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Fresh Views On The World Of Sports And Other Such Machinations……….
January 7, 2009 at 3:58 pm · Filed under Andy Reid, Brian Westbrook, Divisional Playoffs, Donovan McNabb, Eli Manning, NFL, New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles, Tom Coughlin
Make no bones about it the divisional playoffs now upcoming within the NFL is more about the fate of the teams than one can really imagine. We’ve seen the rise of the Philadelphia Eagles who were left for dead by many. We’d seen the demise of the Dallas Cowboys long seen as the presumptive favorites to win it all.
Manning attempts a pass whilst being placed under pressure by Darren Howard and Trent Cole of the Philadelphia Eagles in their regular season meeting. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Bill Kostroun …………
For the Cowboys however their season ended rather abruptly with a thud as they succumbed to a rather embarrassing loss to their divisional rivals the Philadelphia Eagles 44-6 at season’s end. And now the Eagles will face the reigning Superbowl champions the New York Giants . In what it is sure to be a game played with a great deal of enthusiasm and passion. Both teams have been playing at a high standard and it’s hard to say who’ll come put on top. Both are equally voracious in attitude when it comes to defense. But if anything the Giants may well have the edge when it comes to the offensive capabilities. Albeit that as of late the Eagles with the play of their veteran quarterback Donovan McNabb and their wily running back Brian Westbrook have shown that they’re back to their old selves and are equally as dangerous as anything that the Giants have to offer.
Chris Clemons of the Eagles tackles the Vikings’ wide receiver Bernard Berrian during their wildcard playoff game in which the Eagles were victorious 26-14. picture appears courtesy of getty images/Elsa Martinez ……………..
Well with this upcoming game and their reputations on the line as well as berth in the conference championship. This game offers up a great deal for the fans of both teams as well as the viewing audience. The New York Giants under the guidance of Eli Manning will be looking to successfully defend the Lombardi Trophy and at the same time become first team to successfully defend the title since the New England Patriots. And as we all know the Patriots’ unbeaten season ended at the hands of the Giants in Superbowl XLII last season. Of which no doubt tears are still being spilt over that bitter loss at the hands of the New Yorkers by way of New Jersey.
Brian Westbrook of the Eagles scampers off on a 71 yd touchdown run against the Vikings. picture appears courtesy of getty images/Elsa Martinez …………..
While I’ve no horse to ride in this particular matchup it is one of the games that I for one am really looking forward to. As to the other games they’re all intriguing in their own particular way. If there’s one thing however that I’m pleased with thus far in terms of the games played. It’s the mere fact that they’ve all been entertaining and played with a great deal of sportsmanship and without any officiating controversy. That’s not to say that this won’t happen as the postseason continues to unfold.
The Giants’ quarterback Eli Manning addresses members of the press the Giants’ training facility in East Rutherford , New Jersey. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Bill Kostroun ………..
Andy Reid and his counterpart Tom Coughlin are two coaches with the credentials and acclaim that’s widely acknowledged as being amongst the best that the game has to offer. Though earlier in the season Eagles’ fans were all but decrying Reid and McNabb as being complete idiots. Things have changed to such an extent that they may well be thought of as being deities within the city of Philadelphia. And off course we all know how fickle the fans in the city of Philadelphia can be about their professional sport’s franchises. If they can boo Mike Schmidt , Santa Claus, then why not the likes of McNabb or Reid ? Such are the machinations of the fans in Philadelphia.
Coach Tom Coughlin of the New York Giants talks to the media about his concerns on the upcoming game against their divisional rivals the Philadelphia Eagles. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Bill Kostroun ………..
I’ll preface this by saying that once this game starts I’ll be glued to my television set watching with baited breath as things unfold over the course of the game. Chances are that the game may well be too close to call and as I don’t consider myself a prognosticator just an ardent sport’s fan. I’ll just watch with glee and hope that the game itself will be thoroughly entertaining. Not just for the sake of the fan but for the sake of the game itself. At this juncture we want the game to filled with excitement and intrigue if nothing else. What are your thoughts on the game ?
tophatal …………..
January 2, 2009 at 1:47 am · Filed under AFC West, Denver Broncos, Football, Indianapolis Colts, LaDanian Tomlinson, NFL, Peyton Manning, Phillip Rivers, San Diego Chargers, Sports
The wiles of the NFL are a strange game to
me. The game between the
San Diego Chargers and Denver Broncos whilst meaning a great deal to
both teams. It had me thinking how are those two teams with such established stars can proceed to play so unevenly throughout much of the regular season?
And while San Diego
obliterated the Broncos, ended their Superbowl aspirations that led to the firing of Mike Shanahan.
Wherein the AFC West division as we know it has become to be known has as its content some of perhaps some of the worst teams in all of the NFL.
LaDanian Tomlinson(21) is congratulated by teammate Vincent Jackson(83) after his TD against the Denver Broncos at Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego ,Ca
lLaDanian Tomlinson(21) is congratulated by teammate Vincent Jackson(83) after Tomlinson’s touchdown during the game against the Denver Broncos played at Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, Ca,. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Mark Talbot ……………..
The Chargers notwithstanding the Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs and Oakland Raiders have hardly shown that the division possesses a team of merit based on their play this season. As winners of the division with an 8-8 record they scraped their way into the playoffs. Albeit that they won their last four games of the season. Now the Chargers will have to face the Indianapolis Colts in the first round of the postseason playoffs as wildcard entrants. The Colts as with a record of 12-4 made their way into the postseason upon the resurrection and play of their Pro Bowl quarterback Peyton Manning.
Marvin Harrison(88)of the Colts is greeted by teammates in the team ritual and introduction prior to the game.
Marvin Harrison(88) of the Indianapolis Colts is congratulated by teammates prior to the game against the Tennessee Titans. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Victor Matthews ………………………..
The San Diego Chargers by way of their own play this season has been erratic and uneven. But for the resolute play of quarterback Phillip Rivers one doubts that the team would’ve got as far as they did. LaDainian Tomlinson their much heralded running back has had a down year and even with regard to injuries. It can be said that the player’s overall performances have been somewhat sub par. The loss of defensive stalwart Shawn Merriman also played a part in the downside to the team’s overall record. Merriman when on the field has been a player who has brought a great deal of forthright resolve to the team’s play as well as on the field leadership. Other than Rivers who has been vocal as to the on field leadership, the team has been labored its way throughout the season and into the playoffs. Norv Turner if anything has been extremely lucky to be in the position where he still holds a coaching job in the NFL. The feeling was that should the Chargers fail to make the postseason he may well have been one of the casualties as to the firings that’ve proceeded to take place since season’s end.
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December 18, 2008 at 2:19 pm · Filed under Basketball, Boston Celtics, Kevin Garnett, NBA, Paul Pierce, Rajon Rondo, Ray Allen
Say what you will about defending a championship as there’s often the belief that once having won one it’s extremely difficult to come back to try and defend and retain the said championship. But it’d appear that’s what the
Boston Celtics are setting out to do this year. So much so that the start and stats that they’ve proceeded to put up are even more staggering than last seasons. They’re now on pace to exceed last season’s tally of 66 wins. Infact that they’re now on pace for 74 win that’d best the Chicago Bulls’ 72-10 tally at the height of when Michael Jordan reigned supreme.
Paul Pierece grabs his left knee in pain having injured it during the game played against the Utah Jazz. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Paul Matthews ………..
That being said this team with their triumvirate of stars in the guise of Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce now seem to have added an even greater swagger to their role as champions. The team’s play is one of confidence night in and night out since this season has started. And the fact that they now sit atop of their division with a commanding 10 game lead over their nearest rival the New Jersey Nets within the Atlantic Division. It’d suggest that the team hasn’t missed a beat since its defeat of the Los Angeles Lakers in last season’s NBA Finals. At 23-2 the team as alluded to before is playing with a great deal of confidence and it has to be said has come with the improvement in the play of sophomore point guard Rajon Rondo. As of late the player has been on a tear that has impressed not only his coach Glenn Doc’ Rivers but also his more studious and experienced teammates as well.
Rondo of the Celtics and Williams of the Jazz contest a loose ball .........
Rajon Rondo of the Celtics and Deron Williams of the Utah Jazz contest a loose ball during the game played on Monday night. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Paul Matthews ………………..
Rondo commands the floor with a great deal of presence and no longer would it appear that the leadership role on the floor has to go through Garnett or Pierce with everyone else having to defer to them both in terms of the team’s offense. Rondo now has the confidence in his own ability and that of his teammates around him that he makes the right decisions when it comes to the distribution of the ball and the aspects of the team’s offensive strategies. Rivers,himself has expressed his pleasure in the player’s seemingly progress and maturity shown not just on the basketball court but also off it as well. So much so that the feeling is that the player can become the lynch pin of the team’s success for years to come and that the franchise can also profit from it all. Say nothing of which in repeating as champions they would become to the toast of the New England area.
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December 12, 2008 at 3:05 pm · Filed under NFL
Well we know first hand that there appears to be rumblings of disatisfaction amongst the Cowboys as of late. Much of this has to do with players Patrick Crayton , Roy Williams and the perennial self centered it’s me and no one else but me Terrell Owens. All three players happen to be part of Dallas’ offensive arsenal of wide receivers.
Cowboys’ quarterback Tony Romo is sacked by Steelers’ defensive player James Farrior for a loss of yardage on the play in the game played in Heinz Field, Pittsburgh. The Steelers would go on to defeat the Cowboys 20-13. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Paul McCambridge …..
And for a team that has in some people’s eyes this season has underperformed. The why’s and wherefore’s as to this latest reverberation has got many wondering who’s minding the ship ? Insomuch as we had owner Jerry Jones questioning the resolve and courage of his running back Marion Barber. Due to the fact that the player wasn’t suited up in the team’s 20-13 loss 3 to the Pittsburgh Steelers. It adds to the situation if we’re now going to see this team melt down right before our very eyes again this season ?
A somewhat somber look on the face of Wade Phillips after his team’s loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers which now leaves the team on the cusp of the wildcard entrants looking to make the playoffs in the NFC. The Dallas Cowboys were projected as a Superbowl contender and favorites to represent the NFC. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Mark Rogers ……………..
The NFC East as a division is viewed as the NFL’s elite and with the New York Giants(11-2) seemingly running roughshod over their opponents in and outside the division this season. It can be said that Jones and his gaggle of high profiled players must feel somewhat aggrieved that the limelight doesn’t seem to be on them. That’s unless one counts the off the field incidents and antics of cornerback Adam Pacman Jones this seaon ?
Tashard Choice(23) of the Dallas Cowboys tackled for a loss by the Steelers’ Troy Polamalu during the fourth quarter in the game played at Heinz Field, Pittsburgh , Pa. picture appears courtesy of getty images/Gregory Shamus ………………..
The Cowboys for their part have proven how invaluable a player quarterback Tony Romo is to their cause. Without him on the field as their signal caller they’re at best just another bearly above average team. With him being out for a number of games due to injury. It was left for the team to be guided by journeyman Brad Johnson. Yes the same Brad Johnson who guided the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to victory in the Superbowl over the Oakland Raiders. That being said Johnson for his part has proven that all that glitters is not gold. He’s merely a player whose best days are behind him instead ahead of him. And with the erstwhile virtues and presence of Jason Garrett as the team’s offensive coordinator. Even Garrett knew that he was in for an impossible task. Owens for his part hasn’t come out and directly pointed a finger at his quarterback but he’s clearly prepared to make it known that the fault if any is not his as to the inconsistencies of the team.
Steelers’ quarterback Ben Roethlisberger evades the tackle of the Cowboys’ linebacker Bradie James(56) whilst teamate Greg Ellis looks on. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Gregory Shamus ……………………
So what is now troubling is the fact that Owens along with the sortie of Crayton and Williams are now seeking to question the play calling of offensive coordinator Jason Garrett. And the very fact that tight end Jason Witten is getting even greater productivity and action in terms of the plays on the field. For his part the coach Wade Phillips sees the situation as nothing more than the players placing their own input as to team strategy. Whatever concerns there might be one can clearly see that the soap opera setting that surrounds Terrell Owens never wanes. If he’s not part and parcel of getting the attention on the field. Then more certainly than not he’s bound to make sure that he’s part of it off the field. But most definitely not necessarily for the wrong reasons. That being said what other player within the NFL at this moment in time can be equally as annoying as he is brilliant ?
Tony Romo attempts a pass to wide receiver Terrell Owens during the game played against the Pittsburgh Steelers. picture apears courtesy of getty images/Gregory Shamus …………………
Owens for his part has had somewhat of a productive season thus far but that being said they’re obviuously not in line with the expectations of the player himself. Fifty five receiptions on the season, with 9 touchdowns and 848 yards receiving to any other player that would equate to a productive year. But for Terrell Owens he may well be view it as being sparse given his undoubted and considerable talent. With that being said if he’s now about to implode when the team are in need of him most. Then it doesn’t augur well for the remainder of the season with just three games remaining for them salvage some semblance of success. At (8-5) the Dallas Cowboys sit second within the NFC behind their fiercest rival the New York Giants. And seemingly on the outside looking in the team now must maximize their potential and play above their ability. The playoff race amongst the teams in question looks as if it will turn into an outright dogfight. It doesn’t help the Cowboys’ cause that both the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Redskins are still in the picture within the division. A failure to make the playoffs at this point would be an immense disappointment for the franchise. And with them moving into a new multi-billion dollar state of the art edifice next season. The ramifications of that alone would be felt. This season now comes down to the do or die attitude of the team and not merely about the wiles of one player who feels that he’s not being best served by a teammate or the offensive coordinator.
Tight end Jason Witten of the Dallas Cowboys dives in order to make the first down in the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers played in Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, Pa. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Gregory Shamus ………………………..
The underlying problems that this team has is a lack of real leadership on or off the field and it’s cohesiveness if any is but an inconsistency of highly overpaid players. Who when they’re at the best play exceptionally well but when faced with adversity they tend to cower like children who are afraid of the dark. If it’s one thing that can be said of the Cowboys they’re no different from any other professional sport’s franchise with grandiose ideas but who as of late haven’t lived up to their past success. Jerry Jones would have you believe that the franchise is the only show in town and that the NFL would be the worse off without them. But when as a franchise you’ve not won a postseason game in almost a decade and counting. Is anyone really concerned with what you’ve got to say let alone that of a player who knows that his own window of opportunity is quickly closing for the one thing that covets above all else. And that’s a Superbowl ring. Owens may well think of himself of winner but until a team that he plays for lifts the Lomardi trophy. He’ll merely be viewed as nothing more than a malcontent who craves the attention of all be it on or off the field of play.
tophatal ………………………………………
December 7, 2008 at 1:58 am · Filed under Business & Finance ...
Well it’s a sign of the times in this discerning and acute economic crisis that has been mishandled by not only the Federal government . But also the various agencies and businesses that the public entrusts to use sound business principles when conducting their business. The finger pointing and waving has already began and wherein we’ve now got the political pundits from both sides of the political aisle wading in with their irrational pontificating.
I ask myself where were they when much of this had begun ? It was clearly there for all to see considering the signs . But no one was willing to be held accountable for this mess and malaise. We had the proverbial response from former Fed Chairman Alan Greenspan that the housing industry and its vagaries thereof oughtn’t to be any real concern when it came to the housing slump. Greenspan’s successor in his role as Chairman of the Federal Reserve Ben Bernanke for all of his insight and knowledge has been thrust into this mess and now has to deal of the ensuing problems along with Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson. Paulson with each of his pronouncements now resembles a headless chicken running around aimlessly without direction or with any distinct knowledge as to what he’s really doing.
Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson (l) listens while Federal Reserve Board Chairman Ben Bernanke(r) addresses members of the Senate Banking as well as the members of the Housing and Urban Affairs Committee in Washington, DC. pictures appears courtesy of Getty Images North America/ Mark Wilson ………………..
Chosen by President Bush to carry out this $700 billion bailout of the financial sector. It now looks as if Paulson will most definitely have his work cut out for him. The financial excess of the administration as it is already, has become comedic in its excess. What’s $700 billion here when much of this money isn’t actually the government’s to begin with ? The vast majority of it is from the revenues attained in the collection of taxes paid by the public and corporations. And much of it also will be raised by the futher borrowing from countries abroad by the issuing of bonds and other financial instruments far too complex for the general public to be aware of let alone to be explained.
President George W Bush alongside Stock Exchange Chairman Christopher Cox in the Oval Office at the White House. picture appears courtesy of ap/photos/ James Emery ……..
But the real cause for concern for the public now is where will it all end ? And how much more of this can we possibly withstand ? The $124 billion bailout and counting of the commercial insurance giant AIG has left many of us wondering what the hell is going on ? And how come the members of Congress and this administration could have been caught blindsided and be unaware of this monumental mess ? Those who were asleep at the wheel have a great deal of explaining to do. It certainly doesn’t help at this juncture that no one has been held accountable for their actions. From the public sector as well as the private sector this debacle has been awash with complete incompetency at all levels. Further understating the point is the mere fact that this bailout in terms of the money aportioned to be spent will far exceed what Paulson has asked for at this juncture. As the wheels continue to fall off the wagon (economy) we’ll be seeing many more corporations coming forward seeking assistance from the government.
Senate Majority Leader Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nv) and Speaker of the House Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Ca). picture appears courtesy of nytimes.com/ Stephen Crowley ………………
I’m not yet the one to put the nail in the coffin of capitialism. But at this point it doesn’t seem to be too bad an idea to be a coffin manufacturer. A number of corporations will have to go under. But who in reality ought to be making the decision as to who should survive and who should fail ? Is it not about survival of the fittest more than anything else ? And shouldn’t the laws of the jungle apply here ? Instead the acronym TARP has been created and we’re led to believe that this’ll be the relief that’ll indeed solve our problems. The Treasury Asset Relief Program seeks to do what these companies failed to do in the first place and that is to act with due diligence. Instead they rolled the dice as if they were gambling with their own money. And in some respects they were but the caveat was the fact when all else failed they’d be able to look elsewhere for assistance.
John Boehner (R-Oh) House Minority Leader and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky) . Seen here alongside Sen John Kyl (R-Az ) address the ensuing press with regard to their stance of the bailout. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Win McNamee …………….
Low and behold that’s exactly what the government has done. And they’re doing so with an excess not seen since the Bush administration saw fit to cash in its chips and regale Congress with the fact money would be needed to fight the war on terror. Well so far we’ve spent $1.2 trillion and counting . And this includes money spent on these so called no bid contracts billeted out to private companies where there’s no real accountability that’s said to be taking place as how the money was disbursed or spent. But you needn’t worry as there’s plenty more where that came from . Oh really ? We can always print it or we can just continue to borrow it from abroad as we’ve already been doing. Fiscally conservative polices run amok me thinks !
Senate Banking Committee Chairman Sen. Christopher Dodd(D-Conn) third from the left is pictured here with fellow committee member Sen. Richard Shelby(D-Ala) ,Treasury Seretary Henry Paulson and Stock Exchange Chairman Christopher Cox. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Scott Applewhite ………………….
Much of what we’re now witnessing on all fronts would appear to be nothing more than brinkmanship of the most obtuse in kind. The vagaries of this particular economic crisis and how acute it is seems to be lost on the legislators. And they appear to be using this topic as some sort of political bouncing ball. Rather than going about this matter expediently they’re seeking to make some sort of point that at this moment in time is needless. Much of their own inactivity when first addressing this very issue was to look the other way. And now that the country sits within an erupting volcano now is the time that they feel to take action.
Assistant Treasury Secretary Neel Kashkari addresses members of the Senate Banking Commitee up on Capitiol Hill, Washington, DC. Kashkari will be Treasury Secretary’s point man with regard to the bailout of the financial sector. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Thomas Gilbert ………………
For Assistant Treasury Secretary Neel Kashkari whose position it will be to undertake how this money will be disbursed amongst many of these financial institutions. It can be said that he at this moment in time may well be the most powerful man on the face of the planet. Within his hands lies not only the fate of the economy but the very existence of every family within the United States and their entire lives for the foreseeable future. As Paulson’s hand picked point man on this exercise. It has to be said that it’s a job that even he couldn’t envisioned at the beginning of the year.
Ford Chairman Bill Ford (left) seen here alongside President and CEO Alan Mullally after he’s introduced to the press as the company’s Chief Executive Officer. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Bill Pugliano …………………..
And so now becomes the real topic of all what’s rife with the malaise of the economy. The slumbering dinosaur that is the American automotive industry. Where the Big Three haven’t produced a product in years that simply grabs the attention of the consumer. In Chrysler, Ford and GM you simply have three companies that are so lackluster, unimaginative , devoid of creativity and so completely out of touch with their demographics . The upper echelons of executives within the boardrooms of all three now seek to come cap in hand at the trough seeking some $25-$40 billion in aid. Once again the largesse of the government may know no bounds. But then again nor do the companies themselves that’ve squandered what goodwill they once had amongst the public.
GM Chairman and CEO Rick Waggoner addresses the attending press. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Bradley C Power ……………………….
Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson now seems to be backing off his original idea as to how he’d like to see much of the $700bn disbursed. Moving the deck chairs on a sinking ship doesn’t necessarily make the situation a whole lot better in the eyes of the public. Especially when the life line being thrown to them on appearance seems to be negligible. There’s very little assistance to be given to the working families or those who through no fault of their own find themselves within mortgage foreclosure crisis. But now it appears that having heard the cries of ourtage from the public and certain members within Congress there appears to be a shift in countenance from Paulson himself.
Chrysler LLC Chairman and CEO Bob Nardelli seen here with Marian Watt of Operation Quiet Comfort a support group that assists in the well being of returning vets of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. picture appears courtesy of Department of Defense / Samantha Quigley …….
As this now all unfolds infront of the general populace we now hear the comments being made by NASCAR Chairman Brian France. His comments that the sport can still without one or two of the domestic auto manufacturers is indeed a bold statement. But in reality it’s quite a serious statement. It’s certainly not out of the realms of possibility that a viable domestic automotive industry may well be better of with just two manufacturers instead of three. But at this juncture it’s something that the administration can’t seriously think’d be in the best interest of the nation , let alone the economy. With the unemployment rate the highest that it’s been over sixteen years 6.5% nationally. And with over 3,500,000 jobs totally dependent upon the industry. It’s not something that cannot be taken lightly, nor should it be. The economy as whole is on the precipice and any slight push further towards the edge makes it all the more combustible. So what now ?
It’s the question that has to be asked and answered by either this administration or that incoming one of President-Elect Barack Obama. The prevailing events of the past eighteen months has left all with something of a feeling of despair. There won’t be any of us who won’t go untouched by this mess. But to those who state that this bailout is further evidence of socialism run amok. Let’s look at this what’d you now prefer to see ? The Big Three go belly up ? And then witness economy take an even bigger toll in terms of the unemployment rolls. Bearing in mind that there’s still no certainty that these companies can survive in the prevailing environment. Or can we assume the best course forward is to allow this bailout to take place ? There are already rumblings within the Congress on both sides of the political aisle that this shouldn’t take place at all. Well we’ve already seen the Congress make fools out of themselves by not placing certain restrictions on the benefactors of the public’s largesse. Should we expect anything different once they go about debating the matter behind closed doors out of the prying eyes of the public ?
tophatal ……………………………………
December 7, 2008 at 1:14 am · Filed under Boxing, Manny Pacquiao, Oscar De La Hoya
For all of the functionality of the sport of boxing and we know that the sport is made up of stars and their egos. It can be said that last night’s bout between Manny Pacquiao and Oscar De La Hoya had all that one could’ve envisioned from two of the biggest stars in the sport. De La Hoya one again trying to prove that he’ll willingly take on anyone as long as the price is right. But not all too willing to admit when he’s made a profound mistake.
Manny Pacquaio the WBC lighweight champion throws a right hand to the head of Oscar De La Hoya during their none title bout held in Las Vegas, Nevada. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Eric Jamison….
Well for Oscar last night that held through as he was unwittingly surprised and beaten by his Filipino opponent in an 8th round TKO in their none-title fight. De La Hoya unable to answer the bell for the ninth round just sat on his stool as Pacquaio was later announced the winner. Much to the joy of fans in attendance who were supporters of the victorious Filipino , Manny Pacquiao.
De La Hoya stands ground as Pacquaio throws a right to the head of his opponent during the fourth round of their fight. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Eric Jamison ……………
And for De La Hoya comes some home truths as to the future of his career. He may well think of himself as the savior of the sport during these turbulent times. But if anything this particular loss has proven that he’s now way past his prime once and for all. And though a rematch may not be out of the offing , I’d think that after tonight’s decision it wouldn’t prove anything were Pacquiao enter into such a discussion. Such was the lopsided of the bout that De La Hoya has to admit at no point was he in a position to conclusively win the bout outright. H certainly didn’t take the pace of the fight and if anything it was Pacquiao who held the upper hand right from the start and through much of the duration of the bout.
De La Hoya connects to the head of Pacquiao during their welterweight bout in Las Vegas on Saturday night. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Ethan Miller ……………..
Businesswise De La Hoya comes out a winner as he was co-promoter of the the event through his Golden Boy Promotions Inc, alongside Bob Arum of Top Rank Inc. And with Arum the promoter of Pacquiao proving to be victorious it’d appear that everyone came off a winner in this PPV event. With the price of $54.95 being charged for subscribers to the event. It can be said that it was more than a profitable night for all. Both the Arum and the De La Hoya camp were hoping for in excess of 2m buys for the event as that would bring a whopping $110m alone in terms of the PPV revenues. And less one forgets we also have the paying members of the public in attendance plus the concessions to be accounted. In light of that we could well hear that this bout being close to if not surpassing the take of the previous highest grossing PPV bout. Which again De La Hoya was a part of when he faced Floyd Mayweather Jr. That fight took in over $160m in gross revenues inclusive of the PPV total. Business is business and when it comes to the financial pulling power it would appear that in the worldof boxing no one has that power other than De La Hoya himself. He knows it and he craves both that and the limelight that it brings. And for a fighter that it’s said has earned purses in excess of $275m and counting over the course of his career. Another $10 or $20m mightn’t do him anymore harm when it’s all said and done.
De La Hoya is hugged by his Filipino opponent Manny Pacquiao after a surprising end to their much heralded bout. Pacquiao was declared the winner by a TKO after De La Hoya was unable to answer the bell for the ninth round. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Mark J Terrill …………………
The fact of the matter is the more Oscar continues to fight albeit that he’s willing to take on allcomers as long as he feels that he’s in with a chance of beating that opponent. He’ll fight and it will have nothing to do with his legacy as it’s now become nothing more than about the money at the end of the day. Well those days now may well be coming to close after what’ll be viewed as a much heralded loss against an opponent he was favored to beat.
Oscar De La Hoya on his stool ringside looks across at his opponent Manny Pacquiao during the interval of the fifth round of their fight held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. picture appears courtesy of getty images/Jed Jacobsohn …………….
The outcome to many may not have been surprising at all when one considers the punching power of Pacquiao. What may have surprised many in the audience and those viewing by PPV was the abrupt way that the fight ended. De La Hoya seemingly unable to defend himself with any great authority looked tired and old in the ring. And what might’ve been viewed an advantage for him in terms of him fighting at a weight that he’d seemingly become accustomed to. In many respects for Pacquiao it was he who looked the more accustomed fighter at the welterweight division than De La Hoya. For Pacquiao to move up two weight classes and still sustain such power and aggression is compliment to the fighter and his profound skills. And for De La Hoya it now appears that those days if being the big draw in the sport are now coming mercifully to an end. If ever a fight and the way in which he was defeated ouhgt to signal an end to an illustrious career. Then this was that fight without a doubt !
Manny Pacquaio of the Phillipines celebrates his 8th round TKO victory over Oscar De La Hoya with the accompaniment of his country’s Vice President Noll De Castro standing to his left. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Jae C Hong …………………..
The future now is so bright for Pacquiao that it’s now extremely hard to see how he could top this feat. Not only has he tamed a legend but he beat that legend ever so convincingly. The excuses from De La Hoya’s camp may well be rife. But it’s plain to see that Oscar is no longer the supremely gifted fighter he once was or he that he himself thinks he still is.
Manny Pacquaio connects with a left hook to the body of Oscar De La Hoya during their welterweight bout in Las Vegas on Saturday night. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Ethan Miller …………..
No one can deny the acclaim that De La Hoya has brought the sport and the rewards that he’s attained from it. But at the end of the day old Father Time has cought up with a fighter whose better days are most certainly not ahead of him but if anything he can actually see those days for himself have passed him by and he can view them through a rear view mirror. Slowly as they say all good things must come to an end. And now is the time Oscar to call it quits once and for all. No amount of excuses can be made for the severity and abruptness of this loss. And even if he makes the claim of wanting a rematch against Pacquiao. Is there really anyone of the opinion who’d view the outcome any different ? Oscar you’re good but on this night Manny was markedly better. And he was so by a very wide margin !
A forelorn De La Hoya looks on during the interval of the third and fourth rounds as his trainer Ignacios Beristain implores his fighter to keep his guard up. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Mark J Terrill ….
The public may well clamor for a rematch and most definitely it’s not out of the realms of possibility that Oscar might want to redeem himself against Pacquiao. But the fact the matter he threw his hat into the ring once too often an this time around he was found to be wanting. As alluded to before this may mark the end of an illustrious career once and for all. But there’ll be those around De La Hoya advising him otherwise. The cash cow that is Oscar De La Hoya brings along with him much more than the sport itself but also name recognition. And at a time when the world is undergoing an economic crisis it is the big marquee names that the fans are interested in. And not the bottom feeders within the sport as whole. One can understand that at this juncture there aren’t many recognisable names within the sport. Merely from the lackluster talent and in many cases many of the titlists being unwilling to face each other or major contenders. With the sport being so fractured it can only left to the likes of De La Hoya and Pacquiao to offer the fans what they so desperately crave.
A broken and beaten Oscar De La Hoya looks on after his loss to Manny Pacquiao in their welterweight bout held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Nevada. picture appears courtesy of ap/phot/Mark J Terrill ……………………..
Surprisingly though what I now crave to see Oscar ride off into the sunset once and for all. For if he still really has anything to offer the sport. Then it can be done by involving himself in the promotional side of the sport. And in nurturing future talent that the public may well be interested in seeing. I’d rather see him now doing that than viewing him flailing inside the ring with skills being questioned and being ridiculed by the fans. If nothing else we tend to remember our heroes when they’re more so on top. But when they’re on the decline we tend not to look at them so deservedly with the reverence with which we once held them.
tophatal ……………………….
June 7, 2008 at 9:18 pm · Filed under Sports commentary
Noted sport’s journalist Jim McKay died today at the age of 86, having retired from the realms of sport’s broadcasting with the accolades and the praises of his peers. The thirteen Emmy’s won over the course of his illustrious career is a testament to the esteem with which he was held.
Veteran sport’s broadcaster and ABC icon Jim McKay whose death today stunned the sport’s world. picture courtesy of abc.com/sports…………….
But the thing that he may well be most remembered for, was his coverage of the 1972 Munich Olympics hostage crisis. At the request of Roone Arledge the programming director at the time he was asked to go on carry the programming content as the events unfolded. That day the Palestinian terrorist group “Black September “ took several members of the Israeli Olympic team hostage at the Olympic village in Munich. His on air stint 16 hours none stop became the stuff that legends are made of as he gave the watching world a concise description of what was unfolding in Munich over the course of the next 24 hours.
A member of the Black September terrorist group looks from the balcony where several Israeli Olympic athletes were being held hostage. picture courtesy of usatoday.com/olympics/munich…………….
His mark on the world of sport’s broadcasts and that of sport’s journalism won’t be easily surpassed in terms of the integrity with which McKay brought to his work. His son Sean McManus the head of CBS Sports followed in his father’s footsteps in terms of the business. But his talents lied elsewhere as he rose through the ranks of CBS.
McKay seen here presenting ABC’s Wide World of Sports where he was covering the Olympic trials for track and field in 1964. picture courtesy of abc.com/wideworldofsports..
McKay’s other claim to fame was that he also hosted ABC’s Wild World of Sports and the fact that they brought to us a wide range of sports that the nation would at times be enthralled. Many of the sport’s events that we saw then have now become a staple of ESPN and many of the other numerous sports and cable networks where sports plays a major part in their programming. The commanding authority that McKay brought to his broadcasts made you all the more appreciative of his talents on the air.
World Heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali seen here on the ABC’s Wide World of Sports where an interview was conducted between the champion and Mckay. picture courtesy of nytimes.com/sports/ali/mckay …………..
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May 25, 2008 at 11:45 am · Filed under Uncategorized
At this time of year the nation sets about to celebrate Memorial Day in the ways it best knows how. We mourn the loss of soldiers that’ve fallen on the field of battle. And we praise those who’ve returned home be they maimed or psychologically damaged. As one whose served in the military and having faced an enemy though not on a war footing. I feel that this holiday in particular says a lot about this nation.
A US soldier on the outskirts of Baghdad salutes the flag on Memorial Day in May of 2007.
It has seen its young men and women go off to war and in many cases never to return. For mothers, fathers , sisters , brothers , aunts, uncles , nephew and nieces. The feelings of dismay over the loss of a loved one can be exceedingly harrowing. My time spent in the military was at a time when the troubles in Ireland weres front page stories quite possibly across the world. And though my fellow army buddies at the time knew the reasons why we there . The inevitable questions arose once we’d been entrenched in the country over an ever lengthening period of time with no real respite in sight.
Reverrance is shown to those who’ve fallen on the field of battle.
The same questions no doubt arise now in the minds of many. But the reasons behind it may well be from the lack of progress that we’ve made in bringing Iraq back to its feet. Albeit that their politicians are no different from any other politician in the world. Self absorbed individuals who claim to be in public service but who in many ways aren’t really that much different from the common criminal on the sreets.
A soldier mourns the loss of a fallen comrade in battle. War and the lives lost are dear to to us . But so too is our liberty !
Though for the years that I endured there in Ireland and having lost several comrades in arms. It was my belief that if it were God’s will that I survived then so be it. If I didn’t then at least I would’ve died doing something that I’d grown to love and that was being in the military. I know that many of you within this forum may well have been former military or are still a part of the military serving in some form or another. Those years are when you may well have come across some of the best friends you could’ve ever envisaged to have had. A loss though can lead to all sorts of emotions arising.
The words convey the sentiments………………………..
And now as we draw close to Memorial Day where we’ll remember those who’ve died in the service of the country and those who now survive. We ought not to forget their service and show our gratitude to these men and women for all that they’ve done. And even if we have differences over events that the country now is engulfed in. It can be said that without their service this country would not be what it most certainly is today.
They’re seen as heroes nonetheless ………….
So in deferrence to those proud and brave soldiers here’s my own gratitude. I salute and applaud you for all that you’ve done. My sincerest gratitude I hope is enough. I’ll give up myself as much I possibly can in my endeavors to those vets I can call my friends and friends and comrades who are now serving. And also to a younger sibling who’s now there in Iraq. In the UK we commemorate this very event in the month of November but the reverrance shown is still very much the same.
However you enjoy this day take a moment of silence to pay your respects to these proud men and women. And may you all and your immediate family have a wonderful Memorial Day !
tophatal …………….
May 17, 2008 at 7:11 pm · Filed under Uncategorized
Once again thoroughbred Big Brown the Kentucky Derby winner proved that he’s got no equal on the course when it comes to racing here in North America. In winning The Preakness Stakes with astonishing ease. It now bodes well for the horse’s chances of winning the Triple Crown.
Kent Desormeaux the winning jockey aboard prerace favorite Big Brown winning The Preakness Stakes at Pimlico racetrack in Maryland . In doing so Big Brown has won the first two legs of the Triple Crown. picture courtesy of ap/photo/Jim Dietz…….
With the last leg of racing’s trifecta being The Belmont Stakes. Should he achieve this precedented feat then it’ll have been the first time that this has been done since Affirmed did the same thing in 1978. Jockey Kent Desormeaux who rode Big Brown to victory was at a loss for words with regard to ease of the victory. And when one considers the margin of victory it only begs the question is there a real challenge out there for this horse ? He’s romping to vctory and proving his invincibility over what’s allegedly the best equine talent there is in the country.
Trailing several lengths behind is rival Icabad Crane ridden by jockey Jeremy Rose . picture courtesy of ap/photo/Jim Dietz ………..
And though much has been made as to the loss of Derby runner up Eight Belles who had to be euthanized after an unforeseen tragedy at Churchill Downs. It can be said that the victory of Big Brown once again puts everything into perspective when it comes to the world of thoroughbred racing. Though it is about the winner and to a lesser extent the losers. The triumph and the publicity gained from the victory bring the focus on horse racing once again. As the nation waits to see if this horse can finally achieve what so many of his predecessors have failed to over the last 28 years.
The horses leave the gate at the start of the 133rd running of The Preakness Stakes ran at Pimlico Racecourse. picture courtesy of ap/photo/Gail Burton……
The one thing that one can be sure of now are gamblers everywhere are going to want a piece of this action going into the final leg of the Triple Crown. The Belmont Stakes could either prove to be the horse’s undoing as well as that of the oddsmakers in Las Vegas. They can’t lose but for winning but at the same time you can bet your bottom dollar that they’ll have themselves covered come what may. If they’re are to take a loss then they’ll definitely make sure that it won’t totally be in vain or too unbearable for them to bare.
Winning trainer Rick Dutrow Jr alongside Richard Schiavo a partner in IEAH Stable the ownership syndicate who own Big Brown. Also in frame are winning jockey Kent Desormeaux and senior partner Michael Lavorone in the ownership syndicate. picture courtesy of ap/photo/Rob Carr ……….
It now augurs well for both horse and joceky as they now set abot preparing the third leg of their historic assault on winning racing’s third leg of the Triple Crown and racing immortality. There have been great horses that’ve fallen short in their quest to achieve this feat. And they’re not often remembered by the public en masse but those who do achieve the feat are lauded and acclaimed as being the very best there is . And horse racing being what it is loves its heroes no matter what shape of form they come in. If only glean that moment of rapture in the public eye then to the sport of Kings it will have been worth it !
Big Brown crosses the finish line at Pimlico Racecourse in Baltimore, Md, having won The Preakness Stakes by an astonishing 5 1/2 lengths. picture courtesy of ap/photo/Rob Carr…….
With the Belmont Stakes being a mere three weeks away it can be said whatever is in store for this horse between now and the day of the race itself. There’ll be a renewed interest in the sport if only for a brief moment to see if he can pull off this historical feat. Everyone its appears loves a winner but none more so than when they may well have money riding on the outcome. Hoping that they’re on to a winner. Big Brown may well be horse that’ll change their fortune as well as that of the sport of horse racing. It’s in need of renewed interest at this juncture . And what better way to do that than to have a potential Triple Crown winner within our midst !
tophatal ………………..
May 13, 2008 at 9:26 am · Filed under Uncategorized
Say what you will about the Boston Celtics but they’re now proving to be either a reliable bunch of stiffs. Or they just can’t play the game of basketball at all away from home. But considering that their away record in the regular season was an impressive ……..31-10 (.756 %) on the road it’d suggest that this is a competitive team. Infact they’ve been anything but that on the road. They’ve become an anathema to their fans and have left even the most ardent of NBA fans . What’s up with this team ?
LeBron James shoots over the outstretched arms of Paul Pierce of the Boston Celtics. picture courtesy of nbae getty images/ David Liam Kyle ………..
Last night’s 88-77 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference semi finals game four was their fifth straight away loss this postseason. They’ve yet to win on the road and it’s becoming abundantly clear that either this team is running scared or they just have no stomach for a competitive game away from their home venue. In winning the game the Cavaliers have squared the series at two games apiece in the best of seven series. And it now has the NBA world wondering whether or not the regular season play of the Celtics was just an aberration or are they capable of turning things around ? Certainly at this moment in time it’d be anyone’s guess.
Delonte West of the Cleveland Cavaliers holds off Rajon Rondo of the Celtics. picture courtesy of getty images/ Gregory Shamus ………..
In their triumvirate of All Stars Ray Allen , Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce it can be said that these seasoned veterans with their experience ought to be displaying more leadership and will than we’ve seen thus far. Instead what we’ve seen are shifting circumstances where none of them as of yet have come to the fore . And shown either the leadership expected or stamped their authority on a game or series thus far.
Kevin Garnett of the Celtics seems determined to keep ahold of the ball from the advancing Joe Smith, Daniel Gibson and Anderson Varejao of the Cavaliers during game four played at the Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Oh. picture courtesy of nbae/getty images/ Jesse D Garrabant …………
Mike Brown of the Cavaliers as their coach has risen to the occasion and obviously is out to prove that as reigning Eastern Conference champions the team’s appearance in last year’s finals wasn’t just a one off . If anything he’s out to prove to the naysayers around the league that this time around they’re capable of making it there again. And if anything are better equipped to do so this time , especially if they’re able to overcome the anemic play of the Boston Celtics. There’s a renewed vigor about this Cavaliers’ team that wasn’t apparent at the start of this series. In coming back from an 0-2 deficit they’ve shown themselves to be the equal of their conference rivals.
Rajon Rondo of the Celtics makes his jump shot whilst evading the play of Zydrunas Ilgauskas of the Cavaliers . picture courtesy of getty images/ Gregory Shamus..
Much has been made of the Celtics and their regular season play and the fact that they layed waste to much of the league’s better teams. Well in the Eastern Conference that was indeed very much the case. In the Western Conference where the competitive nature is much stiffer they did have their ups and down. Their 66-16 (.804 % ) regular season record was intimidating in nature . But even that in the end doesn’t explain what we’re now seeing from this team. They’ve shown themselves to be consistently inconsistent throughout much of the postseason . And they were pushed almost to the very limits by the sternly competitive and lightly taken Atlanta Hawks.
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