Each year we are lucky enough to witness fantastic football, electric atmospheres, breathtaking moments, and controversial incidents. As the new year edges ever closer, it gives us the perfect opportunity to look back on football moments to remember.
Trending
Here’s my top 11 memorable picks from 2011, don’t forget to comment and leave yours!
11. Breaking records
In May, Manchester United were crowned champions of the Premier League (yet again). The trophy signaled The Red Devils’ 19th Premier League title. Sir Alex Ferguson’s men now hold the record for the most titles which was previously held by Liverpool.
10. Is anybody listening?
Richard Keys and Andy Gray learnt a valuable lesson this year; always check your microphones are switched off before engaging in potentially offensive banter. The former pundits saw their Sky careers cut short after they made inappropriate comments about female linesman Sian Massey.
9. Sports Direct Arena
At this time last year, Mike Ashley was sitting around, thinking of a New Year’s resolution, when he decided that he wanted to do everything in his power to be the most hated man on Tyneside. Much to the fans dismay, the Newcastle United owner sold the clubs captain Kevin Nolan, fan favourite Joey Barton, and local lad Andy Carroll. However, he promised that the 35 million pounds made from the transfer of Carroll would be spent in the summer. Needless to say, it wasn’t – instead, he decided on renaming the historical St. James Park’ after his own brand. Say hello to the “Sports Direct Arena”.
8. Football game – Rugby scoreline
8 – 2 is a scoreline you would expect to see in a rugby game… or perhaps at a kick-about in your local park. It is certainly not a score you’d expect to see between two of England’s biggest clubs; Arsenal and Manchester United. Arsenal fans couldn’t believe their eyes when their team suffered their worst defeat in history since 1896. The embarrassment caused Arsene Wenger to do something he does very rarely; splash cash in the transfer window.
7. Finishing in style
Manchester United may have suffered a humiliating defeat in the most recent Manchester derby. However, earlier in the year, everyone was in awe of Wayne Rooney’s fantastic bicycle kick which secured a 2-1 win for The Red Devils against their local rivals.
6. Where to? Wales
Earlier this year, Swansea made history by becoming the first ever Welsh team to be promoted to the Premier League. The play-off finals saw Brendan Rogers’ side take on Reading, and the exciting game finished 2-4 with Scott Sinclair scoring a hat-trick and Swansea making history.
5. The Carlos Tevez saga
The word ‘saga’ is usually used to define an old, long historic tale, the tales of King Arthur for example. However, in this instance, it’s used to describe a footballer turned diva who refused to warm up when his side were losing against Bayern Munich. Carlos Tevez has made headlines through 2011 for his bad behavior and poor attitude, and whilst we can’t predict what will happen in the New Year, one thing’s for sure; we won’t be seeing Carlos Tevez in a Manchester City shirt anytime soon.
4. 35m – 50m = one very cheap player, right?
Liverpool were at the centre of two of the biggest transfers at the beginning of 2011. Dalglish signed former Newcastle striker Andy Carroll for 35 million, which is the most money ever paid for a British player. The Reds also sold Spanish star Fernando Torres to Chelsea for a record breaking 50 million. Not only do the players have big price tags in common, but they’ve both failed to impress since their big money moves. Torres made one of the most embarrassing misses of the year at Old Trafford whilst Carroll has spent the majority of his time warming the Liverpool bench.
3. Super Mario
Mario Balotelli has been setting off fireworks both on the pitch and off it this season (literally!). Whether you love him or loathe him you can’t deny that the Premier League would be a duller place without him. From his arrogant chest finish against Norwich to his “why always me” t-shirt celebration at Old Trafford, the young star has had the football world hooked with his rebellious nature and unpredictable character.
2. Lesson no.1 – Never leave a game at half time
Several Newcastle fans were kicking themselves when they left St. James’ Park at half time in February after seeing their side concede four goals in 26 minutes against Arsenal. However, the Toon Army came out in the second half with a point to prove. Leon Best scored and Joey Barton tucked away two penalties before Cheick Tiote popped up with one of the strikes of the season in what was undoubtedly one of the best games of the EPL.
1. Derby demolition
Manchester United 1 – 6 Manchester City is a scoreline none of us would have anticipated. Even looking back now, acknowledging that City are top of the table and taking into consideration all the money they have spent, it is still remarkable that they demolished Manchester United so emphatically on their own turf. United’s defeat was the heaviest at Old Trafford since 1955, making 23rd October 2011 a date that will long be remembered in Manchester (although I am sure some of you will be trying to forget it).
Feedback
Edited by Staff Editor
