Rutashubanyuma
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Michezo magazetini leo...
Michezo magazetini leo...
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Rutashubanyuma
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Rutashubanyuma
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Torres: Reds ploy surprised Blues
1 comments »
Updated Feb 7, 2011 7:34 AM ET
Fernando Torres admits his old club Liverpool caught Chelsea by surprise on his debut on Sunday.
But Torres has vowed the Blues will still have a say in the Premier League title race.
The £50million striker's much-hyped first appearance in a blue shirt failed to live up to expectations at Stamford Bridge, where Torres was eventually replaced after 66 minutes as the Reds went on to win 1-0 through a goal from Raul Meireles.
Liverpool, who continue to improve under Kenny Dalglish following a fourth successive league victory, deployed three central defenders which limited the impact of Torres and Didier Drogba, who were supported by Nicolas Anelka.
Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti has vowed to make the new system work, and Torres maintains the Blues will not be caught out again.
"It was very difficult, Liverpool played a good game, with three at the back," Torres told Chelsea TV.
"We were not expecting that and maybe they took advantage of that.
"I think the fair result was the draw, it was unfair to lose that game, but now we are looking forwards to the next game and will keep fighting until the end.
"There are a lot of points still to play (for)."
Apart from an early chance when he latched onto a stray pass from Maxi Rodriguez and then fired his 20-yard effort over the bar, and a close-range effort blocked by Jamie Carragher, Torres rarely troubled the Liverpool back-line.
The travelling supporters barracked their former Kop idol at every opportunity, and took great delight in his substitution - chanting "You should have stayed at a big club" when he sat down in the Chelsea dugout.
Torres preferred to look on the positive welcome he received from the Stamford Bridge faithful.
"Obviously everyone wants to win, especially if it is their first game at home, but I will still have very good memories about my reception here and want to thank all of the Chelsea fans for that nice reception," he said.
"The result was not the best, but we have to keep going and fighting until the end."
1 comments »
Updated Feb 7, 2011 7:34 AM ET
Fernando Torres admits his old club Liverpool caught Chelsea by surprise on his debut on Sunday.
But Torres has vowed the Blues will still have a say in the Premier League title race.
The £50million striker's much-hyped first appearance in a blue shirt failed to live up to expectations at Stamford Bridge, where Torres was eventually replaced after 66 minutes as the Reds went on to win 1-0 through a goal from Raul Meireles.
Liverpool, who continue to improve under Kenny Dalglish following a fourth successive league victory, deployed three central defenders which limited the impact of Torres and Didier Drogba, who were supported by Nicolas Anelka.
Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti has vowed to make the new system work, and Torres maintains the Blues will not be caught out again.
"It was very difficult, Liverpool played a good game, with three at the back," Torres told Chelsea TV.
"We were not expecting that and maybe they took advantage of that.
"I think the fair result was the draw, it was unfair to lose that game, but now we are looking forwards to the next game and will keep fighting until the end.
"There are a lot of points still to play (for)."
Apart from an early chance when he latched onto a stray pass from Maxi Rodriguez and then fired his 20-yard effort over the bar, and a close-range effort blocked by Jamie Carragher, Torres rarely troubled the Liverpool back-line.
The travelling supporters barracked their former Kop idol at every opportunity, and took great delight in his substitution - chanting "You should have stayed at a big club" when he sat down in the Chelsea dugout.
Torres preferred to look on the positive welcome he received from the Stamford Bridge faithful.
"Obviously everyone wants to win, especially if it is their first game at home, but I will still have very good memories about my reception here and want to thank all of the Chelsea fans for that nice reception," he said.
"The result was not the best, but we have to keep going and fighting until the end."
Rutashubanyuma
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Stunned Szczesny says sorry
5 comments »
Updated Feb 7, 2011 5:43 AM ET
Wojciech Szczesny has apologised to Arsenal fans and says the Newcastle draw has left him with "the worst feeling I have ever had in my life".
The Gunners led 4-0 at half-time before conceding four goals ion the second-half, as Newcastle sealed the biggest comeback in Premier League history.
Although Arsenal were far from happy with some of the refereeing decisions, the Polish ace offered few excuses for the performance.
"I cannot believe it, it is the worst feeling I have ever had in my life. I can only say sorry to the supporters," he said.
"I have never known anything like it. I don't understand what happened. With 10 men we were capable of holding the game but there were a lot of things that went wrong.
"The whole back-four unit got changed because of the situation but we were used to playing with each other and we should still have been comfortable playing alongside each other."
Andrey Arshavin revealed Arsene Wenger was stunned into silence after the match.
"He [Wenger] didn't say anything at all to us," revealed Arshavin.
"He was disappointed and distraught too, like any man would be in his shoes and under such circumstances.
"Naturally, we were all sad. Only Manchester United being defeated later that night sweetened the pill a bit. But we are not psychologically broken. We just cannot afford to be.
"If we want to win, we must not be sitting and moaning. We need to analyse that unfortunate match and draw the right conclusions from it. That day is over and left behind. We need to think and prepare for the next match in the Premier League against Wolves."
Arshavin added: "What happened was something unbelievable with a tragic end for us.
"It was as if there was a magnet behind one of the goals because all eight were scored in it."
5 comments »
Updated Feb 7, 2011 5:43 AM ET
Wojciech Szczesny has apologised to Arsenal fans and says the Newcastle draw has left him with "the worst feeling I have ever had in my life".
The Gunners led 4-0 at half-time before conceding four goals ion the second-half, as Newcastle sealed the biggest comeback in Premier League history.
Although Arsenal were far from happy with some of the refereeing decisions, the Polish ace offered few excuses for the performance.
"I cannot believe it, it is the worst feeling I have ever had in my life. I can only say sorry to the supporters," he said.
"I have never known anything like it. I don't understand what happened. With 10 men we were capable of holding the game but there were a lot of things that went wrong.
"The whole back-four unit got changed because of the situation but we were used to playing with each other and we should still have been comfortable playing alongside each other."
Andrey Arshavin revealed Arsene Wenger was stunned into silence after the match.
"He [Wenger] didn't say anything at all to us," revealed Arshavin.
"He was disappointed and distraught too, like any man would be in his shoes and under such circumstances.
"Naturally, we were all sad. Only Manchester United being defeated later that night sweetened the pill a bit. But we are not psychologically broken. We just cannot afford to be.
"If we want to win, we must not be sitting and moaning. We need to analyse that unfortunate match and draw the right conclusions from it. That day is over and left behind. We need to think and prepare for the next match in the Premier League against Wolves."
Arshavin added: "What happened was something unbelievable with a tragic end for us.
"It was as if there was a magnet behind one of the goals because all eight were scored in it."
Rutashubanyuma
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Vieira questions Gunners' commitment
2 comments »
Updated Feb 7, 2011 5:48 AM ET
Former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira believes the Gunners let Newcastle off the hook in the eight-goal thriller at St James' Park.
Vieira was shocked to hear Arsenal had blown a 4-0 lead to draw 4-4 against Alan Pardew's team on Saturday, a result which would have seriously hindered their title challenge had Manchester United not suffered a shock defeat to Wolves.
The Frenchman, now a member of Manchester City's squad, told BBC Radio Five Live: "Like everybody else I was quite surprised.
"It does show that in football if you don't work hard until the last minute, if you don't have 100% commitment, anything can happen. Newcastle is still a difficult place to go to."
He added: "I think Arsenal is still a great side, a fantastic team to watch.
"The fans have been a bit disappointed in the last few years but they have to keep believing in themselves because they're still a good side."
City's win over West Brom on Saturday kept them in title contention, now a point behind second-placed Arsenal and five behind leaders United.
Vieira was an unused substitute at Eastlands, and acknowledged the quality of the players in City's squad means they must aim to remain in the battle for Premier League end-of-season honours.
"I think when you play at a big club like City and when you look in our dressing room at the players involved in the team, the target has to be really high," Vieira said.
"But from what happened at the weekend, you can see that anybody can beat anybody. We still believe in ourselves and we just have to keep believing in ourselves and try to win games."
2 comments »
Updated Feb 7, 2011 5:48 AM ET
Former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira believes the Gunners let Newcastle off the hook in the eight-goal thriller at St James' Park.
Vieira was shocked to hear Arsenal had blown a 4-0 lead to draw 4-4 against Alan Pardew's team on Saturday, a result which would have seriously hindered their title challenge had Manchester United not suffered a shock defeat to Wolves.
The Frenchman, now a member of Manchester City's squad, told BBC Radio Five Live: "Like everybody else I was quite surprised.
"It does show that in football if you don't work hard until the last minute, if you don't have 100% commitment, anything can happen. Newcastle is still a difficult place to go to."
He added: "I think Arsenal is still a great side, a fantastic team to watch.
"The fans have been a bit disappointed in the last few years but they have to keep believing in themselves because they're still a good side."
City's win over West Brom on Saturday kept them in title contention, now a point behind second-placed Arsenal and five behind leaders United.
Vieira was an unused substitute at Eastlands, and acknowledged the quality of the players in City's squad means they must aim to remain in the battle for Premier League end-of-season honours.
"I think when you play at a big club like City and when you look in our dressing room at the players involved in the team, the target has to be really high," Vieira said.
"But from what happened at the weekend, you can see that anybody can beat anybody. We still believe in ourselves and we just have to keep believing in ourselves and try to win games."
Rutashubanyuma
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Carragher hails Dalglish effect
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Updated Feb 7, 2011 6:59 AM ET
Liverpool vice-captain Jamie Carragher has hailed the galvanising effect Kenny Dalglish has had on the squad since taking over a month ago.
Sunday's win at Chelsea was the Reds' fourth in succession in a five-match unbeaten run which has lifted them to sixth, their highest Premier League position of the season.
There has been a noticeable change on the pitch since the 59-year-old took over from Roy Hodgson with performances, as well as results, on an upward curve.
And Carragher believes that is mainly due to Dalglish, in his second spell as Liverpool manager, as he has brought stability and a feeling harmony to all aspects of the operation at Anfield - especially among fans who turned against Hodgson very quickly.
"What Kenny's done has got the club all as one; supporters are behind everything and it helps that the players and supporters are that together," said the defender.
"It wasn't like that at the start of the season unfortunately for Roy Hodgson, but Kenny coming in has galvanised the supporters who are behind the team again.
"His record as a manager is fantastic, one of the top managers around, he's won four championships
"But it's hard to put your finger on and say this manager is doing something different or that it's better.
"That's disrespectful but it's going well at the moment and so we'll enjoy that."
Aston Villa 2-2 Fulham | Recap
Everton 5-3 Blackpool | Recap
Man City 3-0 West Brom | Recap
Newcastle 4-4 Arsenal | Recap
Tottenham 2-1 Bolton | Recap
Wigan 4-3 Blackburn | Recap
Wolves 2-1 Man United | Recap
Chelsea 0-1 Liverpool | Recap
The winning run has helped ensure there has been no adverse fallout from the £50million departure of Fernando Torres to yesterday's opponents.
New arrival Luis Suarez watched from the bench at Stamford Bridge while club record signing Andy Carroll has yet to feature because of injury.
But Carragher insisted those two players meant the squad could look to the future and not mourn the loss of the Spain striker.
"Time will tell if we've come out of transfer window stronger and how we'll be talking about who got the better end of the deal," the 33-year-old told the Liverpool Echo.
"For us, if Torres does well at Chelsea, good luck to him, as long as he doesn't play well against us.
"We've got to focus on what Carroll and Suarez can do for us, I'm sure they can be great signings.
"At Liverpool most games you're expected to win, so can't get too carried away as the standards here are so high."
Midfielder Raul Meireles was the match-winner with his fourth goal in five matches.
However, the Portugal international is a reluctant hero and was keen to stress the significance of the team performance.
"It's a good moment for me but the most important thing is the team and the victory. Three points is important for us," he said.
"We tried to do our best and play good football. Now I've scored a few goals for the club and I'm happy."
1 comments »
Updated Feb 7, 2011 6:59 AM ET
Liverpool vice-captain Jamie Carragher has hailed the galvanising effect Kenny Dalglish has had on the squad since taking over a month ago.
Sunday's win at Chelsea was the Reds' fourth in succession in a five-match unbeaten run which has lifted them to sixth, their highest Premier League position of the season.
There has been a noticeable change on the pitch since the 59-year-old took over from Roy Hodgson with performances, as well as results, on an upward curve.
And Carragher believes that is mainly due to Dalglish, in his second spell as Liverpool manager, as he has brought stability and a feeling harmony to all aspects of the operation at Anfield - especially among fans who turned against Hodgson very quickly.
"What Kenny's done has got the club all as one; supporters are behind everything and it helps that the players and supporters are that together," said the defender.
"It wasn't like that at the start of the season unfortunately for Roy Hodgson, but Kenny coming in has galvanised the supporters who are behind the team again.
"His record as a manager is fantastic, one of the top managers around, he's won four championships
"But it's hard to put your finger on and say this manager is doing something different or that it's better.
"That's disrespectful but it's going well at the moment and so we'll enjoy that."
Sat., Feb. 5
Stoke City 3-2 Sunderland | RecapAston Villa 2-2 Fulham | Recap
Everton 5-3 Blackpool | Recap
Man City 3-0 West Brom | Recap
Newcastle 4-4 Arsenal | Recap
Tottenham 2-1 Bolton | Recap
Wigan 4-3 Blackburn | Recap
Wolves 2-1 Man United | Recap
Sun., Feb. 6
West Ham 0-1 Birmingham | RecapChelsea 0-1 Liverpool | Recap
The winning run has helped ensure there has been no adverse fallout from the £50million departure of Fernando Torres to yesterday's opponents.
New arrival Luis Suarez watched from the bench at Stamford Bridge while club record signing Andy Carroll has yet to feature because of injury.
But Carragher insisted those two players meant the squad could look to the future and not mourn the loss of the Spain striker.
"Time will tell if we've come out of transfer window stronger and how we'll be talking about who got the better end of the deal," the 33-year-old told the Liverpool Echo.
"For us, if Torres does well at Chelsea, good luck to him, as long as he doesn't play well against us.
"We've got to focus on what Carroll and Suarez can do for us, I'm sure they can be great signings.
"At Liverpool most games you're expected to win, so can't get too carried away as the standards here are so high."
Midfielder Raul Meireles was the match-winner with his fourth goal in five matches.
However, the Portugal international is a reluctant hero and was keen to stress the significance of the team performance.
"It's a good moment for me but the most important thing is the team and the victory. Three points is important for us," he said.
"We tried to do our best and play good football. Now I've scored a few goals for the club and I'm happy."
Rutashubanyuma
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SWP could play key City role
Updated Feb 7, 2011 6:14 AM ET
Manchester City winger Shaun Wright-Phillips has been offered the chance to step into the role vacated by the injured Adam Johnson.
Wright-Phillips looked bright and energetic during a late cameo appearance in the 3-0 victory against West Brom on Saturday.
And coach David Platt said: "He could be that player."
Next up is the derby against Manchester United on Saturday.
Only a week ago, former City academy player Wright-Phillips - who returned to Eastlands in 2008 after a spell with Chelsea - seemed be on on his way out of Eastlands but nothing materialised.
But with England star Johnson out for around three months with an ankle injury, the prospect of 29-year-old Wright-Phillips being involved regularly have improved.
Platt said: "What we had prior to January was a squad, when all fit, of 24 or 25 players and Shauny found himself out of it a few times.
"It did not work out for him in terms of moving away but he is a consummate pro. He has trained exceptionally well as he has done all season. He gives you a lot of pace and attacking ability.
"We are not stupid enough not to realise he might be important to us between now and the end of the season."
Updated Feb 7, 2011 6:14 AM ET
Manchester City winger Shaun Wright-Phillips has been offered the chance to step into the role vacated by the injured Adam Johnson.
Wright-Phillips looked bright and energetic during a late cameo appearance in the 3-0 victory against West Brom on Saturday.
And coach David Platt said: "He could be that player."
Next up is the derby against Manchester United on Saturday.
Only a week ago, former City academy player Wright-Phillips - who returned to Eastlands in 2008 after a spell with Chelsea - seemed be on on his way out of Eastlands but nothing materialised.
But with England star Johnson out for around three months with an ankle injury, the prospect of 29-year-old Wright-Phillips being involved regularly have improved.
Platt said: "What we had prior to January was a squad, when all fit, of 24 or 25 players and Shauny found himself out of it a few times.
"It did not work out for him in terms of moving away but he is a consummate pro. He has trained exceptionally well as he has done all season. He gives you a lot of pace and attacking ability.
"We are not stupid enough not to realise he might be important to us between now and the end of the season."
Rutashubanyuma
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Baggies in no rush to appoint boss
RivalsDM
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Updated Feb 7, 2011 6:19 AM ET
West Brom are unlikely to make a knee-jerk appointment as they look to replace axed head coach Roberto Di Matteo.
The Baggies ended Di Matteo's 18-month reign on Sunday after 13 defeats in their last 18 games spanning all competitions, putting him on 'gardening leave'.
Already the likes of Roy Hodgson, Sam Allardyce, Chris Hughton, former Albion skipper Derek McInnes and ex-West Brom player Martin Jol are being linked with a move to the Hawthorns.
But sources close to Albion insist no replacement for Di Matteo had been lined up before the decision was taken by the board to dispense of the 40-year-old Italian's services.
They have enough confidence in first-team coach Michael Appleton - now in temporary charge - to do a competent job while the search goes on.
Former West Brom midfielder Appleton has been coaching at the Hawthorns for five years and has the respect of the players - a crucial factor for the forthcoming home games with West Ham and Wolves.
Aston Villa 2-2 Fulham | Recap
Everton 5-3 Blackpool | Recap
Man City 3-0 West Brom | Recap
Newcastle 4-4 Arsenal | Recap
Tottenham 2-1 Bolton | Recap
Wigan 4-3 Blackburn | Recap
Wolves 2-1 Man United | Recap
Chelsea 0-1 Liverpool | Recap
Appleton may even be considered as a candidate - in the same way as Steve Kean has been promoted from within at Blackburn - if he proves his worth in the hotseat.
The next head coach will also have to be willing to work alongside sporting and technical director Dan Ashworth.
West Brom legend and club record goalscorer Tony 'Bomber' Brown believes Di Matteo should have been given more time to revive the club's fortunes.
Brown said: "I am in shock. It is happened so quick. It is all down to results.
"They've had this bad spell and the chairman has decided the manager has got to go. It's as simple as that.
"I think every Albion fan will be shocked with it happening like this.
"I think Di Matteo deserved a bit longer. We are in mid-stream. What is going to happen now, who is going to take over, who is going to lead the ship?
"It's a big job for whoever takes over. It is easy to get rid of your manager. We've had quite a lot.
"All it does is cause confusion again at a vital part of the season.
"It has got to be someone who is going to get the lads behind him otherwise you are in a bit of a mess."
RivalsDM
0 comments »
Updated Feb 7, 2011 6:19 AM ET
West Brom are unlikely to make a knee-jerk appointment as they look to replace axed head coach Roberto Di Matteo.
The Baggies ended Di Matteo's 18-month reign on Sunday after 13 defeats in their last 18 games spanning all competitions, putting him on 'gardening leave'.
Already the likes of Roy Hodgson, Sam Allardyce, Chris Hughton, former Albion skipper Derek McInnes and ex-West Brom player Martin Jol are being linked with a move to the Hawthorns.
But sources close to Albion insist no replacement for Di Matteo had been lined up before the decision was taken by the board to dispense of the 40-year-old Italian's services.
They have enough confidence in first-team coach Michael Appleton - now in temporary charge - to do a competent job while the search goes on.
Former West Brom midfielder Appleton has been coaching at the Hawthorns for five years and has the respect of the players - a crucial factor for the forthcoming home games with West Ham and Wolves.
Sat., Feb. 5
Stoke City 3-2 Sunderland | RecapAston Villa 2-2 Fulham | Recap
Everton 5-3 Blackpool | Recap
Man City 3-0 West Brom | Recap
Newcastle 4-4 Arsenal | Recap
Tottenham 2-1 Bolton | Recap
Wigan 4-3 Blackburn | Recap
Wolves 2-1 Man United | Recap
Sun., Feb. 6
West Ham 0-1 Birmingham | RecapChelsea 0-1 Liverpool | Recap
Appleton may even be considered as a candidate - in the same way as Steve Kean has been promoted from within at Blackburn - if he proves his worth in the hotseat.
The next head coach will also have to be willing to work alongside sporting and technical director Dan Ashworth.
West Brom legend and club record goalscorer Tony 'Bomber' Brown believes Di Matteo should have been given more time to revive the club's fortunes.
Brown said: "I am in shock. It is happened so quick. It is all down to results.
"They've had this bad spell and the chairman has decided the manager has got to go. It's as simple as that.
"I think every Albion fan will be shocked with it happening like this.
"I think Di Matteo deserved a bit longer. We are in mid-stream. What is going to happen now, who is going to take over, who is going to lead the ship?
"It's a big job for whoever takes over. It is easy to get rid of your manager. We've had quite a lot.
"All it does is cause confusion again at a vital part of the season.
"It has got to be someone who is going to get the lads behind him otherwise you are in a bit of a mess."
Rutashubanyuma
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Doyle delighted to end Man Utd's run
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Updated Feb 7, 2011 6:28 AM ET
Striker Kevin Doyle was certain that Wolves were capable of ending Manchester United's 29-match unbeaten run at Molineux.
Indeed, the Black Country outfit even managed to complete their amazing 2-1 triumph despite falling a goal behind after only three minutes, bouncing back magnificently to add United's name to a list of scalps that also includes Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool.
"You wouldn't blame anyone for thinking Manchester United would win but we said before the game that someone has got to do it," said the Republic of Ireland star.
"I just felt it was set up for it. They were top, unbeaten for such a long time and going for a record, and we were bottom.
"It is great beating them but it won't make or break our season.
"We need to be taking points off the teams that are around us in the table - and we had better start doing it soon."
Not that the discussion around Saturday's victory will end any time soon in the Wolves dressing room.
There is the small matter of who actually scored the winner to sort out yet.
Doyle claims he got his head to Nenad Milijas' 40th-minute free-kick. George Elokobi is equally certain it was his.
And, after having what he thought was a goal against Chelsea earlier in the season credited to Blues defender Jose Bosingwa instead, Elokobi is not in a mood to concede to the Irishman.
Aston Villa 2-2 Fulham | Recap
Everton 5-3 Blackpool | Recap
Man City 3-0 West Brom | Recap
Newcastle 4-4 Arsenal | Recap
Tottenham 2-1 Bolton | Recap
Wigan 4-3 Blackburn | Recap
Wolves 2-1 Man United | Recap
Chelsea 0-1 Liverpool | Recap
"I say I scored twice," argued the defender, who had levelled that early Nani effort when he steered Matt Jarvis' cross into the bottom corner.
"I was denied the winner against Chelsea so I am determined to keep hold of this one."
Elokobi is one of the Premier League's unsung heroes.
The 24-year-old from Wembley, who speaks with an African accent that emphasises his Cameroonian roots, has emerged from total obscurity at Dulwich Hamlet to become a popular member of the Wolves side in his three years with the club.
Rarely making the headlines, he sticks to his tasks with diligence, displaying the kind of discipline Wolves will need if they are to survive in the top flight.
Discipline until, that is, his first header found the net.
Then he rather dismantled a corner flag in the sheer elation of his first Premier League goal.
"I'm afraid it has been destroyed," he admitted.
"The referee came across and told me not to get too carried away in the heat of the moment.
"But I am very passionate about what I do. When we win, I enjoy it. When we lose, I sulk like a baby."
It was an honest assessment of life from a man who spent nearly the entire 2008-09 campaign on the sidelines with a knee ligament injury that almost cost him his career.
"I just kept working and praying and making sure I was doing the right things at the training ground," he said.
"I have to thank the physios and the medical staff for looking after me. From the manager down to the last supporter, I was in good hands. Thankfully, I have had no problems with my knee since I came back."
Wolves can take quiet satisfaction for the manner of their triumph.
This was no fluke. Their battling qualities serving them well once that precious half-time advantage had been claimed.
Signs of United frustration were obvious.
Wayne Rooney's snide kick at Ronald Zubar, Paul Scholes deliberately trying to push the ball into the net.
Even Ryan Giggs' halo slipped slightly when he chopped down Doyle, who was holding on to the ball after the whistle had gone for a free-kick.
"To be fair, I was acting a bit of an idiot by hanging on to the ball," admitted Doyle.
"He has never been a dirty player in his distinguished career so he's earned a bit of leeway.
"I wouldn't like to see him get done for it but I didn't expect to get on the receiving end of the ref's tongue for it. I imagine if it had been a Wolves player challenging him it might have been different."
3 comments »
Updated Feb 7, 2011 6:28 AM ET
Striker Kevin Doyle was certain that Wolves were capable of ending Manchester United's 29-match unbeaten run at Molineux.
Indeed, the Black Country outfit even managed to complete their amazing 2-1 triumph despite falling a goal behind after only three minutes, bouncing back magnificently to add United's name to a list of scalps that also includes Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool.
"You wouldn't blame anyone for thinking Manchester United would win but we said before the game that someone has got to do it," said the Republic of Ireland star.
"I just felt it was set up for it. They were top, unbeaten for such a long time and going for a record, and we were bottom.
"It is great beating them but it won't make or break our season.
"We need to be taking points off the teams that are around us in the table - and we had better start doing it soon."
Not that the discussion around Saturday's victory will end any time soon in the Wolves dressing room.
There is the small matter of who actually scored the winner to sort out yet.
Doyle claims he got his head to Nenad Milijas' 40th-minute free-kick. George Elokobi is equally certain it was his.
And, after having what he thought was a goal against Chelsea earlier in the season credited to Blues defender Jose Bosingwa instead, Elokobi is not in a mood to concede to the Irishman.
Sat., Feb. 5
Stoke City 3-2 Sunderland | RecapAston Villa 2-2 Fulham | Recap
Everton 5-3 Blackpool | Recap
Man City 3-0 West Brom | Recap
Newcastle 4-4 Arsenal | Recap
Tottenham 2-1 Bolton | Recap
Wigan 4-3 Blackburn | Recap
Wolves 2-1 Man United | Recap
Sun., Feb. 6
West Ham 0-1 Birmingham | RecapChelsea 0-1 Liverpool | Recap
"I say I scored twice," argued the defender, who had levelled that early Nani effort when he steered Matt Jarvis' cross into the bottom corner.
"I was denied the winner against Chelsea so I am determined to keep hold of this one."
Elokobi is one of the Premier League's unsung heroes.
The 24-year-old from Wembley, who speaks with an African accent that emphasises his Cameroonian roots, has emerged from total obscurity at Dulwich Hamlet to become a popular member of the Wolves side in his three years with the club.
Rarely making the headlines, he sticks to his tasks with diligence, displaying the kind of discipline Wolves will need if they are to survive in the top flight.
Discipline until, that is, his first header found the net.
Then he rather dismantled a corner flag in the sheer elation of his first Premier League goal.
"I'm afraid it has been destroyed," he admitted.
"The referee came across and told me not to get too carried away in the heat of the moment.
"But I am very passionate about what I do. When we win, I enjoy it. When we lose, I sulk like a baby."
It was an honest assessment of life from a man who spent nearly the entire 2008-09 campaign on the sidelines with a knee ligament injury that almost cost him his career.
"I just kept working and praying and making sure I was doing the right things at the training ground," he said.
"I have to thank the physios and the medical staff for looking after me. From the manager down to the last supporter, I was in good hands. Thankfully, I have had no problems with my knee since I came back."
Wolves can take quiet satisfaction for the manner of their triumph.
This was no fluke. Their battling qualities serving them well once that precious half-time advantage had been claimed.
Signs of United frustration were obvious.
Wayne Rooney's snide kick at Ronald Zubar, Paul Scholes deliberately trying to push the ball into the net.
Even Ryan Giggs' halo slipped slightly when he chopped down Doyle, who was holding on to the ball after the whistle had gone for a free-kick.
"To be fair, I was acting a bit of an idiot by hanging on to the ball," admitted Doyle.
"He has never been a dirty player in his distinguished career so he's earned a bit of leeway.
"I wouldn't like to see him get done for it but I didn't expect to get on the receiving end of the ref's tongue for it. I imagine if it had been a Wolves player challenging him it might have been different."
Rutashubanyuma
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Wilshere riled by ref Dowd
67 comments »
Updated Feb 6, 2011 5:36 AM ET
Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has slammed the decision-making of referee Phil Dowd and says inconsistent officiating is "killing the game".
Dowd sent off Wilshere's midfield colleague Abou Diaby in the 48th minute at St James' Park after he reacted to a challenge by Joey Barton by shoving the Newcastle player to the ground.
But Wilshere believes a later incident involving Kevin Nolan and Wojciech Szczesny, in the immediate aftermath of the first of Barton's two penalties, was just as serious and should have seen the Newcastle captain receive the same punishment as Diaby.
Newcastle came from 4-0 down to hold Arsenal at St James' Park.
In a post on his official Twitter page, Wilshere wrote: "Inconsistent refereing needs to stop.its killing the game.if Diaby goes..whats the difference between that and Nolan on our keeper!?? joke"
The criticism of the officiating could leave 19-year-old Wilshere open to Football Association action.
Former Liverpool striker Ryan Babel was fined £10,000 by the FA last month when he posted a doctored photo of referee Howard Webb in a Manchester United shirt, following a 1-0 defeat for Kenny Dalglish's team at Old Trafford.
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67 comments »
Updated Feb 6, 2011 5:36 AM ET
Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has slammed the decision-making of referee Phil Dowd and says inconsistent officiating is "killing the game".
Dowd sent off Wilshere's midfield colleague Abou Diaby in the 48th minute at St James' Park after he reacted to a challenge by Joey Barton by shoving the Newcastle player to the ground.
But Wilshere believes a later incident involving Kevin Nolan and Wojciech Szczesny, in the immediate aftermath of the first of Barton's two penalties, was just as serious and should have seen the Newcastle captain receive the same punishment as Diaby.
Newcastle came from 4-0 down to hold Arsenal at St James' Park.
In a post on his official Twitter page, Wilshere wrote: "Inconsistent refereing needs to stop.its killing the game.if Diaby goes..whats the difference between that and Nolan on our keeper!?? joke"
The criticism of the officiating could leave 19-year-old Wilshere open to Football Association action.
Former Liverpool striker Ryan Babel was fined £10,000 by the FA last month when he posted a doctored photo of referee Howard Webb in a Manchester United shirt, following a 1-0 defeat for Kenny Dalglish's team at Old Trafford.
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Report Abuse RedWhiteAndOrange
- 2/7/2011 8:06:07 AM
Lets just hope Dj is OK. That is the real potential season ender right there.
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Report Abuse karlosthejackal
- 2/7/2011 3:08:48 AM
Actually...NO...we didn't "get what we deserved" at St. James Park.
We got jobbed in the most blatant way by a ref who along with Clattenburg and Webb...should NEVER be doing our matches.
These 3 Azz-Clowns have repeatedly scammed The Arsenal out of points going back years now.
I can't believe your ripping on the travelling fans (the one who actually GO TO THE MATCHES and represent in enemy territory) for enjoying themselves and celebrating a masterclass first half of football...and blaming them for the loss.
Whatever!?!?
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Rutashubanyuma
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Pep: Messi makes the difference
19 comments »
Updated Feb 6, 2011 8:15 AM ET
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola believes his side could not have won 16 Primera Division games in a row without Lionel Messi.
Messi produced another breathtaking performance and scored a hat-trick as Barca beat Atletico Madrid 3-0 at the Nou Camp.
That victory saw Pep Guardiola's side break the record of 15 league wins in a row set by the great Real Madrid side of the 1960s.
Scores | Fixtures | Table | Stats Scores | Fixtures | Table | Stats Scores | Fixtures | Table | Stats Scores | Fixtures | Table | Stats Scores | Fixtures | Table | Stats Scores | Fixtures | Table | Stats
The star of that side was Alfredo di Stefano and Guardiola says every team needs a great player.
"We wouldn't be what we are without Messi," he said after watching his side break Madrid's long-standing record, which was set in 1961.
"Without him we would be a good team, but he makes the difference.
"All of the great teams in history have a player who is different and Messi is one of those - he makes the difference."
And Guardiola believes the comparison with Di Stefano is an honour for his young star.
"I never saw Di Stefano play," he said.
"But the people I have spoken to that have seen him play say he was a wonderful footballer. It's a great honour that people compare Messi with Di Stefano."
Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid coach Quique Sanchez Flores believes Messi is the Di Stefano of the 21st Century.
"He is the number one," he said.
"He plays how he wants to and where he wants to - I haven't seen anything like it.
"He is the Di Stefano of the 21st Century."
Although his goals and the club's new record will undoubtedly grab the headlines, Messi showed another side of his game when he tracked back deep into his own half to tackle Atletico's Sergio Aguero and avert a potentially dangerous attack before impudently flicking the ball and move away from danger.
TRANSFER SPECIAL
Keep up with all the biggest moves around the globe with our 2011 January transfer gallery.
"Out of everything he did tonight, what most impressed me was the tackle he made in front of the benches, when he ran back and won the ball," Sanchez Flores said.
"He even does that; he has everything."
Messi himself said he was proud to break the record of his countryman Di Stefano.
"It's an honour to break the mark set by someone as great as Di Stefano," he told LaSexta.
"The record has been there for a long time and that shows how complicated it is to break it."
Messi's hat-trick saw him overtake Cristiano Ronaldo in the league's scoring charts, bringing his season's total to 24 in the Primera Division.
"It's what least concerns me," he said.
"The important thing is to keep our run going and keep working hard because Madrid will always be close."
However, Barca are now provisionally 10 points clear of Jose Mourinho's side, who face Real Sociedad tomorrow at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The two sides also go head to head in the final of the Copa del Rey in April, but Messi says Barca are focused on the here and now.
"That's a long way away," he said.
"At the moment we are concentrating on the league and then comes the Champions League. When the time comes, we will talk about the final."
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19 comments »
Updated Feb 6, 2011 8:15 AM ET
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola believes his side could not have won 16 Primera Division games in a row without Lionel Messi.
Messi produced another breathtaking performance and scored a hat-trick as Barca beat Atletico Madrid 3-0 at the Nou Camp.
That victory saw Pep Guardiola's side break the record of 15 league wins in a row set by the great Real Madrid side of the 1960s.
Scores | Fixtures | Table | Stats Scores | Fixtures | Table | Stats Scores | Fixtures | Table | Stats Scores | Fixtures | Table | Stats Scores | Fixtures | Table | Stats Scores | Fixtures | Table | StatsThe star of that side was Alfredo di Stefano and Guardiola says every team needs a great player.
"We wouldn't be what we are without Messi," he said after watching his side break Madrid's long-standing record, which was set in 1961.
"Without him we would be a good team, but he makes the difference.
"All of the great teams in history have a player who is different and Messi is one of those - he makes the difference."
And Guardiola believes the comparison with Di Stefano is an honour for his young star.
"I never saw Di Stefano play," he said.
"But the people I have spoken to that have seen him play say he was a wonderful footballer. It's a great honour that people compare Messi with Di Stefano."
Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid coach Quique Sanchez Flores believes Messi is the Di Stefano of the 21st Century.
"He is the number one," he said.
"He plays how he wants to and where he wants to - I haven't seen anything like it.
"He is the Di Stefano of the 21st Century."
Although his goals and the club's new record will undoubtedly grab the headlines, Messi showed another side of his game when he tracked back deep into his own half to tackle Atletico's Sergio Aguero and avert a potentially dangerous attack before impudently flicking the ball and move away from danger.
TRANSFER SPECIALKeep up with all the biggest moves around the globe with our 2011 January transfer gallery.
"Out of everything he did tonight, what most impressed me was the tackle he made in front of the benches, when he ran back and won the ball," Sanchez Flores said.
"He even does that; he has everything."
Messi himself said he was proud to break the record of his countryman Di Stefano.
"It's an honour to break the mark set by someone as great as Di Stefano," he told LaSexta.
"The record has been there for a long time and that shows how complicated it is to break it."
Messi's hat-trick saw him overtake Cristiano Ronaldo in the league's scoring charts, bringing his season's total to 24 in the Primera Division.
"It's what least concerns me," he said.
"The important thing is to keep our run going and keep working hard because Madrid will always be close."
However, Barca are now provisionally 10 points clear of Jose Mourinho's side, who face Real Sociedad tomorrow at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The two sides also go head to head in the final of the Copa del Rey in April, but Messi says Barca are focused on the here and now.
"That's a long way away," he said.
"At the moment we are concentrating on the league and then comes the Champions League. When the time comes, we will talk about the final."
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Guardiola = a difference maker
Messi = The ultimate difference maker on the pitch
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