INTERVIEW: AFC Bournemouth Legend Steve Fletch

Published in February 2012's edition of Nerve Magazine. 

It has been some few months for Steve Fletcher. His 19th season with AFC Bournemouth has seen him step down from the assistant manager role in November to focus on his playing career, as well as netting a dramatic 93rd minute equaliser against Walsall last month. The 39 year old talks openly about his humbleness towards his legendary status at the club, his future hopes for AFC Bournemouth, and his 'greedy' plans for his last ever game. 


Still buzzing from that header?

Yeah I am, it was a great moment for me. First goal of season, and favourite moment of 2011/12 so far. I just hope there’s a few more to come! I thought maybe coming on on Saturday [against Notts County] I was going to grab the winner, but it wasn’t to be. It would have been nice if I could have managed back to back goals, but that’s just me being greedy I suppose!

Explain the feeling, and the praise you got after the goal. Twitter was going crazy for you.

It was amazing. I didn’t actually set up my Twitter account until after I’d stepped down as assistant manager because I didn’t feel it was appropriate. But it was my daughter who mentioned it to me so I set it up, and it was going mental after the game. It took me half the journey home from Walsall to reply to all of messages people were sending me!

"Probably the biggest reason I didn't leave was my heart was here"

Did you reply to everyone’s messages?

I felt obliged to reply to every single person yeah so I made the effort. Whether I can do that every time I score I don’t know! But I was in such a good mood, and I did 1 or 2 so I thought I’d better do everybody. Maybe I should have just done a general message! It was great though, I had fantastic support. People were coming up with all the different stories about where they were when they heard the goal. I read about people driving around beeping their horns along with other people so obviously they were all listening to the game. It was a great feeling.

Of all the goals for the club, how high up did it rank?

It’s up there. It was important because it kept the away run going, and kept the spirits high because we’d just had a few good results. We came from 2-0 down after playing a terrible first half to rolling our sleeves up, going out there and proving we can do to others, what’s happened to us in the past when we’ve relinquished 2-0 leads. To do it in 93^rd minute with a great header and a great cross right in front of our supporters it felt like a win, even though it only got us a point. The lads were buzzing in the dressing room after.

What’s been the secret behind AFC’s form of late? A fantastic run of has pushed you up to 9^th in the table.

It’s been our away form that’s kept us there. People ask me this over the years, you always have seasons where your home form might be great and your away forms terrible, or vice versa, which was until of late, the case here. I know we’ve won a couple at home recently, but to start with, our home form was terrible. Whether it’s we got nervous at home I don’t know, you can’t put a finger on it. We might just relax a little bit more away from home, but to climb up the table is down to us being able to string a few wins together, rather than letting to them slip. When you’re down near the bottom, you only need 4 or 5 wins out of 6 or 7 games and you climb the table rapidly. We’re not just going to jump into 4^th position in a couple more wins because teams near the top are winning as well.

I reckon we’ve been a bit of an eye – opener for some clubs who probably turn around and say well ‘why can’t we go and do what Bournemouth have just done? They were in 18^th/19^th 6 weeks ago, and now look at them, flying high as one of the most in-form teams.’ But we can’t rest on our laurels, if we do that we’d soon get kicked in ‘orchestra strolls’, and back down where we don’t belong. So we’ve got to make sure we go into every game and we’re not complacent because that’s the one thing in football. We have to very disciplined to go out there and have the drive and desire to do, and get where we’ve got already.

"It took me half the journey home to reply to all the messages people were sending me!"

What are the goals for the next month or so? Secure mid-table or push for promotion?

If you’d have asked me 3 months I would have loved a mid – table position, but a weeks a long time in football, and 2 months is an eternity. Things change day to day and they have done over the last few weeks. All of a sudden we’ve gone from people saying we’re going to struggle down the bottom end to we’ll be happy with a mid-table position to know people talking about us in and around the playoffs. We’re only just over the halfway stage of the season, there’s a hell of a long way to go but we’ve put ourselves in a half decent position, and an unbelievable position if you look at us at the end of September. We would have never contemplated being in the situation we are now, but we’re there on merit and we’ve got to make sure we apply ourselves in right way and carry it on.

This is your 19^th season with AFC. Was there ever a point in your career where you considered leaving for other things?

No I’ve never wanted to leave. My move in 2007 was forced but luckily manager Eddie Howe brought me back in January 2009. I’ve had opportunities, and windows have come along a few times in the late 90’s/ early 00’s from some half decent clubs. But I’ve always thought the grass isn’t always greener on the other side. Don’t get me wrong, I’m like any player (I’m different now at 39 ½ years old), I was ambitious when I was younger. But it had to be the right club and I just didn’t feel it was going to progress me any better than Bournemouth. Whether that would have proved right or wrong – who knows? But I don’t have any regrets.

 I think I would be a liar if I said I don’t think about what could have happened, because you do. I know the clubs that came in and I look back and wonder – what if? But I’ve never turned round to myself and say “I wish I’d done that” or “I wish I’d taken that opportunity”, but you do sit there sometimes and look back on your career and wonder.

I have no regrets at all, I’ve had a fantastic 19 years here and another 18 months left on my contract, so hopefully there’s a few more scripts to written here!

What are some of the bigger clubs that came in for your signature?

I had an opportunity to go to QPR, Preston and Burnley, as well as Luton Town when they were in the Football League. For whatever reason it didn’t happen, but probably the biggest reason was that my heart was here. I would never swap the fantastic moments I’ve had in the 19 years I’ve been at Dean Court. I’ve had special moments that the majority of players don’t get ever in their career. Just to see my big ugly mug on the stand [outside Seward Stadium] has to be one of the most honourable things anyone can ever do for a player.

"I've been here half my life and don't want to leave for nobody"

You stepped down as assistant manager in November 2011, how was it as an experience? Was it something you anticipated you’d be doing at this stage in your career, or was it more spontaneous?

I had contemplated it but it happened so quick. Me and Bradders [manager Lee Bradbury] were put into the position within days of Eddie Howe leaving [for Burnley].  I had a fantastic 10 months with a great insight into the club and how things happen, so I was enjoying both sides of playing and managing. People ask me whether at times I found it difficult – I didn’t. I found it fantastic; I could enjoy my football as well as having an input on how we play.

Why did you decide to hang up the managerial boots?

For whatever reasons, I just felt that at that time, (and I spoke to chairman Eddie Mitchell in depth) that it was probably best for me to go back to playing for the time being, and re-evaluate my situation. He’s offered me positions at the club as long as he’s involved and that’s fantastic. Hopefully, whether it’s at the end of this season, or next season, I’ll get back involved in the coaching side of things.

I see myself here. It’s my ambition to be part of the management set up at the club,  whether it be next year, 3 years, 5 years, it’s something I want to do. I’ve been here half my life and I don’t want to leave for nobody really.

But you never know in football. It’s pointless saying I’m definitely going to do this or that because you just don’t know what happens in football. But if I had a choice, I would love to stay here and help the club progress.

In your last ever game for AFC, would you rather score a hat – trick and lose, or play poor and win?

[long silence]

Do the team play poorly?

Yeah, the team and you have a shocker.

[Immediately] Nah I’d rather score a hat-trick! (laughs). Now that is being very very selfish but if it’s going to be my last ever game I might as well leave with a bang! Unless the game was really important then I would obviously change it, but if there was nothing on the game I’d take the hat-trick.

Team quiz – Get to know the AFC Bournemouth changing room.

Best Dancer?

Warren Cummings, but best/ worst. Change that to ‘funniest’.

Biggest mouth?

Warren Cummings

Most quiet?

Shaun McDonald

Most angry?

We haven’t really got any angry lads, they’re all quite placid really. Harry Arter, but mostly at himself.

Best trainer?

[long, long deliberation] Probably captain Adam Barrett, he tries to do everything right.

Worst trainer?

Steven Cook, even he admits it himself.

Weirdest pre – game routine?

If they have they keep it to themselves because I haven’t seen anything! Stephane Zubar goes through a little routine, but keeps it to himself.

Any – pre game music?

I used to put it on, but Pierce, Taylor and even Pughey’s had a crack at it of late. There’s a variation depending on what we want to listen to. Thomas and Taylor like their Hip Hop and R&B, Symes likes his dance and Wally will dance along to Girls Aloud! It’s whoever gets in the room first and puts their iPod on!


Want the full picture? Check out the designed interview as it appeared in Nerve Magazine here!

England Captaincy Dilemma: ‘Joe Hart Offers the Best Future Solution’

In wake of the recent strip John Terry’s England captaincy, we way up the best 3 options for the three lions band to find a a reliable, strong and effective leader going into the Euro 2012 finals.

Steven Gerrard

Picture by 'I POST RANDOM PICTURES'

Gerrard is the obvious choice, and clear bookmakers favourite. With nearly 90 international caps to his name and 9 years experiencing in captaining Liverpool under his belt, Gerrard does, on paper appear the perfect solution for Fabio Capello. Despite the England boss naming Manchester Utd star Rio Ferdinand as the successor to John Terry in 2010, persistent injuriesmeant Gerrard led England through the 2010 World Cup campaign, and the early stages of 2012 qualification, before Terry regained the armband.

Little can be contested that Gerrard has the experience to lead the England team, but if Capello is looking a solid captain for the future, the Liverpool legend may not prove so smart. At 31, he only has a few years at best left at international level, and increasingly persistent injuries could begin to take their toll. Gerrard hasn’t played for England since November 2010 and with Capello’s proposed plans to re-build the team with a new crop after a failed World Cup, there was always the distinct possibility that Gerrard wouldn’t even travel to Euro 2012, even more so if Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere was fit for the season. So is a player not certain of a place really worthy of the captain’s armband?

Who else is saying it? – Former England Managers Graham Taylor and Terry Venables, Arsenal legend Ian Wright and former Newcastle strike Alan Shearer.

Caps: 89

Age: 31

Odds*: 4/5  (1.8/1)

Scott Parker

Picture by Neil Tingle/Sportsphoto/Sportsphoto Ltd./Allstar

The punter’s choice, and going by Twitter, Parker is the perfect candidate for the role. A calm, level – headed professional who exuberates class with every touch on the pitch. Surely he’s the perfect person? He’s been excellent for Tottenham this season, but again at 31, he’s hardly a choice for the future. A short term solution possibly, Parker may be a leader, but he has never lead  in such a high profile way and throwing him into fierce scrutiny of the role so close to the finals could very well backfire.

Who else says it? – Iconic singer/songwriter Billy Bragg, Daily Mirror Chief Sport Writer Oliver Holt.

Caps: 10

Age: 31

Odds* – 9/2 ( 5.5/1)

Joe Hart

Picture by 'I-LOVE-BARCELON'.

A formidable figure, Hart has commanded the #1 jersey for both Manchester City and England in the last 18 months, and for the first time since Seaman, England have an obvious choice between the sticks. If Hart remains fit, and continues to develop at the rate he has done, he can stay #1 for the next 10 years. He is clearly commanding of his defence and a popular personality within the dressing room, and at 24, he is arguably old, and mature enough to take on the ultimate role.

There are vastly more experienced players at just 16 caps, and no experience at big tournaments but Hart has the temperament to deal with it.  What England needs is a settled captain, so the issue can be firmly put to bed and the team can concentrate on playing, rather than placing too much emphasis on a status that other top ranked teams hold little value in.

The same case may be made for Hart as Parker, in that he is too inexperienced, but as a mature head on young shoulders, he seems the perfect long term solution for England, going far past the Capello era which looks set to finish after 2012.

Who else says so? – Legendary commentator Jon Motson.

Caps: 16

Age: 24

Odds* – 6/1

NERVE’S PICK: JOE HART

*Odds according the Sky Bet on 03/02/12

COMMENT: Stripped of the captaincy – can Terry even go to the Euro’s now?

Never short of attention, Terry falls directly into the spotlight again today with news from the FA chairmen David Bernstein coming through early this morning. Following the decision to delay the trial charging Terry with racist misconduct against QPR’s Anton Ferdinand until after the Euro 2012 finals, the FA concluded a player cannot lead a team with such serious allegations looming over them. But what now? Debates have already sparked a light on Twitter and such on who will succeed the Chelsea legend, but an equally serious dilemma faces Capello; can Terry even go to Euros now?

Let us remember this is not the first time Terry has been stripped of the ultimate honour in football, but cast our mind back to the Wayne Bridge debacle in 2010, which threatened both his international and club career. Fans and commentators across the land were disgusted that someone could do such a thing to a fellow English compatriot. But a year is a long time in football and all faith was restored when he regained captaincy in March 2011 after a prolonged injury to Terry’s then successor; Rio Ferdinand.

This times different though. An interpersonal bust up between the private fracas of professional footballers is one thing, but allegations of in – game racist abuse is a whole other ball park, and for that (if the allegations are true)  there is an increasingly misty horizon for Terry.

Oliver Holt of the Mirror has reported that Terry is considering retirement from international football after the decision, albeit nothing has been confirmed, but if there are grounds to that report, it certainly appears Terry is looking to jump before he’s pushed. His inclusion would, according to Daily Star’s Chief Sports writer and Sky Sports Sunday Supplement presenter Brian Woolnough be a “media circus”, and judging by past tournaments, England must learn from their mistakes and avoid media controversy at all costs if they face any chance of success.

“So now Capello now faces a problem: risk the possibility of in-camp hostility and division by picking him, or lose out on his undoubtedly natural leadership ability on and off the pitch if he leaves him out.”

It is not to say that the professionalism of the modern day footballer will not be able to deal with external media pressures, they cope with it week in week out, but every training session and press conference will be heavily scrutinized for divisions and player allegiances. How will the camp act in the inevitable tension between Terry and Rio Ferdinand, who may be forced to work and train alongside a man accused of abusing his younger brother? Surely no amount of professionalism can counter act raw emotions such as these, leaving the serious dilemma of sacrificing one for the other.

So now Capello now faces a problem: risk the possibility of in-camp hostility and division by picking him, or lose out on his undoubtedly natural leadership ability on and off the pitch if he leaves him out. The FA have emphasised that he is still free to pick Terry for the summer, but more and more arguments are racking up to suggest taking him may be more trouble than it’s worth. Capello’s response will be one to watch, as he wasn’t even consulted over the decision, so it remains to be seen whether he will stand by the man he has remained faithful to, or whether he will opt for fresher, ‘cleaner’ blood.

Phil Jagielka (left) and Gary Cahill (right )offer solid solutions to Terry's absence.

And there is no shortage of such blood. Centre back options are plentiful, with Cahill, Jagielka, Ferdinand, Jones and even Smalling all in with meaningful cases for making the squad. Notably, Ferdinand will surely make the cut, yet despite possibly falling short of a starting XI spot, with Cahill and Jones offering the most viable options at the back, he holds the experience that will compensate for Terry’s exclusion. So much is to be held to contend that leaving Terry out maybe isn’t such a big decision, as going by Capello’s mantra of “who plays well gets in”, he would do well to allow the new crop to prove themselves on the biggest stage.

Interestingly, England have won 65% of games with Terry as captain and 63% without, so any ‘pivotal’ influence seems somewhat exaggerated, but what few can argue is he can become a driving force, for which he has proved on countless occasions for both Chelsea and England.

Despite contentions over his influence, one problem persists: the role of the FA in determining Terry’s fate. Following the decision to delay the pending trial until July, just 9 days after Euro 2012, which was justified as a method of helping England, Terry and the FA, has forced a hand they would certainly have rather avoided. Their difficult decision to revoke his captaincy is a pre-emptive effort to clean any egg off their face before any are even cracked. But in doing so, they have hung Terry out to dry and despite stating vehemently that “this decision in no way infers any suggestion of guilt in relation to the charge made against John Terry”, it’s difficult to concur any other reasoning behind the move. Obviously the FA didn’t want the case looming over the tournament, but it seems puzzling that they’ve made the decision in such a way, and by not even conferring with Capello have singled themselves out to even more scrutiny from the echelons of the football stratosphere.

The tensions the looming Terry trial will create are best avoided by the England camp. SUPERNATURALFAN90

Should they stand by Terry? Or do they need to uphold the professionalism needed in dealing with such serious issues? Chelsea coach Andre Villas- Boas has come out to fully back his man, but the FA seem all too comfortable in abandoning the target so long as it maintains their ‘traditional’ value.

The last thing the FA want to do is look weak in the face of adversity, but by doing so have split both opinion and allegiances by making the first, solitary move. Obviously the whole issue has gone on far too long, and in contrast to the Suarez/ Evra racism row, which was put to bed almost immediately after a swift review by the FA, the Terry/Ferdinand saga became criminal before the FA could react. As soon as it became out of the FA’s hands, it was inevitably going to become complicated, but for them to come out and authoritatively infer a such a level of guilt, regardless of their claims to the other, purely adds further fuel to their blazing fire.

There are, of course two sides to every coin, and some may claim that the decision, however hard for the FA was the correct one. Say for example, Terry isn’t stripped and England pull out a 66’esc campaign with his trophy lifting glory enshrined in English sporting history, but just days later is convicted of racial abuse. What then? The (2^nd) greatest moment in English international football would have a gloomy black cloud loomed over it; a sour aftertaste to its iconic status. Of course Terry hasn’t been convicted yet, but rather feels “disgusted” at the claims against him. But the FA couldn’t risk it, there is far too much at stake. Their decision proposes they are less concerned with the trial in 5 months time, but what is right and wrong in football. For what it’s worth, that doesn’t leave much to be desired for the FA’s treatment of its players, in that before the court of justice has spoken Terry has been thrown to the wolves. But it does work in the idealistic desires of English football, in achieving that timeless success to be paraded for years to come, even if that comes at the expense of a potentially innocent man, who arguably, shouldn’t have been re-given the band in the first place.

The next question that remains for Capello is who can succeed Terry. Ferdinand has ruled himself out, and Twitter has gone mad with speculation and rumour all day long. Nerve’s next blog will way up the best options for the Lions armband, but for as far as Terry’s involvement in England’s campaign, there seems little room for the controversy that would surround his inclusion, and the risk is counter active. For what he can offer in terms of experience and complete dedication to the cause seems outweighed by the impossibility of a completely non – partisan dressing room. Say what you will about the FA’s choice and the treatment of Terry, inevitably, people will place England’s success or failure down to Capello’s big decisions in the coming weeks, and for what it’s worth, he may be better placed putting the Terry saga firmly on the backburner, and concentrate building a solid, unified team for the future

Interview: Brighton's Twin Brother

Published in SQ Magazine January 2012

Wandering through the streets of Brighton, it's hard not to realise the wealth of musical talent that surrounds you. Every other bar contains local bands plying their trade in one of the most vibrant musical towns in the UK. One act looking to do exactly the same is Twin Brother, the stage name for multi-instrumentalist Alex Wells.

I caught up with Alex to talk Twin Brother, Brighton and his Glastonbury experience.

Tell us about Twin Brother. How did you start out?

Well basically Twin Brother started at a time when I wasn't in a band. I found I had some stuff I needed to say so thought I'd try my hand at writing. I'd managed to get a mic or two, so produced and played the stuff myself. At first it was scary but after a while it’s lots of fun.

How long have you been writing music?

I started properly writing when I was about 17 I think. I'd written a couple of songs before that but they were sort of 'make up lyrics that sound cool and fit in with the music' rather than actually having anything to say. I wrote 5 or 6 songs for a folky project, and then I made the Twin Brother stuff. I write pretty much every day, but I just never have any time to turn the ideas into polished recordings!

You’ve been likened to acts such as Tom Waits and Nick Cave for your musical approach. Who are your main inspirations?

A friend of mine called Benjamin Blower is a huge inspiration lyrically (he talks about freedom and consumerism and stuff, definitely check him out). I'm really into Paul Simon, Leonard Cohen, Solomon Burke, Fleetwood Mac, The Walkmen, Buckley etc. But maybe it ends out coming out more like Spoon meets The National. I love that people hear Cave and Waits in there, I'm a huge fan of both but never thought I'd come out with something similar!

The style of your music differs considerably from the reflective Ephemeral Love to the more indie sounding Lungs. How do you describe your sound?

I have a lot of trouble describing the sound. Those tracks come from an album I demoed out a while ago (only some of which are online). I really made an effort to come up with my own ideas and experiment musically. While that's personally rewarding, it does make it difficult to tell people if they are going to like it. I suppose lungs stands out because it sounds a bit like indie from a year or two back. Someone today called my stuff "moody rock" - I kind of like that.

Which part of music writing do you find more expressive and powerful; the lyrics or the music?

 Maybe this is an unpopular opinion but I'd say the lyrics without a doubt. Maybe it’s because I think lyrics can ruin or make a song more easily than the music. Perhaps the music is a vessel for the lyrics and should enhance what's being said. Also, when I feel like the lyrics aren't thought through, I struggle to feel any emotional connection with the song - and that's the point, isn't it?

The Brighton music scene is one of the most vibrant in the UK. How has it helped your music develop?

Probably more than I realise. After playing around the country a bit, I've realised that Brighton is really into a lot of good stuff and really encourages doing new things. Lots of good stuff is being done here and loads of my friends are local musicians doing really interesting things. We sometimes play on each other’s sets (look out of Ez Stone and Bella Spinks).

What are your plans for releasing more material? Hints have been dropped on your Facebook about a release, so is there anything in the pipeline?

I'm dying to get a proper release out. I need to spend some proper time in the studio to come out with something more thought out. I had no idea Twin Brother would go anywhere at all so the tracks we're still playing at the moment are from a 12 track demo I made in 2 weeks in my bedroom. I'd really like to put a bit more effort into it and hopefully get something really good done.

Highlight of your career so far?

Playing BBC Introducing at Glastonbury this year for sure.

How was it at Glasto?

Fearful yet exciting. To be honest I was also really excited to go to glasto as I'd never been before. It's absolutely nothing like anything else and it’s impossible to describe without having been! We were the first on, on the Friday (so pretty much the start of the festival). We had a really decent listening crowd, maybe because we didn't have much to compete with!

Where do you see yourself in 12 months?

Hmmm as long as I haven't had a mental breakdown yet I hope to have a decent album out and do some touring!

Get to know Twin Brother: Quickfire quiz

Tea or Coffee?

Coffee

Bath or Shower?

Shower (haven't had a bath in years... is that bad?)

 Sweet or Savoury?

Savoury (meat)

 Beaches: Sandy or Pebbly?

Pebbly!

 Football or Rugby?

I enjoy playing football, but gotta admit don't really follow either.

Beer or Cider?

Beer

 Fender or Gibson?

Fender

 Film or TV?

Film!

 Mac or PC?

eeeeghhh i kind of hate Mac. I feel cheated ever since I bought one...

Top 10 Goals of 2011!

Published online at SQ on December 3rd 2011


In light of Darren Ambrose's wonder strike for Crystal Palace to dump Manchester Utd out of the Carling Cup in mid week,  claimed to be the 'best goal Utd have conceded at home', I have decided to give you my most memorable goals of the year. A real feast for the eyes.

Golo Guarin - FC Porto vs Marítimo

Considered by many to be European goal of the year (yes Rooney), the audacity of Guarin to  attempt a strike from such a distance surprises even him when it rockets its way into the top corner. The 84km/h shot was purely unstoppable, and ranks up there with some of the best long range efforts ever seen in world football.  It dipped, it swerved and out maneuvered the keeper to shoot itself right to the top of our list, and deservedly so.

Lionel Messi - FC Barcelona vs Real Madrid

No list would ever be complete without a contribution from the little Argentine, and picking his best goal was a challenge in itself (I nearly went for this beauty against Arsenal). Yet his piece of individual brilliance against Real Madrid in the semi final of the Champions League demonstrated just how good he is. Clearly disinterested in giving Mourinho's men any chance of winning, Messi picks the ball up just inside the opposition half and proceeds to beat 5 Madrid player with consummate ease and cooly slot the ball past a flailing Casillas. Running at world class defenders in one of the biggest games in football never looked so easy as when 'The Magician' decides to get involved. Majestic.

Wayne Rooney - Manchester Utd vs Manchester City

It was always going to be included. THAT Rooney goal as it's often referred to now has become his Cantona moment. In a tight Manchester derby, little looked to separate the 2 teams, but the class of Rooney was the difference between the sides on the day. A good, but not undefendable cross from Nani, looking to fly behind Rooney's head was met with a sailing right foot which sent the ball over a motionless Joe Hart. Like something out of Fifa, Rooney cites the goal as his best ever, and it seems hard to believe he will ever score a more impressive, memorable goal in his career. But there's always time.

Dejan Stankovic - Inter Milan vs Shalke 04

There a number of outrageous own half attempts that go horribly wrong and make players look like arrogant fools. But when they come off, and in the manner of which Stankovic's did against Shalke 04 in the Champions League last season makes it all worth while. After a booming headed clearance from the keeper, he'd probably thought he'd done enough to stem the pressure for the moment But in immediate reply, Stankovic responded with a extraordinary volley from just in side Shalke's half, which flew its way into a empty net. Technically brilliant, the control and confidence needed to smash the ball home remains one of the standout goals from 2010/11 Champions League campaigns.

Sergio Aguero - Manchester City vs Swansea

This may not be the most astonishing goal of 2011, but what is signified was what made it so special. One of the most dazzling debuts in recent memory, Aguero only played the last 25 minutes against Swansea, but managed to notch 2 goals and an assist in that time. Striking fear across the rest of the Premier League, his energy and control was unstoppable, and this goal set to immediately justify his £38 million price tag. He hasn't done bad since either, racking up 12 goals in 18 appearances so far this season, he's sure to score many more great goals as the season progresses.

Andre Iniesta - Barcelona vs Viktoria Plzen

Barcelona could have a goal reel dedicated just to them with the exquisite football they continue to play year in year out.  This goal against Viktoria Plzen in the Champions League group stages exemplified everything Barcelona about Barcelona. Quick, one touch passing, fast movement, perfect control and a cool finish. Just oozing with class. Like all of their goals.

Neymar - Santos vs Flamengo

At just 19, the Brazilian striker is already being nicknamed 'The New Pele', and for good reason. His pace, movement, skill and finishing ability are all on clear demonstration with this wonder goal against Flamengo in the Brazilian league. His electrifying speed and unbelievable pieces of skill (check :25 in the video, I still can't figure out how he did it) led to one the best individual goals of the last few years. Unfortunately, however, he's agreed to stay on at Santos until at least 2014, so we won't be seeing him in the Premier League anytime soon, but he'll be high on the priority list of teams across the world.

Giovanni Dos Santos - Mexico vs U.S.A.

The only international goal on the list, Giovanni Dos Santos' inch perfect chip against U.S.A. in this years Gold Cup Final sealed the win in emphatic fashion. In a tight space, surrounded by defenders, Dos Santos managed to carve just a foot of space to slot the ball into the only part of the goal available, looping tantalisingly over the U.S. defender into the top corner. Top marks for innovation, and even better marks its delivery.

Ivan Perisic - Borussia Dortmund vs Arsenal

Amongst a host of top Champions League goals, highlighting the calibre of the tournament, Ivan Perisic's last minute equaliser against Arsenal is certainly up there. As Dortmund desperately searched for a point against the Gunners, up stood Perisic to take matters into his own hands, and smash a left footed volley perfectly into the top corner. A stunned Szczesny could do nothing as the ball floated (what seemed like an age) into his path, and with perfect technique, guided the ball home. Unfortunately, it looks like his efforts were futile as Dortmund look pretty certain to sink out of the campaign this year, the strike was admirable nonetheless.

Gareth Bale - Tottenham vs Inter Milan

The performance that put his price tag up £5 million alone, Bale's scintillating hat - trick against Inter Milan in the San Siro was on the most impressive individual performances from a British player abroad in recent memory. Despite scoring 3, almost identical goals, it is his first that was marked the most impressive. Starting from deep inside his own half, Bale made Samuel and Zambrotta, 2 of world football's most experienced defenders look like mere schoolboys, as he breezed past them and harrowed a powerful shot into the bottom corner. The tight angle, the pressure, and the distance he'd covered all contributed to  what was a fantstic effort from the Welshman, and worthy of much more than the consolation it was.

Some that didn't make the cut

Thomas Muller - Bayern Munich vs AS Roma

Eden Hazard - Lille vs Marseille

Heather O' Reilly - U.S.A. vs Columbia

Who makes it to your top 10? Do you agree with this list? I want to know! Make sure to comment with your thoughts and opinions!

Slamball: The True Rise of the Underdog

Published in Nerve Magazine October 2011

For those that remember, Slamball needs no introduction. Way back in 2002, broadcast on the now non – existent UK channel Trouble, Slamball found its way to our screens, and smashed its way to commercial success in just a matter of years.

Yet this unique hybrid sport, which combines elements of basketball, American football and gymnastics, is only just recovering its momentum, after a 5 year hiatus and turbulent economic times threatened to destroy the game before it even began.

Created initially by Mason Gordon, who envisioned a sport that recreated a real life video game, integrating the athleticism of basketball, with the hard-hitting intensity of American Football. Consisting of a standard basketball court, with the minor addition of 4 trampolines on each end, a whole new breed was born. With the freedom of ‘full contact’, players had to out – muscle, out – jump and out manoeuvre their opponents using the trampolines to sail high above the rim for monstrous slam-dunks. Two-time Slamball champion James “Champ” Willis defines Slamball simply as “rock and roll”, capturing the essence of complete spectatorship; competiveness, physicality and jaw dropping athleticism. 

But the idea wasn’t enough. Gordon had to market his product. He managed to get acclaimed TV producer Mike Tollin on board, and with that came a wealth of opportunity in terms of coverage. Through the construction of a prototype court in Valencia, California and the recruitment of 5 showcase players, Slamball showed its worth to a host of TV executives.


With that, Slamball made its TV debut in 2002 on US channel Spike TV, and was soon complimented by a significant following across America, Italy and the UK. It even managed to get the original Coach Carter on board the coach the team Rumble. Not bad for one guy and an idea. And it appeared to pay off.

So without the multi – million dollar contracts of the NFL, or the deep player pool of the NBA, Slamball began to develop, under the scrutinous media spotlight never before seen with a sport so young.

With high ratings on Spike TV and millions of people tuning in to the Slamball Championship Game on CBS Sports, everything was going perfectly. Prior to the launch of the 2nd season, the league saw 20,000 applications from prospective players, as well as 2 additional teams and a new court built. The exposed TV saturation had paid dividends for Gordon, as coverage spread everywhere for his sport, from The New York Times to Jay Leno.Yet the success wouldn’t last long. Slamball peaked too early.


It saw the glossy heights of the commercial mainstream without having the backbone that decades of development bring. After just two seasons, television distribution negotiations broke down as creators Gordon and Tollin came into disrepute over the direction of the sport. Ultimately, TV companies saw Slamball as the packaged, entertainment product reminiscent of the Harlem Globetrotters, whereas Gordon remained faithful for its prospect as a legitimate, competitive sport. And so it went underground.


Coaches and players alike went back their respective sports, and Slamball was brushed under the carpet.

It looked as if it was yet another high concept idea that lacked the realistic grounding needed to gain credibility.

However these fatalistic ideas were never enough to stop Gordon and Tollin materialising their vision. “There are no shortcuts to building something that endures.” Mason cites this throwaway line as a main inspiration for refusing to yield, and his devotion in propelling the sport back into the mainstream. He, closely alongside his team, worked tirelessly throughout a five-year hiatus to develop the sport as a credible, athletic league.


After much redefining, and a clear focus to market the sport as a professional franchise league opposed to a “made for TV” exhibition, Slamball made its return in 2008. For the first time, Slamball was distributed internationally by media outlets such as China, Spain and Italy and began its redevelopment as a professional sport.


Unfortunately, little has been publicised of the league post 2008, as the economic downturn derailed much of Slamball’s process. Niche sport sponsorship wilted, and with that Slamball suffered, yet the game continues to grow under the persistent leadership of Gordon and Tollin.


As with any developing sport, it needs the time, money and participation to grow. Basketball was invented in 1891, but it wasn’t until 70 years later were 3 pointers introduced, so it’s far from the finished product. Yet Gordon has announced big plans for Slamball’s future. He claims there are television agreements in place for the new season, as well as plans to open Slamball gyms around the world to promote the sport at a grassroots level. He’s even ambitiously; some might say naively claimed Slamball aims to one day become an Olympic sport. But one step at a time.


So for all the ambition in the world, what remains to be seen is whether Slamball can shrug off the overbearing “TV showcase” persona it has accumulated from it’s intensified beginnings. Its image has obviously been revamped; as Slamball is now backed by huge sport media company IMG, with goals of authenticity and credibility fore fronted, opposed to that of instant, disposable gratification.


Turbulent times are sure to follow for Slamball, but with grand plans in place, only time will tell if they materialise. Gordon claims: “I made a decision when I came up with Slamball, that hell or high water I would see this thing through.” One thing is for sure; you wouldn’t put it past him.


Visit the Slamball website, or if you want to see what all the fuss is about, take a look at the video. 

Check out the magazine layout of this article, designed by me - http://issuu.com/tobygray/docs/slamball1

RELAYS: Looking Towards The Future

Published in Nerve Magazine in December 2011

London 2012 doesn’t just bring the world’s biggest sporting spectacle to the UK. Along with it comes numerous legacy projects such as RELAYS (Regional Educational Legacy in Arts and Youth Sport), that aim to inspire young people around the country to engage in sport. Attached to the 2012 deal to host the Olympics in London came the responsibility of establishing lasting effects after the games, and realising the potential that next summer can bring.

Situated in the South West, RELAYS works together with 11 of the regions universities, including Bournemouth, to create and organise events and festival to highlight the liberating impact of sporting activity. As a government led scheme, RELAYS looks to get youths of all ages, background and sporting experience involved in various activities tied to 2012.

Virginia Bailey, the RELAYS Schools Events Coordinator at Bournemouth University claimed that her target for the scheme was to leave a lasting legacy not only for the participants, but also for the students who volunteer.

“I hope that for those involved when they leave BU and are looking for employment, their time with RELAYS has a positive impact in helping them get the job they want.”

Virginia, who’s role within RELAYS is to give students the opportunity to get involved with volunteering at sport festivals and events across the region, said it was imperative that the scheme doesn’t end after 2012.

“It’s massively important to ensure RELAYS isn’t just a government condition, but actually a huge opportunity to boost sporting involvement, both for students and kids.”

When it was announced in 2005 that London was to host the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic games, Virginia claimed it was “my mission to make sure I was going to be part of the greatest sporting event in the world, and RELAYS has facilitated that for me.”

Not only do I get to work on an exciting and rewarding project which is part of the South Wests 2012 legacy, I am also very fortunate to work with an amazing team of RELAYS staff and volunteers.”

One of those 4000 RELAYS volunteers is BU student Adam Doherty, who involves himself with the coaching of children locally as well as recruiting new members. As a main facet of the scheme is to organise sporting festivals and events for regional schools, Adam claimed this was the most empowering reason for his involvement.

“After coaching them for an hour, they begin to understand the game and want to do it again. That's what it's all about and the reason why I do it, and if it wasn't for Relays I would never have had the opportunity.”

Adam, who felt an obligation to volunteer due to the opportunities he had been given as a kid to get involved in sport, said that the values behind the Olympics are great promoter for getting kids involved. Values of respect (fair play, healthiness) excellence (competitiveness, participation) and friendship all contribute greatly to help build a sense of love towards sport.

With over 200 events held already and nearly 70,000 young people engaged, RELAYS continues to grow in the build up to next year. Yet the individual affects on local schools is the most rewarding according to Virginia.

“One particular school saw a huge improvement in the number of girls taking part in PE after running a street sports and arts festival called "Urbanise". The school where struggling to engage with the girls during PE but after trying out free running, street dance and street soccer, a number of clubs where set up which saw a much improved attendance from what they had before.”

Yet RELAYS isn’t purely about getting youths involved in sports; it’s about improving the confidence and involvement of kids in all manner of activities. As well as this, it has facilitated a number of opportunities for volunteers, as members of the crew are now undertaking placements abroad to improve their coaching and leadership skills.

If your interested in getting involved with RELAYS and leaving a lasting impact of the London 2012, then contact  Virginia Bailey at vbailey@bournemouth.ac.uk or visit http://www.universitiessouthwest.ac.uk/Relays.aspx for more information. 


Check out the magazine layout of this article, designed by me - http://issuu.com/tobygray/docs/relays