ATP World Tour Finals (London): Day 7

Djokovic and Nadal set for Final showdown
Novak Djokovic will meet Rafael Nadal in the ATP world tour finals after both players prevailed in their semi-final encounters. Nadal defeated Federer in the first semi-final in straight sets. It was a closely contested first set with play going on serve until Nadal broke at 5-5 and held serve to take a one set lead. Federer struggled to find a way back into the match and Nadal eased into the final with a straight sets victory.
Djokovic came through his semi-final encounter with Wawrinka in straight sets to set up a final against Nadal. Wawrinka found it tough to keep up with the level of tennis Djokovic was producing and lost the first set to a single break. It was a similar story in the second set as Djokovic continued to dominate the match and won the second set with a single break of serve.

My Opinion:
It was the result everyone expected and were hoping for. The two best players of the year will meet for the end of year showdown. Nadal won comfortably against Federer whilst Djokovic won in fairly easy fashion. It was a disappointing display from Federer who looked as though he had put all of his efforts into beating Del Potro and getting to this stage whilst Wawrinka was just outclassed. Really looking forward to the final and both players will fancy their chances. I'm going to go ahead and suggest that Nadal may have the slight edge over Djokovic but we will see.


Semi-Final results:
Nadal beat Federer 7-5,6-3
Djokovic beat Wawrinka 6-3,6-3

Performance of the Day: Rafael Nadal

ATP World Tour Finals (London): Day 6

Djokovic and Federer progress into the semi-finals
Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer both won their final group stage matches to progress into the semi-finals. Djokovic claimed his third straight win after beating Gasquet in three sets to finish at the top of group B. It was a closely contested first set as Gasquet pushed Djokovic all the way to a tie-break. However, the number one seed took a one set lead after winning the tie-break. Gasquet hit back in the second set to level the match at one set all after holding onto a single break of serve. Djokovic then struck the final blow to Gasquet's tournament after holding onto a break of serve to win the deciding set. 
It will be Federer who joins the top four for the semi-finals after the Swiss player battled past Del Potro in three sets. Both players started strongly but Del Potro took advantage of Federer's unforced errors to hold onto a break of serve and win the first set. The second set could have gone either way but Federer took it to a tie-break where he duly levelled the match at one set apiece. In a tense and brilliant third set, Federer came out on top after holding onto a break of serve to finish second in the group.

My Opinion:
Djokovic was always going to go through to the semi-finals but was put through his paces against a gutsy Gasquet. The momentum was with the Frenchman going into the final set but Djokovic proved why he wins so matches and fought back really well. No surprise that Djokovic won group B. Meanwhile, Federer deserves so much credit for his display against Del Potro. The Swiss player made multiple unforced errors and looked as though he was on his way out. However, a determined effort saw Federer rally in the deciding set and take a crucial victory. The semi-final lineup is brilliant but most people would expect to see Djokovic and Nadal come through to face each other for the final.


Group Stages:

Group A Result:
Federer beat Del Potro 4-6,7-6,7-5

Group B Result:
Djokovic beat Gasquet 7-6,4-6,6-3

Performance of the Day: Roger Federer

ATP World Tour Finals (London): Day 5

Nadal and Wawrinka into semi-finals
Rafael Nadal and Stanislas Wawrinka are through to the ATP tour semi-finals after winning their last group stage matches. Nadal will go through as the group winner after defeating Berdych in three sets. The first set was closely contested but it was the Spaniard who broke at 4-4 and held his serve to take the opening set. Berdych came back with a very strong reply in the second set and outplayed Nadal to level the match at one set all. Nadal battled back into the match in the third set and held onto a single break of serve to win the deciding set.
Wawrinka will follow Nadal into the semi-finals after his win over Ferrer. It was the Spaniard who won the first set after a competitive battle was decided in the tie-break. Wawrinka managed to grind his way back into the match and held onto a break of serve to level the match at one set apiece. With the momentum fully in his favour, Wawrinka strolled through to victory after only conceding one game to Ferrer in the final set.

My Opinion:
The two players I suspected that would prevail did. Nadal deservedly won the group after notching up three group stage wins whilst Wawrinka goes through in second place with two wins under his belt. Nadal was made to work for his victory as Berdych pulled out all of his big hitting shots during the second set but he proved too strong in the third set. Ferrer started well against Wawrinka but just ran out of steam as the match progressed. Wawrinka caps his fine run of form off with a deserved spot in the semi-finals. I expect to see Djokovic and Federer join them for the semi's after tomorrow's play. 


Group Stages:

Group A Result:
Wawrinka beat Ferrer 6-7,6-4,6-1

Group B Result:
Nadal beat Berdych 6-4,1-6,6-3

Performance of the Day: Rafael Nadal

ATP World Tour Finals (London): Day 4

Wins for Federer and Djokovic 
Novak Djokovic took control of group B with a gruelling victory over Del Potro. The number one seed needed three sets to defeat a very tough competitor in Del Potro. The first set was decided by a single break as Djokovic took a one set lead but Del Potro hit back strongly in the second set to level the match at one set apiece. However, Djokovic proved too strong in the third set after raising his game even further to beat Del Potro. Djokovic now only needs one more win to top the group whilst Del Potro will require another victory to proceed into the semi-finals. 
In the afternoon session, Federer overcame a challenging encounter with Gasquet with a straight sets victory. The opening set proved to be closely contested but Federer held onto a single break to take the first set. It was a similar story in the second set as Federer held onto a break of serve to win the second set and the match. Federer will need to win his final group match in order to progress to the next stage of the tournament.

My Opinion:
I expected the results that occurred but Djokovic managed to avoid a scare. Del Potro put up a real tough fight and the final set could have gone either way. However, Djokovic has proved on multiple occasions why he is seeded number one and managed to grind out the vital win. Federer got an important win under his belt after defeating the dangerous Gasquet in straight sets. The Swiss player showed some positive signs that he could play to a high level that many people expect from him. I expect Djokovic to top the group but it will be close for second place in the group. I'm going to back Federer to progress alongside Djokovic whilst for tomorrow's matches I predict that there will be wins for both Nadal and Wawrinka.


Group Stages:

Group A Result:
Federer beat Gasquet 6-4,6-3

Group B Result:
Djokovic beat Del Potro 6-3,3-6,6-3

Performance of the Day: Novak Djokovic 

ATP World Tour Finals (London): Day 3

Nadal and Berdych both claim victories
Rafael Nadal took control of group A after winning defeating Wawrinka in two tough sets. The Swiss player started strongly and proved to be a real challenge for Nadal. Eventually, the opening set went to a tie-break with Nadal coming out of it one set up. The second set provided more of the same brilliant and competitive tennis with both players not giving an inch. However, in similar fashion to the first set, Nadal overcame Wawrinka again in a tie-break to wrap up a straights set victory. Nadal will win the group if he wins his last group match whilst Wawrinka needs to win his final group match to progress. 
In the evening session, Berdych managed to defeat Ferrer in straight sets. The tall Czech player proved to much to handle for the gritty Spaniard after losing both sets to a single break of serve. Berdych remains in the hunt to go through to the semi-finals but will need to win his last group match whilst Ferrer bows out of the tournament with two losses under his belt.

My Opinion:
No surprises for me today with both Nadal and Berdych coming through their respective matches. Wawrinka really gave Nadal a tremendous match but just couldn't find a way to win the crucial points against Nadal. Meanwhile, Berdych just had too much power for Ferrer to handle. On the players current form I would expect Nadal to win the group with Wawrinka progressing in second place. For tomorrow's matches I would expect both Djokovic and Federer to win their matches.


Group Stages:

Group A Result:
Nadal beat Wawrinka 7-6,7-6

Group B Result:
Berdych beat Ferrer 6-4,6-4

Performance of the Day: Rafael Nadal

ATP World Tour Finals (London): Day Two

Nadal and Djokovic begin with wins
Nadal and Djokovic started their campaigns with victories. Number one seed Rafael Nadal overcame fellow Spaniard David Ferrer in straight sets during the opening match of the day. Nadal took the first set after holding onto a single break of serve before winning the second set after a Ferrer could not battle back from a double break. Novak Djokovic was involved in a real battle against Roger Federer in the evening match but managed to come through in three sets. In a closely contested first set, Djokovic managed to break the Federer serve and hold on to take a one set lead. Federer came back strongly in the second set and took it to a tie-break. The momentum shifted towards Federer and the Swiss player duly levelled proceedings at one apiece. However, Djokovic played some really strong tennis in the deciding set and proved to good for Federer who lost his serve twice before losing the final set. 

My Opinion:
The results went as I anticipated today with both Nadal and Djokovic prevailing. Ferrer wasn't able to mount any serious pressure against Nadal and duly got beaten in comfortable circumstances. However, the evening match was a really entertaining spectacle. Djokovic looked to have the edge but Federer battled back really well and deservedly levelled the match at one set all. It seemed as though Federer had used up all of his energy in winning the second set and Djokovic simply played him off the court in the third. For tomorrow's matches I expect Wawrinka and Berdych to come through with wins. 



Group Stages:

Group A Result:
Nadal beat Ferrer 6-3,6-2.

Group B Result:
Djokovic beat Federer 6-4,6-7,6-2.

Performance of the Day: Novak Djokovic 

ATP World Tour Finals (London): Day One

Winning starts for Wawrinka and Del Potro
Both Wawrinka and Del Potro claimed victories on the opening day of the ATP World Tour Finals in London. The first match saw seventh seed Wawrinka defeat fifth seed Berdych in three sets. It was Wawrinka who claimed the first set after holding onto a break of serve. However, in a tightly fought second set, Berdych levelled the match at one set apiece after winning the tie-break. The final and deciding set saw Wawrinka stroll past Berdych as the Czech player failed to register a single game. Meanwhile, in the first match of group B, Del Potro overcame a tough encounter with Gasquet, needing three sets to defeat the Frenchman. It was Gasquet who took control of the match after claiming the first set with some splendid tennis to win the tie-break. Del Potro hit back in the second set and levelled the match at one set all after holding onto a break of serve. It was a closely contested final set but Del Potro came out victorious after breaking the Gasquet serve at 5-5 and held onto his serve.

My Opinion:
It wasn't a surprise for me that Wawrinka overcame Berdych as the Swiss player had been in the form of his life in recent months. Berdych managed to take the match to a final set but was blown away in the third. Similarly, I expected Del Potro to win his match with Gasquet and was proved correct. Gasquet did however show some fighting spirit to take the first set but De Potro fought his way back into the match and just had that little bit extra to hold out for victory. For tomorrow's matches I predict that Nadal will defeat Ferrer whilst I can only see Djokovic coming out with a win against Federer.



Group Stages:

Group A Result:
(7) Wawrinka beat (5) Berdych 6-3, 6-7, 6-0.

Group B Result:
(4) Del Potro beat (8) Gasquet 6-7, 6-3, 7-5.

Performance of the Day: Stanislas Wawrinka

Super Sunday Game Week 10

Cardiff win Welsh derby



Cardiff City 1 v 0 Swansea City Caulker (62), Vorm sent off
Caulker grabs winner for Cardiff in Welsh derby. Michu missed two early attempts after fluffing a volley and had a long range strike saved. Bellamy saw his free kick deflected over after hitting the top of the wall before half time. Cardiff took the lead just after the hour mark as Caulker headed in from a corner at the near post. Bony struck wide from close range before Campbell had a shot saved. De Guzman had a long range free kick stopped whilst Pozuelo saw his volley pushed away. The game ended badly for Swansea as Vorm was shown a red card in the final few minutes for fouling Campbell and being the last man. 

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Caulker. Cardiff battled really hard and held on for victory well. Swansea controlled possession during the game but struggled to convert in front of goal.

Everton 0 v 0 Tottenham 
Goalless draw played out at Goodison Park. Howard was called into action early on to push away Sandro's long range strike before Soldado headed wide. Walker had a long range free kick punched away by Howard whilst Osman drover his strike over the bar as the first half ended goalless. Pienaar had a shot blocked in the second half before Barkley struck over from long range. Coleman dragged an effort wide of the near post before Delafeau had a shot saved late on.

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Dawson. Everton deserved their point but never looked that likely to open the scoring. Tottenham were not that much better but they created the greater chances and had opportunities to snatch a win. 

Best Goal of the Day: Caulker

Soccer Saturday Game Week 10

Arsenal 2 v 0 Liverpool Cazorla (19), Ramsay (59)
Arsenal prove too strong for Liverpool. The first half was largely dominated by Arsenal as Liverpool struggled to to get into the game. Rosicky had an early shot from close range go wide across the goal before Cazorla put the home side ahead inside twenty minutes after converting his rebounded header off the post. Cazorla had a long range shot well stopped whilst Ramsay had an effort saved. At the end of the first half, Cazorla dragged a long range shot wide. Liverpool managed to create their first chance in front of goal soon into the second half but Henderson smashed over from close range. Giroud chipped wide of the post before having a poked effort saved. Ramsay doubled Arsenal's lead just before the hour mark with a brilliant long range strike into the roof of the net. Suarez hit the outside of the far post before Ozil had a shot comfortably saved whilst Suarez curled wide of the far post in the closing stages.

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Cazorla. Arsenal put in a strong performance and deserved to win this match. Good outings for Ramsay and Cazorla who simply ran the show. Liverpool struggled with a bit of an off day whilst Suarez wasn't on top form.

Man City 7 v 0 Norwich City Johnson (og,16), Silva (20), Nastasic (25), Negredo (36), Toure (60), Aguero (71), Dzeko (87)
Man City run riot over Norwich. Nasri came close to opening the scoring early on but his shot struck the outside of the post from close range. However, the home side took the lead in the 16th minute after Aguero had a shot blocked and the ball bounced back of Johnson into his own net. Silva doubled the lead shortly after with a close range shot slotted under Ruddy. Five minutes later and Man City went 3-0 up after Nastasic headed in from a corner at the near post. Aguero had a shot blocked before Negredo converted from close range to make it 4-0 before half time. Elmander came close for Norwich after half time but his strike went wide. Nasri had a shot saved before Aguero struck into the side netting. It was 5-0 to Man City on the hour mark as Toure scored with a superb free kick into the top corner. Aguero made it 6-0 with a close range volley before Navas had a volley saved. Dzeko rounded off the scoring near the end of the game with a neat swivel and finish to make it 7-0 to Man City.

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Aguero. Man City were simply on a different level to Norwich and played some magical football. Norwich were bruised and battered but they never had a chance against a Man City team playing that well.

Newcastle 2 v 0 Chelsea Gouffran (68), Remy (89)
Newcastle shock Chelsea with second half display. In a closely contested first half, it was Chelsea who had the better of the chances. Terry headed onto the crossbar from a corner before the follow up shot bounced off the top of the bar. As half time neared, Terry had a header cleared off the line before Sissokho had a low shot saved at the near post. During the second half, Newcastle looked the team more likely to score. Sissokho put a close range effort wide whilst Remy was denied from close range. However, Gouffran had a shot turned round the post before the Frenchman opened the scoring for the home side. Cabaye found Gouffran with a curling free kick who headed past Cech. Eto'o had a shot blocked round the post before Willian had a shot saved. Eto'o was denied again before Remy doubled Newcastle's lead with only minutes left to play after converting from Anita's shot bouncing off the post. 

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Remy. Newcastle deserved to win as they put in a determined performance and took their chances. Chelsea couldn't get themselves going and paid the price.

Fulham 1 v 3 Man United Valencia (9), Van Persie (20), Rooney (22), Rooney (og, 65)
United take advantage of woeful Fulham defending. It was as if Fulham didn't know how to defend in the first twenty minutes and United took full advantage. Kasami had a long range low strike saved before United took the lead through Valencia who scored with a driven shot from Rooney's well placed pass. Berbatov poked an effort just wide before United doubled their lead after Van Persie smashed into the roof of the net from Januzaj's through ball. Rooney made it 3-0 to United after tapping in from Van Persie's cross. Berbatov was denied by De Gea as half time approached. Fulham played much better in the second half as Kasami struck a long range effort wide before Fulham managed to get a goal back as Kacanicklic's shot deflected in off Rooney. Bent headed onto the bar before Richardson headed wide late on.

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Rooney. Fulham were so awful in the first half it was almost a joke. Much better in the second half but the game was gone. United took full advantage to take a 3-0 lead which was pleasing but I was disappointed that they failed to convert any more goals.

Hull City 1 v 0 Sunderland Cuellar (og, 24), Cattermole sent off, Dossena sent off
Hull hold on to take important victory. It was a closely fought first half but Hull opened the scoring midway through the first half as Cuellar headed into his own net. Things only got worse for Sunderland who had Cattermole sent off for a dangerous tackle on Elmohamady. There looked no way back for Sunderland at half time as Dossena was shown a red card for a dangerous tackle as the away side were reduced to nine men. Huddlestone had a long range shot saved in the second half whilst Johnson had a shot stopped well before Livermore struck the post from long range.

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Huddlestone. Hull managed to get the job done and took a vital victory. Sunderland were let down by two individuals who were rightly both sent off for horrendous attempts at a tackle. 

Stoke City 1 v 1 Southampton Begovic (1), Rodriguez (42)
Southampton fightback after freak Begovic goal. Stoke took the lead in the opening minute after Begovic's punt downfield gained extra pace from the wind and bounced straight over the despairing Boruc and into the goal. Shawcross should have put Stoke 2-0 up but the defender managed to miss a glorious chance from close range. Lovren headed just wide before Southampton levelled proceedings before half time as Rodriguez headed in at the far corner. Not much happened in the second half as Arnautovic had a shot well saved whilst Assaidi struck his effort very wide of the target. 

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Rodriguez. Stoke deserved to take a point but that was a freakish goal. Southampton will be pleased to have taken a point as they had to battle hard with Stoke.

West Brom 2 v 0 Crystal Palace Berahino (44), McCauley (83)
West Brom prove too strong for Palace. Guerdiora had a volley saved early on in a first half that was evenly contested. However, Berahino struck late in the first half to give West Brom the lead after his low shot found the bottom corner. Sessegnon had a long range strike saved just before half time. Palace were more involved in the second half as Puncheon had an effort turned around the post whilst Jedinak struck very wide from long range before heading just wide. Croft shot just wide before McCualey doubled the Baggies lead with under ten minutes left to play after heading in at the far post from a corner. 

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Berahino. West Brom simply got the job done whilst Palace failed to take their chances. 

West Ham 0 v 0 Aston Villa 
Goalles draw played out at Upton Park. Both teams created a chance for themselves in the first half but the scoring was not opened. Weimann had a shot saved whilst Jarvis had a strike saved before Collison struck into the side netting. The second half produced more of the same as neither team found the net. Benteke came close to scoring but his header crashed back off the bar whilst Nolan struck wide from close range. Benteke put his late effort wide before Joe Cole had a shot saved.

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Jaaskalainen. West Ham suffered from some poor finishing whilst Villa came close to scoring but Benteke was constantly denied. 

Best Goal of the Day: Contenders include Ramsay and Toure. Winner is Ramsay.

Performance of the Day: Man City were amazing.

Worst performance of the Day: The Fulham defence was nowhere to be seen.

2013 Race 17 - Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (Yas Marina Circuit): Race

Vettel wins seventh consecutive race

Sebastien Vettel has now won seven consecutive races after taking victory at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Mark Webber came second to round off another perfect weekend for Red Bull whilst Nico Rosberg took the final podium spot for Mercedes. 

My Opinion:
Red Bull: Vettel (winner), Webber (2nd). Perfect weekend for Red Bull. No surprise to see Vettel claim victory but it was good to see Webber take second.
Mercedes: Rosberg (3rd), Hamilton (7th). Rosberg was able to hold onto third place but Hamilton dropped down three places.
Ferrari: Alonso (5th), Massa (8th). Alonso was impressive during the race and climbed five places whilst Massa dropped down a place. 
Lotus: Grosjean (4th), Raikkonen (DNF). Good drive from Grosjean who rose two places but it was a disaster for Raikkonen all weekend who failed to get past the first corner.
Mclaren: Perez (9th), Button (12th). Mclaren managed to score a couple of points as Perez finished inside the top ten but it was a disappointing race for Button who missed out.
Force India: Di Resta (6th), Sutil (10th). A good race for Force India as both drivers managed to score points. Di Resta was impressive and climbed five place whilst Sutil rose seven places to take the final point.
Sauber: Gutierrez (13th), Hulkenberg (14th). Not the day Sauber were hoping for as Hulkenberg fell nine places whilst Gutierrez failed in his attempt to make the top ten.
Toro Rosso: Ricciardo (16th), Vergne (17th). Poor showing from both the Toro Rosso's as they both dropped down the order and out of the points.
Williams: Maldonado (11th), Bottas (15th). Williams woes continue as they miss out on points again. Maldonado narrowly missed out after climbing three places whilst Bottas failed to improve his position.
Caterham: Van Der Garde (18th), Pic (19th). Caterham win the back of the grid battle whilst Van Der Garde was the fastest driver from the pack.
Marussia: Bianchi (20th), Chilton (21st). Marussia were the slowest cars on the track whilst Chilton was the last to cross the finish line.



Race Guide and Key Moments:

Start: Vettel (up 1), Rosberg (up 1), Webber (down 2), Grosjean, Hamilton (down 1), Hulkenberg (down 1), Alonso (up 3), Massa (down 1), Perez (down 1), Di Resta (up 1).
Raikkonen OUT after braking the front suspension at the first corner.
Lap 9: Webber into 9th after passing Gutierrez.
Lap 10: Grosjean into 10th after passing Gutierrez.
Lap 16: Webber into 7th after passing Sutil. Vettel makes a pit stop but retains the lead.
Lap 17: Webber into 7th after passing Vergne. Grosjean into 9th after passing Sutil.
Lap 20: Webber into 3rd after passing Rosberg.
Lap 23: Alonso into 9th after passing Maldonado.
Lap 25: Hamilton into 5th after passing Sutil. Sutil into 5th whilst Massa into 6th after both pass Hamilton.
Lap 26: Alonso into 8th after passing Hulkenberg. Hulkenberg into 8th after passing Alonso.
Lap 27: Massa into 5th after passing Sutil. Alonso into 8th after passing Hulkenberg. Hamilton into 6th after passing Sutil.
Lap 29: Alonso into 7th after passing Sutil. Hulkenberg into 14th after passing Maldonado. Maldonado into 14th after passing Sutil.
Lap 34: Drive through penalty for Hulkenberg after an unsafe release from a pit stop.
Lap 38: Vettel makes a pit stop but retains the lead.
Lap 44: Hamilton into 7th after passing Vergne.
Lap 47: Massa into 8th after passing Vergne.
Lap 50: Maldonado into 11th after passing Vergne.
Lap 51: Alonso into 6th after passing Hamilton.
Lap 52: Alonso into 5th after passing Di Resta.
Lap 55: Vettel wins the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Webber second, Rosberg third.

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Result:
1. Vettel (Red Bull) 1.38.06.106
2. Webber (Red Bull)
3. Rosberg (Mercedes)
4. Grosjean (Lotus)
5. Alonso (Ferrari)
6. Di Resta (Force India)
7. Hamilton (Mercedes)
8. Massa (Ferrari)
9. Perez (Mclaren)
10. Sutil (Force India)

Fastest Lap: Alonso (Ferrari) 1.43.434

Driver Standings:
1. Vettel (Red Bull) 347pts
2. Alonso (Ferrari) 217
3. Raikkonen (Lotus) 183
4. Hamilton (Mercedes) 175
5. Webber 166

Constructor Standings:
1. Red Bull 513pts
2. Mercedes 334
3. Ferrari 323
4. Lotus 297
5. Mclaren 95

Performance of the Day: Alonso climbed five places to finish in 5th.

Most Overtakes of the Day: Alonso with 9. 

Shock of the Day: Ricciardo fell seven places to finish 16th.

Disappointment of the Day: Raikkonen going out so early on in the race. 

2013 Race 17 - Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (Yas Marina Circuit): Qualifying

Webber beats Vettel to pole in Abu Dhabi
Mark Webber narrowly beat Red Bull team mate Sebastien Vettel to pole position for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The Red Bulls locked out the front row but it was Mercedes who locked out the second row with Nico Rosberg ahead of Lewis Hamilton. 

My Opinion:
Red Bull: Webber (pole), Vettel (2nd). A dominant qualifying session from Red Bull with a front row lockout. Webber edged Vettel to pole but I would not be at all surprised if Vettel claimed victory.
Mercedes: Rosberg (3rd), Hamilton (4th). Solid result for Mercedes who locked out the second row. Rosberg will be pleased to have outshone Hamilton but both will be looking for a podium finish.
Ferrari: Massa (7th), Alonso (10th). Ferrari have struggled in qualifying all season long and today was no different. Massa will be hoping to score some heavy points whilst Alonso has left himself with plenty to do in the race once again.
Lotus: Grosjean (6th), Raikkonen (22nd). Lotus had the third row locked out but Raikkonen was given a penalty which puts him in last place. Grosjean will be aiming for a podium finish.
Mclaren: Perez (8th), Button (12th). Perez outshone Button again and will look to score points whilst Button struggled and will have to work hard for any points. 
Force India: Di Resta (11th), Sutil (17th). Di Resta just missed out on a top ten spot but will be looking to climb a few places in the race. Sutil struggled and will find it tough to score points.
Sauber: Hulkenberg (5th), Gutierrez (16th). Hulkenberg shone and will hope for a strong race from fifth. Gutierrez will struggle to score a point from so far back on the grid.
Toro Rosso: Ricciardo (9th), Vergne (13th). Ricciardo continues to show why Red Bull have signed him up for next year whilst Vergne will hope to score a few points.
Williams: Maldonado (14th), Bottas (15th). Maldonado narrowly beat team mate Bottas to 14th place but Williams have really struggled this season.
Marussia: Chilton (20th), Bianchi (21st). Marussia were the slowest car on track and both cars will start at the back ahead of Raikkonen. Chilton did however have the edge on Bianchi.
Caterham: Van Der Garde (18th), Pic (19th). Caterham won the battle of the beginner teams whilst Van Der Garde edged Pic. 



Qualifying Result and Starting Grid:
1. Webber (Red Bull) 1.39.957
2. Vettel (Red Bull)
3. Rosberg (Mercedes)
4. Hamilton (Mercedes)
5. Hulkenberg (Sauber)
6. Grosjean (Lotus)
7. Massa (Ferrari)
8. Perez (Mclaren)
9. Ricciardo (Toro Rosso)
10. Alonso (Ferrari)

Performance of the Day: Hulkenberg qualifying in 5th place.
Shock of the Day: Alonso starting down in 10th.
Disappointment of the Day: Raikkonen starting at the back of the grid to serve a penalty. 

Super Sunday Game Week 9

Torres scores late for Chelsea



Chelsea 2 v 1 Man City Schurrle (33), Aguero (49), Torres (90)

Late Torres strike downs City. Chelsea were largely on top in the first half and created a number of chances. Cahill blazed over from close range whilst Torres managed to miss a sitter in front of goal. Torres then smashed over before Chelsea took the lead as Schurrle tapped in Torres' cross. Torres produced a moment of magic on the edge of the box to create some space for himself before curling a stunning effort onto the bar. City produced a few chances late in the first half as Aguero had an effort saved at the near post whilst Fernandinho blazed over from long range. City equalised soon into the second half as Aguero produced a left footed screamer that flew past Cech at his near post. Garcia headed straight at Cech before Terry put an effort wide from close range. Cech denied Silva at the near post whilst Aguero chipped wide of the far post. However, in the 90th minute, Torres took advantage of a mistake from both Hart and Nastasic to tap in from close range and give Chelsea the victory.

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Torres. Chelsea put on a good display and deserved to win whilst Torres was in supreme form. City had their chances but will rue that crucial mistake at the end.

Suderland 2 v 1 Newcastle Fletcher (6), Debuchy (57), Borini (87)

Borini scores screamer for Sunderland winner. It was a great start to the derby for Sunderland as they took the lead in the 6th minute as Fletcher headed in at the far post from Johnson's cross. Fletcher had a long range low strike saved whilst Ben Arfa struck a long range free kick wide just before half time. Newcastle equalised just before the hour mark as Debuchy tapped in at the far post from a Ben Arfa low cross. Cabaye had a shot that went just wide of the post before Borini had a close range shot saved. Ameobi struck just wide of the post from the edge of the box before Borini produced a stunning winning strike that flew into the top corner as Sunderland claimed victory late on.

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Borini. Sunderland showed more spirit and fight and deserved to win. A huge victory that may see them on the road to recovery. Newcastle will be gutted to have lost that game as they were in it up until that wonder strike.

Tottenham 1 v 0 Hull City Soldado (pen,80)

Late Soldado penalty enough for Spurs. Tottenham had the better of the first half and went close early on as Paulinho struck just over the bar from close range. Townsend had a long range strike tipped round the post before Sagbo had a low shot saved. Huddlestone volleyed just over from the edge of the box whilst Walker had a blasting free kick saved before half time. The second half was more of the same as Soldado had a close range effort saved. Dembele dragged a long range shot wide before Spurs were awarded a dodgy penalty for a handball inside the box. Soldado sent the goalie the wrong way to put Spurs ahead from the spot. Huddlestone had a free kick saved late on as Spurs held on for the win.

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Townsend. Spurs deserved to win but it was a very dodgy penalty decision. Hull can feel disappointed with the referee as they will feel like they deserved a draw.

Swansea City 0 v 0 West Ham 

Goalless draw in Swansea. Downing had a shot turned round at the near post before having a dipping long range shot saved. Chico had a header well saved whilst Morrison dragged a shot wide across goal. Noble had a header cleared off the line before Demel header just over before half time. In the second half Michu had a long range strike saved before Dyer was brilliantly denied from close range. Jarvis headed over from close range before Cole had a late header saved. 

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Jaaskalainen. Swansea looked the team more likely to win but were denied so many times by great saves. West Ham will have their goalie to thank for keeping them in the game.

Best Goal of the Day: Contenders were Aguero and Borini. Winner is Aguero.

Soccer Saturday Game Week 9

Man United 3 v 2 Stoke City Crouch (4), Van Persie (43), Arnautovic (45), Rooney (78), Hernandez (80)

Hernandez completes late United comeback. Stoke shocked United by taking the lead within the first five minutes as Crouch poked in from his rebounded shot. Crouch went close again but De Gea tipped the shot over the bar before United's goalkeeper produced an incredible save to deny Walters from close range. Arnautovic had a volley saved as Stoke dominated the first half an hour. United eventually got into the game as Rooney had a long range strike tipped over the bar before Van Persie was on hand to equalise after converting from Rooney's parried header. However, just before half time, Stoke took the lead again as Arnautovic scored with a free kick that went in via the underside of the crossbar. The second half saw United pressurise the Stoke goal. Rooney had a deflected shot brush past the post. It took until the 78th minute for United to draw level for the second time as Rooney headed in at the far corner from Van Persie's corner. Just two minutes later and United were ahead after Hernandez headed in Evra's cross to dig United out of a big hole. 

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Rooney. United were awful in the first half and could have been 3-0 down. It was a much better second half and United really dug themselves out a hole there. Stoke will be disappointed not to have taken a point here as they started very strongly. However, they just couldn't hold on.

Liverpool 4 v 1 West Brom Suarez (12,17,55), Morrison (pen,66), Sturridge (77)

Suarez hat-trick torments Baggies. It took 12 minutes for Suarez to open the scoring after the striker went past a defender and struck into the far corner. Suarez then scored his second five minutes later after scoring with a long range bullet header into the top corner. As half time approached, Henderson curled wide from the edge of the box whilst Skrtl cleared Anelka's effort off the line. Suarez completed his hat-trick early in the second half by heading in from Gerrard's free kick to put Liverpool 3-0 up. Sturridge came close but his strike flew back off the bar. West Brom were awarded a penalty after Lucas fouled Jones inside the box and Morrison smashed in from the spot. Sturridge restored Liverpool's three goal advantage with a delightful long range chip over the goalie into the far top corner. Suarez had an overhead kick saved onto the bar before Morrison had a close range shot well saved by Mignolet.

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Suarez. Liverpool were brilliant and that was mainly due to Suarez. West Brom just simply couldn't handle a red hot Suarez. 

Crystal Palace 0 v 2 Arsenal Arteta (pen,47), Giround (87) Arteta sent off

Arsenal grind out tough victory at Palace. The first half was closely contested with both teams creating chances. Giroud headed over early on before Bannan curled wide of the far post. Cazorla flashed a shot across goal whilst Ramsay had an effort saved at the near post before half time. Arsenal were awarded a penalty straight after half time as Gnabry was brought down in the box. Arteta coolly curled into the corner from the spot to put Arsenal ahead. Gnabry put an effort just wide before Arsenal went down to 10 men as Arteta was shown a straight red card for stopping a goalscoring opportunity. Ward rattled the bar with a long range drive before Jedinak had a brilliant volley amazingly saved. The game was settled when Giroud scored a late second goal for Arsenal after heading in from close range.

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Szieszny. Palace were an improved team today but were just beaten by a better side. Arsenal will have their goalie to thank for keeping them in that one. A good result for Arsenal who really had to battle hard for that win.

Aston Villa 0 v 2 Everton Lukaku (68), Osman (81)

Everton rally in second half to sink Villa. The home side were given a great chance to take the lead as Villa were awarded a penalty as Coleman fouled Benteke inside the box. However, Benteke saw his penalty saved by Howard. Benteke was denied again by Howard from close range before Tonev blasted high and wide. Lukaku had a header well saved by Guzan whilst Barkley had a long range strike deflected onto the bar. Lukaku had an effort saved as the teams went into half time level. It was a slow start to the second half but Lukaku put Everton ahead in the 68th minute after scoring with a low shot under Guzan. Agbonlahor had a close range shot saved before Osman doubled Everton's lead with a low shot from the edge of the box into the bottom far corner. 

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Osman. Villa failed to take their chances and especially that early penalty. Everton played well and have Howard to thank for his vital performance. 

Southampton 2 v 0 Fulham Lamber (20), Rodriguez (42)

Saints sink sorry Fulham. Southampton were fully in control of the whole match as Fulham played very poorly. Schneiderlin had an early effort cleared off the line before Lambert had a tame shot saved. It took until the 20th minute before Southampton took the lead after Lambert headed in from a corner at the far post. Rodriguez had a close range shot pushed round the post whilst Lambert hit the post with a long range strike. Lambert had a header saved before Rodriguez doubled the Saints lead just before half time after heading in Lambert's cross from close range. The second half was a non event with Rodriguez providing the only effort of note with a scissor kick going wide. 

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Lambert. Southampton were in full control and deserved to win. Fulham didn't turn up and that was a very worrying performance for the fans.

Norwich City 0 v 0 Cardiff City

Goalless draw at Carrow Road. Ruddy produced a great save to deny a Mutch header before Howson had a long range strike turned round the post. Fer had a shot cleared off the line whilst Howson had a long range drive saved. Hooper had an effort pushed onto the post as the teams went into half time all square. In the second half, Hooper headed over from a corner before Redmond had a long range shot saved. Fer had a late header saved as both teams failed to break the deadlock.

My Opinion:
My man of the match was Marshall. Norwich were the better team but were denied by a fine performance from Marshall. Cardiff had a few chances but will be thankful their goalie kept a clean sheet.

Best Goal of the Day: Contenders include Arnautovic, Suarez and Sturridge. Winner is Sturridge.

Performance of the Day: United for their second half comeback. 

2013 Race 16 - Indian Grand Prix (Noida): Race

Vettel claims fourth championship title

Sebastien Vettel won his fourth championship title after winning the Indian Grand Prix. Nico Rosberg held onto second place whilst an incredible drive from Romain Grosjean saw the Frenchman finish third after starting all the way back in 17th.

My Opinion:

Red Bull: Vettel (winner), Webber (DNF). A fitting way to win your fourth world title and Vettel never looked in doubt. Very unfortunate for Webber who suffered an alternator failure. 
Mercedes: Rosberg (2nd), Hamilton (6th). A strong result for Mercedes. Rosberg drove well to hold onto second but Hamilton dropped down three places to sixth.
Ferrari: Massa (4th), Alonso (11th). Massa climbed a place to fourth but it was a terrible race for Alonso who fell out of the top ten.
Lotus: Grosjean (3rd), Raikkonen (7th). Great result for Lotus. Grosjean got his tactics spot on today to finish on the podium whilst Raikkonen maintained a top ten spot.
Mclaren: Perez (5th), Button (14th). Best result of the season so far for Perez but Button struggled end failed to score any points.
Force India: Di Resta (8th), Sutil (9th). Good result for Force India. Both Di Resta and Sutil climbed four places into the top ten to score vital points for the team.
Sauber: Gutierrez (15th), Hulkenberg (DNF). Bad result for Sauber. Hulkenberg was set to score some points but had to retire the car whilst Gutierrez improved by one place.
Toro Rosso: Ricciardo (10th), Vergne (13th). Ricciardo rose a place to take an important point but Vergne was only able to rise one spot.
Williams: Maldonado (12th), Bottas (16th). A valiant effort from Maldonado who made up six places whilst Bottas dropped down one.
Caterham: Pic (DNF), Van Der Garde (DNF). Terrible day for Caterham. Van Der Garde didn't even manage a whole lap whilst Pic only completed half of the race. 
Marussia: Chilton (17th), Bianchi (18th). Chilton was the best of the slowest cars whilst Bianchi finished in last. 



Race Guide: Key Moments:

Start: Vettel, Massa (up 2), Rosberg (down 1), Hamilton (down 1), Hulkenberg (up 2), Raikkonen, Webber (down 3), Perez (up 2), Ricciardo (up 2), Alonso (down 2).
Alonso front wing clips Webber rear tyre after Webber collides with Raikkonen. Alonso then collides with Button. Van Der Garde OUT.
Lap 2: Button into 12th after passing Maldonado. Massa takes the lead after Vettel makes a pit stop. 
Lap 5: Webber into 4th after passing Raikkonen.
Lap 7: Perez into 5th after passing Raikkonen.
Lap 8: Button into 17th after passing Vergne but Vergne back into 17th after passing Button. Webber takes the lead as Massa makes a pit stop.
Lap 9: Massa into 8th after passing Bottas.
Lap 10: Vettel into 5th after passing Sutil.
Lap 11: Vettel into 4th after passing Grosjean.
Lap 13: Vettel into 3rd after passing Ricciardo.
Lap 15: Gutierrez receives drive through penalty for a jump start.
Lap 19: Alonso into 13th after passing Gutierrez but Gutierrez into 13th after passing Alonso.
Lap 21: Vettel into 2nd after passing Perez. Alonso into 13th after passing Gutierrez.
Lap 29: Vettel takes the lead as Webber makes a pit stop.
Lap 30: Perez into 6th after passing Hamilton.
Lap 31: Webber takes the lead as Vettel makes a pit stop.
Lap 32: Grosjean into 9th after passing Massa. Alonso into 13th after passing Button.
Lap 33: Vettel takes the lead after Vettel makes a pit stop.
Lap 37: Raikkonen into 3rd after passing Sutil.
Lap 38: Pic OUT.
Lap 40: Webber OUT after alternator failure.
Lap 41: Rosberg into 3rd after passing Sutil.
Lap 46: Gutierrez into 11th after passing Bottas.
Lap 49: Ricciardo into 11th after passing Massa and Bottas.
Lap 52: Rosberg into 2nd after passing Raikkonen.
Lap 55: Hulkenberg OUT.
Lap 57: Grosjean into 3rd after passing Raikkonen. Massa into 4th after passing Raikkonen.
Lap 58: Perez into 5th after passing both Hamilton (who goes into 6th after passing) and Raikkonen.
Lap 60: Vettel wins the Indian Grand Prix and the Championship Title! Rosberg second, Grosjean third.

Indian Grand Prix Result:

1. Vettel (Red Bull) 1.31.12.187
2. Rosberg (Mercedes)
3. Grosjean (Lotus)
4. Massa (Ferrari)
5. Perez (Mclaren)
6. Hamilton (Mercedes)
7. Raikkonen (Lotus)
8. Di Resta (Force India)
9. Sutil (Force India)
10. Ricciardo (Torro Rosso)

Fastest Lap: Raikkonen (Lotus) 1.27.679

Driver Standings:

1. Vettel (Red Bull) 332pts (Champion)
2. Alonso (Ferrari) 207
3. Raikkonen (Lotus) 183
4. Hamilton (Mercedes) 169
5. Webber (Red Bull) 148

Constructor Standings:

1. Red Bull 470pts 
2. Mercedes 313
3. Ferrari 309
4. Lotus 285
5. Mclaren 93

Performance of the Day: Grosjean started the race from 17th and finished on the podium in 3rd.

Most Overtakes of the Day: Vettel (Red Bull), Massa (Ferrari) and Perez (Mclaren) all made 4.

Shock of the Day: Alonso dropped three places from 8th to 11th by the end of the race.

Disappointment of the Day: Mark Webber suffering an alternator problem forcing him to stop the car.