A second-half goal from Yuki Abe was enough to give Leicester City their second successive home win and end newly promoted Brighton’s undefeated start to the season.
The Japanese international rose well at the far post to head past Casper Ankergren just after half-time following some great hold-up play by Darius Vassell in what proved to be the decisive moment in the game.
Craig Mackail-Smith inexplicably volleyed over from six yards for the away side before Marcos Painter was sent off for a second bookable offence after handling the ball.
Both sides had chances to score but Leicester held on for the three points; a win which pushed them up to ninth in the Championship and subsequently knocked Brighton off the top of the table.
The Foxes have now won consecutive home games for the first time this season, and manager Sven Goran-Eriksson will have been delighted with his side’s work rate in the second-half.
It was Brighton who started the game strongly, however, and could have taken the lead through Craig Mackail-Smith, but his unmarked header fell straight into the hands of Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel.
But against the run of play, Leicester inexplicably had a goal disallowed when Lee Peltier fired past Ankergren – but Darius Vassell was adjudged by referee Graham Scott to have been fouled in the build-up, despite there being a clear advantage to the home side.
Paul Konchesky fired the subsequent free-kick into the wall but the passage of play seemed to spark Leicester into life, with Andy King’s fierce strike forcing Casper Ankergren to make a good diving save.
As the half progressed, Brighton looked the side more likely to break the deadlock – but five minutes before the break, Sol Bamba tested Ankergren with a downward header from Richie Wellens’ corner; the ball bouncing before the former Leeds shot stopper did enough to tip it over the bar.
Matt Mills also headed over and Andy King fired wide from 25 yards in a relatively forgettable first-half in which the hosts lacked any real creativity, although did match their counterparts in terms of solid defending.
Leicester were ahead less than a minute after the restart when Darius Vassell made space for himself on the left side, avoiding two Brighton defenders, before playing a fantastic ball to the back post where Yuki Abe was unmarked to fire home a strong header past the helpless Ankergren.
It was Abe’s first goal of the season in which he had featured irregularly to date, but wonderfully worked by the former England international Vassell and a fantastic start to the second-half for Sven-Goran Eriksson’s men.
Brighton should have been level minutes later, however, when Ashley Barnes picked out team-mate Craig Mackail-Smith in the Leicester penalty area, but the front man somehow cleared the crossbar from less than six yards out.
New signing Jermaine Beckford had been kept quiet in the first-half, but began to impress in the second on 55 minutes by passing two Brighton players before setting up Gelson Fernandes, who fired over.
Beckford then tested Ankergren with a shot from distance to which the goalkeeper was equal, before Darius Vassell hit the side netting from a tight angle as Leicester pushed for a second goal.
Leicester continued to terrorise Brighton with their pace up front as Darius Vassell had another goal bound shot blocked, but Gus Poyet’s side nearly found a way back into the game when substitute Will Buckley picked out Ryan Harley just inside the Leicester penalty area – but Lee Peltier and Matt Mills did fantastically to thwart the midfielder’s efforts with two great blocks.
With ten minutes remaining, Brighton were then down to ten men when Marcos Painter received a second booking for a deliberate handball, which appeared to deflate the away side in their quest for an equaliser.
As time ran down, Jermaine Beckford fired over and Schmeichel parried away a dangerous cross by Kazenga LuaLua – but the home side held on comfortably to take an important three points.
Sven-Goran Eriksson will feel his side did enough to win the match against a side who had been flying so far this season, and will take confidence from the work ethic from all of his players to keep a clean sheet – Leicester’s first since the opening day of the season.
Man of the Match – Gelson Fernandes
Saturday, 17 September 2011
Sunday, 28 August 2011
Leicester City 3 Southampton 2 - 27th August 2011
Three first-half goals handed Leicester City their first home win of the season despite a second-half onslaught by newly promoted Southampton.
Darius Vassell put the Foxes ahead after three minutes after connecting with Andy King’s deflected cross at the near post, before Richie Wellens doubled Leicester’s advantage with a sublime curling strike from 25 yards.
Dan Harding pulled a goal back for the visitors just before the half-hour mark by heading in Adam Lallana’s cross, but Rickie Lambert’s own goal in first-half stoppage time restored Leicester’s two-goal cushion.
David Connolly’s header after the break ensured a nervy final 30 minutes for Sven-Goran Eriksson’s side but Leicester held on for the win, ending Southampton’s 100 percent start in the process.
The Foxes rode their luck at times after a wonderful display by Saints’ playmaker Adam Lallana but defended admirably at times to claim their first three points at the King Power Stadium this season.
The hosts were ahead in the third minute when Andy King’s dangerous ball into the area took a slight deflection before finding its way into the path of Darius Vassell at the near post, who was on hand to steer the ball past goalkeeper Kelvin Davis for his first goal of the season.
It was a dream start for Leicester, and very much deserved for showing no fear of the visitors who started the day at the top of the Championship table.
The Foxes then lost David Nugent to injury just moments later and was replaced by Jeffrey Schlupp, who had shone in Leicester’s Carling Cup campaign to date with four goals in two games.
Leicester continued to threaten with Andy King heading over and captain Matt Mills forcing Kelvin Davis into making a great save.
But Southampton should have been level when Jack Cork’s had broken behind the Foxes’ defence, but Sol Bamba did just enough to thwart his effort.
The Saints seemed most likely to score next, but it was the home side who extended their lead when Jeffrey Schlupp teed up Richie Wellens on the edge of the area, whose exquisite curling strike into the top corner from 25 yards gave Kelvin Davis no chance.
The goal came against the run of play but it was a fine strike from the former Doncaster man who had enjoyed a strong start to the game.
Southampton were back in the game six minutes later when Adam Lallana’s mazy run on the right-hand side of the penalty area caused John Pantsil to lose his footing, and the subsequent cross picked out Dan Harding free inside the area to nod the ball past Kasper Schmeichel at the near post.
The goal was well worked but also exploited Leicester’s frailties at the back; an issue which concerned Foxes fans during the second-half of last season.
Leicester responded well and came close to restoring their lead when Gelson Fernandes met Andy King’s cross, but his header was well-saved by Kelvin Davis.
Paul Konchesky tested Davis with a free-kick before Jeffrey Schlupp was thwarted inside the penalty area by Jose Fonte’s well-timed sliding tackle.
At the other end, Matt Mills’ important challenge prevented Adam Lallana from equalising – and in first-half stoppage time, Leicester restored their two goal cushion when Neil Danns’ corner was headed into the Southampton net by Rickie Lambert after pressure from Sol Bamba.
The visitors will have felt aggrieved as replays suggested that Bamba had climbed on Lambert to force the own goal, but it seemed like Leicester’s luck had finally changed as the referee waved away the Saints’ protests to end an action-packed opening 45 minutes.
The second-half continued at a similar pace with Paul Konchesky again coming close with a free-kick, but Southampton came out firing on all cylinders and only a fine save by Kasper Schmeichel prevented Guly Do Prado’s powerful strike from reducing the deficit.
But from the resulting corner, the Saints pulled a goal back when former Leicester man David Connolly met Adam Lallana’s in-swinging cross with a far post header.
With their tails up, Southampton began to increase the pressure on the home side in search of an equaliser, but Matt Mills’ fearless block prevented substitute Morgan Schneiderlin from finding an equaliser.
Mills then denied Adam Lallana before Kasper Schmeichel somehow denied David Connolly’s strike at the near post, which seemed certain to creep into the net.
With time running out, Rickie Lambert and Daniel Fox combined to send Adam Lallana clean through on goal, but Schmeichel raced off his line to make another fantastic save and keep the Foxes ahead.
With four minutes remaining, Schmeichel again used his big frame to deny the energetic Lallana from point-blank range after a good low cross from Daniel Fox.
An injury-time block from John Pantsil again denied Lallana who thoroughly deserved a goal on the day, and Leicester held on until the final whistle for their first home win of the season.
It was a huge win for Leicester who showed tremendous character to withstand enormous pressure from the visitors, and an important three points for Sven-Goran Eriksson find themselves tenth in the Championship before the international break following an inconsistent start to the season.
Man of the Match – Kasper Schmeichel
Darius Vassell put the Foxes ahead after three minutes after connecting with Andy King’s deflected cross at the near post, before Richie Wellens doubled Leicester’s advantage with a sublime curling strike from 25 yards.
Dan Harding pulled a goal back for the visitors just before the half-hour mark by heading in Adam Lallana’s cross, but Rickie Lambert’s own goal in first-half stoppage time restored Leicester’s two-goal cushion.
David Connolly’s header after the break ensured a nervy final 30 minutes for Sven-Goran Eriksson’s side but Leicester held on for the win, ending Southampton’s 100 percent start in the process.
The Foxes rode their luck at times after a wonderful display by Saints’ playmaker Adam Lallana but defended admirably at times to claim their first three points at the King Power Stadium this season.
The hosts were ahead in the third minute when Andy King’s dangerous ball into the area took a slight deflection before finding its way into the path of Darius Vassell at the near post, who was on hand to steer the ball past goalkeeper Kelvin Davis for his first goal of the season.
It was a dream start for Leicester, and very much deserved for showing no fear of the visitors who started the day at the top of the Championship table.
The Foxes then lost David Nugent to injury just moments later and was replaced by Jeffrey Schlupp, who had shone in Leicester’s Carling Cup campaign to date with four goals in two games.
Leicester continued to threaten with Andy King heading over and captain Matt Mills forcing Kelvin Davis into making a great save.
But Southampton should have been level when Jack Cork’s had broken behind the Foxes’ defence, but Sol Bamba did just enough to thwart his effort.
The Saints seemed most likely to score next, but it was the home side who extended their lead when Jeffrey Schlupp teed up Richie Wellens on the edge of the area, whose exquisite curling strike into the top corner from 25 yards gave Kelvin Davis no chance.
The goal came against the run of play but it was a fine strike from the former Doncaster man who had enjoyed a strong start to the game.
Southampton were back in the game six minutes later when Adam Lallana’s mazy run on the right-hand side of the penalty area caused John Pantsil to lose his footing, and the subsequent cross picked out Dan Harding free inside the area to nod the ball past Kasper Schmeichel at the near post.
The goal was well worked but also exploited Leicester’s frailties at the back; an issue which concerned Foxes fans during the second-half of last season.
Leicester responded well and came close to restoring their lead when Gelson Fernandes met Andy King’s cross, but his header was well-saved by Kelvin Davis.
Paul Konchesky tested Davis with a free-kick before Jeffrey Schlupp was thwarted inside the penalty area by Jose Fonte’s well-timed sliding tackle.
At the other end, Matt Mills’ important challenge prevented Adam Lallana from equalising – and in first-half stoppage time, Leicester restored their two goal cushion when Neil Danns’ corner was headed into the Southampton net by Rickie Lambert after pressure from Sol Bamba.
The visitors will have felt aggrieved as replays suggested that Bamba had climbed on Lambert to force the own goal, but it seemed like Leicester’s luck had finally changed as the referee waved away the Saints’ protests to end an action-packed opening 45 minutes.
The second-half continued at a similar pace with Paul Konchesky again coming close with a free-kick, but Southampton came out firing on all cylinders and only a fine save by Kasper Schmeichel prevented Guly Do Prado’s powerful strike from reducing the deficit.
But from the resulting corner, the Saints pulled a goal back when former Leicester man David Connolly met Adam Lallana’s in-swinging cross with a far post header.
With their tails up, Southampton began to increase the pressure on the home side in search of an equaliser, but Matt Mills’ fearless block prevented substitute Morgan Schneiderlin from finding an equaliser.
Mills then denied Adam Lallana before Kasper Schmeichel somehow denied David Connolly’s strike at the near post, which seemed certain to creep into the net.
With time running out, Rickie Lambert and Daniel Fox combined to send Adam Lallana clean through on goal, but Schmeichel raced off his line to make another fantastic save and keep the Foxes ahead.
With four minutes remaining, Schmeichel again used his big frame to deny the energetic Lallana from point-blank range after a good low cross from Daniel Fox.
An injury-time block from John Pantsil again denied Lallana who thoroughly deserved a goal on the day, and Leicester held on until the final whistle for their first home win of the season.
It was a huge win for Leicester who showed tremendous character to withstand enormous pressure from the visitors, and an important three points for Sven-Goran Eriksson find themselves tenth in the Championship before the international break following an inconsistent start to the season.
Man of the Match – Kasper Schmeichel
Thursday, 18 August 2011
Leicester City 1 Bristol City 2 - 17th August 2011
Leicester City were dealt a second consecutive home defeat last night courtesy of a brace from Bristol City’s Nicky Maynard.
The visitors took the lead early on when Maynard found the bottom corner from a free-kick and could have been 2-0 ahead just before half-time had Maynard not rattled the crossbar with a penalty.
The Foxes equalised through David Nugent’s 25 yard second-half strike, but Sean St. Ledger’s critical slip on the half-way line allowed Maynard to play the ball past Kasper Schmeichel to restore The Robins’ lead.
It was a missed opportunity for Leicester to bounce back to winning ways after the weekend, while Keith Millen will have been delighted with his side’s first win of the season.
Sven-Goran Eriksson made five changes to the starting eleven that lost 2-0 to Reading on Saturday – including captain Matt Mills being dropped to the bench.
But despite the adjustments, it was the visitors who had the first chance on goal when Gelson Fernandes conceded a free-kick on the edge of the area – a chance which was converted when Neil Kilkenny laid the ball off to Nicky Maynard who crashed the ball into the bottom corner from twenty yards.
It was the worst possible start for a home side demonstrating a lack of confidence, and proved to be a real setback for the remainder of a very difficult first-half.
David Nugent created some space in the final third just before the half hour mark, but dragged his shot wide of the far post.
The key point in the first period occurred just before the break when Gelson Fernandes was adjudged to have clipped Jamal Campbell-Ryce in the penalty area, with referee Nigel Miller awarding the visiting side a penalty.
However, Maynard struck the crossbar with the resulting spot kick, which seemed to spark Leicester into life as Paul Gallagher hit the target moments later with a free-kick at the other end of the pitch.
The Foxes came out looking stronger after the break and were almost level through Andy King’s point-blank header, but goalkeeper Dean Gerken made a fantastic save to keep the visitors in front.
But it only took the hosts ten minutes to find an equaliser when Paul Gallagher dispossessed Neil Kilkenny in midfield before finding David Nugent, who found the net with a neat curling effort from 25 yards – his first as a Leicester player.
It was a much deserved goal for the former Portsmouth striker after being isolated for most of the match with very little support elsewhere.
Leicester tails were up and they should have taken the lead when Lloyd Dyer’s pinpoint pass to Paul Gallagher gave the forward plenty of time to tee up a strike, but the Scot could not hit the target.
Suddenly, against the run of play, Sean St. Ledger was dispossessed just inside his own half, allowing Nicky Maynard to bear down on goal and, despite the last ditch efforts of Sol Bamba, find the net for the second time in the match.
It was a tough break for the Foxes who had shown resilience to find themselves level, but was also an indication of why manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has shown interest in Maynard during the transfer window.
Leicester set about finding an equaliser and came agonisingly close when Richie Wellens’ cross-turned-shot sailed over Dean Gerken and hit Lewis Nyatanga on the line before bouncing back into the grateful hands to the goalkeeper.
But with time running out, Bristol City substitute Kalifa Cisse had a chance to put the game out of sight after some poor Leicester defending, but was wasteful with his effort which flew over.
Ryan Taylor then cleared the crossbar in stoppage time before Sol Bamba miscued a last-ditch shot wide of an open net after Neil Danns had forced Dean Gerken to spill the ball in a dangerous area.
Boos rang out at the final whistle - and with an imminent derby day at Nottingham Forest ahead, Eriksson will know things must improve to relieve any pressure upon him.
Man of the Match – Nicky Maynard
The visitors took the lead early on when Maynard found the bottom corner from a free-kick and could have been 2-0 ahead just before half-time had Maynard not rattled the crossbar with a penalty.
The Foxes equalised through David Nugent’s 25 yard second-half strike, but Sean St. Ledger’s critical slip on the half-way line allowed Maynard to play the ball past Kasper Schmeichel to restore The Robins’ lead.
It was a missed opportunity for Leicester to bounce back to winning ways after the weekend, while Keith Millen will have been delighted with his side’s first win of the season.
Sven-Goran Eriksson made five changes to the starting eleven that lost 2-0 to Reading on Saturday – including captain Matt Mills being dropped to the bench.
But despite the adjustments, it was the visitors who had the first chance on goal when Gelson Fernandes conceded a free-kick on the edge of the area – a chance which was converted when Neil Kilkenny laid the ball off to Nicky Maynard who crashed the ball into the bottom corner from twenty yards.
It was the worst possible start for a home side demonstrating a lack of confidence, and proved to be a real setback for the remainder of a very difficult first-half.
David Nugent created some space in the final third just before the half hour mark, but dragged his shot wide of the far post.
The key point in the first period occurred just before the break when Gelson Fernandes was adjudged to have clipped Jamal Campbell-Ryce in the penalty area, with referee Nigel Miller awarding the visiting side a penalty.
However, Maynard struck the crossbar with the resulting spot kick, which seemed to spark Leicester into life as Paul Gallagher hit the target moments later with a free-kick at the other end of the pitch.
The Foxes came out looking stronger after the break and were almost level through Andy King’s point-blank header, but goalkeeper Dean Gerken made a fantastic save to keep the visitors in front.
But it only took the hosts ten minutes to find an equaliser when Paul Gallagher dispossessed Neil Kilkenny in midfield before finding David Nugent, who found the net with a neat curling effort from 25 yards – his first as a Leicester player.
It was a much deserved goal for the former Portsmouth striker after being isolated for most of the match with very little support elsewhere.
Leicester tails were up and they should have taken the lead when Lloyd Dyer’s pinpoint pass to Paul Gallagher gave the forward plenty of time to tee up a strike, but the Scot could not hit the target.
Suddenly, against the run of play, Sean St. Ledger was dispossessed just inside his own half, allowing Nicky Maynard to bear down on goal and, despite the last ditch efforts of Sol Bamba, find the net for the second time in the match.
It was a tough break for the Foxes who had shown resilience to find themselves level, but was also an indication of why manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has shown interest in Maynard during the transfer window.
Leicester set about finding an equaliser and came agonisingly close when Richie Wellens’ cross-turned-shot sailed over Dean Gerken and hit Lewis Nyatanga on the line before bouncing back into the grateful hands to the goalkeeper.
But with time running out, Bristol City substitute Kalifa Cisse had a chance to put the game out of sight after some poor Leicester defending, but was wasteful with his effort which flew over.
Ryan Taylor then cleared the crossbar in stoppage time before Sol Bamba miscued a last-ditch shot wide of an open net after Neil Danns had forced Dean Gerken to spill the ball in a dangerous area.
Boos rang out at the final whistle - and with an imminent derby day at Nottingham Forest ahead, Eriksson will know things must improve to relieve any pressure upon him.
Man of the Match – Nicky Maynard
Saturday, 13 August 2011
Leicester City 0 Reading 2 - 13th August 2011
Leicester's good start to the season was dealt a blow this afternoon as they were well beaten by a strong Reading side at the King Power Stadium.
Noel Hunt's put the visitors ahead just after the hour mark with a fine glancing header from Ian Harte`s corner kick.
Substitute Hal Robson-Kanu doubled the Royals' lead in the 90th minute with a fine strike into the top corner.
David Nugent came closest to scoring for the Foxes when his curling strike hit the inside of the post, while Andy King forced Reading goalkeeper Adam Federici into making a good save following a powerful shot from distance.
While there were positives to take away from the game, manager Sven-Goran Eriksson will surely have some concerns over some sloppy defending, inaccurate passing and poor communication on the field.
Eriksson called up 18-year old youth product Jeffrey Schlupp into the starting eleven after his second-half hat-trick in Leicester's Carling Cup first round win over Rotherham United.
Ghanaian full-back John Pantsil also replaced the injured Lee Peltier in an otherwise unchanged side that beat Coventry City 1-0 last weekend.
However, it was the visitors who started positively in the early exchanges, finding plenty of time to pass the ball around without fear of being closed down by the Leicester backline, Mathieu Manset looking impressive early on after continually getting the better of former Reading captain Matt Mills, who looked unsettled for the Foxes for lengthy periods of the match.
The first chance of the match fell to Manset - who scored twice in five minutes against Millwall last week to rescue a point for the Royals - after cutting inside Mills and firing wide of Kasper Schmeichel's goal.
The Danish shot stopper was also on hand minutes later to make a fine save after Reading had once again unlocked the Leicester defence through Jimmy Kebe.
At the other end, Richie Wellens managed to pick out David Nugent with a free-kick into the Reading penalty area, but the chance was cut out by Reading's resolute backline.
Kebe continued to cause Leicester problems at the back; Yuki Abe's last-ditch challenge preventing the Malian international from releasing a shot on goal.
Reading should have taken the lead just before the hour mark from an Ian Harte corner but defender Alex Pearce inexplicably headed wide from point blank range following some lacklustre Leicester defending.
The hosts showed some life in the final ten minutes of the first-half when Richie Wellens picked out Neil Danns in the Reading penalty area, but his shot was quickly closed down by Alex Pearce.
Yuki Abe then tried his luck from long range, but his shot drifted wide of Federici's post.
Leicester continued to build pressure before the break, with David Nugent`s strike from deep inside the penalty area falling just wide of the mark - however the home side appeared to lack width in midfield and generally struggled to break the visitors down.
The second-half saw Yuki Abe replaced by Welsh international Andy King - and the substitution seemed to spark Leicester into life as David Nugent's fine curling strike agonisingly hit the inside of the post minutes after the restart.
At the other end, Schmeichel again was forced into close down Jimmy Kebe who continued to find ways to break through Leicester's defence - but the home side continued to threaten as Andy King`s vicious strike from 25 yards was tipped wide by Adam Federici.
Nugent headed over from Gelson Fernandes' ball into the box, but the visitors were soon ahead when some sloppy Leicester defending allowed Noel Hunt to head home Ian Harte`s corner kick at the near post, giving Schmeichel no chance.
The goal was no more than Reading deserved for their dominance - despite coming against the run of play - but Eriksson will have been disappointed to see his side failing to clear their lines from a set piece.
The second-half contained fewer clear cut chances as the match continued, although Jimmy Kebe could have doubled his side`s advantage when Mathieu Manset went to ground following a strong challenge with play was allowed to continue, but Leicester appeared to switch off completely, allowing the speedy forward to fire a shot just wide of the goal.
The incident sparked a furious reaction from Kasper Schmeichel who appeared to berate his defenders - including captain Matt Mills - as well as Richie Wellens.
As the game wound down, John Pantsil`s hanging cross was met by the head of makeshift striker Sol Bamba, but the Ivorian could not keep his effort down and flew harmlessly over the bar.
Reading eventually did double their lead in the 90th minute when Jimmy Kebe set up Hal Robson-Kanu inside the penalty area who drilled the ball into the roof of the net from twelve yards.
The Royals were good for their second goal, and it completed a fantastic away performance for Brian McDermott`s side who will have promotion hopes of their own this season.
The final whistle capped off a frustrating day at the office for Sven-Goran Eriksson, who will be disappointed with certain areas his side's performance for long spells of the game.
Man of the Match - Bongani Khumalo
Noel Hunt's put the visitors ahead just after the hour mark with a fine glancing header from Ian Harte`s corner kick.
Substitute Hal Robson-Kanu doubled the Royals' lead in the 90th minute with a fine strike into the top corner.
David Nugent came closest to scoring for the Foxes when his curling strike hit the inside of the post, while Andy King forced Reading goalkeeper Adam Federici into making a good save following a powerful shot from distance.
While there were positives to take away from the game, manager Sven-Goran Eriksson will surely have some concerns over some sloppy defending, inaccurate passing and poor communication on the field.
Eriksson called up 18-year old youth product Jeffrey Schlupp into the starting eleven after his second-half hat-trick in Leicester's Carling Cup first round win over Rotherham United.
Ghanaian full-back John Pantsil also replaced the injured Lee Peltier in an otherwise unchanged side that beat Coventry City 1-0 last weekend.
However, it was the visitors who started positively in the early exchanges, finding plenty of time to pass the ball around without fear of being closed down by the Leicester backline, Mathieu Manset looking impressive early on after continually getting the better of former Reading captain Matt Mills, who looked unsettled for the Foxes for lengthy periods of the match.
The first chance of the match fell to Manset - who scored twice in five minutes against Millwall last week to rescue a point for the Royals - after cutting inside Mills and firing wide of Kasper Schmeichel's goal.
The Danish shot stopper was also on hand minutes later to make a fine save after Reading had once again unlocked the Leicester defence through Jimmy Kebe.
At the other end, Richie Wellens managed to pick out David Nugent with a free-kick into the Reading penalty area, but the chance was cut out by Reading's resolute backline.
Kebe continued to cause Leicester problems at the back; Yuki Abe's last-ditch challenge preventing the Malian international from releasing a shot on goal.
Reading should have taken the lead just before the hour mark from an Ian Harte corner but defender Alex Pearce inexplicably headed wide from point blank range following some lacklustre Leicester defending.
The hosts showed some life in the final ten minutes of the first-half when Richie Wellens picked out Neil Danns in the Reading penalty area, but his shot was quickly closed down by Alex Pearce.
Yuki Abe then tried his luck from long range, but his shot drifted wide of Federici's post.
Leicester continued to build pressure before the break, with David Nugent`s strike from deep inside the penalty area falling just wide of the mark - however the home side appeared to lack width in midfield and generally struggled to break the visitors down.
The second-half saw Yuki Abe replaced by Welsh international Andy King - and the substitution seemed to spark Leicester into life as David Nugent's fine curling strike agonisingly hit the inside of the post minutes after the restart.
At the other end, Schmeichel again was forced into close down Jimmy Kebe who continued to find ways to break through Leicester's defence - but the home side continued to threaten as Andy King`s vicious strike from 25 yards was tipped wide by Adam Federici.
Nugent headed over from Gelson Fernandes' ball into the box, but the visitors were soon ahead when some sloppy Leicester defending allowed Noel Hunt to head home Ian Harte`s corner kick at the near post, giving Schmeichel no chance.
The goal was no more than Reading deserved for their dominance - despite coming against the run of play - but Eriksson will have been disappointed to see his side failing to clear their lines from a set piece.
The second-half contained fewer clear cut chances as the match continued, although Jimmy Kebe could have doubled his side`s advantage when Mathieu Manset went to ground following a strong challenge with play was allowed to continue, but Leicester appeared to switch off completely, allowing the speedy forward to fire a shot just wide of the goal.
The incident sparked a furious reaction from Kasper Schmeichel who appeared to berate his defenders - including captain Matt Mills - as well as Richie Wellens.
As the game wound down, John Pantsil`s hanging cross was met by the head of makeshift striker Sol Bamba, but the Ivorian could not keep his effort down and flew harmlessly over the bar.
Reading eventually did double their lead in the 90th minute when Jimmy Kebe set up Hal Robson-Kanu inside the penalty area who drilled the ball into the roof of the net from twelve yards.
The Royals were good for their second goal, and it completed a fantastic away performance for Brian McDermott`s side who will have promotion hopes of their own this season.
The final whistle capped off a frustrating day at the office for Sven-Goran Eriksson, who will be disappointed with certain areas his side's performance for long spells of the game.
Man of the Match - Bongani Khumalo
Sunday, 31 July 2011
Leicester City 1 Real Madrid 2
Leicester City ended their preseason fixtures with a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Spanish giants Real Madrid in front of a sell-out crowd at the King Power Stadium.
Jose Callejon put the tourists ahead just before half-time following a defensive error from Matt Mills, while Karim Benzema doubled Real's lead after the hour mark through a wonderfully crafted counter-attack.
Lloyd Dyer netted for the Foxes with two minutes remaining but the home side were unable to find an equaliser against Jose Mourinho's side.
Although Real Madrid were a clear step above Sven-Goran Eriksson's men, there were some real positives for the former England manager to take from the match - including positive performances from Sol Bamba and new signings Lee Peltier, Neil Danns and David Nugent.
Real Madrid - who fielded a world class side featuring the likes of Kaka, Sergio Ramos, Karim Benzema and Sami Khedira - started the match positively, and it was the French international Benzema causing the Leicester backline problems, being thwarted only by a last ditch challenge by Sol Bamba.
Benzema was soon in again behind the Foxes' defence, but fired just wide after great work from Sami Khedira.
Neil Danns fired wide for the Foxes but the visitors maintained a high tempo, forcing goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel into making a fantastic save from Fabio Coentrao who was in on goal.
Sol Bamba was on hand again midway through the first-half to keep Leicester in the game, preventing Brazilian midfielder Kaka from breaking the deadlock with another great block.
Chances for the home side were few and far between, with David Nugent firing into the side netting from the near post with an ambitious effort - but Real maintained a level of superiority, coming close to breaking the opening the scoring again, this time through Marcelo and Sami Khedira
Mourinho's Galacticos were rewarded for their persistence three minutes from half-time when Matt Mills' poor defensive header allowed Karim Benzema to round Kasper Schmeichel and find Jose Callejon unmarked at the far post, who passed the ball into an empty net to put the visitors ahead.
The interval saw a change of personnel for both sides - Leicester introducing Andy King and Michael Johnson in replacement of Richie Wellens and Paul Gallagher, while Real brought on Xabi Alonso and Cristiano Ronaldo - and it was the hosts who had a glorious opportunity to level when the Sol Bamba rose to meet Neil Danns' corner - but could only direct his header into the safe hands of goalkeeper Iker Casillas.
Bamba continued to impress defensively as well as in attack, doing well to slide in and block yet another effort on goal by Karim Benzema.
Marcelo fired high and wide for Real following a mazy run through midfield ten minutes after the break but the visitors soon doubled their advantage just after the hour mark, countering strongly following the breakdown of a Leicester set play, and a mix up between Yuki Abe at Sean St. Ledger saw Marcelo's strike hit the post with Benzema on hand to fire home neatly from an acute angle.
The goal was a deserved one from Mourinho's men, and a sublime demonstration of Real's ability to counter-attack in numbers.
With time running out, Leicester continued to press forward with ambition and came close to pulling a goal back when Steve Howard connected with fellow substitute Martyn Waghorn's in-swinging free-kick, but the big striker's header fell agonisingly past Casillas' far post.
Leicester maintained some pressure as Sol Bamba's header on target was deflected over the bar - and the hosts eventually managed to pull a goal back when Bamba again managed to flick on a Lee Peltier throw in towards Lloyd Dyer who fired brilliantly into the bottom corner.
It may have been too little too late, but it was certainly a memorable moment for the speedy winger - and for all Foxes supporters at the King Power Stadium.
The final whistle blew shortly afterwards but the day still belonged to Leicester City, who now begin their promotion push from the Championship next weekend away at Coventry City.
Man of the Match - Sergio Ramos
Jose Callejon put the tourists ahead just before half-time following a defensive error from Matt Mills, while Karim Benzema doubled Real's lead after the hour mark through a wonderfully crafted counter-attack.
Lloyd Dyer netted for the Foxes with two minutes remaining but the home side were unable to find an equaliser against Jose Mourinho's side.
Although Real Madrid were a clear step above Sven-Goran Eriksson's men, there were some real positives for the former England manager to take from the match - including positive performances from Sol Bamba and new signings Lee Peltier, Neil Danns and David Nugent.
Real Madrid - who fielded a world class side featuring the likes of Kaka, Sergio Ramos, Karim Benzema and Sami Khedira - started the match positively, and it was the French international Benzema causing the Leicester backline problems, being thwarted only by a last ditch challenge by Sol Bamba.
Benzema was soon in again behind the Foxes' defence, but fired just wide after great work from Sami Khedira.
Neil Danns fired wide for the Foxes but the visitors maintained a high tempo, forcing goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel into making a fantastic save from Fabio Coentrao who was in on goal.
Sol Bamba was on hand again midway through the first-half to keep Leicester in the game, preventing Brazilian midfielder Kaka from breaking the deadlock with another great block.
Chances for the home side were few and far between, with David Nugent firing into the side netting from the near post with an ambitious effort - but Real maintained a level of superiority, coming close to breaking the opening the scoring again, this time through Marcelo and Sami Khedira
Mourinho's Galacticos were rewarded for their persistence three minutes from half-time when Matt Mills' poor defensive header allowed Karim Benzema to round Kasper Schmeichel and find Jose Callejon unmarked at the far post, who passed the ball into an empty net to put the visitors ahead.
The interval saw a change of personnel for both sides - Leicester introducing Andy King and Michael Johnson in replacement of Richie Wellens and Paul Gallagher, while Real brought on Xabi Alonso and Cristiano Ronaldo - and it was the hosts who had a glorious opportunity to level when the Sol Bamba rose to meet Neil Danns' corner - but could only direct his header into the safe hands of goalkeeper Iker Casillas.
Bamba continued to impress defensively as well as in attack, doing well to slide in and block yet another effort on goal by Karim Benzema.
Marcelo fired high and wide for Real following a mazy run through midfield ten minutes after the break but the visitors soon doubled their advantage just after the hour mark, countering strongly following the breakdown of a Leicester set play, and a mix up between Yuki Abe at Sean St. Ledger saw Marcelo's strike hit the post with Benzema on hand to fire home neatly from an acute angle.
The goal was a deserved one from Mourinho's men, and a sublime demonstration of Real's ability to counter-attack in numbers.
With time running out, Leicester continued to press forward with ambition and came close to pulling a goal back when Steve Howard connected with fellow substitute Martyn Waghorn's in-swinging free-kick, but the big striker's header fell agonisingly past Casillas' far post.
Leicester maintained some pressure as Sol Bamba's header on target was deflected over the bar - and the hosts eventually managed to pull a goal back when Bamba again managed to flick on a Lee Peltier throw in towards Lloyd Dyer who fired brilliantly into the bottom corner.
It may have been too little too late, but it was certainly a memorable moment for the speedy winger - and for all Foxes supporters at the King Power Stadium.
The final whistle blew shortly afterwards but the day still belonged to Leicester City, who now begin their promotion push from the Championship next weekend away at Coventry City.
Man of the Match - Sergio Ramos
Tuesday, 5 July 2011
Fresh faces could become Foxes fan favourites
Why Sven's newest signings have the opportunity to become instant hits at the Walkers Stadium...
After a relatively quiet summer up until last week, Leicester City made three signings in quick succession - capturing Lee Peltier from Huddersfield Town, Crystal Palace midfielder Neil Danns and former Leeds and Notts County goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel. The Foxes have also been linked with numerous other players including Nicky Maynard, David Nugent, Craig Mackail-Smith and Sean St. Ledger.
It might be that the previous lack of activity could relate to (unsuccessful) attempts to bring some of last year's loan signings back to the Walkers Stadium next season. But regardless of that, Sven-Goran Eriksson might be right on the money with the new players.
At the very least, the majority of Foxes supporters will be happy.
It is no secret that Leicester City relied heavily on loan players during the second half of last season. Some became instant hits with the fans, others did not. But on the whole, those loan players improved the starting line up and were effective - irrespective of whether they were liked or disliked. A case could also be made for every single one of those players as to why Eriksson should attempt to bring them back next season.
Because of the timing of Eriksson's arrival last year, there was little opportunity for him to make permanent signings. Whilst the loan signings generally did, at the very least, a decent job during their time with the club, their addition somewhat painted over the cracks of the real problem - which was that Eriksson was not entirely happy with his overall squad. And when they left at the end of the season, it was clear that there were several positions which needed to be filled.
Because Peltier, Schmeichel and even Danns are all relatively young players who have risen through the lower leagues, they are all still learning their trade. Whilst Danns also offers Championship experience, all three signings will be keen to prove that their best is still yet to come. For these players, it is not necessarily about the money. It is debatable whether last season's loan signings - especially those who have had a taste of the Premier League - would offer such enthusiasm and determination.
Even the apparently targeted signings are in the same vein as those already drafted in to the club. The likes of Nicky Maynard and Craig Mackail-Smith both have fantastic scoring records, but also still have a lot to learn and a lot to prove. Their best is yet to come, and that is exciting for the manager and fans alike. Even if the end result is exactly the same, the majority of Leicester City supporters will appreciate the effort from these new players, whilst it might have simply been expected from the likes of Yakubu or Diomansy Kamara. This is not a criticism of those players; however, Yakubu could have scored 30 goals a season in the Championship and a large number of Leicester fans would still have been disgruntled with his style of play - in spite of such a record.
Foxes supporters, like the majority of football fans, have demonstrated a tendency to warm to players who give 100 percent in every game. That is why players such as Martyn Waghorn and Richie Wellens have become fan favourites. A good goal scoring record like Yakubu's during the latter part of last season seems impressive on paper, and also provides a means to an end - but supporters, generally, would rather see a player's desire and zealousness towards establishing themselves within the team and towards reaching its ambitions, rather than any one particular individual milestone or achievement. Peltier, Danns and Schmeichel all have the potential to become this type of player, which makes them a good fit at Leicester City. They also all have the potential to play at the highest level - which is where this club wants to be.
The next few weeks should bring about more new activity at the Walkers Stadium. More of the same would be very popular amongst the Blue Army faithful.
After a relatively quiet summer up until last week, Leicester City made three signings in quick succession - capturing Lee Peltier from Huddersfield Town, Crystal Palace midfielder Neil Danns and former Leeds and Notts County goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel. The Foxes have also been linked with numerous other players including Nicky Maynard, David Nugent, Craig Mackail-Smith and Sean St. Ledger.
It might be that the previous lack of activity could relate to (unsuccessful) attempts to bring some of last year's loan signings back to the Walkers Stadium next season. But regardless of that, Sven-Goran Eriksson might be right on the money with the new players.
At the very least, the majority of Foxes supporters will be happy.
It is no secret that Leicester City relied heavily on loan players during the second half of last season. Some became instant hits with the fans, others did not. But on the whole, those loan players improved the starting line up and were effective - irrespective of whether they were liked or disliked. A case could also be made for every single one of those players as to why Eriksson should attempt to bring them back next season.
Because of the timing of Eriksson's arrival last year, there was little opportunity for him to make permanent signings. Whilst the loan signings generally did, at the very least, a decent job during their time with the club, their addition somewhat painted over the cracks of the real problem - which was that Eriksson was not entirely happy with his overall squad. And when they left at the end of the season, it was clear that there were several positions which needed to be filled.
Because Peltier, Schmeichel and even Danns are all relatively young players who have risen through the lower leagues, they are all still learning their trade. Whilst Danns also offers Championship experience, all three signings will be keen to prove that their best is still yet to come. For these players, it is not necessarily about the money. It is debatable whether last season's loan signings - especially those who have had a taste of the Premier League - would offer such enthusiasm and determination.
Even the apparently targeted signings are in the same vein as those already drafted in to the club. The likes of Nicky Maynard and Craig Mackail-Smith both have fantastic scoring records, but also still have a lot to learn and a lot to prove. Their best is yet to come, and that is exciting for the manager and fans alike. Even if the end result is exactly the same, the majority of Leicester City supporters will appreciate the effort from these new players, whilst it might have simply been expected from the likes of Yakubu or Diomansy Kamara. This is not a criticism of those players; however, Yakubu could have scored 30 goals a season in the Championship and a large number of Leicester fans would still have been disgruntled with his style of play - in spite of such a record.
Foxes supporters, like the majority of football fans, have demonstrated a tendency to warm to players who give 100 percent in every game. That is why players such as Martyn Waghorn and Richie Wellens have become fan favourites. A good goal scoring record like Yakubu's during the latter part of last season seems impressive on paper, and also provides a means to an end - but supporters, generally, would rather see a player's desire and zealousness towards establishing themselves within the team and towards reaching its ambitions, rather than any one particular individual milestone or achievement. Peltier, Danns and Schmeichel all have the potential to become this type of player, which makes them a good fit at Leicester City. They also all have the potential to play at the highest level - which is where this club wants to be.
The next few weeks should bring about more new activity at the Walkers Stadium. More of the same would be very popular amongst the Blue Army faithful.
Friday, 17 June 2011
No Transfers? No Problem
Is there really any reason for fans to be worried about the lack of transfer activity at Leicester City?
Despite missing out on the playoffs at the end of last season, Leicester fans left the Walkers Stadium with a level of optimism about a potentially very busy summer of ins and outs, with speculation over whether certain loan signings would make the switch to the Midlands or who Sven-Goran Eriksson would have his eye on bringing to the club over the next few months. Fast forward to the middle of June, and, despite all the transfer talk and predictions, Leicester are yet to make a permanent signing since the transfer window opened. So should supporters be worried?
Well, no. In fact, this is probably the smartest course of action to take.
The majority of fans would have, by now, expected some transfer activity, based on the fact that Eriksson made a number of strong loan signings during his first season in charge, and also because it is no secret that the takeover of Leicester City in 2010 by Asia Football Investments put the club in a far stronger financial position than ever before. Other clubs will also be aware of this, and thus it is important that the former England manager does not show his hand too early at the risk of being offered inflated valuations of potential targets by other managers. While it is true that there are a number of big name free agents available this summer, it is unlikely that club funds will be spent wildly on such players just because such funds exist.
Also, a lack of transfer activity does not necessarily mean that the Foxes are not in contact with other clubs or players. In fact, it is quite likely that Leicester City have held talks with possible targets and their agents, but many players` contracts do not expire until the end of June and said players may simply be weighing up their options for the future. Many of the loan signings came as somewhat of a surprise to supporters, so the same could apply when making permanent deals with other clubs. There is always more to it than meets the eye in these situations.
Besides, Leicester City appear to be prioritising its restructuring of backroom staff before making any on-the-field changes. Just last week, Susan Whelan was announced as the new CEO of the club, while Simon Capper took the role of Finance Director. Further managerial changes were made yesterday with the appointment of Commercial Director Laura Oakes and Kevin Barclay being promoted to Operations Director. Albeit less exciting for fans, these changes are as important as signing the next big name Premier League star so that there is a wealth of knowledge and experience behind the running of this football club.
Finally, despite the fact that Leicester did rely heavily on loan signings last season - particularly towards the latter stages - Eriksson will be aware that he has a very strong core of players already at the club. Paul Gallagher, Richie Wellens, Andy King, Yuki Abe and Darius Vassell were all regular starters for Leicester City in the last campaign and are more than likely to feature in the starting line up next season. Franck Moussa and Matt Oakley have also been offered new contracts, and centre back Sol Bamba offered a strong presence in defence since joining the Foxes. There are defensive issues which do need addressing, and potentially one or two strikers will be drafted in, but only if they fit the style of football which Eriksson has adopted and put into practice since his arrival at the Walkers Stadium. He will be aware of how much time he has to make transfers, and is unlikely to panic-buy.
So, Leicester fans - do not be worried. Your club is in good hands. Sit back, enjoy the summer and wait for the transfers to take place. By Saturday 6th August, there will be new faces.
Despite missing out on the playoffs at the end of last season, Leicester fans left the Walkers Stadium with a level of optimism about a potentially very busy summer of ins and outs, with speculation over whether certain loan signings would make the switch to the Midlands or who Sven-Goran Eriksson would have his eye on bringing to the club over the next few months. Fast forward to the middle of June, and, despite all the transfer talk and predictions, Leicester are yet to make a permanent signing since the transfer window opened. So should supporters be worried?
Well, no. In fact, this is probably the smartest course of action to take.
The majority of fans would have, by now, expected some transfer activity, based on the fact that Eriksson made a number of strong loan signings during his first season in charge, and also because it is no secret that the takeover of Leicester City in 2010 by Asia Football Investments put the club in a far stronger financial position than ever before. Other clubs will also be aware of this, and thus it is important that the former England manager does not show his hand too early at the risk of being offered inflated valuations of potential targets by other managers. While it is true that there are a number of big name free agents available this summer, it is unlikely that club funds will be spent wildly on such players just because such funds exist.
Also, a lack of transfer activity does not necessarily mean that the Foxes are not in contact with other clubs or players. In fact, it is quite likely that Leicester City have held talks with possible targets and their agents, but many players` contracts do not expire until the end of June and said players may simply be weighing up their options for the future. Many of the loan signings came as somewhat of a surprise to supporters, so the same could apply when making permanent deals with other clubs. There is always more to it than meets the eye in these situations.
Besides, Leicester City appear to be prioritising its restructuring of backroom staff before making any on-the-field changes. Just last week, Susan Whelan was announced as the new CEO of the club, while Simon Capper took the role of Finance Director. Further managerial changes were made yesterday with the appointment of Commercial Director Laura Oakes and Kevin Barclay being promoted to Operations Director. Albeit less exciting for fans, these changes are as important as signing the next big name Premier League star so that there is a wealth of knowledge and experience behind the running of this football club.
Finally, despite the fact that Leicester did rely heavily on loan signings last season - particularly towards the latter stages - Eriksson will be aware that he has a very strong core of players already at the club. Paul Gallagher, Richie Wellens, Andy King, Yuki Abe and Darius Vassell were all regular starters for Leicester City in the last campaign and are more than likely to feature in the starting line up next season. Franck Moussa and Matt Oakley have also been offered new contracts, and centre back Sol Bamba offered a strong presence in defence since joining the Foxes. There are defensive issues which do need addressing, and potentially one or two strikers will be drafted in, but only if they fit the style of football which Eriksson has adopted and put into practice since his arrival at the Walkers Stadium. He will be aware of how much time he has to make transfers, and is unlikely to panic-buy.
So, Leicester fans - do not be worried. Your club is in good hands. Sit back, enjoy the summer and wait for the transfers to take place. By Saturday 6th August, there will be new faces.
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