Posts from July 05, 2006

Congratulations to Italy. They deserved to win as they scored two sublime goals and played the game to the bitter end in the right spirit and style.

Why - I haven't seen so many Germans lying on the turf in crumpled, disconsolate heaps since Barcelona in May 1999.

At times, the BBC made me feel I was the only person in England not supporting our new best friends, Germany.

Still, if I had just enjoyed a 6 weeks, all expenses paid holiday in Germany, enjoying the hospitality watching all the World Cup games, I would probably feel the same.

As for France versus Portugal, that's a tricky one. I can't decide who I want to miss the decisive penalty more - Onnn-Reeee or Ronaldo.

Dear Peter Crouch

Listen to Gary Neville. This time, there are no excuses. No ifs, buts or maybes. The hangovers have subsided. We have all taken those stupid flags off our cars and are now looking forward to next season. Let's face it - England simply weren't good enough.

As you had only played 60 minutes football and were the only recognised striker on the pitch, I wondered why you didn't step up for one of the first four penalties ?

Was it because you were so tired ? Was it because you lacked confidence in your own ability ?

Was it because you were going to take the final penalty ?

Then I remembered - it was probably because of memories of your last ludicrous, pathetic, laughable attempt at a penalty against Jamaica in a recent friendly.

Yours sincerely

Norman Brightside