said, he’s been treated as such by a very small minority. After we were knocked out of the Europa League in March 2011, I heard one thick scouse accent shout from the Kop, “F*** off Dalglish, you T**t”. Really classy way to speak about a legend.
Some people don’t seem to get that you can be critical (constructively) but still support somebody. I know full well he got things wrong at times, but some people seem to think (in all aspects of life) that you are either 100% for something and if you are not then that means you are 100% against something. Like if you said (3 years ago) you still supported Rafa, it meant to some that you blindly supported him and thought he had no faults. The reality was and is, most rational people can do both, for any situation.
I hope FSG know what they are doing, and only time will tell if they’ve made the right choice. In fact we’ll never know, as we can’t now find out what Kenny would do, good or bad. Whoever comes in, whether a fancied name, or not, I will support because I love my club. If things are not going well, I will not vent my feelings at the game, but will either keep to myself, or try to have sensible discussions about it.
I’m just disappointed that it now seems that top 4 counts for everything and I fear for the new manager, whoever he is, that he will also be sacked if he doesn’t get that, regardless of whatever else he may do in the other competitions. I have heard that even winning the FA Cup would not have saved Kenny Dalglish. Yes, that’s right, a club that exists (or did) to win trophies, could have won 2 of the 3 competitions it competed in, and it still wouldn’t have been good enough.
I also expect to see a lot of two faced comments next year from supporters if we get knocked out of the cup competitions but get 4th, that it’s been a terrible season. That’s the thing about two faced people, they change their opinion to suit their ever changing, sometimes petty agendas, and if you don’t go with it you’re automatically wrong.
By the way none of this was aimed at anyone who has expressed different opinions to mine, in a rational manner. Just shouty idiots who love the sound of their own voice.
One final non football related note. Some of you will know Laura’s Little Bakery is closing, a week on Thursday. Only the shop on Hanover street, not the whole business. I know it’s the right thing for Laura to do at this point in time, but I’m going to miss it so much. Of course I already knew Laura from placing several orders with her last year and chatting on twitter, but since setting up permanent residence (it seems haha) in the shop, I’ve got to know Sophie and Danielle & I can’t think of 3 more lovely people who I’d rather have shoving cake down my gob a couple of times a week. Much more than just a place to eat cakes. So many laughs had in there, especially watching Debi give a lesson in how not to make Liverbirds for Kopcakes, and Sophie’s unintentional Mrs Overall impression (not that I ever go on about it at all) . I don’t think I’ll ever laugh so much, so consistently, again in the rest of my life. So even though I’ve still got two more weeks of cake eating to go, I’d just like to wish Laura all the best with the rest of the business & thanks for putting up with me regularly since January.
A bit of a let down May 7, 2012
Posted by garysbloggything in Uncategorized.add a comment
(No, not the blog post, well I hope not anyway, but rather the football results since the last blog update)
My last update ended with the Hillsborough anniversary, and in the following week, not a lot happened, except for Mum taking a few downward steps, of which all depression sufferers will understand to one degree or another.
The weekend after the Hillsborough Anniversary, we played West Brom at home, and as usual several of us met in the Sandon beforehand. I also met one of my lovely twitter followers there, for the first time, as Fiona was over from Ireland. It was so great to finally meet her. This is one of the things about twitter I like, in that you can get to know someone (or in my case, lots of people) before you meet them, and when you do it feels like you’ve known them a long time. I know that some people aren’t too fussed about that aspect of things, but I just say each to their own.
Anyway, here’s a photo of me with Fiona and Ruth, Katie & Sian. (L-R, Sian, Me, Ruth, Fiona & Katie)
So it was across the road to Anfield soon after and we witnessed an all too common occurrence.. We dominated the game from start to finish, had enough chances to win several games, but didn’t score. So it was no surprise that West Brom scored what turned out to be the winner.
The following week, I got my FA Cup Final ticket (along with a few of my friends who are also Season ticket holders) and then waited for several friends to see if they were successful in the ballot the following day. Some where and some weren’t (although ultimately, I think only one person from the group of friends I see the most, was not able to get a ticket after people were asking round on behalf of others). There has been a lot said about the FA, most of it far better than I can put it, but I will relate my own tale about them. Obviously there was already widespread anger at the allocation, and then there was also the matter of the (extensive fan researched) late kick off time. It is well documented that the FA chose to have this fixture on a bank holiday weekend that saw extensive rail line works which had been planned for a long time before. It meant there were only 3 Direct trains (all leaving Liverpool before 8am) to London on Cup Final day and none coming back. I thought I would be ok, however, as I was booked on a charter train that would take a route around the line works. I used the same travel agent that I had booked with for the Semi Final. The day I got my Cup Final ticket, I had a phone call that afternoon from the travel agent to say that Network Rail were now not allowing the train to run. I was offered a partial refund and a seat on a coach. After sending messages to friends who might have been driving down, I decided to take up the offer of a coach seat, as those friends weren’t (at the time) sure they’d be getting match tickets. The FA’s response to the predicament of the many who would have gone by train from Liverpool was this, “we sympathise with those who wanted to travel by rail, but it must be remembered that the percentage of those who travel by rail is small compared to road travel”. So in other words, a big FO from the FA.
There’s not really much to tell from then until the day of the Final itself. I got a cab at 8.30 to get to the Coach pick up point on Edge Lane, before 9. We set off, picking up at a few places along the way. Thankfully the lad who ended up sitting next to me was ok (I had been worried that, as there sometimes was when I used to travel to matches by coach, there’d be idiots on there, but thankfully there wasn’t). Had some good chats on the way down with a few on there. We stopped at services in the West Midlands on the way down & we eventually arrived at Wembley coach park at 2.15. I was due to wait for Laura to arrive and then we’d head to the Torch to meet the others. However Laura was stuck in traffic and told me to head up there and she’d follow on. Unfortunately, by the time she got through the traffic, she decided it would be pointless to walk up there, so just went straight inside. I did meet up with everyone else (from memory, Cherie, Ruth, Chris, Kenny, Rick, Beth, Becci, Rohan, Bev & Katie) & as we do in the Sandon, we had a great time.
Here’s a picture of me & my lovely mate Beth, outside the Torch.
As it got to around 4.30, I walked back to the Stadium with Ruth & Chris. Then we went to our separate turnstile blocks. Here is the view from my seat.
You can’t see it very well, but on the left hand side of the ESPN pitch side set up, are John Barnes and Kevin Keegan. During YNWA, John Barnes was trying to get everyone singing it even louder than we were, and Kevin Keegan was conducting us, like we were an Orchestra. Both of them singing along with us. It was brilliant to see (and for me to be so close (I was, despite the poor photo) to two LFC legends).
The game itself was such a let down (hence the title of this update), as we just weren’t in the game for an hour. Then Andy Carroll came off the bench, got one goal back, thought he’d equalised (I still think he did, having seen it again on TV, but it’s gone now & we can’t do anything about it). Many have said he should have started (some in a sensible manner, some in a snidey “lets have a go at Kenny Dalglish” manner). There were many reasons to play or not to play him and hindsight is a wonderful thing. I think Gerrard got it right when he said that on our second half showing we maybe deserved extra time, but not to have won in the 90 minutes. Still, it was not to be, and after rowing with a bloke behind me (who was continually getting on most of the players backs) after he slagged off a poor corner from Downing (my reasoning being that yes it was poor, but most of our corners are poor, even from the likes of Gerrard), I was miserable some 5 minutes before the final whistle as the guy had really wound me up, and it takes a lot to wind me up to the extent that I explode.
The coach journey back didn’t take as long as it did going, once we got out of the coach park (at 8.10). As we stopped at the services along the way, I saw Ruth & Chris again, as their coach was using the same services. That was a brightspot on the way home. I was dropped off on Edge Lane at 12.15. Fortunately, I didn’t have to ring for a taxi as one was just coming down the road as I got off the coach, so I was back home at 12.30. A very long day indeed, with it’s saving grace being (as it has been with so many home games this season) the meeting up with good friends before the game itself. So many good memories & good friendships have come from those times this season, and as we approach the final home game of the season (which I will blog about later in the week), I hope there are many more in the years to come.
long overdue update April 15, 2012
Posted by garysbloggything in Uncategorized.add a comment
I didn’t realise that it’s been a month since I last updated my blog. Lots to update then, I suspect. Here goes.
Since I was last doing this, we’ve had a Summer… at the end of March. I do hope that warm weather will be back, in the actual Summer (or at the very least, at the end of June when I’m on holiday). That weather coincided with our worst display at Anfield this season in the lost to Wigan. Results have not been good since The Carling Cup Final (except for the Anfield Derby), but the games against Wigan, Newcastle and the first 75 minutes against Aston Villa were awful). However in that last 15 minutes against Villa we at least fought to get a point.
The day before the Villa game (Good Friday) I was heading into town to pick up a few things and was also able to say hello to Beth, who was in my second home (Laura’s little bakery) enjoying a cake, while up for a day out in Liverpool. Whilst getting my own cake, Sophie and Laura remarked on seeing “casual Gaz” again. This first happened when I went in there with Robbie and Beth on the morning of the Wigan game, as the lovely people in LLB are used to me going in during my lunch hour when I’m in my shirt & tie (and trousers, obviously.. it would be quite wrong otherwise).
Anyway, I digress, 3 Days after the Villa game, I was at Ewood Park for Blackburn v Liverpool, with Laura. It was my first away game (with the exception of pre season friendlies, Cup Semi’s & Finals) since 2002, when the club brought in a loyalty scheme for away games. One I totally agree with, despite it not working in my favour, as I used to go as and when I could. I discovered I could get a ticket for this game & took Laura. This was also the first time in 3 years that I’ve actually sat next to a mate at a game, so I was looking forward to the type of laughs and camaraderie I have missed. The game started so well, we tore Blackburn apart in the opening 25 minutes, took our chances (for once) and were 2-0 up when Doni was sent off after bringing down Hoilett, who had latched on to a poor backpass from John Flannagan. It brought on Brad Jones, to face the penalty kick. His first game for us since December 2010. He saved an awful penalty from “Derrrrr Yakkkkk”, and pointed to the sky towards his little boy, Luca, who passed away last November. Quite naturally for someone who’s played so little football & had his son’s illness then death to deal with, he was quite understandably shaky at times. Most notably when his goalkick hit Yakubu, bounced up then he fumbled the ball and pushed him to get the ball. Everyone’s hearts were in their mouths as we could have had him sent off. However it was deemed a yellow card as Yakubu was moving away from goal. This penalty wasnt saved. We’d thrown away a 2 goal lead & it looked like being down to 10 men would finally tell. However, we showed incredible spirit and kept attacking. We got our reward in the last minute when Andy Carroll scored a last minute winner. He and the Away end went absolutely mental. I was more confident about the FA Cup Semi Final than at any time since we qualified for it.
Moving on to that game. It was up at 5.45am with taxi to Liverpool South Parkway, booked for 6.30. That’s where I was getting a charter train direct to Wembley. We set off at 7.30 arriving at 10.40. I met Sian, from twitter outside the station. We then walked along Wembley High Road to wait for (“Oh My God it’s Scouser) Laura (off the Telly”). Time was getting on for us to head up to the Torch where everyone else. Laura decided to go in to the stadium, but Sian and I made our way towards the Torch. However I got a message from Beth who said they were all on their way to the Stadium. Quite understandably, as it was very close to kick off by now. I was a little disappointed not to see the others, but at least I’d got to spend a bit of time with two friends. Prior to kick off, a minutes silence for the 96 who died at Hillsborough was impeccably observed
On to the game itself. We didn’t play particularly well in the first half and Everton took the lead through Jelavic, after a mix up between Agger and Carragher. It appeared the players had a rollocking from Kenny as they came out for the 2nd half all fired up and could have scored before we equalised just after the hour. Suarez got on to a poor back pass from Distin and slotted the ball past Howard. After being quite fed up at half time (where a I got my own pep talk via texts from Beth), I was now confident we could go on and win it. It looked like there would be extra time, Andy Carroll scored the winner with 4 minutes to go.
After the game, I met up with Sian again and we went on a little hike around the streets of Wembley and then had a bite to eat. She then went for her train home and I joined the queue for the charter train. We set off at 5.30 and got back at 8.45. I called a cab and was home at 9, shattered but happy.
On to today. the 23rd anniversary of Hillsborough. I met up with some of the Sandon crew (in the Sandon, strangely enough) including Beth, Robbie, Becci & Katie. The service was as it always is. Very moving. One day, there will finally be Justice for the 96. There has to be. After the service it was back to the Sandon, but it was packed, so we went over to the Arkles instead, in time to see Ashley Young’s latest attempt to join the GB Olympic diving team. I also got to meet someone (finally) for the first time. The lovely Ruth off twitter.
So that’s about it really, I think. Until next time.
Another week March 16, 2012
Posted by garysbloggything in Uncategorized.add a comment
An uneventful Monday was followed by one of the funniest, best days I’ve had in a while. Tuesday saw me take an extended lunch break (asked for, not just taken) and head off, just for a change, to Laura’s Little Bakery. This time, there was going to be company.
When I arrived, Carly was already there. She’d come over from Northern Ireland for the Derby and as with the other times she’s been over for matches, it was great to see her. Soon after, Robbie arrived, then Debi from HJC. For the first time ever, I had my two favourite Laura’s in the same place, as also coming was my favourite divvy, very close friend and match day chauffeur (yes, THAT Laura).
What followed, as well as a good catch up with all concerned (including Sophie and Laura) and introductions between those who hadn’t met in person before, had to be seen to know how funny it was. In fact, funny doesn’t do it justice.
To see Debi trying to make Liverbird cake decorations, with the help of a mould, was a sight to behold. I’ve not laughed so much since I was misdirected around the streets of Anfield in January, by my favourite divvy. Also entering the madness was local actor Scot Williams, who really is as down to earth as he seems. I’m told that this week he has rivaled me for number of appearances in Laura’s Little Bakery. In the words of Jamie Carragher, “AYYYYYY, amnorravintha”
I had toyed with the idea of taking a half days holiday, but decided against it. I regretted the decision during my time with everyone. If such a gathering happens again, pre match, I’ll be sure to stick around. As it was, I had to go back to work & hated every minute until it was 5.30.
Then it was off to Anfield to meet up with Laura for some thoroughly healthy food (not) , then to the Sandon where we met up with Carly, Nick, Phil, Helen, Rich, Chris, Ro, Beth, Katie, Becci, Andy, Bev & Robbie. I’ve probably missed people off., If so, sorry. There were loads out that night. Laura and I were taking photos of everyone (well, not literally everyone. Only those we knew. haha), with varying degrees of success. Once again, time was proved to be flying when you’re having fun, and it was time to head across the road to the ground, for the Merseyside Derby.
What followed was a pretty one sided Derby game. Thankfully it was in favour of Liverpool. We started off with passion, intensity and some brilliant, quick, one touch pass and move football. Unfortunately for the first half hour, Henderson was not in tune with the rest of the team. As usual when this has happened in other games, sections of the crowd get on his back, instead of getting behind him. We went 1-0 up through a wonderful finish from Steven Gerrard and, coincidence or not, Henderson then came out of his shell and for the rest of his time on the pitch he played really well.
Early in the second half Gerrard made it 2-0. Everton weren’t really playing well, but it only takes one slip up to bring them back in the game, so you can never completely be comfortable. In the last minute, Gerrard got his hat trick after another fantastic move and some unselfish play from Suarez (in what was comfortably his best game since returning from his ban). Really great feeling coming out of the ground. Waiting for Laura (who was giving me a lift home), seeing the amount of smiling faces just naturally makes you smile yourself.
The following day I met up with Carly at Laura’s little bakery again, for a cuppa, before she was getting the bus to the Airport to go back home. Was also nice to meet her brother too. Danielle was helping Laura on Wednesday, and being a nice person, I didnt rub it in about the match.
On Thursday, mum got the results of her twice yearly check up (Blood pressure, Cholesterol etc) all was fine, but the best news was that she’s lost a stone. Partially, this was because of her not getting over the stomach bug (that we all got) quickly. She didn’t have much of an appetite for a few weeks and most definitely cut out all of the things she was snacking on (which she always had because of her depression). Since regaining her appetite, she has barely snacked, so hopefully its more steps, slowly but surely in the right direction. At least in the short term, some good has come from being ill. I’ve made a big deal of her weight loss because its important to focus on the positive.
Today, saw me back in Laura’s because I wanted to get some mothers day decorated cakes to take home.
So that was my week. See you next time I’ve got something vaguely interesting to say.
Carling Cup Final February 27, 2012
Posted by garysbloggything in Uncategorized.add a comment
I could have entitled this “Here, there & everywhere”, given the journey I had on the trains, but I was afraid I’d be sued for copyright.
So, this is all about yesterday’s Carling Cup Final between Liverpool and Cardiff City at Wembley, and it goes a bit like this…….
I was woken, at 6am yesterday, by a panicked & very worried Mum, as she had heard about Train problems. I listened to local radio news and it said that during engineering works overnight, a works train had derailed near Winsford and the line was closed between Liverpool & Crewe. Advice was to get a replacement bus to Crewe, drive to Crewe or Stafford, or get a train to Chester or Manchester to carry on the journey. I quickly showered, had breakfast then got a taxi to Lime Street, arriving at 8.10. I was booked originally on the 9.40 from Lime Street so was very early by comparison.
I’d just missed the Manchester train, and having to wait another hour for the next, I decided to get the train to Chester instead. Merseyrail had put extra services on and that part of the journey was uneventful, as was the connection to Crewe which was only 20 mins.By this time it was 10am. One member of staff said go to Birmingham and change for Euston, but that wasn’t going for 30 minutes. However a very delayed train to Euston was on the next platform, so I decided to get that. It was jam packed and I (and many others, I must add) were standing by the doors, all the way to Euston. My feet feel asleep a few times (not at the same time, Or I’d have fallen over). Fortunately the other people crammed in near me, were ok and there was a bit of banter going on. As we passed (the formidable) Northampton, I rubbed my face, in honour of the greatest manager in the history of Neuchatel Xamax, our dear old Woy. We finally reached Euston at 12.30 & I made the 12.37 connection to Wembley by the skin of my teeth.
So, I arrived at Wembley Central at 1.05pm, which by sheer coincidence, was the time I was supposed to be getting there. However I was supposed to get there on 2 trains, not 4, and it was supposed to take 90 minutes less that I did. However, the main thing was that I was there. I was meeting my good friend Laura, and she was waiting outside the station for me, having driven down, and arrived around 11.30. Having sent her a moaning/panicky/confused text at 6.30, she had kindly agreed to take me back home in her car, which I had asked if she could, because I didn’t want to take any chances on the Trains not being right, going home.
So, Laura and I found a little Cafe on Wembley High Road, and had a cuppa and a butty,
then we headed off to find The Green Man Pub, where we ran into several dubious characters called Rohan, Beth, Rick, Becci, Katie, Robbie & James (I hope I’ve not left anyone out)..of course, they’re not really dubious (well, not much), and this was The Sandon on Tour …. Here is a photo of us all
As the clock rolled toward 3pm, Laura & I decided to head to the Stadium, so we said our goodbyes to the rogues gallery (though I believe they weren’t far behind), and strolled down to our respective blocks, encountering Debi from the HJC, who was handing out Don’t Buy The S*n posters (like the one Katie has in the photo above). We then identified a meeting point for after the game.
This is the view I had from my seat, three rows from the back of the top tier.
I also took a photo looking directly across to the opposite corner, where Laura was.
So, onto the Final itself. We started off well, with Glen Johnson curling a shot against the bar after 2 minutes, but Cardiff were full of energy and spirit (as you would expect, and they kept this up right to the end), and they went in front on 19 minutes. During the first half (and indeed the whole game) I thought we were the better team, but we suffered from our old failing of not converting chances. I saw a stat that said we had 39 shots on goal, 19 on target. Anyway, the ineffective Jordan Henderson was taken off on the hour. I felt sorry for him, because while I could recognise he was having a poor game, I could still support him during the game (you know, due to him being on of 11 in red, playing for the team we support). However, a couple of lads behind me spent the entire hour he played, slagging him off, every time he got the ball. They also slagged Downing off if something he did, didn’t come off, but never praised when he did something good (for a moment I thought I was at Anfield, to be honest). I think it was Downing’s best game, and I know (like last week when “it was only Brighton) the opposition will be used against him, he can only play against the players in opposition, whoever they may be. Nobody said of McManaman’s 2 man of the match performances at Wembley that “It was only Sunderland” or “It was only Bolton”. I hope he can kick on, and build on the positives. Anyway, I digress. We equalised a few minutes after Bellamy replaced Henderson. Skrtel scored and the Red half of Wembley went wild. Surely we would go on and win it now. Surely Cardiff would tire. Well a few went down with cramp, but Cardiff just kept on going and almost won it at the end. So, it was on to extra time. Just before the 90 minutes were up, Carragher replaced Agger who has suspected Cracked ribs. He’s largely been injury free this season & has built up a great understanding with Skrtel, so a lengthy absence would be a blow.
During the first half of Extra time, Kuyt replaced Carroll and with 12 minutes to go, he scored what looked like the winner. He even cleared off his own line with 2 minutes to go and we sensed that we were about to win the Cup. However from the resulting corner, Cardiff scored again to make it 2-2 and take the game to penalties.
Anyone who has seen our penalties this season will know that being rubbish at them has become an art form. But still, we’ve only lost two penalty shoot outs, none in Finals. Up stepped Gerrard and his penalty was brilliantly turned on to the bar by their keeper. The Cardiff missed their first one. Adam stepped forward and panicked some Martians, as his spot kick went way over the bar. Cardiff scored their 2nd penalty, and so were 1-0 up after 2 kicks each. Step forward Dirk. Cool as you like, he scored. Cardiff’s next penalty was missed and then Stuart Downing stepped forward. Despite his man of the match performance (which some, as is their right, did not agree with. Most vocally, the guys behind me, who were heard to say, upon the announcement of the man of the match award, “Fuck off, that’s bollocks”), there were a few groans when he stepped forward (Zenden-esque Champions League Semi Final 07 type groans). I knew he would get slated if he missed and his many critics amongst our fans would delight in tearing him apart. I was delighted as much for him, as for the fact we’d scored another penalty. Cardiff scored again to make it 2-2 and Glen Johnson scored our fifth penalty to make it 3-2, which mean Cardiff had to score to take the shootout to sudden death. If not, it meant we had won. As it turned out, it was Steven Gerrard’s cousin, Anthony, who was to take their fifth penalty. He put it wide and that was it. We’d won the League Cup for the 8th time. It was quite touching that Steven went to his cousin to console him, before joining the rest of our players in celebration. After the trophy had been lifted and the players had taken the cup round the pitch, it was off to find Laura. Off we then went to where she had parked, and then we set off for home (not before she took me on a ‘delightful, little tour of Wembley and the surrounding area, before finding the A40). So we were well into our road trip now. Tunes belting out and Laura singing away. We had a stop for food along the way, but I was back home at 11.50 which wasn’t bad going at all. I really appreciated getting a lift back, and knew it would be a good laugh, with one of my best friends.
Despite the problems getting down there, the victory (albeit yet another nail biting one – do we ever do “easy”?) made it all worthwhile, as did having a good time with The Sandon crew before hand, and Laura both before and after.
Will just finish off by mentioning that I visited my second home today (Laura’s Little Bakery) where I followed Debi from HJC in, around 30 seconds later. I got this cake today.
Which was a nice end to the 30 hours this blog post covered.
Until next time, I’ll just say. LIVERPOOL FC – CARLING CUP WINNERS 2012.
So pleased for this man. If anyone has deserved a medal for 6 years of working his socks off , it’s DIRRRRRRRRRRRK.
Another update February 14, 2012
Posted by garysbloggything in Uncategorized.add a comment
Well I spoke too soon, after the final paragraph of the last update left you thinking all was well. A day later, the whole family went down, one by one with stomach bugs. We all recovered, at varying speeds over the following week (although Mum’s resistance wasn’t that good and she had it worst and for longest, and although over the bug, is still not 100% in herself). I had a days holiday to look after everyone and ended up catching it myself so had 2 days off sick. After 5-6 days of getting back to normal I’ve picked up a chest infection, which is just starting to clear. So my message to the winter is this. F*** OFF.
Another frustrating home draw against Tottenham last week. Beforehand, I Met up with Laura again, and also saw Rohan for a quick chat. Laura was being my chauffeur again, but I must explain to her that when I say “Straight on at the lights”, that doesn’t mean she turns left, as that’s what she did. People don’t believe me that she’s a divvy, but she is.
I’ve also purchased my Carling Cup Final ticket (not that it’s been special delivered yet) and my train tickets (which have been delivered, 1st class). Like everyone else of a red persuasion who is lucky enough to be going, I really can’t wait for a week on Sunday.
I know there was and is a lot of anger over the way the Semi Final and Final tickets were distributed. I remember in December, someone tweeted (on seeing the semi final selling details) that this could be the worst bunch of Liverpool fans (as in , not attended many matches) to ever go to Wembley. Well of all the people I know personally and on Twitter, who are going to Wembley, I don’t know any dickheads or once a season attendees amongst them.
I can understand people being annoyed, as no ticketing system will ever suit everyone, but to take it out on fellow supporters (like some did over Athens in particular) is very wrong, in my opinion. It is the club who distribute the tickets, not the supporters. So even if “the worst bunch of Liverpool fans to ever go to Wembley” actually did so, it wouldn’t be their fault.
Just think on. We’re all fans of the club. Put your disappointment to one side, hope you get lucky for the next final and wish those who were lucky this time, all the best.
One more thing, I’ve continued to frequent Laura’s Bakery, in it’s new home in Liverpool City Centre (& in between making wonderful cakes, Laura has continued to hide behind the counter from me). To more or less repeat what I’ve said before, please go and pay a visit (and another and another). Laura, and Sophie & Danielle are lovely (the cheque’s are in the post, right girls?), as are the cakes and the coffee’s. Some might say it’s all deadboss. If you missed the last update, Laura’s Little Bakery is situated in the Stockton’s Building on Hanover Street in Liverpool, next to Tesco.
Well, that’s about it for now. I’ll probably wait to update again until after the Carling Cup Final. Thanks for reading.
January update January 28, 2012
Posted by garysbloggything in Uncategorized.add a comment
It was only a few days ago that I realised that I hadn’t updated my blog in 3 weeks. Mostly because I got bloggers block, but also because there are some things that happen to me and/or those around me that even I don’t put out in public. Finally, when I realised several things were happening all at once this past week, I thought that now would be a good time to update the blog. There is no truth in the rumour that there’s been no update because one of the events of my last update (being dragged round the streets of Anfield by Laura the divvy) had traumatised me so much, my brain turned to mush.
Anyway, on with this before you all fall asleep (OI… WAKE UP AT THE BACK).. Just 8 days after my adventures wandering the streets, I was back at Anfield with my lovely mate Laura (& loads of other people from twitter, with a wide range in their level of dubiousness.. haha), who moved on from stealing my chair (see one of my previous posts) and this time decided to “accidentally” kick my shins every so often, under the table. See what I have to put up with? haha. As ever, it was good to catch up with people I already knew and to meet a few people for the first time.
Anyway, that was in the Sandon before the Stoke game, which is best forgotten. Ignoring most things that happened in the following 9 days (for reasons of rubbishness (LFC Results) & privacy, I’ve now moved forward to Monday 23rd.
It was this day that Laura’s Little Bakery branched out. (just to clear up something for the eternally confused, Laura at the football is scouserlaura on twitter. Laura the cake maker is @laurasbakery on twitter). Anyway, I had planned to visit on the opening day, but ran out of time in my lunch break. I soon made up for this by making one planned and two unplanned visits. As you know, I can’t speak highly enough of Laura’s cakes from when I’ve placed orders in the last 5-6 months, and also her kindness in getting a couple of individual cakes to me for a couple of friends. Her Cakes are still wonderful (obviously), and so are the coffee’s.. If there is one place I would recommend you to go, it’s Laura’s Little Bakery. It’s on Hanover Street in Liverpool City Centre, at the back of the Stocktons building, which is next to Tesco.
My first visit of the week, saw me have this
a Victoria Sponge Cupcake & a Cappuccino. I enjoyed it so much, I went back on Wednesday for another. I took a break on Thursday as I visited a certain green logo’d coffee place with my friend @kittencaboodle from twitter, for the 2nd time in a fortnight. This after her being the first person I had met from twitter way back over a year ago. It’s been really good having time to chat. She’s a good mate.
I had a few things to do in Town in my Friday lunch break, which took me ever nearer to Laura’s Little Bakery and I thought “have I got time?” I decided I had, so wandered in. I didn’t expect Laura to hide behind the counter and get Sophie to lie that she wasn’t there. How cheeky is that? haha
Going backwards slightly, Wednesday was the 2nd leg of the Carling Cup Semi final v Manchester City. We held a 1-0 lead from the 1st leg. I was meeting Laura & some of the usual suspects again. Bad traffic meant she was later than planned arriving. I looked up on hearing a beep and there she was (erm, she didn’t beep, the car horn did. Haha), so I jumped in the car and we went to find a place to park, then headed into the Sandon for a quick drink. The place was absolutely buzzing. Fantastic atmosphere, which although doing nothing to get rid of the pre match nerves I’d been suffering since 2pm, at least I was now in a place surrounded by fellow fans. Time to get inside and the atmosphere was superb from start to finish, as we all roared the boys home. Drawing 2-2 on the night & being by far the better team. Gerrard and Bellamy scored our goals, Bellamy getting the aggregate winner. What a shame he can’t start as many games as he’d like, due to his dodgy knees. 11 starts and 8 goals, this season. So we can plan our day out at Wembley. Everyone else seems to be sarcastically telling us they can’t believe we haven’t been to Wembley since 1996, conveniently choosing to overlook we had been to Cardiff 7 times when Wembley was being rebuilt. Like so many others, I’m hoping I’m eligible for a ticket. I’m not the only one who was at our last Wembley appearance that wants to banish the memories of that crap day.
And so to today’s 4th round FA Cup game v Manchester United. I thought we started off brilliantly, getting our reward with Daniel Agger putting us 1-0 up. However before the break, United were level & we seemed to be letting them have too much of the ball. This continued into the 2nd half, and just after the hour, Kuyt & Adam came on for Carragher and Maxi. followed 10 minutes later by Bellamy. By his own standards, Kuyt hasn’t had that good a season and has been in and out of the starting 11, for the first time since his arrival. However, his performance last Wednesday was by far his best of the season. As for today’s appearance off the bench, if there’s one thing we’ve seen from Dirk through good and bad performances is that he gets so many important goals (not so many of (eg) the 4th in a 5-0 win, but many first goals, equalisers and winners). So it proved today as with just a couple of minutes left, and a replay looming, he was in space in the box and fired past De Gea. What a finish to the game.
So really that’s all for now. Glad to report Mum is a bit more calmer of late (not perfect, but better) and most of my friends seem happier than they have in while. As for me, I’m just me, muddling along, mostly doing fine, keeping friends close as we look out for each other. The usual really. Hopefully the next update won’t be as long in coming.
Liverpool v Oldham January 7, 2012
Posted by garysbloggything in Uncategorized.add a comment
As the title suggests, Liverpool played Oldham on Friday night, in the 3rd round of the FA Cup at Anfield. A few people were confused as to why we were playing on the Friday, but it is because Everton are also playing at home & Merseyside Police do not allow the two teams to play their home fixtures on the same day. I’m not sure what method is used for deciding who plays when, in such instances, but Everton got to play Saturday and we played Friday.
Several hours before the game, I was led on a wild goose chase and tour of the streets (nothing like after the game, but more on that later), by my lovely mate Laura, who more or less took me away from where I was heading, to somewhere else and back again in our attempts to find each other (via phone conversation) when she had parked her car. Really loved the exercise though (so much, that anything burned off, was immediately put back on by a visit to the chippy.. haha).
Then it was on to The Sandon. I know, readers, I bet you’re really shocked aren’t you? Me, in the Sandon, with at least one girl. Well that’s only happened before almost every game this season, so I can see how you’d all be shocked. haha.
I know I say it often, but me & Laura really buzz off each other and its always great to see her. She always cracks me up every day anyway, but in person (as with anyone who’s good friends) it’s always better. Even on the phone (during my wild goose chase) we were cracking up at each other. I’m so glad we’ve become such good mates. It’s highly unlikely we’d have known each other without twitter, so every time Twitter pisses me off, I always remember the good things it’s brought into my life too.
Anyway, on with the game, and immediately before it was a tribute to Gary Ablett, former player and coach at both Liverpool & Everton. The only man to win the FA Cup with both Liverpool & Everton. As you know, he passed away on New Years Day after a 16 month battle with Cancer. A minute’s applause marked the occasion. I was close to tears, because (as I’d mentioned on twitter earlier in the week) he was a member of the first Liverpool team I watched regularly. It just brings it home that little bit more. Gary was a true gent & was loved and respected by supporters of both our teams.
In the first half, Liverpool were ok, but nothing special. Oldham attacked at every opportunity and got their reward just before the half hour mark. A fantastic strike & well deserved. Fortunately, we hit back almost immediately, as Shelvey’s shot was deflected in by my favourite little no necked fella, Craig Bellamy. It was to get even better for us just on half time, as Maxi was fouled in the box and Gerrard scored the resulting penalty.
We were perhaps fortunate to be leading at half time, but that’s football. Second half we were a bit better. Sometimes playing good football, with good, quick movement, other times, not. Shelvey scored his first goal for Liverpool on 68 minutes. Two subs scored further goals in the last few minutes. Andy Carroll had been on the pitch for two minutes when he connected with a pass and his shot flew into the Kop goal. Then in injury time, something that made Laura smile (and led to a deluge of tweets/texts (one or two from me as well.. haha)) as Stewart Downing scored his first goal for the club. I was happy for both of them as some of the criticism of them (and a few others) goes beyond constructive comment. Some people find it far too easy to slag some of the players off instead of getting behind them. I’m all for constructive comment, but not abuse.
Talking of which, unfortunately there was an incident in the second half which, despite the Daily Mirror already having drawn it’s conclusions, has not been solved yet. There have been several stories. One being something was thrown at him, another being he was racially abused. I will say now that IF he was, then the one who did it, is a scum bag. However all we know at time of writing (apart from the clairvoyant Ollie Holt, who knows everything already) is that Merseyside Police did not arrest anyone for racial abuse, but are conducting an investigation into the incident. All I know is, that from where I was on row 19 on the Kop, it was clear something annoyed and upset the player, but no one around me knew what. I have heard on twitter, stewards saying someone called the player a manc bastard. If that’s true then the player could have misheard the shout. However, lets all calm down and wait to see what the outcome of the investigation is.
It would appear though, that Liverpool’s entire fanbase has now been labelled racist, not just the ones who have been guilty by association, just for supporting Suarez.
After the game, it was time to meet up with Laura again as she was very kindly dropping me off at home. As with the time Nikki did this, a few months ago, the match traffic was heavy and it took a while to get away from Anfield. Then I was taken on a tour of Merseyside to get to the M62. At least this gave chance for more brilliant conversation & banter. Unfortunately, there were roadworks on the motorway, after Laura had dropped me home. However, I didn’t feel guilty in the slightest that she’d gone out of her way a little to drop me, as she’d have encountered the roadworks anyway. At least this way she had a good laugh first.
So that’s that. A great night, with a good friend, great laughs and a good result (with an ok performance, where some of the scapegoats scored) and a place in the next round of the FA Cup, booked. The incident in the second half aside, this was a great start to the weekend.
Until next time then.
Happy New Year January 1, 2012
Posted by garysbloggything in Uncategorized.add a comment
This is just a short post. My first of 2012. I hope everyone who reads my blog has a great New year. Whatever happened in 2011, I hope your 2012 will be even better.
I knew, as soon as I posted my blog ’2011′ on Christmas Eve, that my mentioning of those I’d met from twitter, last year, would need updating. Sure enough, I met up with several more people before the Newcastle game last Friday. Finally met up with @ro_jito (after a couple of near misses) & his lovely mum. Also met @becc_one @thisotherrick @Katie9237 & @Ian_LFC for the first time as well. As I mentioned in the ’2011′ post, it’s been an absolute pleasure to meet the people I have & I hope that continues in 2012 with both old and new friends.
Via the internet, I was able to spend it (sort of) with some of my friends, so that was good. Drinks were still had, etc. I rarely go out on New Years Eve. As Danny Glover once said, “I’m too old for this sh*t”. haha.
I’ve just remembered that tomorrow is 1 year since my best mate Sarah was in Liverpool. Time flies. In a week’s time it will also be 1 year since Roy Hodgson was mutually consented and the King returned.
Quick comment about the Newcastle match. I thought we were a little edgy in the first half, and some of the supporters were eager to get on certain players backs, yet again. However, it was pleasing that, after falling behind, we equalised within a few minutes. Second half we were much better, especially after Gerrard replaced Adam. This also had the effect (whether intentionally or not) of lifting the players. Henderson seemed to benefit most, visibly growing in confidence, sending Gerrard clear for his goal and also playing a fantastic ball with the outside of his foot to Downing. If Gerrard had played that ball himself, you’d still be hearing about it now.
I can understand why Gerrard was given Man of the Match, given the impact he had, but over the 90 minutes as a whole, I’d have chosen between Spearing and Bellamy. A special mention for Skrtel who has improved so much since Carragher has been out of the team. This is no fault of Carra’s, but since that time, Skrtel has moved to the right side of central defence. It could just be co-incidence, of course. We’ll never know, until such time as they partner each other again. I still can’t believe how he got back to clear off the line on Friday night.
Anyway, that’s all for now, I think.
How are Liverpool’s Summer signings getting on? December 30, 2011
Posted by garysbloggything in Uncategorized.add a comment
As we all know, Liverpool signed 7 players during the Summer. There was panic at the end of June when only one player was signed. Panic not from sensible people, I might add. Here’s how I think they’re getting on so far.
Doni: Experienced back up goalkeeper. Unfortunately for him, he hasn’t even played any Cup games this season, as Kenny has stuck with Reina. With his vast experience, you’d hope he’d be fine, if called upon though.
Enrique: Absolutely fantastic. Only thing letting him down is his rash shooting when in position (which a vocal minority let him know about last week). However, shooting is probably the lowest of his priorities. He’s defended very well, is strong on the ball, has endless bursts of speed and gets up and down the line to great effect, putting over some decent crosses. Vying with one other as the stand out signing of the Summer, for us.
Coates: The Uruguayan Central Defender has done very well in the few appearances he’s had this season. Definitely one for the future, but would have no worries if he had to step in at any time. Was pleasing to see Carra talk him through the game when they’ve played together.
Henderson: At times has struggled a little, but until recently, most of his games have been wide right. I’m sure this is because Kenny wanted his to have a lot of game time to try to settle in. He’s not done badly at all (despite getting the same treatment Lucas used to, at the same age, from a few in the crowd – albeit not as vociferously). It always annoys me when people move away from rational comment , and just get on players backs. If we’re all happy to be told we can make the difference in a positive way as “the 12th man”, then why do some say that getting stick from the crowd shouldnt matter to a player? In the last month or so, he’s played more games centrally, and has looked more settled. He’s not there yet, but (as with other players) some fans are concentrating on his transfer fee. I’m convinced he’ll come good and build on the positive things he’s done so far. Like with Lucas before him, I’ll probably support him even more, should he keep getting moaned and groaned at (partially because I’m stubborn like that and don’t follow other fans like sheep, but mainly because he’s doing his best and there is clearly a consistently good player in there, who will come out in time).
Downing: A promising first month, where he linked extremely well with Enrique down the left, (and could have scored one of the goals of the season on his debut (strong run down the wing, cut in, beat several men before crashed a shot against the bar) and so may have been an instant hero) gave way to some average performances and a little spell in and out of the team. Again, in the last month, he seems to be playing a lot better. Mainly playing on the right and making strong runs, sometimes cutting inside and running directly at players. He’s also (contrary to some opinions) been putting some very good balls into the box. It’s not his fault if there’s only one man in there, most times. He’s also suffered with the same bad luck/poor finishing that the rest of the team has. Although his stats say no direct assists and no goals, is could have been so different. I hope he kicks on in the second half of the season as he is a good winger, there’s no doubt about that.
Adam: Sometimes looks fantastic, spraying passes left, right and centre. Moving forward strongly with the ball. Other times looks shattered and sprays the same balls in similar directions to no one in particular. I think he has looked at his best when in either a 3 man midfield, or alongside Lucas. However, with Lucas out until next season, this will be one of the things Kenny will have to look at with Adam, to get more out of him. He doesn’t seem to have average games, but as my comments above suggest, he’s either very good or very poor.
Bellamy: Vying with Enrique as our buy of the season. Unlike some of our fans, I was delighted he was coming back, as I thought he did well when he was here the first time. I can understand why some didnt want him back though. Although he hasn’t had too many starts (which is partially because he is being managed well by Kenny, to get the best out of him - something the late Gary Speed was delighted with, when Bellamy made his decision to come back to LFC). Great pace, cracking attitude and never lets a defence settle for as long as he is on the pitch. I just love the little no necked fella.
So there we are. I hope you enjoyed reading my honest appraisal of our Summer signings. Lets hope they, along with the rest of the squad, can help us on to bigger and better things in the new year.
