in the footsteps of a Supremo

Pirlio and Xavi: midfield masters
Spain are boring and Italy play catennacio?
Either people do not appreciate football, do not underestand football, or  have sour grapes.

We cannot let our Final preview go without being tempted to delve into a historical analogy in describing what awaits Jason (56), our leader and possibly, soon to be Euro Supremo. It is going to be a big call by the man from the Gong to make for Monday morning’s final. Will he go with Italy and see off the challenge from Nestor (53) who has been on a role with the Italians, and by doing so risk exposing his opposite flank to Luke (53), and possibly Jeremy (52) sneaking in? Or will he play his hand with a defensive move and call it a draw.

Iniesta - Spain's magician escapologist

The Great King of Persia once offered a young king from the west, who was a threat, the western half of his great empire together with his daughter’s hand in marriage. The young king’s general, Parmenio, told the young man to consolidate his success and accept the generous offer.

“So would I, if I were Parmenio” said the young king, “but because I am Alexander, I will send Darius a different answer”. Arrian, Campaigns of Alexander 2.25.

You have made a big call Jason and it promises be a great morning of football. So here is what the Top 6 have gone with for the Final.


1. Jason (56):   Spain 2 -0
2. Luke (53):    Spain 1-0
3. Nestor (53):  Italy 2 -0
4. Jeremy (52): Spain 1-0
5. H Potter (49): 1- 1
6. Yianni (48): Italy 3-0

Prandelli has restored pride and power to Italy

On the Incentive Finalist prize front, since both Stylianos and Nestor have gone for an Italian victory they have agreed to add an extra spice for the final. He who correctly predicts the score will be the outright winner. 
Stylianos: Italy 1 Spain 0    Nestor: Italy 2  Spain 0

Good luck to everyone regardless of their predicament, and their quest to beating a Mate or, avoiding the bottom.

Final