Weekend Watch: Take a Peek

By: Bob | October 19th, 2007

After a weekend of watching the lads play for pride of country, it is back to the real world. In this case the real world means strapping on the boots and fighting it out for pride of city, pride of religion, and playoff pride. We have a big weekend in store with derbies galore and games with just a wee bit of importance. Here’s a random sample of what is on the menu.

Saturday

Everton v Liverpool – Their stadiums are right across the street from one another. The results on the pitch are almost as close. Liverpool lead the Merseyside Derby with 77 wins, 62 draws and 64 losses in all competitions.

Rangers v Celtic – The Old Firm. Nuff said.

Dallas v Kansas City – How is it possible that Kansas City enters its final game of the season and is not assured of a playoff spot? For about 20 seconds earlier this season I thought the Wizards looked like world beaters. A win on the road assures they are in the final eight. Anything less will lead to some fingernail chewing times for their fans.

Roma v Napoli- It has been a few years since we’ve witnessed the Derby del Sud and it might be a few more years before the ultras for both clubs are allowed to see it in person.

Hamburg SV v Stuttgart – The league holders Stuttgart are hoping that the international break will help them turn their fortunes around. They are currently in 12th place in the Bundesliga and will have their work cut out for them on the road against dangerous Hamburg.

Espanyol v Real Madrid – Things have gone just swimmingly for Real Madrid up to this point in La Liga. They have conceded just three goals in seven league games and they have yet to taste defeat. Today they face Espanyol, who are off to a good start as well. Barcelona and Villareal is your other big match in Spain this week.

Sunday

Marseille v Lens – A pair of big clubs who have struggled to achieve form in Ligue 1 thus far. Marseille are first in their Champions League group but in the drop zone in France. Lens are just a few points above in the table.

Austria Vienna v Rapid Vienna – This Derby dates back to 1911 with Rapid holding the slight advantage. This year it is Austria Vienna who are on top of the table and looking to increase their lead over their rivals at the cleverly named Horr Stadium.

Chicago v Los Angeles – Good God is this a weekend to be an MLS fan. The atmosphere should be awesome in the Second City as a pair of teams that haven’t lost in seven games fight to keep their seasons alive.

Know of a game that we should follow or be excited about? Feel free to hype it in the comments.