Liverpool, South Park Style

Not done by me. Cute, nevertheless.

Fantasy Football Final Table

Like how most of the Europeans league are wrapping up their final game, The Red Cauldron's very own fantasy football league over at premierleague.com has also ended since the English Premiership has came to a halt.

The following is the final table of the fantasy league and congratulations to Keith Lee for being an excellent manager of players and I hope that your foresight in football won't go down into waste!

For the rest, thank you for your support and enthusiasm throughout the season unlike me, who didn't bother changing players :P

#	Team	Manager		Total
1	Runaway Beefcakes :)	Keith Lee		2170
2	Baggsy Me Up Front	Chris Oakley		2055
3	KernoWKillerS	Richard Parris		2001
4	KissmyAss	Anti Blackman		1987
5	Ball Bag's FC	Aron Hyde		1979
6	De Trout Spinners	Mark V		1965
7	Karl's Korkers	Karl Smith		1951
8	Kop army	Ritchie C		1925
9	Dfenners of the turf	Dan Fenn		1924
10	[L]iverpool [F.C]	robbie asrawe		1897
11	the shrubbers	philip chatham		1888
12	Asian Sensations	Prad J		1870
13	19-6	David Lam		1862
14	The Bodohs!	Nic Tan		1849
15	Hanzo	Sin Han		1837
16	The Unbeatables	Loo Louis		1812
17	ostrichs	egil steinsland		1811
18	Team TIA	Prashanth Gopinath		1806
19	XI	l e o n a r d		1802
20	aussieliverpoolian07	ryan sawdy		1795
21	Real Muscle Hotspur	Andrew Moore		1793
22	noobedish	Mohd Farid		1788
23	Yarmy 07/08	Steve Mann		1788
24	Naja, the cute girl	Azhali Edwin		1785
25	Liverpool FC	Yue Bo Leung		1758
26	The Fluorescents	michael pearcey		1745
27	kornyken FC	ken lim		1740
28	DeViL|X||	ang ms		1723
29	mandwarf fc	THIS IS ANFIELD		1719
30	RiosRovers	Mart Rios		1716
31	Maoists	Marcus Tan		1693
32	Party Favours FC	Jon Yates		1667
33	FWPFC	Fraser Peh		1647
34	Drogballs' Doggers	James Pang		1645
35	Dhirani's Reds	Irfan Dhirani		1643
36	Maui Reds	John Doe		1632
37	Eadle FC	Edward Anderson		1603
38	Sandwell Dynamo	Les Trumpeter		1591
39	Hairy Lalas	Chun Lian Chong		1591
40	The Red Cauldron	Ritchie Odak		1568
41	Pride Of Bengal	abul sadiq		1564
42	top kop	chris seymour		1531
43	Insomniax	Mohamed Maail Rasheed		1527
44	dcdx11	Dean Douglas		1520
45	Kop14	ahmed shanah		1509
46	Chrome	Ritchie Odak		1501
47	Liverbirds	Jamie Tyrrell		1488
48	Kop allstars	Hoodstar C		1480
49	the boogle bears	amy catterall		1378
50	bengal dons	muj muj		1371

51 Welsh Wanderes will catterall 776

Blues Survives Late Reds Scare

Chelsea Reach First Ever European Cup Final

Chelsea 3 - 2 LIVERPOOL

Scorers:
CHE - Drogba (33, 105), Lampard (pen 98);
LIV - Torres (64), Babel (117);

After years of continuous disappointments in the semi final stage by Liverpool, Chelsea finally had a sweet revenge of their own as they squeezed through into the Moscow final through Didier Drogba's brace and an emotional Frank Lampard's penalty.

For too long their efforts in various cup competition have been thwarted by Liverpool and they finally managed to dispatch the Reds off in style this time round. Back in 2005, they were beaten by a controversial Luis Garcia goal which Jose Mourinho called it 'a goal from outer space'. Then it was the '06 FA Cup semi final before losing to Liverpool on penalty once again last season.

The only difference this time is they play their 2nd leg at Stamford Bridge, which is a considerable advantage for the Blues as they haven't lose a single game there since 2004. Also, Liverpool haven't scored in 8 meetings there and the last winner there was scored by Bruno Cheyrou.

This time round, they broke that hoodoo but it just wasn't enough to get them to the 3rd Champions League finals in 4 years. Quite an amazing feat by Rafa Benitez but it just wasn't to be this time round.

His criticism on Didier Drogba prior to the game could've spurred the Ivorian striker on and he utterly silenced the Spanish tactician with a well-taken goal in the first half. The goal from an acute angle showed his desire to prove his status as one of the most dangerous strikers in football as well as his hunger and ability at this level.

And he wasn't done yet when he finishes off Liverpool late in extra time with a power drive that beats Pepe Reina. The Spanish goalkeeper made a couple of crucial saves to keep Liverpool in the game.

The game was also marred by strange refereeing decisions by the usually reliable Roberto Rosetti of Italy including Michael Essien's piledriver which looked perfectly normal but not in the eyes of the linesman.

The visitors escaped that scare but immediately, Sami Hyypia's mistake gave Chelsea a penalty and up steps Frank Lampard who didn't place the ball in the usual left hand spot. Up against one of the best penalty savers in the world, he showed great courage and composure. Well done.

It marked the collapse of Liverpool in the extra time as they failed to gain the foothold after dominating possession and managed to silence Chelsea in the second half, in which they scored through Spanish hotshot, Fernando Torres.

If there's a glimmer of bright spark in Liverpool's lacklustre 07-08 season, it's the rise of the 'El Nino', more than anything else. His signing have been justified fully and the 20 odd million paid in the summer seemed to have worth every penny. He latched onto Yossi Benayoun's brilliant through pass and slot it past Petr Cech without hesitation.

Great goal from a great player in the making.


Another oddity of the match would be the substitution of Torres right after Lampard had converted his penalty. He was replaced by Ryan Babel and though the super sub later got a goal of his own, it's still quite a puzzling decision, barring any injury on Torres himself.

It is to be a sweet revenge for Chelsea and after Roman Abramovich's heavy investment in the London club for the past 4 seasons, it finally reaped its harvest under Avram Grant, something which Jose Mourinho tried and failed.

Nothing better for a Russian owner to see his team fight it out for the European crown in his own capital city of Moscow.

For Liverpool, it's 4th place secured and a decent run in for this season's Champions League. After all the scares of early exits, they were resilient to the end, made it out and on the way, they met with giants and were able to overcome them.

Sometimes, you could fight for your life for something but it just doesn't go the way you want it. That probably sums it up and all we could say is well done and we're proud of the effort last night. At least now we could get a goal or two at Stamford Bridge and that we're just THIS close to yet another dream European cup final.

Make no mistakes, there is going to be a clearance this summer if DIC completes its task of taking over from the stubborn Tom Hicks. There are some players whom are really, not good enough for Liverpool if the Reds are to mount a serious challenge on the title next season and from this campaign, it's quite clear who will be out of the revolving door.

It'll be an all-English final, as Manchester United had guaranteed it on Tuesday night. It is really an English domination on the domestic front and the two best teams in England are going to fight it out to be the best in Europe. Mouth-watering prospect, isn't it?

Gerrard & Torres Compilation

Hello people, I'm back with a real short post. I'm doing well in national service and is glad to see Liverpool going all the way into the Champions League semi finals again, up against Chelsea (who else?).

Having a blind eye on the off the pitch fiasco, Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard's partnership seemed to grow from strength to strength and though it's been quite awhile since I've watched a Liverpool match live, they still continued to score some spectacular goals and this video is in tribute to their magnificent form this season.

Enjoy!

Drogballs Will Serve The Nation.....

Don't know where to go about this but guys, this blog will stop it's update for quite some while because me, the author, will have to answer the call of duty from the nation. It's a must for guys above 18 to serve for 2 years over here in Singapore and it's now my turn to do it.

Anyway you people are still welcomed on here to have your own discussion. Mind you I won't disappear forever and not be back as my first confinement period is only for 10 days, which means I might have a short update for you people after Good Friday!

Hoping and praying that Liverpool would go all the way in Champions League and secure the 4th spot as soon as possible.

Au revoir!

Reason Why English Football Is So Popular In Asia

I was asked by a German football writer about the reasons why English football is so popular even over at this part of the globe. It took me quite some time to think it through and here's the reasons I gave:

One reason why the Premiership is so popular is because the way English football works, which is the 'blood and thunder' style, compared to most continental leagues such as Serie A and La Liga. It is fast paced and intense, making it a joy to watch for many. Serie A in comparison, is much more tactically disciplined and slow and therefore, not as often entertaining as the Premiership.

There is also a diversity in styles between the teams even though they all play at break-neck pace. You have the technically gifted Arsenal to the gritty Bolton, unpredictable Tottenham and somehow, laughable Newcastle United (at the moment it seems :P). Therefore it makes viewing a pleasure at times because even though the 'top 4' dominates the league, it still makes individual matches interesting and intriguing.

Lastly I believe that it has got an advantage over other leagues because the Premiership is made into a marketable product which makes it look 'tasty and delicious' on the outside. It is marketed well and with the number of stars currently plying their trade in England, it makes it even more engaging and attractive. Just look at the amount that each clubs receive from TV revenue yearly. I don't have the figure with me but it surely is much much more than the La Liga or Bundesliga.

Look at the shenanigans going on in Spain regarding the TV rights and you'll understand why the English league is the preferred league. It's much more well-run and more presentable than the rest.

Do you agree with my view on English football, especially those over in Asia? Do you share a common reasonings as me or do you have other reasons? Do drop a comment or an email is always welcomed!

Torres: It's Hammer Time!

Spanish Striker's Red Hot Form - 2 Consecutive Home Hat-tricks!

English Premiership

LIVERPOOL 4 - 0 West Ham

Scorers:
LIV - Torres (9, 60,81), Gerrard (83);

You know, I don't really know how to write this match report because all you need to do is to just watch how Fernando Torres scores all his three goals and then watch how Gerrard planted that ball right into the top corner.

Like they say, action speaks louder than words. As Gerrard said, want to get the fourth place? Show it! And the 4 goals says it all, really. If we could perform at such standards with consistency, I don't see how we won't get the 4th place.


Torres (1-0):


Torres (2-0):


Torres (3-0):


Gerrard (4-0):

Jussi Clanger

English Premiership

Bolton 1 - 3 LIVERPOOL

Scorers:
BOL - Cohen (79);
LIV - Jaaskelainen (12 og), Babel (60), Aurelio(75);

Liverpool's bid for fourth place received a massive boost after Rafa Benitez finally exorcised the hoodoo at Reebok Stadium with a well deserved 3-1 win over Bolton Wanderers. It's the first time the Spanish manager tasted success against Bolton, a side renown for their physical approach to the game.

Off the field uncertainties continue to plague Liverpool but with 4th place being the be all and end all for the season, Rafa knows that a victory at the Reebok will propel the team back into Champions League contention, albeit for only a few hours.

On the note, Liverpool probably breezed through this game unlike the uncountable times when they huffed and puffed and got nothing away from their north east neighbours. It has been 5 years since the Reds have got all 3 points from their 'unhappy hunting ground'.

But it's obvious that this Bolton team is a shadow of what they were once, under the management of Sam Allardyce. His replacement, former Anfield favourites, Sammy Lee, got them into the mire earlier on and now, Gerry Megson managed to stabilise the ship. Only just.

Bolton started off brightly enough and looked confident that they will get the result. Former Anfield misfit, El-Hadji Diouf was unlucky to see his free kick come off the cross bar while Bolton continuously threatened from set plays.

Martin Skrtel is preferred at centre back alongside Sami Hyypia, pushing Jamie Carragher out to the right. Though uncertain at set plays due to new idea of zonal marking, the Slovenian international excelled throughout the game with nicely timed tackles and interceptions.

Then against the run of play, Liverpool took the lead through an unfortunate mistake by the usually reliable Jussi Jaaskelainen. Skipper Steven Gerrard's shot was inches away from the goal but the Finnish goalkeeper haphazardly dived for it and the ball went in the net, off his head.


Liverpool couldn't believed their luck but after years of questionable refereeing decisions at the Reebok including Reina's alleged handball outside the penalty box and also Luis Garcia's wrongly disallowed goal, it's probably time for Lady Luck to switch side.

Bolton continued to threaten through diagonal crosses, with Kevin Davies perfectly made as a target man. The centre forward had a fantastic chance to draw level, only to be denied by Pepe Reina. His header 6 yards out was miraculously kept out by the Spanish goalkeeper.

The game drew on into a chess-like affair with Liverpool playing more cautiously. Yet the game was somehow, wide open after the break as both Bolton pushed forward and leaving huge gaps in their defence.

Liverpool grabbed their opportunity in the 60th minute as Ryan Babel took his chance well and put the visitors in the driving seat. Kuyt turned Carragher's cross against the post and a poor clearance from Bolton enabled Babel to get hold of the ball before slamming it past the hapless Jaaskelainen.

They then extended their lead through a marvelous strike from Brazilian full back, Fabio Aurelio. He was known to score goals from free kicks but this time, he took his chance fantastically and finds the net for the first time in the red shirt.

Gerrard's corner was headed clear but Aurelio was on hand to chest it down nicely before sending a half volleyed shot into the net, with aplomb. Bolton should've closed him down sooner but at that point, the home side were already losing hope.

A consolation came their way though, through a corner. Not a surprised as Liverpool struggled every time there is a corner and this time, they were punished through their former player's son. Tamir Cohen, son of Avi Cohen, eluded his ball watching man markers and slammed it past Pepe Reina.

The visitors held on for an important and crucial win as Rafa would finally breathe a sigh of relief for finally defeating an old nemesis. The 3 points lifted them into 4th place until city rivals, Everton, defeated Portsmouth 2 hours later with the same scoreline.

The race for the title is heating up just as it is for the race for the final Champions League placing. Rafa previously admitted that Everton and Aston Villa are 2 teams that will most likely wreck the team's chances to qualify for next season's Champions League but now, he should be quietly confident that his side can take the all important 4th place.

The Reason Why....

You shouldn't celebrate after a goal. Yes, I mean er, the defenders.

'Pool Left It Late

UEFA Champions League

Last 16 First Leg

LIVERPOOL 2 - 0 Inter Milan

Liverpool bounced back from an utterly embarrassing result last weekend to put up a surprise 2-0 lead over Italian league leaders, Inter Milan. Rafa Benitez and his men were under intense pressure after they were knocked out of the English FA Cup by the unfancied Barnsley side.

Though considered giants in Europe, both teams were in different circumstances. Inter are currently the run-away leaders in the Serie A while maintained a wonderful record of 29 games unbeaten prior to the meeting at Anfield and they are the team to fear, with stars like Ibrahimovic and Figo, adding to their experienced squad.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are probably the most unstable club in England currently with the club's direction unclear. Whether Tom Hicks will sell his stake to DIC or not, remains a mystery and as long as that isn't cleared up, they are a rudderless ship with no direction.

Out of FA Cup and also having totally no chance in the domestic title, both teams have mixed fortunes and it's probably a mismatch at the moment, with Inter being a clear favourite and Liverpool, the wounded animal.

Yet it is in games like this that you see the best of Liverpool, adding to the mystifying questions surrounding Rafa Benitez and his men in red. Why are they so inconsistent? Why do they always perform when needed yet fail to accomplish task that many thought that they could?

Though the sending off of Marco Materrazzi in the 30th minute might have been the turning point of the game, it was the determination of the home side which enabled them to go into the second leg with much more confidence.

With 6 of the 11 starting players being defensive minded, you would've expected Inter to come to Anfield and try to neutralise Liverpool and hold on for a draw at the very least. The decision to play Javier Zanetti and Maxwell on the flanks was apparent that Roberto Mancini wants to let Liverpool have a go at them.

The 70-30 possession at the end of the game says it all about Liverpool's total domination of the match. 23 shots on goal to a meagre 2.

Inter didn't really bother, especially after the sending off of Materrazzi. Instead, it gave them an excuse to put 9 men behind the ball and hoped for the best. It actually did work for majority of the game but some inspired substitution from Rafa Benitez cracked the game open at the last moment.

His decision to bring on Jermaine Pennant and Peter Crouch were justified as both made their impact in the victory. Ryan Babel was very active throughout but he is never a out and out winger and therefore, limited when it comes to situations where he's not given too much space and opponents playing back against the wall.

Pennant, being a traditional winger, puts crosses in with fair amount of accuracy. Something which Liverpool didn't do throughout the game. His cross in the 80th minute found Dirk Kuyt, who duly delivered when called upon.

The plummet in form over the past few months was apparent but when he was called upon last night, he did the exact right thing and his volley went straight into the top corner. The Kop rejoiced.

For the previous 80 minutes, Liverpool toiled and threw almost everything at Inter as they gained control of the game totally. Yet their weakness was apparent and they just didn't have the cutting edge required to break down a world class defence, well marshaled by Ivan Cordoba.

It was a deja vu moment for most of the time as Liverpool forces Inter into the corner and yet couldn't find a way past Julio Caesar. Time and again, crosses were cleared and shots blocked. Peter Crouch and Fernando Torres both had great opportunities but failed to deliver.

It was just then, a moment of brilliance from the man under fire. His goal probably ease the pressure of another man under fire, Rafa Benitez. The very man who put in so much trust and faith and he really did him proud, like what a disciple would do to his master.

The game was then, beyond Inter as they were caught in no man's land. Should they attack and get the all important away goal? Or should they sit back and limit the damage?

At that point, doesn't matter really. Inter couldn't be bothered from the start and didn't bother even when Kuyt struck the goal. Star player, Zlatan Ibrahimovich, looked as hard working as Dimitar Berbatov ever was while Patrick Vieira didn't look like the player he once was.

Then came a moment of magic from the scouser magician, whom so often come up with the goods when expected. Mr Liverpool, Steven Gerrard, struck a wonder goal as the Inter defence watched in horror. It was totally out of the blues yet it is always the skipper who comes up with something extraordinary.

It really did send the Anfield faithfuls (or fans like me) into raptures. It was a special goal and it really gave Liverpool a huge advantage going into the second leg. Thought it will be held at San Siro in a fortnight's time, they would go into this game with confidence and also an apparent plan to stifle Inter in their own backyard.

Surely, that is something Liverpool would be good at? The very campaign which the Reds won the Champions League, they held on to a 2-1 lead at Stadio Del Alpi and against all odds, went through unscathed.

Could Liverpool make history repeat itself in Italy? It will be an intriguing one indeed.