occasional posts by risa aratyr
That’s what I’m talking about. Sure, Portugal can cream North Korea 7 – 0. Not that I put unlimited faith in the FIFA/Coca-Cola ranking table, but when team #3 plays team #105… well, duh. Being on a numeric par, the Spain/Portugal fixture promised a tighter match, and delivered on that promise — though not by … Read more WC Fields [k.o.] — Spain v Portugal
The competitors from South America have been doing brilliantly. Comes a point, though, where the field narrows. Finally, inevitably, one of the nations had to fall. Watching Chile progress has been terrific, but surely no brows were raised at this result. On the day, sure. Chile might get a winner. On a World Cup day… … Read more WC Fields [k.o.] — Brazil v Chile
Slovakia hit the field boldly and played without fear, giving the Nederlanders a few things to think about… in the first minutes, at least. Ultimately, and not surprisingly, Slovakia was out-matched. Holland is one of 2 nations to reach the Quarterfinals not only undefeated, but with 4 straight wins (Argentina being the other). Their sterling … Read more WC Fields [k.o.] — Holland v Slovakia
These matches will be remembered not for their smoldering rivalry (Germany/ England) or fiery action (Argentina/ Mexico) on the playing field, but for their incendiary effect on the already-hot video technology controversy raging off the pitch. Down a goal in the 39th minute, Frank Lampard’s blistering shot from just outside the 18-yard box came off … Read more WC Fields [k.o.(s)] — Germany v England / Argentina v Mexico
Moments after Clint Dempsey’s effort was turned away, Kevin-Prince Boateng robbed Ricardo Clark of possession in the center circle, took off in an exhilarating run, and shot a low ball past Tim Howard for Ghana’s first 2010 WC goal from open play. Perhaps Team USA had been lulled into complacency by watching their opponents’ rather … Read more WC Fields [k.o.] — USA v Ghana