Go on then, ask me whatever you want about the worlds most popular pastime.

Who's your favorite team (English, I'm assuming), and have you ever been to a game?

Who's your favorite team (English, I'm assuming), and have you ever been to a game?


My team is Leicester City and yes I've been to hundreds of games. I've followed them in their european travels (Very brief I'm afraid) and all over the country.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leicester_City_F.C.

Can yu explain the Offside Rule?

Can yu explain the Offside Rule?


Of course.

If the ball is played to a player who is past the last defender, before the ball is played and he has an impact on play then he is to be judged offside.
However, if said player is level with the last defender, or the last defender is closer to the goal than said player when the ball is played (even if said player comes in to contact with the ball in a position closer to goal than the last defender) then said player is not offisde and any impact said player has will be fully legal and within the rules of the game.

Of course.

If the ball is played to a player who is past the last defender, before the ball is played and he has an impact on play then he is to be judged offside.
However, if said player is level with the last defender, or the last defender is closer to the goal than said player when the ball is played (even if said player comes in to contact with the ball in a position closer to goal than the last defender) then said player is not offisde and any impact said player has will be fully legal and within the rules of the game.
Thanks, let me take notes.

Of course.

If the ball is played to a player who is past the last defender, before the ball is played and he has an impact on play then he is to be judged offside.
However, if said player is level with the last defender, or the last defender is closer to the goal than said player when the ball is played (even if said player comes in to contact with the ball in a position closer to goal than the last defender) then said player is not offisde and any impact said player has will be fully legal and within the rules of the game.


Davey !

Don't forget that :

1. You cannot be offside within your own half of the field, and

2. You cannot be offside if you are behind the line of the ball, even if the last defender is nowhere in sight

:P ;)

Davey !

Don't forget that :

1. You cannot be offside within your own half of the field, and

2. You cannot be offside if you are behind the line of the ball, even if the last defender is nowhere in sight

:P ;)


This is true.

To be honest, Sepp Blatter has meddled so much, the offside rule is all but redundant now anyway. As long as you're not the first person to touch it you can be offside all you want and there will be no action taken. Something that suits Ruud Van Nistlerooy just fine indeed.

Davey !

Don't forget that :

1. You cannot be offside within your own half of the field, and

2. You cannot be offside if you are behind the line of the ball, even if the last defender is nowhere in sight

:P ;)


In addition to this, I believe you're also not given offside when the ball's thrown in directly towards you, no matter how far you're behind the last opponent.


This is true.

To be honest, Sepp Blatter has meddled so much, the offside rule is all but redundant now anyway. As long as you're not the first person to touch it you can be offside all you want and there will be no action taken. Something that suits Ruud Van Nistlerooy just fine indeed.


I think the whole rule should be abolished. It serves no real purpose and linesman keep misjudging situations.

I think the whole rule should be abolished. It serves no real purpose and linesman keep misjudging situations.


It just needs to be taken back to the simple offside rule of a few years ago.

My team is Leicester City and yes I've been to hundreds of games. I've followed them in their european travels (Very brief I'm afraid) and all over the country.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leicester_City_F.C.
And now, my inevitable follow-up question: Are English soccer football fans really as violent and unruly as us Americans are led to believe? Have you ever been in an all-out no-holds-barred brawl (complete with knives, chains, and tire irons) with fans from whomever Leicester City's chief rival may be?

And now, my inevitable follow-up question: Are English soccer football fans really as violent and unruly as us Americans are led to believe? Have you ever been in an all-out no-holds-barred brawl (complete with knives, chains, and tire irons) with fans from whomever Leicester City's chief rival may be?



Yeah it's true and yes I have in a manner of speaking.

I've never been involved in anything with knives or anything, but yeah, bricks, fireworks, bottles etc.

In one trip to Nottingham (That would be Nottingham Forest) we were escorted out of the stadium by the police.. in a tunnel of riot shields right. Then they just left us to make our way to the stadium (Pretty bloody stupid, they must have known what was going to happen.) I was in a group with about 10 other blokes and we come down the road and there's about 40 Forest lads there. Well, being slightly smarter than the average fan, we turn tail and leg it, getting to the train station. But we had a good scrap there, by that time there was only about 20 of them. That was a lot of fun.

On the field, the football decides who the best team is, off the field the fighting decides it.

Yeah it's true and yes I have in a manner of speaking.

I've never been involved in anything with knives or anything, but yeah, bricks, fireworks, bottles etc.

In one trip to Nottingham (That would be Nottingham Forest) we were escorted out of the stadium by the police.. in a tunnel of riot shields right. Then they just left us to make our way to the stadium (Pretty bloody stupid, they must have known what was going to happen.) I was in a group with about 10 other blokes and we come down the road and there's about 40 Forest lads there. Well, being slightly smarter than the average fan, we turn tail and leg it, getting to the train station. But we had a good scrap there, by that time there was only about 20 of them. That was a lot of fun.

On the field, the football decides who the best team is, off the field the fighting decides it.
Sounds like fun. I'm there dude!

Sounds like fun. I'm there dude!


You'd dig it the most.

I've never been involved in anything with knives or anything, but yeah, bricks, fireworks, bottles etc.


I've never been involved in any sort of 'fisticuffs', but have come close...

Many years ago, I attended a few games at Millwall (notorious South London club) which was a bit 'hairy' for me, so I switched (rather sensibly) to non-league football in nearby Dulwich...

Most scary moment there didn't actually happen at the match, but getting home afterward...

Me and a friend boarded the homebound train, which was packed to the gills with Leeds united supporters who'd just been playing Crystal Palace and were on their way back to central London for the connecting trains 'up north'...

Of course, they've clocked me and my friend who were (as loyal supporters) wearing our scarves...

...a lurid concoction of pink (yes, pink!) and blue... :o

...if that wasn't bad enough, they are very nearly the same colours as Crystal Palace!

One of the LU mob piped up in a thick, yorkshire accent...'who you support, lads?'

They seemed okay with our explaination, especially when my friend started rattling off non-league names from their area...so we were safe!

But I tell you, that was quite possibly the longest 8 minute train journey of my life!

I've never been involved in any sort of 'fisticuffs', but have come close...

Many years ago, I attended a few games at Millwall (notorious South London club) which was a bit 'hairy' for me, so I switched (rather sensibly) to non-league football in nearby Dulwich...

Most scary moment there didn't actually happen at the match, but getting home afterward...

Me and a friend boarded the homebound train, which was packed to the gills with Leeds united supporters who'd just been playing Crystal Palace and were on their way back to central London for the connecting trains 'up north'...

Of course, they've clocked me and my friend who were (as loyal supporters) wearing our scarves...

...a lurid concoction of pink (yes, pink!) and blue... :o

...if that wasn't bad enough, they are very nearly the same colours as Crystal Palace!

One of the LU mob piped up in a thick, yorkshire accent...'who you support, lads?'

They seemed okay with our explaination, especially when my friend started rattling off non-league names from their area...so we were safe!

But I tell you, that was quite possibly the longest 8 minute train journey of my life!


;D OOoh no, that sounds hairy.

Being trapped on a train with a bunch of Leeds fans strikes me as about the worst possible Saturday imaginable

What do the Brits think of American football?

What do the Brits think of American football?


It's a 'tarted-up' version of rugby!  ;)

Seriously, it did have a marginally respectable following over here during the 80s, when the then-recently launched Channel 4 TV threw its promotional muscle behind showing it (possibly because all other sports had been taken by our other channels...)

Sadly, the game never really managed to maintain its high-water mark of popularity and it gradually slipped away from the schedules...

Personally, I'm not a great lover of the 'stop-start' element of the game...but the atmosphere inside the stadiums must be something else...

Not the sort of thing we manage to achieve with something like Bristol Rovers v Grimsby!

It's a 'tarted-up' version of rugby!  ;)

Seriously, it did have a marginally respectable following over here during the 80s, when the then-recently launched Channel 4 TV threw its promotional muscle behind showing it (possibly because all other sports had been taken by our other channels...)

Sadly, the game never really managed to maintain its high-water mark of popularity and it gradually slipped away from the schedules...

Personally, I'm not a great lover of the 'stop-start' element of the game...but the atmosphere inside the stadiums must be something else...

Not the sort of thing we manage to achieve with something like Bristol Rovers v Grimsby!


Paul, in some stadiums the atmosphere is great, in some it's crap. Same as real football..

I suppose I'm not 'a real' brit in terms or what I like and do not like so I'm not one to talk, but I know a few people who are in to American Football.

What I don't understand is why Amerian football isn't called gridiron. :P

Paul, in some stadiums the atmosphere is great, in some it's crap. Same as real football..

I suppose I'm not 'a real' brit in terms or what I like and do not like so I'm not one to talk, but I know a few people who are in to American Football.
Have you ever been to an NFL or major college (Division I) football game in the states?  If so, how does the atmosphere in English football stadiums compare to American football stadiums? I hate to put you on the spot, but which did you think was more fun?
    Also, when at an English football match, have you ever encountered any hostility from any fans simply for being American?

Why do Football teams slap each other on the butts? ;D

Have you ever been to an NFL or major college (Division I) football game in the states?  If so, how does the atmosphere in English football stadiums compare to American football stadiums? I hate to put you on the spot, but which did you think was more fun?
    Also, when at an English football match, have you ever encountered any hostility from any fans simply for being American?


Well, I don't sound like I'm American.. which.. I'm not really, remember Al, I'm half and half and I grew up in England, so I guess I'm more English. I have encourtered major hostility for supporting the wrong team though.

One night in Nottingham we got chased all the way to the train station by about 30 blokes.  ;D

The atmosphere for Div I college games is intense! I went to see Mizzou play a few times and was impressed.. and they suck.
Of course, I went to see the Rams play against Seattle and the atmosphere sucked!
The difference is this... for the most part the great atmosphere at American Football games is of the canned laughter disney variety. "Go team" "Oh yay" "woooooooooooo yeah" It's all really fairly pathetic and disneyish. But loud.
At a real football game.. and I'm talking at every club in europe here (thousands) the atmosphere is hostile, loud, in unison and violent.
For instance, my team, Leicester City. They have a fairly good reputation. When the other teams fans come up here, they can often expect to have a fight on their hands. Everyone in the stadium (usually around 25-30,000 people) joins in, in unison.. it's not so much "Hurrah, our team is wonderful." more along the lines of "WE'RE GONNA FU.CK YOU UP AND YOU'RE GONNA FUC.KIN CRY, YOU BUNCH OF FUC.KIN CU.NTS!"

That's the difference.

The atmosphere in American football is PG. (apart from some cool places like Oakland and Giants stadium)
The atmosphere in Real football is R rated. (apart from some loser places like Arsenal and Wimbledon)

The atmosphere in American football is PG. (apart from some cool places like Oakland


Raiders fans are nuts, I tell ya! And they fight dirty. :D

Why is it America can't have the more appropriate name "Football" instead of "Soccer"?

Why is it America can't have the more appropriate name "Football" instead of "Soccer"?


'Cus ya'll already have a game called Football.. even though you use your hands in it.

Admittedly, soccer was the original name for football. There was Rugby Football and Association Football. Rugby football became rugby. Association football became asoc football and finally soccer football. But they dropped the soccer and formed the 'Football League' could well have been the 'Soccer League'.

'Cus ya'll already have a game called Football.. even though you use your hands in it.

Admittedly, soccer was the original name for football. There was Rugby Football and Association Football. Rugby football became rugby. Association football became asoc football and finally soccer football. But they dropped the soccer and formed the 'Football League' could well have been the 'Soccer League'.


But wasn't American Football after Soccer? :S I just think since we use more arms in American Football, it should be called "Arm Ball" or something.

Is foosball the same as football? ???

Is foosball the same as football? ???



No, Howard. 


Foosball table:


http://www.tablefootball.com/Harvard_Granite_Foosball_Table.jpg



Football field:


http://www.bfsla.com/detail_pages/athletic/images/PioneerValleyAerial.jpg

No, Howard. 


Foosball table:


http://www.tablefootball.com/Harvard_Granite_Foosball_Table.jpg



Football field:


http://www.bfsla.com/detail_pages/athletic/images/PioneerValleyAerial.jpg


I was thinking of footbag. ::)

I was thinking of footbag. ::)



Oh, hackey-sack?  No, that's not like football either.

Footbag?  What the heck is that?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Footbag

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Footbag



I edited my post, as you can see.  I realized after I posted what it was.

Oh, hackey-sack?  No, that's not like football either.



hackey sack,footbag,same thing right? ???

hackey sack,footbag,same thing right? ???



Yes.  But it's not like football.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Footbag



Cool game.

Yes.  But it's not like football.


It's a game you play with your foot.

It's a game you play with your foot.



Yeah, so is soccer, but that's not like American football.  Just because the word "foot" is in it, doesn't mean they're similar sports.  I've seen people playing hackey-sack....it ain't football.

Yeah, so is soccer, but that's not like American football.  Just because the word "foot" is in it, doesn't mean they're similar sports.  I've seen people playing hackey-sack....it ain't football.


Thanks for correcting me. ;)

I'm not a school marm......I wasn't "correcting" anything.  I hate that.

I'm not a school marm......I wasn't "correcting" anything.  I hate that.


No,I was saying thank you for showing me the difference.

Oh....well then it that case, you're welcome.  :)

How long has football been around?

How long has football been around?


That's a matter of some dispute. Over 1000 years for certain, past that things become a bit vague.

But wasn't American Football after Soccer? :S I just think since we use more arms in American Football, it should be called "Arm Ball" or something.


Yes it was, but I think football was only played a very small scale in the US. You gotta remember, the country was founded by puritans and I kid you not, something like football would be considerd evil.

That's a matter of some dispute. Over 1000 years for certain, past that things become a bit vague.
Football has been around for ages, when they used to kick a pig's bladder between to local villages.

Football has been around for ages, when they used to kick a pig's bladder between to local villages.


The local derby, eh?

And of course, not forgetting that very famous international match between us and the Germans, which took place on this very day somewhere in Europe in 1914...

Football has been around for ages, when they used to kick a pig's bladder between to local villages.



Pig's Bladder? Are you kidding me? :o  :P

Pig's Bladder? Are you kidding me? :o  :P



No......

Pig's Bladder? Are you kidding me? :o  :P


Yup.

There has been a debate for some time as to wether the greeks and romans played a similar game involving an inflated pigs bladder. If that is indeed the case it would push the age of football back to about 2200 years. Or about 30 times as long as American Football has existed.  ;D

Pig's Bladder? Are you kidding me? :o  :P


Obviously, they removed it from the pig first...

Obviously, they removed it from the pig first...


No Football Player would ever want to kick a real live pig. ;D

No Football Player would ever want to kick a real live pig. ;D
They simply had to in those days.

They simply had to in those days.



Did The pig have any feelings? ???

Did The pig have any feelings? ???


No Howard.. it was quite, quite dead./

No Howard.. it was quite, quite dead./



I hope so. ;D

Remind me the words to the Nottingham Forest song.

Remind me the words to the Nottingham Forest song.




I don't know it. ???

I don't know it. ???


no. but Davey does. it's his thread, right?
he will teach it to you, too.

no. but Davey does. it's his thread, right?
he will teach it to you, too.




Ok,I'd love to hear it.

Remind me the words to the Nottingham Forest song.


On request:

In your forest slums, your forest slums, there's piss on the floor and sh.it in the street, you find a dead dog and you think it's a treat, in your forest slums.
In your forest slums, your forest slums, your mam's on the game and your dad's in the nick, you can't get a job 'cus you're so fuc.king thick! In your forest slums.

On request:

In your forest slums, your forest slums, there's piss on the floor and sh.it in the street, you find a dead dog and you think it's a treat, in your forest slums.
In your forest slums, your forest slums, your mam's on the game and your dad's in the nick, you can't get a job 'cus you're so fuc.king thick! In your forest slums.



That's not how it goes,Is It? ???

That's not how it goes,Is It? ???


Yes Howard, I am not deliberatly misleading you.

That's not how it goes,Is It? ???


yeah, that's it.  i like that one

Yes Howard, I am not deliberatly misleading you.


Why are there so many curse words? ???

Why are there so many curse words? ???


Because I am a horrible, uncooth, common little man.

Because I am a horrible, uncooth, common little man.



Who said all that?

Who said all that?


.. me.. just now.

And various women.

On request:

In your forest slums, your forest slums, there's piss on the floor and sh.it in the street, you find a dead dog and you think it's a treat, in your forest slums.
In your forest slums, your forest slums, your mam's on the game and your dad's in the nick, you can't get a job 'cus you're so fuc.king thick! In your forest slums.
Does Leicester City have a fight song? If so, how does it go?

.. me.. just now.

And various women.


You didn't have to listen to them

Does Leicester City have a fight song? If so, how does it go?


yeah.. loads.

Such as -

GET IN TO EM! FU.CK EM UP!
GET IN TO EM! FU.CK EM UP!

Errr...

SHEEPSHAGGERS SHEEPSHAGGERS BAAAA BAAAA.

When you're tired and lonely your heart might skip a beat,
You'll get your fu.cking head kicked in when you walk down filbert street,
You'll walk in to the spion kop and hear a mighty roar,
FUC.K OFF YOU FOREST BASTARDS WE ARE THE LEICESTER BOY!

yeah.. loads.

Such as -

GET IN TO EM! FU.CK EM UP!
GET IN TO EM! FU.CK EM UP!

Errr...

SHEEPSHAGGERS SHEEPSHAGGERS BAAAA BAAAA.

When you're tired and lonely your heart might skip a beat,
You'll get your fu.cking head kicked in when you walk down filbert street,
You'll walk in to the spion kop and hear a mighty roar,
FUC.K OFF YOU FOREST BASTARDS WE ARE THE LEICESTER BOY!



Wow,that's harsh. :o

Wow,that's harsh. :o


We hate Forest and we hate Derby.

When they come to town they get the shi.t kicked out of them.

We hate Forest and we hate Derby.

When they come to town they get the shi.t kicked out of them.


I don't want to be them :o

I don't want to be them :o


As long as you don't support Nottingham Forest, Derby County, Manchester United, Millwall FC, Rangers FC, Bayern Munchen and a few others teams.. you'll be ok.

yeah.. loads.

Such as -

GET IN TO EM! FU.CK EM UP!
GET IN TO EM! FU.CK EM UP!

Errr...

SHEEPSHAGGERS SHEEPSHAGGERS BAAAA BAAAA.

When you're tired and lonely your heart might skip a beat,
You'll get your fu.cking head kicked in when you walk down filbert street,
You'll walk in to the spion kop and hear a mighty roar,
FUC.K OFF YOU FOREST BASTARDS WE ARE THE LEICESTER BOY!
That's awesome!

Especially the part about the SHEEPSHAGGERS. That's a great word.  ;D ;D ;D

That's awesome!

Especially the part about the SHEEPSHAGGERS. That's a great word.  ;D ;D ;D


Got loads of em.

One of my favourites was after this dude Matthew Harding (an executive at Chelsea) died in a helicopter crash.

Blue is the colour,
football is the game,
poor old Matthew Harding,
He should have took the train.

These are great. wish we had thisin US football. brutal!

As long as you don't support Nottingham Forest, Derby County, Manchester United, Millwall FC, Rangers FC, Bayern Munchen and a few others teams.. you'll be ok.


Is that in England?

Got loads of em.

One of my favourites was after this dude Matthew Harding (an executive at Chelsea) died in a helicopter crash.

Blue is the colour,
football is the game,
poor old Matthew Harding,
He should have took the train.
that's beautiful! :\'(

i'd love it if a buncha toothless soccer hooligans chanted something like that after my death.

that's beautiful! :\'(

i'd love it if a buncha toothless soccer hooligans chanted something like that after my death.


I expect to outlive you by about 5 months.. so I'll be more than happy to. Oh and I'll probably be toothless, I figure when I turn 50 I'll start hittin the meth.

'..AND IT'S MICHAEL WARD,
WARD THE MAN IN THE COFFIN.
HE HAD A DEGREE,
HE WAS A BIT OF A BOFFIN.
BUT ALL HIS EDUCATION,
COULDN'T STOP THAT ANVIL DROPPIN'!
FU.CK OFF WARDY, FU.CK OFF WARDY, FU.CK OFF WARDY WARDY WARDY!'

Is that in England?


Well, it ain't here.

I expect to outlive you by about 5 months.. so I'll be more than happy to. Oh and I'll probably be toothless, I figure when I turn 50 I'll start hittin the meth.

'..AND IT'S MICHAEL WARD,
WARD THE MAN IN THE COFFIN.
HE HAD A DEGREE,
HE WAS A BIT OF A BOFFIN.
BUT ALL HIS EDUCATION,
COULDN'T STOP THAT ANVIL DROPPIN'!
FU.CK OFF WARDY, FU.CK OFF WARDY, FU.CK OFF WARDY WARDY WARDY!'
as long as it's punctuated with some headbutts and throwing a half-empty beer into the hole after me that would be a loving tribute indeed.

i want lemmy to be there. and kim richards.

as long as it's punctuated with some headbutts and throwing a half-empty beer into the hole after me that would be a loving tribute indeed.

i want lemmy to be there. and kim richards.


That was of course based on my prediction that you'll be struck on the head by a falling anvil.

If you want Lemmy to be there you better die within the next few minutes.

Does inclement weather affect the play in English football? Meaning, is it like American football, where it doesn't matter if there's a torrential downpour or a blizzard going on, they'll keep on playing; or is it like baseball, where they have rain delays?

Does inclement weather affect the play in English football? Meaning, is it like American football, where it doesn't matter if there's a torrential downpour or a blizzard going on, they'll keep on playing; or is it like baseball, where they have rain delays?


If you can see the ball, you play.

There was a big argument recently because a game between Liverpool and Arsenal was cancelled because of fog. But.. I can see why, you couldn't see more than 10 yards.

How many people does Leicester City's stadium hold?

How many people does Leicester City's stadium hold?


Around 32,000.

what are your teams' colors?

Around 32,000.
Is that in metric or U.S.?

what are your teams' colors?


Royal blue and white.

The england colors and white and red. Or.. on your shirt.. red and white.

Is that in metric or U.S.?


.... 32,000 people.

The old stadium had terraces (standing room only) which was great. We had big battles running from one end to the other.

Any teams over there play in domes/indoor stadiums? (Please tell me no.)

Any teams over there play in domes/indoor stadiums? (Please tell me no.)


There are a couple stadiums with retractable roofs, but none that are actually in domes.

.... 32,000 people.

The old stadium had terraces (standing room only) which was great. We had big battles running from one end to the other.
When did they build the new stadium?

When did they build the new stadium?


I'd like to say 2002. I believe.

I'd like to say 2002. I believe.
Does it have Jumbotrons?

Does it have Jumbotrons?


Not as a rule. But at Higbury (Arsenal's ground up until last year) they had like the second biggest permanent screen in the world. I think just the one the Redskins had was bigger.

The england colors and white and red. Or.. on your shirt.. red and white.
Do you remember the the kit in battleship grey?

Do you remember the the kit in battleship grey?


That was awful. The urban camoflage kit.  ;D

Do you remember David Seaman's Kit for the 96' championships?

It was awful!

That was awful. The urban camoflage kit.  ;D

Do you remember David Seaman's Kit for the 96' championships?

It was awful!
I am trying to remember it.

Do you ever watch Major League Soccer (U.S.)? How does it compare to English football?

Do you ever watch Major League Soccer (U.S.)? How does it compare to English football?


It's getting better every year. Unfortunatly, to really draw top players they're gonna have to enter the big money european market and they can't do that with the way the league is set up. I prefer the American style of transfer, with trades, free agents and drafts as opposed to the european, whoever has the most money wins, attitude.

I watch it quite often and went to Chicago a few times the other year for games.

OK, I'm gonna barrage you with a few questions, so brace yourself:

1.) Why are there so many "United" teams in England (and also DC United in MLS)?

2.) What does the "Real" in Real Madrid and Real Salt Lake mean?

3.) If you were to compare the levels of English football to, say, Major League Baseball, with the Premier League being the majors, would your team (Leicester City, and I'm not trying to be insulting or anything) be considered a "minor league" team? Are there different levels (comparable to A, AA, and AAA in minor league baseball) for English football teams and if so, what level would Leicester City be at? Is there kind of a "farm system" over there?

4.) Do you have a favorite Premier League team?

OK, I'm gonna barrage you with a few questions, so brace yourself:

1.) Why are there so many "United" teams in England (and also DC United in MLS)?

2.) What does the "Real" in Real Madrid and Real Salt Lake mean?

3.) If you were to compare the levels of English football to, say, Major League Baseball, with the Premier League being the majors, would your team (Leicester City, and I'm not trying to be insulting or anything) be considered a "minor league" team? Are there different levels (comparable to A, AA, and AAA in minor league baseball) for English football teams and if so, what level would Leicester City be at? Is there kind of a "farm system" over there?

4.) Do you have a favorite Premier League team?


No worrys Al. Gives me something to do.  ;D

Ok, United - As far as I'm aware there is no special meaning behind it, just a way to end the name. In some towns there are two teams. For instance you use the example of Manchester United, the other team in the city is Manchester City, although I belive Man Utd were there first. All very odd, but as far as I know, it's just a name that's popular.

Real means Royal. Which is what makes 'Real Salt Lake' so, so funny. That's the thing MLS needs to do. Just use normal names, if you want to seem like a real league, don't steal names from other languages and not work out what they mean.  ;D.. oh and get rid of names like the Kansas City Wizards and the Dallas Burn (recently renamed FC Dallas thankfully). I used to love the Gonnoreah classic between the whizz and the burn.  ;D

Ok, compairing MLB and the Football League. Can do.

Now, as you probably know. In English (and generally world football) you have more than one league and can be promoted or demoted between them. In England there is - The Premier League, The Championship (hereafter referred to as the first division because it's ridiculous having 3 divisions that insinuate they are the first one), League One (hereafter referred to as the second division, see above) and League Two (hereafter referred to as the third divison). The reason for the stupid names is sponsorship, nobody calls them that, they are The Premiership, Division One, Divison Two and Division Three. Beneath those 4 divisions it the Conference which is slightly different, it's the highest echelon of non-proffesional football. Chances are the players in that division won't have other jobs they will be Football players by proffesion but not yet part of the 'majors' so to speak. Useing that basis, I would say the Conference and below is like the minor leagues, they are not part of the top echelon of football. No, there aren't really farm teams although that concept is growing. For instance Manchester United have a team in Belgium (who's name I forget) that they often loan young players to. This helps the Belgian side because they have good young players to play and helps Manchester United as they players are getting first team experience.
I would say Leicester would be at the Major League level, especially as if we are to be literal there are 30 major league teams and 20 premiership teams. In the past 10 years I believe Leicester have spent err.. 6 or 7 years in the Premiership and 3 or 4 years in the First Division, they're kind of tweeners. A good team but just not enough money to cement their spot in the top flight.

I don't really have a favorite Premier League team, but my Dad's team is Chelsea so I will generally watch them. My favorite premier league team to watch is Arsenal as they play beautiful football.

In England there is - The Premier League, The Championship (hereafter referred to as the first division because it's ridiculous having 3 divisions that insinuate they are the first one), League One (hereafter referred to as the second division, see above) and League Two (hereafter referred to as the third divison). The reason for the stupid names is sponsorship, nobody calls them that, they are The Premiership, Division One, Divison Two and Division Three.


Tsk!

Back in my day it was Divisions 1, 2, 3 & 4...yes, it's going back a few years, but it was simplistic!

Up until the mid-80s, the non-league teams were never allowed anywhere near the 'pro' clubs...whoever finished bottom of Division 4 (as was) would normally be 're-elected' to play in the same league the following season...

Tsk!

Back in my day it was Divisions 1, 2, 3 & 4...yes, it's going back a few years, but it was simplistic!

Up until the mid-80s, the non-league teams were never allowed anywhere near the 'pro' clubs...whoever finished bottom of Division 4 (as was) would normally be 're-elected' to play in the same league the following season...


I'm in full agreement, needs to be kept that way, but alas, we can't have anybody feeling left out.  ;D
I love that there are 3 divisions that have names that sound like the top division.

I'm in full agreement, needs to be kept that way, but alas, we can't have anybody feeling left out.  ;D


The only time the 'minnows' got a look in with the odd FA Cup upset...

With that in mind, best of luck to Tamworth this Saturday!

No worrys Al. Gives me something to do.  ;D

Ok, United - As far as I'm aware there is no special meaning behind it, just a way to end the name. In some towns there are two teams. For instance you use the example of Manchester United, the other team in the city is Manchester City, although I belive Man Utd were there first. All very odd, but as far as I know, it's just a name that's popular.

Real means Royal. Which is what makes 'Real Salt Lake' so, so funny. That's the thing MLS needs to do. Just use normal names, if you want to seem like a real league, don't steal names from other languages and not work out what they mean.  ;D.. oh and get rid of names like the Kansas City Wizards and the Dallas Burn (recently renamed FC Dallas thankfully). I used to love the Gonnoreah classic between the whizz and the burn.  ;D

Ok, compairing MLB and the Football League. Can do.

Now, as you probably know. In English (and generally world football) you have more than one league and can be promoted or demoted between them. In England there is - The Premier League, The Championship (hereafter referred to as the first division because it's ridiculous having 3 divisions that insinuate they are the first one), League One (hereafter referred to as the second division, see above) and League Two (hereafter referred to as the third divison). The reason for the stupid names is sponsorship, nobody calls them that, they are The Premiership, Division One, Divison Two and Division Three. Beneath those 4 divisions it the Conference which is slightly different, it's the highest echelon of non-proffesional football. Chances are the players in that division won't have other jobs they will be Football players by proffesion but not yet part of the 'majors' so to speak. Useing that basis, I would say the Conference and below is like the minor leagues, they are not part of the top echelon of football. No, there aren't really farm teams although that concept is growing. For instance Manchester United have a team in Belgium (who's name I forget) that they often loan young players to. This helps the Belgian side because they have good young players to play and helps Manchester United as they players are getting first team experience.
I would say Leicester would be at the Major League level, especially as if we are to be literal there are 30 major league teams and 20 premiership teams. In the past 10 years I believe Leicester have spent err.. 6 or 7 years in the Premiership and 3 or 4 years in the First Division, they're kind of tweeners. A good team but just not enough money to cement their spot in the top flight.

I don't really have a favorite Premier League team, but my Dad's team is Chelsea so I will generally watch them. My favorite premier league team to watch is Arsenal as they play beautiful football.
So they have to win their way into the top league then? That's a pretty cool way to do it. Thanks for explaining that to me.

Has your rival, Nottingham Forest, ever made it into the Premiership?

Also, what city is Arsenal located in? Who is their biggest rival, and do their fans make light of the fact that Arsenal begins with "arse?"  ;D

So they have to win their way into the top league then? That's a pretty cool way to do it. Thanks for explaining that to me.

Has your rival, Nottingham Forest, ever made it into the Premiership?

Also, what city is Arsenal located in? Who is their biggest rival, and do their fans make light of the fact that Arsenal begins with "arse?"  ;D


Arsenal are located in London and their man rivals are Tottenham, that always gets nice and violent. Well, we make more fun of them because they're called the Goooooners.

Nottingham Forest.... and this disgusts me to say this.. were at one point one of the top clubs in the world, winning the european cup on more than one occasion.

Yeah, they gotta win their entry.

Did you ever play High School Football? ???

Did you ever play High School Football? ???


Yup.

I played to a semi-pro standard before I destroyed my knee.

In the past few months I've played a few games with my old team, but It's time to face facts, I can't play to a high standard anymore, but I still make my friends look stupid when we play.  ;D

Yup.

I played to a semi-pro standard before I destroyed my knee.

In the past few months I've played a few games with my old team, but It's time to face facts, I can't play to a high standard anymore, but I still make my friends look stupid when we play.  ;D




Why,What happened to your knee? ???

Why,What happened to your knee? ???


I tore my ACL in half and also wrecked my Medial ligaments, caused damage to the cartilage and there are other problems.

Nottingham Forest.... and this disgusts me to say this.. were at one point one of the top clubs in the world, winning the european cup on more than one occasion.


Heh! How the mighty fell...

Forest were the winners of the '79 final against Malmo of Sweden...quite possibly one of the Top Five most boring football matches ever played... :P

Heh! How the mighty fell...

Forest were the winners of the '79 final against Malmo of Sweden...quite possibly one of the Top Five most boring football matches ever played... :P


It involved Forest, it's not likely to be exciting.

Q. Tell me the 11 names that would make your dream team? Think globally,any player in the world.

Q. Tell me the 11 names that would make your dream team? Think globally,any player in the world.


Of all time, or just now?

Of now,please :)

Of now,please :)


Ok.

In Goal I'd have Peter Cech, as my center backs, John Terry and Fabio Cannavaro. My right back would be Michel Salgado and my left back would be Gabriel Heinze.
In the midfield I'd have Frank Lampard and Ronaldinho in the center with Kaka on the left and probably Joaquin on the right.
Up front I'd have Thierry Henry and Samuel Eto'o.

Ok.

In Goal I'd have Peter Cech, as my center backs, John Terry and Fabio Cannavaro. My right back would be Michel Salgado and my left back would be Gabriel Heinze.
In the midfield I'd have Frank Lampard and Ronaldinho in the center with Kaka on the left and probably Joaquin on the right.
Up front I'd have Thierry Henry and Samuel Eto'o.

Ah very nice,you have 2 of my faves,actually 3 cause i like Thierry too.
Thank you for your quick answer ;)

Ah very nice,you have 2 of my faves,actually 3 cause i like Thierry too.
Thank you for your quick answer ;)


No worrys, who do you support?

The brazillians,you could use some Robinho in there too, just don't call Ronaldo he would ruin your team for good lol

The brazillians,you could use some Robinho in there too, just don't call Ronaldo he would ruin your team for good lol


;D

I ain't so big a fan of Robinho.

How come you support Brazil, are you Brazilian?

Yes.
Are you german?

Yes.
Are you german?


Not.. technically.  ;D

That's cool, where are you from in Brazil.. actually, hold on, I'll PM you, I have a couple questions.

Yup.

I played to a semi-pro standard before I destroyed my knee.

In the past few months I've played a few games with my old team, but It's time to face facts, I can't play to a high standard anymore, but I still make my friends look stupid when we play.  ;D
What position did you play? (I can picture you as a linebacker.)

What position did you play? (I can picture you as a linebacker.)




I think he was talking about playing soccer not American Football.

I think he was talking about playing soccer not American Football.


I think Al was just kidding.  ;) Although when I do play American football I like to play as a Defensive Tackle.


What position did you play?


Center Back and sometimes in the center of midfield.. but that would depend who we were playing against, I'm not particularly fast but I can play a long ball well so it would all depend on how the team we played lined up.

I think Al was just kidding.  ;) Although when I do play American football I like to play as a Defensive Tackle.



I wondered if he was basing it on either your knackered knees or tendency to violence!

I wondered if he was basing it on either your knackered knees or tendency to violence!


One is a by-product and one is an advantage.

I think Al was just kidding.  ;) Although when I do play American football I like to play as a Defensive Tackle.
Actually I wasn't. When Howard said "high school football" I immediately thought of the American game. Sorry 'bout that.

Actually I wasn't. When Howard said "high school football" I immediately thought of the American game. Sorry 'bout that.


Oh.. fair enough. Defensive Tackle. But I'm talkin about the reeeal football Al.  ;)

Do you like football on television?  ???

Do you like football on television?  ???


Yes, but it's better to go to the game in person and be part of the atmosphere.

Yes, but it's better to go to the game in person and be part of the atmosphere.
Which matches are on tv today?

Which matches are on tv today?


I watched part of the Norwich game today before going off and watching city. A great game that finished 2-2.

I watched part of the Norwich game today before going off and watching city. A great game that finished 2-2.

Don't you love it when they tie?And fans can hate eachother with a passion but when the teams tie it's like oh well let's have a drink together,everyone's a winner...I see it more as they're both losers but whatever,as long as they're happy.

Don't you love it when they tie?And fans can hate eachother with a passion but when the teams tie it's like oh well let's have a drink together,everyone's a winner...I see it more as they're both losers but whatever,as long as they're happy.


Right, after the game it's no big worry. Of course, it'll be a replay and after that there will be some bad feelings.  ;D

Right, after the game it's no big worry. Of course, it'll be a replay and after that there will be some bad feelings.  ;D
Your game was against Fulham, so that means as it was drawn, the away game will be a few miles from me.

Your game was against Fulham, so that means as it was drawn, the away game will be a few miles from me.


Correct, at Craven Cottage.

The Fulham fans had a new song for their signing Vincenzo Montella 'He comes from Italy, He Fu.ckin hates Chelsea' I thought I quite cleverly came back with 'He hasn't touched the ball, He's not that good at all.'  ;D

Correct, at Craven Cottage.

The Fulham fans had a new song for their signing Vincenzo Montella 'He comes from Italy, He Fu.ckin hates Chelsea' I thought I quite cleverly came back with 'He hasn't touched the ball, He's not that good at all.'   ;D
All heard at a pleasant family footie game.

Hey Andrew, I got something for you.  ;)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuKTu2OX4mM

(I'm kind of digging this.)


<--------(gratuitous asskisser)

Hey Andrew, I got something for you.  ;)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuKTu2OX4mM

(I'm kind of digging this.)


<--------(gratuitous asskisser)



Wow,That's very nice.

Hey Andrew, I got something for you.  ;)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuKTu2OX4mM

(I'm kind of digging this.)


<--------(gratuitous asskisser)


I also enjoyed the linked video - Leicester is rubbish.  ;D

Who do you think will win Euro 2008?

What's your prediction for the Superbowl?

Who do you think will win Euro 2008?


The German team has improved a lot.

I think if England can find a way to keep Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard from useing the same 20 yards of the pitch they'll win. I suppose it's cliched to say they'll win it because everyone does. But in 2008 they'll have their best possible team.

Rooney will be older, smarter and less volatile.
Owen will hopefully be fit and will be at his peak.
Lampard, Terry and Gerrard will hopefully gell through the middle.
Hargreves and whoever we have on the left, Downing maybe.. will be older and more adapted. Ferdinand, Cole and then whoever slots in on the right side will also be at their peak.

The German team has improved a lot.

I think if England can find a way to keep Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard from useing the same 20 yards of the pitch they'll win. I suppose it's cliched to say they'll win it because everyone does. But in 2008 they'll have their best possible team.

Rooney will be older, smarter and less volatile.
Owen will hopefully be fit and will be at his peak.
Lampard, Terry and Gerrard will hopefully gell through the middle.
Hargreves and whoever we have on the left, Downing maybe.. will be older and more adapted. Ferdinand, Cole and then whoever slots in on the right side will also be at their peak.

Yes i believe this is England's chance too,it's now or never for them. Let's just hope the fans behave this time ::)

Yes i believe this is England's chance too,it's now or never for them. Let's just hope the fans behave this time ::)



;D It's all part of the fun.

;D It's all part of the fun.

Oh but is not,in 2004,the English fans that came here took over the south of the country and turned it into a battlefield,it was freaky. I don't get their spirit at all :o

Oh but is not,in 2004,the English fans that came here took over the south of the country and turned it into a battlefield,it was freaky. I don't get their spirit at all :o


Island race, battle's are ingrained.

Island race, battle's are ingrained.

Hey then i don't want to be there if they end up playing Scotland or Wales,poor Austria and Switzerland,such beautiful countries :\'(

Go on then, ask me whatever you want about the worlds most popular pastime.



Wembley - goal or not???  ;)

Wembley - goal or not???  ;)


;D

Dietmar Hamann if I'm not mistaken.

Unless you're asking what I think about the new stadium?

Waste of money. The whole World Cup stadia, transport link and U-Bann upgrades around Berlin were completed for less than the cost of building Wembley.
Plus, it's in a horrible part of London where there is nowhere to park so your only option is to take the tube which is ridiculously overpriced.

Waste of money. The whole World Cup stadia, transport link and U-Bann upgrades around Berlin were completed for less than the cost of building Wembley.
Plus, it's in a horrible part of London where there is nowhere to park so your only option is to take the tube which is ridiculously overpriced.


;D

I can't believe that it still isn't finished! I mean how long are they workin' on it now???

;D

I can't believe that it still isn't finished! I mean how long are they workin' on it now???


Years. I think the last competitive match played there was Chelsea vs Aston Villa. That was like 2001 or something stupid.

I can't believe that it still isn't finished! I mean how long are they workin' on it now???


Oh, you've not seen anything yet!

We've still got to construct a whole Olympic village within six years!

Given our previous, I should think the swimming pool will just be about completed by then!

Oh, you've not seen anything yet!

We've still got to construct a whole Olympic village within six years!

Given our previous, I should think the swimming pool will just be about completed by then!


;D

Just don't give it to an Australian firm!!

Oh, you've not seen anything yet!

We've still got to construct a whole Olympic village within six years!

Given our previous, I should think the swimming pool will just be about completed by then!



;D ;D

That was a good one!!! I just can't stop laughing!!!  ;D

Irish/English Rugby Match at Croke Park?  Was that wise?  How is it going?

Do West Ham have any hope?

Irish/English Rugby Match at Croke Park?  Was that wise?  How is it going?


Bad score. The Feenians won.

Rugby is nowhere near as political as football but there was a little tension, especially when God Save The Queen was played. It just makes me laugh, when will they learn that big brother is better, stronger and correct.  ;D

I couldn't help but question "Where's the UDA when you need them?" as the Feenians scored yet another try.

Do West Ham have any hope?


Nope.

Especially not after that thrashing by Charlton today.

I couldn't help but question "Where's the UDA when you need them?" as the Feenians scored yet another try.




::) 

I couldn't help but question "Where's the UDA when you need them?" as the Feenians scored yet another try.



Come on, Andy.

Come on, Andy.


Ooohh, I'm kidding.

Although I think an IRA - UDA game would be a big draw.

Are you watching the game today between Chelsea and Arsenal Reserves?

Are you watching the game today between Chelsea and Arsenal Reserves?


;D

To be fair, it's hardly the reserve team. Numerous full internationals.

I'm glad Chelsea are winning. After kicking John Terry in the head so hard he lost consciousness I hope Arsenal get trounced.

;D

To be fair, it's hardly the reserve team. Numerous full internationals.

I'm glad Chelsea are winning. After kicking John Terry in the head so hard he lost consciousness I hope Arsenal get trounced.
I check out the dying moments of the game.

I check out the dying moments of the game.


Big fight at the end, but Chelsea win, 2-1 and John Terry is awake and mobile.

Big fight at the end, but Chelsea win, 2-1 and John Terry is awake and mobile.
I got to the TV just in time to see the punch-up

I got to the TV just in time to see the punch-up


Do you think Wenger and Mourinho will be fined for coming on to the pitch?

Do you think Wenger and Mourinho will be fined for coming on to the pitch?
Yes, and also the players taking off they shirts while still walking of the pitch, when sent off.

Yes, and also the players taking off they shirts while still walking of the pitch, when sent off.


Right, gotta keep your shirt on, whilst on the pitch.

To be honest, that rule has bothered me ever since Arjen Robben got sent off for it.

I think if it's the first booking then yes, book the player, but if it's the second bookable offense it's insane.

Which team do you support Philip? West Ham?

Right, gotta keep your shirt on, whilst on the pitch.

To be honest, that rule has bothered me ever since Arjen Robben got sent off for it.

I think if it's the first booking then yes, book the player, but if it's the second bookable offense it's insane.

Which team do you support Philip? West Ham?
From my younger days, and I mentioned to add that I have never seen them play, I have always followed Spurs.

Why do they call it the World CUP when it isn't a cup? Have you seen the FIFA World Cup trophy?

http://www.oneroundball.com/wp-content/World_cup_trophy.jpg
http://www.oneroundball.com/wp-content/World_cup_trophy.jpg

It isn't shaped like a cup at all. You can't drink out of it, or anything.

Who will win the Premiership next season?

Why do they call it the World CUP when it isn't a cup? Have you seen the FIFA World Cup trophy?

http://www.oneroundball.com/wp-content/World_cup_trophy.jpg

It isn't shaped like a cup at all. You can't drink out of it, or anything.


Well, the first World Cup, The Jules Rimet Trophy was actually a cup.. then the new trophy was designed.


Who will win the Premiership next season?


A lot of it depends on how Jose Mourinho decides to use his midfield. I think if he can use his wingers efficiently, between Drogba and Shevchenko Chelsea can knock in enough goals to win.

If Man Yoo's new players settle in well they'll have a fair chance, especially Cristiano Ronaldo continues to improve.

Arsenal wont do anything, I can't even see them finishing in the top 4.

Liverpool will give both Man Yoo and Chelsea a real run for their money this year.

The SheepShagging scum will go down though, that's for sure.

Well, the first World Cup, The Jules Rimet Trophy was actually a cup.. then the new trophy was designed.


Fair enough. Yes, the trophy for the original World Cup in 1930 as well as for the following World Cups was the Jules Rimet trophy, which was indeed shaped liked a cup.

http://stu.cofc.edu/~amgomez/jules-rimet-cup.jpg
http://stu.cofc.edu/~amgomez/history.html

It was only replaced by the FIFA World Cup trophy in 1974.

But here's the thing, though. FIFA also runs the following tournaments:

U-20 World Cup
http://www.fifa.com/u20worldcup/index.html

U-17 World Cup
http://www.fifa.com/u17worldcup/index.html

Confederations Cup
http://www.fifa.com/confederationcup/index.html

Club World Cup
http://www.fifa.com/clubworldcup/index.html

And it also runs the following women's tournaments:

Women's World Cup
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/index.html

U-20 Women's World Cup
http://www.fifa.com/tournaments/archive/tournament=108/awards/index.html

U-17 Women's World Cup
http://www.fifa.com/u17womenworldcup/index.html

These tournaments are all called "cups", even though the trophies for them are not now, nor have they EVER been, shaped like cups!(just go check)

How'd you explain that now, eh?

Because all tournaments are called cups.. it's the only thing worth calling them, bloody stupid to call something anything else, wouldn't you agree?

There are leagues and cups.

Because all tournaments are called cups.. it's the only thing worth calling them, bloody stupid to call something anything else, wouldn't you agree?

There are leagues and cups.


You could call them "championships". Like the "world championship".

And you could also bother to design the trophy to actually be shaped like a cup if you're going to call the tournament a "cup".

Well, the first World Cup, The Jules Rimet Trophy was actually a cup.. then the new trophy was designed.
It was more than just had to be redesigned. When the World cup for football was set up and played for the first time in 1930, it was agreed that once a team has won it three times the national side can keep it. Brazil achieved this in 1970.

It was more than just had to be redesigned. When the World cup for football was set up and played for the first time in 1930, it was agreed that once a team has won it three times the national side can keep it. Brazil achieved this in 1970.
...however, the trophy was stolen in 1983, and has never been recovered, apparently melted down by the thieves.

...however, the trophy was stolen in 1983, and has never been recovered, apparently melted down by the thieves.


Not the first time it was stolen though, I believe in 1966 a dog found it in a London park.

You could call them "championships". Like the "world championship".

And you could also bother to design the trophy to actually be shaped like a cup if you're going to call the tournament a "cup".


Well, the world cup was the original tournament.. and it had a cup shaped trophy.. several of the other tournaments were also introduced whilst it was still a cup.

Anyway, it's tradition.. although I don't know if Canada's old enough yet to have it's own.  ;)

Not the first time it was stolen though, I believe in 1966 a dog found it in a London park.
How Pickles the dog dug up the accursed World Cup

You still keep up with Leicester City?

You still keep up with Leicester City?


Was down at the bar last night watching the replay of the FA cup second round game.

Well... what I remember of it. Last night was one of those night!