futbol: April 2008 Archives

A bit of a follow-up to this post about Alexander Hleb of Arsenal and his clocking of Graeme Murty two weekends ago. In a BBC interview, Murty said that referee Peter Waldon's apology made all the difference:

He said: "He prevented me from taking the law into my own hands and kept 11 men on the pitch." Murty added: "He said 'I'm sorry Murts. I missed it. I apologise. You have a game to play.' That got me back.

The biggest problem footie referees at any level have is admitting they made a mistake to players. I know a lot of referees who won't admit fault even after a match is over, much less while still on the pitch.

Huzzah! to Mr. Waldon for keeping a lid on the situation.

I don't like his side, but Cristiano Ronaldo is a heck of a player:

Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo has been named as the Professional Footballers' Association player of the year.

The 23-year-old wins the award for the second successive season after another outstanding campaign that has seen him score 38 goals in all competitions.

And bravo Cesc!

Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas picked up the young player of the year award.

Ronaldo beat off competition from Liverpool duo Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard, 20-year-old Fabregas and Gunners team-mate Emmanuel Adebayor and Portsmouth goalkeeper David James.

It's good to see two players from the side I support get recognition. Of course, it's hard to ignore Torres and Gerrard, who have done so well for Liverpool, and James' performance in both league and FA Cup matches has been great to watch.

Congrats all, even the MUFC guy! :-)