Wrestler Hayes:
An Ambassador of Salisbury
Questions by Editor in Chief, Ben Franks
“I see myself as an ambassador for Salisbury city in the wrestling world,” Hayes comments when I ask him what his pro wrestling career involved. “I wrestle in faraway places such as Tarree, wagga wagga and Yallah in Australia,” he beams, “and I’m representing Salisbury.”
What about recently? “More recently? I went out promoting a wrestling show in Salisbury during a late night shopping evening wearing a Mexican wrestling clown mask – and dishing out posters amongst the Christmas shoppers.”
So, as well as being the masked Mexican wrestling clown during late night shopping, where else has your career taken you? “All the way from local venues like Salisbury livestock market, Salisbury city hall and 5 Rivers Leisure centre to venues such as Worcester race course – where we changed for our matches in a betting shop – and a Crime Stoppers family fun day outside the grounds of Bowood House,” he says. “I’ve also been to Keyser West Virginia USA and some real remote parts of New South Wales in Australia.”
Being well travelled and clearly in-demand for his sport it seems fair to inquire as how he got to where he is now, after all a lot of young people who read Pie aspire to get involved in a sporting career – so what’s Hayes’ story before his first match? “I knew from the age of 11 I wanted to be a wrestler,” he says firmly, “I had no idea how to become one and never mentioned it to anyone as I was kind of embarrassed about it; people knew though as I was obsessed with it: I had all the action figures, magazines, t-shirts and watched it on SKY TV – sometimes at 3am on German and Spanish language channels on weekends.” He continues, “I played Rugby for my school and did discus and shot putt - all the what we called fat boy sports,” he laughs. “I asked my schools career adviser about how to become a pro wrestler but he found nothing, so I wrote a letter to a promoter who ran shows in Salisbury city hall who put me in touch with a guy in Bristol who ran a training school. Aged 16, I took the train every Saturday to Bristol where I caught the bus to a rough estate and trained at the green way centre before having my first match in May 1998.”
There is no doubt then that Hayes’ success in achieving his dream was attained through determination to stay at it. A repetitive notion to success among all Pie’s exclusives so far – so what tips does Anthrax Kidd have for others with sporting dreams?
“Get an education or trade to fall back on because not everyone can “make it” and sometimes a living isn’t viable in your chosen sport,” he says realistically, “injuries can cut things short at any moment too.” He does add though, “You should follow your dreams but go prepared. If anyone wanted to go in to wrestling I’d say get in shape first and foremost and find a decent training school such as 4FW in Swindon.” You can visit that site here: www.4fw-online.com
As a no-doubt realistic thinker, what’s Hayes’ favourite thing about what he does. “It’s not so much the sport itself,” he says surprisingly and continues, “but the diversity and the characters you meet along the way; I’ve wrestled in Bath public library as part of a reading campaign, opened a village fete and wrestled in the mud and rain as the ring didn’t turn up, been part of charity shows for cancer etc, been booked on shows with my childhood hero Jake the snake Roberts – not to mention I’ve wrestled Americans, Canadians, Irish, Australian, Mexican and South African wrestlers, had grannies attack me with their handbags, made people laugh or cry, rode in ambulances covered in my own blood, won championship title belts and trophies.”
Certainly an experience then? “It’s non-stop excitement,” he concludes.
With an undoubtedly good load of life gone by, what does Hayes aspire to in the future? What’s your dream, I ask him.
“My dream for the future is to remain as mobile as I can,” he says. “My mum is a real worrier and told me I’d end up in a wheelchair by the time I was 21; I’m happy to report I’m 31 and still pretty mobile, even if most parts of me do hurt on an almost daily basis.”
“I’d like a son at some point who I can share my obsession with – if he did so desire, I don’t want to be one of those parents who stick a football shirt on their 1 year old and give them no choice in the matter, poor little sods, in Man united shirts before they even know where Manchester is on a map… I’d like to maybe train up the next generation of pro wrestlers but people I’ve dealt with in the past didn’t have the heart to make it and quit after one session, so it’s clearly harder than people might think.”
So, who’s your role model?
“I have several, but none of them are conventional role models,” he replies. “More like people I admire: Jim Morrison, Bill Hicks, Marco Pierre White and Jake The Snake Roberts; all these guys share one thing in common, and that’s a passion for what they do or did.”
As Hayes mentioned, there’s not all that much guaranteed success to living a dream – but the point is there, you’re doing something you love. Therefore we tried to look at what goes on outside of his pro-wrestling career. I ask him what other activities take up his mind.
“I tried singing and song writing for a while to replace wrestling whilst I was working in the channel islands as a hairdresser – and I recorded a couple… but without auto tune I’m nothing,” he laughs. “You can check them out on myspace by searching 13 shameful joys; I warn you they are kind of depressing as I find writing positive songs a chore. I’m also a big fan of the UFC ultimate fighting championships and like eating a little too much for my own good.”
Aha, don’t we all?
Follow Hayes on Twitter and like his Facebook fan-page for all the latest, match photos, footage and charity events information.
Hayes is also working on a book about his wrestling experiences, so stay up to date for that.
Sports Editor Davies returns after “hiatus”
15th February 2012
The first writer to contribute alongside Editor in Chief, Ben Franks, back in September 2010 and the very man who fulfilled the position of Sports Editor for almost a year has returned after a “hiatus”.
Robert Davies, long-term Liverpool supporter and aspiring journalist, returns to the Editorial team ready for the March Revolutionary Revamp upcoming spring 2012.
“This should see the sports section here at Pie return to par,” commented the Editor in Chief. “Bobby [Robert Davies] has always been a writer one can rely on to deliver a top-quality story and keep the readers coming.”
He concluded, “I think I speak for the whole team when I say the warmest of welcome backs.”
Robert will rejoin the Editorial team in March.
Fabio Capello Resigns as England Manager
Anonymous, 08.02.12
Following a meeting with FA Chairman David Bernstein and FA General Secretary Alex Horne, Capello resigned from his position as manager of the England football club.
An FA statement read: 'The Football Association can confirm that Fabio Capello has today resigned as England manager.'
Capello had been in a row with the FA over the Board’s decision to remove John Terry from captaincy of the England national team and Capello’s subsequent interview on an Italian broadcast.
The FA Chairman did comment in his statement regarding the interview with the now ex-manager, stressing Capello had conducted himself in an “extremely professional manner” both in his role and during the interview.
Fans have responded in two directions with one side looking on to who will replace Capello and the other inflamed by the FA’s intervention in the national club’s football.
The preferred choice to succeed him is Harry Redknapp. The FA and England management team shall hold a press conference on Wembley at 12 noon on Thursday.
Manchester United Take on Manchester City in Derby
Tommy Walsh, 29/10/11, 00:45 GMT
Debut article
It was the Derby every football fan was waiting for - the Derby of all Derbys. Manchester United and Manchester City faced off in a grand weekend and I can tell you, no-one expected a 6-1 final score to Man City.
The best players in the Premier League such as Wayne Rooney, Ashley young, Carlos Teves, Ballotelli and were all there this week and what a match it was. Pretty much everyone expected to see Man United take victory (me included, as a massive United fan) and what a shocker it was to see City destroy United with six goals to just one.
United have beat City pretty much every time they've played them without fail. This false confidence seems to be the reason why Alex Furgeson didn't need all his key players from the start. Soon enough Ballotelli scored the one and only goal in the first half and went on to score the first in second quickly followed by Aguero; Edin Dzeko went on to score two and David Silva got on the score sheet with his brilliant goal. Fletcher managed to score for United even though they only had ten men, down one due to Jonny Evans being sent off (we all blame it on him).
Sadly this was United’s first home defeat in any competition since April 2010 and will rock the foundation of the team and supporters (well glory supporters, on estimate City gained 4,000,000 fans after this defeat), but I’m sure both teams will continue to dominate the Premier League regardless and I’m personally excited for revenge. Bring on the next Derby!
Key Departures Could Prove Pivotal to Arsenal Decline
Anonymous (20/8/11, 00:51 GMT)
With the departures of Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri, Gunners manager Arsene Wenger has been left with few options as Arsenal enter the beginning stages of the new season.
Following the prolonged departure of Cesc Fabregas to Barcelona and Nasri’s imminent move to Manchester City, Arsenal have lost their two star players in the space of a week – and with Wenger’s reluctancy to spend in the transfer market, Arsenal’s squad is beginning to look dangerously thin.
Aside from the big money moves of Fabregas and Nasri, Arsenal have been losing players; including Denilson, Eboue and Clichy this summer. This ultimately leaves the side a very weak squad consisting of many players from the youth squad, which – although has sometimes produced some of Arsenal’s finest talents over the years- is not a reliant nor adequate source of first team players.
The fact that Arsenal have made close to £80million from the sales Fabregas and Nasri’s and have only brought in midfielder Gervinho (who is currently serving a three match ban) as a replacement is as clear an indication as any that Wenger has no alternative but to invest the money in new players; a point made clear by his current squad, including Theo Walcott, who claimed to be one the club’s senior players at the age of 22.
It is demonstrably clear that Youth team players aren’t enough to challenge for the Top 4 this season - though players such as Jack Wilshere, Kieran Gibbs and Henri Lansbury have been promoted through the youth ranks, they simply aren’t enough to forge a strong team.
When looking at the Arsenal squad list it is a struggle to find strength and depth; for example, Robin Van Persie was recently promoted to captain and is one of the few remaining star players at Arsenal.
The situation is clear and Arsene Wenger needs to realise the frailty of his squad and invest money in key players or his role at Arsenal could be in jeopardy.
Dream Debut for Argentinean Acquisition
Anonymous, 17/8/11, 09:46 GMT
Sergio Aguero marked his debut for Manchester City on Monday with two goals against Swansea following his £38million move from Athletico Madrid.
Aguero began City’s 4-0 victory over Swansea on the bench as City Manager Roberto Mancini had instead opted to deploy Edin Dzecko up front. The opening exchanges were somewhat bland as Premier league newcomers Swansea were able to dictate possession and keep Man City at bay, despite not being able to forge any goal scoring opportunities of their own.
As the game wore on and City’s frustration grew, Mancini answered the supporter’s pleas to introduce Aguero into the game – and when he did, a City legend was born. As City were holding on to a 1-0 lead, Aguero’s introduction was met with admiration of the City fans in the stadium and it took the Argentine less than 10 minutes to demonstrate why he cost Man City £38million: after increasing the attacking threat from the home side, Aguero ended a well worked move with a tap-in from three yards - his first goal in the premier league. Shortly after, following a passage of play that would indicate City’s attacking intent this season, he athletically assisted a goal for David Silva before marking the perfect debut with a dipping strike from 25 yards – easily the goal of the weekend.
Aguero’s man of the match performance was fitting of his attacking prowess; the striker, brought in as a replacement for fellow Argentine Carlos Tevez (who was suspended by Mancini for the game and has yet to depart from the squad) would seemingly be the perfect asset to a Man City team which has Premier League Title and Champion’s League aspirations this season
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The Argentinean international will be an addition to what can only be described as an army of attacking players at Manchester City; joining the likes of the aforementioned Edin Dzecko as well as Mario Balotelli, David Silva and Yaya Toure. It has yet to be determined whether or not Carlos Tevez, who recently said he wouldn’t return to Manchester even on vacation, will fit into Roberto Mancini’s plans this season. It has been rumoured that Aguero might be able to persuade his international team mate to remain a City player
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Though – whether Tevez remains at Eastlands or not - Aguero should have no trouble taking the current City team to the next level and mount a serious title challenge. Although it remains to be seen whether ‘Kun’ Aguero can replicate his form against more challenging opposition, other premier league teams have every right to be intimidated by the prospect of what this forward is capable of.
Who Will Be Victorious at Wimbledon 2011?
Article by Anonymous, 21/06/11, 19:51 GMT
As the Men’s Singles at the 2011 Wimbledon Championships begin with a flare, who will be crowned the victor of this year’s tournament?
Last year’s favourites were evident throughout with the shock exit quarter final of Federer leaving the Semi-final gap open for Nadal, Murray, Djokovic and Berdych with Nadal going on to win the final emphatically.
Nadal’s performance last year underlined his unquestionable ability to dominate a tournament, especially considering what’s been said about his skill when playing on grass. However, this does not by any means provide a fair reflection on Nadal’s dexterity and aptitude: Federer’s early exit meant that Nadal would more than likely be favourite going into the final, as stats demonstrate that as far as Grand Slam finals go, those two are the predominant figures.
Nadal’s victory over Berdych (who knocked out Federer) in the 2010 final was a one sided affair in which the Spaniard assertively controlled the match.
This year’s championships could tell a different story in terms of dominance though. Being the top seed doubled with holding the Men’s Singles title and this year’s French Open title is a heavy burden of pressure for Nadal to undertake although so far he has proven his superiority over his immediate challenger’s: namely second seed Djokovic, third seed Federer and fourth seed Murray.
After an incredibly convincing first round victory Murray remains a strong favourite - and providing he doesn’t let the pressure get to him - could be in with a chance. Murray aside, Djokovic has been on somewhat assuring form this year along with Robin Soldering and, of course, Roger Federer - who has an outstanding Wimbledon record.
Realistically, the reigning champion is on the form of his life and it looks as if it will take something short of the performance of the millennium to knock Nadal of his perch of increasing glory.
Can Federer win his first Wimbledon crown since 2009 on his current form and disputable age disadvantage? Can Murray reach the final for the first time or better yet, win the big one? Can Djokovic raise the bar and answer the critics? One thing’s a certainty – Nadal is on a rampage of triumph.
Rooney Pays the Price
Article by Anonymous, 10/4/11, 19:51 GMT
Wayne Rooney receives a two match ban for swearing on live television during a game against West Ham and will consequently miss Manchester United’s FA Cup Semi Final tie against Manchester City on 16th April and a game against Newcastle in the Premier League on April 19th.
Even with Rooney contesting the punishment, the decision to give the England and Man U striker a two match ban has been retained, meaning that Rooney will be ineligible to play for two games but will still be able to face Chelsea in the Champions League quarter final second leg next Tuesday.
The incident occurred during Manchester United’s 4-2 win over West Ham on 2nd April: after completing his hat-trick from the penalty spot, Rooney – in a state of ecstatic passion - aggressively swore in the direction of the TV camera, which was broadcasting the match live on Sky Sports well before the 9pm Watershed.
Some believe that the disciplinary action towards Rooney is too unfair, saying that he’s being punished for what has been concluded as passion. Whether Rooney was being passionate over his team’s success or not, it makes no difference to the language regulation for day time TV.
Yes, he had just scored the goal that could well mean that Manchester United win the title this season, but that’s an irrelevance to the technicality of his actions. He could’ve been swearing out of passion or out of anger (such as Didier Drogba once did) – it’s a parallel exploit in the eyes of Sky Sports.
With millions watching, most of which seeing Rooney as a role model, the FA and Sky both agree that he was setting somewhat of a bad example to the viewers.
So, while passion in football is acceptable the majority of the time, it’s a different story when it’s dictated through means of breaking television conduct. Sky will be hoping that Rooney will do well to take this into account next time he lets his emotions get the better of him.
Sports Entertainment's most Popular Figure Returns to WWE
Article by Anonymous, 8/3/11 21:44 GMT Time
Seven whole years pro wrestling fans have waited for this, and after a much prolonged wait the ecstatic celebrations can begin: Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson has returned to the WWE.
How did this come about? Well it was just a normal, straight forward Monday Night Raw show in California and prior to the show we were told that the host for Wrestlemania 27 would be revealed. All those, both in attendance and watching from the comfort of their home, had a vague idea in their head regarding who the Wrestlemania host would be, but somehow I don’t think anyone predicted that ‘The Brahma Bull’ would walk out from the dressing room to face a capacity Raw! crowd for the first time since 2004.
Since that pivotal turning point seven years ago, when the Rock left WWE to pursue his somewhat aimless film career, the industry hasn’t been the same – both in terms of popularity and quality. Ratings drastically decreased on both shows (Smackdown and Raw), which indefinitely proved that The Rock was the decisive factor for people to tune into the show.
Johnson’s full time run at the WWE/F which spanned from 1997-2001 indicated the most popular viewing figures for the pro wrestling industry as a whole. The character played by Dwayne Johnson was one that was impossible not to admire and when his character went into semi-retirement in 2001, it just wasn’t the same for those die-hard fans.
However, Johnson made guest appearances during his hiatus from 2002 to 2004, which was the WWE’s peak time in that particular decade. The Rock was turned from admirable hero to arrogant ‘villain’ by the scriptwriters, who for some inane reason wanted to turn the fans against the character. Since 2004, the quality of material the writers have come up with has been nothing short of abysmal and it is no surprise whatsoever that Vince McMahon (WWE Chairman) made the decision to bring Johnson back to host Wrestlemania – the most prestigious wrestling event of the year.
Not only have they brought ‘rocky’ back for Wrestlemania but for what – judging by his monologue on his return to ring- will be a long period of time. He even took the time to warn John Cena - currently on 'RAW!' - that he is 'after him'. No doubt that unpredictable storylines, sold out main events and humorous character traits will be resurrected now that The Rock is back on the WWE roster.
Pictures courtesy of mediaman.com.au
Brilliant Birmingham embarrass Shameful Arsenal at Wembley
Article by Anonymous (27/02/11, 19:48 GMT Time)
Picture courtesy of BBC Sport
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Birmingham City defeated a lacklustre Arsenal side 2-1 to win the Carling Cup; their first major trophy since they won the same cup back in 1963.
A match that started with Birmingham on the end of severe misfortune with Arsenal keeper Wojciech Szczesny fouling Lee Bowyer after the flag had been raised (wrongly) for offside, ended in the reverse as a complete mix up between Szczesny and Koscielny gifted Obafemi Martins an 89th minute winner. Birmingham’s unlikely victory heaps further misery onto Arsenal, whose run without a trophy has now stretched to six years.
A game that maintained an open tempo throughout highlights the openness and excitement of premier league sides and major English trophies. As much as Arsenal tried to whittle down Birmingham with their majestic passing, it was Alex McLeish’s side that took the lead. The giant Serb Nikola Zigic rose to head in Roger Johnson’s flick after 28 minutes and give Arsenal good cause for concern. Arsenal’s quest to find goals didn’t take long though; 5 minutes before half time Arshavin’s cross was met by the ever-prolific Robin Van Persie who’s sweet volley gave Ben Foster no chance in the Birmingham goal.
Picture courtesy of Shaun Botterill/Getty Images of The Guardian
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The second half was perhaps secondary in terms of quality compared with the first; chances here and there but play was marred by injuries to many of Birmingham’s players and continuous stoppages. With but a few minutes remaining we looked destined for extra time, but Wenger’s reluctance to buy high quality players was highlighted in hilarious circumstances. An aimless hoof by Ben Foster was met my Nikola Zigic, whose flick on looked to be easy to deal with but a mix up between goalkeeper and centre back (both problem position for Arsenal) saw Obafemi Martins fire Birmingham to a major trophy for the first time in 48 years: history rewritten at Wembley.
Birmingham will relish the distraction from their ongoing fight for survival in the premier league and celebrate well into the night. As for Arsenal, more tournament frustration leave Arsene Wenger red faced and while today ended in disappointment, his team are still alive and kicking in the three other major tournaments, let’s just hope this is their last face palm related calamity of the season.
Arsenal 2 - 1 Barcelona: The beautiful game & more.
Article by Anonymous (20/02/11, 23:29 GMT Time)
Arsenal came from behind to beat Barcelona in the first leg of their last 16 champions’ league tie; a match that showed fanatical entertainment throughout and late drama as Andrei Arshavin grabbed the winner in the 83rd minute.
These two teams met just under a year ago in the Champions’ league quarter final. In the same fixture Barcelona took a 2-0 lead and Arsenal came back to equalise dramatically in the last ten minutes; tonight was just as good if not better than that classic. Right from the kick off the crowd was roaring, the hype was at its peak and the anticipation prior to the match was met by what followed in the match itself.
Although Barcelona went on to destroy Arsenal 4-1 at the Nou camp last season, the home leg showed some admirable football from both sides and again we saw Arsenal play majestically. For the first twenty minutes or so Arsenal were so comfortable that Barcelona were limited to only one chance; Lionel Messi poking just wide after being put through by David Villa. Arsenal showed no mercy going forward and their play almost converted a chance after twenty five minutes when Theo Walcott sprinted through the Barcelona midfield and found Cesc Fabregas who couldn’t quite find Robin Van Persie with a delicate cross.
Arsenal had settled, Barcelona’s chances were limited and we all thought that a goal for the home side was coming, until 30 seconds later.
One thing that is imperative when playing a top side like Barcelona is that the team doesn’t switch off and that’s precisely what Arsenal did. Lionel Messi danced his way up the pitch and cutely poked the ball through the David Villa who gleefully rolled the ball through Szczesny and into the back of net.
Barca had a half time lead and the feeling around the emirates was one of disappointment; but by no means did the crowd of 60,000 back down. They kept their chins up and cheered the home side on and that could ultimately have been the decisive factor in the Arsenal revival.
The better part of the second half was portrayed by what can only be described as mesmerizing passing triangles from Barcelona; keeping the ball 80% of the time, not conceding possession and frustrating Arsene Wenger’s team. This worked well until the 77th minute, when the comeback began.
A seemingly harmless passage of play peaked when Gael Clichy expertly dinked the ball over the top of the Barcelona defence to find Van Persie. Although it seemed like he still had much to do from such an acute angle, he amusingly outsmarted Victor Valdes by smashing the ball past the Barca Goalkeepers’ near post; Arsenal were level and the Emirates erupted.
The goal had not only brought the scores all level, but shocked Barcelona into a state of carelessness. Theo Walcott was all over the place, Fabregas and Nasri were linking well and the team documented their domination with a fine goal. Samir Nasri – running through the Barca defence – cut inside, pulled the ball back and found Andre Arshavin who slotted Arsenal into an unlikely lead. The capacity Emirates crowd were now deafening.
The versatile Russian has the last word as Arsenal ran away winners and if they can do the same in the away leg at the Nou camp they could be well on their way to European cup glory.
10 Reasons Why You should be excited by London 2012
Article by Chelsea Butchers
With less than 18 months until the opening ceremony here’s a comprehensive list as to why you should be overwhelmed with excitement.
1. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity
The last time that Britain hosted the Olympics was back in 1948. It is likely that the wait before we next have the opportunity to host the prestigious event will be longer due to the increasing opportunity of other nations. Therefore savour the atmosphere and be ready to recall the stories to your children in the future.
2. Team GB have a real possibility of winning medals
In Beijing Great Britain were fourth on the medals table and scoped up a total of nineteen gold medals. It is expected that they will build upon this on home turf. In cycling it is hoped that similar results to Beijing can be achieved with a total of eight gold medals being achieved. It is also possible that medals can be won with talents such as Jessica Ennis and Tom Daley.
3. Usain Bolt
We were offered a treat in Beijing when Bolt smashed the world records in both the 100 and 200m disciplines. In the world championships a year later he broke the records once more. They currently stand at 9.58 seconds for the 100m 19.19 for the 200m. There is also talk that Bolt is considering also running the 400m in London. One thing that we can be certain of is that when Bolt’s competing something special happens.
4. Team GB Football Team
Despite inventing the sport Britain has not entered a football team since the 1960 games in Italy. However a team will be entered for 2012, although it is likely that it will only consist of English players. The Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish object to the proposition as they believe it will jeopardise their individual status in all other international football competitions. However the English amongst us can look forward to seeing the future talents such as Jack Wilshire, Josh McEachran and Connor Wickham plying their trade in the under 23 tournament.
5. Opportunity to see more obscure sports
When was the last time you watched taekwondo or canoeing? Probably in Beijing. Just because they don’t get the exposure that some sports such as football and tennis get doesn’t mean they aren’t thoroughly enjoyable. Tune in and you might just find yourself a new favourite sport.
6. Affordable Events
The cheapest available tickets are £20 and this applies for most events. They obviously rise according to the popularity of the event and the ticket pricing structure. There are also concessions available for the young and elderly. Some events are even free such as the marathon, triathlon and road cycling. All in all tickets are fairly affordable so there is no excuse for missing out.
7. Unites the Nation
The Olympics have the power to do something that no other event can do. Unite England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland together. All rivalries are put aside and a common goal of victory is present. Every athlete, regardless of nationality has the backing of the whole nation and each success is celebrated all the same.
8. Sport, sport and more sport
Technology plays a huge part in the viewing of sporting events nowadays. The BBC will make use of their interactive service and offer the choice of several live events as well as highlights of the day’s action. They will also offer live coverage via the internet and replays via iPlayer. However they are not the only ones offering coverage as YouTube have stuck a deal to stream highlights across the world. So there is no excuse, wherever you are, however busy you are, unlimited sport is available for you to watch.
9. Legacy
The Olympics may finish on the 12th of August but the legacy will be clear to see for years after. The infrastructure will be build upon to create a future generation of sporting stars. An example of this will be transformation of East London. This will provide impetus for many budding young athletes. The Olympic Stadium will also be used as not only an athletics stadium but the home of West Ham United Football Club after the conclusion of the games. However the most important legacy will be the memories for not only millions of Britons but millions of people around the world.
10. Heroes will be born
The Olympics will see the victorious athletes written into folklore forever. Sir Steve Redgrave and Dame Kelly Holmes amongst others have been knighted for their achievements at the Olympic Games. Who will it be in 2012? Tom Daley? Jessica Ennis? Mo Farah? Only time will tell.
Judas to face old side in Stamford Bridge showdown
Article by Anonymous
Following a shock last minute move to Chelsea, Fernando Torres will make his debut against Liverpool on Sunday at Stamford Bridge, Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed. The off-form forward will face a hostile reception from the away fans after he betrayed them, and then to make it worse he criticised Liverpool as a club by saying ‘I wanted to be at a top club, like Chelsea’.
During a manic few hours, Liverpool brought in Suarez from Ajax for £22million, sold Torres to Chelsea for £50million and in an apparent state of panic, purchased Andy Carroll for a massive £35million from Newcastle, which makes him the most expensive British player in history. So theoretically, the Reds have replaced a sulking, off-form and injury prone striker with two prolific, younger and exciting forwards, while losing only £7million in the process. I consider this to be a largely positive exchange.
With the addition of Fernando Torres and Brazilian defender David Luiz, Chelsea’s squad has been much improved too, even if it did mean spending over £70million. In a 4-2 win over Sunderland on Tuesday, the Blues looked revitalised and inspired by their new star singing, despite the fact that neither Torres nor Luiz were eligible to play. Since Torres wasn’t signed in time to face Sunderland, he will have to wait until Sunday to make his debut, coincidentally against Liverpool... brilliant.
It is just typical of this season’s spontaneity that Torres would be facing Liverpool a week after abandoning them. Ironic statistic: Torres made his Liverpool debut against Chelsea in 2007 and will make his Chelsea debut against Liverpool. The worrying factor is that Torres scored against Chelsea back in 07. As a Liverpool fan let's just hope the same doesn’t happen in Sunday’s reverse fixture. The Spaniard will be facing a tough Liverpool side though; the return of Carragher to defence, the addition of Luis Suarez (who scored on his Liverpool debut on Wednesday) and the rest of a Liverpool team that have been fanatically revitalised under the management of Kenny Dalglish. Not to mention that Liverpool’s form has been much better than Chelsea’s recently: three wins in three without conceding a goal: good times.
When you compare Torres to Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll, it is easy to see that Liverpool have profited from the exchange. Especially considering that Torres hasn’t hit form for about 18 months and that Suarez scored 49 goals in 48 appearances for Ajax last season. Carroll on the other hand has been close to electric form for Newcastle and is virtually unplayable in aerial duels. While he’s still only 22 and his season has been disrupted by injury, he is still an exciting prospect and a dangerous asset to Dalgish’s team.
While Torres turned his back on Liverpool just to play Champions League football and to get more money (probably) he was still absolutely magnificent for Liverpool, particularly in his first season back in 2007. Since then, his form has been inconsistent, his temper has increased and his playing time has been hugely limited as a result of constant injuries...and Chelsea paid £50million for him. Good luck to them then.
