Positives

Thanks to unbelievably clear streaming, i was able to watch Liverpool crash out of the Carling Cup on Veetle. Why wasn't Starhub broadcasting the match anyway! Of course i'm never happy to see the team get knocked out, i'm not totally upset either. For those who didn't manage to catch the game, let me describe the many positives i saw.

Liverpool changed most of the starting line up, with only Kuyt and Insua remaining from last weekend's win over Utd. Spearing and Plessis played in the middle, and i was rather satisfied with the both of them actually. Spearing obviously fighting for his place. Ngog did well in the first half, showing the potential he has. Degen playing his 5th game for the team showing a willingness to get forward. Younger players showing a willingness to work hard. Happy with the slick passing as well (at times)!

It was the day for long range shooting. Babel, Voronin, Spearing and of course Insua all giving it a go. Spearing's attempts landed in row Z, but most were on target. Insua produced a contender for goal of the month. A swerving dipping volley that stunned the keeper and left him helpless. Insua is really stepping up. He should be encouraged to shoot more =)


Finally, we have the long awaited Alberto Aquilani making his debut. The former Roma man arrived in the summer carrying an ankle injury. The medical team decided to take their time with him, and hopefully his problems are behind him. He came on in the final 13 mins, and though obviously lacking match fitness, showed glimpses of what we can expect from him.

Looking composed on the ball, and showing a range of passing that Liverpool have missed since Alonso left. Something he did made me break into a smile and gave me goose bumps. Receiving the ball inside the Liverpool half, he looked up and delivered a pin point cross field 40m pass to the right, releasing a Liverpool player behind the Arsenal left back. This was something that Alonso used to do all the time. Mascherano must be happy that he won't have to stand in the role of creator any longer. Aquilani also reacted first to a loose ball outside the box to to fire long range, but straight at the keeper. Something i felt was missing recently is Liverpool's lack of confidence. Benayoun and Kuyt, indispensable players, are both rather shy in front of goal. When presented with an opening, they rarely have the confidence to shoot, and the chance usually goes begging. Hopefully occupying the attacking midfielder position will encourage long range efforts, Stevie G style. An athletic bicycle kick that deflected off an Arsenal arm also suggests that the Italian isn't going to shy from goalscoring duties.

Losing to a immensely talented young Arsenal side is no shame. These 18, 19, 20 year olds + a few oldies, played with such confidence and style. If they all stay and develop, it's scary to imagine an Arsenal team in 3 years, minimal money spent. Really hope the Carling Cup goes to Arsenal, so i can say that we lost to the eventual winners =)

Steven Gerrard named Footballer of the Year

From Liverpoolfc.tv:

Steven Gerrard is celebrating today after being named Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers' Association.

The Liverpool skipper beat off competition from Manchester United pair Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney to win the most prestigious individual award in English football.

Having already landed the PFA Fans Player of the Year award this season, the FWA honour caps another incredible campaign for the 28-year-old midfielder, who has led by example and driven his side to within touching distance of achieving their title dreams.

Whether those dreams are realised over the next week or not remains to be seen, but over the course of the past ten months Gerrard has once again cemented his standing as the finest midfielder in European football.

His two goals at West Ham United on Saturday - which temporarily fired Liverpool back to the top of the league - saw him climb above Ian St John in the club's all-time scoring charts as he took his tally for the season to an impressive 23, equalling his best ever return in a red shirt.

Fifteen of his goals this term have arrived in the Premier League and have included strikes in high-profile games against Manchester United and Everton, while in Europe he also rose to the occasion with five goals in the group stages - including his 100th goal for Liverpool against PSV Eindhoven - and then two more against Real Madrid in the last sixteen clash at Anfield.

"We are delighted to honour Steven's contribution this season with our prestigous award," said Steve Bates, National Chairman of the Football Writers' Association.

"Steven has had a fantastic season and has so often been the driving force behind Liverpool's forceful challenge for the Barclays Premier League title.

"His passion and desire to send the title race into the closing days of this campaign has underpinned Liverpool's pursuit of Manchester United and he has frequently caught the eye with outstanding performances which have showcased his considerable talent.

Steven is viewed by the Football Writers who voted as the heartbeat of Liverpool's team and a player who gives everything for the cause."

"He beat off a strong challenge from Old Trafford stars Ryan Giggs, Wayne Rooney, Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand to emerge as a clear winner and he follows a long and illustrious list of British and European footballers to win the vote of the Football Writers."

Steven will be presented with his award at a gala dinner at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London on Friday May 29.

Martin Skrtel Jokes

Martin Skrtel is Liverpol FC's tough-as-nails defender. His bald head, tattoos and ferocious tackling has earned him a reputation as Liverpool's no nonsense bad guy at the back. It is rumoured that he looks so fierce that fans don't dare to ask him for his autograph!


Found a website that has Martin Skrtel jokes that are contributed by fans.. Had to censor the blaphemous, the crude and the vulgar.. these are some of my favourites!


Martin Skrtel has already been to Mars; that's why there are no signs of life there.

Martin Skrtel can piss into gale force winds.

There's no such thing as Martin Skrtel toilet paper, coz he doesn't take shit from anybody.

Martin Skrtel was the cause of the big bang.

Martin Skrtel ordered a Big Mac at KFC and gets it.

There is no theory of evolution. Just a list of animals Martin Skrtel allows to live.

If it looks like chicken, tastes like chicken, and feels like chicken but Skrtel says its beef, then it's beef.

Scientists in Washington have recently conceded that, if there were a nuclear war, all that would remain are cockroaches and Martin Skrtel.

Diamond is now ranked number two in the list, with Skrtel taking top place.

Martin Skrtel once won a Connect 4 game in 3 moves.

Martin Skrtel is so hard that he shits diamonds.

When Skrtel drinks beer, the beer gets drunk.

Martin Skrtel's tears cure cancer. Too bad he's never cried.

Skrtel once arm wrestled Superman. The loser had to wear his underwear over his pants.

Martin Skrtel ate all the dinosaurs.

Martin Skrtel created the giraffe by upper-cutting a horse.

Martin Skrtel makes onions cry.

Water boils faster when Martin Skrtel watches it.

If you have five pounds and Martin Skrtel has five pounds, Martin Skrtel has more money than you.

Martin Skrtel doesn't tip taxi drivers, taxi drivers tip Skrtel.

Only Martin Skrtel can enter Rafa's room without knocking.

Martin Skrtel can kill two stones with one bird.

Sami Hyypia

Sami Hyypia, the big Finn, will be leaving Liverpool FC at the end of the season after 10 distinguished years at the club. This is the interview from Liverpoolfc.tv..


First of all Sami, there are many fans all over the world saddened at the news that you're leaving Liverpool. Why have you decided to move to Bayer Leverkusen?

The main reason is I still think I'm young enough to play football and I know chances to play here would be limited. I spoke to the manager and I didn't want him to make promises about how many games I would play, but this season has been mentally very difficult. I haven't played a lot and playing is what I enjoy most.

I understand it isn't possible to play enough games here for me to be happy, so I had to look elsewhere. I got the option to go abroad to Bayer Leverkusen. The whole package was good, they have big plans for me and hopefully I can go there and help them to be successful.

Even taking into account your reasons for leaving, was it still a difficult decision to make?

It was very difficult because from day one I have felt at home here. I have had good relationships with the club, with the staff and all the players who have been here over the last ten years. It's difficult to leave but my reasons are all professional. I still want to play football.

Ten years is a long time to spend at one club. My family are settled here and I know it will be stressful moving with them into a new house in a new country. But the professional side drove this decision. It's a new challenge and I will give it everything to be successful in Germany.


What did the manager say in your discussions with him?

He wished me good luck. We had a number of discussions and the possibility of a coaching role was mentioned, but I don't feel ready for that yet. I feel I still have a few more years in my legs to play football.

You've been here for a decade and so will leave with a lot of great memories from your time at the club...

Yes, we have had a lot of ups and downs during my time here but I have so many great memories and Liverpool will be my English club for ever.

What has been the highlight from your time at the club?

Obviously the Champions League victory was amazing. To be 3-0 down and still go on and win is something we'll never forget. On a more personal level my first game at Sheffield Wednesday, my first match at Anfield and my first goal for Liverpool are moments I will never forget.

How much will you miss the Liverpool fans, with whom you've had a great relationship over the years?

Obviously I'll miss them a lot and I'd like to take this opportunity to say thank you to them all. They still sing my name when I'm warming up or playing and that's always good to hear. It's sad to be leaving, but I'll be back one day to watch some games and maybe see them all again.

How much are you hoping for a chance to say goodbye to them on the last day of the season against Tottenham?

That's a decision for the manager to make. Even if I'm not involved in the game I will find a way to get onto the pitch at the end. If the Stadium Manager tries to stop me I'll run past him [laughs]. I am sure I will have an opportunity to say goodbye.

You mentioned you don't yet feel ready to be a coach - but is that a dream for the future and could we see you back at Liverpool in that capacity one day?

Yes, hopefully. Coaching is something which has always been in my mind, but I have to take my badges first. At the end of my playing career I will look to take the badges and then see. I would like to come back here one day as a coach.

This club will always be in your heart, won't it?

Yes, always.

I remember Sami coming on the scene and forming an excellent partnership with Stephane Henchoz. He captained the team when Jamie Redknapp was out on a long term injury. He was there throughout the cup treble season. When Benitez came, Sami had a new central defensive partner in Jamie Carragher. We all know what happened in Istanbul that first season. With the arrival of Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel, he found it increasing hard to start games. But whenever someone had an injury or needed a break, you could always count on Sami. When you need someone to shore up your defence and you see Sami's number shown, it just puts a smile on your face.

Being a Liverpool fan in Finland is a good ice breaker.. because when i put on my Liverpool Jersey, people look at me and ask "Do you know Sami Hyypia??"..

You're a real legend Sami. You've been a rock at the back all these years. You've shown that you're a top class defender, an inspirational leader and a faithful servant. Thank you for 10 years of exceptionally dedicated service. We'll never forget you!! Hope to see you at Anfield someday in the Coaching Staff!

Ooh..... Sami Sami
Sami Sami Sami Sami Hyypia!!!

Agger extends!

Liverpoolfc.tv:

Liverpool defender Daniel Agger has agreed a four-year extension to his current contract, which will see him remain at Anfield until at least 2014.

The 24-year old, who joined the Reds from Brondby in 2006, has played 76 times and scored 6 goals, including his recent spectacular long range effort against Blackburn Rovers.

Agger joins teammates Steven Gerrard and Dirk Kuyt who have recently committed their long term future to the club.

Manager Rafael Benitez said: "This is extremely good news for Liverpool moving forward and demonstrates our intention to build on the progress we have already made this season.

"Daniel is still young, but with great quality and will be a very important player for us in the years ahead.

"I'm sure there were many other clubs monitoring the situation closely, but throughout our discussions, Daniel made it clear that he wanted to stay at Liverpool and achieve success here.

"I'm delighted we've secured his future at Anfield."


Interestingly.. Daniel Agger also owns 2 restaurants/pubs in Liverpool.. one serving Mexican food, the other serving Italian. He also owns a Danish pub back in his homeland. He spots several tattoos and he himself is also a part time tattoo artist! Haha.. but you know what i love about him the most? That he's gonna be at Liverpool for a long time.. =)

Steven Gerrard

Liverpool Football Club today confirmed Steven Gerrard has agreed a two-year extension to his current contract.

The Liverpool skipper, who has two years to run on his current deal, will soon put pen to paper on a new agreement to keep him at Anfield until at least 2013.

With manager Rafa Benitez and key members of his backroom team signing new contracts over the past two weeks, Gerrard's deal is another timely boost as the Reds look to end the season on a high.

Speaking exclusively to Liverpoolfc.tv this morning, Benitez said: "This is fantastic news for the club.

"Steven has once again shown his commitment and it was an easy deal to agree. As soon as we offered him the option he said yes. There were no problems at all. He wants to stay for life.

"This deal sends out another clear message that we are moving forward as a club. To know we have a player of Steven's quality with us for many more years is a great boost for the club and the fans."

"He is clearly a player who inspires those around him and even though he is playing very well at the moment, I still think his best years are ahead of him."

Liverpool

Last entry of my UK trip.. =)

Welcome to Liverpool! European Capital of Culture 2008!

There is a saying, that there are 2 famous football teams at Merseyside.. Liverpool Football Club.. and Liverpool Reserves! The city is much more than a football city though.. i found it to be an incredibly welcoming city, so proud of their scouse accent.. the way Singaporeans are proud of Singlish =)

Apart from the unbelievable night at Anfield where we swept Real Madrid aside 4 - 0.. Wei Sing and i also took time to visit the sights in the city..

The Liverpool waterfront was declared a UNESCO heritage site in 2004. Being a port city, Liverpool's docks really important to its history, and the most well-known being Albert Docks. The area has now been converted into museums and shops.. A bright and sunny day meant that we enjoyed a nice walk around the docks.. Oh and a side note.. the RMS Titanic was registered in Liverpool =)


Of the many museums in the area (Merseyside Maritime, Slavery, Tate Liverpool etc).. the Beatles museum has to be the most visited! Just my own guess.. judging from the number of people taking photos outside it. We didn't go in though.. firstly coz we're poor cheapo students and secondly coz Uncle Cogan told us it was a rip off.. haha.. but if u were a Beatles fan.. i'm sure it will be worth the money!

Yellow Submarine! (Familiar with the song?)

Liverpool actually has the 2nd highest number of Grade 1 and 2 buildings in the UK.. 2nd only to London! Besides the football team.. the Liverpool's Pierhead has to be the most representative of the city.. its 3 most recognisable buildings

The Three Graces.. from left: The Royal Liver Building, The Cunard Building, The Port of Liverpool Building

As you can see, the pier is a really nice area to hang out.. especially on a sunny day such as this!

More sights of Liverpool..

St George's Hall

Walker Art Gallery & Central Library

Liverpool has wonderful shopping as well! According to Uncle Cogan, Liverpool people used to go to Manchester to shop.. but after Liverpool One opened.. Manchester people are coming over to shop!

Wei Sing and i decided not to travel to Manchester mainly because of the shopping haha..

Liverpool FC Superstore at Liverpool One

Fashion show at nite

We also visited the tiny but famous Matthew Street.. This is where The Cavern was located.. made famous by the many famous bands that started out and performed there.. The most famous being The Beatles of coz!

John Lennon and I

The names of artistes who have performed at The Cavern.. (filled the whole wall).. recognise any names?

The city is really Beatles Crazy!.. Don't believe me? The Airport is named Liverpool John Lennon Airport!

Where The Beatles had a pint before and after their gigs.. you can still sit where they used to sit =)

Eleanor Rigby - A character from the Beatles song

The Chinese Arch at Chinatown.. apparently the largest outside of China! tells u a bit about the Chinese population in Liverpool =)

The last day in Liverpool was spent sightseeing, visiting the World Museum Liverpool and shopping =)

The Beat Goes On is a special exhibition about Liverpool Music.. =)

60s chart.. look closely to see how popular The Beatles were =) .. and they were just getting started!

There was a stage area with inflatable instruments.. for us to pose around =)

The World Museum also has a huge Egyptian collection.. donated by some rich guy.. its the biggest outside London again.. and apparently Egypt wants to get some of the stuff back coz they're so precious!

The Bombed Out Church.. its roof was hit by a bomb during WWII..

The fantastically huge Liverpool Anglican Cathedral occupies 9600 sq metres! It's the 5th largest cathedral in the world.. it was constructed over more than 100 years.. and its bell tower is 101m tall.

Lighting a prayer candle

This picture at the side of a building is truly representative of how Beatles crazy the place is..

The Beatles

SuperLamBanana.. fast become one of the most instantly recognisable and popular symbols of Liverpool!

Thanks Uncle Cogan and Aunty June! We had a wonderful time in Liverpool =)

So we spent another day finishing our shopping in London.. before flying back to Helsinki.. knowing in our hearts that this trip is a truly amazing one.. one that will stay in my heart for a long time..

This is Anfield

I arrived in Liverpool on the 10th of March.. which was also the day that i've been dreaming about. Or rather, i have been dreaming about the night of the 10th.. so much so that i couldn't sleep the night before.

Uncle Cogan came to pick Wei Sing and i from the coach station and brought us to his place.. What a lovely home.. nice and cosy! =) We rested for a couple of hours before going to the Stadium grounds.. this entire blog entry is dedicated to my Anfield experience.. the other Liverpool stuff will come in the next entry!

Liverpool fans out there.. Enjoy..

The Kop end.. also the entrance to the Liverpool Store

Bill Shankly.. he started it all..

Wei Sing and i at the Paisley Gates. Bob Paisley is Liverpool's most successful manager

The famous Shankly Gates.. at Anfield Road..
The Hillsborough Memorial.. Remembering the 96..

The 5 stars under the Liverpool crest says it all..

Tension was building up around the city.. Spanish fans were seen in town.. and the shops had flags out.. in the streets, people were wearing scarves.. and its only 4pm!

We know which club this family supports

At the Liverpool store.. there was a multitude! For the record.. i spent about 150 pounds altogether.. BUT! Wei Sing spent more than me.. including a Jersey with Gerrard on the back.. looks like you can call her a fan!


After a lovely dinner with Uncle Cogan and Aunty June.. (they stay 5 mins away from Anfield!!).. we changed into our Jerseys and left for the stadium..


And we finally made our way into the stadium.. when i entered.. i was met with a wall of noise that made the hair on the back of my neck stand up.. check out the vid below!

And before the match began...

The Kop End.. i was at the Main Stand

You'll Never Walk Alone

Awesome atmosphere!

And the players emerge from the tunnel..

Torres put us ahead and the stadium went wild =).. but i only had the chance to catch the 2nd goal.. a Gerrard penalty ..

2-0 at half time..


The 2nd half came.. and Gerrard puts us 3 ahead!

Look closely!.. thats Torres being substituted

Piling on the pressure.. =)

I sang and i shouted and i cheered and i jumped and i bounced! The kop led song after song.. i think we never stopped! I was losing my voice but i simply had to join in.. the opportunity of a lifetime.. As loud as i can..

And so the final whistle blew.. adrenaline was pumping and i was damn high! But we lingered on in the stadium.. to soak it all up =)

My seat..

With a result like this.. We had to go to a fully packed pub to celebrate with other fans right?!

Free drinks for me.. for my first game at Anfield!

The next day we came back to visit the Liverpool Museum..

Museum Entrance

Hillsborough Memorial Mosaic

1 for the each of the 1st 4

We won it 5 times in Istanbul

King Kenny

"..I was made for Liverpool."

Rafa.. Rafael.. Rafa.. Rafael.. Rafa.. Rafael.. Rafael Benitez!

The road to Istanbul was long and hard.. but now we can sing about it!

I'm a happy man.. coz i've completed my pilgrimage..

#blogging about this only 2 weeks later means i have the benefit of hindsight.. i know i was there for part 1 of 3 fantastic results.. 4 - 1 against Man United.. 5 - 0 against Villa.. and yes.. we're playing Chelsea in the next round..