I thought about altering a previous post of yours in this thread stating exactly this but got distracted. Then I read this. Too predictable.
Samir Nasri, 23, and Gareth Bale, 21, aren't exactly having bad seasons. Great to see Coyle's Bolton, with their newfound zip and pizzazz and positivity, stick it to Allardyce and his anti-soccer in particular.
I read somebody call it a lucky strike on a rival's board. If that's lucky than what was Kuyt's klutzy muffed shot which caromed in yesterday against Newcastle? That was the opposite of lucky by Stu. Controlled chest down on the run and then between two players place a volley in the near corner with his off foot. Lucky strike - nah - he just smokin' right now. Same with Bolton. They Holden's heroes.
Yeah, 1 of those 2 would be the winners. I mean for my money they're 1 and 2 for POY in the PL. But Stu is at least on the fringes for Best XI this season. He's been that good on a grander scale. If you think about it, at this point he's probably the best player, on a team has surprised (most people at least, but not myself) in being on a top 5 pace when the lad has been allowed to play. That makes him seriously in the discussion for Best XI alone. Has a non hand using American ever been selected? Doubtful.
Not loading for me. Video of goals: http://watchsocceronline.blogspot.com/2010/12/holden-scores-game-winner-in-return-for.html
The BBC's Jonathan Stevenson writes: In an average season quality-wise, tell me why Stuart Holden shouldn't have a shout at being nominated for player of the year? http://twitter.com/#!/Stevo_football/status/13976544951144448
Stuart plays better when Muamba is the more defensive midfielder. Bolton plays better when those two are together in central midfield. I thought the first half was an OK performance, and he got stronger as the game went on. Without the goal he probably rates a 7. With it, he rates an 8 and possibly 9, and he will likely be man of the match.
Sweet goal. Gotta lovw the energy of the run late in the match. Also, great understanding between Stu and Davies. Stu was running on for that flick without hesitation knowing that Davies is going to win that header almost every time. Great finish. Muamba and Stu are the midfield combination - no doubt.
Holden rated an 8 for an "all-action display," and he also leads the fan ratings. Great match, a continued great story.
Skysports gives Holden an 8, and MOTM. "The American capped a superb all-round display with a brilliant winning goal."
That should be Holden's 5th or so goal of the season to add to his case for winning league wide awards. Americans have screwed him out of a couple when he played Everton and Villa. He's exhibited goal scoring caliber instincts and finishing for a DM in the league. It's about time it's started getting reflected in his numbers. That's all that some cats respond to, unfortunately.
Wow, that finish was pretty brilliant. And the football tackle/make out celebration was pretty cool as well.