World Football Blog- El Classico, Zlatan proves his worth and Drogba bosses Arsenal

The focus of the footballing world was in Spain last weekend for the most expensive ‘El Classico’ derby of all time. Barcelona and Real Madrid locked horns at the Nou Camp last weekend and it certainly didn’t disappoint.

Three of the worlds most expensive players where on show with Cristiano Ronaldo & Kaka starting for Real Madrid who are first and third respectively in the most expensive footballers in the world . The second most expensive player in the world in Zlatan Ibrahimovic was sat on Barca’s bench. It promised to be a real blockbuster with the game being showed in Spain for the first time at the cinema.

The match set off at a frantic pace with Real gaining the upper hand in the first half. Two golden chances where spurned by Ronaldo & Brazilian left back Marcello, they where both denied by some fantastic defending courtesy of Goal keeper Victor Valdes and Barca’s captain Carlos Puyol.

In the second half Barca manager Pep Guardiola was ruthless pulling off French striker Thierry Henry and replacing him with the Swedish striker Ibrahimovic. It didn’t take long for him to make his mark on the game. On the sixty first minute Ibra slot in a fantastic volley from a Dani Alves cross which left Real keeper Iker Casillas powerless to stop.

The Nou Camp erupted as Barcelona took the lead, however this was tempered slightly with the loss of midfielder Sergi Busquets who was sent off for a second bookable offence. But Real Madrid failed to capitalise on their advantage and where blocked out time and time again by the defensive duo of Pique & Puyol.


In the last five minutes Real Madrid also had a player sent off, this was French midfielder Lassana Diarra for his second bookable offence. From here on in Barca rode out the Real Madrid threat and in fact could have doubled their lead with Leo Messi spurning a great chance to assure the spoils for the Catalan side.









Over to England and the big game was between Arsenal and Chelsea. This match was all about Arsenal to see if they could rise up and indeed challenge for the premier league title. Unfortunately this didn’t quite happen as Chelsea took the lead, despite of Arsenal’s superior possession advantage. Didier Drogba drifted into the box to turn in an Ashley Cole cross. Chelsea stuck soon after this through the same outlet of an Ashley Cole cross this time it struck defender Thomas Vermaelen. The Gunners went in at half time two goals down to their Premier league and local rivals.

In the second half and Arsenal tried to pull back their advantage and pulled on winger Theo Walcott to stretch the Chelsea defence. Arsenal thought they had pulled a goal though Andrei Arshavin but it ruled out through a foul on Chelsea Keeper Peter Cech. Chelsea still pushed hard on Arsenal and looked the more dominant side in the closing exchanges. Drogba was denied by the quick reactions of keeper Manuel Almunia after his powerful shot which deflected off two players.

But Drogba was not going to be denied and in the 86th minute he scored a stunning free kick. Much to the delight of the visiting Chelsea fans and team mates, the result leaves Chelsea five points clear of the Premier league.

World Football Blog "The hand of frog" Russian woe, & Algerian Glory

Africa's first World Cup just a tantalising 203 days away twelve teams where looking to book their ticket to South Africa 2010 through the lottery of the playoff´s and they didnt dissapoint with plenty of intresting talking points.

Algeria are going to the world cup in South Africa after a twenty four year absence. They managed to overcome rivals Egypt in a nervy encounter in the neutral venue of Sudan. The one off match was called when Egypt managed to draw exactly on level with the Algerians in the last game of qualification forcing this suddent death play off match. Tensions where high in the early exchanges of the match with three yellow cards dished out as players fought with their own nerves for the most pressured of matches.

But it was after 40 minutes that the deadlock was broken when defender Antar Yahia scored a fantastic volley from a tight angle to send the Algerians into delirium, and was marked with similar reaction across Europe as Algerian emigrants celebrated with full vigour across the continent at the full time whistle. The hero of the hour was young keeper Fawzi Chaouchi who denyed The Pharaohs attack time and time again. The victory was important for coach Rabah Saadane who was at the helm when he guided the Fennics to the World cup back in 1984.



Over to Europe and a faltering Portuguese side took on Bosnia-Hercegovina. Portugal had struggled in the group phases having just pipped Sweden for the play off place. But with talesmanic captain and the worlds most expensive player Christiano Ronaldo out injured many had tipped Portugal to be dumped out of the world cup by a Bosnia side who impressed many in qualification.

However it was the Portuguese who won out with two hard fought 1-0 victories over both legs. Jose Raul Meireles goal insured that the reigning World Player of the year will be at South Africa 2010. A world player of the year has never lifted the World Cup in the same year, could Ronaldo be the first? We will have to see.

Former European champions Greece booked their place to South Africa thanks to a soletary goal from Dimitris Salpigidis the Panathinaikos hitman struck in the 31st minute to round off a slick passing move to much delight from his team mates. The greeks have now qualified for their first world cup since 1994, coach Otto Rehhagel was understandably happy for his side. "I'm proud of my players. They put all of their heart and soul into today's match."


One of the shocks of the qualifying came when Slovenia overcame the much favoured Russians to reach South Africa on away goals. The Slovenians lost in Moscow in the first leg 2-1 but Zlatko Dedic's goal was enough to see off the Russians and lead Slovakia to only their second World Cup. This means the likes of Premiership stars Andrei Arshavin, Yuri Zhirkov and Roman Pavlyuchenko will be watching the action on TV.

Finally the most controversal game was in Paris as France beat Ireland 2-1 on aggregate with a highly debateable winner from William Gallas. Ireland looked confident coming into the crunch tie, and struck on the 31st minute through captain Robbie Keane. Against the odds Ireland weathered the French onslaught to take the game to extra time. But it was in extra time when the match really got intresting.


The French scored a controversal winner through William Gallas however in the build up to the goal French striker Thierry Henry handled the ball just before crossing to Gallas. The Goal was given by Swedish referee Martin Hansson to much anger by the Irish side, who protested vermently with the official. But the goal was given and so France where granted safe passage to the World cup in South Africa.

The Irish where certainly hard done by with the goal, with the British press now branding Henry a cheat for his misdemenour which is being dubbed as "the hand of Frog" by some quaters of the press. But such incidents make football the most beautiful of sports, highly controversal decisions which can create such debate amongst fans, and pundits alike. The French where lucky to qualify for this World cup, however i feel that they will be found out in this years competition.

In Africa and Algeria are going to the world cup in South Africa after a twenty four year absence. They managed to overcome rivals Egypt in a nervy encounter in the neutral venue of Sudan. The one off match was called when Egypt managed to draw exactly on level with the Algerians in the last game of qualification forcing this suddent death play off match. Tensions where high in the early exchanges of the match with three yellow cards dished out as players fought with their own nerves for the most pressured of matches.

But it was after 40 minutes that the deadlock was broken when defender Antar Yahia scored a fantastic volley from a tight angle to send the Algerians into delirium, and was marked with similar reaction across Europe as Algerian emigrants celebrated with full vigour across the continent at the full time whistle. The hero of the hour was young keeper Fawzi Chaouchi who denyed The Pharaohs attack time and time again. The victory was important for coach Rabah Saadane who was at the helm when he guided the Fennics to the World cup back in 1984.

Finally Uruguay grabbed the final place for South Africa 2010 with a 2-1 aggregate victory over Costa Rica. They managed to avoid defeat at home meaning they won through to the world cup. Coach Oscar Tabarez was philosophical about the result."There is a lot to improve on. We'll do so and we'll have the World Cup to prove it. I'm very happy, mostly for the kids. The ones who are younger than eight-years-old have never seen this and now they can live it."


This leaves all places booked up for South Africa, and with the groups drawn in a matter of weeks excitement for the first World cup in Africa is sure to be at it´s peak soon. The question is your team involved?

Euro Football Blog: Inter beat AC, My Predictions & The Dutch Fire Sale.

Jose Mourinho relaxes as his side runs riot.

Football across Europe is in full flow as all the domestic leagues are currently on an early season break to make way for World Cup Qualifiers. But there has been a fair amount of incident and excitement in these the first tentative weeks of the season.

First Up is the Dutch Fire Sale which went on at Real Madrid following their mega spending splurge this season. So far winger Arjen Robben,playmaker Wesley Sneijder and striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar have jumped ship to Bayern Munich, Inter Milan & AC Milan respectively and have already made a big impact at their new clubs.

Arjen Robben made a huge impact For Bayern as they beat Champions Wolfsburg 3-0 last weekend. The Winger grabbed a brace for his new side who looked impressive, since his reported €25 million move.



Elsewhere in the Bundesliga and Hamburg have set the early pace at the top of the league. They clearly followed my blog and added Eljero Elia to their ranks this season . Champions Wolfsburg has also strengthened up top with the signing of Obafemi Martins from Newcastle and have been drawn with Manchester United, CSKA Moscow & Besiktas in their debut Champions league season.

Wesley Sneijder also looked strong on his debut from Madrid as he ran the midfield against his team’s city rivals. New Signing Samuel Eto also got on the score-sheet as Inter ran riot. Milan where dealt the early blow with talismanic midfielder Reno Gattuso sent off. Dutch Striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar also came off from the bench to make his home debut, but failed to inspire the Rossineri.





Over to England & top of the league Chelsea face a transfer ban for the alleged ‘tapping up’ of French youngster Gael Kakuta. Fifa have ruled that the club acted illegally in persuading from his current club Lens. In the league and Chelsea have been quietly winning games under Carlo Ancelotti.

Elsewhere and new boys Burnley caused a real shock in beating champions Manchester United at home 1-0. Veteran Robbie Blake lashed in a fantastic volley to give the Lancashire side a shock lead. Michael Carrick missed a penalty, in a game where United looked far from the imperious champions of last season.


Finally over to France and three teams have all set the early pace in Ligue 1. Bordeaux, PSG & Lyon all have ten points which promises for another exciting season. Lyon strengthened considerably in the summer following the sale of Karim Benzima to Real Madrid; they have brought in Porto striker Lisandro Lopez, St Etienne striker Befetimbi Gomis and also Michel Bastos who was mentioned by me in my top summer signings blog.

So with Europe all fully kicked off it promises to be a season of thrills, spills and plenty of interesting talking points. But this year I think I am going to make a few predictions for this season.

Top Scorer in Spain: Zlatan Ibrahimovic, The big Swede’s mega money move from Inter has already yielded goals as he scored on his league debut against Sporting Gijon. But with Ibra in the Barca side I predict he will bag plenty of goals for his new side and that is why I am tipping him for the top goal scorer.

Champions League Winners: Chelsea, I’m tipping for the London side to lift their first champion’s league title this season. Under the new management of Carlo Ancelotti, who has the experience of winning the big trophy with former club AC Milan. But with a strong squad and striker Didier Drogba on form im backing the Blues for Champions League glory.

I think Valencia can go all the way this year.

Europa League Winners: UEFA have rebranded this competition this season to a more ‘champion’s league format’ but you still have plenty of big names in the competition. Roma, Hamburg, Celtic & Benfica will all be gracing the competition this season. But I am tipping Valencia for the trophy this season. They have managed to hold on to David Villa & David Silva in the summer transfer market, and have plenty of exciting young players Michel & Ever Bangega. I think that despite their well reported problems I think they have enough to win the first Europa League.

Spotify Music Fest: Summer 09 Part 1.

So it's the summer. I have finished 'learning' and I am actively seeking work. So in-between Call of Duty in my pants and staring at my e-mail inbox for job reply's I have been investing time in Spotify playlists with the aim of creating musical perfection to sum up a mood, a feeling or whatever I really fancy. So here I am explaining all in this magical spottily playlist come blog, which covers my summer thus far.

The summer Music Playlist: ill be honest, it's full of tunes from bands I have seen this year, and bands I hope to see, and a few gems I have muddled upon which im really liking at the moment. Enjoy. Or not.


Biffy Clyro- Saturday Superhouse.

Pretty excited for the new album from these dudes; I really liked Puzzle and hope that the new album delivers. The Golden Rule single is out mid August well worth a listen.




Bon Iver-Flume.

I can’t get enough of this dude, such a nice song. Makes me think of my Mum which is all gooey and nice, was essential listening during the stress of uni work. Yet now makes for blissful listening for bike rides past 12 in the evening. Superb.

New Moscow- TurboNegro Must be destroyed.

I came across New Moscow on MySpace a few years ago, a solo project of a Swedish guy. I really enjoy, I want to visit that Ice-laden land which is home to sweet sweet Swedish porn. Their Indie scene looks really cool, during influences from the likes of Bright Eyes and fusing them with the minimal Swedish tones. NICE.

Whitest Boy Alive- Burning.

Dreamier, shoe-gaze like pop from the Whitest Boy alive. Side Project from Norwegian songsters Kings of Convenience, this song is brilliant the shifting Guitar which you can’t help but jig along too and the dulcet tones of that Norwegian. Hard not to conjure up images of Pimms.

Bullion- Get Familiar.

Blissed out Electronica your Ting? Well this is really cool, I found out about these guys by random flicking through MySpace a few months ago. The bass beats lend themselves to Dub (you know the genre everyone bums) but the organ gives it a really nice rich sound, and pretty much inspires me to make music (if I had talent). So so fantastic.

Adam Green- Jessica.

A blast of last year Nostalgia for me with this tune. Fond memories of Friends hung over listening to this song. I play it whilst I totter about the house doing jobs; the lyrics are pretty on the mark. I can relate to getting it 'all wrong' in some strange way, not that I ever have.

Passion Pit- Sleepyhead.

A real break through at the festivals thus far; a band I really want to see Passion Pit. These Canadians (I think) sound like a fantastic Indian Wet Dream, that hypnotic wailing in the background and pounding drum beat takes me away to Deli and makes me want to dance.

Bat for Lashes- Pearls Dream.

Ahhh Bats for Lashes, the new album is fantastical I really liked the single Daniel and listened that silly amounts. But this tune is much more brooding, which I personally like, favourable reviews from all concerned at Festivals. I want to see her soon.

U2- Sunday Bloody Sunday.

The stand out song from a fantastic set at Crowe Park in Dublin. You can say what you want about the front man; but his band produces some pretty provocative music. This kicked off severe when they played this and rightly so. A band which show much about the person that I am and my influences in music. All ponient stuff, but honestly fantastic show, perhaps the best I have seen this summer. My parents are seeing them in Wembley; I wish I was going.

Blur- Girls and Boys

One of my favourite tunes when I seen them at Hyde Park. The bass line is infectious, and the songs conjures up images of a summer I perhaps should of had, that said I can enjoy this tune staring out the window unto a drizzle laden Thursday, yet it still brings the summer fantastic.

The Killers- the World that we live in.

Fond memories of varying festival watching on the telly. I’m feeling how the killers have developed, from Hot Fuzz era anthem makers to slick pop pieces which can be found on Day and Age; Sure it's Radio 2 fodder and your Mum & Dad like it too, but who cares?

MSTRKRFT- Heartbreaker ft John Legend.

The Aussies duo knows how to make some compulsive tunes, this being one of them. The video is pretty cool, and the inclusion of Legend is a masterpiece. A fantastic song which inevitably makes me wants to get loose.



The Veronica's- Untouched.

Last tune is out and out Pop. This tune is from Fifa (A computer game which I bum LOADS) and this is the stand out track. The epic Strings, edgy synths/guitars and the (almost) virginal screechy American vocals give me some excitement which im pretty sure is illegal to feel. But is a nice ending for the summer.

The Playlist is here

Spotify fans Enjoy!

Look-forward to more muddled blog posts.

Keep smiling Mitch

Arsenal Season Preview: Get a Hardman + Pull down Russell Brands Pants = Trophy Glory

Pull these bad boy's down and the title is surely Arsenals !

Another season of excitement which is destined for ultimate heartbreak and of course the obligatory pushing for trophies on four fronts beckons for Arsenal who have gone a heart retching four years without a trophy. It seems that my beloved red men are fast becoming the poor Cousin who can play nice football at the top 4’s table.

Over their shoulder lies the big spending petroleum millions of Man City, who’s rich oily cash laden hands seemed to have corrupted one gangly every so slightly over-rated Togolese striker who once called the Emirates his home. Never mind but the trusty signing of Thomas Vermaelen could be a real coup for the Gooners who was joyfully described as ‘a young Belgian Vidic’ by a fellow Gooner.

But all systems are go for the season ahead the golden rule must defeat the supposed ‘little 16’ too many times last season the likes of Stoke, Hull, and even West Ham got the better off us by staying firm in defence and packing out the midfield tighter than Russell Brand’s jeans.

The likes of Robin Van Persie & Theo Walcott have all secured their long term future with the club along with the return of Thomas ‘sick-note’ Rosicky and Eduardo back to his best the club look positively rejuvenated.

Even though we are the team who play the ‘beautiful game’ oh so well Arsenal lack grit and bite which is essential to rule the Premier League for every Fabregas there should be an Essien, Mascherano, or a injured Owen Hargreaves to back him up something Arsenal currently lack.

That said I think that our young side needed that difficult season in their education. I hope for the best and would be happy to finish the season with a winners medal of some form. I feel that Arsene should invest his oil money wisely which he certainly will, but another season without a trophy and I fear Mr Wenger could be pushed out of the door.


Ill leave you with some Classic Arsenal circa 97-98 and a rather awful version of 'hot stuff'.

Euro Football Blog: Forget the Madrista Millions; It's all about Palermo's Kaka.

In this world football blog I will cast a eye over some key transfers over Europe over the close season, forget what you have read in the papers about the Madrid revolution, and the apparent riches of Manchester City. So enjoy as I walk you through some of the more interesting transfers in France, Germany, England, Spain and anywhere else that takes my fancy.

Lucho Gonzalez to Marseille €20 million

The Argentine Midfielder has signed for L'OM after spending 4 seasons at Porto, the club captain headed over to the south of France to join new coach Didier Deschamps. It's a major coup for Marseille who spurned off reported interest from a mystery English Premier League side; they are looking to close the gap on current champions Bordeaux, who have lost speedy winger Gabriel Obertan who has been sold to Manchester United.

Mario Gomez to Bayern Munich €30 million.

Bayern have splashed the money domestically again, this time on the big man from Stuttgart who they had been linked with for a couple of months now. But they splashed a record €30 million making Mario the most expensive Bundesliga player of all time. This signing could perhaps be the beginning of the end for Italian Luca Toni, who is reportedly wanting a move back to Italy, A.C Milan are in the market for a striker so perhaps the San Siro beckons for big Luca?

Thomas Kahlenberg to Wolfsburg undisclosed

Auxerre sold classy midfielder Kahlenberg to current German champions Wolfsburg, which could prove to be a clever buy by the German Side. The Dane has looked a strong player for Auxerre this season, and at 26 still has his best years ahead of him. Expect him to compete in the centre of the park with Brazilian Josue. The Wolves will also be delighted that their strike pair of Edin Dzeko & Grafite who have committed to the club for another season.

Javier Pastore: Talleres- Palermo

This guy has big things ahead of him, only 19 and dubbed the 'Argentinean Kaka' he has moved to Europe. He starred in the Argentine Clausura this season for Hurican and scored an impressive eight goals in his first full season. This lead for calls of an international cap by the Argentinean press and so far Diego Maradona has not obliged, but certainly expect caps in the future. He has moved to Palermo who secured his services after reported interest from Manchester United & A.C Milan. He is contracted to 2014, but if Pastore carries on expect him to be playing for a big European side soon.

Djibril Cissé Marseille- Panathinaikos €7Million

Last season he was helping Sunderland avoid the drop and now the flamboyant Frenchman and his differing hairstyles will be joining the Greek league with Panathinaikos. The promise of Champions league football was too much and he completed his move to Athens for a rather princely 7million Euros. Henk ten Cate is crafting a new side to compete with Olympiacos who completed the league and cup double last season; they have also strengthened in the close season with the likes of Swedish defender Olaf Melberg, and young English striker Matt Derbyshire.

So that was my run down of some of the more interesting deals going on around Europe at the moment, ill leave you with the Fantastic greeting given to English Striker Darius Vasell as he joined Turkish side Ankaragucu on a free after being released by the big spending City. The clip ponders one question; how would they act if they signed anyone good?

Euro Football Review, Wolfsburg Glory, Rookie Managers, and The Transfer Millions

Across Europe the wonder that is domesticated football has come to an end. So with the summer approaching many fans will look forward to a couple of months nervously waiting on their sides summer transfer activities.


In Germany Wolfsburg claimed their first Bundesliga crown on a nervy final day showdown with UEFA cup finalists Werder Bremen. The title race was between Wolfsburg & Bayern Munich; however the Wolves kept their cool and won the league in emphatic fashion in front of a sell out crowd at the Volkswagen Arena. They dispatched Bremen 5-1 with goals from the leagues top scorer Grafite and hotshot striker Edin Dzeko who is now surely on the radar of Europe’s elite clubs after banging in the goals all season. It was a fantastic leaving gift for departing Coach Felix Magath who is joining Schalke next season.

The main transfer gossip from the German league relates to French winger Franck Ribery and which side he will be turning out for next season, rumours suggest that the Frenchman nick named Scarface has a host of clubs after him, from Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid & Barcelona all after the pacy wingers signature for a reported €45million fee. Meanwhile some business has already been concluded with Werder Bremen’s talismanic midfielder Diego off to Juventus of Italy for a £20 million transfer.



In Italy and the title had been decided for sometime now with Inter a comfortable 10 points clear from nearest rivals Juventus. Jose Mourinho’s men again where the team to beat this season, with a perfect record in their home games at the San Siro the catalyst in delivering them their third straight domestic title. Elsewhere in Milan and the red side of the city where saying goodbye to club servant Paulo Maldini who played his last game for the Rossineri after twenty years at the club. The Rossineri also waved goodbye to manager Carlo Anchelotti who promptly was ushered into the
Chelsea hot seat by Russian billionaire Roman Abromovich who is desperate to get his hands on the Champions league title.

Inter Milan also moved quickly in the transfer market snapping up the services of Diego Milito & Thiago Motta from Genoa. Elsewhere and the transfer gossip rocking Italy is the shock transfer of Kaka to Real Madrid for a world record fee, the midfielder has been a long term target of the Madrista who are looking to create Los Galacticos mark two as former president Florentino Perez has been voted in again at the club.


Over to Spain and Barcelona charged to glory on all fronts winning an unprecedented treble in Pep Guardiola’s first season in charge. The Catalans took home the domestic double in the form of league and cup and also won the Champions League crown in Rome after a fantastic tactical display from the rookie Guardiola. Barca struck early on after a raft of pressure from United, the early goal took the emphasis away from the red Devils as Barca’s keep ball tactics worked to devastating effect. Andreas Iniesta ran the midfield that doubled their lead with an uncharacteristic Leo Messi header on the 70th minute.

The main transfer gossip in Spain relates to Valencia and striker David Villa who is being courted by a host of teams across Europe. Valencia are crippled by debt and owes over €650million to the tax man. So now they must sell of their star assets in the form of striker David Villa & midfielder David Silva. Real and Barca are surely at the front of the queue for the pair who have indicated a preference to stay at home. However that won’t stop the armours advances of Manchester United, Manchester City and even Liverpool who are tripping over themselves to sign up the Spanish stars.


In England and it was a case of the major domestic honours being shared between two of the big four again. This time it was Chelsea and Manchester United who took all the glory, and once again the big four retained the top four births in the league for the seventh year running. Manchester United strolled to the title again, even after heavy pressure from Liverpool, confirming champion’s status after a 0-0 draw with Arsenal. Chelsea also romped home to glory in the F.A cup after defeating Everton 2-1 at Wembley. Didier Drogba & Frank Lampard got the goals which ensured Guss Hiddink left Chelsea with a trophy before returning back to his job with the Russian national side.

At the other end of the table and Newcastle, Middlesbrough and West Brom all suffered relegation. Major transfer Gossip in England is focused mainly around the oil millions of Manchester City and ‘the richest club in the world’ have been linked with a whole range of players since the takeover last September. Recently the sky blues have been linked with Carlos Tevez, Everton defender Julian Lescott, and David Villa of Valencia.




Finally over to France and five years of Lyon domination are over as Bordeaux, won their first title in over a decade. The French title race had been of interest for some time as Lyon threw away a six point lead in February and finished up in third place. Bordeaux on the other hand completed a fantastic run of eleven consecutive victories to claim the title. Laurent Blanc dedicated the title to the fans in only his second season as a professional boss. Favouring the more autocratic English style of management Blanc has moulded a formidable side, with French Midfielder Yoann Gourcuff the star of the side.


European Talent Scout

With hundreds of millions of Euro’s being thrown about the Transfer market, I have a look at a few hidden gems, a couple of signings that could set Europe on fire soon.

Michel Bastos- The tricky Brazillian has a hammer of a left foot and has been scoring spectacualar goals for Lille in France. He’s only twenty five and has been attracting interest from the likes of Arsenal and Lyon.





Andreas Vasquez- Another South American import this time via Peru & Sweden. He’s a tricky midfielder with bags of pace, he is only 21 and still has plenty of time to develop, Stoke City and currently running the rule over the star.





Eljero Elia- Hailing from Holland and currently residing with Steve Mclaren’s F.C Twente side. The winger is a speed machine and aint shy in taking on defenders. He’s currently been looked at by PSV of Holland, however I wouldn’t be surprised if he moved to Germany as I hear wispers of strong intrest from Bayern Munich.

World football blog. Champions League Madness and It's all kicking off Stateside... kinda.

This week see’s the return of the mighty Champions League quarter finals and have thrown up some interesting ties and some equally finely balanced score lines for the second leg, which are only a week away. The first ties where played yesterday (Tuesday 7th April 2009.) First up current Champions League holders Manchester United who faced Portuguese domestic champions F.C Porto.

Man Utd came into the game in relatively good form, after beating Aston Villa 3-2 thanks to a last gasp strike from 17 year old Italian striker Federico Machede whose clinical finish came on his first start for the Red Devils. F.C Porto had also come into the tie in relatively good form with a comprehensive 3-1 victory against mid table Guimaraes. The tie began at a frantic pace with Porto taking a shock lead within four minutes, through Christian Rodriguez whose accurate shot found the net. Normal service was soon resumed as Wayne Rooney pounced on a defensive error to level up the scores just before half time.

Man Utd looked frail at the back without talismanic centre back Rio Ferdinand who was ruled out with a groin strain. But still Porto where playing some fantastic fast paced football throughout the second half, the red devils still looked off the pace with Porto’s Brazilian keeper Helton pulling off a number of saves to deny United, notably from Nemanja Vidic’s powerful header from a Ryan Giggs corner. Sir Alex Ferguson was looking for a winner and threw on Argentine striker Carlos Tevez who duly scored with five minutes from time. However there was a final twist in this tale as Porto’s midfield maestro Lucho Gonzalez slipped in Mariano Gonzalez who was unmarked to shoot past Edwin Van Der Sar to level up the tie 2-2. It leaves Sir Alex’s men with a difficult task when they visit Oporto in a week’s time as they look to retain their Champions League crown.


The other fixture on Tuesday was between the Spanish side Villarreal and north London giants Arsenal. Before this fixture the Gunners had been in fine form in the league by beating Manchester City 2-0 with stand out performances from returning stars Emmanuel Adebayor & Cesc Fabregas. Arsenal have been in fantastic form in the league recently and have not been beaten in their last 17 games. Villarreal however had stuttered in the league against relegation threatened Almeria by losing 3-0 former Arsenal player Robert Pires being sent off in the game. Also Villarreal had to deal with the blow of Midfielder Santi Carzola on the sidelines for the rest of the season after badly breaking his ankle during the game.

The game started at a frantic pace with Villarreal really taking it to the visitors, their attractive brand of quick passing and movement drew comparisons with Arsenal in their own pomp. The yellow submarine struck after just 10 minutes after a 30 yard screamer from Spanish midfielder Marcos Senna who was given way to much time to pick his shot. Arsenal where dealt a blow later in the half as keeper Manuel Almunia limped off the pitch with an injured ankle. Replacement Lucas Fabianski duly stepped into the breach and pulled off a number of fantastic saves to keep the Spanish side at bay.

The second half started and Arsenal returned as a different side that graced the pitch in the first half. Now more direct and assertive they began to dictate the game with the unique passing football that is expected from Arsene Wenger’s side. Arsenal levelled up the score on the 66th minute thanks to an exceptional piece of improvisation from Adebayor. A long clipped ball from Cesc Fabregas was dispatched by Adebayor with an outrageous overhead kick which left Villarreal keeper Diego Lopez firmly rooted to the spot. The game finished at 1-1 and the vital away goal leaves Arsenal in the driving seat for a place in the final four of the Champions League.



Wednesday’s set of games also threw up two interesting ties, the first of which being the all English affair between Liverpool and Chelsea. This game had the distinct feeling of déjà vu as the sides have met five times in the last six Champions League seasons. Liverpool came into the game of the back of a last minute victory over Fulham, with a last minute winner from Yossi Benayoun. Chelsea came into the game after comprehensively winning 2-0 against Newcastle United away from home.

The match burst into life in only the sixth minute when Spanish striker Fernando Torres slotting past Peter Chech. Slowly Chelsea got back into the game and striker Didier Drogba spurned a number of chances, but Serbian defender Ivanovic battling through the Liverpool defence to head in Frank Lampard’s corner. The score was finely balanced at 1-1 at half time of a surprisingly open encounter. With the second half underway Chelsea struck again with a carbon copy of their first with the big Serb finding his way through Liverpool’s static zonal marking to make it 2-1 for the Blues.

Liverpool looked increasingly out of sorts and just five minutes later Chelsea delivered a killer blow to Liverpool’s hopes of reaching the last four when Drogba scored from close range to put Chelsea 3-1 up on the night. It may now take a minor miracle for the Liverpool to progress as it’s pretty hard to see Chelsea surrendering a two goal lead at Stanford Bridge.


The final game of the quarter finals came between Barcelona & Bayern Munich. Barca have been in fantastic form on all fronts this season sweeping to a six point lead in the league this season, coming into this fixture after beating Valladolid 1-0 in a difficult fixture after International week. Bayern on the other hand had just been on the wrong end of a 5-1 mauling at the hands of top of the table Wolfsburg, the result piled on pressure on Bayern who domestically look like they are slipping off the pace.


So with that in mind Jurgen Klinsmann’s men came into the game knowing that they had to perform. However that’s hard at the best of times against Barca whose form this season has been sublime. The Catalans wasted little time through the magic of Leo Messi who rounded of a well crafted passing move to calmly slot pass Hans Jorg Butt. Barca where relentless in attack with Bayern looking little like the side that comprehensively beat Sporting in the last 16. Only three minutes later Samuel Eto rounded off another well rounded passing move to score Barca’s second of the evening.

Barca looked like a well oiled footballing machine working hard all over the pitch with or without the ball. It was only a matter of time before it was 3-0 with Thierry Henry providing for Leo Messi who slid in for a third. The French striker got his well deserved goal after a well played advantage from English referee Howard Webb which left Henry one on one with the keeper gracefully slotting into the net and leaving barca with an unthinkable 4 goal lead going into half time.

But credit to Bayern they did improve in the second half thanks in part to the introduction of Andreas Ottel who added some much-needed steel in midfield for the Germans. They did have one chance however; however the trusty boot of Carlos Puyol was there to deny Brazilian Ze Roberto. Barca still had chances and Messi could have scored a hat trick if not for the ball being cleared off the line by his own player. The final score of 4-0 all but means that Barca are in the semi finals and it will be amazing if Bayern are to beat them overall.


Over in America and the MLS is in full swing and is currently in its third week of competition. With the newest franchise to the league Seattle Sounders are certainly making waves early on. Marque signing Fredrick Ljungberg hasn’t taken long to settle in with the Swedish midfielder scoring against Toronto F.C in a comprehensive 2-0 victory. Chivas USA also remain unbeaten in the Western Conference and ground out an impressive victory against Columbus Crew at the weekend with defender Andy Iro on hand to score the winner.


In the Eastern Conference and Chicago Fire are the team to beat, with the like’s of veteran Mexico striker Temo Blanco & seasoned international Brian Mc Bride have created a blossoming partnership upfront. Meaning the Fire will be looking to get their hands on some gold this season. They managed to defeat New York Bulls at the weekend even after midfielder John Torrington fouled New York's Macoumba Kandji earning himself an early bath and leaving his side with ten men. However the Fire fought back and Marco Pappa’s heavily deflected shot was enough to give the Fire a toughly fought victory.




Oh and Month of March threw up some Beautiful strikes goal of the month time ive found three crackers... what do you think? Let me know at michfreeley@hotmail.com

Number 1: Bilica's delicious free kick against Fenerbache (March the 4th)



Number 2: Kenny Cooper does a Beckham, im a fan of the 60 yard strike. the music and commentary just makes it better too. (March 21st 2009)




Number 3:Eduardo Silva's beach football strike against Burnley. I had the priverlage to see this goal live, the Croat from Brazil's volley was on a different planet but is it better than the two previous strikes? (8th March 2009)

Euro Football review: Lyon set for 8th title, Barca stutter & the very open Bundesliga title race.

Karim Benzema grabs Lyons second.

Across Europe and it seems that many of the major title races in England, France & Spain have come to a gentle halt, all with relatively predictable league winners in Manchester United, Lyon & Barcelona. Most of their rivals slipped up this weekend leaving them clear at the top of their respective leagues by some margin; the title now seems to be in their hands.

In France and Lyon went a mighty six points clear from their nearest rivals Olympique Marseille this weekend. They managed to dispatch South coast side Nancy thanks to goals from Brazilian defender Cris and striker Karim Benzema who netted either side of the interval. Les Gones look set for their eighth league title in eight years as they continue to dominate at home. However the Champion’s League has been the major aim for the French side and they currently are preparing to play Spanish Giants Barcelona this coming Tuesday the 23rd of February.

Barcelona's domestic dominance stuttered slightly this weekend as they where defeated by relegation threatened Espanyol in the Catalan derby. Ivan de la Pena stuck twice at the start of the second half, to give Espanyol a comfortable two goal lead. Barcelona where handicapped by the dismissal of Barca midfielder Seydou Keita who was sent off for an over zealous challenge on Moises of Espanyol. However Yaya Toure managed to grab a goal back,but Espanyol survived the onslaught from the league leaders till full time.

This meant that Real Madrid had an opportunity to close the gap of the league leaders to seven points and they certainly took their opportunity destroying Real Betis 6-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu. Goals from Klaas Jan Huntelaar, Raul, Gonzalo Higuain and Sergio Ramos saw the Madrista canter to victory now leaving the gap to just seven points against their Spanish rivals. Real Madrid are currently preparing to meet Liverpool this week in the Champion’s League round of sixteen.

In the Premier League Manchester United have a seven point lead at the top as Liverpool failed to pile on the pressure by only managing a 1-1 draw with Man City on Sunday afternoon. Former Liverpool striker Craig Bellamy was on the score sheet for the sky blues before Dutch Striker Dirk Kuyt levelled up the scores. It seems that the pressure is really getting to Liverpool, and this was compounded by Rafa Benitez noting "I think we will have to beat Manchester United now," If Liverpool have any chance of winning there first title in over eighteen years.

Elsewhere and Manchester United looked comfortable against local rivals Blackburn Rovers. A wonder strike from Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo gave the red devils a 2-1 victory at Old Trafford. Everton will be without classy Spanish midfielder Miguel Arteta for the rest of the season, after he ruptured his cruciate knee ligament in his sides 0-0 draw away from home against Newcastle United. It leaves Everton with a mini injury crisis with midfielders Leon Osman & Steven Pienaar out injured recently with the club trying to catch Arsenal in fifth place.

With all this talk of all but certain league champions you would perhaps question the validity of the European game. But this season it seems that the German Bundesliga has been bucking the trend with the most open league race for years. Newly promoted F.C Koln beat Bayern Munich by two goals to one at the Allianz Arena. It leaves the race wide open with just four points separating the top four in the league. Newly top of the table Hamburg beat a tricky Bayern Leverkusen 2-1, but the game of the weekend came between Hoffenheim & Stuttgart. It ended in a fantastic 3-3 draw in a game which was a tale of two strikers, Mario Gomez of Stuttgart who grabbed a brace & Demba Ba a hat-trick for Hoffenheim.

Finally to Italy and Inter still maintain their dominance at the top of the league with a 2-1 victory over Bologna on Saturday Substitute Mario Balotelli scored a fluke goal moments after coming on to give Serie A leaders victory. It leaves Inter nine points clear as nearest rivals Juventus kept the pressure up with a 2-0 victory at Palermo, with goals from Mohamed Sissoko & David Trezeguet. Third placed A.C Milan narrowly won 1-0 against Cagliari in Sunday’s big game, with the single goal from Clarence Seedorf.

"My city, my rules right." The narrow-minded football fan strikes again.

Denilson: Well Portuguese

Hello. My name is Mitch Freeley & in my spare time I like to dj, tweet on twitter, listen to music and take part in the national sport of football. Be this on the humble grass or astro turf or whilst sitting down in a house or even a public house to watch the big game concerning my beloved Arsenal football club. However whist engaging in my hobby I came across one of the most narrow minded, blind and frankly annoying football fan who has questioned the validity for me of our national game.


So I shall set the scene, it's a beautiful sunny day in Birmingham the kind of day in February which you would be fooled to be thinking of a June or July, lovely. I have a nice Saturday off and one in which I am not particularly hung-over. I note that the Arsenal are playing at 3 in the afternoon and so plot in trying to find a bar which will quench my thirst for unsure-if-it's-legal-or-not Premier league football. The only solution comes from a bar I forget the name of on Broad street, so off I go along with my football loving pal John. We take a rather splendid walk around the reservoir talking about our respective teams (John supports Reading) and just talk of the weather and the sort.

We soon arrive at the bar and im pleased to note the sign proclaiming that the Arsenal who where playing Sunderland was on and live, very import the game was Live I to watch the game. Particularly on the inclusion of Arsenals big money signing Andrei Arshavin, who I have been talking about at great length’s on my world football posts and anyone who can have my ear whilst talking football. He promises a "new dawn" for Arsenal in what has been a frustrating season thus far, in terms of promising so much technically with the pace & passing skills which make many fans of the beautiful game drool in delight.

However they lack that final thrust, that goal that moment of magic. Something that I am convinced the Russian can deliver by the bucket-load. So much so my little brother has vowed to get his named embossed across the back of his new away shirt. The last player which was chosen by him was Jose Antonio Reyes, look what happened to him.

Anyway I deviate from the story at hand. So with little over ten minutes to the game and we are held up tight in a booth. I notice a pair of gentlemen in the booth opposite us. Both with beer's in hand and in full voice, one wearing an Aston Villa shirt, who had only hours later succumbed a 8 game winning streak to a newly rejuvenated Chelsea side thanks in part to the wonder of Guss Hiddink. Clearly in a bullish spirit the two gents, chatted over their pints of choice (I presume Stella) turning the air blue with their view on Chelsea fans and the game. (Constant references to women’s genitals) it seemed they where very much against the fact that Chelsea fans choose to watch the game in Birmingham of all places.

Constantly referring them with the phrase “cockney -women’s genitals which rhyme with shunt” I laughed as the game progressed but the fifth minute showed by weakest moment of the day. Arshavin open's up space fantastically and is primed for a shot. I cry out "Go on Andei!" as I tend to do with all Arsenal players I call them by their first names to imply some crude friendship with the player, it's silly but it seems very much to be with my own psyche when watching Arsenal.


Big mistake, the pair who are now joined by what can be only described as a Brummie beau lock eyes with me and pursue in talking down the Arsenal, cockneys, and start supporting Sunderland for the game. I suppose it comes with the territory of a busy bar in Brum and so I get on watching the game. Smiling at the drivel that this guy is coming out with relating to Arsenal, gems including "That Nasri's a gay boy." Homosexual or not Sami's ability is breathtaking, and so the titter tattle of this idiot and his idiot friend made myself and my friend quietly smile such is life.


But then things rapidly got out of hand I cheered at the apparent goal Robin Van Percy had created for it to creep wide. Now Mr Villa who now in full pomp cheered loudly, not a problem with that he's following his beloved Sunderland, the "wonder Mackems" as he proudly shouted. But the line was crossed as he sat down and proceeded to call me "that fooking Cockney lady genital, fook off to London you fookin lady genital." Stunned by such language directed at me, I replied with "So how did you (the villa) do today." a snappy reply of "We lost mate." I quip "oh ok." me purely out of my depth grappling verbally with two senior football aficionado’s. "But we are five points ahead of you so we isn’t bothering about you (Arsenal) mate." Was the equally witty and precise comment from Mr Villa's associate, who as the current situation progressed was a rather tubby gent and looked if it came down to it handy in a scuffle. I remained calm as the idiots babbled between themselves, and quickly replied, "So how you doing in europe? Losing the first leg thought so."

Game Freeley surely. But Mr Villa whom I shall describe as a balding, bespectacled and eye brow pierced individual. Blew his lid at those Uefa cup comments, invoking a blunt response of "shut the fudge up right." this repeated till I simply laughed at him and turned to watch the game. The argument in all took a mere moment but had ramifications which would last throughout the game.


Between the three of them (Mr Villa, Tubbs & the Brummie Beau) talked at length about the incident whilst me and my pal John (who said nothing incidentally, thanks) watched the game as normally as you can after a verbal tussle with the people right next to you. Needless to say much cursing was directed at me, and the argument mainly was that this was "a villa pub." and that he would never have such Gaul to do the same in "a London boozer." The first point of frustration for me, I isn’t a cockney guvnor honest, and although I perhaps play up to this presumption when impressing strangers and or ladies. It considerably Irked me im not sure why, and the second was the grand comment of "This is my city, so he should run with my rules right." Oh how I wished I had piped up again destroying this prat with some witty comeback effectively putting his argument in the shade.

But I didn’t, he had frustrated me immensely mainly with his brain-dead punditry, his love of women’s genitalia in conversation, and the fact that by having a few pints he had the right to shout down normal J2O drinking individuals like myself. So the game got to half time, still a rather dire 0-0 with Arsenal failing to deliver at the crucial moment again. The three leave the table, & I breathe a sigh of relief.

No more homosexual bashing aimed at Sami who with his recent new hair cut would be well worth my attention homosexual or not. No more witty comments laid at Denilson "go back to Portugal" was labelled at the light-weight Brazilian. Or non at my newest hero Andrei, "He's just shit." Say it isn’t so! Now newly relaxed and I kicked back eating on some very expensive sandwich and chips and watching the various halftime results come in including the mighty Reading loosing to Bristol city, meaning jokes on John and congrats to my Bristol City supporting friend Ross Casey. But just as the second half came on who arrives back at the bar?


Yes it's the Villa three all fresh from their half time smoke and taking refuge by the pub slot machine. Im well aware of the trio holed up as their old seats get taken up by another group of villa fans. The second half again kicks off and well it's more of the same really, pretty football with no cut and thrust just frustration. But I wasn’t acting my usually bubbly self, in the corner of my eye they stood boggle eyed at the football on the big screen willing Sunderland on.

Now I prayed to the football gods for help to relive my pain, forget Champions League, forget Villa a classic 1-0 to the Arsenal is just the ticket. Christ I would have taken in a fumbled in effort from Eboue who had come on for that Portuguese superstar Denilson. But then it happened twenty minutes to go Carlos Vela free on goal surely the net was about to bulge, I rose up on the expectation of a goal and the visible gloating I was going to throw to the Villa three. But ruined again the Mexican spurned his chance for glory, much to the jeers directed at me. I felt like the only gooner in town.


Then the final dilemmas I needed the toilet, but with the trio so well placed by the toilets would anything happen? Would this be the timely demise of Mitch Freeley aged 20 to a middle aged weekend dad look-a-like. Part of me said hold on to that wee, preserve your boyish looks. The other half said go for it, and if you get battered it's a story for the fostered kids explaining your chronic infidelity. Anyway my idiot brain went with the infidelity route, and so I wandered down warning my pal before I left. I skipped past no problem, fantastic I thought as I wazzed triumphantly over the urinal. Then taking time to wash my hands before my date with destiny. I walked out and past only to be greeted with the phrase "Scum" crudely hurled my way. It felt wrong I tell you, but my response was a calm nod and sarcastic smile. It's all I seem to do whilst faced with my angriest moments pure full on sarcasm.

Silly so after that skirmish I sad down watched the game and well got on with it, but the football gods failed to smile on me, Arsenal should have won and spurned many a chance. William Gallas missing a peach at the very last to leave me questioning my teams chance of a Champions league spot. The game ended and in a well choreographed moved Mr Villa wandered towards me, spouting some Brummie gibberish about the game, I was so angry at this point I failed to reply as they bounded off like school children to be picked up by the beau in her rather fantastic Ford Mondeo which was red in colour. I presume I remember so well because of the pure frustration.

Anyway that was that & what can we learn. Firstly never actively listen or engage with the opinions of Moron's, or anyone who can harbour racist, homophobic or darn right ignorant views on the beautiful game. Granted this sport is one very much of debate and argument but it should not be told by blinded bigots like the one I ran into on this beautiful of Saturdays. Secondly always hold your tongue and never try to talk to these mindless people because you'll end up like me frustrated and bewildered. Finally draw comfort from a number of things, your sure ability of your rightness in what you do and that you regularly engage in football debate with meaningful, and clever mediums such as the guardian and football shows else where, not from the local village idiot who recons he's an Andy Grey in waiting.

Finally I would also like to note that I have many friends who follow the Villa, I appreciate them for there fandom and as genuine people, and over all most Villa fans I meet are ace. But it's just the one I have a problem with, and in truth I do feel that as of this week (22nd Feb. 2009) Villa have been the better team and deserve 4th place. However it isn’t over till the fat lady sings!
This is a example of a nice normal Villa fan, not the one i bumped into.

Keep Smiling Mitch

World Football- Scolari Sacked, Barca make records & Arshavin Arrives.

The January transfer window slammed shut last week (Feb 2^nd) and it saw a last minute gasp of frantic transfer action particularly in the English Premiership. Tottenham where the transfer windows biggest spenders with over 40 million pounds on a new pair of strikers recruiting former players Irish international Robbie Keane & Jermaine Defoe from Liverpool & Portsmouth respectively. On the other half of North London Arsenal finally brought long term target Andrei Arshavin for a reported club record fee of 15million pounds. It is hoped that Arshavin can be the catalyst that will pull the Gunners up to that crucial fourth place for Champion’s League football.

The north London rivals clashed last Sunday (8^th Feb) at White Heart Lane. The game was marred by the dismissal of Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Eboué. But even though Tottenham had the man advantage they failed to capitalise, the game ending 0-0. Elsewhere in the premiership Chelsea only managed to draw with Hull 0-0 that being the last game for Brazilian coach Luiz Felipe Scolari, who was quickly replaced by Dutch coach Guus Hiddink. Portsmouth are also the latest club to be looking for a manager as Tony Adams was given the sack from the Fratton Park hot seat, after a woeful 3-2 defeat to title contenders Liverpool. They failed to keep a two goal lead and gave the Portsmouth board no choice but to sack Adams who was in charge for only 4 months.

Over in Spain and Barcelona are still the team to beat with an impressive 3-1 victory over Sporting De Gijon at the Nou Camp. Baca scored their 102 goal of the season in all competitions. And an interesting fact is that the front three strikers of Henry, Messi, and Eto have scored more goals combined than any team in the top four European leagues (Spain, Italy, England, and Germany). Elsewhere Real Madrid scraped a one goal victory at home to Racing, and Sevilla lost to local rivals Real Betis 2-1 in the big Seville Derby.

In France and the title race is hotting up as PSG managed to defeat Nantes 4-1 at the Parc de Paris. The victory leaves the Parisians just one point off the league leaders, with goals coming from young Benin striker Stephane Sessegnon & also former Barcelona player Ludovic Giuly. Leaders Lyon kept top spot with a victory against Nice with a brace from Jean Makoun.

Over to Germany and it’s turning into a three way race for the title between Hoffenheim, Bayern Munich & Hertha Berlin. The later two just two points of the league leaders. Bayern looked comfortable against Borussia Dortmund winning 3-1 with a brace from German striker Miroslav Klose. However Hertha could only manage a draw against Arminia Bielefeld, as could Hoffenheim who draw 1-1 away from home against Borussia Monchengladbach.

Finally over to Italy where it seems that David Beckham's stay at A.C Milan could be much longer than his initial loan. The English super star is reported to be happy at Milan and is considering leaving American side L.A Galaxy to join the Rossoneri. However Beckham, who won his record equalling 108^th English cap midweek against Spain, failed to inspire as Milan drew 1-1 against lowly Regina. At the top of the table and Inter cruised to a convincing 3-0 victory against Lecce with goals from Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic & Louis Figo.

Luton Music profile-David Boa

David Boa has always been one of those interesting people whilst I was at sixth form collage, he was a year above me but he stood out to me during my time at Luton sixth. He seemed really dedicated to his courses and I always remember him stuck in one of the art studio’s most of the time. Even on lunch breaks when most kids sat quietly in the canteen or tried to impress girls by playing football David would always be working away at something.

But my interest in him was fascinated by his desire to do well and just always work. Not to mention whatever David seemed to touch graphically looked fantastic if slightly left field and odd. I clearly remember one drawing David which just made me smirk, the image stood there triumphal and indeed stayed there long after David moved onto university in Norwich.

Yet I never really knew David or Boa as he likes to be called that well. I kind of knew him through friends really, but not that well. However that all changed as through our hobby we met up created a secret society called SHH! (No joke) and we all done our said hobby together. It had a relative amount of success, and our secret hobby lead us to run and play evenings all over the country, Ill leave David to explain more.

Now I am able to catch up with David in a dingy basement of local nightspot Manhattans in my home town of Luton, much has happened in-between that drawing that made me laugh so much. That’s why I decided to interview David to see what’s going on with him particularly in relation to a hobby he started whilst at university.

MF: So David want to give us some insight into your dj’ing and how you got involved with Dark Party and the Basement

D.B: Well a group of us in Luton just started to DJ just before I went off to university it came from us all going out to the same places in Luton. We just got together thanks to this guy Ginger John and we just put a night on. We didn’t really know each other and we all played the same stuff and we went from there.

MF: So what kinda stuff did you and the other guys play?

D.B well the style has changed a lot, I basically house music it’s a mixture of tech house & electro and jackin’ beats kinda stuff. It’s pretty much electro with loads of Indie remixes which I guess goes down well with the crowd who goes to Dark Party. The music we play is easily accessible and it’s very jump up and fun.

MF What about this Ginger John guy don’t you think it was a great idea to get us all together?

D.B I Think Ginger John massively helped us out I don’t think I would be Dj’ing as much without his help. Just by noticing about us guys and what we did. I mean we had a couple of Indie Dj’s like yourself but also a few electro Dj’s and he just brought us together and off the back of this we have all become friends like me and you but also all the other guys as well. But off this it’s good to network as well because Alex & Craig are still studying at the moment and it’s nice because you have the opportunity to take the dj further afield. I and the guys have dj’ed in Bournemouth together and we are also djing in London soon which should be fun.

M.F Do you think by playing out in Luton helped you hone your dj skills at university in Norwich?

D.B Yeah definitely, it worked both ways. Because when I was first playing out there was a big party scene in Luton, but also the night I do in Norwich called Pow which I still do are both very similar value. Both Indie party based but at the same time have some very good dj’s . It defiantly helped playing out to different crowds in different parts of the country but both have similar vibes, which made it great.

M.F Do you think by also playing to similar crowds that helped you in terms of creating the mixes that you put up online?

D.B I improved as a dj from playing out; it’s a totally different experience from being a bedroom dj to playing out live. It was a really exciting transition to have especially at university because it was such a great place to do it.

M.F OK, So how about the perks of Djing I mean it’s a pretty sweet deal, free drinks and free entry is it about that for you or is it all about the music?

D.B For me dj’ing is always going to be a hobby, I am never going to become a superstar dj, although I would quite like to.

M.F But the people around us such as Craig & Alex are doing really well with it, I mean when you see those people do you feel a sense of pride seeing them do so well?

D.B Definitely especially for Craig and Alex, for me it’s still a hobby and it always will be. But for Crack Your Skull is definitely a big name in Bournemouth for sure and they are taking over the south really, with some big nights in Bristol and when they played Nag, Nag, Nag which has finished now but was one of the best nights in country at the time. That was such a good night and it was wicked seeing your friends do it and make it, because they enjoy djing and they definitely wanna do it and it’s refreshing to see somebody have so much fun with it.

M.F Looking forward would you like to release any production in the future in a similar vein to what Alex (Victoria Wreckham) has done? Would you like to go into that area?

D.B It’s one of my New Year’s resolutions actually to make new tunes. When I was younger I used to be in a band and ive always been quite musical and enjoyed music a lot. I think that my drive now is to make dance music as opposed to rock music.

M.F Right, fantastic David Boa thank you

D.B oh no thank you.

David is currently working as a graphic designer in London; he can’t name them for some reason. In his spare time David is Dj’ing at the basement of Dark Party which is every Saturday at Manhattans in Luton. He also DJ’s at POW in Norwich also, look out for David playing out in London and most of southern England soon. David is currently produces mixes regularly, to find them just type in Brap Dj Collective into facebook that shall give you all you need.