Newsletter #681

As James Walsh says below, we were indeed robbed. Danny will probably struggle to score a better ‘goal’ than that one; I just hope we don’t look back and rue the bad luck that cost us two points. On the plus side, another good performance and the unbeaten run continues, but the win is still proving elusive. And did my eyes deceive me or were the Match of the Day panel surprisingly silent about the tackle that saw O’Neill sent off? I recall them calling for Danny’s head over a similar incident (OK he didn’t get sent off but you see my point?).

A ‘Big Issue’ with Pete’s news summary detailing loan moves and trials to strengthen the squad for the scrap; match reports and telly matchviews from Boro, and reports on the reserves’ Senior Cup and youth team’s FA Cup wins; opinion on survival prospects and Paulo again (and some probably controversial views from a poster who’s been quiet of late) as well as meeting notices and a Newcastle ticket for sale.

As the mobile phone ring tone requests have started up again – see the URL amongst the credits at the end – we’re considering a FAQ for subscribers to deal with recurring themes so to speak!

Ashley’s back from his short break for Thursday’s issue, so please send all inputs to him until further notice. In the meantime, my lucky away shirt (worn once, won once) will be going to Maine Road on Saturday in search of 3 points.

CTID, Geoff Donkin.

NEWS SUMMARY

Part I: Middlesbrough Away – Result and Reaction

Creditable Point – But Safety Gap Widens: Manchester City earned a point from Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Middlesbrough. But Derby’s win over Sunderland means the Blues are further away from safety than they were before the start of play at the Riverside. City should have gone ahead early on but saw a Danny Tiatto effort cruelly ruled out for offside. But the Blues did finally take the lead just on the half hour, when home defender Steve Vickers turned an Andrei Kanchelskis cross into his own net. However, ‘Boro bagged an equaliser after 62 minutes, when Colin Cooper drove the ball home after a corner had dropped at his feet. City had a man advantage for the last few minutes following the dismissal of the home side’s Keith O’Neill, but the Blues were unable to force a winner and are now three points behind their hosts, who are fourth from bottom, and a further point off Derby and Everton. The Toffees have a game in hand on all their rivals.

Boss Happy With Point – But Now Wants a Win: Joe Royle was happy with his side’s display at Middlesbrough on Saturday. But the Blues’ boss acknowledged that his side need a win to spark their survival charge. Royle recognised that City came under pressure from the home side, especially in the second half. But he also felt that the Blues had wasted a number of chances to snatch an elusive victory. “It is another point on the board, and we are four games unbeaten,” he said, “We just need a win now. I think we are better than relegation stuff and we have those twelve games left to prove it.”

Royle Rages at Offside Travesty: Sky Sports called the decision a “travesty” and BBC Match of the Day pundits unanimously agreed the officials made an error. But that will be little consolation to Manchester City after Danny Tiatto’s strike at Middlesbrough was incorrectly ruled out. Tiatto ran from inside his own half into the ‘Boro penalty area before firing his shot across goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer and into the far corner of the net. But what should have been a sensational strike was disallowed because striker Darren Huckerby was in an offside position – even though the striker was clearly not interfering with play based on any reasonable construction of the term. And Joe Royle was, justifiably, furious. “The video replay should embarrass the referee for the rest of his career,” he fumed. “A goal of the month has been disallowed for absolutely nothing.”

Venables – We Should Have Won: Terry Venables conceded that Manchester City caused his Middlesbrough side problems on the break in the first half of Saturday’s meeting between the teams. But the former England coach felt that ‘Boro could have taken all three points in the second period. ‘Boro started the first half pressing forward, but allowed the Blues to exploit spaces at the back through the pace and trickery of Kanchelskis, Huckerby and Tiatto. However, Venables believed that his side were the dominant force after the break and were more than deserving of their point. “Too many players were going forward [early on] and that left us open at the back,” he reflected. “We made a couple of mistakes and got nervy and it could have cost us. But I thought we controlled it after the break and we were the only team that was going to win it.”

Part II: Transfer News and Rumours

City Seal Ostenstad Loan Deal: Manchester City have moved to add attacking reinforcements in their survival battle. The Blues have signed Egil Ostenstad on a two-month loan from Blackburn. City currently have Paul Dickov on the injured list. And the Blues suffered another blow when transfer-listed Paulo Wanchope had to have a knee operation which will keep him out of action for a month. But Joe Royle is happy to have landed a replacement striker with Premiership experience. “Egil is a player I have always admired,” commented the City manager. “I was interested in him when he was at Southampton.” Royle says Ostenstad could come to Maine Road on a permanent basis if he impresses in the next two months – but that no discussions have yet taken place over the fee.

Two Midfield Trialists Arrive at Maine Road: Manchester City have reportedly shown an interest in a host of midfielders in recent weeks. And now the Blues are giving trials to two European stars as Joe Royle looks to strengthen his team’s engine room. City welcomed Runar Berg and Thomas Strunz to Maine Road on Monday for week-long trial periods. Berg, who is 31 years old, is currently with Venezia, but would be available for around £750,000 – a price Southampton recently regarded as too high even though Glenn Hoddle was impressed with the Norwegian. Meanwhile 32-year-old German Struntz, who plays for Bayern Munich, is regarded as a predominantly left-sided player and would be released by the Bavarian giants on a free transfer.

Injury to Block Wanchope Move: Manchester City’s hopes of quickly selling transfer-listed Paulo Wanchope have received a blow. The Costa Rican is now injured and must undergo a knee operation. Wanchope attracted interest last week from clubs in Spain and France. But with transfer windows in those countries now closed, the Blues had been hoping to find a British buyer for the ex-West Ham man. However, it’s now reported that the player now have an operation to repair damaged cartilage in his knee, putting paid to Joe Royle’s hopes of offloading the 25-year-old within the next four weeks.

Royle Plays Down Derby Wanchope Link: Paulo Wanchope’s injury means he won’t be leaving Maine Road in the next month. And Joe Royle has played down talk that when the Costa Rican does leave, he could return to Derby County. Wanchope was placed on the transfer list last Monday. And the only enquiry for the Blues’ record signing came from an unnamed Spanish club. But with the La Liga transfer deadline now gone, there’s no prospect of that move happening, meaning that City are likely to have to find a British buyer for the striker. Derby, the 25-year-old’s first English club, were linked with a move for their former player last week, but Royle and Rams’ boss Jim Smith have both said there’s no truth in the story.

Bishop Finally to Seal Miami Switch?: Ian Bishop has decided to switch to the American MLS after being given a free transfer by Manchester City. And the 35-year-old could complete his move to Miami Fusion this week. Bishop was coveted by a number of Nationwide League clubs, but has disappointed the likes of Barnsley and Sheffield Wednesday by opting to finish his career across the Atlantic. Under MLS rules, the midfielder has had to wait for a gap to appear in the Miami ‘roster’, but it’s thought this could occur when the MLS draft takes place on Monday.

Wright Set to Join Bolton Permanently?: Tommy Wright is on a three month loan at Bolton. But there are reports that the goalkeeper could make a permanent switch from Manchester City to the First Division promotion chasers. Wright was brought to the Reebok Stadium as cover after first choice Jussi Jaskelainen suffered a serious knee injury. Deputy Steve Banks stepped in for the Finn but was sent off at QPR on Saturday, and Wright impressed as a substitute. The Northern Ireland man will now feature in at least three games while Banks is suspended – but some sources claim that Bolton may even want to keep the 37-year-old beyond the end of his three-month stint.

City Linked With United Starlet Wilson: Manchester City have taken two midfielders on trial this week. And if either man impresses, rumours that the Blues may bid £2 million for a reserve at their fiercest rivals could be dispelled. Mark Wilson, who celebrates his 22nd birthday next Friday, has managed just three league appearances during his time at Manchester United. And it seems that the highly-rated youngster is now ready to move on to sample more regular senior action elsewhere. Reports of City interest arose after chief scout John Hurst was spotted at United’s reserve game against Leeds last week, when Wilson scored one and made another in the Reds’ 3-0 win. Ipswich, Derby and Sunderland are all said to be interested in the Scunthorpe-born star, along with a number of First Division clubs.

Part III: Miscellaneous News and Views

Kennedy Could Make Squad for Spurs Game: Mark Kennedy could make his return to the Manchester City squad for next weekend’s Maine Road clash against Spurs. The winger made his return at reserve level last week and will play for the second string again on Wednesday. Kennedy has been out since sustaining a knee ligament injury in the Blues’ 1-0 defeat at Sunderland just before Christmas. But the ex-Wimbledon man returned to training at the start of last week and made a successful return to match action in the reserve game against Oldham on Thursday. Now Joe Royle says the 24-year-old could even be in contention for a place in the senior squad next weekend, provided he “gets a good weeks training behind him” – though with the Kanchelskis-Huckerby-Goater combination looking dangerous up front for the Blues in the last two games, the Irishman’s best hope appears to be a place on the bench.

Dickov Not Ready to Return Yet: It’s three weeks since Paul Dickov sustained a medial ligament injury in Manchester City’s game against Leeds. But although he’s making good progress in his recovery, the striker isn’t ready to return yet. The Scot has scored four Premiership goals for the Blues so far this season. But his absence at this stage, coupled with a knee operation for transfer-listed Paulo Wanchope, has led Joe Royle to conclude a loan deal for Blackburn’s Egil Ostenstad. Dickov is likely to be back to add to Royle’s complement of front men in two or three weeks’ time, with the City boss commenting that the 27-year-old “is easing his way back but isn’t ready to return just yet.”

Whitley to Sit Out Cup Clash: Jeff Whitley will be missing from the Manchester City line-up in the FA Cup fifth-round tie at Liverpool. The midfielder will serve a suspension when the Blues visit Anfield. Whitley received a yellow card at Middlesbrough on Saturday, his second in successive games, and has now picked up five bookings so far this season – meaning an automatic one-match ban for the Northern Ireland man. Ironically, he was booked in both games against Liverpool so far this season.

Andrei Delighted by Maine Road Reception: Andrei Kanchelskis has made an immediate impression after joining Manchester City. And the on-loan Rangers winger says the welcome given him by the Maine Road crowd has helped him to make an impact. Kanchelskis says he’s happy to be back in Manchester after enjoying a successful stint at United between 1991 and 1995. And the 32-year-old feels he’s settling in well after joining the Blues. “I like the atmosphere of the city and of the club,” he said. “I’d like to thank the City fans who helped me and the team in the first game with Liverpool. I could hear the fans chanting my name and wanting me to play well and that is a big help.”

Positive Thinking to Aid Survival Fight: Manchester City will need to think positive if they’re to escape from their perilous position in the relegation zone. And Richard Dunne has revealed that the Blues last week enlisted outside help in a bid to ensure the players have the right attitude. The City squad attended a seminar held by a motivational expert last Wednesday. And Dunne says that the session helped to get the players in the right mood for the evening clash against Liverpool. “We had to break a plank of wood with our hands,” revealed the Irishman. “It was a square block of wood and you looked at it and thought, ‘I can’t do that.’ Two hours later we all got in pairs, held the planks up and we actually broke them with our hands. When it came to the match against Liverpool everyone was still on a high.”

Royle – Spurs Clash a Crunch Match: Joe Royle is pleased with the improved displays his Manchester City side has produced in the last two games. But the Blues have won neither match and have lost ground on relegation rivals Derby – so a win against Spurs on Saturday is now vital. Royle feels that his team has been blessed with little luck so far this season. And he insists that the Blues have shown against Liverpool and Middlesbrough that they’re a better team than their detractors contend. But he’s well aware that it’s time to turn promising performances into league points – and the visit of George Graham’s men would be an ideal time to start. “We’ve got Tottenham at home on Saturday and we have to win that game,” conceded the City manager. “The time has come to prove that we are much better than our current position indicates.”

Part IV: Reserve and Youth Team News

Mike Hat-Trick as Reserves Win: Leon Mike was the hero for Manchester City reserves last Thursday evening. The young striker notched a hat-trick as the Blues beat Oldham at Hyde. Gareth Taylor was also on target as City eased to a 4-1 win in the in the Manchester Senior Cup tie against the Latics. But of more importance to Joe Royle will have been the return to action of winger Mark Kennedy. The Irishman featured for an hour, and looked sharp according to local radio station BBC GMR. Meanwhile Carlo Nash saved a penalty as the Blues notched their first win in the competition since beating Bury two years ago. City are back in FA Premier Reserve League action on Wednesday, when they visit Blackburn. Kennedy will continue his comeback in the game, which will take place at Morecambe.

Mixed Fortunes for Academy Boys: Manchester City’s youngsters were in action at both under-17 and under-19 level at the weekend. But there were mixed fortunes for the Blues in the two games. The under-17s went down narrowly to Aston Villa, with Adie Orr and Jamie Almond on target in a hard-fought 3-2 defeat. But the under-19s had an easy 4-1 win against Stoke, with Leon Mike following his reserve hat-trick with a brace and Gary Brown and Chris Shuker also scoring.

Cassell – Producing Players the Priority: Manchester City’s Academy teams are riding high in their respective leagues and the Blues’ youngsters have made progress in the FA Youth Cup. But Jim Cassell says that good results on their own are not enough. Shaun Wright-Phillips has already made a breakthrough this season, and there are also high hope at Maine Road that the likes of Rhys Day, Chris Killen, Chris Shuker and Leon Mike could soon follow their colleague’s lead. And as far as Cassell is concerned, the success of the Blues’ youth policy should be judged on the number of its graduates who make the grade at senior level. “I have mixed views about league tables at these age groups,” explained the Blues’ Academy director. “We don’t in any way want the boys to feel under pressure at such an early stage in their career. Our job at the Academy is to produce players who are able to perform at a stage where league tables do matter.”

Four City Juniors in England Under-15 Squad: Manchester City are confident that their Academy will produce a series of players of real first-team pedigree. And the Blues’ youth set-up has received another boost with news that four Maine Road youngsters are in the latest England under-15 squad. Lee Croft, Doryl Prophett, Sean Cartwright and Lee Dorrell complete the quartet who have been called up for forthcoming games against Spain at Rushden and Diamonds on February 9, against Germany at Crawley on February 22 and against Holland at Southend on February 24. Croft in particular has already been marked down as a player of exceptional promise, but the progress of all four is a feather in the cap of Academy chief Jim Cassell and his staff.

MATCH REPORT – MIDDLESBROUGH

Well what can I say, but we were robbed! Daylight bleeding robbery! 2-1 it should have been – shocking absolutely shocking – never have I ever felt so disappointed at full-time. Well maybe after conceding a last minute goal in a 3-3 draw with Forest was a gut wrenching moment, but of all the decisions made throughout the season this had to be the worst. After witnessing the Leeds offside (sic) on MotD isn’t it about time officials were re-tested every time they messed up? Look, Mr A Wiley couldn’t even remember who was offside, Kanchelskis or Huckerby, both tall with different numbers/haircut/names! Actually to be fair it was the linesman/referee’s assistant (not much assistance there – public enemy no.1 in Moss Side?) who gave the offside and to be fair if Huckerby had touched it in then yeah he was offside. But look, he didn’t touch it, the ‘keeper was looking at Tiatto all the way and we were just robbed of a perfectly legal goal. Even Venables in his mumbo jumbo after-match comments would have been happy if the goal stood; he even said his players were slightly distracted by what should have been a legal goal. If (a big if we continue to play in this current vein of form) we go down by a margin of 2 points or less, then a bill for 40 million (or whatever we would lose in Premiership revenue) should be sent to Saturday’s match officials.

But I digress, what about the match? Well, after seeing the City squad arrive on their Fingland’s coach (glad to see some things don’t change) and Joe getting a lovely round of applause, I headed off into the bowels of the stadium. The beer was flowing and wasn’t bad taste-wise, but other than that the facilities were pretty poor. For a brand new stadium you would have thought that the behind the stands space would have been bigger (bit cramped) and that the toilets wouldn’t have been through a single door (they even have better facilities at Morecambe), plus there were only 3 troughs, all of considerable short length – for a fairly new stadium this was quite inadequate (are you listening Eastlands?). Then after a quick check of the telly to see the team news it was off to my seat. The inside of the ground is pretty crap as well, the pitch looked decidedly bad (I know most of them do at the moment) and the stands just seemed to look tired – another pointer here for Eastlands, don’t use that crap plastic ‘corrugated look’ on the roof of the stands it only gets dirty and leaks when it rains. Nice to see Moonchester and Roary the Lion (Middlesbrough’s mascot) getting on well, but did we really have to have dancing girls? I was cold, they must have been freezing. Anyway after being told that we were to witness the loudest greeting in the Premiership, the players appeared from the tunnel.

Well actually, the City players appeared, followed by the Middlesbrough players about 3 weeks later, as the crowd had to cope clapping in unison and in time to the music. Early exchanges went Middlesbrough’s way as Bob Marley (Karembeu) seemed very comfortable on the ball and played some nice touches with the Guvnor (Ince) and Boksic. City though weathered the early storm with Weaver saving well from an Ince drive. Then Tiatto picked the ball up somewhere near the City penalty area and ran about 45 yards before burying it beyond Schwarzer – yes 1-0. Middlesbrough restarted with a free-kick which seemed a little odd, but seeing as they was no scoreboard – not even a clock, it seemed a little strange (note to the Eastland’s developers – we must have a scoreboard and clock – I’m not too fussed by those large telly screens, but a scoreboard would be nice). Anyway, we pressed on and scored later into the half when a deep ball was crossed by Kanchelskis into the on-rushing Vickers who brilliantly placed it beyond his ‘keeper’s reach into the corner of the net. Other than that Weaver saved twice with his feet, O’Neill steered a shot just wide (about an inch) and Ricard missed about 3/4 clear opportunities (glad they fell to him and not Boksic), but the Blue boys went in at the break with what should have been a 2-0 lead.

Watching the tellys under the stand, no-one could believe that the goal hadn’t been given. Anyway, in a less frantic second-half City played with a slightly defensive mindset and were nearly punished with an almighty scramble in the box which saw Howey grasp the ball between his legs, before the ref blew for a drop-ball and players from each side piled on (like you used to do at school). City cleared the drop-ball but Middlesbrough were in the ascendance and it was no surprise when they scored. A corner was poorly headed away and Colin Cooper smashed it under Weaver’s legs from about the penalty spot. A bit of a messy goal and suddenly the morgue like crowd was brought to life. This is obviously a reference to the ‘Boro fans who were very quiet and treated to a range of songs from Blue Moon, Russian Submarine, Just Like Being in Church, Shall we Sing a Song for You, We Love You City, Who let the Goat Out, Invisible Man etc. Great support, great singing yet again from the travelling Blue contingent.

Anyway, not much else happened in the second half apart from a great ball that Goater tried to lift over Schwarzer and a miss-kick by the ‘keeper which almost let Tiatto in. Oh yes and O’Neill’s X-rated challenge on Wiekens. Possibly the worst challenge seen this season, with no attempt to play the ball; O’Neill tried a forearm smash with two raised feet, which surely was more at home on WWF Smackdown than on the football field. Quite why O’Neill hung around once shown the red card is open to debate, maybe he thought Wiekens was going to get up and climb on top of the dugout before leaping onto him from a great height?! So here are the all important scores…

Weaver 6 – Made some important blocks but his kicking at times was very poor – look Nicky, it got further when you kicked it out of your hands.
Gggranville 7 – Played well at left back and linked up well with Tiatto.
Howey 8 – Marvellous display yet again from easily our best buy of the season.
Dunne 8 – Very solid and works well with Howey, hardly ever gave the ball away; this lad is very very promising.
Haaland 7 – Played better at right back and seemed more involved; was his long ball which put Kanchelskis free for the goal.
Tiatiatiatto 9 – Player of the season – no-one else quite puts in as much effort as Danny does. Kennedy is going to struggle to steal his place (though Kennedy’s crossing is better he doesn’t quite frighten defences as much as Tiatto). That was a goal, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise Danny.
Wiekens 6 – Was surprised he got up after O’Neill’s challenge. He gets caught out too often in midfield and had a crab like attitude with his passes and runs – our weakest link.
Whitley 6 – Had a quiet game by his standards, it is here at the heart of midfield where we are really losing out.
Kanchelskis 5 – I thought he was playing right-wing (MoTD had him playing as a third striker) and although he had an excellent first-half he was utter lazy barsteward in the second-half. Is he left-footed? Only for the whole of the second half he kept on cutting inside from the right-wing – I say bring back Terry Cooke; at least he took free kicks. The only free kick we had in shooting distance was taken by Granville, oh how we miss Horlock.
Goater 5 – Looked short of ideas and it didn’t help when Joe brought Grant on for Huckerby. I really don’t think he’s good enough – bring back Wanchope or go out and buy someone!
Huckerby 7 – Was a menace to the Middlesbrough defence all day. Was unfortunate to be booked when caught offside (not for the Tiatto goal) and because he was causing so many problems Joe took him off and replaced him with Grant! Eh?

Subs

Grant 5 – Crap, first two touches (I think) were to give the ball away and concede a free kick that O’Neill just put wide. I say bring back Bishop.
Shuany Wright Wright Wright 5 – Didn’t do much as he was brought on a bit too late for Granville. Should have been on for the lazy sod Kanchelskis midway through the second-half.
Nash – Looks like Weaver, well his hair does anyway.
Prior – Looked p****d off getting off the team coach.
Ritchie – Run out of things to say…

MATCH REPORT – MIDDLESBROUGH

I’m a City fan through and through and have lived in The Netherlands for a very long time. I really enjoy the mailings from you and our Dutch Blue network (Maggie and Ian Hawthorne) that bring me nearer to my beloved team. When they were in the 1st and 2nd Divisions, there was never much coverage on the Man City games in Holland, they focus mainly on the Premier League. Nowadays it is just unbelievable all the news we are getting in this area.

I was in the U.K. this weekend, and had the opportunity to visit my friends in Middlesbrough and thus join them for the Middlesbrough/Manchester City game last Saturday. Unfortunately for me, because I was with friends who support the Boro I was perched between a lot of supporters and not able to “let go” as I would have liked. Although when Tiatto scored the goal that was not allowed I jumped up and down for a couple of seconds, not worrying about the consequences. But the atmosphere was terrific on both sides.

I am not an expert on giving out match reports, but this is a simple report from a 49 year old lady about how I thought the game went…

The Blues really put in 200%, and were definitely out to get those 3 points; of course Middlesbrough are also in a tricky position and were fighting for the 3 points also.

Manchester’s defence was spot on, the combination was perfect and Dunne was exceptional.

Buying Huckerby was certainly a good choice and he showed a lot of potential and created a lot of chances.

Tiatto’s input was, of course, second to none and was cheated out of his goal, which was certainly not offside and has cost us the 3 points that we so richly deserved in this match.

Wiekens’ cool and calculated passes I found a treat to watch.

Well done lads for team work, we certainly gave the Reds a run in this match. It certainly brought Venables out onto the side lines in the second half, but it still didn’t do much for the Middlesbrough team.

All in all we were the better side because of input and determination, although Middlesbrough did create a lot of chances but had lots of bad luck at the same time.

Christian Karembeu was a danger to the Blues on quite a few occasions and he spoiled a few chances for the superb passes of Kanchelskis.

It was a very exciting game with both teams having everything to play for.

If Manchester City keep up the excellent team work they showed me in this match then we will be out of the relegation area in no time. Keep it up lads, we are right behind you!

MATCHVIEW – MIDDLESBROUGH

A couple of observations about yesterday’s game:

No doubt in my mind, had Danny’s goal stood we’d have won that one comfortably. That was a bl**dy lousy decision and it spoiled the match for me.

I don’t understand Royle’s thinking at times. From what I saw (admittedly in a Singapore pub at midnight), he played Tiatto right side second half. Why? And what was the substitution about? SWP should have been on with 20 minutes to play, certainly when their Gyppo got sent off; instead he gets 5 minutes to try to impose himself.

Overall, I felt that was two points thrown away last night in a “must win” game. We’re running out of time guys.

MATCHVIEW – MIDDLESBROUGH

Just watched the Middlesbrough match on telly. Slightly more quality and City would have won both this match and the home tie earlier in the season. I haven’t seen the Blues much since moving to India in October – a bit of distance can sometimes be an advantage when analysing the team I’ve supported all my life. OK so I didn’t see the Goat’s goal against Coventry last Sat. but he really shouldn’t have been on the pitch today. Last season his secret was getting into good positions, combined with his physical strength and frequent attempts on plenty of supply. He really wasn’t able for it today – even his work rate wasn’t good. The only time he got into a good position, pulling away from the defender, was when Kanchelskis put that appalling but fortunate ball into the box which led to the own goal. Once Huckerby had gone off, any chance of scoring seemed to disappear. It’s a little sad that Tiatto is the only player we’ve got who can create something out of nothing. Was on the beach in Goa this week. Not too many footy shirts around – I saw one India guy with a fake MCFC shirt on, apparently made in Thailand. Upon quizzing him he said this is an England shirt! I had to spend quite a while with the poor lad saying ‘Repeat after me’…

Weaver: 8 Kept us in the match.
Howey: 8 Reliable and scores!
Dunne: 7 Marked Boksic pretty well.
Granville: 6 Why did he take that free kick?
Whitley: 6 Good squad player.
Wiekens: 6 Hoofs the ball too much – not so confident at this level.
Haaland: 7 Never gives up but needs some class to play off.
Tiatto: 9 Who’d have thought he’d turn out as he has?
Huckerby: 7 Looked sharp but had few chances.
Kanchelskis: 6 Pacey, lucky with the OG – it was a woeful ball into the box.
Goater: 2 Was scared to have the ball and found almost no decent positions. Sorry Shaun but from what I saw today you shouldn’t have been playing.
SWP: 5 Little time to shine but needs time to develop.

Looking back at my scores I think we can’t ask for too much more from the lads – much as I hate to admit it they’re just not good enough.

MATCH REPORT – FA YOUTH CUP vs. LUTON TOWN

Kenilworth Road was absolutely bl**dy freezing. Only one stand open, with maybe a couple of hundred people attending. Spotted about 5 or 6 other City fans dotted about, so decided against trying too hard to get a rousing chorus of “Blue Moon” going!

Unfortunately the next bit, i.e. about the game itself, is going to have to be a bit deficient because I didn’t know any of the City team, couldn’t recognise them, and although the team was listed on the programme sheet, there were a number of team changes and the tannoy quality was so bad that I couldn’t make out the details!

So here we go…

First 15 minutes, City created nothing, Luton broke forward a couple of times and almost scored each time. Ominous. Then another Luton break, poor attempted clearance from the edge of the City penalty area that went about 3 yards straight back to Luton, and surprise surprise they scored.

It was looking as though the midfield was AWOL so Luton were able to put direct pressure on our back four at will, and of course mistakes were being made. Sound familiar?

Then things changed around – City scored out of the blue with a speculative lob over their ‘keeper from just outside the penalty area, with about 18 players in between (I have no idea who scored!).

City went ahead a few minutes later with a glorious move, breaking at speed down the right after an intercepting tackle in the centre circle, and finished with a rifled shot into the bottom corner (I have no idea who scored!).

Then we went 3-1 up after a bout of head-tennis in the Luton penalty area ended with a high, looping header just creeping inside a post (I have no idea who scored!).

So, 3-1 at half time, and it took about 15 minutes queuing to get a hot drink – God only knows what the congestion would have been like if it had been a real crowd!

Second half was a bit of a let-down by comparison. The bad news came through from Maine Road where Liverpool had just gone ahead (I knew who had scored). Luton got back to 3-2 on about 80 minutes, so there was a bit of Desperate Dan defending in the last few minutes, and that was it.

Summary? We have some very talented youngsters; 3 or 4 caught my eye but I haven’t a clue what their names are, and the win was fully deserved. 3-2 was probably a bit harsh to City on the balance of play. As the players were leaving the field at the end, Tiatto’s equaliser at Maine Road was announced. Six people cheered!

MATCH REPORT – RESERVES vs. OLDHAM

1st Feb 2001 – Postponed Manchester Senior Cup tie. Ewan Fields, Hyde.

There are twelve rules of association football but I’m sure there is a thirteenth that only applies to reserve team games that reads something like, “Where M.C.F.C. play home reserve fixtures the weather must be wet, cold and preferably windy”. And so it was, minus the wind. The pitch had the obligatory patches of standing water that seem to be a feature of so many games this season, and was notable for the number of boot marks and divots even before kick-off. Didn’t hear anyone complaining though! I arrived in time to watch the teams warming up. Oldham were practicing long balls whilst the lads in blue were split into two groups with a man in the middle (Asa Hartford) playing quick ‘one-twos’ and short passes, perhaps a taste of things to come.

So, seven o’clock came and sharp on the hour the whistle for kick-off went. City lined up with Nash in goal, Jim Whitley at right back, Edgy and Terry Dunfield as centre backs, with Rhys Day out wide left back. Midfield was Gareth Taylor on the left, SWP and Chris Suker in what must be surely the smallest centre half positions in any league above schoolboy, and Steve Jordan on the right. Up front we had Leon Mike and making a very welcome return Mr Mark Kennedy.

The first action of the game went to Oldham with a quick pair of throw-ins followed. A half hearted stab at goal resulted which Nash caught with ease. A long throw up the right and Chris Suker was on the ball running straight into Oldham’s number 4 and the first stoppage of the game. Oldham’s man rolled around the floor like he’d been poleaxed by Goliath whereas Suker, who is half his size, calmly got up and walked away. The sponge man came on and administered holy water because the guy was up like a shot and running like he’d got Firey Jack in his shorts. That proved to be the only stoppage for injury in the whole game. City’s first real action came on 4 minutes with Kennedy making a darting run in his usual rôle. A smart cross was picked up by Leon Mike only for his subsequent tame shot to be easily cleared by the Oldham ‘keeper. The start, whilst action packed, looked scrappy, with both teams displaying a lack of control when under pressure. Oldham especially seemed to be gifted with the ability to make spectacular unforced errors but our lads weren’t immune either. Kennedy was again back in action on 8 minutes when he put an amazingly long curling cross over toward ‘Shooks’ that looked sure to be going out only to loop back in. Chris took advantage to have a half shot at goal only to hit the side netting.

The first goal came on 16 minutes. To call it fluky was an understatement. After a general thrash by everyone in the Oldham area the ball fell awkwardly to Leon Mike, who contrived to belt the ball extremely hard in the wrong direction. No worries, an Oldham defender turned his back on the ball for it to ricochet off the small of his back and roll tamely across the line for the opener. Goal credited to Mike but in reality an own goal. Never mind, they all count. The goal acted like a shot in the arm to the Blues, galvanising them into some of the best play of the game and for the next 15 to 20 minutes they dominated Oldham. Almost immediately a quick run from Shooks and a clever through ball saw Mike again one on one with the ‘keeper only for his shot to be parried away. Oldham had one real attack during this period, which broke down tamely only for SWP to break up the centre and cross to Kennedy now playing out wide right! A crossfield ball found Reg but with Kennedy, Mike and Suker in the box ready to receive, a poor ball in ended what looked a very promising move. The City pressure was relentless. On 39 minutes, a Taylor half attempt at lobbing the ‘keeper, 42 minutes, Whitely cross and Taylor again heads just inches wide, 43 minutes, Kennedy low shot on goal stopped by quick reactions from the ‘keeper to save off his legs. Inevitably the second goal came on 44 minutes with a beautifully weighted through ball from SWP straight to the feet of Mike who only had to side foot to beat the ‘keeper. 2-0, and so it remained at the break even though SWP should have made it 3 with the last touch of the half, but some uncharacteristic poor control from him let the ball bobble harmlessly into touch.

So a swift half of Boddingtons and a chance meeting with a mate who I haven’t seen in ten years allowed some blood to return to the frozen feet before the recommencement of hostilities. The rain had stopped, only to be replaced by a cold breeze that lowered the temperature rapidly and drove the blood back to wherever it had been hiding for the last thirty minutes of the first half.

The second half started lively with three end to end attacks but no additions to the score. City by now were showing the difference that two divisions can make with almost total control of the ball. When they did lose it the ball was quickly won back for another attack on the visitors. Kennedy made an amazingly skilful move after about ten minutes, beating three defenders with some dazzling footwork and delivering a perfect cross goal ball which no one moved to meet. Presumably they were still too busy marvelling at the exhibition of superb ball control they had just seen to rouse themselves from reverie and actually finish the move off. Never mind, with chances to waste, City’s third came courtesy of Taylor with a simple dummy and passing ball to round the ‘keeper after a lovely through ball came off SWP. 3-0 and City looked to be in cruise mode now. Goal four was an almost identikit of the third with Mike side footing in just inside the left post for his hat-trick.

Before the restart Kennedy was substituted for Etuhu with Mark leaving the field to rapturous applause from the massive 324 crowd. Despite some excellent work he had looked short of pace on a couple of occasions and obviously lacks match fitness but as a return performance he can take great credit from his efforts. SWP had yet another attempt at goal denied. This time a high cross from Suker found him rising above the ball to head down straight onto the ‘keeper’s outstretched glove. For a small guy SWP can certainly get some height on his jumps; just a pity he can’t find anything other than ‘keepers and side netting. Don’t believe me? Well, in front of an open goal a couple of minutes later he repeated the trick but this time went wide and into the side netting!

The first Oldham attack since the first couple of minutes of the restart found Nash spreading himself large like the avenging angel to deny a fairly powerful shot straight at goal. The good work was followed immediately by his only poor action of the game when he mis-kicked to drive the ball only 25 yards luckily to an Oldham player who didn’t know how to treat the gift and was dispossessed, thank you very much! Oldham got their own back though with a clearly offside goal on 74 minutes when only the linesman failed to see the trap being sprung and resulted in a torrent of abuse from Nash to his back line. One thing I think will characterise Nash’s spells in goal is his almost constant voluble directing of the back four. Especially when the pressure is on, the guy bullies and harries his defenders into doing their jobs. Might be interesting to see what happens when both Nash and Morrison are on together, hope Reg has got over his nerves as it is going to be like playing with Ian Paisley!

The game by now was effectively dead and it showed as the unforced errors returned. A long run by Oldham’s number 12 brought the last real action of the game. He was closely pursued by Jordan who waited until well over the penalty line to clatter his man from behind to bring a stern ticking off from the ref but no card and a penalty. Jordan hangs his head in shame and can’t watch as bang in goes the shot, whoosh down goes Nash, yeahhh the ball hits Nash’s outstretched hands and rolls away for a corner. Watch out Weaver you’ve got competition in spades here lad and he doesn’t go walk about when he’s bored.

So, 4-1 it ended and really the consolation goal was flattering. Oldham never really looked to have control of the game even in possession. City’s performance was a good display of close passing and if there is one real criticism the lack of finish they showed really isn’t reflected in the scoreline. If it had been ten or twelve nil they still wouldn’t have taken advantage of every opportunity to beat a woeful Oldham back four. Man of the match, difficult one this as there were so many good performances. Suker and Whitley certainly must have been in contention for their workrate and skill and despite his hat-trick I think Leon Mike was just pipped to the post. For me for his couple of really class saves, the marshalling of the back line and the incredible penalty stop I would have to give the title to Nash. We have a star in the making there and a truly creditable replacement for Tommy Wright. Kennedy is back and looks keen again but might need a few games to get back to peak form. A thoroughly well enjoyed game but I’m off to the pub now to get warm and thaw out!

SWINTON & DISTRICT CSA – DINNER DANCE / SOCIAL EVENING

We are holding a dinner dance/social evening on Friday 16th February. The night comprises of a 3 course meal, comedian Venn Tracey, DJ stand up bingo and a raffle. Tickets are £13.00 each. Contact Julie Channon 281 7517 or Lynn Williams 793-6128 to book your place.

Our next branch meeting will take place on Thursday 22nd Feb, at ‘The Folly’ Social Club, Station Road, Swinton. Guests to be announced. The meeting will start at 8pm.

WICKLOW SUPPORTERS’ CLUB BRANCH MEETING

The next meeting of the Wicklow branch is on Tuesday 6th of February @ 8 pm and as usual, is in Katie Gallaghers in Bray; any Blues who find themselves in or around Bray on the night are more than welcome to join us for a chat and a few pints.

NEWCASTLE TICKET FOR SALE

If anyone would like one ticket for Newcastle I have one to sell. Reply by email address or call 07712-179-346.

ZAMBIA APPEAL UPDATE

The appeal officially closed on Wednesday. We are now busy collecting all the kit from Maine Road and sorting through the mountains of stuff that has been sent.

Thanks for all your fantastic support. It has been a great success and I look forward to sending you all pictures of the new Blues in Zambia. Things just got better and better as the collection grew, it has been a brilliant response.

I am now working with British Airways to arrange shipment. We have a target date of the first week in March to ship out the kit. As with everyone else, they have been fantastic so far.

The only thing I have outstanding is bags to ship the kit out in. My ideal would be a load of the Lecoq Sportif holdalls, to make things look really professional. Although we have our backup cardboard boxes. Working on a few links, although nothing definite and we are open to offers.

Thanks once again for a top response, and a successful collection. The next stage of sorting the kit is underway, with Joanne, Si and people at Red Hall shifting and sorting kit.

Whatever you do, stay Blue!

CITY DIARY

City Diary, February 5-11th.

February 5th: On this day in1 977 Joe Royle and Dennis Tueart scored in City’s 2-0 win at Stoke.

February 6th saw a 7-1 home win over Blackpool in 1932 and a 1-0 win at Swansea in Division Two in 1965. But this day will always be remembered for the Munich air disaster, which killed eight members of the Manchester United team in 1958, along with several officials and journalists including Frank Swift. Two years to the day after the disaster City and United played a goalless draw at Old Trafford.

On February 7th Willie Donachie had his first game for City, a 1-1 draw at home to Nottingham Forest (1970).

February 8th: Uwe Rösler (2) and Georgi Kinkladze scored when City beat Southend 3-0 in the Nationwide Division One at Maine Road in 1997. Fifty years earlier City had crashed out of the FA Cup, beaten 5-0 by Birmingham at St. Andrew’s. But the abiding memory of this day has to be the match against Bury in 1964. Harry Dowd was injured and, as no substitutions were allowed, he went up front to play in the forward line and scored the equalizer a few minutes from time. Eighteen year old Colin Bell made his début for Bury in the same game.

February 9th: not just one but two Middlesbrough own goals for City in 1935; City won 6-2. In 1985 they were beaten 3-1 at home by Carlisle but were still promoted at the end of the season. And in 1952 Bert Trautmann missed his first game for City since his début in 1949 – the 0-0 draw with Blackpool was stand-in goalkeeper Derek Williams’s only game in the three years he spent with the club.

February 10, 1973: City beat Spurs 3-2 with two goals from Lee and another from Rodney Marsh. 3-2, the same result this coming Saturday’s OK.

February 11th saw two 2-1 wins and some famous old goalscorers: Toseland and Herd vs. Derby in 1933, Channon and Bell vs. QPR in 1978.

Finally, back to February 6, 1958. City fans of course remember Frank Swift among those who died at Munich, but one of the other journalists to lose his life was Don Davies, who wrote a newspaper column under the by-line “Old International.” Davies was a wonderful writer, painting pictures with words in a way that only people like Eric Todd and Geoffrey Green and perhaps Henry Winter have done since. Here is his report, complete with Shakespearean references, on England losing dismally to Wales at Cardiff in 1953, with City players Roy Paul and Roy Clarke joining the likes of Ivor Allchurch in the Welsh side.

England’s plight was pitiable. Selectors cowered in their seats. A row of tight-lipped critics grimly sharpened their pencils. The voice of one excellent Fluellen rose shrill above the din: “What did I tell you, Owen Bach! This lot couldn’t beat Blaenau Festiniog, could they now?”

Davies has a special fondness for Manchester football, and if his heart was often won by Coleman and Edwards and Taylor of the United team of that era, it could also be stirred by the skills of City’s inside-forward Bobby Johnstone. Davies was at Maine Road to describe his two goals in the 3-1 League win over Birmingham in November, 1956.

“He had just slipped his opponents most beautifully and was about to score when he was upended onto his nose in the penalty area”, Davies wrote. No penalty was given, and the Scot subsequently “spent a good deal of time ruefully rubbing his knee and his face and glowering at the referee as though tempted to march up to him, demand his notebook and pencil, and ask for his name.” In spite of this, the report went on, Johnstone “did not allow his feelings to cloud his judgment or blunt his skill. His footwork in the second half was magical to a degree. Glory and loveliness have not yet passed entirely away from Moss Side. There are still those left who can draw staid, not to say arthritic, members bounding wildly out of their seats.”

Not many people write that way nowadays, and not many City players play that way either.

OPINION – SURVIVAL PROSPECTS

Encouraged by the result last night against Liverpool, I looked at the latest table and compared it to City’s remaining fixtures and I think I’ve cracked it!

Of our remaining 13 games, seven are against teams presently in the bottom half of the league. Of those seven, four are at home. For quite some time now I’ve been looking at March and the start of April as the time for City to have their good run. We have four games against relatively weak opposition. Saints (H), Bradford (A), Villa (H), Everton (A). There is no reason why we can’t put together a run where we win all those games. That would be four of the (necessary) six wins that we need to reach 40 points. We also have to play Spurs and West Ham at home and Boro away. With the exception of Middlesbrough, where we never seem to perform well, all those games are there to be won. So we could save ourselves without having to take a point off any team currently in the top half of the table. So what about the teams we have to play in the top half? A point from Ipswich (A) and Leicester (A) and a last day heroic home win against a poor travelling Chelsea are about all we could possibly muster. Newcastle (A) is too tough for us and I’m afraid Arsenal (H) and the Rags (A) are not worth contemplating.

So I have it as follows from now on:

Win 7 Draw 2 Lose 4 Points 23

More points than we have presently I know, but over the last few games we have ground out some fairly encouraging results and let’s be honest, the other teams around us also have to get their acts together.

Realistically, having said all that, if we don’t beat the drop would it really be that bad? Look at Sunderland for example. Four years ago they were relegated from the Premier League. The next year they ran away with the First Division and are now in a great position to challenge for a Champions’ League place. Would we swap places? You better believe we would. If the only good thing to come out of this season is the fact that we were able to sign players like Howey, Charvet, Dunne and Ritchie then I personally would be happy. These are players that would not have come had we not been in the Premier League, players that will easily cope with a season in the Nationwide, and players that we can build a team around. We must remember that City are still in the middle of a massive rebuilding phase and that ultimate success is not a given, no matter how good we think we are or how good we used to be. It may hurt some of the more vociferous correspondents of this newsletter to hear this but there is no way Joe or Willie should be let go. Mr. Bernstein knows how to run a business better than both our previous Chairmen, and he loves the club just as much as either of them. He has a vision and nothing anyone can say will make him alter his course. I for one applaud his strength of character.

OPINION – SURVIVAL PROSPECTS 2

It all comes down to the next 5 matches. If we do not get 10 points from these matches, well, my guess is that for the fourth season in a row we will move to a different division. For this reason, while all matches now are crucial, I believe that the home matches against Spurs at the weekend and Villa at the end of March (if we haven’t blown it before that) will decide our future. West Ham might be our saviour, at the tail end of the season, if we are still in with a chance.

Let’s have a look at the remaining fixtures.

Home to Spurs – must win, it is as simple as that. If we do not beat Spurs, we will have played 27 with 23 points (or 24 if we draw) and looking ahead to the following week (away to Newcastle) with 28 played and probably still only 24 points in the bag. We will then have 10 games to play, needing between 13 and 15 points to survive. A team that has won only 23 to 25 points from 28 games can not reasonably expect to get 14 or 15 points from the remaining 10 games – sad, I know, but very true!

But even if for some reason we lose to Spurs, we a still have a ghost of a chance of survival, but only if we win all of the next three games, against Southampton, Bradford and Villa. We are capable of beating all three, but when was the last time we won three in a row in the Premiership (I just know someone out there is going to tell me!)? If we win these games we will then probably have 32 or 33 points, needing 37 or 38 to survive, but before we start feeling too relaxed, just look at the remaining fixtures.

Away to Everton and Leicester, the Toffees possibly facing relegation and the Foxes looking to get into Europe. Realistically, if we get one point from those 2 games, we will be doing well. Next up is Arsenal at home and then we visit the Swamp. Sharing the points with the North Londoners will be an achievement, while the Rags will probably celebrate winning the Premiership by fielding their second team against us, and still win! So then we will have three to play, probably with 33 or 34 points, and needing 3 or 4 points to stay up. If we still are in the race at this time, then a home win against West Ham is essential, as I would not expect much joy away to Ipswich and a draw against Chelsea would be a good result.

If survival depends on us winning one of the last two games (and possibly one or two other results going our way) then we will be in deepest doo-doo. So, no matter how you cut it, we need to win 4 games at least, and to maintain our good away form for the rest of the season. Of course, the thinking above is rational (or maybe wishful) and when did City ever behave rationally about anything (apart from appointing Joe Royle)? The truth of the matter is that, as always, the rollercoaster ride that is part of supporting City will continue, right up to the last match, and survival or relegation will most likely be decided by a defensive howler, a fluky goal, a missed penalty or a crazy decision by one of the officials. But to give ourselves an even chance of having one of these unpredictable events working in our favour (for a change) we must get 10 points from the next 5 games.

By the way, the Brothers O’Leary will be doing their bit for the cause. We travel from Dublin to Manchester twice or three times every year and we have not seen City beaten at home since we were in the Second Division. We know that the next time we travel to Maine Road, City are virtually guaranteed a win. Watch out, Villa!

OPINION – PAULO

One thing I have I have noticed about Wanchope is contempt he appears to show for his team-mates; I first really noticed during the cup win against Wimbledon. The Goat set him up with a wonderful pass, Wanchope tapped the ball home and the swanned off to take the plaudits, and failed to acknowledge Goater’s part in the goal.

Since this, I have been looking out for this sort of thing and the same is always the case, not even a glance in the direction of the provider.

I for one would be happier to see a team of Edghills, Tiattos, Whitleys (Jeff) and Goats than some mercenary, prima-donna who certainly doesn’t seem part of the club.

Jarrod Bull is entitled to his views, but don’t be so bl**dy negative. To say Joe Royle can not handle Wanchope is unfair; the player has been given his chances, he is not playing well, so Joe takes him off like any other player who does not give 100% for the team. However, Wanchope, who thinks he is too good to be taken off, acts like a prima donna. No player is bigger than Manchester City – give your best or be transfer listed. I still believe we will survive and stay in the Premier League with Joe Royle at the helm, and with the players he selects who give 100%.

Are there two Paolo Wanchopes at Maine Road? There is the one I know and the one Steve Kay done a hatchet job on to back up the inadequacies of his manager. I don’t believe this autograph nonsense I have heard it all before. every club has this bad player who wont pose for photographs pr nonsense to put the player in bad light.

Then there is the Paolo I know the one that has scored 8 goals in 20 matches, 55 percent of shots on target, most assists 3 and in the six matches he has scored we have only lost once. Surely the person who he should be attacking is the arrogant and spiteful Royle this clown who has picked teams that have won 1 match since he got rid of Weah and has a catalogue of errors and excuses in bringing this club back to the nationwide div 1 when he joined us.

Someone asked me what I thought of Joe. I replied its not me you want to ask its a psychiatrist this clown who made Wanchope and Weah sit on the bench while he preferred hard lines Paul shoot to miss Goater. he has spent 9 million on defenders who have conceded 44 goals who with half of his inadequate midfield injured or on loan wouldn’t give Cooke a game but praised grant who he did play and was ready to be off loaded to West Brom for £350,000. he buys players to strengthen his squad and then replaces them with players that he rejected in the nationwide. I told you 4 months ago about his inadequacies so Steve and the rest of the where we two years ago remember where the buck stops and its not with Wanchope. And Ernie Barrow I thought you had more sense.

HUCKERBY CHANT

How about this for a new song, following in the tradition of silly City anthems? Sung to the tune of “Reet Petite”, the following words:

“Huckerby, Huckerby, Huckerby, Huckerby ooooo weeeeee” (repeat as required!)

Would anybody out there like to attempt to get this off the ground at the next home match?

TWGFT IN THE US

Whist reading the Sports Illustrated magazine, which is dedicated to American sports and barely knows the presence of soccer or even the existence of cricket, I came across a little article on Man U.

This week’s sign of the apocalypse:

The Manchester United Football Club math workbook provide prices for official team products and asks kids to solve such arithmetic problems as, “Jordon has 30 quid to spend. If he buys a pair of shorts, has he enough money for a key ring and a programme?”

Excellent!

One comment on the team while I’m here – it’s good to see the Joe is in charge of the team and is ensuring that no single player thinks he is more important than the team, even if this means the exit of some big names. This is an excellent attitude for the long term success of the club, even if there are a few bumps in the road in the short term.

The above also spotted by Sean Cable in the US. Wonderful thing global marketing, eh?

DESPERATELY SEEKING…

Nizam Idris, I’m travelling around South East Asia – will be in Singapore around 16th – 23rd April – mail me and we’ll catch up for beers, curry and the derby.

WATCHING CITY IN CHINA?

Does anybody know of any City bars in either Hong Kong or Changsha in China? If so could you let me know as I’m in Hong Kong currently and going into China on Tuesday, this would be great if anyone can help.

RESULTS

Recent results to 04 February 2001 inclusive.

3 February 2001

Bradford City         0 - 3  Aston Villa           19,591
Coventry City         0 - 1  Arsenal               22,035
Derby County          1 - 0  Sunderland            29,129
Ipswich Town          1 - 2  Leeds United          22,015
Leicester City        2 - 1  Chelsea               21,502
Liverpool             3 - 0  West Ham United       44,045
Manchester United     1 - 0  Everton               67,528
Middlesbrough         1 - 1  Manchester City       31,794
Tottenham Hotspur     0 - 0  Charlton Athletic     35,368

31 January 2001

Chelsea               3 - 1  Newcastle United      35,108
Everton               2 - 2  Middlesbrough         34,244
Leeds United          1 - 0  Coventry City         36,555
Manchester City       1 - 1  Liverpool             34,629
Southampton           1 - 0  Leicester City        14,909
Sunderland            0 - 1  Manchester United     48,260
West Ham United       0 - 0  Tottenham Hotspur     26,048

30 January 2001

Arsenal               2 - 0  Bradford City         37,318
Charlton Athletic     2 - 1  Derby County          20,043

24 January 2001

Aston Villa           1 - 2  Leeds United          29,335

22 January 2001

Charlton Athletic     1 - 1  West Ham United       20,043

League table to 04 February 2001 inclusive.

                             HOME          AWAY        OVERALL
                    P  W  D  L  F  A  W  D  L  F  A  W  D  L  F  A  GD Pts
 1 Manchester Utd  26 11  1  1 34  6  8  4  1 24 10 19  5  2 58 16  42  62
 2 Arsenal         26 10  3  0 33  8  3  5  5  9 15 13  8  5 42 23  19  47
 3 Liverpool       25 10  2  1 28  8  3  3  6 18 19 13  5  7 46 27  19  44
 4 Sunderland      26  8  4  1 16  6  4  3  6 15 18 12  7  7 31 24   7  43
 5 Ipswich Town    25  6  4  3 20 12  6  0  6 17 20 12  4  9 37 32   5  40
 6 Leicester City  25  7  4  2 18 13  4  2  6  8 14 11  6  8 26 27  -1  39
 7 Leeds United    25  7  1  5 22 18  4  4  4 15 15 11  5  9 37 33   4  38
 8 Chelsea         25 10  2  1 36 12  0  5  7 11 20 10  7  8 47 32  15  37
 9 Newcastle Utd   25  7  2  3 18 12  4  2  7 14 23 11  4 10 32 35  -3  37
10 Charlton Ath.   26  8  4  1 21  9  2  3  8 13 29 10  7  9 34 38  -4  37
11 Tottenham H.    26  8  5  0 22  9  0  4  9  8 25  8  9  9 30 34  -4  33
12 Aston Villa     24  4  4  3 15 12  4  4  5 12 14  8  8  8 27 26   1  32
13 Southampton     25  7  2  4 19 15  1  6  5 10 19  8  8  9 29 34  -5  32
14 West Ham United 25  4  5  3 17 11  3  5  5 15 19  7 10  8 32 30   2  31
15 Everton         25  3  5  4 15 16  4  1  8 11 21  7  6 12 26 37 -11  27
16 Derby County    26  5  6  2 16 16  1  3  9 11 27  6  9 11 27 43 -16  27
17 Middlesbrough   26  3  5  5 15 17  2  6  5 15 16  5 11 10 30 33  -3  26
18 Manchester City 26  3  3  7 17 20  2  5  6 13 25  5  8 13 30 45 -15  23
19 Coventry City   26  2  4  7  9 19  3  2  8 14 26  5  6 15 23 45 -22  21
20 Bradford City   25  2  4  6 10 20  1  3  9  6 26  3  7 15 16 46 -30  16

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