Monday 7 December 2015

ASCC officially opens after major redevelopment

Image Source: Liverpool Football Club
Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Football Club

This past Thursday, Anfield Sports and Community Centre (ASCC) celebrated its official opening following a £2.3 million investment that will offer improved sports facilities and programmes to people living in north Liverpool.

Improvements at the centre include a new full-size, floodlit 3G pitch, a three-court sports hall, the refurbishment of existing artificial grass turf pitches and a new commercial office space and cafe.

The redevelopment is part of ASCC’s '4 Football 4 Everyone' project and has been funded by a number of supporting partners, including Liverpool FC, Liverpool City Council and the Premier League & FA Facilities Fund – facilitated by the Football Foundation, Sport England and the Johan Cruyff Foundation in conjunction with the People’s Postcode Lottery.

One of the key developments has been the construction of a ‘Cruyff Court’, a state-of-the-art facility for sports as well as health and personal development support. It has been funded by the Cruyff Foundation in conjunction with People’s Postcode Lottery and is only the third such facility in the UK and the first outside London.

Liverpool FC will use the centre as a base for charitable activities in north Liverpool through its Foundation, which already runs a range of programmes from ASCC.

Liverpool FC first-team players Lucas Leiva and Adam Bogdan, Liverpool Ladies' Shannon Beckwith and Mollie Green, and Liverpool FC U21s' Ryan Fulton and Andrew Firth all joined the celebrations on Thursday.

They also took part in Liverpool FC Foundation’s showcase with local schools and awarded prizes to the winning teams alongside the club’s official mascot Mighty Red.

Patricia Smith, chair of the ASCC, commented: “We are extremely grateful for the support we’ve received from our all of our funders. A lot of hard work has been invested by ASCC staff, the project team and our key stakeholders to secure all the funding we needed to deliver this project.

"It has been a real team effort and we are delighted to share it with the wider community.

"It was important that this project design not only ensured the provision of accessible sport facilities for local people but that it also supported the long-term sustainability of the centre. I am confident that the project will deliver all it set out to do and more.”

Ian Ayre, chief executive officer of Liverpool FC, added: “This centre is a very important resource for the local community and we have been delivering our charitable programmes here for some years.
"It's been a privilege to work with the ASCC project team developing this scheme and pulling in the funding needed to deliver it. It's fantastic that the centre will become the official home for our charity and a real hub for our activities here in the heart of our local community.”

Cllr Ann O’Byrne, deputy mayor of Liverpool, said: “The Anfield partnership has achieved a lot so far and the opening of the Anfield Sports and Community Centre is yet another significant milestone on the road to the area’s regeneration.

“These kinds of centres are very important to promote health and wellbeing and I’m delighted that this great new facility is now open for use. It will make a real difference to Anfield and many congratulations to all those who have worked so hard on the project.

“I’m particularly delighted about the support from the Premier League & the FA Facilities Fund and Sport England and it is a coup for the city that the Cruyff Foundation has been involved and developed the first Cruyff Court in the UK outside of London.”

Thursday 19 November 2015

Harlem Globetrotters raise awareness of bullying and slam dunk at local school

L-R: Buckets and Zeus
Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: ACC Liverpool

Sweet Georgia Brown! A Liverpool school recently had the pleasure of welcoming two members of the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters basketball team.

Ahead of their next visit to Liverpool in the spring, Anthony “Buckets” Blakes and Julian “Zeus” McClurkin visited St Vincent De Paul Catholic Primary School during Anti-Bullying Week to discuss The ABC's of Bullying Prevention, designed to prevent and raise awareness of bullying.

The programme conists of Action (taking action when you feel that someone is being bullied), Bravery (telling a parent or guardian or, if in school, a teacher about a bullying situation) and Compassion (helping the victim and making them feel welcome as a friend or within your group of friends), all of which help to combat cases of bullying and bring comfort to the person being bullied.

Buckets (whose nickname comes from his accuracy in shooting hoops) and Zeus (who recently broke a Guinness World Record for the most slam dunks in one minute) explained the programme to the schoolchildren, and also helped a number of the kids to perform some nifty basketball tricks. Perhaps this is a sign of things to come in the future for some of those youngsters!

Speaking exclusively to Writebase, Zeus commented: "We came over here to share a message with these kids about the ABCs of bullying prevention, which is one of the more prominent things going on in schools today. The National Campaign to Stop Violence (NCSV) issued essays to kids all around the world where they asked them what their number one problem is that kids are facing, and they said that bullying is the number one problem. So, they partnered with us because we visit hundreds of schools every year and we get a chance to impact these kids' lives, and so we developed this programme called The ABC's of Bullying Prevention."

Having been formed 90 years ago, the Globetrotters have become the most recognisable basketball brand in the world, and will return to the Echo Arena in Liverpool on April 26 2016 to perform live. You can get tickets by clicking here.

For more information about the Harlem Globetrotters, click here.

For further details about The ABC's of Bullying Prevention, click here.

Wednesday 2 September 2015

Warrington’s Rugby Heritage to be celebrated in new exhibition

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Warrington Festival

Warrington's strong rugby league heritage will be celebrated in a brand new exhibition which visits the town as part of Warrington Festival.

Rugby League Heritage On Tour will be jam-packed with historic memorabilia, including a player's shirt from the first-ever rugby league test match and the ball from the famous 1954 Challenge Cup final replay. Also featured will be multiple items from the Mike Stephenson Collection.

The collection will detail the story of the game's split from rugby union, the first World Cup, the banning of league in World War Two and much, much more. This exhibition not only tells the story of the game, players and supporters, but also the communities that helped make the sport the success that it is.

Building on a tradition as a strong rugby league town, Warrington was proud to be an official host town in the 2013 Rugby League World Cup. The Samoan international team held their pre-tournament training camp in Warrington and The Halliwell Jones Stadium, home of the mighty Warrington Wolves hosted group matches as well as a quarter final. During this time it was abundantly clear that the town had a real enthusiasm and passion for rugby league.

Culture Warrington has collaborated with Rugby League Cares who have organised the exhibition with the help of a Heritage Lottery Fund grant. Rugby League Cares is a charity dedicated to supporting the Rugby League family and its local communities. Their mission is to enhance and enrich people's lives through the power and positive influence of Rugby League.

The exhibition’s lead curator, Rugby League Cares’ Heritage Manager Victoria Dawson, commented: “This exhibition is different from other exhibitions that have gone before it because this tells not just the story of players and things that have happened on the pitch. As important as that is, rugby league is about more than just the product on the field. Rugby league’s history is the history of the people and this exhibition draws together the stories from the social and cultural history of the sport and incorporates brand new research, so even the most ardent rugby league fan will learn something new. The fantastic thing about a touring exhibition is that it means more of the rugby league family get to share in the history of our beloved sport.”

Whether you're a rugby league fan or a lover of social history, this is an exhibition not to be missed.

Thursday 27 August 2015

Everton FC release statement regarding John Stones

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Everton Football Club

Bill Kenwright, chairman at Everton Football Club, commented: "Everton Football Club has rejected a transfer request from John Stones. Since the start of the transfer window, we have resolutely turned down offers from another Premier League football club for our player. John is not for sale and he will remain a highly valued member of our first team squad."

Friday 7 August 2015

Kevin Mirallas signs new three-year deal at Everton FC

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Everton Football Club

Roberto Martinez believes that the goalscoring threat and attacking talent of Kevin Mirallas will contribute greatly to Everton’s objectives this season, with the Belgium international having agreed a new deal to last until June 2018.

The 27-year-old forward, who signed from Olympiakos in 2012, became the second player to commit his future to the club in 24 hours after James McCarthy penned a new deal to June 2020, and the Everton manager is convinced that both players will be cornerstones of the upcoming campaign.

Roberto commented: “We all know the goalscoring threat and talent that Kevin brings to the team and it was very important to end the uncertainty regarding the next step in his career.

“To say I am delighted is an understatement. What this means is that Kevin has chosen Everton for the next chapter in his career and, as you can imagine, his potential impact and contribution will be a major part of what we are trying to achieve.

“That continuity in our squad and renewed focus will provide the strong platform on which we will build the 2015/16 campaign.”

Mirallas has scored 29 goals in 85 starts and 25 substitute appearances for the Toffees, including 11 goals in 24 starts last season.

Kevin said: “I’m really happy to commit three more years to the club. I’ve always been happy here; this is my team and my family is settled here, too, so it was a very easy decision when I sat down with the manager and the chairman.

“My goal is to help the team, and our objectives are to aim as high as we can. This is a club that wants to win trophies and compete in European competition, and the fans could not be more supportive in helping us to achieve these goals.

“The fans are a huge part of this club, and I hope they are as pleased as I am to have committed my future here.”

Friday 31 July 2015

Blues reveal marvel-ous third kit

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Everton Football Club

Everton and Umbro have revealed the Club’s third kit for the 2015/16 season with the help of a Marvel illustrator.

Umbro and the Blues have commissioned artist and Evertonian Will Sliney to create comic book drawings of the players wearing the new third kit, which will see the team sport a green outfield strip for the first time in the Club’s history.

The kit comprises of a green crew-neck shirt with the club crest and Chang logo in a contrasting, striking orange, with black shorts and green socks.

Will has created a bespoke piece of art to showcase the strip featuring Ross Barkley, Leighton Baines, Tom Cleverley, Gerard Deulofeu, Romelu Lukaku and Blues’ boss Roberto Martinez.

Cork-based Will commented: “I've been drawing Everton players as well as comic book superheroes for as long as I can remember. There was always a Duncan Ferguson or a Tony Cottee on the fridge next to Spiderman and Wolverine, so to be invited to be part of this new kit launch is a great honour for me.”

The third strip will be worn for the first time on Saturday August 15 when Everton face Southampton at St Mary’s in the Barclays Premier League. The lightweight third shirt features shaped mesh underarm panels for optimum fit, movement and comfort. And the crew neck rib collar offers a contemporary look and the textured appliqué club crest and Umbro double diamond completes the smart appearance of the shirt.

The reverse of the third shirt, like the home and away, carries an 'NSNO' insignia on the back neck area, a reference to the Club’s famous ‘Nil Satis Nisi Optimum’ motto.

The 2015/16 third kit goes on sale on Wednesday August 26, both in-store and online and is available for men, women, juniors, infants and babies.

To pre-order the 2015/16 Everton third kit, visit www.evertondirect.com from 08.00 on Monday August 3 or Everton One or Everton Two during store opening hours.

This season, Everton and retail partner Kitbag have rolled out a new Click and Collect service that offers a more convenient collection method for supporters who order merchandise online.

As well as still being able to collect their purchases from either of the two Everton stores, supporters are now able to pick up their parcels from any of the 5,000 Hermes Click and Collection partner sites throughout the UK. For more information about the Click and Collect service, visit www.evertondirect.com.

Monday 20 July 2015

Rooney to appear in his Dunc's testimonial

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Everton Football Club

Duncan Ferguson has described his feelings of genuine gratitude and personal delight that Wayne Rooney has agreed to appear in his testimonial game against Villarreal on Sunday August 2 at Goodison Park.

The showpiece occasion for one of Everton’s biggest heroes could yet see Big Dunc pulling on the shirt and making one final emotional appearance as a Toffee, and now it will see Rooney pay his own tribute to the man he has always acknowledged as "a big hero of mine".

The England captain and Everton Academy graduate played 67 times and scored 15 goals for the club, and the opportunity to honour both the man and the occasion by playing in Ferguson's testimonial game proved irresistible.

“As a young lad growing up in Croxteth, Duncan Ferguson was a hero of mine, as a young player at the Club he was an inspiration and when I broke into the first team he helped and looked after me," Rooney revealed.

"I cannot think of a better way to thank Dunc for all he did for me than turning out in his fully deserved testimonial match.

"Had he not asked me to play I would have gone and supported him on the day as I am sure most other Evertonians will."

For Ferguson, the gesture by his former team-mate to add his name to the team sheet for what is certain to be a memorable and impassioned afternoon has genuinely touched him and perhaps persuaded him even more to pull on the shirt himself one last time.

“I'm absolutely delighted that the wee man has agreed to play in the game," he said.

"Everybody knows that we go way back. I knew him as a kid, he's a top man and I'm proud as his friend that he's fulfilled the potential we always knew was there.

"Wayne's a world-class player and I'm genuinely thrilled that he will play on the day, just as I'm so grateful to the Club for putting on this game."

The playing of Villarreal has an added dimension, too, with Ferguson having what appeared to be a fair goal controversially disallowed by referee Pierluigi Collina when Everton trailed Villarreal 3-2 on aggregate in the dying moments of a Champions League qualifying game in 2004/05.

Everton's hopes of playing in the group stages were dashed in an instant and Ferguson retired as a player at the end of that season.

Tickets are now on sale for Duncan Ferguson’s Testimonial on Sunday August 2 at Goodison Park against Villarreal, with kick-off at 15.00.

Tuesday 14 July 2015

Everton reveal 2015/16 away kit

Ross Barkley sporting
the new away kit.
Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Everton Football Club

Everton have revealed the new away kit for the 2015/16 season, which the team will wear for the first time on Saturday July 18 in the Barclays Asia Trophy in Singapore.

The new kit, designed by Umbro, comprises of a white crew-neck shirt with grey detailing, black shorts and white socks.

The reverse of the away shirt, like the home shirt, carries an 'NSNO' insignia on the back of the neck area, a reference to the Club’s ‘Nil Satis Nisi Optimum’ motto.

The new lightweight away shirt is predominantly white with eye-catching grey graphic detailing on the sleeves and side panel areas. It is constructed using highly technical performance materials, including a lightweight textured mesh on the back of the shirt for maximum ventilation. Shaped mesh underarm panels offer maximum fit and movement.

The black shorts feature contrast grey panelling for an eye-catching look, together with a mesh back panel for comfort, movement, and breathability. Double welt socks in white with a grey hoop and trim complete the strip.

The new away kit is available to pre-order from evertondirect.com and Everton One and Everton Two from today, July 14, and will go on sale on Wednesday July 29, both in-store and online. The kit is available in the full range of sizes for men, women, juniors, infants and babies.

Romelu Lukaku modelling
the new away kit.
Speaking about the 2015/16 away kit, club record signing Romelu Lukaku commented: “The new away kit looks great. It's fresh and smart and we are looking forward to wearing it in Singapore for the Barclays Asia Cup, as well as in the upcoming season.”

This season, Everton and retail partner Kitbag have rolled out a new Click and Collect service that offers a more convenient collection method for supporters who order merchandise online.

As well as still being able to collect their purchases from either of the two Everton stores, supporters are now able to pick up their parcels from any of the 5,000 Hermes Click and Collection partner sites throughout the UK. For more information about the Click and Collect service, visit www.evertondirect.com.

More information on the 2015/16 Everton away kit available at www.evertonfc.com/born. To pre-order the new kit visit evertondirect.com, Everton One or Everton Two.

Wednesday 1 July 2015

Gerard Deulofeu: The Everton fans drew me back

Gerard Deulofeu (Image Source:
Everton Football Club)
Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Everton Football Club

Gerard Deulofeu has revealed that his strong affinity with Everton’s fans was a key factor behind his decision to return to Goodison Park.

The Spaniard has officially rejoined the Toffees on a three-year deal, following last week’s announcement that a €6million agreement had been struck with Barcelona.

Deulofeu fondly remembers how the Club’s supporters backed him when he was on loan in 2013/14.

The winger also explained how, prior to completing his transfer, he was inundated with messages from excited Evertonians keen to hear more news about his impending move back to Merseyside.

“I had a great year when I was here last,” the winger said in an exclusive interview to evertontv. “I really enjoyed my time here. I felt loved by the Evertonians and I was surrounded by really good teammates. I’m very happy to be back.

“The fans here are great and I felt really supported by them. Obviously I went back to Barcelona and then Sevilla but here, the fans live for their football.

“The Everton fans have been sending me messages all the time on social media, on Instagram and Twitter, asking me questions. If I have got 50 notifications on Twitter, 40 of them will be from Everton fans asking what is going on!

“Both myself and my girlfriend feel very supported by the fans and I just hope this year I can work really hard and give them back some of the happiness that they deserve.”

Deulofeu has disclosed that he was the subject of interest from several clubs, but he only had one intention.

“Of course there were other options, but I always said right from the start that I wanted to come back to Everton, and you can ask my agent and he will say the same,” he added.

“This is where I feel happy, this is where I feel like I am loved by the fans. The fans support me; they always send me messages, so this was where I wanted to come back to.”

You can watch the interview by clicking the link to the right.

Friday 12 June 2015

Everton In The Community scoop international award

Ian Nuttall and Denise
Barrett-Baxendale with the
award received by
Everton In The Community.
Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Everton Football Club

Denise Barrett-Baxendale has paid tribute to “the huge amount of hard work, enterprise and courage shown every day by the Club, our fans, the Community scheme and all of our volunteers and participants” after Everton in the Community won the Outstanding Achievement Award at TheStadiumBusiness Awards 2015 in Barcelona.

Everton’s Deputy Chief Executive and Chief Executive of Everton in the Community accepted the prestigious award on Wednesday evening in Barcelona’s Camp Nou Stadium, the culmination of TheStadiumBusiness Summit which brings together senior industry figures from stadium sports businesses around the world.

Now in their sixth year, TheStadiumBusiness Awards are the only awards to recognise a whole spectrum of achievements from across the global stadium industry.

Everton’s multiple award-winning charity was recognised by an international judging panel for outstanding delivery of dedicated programmes which focus on education, health and wellbeing, exercise, disability, social inclusion and community cohesion and which positively impact people’s lives daily.

As well as representing Everton at TheStadiumBusiness Awards, Denise and Everton’s Director of Marketing and Communications, Richard Kenyon, delivered a keynote presentation at the Fan Experience Forum, showcasing the Club’s work in engaging with supporters all year round.

Denise commented: “I feel really privileged to accept this award in such prestigious company and such an amazing venue. This award reflects the huge amount of hard work, enterprise and courage shown every day by the Club, our fans, the Community scheme and all of our volunteers and participants.

“While it is me who was called up on stage to accept this accolade, it really is recognition for the many people who, both now and in the past, have shown determination and ambition to help drive us forward and make these positive impacts in people’s lives.

“Five years ago we committed to being the best sporting charity in the UK. To be described as the best in Europe not only reflects the breadth and quality of our work but motivates us to continue to deliver in line with our fans’ expectations - embodied by our Nil Satis ethos.”

Hundreds of nominations were whittled down to create the shortlist, some of which were voted for by the industry and some judged by an independent panel of industry figures, including: Andrew Daniels, CEO, Adelaide Oval; Al Guido, COO, San Francisco 49ers; Marie Lindqvist, GM, Stockholm Globe Arenas; Roger Maslin, MD, Wembley Stadium; Peter McKenna, Stadium & Commercial Director, Croke Park; Julian Jenkins, CEO, Servette FC; Richard Peddie, Former CEO, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment; Ian Nuttall, founder of TheStadiumBusiness/Xperiology.

Ian Nuttall, founder of TheStadium Business Awards, added: “Congratulations to everyone who reached the podium. Winners included our industry’s leaders, achievers and stand-out venues, who should all be very proud of their achievements.

“Everton is a club that makes a real difference in the lives of people at the heart of its community every day and its accomplishments are inspirational. Denise represents that commitment in the most fantastic way and for the accolade of Outstanding Achievement, the choice was crystal clear. The work the Club does sets the standard across Europe, and probably beyond.”

The Judging Panel endorsed this in their comments: “We are recognising Denise’s ongoing work delivering outstanding results for Everton Football Club, both in the community and at club level. Denise has played an integral part in improving the matchday experience of supporters, in turn helping to increase attendances and enhance Everton’s reputation both nationally and abroad.”

Monday 8 June 2015

Everton to sign Tom Cleverley

Tom Cleverley during his loan spell at
Aston Villa. (Image Source: BBC
Sport; Copyright: Getty Images)
Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Everton Football Club

Everton have agreed a deal to sign Tom Cleverley when his contract expires at Manchester United on July 1.

The 25-year-old England midfield player will arrive on a five-year contract, becoming the first signing of the summer by manager Roberto Martinez.

Cleverley, a key figure in the team which won the Premier League title in Sir Alex Ferguson’s final season as manager at Old Trafford, made 38 Premier League appearances last season, 37 of which were on a season-long loan for Aston Villa.

Cleverley has been called up to the England squad for the upcoming friendly against the Republic of Ireland and the Euro 2016 qualifier against Slovenia, having secured 13 caps since making his debut in England’s first match after Euro 2012 in a 2-1 win against Italy at the Stade de Suisse in Bern.

He went on to play a big part in England’s qualification for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, featuring in seven of the 10 group H games.

Manager Martinez said: “We are extremely delighted to be welcoming Tom to Everton and I can think of many reasons as to why our fans will enjoy Tom representing our football club.

“The most important one is that he is a perfect fit for what we are trying to build here as he has so much experience of playing in the Premier League and he still has his best years just ahead of him.

“At the age of 25 and a player who is representing his country, Tom has experienced winning trophies and having big roles in demanding teams. Having worked with him previously, I know the type of character he is and I know that, with the Everton fans’ support, we will get a very special footballer joining our already exciting team.

“It says a lot also, when someone like Tom is available on a free transfer and he can pick his next club out of many options home and abroad, that he has chosen to play for our football club. That’s the perfect start to his career here at Everton.”

Friday 5 June 2015

Blues leader nominated for international award

Denise Barrett-Baxendale
Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Everton Football Club

Everton’s Deputy Chief Executive has become the only UK sports leader to be shortlisted for a prestigious award at the international Stadium Business Awards 2015.

Denise Barrett-Baxendale, who is also Chief Executive Officer of Everton in the Community, has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Executive of the Year category alongside global sports leaders from Baltimore Ravens, LA Dodgers and Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, among others.

Launched in 2010, The Stadium Business Awards recognise leadership, innovation and achievements in the global sports and stadium industry, and the winners will be announced at a gala dinner at FC Barcelona’s Camp Nou stadium on Wednesday June 10.

Denise commented: “It is a great honour to be nominated in this category alongside such prestigious international peers from across the world of sport.

“At Everton we continually work to break the boundaries and be the first to cover new ground whether that be as a football club, as Everton in the Community, or both. It gives me great pride to be shortlisted in this category as the only UK nominee and represent my club, charity and colleagues.”

In her dual role at Everton, Denise directs the non-football operations side of the club and its direct charitable engagement with the local community.

Since her appointment as Chief Executive Officer of Everton in the Community in January 2010, the charity has received a plethora of local, national and international award wins in recognition of the life-changing work it undertakes on a daily basis. Meanwhile, Denise’s Club position sees her working to improve fan engagement, the matchday experience for supporters and raising standards within the club.

Thursday 21 May 2015

Everton 2015/16 Home Kit Revealed

Romelu Lukaku, Tim Howard and
Leighton Baines.
Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Everton Football Club

Everton has revealed its new home kit for the 2015/16 season.

The new strip, which has been designed by Umbro, is inspired by iconic Everton home shirts of the past and gives the shirt a unique visual for the season ahead which features a white V-neck collar with a rib insert.

The reverse of the shirt carries an 'NSNO' insignia on the back neck area, a reference to the Club’s famous ‘Nil Satis Nisi Optimum’ motto.

The new lightweight home shirt is made using highly technical performance materials, including special body mapping on the back of the shirt for ventilation.

Shaped mesh underarm panels with contrast detailing and a lightweight textured Club crest offer the players and fans alike maximum fit, movement and comfort whether they’re on the pitch or cheering on the team from the stands.

Phil Jagielka
The white shorts feature a contrast navy blue band around the waist for an eye-catching look, together with a mesh back panel for comfort and movement.

Double welt socks in white with a classic Everton blue trim offer all the protection and comfort demanded by modern players, completing a kit that balances classic Everton style with the very latest in performance technology.

The new kit is available to pre-order from www.evertondirect.com and stores Everton One and Everton Two today, before going on sale on Saturday June 20 both in-store and online.

Speaking about the 2015/16 home kit, Club Captain Phil Jagielka commented: “It’s brilliant, the lads and I are really pleased with it and are excited about wearing the kit for the first time on Sunday against Spurs.

“When the season finishes people start looking forward to next season and the new kit plays a massive part in that, so I’m sure the fans will, as usual, take great pride in wearing the new shirt and show their colours ahead of the new campaign.

“Evertonians are a really proud set of fans, so they will be really pleased with this year’s design, which has lots of great features, such as the NSNO mention on the back. I think it will be just as popular, if not more so, than last year’s.”

This year, the kit campaign is themed around #BORNefc – a nod to the ‘born not manufactured’ phrase - and fans were treated to a partial kit reveal yesterday when Umbro issued a shot of a group of babies modelling the new strip.

The 2015/16 home kit will again be available in a range of baby sizes and also women’s sizes (8-18).

This season, Everton and retail partner Kitbag are also pleased to announce the roll-out of a new Click and Collect service that offers a more convenient collection method for supporters who order merchandise online.

As well as still being able to collect their purchases from either of the two Everton stores, supporters will now be able to pick up their parcels from any of the 5,000 Hermes Click and Collection partner sites throughout the UK.  For more information about the Click and Collect service, visit www.evertondirect.com.

The new home kit will be worn for the first time by the players when the Toffees play Tottenham Hotspur in the final home game of the 2014/15 Premier League season at Goodison on Sunday May 24.

To pre-order the 2015/16 Everton home kit today, visit www.evertondirect.com, Everton One or Everton Two.

Thursday 30 April 2015

West Ham tickets to be subsidised by players and club

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Everton Football Club

Everton supporters travelling to West Ham United for our game on Saturday May 16 will have the cost of their ticket subsidised by the players and the Club.

Every ticket sold for the trip to Upton Park will be discounted by £10 to help make the fixture more affordable.

West Ham United are charging £55 for adult tickets and £32 for under-16s and over-65s.

With the contribution from the first-team players and the Club, these tickets will now be available for £45 and £22 respectively.

The players, management and club appreciate the lengths supporters have gone to this season to follow the team across the country and beyond into Europe, and are thankful for the efforts of all those who have been there to ensure packed out away ends have greeted the team wherever they have played.

Everton captain Phil Jagielka said: "Everton fans' support is always magnificent, our away fans especially, and this gesture is to show our gratitude to them for their support throughout the season."

The subsidy for this fixture comes separate to the 2014/15 Away Fan Initiative, which saw tickets for the games at Newcastle United and Swansea City reduced and the provision of free coach travel for the visits to Burnley, Southampton, Crystal Palace and Queens Park Rangers.

Tickets for the game at West Ham United will go on sale to Season Ticket holders with 6+ away Barclays Premier League credits from this season from 08.00 on Tuesday May 5.

For further on-sale dates and ticket eligibility information, visit www.evertonfc.com/tickets.

Monday 27 April 2015

Liverpool FC Foundation & Liverpool Sunflowers to launch new Men’s Health Course

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Sunflowers

Liverpool FC Foundation Men's Health programme is partnering with local cancer support charity, Liverpool Sunflowers to launch a new venue for its Men’s Health course.

Starting on Wednesday May 13, this new course will offer weekly men’s health sessions running between 18.00-19.00 at the Liverpool Sunflowers Drop in Centre on Aigburth Road.

Run by a qualified health and fitness instructor, each session of this popular course will support men to set realistic and achievable goals towards living a healthier lifestyle.

All of the sessions are free of cost, and men of all ages (18+) and all abilities are welcome to attend.

Christine Mounsey from Liverpool FC Foundation commented: “Funded by Liverpool Clinical Commissioning Group, Our Men's Health programme was first developed in 2005 to help tackle poor health in the local community. Now every year around 7,000 men from our communities benefit from the programme, and we’re delighted to be able to extend it to another new venue and part of the city in order to support even more men to take part.”

Emma Squibb, Chief Executive of Liverpool Sunflowers added: “This course isn’t just for football lovers either; it’s all about helping men to be more active and achieve a healthier lifestyle, covering a wide range of health issues including poor diet, obesity, heart disease, low physical activity levels and cancer prevention, as well as men’s mental health and wellbeing. “The sessions easily adapt to meet everyone's different levels of fitness and ability, so join us for what promises to be a great course from May 13.”

To find out more about this free Men’s Health programme or to sign up to attend, please contact Christine Mounsey from Liverpool FC Foundation Men's Health programme on 07999 857272 or email her at christine.mounsey@liverpoolfc.com.

The Men’s Health programme is just one of a range of free, weekly activity groups and classes on offer at Liverpool Sunflowers Centre to help people improve their physical health and emotional wellbeing, as well as groups and services specifically designed to support those living with a cancer diagnosis.

Other free activity groups currently on offer at Liverpool Sunflowers Centre include:

New! Weekly Jewellery Making Class – Wednesday afternoons (13.00)
Weekly Yoga Class – Tuesday mornings (11.00)
Weekly Art Therapy Class – Wednesday mornings (10.30)
Weekly Crafts Class – Tuesday afternoons between (14.00)
Weekly Tai Chi Class – Thursday mornings (11.00-12.00)

For more information on any of these classes, call Emma Squibb at Liverpool Sunflowers on 0151 726 8934 or just drop in for a session.

For more information about Liverpool Sunflowers, visit www.liverpoolsunflowers.com.

For more information about LFC Foundation, visit foundation.liverpoolfc.com.

Friday 24 April 2015

Tributes to Sir Philip Carter

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Everton Football Club

Bill Kenwright, Chairman of Everton Football Club, commented: “Words cannot describe my feelings of loss primarily as a friend but also as an Evertonian. Sir Philip was simply a giant...a great man a great leader and the very best friend and colleague anyone could ask for. I never once met him without calling him Chairman. I never will. That title was his by right. He will always have a major place in our great club's history. To his wondrous Lady Rita and his family we send the deepest of condolences together with our undying love and gratitude for his life.”

Roberto Martinez, Manager of Everton Football Club, added: “This is a sad day for Everton Football Club and for every Evertonian. Sir Philip was an incredible custodian of the Club, a pure gentleman and a man I feel really fortunate to have met, for I learnt much about the essence of Everton from him. From my earliest days here, I was able to sit down and chat with Sir Philip at Finch Farm. He was generous with his time and with his recollection of so many of the experiences he went through as Chairman. Some of those moments had been extremely difficult but, ultimately, his guiding hand contributed to some of the Club’s greatest successes and, for me personally, the conversations we shared will always give me guidance in terms of the future that we are trying to build for Everton.

“As a man, he was an example for every Evertonian. He took pride in all aspects of our Club, he loved the community in which we are rooted and he was an Evertonian through and through. I got a real sense and understanding of Everton from the time I was able to spend with him and I am especially grateful for this. He will forever be part of the history of this great Club.”

Robert Elstone, Chief Executive of Everton Football Club, said: “In the last few hours, the world of football has been moved to express great sadness, great admiration and, above all else, great respect for Sir Philip Carter. In such a short space of time, the number of people who have been moved to contact me, and the Club, and the depth of feelings expressed, sums up the great man. One text reads, ‘true gentlemen and the perfect embodiment of the values of Everton’. They are right.

“Sir Philip was part of a small family of highly respected and universally loved ‘football men’; a man who shaped the Game, a man who shaped Everton, and a man who, over the past year, almost everyone I have met has asked about.

“On a personal level, he was a mentor, a confidant, a voice of reason but more than all of that, with his amazing wife, a great friend. Sir Philip left a lasting impression on anyone who entered the Everton Boardroom. He will leave one on me.”

Denise Barrett-Baxendale, Chief Executive of Everton In The Community and Deputy Chief Executive of Everton Football Club, stated: “Today is an unbelievably sad day for everybody at Everton Football Club and for everybody at Everton In The Community. Sir Philip was the ultimate community man - a gentleman, a people’s man, someone with wisdom, character, distinction and strong, abiding principles. What he did for this Club, this city, this community, this country has left a lasting legacy. But today we feel bereft. Our thoughts are with his family - the incredible Lady Rita, his children and grandchildren. We are all devastated by his passing.”

For further tributes, visit www.evertonfc.com/news/2015/04/23/tributes-to-sir-philip.

Tuesday 21 April 2015

Commissioned artwork unveiled to mark the Chang-Everton partnership

Graeme Sharp, Kevin Ng and Alistair
Parker with the artwork at
Goodison Park.
Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: dot-art

An artwork commissioned through dot-art, by artist Alistair Parker, to mark the longest-standing shirt sponsorship in Premier League history between Everton and Chang has been unveiled at Goodison Park.

The artwork, which is made from over five thousand Chang Beer bottle tops, was commissioned by Chang beer and gifted to Everton to mark over a decade of friendship and celebrate the longest shirt sponsor partnership in Premier League history. The mosaic piece was revealed at Goodison Park on Thursday April 16, by the artist Alistair Parker, Club Ambassador Graeme Sharp, Richard Kenyon, Director of Marketing and Communications at Everton and Kevin Ng, Global Sales Director at Chang, on the side of the Park End Stand.

Chang has been the principal shirt sponsor of Everton since the start of the 2004/05 season and is a partnership based on mutual respect, understanding and shared goals. These key ingredients have provided the foundation for success, enabling both brands to grow internationally.

At the special event, Club Ambassador Graeme Sharp, said “The relationship has been fantastic for the Club over the years. We have not only made great friends in Thailand but reached out to a whole new fan base and help to make a difference to the lives of people both on Merseyside and in Thailand. I have visited Thailand on a number of occasions with the Club and have thoroughly enjoyed working with Chang to make a difference.”

Kevin Ng, Global Sales Director, Chang Beer, said “Our partnership with Everton has successfully launched the brand into the international spotlight. This artwork commemorates a friendship built on solid foundations and a partnership that is an ongoing success story to be proud of.”

The mosaic was created by local artist and Evertonian Alistair J Parker who described the commission as a “challenge he could not refuse”. Bottle tops for the carefully crafted mosaic were sent into Chang by waiters from Thai restaurants from all over the UK as part of a promotion.  Alistair said: “And as challenging as it was to make something appropriate for the occasion, I hope I have succeeded.”

Lucy Byrne, Managing Director of dot-art, who worked with Chang to develop the brief, source the artist and manage the project, added: “Alistair responded creatively to an unusual project and has created a striking, unique artwork to celebrate this milestone for Chang and Everton. We hope it will prove popular with fans in its prominent position at the entrance to the ground.”

For more information, visit www.dot-art.com or call 0845 017 6660.

Tuesday 7 April 2015

Blues celebrate Junior Fan Day

The young participants in
Junior Fan Day.
Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Everton Football Club

Goodison Park was taken over by an excited group of young Evertonians this past Saturday as the Blues celebrated Junior Fan Day.

Fourteen junior Blues rolled up their sleeves and took on various roles to form the mini matchday team for the visit of Southampton.

The youngsters got started early in the afternoon to make sure Goodison was ready for kick-off, with a trio of mini groundsmen – Nathan, Tommy and Finn - helping to ensure the pitch was in mint condition.

Meanwhile, mini club photograph Isabelle was capturing the players’ arrival, and mini Sky Sports News reporter Joseph put his questions to John Stones in a special pre-match interview.

In the corporate lounges, mini MCs Ronan and Luke entertained guests by reading out the team news and interviewing former player James Beattie, while mini stadium safety officer Abby kept an eye on proceedings from the matchday control room before taking to the pitch to shoot exclusive Junior Fan Day t-shirts into the crowd.

As kick-off neared, George, who was a mini Duncan Ferguson for the day, helped to set up the warm-up with the man himself, and stayed on the pitch to put the players through their paces. And, from the comfort of the dugout, mini stadium announcer Ben shared the mic with Radio City’s Rossie to reveal the teams to a sold-out Goodison Park.

Finally, at kick-off, mini evertontv commentator Sam took his seat next to Ian Snodin to keep listeners from around the world up-to-date on all the match action. And it seems that their participation helped steer the Blues on to a 1-0 win!

The mini matchday team is part of the Club’s annual Junior Fan Day, and all the youngsters taking part applied for their roles by entering a competition on www.evertonfc.com.

And, for those not taking up a role in the mini matchday team, there was plenty to keep them entertained before the game, with live performances from local bands in the Fan Zone, football freestylers, face painters, aqua zorbing, Match Attax tournaments and the EA Sports dugout.

In addition, hundreds of souvenirs were handed out in the form of player masks, poster books and blue noses, as well as free Easter cupcakes and ice creams.

Junior Season Tickets for 2015/16 have been frozen at £95 for Under-11s and £149 for Under-16s. For more information, including how to buy and key dates, visit www.evertonfc.com/chosen.

Baines and Garbutt deliver Easter cheer

Leighton Baines and Luke Garbutt
at Alder Hey Hospital.
Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Everton Football Club

Last week, Leighton Baines and Luke Garbutt brought smiles to the faces of children at Alder Hey hospital when they dropped by to deliver some early Easter cheer.

The left-backs paid a surprise visit to the wards of the West Derby hospital to meet the young patients and their families, and to hand out dozens of chocolate eggs!

The Blues duo were only too pleased to take time out after training on Wednesday to lift the spirits of those currently being treated at Alder Hey.

Baines commented: “Us visiting with chocolate eggs can feel pretty insignificant in comparison to what the kids are going through, what they’re in here for and the period of time they’ve been here, but then you speak to some of the parents; they really appreciate you just coming in and breaking the day up.

“Some of the kids I recognised from when we visited at Christmas and they haven’t been home since, so every day is the same and it’s really tough for them.

“You see unbelievable strength and character here: you look at what some of the kids are going through, it’s so tough and yet they’re still smiling. Hopefully, we’ve brightened the day up, even if it’s just for a short period of time.”

Alder Hey Children’s Charity has launched a £30 million appeal to raise much needed funds that will be spent directly on initiatives in the hospital to benefit patients.

In September 2015, Alder Hey will open a new hospital next door to its current site, and the charitable appeal allows the hospital to incorporate a higher specification of equipment, fund art and play activities and support research. In short, it will transform a national children’s hospital into one of the best in the world.

Baines added: “It’s very important for us to have a great link with Alder Hey. You can’t underestimate it when children are involved. So many children look up to footballers and, as a player, you can forget that. You’re just a normal person, and you can forget the affect you can have on a young kid who loves Everton. So, it’s important to recognise that, and the club do recognise their responsibility. We’ve got a great relationship with the hospital, as we visit throughout the year, and hopefully we make a small difference.”

To support Alder Hey Children’s Charity, you can make a donation by calling 0333 222 3888. Alternatively, you can visit www.alderheycharity.com/donate, or drop by the Fundraising Office at Alder Hey hospital.

Thursday 19 March 2015

Everton FC spread community spirit in Kyiv

Graeme Sharp with a local
child at Everton's training
session in Kyiv.
Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Everton Football Club

Everton Football Club's community ethos has provided inspiration to children in Kyiv during the team’s visit to the Ukrainian capital for tonight’s UEFA Europa League game against Dynamo Kyiv.

Earlier today, Everton ambassadors Graeme Sharp and Ian Snodin were joined by staff from the Club’s official charity, Everton in the Community, to deliver a series of special coaching sessions for over 70 children at School #309 in the Poznyaky district of Kyiv.

Local children also met Everton manager Roberto Martinez at the team's training session on the eve of the game in the Olympic Stadium.

The plight of the Ukrainian children at School #309 was brought to the attention of Club officials by global charity, UNICEF, which has been working up and down the country to provide children with safe and nurturing environments and opportunities.

“It has been a real privilege to work with staff from Everton in the Community to deliver these coaching sessions today and put a smile on the faces of these fantastic children,” said Sharp, an integral part of the successful European Cup Winners' Cup team in 1985.

"Community is central to Everton's identity and heritage, and meeting these children while we have been in Kyiv has been an inspiring and uplifting part of our visit.

“Making a difference at the core of a community is key to who we are as a club, and it's tremendously motivating and humbling to everybody at Everton - and Evertonians - to know that we are coming here and making a difference in people's lives.”

During the Club’s stay in Kyiv, Everton will also host children from Chernobyl, who have been invited to watch tonight’s UEFA Europa League last 16 second leg clash against Dynamo Kyiv.

A long-standing relationship between Everton and survivors from Chernobyl - forged through various charities, including Friends of Chernobyl Children, Children of Chernobyl Life Line and Chernobyl Medicine - has facilitated annual visits to Liverpool since 2003 for children from the region immediately affected by the nuclear power plant disaster of 1986.

A group of 18 Chernobyl children and four adults will be special guests of the Club at Thursday's game and will be greeted by the Everton manager on arrival.

Everton and Everton in the Community have worked closely with UNICEF and the charity Children of Chernobyl Life Line to facilitate the events planned during the Club’s visit to Kyiv.

Monday 9 March 2015

Rovers Return (Leg) For The Reds

Daniel Sturridge and Adam
Lallana line up for a first-half
corner against Blackburn Rovers.
Written By: Mark Armstrong

Result: Liverpool 0-0 Blackburn Rovers
Date: Sunday March 8 2015
Competition: FA Cup (Quarter-Final)
Venue: Anfield, Liverpool
Attendance: 43,820

Liverpool will have to wait - and wait - before knowing if Wembley is on the horizon after a goalless draw against Blackburn Rovers.

The FA Cup represents Liverpool's only realistic chance of silverware for this season, and so fans were hoping for the Reds to take a comfortable step forward; however, the Championship side put up a great fight, albeit defensively, and so a replay is required at Ewood Park.

Mind you, the return leg won't be for a couple of weeks due to fixture complications, meaning that both sides will only have ten or eleven days to prepare for the Semi-Final once this tie eventually produces a winner.

Liverpool went into this side high on confidence after some very impressive results in recent weeks, and they were buoyed further by the reduced field which meant that avoiding the winner of the Manchester United-Arsenal clash in the Semis will provide a relatively safe route to Wembley.

But that would be to discount their opponents, who aren't having the best of campaigns in the Championship but are still a tough side to break down on their day, and having nothing to lose, they employed a defensive strategy to ensure that they could either score on the break or bring the tie back to Ewood Park where they will press forward more in search of an unlikely win.

On this day, the game began on an unpleasant note when just moments in, Martin Skrtel suffered a nasty fall which left him down, surrounded by medical staff and not moving for a long time, for several minutes in a tense scene. It was a relief when Skrtel gave a thumbs-up from his stretcher when leaving to a standing ovation, and it was further good news when it was later revealed that Skrtel had suffered a concussion but nothing more.

His replacement in defence Kolo Toure actually had an impressive game, and it was Toure who put the ball in the net for the home side but an offside flag ruled it out. Toure himself later appeared to pull up with an injury but, with the game in full flow, he could do little but struggle on while awkwardly having to dispatch a ball given to him by Glen Johnson, but he appeared to get over the setback as the game progressed.

Otherwise, there wasn't too much to say about this match. Liverpool had chances but lacked the cutting edge that they possessed against Burnley on Wednesday night. They had moments where an opener seemed likely, but it wasn't to be. The introduction of Mario Balotelli didn't make much of a difference, although I think some of the criticism that Balotelli suffered after this game was unwarranted. Some people always look for a scapegoat or a reason (Johnson blamed the condition of the Anfield pitch) instead of just admitting that it wasn't your day. I personally felt that even if the match had gone on for another 30 minutes, and the Reds still wouldn't have scored under the circumstances.

This was due to Blackburn clearly setting up for a draw, and virtually having 11 men behind the ball towards the end. They did have a couple of chances themselves, mind you, the closest being an Alex Baptiste header from close range which was superbly saved by Simon Mignolet. Both sides also had penalty appeals turned down, one for Liverpool after a tackle on Adam Lallana (I thought sitting in the Kop that this was a penalty; replays later showed that it was not), and for Blackburn after an apparent handball by Raheem Stirling (which was a little harder to turn down, although I still think it would have been a harsh decision).

The game suffered from Skrtel's early injury which quietened the fans for an extended period, but it was also waiting for something to spark it into life. It wasn't a lost cause by any means, but it needed something to energise it, something to draw you in and make you believe that a goal may have been coming. Blackburn's sturdy defence ensured that it wasn't going to happen, although the Reds didn't test Rovers keeper Simon Eastwood enough to make one believe that the Reds had dominated.

Indeed, Blackburn thoroughly deserved a draw from this game; the only downer is how long fans of both sides will have to wait before knowing who will go onto the Semi-Finals. Gary Bowyer was unquestionably the happier of the two managers, although Brendan Rodgers had to be more concerned with Skrtel's health after his awkward tumble.

And so Liverpool hope to march onto Wembley having drawn their two home ties with no goals in either game (Iago Aspas is the only man to have scored for the Reds at Anfield in an FA Cup tie under Rodgers, believe it or not). Hopefully the return leg, when it finally happens, will provide an entertaining game that will give the Reds more bite in their pursuit of the FA Cup but, so long as they come away with a win, Kopites won't mind. The dream lives on, but a more ruthless approach will be needed to keep such hopes alive.

Thursday 5 March 2015

Burnley Beaten As Reds Resurgence Rolls On

He's in there somewhere: Jordan
Henderson celebrates his goal with
the other Liverpool players.
Written By: Mark Armstrong

Result: Liverpool 2-0 Burnley
Date: Wednesday March 4 2015
Competition: Premier League
Venue: Anfield, Liverpool
Attendance: 44,717

Goals from Jordan Henderson and Daniel Sturridge secured a 2-0 win for Liverpool as they easily handled Burnley at Anfield.

Liverpool came into this game with a spring in their step after a strong run of results which culminated in a victory over Manchester City last Sunday, whilst Burnley searched for an unlikely away win to boost their survival hopes after an own goal saw them lose to Swansea at the weekend.

The Reds were almost ahead inside 30 seconds as Sturridge capitalised on a one-two between Adam Lallana and Raheem Sterling, with only the reflexes of Burnley keeper Tom Heaton keeping the ball out.

Liverpool continued to create chances with Henderson coming close off a rebound, and the away side were also trying to find a breakthrough, although their opportunities were less frequent and less imposing. In fact, much of the first half was more about Liverpool controlling the game but being unable to break down Burnley's defensive approach.

But Kopites wouldn't have to wait that much longer for the opening goal: with a Philippe Coutinho effort blocked by Jason Shackell, the ball came to Henderson outside the box who pinged a sweet shot from the outside of his right foot directly into the net. Liverpool were 1-0 up, and Henderson had opened the scoring for the second consecutive match. Jordan's confidence continues to grow, and it can only benefit Liverpool; he has played a vital role in the side's revival over the last few months.

Before half time, Coutinho and Sturridge had further chances, the latter once again being shut out by a superb Heaton stoppage. Burnley raised the hopes of their travelling fans when Danny Ings earned a free kick just outside the Liverpool penalty area, but they were unable to make the most of it.

In the second half, Liverpool kept searching for a second goal to seal victory in a game that, admittedly, they were firmly in control of. That all-important second goal came around 10 minutes into the second half, as a fine Henderson cross set up Sturridge for a rare headed goal (perhaps the unlikely nature of his strike explained the unexpected absence of his traditional dance celebration, opting for a general huddle with his colleagues instead).

Not much happened in the rest of the half, bar some more chances for Liverpool by Lallana and Alberto Moreno. Burnley gave it their best shot but just didn't threaten Liverpool enough to cause any serious trouble. Given the ease at which the Reds were maintaining control of the match, it's hard to imagine that any spectators truly believed Liverpool would surrender their lead following the first goal, never mind the second. But that shouldn't discount what was a strong, unspectacular yet professional performance by the home side on the back of a major win over the defending champions three days earlier.

So, the game went as the form book would have suggested. A fairly easy Liverpool win keeps the Reds firmly in the race for a top-four finish (the only disappointment for Liverpool is that all of their rivals for the European places won in midweek as well), although their attention now turns to a home tie in the FA Cup with Blackburn Rovers on Sunday, where victory takes them back to Wembley Stadium - or Anfield South, as long-time Kopites used to call it. Burnley were obviously less happy at how things transpired, but there was no lack of effort from the Clarets and it really couldn't have been a surprising result to them. Overall, a satisfying night to be a Red.

Monday 2 March 2015

Coutinho Creativity Keeps Liverpool Climbing

Philippe Coutinho is congratulated
after the win secured
by his stunning curler.
Written By: Mark Armstrong

Result: Liverpool 2-1 Manchester City
Date: Sunday March 1 2015
Competition: Premier League
Venue: Anfield, Liverpool
Attendance: 44,590

A stunning curler from outside the box by Philippe Coutinho secured a major home win for Liverpool against Manchester City.

The victory keeps alive Liverpool's hopes of securing Champion's League football via a top four finish, but City's chances of retaining the Premier League title look slim after this result kept them five points behind Chelsea, with the League leaders still having a game in hand.

The identity of City has changed a lot in recent years due to the increase in their financial power, as has their trophy cabinet as a result, but one thing which has not changed is the club's fortunes against Liverpool at Anfield.

Before this game, they had only managed one win in their last 17 visits to the Reds, and despite Liverpool lagging far behind City in terms of points prior to kick-off, nothing would change here.

Liverpool started a little sluggish in defence but soon came to life, and after a few minutes Adam Lallana thought he had put the Reds ahead, only for his strike to be ruled out due to an offside decision.

Fortunately, Kopites did not have to long wait long to celebrate for real: less than 11 minutes into the game, a sweet strike by Jordan Henderson (captaining once again in the absence of Steven Gerrard) went in with a little help from the underside of the crossbar, and Liverpool were in front.

It was another sign of Henderson's growth as a potential future captain, and goals like this mark a nice resemblance to Gerrard and his habit of providing stand-out moments of quality in big games.

Mind you, as encouraging as this was, it would only retain its power if City were kept abay. Alas, after knocking on the Reds' door a few times, the titleholders equalised on the 26-minute mark with a straight finish by Edin Dzeko, although the manner in which City were able to carve open the opportunity gave a reminder to manager Brendan Rodgers - or The Brodge, as nicknamed by Noel Gallagher recently on Match Of The Day 2 - that whilst his side's fortunes have improved in recent weeks, his defence is still prone to the occasional bout of jitters.

Liverpool's defence remained quite shaky for the rest of the half, but they hung in there and, in the second half, the game became a more open affair on both sides, as each team took it in turns to create good chances, some - including more than one effort by Sergio Aguero - being only a whisker away from going in. Lallana actually had the ball in the net for the second time but, for the second time on the day, an offside flag made it obsolete.

It looked like anybody's game, although the neutral would have assumed by the passage of play that City would be the team to find a way through if either side was to secure three points.

Instead, with just over 15 minutes left, Coutinho set himself up with a touch and right-footed it around Joe Hart high into the net. Anfield was bouncing; once again, the underdogs were ahead, and this time they would not let the lead slip.

City continued pressing for another equaliser, and brought on Frank Lampard in an attempt to somehow get that second goal. But time was not on City's side and, with the Reds focused on denying their opponents the slightest chance at earning a point, Liverpool held on for what stands as their biggest win of the season.

Although nothing could equal the electricity and emotion of Liverpool's 3-2 win over City last April, this result came close. The reactions of the Anfield faithful indicated how important this win was in proving Liverpool's revival is for real, and puts Rodgers' team just two points behind fourth-place Manchester United.

After this defeat, Manuel Pelligrini will privately realise that it will take more than a slip-up to keep the Premier League title at the Etihad this season. For Brendan Rodgers, though, this win must have been extremely satisfying: whilst it has looked like Liverpool have been on the right track for a good few weeks now, this milestone victory proved it, and ensures that the Reds will have a busy two months on the horizon as the 2014/5 season comes to a close. Next up is Burnley: ahead of that game, the message for Liverpool after this win has to be: "We Go Again".

Thursday 19 February 2015

Mike Bassett: England Manager

Image Source: Past Posters
Written By: Mark Armstrong

Distributor: Entertainment Film Distributors
Production Companies: Artists Independent Productions, Film Council, Hallmark Entertainment
Director: Steve Barron
Producers: Steve Barron and Neil Peplow
Scriptwriters: John R. Smith and Rob Sprackling
Main Cast: Ricky Tomlinson, Amanda Redman and Bradley Walsh
Released: September 28 2001
Running Time: 89 Minutes
Certificate: 15

Released in 2001 as a prelude to the 2002 World Cup, Mike Bassett: England Manager is a spot-on parody of not only the English management set-up, but also of the game in general. But far from being a film that points fingers and criticises, it is a movie that highlights the stupidity and the hilarity of characters, situations and organisations in a manner that should please all football fans.

Ricky Tomlinson is the perfect choice to play Mike Bassett. He has a regional dialect, he says what's on his mind, he looks nothing like a footballer but claims to have a brilliant understanding of the game - in short, he is the common man, which many would argue is nothing like the England manager. But that's why the casting works: he is the polar opposite of how an England figurehead would behave (although some situations are not too dissimilar to those encountered by certain men who have had the job, albeit behind closed doors). Tomlinson is best known for playing Jim Royle in The Royle Family, but he is just as effective and just as funny in this role.

The tale (produced as a mockumentary) begins with the health-induced end of the England managing reign of Phil Cope (humorously accompanied by the newspaper headline "Can't Cope"), and after every top candidate is ruled out or rules themselves out, the FA has to turn to second-string boss Mike Bassett for the top job. His task is simple: one win in the last three World Cup qualifiers and England will grace the main stage. But, instead, the side make a pig's ear of it: two defeats are followed by a draw which is made worse by a shocking penalty miss which would have guaranteed qualification. Fortunately for Bassett, an unexpected result elsewhere in the group allows them an alternative passage to the tournament.

Unfortunately, whilst the road to glory was tough on Bassett, the tournament itself provides more nightmares: an appalling 0-0 draw with Egypt is followed by a heavy defeat to Mexico. On the brink of elimination, and most likely the sack, Bassett is encouraged to turn to alcohol to ease the tensions. This only leads to a drunken escapade, caught on camera, which points an even greater spotlight on him.

Despite widespread calls for him to resign, Mike refuses to step down but, when he is heavily criticised by the media, his response is powerful enough to win back some support from the die-hards. But his future still rests on the outcome of the final group game against Argentina; can his side pull off a miracle or is it bye-bye Bassett?

The plot is enhanced by the number of satirical stereotypes for players in the squad, from the alcoholic playmaker (Kevin Tonkinson, played by Dean Lennox Kelly) to the ultra-aggressive defender (Gary Wackett, played by Geoff Bell), as their troublesome situations are comedic yet true-to-life. This extends to the dugout, as Bassett's assistants include a spineless yes-man (Dave Dodds, played by Bradley Walsh) and an old-fashioned coach more interested in his used car business (Lonnie Urquart, played by Philip Jackson), a clear parody of Graham Taylor's management during his tenure as England boss.

In fact, the pre-World Cup section is largely based on Taylor's reign, from the poor results to the media scourge. Post-qualification, the film focuses on the pitfalls of the job, albeit in hilarious fashion; don't expect Roy Hodgson to swear at his own fans in the same way that Bassett does after the Egypt game. Other elements of the parody, which are nevertheless true, include how the manager's wife Karine (played by Amanda Redman) and son Jason (played by Danny Tennant) can feel the brunt of the national side's poor performances by association with the figurehead, and how the English media builds the team up to knock them down, almost resenting their success. The movie also features several celebrity cameos, such as Pele, Ronaldo (the original Brazilian one, not Cristiano) and Atomic Kitten.

There is a danger with films like this that they will either insult the audience or come across as being too serious. However, the movie is nothing of the sort: it raises some intriguing points about the English football set-up and aspects of life as a manager in this country, but it makes its points and tells its story through a range of truly funny incidents, visuals and one-liners. Tomlinson's half-time team talk when they're losing to Mexico is priceless. His general reactions to the bewildering situations he finds himself in (from the lacklustre training mechanisms to the incorrect team selections which sees lower-league players called "Benson" and "Hedges" included because his squad was written on the back of a cigarette packet) are brilliant.

And even the supporting cast are really funny, particularly Jackson who as assistant manager only has a minor role, but is totally believable and, whilst understated, his restrained delivery is what makes his material work. Something I also appreciated was how it didn't follow the perfect story arc: some developments are a little predictable, but without spoiling the plot, you will realise that it doesn't just go for the simple rags-to-riches-style story. The movie eventually spawned a TV series in 2005 based on domestic management (which I felt was a little disappointing), and rumours continue to suggest that a sequel to the movie is coming soon.

Mike Bassett: England Manager is the kind of film that you want to watch in the run-up to a major international tournament. Alternatively, it is a great football comedy to watch at any time because it is really funny and, whilst it was made in 2001, many of the pastiches are still relevant today. In fact, it is darkly comical that for all the ridiculous incidents that are encountered here, the vast majority are only slightly exaggerated versions of real-life events, characters and situations. So, if you are a die-hard football fan, a casual supporter or just someone looking for a funny British film, an ideal movie for you is Mike Bassett: England Manager.

Overall Rating: 9/10 - Outstanding

Tuesday 27 January 2015

FA Cup 4th Round Recap


Emile Heskey in action against
Liverpool. (Image Source: BBC Sport)
Written By: Bashir Yusuf

Arsenal through, Liverpool and Man Utd forced to settle for replays amidst shock exits for Premier League giants

The absence of Premier League football this weekend meant that the FA cup fourth round had to live up to its billing, and didn't it do just that. We have always known FA cup weekends to come up with one or two surprises; nonetheless, no one would have predicted the amount of shocks that awaited this weekend.

Jon Stead celebrates Bradford's first
goal. (Image Source: BBC Sport)
Manchester United kicked off the fourth round in an unusual Friday fixture away to Richard Money's Cambridge United. The following day, Chelsea welcomed League One side Bradford City to Stamford Bridge, Manchester City were at home to Middlesbrough, and in the evening kick-off, Liverpool played host to Bolton Wanderers. Elsewhere, Leicester City travelled to White Hart Lane, while Alan Pardew and his Crystal Palace side travelled to St. Mary's Stadium; in addition, Arsenal travelled to Brighton & Hove Albion for another potential banana skin tie.

Beginning with our local entry (Everton had been dispatched in the previous round by West Ham United), joining Liverpool legends Ian Rush and Kenny Dalglish in the stands at Anfield was captain Steven Gerrard, who as he approaches the end of his Liverpool career is being closely managed by Brendan Rodgers; his absence here ensured his inclusion for the second leg of the League Cup semi-final against Chelsea this Tuesday. The atmosphere was as electric as ever with the Kop at their loudest. With Gerrard absent, Jordan Henderson captained the side, whilst Javier Manquillo, Jose Enrique, Joe Allen and Adam Lallana all returned to the starting XI.

As expected, the home side had the majority of possession, although whenever Neil Lennon's Bolton side had a spell in control, they looked comfortable and full of ideas. Still, despite a strike force including Eidur Gudjohnsen and former Liverpool striker Emile Heskey, they finished the match without a shot on target but, crucially, didn't concede either. The first half showcased some quality play from the team in red, but never enough to get on the score-line. Raheem Sterling and fellow countryman Henderson were involved in everything good coming Liverpool's way, with the latter hitting a decent shot that required an equally decent save from Hungarian keeper Adam Bogdan. The Trotters had half-decent chances of their own, but not enough to make a difference, and this resulted to both teams going into half-time goalless.

Lazar Markovic was introduced in the second half and soon had a penalty claim. Replays showed that the foul had happened outside the box, but there was enough contact that a free kick should have been awarded. Referee Kevin Friend further frustrated LFC fans by ignoring penalty appeals after a clumsy challenge by former red Jay Spearing on Henderson in the area. Besides this and further Liverpool chances, the second half was more notable for Bolton's strong defending, earning themselves a return leg in their own backyard, where they feel their chances of progression would be higher. The home supporters were beginning to be out-mourned by their opposition fans, as a return leg began to appear very possible. Liverpool had their chances but couldn't take them, and so the match ended in a goalless draw. A replay was not ideal for Brendan Rodgers, who suddenly has a busy fixture list with this two-parter adding to his Premier League commitments, Europa League preparations and, of course, that vital League Cup clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

Away from Anfield, the major FA Cup headlines for the weekend were the shock eliminaiton of Chelsea and Manchester City. Chelsea was the bigger surprise since they were facing a side two divisions below them, are currently the best team in the country, and were two goals up inside 38 minutes. Jonathan Stead pulled one back for the Bantams with a sumptuous strike just before half-time, but even then many would have expected the London giants to finish the game off in the second half; nobody expected Bradford to level things up, never mind win. But win they did, as goals from Filipe Morais, Andy Halliday and Mark Yeates completed the shock of the day, and one of the biggest surprises in the competition's rich history. Jose Mourinho, a two-time Champions League winning coach, described the defeat as a "disgrace" considering the level of their opposition (although he did praise Bradford's performance), and said his side should be ashamed of themselves. With Liverpool at the Bridge in mid-week, the West London side who had been eyeing up a quadruple could be out of two competitions in less than a week.

In Manchester, another scintillating encounter took form as Championship side Middlesbrough took an unlikely lead against Manchester City via Chelsea loanee Patrick Bamford. City were playing a very strong team with Kun Aguero present, but they looked clueless as they battled to break the Boro defence, leaving theirs wide open. Their misery was completed when Boro secured the win with a stoppage time goal from Kike. In the aftermath, Manuel Pellegrini was criticised for over-working his squad, after his side were only hours removed from returning after an unusual mid-season trip to Abu Dhabi which included a friendly against Hamburg.

The red half of Manchester are still in the pot but, like their rivals Liverpool, had to settle for a replay after a below average performance led to a goalless draw at League Two side Cambridge United - a result which would have gotten greater attention had the major upsets not occurred the following day. And they weren't over: Tottenham Hotspur are also out of the competition as Mauricio Pochettino's side fell by two goals to one at home to Leicester City. In addition, Southampton were dumped out - again on home soil - by Alan Pardew's revitalised Crystal Palace side in a mouth-watering 3-2 encounter. And Gylfi Sigurdsson made the headlines for scoring a cracker and getting a red card as Swansea troubles continued with a 2-1 exit to Blackburn Rovers. Reading, West Bromwich Albion and Derby County all made it through to the next round as well. Replays are to determine the fate of Preston North End and Sheffield United and Sunderland and Fulham.

Sunday was a little less explosive, although FA Cup holders Arsenal just about managed a 3-2 win over Brighton, with German World Cup winner Mesut Ozil on the score-sheet after a long injury break, along with Theo Walcott and Tomas Rosicky, who poached the winning goal. Aston Villa and West Ham United also secured their spots in the fifth round with wins, as did Stoke City on Monday night.

With the two main favourites out, Liverpool have a strong chance of going all the way to Wembley come May to mark Steven Gerrard's exit with a bang. But Arsenal are also dreaming of retaining the trophy, which is never an easy task, and Wayne Rooney also has his eyes on what could finally be his first FA Cup winner's medal to complete his collection. And who knows, could Bradford City take their fairytale journey all the way to Wembley? Either way, an exhilarating fourth round has resulted in the most open FA Cup in years, as literally anything could happen between now and May 30.