Deadbat
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First of a new series...I may even stiick some player ratings up without the players and get people to guees the players and the match! I also may dig out some really bad ratings v some really good ones....
Anyway, as Christian Nade has been in the news recently, I have delved into the archives and bring you my report from the time .....Sheffield United 1 Arsenal 0 - December 2006
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When United were promoted to the Premiership back in May, many fans looked forward to the big clashes against the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool. Realistically, the same fans probably did not expect to garner many points from these games let alone wins. So, as the New Year is now upon us, United fans awoke this morning still shocked and delighted that they were finally able to conquer one of the aforementioned sides. Gutsy, battling, never-say-die and committed are over used words but each one of them describes United’s performance perfectly. The Blades scored a well-taken goal by Christian Nade and then fought like warriors to hang on to what they had. The expected Arsenal barrage never came and despite having out field player Phil Jagielka in goal for the final half hour, United were still able to keep a clean sheet and preserve the vital victory.
Another packed Bramall Lane crowd would have perhaps been surprised at the two starting line ups, as Arsenal lost more key players through injury and the home side similarly had to make a number of changes due to injuries and a virus. Arsenal were still without star man Thierry Henry but United also went into the game without their own talisman, Rob Hulse, who began on the bench. The injury curse was not just restricted to the players as referee Alan Wiley, pulled a hamstring in the warm up and was replaced by Lee Mason. The game began with the rain continuing to hammer down onto the turf making for a difficult surface for both sets of players. United began well and forced an early corner after a link up from Alan Quinn and Armstrong that saw Clichy forced to clear. However, Arsenal created the first real chance of the game as Rosicky’s drive was parried by Kenny. Shortly after another chance fell to the feet of Baptista but Montgomery’s crunching tackle was timed to perfection. The Brazilian had to receive treatment shortly after as he suffered the effects of the challenge. Arsenal had a clear opening when the dangerous Gilberto evaded his marker, Jagielka, at the corner but his downward header bounced high and wide.
United responded with the lively Kazim Richards darting away before playing in Kozluk, who hit a low shot that was nearly turned goalward by Nade before going wide of Lehman’s right hand post. Nade then tried his luck from range but his effort went wide before United created their best chance when Quinn ought to have done better instead of side footing straight at Lehman when well placed. Leigertwood’s return to the side was brief as he hobbled off to be replaced by Davis, with Jagielka moving into midfield. Morgan and Van Persie were involved in a skirmish leaving the Arsenal man on the deck before moments later the Arsenal man took out his frustrations in the wrong way and was booked for a rash tackle on Jagielka. Aliadiere was in on goal courtesy of a neat through ball by Rosicky but Kenny pushed the ball away at his near post. United were competing well and winning many of the loose balls and tackles.
From such determination they took the lead on 40 minutes as Davis won the ball and fed Quinn. The midfielder played the ball forward but their looked little danger with Toure tight on Nade. Unfortunately for the Arsenal man, the United player cleverly allowed the ball to go between his legs and then turned and ran. With Toure too close to his man he was turned rather too easily and Nade was in on goal. Lehman’s dash off his line was probably a little hasty as he sought to rectify his defender’s mistake but only compounded it as NADE cleverly and coolly slotted the ball past the advancing keeper to send the ground into pandemonium. Shortly after, Davis and Morgan made brave tackles to deny Arsenal before Nade was on a run again, sprinting clear before being crowded out. The half time whistle was met by warm and hearty applause as United went into the break with the advantage.
The second half began with Arsenal trying to up the temp but Baptista and Aliadiere were both denied by more determined defending. Kenny punched an ensuing corner clear but when he kicked a dead ball minutes later he appeared to pull a muscle. He received treatment and tried to play on for a few minutes but it was not long before he hit the deck again and clearly he could not continue. With no substitute keeper, it was left to Phil Jagielka to yet again don the gloves. Tonge came on to replace him in midfield as United now had to figure out how to protect their stand in keeper. However, it was United who were next on the offensive as Quinn’s shot flashed wide of the Arsenal goal before he followed it up with a drive straight at Lehman.
Jagielka was called into action when he caught a through ball from Fabregas and then punched away two Van Persie corners. Hulse came on to replace the hard working Nade and then almost immediately was booked for time wasting. It did seem the kick away was engineered though, in order for the leading scorer to miss the FA Cup game rather than a Premiership contest. A tremendous block from Armstrong was followed up by one from Kozluk, although the ball fell to Van Persie who diverted the ball goal wards. Jagielka sprang up to flick the ball over the bar with his fingertips to draw applause from four sides of Bramall Lane. As time ticked down the crowd continued to urge the home side on, aided by manager Warnock’s prompts from the sideline.
The additional 5 minutes were signalled bringing more anxiety to the nervous crowd who were willing the home players into every clearance and tackle. Fabregas blasted high and wide before one final chance arrived via a corner. Lehman joined the other 10 Arsenal players in the box but Gilberto could not connect and as the ball span clear, the final whistle went drawing an almighty roar from the crowd as this old ground saw another unpredictable and delightful twist in its storied history.
United – It was a passionate performance and one that they played as a ‘team’. Played some neat football at times and although sometimes they did give the ball away, they worked extra hard to then win it back. I could not really pick one player out, although the back four were very good, it was that much of a ‘team’ performance. We never gave in for any loose ball and Arsenal got frustrated, as they simply could not match our effort. United fans appreciate it when they see players giving their all and can excuse a poor pass at times if they give 100% and yesterday they could see that was the case. With this work rate, the support from the crowd and hopefully some quality signings (prefer them not to be Hasselbaink, too old, nor Kilgallon, overrated) then we can keep moving up the league. Losing Kenny is a blow and Middlesbrough will be tough, with the exertions of the players yesterday and the home side desperate for a win it will be a big ask. If we can get in front though, their crowd will turn on them and we have a chance. A point would be an excellent result I feel considering we got an unexpected win yesterday.
Arsenal – Even with players missing, including Henry of course, I expected much better. At times they played some nice stuff but when United got physical and stuck into them a few of their players did not want to know. Wenger has made comments to the press about a few of our challenges but I saw nothing but commited tackles and blocks by United. Arsenal do not like teams to get amongst them and close them down as it stops them playing the game they like and their football. It is the best way to beat teams like that and it worked a treat yesterday. Lehman made one or two routine saves but looked unsure at set plays and also was partly at fault for the goal. I felt Nade gave Toure as tough a game as anyone has. I really rate Toure and think he never gets a mention when the best defenders in the Premiership are discussed but Nade did him a treat for the goal. Senderos and Clichy were ok but I felt Hoyte looked very poor and out of his depth. In midfield, Gilberto started the game well but then the tackles started coming in he became less interested. This was the same for much of the Arsenal team. Rosicky in particular seemed more bothered about getting his shirt muddy than trying to get his team back into the game. Baptista, similarly spent more time rolling around claiming he was fouled than trying to get into the game. For a big man he is knocked off the ball quite easily too and did not live up this nickname, of the Beast. Flamini was another player that did not seem up to it for a side like Arsenal. All too often he went missing. Van Persie was lively to being with but after the altercation with Morgan he seemed disinterested too and unless the ball came straight to his feet he did not want to know. Aliadiere was to be frank, rubbish. He has been loaned out to West Ham, Wolves and Celtic and done nothing at any of those clubs (although did score versus Watford to help seal our promotion) and I am amazed he is still at the club let alone starting. I know they have injuries but would they have not been better keeping Bendtner instead who is doing very well at Birmingham? Fabregas came on but the only things he did was to try and take off Alan Quinn’s leg, as he cynically chopped him down near the corner, putting him out of their own FA Cup tie against Liverpool and smash the ball into the Bramall Lane upper tier. Denilson, is highly rated who is seen as a very promising player but he came on way too late to change things.
Kenny 7.5/10 – Made 2 or 3 decent if fairly regulation saves in the first half. Unfortunately he does have a habit of picking up injuries and this surfaced again from an innocuous kick out. Could be out for a few weeks and hopefully Gerrard will not let us down with Bennett out injured too.
Kozluk 7.5/10 – Made some good tackles and blocks. Had one rush of blood when he gave the ball away and it was nearly costly but he was mostly solid. Shows why pace is such an asset at this level as arguably the likes of Unsworth and Sommeil have more experience and are better on the ball but their legs have gone and this is why Kozluk is a better fit. He is good covering defender too.
Armstrong 8/10 – Very underrated player. Real athlete with pace who can defend as well as he can attack. He was up against tough opponents in Rosicky and Van Persie who swapped sides but stuck to his task admirably. One tackle near the end when they seemed set to score was tremendous.
Morgan 8.5/10 – Superb again. Won header after header. Gave the ball away a bit and a few clearance went awry but he is proving to be a real leader and epitomising everything good about the club at the moment; determined, never say die and surprising performances. Not sure whether he did ‘catch’ Van Persie but the way the Dutchman kept moaning to the referee was pathetic and Morgan stuck to his task against a very good striker, restricting him to one chance.
Jagielka 8.5/10 – Did well at the back to start the game although he missed his defensive assignments from set plays twice, as he did so in costly fashion at Portsmouth. In midfield, he was busy and as with Monty his job was to nullify the threat of the opposition and he did that. He covered more ground in midfield than he has in some time. In goal he did everything right, choosing rightly to punch instead of catch in treacherous conditions and making a smart reaction save. Looked unflustered by the situation despite many fans, including myself, feeling we would probably concede a few when Kenny went off.
Quinn 7.5/10 – Better performance. With the increased competition for place, including his brother, he was generally more involved and had a few decent efforts on goal, carried the ball a lot and also set up the goal.
Montgomery 8/10 – A real battling performance. His tackling and desire to get to loose balls was tremendous. Must be one of the fittest players in the Premiership. His work rate is unbelievable. Unfortunately, his passing remains pretty wretched and this does let him down. However, I could not criticise him for yesterday as he covered more ground than probably anyone else on the pitch.
Leigertwood – Began ok and won a few tackles, helping disrupt play before he went off injured.
Gillespie 7.5/10 – Work rate was very good if his crossing was not quite at its usual standard. To be fair he did not see as much of the ball as he has done, against a good full back in Clichy who got tight to him. Still kept the ball well and
Kazim Richards 7.5/10 – Worked hard for the team and ran down the channels time and time again. He looked lively in the first half and was able to put the Arsenal defence under pressure but he did tire in the second half but had another burst near the end. He had a lot to learn but he will get better.
Nade 8/10 – As above but he looked a genuine goal threat too. Scored a very well taken goal showing his power, pace and at last a finish to match. He is very strong and Toure knew he had been in a match. The best compliment I can pay him is that despite being unpredictable is that he makes things happen.
Subs
Davis 7.5/10 – A few sloppy mistakes but mostly solid. Headed the ball away, tackled and cleared his lines when needed. Apparently he was not fit so credit the guy for a battling performance. I thought in the last 10 minutes him and Morgan were superb and looked like they refused to be beaten. Helped protect Jagielka very well.
Hulse – Came on and got booked, on purpose I am sure (Unlike Trundle for Swansea who was sent off yesterday and will now miss the cup tie at the Lane). He chased the ball and held it up when necessary. He was needed more to chase and harry defenders than create and he did that well.
Tonge – Did not get on the ball that much but he did not give it away when he passed it and also fitted into the work ethic of the rest of the team, in chasing and tackling everything.
Officials – Only found out he was referring just before kick off but Mason was very good. I have seen him have a few good games and a few stinkers featuring United but he did well. He did not fall for any of the ridiculous injury feigning from the Arsenal players, booked players when they deserved to be booked and also kept things flowing in what as Wenger says was a good, old-fashioned cup-tie type game. Also, credit for him for playing the advantage when Toure tried to grab Nade before he scored.
Support – Incredible. Great to see the place packed again and the level of noise and support was second to none (the childish German bombers chants aside). The way they cheered the side on in the second half genuinely seemed to help players run that extra yard or make that extra block. When the Lane is like that, it may seem a cliché, but it is a wonderful place to be. Seeing your unheralded group of players run until they dropped against wealthier and superior skilled players, and then win the game is a special feeling. I never tire of seeing happy faces as they bounce out of the ground after magical nights like that one. The jubilation, hugs and cheers that greeted full time was great to see and the players and coaching staff were rightly given a standing ovation as chants of ‘We love united we do!’ rang out from four sides. Further chants of ‘We are staying up!’ may be premature but showed the belief emanating out of the club. It is nights like that one when you can justifiably say, ‘That’s why I’m a Blade!’
Anyway, as Christian Nade has been in the news recently, I have delved into the archives and bring you my report from the time .....Sheffield United 1 Arsenal 0 - December 2006
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When United were promoted to the Premiership back in May, many fans looked forward to the big clashes against the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool. Realistically, the same fans probably did not expect to garner many points from these games let alone wins. So, as the New Year is now upon us, United fans awoke this morning still shocked and delighted that they were finally able to conquer one of the aforementioned sides. Gutsy, battling, never-say-die and committed are over used words but each one of them describes United’s performance perfectly. The Blades scored a well-taken goal by Christian Nade and then fought like warriors to hang on to what they had. The expected Arsenal barrage never came and despite having out field player Phil Jagielka in goal for the final half hour, United were still able to keep a clean sheet and preserve the vital victory.
Another packed Bramall Lane crowd would have perhaps been surprised at the two starting line ups, as Arsenal lost more key players through injury and the home side similarly had to make a number of changes due to injuries and a virus. Arsenal were still without star man Thierry Henry but United also went into the game without their own talisman, Rob Hulse, who began on the bench. The injury curse was not just restricted to the players as referee Alan Wiley, pulled a hamstring in the warm up and was replaced by Lee Mason. The game began with the rain continuing to hammer down onto the turf making for a difficult surface for both sets of players. United began well and forced an early corner after a link up from Alan Quinn and Armstrong that saw Clichy forced to clear. However, Arsenal created the first real chance of the game as Rosicky’s drive was parried by Kenny. Shortly after another chance fell to the feet of Baptista but Montgomery’s crunching tackle was timed to perfection. The Brazilian had to receive treatment shortly after as he suffered the effects of the challenge. Arsenal had a clear opening when the dangerous Gilberto evaded his marker, Jagielka, at the corner but his downward header bounced high and wide.
United responded with the lively Kazim Richards darting away before playing in Kozluk, who hit a low shot that was nearly turned goalward by Nade before going wide of Lehman’s right hand post. Nade then tried his luck from range but his effort went wide before United created their best chance when Quinn ought to have done better instead of side footing straight at Lehman when well placed. Leigertwood’s return to the side was brief as he hobbled off to be replaced by Davis, with Jagielka moving into midfield. Morgan and Van Persie were involved in a skirmish leaving the Arsenal man on the deck before moments later the Arsenal man took out his frustrations in the wrong way and was booked for a rash tackle on Jagielka. Aliadiere was in on goal courtesy of a neat through ball by Rosicky but Kenny pushed the ball away at his near post. United were competing well and winning many of the loose balls and tackles.
From such determination they took the lead on 40 minutes as Davis won the ball and fed Quinn. The midfielder played the ball forward but their looked little danger with Toure tight on Nade. Unfortunately for the Arsenal man, the United player cleverly allowed the ball to go between his legs and then turned and ran. With Toure too close to his man he was turned rather too easily and Nade was in on goal. Lehman’s dash off his line was probably a little hasty as he sought to rectify his defender’s mistake but only compounded it as NADE cleverly and coolly slotted the ball past the advancing keeper to send the ground into pandemonium. Shortly after, Davis and Morgan made brave tackles to deny Arsenal before Nade was on a run again, sprinting clear before being crowded out. The half time whistle was met by warm and hearty applause as United went into the break with the advantage.
The second half began with Arsenal trying to up the temp but Baptista and Aliadiere were both denied by more determined defending. Kenny punched an ensuing corner clear but when he kicked a dead ball minutes later he appeared to pull a muscle. He received treatment and tried to play on for a few minutes but it was not long before he hit the deck again and clearly he could not continue. With no substitute keeper, it was left to Phil Jagielka to yet again don the gloves. Tonge came on to replace him in midfield as United now had to figure out how to protect their stand in keeper. However, it was United who were next on the offensive as Quinn’s shot flashed wide of the Arsenal goal before he followed it up with a drive straight at Lehman.
Jagielka was called into action when he caught a through ball from Fabregas and then punched away two Van Persie corners. Hulse came on to replace the hard working Nade and then almost immediately was booked for time wasting. It did seem the kick away was engineered though, in order for the leading scorer to miss the FA Cup game rather than a Premiership contest. A tremendous block from Armstrong was followed up by one from Kozluk, although the ball fell to Van Persie who diverted the ball goal wards. Jagielka sprang up to flick the ball over the bar with his fingertips to draw applause from four sides of Bramall Lane. As time ticked down the crowd continued to urge the home side on, aided by manager Warnock’s prompts from the sideline.
The additional 5 minutes were signalled bringing more anxiety to the nervous crowd who were willing the home players into every clearance and tackle. Fabregas blasted high and wide before one final chance arrived via a corner. Lehman joined the other 10 Arsenal players in the box but Gilberto could not connect and as the ball span clear, the final whistle went drawing an almighty roar from the crowd as this old ground saw another unpredictable and delightful twist in its storied history.
United – It was a passionate performance and one that they played as a ‘team’. Played some neat football at times and although sometimes they did give the ball away, they worked extra hard to then win it back. I could not really pick one player out, although the back four were very good, it was that much of a ‘team’ performance. We never gave in for any loose ball and Arsenal got frustrated, as they simply could not match our effort. United fans appreciate it when they see players giving their all and can excuse a poor pass at times if they give 100% and yesterday they could see that was the case. With this work rate, the support from the crowd and hopefully some quality signings (prefer them not to be Hasselbaink, too old, nor Kilgallon, overrated) then we can keep moving up the league. Losing Kenny is a blow and Middlesbrough will be tough, with the exertions of the players yesterday and the home side desperate for a win it will be a big ask. If we can get in front though, their crowd will turn on them and we have a chance. A point would be an excellent result I feel considering we got an unexpected win yesterday.
Arsenal – Even with players missing, including Henry of course, I expected much better. At times they played some nice stuff but when United got physical and stuck into them a few of their players did not want to know. Wenger has made comments to the press about a few of our challenges but I saw nothing but commited tackles and blocks by United. Arsenal do not like teams to get amongst them and close them down as it stops them playing the game they like and their football. It is the best way to beat teams like that and it worked a treat yesterday. Lehman made one or two routine saves but looked unsure at set plays and also was partly at fault for the goal. I felt Nade gave Toure as tough a game as anyone has. I really rate Toure and think he never gets a mention when the best defenders in the Premiership are discussed but Nade did him a treat for the goal. Senderos and Clichy were ok but I felt Hoyte looked very poor and out of his depth. In midfield, Gilberto started the game well but then the tackles started coming in he became less interested. This was the same for much of the Arsenal team. Rosicky in particular seemed more bothered about getting his shirt muddy than trying to get his team back into the game. Baptista, similarly spent more time rolling around claiming he was fouled than trying to get into the game. For a big man he is knocked off the ball quite easily too and did not live up this nickname, of the Beast. Flamini was another player that did not seem up to it for a side like Arsenal. All too often he went missing. Van Persie was lively to being with but after the altercation with Morgan he seemed disinterested too and unless the ball came straight to his feet he did not want to know. Aliadiere was to be frank, rubbish. He has been loaned out to West Ham, Wolves and Celtic and done nothing at any of those clubs (although did score versus Watford to help seal our promotion) and I am amazed he is still at the club let alone starting. I know they have injuries but would they have not been better keeping Bendtner instead who is doing very well at Birmingham? Fabregas came on but the only things he did was to try and take off Alan Quinn’s leg, as he cynically chopped him down near the corner, putting him out of their own FA Cup tie against Liverpool and smash the ball into the Bramall Lane upper tier. Denilson, is highly rated who is seen as a very promising player but he came on way too late to change things.
Kenny 7.5/10 – Made 2 or 3 decent if fairly regulation saves in the first half. Unfortunately he does have a habit of picking up injuries and this surfaced again from an innocuous kick out. Could be out for a few weeks and hopefully Gerrard will not let us down with Bennett out injured too.
Kozluk 7.5/10 – Made some good tackles and blocks. Had one rush of blood when he gave the ball away and it was nearly costly but he was mostly solid. Shows why pace is such an asset at this level as arguably the likes of Unsworth and Sommeil have more experience and are better on the ball but their legs have gone and this is why Kozluk is a better fit. He is good covering defender too.
Armstrong 8/10 – Very underrated player. Real athlete with pace who can defend as well as he can attack. He was up against tough opponents in Rosicky and Van Persie who swapped sides but stuck to his task admirably. One tackle near the end when they seemed set to score was tremendous.
Morgan 8.5/10 – Superb again. Won header after header. Gave the ball away a bit and a few clearance went awry but he is proving to be a real leader and epitomising everything good about the club at the moment; determined, never say die and surprising performances. Not sure whether he did ‘catch’ Van Persie but the way the Dutchman kept moaning to the referee was pathetic and Morgan stuck to his task against a very good striker, restricting him to one chance.
Jagielka 8.5/10 – Did well at the back to start the game although he missed his defensive assignments from set plays twice, as he did so in costly fashion at Portsmouth. In midfield, he was busy and as with Monty his job was to nullify the threat of the opposition and he did that. He covered more ground in midfield than he has in some time. In goal he did everything right, choosing rightly to punch instead of catch in treacherous conditions and making a smart reaction save. Looked unflustered by the situation despite many fans, including myself, feeling we would probably concede a few when Kenny went off.
Quinn 7.5/10 – Better performance. With the increased competition for place, including his brother, he was generally more involved and had a few decent efforts on goal, carried the ball a lot and also set up the goal.
Montgomery 8/10 – A real battling performance. His tackling and desire to get to loose balls was tremendous. Must be one of the fittest players in the Premiership. His work rate is unbelievable. Unfortunately, his passing remains pretty wretched and this does let him down. However, I could not criticise him for yesterday as he covered more ground than probably anyone else on the pitch.
Leigertwood – Began ok and won a few tackles, helping disrupt play before he went off injured.
Gillespie 7.5/10 – Work rate was very good if his crossing was not quite at its usual standard. To be fair he did not see as much of the ball as he has done, against a good full back in Clichy who got tight to him. Still kept the ball well and
Kazim Richards 7.5/10 – Worked hard for the team and ran down the channels time and time again. He looked lively in the first half and was able to put the Arsenal defence under pressure but he did tire in the second half but had another burst near the end. He had a lot to learn but he will get better.
Nade 8/10 – As above but he looked a genuine goal threat too. Scored a very well taken goal showing his power, pace and at last a finish to match. He is very strong and Toure knew he had been in a match. The best compliment I can pay him is that despite being unpredictable is that he makes things happen.
Subs
Davis 7.5/10 – A few sloppy mistakes but mostly solid. Headed the ball away, tackled and cleared his lines when needed. Apparently he was not fit so credit the guy for a battling performance. I thought in the last 10 minutes him and Morgan were superb and looked like they refused to be beaten. Helped protect Jagielka very well.
Hulse – Came on and got booked, on purpose I am sure (Unlike Trundle for Swansea who was sent off yesterday and will now miss the cup tie at the Lane). He chased the ball and held it up when necessary. He was needed more to chase and harry defenders than create and he did that well.
Tonge – Did not get on the ball that much but he did not give it away when he passed it and also fitted into the work ethic of the rest of the team, in chasing and tackling everything.
Officials – Only found out he was referring just before kick off but Mason was very good. I have seen him have a few good games and a few stinkers featuring United but he did well. He did not fall for any of the ridiculous injury feigning from the Arsenal players, booked players when they deserved to be booked and also kept things flowing in what as Wenger says was a good, old-fashioned cup-tie type game. Also, credit for him for playing the advantage when Toure tried to grab Nade before he scored.
Support – Incredible. Great to see the place packed again and the level of noise and support was second to none (the childish German bombers chants aside). The way they cheered the side on in the second half genuinely seemed to help players run that extra yard or make that extra block. When the Lane is like that, it may seem a cliché, but it is a wonderful place to be. Seeing your unheralded group of players run until they dropped against wealthier and superior skilled players, and then win the game is a special feeling. I never tire of seeing happy faces as they bounce out of the ground after magical nights like that one. The jubilation, hugs and cheers that greeted full time was great to see and the players and coaching staff were rightly given a standing ovation as chants of ‘We love united we do!’ rang out from four sides. Further chants of ‘We are staying up!’ may be premature but showed the belief emanating out of the club. It is nights like that one when you can justifiably say, ‘That’s why I’m a Blade!’
