Matt Jones

The Merseyside Derby is a unique fixture. Granted, the ‘friendly derby’ tag is a little tired and not wholly accurate in the modern game. But supporters of Everton and Liverpool are a lot more accommodating and accepting of each other than a host of English football’s other city rivals. Resultantly, the build-up to the game […]

As far as first impressions go, Roberto Martinez has made a pretty decent one at Everton. He is a amicable, studious and progressive manager. And these are all traits which have shone through in his early days at Goodison Park. His side have been superb in stints; scything through teams with vibrant, passing football. But […]

With the World Cup roster settled, at long, long last we can look forward to extended spell of domestic soccer. Bliss indeed! And as some leagues start to simmer and take shape, others are drawing to a dramatic conclusion. The result is that we have a host of different fixtures to look forward to across […]

For so many years, Everton supporters have learned to fear the name ‘Gerrard’ in the build up to the Merseyside derby. But on the brink of the 221st meeting between the two sides, there is a name that might strike up a little more excitement for those of a blue persuasion. Gerard Deulofeu’s summer arrival […]

Of all the international breaks on the soccer calendar, this one will probably be the most enjoyable. With the World Cup on the horizon and many of the play-off ties already in motion, we see some impassioned, dramatic and – perhaps most importantly of all – proper competitive soccer. Ok, Ok. We know Mexico and […]

Torino put an end to Roma’s perfect record in round 11, but the Giallarossi are still unbeaten and top of the Serie A standings. The Granata were the first team to avoid defeat against the capital club this season, securing a 1-1 draw after an inspired showing from Alessio Cerci; a boyhood Roma supporter. Despite […]

There’s been a fair bit of criticism for Tottenham following their 0-0 draw with Everton. Second place was there for the taking for either side, but the two teams canceled each other out and a draw was ultimately a fair result. Focusing solely on the North London outfit, there seems to be a general consensus […]

I still get those butterflies when I wake up on a match day. I remember going to my first ever game about twenty years ago and being gripped with anticipation and excitement. That feeling has never changed as I’ve grown older. This past Sunday morning was no different, even though I was many miles away […]

The top-class soccer is enjoyably relentless at the moment. Trawling through this weekend’s contests, I had another dilemma on what games to select for our weekly must-watch selection. So much so, that I’ve included a few honorable mentions this week. Some great games in their own right, and contests that might take your personal fancy! […]

Tottenham’s manager Andre Villas-Boas took the brave step of criticizing his club’s own supporters after their 1-0 win over Hull City. Villas-Boas was unhappy with the atmosphere created for his players at White Hart Lane and was quoted post-match saying that his side felt like the away team at times (from Sky Sports): “I compliment […]

Villa Park is one of my favorite grounds in England. It’s what you’d call a proper stadium; home to an established club and accompanied by a set of knowledgeable, passionate supporters. The home of Aston Villa has preserved so much of it’s illustrious history. From the stylish, classical decoration on the outside of the stadium, […]

Do you have plans this weekend? You might want to think about canceling them. It was difficult to pick just five games this week’s ‘must watch’ selection, as the fixture computers from across the globe have churned out a succession of top class contests. In the two main events, we will get to see arguably […]

Borussia Dortmund ended Arsenal’s perfect European record with a 2-1 victory at the Emirates Stadium in week 3 of the Champions League. Jurgen Klopp’s side were not at their best throughout the contest, but showcased a clinical, killer instinct far surpassing that of their comparatively wasteful opponents. It was a uncharacteristically muted performance from Dortmund. […]

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has been lambasting Cardiff City for time-wasting during his side’s 4-1 win over the South Wales team. The Portuguese chief was sent to the stands for venting his fury at officials after what he believed to be devious tactics from the newly promoted outfit. Now, an FA charge looks imminent, but […]

Lords Cricket Ground, one of Great Britain’s most iconic sporting venues, hosted the inaugural London Sports Writing Festival this weekend. The event saw some of the most talented sports writers around combine with a host of Britain’s most popular sporting figures to deliver a fascinating insight into topical and age-old sporting discussions. I had the […]