New column on PTA - Game of two Halves

As we begin to unveil the new "column" section of PTA we begin with a "Game of two Halves". This column will focus mainly on the A-League once the season gets back into full swing, it will also comprise of articles about leagues from around the world.

New PTA writer Paul Fredrerickson is the mind behind the column. A few words from Paul:

"I am a 37 year old world football fan. I have a Bachelor of Communications. My favourite teams are the Brisbane Roar and Aston Villa but I keep an eye on most of the major leagues around the world. I want people to love the beautiful game"

Hope you enjoy the column!

And Then There Was Two: Bolton Wanderers 2 - 1 Arsenal FC

And with a simple goal in the 85th minute Arsenal FC have ensured that they go ANOTHER season without any silverware, losing 2 - 1 to Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok Stadium.

Bolton were ahead in the 38th minute after on loan striker Daniel Sturridge headed home a goal line clearance and could have been further ahead if it were not for the heroic of Arsenal's Polish keeper Wojciech Szczesny saving a Kevin Nolan penalty. Bolton were made to pay soon after as Robin van Persie equalized, making the scores 1 -1 at the Reebok.


But as has been for Arsenal's season, the Gunners suffered a cruel hammer blow as Israeli international Tamir Cohen slotted in the winning goal from a Bolton corner in the 85th minute. Cohen then received a yellow card for taking off his jersey revealing a picture of his late father.

This game surely symbolizes the end of Arsenal's title charge and any hope of silverware for a seventh season in a row, comdemning the Gunners to look on from the sidelines as Chelsea FC try and close the six point gap on leaders Manchester United with five games remaining.

It has truly become a two horse race, but the question is: can the red horse or the blue horse cross the line?

Watch highlights of the game here

Watch the goal that ended any hope of an Arsenal FC title charge here

By Marcel Abboud

Special 1 TV - Wayne's Redemption

For your weekly comedic take on all things football. Join Jose Mourinho, Wayne Rooney and the crew at Special 1 TV.

Here is this weeks episode

Olympique de Marseille 1 - 0 Montpellier HSC (Coupe de la Ligue Final)

French side Olympique de Marseille became the first side in French footballing history to successfully retain the Coupe de la Ligue after beating Montepillier 1 - 0 at the Stade de France.


In a mostly scrappy and tight affair, chances were few and far between for both sides. It wasn't until ten minutes from time that Nigerian international defender Taye Taiwo managed to strike a rare right footed shot, following a very spotty and poor clearance following a free kick from the Montepiller defense.

Taiwo's strike has written I'OM into the French footballing history books, making them the first side to retain the Coupe de la Ligue successfully after beating Bordeaux 3–1 in last season's edition.

Watch Taiwo of I'OM secure historic win here



By Marcel Abboud

Video - Highlights from Valencia vs Real Madrid

Real Madrid have turned on the style to back up their 1-0 vicotry over Barcelona, comprehensively defeating Valencia 6-3 to highlight the gap between second and third in the La Liga.

Higuain has been playing for just a few games since returning from injury and the Argentinian marked his return by scoring three goals in the victory.

Kaka also added to the goal fest. Benzema also got in on the action scoring the first goal in the match. Valencia still sit third, six points ahead of Villarreal but a staggering 17 points behind second.

Check out the highlights below!

Video - Highlights from Chelsea vs West Ham

Fernand Torres has finally broken his goal drought scoring in Chelsea's 3-0 win against West Ham at a rain soaked Stamford Bridge. Torres' strike came in the 82nd minute.

Chelsea secure secnd place six points behind Manchester United who defeated Everton 1-0. Arsenal are yet to play and could close the gap to Chelsea once again.

Check out the highlights below

Happy Easter from PTA

On behalf of all of the writers at PTA we would like to wish you a happy Easter. We hope you enjoy it with your family and friends.

We hope to continue bringing you football news throughout the year, there are matches on this weekend so enjoy them along with your chocolate!

Cheers

PTA

Arsenal to go on a spending spree, after falling short yet again

Arsenal have long been identified a team who can win the Premier League. The side has been the home of countless big name players in the past. In 2010/2011, Arsenal put together a young side, with Jack Wilshere being the player who benefited most from this.It all seemed to be going well for Arsenal, who were just a few points of United with a game in hand. However draws with Tottenham and Liverpool saw the Londoners drop down to third place where they now sit.

It would appear to rival supporters that Arsenal cannot handle the pressure of the Premier League. Yet coach Arsene Wenger believes he has found the issue behind Arsenal's end of season downfalls. A lack of player experience may be the issue and with a 40 Million Dollar budget behind him Arsenal may just be on the verge of bringing some big name players to the Emirates.

The talk of a world class centre back along with a new keeper may just inspire Arsenal to a title ahead of United, Chelsea and Liverpool. A combination of Arsenal's young talent, and the experience of a few worldclass players would surely boost team morale and player development. Rumours have Buffon in the sights of Wenger as well as Pepe of Madrid. But this is merely speculation.

What is for certain though is that Arsenal need to address an issue if they are to once again win titles. Be it domestic or internationally!