I’m Baaaack!!

By: kevin | September 24th, 2007

Excuse my absence from the post, I have been in a coma since that Euro08 qualifying draw between France and Italy. The medical team determined that it was the boring, drawn out football that was stagnating my brain. Please, no more Euro qualifying. I cannot take the pointless premise of the whole thing. It might be the end of me, next time that is.

Anyway, let’s get on with the important things in life: Palermo football and rumors. Palermo opened their UEFA campaign with a victory over Czech club Mlada Boleslav. The game itself was rather unentertaining until the final moments when Jankovic notched the winner. Nevertheless, the win is very important for a few reasons. First, the return leg comes back to Palermo. A draw is only necessary to advance now. Further, key players such as Barzagli and Amauri can be rested for the important league fixtures. Secondly, Palermo needs a good showing in this UEFA Cup. Last year, it was apparent that the club was not prepared for the dual scheduling of league and cup. If they do qualify for Champions league this year, they need the experience of the UEFA Cup to have a chance to propel themselves past the group stages next year.

Palermo traveled to Sardinia this past Sunday to encounter a hot Cagliari squad. The game was hotly contested and exciting. Zaccardo’s first half goal was the difference in the 1-0 victory. Fontana played a brilliant game again as he was constantly peppered with shots. (Man, am I eating my words with him) In all fairness, Palermo was lucky to get the 3 points because a draw was the deserved result. Getting those types of points is what separates mid-table teams from the top. The Rosanero don’t get much of a break this week as they have a midweek battle against struggling Milan. I have mixed feelings on this matchup. Are we facing Milan at the right time or the wrong time? Will we get a still struggling team or the awakened giant that they can be? The other factor is that they are coming home to the Renzo Barbera. Including the UEFA draw, Palermo is 0-1-1 at home and 3-0-0 as the visiting team. It’s time to protect your pitch, men!

Even though the transfer window is closed, Palermo is still a hotbed for gossip and rumors. Bresciano is still dreaming of Manchester while playing for Palermo. Here’s my view. Shut up and play you spoiled, bald baby! Until you stop cashing checks with Zampa’s signature, keep your mouth shut and play for the front of the jersey, not the back. Phew, I feel a little better now.

Zampa has stated that Amauri may only rock the pink jersey for a few more months. After announcing his love for him, he regrettably states that a larger club will presumably swoop him up. Not so fast, according to Amauri. Enamored by Zampa’s praise, a Champions League spot might be enough to keep him. And now to my soapbox topic of the day, month, and year. This is most important year for Palermo Calcio since being promoted back to Serie A. It is truly a make or break year for the current Sicilian giants. Qualify for the Champions League, or lose the stars of our team. Say goodbye to Barzagli, Amauri, Zaccardo, and probably Miccoli. What does that leave us with? Livorno. If you have the slightest ounce of pride for Palermo, this is the year to support the club with everything you have. Buy their apparel, watch their games, announce your loyalty, but most importantly, drink the kool aid!! We need a top four finish, they need our support!