Euro 2012

[Scheherazade]

100 days left! All right more like 102 but I am very excited and can hardly wait.

Hope there will still be interest in a game similar to the one we played during World Cup 2010. (http://www.online-literature.com/forums/showthread.php?t=52324&highlight=world)



- We all start with 100 Forum coins.

- We each predict the result of a game (not the score but the winner or a draw) and bet some Forum coins.

- If our guess is correct, we earn as many coins as we bet.

- If not, we lose the amount we have bet.

- All bets should be placed before the game starts.

- At the end, whoever has the most coins is the winner.


This will require some track-keeping but we are all adults here (mostly) and I expect we are all honest as well so please no-post editing after the results.

Please vote for the team you expect to win.


Also, keeping in mind the discussions took place on the issue of coin-naming last time, any suggestions?

[MarkBastable]

100 days left! All right more like 102 but I am very excited and can hardly wait.

Hope there will still be interest in a game similar to the one we played during World Cup 2010. (http://www.online-literature.com/forums/showthread.php?t=52324&highlight=world)



- We all start with 100 Forum coins.

- We each predict the result of a game (not the score but the winner or a draw) and bet some Forum coins.

- If our guess is correct, we earn as many coins as we bet.

- If not, we lose the amount we have bet.

- All bets should be placed before the game starts.

- At the end, whoever has the most coins is the winner.


This will require some track-keeping but we are all adults here (mostly) and I expect we are all honest as well so please no-post editing after the results.

Please vote for the team you expect for the win.


Also, keeping in mind the discussions took place on the issue of coin-naming last time, any suggestions?

How about - just as random, out-of-the-blue, no-one-else-is-using-it-so-why-not sort of suggestion - the drachma?

[Paulclem]

:lol:

Come on Englaaaannnnnd!

The last world cup thread was excellent, and great fun. I was looking at my England flags, which are poised to be fastened to my bike agan this year. I might stick one on my helmet just to annoy the family.


I've just been looking over the world cup thread you posted Scher. 67 pages of punditry, psychic octopuses, speculation and Neely's Gambling Emporium. Will you be dusting it off again this year Neely?

[papayahed]

Fun! Last time I even watched a bit of a game.

[MarkBastable]

Due to a bit of finger-fumbling - which could happen to any of us, let's be honest - Paul appears to have accidentally hit the button intended for those - as if there were any - who think that England will win. Now, of course we could be hard about this, and it may be that it's technically difficult to achieve, but I really think we should find it in our hearts to roll back his erroneous vote, so that he's not embarrassed by it once the tournament's underway, when everyone will forget that he made a simple and blameless mistake of coordination, and will therefore imagine that he actually did, at some point, believe that England stood a chance of emerging from this tournament in some way other than humiliated, shamed, exposed and mocked.

I mean, come on, Scheh - show a glimmer of humanity towards the bloke.

[Veho]

Which naive soul voted for England? I like your optimism Paulclem, really!

[Darcy88]

Brazil.

I'll actually be rooting for Germany.

[Paulclem]

:lol:

I'm just a romantic at heart.

[JuniperWoolf]

I pick Croatia, because it's fun to say.

[papayahed]

I pick Croatia, because it's fun to say.

It IS fun to say!

[JuniperWoolf]

It IS fun to say!

:biggrin5: Your welcome.

[Paulclem]

http://www.online-literature.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=932&pictureid=7249

Its's not time yet, but the old bike will get its flag come the summer. This picture is from the last world cup. I think we lost that one...

[Scheherazade]

Fun! Last time I even watched a bit of a game.This time you should watch the final with us :D
Due to a bit of finger-fumbling - which could happen to any of us, let's be honest - Paul appears to have accidentally hit the button intended for those - as if there were any - who think that England will win. You mean he actually meant to vote for France, who is listed above England in the poll?
Brazil.Brazil is still not in Europe!


I think we lost that one...Do you mean the Cup or the flag? :smilewinkgrin:

Any other suggestions for the Forum coins? Or would you like to go along with Mark's suggestion? Ie, Drachma?

Also, should "borrowing" be allowed for those who go bankrupt too soon in the game? As we did last time, everyone will get another 100 coins at the quarter final stage.

[LitNetIsGreat]

100 days left! All right more like 102 but I am very excited and can hardly wait.

Phheww. Just 100 days, good job you opened up this thread just in time then...



I've just been looking over the world cup thread you posted Scher. 67 pages of punditry, psychic octopuses, speculation and Neely's Gambling Emporium. Will you be dusting it off again this year Neely?

Oh yes, Spain netted me about £150 last time I think, plus another ton with bets on other matches. I've only had one bet this year when England B side played and beat Spain's A in a friendly, costing me £20. I got the face on after that. We'll see though for the Euros.

Who won last time anyway? I mean with us, not Spain of course.

[Sancho]

The Atlanta Braves

Ah-hem, I mean, I have absolutely, positively, in no way shape or form, any freaking idea. So I’m just going to go with my dear-old granny’s country – The Emerald Isle.

[Snowqueen]

Hope there will still be interest in a game similar to the one we played during World Cup 2010. (http://www.online-literature.com/forums/showthread.php?t=52324&highlight=world)




Even I did pretty well in the game, with a little help from that octopus. :lol:

[smerdyakov]

Can't believe people think England will win! haha. Shows what the Lit-Netters now about football :D. Eng-er-land will bomb like they always do at the big torurnys.
Spain all the way - they are head and shoulders above everyone else in the world and have been for the past few years. Germany and Holland are strong sides, but the passing game of the Spanish is out-of-this-world, and they way they cut teams open at will is quite a thing of beauty.

[Paulclem]

Can't believe people think England will win! haha. Shows what the Lit-Netters now about football :D. Eng-er-land will bomb like they always do at the big torurnys.
Spain all the way - they are head and shoulders above everyone else in the world and have been for the past few years. Germany and Holland are strong sides, but the passing game of the Spanish is out-of-this-world, and they way they cut teams open at will is quite a thing of beauty.

It's not about belief - it's about hope. I also like an underdog to win against the odds. Anyway, I'm from England... who else could I support?

One can dream....

[Scheherazade]

I am rooting for Germany; I imagine their young and very talented team must have matured and grown more confident by now. Even during the World Cup they were outstanding and cannot wait to see them now.
It's not about belief - it's about hope. I also like an underdog to win against the odds. Anyway, I'm from England... who else could I support?

One can dream....Of course it would be great for England to win but I am not sure they are up to it... Especially all the drama has been going on recently, now they have a good excuse as well.

However, I am sure stanger things must have happened... Somewhere... At some point! :D

[Paulclem]

It's all a cunning plan to blind the opposition and lull them into - oh we're 2 - nil down to Holland - into a false sense of winning-ness.

Bah

And Cahill has scored. 2-1. See. Cunning.

Now 2 -2... now Holland've scored again.

3-2. The game's taken off.

[Scheherazade]

Hope there will still be interest in a game similar to the one we played during World Cup 2010. (http://www.online-literature.com/forums/showthread.php?t=52324&highlight=world)



- We all start with 100 Forum coins.

- We each predict the result of a game (not the score but the winner or a draw) and bet some Forum coins.

- If our guess is correct, we earn as many coins as we bet.

- If not, we lose the amount we have bet.

- All bets should be placed before the game starts.

- At the end, whoever has the most coins is the winner.


This will require some track-keeping but we are all adults here (mostly) and I expect we are all honest as well so please no-post editing after the results.

Please vote for the team you expect to win.


Also, keeping in mind the discussions took place on the issue of coin-naming last time, any suggestions?All right... Here we go!


Poland V Greece

Russia V Czech Rep.


Everyone happy with Mark's suggestion of Drachma?

[papayahed]

All right... Here we go!


Poland V Greece

Russia V Czech Rep.


Everyone happy with Mark's suggestion of Drachmas?

10 Drachma on Poland

10 Drachma on Czech Rep.

[qimissung]

How about - just as random, out-of-the-blue, no-one-else-is-using-it-so-why-not sort of suggestion - the drachma?

:lol::lol::lol:

Yes, Scher, we're happy. :rofl:

[smerdyakov]

Ireland have a chance...Trappatoni has them set up really well...

[prendrelemick]

C'mon Eng-er-land!!

Diamond Jubilee, London Olympics, How can we lose? (apart phrom penalties agin' the Germans )

10 Dr on Greece to win

10 Drachmas on a draw Russia - Czech.

[DocHeart]

All right... Here we go!


Poland V Greece

Russia V Czech Rep.


Everyone happy with Mark's suggestion of Drachma?


"Happy" is an understatement. I'm delighted! Seriously, we're about to exit the Euro and return to it, so using the drachma is not just fun, it's also practice for the real betting I'm gonna be doing come September.

However, because I like meaningful bets (and frankly 100 drachmae won't buy you a piece of chewing gum even if somebody else has been chewing it), I'm going to ask for a raise in stakes. Let's say each one of us has 100,000,000.

*Naturally* I'm going to put my money on Greece for the opening game. We'll park the bus in front of goal and wait for Gekas to hit the hosts on the counter-attack. It's similar to our national strategy of refusing to face reality and hitting it on the counter-attack by voting in a leftist government. 50 million on Greece.

Russia vs Czech: 50 million on a bore draw (most likely 0-0).

Best,
DH

[LitNetIsGreat]

Two very tight and cagey games I think.

My bets.

Poland and Greece - DRAW 20 D

Russia and Czech R - DRAW 10 D

[Scheherazade]

Reminder: If you run of drachmae, you will have to wait until the finals to join the game again when we receive 100 M more Drachmae.


I hate draws and I am hoping that we will see wins today (with plenty of goals).

[JuniperWoolf]

Go Croatia!

(*said in Ralph Wiggum's "go banana!" voice*)

[papayahed]

I hate draws and I am hoping that we will see wins today (with plenty of goals).


Go Croatia!

(*said in Ralph Wiggum's "go banana!" voice*)

Would y'all care to make a wager on that?

[Paulclem]

10 Drachma on Greece

10 Drachma on Russia

[Snowqueen]

5 Drachma on Greece

5 Drachma on Czech Rep

[Scheherazade]

Greece - 10

Any bets placed after the start of the game will be disregarded!

[Scheherazade]

What a start to the Cup! I am sorry that it ended in a draw like this.

Russia V Czech Rep

Papaya - Russia (10/90)

Mick - Russia (10/90)

Doc - Draw (50/50)

Neely - Draw (10/120)

Paul - Russia (10/90)

Snow - Czech (5/95)

Scher - Draw (10/90)

[DocHeart]

Seriously, how do referees like Carbalho make it to major international tournaments? My uncle Nikos used to referee for the local school league. He wore specs that I'm reminded of every time I tip a bottle of Balantines into a glass. He would have done a better job tonight.

The ridiculous dismissal of Papastathopoulos just before half time, however, seemed to give the Greek team a ten-man spirit that helped them equalize, then dominate a large part of the second half. Pity Karagounis missed from the spot -- we would certainly have won this had he scored.

Regardless, Greece showed they're no push-overs tonight. Here's to their fighting spirit infecting some of us watching them back home.

http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/1024/scrgr.th.png

[Scheherazade]

I do agree that the Greek side showed great spirit in the second half - despite the unfair yellow and red cards. Just because of that, I would have liked to see them win but still a draw is better than a loss.

Some Greek music: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzlcxN0lxSo

:D

[Scheherazade]

After today's matches:

Papaya - 100

Mick - 100

Doc - OUT

Neely - 110

Paul - 100

Snow - 90

Scher - 80


Tomorrow:

Netherlands V Denmark

Germany V Portugal

[prendrelemick]

Just because we are using Drachma doesn't mean we hae to adopt the Greek banks' accountancy practices.

Mick - 80 I think.

That group B is a killer. I hae to decide who to put the mockers on next.

10 Dr on Netherlands to win.

[DocHeart]

After today's matches:



Doc - OUT







After the Spanish ref robbed me of my first 50, the Czech folded like a defective ironing board, sealing my fate.

Hey Mick, lend me 20 drachmae.

[Paulclem]

10 on Holland

10 on Germany

[Snowqueen]

God! I had such a bad start this time.

10 on Netherlands

10 on Germany

[papayahed]

After today's matches:

Papaya - 100




I should have 80.


15 on Netherlands
10 on Portugal

[Scheherazade]

Did I get anything right yesterday? Apart from the Doc being out, that is? :D

OK, one more time:

Papaya: 80

Mick: 80

Neely: 110

Paul: 100

Snow: 90

Scher: 80



Did I mention English is not my first language? :smilewinkgrin:


Today's matches feel like semi-finals. Can't wait :banana:

[LitNetIsGreat]

Yes mine's right. I enjoyed the football yesterday, it was a lot more attacking then you usually get at the start of a tournament, let's hope it continues like that, very promising. I do not fancy England's chances though, it must be the worst team for at least 20 years, I'm going to look back over the teams in a bit.

First bet - 25 D on a Holland win.


No comment in regards to poor Doc (from Greece) being out and wanting to lend money...!!

[Scheherazade]

Does he remind you someone else, Neely? :D

10 on Holland win.

[prendrelemick]

After the Spanish ref robbed me of my first 50, the Czech folded like a defective ironing board, sealing my fate.

Hey Mick, lend me 20 drachmae.



Sure I will. What can go wrong?

Hmm, 28 attempts on goal by the Dutch. Howeer, I had backed them so they had no chance.

[papayahed]

Wait, uh did I mention I was picking the losing teams?? Therefor, technically I should be up by 45 (three wins, er I mean losses).

[DocHeart]

Sure I will. What can go wrong?

Thanks!! I promise I'll return it at the end of the tournament.

(This is a historic moment. A Greek just tried the international money market and was able to borrow!)

Game master, please take note!

10 on Germany beating Portugal.

[LitNetIsGreat]

Lucky you, I would have charged you 50% commission.

10 on Germany win please. Just in time!

[Scheherazade]

Germany v Portugal:

Mick (50) +20 Doc

Paul - Germany (10/90)

Snow - Germany (10/80)

Papaya - Portugal (10/65)

Scher - Draw (20/70)

Doc - Germany (10/20)

Neely - Germany (10/85)

I am sure you will let me know if there is a mistake...

[Scheherazade]

After Day 2:

Mick (50) +20 Doc

Paul - 100

Snow - 90

Papaya - 55

Scher - 50

Doc - 30

Neely - 95

Soon I will pull a Doc and go bankrupt before the elimination round ;)


It was not the game I expected at all. Were the teams too cautious? Portugal was the shadow of their usual passionate self.

All said and done, I am glad Germany's won. I am hoping they will get the cup.

Tomorrow:

Spain V Italy

R. of Ireland V Croatia

[Paulclem]

Missed the Dutch game. The portugal v Germany game was a bit boring, though they warmed up a bit after the goal.

So tomorrow I'll go:

10 on Spain

10 on R of Ireland

[Snowqueen]

Yes, I agree it was a pretty boring game and I think Pepe was unlucky in the first half.

10 on Spain

5 on Croatia

[MarkBastable]

I think I can join in now that there's a game I'm prepared to call...

100 draks on France to beat England.

[papayahed]

Missed the Dutch game. The portugal v Germany game was a bit boring, though they warmed up a bit after the goal.

So tomorrow I'll go:

10 on Spain

10 on R of Ireland

I'm with Paul, I might as well cheat off the guy with the most points right?

[prendrelemick]

I'll hae 10 on Spain to win (sorry Spain)

[DocHeart]

5 on Spain.

10 on Croatia.

[Scheherazade]

10 on Italy

[LitNetIsGreat]

Missed this one, I would have had the draw never mind.

[DocHeart]

For pity's sake, what is the reason Torres is in the Spain squad?

I can't remember anybody fumbling a one-on-one so comically since I tried to caress a certain lady's cheek and managed to poke out her contact lens.

[Grumble, grumble...]

[LitNetIsGreat]

Torres was finished two years ago.

Just a little 5 on Ireland Croatia draw.

Going to be close. Both teams need to win but the Irish set-up is defensive.

[Scheherazade]

R. of Ireland V Croatia

Mick (40) +20 Doc

Paul - Ireland (10/90)

Snow - Crotia (5/80)

Papaya - Ireland (10/45)

Scher - Draw (10/40)

Doc - Crotia (10/25)

Neely - Draw (5/95)

[TheBaron]

Shocking performance from Ireland, but then again most games have been a surprise thus far. England tomorrow will (hopefully) be a cracker. :cheers2:

[Scheherazade]

At the end of Day 3:

Mick (40) +20 Doc

Paul - 80

Snow - 85

Papaya - 35

Scher - 30

Doc - 35

Neely - 90


Tomorrow:

France V England

Ukraine V Sweden


Ireland was a real disappointment tonight. However, I agree with you, Baron, that so far it has been suprising overall.

We all know what Mark thinks but any thoughts on England's match tomorrow?

[TheBaron]

[B]

We all know what Mark thinks but any thoughts on England's match tomorrow?

I still don't know what to make of the squad. Being a Liverpool supporter technically I should be thrilled, but I feel like they all under performed the past season and it might shine through to their international games. Hopefully I'm wrong, I'm wishing Carroll will get a few under his belt.. because Rooney probably won't :nonod:

[papayahed]

Seriously? I even managed to bring Paul down with me. There should be some kind of award for picking the losing team. every. single. time. no?


(Sorry Paul)

[papayahed]

One more time:

2 on France

2 on Sweden

[Snowqueen]

I think England is the better side.

5 on England

5 on Sweden

[Paulclem]

Seriously? I even managed to bring Paul down with me. There should be some kind of award for picking the losing team. every. single. time. no?


(Sorry Paul)

No worries. I've been running my luck to break even.

20 on England - being patriotic an all

10 on Ukraine

I reckon there's been a lot less pressure on the players this time. The big hitters last time seemed to fold - Rooney in particular. Carroll could do really well in these games. He's taken his time to get going since leaving Newcastle, but he was coming good and looked hungry for Liverpool.

I've finished early today so I'm in depite the 4pm start.

Come on Englanaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannnnnnnnnnnd!

[papayahed]

One more time:

2 on France

2 on Sweden

k, I want to change mine.

2 on France/England Draw.

[LitNetIsGreat]

We all know what Mark thinks but any thoughts on England's match tomorrow?

England are playing for the draw, definitely, so I don't expect them to attack only on the counter but I expect chances to be few. France are going for the win here and fancy their chances. France will also have a lot of possession as England can't keep the ball. Hoping England can hold on for a draw, but not sure?

England Vs France - no bet!

Ukraine to win 10.

[Scheherazade]

France v England

Mick (40) +20 Doc

Paul - England 20/80

Snow - England 5/85

Papaya - Draw 2/35

Scher - France 10/30

Doc - 35

Neely - 90

Mark - France 100/100


I am rooting for England but I don't think they have got it, unfortunately.


Tomorrow:

France V England

Ukraine V Sweden

[prendrelemick]

earwig-o earwig-o earwig-o!

Just got in, too late to put it all on England.


5 on a draw twixt Ukraine and Sweden tonight.


Seriously? I even managed to bring Paul down with me. There should be some kind of award for picking the losing team. every. single. time. no?


(Sorry Paul)



Not only do I hae a 100% losing record, I'e also lent money to Doc!

Oh jolly well played !

[Paulclem]

Haha.

It was a good game with France. They looked very good, but England were solid most of the time. Their goal was a brilliant shot seen late by Joe Hart the goalie. He might have saved it otherwise. Our goal was a good piece of set piece play.

There were some good flashes from England - Oxlade-Chamberlain, Milner and Welbeck played well in attack, and the defence was excellent.

[Scheherazade]

Ukraine 10

[Scheherazade]

At the end of Day 4:

Mick - 35 (+20 Doc)

Paul - 70

Snow - 75

Papaya - 35

Scher - 30

Doc - 35

Neely - 100

Mark - OUT


Ukraine v Sweden has been the most enjoyable game so far... Both teams really went for it.


Tomorrow:

Greece V Czech Rep.

Poland V Russia


Any thoughts on these?

[Snowqueen]

5 on Greece

[DocHeart]

I'd like to return the 20 that Mick lent me. (Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I'm Greek, I borrow from the international market, AND I repay my debt in a timely fashion. I should be the prime minister.)

The remaining 15 I'm going to put on Greece beating the Czechs.


http://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/4694462202_55a5457d27.jpg

[papayahed]

5 on Czech Rep.

2 on a draw on Poland V Russia

[Paulclem]

10 on the Czech Republic

10 on Russia

[Scheherazade]

10 on Greece

[LitNetIsGreat]

I wasn't back in time to make my investments upon the Czech market, but I want to put 30 on the Russian one, 30 Russian win. These are a decent price to win on Betfair too 2.48 or 6/4 in standard odds, might have to have a wee nibble at that one though I have been making my beer money on the bookings market again.

[Scheherazade]

Poland v Russia

Mick - 55

Paul - Russia 10/80

Snow - 70

Papaya - Draw 2/40

Scher - Russia 20/20

Doc - OUT

Neely - Russia 30/100

Mark - OUT


I'm done with Greece :mad5:

[Scheherazade]

Day 5:

Mick - 55

Paul - 70

Snow - 70

Papaya - 42

Scher - OUT

Doc - OUT

Neely - 70

Mark - OUT


As it turns out, I am done with betting as well! :D

[LitNetIsGreat]

Whoops, thought Russia would be better but Poland fought well - don't worry I didn't lose any beer money for real as I traded out early, none of us are doing well though.

Scher, I will lend you 20 but I want 30 back when we get our next batch of marks - 50%. This is my rate of commission, take it or leave it. (Come on, you need to take the gamble, invest wisely with the 20 marks and you can easily be in front of us in no time.)

[Snowqueen]

Hey Scher I can lend you some.

[prendrelemick]

Doc: Hae another go. Yesterday I would'e bet on Russia and Greece to win had I got in in time, so I would'e lost it anyway.



I can't help noticing that by not betting at all we would all be better oph. That's why bookies ride about in Rolls Royces.

[papayahed]

5 on a draw Denmark v. Portugal
5 on Germany

[Scheherazade]

I can't help noticing that by not betting at all we would all be better oph. I believe the correct spelling is "ophph".

Neely> Thank you. You are a true gentleman. Which damsel in stress would not turn to you in times of (financial) crisis?

Snow> Thanks for the offer. I think it will do me good to sit out for couple of days as this championship is not going the way I expected at all. Too many surprises!

Today:

Denmark V Portugal

Netherlands V Germany

[Paulclem]

10 on Portugal

10 on Germany

[Snowqueen]

Snow> Thanks for the offer. I think it will do me good to sit out for couple of days as this championship is not going the way I expected at all. Too many surprises!



As you wish Scher.


20 on Portugal

10 on Germany

[LitNetIsGreat]

15 on Portugal. I'm still thinking about the Germany match.

[LitNetIsGreat]

5 on Germany Holland draw. Going to very interesting as Holland have to win, but Germany will sit back and hit them on the counter. Hard to call though.

[prendrelemick]

10 on Germany.

A good side Holland, but will sel distruct under pressure.


There has been some cracking games.

[MarkBastable]

Public Service Announcement: If there's any country you'd like to see knocked out of the tournament, you can pay me to root for them and I guarantee they'll be on a plane home within the week.

[Scheherazade]

Day 6:

Mick - 65

Paul - 90

Snow - 100

Papaya - 42

Scher - OUT

Doc - OUT

Neely - 80

Mark - OUT


Really enjoyed today's games. Maybe the teams are just coming to their elements?


Tomorrow:

Italy V Croatia

Spain V R. of Ireland


Do you think Croatia and Ireland have any chance?

[LitNetIsGreat]

Croatia have an outside chance (of a draw) Ireland have none.

Have I only got 80? Have you borrowed some without letting me know?

[Paulclem]

10 on Italy

10 on Spain

[prendrelemick]

30 on spain.

[Snowqueen]

I really want Croatia to win this game but I think Italy won’t let them, let’s see.

10 on Italy

[LitNetIsGreat]

30 on Italy.

[Scheherazade]

Have I only got 80? Have you borrowed some without letting me know?How many do you think you should have?

[LitNetIsGreat]

How many do you think you should have?

80.


Are you sure you don't want to borrow some?


Edit: 70 on Spain to beat Ireland as well please.

[Snowqueen]

15 on Spain

[prendrelemick]

So we are all agreed that Ireland are going to lose the next one.

So I'll change my bet to 55 on Spain.

[LitNetIsGreat]

Damn I haven't got 70 due to Italy fluffing. I think I've got 50 left now so everything on Spain, 50 on Spain win.

[Scheherazade]

Day 7:

Mick - 120

Paul - 90

Snow - 105

Papaya - 42

Scher - OUT

Doc - OUT

Neely - 100

Mark - OUT


Thanks for the offer, Neely. I should really wait because I get the feeling that I will lose whatever I borrow as well and start the next round in the red.


Today:

Ukraine V France

Sweden V England

[papayahed]

3 on Ukraine

3 on Sweden

[Paulclem]

10 on France

20 on England --- yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay

[Snowqueen]

10 on France

25 on England

[LitNetIsGreat]

I was thinking of 10 on France as well. Difficult to call though.

[prendrelemick]

50 on England to win

(I know, I know.)

[LitNetIsGreat]

Mick's had a beer...

I'll place a reckless 30 on England to win??

[LitNetIsGreat]

No danger...:skep:

[Paulclem]

Yeeeeeeeeessssss - just.

Looks like Hodgeson's making good decisions for the team - Carroll starting and scored. Walcott substituted on and scored and set up Welbeck. A bit of a nail biter in the second half. Only one more point to score and we're through.

[LitNetIsGreat]

Yeeeeeeeeessssss - just.

Looks like Hodgeson's making good decisions for the team - Carroll starting and scored. Walcott substituted on and scored and set up Welbeck. A bit of a nail biter in the second half. Only one more point to score and we're through.

But to then face Spain? :mad2:

Unbelievable game, but I though Alan Hanson chillingly summed it up when he called them two very average sides. We are going to struggle against Ukraine I feel and then get slaughtered against Spain, even if we get through. Still, we can hope.

[prendrelemick]

Andy Carrol's header was sublime, I know he was unmarked and it was a good cross, but it was one o those Leni Riephenstahl moments when he leapt like a salmon and smacked the header into the top corner. The aesthetic quality almost oershadowed the sporting context.:D ( I hae become that Harry Enield ootball supporter.)

[LitNetIsGreat]

Today's games are:

Russia Vs Greece
Czech Vs Poland

Both games kick off at the same time from now on.

My bets:
Czech R and Poland draw 5
Russia to beat Greece 25

[prendrelemick]

50 Dr on Russia to win

[papayahed]

dang I missed it

[prendrelemick]

I thought Russia had a chance to win the whole thing! But well done Greece, they were the best team in the 2nd 1/2

[kev67]

And we think we have it bad supporting England. If were a Pole I'd have been doing my nut.

[prendrelemick]

I it comes to Germany -Greece, Will the German's choose the Greek team and decide what's in their best interests, and will the Greeks re'use to take the penalties?


And we think we have it bad supporting England. If were a Pole I'd have been doing my nut.



Both the Poles and the Russian must be in shock. But then all the possesion, shots on target and corners won statistics count or nothing.


England hae a tough job to do against Ukraine. Rooney might upset the little bit o cohesion the team has shown to date.

[Snowqueen]

Today’s games are going to be cracking. I missed yesterday’s matches but I’ll try not to miss today.

[prendrelemick]

Yes, they are set up like last night. We know who should go through, but they still have to turn up and do it.

[Snowqueen]

For today's games:

10 on Portugal

10 on Germany

[papayahed]

Why do they slide like that? Doesn't it hurt their knees?

[Scheherazade]

Mick - 120

Paul - 120

Snow - 160

Papaya - 36

Scher - OUT

Doc - OUT

Neely - 100

Mark - OUT


I have done two days' calculations together. Please let me know if there are any glitches.


Tomorrow:

Croatia V Spain

Italy V R. of Ireland


Finally the games are beginning to look and feel good! :D


I <3 the German team!

[Paulclem]

Bah. Missed 2 days. You're right. ?The matches are improving.

I'm glad Greece got through - we need some wild cards, though it would have been good if Poland had qualified. With all their talent, Holland were disappointing.

[MarkBastable]

And there go the Netherlands.

Who shall I next damn to oblivion by lending my support?

[prendrelemick]

Curse you sheep that was rigged up the twenty acre and needed sorting out thus preventing me from putting 30 Drachma on Germany thus saving them from an ignominious defeat by Denmark.


Anyway 70 on Italy to win. Eer you're not supporting them are you Mark?

[MarkBastable]

Anyway 70 on Italy to win. Eer you're not supporting them are you Mark?


I have them in the office sweep so, yes, actually I am.

I'll be at the Albert Hall watching Tom Petty, though, so they may not suffer the full consequences of my enthusiasm.

[DocHeart]

As soon as I stopped betting on them, Greece finally got their game together.

We'd seen this before in the qualifying stages against Croatia and Israel -- very tight at the back with Samaras holding up the ball in midfield and spraying balls left and right, creating chances. Physically the squad is very strong, too.

I don't think we stand much of a chance against Germany, but it'll be interesting to see 65-kilo Sotiris Ninis battling against the much more imposing German midfield.

I enjoyed England against Sweden. I have a natural soft spot for the three lions, and am glad whenever they do well. Carrol is a great forward, a real presence in the box. And Theo looks in great form. Here's to them :)

So disappointed in Holland - not so much because they went out, but because they never looked as though they could avoid it.

DH

[prendrelemick]

From Doc: I enjoyed England gainst Sweden. I have a natural soft spot for the three lions, and am glad whenever they do well. Carrol is a great forward, a real presence in the box. And Theo looks in great form. Here's to them.

Carrol will be dropped (for Rooney)and Walcott has a tight hamstring.:nonod:

[Snowqueen]

30 on Spain

10 on Italy

[Paulclem]

20 Spain

10 Italy

[papayahed]

10 Spain

5 Ireland

[Scheherazade]

I'll be at the Albert Hall watching Tom Petty,...Oh, have fun.

I don't let any distractions interfere with my dedication to football.

Will be at home, knitting and watching football as usual while switching between the channels.


Why, oh, why must they play simultaneously?


(I know why but still...)

[LitNetIsGreat]

50 on Spain
50 on Italy thanks.

[Alexander III]

God I hope Italy manage to make this through, the sad thing is it depends all on spain-croatia, and due to the new system if they tie 2-2 , it doesn't matter what result Italy gets, even if we beat Ireland eight-nill, we don't go through. Nothing is worst than not having you fate in your hands.

[LitNetIsGreat]

God I hope Italy manage to make this through, the sad thing is it depends all on spain-croatia, and due to the new system if they tie 2-2 , it doesn't matter what result Italy gets, even if we beat Ireland eight-nill, we don't go through. Nothing is worst than not having you fate in your hands.

Yes I'm not sure about the system as well. On the one hand it does make the last games exciting but is it fair? Russia went out to Greece despite having a superior goal difference by two.

[Scheherazade]

Mick - 190

Paul - 150

Snow - 200

Papaya - 41

Scher - OUT

Doc - OUT

Neely - 200

Mark - OUT


Really wanted Croatia to win.


Tomorrow:

England V Ukraine

Sweden V France


Anyone will call these? ;)

[Paulclem]

20 on England

20 on France

Come on Englaaaaannnnnnnddddddd.

Rooney'sback. I think he should go with Carroll again though. He's on form and a big threat.

[Scheherazade]

He's on form and a big threat.To whom?

:D

[Paulclem]

To them!

[prendrelemick]

All England have to do now is to draw with Ukraine, beat Spain, then maybe Portugal, then Germany in the Final - easy!



I can't decide here what to do. there are 4 equally average teams playing each other. The Ukraine will be fired up, but can England out-bore their enthusiasm.
Sweden are out, which could have a negative effect on the French and cause them to do a Holland..

So a miserly 20 on France

and 20 on Ukraine in the spirit of reverse-wish support, a-la Mark.

[MarkBastable]

and 20 on Ukraine in the spirit of reverse-wish support, a-la Mark.

....no one understands me.

[prendrelemick]

^Whatever, It is your patriotic duty to root for The Ukraine tonight.

[Snowqueen]

I think France is going to win today's game but I'm not quite sure about England (Rooney's back though).

10 on draw England/Ukraine

20 on France

[DocHeart]

Greece *has* beaten Germany before. In Munich, no less.

Highlights from that unforgettable match here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ta1KfRX06kA

[LitNetIsGreat]

Difficult call but I'll go with:

20 France win
10 England win - though I think a draw is very much on the cards.

[Paulclem]

Good win for England, though the first half wasn't much of a sizzler.

Italy next. Come onnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Scheherazade]

Mick - 250

Paul - 250

Snow - 270

Papaya - 141

Scher - 100

Doc - 100

Neely - 290

Mark - 100


100 drachmae for everyone as the next round begins.


Thursday:

Czech Rep. V Portugal

[MarkBastable]

Mick - 250

Paul - 250

Snow - 270

Papaya - 141

Scher - 100

Doc - 100

Neely - 290

Mark - 100


100 drachmae for everyone as the next round begins.


Thursday:

Czech Rep. V Portugal


At this late stage there's only one strategy to employ, and it's the one that got me into this mess in the first place.

100 on Portugal to win.

(Though I rather hope Czech eviscerate them, as there are few prospects in footbal more pleasurable than seeing Cristiano Ronaldo weep like a small girlie whose hamster fell in the blender.)

[smerdyakov]

there are few prospects in footbal more pleasurable than seeing Cristiano Ronaldo weep like a small girlie whose hamster fell in the blender.)

or more pleasurable than watching what he can do with the ball at his feet.

:)

England were poor tonight, against an average team too. Italy will maul them the way they are playing at the moment if England repeat that performance.
They have no cohesion going forward and were it not for Terry and Parker doing some "head on the block defending" they would have lost. And Terry's goal-line "clearance"...well....:)

[Paulclem]

I think that's their key to success - low key and low expectations. I think I'd have started with Carroll, though I suppose Rooney has to get into the tournament.

50 on Portugal, though I'm with Mark on Ronaldo. I hope the Czech Republic win.

[prendrelemick]

50 on Portugal.

[Scheherazade]

I am rooting for Czech Rep as well.

I hardly ever met anyone who likes Ronaldo... Why is that?


Going back to England's game... I am very happy that they are still in the tournament but...

Rooney needs to join the WeightWatchers or something. He can be their Spokesperson and make some more millions for doing nothing. He is the most unfit player on the pitch and, after getting paid for much for all those years, he can at least try to keep in shape - especially considering that he is a sportsman and all that.

His goal was a joke. How many opportunities did he miss?

Are we not going to talk about the Ukraine goal that was not given? Do we need goal-line technology?

[MarkBastable]

Are we not going to talk about the Ukraine goal that was not given? Do we need goal-line technology?

We're probably not because we obviously do.

[Scheherazade]

We're probably not because we obviously do.You just might have.

[smerdyakov]

Rooney the most unfit player on the pitch?? Are u serious? He is one of the best forwards in the world. He is a consummate athlete and has to be to play anywhere near the level he does. Wayne Rooney is built like a tank - he is not fat! That's his physique, Scher!
Sorry but no way! Nobody that plays professional football is anywhere near unfit, let alone one of its best proponents. Not gonna let u away with that one, sorry! Watch him play for Man U and tell me he is unfit - his work-rate is unreal!

:)

[Scheherazade]

I think the only superlative adjective I am happy to use with Rooney's name is "most overrated".

[smerdyakov]

Now, I dislike the way the English media over-rates the English team. But I think they still have class individuals: Gerrard, Hart, Terry, Walcott, Rooney - the whole squad has class in spates tbh. The thing is (and has been for a long time): they don't play well as a unit, and it is because of all this hype, pressure and their inability to deal with it and when they play they get the jitters (they look frightened to try go forward most of the time) but Wayne Rooney is still a class act and I have been watching him play week in week out in the Prem since he scored that wonder goal for Everton against Arsenal when he made his debut at 15. Rooney is at his peak now. I love watching him play for Utd. And he strikes me as the kind of bloke who would play just the same if he were paid the same as the rest of us were (ie -me and ie not much)....He is pure quality.

[DocHeart]

Are we not going to talk about the Ukraine goal that was not given? Do we need goal-line technology?


As glad as I am that England won, that goal not being given was was a travesty. Very poor refereeing in this tournament, generally.

We certainly *do* need goal-line technology. I've no idea why FIFA won't implement it.

[Snowqueen]

I like to see Portugal win this game but if they don’t it would be fun, no doubt, to see Ronaldo crying like a baby.

50 on Portugal

[DocHeart]

50 on Portugal, please.

[Paulclem]

The Ukraine ball over the line was a mistake, but they also missed the offside that preceded it as the player got the ball. On that basis, the outcome was fair, though it rarely ever is in most games. The number of times the refs and linesmen make terrible decisions in the Premiership is beyond belief. In Rugby League, they have the video ref who can make an independent decision. It won't always work, but i'm surprised they put up with the complete uncertainty of refereeing decisions. Have we not got goaline tech just because FIFA are fogies? The tech has been around for years.

[tonywalt]

It works very well in American Football. I cannot think of many who would want to reverse the replay review rule.

It's funny to watch the Euro Cup on US channels, a mixture of Europeans and a few American broadcasters and the Europeans are really sticky about change, whereas the Americans are open to changing to a replay rule.

[MarkBastable]

The Ukraine ball over the line was a mistake, but they also missed the offside that preceded it as the player got the ball. On that basis, the outcome was fair, though....

Ah, well that would imply that you see them as two components of the same event. I'd argue that they're separate events, and that once the offside has not been flagged, it's over and no subsequent event can depend on it.

This came up recently in something I read about semantics. Was the second plane hitting the other tower of the WTC on 9/11 a separate event to the first plane hitting the first tower, or were both planes components of the same event?

It's not a theoretical question. Billions of dollars depend on it - because the WTC was insured against disastrous events.

If the first plane hitting was one event and the second plane hitting was another event, then the insurance company has to pay up twice. If it was one event, then they only have to pay up once - and there's a ceiling on the money they have to pony up for one event.

The argument for the 'independent events' view is "Well, if the second plane hadn't arrived, you'd pay us for the first one, up to the limit, right? So that's a single insured event. Therefore the second plane was a second insured event, and you have to pay us up to the limit on that one too."

The insurance company's argument is that the 'event' was the entire attack, and that both planes were part of that one attack, so they only have to pay up once.

Yes, even this comes down to an argument about money. Though quite an intriguing one.

[Paulclem]

It's true - both events are dependant equally on if.

Interesting about the WTC. I suppose a compromise is out of the question.

[prendrelemick]

How did the insurers asses the premium and the risk, one building or two? It Sounds like one side is trying to underpay and the other trying to get overpaid, so compromise would be a good idea, though not in the lawyers' interest.

In a way the offside was part of the same move that led to the goal not given. I think a game has "moves" and passages of play that can't be defined exactly, but every one knows what they are. On the otherhand a missed offside has less significance than a missed goal.

[TheFifthElement]

How did the insurers asses the premium and the risk, one building or two? It Sounds like one side is trying to underpay and the other trying to get overpaid, so compromise would be a good idea, though not in the lawyers' interest.

It can depend on a number of factors but the interpretation of 'Event' comes down to 2 things:
- the policy wording (as you can define 'Event' how you wish), and
- the doctrine of proximate cause (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proximate_cause) which will consider any event which is an 'unbroken chain of events leading to the loss' as being caused by and part of a single event.

So in this way a building which burns to the ground as a result of an earthquake damaging its electrical systems will be considered to have been damaged by earthquake rather than fire (in principle. In practice you would have to check the wording). This is a big issue where inner limits are applied to catastrophe perils (such as earthquake, windstorm, flood), where the insurance is on a named perils basis (e.g. third party, fire and theft) or where an insured has selected to limit their policy exposure based on the maximum amount they think they are likely to incur any one event. So in the WTC example, the owners of WTC may have elected to set a maximum event limit of, say, $100m representing the value of a single building on the assumption that they were not likely to lose both buildings in a single event. In this scenario they'd be thinking of fire, or vehicle impact or explosion which would be unlikely to transfer and cause damage to the adjacent building. It's quite a common approach. No one, of course, would have been considering this scenario, but it is arguable that there was an unbroken chain of events from the conspiracy to commit terrorism to the destruction of the two towers.

So it's not a simple question, and the vast sums involved and impact on other similar cases mean it's unlikely to be settled out of court.

[papayahed]

20 on Czech Republic

[prendrelemick]

It works very well in American Football. I cannot think of many who would want to reverse the replay review rule.

It's funny to watch the Euro Cup on US channels, a mixture of Europeans and a few American broadcasters and the Europeans are really sticky about change, whereas the Americans are open to changing to a replay rule.


Our football is a continuous game, which makes it more difficult. There is the question of when do you stop the game to look at the replay and how do you restart the game after it, also how far back can you look? The other night would it have given a goal to Ukraine or denied them one for the offside?

However for the moment I think FIFA is only looking at ball crossing the line technology.

Footie is a great egalitarian sport, everyone can play it whatever their ability, and at the moment everyone plays to the same rules.

[LitNetIsGreat]

30 on Portugal.

[Scheherazade]

I am rooting for the Czechs but I will put my 100 on Portugal for the game's sake.

Incidentally, I am pretty sure our Czech resident does not even know about the game... Right, Jay?

[Paulclem]

Our football is a continuous game, which makes it more difficult. There is the question of when do you stop the game to look at the replay and how do you restart the game after it, also how far back can you look? The other night would it have given a goal to Ukraine or denied them one for the offside?

However for the moment I think FIFA is only looking at ball crossing the line technology.

Footie is a great egalitarian sport, everyone can play it whatever their ability, and at the moment everyone plays to the same rules.

It's true that there's the problem of when to stop in open play, but the most important decisions are usually penalties in the box when the ball goes out. I'm thinking of Young's dive for Manchester UTD towards the end of the season which potentially put them in a winning position. If they had gone on to win it, it would have been by a blatant cheat. I think it would be useful there to assist decisions beause the goalmouth is so crowded.

The Czech Republic looked more threatening in the first half, but in the end it was mainly Portugal. Without Ronaldo though, they weren't that good.

[Scheherazade]

Mick - 300

Paul - 300

Snow - 320

Papaya - 121

Scher - 200

Doc - 150

Neely - 320

Mark - 200



Tomorrow:

Germany v Greece

[papayahed]

21 on Germany

[Paulclem]

Greece - what can I say. They weren't rated, but they are here on a wild card. Germany, one of the strongest teams in the tournament. They shoud win, but Greece shouldn't be here.

So on that basis er............ 50 on Greece. It would put the Hellenic cat among the pigeons if they did.

[prendrelemick]

I'm really tempted to go all in on Germany. Think I'll sleep on it.

[LitNetIsGreat]

50 on Greece?:yikes::crazy:

I can't see anything beyond Germany. Total mismatch in my opinion. I think Greece were lucky to come through a poor group - full bank job on Germany Germany 320.

[MarkBastable]

200 on Germany.

[prendrelemick]

I nearly became a competitive bread head there. Lured by the promise of easy imaginary Drachmas to risk all.

However my native caution has kicked in this morning.

250 on Germany

[Snowqueen]

Hmm.... Okay then.

220 on Germany

[DocHeart]

50 on Greece?:yikes::crazy:

I can't see anything beyond Germany. Total mismatch in my opinion. I think Greece were lucky to come through a poor group - full bank job on Germany Germany 320.


I do agree that Germany are extremely strong favourites here.

But to say that Greece were "lucky to qualify" shows that you probably didn't watch their games. They fought extremely well both against Poland and Russia, and showed that they can make it very difficult for any team on their day.

I think we'll be hard to beat tonight. But beaten we will be.

100 on Germany, please.

[LitNetIsGreat]

I do agree that Germany are extremely strong favourites here.

But to say that Greece were "lucky to qualify" shows that you probably didn't watch their games. They fought extremely well both against Poland and Russia, and showed that they can make it very difficult for any team on their day.

I think we'll be hard to beat tonight. But beaten we will be.

100 on Germany, please.

Oops, I forgot that there was a passionate Greek supporter on here, no offence.:smilewinkgrin:

[DocHeart]

Oops, I forgot that there was a passionate Greek supporter on here, no offence.:smilewinkgrin:

None taken :)

[Paulclem]

Well I'm sticking with Greece - there's nothing better than an underdog howling at the favourite's heels. I just think back to the FA cup. So many big clubs fall under one off games.

You do know that I will gloat and preen if they win don't you?

I might post some pics of the goal, embed links to fan sites and articles, and insist upon a display of the Greek colours in the Euro thread. I might even post a video of myself doing a triumphal "I told you so" dance whilst hollering rapturously to the Greek anthem.

Just imagine what I'll be doing if England win. Woo Hoo!!

[Scheherazade]

I would love to see Greece go through next rouund but I am a die-hard Germany supporter... Shame two of my favourite teams in this tournament have to play against each other.

200 on Germany win.

If they lose, I won't be too broken hearted.

[prendrelemick]

Oh look! Germany can't seem to score




Edit: ignore that.



Edit HA! C'mon you Helas.

Edit: σκατά !

[Paulclem]

Oh well - I'll be predictively conservative from now on.

[Scheherazade]

Mick - 550

Paul - 250

Snow - 540

Papaya - 142

Scher - 400

Doc - 250

Neely - 640

Mark - 400



Tomorrow:

Spain v France

[MarkBastable]

400 on Spain.

[Paulclem]

50 on Spain

[DocHeart]

Oh look! Germany can't seem to score




Edit: ignore that.



Edit HA! C'mon you Helas.

Edit: σκατά !



LOL.... This must be the most succinct match report ever. And yet quite accurate.

It was men against boys, really.

I'm miffed that (a) we made no effort to keep the ball in the first half but rather were jittery and hesitant, and (b) our fate was sealed by a third goal which was purely down to very poor goalkeeping.

But one does get the impression that even if Greece had played to their full potential, they still wouldn't have stood much of a chance.

From now on I'll be saying three words only.... COME ON ENGLAND!

:)


EDIT: Did you see Angela Merkel celebrating? Her gut is HUGE!

[LitNetIsGreat]

350 Spain.

[DocHeart]

I'm going to go for a surprise result.

150 on Spain and France to draw in the 90 minutes.

[Scheherazade]

EDIT: Did you see Angela Merkel celebrating? Her gut is HUGE!She must have the guts to run Germany for so many years.


I'm going to go for a surprise result.

150 on Spain and France to draw in the 90 minutes.Could you please place a bet on the team you think will go through, Doc?

I am still not sure... Not a fan of either teams and while Spain seems like the better of the two, France might very easily surprise us.

[papayahed]

5 on Spain

[prendrelemick]

Spain looked less than convincing in their last match, but France haven't looked convincing at all.

I'll go 500 on Spain.

[LitNetIsGreat]

She must have the guts to run Germany for so many years.

Could you please place a bet on the team you think will go through, Doc?

I am still not sure... Not a fan of either teams and while Spain seems like the better of the two, France might very easily surprise us.

Oh, is the betting at this stage who will go through not the 90 minute result? If so, can I increase my bet to 500 Spain? I was a little worried about the draw, but I think Spain will do it in 90 minutes and would be fairly big favourites to do it in 120. Ta.

[Scheherazade]

5 on SpainYou are living on the edge! :D


At this stage there is nothing else but to say, "400 on Spain" for me.

[Paulclem]

Spain's tactics are clear - they are boring France into submission. It's half time and 1-0 to Spain. The game is dull though.

[Paulclem]

Perhaps I've been spoilt by watching the Premier League. The French showed a few sparks in the second half, but were inferior, and Spain continued with the tedium. A big disappointment.

One of the commentators said inthe second half as Spain were passing the ball about pointlessly - " the crowd is awed into silence". I thought they were bored into silence.

[Scheherazade]

Mick - 1050

Paul - 300

Snow - 540

Papaya - 147

Scher - 800

Doc - 250

Neely - 1140

Mark - 800



Tomorrow:

England v Italy

[Paulclem]

150 on England. Come onnnnnnnnnnnnnnn!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I hope it's better than the one tonight.

[prendrelemick]

I missed it last night, but sounds like I didn't miss much.


Tonight is the Mother-in-law's 80 th birthday party, I hope she doesn't expect us to go and NOT have the telly on.

[Paulclem]

I missed it last night, but sounds like I didn't miss much.


Tonight is the Mother-in-law's 80 th birthday party, I hope she doesn't expect us to go and NOT have the telly on.

:party:

Unlucky. Some people have a posiive aversion to sport and grasp every opportunity and excuse to not have it on. They also moan that there's nothing but sport on at certain times of the year. Well I think there's always soaps on, and they are inescapeable despite being completely naff.

I hope your Mother in Law isn't like ths. Mine would also have the TV on. I think there'd be more trouble with my wife thinking it unseemly to watch during a get together.

[Snowqueen]

Both teams played an average game throughout the tournament so it’s a bit difficult to decide. If it comes to penalties then Italy has a clear chance to win it.

100 on Italy

[papayahed]

10 on Italy

[LitNetIsGreat]

50/50 I think. I'll go for 150 on England with fingers crossed...

[MarkBastable]

250 on England.

[Scheherazade]

300 Italy

[Paulclem]

0-0 half time. Good game so far with both sides missing chances. Come on Englaaaaaaaaand!!

[Paulclem]

Penalties. England are hell to watch.

Italy should have won, but England held on. We'll see.

[Paulclem]

Italy win on penalties. Fair result after their performance.

On the bright side I can relax and enjoy the footie now. Relief.

[Scheherazade]

Mick - 1050

Paul - 150

Snow - 640

Papaya - 157

Scher - 1100

Doc - 250

Neely - 990

Mark - 550



Wednesday:

Portugal v Spain


I always feel penalties are very unfair but, in this case, Italians were the better team. Not sure they will have much chance against Germany, though, if they do not improve their game by then.

[Alexander III]

Wow, I honestly think that if it was not for the genius idea of Pirlo, we would have lost - morale was completely crushed after Montella missed the penalty; and Pirlo did the only thing he could do to save it. It was like when an army is about to route and the general takes a small detachment of cavalry and charges the enemy head-on - without tactical ideas or probability of a successful charge, but he does it without hesitation just for the sake of courage. And that is enough to turn a route into a roar of vigor.

[MarkBastable]

550 Portugal

[prendrelemick]

Wow, I honestly think that if it was not for the genius idea of Pirlo, we would have lost - morale was completely crushed after Montella missed the penalty; and Pirlo did the only thing he could do to save it. It was like when an army is about to route and the general takes a small detachment of cavalry and charges the enemy head-on - without tactical ideas or probability of a successful charge, but he does it without hesitation just for the sake of courage. And that is enough to turn a route into a roar of vigor.

That's an excellent analysis and analogy.


That must've been one of the most one-sided draw ever. Justice was done in the end.

[Paulclem]

That must've been one of the most one-sided draw ever. Justice was done in the end.

I reckon Hodgeson made a mistake in going for Rooney and Ashley Young. They were both below par and didn't combine well, in addition to giving the ball away umpteen times. Carroll was better when he came on and was able to distribute the ball better. I reckon Rooney should have to fight with everyone else to get in the team. It was the same with the world cup. How Italy didn't score in the 90 mins is beyond me.

Spain - the most boring team or Portugal that has Ronaldo.....I reckon the Spanish will catch them asleep. 50 on Spain.

[papayahed]

20 on Spain

[Mutatis-Mutandis]

I'm putting 40000000000 on USA! 'Merica!!!!!!

[prendrelemick]

I'm putting 40000000000 on USA! 'Merica!!!!!!

That's about 3 dollars on current exchange rates.


I'll have 400 on Spain.

[prendrelemick]

I reckon Hodgeson made a mistake in going for Rooney and Ashley Young. They were both below par and didn't combine well, in addition to giving the ball away umpteen times. Carroll was better when he came on and was able to distribute the ball better. I reckon Rooney should have to fight with everyone else to get in the team. It was the same with the world cup. How Italy didn't score in the 90 mins is beyond me.

Spain - the most boring team or Portugal that has Ronaldo.....I reckon the Spanish will catch them asleep. 50 on Spain.


I reckon You've got that about right, Carroll was much more effective. I'm actually relieved England didn't go through, it would've been too embarrassing.

[Paulclem]

I reckon You've got that about right, Carroll was much more effective. I'm actually relieved England didn't go through, it would've been too embarrassing.

Me too. I can satisfy myself with the highlights.

[LitNetIsGreat]

Disappointed in English, shocking performance overall, just can't keep the ball.

I'll go 990 on Spain.

[Snowqueen]

200 on Spain

[Scheherazade]

Still don't know what to do about this one...

Spain seems like the apparent choice but I know Portugal won't give up so easily either...

Neely, won't you reconsider your bet? :smilewinkgrin:

[LitNetIsGreat]

Still don't know what to do about this one...

Spain seems like the apparent choice but I know Portugal won't give up so easily either...

Neely, won't you reconsider your bet? :smilewinkgrin:

Nope, I'm playing my hand, full bank. I think you should opt for Portugal, y'know Ronaldo and that being probably the best single player in the competition...and Spain have not been to their best as well.

[Scheherazade]

Since Mark supporting Portugal, 1100 on Spain.

[LitNetIsGreat]

Boo. Hisssss.

[prendrelemick]

Extra time! Portugal easily the best side.

[Paulclem]

Extra time! Portugal easily the best side.

Yes - Spain are boring again. Portugal are playing well.

[Scheherazade]

Mick - 1450

Paul - 200

Snow - 840

Papaya - 177

Scher - 2200

Doc - 250

Neely - 1980

Mark - OUT


Germany v Italy!

[Mutatis-Mutandis]

I'll put 50 on Italy, since they have better art.

[papayahed]

23 on Germany

[Paulclem]

150 on Germany since they have the better beer and sausages.

[Mutatis-Mutandis]

I should go Germany since I'm descended from there and all, but the chips are down now! Plus, I have no real idea what I'm doing.

[prendrelemick]

Two games left (Who cares about third place play off- if they're having one)

It's Germany all the way for me from now on. Their strengh and organisation will crush the artistry of Pirlo and cut through the shilly-shallying of Spain in the final.

1400 on Germany.

[Snowqueen]

What a crazy captaincy by Ronaldo last night!

Now 800 on Germany.

[DocHeart]

150 on Germany since they have the better beer and sausages.


Aye, but Italy have better pasta, salads, fruit and wine. And I'm on a diet.

250 on Italy, please.

[Paulclem]

I should go Germany since I'm descended from there and all, but the chips are down now! Plus, I have no real idea what I'm doing.

If it's down to the chips - go with Germany and the frankfurters, though lasagne and chips are good. General pasta - non.

[Paulclem]

What a crazy captaincy by Ronaldo last night!



They played well in the 90 mins, but Spain improved in the extra time.

The penalties were a farce with Ronaldo not even taking one. The big wuss.

[MarkBastable]

They played well in the 90 mins, but Spain improved in the extra time.

The penalties were a farce with Ronaldo not even taking one. The big wuss.

I'm not a fan, but be fair - he was lined up to take the last one, and it never got that far.

It's a strategy thing, isn't it? Do you put your best and most confident penalty-taker in first, when the pressure's lowest but you need a good start. Or do you put him in last, when the pressure's enormous, but there's a danger he might not even get the chance to contribute?

[Alexander III]

It's a strategy thing, isn't it? Do you put your best and most confident penalty-taker in first, when the pressure's lowest but you need a good start. Or do you put him in last, when the pressure's enormous, but there's a danger he might not even get the chance to contribute?

I think the best idea, from a tactical position instead; of a marketing(lets sell a bunch of shirts with this guy's name on it), is to do it as Italy, and put your best pentaly takers as 2nd and 4th. So that if the one prior misses they can be counted on to score and not let morale slip further down - or if morale is up they can be counted on to keep it up.

It seems silly to me to put your best guy last, sure it makes him look good; but from a tactical position it is not to often that the final penalty is the most important, the most important ones are the middle ones.


As for tonight, I acknowledge that overall Germany is the better team. And unlike england they have a tactical finesse and intelligence equal to the Italian team, and that was our main advantage. If we sink into defense mode Germany will overpower us, and if we don't score and it goes to overtime, Germany with a much younger team has a huge advantage as the game goes on. Our best bet is to focus on dominating the midfield, handling the ball and ensuring possession, and scoring in the first half. if we don't score in the first half thing don't look good at all. Pirlo-Balotelli , has the potential to be one of the finest combinations in Football, if they are able to get a good sync going on.

[Mutatis-Mutandis]

I'm sticking with Italy. And I'm gonna up it and go all in--100 chips, LOOK OUT!

[Scheherazade]

Agree. All or nothing at this stage:

2200 on Germany

[prendrelemick]

Why has he taken Cassano off?

And now Montolivo? That's the two best players tonight, taken off.

And Balotelli !!!! for cramp.

It's like a different team out there. Now for a traditional Italian defensive master class.