| Author | Message | ||
     Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Better late than never! All teams have now played once and I've seen every game so far. Here's my Analysis: GROUP A Poland 1 - 1 Greece : Entertaining, incident packed opener but neither of these teams look likely to progress. Russia 4 - 1 Czech Republic : Russia looked serious contenders, steamrollering the Czechs, who weren't that bad themselves. I'm gonna stick my neck out and say the Czechs will still qualify in 2nd place with Russia easily topping the group and winning all three of their games. GROUP B Holland 0 - 1 Denmark : First major upset of the tournament with the Dutch paying for being too cautious and the Danes getting the break they needed. Germany 1 - 0 Portugal : Classy game with the Germans looking ominously confident and deserving the win over a talented Portuguese side. Germany look to have progressed from the tight machine they were at the World Cup and they're my tip to top the group without breaking sweat and go on to win the tournament. Portugal second after a tense three-way battle. GROUP C Spain 1 - 1 Italy : An absorbing game with both teams looking evenly matched but the Italians just shading it due to signs of opening match nerves from the Spanish. Ireland 1 - 3 Croatia : Talk about a sickener! Ireland, after doing so well to get here, were bloody terrible. The most atrocious Irish performance I ever had to suffer through - jumping up and down off the sofa like a madman, while my head felt like it was spinning through the fecking ceiling! They looked unfit, nervous and unsure of themselves in every department and handed the game to a no more than competent Croatia through suicidal defending that schoolboys in the park would have been ashamed of... for a while I thought I was watching England (had to get that in). Ireland are already out and the Croats don’t look like creating any upsets so Spain & Italy look sure to progress with Spain topping the group if they can settle their nerves. GROUP D France 1 – 1 England : Very nervy opener for both teams with the French looking the better side but England really surprising me by their new found solidity. In past competitions this is just the type of game they’d have spent the second half running about like headless chickens in but they kept their shape and played doggedly and with determination that had even me rather warming to them. A fantastic result for England that should see them through but progressing beyond that I’m not so sure about… Ukraine 2 – 1 Sweden : Another upset with the Ukrainians really rising to the occasion as co-hosts and getting a deserved win over underperforming Sweden. Neither of these teams looked great though. France to easily top the group and England to continue playing with steady improvement and book their place in 2nd thanks mainly to Hodgson’s calm and assured presence and tactical nous. I can’t help wondering about how Rooney will affect the team performance when he comes back after the next game… and it may not be a positive influence. | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
As all teams have now played once we could start a wee competition from here. 3 pts for correct score, 1 pt for correct result and no bonus points. Bookies beware! Here’s tonight’s Stevie predictions: 5.00 Greece 0 – 1 Czech Republic 7.45 Poland 1 – 3 Russia | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.203.241 |
Good analysis of the games so far, Stevie. Here are my predictions for today's games and the group outcomes: Greece 1 - 1 Czech Republic Poland 0 - Russia 2 Group A: Russia to top the table, Poland to come in second place. Group B: Germany in first place, Holland second. It's hard to say whether Holland or Portugal will get through, but I've a feeling the Dutch will be to powerful for Portugal, and perhaps they can manage a draw against Germany. Group C: Spain and Italy to progress, though I'm not sure which team will come in first (I've a hunch it'll be Spain). Group D: France in first, England second. I think Germany will win Euro 1012. What do you think, Stevie? Looking forward to today's matches! | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Aw Stevie, sorry to hear (on the other thread) you're unwell. I've had vertigo in the past - couldn't get out of the house. Thought I was turning agrophobic as I was scared to cross roads and things like that! Get well soon anyway.  Hope I'm in time for today's predictions - though I must admit I'm not going to be watching much of the footie myself as I'm rushed off my feet with work and things. I did watch the England match (didn't they do well?) and the Ireland one (hubby was devastated). So, my predictions this year are going to be more luck than judgment. Still, it's a bit of fun ... For tonight: Greece 0 – 2 Czech Republic Poland 1 – 2 Russia I don't know why, but I fancy France to be surprise winners of the tournament overall (and my mind was made up on that before I saw them play yesterday). I guess it should really be Germany though. | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Yeah, I tipped Germany above as well, Huw, and have been saying they're certs to win it since the last World Cup when they looked a seriously strong team in the making. Saturday's game only confirmed that for me. I'm gonna predict a France v Germany final and Germany winning it in fine style. | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Great minds think alike, Caroline!! | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
And thanks, Caroline. I'm starting to get kinda used to the dizzy spells now and just relieved I know what it is after being to the doc's yesterday. It was a pretty frightening experience for a few days there when I didn't know what the hell was happening! No horror writer has ever captured the real terror of losing control of your body to unseen and inexplicable forces like a sudden undiagnosed attack of vertigo that goes on and on for days. Shudder... | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.203.241 |
Sorry to hear about your vertigo, Stevie (just seen your post on that other thread). Both my mum and my gran have it and I've seen first-hand how debilitating it can be. I hope you can get it under control. Caroline, if things stay as they are you'll have got the first match right already! | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Greece 1 - 2 Czech Republic Well, that was an evenly matched and exciting game and you have to feel for Greece, who deserved a draw, imo. That's Group A wide open again. Caroline : 1 pt Stevie : 1 pt Huw : 0 pts It's good to be back!  | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
"Caroline, if things stay as they are you'll have got the first match right already!" Nah! Ruddy Greeks went and scored, didn't they?! They did well though - better than most people thought they would, I reckon. Hey, it's nice to see you back on the RCMB again, Huw. Hope you're doing OK. | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Poland 1 - 1 Russia Sensational!! Game of the tournament. No contest. The Battle of Warsaw this will be remembered as. Poland's passion to get a result should be a lesson to us all. I hope the Irish players were watching this... Caroline : 1 pt Stevie : 1 pt Huw : 0 pts I wasn't aware Huw had been away? What's up? | ||
| Mark_lynch (Mark_lynch) Username: Mark_lynch Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 92.40.254.22 |
My analysis is that England are the team most countries' viewers will be dreading watching because they're the most boring. England are only interesting and exciting to England supporters, I'd suggest. By the way, psychologists may have something to say about the fact Wayne Rooney's had a better season since he got his new hair. | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.49.232 |
Thanks, Caroline! Stevie, I haven't really been away, at least not completely, but I've been participating quite a bit less than usual. My brother was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia last year and since then a lot of our (family) time has obviously been taken up by that - getting the best possible treatment, helping him get through chemo, looking for a marrow donor match, and lots of other things. Also, my own medical stuff has taken a turn for the worse lately. My spinal problems are about the same (still in pain management), but I've also been seeing a neurologist. I've had Tourette Syndrome since I was a kid, but it settled down to a large degree as I reached adulthood. It's got worse over the last few years, partly, the doctors think, due to stress, and partly due to the polyneuropathy I've had since I hurt my spine. Also, the docs say I have OCD and Restless Leg Syndrome, and some other stuff. Anyway, it's not all that bad, all things considered - could be a lot worse! On to the more interesting question of tonight's football! It's a difficult couple of matches to predict, that's for sure. I can't see Holland beating Germany, not if they play as they did in their match against Denmark. I think it will be a very tough encounter, with the Dutch perhaps managing a draw to keep them in the tournament. It could go the other way, of course, and we could see them getting thrashed by the Germans. I don't know about Portugal and Denmark - I suspect Portugal will win, but who knows? For now I'll predict as follows: Holland 2 - 2 Germany (either that, or a German win) Denmark 1 - 3 Portugal As mentioned before, I think Germany have been the most strongest side so far. Ozil has been very impressive as an attacking midfielder (and also Spain's Iniesta, in a similar role). Caroline, is the Lyrica still working well for you? (Hope so!) | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Oh no, Huw, I'm sorry things have been so rough for you over the last year. I hope things are looking brighter for you and your family soon. I've been quite a bit worse myself in recent times too, but it's managable. Got a whole new list of diagnoses I could bore you with. In fact, I will! (if anyone here isn't interested in other people's medical problems, look away now) To add to the chronic fatigue syndrome (ME) and fibromyalgia, I've now also been diagnosed with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and I have suspected Sjogren's syndrome (I'll leave anyone who's interested to google that one!). But at least I have a better idea of what's causing all these problems - I like to know what's happening to me! "Caroline, is the Lyrica still working well for you? (Hope so!)" Yes and no. I only take a low dose - too worried about possible dependency and side effects to agree to go any higher. Hence, it helps tremendously when it comes to giving me some sleep, but it only has a small effect on the pain. If I'd agree to take a higher dose I'd probably have less pain, but then I'd be asleep all day and all night, and what kind of life would that be? They also put me on steroids for the PMR, and I'm having a hell of a job weaning myself off those very slowly indeed. Anyway, sorry Stevie, we're messing up your nice football thread ... For tonight I reckon it will be: Holland 0 Germany 1 Denmark 1 Portugal 2 | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Hey, no worries, folks! I started the medical tales of woe due to massive relief I wasn't suffering some kind of brain seizure and have nothing to complain of really as both vertigo (if it turns out to be permanent) and gout (my other bugbear) are perfectly treatable and really minor irritations compared to what you two have suffered. Life is a struggle and ill health only makes us all the more aware of how precious it and the struggle are. Gotta keep on trucking. Stay well, Huw & Caroline, and good luck to your brother, Huw. My Dad is going in for an operation to remove a thankfully non-cancerous (but it was a scare) growth from his bowel tomorrow so it's not just ourselves we have to worry about. Tonight's predictions: 5.00 : Holland 1 - 2 Germany 7.45 : Denmark 0 - 1 Portugal | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
This wee game is open to everyone who wants to join in. Winner gets to crow about being the official RCMB football pundit until the next World Cup comes along. | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
This wee game is open to everyone who wants to join in. Winner gets to crow about being the official RCMB football pundit until the next World Cup comes along. | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.49.232 |
Caroline, I'm very sorry to hear that things have been so rough for you lately. I don't have ME or fibromyalgia, but I have a small idea of how painful they can be and how much they can affect your life. My sister has ME, and it's got so bad that she can hardly ever get out. I've often suspected that I have fibro, as the pain from my spine problems isn't always limited to my back - sometimes it just hurts all over. I've been doing more more reading about neuropathic pain lately, and it seems peripheral neuropathy, which I have, can mimic some of the symptoms of fibromyalgia. My mum has Sjogren's Syndrome. I don't know very much about it other than it's an autoimmune disease and that it causes a lot of dryness and fatigue. My mum always has a tube of Lacrilube on hand for her eyes. It affects mainly women (as does fibromyalgia, if I'm not mistaken). Sorry to hear you've been diagnosed with this. It's bad enough to have something like this on its own, but along with other conditions such as ME and fibro, it must be very difficult to cope at times. You seem to have a very good attitude toward all this, from the way you've talked (or posted, rather) about it in the past. I've found that's really important. It can all get overwhelming at times, especially when it's a mixture of things that all interact with and complicate each other, and the fact that it's chronic, so you know that you pretty much have to live with it indefinitely. If there's one thing I've learned from my own problems and from what's happening with my brother, it's that life is precious, and every day we have in this world should be seen as a blessing - every little good thing is something to be thankful for, because you never know when things could get worse. I know it sounds obvious and even corny, but it's true. We shouldn't take anything for granted. Especially horror fiction and football! I'm really looking forward to today's games. Holland vs. Germany should be a cracking encounter. The Dutch will be desperate for at least a draw to stay in the competition. Who knows what'll happen... should make for a great game. | ||
| Mark_lynch (Mark_lynch) Username: Mark_lynch Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 92.40.253.222 |
Caroline, are you still taking the propolis capsules I recommended? I've suggested them to quite a few people now and for the most part everyone's reported an improvement in their immune systems. I've been on an intense course of acupuncture of late, along with a pilates course, and although it's not done much for the intenisty of the pain long term it's certainly helped my core strength. For a while the acupuncture was bloody amazing, mind, along with deep muscle massage, and while it didn't shift the fybro/ME issues, it helped me by giving some relief to the muscles I'd been using to compensate for the pain issues. Got loads of writing done. I tell you, if I were fit and well I'd have aspirations of being prolific! Sorry things are not great for you, Huw. The best to you and your family. Be nice to see a bit of Ronaldo playing tonight. Those spoilsport Germans wouldn't let him have the ball... | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.49.232 |
Thanks, Mark. Have you (or Caroline) ever tried TENS for your chronic pain? I use it on and off, and sometimes it helps a little, in combination with the other stuff (medicine, exercise, etc.). Hoping for some great football tonight! | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Thanks, Stevie, Huw and Mark. I best the rest of this board are saying "Oh no, they're all on about their medical problems again!"  Just to answer points ... Huw - I tried a TENS machine but I found it didn't help much. The thing is, mine is an "all over" pain. I think TENS can help when its a more specific pain, but when you can't decide where to stick the electrodes, I found it doesn't help much! Also, I get fed up of going around with wires dangling all over the place! Never a truer word spoken than this: "If there's one thing I've learned from my own problems and from what's happening with my brother, it's that life is precious, and every day we have in this world should be seen as a blessing - every little good thing is something to be thankful for, because you never know when things could get worse. I know it sounds obvious and even corny, but it's true." That's why I try to keep as positive and cheerful as possible too. Mark - yes, thanks, I'm still taking the propolis! I think it's really helped when it comes to either preventing infections (eg. my hubby can get colds and flu, and I don't get them) or helping me recover quicker when I get something (for example, I got shingles earlier in the year - couldn't believe how well I recovered from it!). Obviously it hasn't stopped everything, but it sure as hell has stopped me from being a lot worse. I tried acupuncture but it didn't do much for me. The first time I tried it (a good NHS physio) it helped me relax and I slept well that night, but it did nothing for the pain. Then, a new physio took over and hurt like hell when she inserted the needles and kept tweaking them - so I gave up on her. But there's a private physio in the village who's good with acupuncture and gentle trigger point massage. He did well for me last year when I trapped a nerve in my upper spine. By the way, good to see you back recently too, Mark! Anyway, we're at it again. Back to the footie now ... | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.49.232 |
Beautiful goal by Postiga! Caroline, I've had mixed results with TENS. As you said, it's not so useful when the pain is diffuse. When it's localised, for example a sharp constant pain in my lower back, it can help quite a lot, if only temporarily. And yes, I agree about the wires! I've tried going out with the TENS unit in my pocket or strapped to my belt, and it's no fun when you snag it on something and have the electrodes pulled out... | ||
| Mark_lynch (Mark_lynch) Username: Mark_lynch Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 92.40.254.180 |
Yeah, no fun at all. I tried one. Did nothing but short out on me and send more pain my way. Glad the propolis is working, Caroline. I'll chalk you up as another positive. | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
I'm a bloody amateur at this complaining about my ailments lark! Keep well, everyone. | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.49.232 |
Holland are looking more than a bit amateurish at the moment... I should have gone with my gut and predicted a Germany win. | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.49.232 |
Well done, Stevie: 2-1 to Germany it is. Too little too late from Holland. I thought Germany were excellent throughout - their style of play is straightforward, assured, elegant: great stuff. Ozil was man of the match for me - Schweinsteiger was very good too. | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Thanks, Huw. Yesterday was what you call a pulsating day of football. Two classic matches in a row. Great stuff! This is shaping up to be a rather special tournament, imo. Denmark 2 - 3 Portugal An absolute belter of a game played with great skill and passion and exceptionally entertaining to watch. Gotta feel for the Danes but Portugal just about deserved to win it. Holland 1 - 2 Germany A lesson in football from this already Great looking young German side. To see the Dutch made to look second rate and flattered by the final scoreline is all the proof anyone should need that the Germans are the team to beat in this competition. I've been saying that since the last World Cup. They look frighteningly good and they're still only developing! Stevie : 5 pts (1+3+1) Caroline : 3 pts (1+1+1) Huw : 1 pt NB: In case of a draw at the end of the competition the player with most correct scores (3 pts) wins. Ok, folks?  | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Predictions for tonight, and I've been dreading this: 5.00 : Italy 1 - 0 Croatia 7.45 : Spain 2 - 0 Ireland ... here's hoping I lose points on this one! | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Tonight's I reckon will be: Italy 2 Croatia 1 Spain 3 Ireland 0 (sorry Stevie - and my hubby  ) Looks like Stevie's pulling ahead again in our little competition! | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.44.248 |
Italy 2 - 1 Croatia Spain 4 - 0 Ireland | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Oh dear, none of us rate poor Ireland's chances! I hope we're all proved wrong. | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.44.248 |
I hope so too, Caroline! I'd like to see Ireland do well, but I don't think they'll be able to hold out Spain, and we could see a lot of goals. I think they've found themselves in a much tougher group than England. But at least they qualified - Wales are nowhere to be seen! I'm trailing woefully at the moment... help me out here, Spain! | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
We're all meeting up in the pub for it anyway while fully expecting a thrashing... but you never know, this is football. Dream on.  | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.44.248 |
You never know... England managed to hold France to a draw, despite being outplayed. Last night's football was the most entertaining so far, for me. I can't wait for Germany vs Denmark and Holland vs Portugal. | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
I agree, Huw. Group B has been easily the most tense and exciting group to watch. Group A has been the most hard to predict and surprisingly entertaining. Group C has been the most predictable, after only one game each. The Group of Death for all but Spain & Italy. Sheesh! Group D has been the most intriguingly tactical and could spring a few surprises yet. | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
It's no good - I can't do it. I can't predict a thrashing for Ireland! Can I go against the grain, change my mind and say it will be a 1 - 0 ***WIN*** for Ireland? They might have got themselves together since the first match. C'mon Ireland!! | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
That's a very brave decision, Caroline, and you're entitled to change your mind again before kick-off. If they avoid an absolute thumping by the World Champions and only lose 1-0 I'll be cock-a-hoop! | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.203.109 |
I'm going to change my prediction too, if it's okay. Same outcome, but a closer match: Spain 3 - 1 Ireland Caroline, I do hope you are proved right! | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
The nerves are kicking in again... why do we put ourselves through this?! My prediction remains 2-0 to Spain but I'm sticking a couple of quid on Ireland to win and draw, just as a good luck charm for the lads. | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
It's no good - I can't watch any more ... | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.203.109 |
Well, that's the last time I over-think things and change my predictions! Italy were a bit disappointing. I think that, given a little more time, Croatia could've won that. Commiserations, Stevie... | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.203.109 |
Tomorrow's matches: Ukraine 1 - 2 France Sweden 0 - 2 England | ||
| Protodroid (Protodroid) Username: Protodroid Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 109.79.92.236 |
Spain 4 - Ireland, let me just add these up... 0. | ||
| Mark_lynch (Mark_lynch) Username: Mark_lynch Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 94.197.127.101 |
My dad, still with his heart supporting Ireland, said to me 'We're doing all right. They're playing us off the field but we're only a goal down. Morally we're winning.' He went quiet not long after the second half began. | ||
| Mark_lynch (Mark_lynch) Username: Mark_lynch Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 92.40.253.52 |
I'm wondering if the selection process went wrong and Jedward should have been in goal while Shay Given had a go at eurovision. | ||
| John Forth (John) Username: John Registered: 05-2008 Posted From: 82.132.136.184 |
If there's one plus for me in Ireland's showing so far it's that it's reminded me of how much worse it would be if Scotland actually qualified for these things. Suddenly I don't feel like I'm missing out. | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
"Well, that's the last time I over-think things and change my predictions!" Sorry, Huw, I think that was my fault for daring to hope that Ireland might have a chance. Anyway, I reckon, in our competition here, I got exactly the same number of points as Ireland did yesterday - a big fat ZERO. The one thing about them though, if the cup was won on fan behaviour, Ireland would already have won it. They were so happy despite everything! Lovely people, the Irish. Now, my predictions for tonight's matches: Ukraine 0 France 2 Sweden 1 England 2 I won't be able to watch the England match tonight - off to the Fantastic Films Festival to see The Quatermass Xperiment on the big screen. What's the betting Stevie's still got a hangover after last night ....? | ||
| Protodroid (Protodroid) Username: Protodroid Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 147.252.233.89 |
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-18371142 | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Italy 1 - 1 Croatia Congratulations to Croatia! They played a blinder and made their thumping of Ireland look a little less embarrassing. A very well deserved draw against a suddenly vulnerable looking Italian side. Spain 4 - 0 Ireland The craic was ninety in the pub last night and none of us gave a monkeys after the second one went in. In truth Ireland were crucified long before the tournament even began by that draw. Very bad luck, Huw. I bet that stops you changing your mind in future lol. Stevie : 6 pts (1+1+3+1) Caroline : 4 pts (1+1+1+1) Huw : 2 pts (1+1) Tonight's predictions: 5.00 : Ukraine 1 - 2 France 7.45 : Sweden 1 - 1 England PS: Never, ever drink on Stugeron tablets! | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Oops, I made a mistake! Scoresheet should read: Stevie : 6 pts (1+1+3+1) Caroline : 3 pts (1+1+1) Huw : 2 pts (1+1) | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
You obviously want to give me an extra point, Stevie. You can if you want! Oh, I forgot you can't drink on those tablets. You didn't, did you? | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Yep, and they sent me doolally! Was like everything around me was slowed down and I was on fast forward, zipping through the universe talking ten to the dozen, aware of every minute movement and sound like never before. Talk about sharpening your perceptions! The match seemed to last for hours and hours... otherwise I might have rather enjoyed myself. | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Yikes!!  Proto - I saw that Irish flag thing you linked to: "Angela Merkl thinks we're working". Classic! | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 220.138.161.239 |
I'm going to make a slight revision, if that's okay, as I've a feeling Sweden will score: Ukraine 1 - 2 France Sweden 1 - 2 England I see I'm still trailing, like I was at the start of our World Cup competition. I need a 3-pointer today! An exciting weekend of football ahead of us - I'm really looking forward to the remaining Group B matches. | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 220.138.161.239 |
Well done, Caroline - 3 more points for you! Hope you enjoy the festival. | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Thanks, Huw. I think that's my first correct score prediction! Dashing out to the film festival again today, but my predictions for today's matches are: Czech Rep 1 Poland 1 Greece 0 Russia 2 Sounds like the England match was a bit of a roller-coaster ride last night! | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Ukraine 0 - 2 France Ukraine's bubble burst and the French progressed from their first game with deadly intent. They look very strong and I feel even more confident now of them being the ones to face Germany in the final. Sweden 2 - 3 England Fantastic nailbiter of a match! Rollercoaster ride is an understatement, Caroline! Both teams looked evenly matched and equally nervous which made for an absdolute belter of a contest, with mistakes aplenty on both sides. England shaded it due to two factors; Hodgson's increasingly impressive tactical savvy and the thrilling performance of Theo Walcott when he came on as a sub at exactly the right point of the game. The goal he made for Welbeck's impossible back flick is one of the finest goals I've ever seen England score. They still won't win it though. Caroline : 8 pts (1+1+1+1+3+1) Stevie : 7 pts (1+1+3+1+1) Huw : 4 pts (1+1+1+1) Congrats, Caroline! Tonight's predictions: 7.45 : Czech Republic 1 - 1 Poland 7.45 : Greece 0 - 2 Russia Which would see Russia (top) & Czech Republic (2nd) both qualify for the knockout stage! | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.51.206 |
I missed the Ukraine - France match, but agree with you about the England game, Stevie. Tonight's predictions: Czech Republic 1 - 2 Poland Greece 0 - 3 Russia | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
I hope you're right, Huw, as I'd love to see Poland go through after Tuesday's epic clash with Russia! Their's was the most spirited against-all-the-odds underdog performance of the tournament so far. Have they burnt themselves out though? | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Think you might have totted up my points wrong, Stevie. If I was on 3 before, and I got 4 yesterday,then I'm on 7 - same as you. Or am I getting confused? Either way, I'm starting to give you a run for your money ...  | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.49.92 |
Well, it looks like we were all off with our predictions for the Group A games. I didn't manage to see them live, but I just saw the results on the news - Greece beat Russia 1-0! They and the Czech Republic are through, Russia and Poland are out. Who'd have thought it after Russia's 4-1 win over Poland? I'm really looking forward to tonight's games. Can't wait to see Germany in action again and the Holland vs Portugal match should be a fierce battle. Denmark 0 - 3 Germany Portugal 2 - 2 Holland | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Yep, we were all taken by surprise yesterday - particularly with the Greece-Russia result! I think most people expected to be able to say today that Greece was out of the Euro .. er, sorry, I mean out of Euro 2012. For today's matches I'm going to say: Denmark 0 Germany 2 Portugal 2 Holland 1 | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Czech Republic 1 - 0 Poland Frantically paced and wild exciting match in which Poland burnt themselves out in the first half and the Czechs reaped the reward. Sorry to see the Poles go. Greece 1 - 0 Russia Monumetal upset I'm still pinching myself to believe happened but huge congratulations to the never-say-die Greeks, knocking out the stunned Russians. Cracking result! Caroline: 8 pts (1+1+1+1+3+1) Stevie : 7 pts (1+1+3+1+1) Huw : 4 pts (1+1+1+1) Tonight's predictions: 7.45 : Denmark 1 - 2 Germany 7.45 : Portugal 2 - 2 Holland | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.200.214 |
Well done, Caroline and Stevie - you both got one score right. Holland were dismal, and deserve to go out. Ronaldo chose just the right time to get back on form. I'll be back a bit later with my predictions for tonight. I'm hoping Ireland do well against Italy. | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
You were right, Caroline, I totted your pts up wrong. The last scoreboard should have read: Caroline: 7 pts (1+1+1+3+1) Stevie : 7 pts (1+1+3+1+1) Huw : 4 pts (1+1+1+1) | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Denmark 1 - 2 Germany Full marks to Denmark who surprised everyone in this tournament, even giving the invincible looking Germans a run for their money. But nothing is gonna stop this blitzkrieg! Portugal 2 - 1 Holland Portugal, and Ronaldo in particular, continue to go from strength to strength and are beginning to look like real dark horse contenders while the Dutch looked lacklustre and dispirited, deserving to go out. Caroline: 11 pts (1+1+1+3+1+1+3) see, you didn't need the extra pt Stevie : 10 pts (1+1+3+1+1+3) Huw : 5 pts (1+1+1+1+1) still plenty of time, man Tonight's predictions: 7.45 : Croatia 1 - 3 Spain 7.45 : Italy 1 - 1 Ireland I guarantee, with nothing left to lose or win, you will see Ireland play out of their skins tonight with magnificent futility and give the Italians the shock of their lives.. tis the Irish way... sadly. | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.200.214 |
Stevie, like you I have a feeling that Ireland will want to leave a strong impression tonight. They've nothing to lose, and Italy have not been consistently good, in my opinion, compared to the likes of Spain and Germany. I really hope Ireland can at least get a point and a goal or two. There have been several upsets so far (Denmark beating Holland, Greece beating Russia), and I've a sense that tonight could bring another (let's hope so!). Croatia 1 - 3 Spain Italy 1 - 2 Ireland | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Hi guys! Dashing in and out quickly, just to post my predictions for tonight. Busy, busy, busy! Sadly, I don't feel as optimistic about Ireland's chances this time - but let's hope I'm wrong! Croatia 1 Spain 2 Italy 2 Ireland 0 Stevie, I still think you've given me one more point than I should have (see my earlier post on this thread). | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.200.214 |
Kick-off's in an hour or so, I think I'm going to slighty revise my predictions: Croatia 2 - 3 Spain Italy 2 - 1 Ireland I hope my earlier prediction proves the to be accurate, but it's a bit of a stretch, and I desperately need to catch up with you two.... | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Heart-stopping stuff!! Croatia 0 - 1 Spain Gotta feel for the Croatians, who were brilliant, but Spain did not deserve to go out of this tournament. On that nervy performance, however, I really can't see them winning it. Italy 2 - 0 Ireland Told ya so. Bloody magnificent! Apart from the result... Caroline: 15 pts (1+1+1+3+1+1+3+1+3) Stevie : 11 pts (1+1+3+1+1+3+1) Huw : 7 pts (1+1+1+1+1+1+1) That's the scoreboard corrected, Caroline, and congratulations to you! | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.51.138 |
Well done, Caroline! I really felt for a while that Croatia might pull off a huge upset, but alas, it wasn't to be. I think England should do well tonight, having Rooney back and being full of confidence following the win against Sweden. I wouldn't be surprised if we see a few goals. I can't see France having any problems against Sweden. England 3 - 1 Ukraine Sweden 0 - 2 France | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Tonight's predictions: 7.45 : England 2 - 0 Ukraine 7.45 : Sweden 1 - 2 France Tonight could be nervy enough for England, Huw. I'm still unsure how the introduction of Rooney, with his notorious lack of discipline, will affect the team's shape. It could go either way, and Ukraine shouldn't be written off, but the tide of confidence from Friday's result should see England through. I reckon Sweden will go out with a good performance (ala Ireland) but France will be just too much for them. | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Gosh! I'm doing better than I thought I'd do in our little competition here! Quick thoughts about tonight .. I'm not convinced Rooney's inclusion will help England at all. Mind you, I'm not a Rooney fan - I don't really know why the guy is rated so highly. Anyway, here are my predictions; England 1 Ukraine 0 (I reckon Ukraine will put in a gutsy performance and it should be an interesting match) Sweden 0 France 2 (I still maintain France will win the tournament - if only they can beat the Germans - so plucky Sweden won't stand much of a chance here) | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.51.138 |
I've always found Rooney erratic in quality, but when he's on form he's really very good indeed. Not sure how they'll fit him in with the others - it could be an all Man. Utd forward line, though I rather suspect it'll be Rooney, Carroll and Welbeck (with Defoe brought on as a sub, maybe). I hope Walcott plays again - his speed could come in handy... | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
I can't have Rooney at all. A fitfully great player yet with a disruptive influence that frequently negates his good work on the pitch - and he has no understanding of the word "loyalty". The team are playing well and have a good solid shape and the discipline they lacked in former tournaments. Rooney could come in like a wrecking ball for more than the Ukrainians. Tactically it should be a fascinating match. | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.51.138 |
It will certainly be an interesting match. It would definitely benefit England if they won and Sweden could hold France to a draw. That would mean England would face Italy in the quarterfinals rather than Spain. If Ukraine win we'll see a completely different outcome, of course. It's important for England to score first - if the Ukrainians manage to go in front they will feel very confident indeed, what with the huge fan support. | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
"Rooney could come in like a wrecking ball for more than the Ukrainians." That sums up how I feel about him too. I think the young, new team Hodgson has been playing so far has done really well. I fear putting Rooney back into the mix again could negate all that. But then he'll probably go and play brilliantly and score - you just never know with him! I may just get the chance to watch the match tonight - hope so. | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.45.45 |
He'll either fit in well and score at least once, or he'll do something silly in frustration and get sent off. I hope it's not the latter. | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.45.45 |
It's been a tense encounter so far, a bit scrappy, with both teams having a few decent chances but failing to capitalise. Rooney missed a chance at scoring with a header - Carroll surely would not have missed that one. France aren't looking good, either. | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.45.45 |
Well done, Caroline - yet another 3 points! I sense ESP at work... England's goal wasn't a great one, but Rooney managed to get it in when he needed to. Gerrard was very good again. Ukraine's attempt seemed to cross the line, but was offside anyway, so shouldn't have counted, according to the commentators. That was lucky. France are losing 2-0 to Sweden! England to play Italy on Sunday, while France get Spain. | ||
| Lincoln (Lincoln_brown) Username: Lincoln_brown Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 123.98.137.114 |
Rooney no loyalty - why, because he left Everton 10 years ago? You say 'fitfully great', I say incredibly consistent. All IMHO, of course. | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.203.100 |
I have a feeling Stevie was referring to Rooney's complaints about England fans booing them in the last World Cup, but I'm not sure. I thought it was a decent match, with both teams about evenly matched. I'd rather watch a game like this one, frankly, then watch Spain pass the ball around for 90 minutes, no matter how good they are at keeping the ball - after a while it begins to resemble an extended practice session. I wish they'd attack a bit more. Croatia very nearly got the better of them. The quarterfinals should be entertaining. Germany shouldn't have a problem with Greece, and Portugal seem to be favourites against the Czech Republic, but we've seen that anything can happen in this tournament, so I wouldn't count anyone out. Spain vs. France and England vs. Italy should be very interesting. | ||
| Des (Des) Username: Des Registered: 09-2010 Posted From: 86.144.5.142 |
I'm glad to see this man in his mid sixties and who likes Proust doing so well. | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
I think you've won it, Caroline. Well done! England 1 - 0 Ukraine England didn't play that well and Ukraine were very unlucky. England would still have qualified and the disallowed goal negates their bad luck in previous competitions but still... touchline technology now! Sweden 2 - 0 France Sweden capitalised on baffling lethargy from France leaving the French with the toughest possible opponents in Spain. They must be sick as parrots and only themselves to blame. Caroline: 18 pts (1+1+1+3+1+1+3+1+3+3) Stevie : 12 pts (1+1+3+1+1+3+1+1) Huw : 8 pts (1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1) 1st Quarter Final prediction: Thu 7.45 : Czech Republic 1 - 2 Portugal | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 220.138.160.41 |
I have to agree with you on this one, Stevie: Czech Republic 1 - 2 Portugal | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
"I think you've won it, Caroline." They think it's all over ... well, not quite yet! I might not get another point in the whole tournament. Now, please remind me, what do we do if we're predicting a win on penalties? For the first quarter-final I'm thinking of saying it'll be a draw at full time and I haven't quite decided who's going to win on penalties. I seem to remember we had some kind of system in place for this when we did this for the World Cup? | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.49.113 |
I was wondering the same thing, Caroline. I can't quite remember what we did last time - I'm pretty sure we'd predict the score of the draw and then who'd win if it went to penalties, but I can't recall the details. At first I was going to go with 1-1 for the Czech Rep. vs. Portugal match, but I have a feeling Ronaldo will work his magic for Portugal again later in the match. Who knows, though - it's been such a wide-open tournament, lots of unpredictable things happening. By the way, do I get any bonus points for predicting Caroline will win our little competition? I desperately need them, the way things are going... | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Great minds think alike! I was just realising bonus points are a necessity in the knockout stage so took a dive into the archives and this is how we did it before: Now we’re into the knockout stages, predictions can include extra-time wins or going through on penalties if you think it will end a Draw after 90 mins. You must specify if the game is won in extra-time. Hmm, 2 bonus pts for predicting score correctly after extra-time, 1 bonus pt for predicting a team’s win on penalties. So if it goes to extra-time a potential 3 bonus pts are up for grabs but you have to predict the 90 min Draw first and the Draw score at the end of extra-time. If you predict the extra-time Draw result but not the correct score you get 1 bonus pt (this is getting more complicated than the off-side rule!). Okay, folks? And, to continue the nostalgic theme, this is how the three of us stood at the start of the knockout stage last time: Caroline: 31 pts (1+1+3+1+3+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+3+1+1+3+1+1+1+1+1+1) who says lightning can't strike twice Huw: 29½ pts (½+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+3+1+1+1+3+1+3+1+1) StevieW: 28 pts (3+1+3+1+3+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+3+1+1+1) Good luck to you all and can I ask you to spare a wee thought for my poor Dad who is lying very poorly in hospital following his operation last week. If I have been a tad distracted and tetchy of late, rather than my usual placid self - that is why. Now, let battle commence... | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Sorry about your dad, Stevie - I hope he picks up soon. One of the reasons I've not be around much of late is that my brother-in-law (one of hubby's brothers) is in hospital following a stroke. And you certainly haven't been at all tetchy, by the way! OK, I'm a bit confused about points, etc, but I'll leave it to you to sort out who gets what. My prediction for the next match (is it tonight?): Czech Republic 1 Portugal 1 (at FT and after ET) Portugal to win on penalties I see I was in the lead at this point last time - and still managed to lose! | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Thanks, Caroline. Best wishes to your bro-in-law as well. The stress of worrying about others is far worse than being sick yourself, I find. The game is tonight. If it finishes 1-1 you will automatically get 3 pts. if it remains 1-1 after Extra Time you get another 2 pts. If it ends 2-2 after Extra time you get 1 pt. After that, if Portugal win on penalties, you'd get another 1 pt. Okay or clear as mud? | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Czech Republic 0 - 1 Portugal An absorbing game with the Czechs looking to defend for 90 minutes and ride their luck. They nearly made it but for a bit of Ronaldo magic. He's looking more like the player of the tournament with each game. A good result for football. Caroline : 18 pts (1+1+1+3+1+1+3+1+3+3) Stevie : 13 pts (1+1+3+1+1+3+1+1+1) Huw : 9 pts (1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1) 2nd Quarter Final prediction: Fri 7.45 : Germany 4 - 0 Greece Can't see it ending any other way than in a Greek tragedy! | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Agreed, Stevie - I don't think the Greeks can do anything about Germany. My prediction: Germany 3 Greece 0 Re Ronaldo, I really don't like the guy, but I have to confess he is a brilliant footballer. | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 220.138.164.150 |
Stevie, I hope your dad recovers from his operation soon. Best wishes to your brother-in-law, Caroline. I'm predicting a Greek tragedy as well: Germany 4 - 1 Greece | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
It's a battle for who gets the correct score tonight then and all three of us at least guaranteed 1 pt. I mean, not even the soap opera that is football could provide a plot twist like... nah. | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Thanks, Huw. He's 79 and developed a chest infection during the week which had us all worried sick but is looking much brighter today. So fingers crossed. | ||
| Mark_lynch (Mark_lynch) Username: Mark_lynch Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 81.156.20.2 |
Sorry to hear your bad news, Stevie. Glad your old fella's looking better today. Can't see much hope for the Greeks tonight, but you never know. | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 220.138.164.136 |
I feel like wringing that ref's neck! I'd have my first 3 points if it wasn't for him. Good game, though. Some fabulous goals from Germany, and they could have scored twice as many. I don't fancy England or Italy's chances in the semi-final against this team. | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
I didn't see much of the match - kept getting goal alerts shouted at me from the living room - but it sounds like Germany were awesome. I've changed my mind about France winning the tournament (they seem to be in disaray now anyway) - it has to be either Germany or Portugal to win. Which brings us to tomorrow's match - as I'm not going to be around tomorrow I'd better give my prediction now. I reckon: Spain 2 France 1 | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 220.138.164.136 |
Caroline, my first instinct was 2-1 to Spain as well, but I'm going to mull it over a bit first before making a final prediction. It's 5:16am here and I'm knackered - couldn't miss this quarterfinal, though! Can't wait for England vs. Italy. | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 220.138.164.46 |
Here's my prediction for tonight's quarterfinal: Spain 1 - 1 France Spain 2 - 1 France (extra time) | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 220.138.164.46 |
Stevie, I hope your dad's getting over that infection. Best wishes to him for a speedy recovery, and also to your brother-in-law, Caroline. | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Thaks, Caroline. Looking better now! Just time for a quick prediction: France 1 - 2 Spain | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 220.138.164.46 |
What a dull match that was. France were appalling in the first half, but neither team was particularly impressive. I hope tomorrow's quarterfinal is better than this. | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Hmmm ... what prediction to make for the England-Italy match tonight? I'm going to stick my neck out and say: England 1 Italy 1 (at FT) England 2 Italy 1 (after ET) Well, you've got to have some faith, haven't you?! | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Germany-Greece (4-2) was unexpectedly entertaining and France-Spain (0-2) was like watching paint dry! Caroline : 20 pts (1+1+1+3+1+1+3+1+3+3+1+1) Stevie : 15 pts (1+1+3+1+1+3+1+1+1+1+1) Huw : 10 pts (1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1) Just time for a quick prediction again but tonight's match has all the makings of a classic. England 1 - 1 Italy After Extra Time: England 2 - 2 Italy Italy to win on penalties! | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 61.216.46.101 |
Hmm, this is a tough one. All the different possibilities have been going through my mind today, and I'm honestly not sure whether to predict a draw at full-time (with extra time and penalties) or an England win. I think it'll be a close, hard-fought match. Okay, I'll go with: England 2 - 1 Italy This one should be interesting, to say the least! | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
I must admit, I was tempted to say England would win on penalties (it's about time they did, anyway ), but in the end I couldn't bring myself to wish for it and went for an extra time win instead (as above). Should be a great (nerve-wracking?) match. I'm making sure I get time to watch all of this one! | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 220.138.164.134 |
Well, that's it for England again. I thought they might have a chance early on, but from the middle of the second half until the end of extra time, England looked exhausted and simply weren't able to keep the ball. You have to question why other teams are so much fitter and capable of pasing accurately and not always losing the ball. England have a lot of improving to do if they want to compete against teams like Spain, Portugal, Germany and Italy in the future. They did give it their all though, it has to be said. | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
England 0 - 0 Italy (Italy win on penalties) A nervewracking match to watch but, have to say, justice prevailed in the end as England were completely outclassed by the much improved Italians. They may be out but Hodgson deserves to be given all the plaudits, time and support he needs to build on what was a respectable performance in this tournament. Caroline : 21 pts (1+1+1+3+1+1+3+1+3+3+1+1+1) Stevie : 18 pts (1+1+3+1+1+3+1+1+1+1+1+[1+1+1]) picked up 2 very useful bonus pts tonight Huw : 10 pts (1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1) You've been terribly unlucky over recent days, Huw. Felt for ya when Greece got that second goal on Friday. Only three matches left so time to go for broke, people! | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Yikes! You're gaining on me, Stevie! Phew! What a nerve-wracking match! My nails were nearly bitten down to the quick after that. The worst bit was when Young got up to take that penalty. Both hubby and me were covering our eyes - we just *knew* he was going to miss. Poor lad couldn't do anything right all night. Agreed with what you guys say - it would have been unfair on the Italians if England had gone on to win it on penalties. But the whole team really deserve a huge pat on the back for what they've achieved since Hodgson took over. Great stuff! | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
Yep, getting exciting, Caroline! Dad's looking stronger every day, btw, and might even be getting out this week so huge relief all round. I'm going to make my prediction today: Wed 7.45: Portugal 0 - 0 Spain AET: Portugal 1 - 1 Spain Spain to win on penalties. | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Excellent news about your dad, Stevie. My bro-in-law's not doing too bad either. They seem to be quite confident that they'll get his arm and leg working properly again as it was a minor stroke. His speech, memory, etc are fine. He was even able to ring for the ambulance himself when it happened - just as well as he was on his own at the time. Anyway, football ... You're thinking the same way as me about the match tomorrow - I reckon it's going to be a close run thing too. I'll say as follows: Portugal 1 Spain 1 (at FT and after ET) Portugal to win on penalties | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 220.138.160.30 |
Glad to hear things are going well for your dad, Stevie, and for your brother-in-law, Caroline. I'm thinking along the same lines for tomorrow's match - I'll post my prediction after I've slept on it. I have a lot of points to make up... | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
There are still a potential 6 pts per match up for grabs, Huw, so think tactically! | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 220.138.161.70 |
I'm trying to, Stevie - I think I've been over-thinking things this time, compared to the World Cup. I've changed my mind a few times and gone with the opposite of what I originally thought, so it's my own fault! I'll be back on form by 2014, I hope.... Tonight's semi-final: Portugal 2 - 2 Spain (at FT and after ET) Spain to win on penalties | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 220.138.164.186 |
It's going to be another penalty shootout. Despite my prediction (which was woefully off again) I'm hoping Portugal win it... | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
I think Stevie's overtaken me - haven't you, young fella? For tonight I'll say: Germany 2 Italy 0 Got to dash again - no time to stop and chat online .... | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 82.18.174.156 |
It never rains but it pours and last night it rained so much I've been flooded out... again! So only time for a quick prediction: Italy 0 - 2 Germany Having to move into temporary accomodation tomorrow so wish me luck. Nightmare!! | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 220.138.166.22 |
Germany 2 - 1 Italy Good luck with the temporary accomodation, Stevie! | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Oh no! Not again! All the best with the temporary move - and I hope you haven't lost anything precious. We're supposed to be going to Ireland next week. Probably not the best weather to be visiting the west coast of Ireland. | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Wow! None of us predicted Italy would win like that. Hmmmm. I'm going to have to really think about who will win the final on Sunday. At the moment, I haven't a clue! | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 92.41.207.91 |
Thanks! I won't forget this June in a hurry!! Caroline : 23 pts (1+1+1+3+1+1+3+1+3+3+1+1+1+[1+1]) Stevie : 23 pts (1+1+3+1+1+3+1+1+1+1+1+[1+1+1]+[3+1+1]) Huw : 13 pts (1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+1+[1+1+1]) First chance I've had to get online and only time for a quick prediction: Final: Italy 1 - 1 Spain AET: Italy 1 - 1 Spain Spain to win on penalties! | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
Hey, it's right down to the wire for you and me then, Stevie - this match decides the RCMB Football Champion of 2012! OK, my prediction is: Italy 1 Spain 0 (FT) To be honest, I haven't a clue about this one but we'll have to see. Huw - sorry you can't catch us up now but I hope you'll still join in with a prediction for the final. What do you reckon it's going to be? | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 27.246.72.34 |
I'm writing this from my phone now as my PC has finally died on me! Good luck, Caroline and Stevie, and well done to both of you. I've been hopeless this time around, but I plan to get my mojo back before the next World Cup in 2014. I predict it will be 1-0 to Italy. | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
I didn't watch the entire match, but it looks like it was a well deserved win for Spain ... and also a well deserved win for Stevie here to. Well done, young fella! Huw - you and I will have to get our revenge on him in 2014 with the World Cup! | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.129 |
"to" Wish we had an edit button. | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 27.245.253.123 |
Well done, Stevie. Well done to you too, Caroline - you were only a point off, if I'm not mistaken. And yes, we'll have to get revenge in 2014! I'm just relieved to have reached double digits this time... | ||
| Tony (Tony) Username: Tony Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 86.152.62.175 |
Stevie's just texted me - he's been flooded. Well, his house has! No net, no fun tv, loads of books damaged/lost... He gets this all the time, doesn't he? | ||
| Huw (Huw) Username: Huw Registered: 03-2008 Posted From: 27.52.233.215 |
Damn, Sorry to hear this, Stevie. I hope you recover from this soon. Thanks for letting us know, Tony. | ||
| Stevie Walsh (Stephenw) Username: Stephenw Registered: 03-2009 Posted From: 188.221.155.202 |
Did I win?!! Can someone work out the final points. Euro 2012 already feels like it was in another lifetime after all that's happened. I'm surviving in a temporary flat and finally got myself two beautiful wee kittens that are keeping me sane and entertained. Male blue called Dudley and female brown tabby called Molly. Dud & Mol Walsh lol. They'll be 10 weeks old on Sunday. I'll post some photos when I get back online properly. | ||
| Carolinec (Carolinec) Username: Carolinec Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 92.232.199.196 |
Glad you're still with us, Stevie! Weber mentioned kittens - awwwww, sweet! 'fraid I haven't a clue what the final score was, but you must have won as we were neck and neck before the final but your team won. Well done! Looking forward to seeing your little furry friends when you get back online proper. |