Something in the Making: Lam Matteo

[Matt10]

Fixture: Final
Newcastle United v Swansea City

0-0

-----
Caution: None

Scoreless draw turns out to be total loss
West Brom crowned champions with 4-1 victory over Hornets

Johnson Peoples, nufc.co.uk

How cruel it is. Alan Curbishley will be sacked indefinitely for his poor tactics in tonight's match against Swansea City, where Newcastle essentially lost all hopes of a title due to scoring no goals.

The tears on the players faces fell as each of them glanced at the scoreboard for other matches, 4-1 West Brom over Watford is what it read.



Fans started to groan "Curbish-leave! Curbish-LEAVE!". It was a disgraceful exit as contenders, but obviously provoked.



The hot topic squad wise, was how come Lam Matteo was not placed in the starting eleven. He was injured last week, but this week looked more than fit. It seemed that Curbishley opted to play experience over "no so experienced".

To make matters worse, when Matteo did enter the pitch at the halfway mark, 30 minutes later, he was subbed out for Alan Smith - and instant kick to the proverbial face for the American midfielder, who had looked inspiring - racing everywhere and letting off a shot before his exit.

There was no comment from Curbishley after the match, he quickly shook hands and left the pitch.

Captain, and veteran player, Geremi did not hold back his thoughts.

"You have a manager like that, who plays the odds instead of the heart - this is what you get. He should have played players who have shown heart! It was absolute disgraceful, and we deserved what we got for it."

Despite the loss of title, Newcastle United join West Bromwich Albion in being promoted to the English Premier League, replacing Stoke City and Hull City.

Final League Table

1. West Brom (74 pts)
2. Newcastle (72 pts)
3. QPR (69 pts)
4. Cardiff City (66 pts)
5. Coventry (65 pts)
6. Middlesbrough (64 pts)
7. Shefffield Wed (60 pts)
8. Sheffield Utd (53 pts)
9. Derby County (52 pts)
10. Preston (52 pts)
11. Doncaster (51 pts)
12. Swansea City (50 pts)
13. Ipswich Town (49 pts)
14. Reading (48 pts)
15. Barnsley (47 pts)
16. Nottingham (46 pts)
17. Bristol (44 pts)
18. Crystal Palace (44 pts)
19. Watford (42 pts)
20. Leciester City (32 pts)

Pissed off
Or pissed on...

Never have I seen Matteo so pissed off after a match, he was animated on the sidelines after being subbed out, as a substitute, within the dying minutes of the match.

"Just because we were tied, and needed a goal - does not mean that I needed to leave the match, it was ridiculous - the worst coaching decision I have ever seen."

[Matt10]

Transfer & Gold Cup time!
Is Matteo set to move, or stay put?

Let's remember, he's 28-years old now. Moving about might not be the smartest decision. Nevertheless, as always, we will go through transfers week by week - but will take it a bit slower.

Week 1 Offers: 3 Clubs

1. Newcastle United - EPL - contract renewal

• 980P (currently 600P)
• SMF/CMF position
• Rumors of Alan Curbishley sacking

2. Rangers FC - SPL - free transfer

• 980P (currently 600P)
• SMF/CMF
• UEFA Europa Best 16

3. Celtic FC - SPL - free transfer

• 920P (currently 600P)
• SMF/CMF/SS
• Not participating in UEFA

Gold Cup News: USA Coach, Claudio Reyna announces starting eleven versus Costa Rica

1. GK Brad Friedel
16. CB Jonathan Spector
3. CB Onyewu
4. RB Wynne
5. LB Bornstein
8. MF Feilhaber
17. J.F. Torres
19. MF Donovan
18. MF Kljestan
22. CF Altidore
11. CF Davies
--------------
21. CF Lam Matteo

[Matt10]

Concacaf Gold Cup: Round 1
Costa Rica v USA

0-1
Donovan 35'
-----
Caution: Bolanos (Costa Rica)

Donovan's goal enough to push USA through

Reyna praises Brad Friedel and defensive solidarity

Eric Wynalda, espn.com

It may be Claudio's team now, but the USA are in good hands when Donovan's in the lineup. It seems the man never ages - and once again bailed out his side.

Let's see if the men will show up against Mexico in the Gold Cup final next week.

Grabbed some PT
Two shots, still at midfield though

Actors often get typcasted, and it seems Matteo's role in the game is now as a midfielder. Today he was subbed on as a defensive midfielder for Klejstan.

"It's unfortunate because I want to score goals. I know my gifts are in the way I distribute the ball - but I don't have too much time left before I turn 30, it's time to make it count."

[Matt10]

Concacaf Gold Cup: Final
Mexico v USA

2-3
Altidore 12'
Sametz 35'
Sametz 47'
Feilhaber 51'
Altidore 75'
-----
Caution: Cherundulo (USA)

How Sweet it is!

USA wins Gold Cup over bitter rivals Mexico

Eric Wynalda, espn.com

Jozy Altidore to the rescue! The striker saved the day with a brilliant display. Mr. Reliable is what he's known as - and thus he proclaimed so.

Some hardware to add to some of the more inexperienced players - but then again, some of the regulars got to kiss the cup. How sweet it is!

HARDWARE!!
At long last, Matteo kisses a cup

When he was with Fulham, he never got close enough, and of course just recently with Newcastle. Tonight's match meant the world to Matteo - and he was visibly overjoyed.

"Next to my son being born - this is the happiest day of my life. Words can't express how thankful I am to those who never gave up on me. I'm so proud to be part of this team, this brilliant game."

[packersfan4eva]

This looks as sick as it's ever been, LOL @ #5 in the above picture sticking his arm through the goalie

[Matt10]

Close to a decision
Final week, Birmingham City - West Ham or Wolverhampton

The last couple of weeks have flown by - Matteo has a decision to make - he can sign an extension with newly promoted Newcastle - or join 3 Premiership teams in waiting.

The reason Matteo has not rushed to a decision with Newcastle is because there has been recent news that Alan Curbishley will not be sacked. The board believes his goals were met, even though his tactics were suspect. Matteo wants to play as a striker, and Curbishley has publicly announced that he will not play him at the desired spot.

Matteo just informed me that he has made a decision - and will announce his selection soon.

[Matt10]

Welcome back to the Prem, Matteo
Striker signs with Wolves
by Mark Schwarzer last updated 10 August 2018


Could this be the final stop for Matteo?

Lam Matteo has signed with English Premiership side, Wolverhampton Wanderers for an undiscolsed fee. The striker helped newly promoted Newcastle for the second half of the 2017 season, but due to the lack of time playing as a striker, his preferred position, Matteo opted to go on as a free agent.

"It was a tough decision to leave a team I helped promote," says the 28-year old, "But I am getting older now. I do not want to spend my time on the bench, or even unhappy."

Newcastle fans have shown their distaste of the American's behavior, saying Matteo was being "ungrateful" and "bull-headed".

Will the bull-headed Lam Matteo show something for his struggles? Let's remember what he has come back from - I'm sure the goals he will score for Wolves will be just as sweet as his first goal was when he began his career at Willem II.

[Matt10]

New Wolves boss, Owen Coyle confident over Wigan



The beginning of the 2018-2019 season is days away, and Owen Coyle has announced his starting lineup, which does not include their new star signing, Lam Matteo.

"The reason why Matteo will not dress is because he has suffered a bit of a knock earlier this morning at practice. It's a shame because I could have used the lad - but that's how it goes. I'm confident he will be ready to go in the next couple of weeks."

As for the starting eleven, Coyle has chosen to start keeper, Wayne Hennessey over American Marcus Hahnemann. Kevin Doyle will be paired as striker with Chris Iwelumo - and David Edwards starts in favor Matthew Jarvis.

GK Hennessey
CB Craddock
CB Berra
CB Zubar
SB Elokobi
CMF Henry
DMF Castillo
CMF Edwards
DMF Milijas
CF Doyle
CF Iwelumo

[Matt10]

Matteo injury worse than thought
Will miss two months due to pulled quadricep

The Newcastle fans are happy I guess because Matteo has been plagued with injury before even suiting up with the squad. I talked to him, and he is staying positive - but really wants to get out there and help his new club.

"Joining this team has been a fantastic experience. We are not doing too good with a couple of losses, and draws - but no wins to show for it. I want to help as soon as possible. At this point, I will play at any position - I'm itching to just grab my kit and hear the crowd again."

[Matt10]

Wolves still haven't scored in Premiership



When Owen Coyle began his tenure as new boss for Wolverhampton Wanderers, everyone expected a full on attack - and a buckling of the defense. However, the Wovles manager has determined to keep the goals on both ends at a minimum.

Striker Kevin Doyle has had his chances, but the physical play up front has been a topic of conversation due to Doyle's small frame.

Nevertheless, good news comes out of the West Midlands, Lam Matteo has started to do full training - and could be fit by the sixth fixture, where the Wolves host Sunderland.

Matteo has been rumored to be training as a left or right midfielder - his pace has been one that has turned some heads, and could result in more chances for Kevin Doyle and company.

Results so far:

at Wigan Athletic - L 3-0
at Wigan Athletic (FA Cup) - L 3-1
vs West Bromwich - D 0-0
at Birmingham City - D 0-0
vs Wigan Athletic (FA Cup, 2nd Leg) - L 3-4
vs Porsmouth FC - D 0-0

next match - at Bolton

Standing: currently 16/20, 3 pts

[Matt10]

All is well
Matteo suits up, on bench versus Sunderland

I just saw him - and he spoke to me briefly.

"It's good to be back - hopefully I can help us score some goals now."

[Matt10]

Fixture: 6
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Sunderland AFC

0-1
Richardson 78'
-----
Caution: None

Richardson's mazing run becomes match winner

Wolves continue to struggle offensively

Johnson Peoples, wolves.co.uk

Owen Coyle's side played a match today - actually it was a game - the game was called "whoever scores first, wins."

The Wolves even lost in that when Kieran Richardson, somehow, busted through the Wolverhampton defense like a hot knife through butter - smooth and direct. After evading tackles from what looked like every player on the team - Richardson calmly placed the ball past a diving Matt Murray to give the visitors the lead.




From there, tempers began to fly.

First defender Richard Stearman was elbowed in the back of the head by David Healy - unnoticed by the linesman and referee.

Second, substitute Lam Matteo was tackled from behind by Kieran Richardson. Richardson was not booked somehow, and to makes matters worse when Matteo got up - the Sunderland midfielder appeared to slap at the American's face.



It took three players to prevent Matteo from dealing with Richardson himself - but alas, the referee opted to use no discipline other than making the two players shake hands.

Another loss for Coyle and his men. Fans are still supportive - but how long will it last?

"This is the worst it can get - then I'm sure things will pick up before we all know it. Granted, I do want to get started on the right foot - let's hope we can start pulling out some of the victories right away."

With another loss, Wolves sit with 6 total points, and occupy 16th place. Next week Newcastle United come into town, who are not doing too good themselves - recording no wins, and only 2 points to show for it - being 19th just in front of woeful Burnley.

Debut match okay
Matteo impresses, but overlooked by fight

The bickering with Richardson is what wil be remembered from this one - I have never seen Matteo get that feisty before, but then again - noone has slapped him on the pitch.

"He deserved to be red-carded (on Richardson), it was a pretty disgraceful act, and I can't wait to play him again when I'm starting some matches."

[Matt10]

Fixture: 7
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Newcastle United

1-1
Doyle 19'
Butt 20'
-----
Caution: Lovenkrands (Newcastle)

First half goals enough for Wolves and Toon
Kevin Doyle scores team's first goal of season

Johnson Peoples, wolves.co.uk

It took a while, but the goal scoring has been cracked - and who else but Wolves best player, Kevin Doyle.

Doyle was on the other end of a cross from strike partner Andy Keogh - the ball bounced once in the penalty box and Doyle was the first to react. It was a brilliant sight to see the Wolves faithful jump up and down when the Irishman scored.



The cheering stopped abruptly however. Nicky Butt equalised on the Toon's next possession. A wayward cross by Jonas Gutierrez was matched by defender Matt Hill's header - which found Marlon Harewood in the box - Harewood's shot was saved well by Matt Murray, but the fall deflected skyward, and still in play. Butt rushed past his marker and powered the ball in the back of the net with his head.



Lam Matteo was introduced at half-time, and this time he was placed as Kevin Doyle's strike partner up top. It was as if Coyle had opted to kick Alan Curbishley in the proverbial face - stating, yes - this man can play striker.

And play Matteo did. Immediatley he had a chance that could have surely won the match. After orchestrating some fine movement - Matteo decided to shoot from outside the box.

The ball was collected by the American, and let rip a vicious shot destined for the upper corner. Unfortunately for Wolves, the ball kareemed off the underside of the crossbar - and directly into the ground, agonizingly in front of the goal-line, and spun backwards above the netting.

With a point salvaged, and a goal found, Wolves travel to Anfield next week to face a lackluster Liverpool side. But with the likes of Fernando Torres, who has four goals this season, Owen Coyle will not take the side lightly whatsoever.

"Escaping with a point will be nice. I will nickel dime Liverpool any time I can - that'sthe perogative. As much as I'd like to play us some free flowing footie, they are slightly better. We'll see what can be mustered - it should be an exciting match nonetheless.."

With another loss, Wolves sit with 6 total points, and occupy 16th place. Next week Newcastle United come into town, who are not doing too good themselves - recording no wins, and only 2 points to show for it - being 19th just in front of woeful Burnley.

Agonizing
Matteo's reuinon civil, shot was mean though

He's not exaclty known for his power - but Matteo showed that he has an goal...to score goals. Only his second match, on as a sub, you can just feel the goal coming. Let's hope Coyle continues to listent and place him in the attacking front.

"Probably the sweetest connection I've ever hit - it's just too bad there was a crossbar in the way."

[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNEy3bIGbPU"]YouTube- vnewcastlechance2018.mp4[/ame]

[Matt10]

Fixture: 8
Liverpool v Wolverhampton

1-1
Milijas 35'
Gerrard 58'
-----
Caution: Maierhofer (Wolves) Benayoun (Liverpool)

Favorable result for Wolves at Anfield
Coyle admits fault in late subs

Johnson Peoples, wolves.co.uk

Owen Coyle will take the hits as a result of not subbing any players until the 88th minute, when he brought Lam Matteo in the 1-1 draw at Anfield. However, he should not receive as much stick from either party as the Wolves grabbed a highly unlikely point today.




Oddly enough, it was Wolves who scored first, despite a complete all out attack by Liverpool - led by none other than Fernando Torres.

The attacking mindset of Liverpool proved to be their demise, as the Wolves quickly counter attacked. Without Kevin Doyle dressed due to yellow card accumulation, Andy Keogh took reign of the striking position.

Keogh received a perfectly played ball by Nenad Milijas - who continued his run on the opposide of the field. Keogh managed to free himself of Jamie Carragher's challenge, and shot on frame - destined for a goal, but the post was struck. All was not lost as Milijas scraped his way through and beat out Andrea Dossena and blasted the ball into the back of the net.



Of course with all the pressure being sustained - Wolves crumbled as Steven Gerrard found an opening on the left flank when defender Kevin Foley apparently tripped over his own boots.

Gerrard made no mistake and let off a low strike that bounced off keeper Matt Murray's legs and into the net.

The point was good enough for Coyle and his men. The Anfield faithful could be heard applauding the visitor's efforts.

"We escaped a very tough venue. I'm happy with our performance. I have to wonder what it would have been like with some fresher legs towards the end though - for that I apologize."

After this match, the Wolves begin their toughest part of the first half of the season. With a hosting to fourth place Tottenham this coming week, then Manchester United the following week, who currently sit in third behind West Ham and Chelsea. After the United match, Arsenal come into town. Arsenal are still considered a "scary" team despite their position in the table (14th).

Meh....
Not much to take away, had a good jog

Matteo was unsure if he had done something wrong - but the good thing about Coyle is that he admits his mistakes, and we'll just move on.

"No harm. I'm glad I was able to play at Anfield again. It's an incredible atmosphere - even if it was only for a minute."

[Matt10]

Fixture: 9
Wolverhampton v Tottenham

1-0
Doyle 25'
-----
Caution: None

Shocker at the Molineux
Doyle goal merits all three points for Wolves
Johnson Peoples, wolves.co.uk
The home side could be none the happier when Kevin Doyle's return was announced in the midweek papers.

They couldn't have been more ridiculously overjoyed when Doyle himself scored the goal that put the Wolves on top of Tottenham in the 25th minute of play.

Granted the goal was not the prettiest - but when you're a Wolves supporter, you will take them however they come.

Doyle managed to find space behind the tight defense of Tottenham, led by of course the likes of Jonathan Woodgate and Ledley King. However, the Irishman somehow was able to squeak by and sprinted through, before shooting for Heurelho Gomes' far post.

Unfortunately for Spurs, the ball deflected off of Woodgate and trickled past the outstretched, yet stunned, Gomes.

The all out attack theme that has been prevalent against Wolves was applied by Spurs - and Aaron Lennon had seemed to be the one giving midfielder Michael Kightly the worst trouble.

So on came veteran, and speedster, Lam Matteo. Coyle made good sense of this tactic and the American quickly shut down the elusive Lennon on several occasions.

Tottenham's last shot on goal was a dribbler by Jermaine Jenas in the 82nd minute - after that, it was possession ball by Wolves - and possess they did, resulting in a full three points - their first of the season.
"We've moved away from the dreaded spot that is the bottom two now. With a win under my belt - I am content, but we have a very tough match coming up against United next week."

Well done, sir
Matteo shows he should be starting
He may not be 100% just yet, but he definitely showcased his ability off and on the ball. Who would ever though Matteo would make a decent defender.

"I felt good today. It was nice that I could keep up with a burner like Lennon - he's very shifty and tricky, not my style."