The Phantom Goal

The phantom goal

There’s never a dull moment in Neil Warnock’s life. Many have heard of the Crystal Palace manager not through his tactics or any remarkable achievement, but simply due to his constant misfortune and whining. Everybody remembers the West Ham United and Carlos Tevez saga, when the Irons were adjudged to be playing Tevez illegally. According to Mr. Warnock, this was the reason his Shellief United were relegated form the Premier League two seasons ago. He ignored the fact that United had only managed 10 wins all season.

Unfortunately, in Warnock’s life lightning does strike twice. His constant bickering and whining never got him places with Sheffield, and it certainly didn’t gain him any sympathy from the FA. Last weekend, as his Crystal Palace side travelled to Bristol in search of three points, on loan West Ham United striker scored a powerful volley on the 38th minute, but such as is Warnock’s luck, the ball never hit the net, and hit the underlying frame inside the goal and bounced straight out. As the players celebrated, all match officials failed to see the net move and linesman Rob Shoebridge awarded a goal kick after much confusion. As it would be, Palace lost the game by the odd goal. Warnock said he feels “sorry” for the officials after having made such a bizarre mistake, but in truth hardly anyone feels sorry for Warnock himself, and we can await further non stop whining and bickering from the 60 year old tactician. Hard lines Warrie, but thanks for providing such great entertainment again!

As one would expect, this saga would obviously burst the door open for more discussions on goal line technology. A couple of sensors inside the goal post would help, but frankly many of us live for football’s disagreements and controversial incidents. Unprofessional as it may be, it is what makes football our sport, and its imperfections make it perfect. According to Warnock “We can put a man on the moon, time serves of 100 miles per hour at Wimbledon, yet we cannot place a couple of sensors in a net to show when a goal has been scored”. Many of us would agree with Warnock, but seeing his fury makes it all worthwhile.

Arse-nil

What a great start by Arsenal: thumping six past an embarrassed Everton, and storming clear on day one. Obviously, this means Arsenal are now amongst the favorites. Opening day victories however always deceive. Newcastle United held eventual champions United to a one all draw at Old Trafford last season, yet look where they ended up. Sadly for all you Gunners, Arsenal’s victory won’t serve too much. Granted, the north Londoners won’t get relegated any time soon, but they’ll sooner do that than win the league. I still don’t rate Arsenal. Fourth is what they should expect, and six goals haven’t changed my mind. If, for once, they can maintain consistency, then I will eat my own words, however this season I can’t see the Gunners finishing above fourth. When Arsenal are in form they are the team to beat, dazzling their opponents with quick swash buckling smooth football. Everton were suckered into this, however how will they cope once a team bus is parallel parked between the goal posts? I would sincerely wish Arsenal do keep their form up and offer more excitement to the league, however, typically, their form will slide come the New Year. Wenger still has time for more signings, and I believe there is still one vital piece missing in his jigsaw puzzle.

Mifsud no-go

Contrary to reports, Michael Mifsud has not joined the City revolution, Valletta City that is. The little mosquito is currently without a club, and his brace against Georgia has turned many a head in the Championship. Valletta tried to sign him, but failed. Mifsud is sadly beyond our standards and has admitted "At this stage of my career, I have no intention of returning to Maltese football". This is bad news for local football, however anyone with half a brain would agree with his choice. Malta is benefitting through its finest footballing export, and the national team is better with Mifsud training as a full time professional in England.
Championship club Newcastle have been linked with our star, and should Ian Dowie re join the Magpies any time soon, Mifsud will surely follow suit, as it was Dowie who signed him during his time at Coventry. Mifsud still has plenty to offer, and Newcastle United would be lucky to have such a striker to replace Oba Martins with.