Euro 2012 (merged)

[One Day Soon]

[QUOTE=One Day Soon;3268459]

Its not a pejorative. I like counterattacking. Italy do it better than anyone else. And it can be damn fine to watch, as they showed against Spain.


Oh. Ok in that case I will call off the Balilla and tone down the choruses of Giovinezza.

[ballengeich]

The Quarters:

Germany-Greece, lenders v debtors.
England-Italy, massive game between two counterattackers.
Portugal-Czechs, Ronaldo suddenly inspired,czechs rode their luck, only one winner?
Spain-France, potential classic.


What a great competition its been so far :aok:

Aye - a Rezek dive for a penalty winner with a couple of minutes to go.

[Leicester Fan]

Country
W
D
L
GD
Pts


England (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/teams/england)
2
1
0
2
7


France (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/teams/france)
1
1
1
0
4


Ukraine (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/teams/ukraine)
1
0
2
-2
3


Sweden (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/teams/sweden)
1
0
2
0
3



Makes good reading, wouldn't you all agree?

[Scouse Hibee]

Country
W
D
L
GD
Pts


England (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/teams/england)
2
1
0
2
7


France (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/teams/france)
1
1
1
0
4


Ukraine (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/teams/ukraine)
1
0
2
-2
3


Sweden (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/teams/sweden)
1
0
2
0
3



Makes good reading, wouldn't you all agree?

:agree: :greengrin Superb!

[Squealing pig]

disagree. yous are as bad as the maroon mob for cheating.

[Scouse Hibee]

disagree. yous are as bad as the maroon mob for cheating.

How did England cheat?

[Squealing pig]

must have been paying the goal line official.

[Joe's ice cream]

:agree: :greengrin Superb!

Looking good from my perspective, bitterness on hear over England getting a result gets funnier all the time!!!!

[Scouse Hibee]

must have been paying the goal line official.

So no real answer then!

[Scouse Hibee]

Looking good from my perspective, bitterness on hear over England getting a result gets funnier all the time!!!!

Just a few to be honest mate.

[CropleyWasGod]

must have been paying the goal line official.

... evened out by Ukraine paying the lino for not flagging the offside. :wink:

[Mon Dieu4]

Got through with two glaring goalkeeper errors and a dodgy decision, Buffon won't make any mistakes, Pirlo to pull the strings and super Mario to finish it off

[Scouse Hibee]

Got through with two glaring goalkeeper errors and a dodgy decision, Buffon won't make any mistakes, Pirlo to pull the strings and super Mario to finish it off

:faf: another one!

[lyonhibs]

Some brutal chat on here tonight. England did not cheat, the jobsworth behind the goal failed to do his job. And the Ukranian laddies was offside in the build-up anyway. That said, the ITV coverage and pundits - except Roy Keane - really are beyond the pale. I had English mates down here tearing their hair out at some of the dreadful cliches they came out with, and then the "justice is done" and the replay of the Germany game from 2010.

Dearie ****in' me.

England deserved to go through. They did what they had to, aided by an absolute balloon of a Ukranian goalie.

I hope they beat the Italians, most of whom are probably up to their baws in match fixing anyway, but then get unceremoniously papped out in the semi-finals. A proper beating, to sent Tyledsley and Chiles running off the nearest pier, but to have performed well enough in a major tournament to shut The Sun right up about the appointment of Hodgson.

Then we can all sit back, relax and match the final.

Ideal :agree:

One final comment: Wayne Rooney's (and I hesitate to use the word) "hair": :faf::faf::faf::top marks

[Mon Dieu4]

:faf: another one!

So you don't think that the goalies for Sweden and Ukraine shipped two goals they shouldn't have and

Ukraine had a perfectly valid goal not given?

I would say England have been pretty ordinary and have carries a bit if luck so far

[Hibrandenburg]

What you on about, the officials ****** it up simple as that. Nowt to do with cheating.

GTF. My comment was an addition to what the guy wrote in the post I quoted and had nothing to do with the match being played. Wind it in eh!

[Scouse Hibee]

So you don't think that the goalies for Sweden and Ukraine shipped two goals they shouldn't have and

Ukraine had a perfectly valid goal not given?

I would say England have been pretty ordinary and have carries a bit if luck so far


I was referring to folk like you who can't give credit for England qualifying as group winners when some folk gave them no chance, but instead will drag up every reason possible to justify why they qualified without any credit. Pretty pathetic to be honest, the game of football is all about decisions and luck as well as skill yet I haven't seen every other team disected as you have described. As I said you are just "another one"

[Scouse Hibee]

GTF. My comment was an addition to what the guy wrote in the post I quoted and had nothing to do with the match being played. Wind it in eh!

Eh please explain you have lost me!


Calm down dear, having just gone back and read the posts I now realise what you're saying, the excitement earlier on must have clouded my judgement, no harm done though eh.

[Jonnyboy]

I was referring to folk like you who can't give credit for England qualifying as group winners when some folk gave them no chance, but instead will drag up every reason possible to justify why they qualified without any credit. Pretty pathetic to be honest, the game of football is all about decisions and luck as well as skill yet I haven't seen every other team disected as you have described. As I said you are just "another one"

:agree: They deserve that credit :agree:

I think too many folk get confused between fact (England have the points and so qualify) and fiction (the absolute sheiitte spouted by commentators and pundits)

[Sir David Gray]

I'm up for England slagging as much as anyone but I wouldn't have said that they have cheated at all.

Having said that, I'm not buying the comments from all their journalists and pundits regarding England not being favourites to qualify from their group.

They were the top ranked side in that group, miles ahead of their opponents today and also a fair bit ahead of France and Sweden as well. If they hadn't qualified from that group, there would have been something far wrong.

Fortunately, I think Italy will do the business in the quarter finals and end their hopes on Sunday.

If they don't, then Germany (who will hammer Greece) will beat them in the semis.

[Mon Dieu4]

I was referring to folk like you who can't give credit for England qualifying as group winners when some folk gave them no chance, but instead will drag up every reason possible to justify why they qualified without any credit. Pretty pathetic to be honest, the game of football is all about decisions and luck as well as skill yet I haven't seen every other team disected as you have described. As I said you are just "another one"

Yet you know nothing about me, England are through fair play to them
but they have carried a huge slice of luck in my opinion

here are my views on the other teams since you are so bothered, Germany my pick to win it before the competition, good bend of youth and experience and play nice football, not hit top gear yet

France, great individual players but don't play as a team, really annoy me at times

Greece bore the tits off me but credit where its due they are there

czechs are a half decent team but won't do anything

Spain when it all goes well a joy to watch but when they just pass and pass with no end product i get bored to be honest

Portugal are some counter attacking team some really good players some average but ronaldo seems to be coming onto a game

Italy are more positive than i can remember, decent going forward but could be caught the back

yep i sure am just another one considering half family is English, but heybi see it as a derby, next time hearts beat us i shall have to give them all the credit they are due

[Scouse Hibee]

Yet you know nothing about me, England are through fair play to them
but they have carried a huge slice of luck in my opinion

here are my views on the other teams since you are so bothered, Germany my pick to win it before the competition, good bend of youth and experience and play nice football, not hit top gear yet

France, great individual players but don't play as a team, really annoy me at times

Greece bore the tits off me but credit where its due they are there

czechs are a half decent team but won't do anything

Spain when it all goes well a joy to watch but when they just pass and pass with no end product i get bored to be honest

Portugal are some counter attacking team some really good players some average but ronaldo seems to be coming onto a game

Italy are more positive than i can remember, decent going forward but could be caught the back

yep i sure am just another one considering half family is English, but heybi see it as a derby, next time hearts beat us i shall have forgive them all the credit they are due

At last, thank you and goodnight.

[Pete]

England should be congratulated for winning the group...but we can also take heart as hibees and scots.
The worst team in the group by a mile won it so there has to be hope for us!

[Scouse Hibee]

England should be congratulated for winning the group...but we can also take heart as hibees and scots.
The worst team in the group by a mile won it so there has to be hope for us!

And another one, the number is rising!

[Sir David Gray]

England should be congratulated for winning the group...but we can also take heart as hibees and scots.
The worst team in the group by a mile won it so there has to be hope for us!

Under our current leadership, there's no chance that we'll be seeing Scotland at a major tournament anytime soon unless we host it.

[Squealing pig]

italy dead cert to win next round. get your fishing rods out scouse is biting.

[Pete]

And another one, the number is rising!

Eh?

That was me trying to be fair and impartial.

[The Harp Awakes]

italy dead cert to win next round. get your fishing rods out scouse is biting.

Well I have to say that I really hope that England beat Italy.

The humping they would get against the Germans in the Semi would be something to see:fishin:

[Hibrandenburg]

Eh please explain you have lost me!


Calm down dear, having just gone back and read the posts I now realise what you're saying, the excitement earlier on must have clouded my judgement, no harm done though eh.

No harm done :-) Enjoy it while you can. (Sorry, just can't get the word congrat.... out on this damn mobile.)

[Steve20]

England have done well to win their group. I think they'll beat Italy and then get knocked out by Germany in the semi final.

[Teo10]

Bring on England.

[Sylar]

No game tonight.

Splat :boo hoo:

As an aside:

Croatian fine dished out for racist chants: £64561

Fine for Nicklas Bendtner for revealing sponsored underwear: £80,524

[Scouse Hibee]

italy dead cert to win next round. get your fishing rods out scouse is biting.


Hahahahaha :greengrin What a wonderful morning the day after the night before.

Italy! Bring them on ENGEEEEELAND, ENGEEEERLAND, ENGEEEERLAND.

[HIBERNIAN-0762]

England have done well to win their group. I think they'll beat Italy and then get knocked out by Germany in the semi final.

.......again

:wink:

[Scouse Hibee]

England have done well to win their group. I think they'll beat Italy and then get knocked out by Germany in the semi final.


:agree: This.

Enjoying myself on here as long as I can :greengrin

[Sylar]

Just seen the highlights from the Sweden game.

I give him a lot of stick for being incredibly lazy, but Zlatan Ibrahimovic :not worth

[hibsbollah]

Just seen the highlights from the Sweden game.

I give him a lot of stick for being incredibly lazy, but Zlatan Ibrahimovic :not worth

He's scored a goal every two games at the very top level for 10years. Hes got nothing to prove.

[Sylar]

He's scored a goal every two games at the very top level for 10years. Hes got nothing to prove.

I never said he did :confused:

[hibsbollah]

I never said he did :confused:

I never said you said he did :dunno:

:greengrin

[Kato]

:agree: This.

Enjoying myself on here as long as I can :greengrin


Congratulations to England. Totally deserved. I wike Woy and it's good to see him stuff it up England's worst critics, their own mediocre media.

For all those complaining about the coverage. Its' easy to avoid. Last night I turned the match on at kick-off time and listened to the new Dexys album a few times with the telly sound turned down. You're not forced to listen to any of it and if you choose to do so, what do you expect? English commentators not to talk about their own sides chances/news?

[Part/Time Supporter]

Congratulations to England. Totally deserved. I wike Woy and it's good to see him stuff it up England's worst critics, their own mediocre media.

For all those complaining about the coverage. Its' easy to avoid. Last night I turned the match on at kick-off time and listened to the new Dexys album a few times with the telly sound turned down. You're not forced to listen to any of it and if you choose to do so, what do you expect? English commentators not to talk about their own sides chances/news?

:agree:

Although it would help if there was a red button option for just stadium noise (no commentary). Surely this should be technically possible?

[cabbageandribs1875]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18527643


The Football Association has been fined 5,000 euros (£4,000) by Uefa for the "inappropriate conduct" of England fans in Friday's Euro 2012 win over Sweden.


the appropriate punishment should be kicking them out :wink: , france and sweden to go through, then i might start enjoying the tournament :greengrin

[hibsbollah]

I see on the bbc website Lawrenson, Guy Mowbray and Pat Nevin have all predicted England put out Italy in the quarters. :dunno:

Is it just me or have Italy looked far superior to England in every area of the pitch so far in the tourney? Why this constant self-delusion?

[Pretty Boy]

I see on the bbc website Lawrenson, Guy Mowbray and Pat Nevin have all predicted England put out Italy in the quarters. :dunno:

Is it just me or have Italy looked far superior to England in every area of the pitch so far in the tourney? Why this constant self-delusion?

England are stuffy and hard to break down.

I agree Italy have looked a better side (although in no way fantastic) but I fancy England to sneak it by a one goal margin.

[jdships]

I see on the bbc website Lawrenson, Guy Mowbray and Pat Nevin have all predicted England put out Italy in the quarters. :dunno:

Is it just me or have Italy looked far superior to England in every area of the pitch so far in the tourney? Why this constant self-delusion?


With the exception of two or three matches most results have been hard to predict , probably because there is not a " stand out " side in the tournament !
Italy are like France in the Six Nations Rugby - You are never sure which team will turn up :greengrin.
Looking at Euro 2012 in general I find it interesting that almost all the teams are playing with two wide men some even hardly leave the touchline .
In theory this should makes for a less cluttered midfield - but does it ?

Wouldn't bet your money on this match :wink::greengrin

[hibsbollah]

England are stuffy and hard to break down.

I agree Italy have looked a better side (although in no way fantastic) but I fancy England to sneak it by a one goal margin.

Its CONCEIVABLE that england could win, of course. Im just baffled at anyone making them favourites.

[Craig_in_Prague]

15/8 Italy.

thanking you muchly.

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

I can see this one going all the way to penalties.

Its quite amusing folk are still taking part in the poll now that half the teams are out, must be about 100 people with an opinion post ko of the tournament.

[Teo10]

I hope the England team have written off Italy as much as their country has...

Would make it ALL the lot sweeter if they get beat!!

Forza Italia!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[easty]

England are stuffy and hard to break down.

I agree Italy have looked a better side (although in no way fantastic) but I fancy England to sneak it by a one goal margin.

I dont think England have looked all that good at the back, though they are definitely set up to try and be tight then hit on the break quickly. Against France they had it easy as France never tried to get in behind them, every move was played in front of the back 4 because Benzema was far too deep. Against Sweden the defence was poor, both from set-pieces and in open play - Ibrahimovic caused them a lot of problems. Against Ukraine they were pretty poor again. Shevchenko 10 years ago would have had a field day, Ukraine made really good chances, but the forwards were pretty wasteful. Whenever a forward makes a diagonal run the look suspect.

I think Italy could cause them a lot of problems. Then if they had to play against Spain or Germany they'd be done for.

I do agree with your last point though, I have a feeling that they'll sneak through against the Italians.

[Hainan Hibs]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LgrMxDnAeM8&feature=player_embedded#!

Get on your feet and give a standing ovation to Kjely Mansson

:applause::applause::applause::applause::applause:

:greengrin

[Dinkydoo]

Czech Republic looking the better side at the moment.

[Mon Dieu4]

Is Keown the co commentator tonight? He is making some real snide comments about players tonight

[stokesmessiah]

Anyone else finding this game rank rotten???

[steakbake]

It's pish. Would like to see Ronaldo greeting again...

[cabbageandribs1875]

can we not just have one ******* game where the studio concentrates on the game being played at HT fer the luv o **** :grr:

[SteveHFC]

1-0 Ronaldo

[Wotherspiniesta]

Viva Ronaldo :na na:

[Dinkydoo]

Ronaldo has been the difference tonight (surprise, surprise) - Nani hasn't performed very well by his standards.

[Mon Dieu4]

Ronaldo has been the difference tonight (surprise, surprise) - Nani hasn't performed very well by his standards.

I still prefer Queresma to Nani, wish he would get a game

[Dinkydoo]

I still prefer Queresma to Nani, wish he would get a game

I like Nani but he can be frustrating to watch. He had the pace to beat his man tonight but on almost every occasion he put his foot on the ball and tried to slow the game down; contributed to a pretty boring game aside from Ronaldo's brilliance.

[ballengeich]

I'm glad the Czechs are out. If Rezek's dive a couple of minutes before the end of their game at Hampden hadn't fooled the referee they wouldn't even have made the playoffs.

[Scouse Hibee]

Saw nothing tonight to worry England :wink:

[Lost_Mackem]

I love how people are complaining about ENGLISH presenters talking about ENGLAND's chances on an ENGLISH tv station watched by mainly ENGLISH viewers even though England aren't playing.

Get over yourselves, you're not that important we have to ignore our own country to keep the 5 million bitter *******s north of the border happy.

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

Are you not bored yet?

[Haymaker]

Ronaldo never scores in big games. FACT.

[Dinkydoo]

I love how people are complaining about ENGLISH presenters talking about ENGLAND's chances on an ENGLISH tv station watched by mainly ENGLISH viewers even though England aren't playing.

Get over yourselves, you're not that important we have to ignore our own country to keep the 5 million bitter *******s north of the border happy.

It sounds like you and others are just dying for someone to really give two ****s about England. The truth is, most of us don't care. Yea, some people make the odd comment (me included) but the fact that they are jumped on every time with this "bitter Scottish" crap says a lot more about you than it does anyone else.

[HH81]

I love how people are complaining about ENGLISH presenters talking about ENGLAND's chances on an ENGLISH tv station watched by mainly ENGLISH viewers even though England aren't playing.

Get over yourselves, you're not that important we have to ignore our own country to keep the 5 million bitter *******s north of the border happy.

If England lose Sunday are you one of them fans that cry. I remember seeing it when England lost to Germany. I had to laugh as none of them had ever been to an England game. bit like yourself. :agree:

[hibsbollah]

I still prefer Queresma to Nani, wish he would get a game

They might bring him on if theyre chasing a game late on. Hes one of those players you watch and you cant work out how hes done what hes just done.

That made very little sense :hilarious:

[Pretty Boy]

I love how people are complaining about ENGLISH presenters talking about ENGLAND's chances on an ENGLISH tv station watched by mainly ENGLISH viewers even though England aren't playing.

Get over yourselves, you're not that important we have to ignore our own country to keep the 5 million bitter *******s north of the border happy.

Love it.

I actually want England to do well but with attitudes like yours its easy to see why plenty Scots don't.

It's not because they are bitter, its because they love seeing people that display your kind of arrogance with egg on their face. For such a big footballing nation I actually think England should be embarrassed with their showings in major tournaments.

[lyonhibs]

I love how people are complaining about ENGLISH presenters talking about ENGLAND's chances on an ENGLISH tv station watched by mainly ENGLISH viewers even though England aren't playing.

Get over yourselves, you're not that important we have to ignore our own country to keep the 5 million bitter *******s north of the border happy.

I'm almost certain I watched it on the British Broadcasting Co-operation last night, unless the name has changed under the radar?

Anyway, as mentioned elsewhere, you're becoming a comedy caricature of an Englishman, what with the crass "two world wars, one World Cup" guff and now claiming that Scotland/the Scots are all bitter *******s, but a total irrelevance, but you're the one venting your spleen like Alf Garnett.

I hope England - or more specifically Roy Hodgson - do well, and I couldn't care less what Linekar and pals want to chat about half time. How does that fit in with you're hilariously blinkered view of our nation??

Oh, and I live and work in England, and like it very much, if it's all the same to you.

[Scouse Hibee]

I love how people are complaining about ENGLISH presenters talking about ENGLAND's chances on an ENGLISH tv station watched by mainly ENGLISH viewers even though England aren't playing.

Get over yourselves, you're not that important we have to ignore our own country to keep the 5 million bitter *******s north of the border happy.


:rolleyes: Oh dear another pointless rant.

[Andy74]

I love how people are complaining about ENGLISH presenters talking about ENGLAND's chances on an ENGLISH tv station watched by mainly ENGLISH viewers even though England aren't playing.

Get over yourselves, you're not that important we have to ignore our own country to keep the 5 million bitter *******s north of the border happy.

I thik the fact you think you are watching ENGLISH TV just about sums it up.

[TornadoHibby]

I love how people are complaining about ENGLISH presenters talking about ENGLAND's chances on an ENGLISH tv station watched by mainly ENGLISH viewers even though England aren't playing.

Get over yourselves, you're not that important we have to ignore our own country to keep the 5 million bitter *******s north of the border happy.


Is it just me or, were England not outplayed by France and fortunate to draw, fortunate that Sweden did not capitalise on the dismal second half defending from England and score more than two goals when they were on top and incredibly fortunate that they won against Ukraine when they had by far the most creative attacking players and could easily have been several goals ahead before England got seriously lucky with what ultimately proved to be the match winning goal? I've quite deliberately ignored the Ukraine goal that never was! :confused:

Great that England have reached the quarter finals but will teams like Italy, Spain, Germany and France be as shot shy and "out of sorts" at the "business end" of the competition as to let them off with the standard of play on offer so far allowing them to do as the media campaign is now persuading people to believe at yet another international competition, i.e. win the competition? :rolleyes:


Hmmm............! :greengrin

And btw, we Scots know our place in terms of World football, it's just a pity that other countries and their fans and media do not! :confused::confused:

[Scouse Hibee]

Is it just me or, were England not outplayed by France and fortunate to draw, fortunate that Sweden did not capitalise on the dismal second half defending from England and score more than two goals when they were on top and incredibly fortunate that they won against Ukraine when they had by far the most creative attacking players and could easily have been several goals ahead before England got seriously lucky with what ultimately proved to be the match winning goal? I've quite deliberately ignored the Ukraine goal that never was! :confused:

Great that England have reached the quarter finals but will teams like Italy, Spain, Germany and France be as shot shy and "out of sorts" at the "business end" of the competition as to let them off with the standard of play on offer so far allowing them to do as the media campaign is now persuading people to believe at yet another international competition, i.e. win the competition? :rolleyes:


Hmmm............! :greengrin

And btw, we Scots know our place in terms of World football, it's just a pity that other countries and their fans and media do not! :confused::confused:

Yes! :greengrin

[TornadoHibby]

Yes! :greengrin

Aye right! :na na:

[easty]

I thik the fact you think you are watching ENGLISH TV just about sums it up.

Exactly. What an ersehole. :agree:

[Lost_Mackem]

If England lose Sunday are you one of them fans that cry. I remember seeing it when England lost to Germany. I had to laugh as none of them had ever been to an England game. bit like yourself. :agree:

Possibly, at least we get to the point where tears are actually required though.

[HH81]

Possibly, at least we get to the point where tears are actually required though.

You need to get a grip. Every England game I have been to was rubbish, intact its awful and they play rubbish football.

Newcastle ground was class though, best in the north east.

[Lost_Mackem]

Is it just me or, were England not outplayed by France and fortunate to draw, fortunate that Sweden did not capitalise on the dismal second half defending from England and score more than two goals when they were on top and incredibly fortunate that they won against Ukraine when they had by far the most creative attacking players and could easily have been several goals ahead before England got seriously lucky with what ultimately proved to be the match winning goal? I've quite deliberately ignored the Ukraine goal that never was! :confused:

Great that England have reached the quarter finals but will teams like Italy, Spain, Germany and France be as shot shy and "out of sorts" at the "business end" of the competition as to let them off with the standard of play on offer so far allowing them to do as the media campaign is now persuading people to believe at yet another international competition, i.e. win the competition? :rolleyes:


Hmmm............! :greengrin

And btw, we Scots know our place in terms of World football, it's just a pity that other countries and their fans and media do not! :confused::confused:

"The Ukraine goal that never was".

Ah yes, if you didn't realise, the striker who took the shot was offside so I all this pointless debate about whether it was over the line or not is getting tiresome. When Lampard's goal against the Hun was 2 foot over the line at the last World Cup and wasn't given, I bet there wasn't as much outrage coming out of Scottish mouths. Now that a decision has been perceived to go England's way (like I said the striker was offside) all the toys have come out the pram and all of a sudden the English are cheats. It would be funny if the hypocrisy and sour grapes weren't so staggering.

Reaching the quarter-finals is a great achievement considering the circumstances we entered the tournament in, whatever happens it has been a successful Euro's for us, remind me, when was the last time Scotland made it out of the group stages of a major competition? Even when you had a great team in the late 70's you still messed it up.

I agree that our media and journalists are a bunch of tossers, especially the Sun. They spent much of their time deriding Hodgson and the England team in the build up to the Euro's and they weren't satisfied with the draw against France, now that we have won a couple of games against mediocre opposition however they have their tongue lodged firmly up the managers arse.

[Barman Stanton]

I love how people are complaining about ENGLISH presenters talking about ENGLAND's chances on an ENGLISH tv station watched by mainly ENGLISH viewers even though England aren't playing.

Get over yourselves, you're not that important we have to ignore our own country to keep the 5 million bitter *******s north of the border happy.

Most folks I know couldn't care less about England.

But you do realise you are on a Scottish teams forum? I certainly wouldn't go on an English teams forum and slag of the whole country. Have a word with yourself!

[pacorosssco]

forza italia.

[steakbake]

"The Ukraine goal that never was".

Ah yes, if you didn't realise, the striker who took the shot was offside so I all this pointless debate about whether it was over the line or not is getting tiresome. When Lampard's goal against the Hun was 2 foot over the line at the last World Cup and wasn't given, I bet there wasn't as much outrage coming out of Scottish mouths. Now that a decision has been perceived to go England's way (like I said the striker was offside) all the toys have come out the pram and all of a sudden the English are cheats. It would be funny if the hypocrisy and sour grapes weren't so staggering.

Reaching the quarter-finals is a great achievement considering the circumstances we entered the tournament in, whatever happens it has been a successful Euro's for us, remind me, when was the last time Scotland made it out of the group stages of a major competition? Even when you had a great team in the late 70's you still messed it up.

I agree that our media and journalists are a bunch of tossers, especially the Sun. They spent much of their time deriding Hodgson and the England team in the build up to the Euro's and they weren't satisfied with the draw against France, now that we have won a couple of games against mediocre opposition however they have their tongue lodged firmly up the managers arse.

You don't seem like someone who can be reasoned with, but I'll give it a go...

It's a football game: a sporting event. Nothing more, nothing less.

I wouldn't say that all 5.4 million Scots are against England, in fact I'd safely say the majority couldn't give a monkeys about the football, let alone spend time navel gazing about whether to support England or Anyone But England or find reasons to justify it either way.

I'm also sure all 60 million English people are not glued to their televisions, fervently supporting Roy and his lads. Many might not even know the Euros are on, equally many might think football is a waste of time and are at best, mildly interested. So, some people who are interested will take a side, others won't. My team isn't there, so arbitrarily, I couldn't really care who wins it, to be honest.

The reasons for supporting any team are entirely spurious. As are 'nationalities' - entirely an accident of birth and circumstance.

I reckon you should give your blood pressure a rest, let it wash over you, because the person who's getting the most worked up about it all is in fact, you.

[JimBHibees]

"The Ukraine goal that never was".

Ah yes, if you didn't realise, the striker who took the shot was offside so I all this pointless debate about whether it was over the line or not is getting tiresome. When Lampard's goal against the Hun was 2 foot over the line at the last World Cup and wasn't given, I bet there wasn't as much outrage coming out of Scottish mouths. Now that a decision has been perceived to go England's way (like I said the striker was offside) all the toys have come out the pram and all of a sudden the English are cheats. It would be funny if the hypocrisy and sour grapes weren't so staggering.

Reaching the quarter-finals is a great achievement considering the circumstances we entered the tournament in, whatever happens it has been a successful Euro's for us, remind me, when was the last time Scotland made it out of the group stages of a major competition? Even when you had a great team in the late 70's you still messed it up.

I agree that our media and journalists are a bunch of tossers, especially the Sun. They spent much of their time deriding Hodgson and the England team in the build up to the Euro's and they weren't satisfied with the draw against France, now that we have won a couple of games against mediocre opposition however they have their tongue lodged firmly up the managers arse.

It wasnt the striker who shot that was offside it was when the ball was played forward initially. How could England be seen as cheats when it wasnt in their control if the goal was awarded or not. It was a poor decision, Lampards was a poor decision, your third goal in 66 was a poor decision. These things happen in football.

To say that a footballing giant like England that making the quarter final of the Euros is a great achievement is nonsense. That should be the least that they should be achieving. Winning or getting to the final is a great achievement, quarter final is the starter for 10 for England and should always be so.

[H18sry]

When Roy Hodgson lead Fulham to the Europa League Final in 2009/10 they beat Shaktar Donetsk (UKRAINE) in the last 32, they overcome Juventus (ITALY) in the quarter finals, they got past Wolfsburg (GERMANY) in the semi finals to go on to lose against Atletico Madrid (SPAIN) in the final!

Mirroring ENGLAND's likely route to the final of Euro 2012

[Tynie01011973]

"The Ukraine goal that never was".

Ah yes, if you didn't realise, the striker who took the shot was offside so I all this pointless debate about whether it was over the line or not is getting tiresome. When Lampard's goal against the Hun was 2 foot over the line at the last World Cup and wasn't given, I bet there wasn't as much outrage coming out of Scottish mouths. Now that a decision has been perceived to go England's way (like I said the striker was offside) all the toys have come out the pram and all of a sudden the English are cheats. It would be funny if the hypocrisy and sour grapes weren't so staggering.

Reaching the quarter-finals is a great achievement considering the circumstances we entered the tournament in, whatever happens it has been a successful Euro's for us, remind me, when was the last time Scotland made it out of the group stages of a major competition? Even when you had a great team in the late 70's you still messed it up.

I agree that our media and journalists are a bunch of tossers, especially the Sun. They spent much of their time deriding Hodgson and the England team in the build up to the Euro's and they weren't satisfied with the draw against France, now that we have won a couple of games against mediocre opposition however they have their tongue lodged firmly up the managers arse.

Funny, how Engurland's FA, Media and fans have not stopped going on about Lampard's 'goal' not counting in 2010. Wanting Goal Line technology because they were denied a goal against of all people the Germans.

Clive Tyldesley could not wait to spout that the Video guys had reviewed Ukraine's 'goal' and that he confirmed it WAS over the line but that someone HAD been offside in the build up - Hooray !! Even mentioned that no one knows if Geoff Hurst's goal in 1966 was over the line as well :doh:

BUT THE ENGLISH DON'T DO HYPOCRISY THOUGH DO THEY ???

[Haymaker]

Can we get back to how Ronaldo doesn't score in big games?

[SRHibs]

"The Ukraine goal that never was".

Ah yes, if you didn't realise, the striker who took the shot was offside so I all this pointless debate about whether it was over the line or not is getting tiresome. When Lampard's goal against the Hun was 2 foot over the line at the last World Cup and wasn't given, I bet there wasn't as much outrage coming out of Scottish mouths. Now that a decision has been perceived to go England's way (like I said the striker was offside) all the toys have come out the pram and all of a sudden the English are cheats. It would be funny if the hypocrisy and sour grapes weren't so staggering.

Reaching the quarter-finals is a great achievement considering the circumstances we entered the tournament in, whatever happens it has been a successful Euro's for us, remind me, when was the last time Scotland made it out of the group stages of a major competition? Even when you had a great team in the late 70's you still messed it up.

I agree that our media and journalists are a bunch of tossers, especially the Sun. They spent much of their time deriding Hodgson and the England team in the build up to the Euro's and they weren't satisfied with the draw against France, now that we have won a couple of games against mediocre opposition however they have their tongue lodged firmly up the managers arse.

Are you a masochist or something? Why are you coming onto a SCOTTISH forum to debate ENGLAND'S Euro 2012 campaign, and then greeting when people are having a go at England? It's like one of us trying to have a rational conversation about Hibs on Brokeback.

[TornadoHibby]

"The Ukraine goal that never was". Ah yes, if you didn't realise, the striker who took the shot was offside so I all this pointless debate about whether it was over the line or not is getting tiresome.

Just can't help yourself can you! :greengrin

Do you think that anyone but an England fan cares anything about whether the guy was offside or not? Bottom line is that during the match no match official spotted that and equally, no match official spotted that Terry had "cleared the ball" from a few inches BEHIND the goal line! That's why I described it as I did as without TV evidence the "was it/wasn't it a goal" would never have had the legs that it did! :rolleyes:



When Lampard's goal against the Hun was 2 foot over the line at the last World Cup and wasn't given, I bet there wasn't as much outrage coming out of Scottish mouths. Now that a decision has been perceived to go England's way (like I said the striker was offside) all the toys have come out the pram and all of a sudden the English are cheats. It would be funny if the hypocrisy and sour grapes weren't so staggering.

You really need to spend some time in a darkened room mate as very few of us feel anything like what you describe us as feeling about these matters you are so hung up about! :agree:


Reaching the quarter-finals is a great achievement considering the circumstances we entered the tournament in, whatever happens it has been a successful Euro's for us, remind me, when was the last time Scotland made it out of the group stages of a major competition? Even when you had a great team in the late 70's you still messed it up.

I agree that our media and journalists are a bunch of tossers, especially the Sun. They spent much of their time deriding Hodgson and the England team in the build up to the Euro's and they weren't satisfied with the draw against France, now that we have won a couple of games against mediocre opposition however they have their tongue lodged firmly up the managers arse.

I think that you should have stopped after the bit in bold which is your ready made rationale and justification for the humping that will probably come in the next game, but if not then, in the following game! :greengrin:wink:

Enjoy what you can of the remaining England games but please don't hang us up for repeating facts about how the matches really went (my post to which you replied) or laughing loudly at the continued pish spouted by the English pundits and media about how great they are now playing and how they will now win the competition! :wink: :rolleyes:

[DH1875]

When Roy Hodgson lead Fulham to the Europa League Final in 2009/10 they beat Shaktar Donetsk (UKRAINE) in the last 32, they overcome Juventus (ITALY) in the quarter finals, they got past Wolfsburg (GERMANY) in the semi finals to go on to lose against Atletico Madrid (SPAIN) in the final!

Mirroring ENGLAND's likely route to the final of Euro 2012

You had me worried for a wee minute there. Them making the final and then getting humped by the Spanish would make for some good TV. British TV at that :agree:.

[HH81]

Can we get back to how Ronaldo doesn't score in big games?

Without doubt a one man team. Good to see him score for the first time in a big game though.

[lyonhibs]

Without doubt a one man team. Good to see him score for the first time in a big game though.

He'd better keep banging them in for as long as possible. Some of us have money riding on it!!!

[PeeJay]

Germany v Greece this evening - anyone fancy Greece chance's at all? The general concensus over here it seems is that Greece will be a tough nut to crack, but it's only a matter of time before they do...

Löw's dropped Gomez, Podolski and Müller apparently and is going to start with Klose, Schürrle and Marco Reus up front - never saw that one coming!

Germany haven't really convinced me in this tournament yet - they were on the cusp of going out the tournament against Denmark, they haven't performed as well as in the qualifying games - so does anyone think an upset is possible tonight? Think the Greeks are really fired up for this - for some reason..here's hoping it's a good game

[lyonhibs]

Germany v Greece this evening - anyone fancy Greece chance's at all? The general concensus over here it seems is that Greece will be a tough nut to crack, but it's only a matter of time before they do...

Löw's dropped Gomez, Podolski and Müller apparently and is going to start with Klose, Schürrle and Marco Reus up front - never saw that one coming!

Germany haven't really convinced me in this tournament yet - they were on the cusp of going out the tournament against Denmark, they haven't performed as well as in the qualifying games - so does anyone think an upset is possible tonight? Think the Greeks are really fired up for this - for some reason..here's hoping it's a good game





:grr::grr: Stupid Bosch!!!!! I've got money on him to score 1st. My bets really should be taken into consideration when these managers are making their team choices :greengrin

In all seriousness, 2-0 Germany, both goals in the last 20-30 minutes.

[VickMackie]

Wonder if merkel will run on the pitch and bail them out.

[Ryan91]

Germany now lead 1-0 but should be up by 3 or 4, Lahm's goal was exquisite and absolutely perfect.

Germany have absolutely dominated the first half so far, the possession stats will likely be hovering near the 70% mark for Germany.

[Hibrandenburg]

Wonder if merkel will run on the pitch and bail them out.

So long as she doesn't "get them out" then I have no problem with that. :wink:

[VickMackie]

So long as she doesn't "get them out" then I have no problem with that. :wink:

The German Anne widdicome.

[AFKA5814_Hibs]

Well there's a shock.

[Sylar]

FFS - piss off Samaras!

Lanky tim ******* :grr:

[SteveHFC]

:wtf: Samaras

[bawheid]

Mon the underdog.

[CyberSauzee]

I've not studied the language since school but I could swear the Greek fans were belting out a chorus of "Stick yer debt right up yer @rse".

[SteveHFC]

That's better :greengrin

[AFKA5814_Hibs]

Great goal, 2-1 Germany.

[AFKA5814_Hibs]

Game over

[SteveHFC]

4-1 :cb

[Hibrandenburg]

Sympathy penalty. Never in a million years!

[Frazerbob]

Never a penalty in a million years (unless Thomson is the ref). How can a referee not know the bloody rules!

[Gatecrasher]

I haven't read much of this thread so its probably been mentioned, But I love the way the Germans play. They are so controlled and comfortable on the ball They aren't afraid to run at their opponents and they are patient as well. The amazing thing is most of these players have at least another major tournament in them.

[cabbageandribs1875]

Deutschland v Espana Finale Danke muchas gracias ta very muchly :aok:

[Hibrandenburg]

I haven't read much of this thread so its probably been mentioned, But I love the way the Germans play. They are so controlled and comfortable on the ball They aren't afraid to run at their opponents and they are patient as well. The amazing thing is most of these players have at least another major tournament in them.

:agree: Think Klose is the only one who'll be drawing his pension after this tournament. They took the foot of the gas after the 4th goal tonight. I almost hope that Engerland beat the Italiens so that the Germans can rip them a new one.

[Squealing pig]

germany -1 goal evens. happy days

[Viva_Palmeiras]

In Just another example of Germany's dominance they can afford to make a place for one of the Addams family ;)

[DH1875]

Who is the host of the BBC highlights? Someone put him out his misery. Doesn't even sound English yet is creaming it over them.

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

People still voting with 6 teams left, very bold!

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

Judging by the build up I take it that ITV think England are playing tonight!

[SteveHFC]

Balotelli :not worth

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

Why do none of the Spanish players sing their Anthem?

[marinello59]

Why do none of the Spanish players sing their Anthem?

It has no words.

[HIBERNIAN-0762]

Why do none of the Spanish players sing their Anthem?

Think it's something to do with their King (Carlos), he's been a naughty boy apparently and Spaniards are a wee bit miffed with the monarchy over there, pity we never tool a similar stance :wink:

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

It has no words.

I know, I was just wondering how long it would take to get a bite! not as long as I thought.

[woodythehibee]

http://www.casinoscamreport.com/2012/06/23/bet365-free-in-play-bet-offer-a-great-online-casino-bonus/

Free in play bet with bet365. Exactly the same as the one that Blackpool posted and won many of us £60 easily. Place up to £50 on the double chance (either team to win) then when the match starts, place an in play bet up to the same value as before on a draw. Whatever the result, you will make some profit.

[Ryan69]

http://www.casinoscamreport.com/2012/06/23/bet365-free-in-play-bet-offer-a-great-online-casino-bonus/

Free in play bet with bet365. Exactly the same as the one that Blackpool posted and won many of us £60 easily. Place up to £50 on the double chance (either team to win) then when the match starts, place an in play bet up to the same value as before on a draw. Whatever the result,
you will make some profit.

Didnt know this was a spam site!

[woodythehibee]

Didnt know this was a spam site!



It's not, I got an email from bet365 and wanted to share the bet with people. Obviously couldn't post the email so googled a link. I done the same bet in the Italy Spain game and its free money. So jog on with your attitude!

[ekhibee]

Why do none of the Spanish players sing their Anthem?

Could be something to do with most of them coming from Barcelona or the Basque country, the Catalans and the Basques both want independence from Spain.

[Golden Bear]

Tonight's game is SO boring.

[leither17]

who was that ugly mug i seen holding up the subs board there?

[leither17]

must be turning his stomach to wear a green coat

[Wotherspiniesta]

who was that ugly mug i seen holding up the subs board there?

He can't even do that right.

[iwasthere1972]

Tonight's game is SO boring.

Getting bored with Spain too. Far too much passing.

[whiskyhibby]

Getting bored with Spain too. Far too much passing.

Same here they have the cutting edge of a 6 inch rubber dildo


---
I am here: http://tapatalk.com/map.php?au2onf

[Ryan69]

It's not, I got an email from bet365 and wanted to share the bet with people. Obviously couldn't post the email so googled a link. I done the same bet in the Italy Spain game and its free money. So jog on with your attitude!

Dont worry pal,I got Gomez/Germany at start.

Just sick of these bull**** adverts everywhere I look,if someone wants a bet they will do a bet...but with better prices! Thats why they have they these specials to suck in fools like you,when all it is is a free bet with pish prices.

[blackpoolhibs]

It's not, I got an email from bet365 and wanted to share the bet with people. Obviously couldn't post the email so googled a link. I done the same bet in the Italy Spain game and its free money. So jog on with your attitude!

Ignore him mate, thanks for the PM, i'm in again for £50. Hoping for a draw, and its a free £50 to add to the £60 quid we both won the last time. :top marks

[AFKA5814_Hibs]

Spain are getting the results, but their not the team they've been over the past 4 years. David Villa has been a big miss for them.

[whiskyhibby]

Spain seem content playing anti-football tonight vive la France!


---
I am here: http://tapatalk.com/map.php?ii3vdo

[Hibrandenburg]

:zzzzz!:zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

[woodythehibee]

Dont worry pal,I got Gomez/Germany at start.

Just sick of these bull**** adverts everywhere I look,if someone wants a bet they will do a bet...but with better prices! Thats why they have they these specials to suck in fools like you,when all it is is a free bet with pish prices.



Firstly, I am not a fool. If you play the bookies in their specials carefully you can make free money as many on here did earlier in the tournament. It is a guarantee. Secondly, at least I know now that I don't want Germany to win or Gomez to finish top scorer :agree:

[woodythehibee]

Ignore him mate, thanks for the PM, i'm in again for £50. Hoping for a draw, and its a free £50 to add to the £60 quid we both won the last time. :top marks

Cheers mate. Easy cash :agree:

[blackpoolhibs]

Dont worry pal,I got Gomez/Germany at start.

Just sick of these bull**** adverts everywhere I look,if someone wants a bet they will do a bet...but with better prices! Thats why they have they these specials to suck in fools like you,when all it is is a free bet with pish prices.

What part of free money is sucking in fools? Both woody and i won £62.50 if my memory is correct, on the Spain v Italy game? I hope to be sucked in again for another £50 tomorrow. If you dont want free money, then dont have it. He is only telling folk about a free bet that cannot lose. Get a life.

[the stig]

Getting bored with Spain too. Far too much passing.

Thing is no team is taking the game to spain. If spain are leading they are not going to help the opposition by giving the ball away.

[blackpoolhibs]

Thing is no team is taking the game to spain. If spain are leading they are not going to give the help the opposition by giving the ball away.

Thats right, and it would take a very brave team to do it, as they'd probably be picked off at will.

It has been shown that they can be beaten by playing a stuffy 4-5-1 like England did at wembley a while back, and club wise with Chelsea beating Barcelona.

I hope for a Spain v Germany final, i think they have a team to match the Spanish, and a team that could win.

In saying that, i predicted Spain at the start and will stick with them, i think they are still the best team.

[ekhibee]

I agree that Villa is a big miss for Spain, he's as good a striker as there is in Europe, and to me Torres is slower and doesn't work nearly as hard as Villa. That doesn't matter if Torres scores goals of course, but I do wonder if Spain will persevere with this no recognized striker up front if they play, say, the Germans in the final. Germany have played quite well so far, but to me they've been helped by the teams they've been playing. Portugal sat off them for virtually 3 quarters of the game, Holland were just pish, Denmark should have got a penalty against them which would have made it a bit more interesting, and Greece were just poor. That's not Germany's fault, they've done what they're supposed to, it's up to other teams to cause them a problem. In the World Cup I thought Spain beat Germany comfortably, the Germans seemed to totally run out of ideas against them, but Germany have developed since then.

I reckon Germany would want England in the semis rather than Italy, England have a pretty **** record against Germany, Italy don't, and I think Spain will beat Portugal, because apart from Ronaldo, and possibly Nani, man for man Spain are much much stronger in virtually every department, but the beauty of football is the unpredictability of it, so we'll see.

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

I believe tonight was the first time Spain beat France in a competitive match.

I love watching Spain, but, as others have posted they are taking the pass, pass, pass a step too far. They haven't lost a goal in knockout games since 2006, so they must be doing something right!

[Steve-O]

I believe tonight was the first time Spain beat France in a competitive match.

I love watching Spain, but, as others have posted they are taking the pass, pass, pass a step too far. They haven't lost a goal in knockout games since 2006, so they must be doing something right!

Spain are BORING. I am sick of it! :agree:

[Wotherspiniesta]

Spain are BORING. I am sick of it! :agree:

:agree:

I've got Spain in the sweep at work, but they are verrryyy boring to watch. They don't play with any pace whatsoever. They just pass teams into submission, its not very entertaining to watch. Portugal will cause a problem for them. They have a great counter attacking, fast flowing style which might catch Spain out.

[lyonhibs]

Christ alive, here's hoping Hibs are half as "boring" as Spain next season................ :rolleyes:

[Steve-O]

Christ alive, here's hoping Hibs are half as "boring" as Spain next season................ :rolleyes:

I'm sure we'd all be delighted if Hibs were passing the ball all over the place and winning, but for the neutral, it is rubbish to watch eventually!

Remember when Strachan had Celtic playing like that (albeit on a lesser level)? Even their own fans stopped turning up, including those with season tickets, and they were winning most of the time!

[steakbake]

Christ alive, here's hoping Hibs are half as "boring" as Spain next season................ :rolleyes:

Indeed! Typical dot net response.I wouldn't mind passing steady football that breaks down the opposition and gets results than lump and chase (sounds like sevco5088's new administrators)...

[TheGreenMan]

Ignore him mate, thanks for the PM, i'm in again for £50. Hoping for a draw, and its a free £50 to add to the £60 quid we both won the last time. :top marks


can someone explain how this works and what i need to do?

cheers

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

Christ alive, here's hoping Hibs are half as "boring" as Spain next season................ :rolleyes:

I don't think anyone is disputing the standard of the football on show.

Nae forwards = Craig Levein football visionary!

[Since90+2]

I dont think that its Spain are boring its more the fact that they are far superior to every side in the tournament bar the Germans IMO.

If they played a side that could hold possession as well as them and put them on the back foot you would see a more open game , they dominate possession which means the other team have to drop back and they have no space to play in behind.

[frazeHFC]

Can't believe the amount of people against Spain. Great to watch.

[blackpoolhibs]

Can't believe the amount of people against Spain. Great to watch.

I agree, i'd much rather watch teams that try and play football with the ball, rather than play hoofball and win knock downs or 2nd ball football.

Anyone can play both ways, but it takes real balls to win a football match by playing football, and saying we are better than you at keeping the ball.

It wont always win and some games can be boring, but in my opinion its not Spain who are making it boring, its the teams who wont take them on, the teams that sit back and defend defend defend that are the boring ones for me.

[frazeHFC]

I agree, i'd much rather watch teams that try and play football with the ball, rather than play hoofball and win knock downs or 2nd ball football.

Anyone can play both ways, but it takes real balls to win a football match by playing football, and saying we are better than you at keeping the ball.

It wont always win and some games can be boring, but in my opinion its not Spain who are making it boring, its the teams who wont take them on, the teams that sit back and defend defend defend that are the boring ones for me.

Exactly my thoughts. When they go a goal up its not as if they go all defensive, its more that they do not panic, pass the ball better than anyone and patiently wait for a second.

[jdships]

I agree, i'd much rather watch teams that try and play football with the ball, rather than play hoofball and win knock downs or 2nd ball football.

Anyone can play both ways, but it takes real balls to win a football match by playing football, and saying we are better than you at keeping the ball.

It wont always win and some games can be boring, but in my opinion its not Spain who are making it boring, its the teams who wont take them on, the teams that sit back and defend defend defend that are the boring ones for me.


Excellent post :thumbsup:
They build from the back with great patience and complete belief in their own/ eachothers ability.
Reminicent of Emlyn Hughes's Liverpool where they played the short passes waiting for the opposition mistake /gaps.
Good to see most team playing with two wide players , noticeable it makes space in the middle of the field or pulls one/two midfielders back into defence .
Spain Germany would be the most interesting final for me . Still have the feeling there may be a twist or two before we get there :greengrin:wink:

[frazeHFC]

^ Spain v Germany again would be quality! I remember when it was them in 2008, was watching in a bar in France. Everyone was supporting Spain bar the 2 Germans. :tee hee:

[DAVE1875]

Forza Italia

Italy to win 2-0 for me :greengrin

[Liam_Hibs]

Have a feeling England may win tonight, and that it'll be a decent game!

[DAVE1875]

Have a feeling England may win tonight, and that it'll be a decent game!

Giving that they've named the same side that JUST and only just beat Ukraine, I'd have to disagree with you.

[Hibernia&Alba]

Italy are dreadful, England are mediocre. I'm going England on penalties after a dull stalemate.

[One Day Soon]

Italy are dreadful, England are mediocre. I'm going England on penalties after a dull stalemate.

You need your eyes tested. Forza Italia

[bingo70]

Italy are dreadful, England are mediocre. I'm going England on penalties after a dull stalemate.

I think Italy have been good in spells and at times they've not been great, very few 'dreadful' teams are able to draw with Spain in a competitive international

I also think Italy will control the midfield, Pirlo is class and England seem quite happy to concede possession to allow them to keep their shape defensively, against the lesser teams like they played in the group stages that's fine but with some of the players the Italians have got that's a dangerous game to play.

All that said though England have some good players too so it won't be one way traffic, i'm going for either 2-1 Italy or 1-1 with Italy to win in extra time or pens

[joe breezy]

I think it could be a bit dull and cagey, 1-0 either way, hoping for Balotelli to get the first goal myself purely for betting reasons.

You never know though, both teams have goals in them, as they say

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

Fancy 0 0 & then who knows after that.

[PeeJay]

I'd like to see England move through to a semi against Germany - it's not an impossible task, Italy will be as tough as they come especially if Pirlo is allowed to perform, but they are beatable.
England are not great by any means, they are the least technically adept team left in the competition, they have the underdog role here and anything can happen really - hope we have a result without any need for penalties.

[SteveHFC]

Hope England get beat by a heavy scoreline :aok:

[Wotherspiniesta]

England will win tonight IMO.

2-0, Rooney (x2)

[Hibernia&Alba]

England need another captain's performance from Gerrard. Hate to say it, but he's been outstanding. Pirlo is Italy's only creative player, and if Gerrard can stop him dictating the midfield England have more quality up front.

[Hainan Hibs]

Italy to win 2 goals to 1. Think England will take an early lead, with Balotelli getting a late winner.

[Scouse Hibee]

England all the way, bring on the Germans!

[JimBHibees]

Game seems a cert draw to me. Can see Italy after pens.

[Hibs90]

What possible reason is there to believe England will win this? There isn't a hope they will beat Italy, Germany then Spain three matches on the trot. Once again the distance between hype and reality is a couple of planets. Have a look at the highlights of the first three England matches as a neutral. They were somewhere between average and downright awful for all three. Not a hope.

[bingo70]

What possible reason is there to believe England will win this? There isn't a hope they will beat Italy, Germany then Spain three matches on the trot. Once again the distance between hype and reality is a couple of planets. Have a look at the highlights of the first three England matches as a neutral. They were somewhere between average and downright awful for all three. Not a hope.

I agree to an extent, i think Italy are a far better side but upsets do happen and England have got a few players capable of scoring goals so i don't think you should be writing England off quite as much as you are.

Hope you're right though and they give England a good thumping

[Scouse Hibee]

What possible reason is there to believe England will win this? There isn't a hope they will beat Italy, Germany then Spain three matches on the trot. Once again the distance between hype and reality is a couple of planets. Have a look at the highlights of the first three England matches as a neutral. They were somewhere between average and downright awful for all three. Not a hope.

Probably the same misguided faith that had me thinking that we could actually beat Hertz and win the Scottish cup, nae right to believe but I did!

[blackpoolhibs]

I married an Italian wife in 1982, 30 years later i have forgiven that woman for making my life a misery, so much so i want her team to pump the English tonight. I hope if she's reading this, she does not construe it as an attempt to try again?

[3pm]

I married an Italian wife in 1982, 30 years later i have forgiven that woman for making my life a misery, so much so i want her team to pump the English tonight. I hope if she's reading this, she does not construe it as an attempt to try again?

What did you marry a wife for? Surely must have been a single one out there! :o)

[Jim44]

If England score first, I think they'll win the match.

[Offside Trap]

I married an Italian wife in 1982, 30 years later i have forgiven that woman for making my life a misery, so much so i want her team to pump the English tonight. I hope if she's reading this, she does not construe it as an attempt to try again?

Wow. What did her Italian husband think of that? :na na:

[blackpoolhibs]

What did you marry a wife for? Surely must have been a single one out there! :o)


Wow. What did her Italian husband think of that? :na na:

I thought it might be fun, i was wrong. :wink:

[cabbageandribs1875]

:music: italia italia italia mon the tallies

[easty]

England need another captain's performance from Gerrard. Hate to say it, but he's been outstanding. Pirlo is Italy's only creative player, and if Gerrard can stop him dictating the midfield England have more quality up front.

Cannae help but think theres a message board in Italy with some poster saying that if Pirlo can stop Gerrard then they'll win easy. :greengrin

[Sylar]

I fancy this to be a decent game.

Alan Shearer: "[Balloteli] hasn't achieved anything in his career yet".

Erm, does the Premiership title not count?

[Sylar]

As an aside, WTF was that?!? :faf:

[Hibernia Na Eir]

I fancy this to be a decent game.

Alan Shearer: "[Balloteli] hasn't achieved anything in his career yet".

Erm, does the Premiership title not count?

aye, what a clown eh! some of these panelists need to think before they open their gobs. Tossers.

[Betty Boop]

I fancy this to be a decent game.

Alan Shearer: "[Balloteli] hasn't achieved anything in his career yet".

Erm, does the Premiership title not count?

Balotelli's chance to shine tonight. I hope he makes the three stooges in the studio eat their words. :bye:

[Aldo]

Arrogant bunch.... They think they are the best. Hope they get totally and utter humped

[Hibrandenburg]

England all the way, bring on the Germans!



:pray:

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

They were going on about how good it was to have an England Captain who only makes back page headlines on TalkSport earlier. Punching a DJ in a boozer obviously doesnae count!

[Dinkydoo]

What a shot that was!

[hibsbollah]

Buffon genius save :aok:

Good start, decent posessiin stuff from both teams and what a strike by... Montelivo was it?

[iwasthere1972]

More entertainment in 10 minutes than the entire match last night.

[hibsbollah]

Italy looking shakier at the back than ive seen them so far, missing Chiellini maybe.

[Scouse Hibee]

Not the bore predicted then!

[Sylar]

Not the bore predicted then!

Been a good game - got a wee bit flat in the last 10 minutes though.

[Dinkydoo]

Both teams looking good so far.

Italy stronger in the midfield but England looking better at the back; it's a tough one to call.

[hibsbollah]

Italys midfield taking charge. Montolivo all over the place.

[Wotherspiniesta]

"Well we expected England to dominate possession, but the Italians are having more of the ball"

Blinded by their ignorance. Why would they expect to dominate possesion? :rolleyes:

Get it up them, Italy!

[Scouse Hibee]

Under the cosh a bit now!

[Jim44]

Not that I've much time for the guy, I'm getting peed off with the commentators' snide remarks about Balotelli. I hope he has the last laugh.

[hibsbollah]

Decent first half, Italys midfield in total command but italys defence look vulnerable on the counter. Cassano best player so far, England better than I expected.

[Scouse Hibee]

Good enough, keep it going.

[Hiber-nation]

Not that I've much time for the guy, I'm getting peed off with the commentators' snide remarks about Balotelli. I hope he has the last laugh.

Yep, Balotelli shouts a a team mate - Lawrenson laughs and they mock him. Joe Hart shouts at a team mate and he's some sort of organisational genius.

[Mon Dieu4]

Would say its been 55% in the Italians favour but this is anyone's game, just hope one of them wins in 90 mins as i will win £100

[Scouse Hibee]

Not that I've much time for the guy, I'm getting peed off with the commentators' snide remarks about Balotelli. I hope he has the last laugh.

Think they're just commenting on the two sides of the man, even said "it''s good to see him stoked up for this one in a footballing sense", rather than a red mist one is the point they we're making which is often the case.

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

Anybody else think Rooney doesn't look at full match fitness?

[PeeJay]

Think it's been a good game of football - some decent chances on both sides, England doing well within their capabilities - they need to do more upfront, then they might just sneak it...anyone's game at the moment really.

[Scouse Hibee]

Anybody else think Rooney doesn't look at full match fitness?

My missus just said that :agree:

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

She knows her stuff! ;-)

[easty]

If I knew I could get a sympathetic jury (a Scottish one...:wink:) then I think I'd have to cause serious physical pain to Mark Lawrenson.

My defence would simply be "when he laughs on the commentry it makes my brain hurt, I didn't feel like I had a choice".

I'd rather they had Gok Wan talking about how Rooneys shorts dont bring out the sparkle in his eyes than have to listen to that ersehole!

[ronaldo7]

I think Engerlundshire can win this one.

65-70 minutes and he should bring on Walcott, but get him to play through the middle and run at the Italian defence.

[Scouse Hibee]

What a let off!

[Sprouleflyer]

If I knew I could get a sympathetic jury (a Scottish one...:wink:) then I think I'd have to cause serious physical pain to Mark Lawrenson.

My defence would simply be "when he laughs on the commentry it makes my brain hurt, I didn't feel like I had a choice".

I'd rather they had Gok Wan talking about how Rooneys shorts dont bring out the sparkle in his eyes than have to listen to that ersehole!

You can add Alan Hansen into that!

It will take a whole week and a davy lamp for Hansen to crawl out the English @rse hole!!!!

[hibsbollah]

Gerrard is being totally outclassed.

[Scouse Hibee]

Get big Andy on.

[Barney McGrew]

You can see what's coming with all these missed chances by Italy.......

[Scouse Hibee]

You can see what's coming with all these missed chances by Italy.......

Yep they wont keep missing!

[Dinkydoo]

How many times has Balotelli lacked the composure to score with only the keeper to beat in this competition?

[ronaldo7]

Get yer cash on the germans ripping any of these two a new one in the semi.

[hibsbollah]

Get yer cash on the germans ripping any of these two a new one in the semi.

Disagree. Italy can win this tournament.

[ronaldo7]

Disagree. Italy can win this tournament.

Scouse Hibee disagrees:greengrin

[Scouse Hibee]

Scouse Hibee disagrees:greengrin

:greengrin

[Mon Dieu4]

Classy statement by the commentator about the Italian right backs hamstring

[DarrenSQH]

Classy statement by the commentator about the Italian right backs hamstring

I noticed that. Stupid thing to say.

[NORTHERNHIBBY]

Somehow I don't see the Germans being too worried about facing either of these teams. Both seem over eager to give each other the ball back.

[Hibrandenburg]

Italiens have taken their foot of the gas pedal a bit. Cue substitutions and a surge in the last 15 minutes.

Still anyone's game though.

[hibsbollah]

Cassano would do a job in the space just behind Eoin Doyle :agree:

[Scouse Hibee]

Classy statement by the commentator about the Italian right backs hamstring

:agree: Disgraceful, then moans about England putting the ball out for an injury

[Scouse Hibee]

Cassano would do a job in the space just behind Eoin Doyle :agree:

At the moment there's a huge space behind Doyle with no-one to fill it :greengrin

[cabbageandribs1875]

is gerrard not playing tonight ? :confused: is he a sub ?







just heard his name :cbhe is playing

[Sylar]

is gerrard not playing tonight ? :confused: is he a sub ?

Biggest enigma on the park so far.

**** knows how he can have cramp - he's hardly been involved.

[cabbageandribs1875]

Biggest enigma on the park so far.

**** knows how he can have cramp - he's hardly been involved.


poor guy aint even had a chance to do one of his dives :(

[hibsbollah]

:agree: Gerrard, Young, Parker, Milner, all been invisible. Which shows how good Italys middle 5 have been.

[Sylar]

What odds for penalties? :greengrin

[Jim44]

Classy statement by the commentator about the Italian right backs hamstring

I personally don't mind the English team and most of the players . It's the media baggage and supporters they have that scunner me.

[Wotherspiniesta]

Ashley Young is crap :agree:

Edit- Gerrard is buggered BTW. Running on empty.

[Dinkydoo]

Anyone think that Rooney seems scared to head the ball after his hair transplant......

[hibsbollah]

At the moment there's a huge space behind Doyle with no-one to fill it :greengrin

True. Id take Pirlo in the 'Claros role' as well.

[Dinkydoo]

True. Id take Pirlo in the 'Claros role' as well.

Could also give Stevenson a bit of competition in the engine room by bringing in De Rossi :wink:

[Westie1875]

Anyone think that Rooney seems scared to head the ball after his hair transplant......

:greengrin You could be onto something with that :faf:

[NORTHERNHIBBY]

So far you would need to say that bringing a not match fit Rooney hasn't been all that clever. Even Konte would have put away the goal he got against Ukraine. Shrek looks a wee bit jaded,

[Jim44]

I can see England stealing this.

[iwasthere1972]

Anyone think that Rooney seems scared to head the ball after his hair transplant......

Be funny if it turned out to be a wig and just fell off.

[Alfred E Newman]

I can see England stealing this.

Likewise .

[Dinkydoo]

Be funny if it turned out to be a wig and just fell off.

:hilarious:

[easty]

A knee in the side of the face....how dare you go down holding it....knees in the face are never sore.:rolleyes:

[hibsbollah]

A knee in the side of the face....how dare you go down holding it....knees in the face are never sore.:rolleyes:

Im in a pub full of England fans and theyre going mental, saying he wasnt touched :dunno: the ref is an eyetie, apparently...

[cabbageandribs1875]

Engerlundy will finally win a penalty shoot-out :grr:

[Scouse Hibee]

A knee in the side of the face....how dare you go down holding it....knees in the face are never sore.:rolleyes:

Always thought Italians were two faced!

[AFKA5814_Hibs]

Dont think the Germans will be too worried for the semis whoever wins.