2012 - A Year for F1 Fans to Cherish

Six races into the 2012 Formula One World Championship, and it is already shaping up to be an all time classic. The six races have presented us with six different race winners, and it really is set to be a season for fans of the sport to cherish.

Schumacher - Dominant in Early 2000s

Growing up, my distinct memories of Formula One consisted of Michael Schumacher in his Ferrari seeming to win almost every race, with his team mate Rubens Barrichelo occasionally springing a surprise to win if the German happened to encounter problems. From the 2000 season through to 2004, all 5 F1 World titles went to the dominant Schumacher. The Ferrari man really was that dominant, with 2002 wielding 17 podiums in as many races including 11 wins, before 13 wins and 15 podiums in 18 attempts two years later.

Even since Schumacher's initial retirement, two or three drivers have dominated each season, with two constructors fighting for the title each year. From the Brawn GP dominance in 2009 to the recent Red Bull brilliance culminating in 11 wins and 17 podiums for Sebastian Vettel last season, it really has been a case of 2-4 drivers fighting for the Championship with the remaining 20 aiming to occupy those places behind them.

Yet in 2012, it all seems so different, and that has been summed up perfectly by the fact that six men have already climbed the top step of the podium. Already a third of the way through the season, and the front runners are yet to be truly established, with just 3 points separating the top 3 and only 47 points between leader Fernando Alonso and 9th placed Columbian Pastor Maldonado.

Alonso - Looking comfortable

Leading the way on 76 points is Spaniard Fernando Alonso in his Ferrari, and after a turbulent few years the Italian manufacturer really do look to have developed a car capable of taking glory. Although Felipe Massa has had a real struggle thus far, in this car Alonso looks as at home as he ever has been since his glorious championship-winning seasons with Renault in 2005 and 2006. After victory in Malaysia, Alonso has put in consistent qualifying displays and had good race pace, scoring top tens in each of the 6 rounds so far.

Red Bull - Still in the Hunt

Tied in second are Red Bull team-mates Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber. Both have one win apiece and have consistently been in the hunt, with top ten finishes on all but one occasion each for both drivers. However, the Ferrari-powered cars really do not appear to have the speed that they have done in previous years, and a lot of mid-season works needs to be done to keep them in with a shot of the title.

Hamilton - Still without a win

One driver still without a win is 2008 World Champion Lewis Hamilton, and although he has since slipped down to 4th, he is still in contention. A string of costly errors, especially at pit stops, have cost the Mclaren team on a number occasions, but there are very positive signs for Hamilton to take away. In qualifying, the Brit has really looked strong, with top two placings on the grid in each of the first five races, although the last of those was taken away after he ran out of fuel on the in-lap. Thus far, Hamilton and Mclaren have struggled to match that pace come race day, although they have finished in the top 8 in every race, but if they can transfer their qualifying performances to the races, and improve their strategies, then they will certainly be tough to beat.

Button - Struggling in Qualifying

Team-mate Jensen Button, the first of our 2012 winners, has been going backwards since that great run in Australia. Button has so far struggled to get the best out of the car, and has openly admitted that he is not running as he would like. Qualifying has been a real issue, with the British man failing to make Q3 on the last 2 occasions. Unlike partner Hamilton, he has looked better when it has come to race day, and that bodes well for the remainder of the season if they can improve on qualifying. Although it hasn't all gone their way so far, you certainly feel that there is a lot more to come from Mclaren duo Hamilton and Button as the season progresses.

Rosberg - Maiden win in China

Yet away from those three main teams, there have been a host of others battling it out to mix it at the top. Mercedes have been one of those teams, and German Nico Rosberg has produced a host of consistent performances, topped off by a superb win in China. Currently in fifth, Rosberg has recovered from a disappointing start to bag 2 podiums in the last 4 races, with solid 5th and 7th places in between to keep him in the hunt. Meanwhile, team-mate Michael Schumacher has also displayed good pace, including a pole position in Monaco, but a wealth of very bad luck has struck him throughout the opening races to leave him on only two points, with four retirements so far.

Raikkonen - Consistent performer

Although winless in 2012 so far, Lotus have perhaps been the surprise team of this campaign. Since being lured out of retirement, former World Champion Kimi Raikkonen has looked very solid indeed, even if not spectacular. Consecutive podiums in Bahrain and Spain have added to his 5 top tens out of 6, and sixth place in the Championship and only 25 points behind, the Finn is poised to make a move in a car which has come together nicely after extensive winter work.

Grosjean - Costly Retirements

Team-mate Romain Grosjean has possibly looked even quicker than Raikkonen, and his 8th place position really does not tell the whole story. In qualifying, the Frenchman has appeared to be one of the quickest cars out there, with 6 Q3 appearances out of 6th, and trio of top 5 starts. However, much like Schumacher, Grosjean has been riddled with misfortune, with three retirements already caused by early incidents. When he has got through the opening stages though, Grosjean has been impressive, with top 6 finishes on each of those occasions, including a podium in Bahrain. Although unlikely to recover enough to challenge for the title, if Grosjean is winless by the end of the campaign I will be very surprised.

Maldonado - Shock Spain Win

The last 2012 race winner to look at is Williams driver Paster Maldonado, who reigned supreme in Spain recently. The emergence of Maldonado has been outstanding, and his overtaking and racing abilities have been a joy to watch so far. His style has cost him though, with 4 crashes meaning he lies down in ninth. However, with more experience all the time, the 2010 GP2 champion will be a regular top 8 finisher before the season is out in my opinion. Team-mate Bruno Senna has also looked decent to me, and although he has been in the shadow of his team-mate a little, if he fails to grab a maiden podium before the end of 2012 I will be surprised.



One driver who went ever so close to a first win was Mexican Sergio Perez. His second place in Malaysia in the Sauber indicated that he is another capable of mixing it with the best to take podiums, and that adds yet more competition to this season.

In the end, I think Hamilton, Alonso, Vettel and Webber will emerge as the clear top four. Nonetheless, Button and Raikkonen are both capable of challenging that prediction, and the presence of so many potential race winners makes this season one of the most intriguing in recent memory. Unlike previous years, I find it hard to envisage any one driver climbing the top step of the podium on more than 4 occasions. As I see it, there are about 10 drivers with good cars and capable of winning races, and although the bigger teams such as Mclaren, Red Bull and Ferrari will probably come strong with mid-season developments, the emergence of Mercedes, Lotus, Williams and Sauber is intriguing to watch.

With everything so delicately poised at this stage of the season, I really do urge Grand Prix fans to embrace this year of fantastic Grand Prix racing. With the competition they have unexpectedly faced, Red Bull, Mclaren and Ferrari will be using their finances to already build for next season to get a step ahead, and as a consequence a year like this one may not appear again for a fair few years. So sit back, relax, and watch things unfold between now and November before we crown the 2012 Formula One World Champion in Brazil on 25th November, as I am sure further thrills and spill, twists and turns will follow, especially with so many people in the hunt.

Looking Ahead:- Lions in Australia 2013

In around 16 months’ time, rugby's finest players from England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales will not be pitting their wits against one another, but instead they will be joining forces. Yes, you've guessed it, in June 2013 the British and Irish Lions will be heading across the world to Australia for their latest tour. 

With the international rugby scene in full flow as the 2012 Six Nations take place, I got thinking: how will the Lions be lining up come their first test match against the Wallabies next year? A wealth of young British talent appears to be bursting onto the rugby scene; so just which players will be boarding to plane in 16 months’ time? Here is my position by position guide on how the Lions may well look.

PROPS:

Through the current Six Nations we have seen a wealth of excellent scrummaging on display. For England, Alex Corbisiero has been impressive, and appears to be improving all the time. At the tender age of just 23, Corbisiero is likely to be challenging for a spot on the Lions tour across the next year, whilst teammate Dan Coles is also a very capable scrummager. Meanwhile, 24 year old Ireland prop Cian Healy is a player who I rate highly, and I am sure he will be one of the first names on the Lions team sheet by the time 2013 comes around. Irish teammate Mike Ross has also looked good in the Six Nations so far and is sure to stake a claim for Lions selection. Wales man Gethin Jenkins is a very well regarded front row man, and if he can put his bad run of injuries behind him he will be another favourite to travel Down Under. Adam Jones will be aiming to go on his second Lions tour, whilst 25 year old compatriot Rhys Gill could be an outside shot for the tour after breaking into the Welsh side.

 

Starting Loose Head

Gethin Jenkins:- Just edges in ahead of the England duo mainly to because of his experience.

Starting Tight Head

Cian Healy:- A bright talent, excellent in scrums and at the breakdown.

Squad Member(s):- Alex Corbisiero and Dan Coles

HOOKER:

Hooker is another position which is likely to see fierce competition. Wales man Matthew Rees, who toured with the Lions in 2009, is an excellent player, but after a shocking run of injuries it remains to be seen whether Rees will be able to make a return to his past form once he comes back from injury. Ireland are a team who excellent in the line out, with hooker Rory Best, who is also superb in open play for a hooker, playing a major role in their success. Best is sure to be a favourite for the Lions starting spot. Meanwhile, Scotland’s Mike Ross has toured with Lions before and is certainly capable of being selected again. Dylan Hartley has now cemented a spot in the England line-up and will also fancy his chances of getting a call-up should he maintain his performance levels for another year.

 

Starting Hooker

Rory Best:- His skills in open play give him the edge as they will add a different dimension to the Lions’ play.

Squad Member(s):- Dylan Hartley

SECOND ROW

Where better to start the second row analysis than with Ireland duo Donncha O’Callaghan and 2009 Lions skipper Paul O’Connell. Both have a wealth of experience and their formidable line out skills have been invaluable to Ireland in recent years. Wales lock Alun-Wyn Jones is also a superb line-out jumper, and he will be aiming to be selected for the Lions again this time around. Compatriot Bradley Davies is a player I rate very highly, and his powerful ball carrying could give the Lions a different dimension to their forward play. Meanwhile, 6ft 10inch giant Richie Gray has burst onto the scene for Scotland, and will be almost certain to make his Lions bow in Australia should he remain fit. Courtney Lawes of England is also a supremely talented youngster who may well be able to do enough to earn a place on the plane over the next 16 months.

 

Starting Second Rows

Richie Gray:- Outstanding talent, powerful runner and superb lineout jumper.

                                      

Paul O'Connell:- Great leader on the pitch and unbeatable when going up for line-outs. Also my tip to captain the Lions once again.

Squad Member(s):- Donncha O’Callaghan and Alun Wyn Jones

FLANKERS

At the back row of the scrum the British and Irish Lions also have a wealth of talent at their disposal. Ireland back row pairing Sean O’Brien and Stephen Ferris are very talented and could definitely do a job for the Lions if called upon. England captain Chris Robshaw is also an excellent flanker and at the age of only 25 he will only get better. Meanwhile, Wales possess arguably the best back row in world rugby at the moment. Sam Warburton must be a shoe in for the line-up, with his sublime tackling ability making him one of the greatest players in the world at the age of just 23 I am backing Warburton to carve out a reputation as one of the best players ever to grace the sport. Wales back row partner Dan Lydiate is also proving to be more than capable on the international stage, and his reliable tackling will see him certainly in the thoughts of the Lions selectors.

Starting Openside Flanker

Sam Warburton:- Quite incredible rugby player. Makes try saving tackles and probably the best in the world at the break down. Will bring numerous turnovers to the team.

Starting Blindside Flanker

Dan Lydiate:- Another who is a very consistent tackler and is good at the breakdown. Also powerful runner.

Squad Member(s):- Chris Robshaw and Sean O’Brien

NUMBER EIGHT

Completing the forward pack for the British and Irish Lions will be the number 8, and it looks likely to me to be a two man fight for the starting jersey. Ireland’s Jamie Heaslip offers powerful hand offs and offloads with ball in hand, and would be an excellent player. Meanwhile, Tongan born Welsh 8 Toby Faletau has made a huge impression on the international stage over the past year. Faletau is possibly the most reliable tackler in the world at the moment, whilst his ability to pull off defence-splitting offloads would make him a key man for the Lions. At the age of just 21, Faletau is only going to get better as well.

 

Starting Number 8

Toby Faletau:- Wonderful tackler and offers valuable carries for short gain over the game line. Completes an all Wales back row.

Squad Member(s):- Jamie Heaslip

SCRUM HALF

Who will be the half back linking together all of the Lions play come the Australia tour in 2013? A host of names will be fighting for the number 9 jersey, and where better to start than Wales man Mike Phillips. Phillips’ strong ball carrying and quick play has seen him cemented in the Wales side for some time, and after impressing with the Lions in South Africa in 2009 he will be likely to travel Down Under in 2013. New Ireland scrum half Conor Murray is another who has impressed me greatly over the Six Nations so far, and if he can sustain this form over the coming year I would certainly back him to be travelling to Oz. However, England man Ben Youngs offers good, quick ball and is showing great potential which could see him catch the eyes of the selectors for the tour.

Starting Scrum Half

Mike Phillips:- Strong runner and gets good quick ball. Able to spot small gaps and power through but also makes good decisions.

Squad Member(s):- Conor Murray

FLY HALF

There is arguably more talent battling for that elusive number 10 jersey than for any other position, with a number of players aiming to be on the plane to Australia next summer. Saracens youngster Owen Farrell has just broken into the England squad, and if he can continue to transfer his impress club form he may be able to force his way into Lions contention. Wales’ Rhys Priestland is also an excellent talent, especially with ball in hand, although poor goal kicking does let him down. Meanwhile, Jonathan Sexton appears to be winning the battle to beat Ronan O’Gara to the Ireland 10 jersey, and with more game time under his belt Sexton is likely to be a real star by the time 2013 arrives. An outside shot for the Lions tour could be Scotland’s Ruaridh Jackson, who is likely to improve greatly once he returns from injury now Dan Parks has retired from international duty.

Starting Fly-Half

Jonathan Sexton:- Superb with ball in hand but also an excellent kicker both tactically and when going for goal.

Squad Member(s):- Rhys Priestland and Owen Farrell

CENTRE:

There is also likely to be tough decisions for the Lions selectors in the Midfield, with about 8 players vying for the 12 and 13 jerseys. 2009 Lions player of the tour Jamie Roberts remains a crucial part of the Wales team and is likely to be a part of the Lions setup again, whilst Welsh partner Jonathan Davies could also be in contention. Ireland youngster Fergus McFadden is a player I highly rate and who I back to at least travel to Australia, but veteran compatriot Brian O’Driscoll will probably be a year too old to go on his 4^th Lions tour. Giant England centre Manu Tuilagi could form a daunting centre partnership with Jamie Roberts, whilst if Saracens Brad Barritt can maintain the form he has shown in this year’s Six Nations then he could be a surprise Lions inclusion. Finally, Scotland’s Joe Ansboro, although absent from the current Six Nations campaign, is a huge talent who will also be in contention if he gets a good run of international games under his belt and remains injury-free.

 

Starting Inside Centre

Jamie Roberts:- Magnificent at crash ball. Powers through tacklers and offers brilliant angles of running.

Starting Outside Centre

Manu Tuilagi:- Will form a formidable partnership with Roberts to strike fear into any defence. Along with his power, also very quick and can offload well to allow his wingers to burst through.

Squad Member(s):- Fergus McFadden and Jonathan Davies

WING

When it comes down to winning games in Australia next summer, tries will be key, and a number of players will be competing to be the finishers out wide for the Lions side. Where better to start the rundown of British wingers than with Welsh teenage sensation George North. At the age of just 19, North has burst onto the international scene with his powerful line breaks and clinical finishing, and after another year of experience before the Lions tour, Australia could be the beginning of a journey that will culminate in North becoming one of the Lions’ greats. England’s Rugby League convert Chris Ashton is another who will be looking to book a place on his first Lions tour, and his try-scoring abilities are likely to see him get the nod. Ireland have possibly the best pair of wingers of all the British teams, and both will be challenging for places on the tour. Tommy Bowe excelled in South Africa and offers superb angles of running, whilst young compatriot Keith Earls is another great talent. One player who could mount a late challenge for a Lions place is Welsh wing Alex Cuthbert, although I fear 2013 may come a year or two too early.

 

Starting Left Wing

Tommy Bowe:- Knows how to score tries and that is so valuable. Can skip past tacklers and offload well if needed.

Starting Right Wing

George North:- Powerhouse winger who will batter his way over many trylines Down Under. Also a strong tackler in defence.

Squad Member(s):- Keith Earls and Chris Ashton

FULL BACK

The final Lions spot will be the full-back, but there is still a large queue of players waiting to prove their worth. Wales’ Leigh Halfpenny now seems to have been converted to full-back, where he has been outstanding in the Six Nations so far, whilst his versatility in the back line would make him a perfect candidate for the Lions tour. England man Ben Foden has also established himself in the England set up and is a very good player who will want to feature for the Lions for the first time. Meanwhile, Ireland full-back Rob Kearney is also a superb player with brilliant breakaway skills, and he will also want to travel with the Lions again as he did in 2009.

Starting Full Back

Ben Foden:- A very good tactical kicker and also able to exploit gaps in the defence when he joins in attacks.

Squad Member(s):- Rob Kearney and Leigh Halfpenny

My 2013 British and Irish Lions starting line-up:

2012 Speedway Grand Prix Preview

After veteran Greg Hancock’s stunning World Championship last year, the 2012 Grand Prix campaign is set to be an intriguing spectacle. The younger generation are sure to be battling to end the dominance that the likes of Tomasz Gollob, Greg Hancock and Jason Crump have held on the World stage for so long. Riders such as Emil Sayfutdinov, Jaroslaw Hampel and Andreas Jonsson could well be challenging for the title, but the old guard will certainly not give up their medal places without a fight. In just over 50 days’ time, the series gets underway in Auckland, New Zealand as the Grand Prix heads to the Southern Hemisphere for the first time. After tackling the fast Western Springs track, these 15 riders will battle it out over a further 11 rounds, climaxing on the 6^th October in Torun, Poland where the 2012 Speedway World Champion will be crowned. Here is my guide to the 15 men who will be battling it out for that elusive crown.

#15 Hans Andersen

After a 2 year absence from the GP series, Dane Hans Andersen returns as a wildcard after a series of riders declined invites to the series to allow them to ride in the big-money Polish Ekstraliga. After finishing in the top 6 for three seasons running between 2006 and 2008, Hans Andersen fell out of the Grand Prix’s after enduring a disappointing few years of form. However, Hans looked slightly improved in 2011, and now he has a second chance Hans will be keen to prove he is still able to compete with the best riders the world has to offer. However, although he may have a couple of good GP’s, in general Hans is likely to struggle to reach semi-finals, and as a result I fail to see him offering any real top 8 challenge that would secure him a place in next year’s series.

PREDICTED FINISH: 12th

                                 #14 Peter Ljung

Much like Hans Andersen, Swede Peter Ljung takes up a place in the series due to the many riders who turned down offers to race in the Grand Prix’s. I, like many, am shocked to see Ljung as a full-time GP rider, and believe he is set for a long and hard season. Ljung made it to the series based on a fifth place finish in the GP Challenge at his Swedish home track, a position which proved enough for qualification after three of the riders above him turned down their places in preference of Polish Ekstraliga racing. Nonetheless, I think Ljung simply lacks the ability to compete with the calibre of riders he will be up against in the Grand Prix’s, and any semi-final appearances will surely be seen as a success. Ljung will certainly find the going very tough indeed.

                                          PREDICTED FINISH: 15th

#13 Bjarne Pedersen

After finishing as runner-up in the GP Challenge, 33 year old Bjarne Pedersen returns for his 7^th Grand Prix campaign after being absent from the series for 3 seasons. Despite spending six seasons in the Grand Prix previously, Pedersen has never really been convincing. Now, 3 years on I do not believe Bjarne Pedersen is be likely to do any better than he has previously. Against riders such as Gollob and Crump, Pedersen’s gate and go style is simply not enough to gain substantial points. As a consequence, Pedersen will struggle and although he should earn consistent points, he will not get enough semi-finals appearances to succeed.

PREDICTED FINISH: 14^th

#12 Antonio Lindback

Lindback returns to the Grand Prix series via the GP Challenge hoping to improve upon a decent 2011 campaign which saw him finish in 12^th place. As the season went on, Lindback looked more comfortable, and will be looking to be up to speed from the start this time. Also, we saw on many occasions Lindback winning his opening ride before struggling later on in meetings. If Lindback can correct this problem, then the Swede will be able to do well. However, the consistency for Lindback remains a problem that I don’t believe he will be able to conquer.

PREDICTED FINISH: 13^th

#11 Chris Harris

Bomber endured an extremely disappointing 2011 season and will be desperate to improve this time around after being granted a wildcard. One thing that can be guaranteed is that Harris will give 110% every time he takes to the track, and I predict his poor form won’t continue this year. However, against a very strong set of riders I just do not think Chris has the natural talent to break back into the top 8, although he will certainly not be far off. Bomber is likely to make a couple of finals, although he is equally likely to endure 1 or 2 nightmare meetings of less than 4 points. Harris’ inconsistency will cost him a top 8 finish in my opinion.

PREDICTED FINISH: 10^th

                                 #10 Nicki Pedersen

Nicki Pedersen really is one of the true characters of the speedway world, and for that reason alone it is no shock he was handed a wildcard for the 2012 Grand Prix’s. Aside from that though, Nicki is a superb rider, and after a season of frustration last time out he will be sure to be fighting to prove he can get back to his best. Unfortunately, at 34 Nicki is not getting any younger and I fear his best days are behind him. After many big falls as a result of his pushing the limits style, Pedersen may not be able to return to the form that has won him 3 World Championships. Although I expect at least one GP win and some slight improvement on last year, I think Nicki’s crashes may be catching up with him and he will just miss out on a top 8 finish yet again. 

                                          PREDICTED FINISH: 9^th

#9 Fredrik Lindgren

Freddie Lindgren is perhaps lucky to be in the GP Series this year. After failing to finish in the top 8 in each of his 4 Grand Prix seasons, many felt Lindgren did not deserve another chance. However, Freddie’s natural talent has obviously been recognised by the BSI and he lines up again hoping to improve on his 2011 9^th place finish. I think this may well be the year where Lindgren finally wins his first Grand Prix, and from there I expect him to go from strength to strength. Although challenging for the medals is probably out of his reach, I predict great improvement from Lindgren, leading to him breaking into the world’s top 8 for the first time.

PREDICTED FINISH: 7^th

#8 Chris Holder

At just 24 years of age and already embarking on his 3^rd Grand Prix series, Aussie Chris Holder really is one of the rising stars of world speedway. After reaching the top 8 at just the second attempt in 2011, this is now a big year for Chris. Last year, Holder’s consistency really did stand out. Not once did Chris scores less than 6 points, and as he now improves Holder is more and more capable of big scores. If this consistency remains, it will be an excellent base to allow improvement on last season, should the Australian Champion make the 5 finals I predict he will.

                                         PREDICTED FINISH 6^th

#7 Kenneth Bjerre

In the last couple of years, Kenneth Bjerre has proved he can compete with the very best the world has to offer. However, with his gate and go style I do not feel this success will last. Sooner or later, Bjerre’s inability to win points from behind will cost him, and I think this may be the year it happens. I predict a very tough year for Bjerre that will see him slip out of the top 8. I can’t help but feel Bjerre is overachieving at the moment, and this will be the year Bjerre slips back to a position which I feel suits his ability.

PREDICTED FINISH: 11^th

#6 Emil Sayfutdinov

Since bursting onto the Grand Prix scene in 2009, young Russian Emil Sayfutdinov has certainly experienced an eventful couple of years. However, after an injury ravaged 2010 Sayfutdinov showed signs of a return to his 2009 form last year. Sayfutdinov was very consistent last year, and the only thing really lacking was a few big scores. Yet with his sublime natural talent, Emil should be able to hit some big scores. This year, Emil will really show us his capabilities, and I think after at least 2 GP wins the Russian will be challenging for the World title right into the last meeting in Torun on the 6^th October.

                                          PREDICTED FINISH: 2^nd

#5 Tomasz Gollob

2010 World Champion and speedway great Tomasz Gollob had a disappointing 2011 by his high standards. Now, at the age of 40 I cannot see the legendary Pole returning to his title-challenging best. Age is certainly not on his side, and Gollob may well be fighting just to secure a top 8 finish this time around, in my opinion. I think Gollob will start the season well, but as the meetings tally up and his age catches up with him, Tomasz will slip back and fade more and more as the season goes on.

PREDICTED FINISH: 8^rd

#4 Jason Crump

Aussie Jason Crump was up there challenging for the title yet again last year as he has been for so long, and I expect this year to be no different. Nonetheless, with riders such as Sayfutdinov, Hampel and Jonsson now having one year more experience, I do not think Crump quite has what it takes to win a 4^th World Title. Although Crump will win a Grand Prix and make a few finals, I think he will fall just short of a medal position, but finishing in the top 8 and qualifying for 2013 will be no problem at all for Crump.

PREDICTED FINISH 4^th

#3 Jaroslaw Hampel

After returning to the Grand Prix stage in 2009, Pole Jarek Hampel has appeared a completely different rider than the one which looked off the pace back in the 2007 series. After proving he has the consistency to do well in the Grand Prix’s I believe this could be the year that Hampel really leaves his mark on the speedway world. With rivals Gollob, Crump and Hancock now a year older and Hampel a year more experienced, I think Hampel will just about take his first ever World Championship. It certainly will not be easy though, and riders like Sayfutdinov and Jonsson will push him hard, but in home country Poland in October, I think Hampel will be crowned World Champion by a very slim margin.

PREDICTED FINISH: 1^st

#2 Andreas Jonsson

Last year was a massive year for Swedish Champion Andreas Jonsson. After a disappointing 2010, Jonsson, started 2011 equally badly. However, by winning 3 of the final 6 Grand Prix’s AJ earned himself the Silver Medal and proved he really is one of the best riders in the world. Now, AJ needs to prove he can stay there, and I do not think the Swede will have any problems in doing so. Jonsson will be in the hunt for the title right until the end, and although I think he will just lose out, a second consecutive medal would certainly be a success for AJ.

PREDICTED FINISH: 3^rd

#1 Greg Hancock

After his incredible World title last season, American Greg Hancock will be desperate to do it again, but at 41 years of age surely this is where the backwards slide begins. Although Hancock will definitely be up there, I don’t think Hancock will be anywhere near as dominant as last year. Hancock will win at least on Grand Prix, and should break the 100 points mark for an incredible 11^th year running. A top 5 finish would surely be a major achievement for a 41 year old, and I think Herbie will definitely achieve that in 2012.

PREDICTED FINISH: 5^th

2012 Six Nations Preview

Next weekend sees the 2012 Six Nations campaign kick off with a fascinating set of matches. All 6 teams enter fresh from a winter break following a brutal and exciting 2011 World Cup that gave the different teams varying degrees of success. Now, with a fresh start in the New Year, how will these Northern Hemisphere sides fare when pitted against each other in what promises to be an intriguing few weeks of rugby. Here is a team by team guide of how I see the 2012 Six Nations panning out.

England

Following an extremely disappointing World Cup, England enter a new era in 2012. Martin Johnson has left his role as head coach, and former Saxons coach Stuart Lancaster has taken over on an interim basis as the man in charge for the Six Nations. England are certainly in a period of transition at the moment, with a number of new faces in the squad. Inexperience is sure to see England fall short of a repeat of last year’s Championship victory, however players such as Owen Farrell, Lee Dickson, Charlie Sharples and numerous others will be out to prove their quality on the international stage. The likes of Chris Ashton and Ben Foden are quality players, but without more experienced players alongside them, it will be interesting to see how they step up to lead the team. I expect England to be involved in some very tight games, but feel they lack the experience to mount a serious challenge for Six Nations glory. Scotland should be outclassed by England, and although a trip to Italy will be tough, England should have too much quality when the pair meet on the 11^th February. The other games will be tough though, and I can’t see England getting much more from this campaign.

Chris Ashton-England Dangerman

KEY PLAYER: Chris Ashton

ONE TO WATCH: Owen Farrell

PREDICTED FINISH: 4^th

France

Similarly to England, France also begin a new era when they kick off their Six Nations campaign in Paris against Italy on Saturday. Pierre Saint-Andre takes over from Marc Lievremont as Head Coach, and will be keen to show early on in his new job that he can get the best out of France’s talented players. France managed to reach the World Cup final in November, but like so many I am quite unsure as to how. France performed well below expectation in the tournament, and although they scraped the results they needed to advance to the final, they were far from convincing. Unlike England however, France have much of the old guard still in the side to take them into battle on Saturday. Players such as Francois Trinh-Duc, Morgan Parra and Clement Poitrenaud have one year more experience under their belts and, their flare with ball in hand is sure to be too much for many defenders. In the pack, Imanol Harinordoquy and Thierry Duasutoir are as good as they come. The ability that France have is in no doubt, but the main question is whether Saint-Andre will succeed where so many of his predecessors have failed and get the best out of the talent at his disposal. At home, France will be as formidable as ever, but the game against Wales at the daunting Millenium Stadium to close the Tournament on the 17^th of March will be tough, and could well be the game that deems the campaign either a success or a failure for Saint-Andre and France.

Imanol Harinoroquy-
Key to French Success

KEY PLAYER: Imanol Harinordoquy

ONE TO WATCH: Maxime Mermoz

PREDICTED FINISH: 2^nd

Ireland

Ireland looked excellent in the 2011 World Cup, shown by victory their over Australia that led them to the top of their group. Meeting in-form Wales at the Quarter-Finals was unlucky for Ireland, and although they fell just short the boys in green certainly proved they are one of the most well rounded teams in the world of rugby. However, Ireland are without inspirational captain Brian O’Driscoll in midfield for the entire campaign. This is a huge blow as expected, and leaves me wondering if they really have the star quality required to be champions. Players such as Tommy Bowe and Keith Earls are excellent backs; however I am unsure as to whether they have a flair player capable of changing a tight game with a moment of magic as O’Driscoll has done so many times. Their forward pack is one of the most dynamic in the world, whilst the formidable second-row pairing of Donncha O’Callaghan and Paul O’Connell gives Ireland by far the strongest line out in the tournament. The team seems to have no obvious flaws for the opposition to expose, and for this reason Ireland should be able to beat Italy, Scotland and England, although their trip to Twickenham will be tough. However, I am doubtful they have the little bit extra that would be required to beat France and Wales for that elusive tournament victory.

Paul O'Connell-Lineout Expert

KEY PLAYER: Paul O’Connell

ONE TO WATCH: Fergus McFadden

PREDICTED FINISH: 3^rd

Italy

This year sees Italy switch stadium to the Stadio Olimpico in Rome whilst their usual Stadio Flaminio home undergoes redevelopment. Despite the move, Italy are sure to be strong on home soil, and the visit of England on 11^th February is a chance for Azzurri to surprise a few and show everyone what they are capable of. Italy have a pack that is able to match most teams, with the front row of Martin Castrogiovanni, Andrea Lo Cicero and Leonardo Ghiraldini giving them a very strong scrum. Sergio Parisse is, in my opinion, the best number 8 in the world right now and his flair round the fringes will be key to Italy. However, defensive frailties will let Italy down badly, whilst their inability to perform well away from home will be a big issue with 3 away games this campaign. New coach Jacques Brunel will also struggle to live up to what former coach Nick Mallett achieved with very limited resources. Although they could spring a surprise, I expect Italy to be winless going into their final game at home to Scotland which should determine who ends with the wooden spoon.

Sergio Parisse-Stylish Number 8

KEY PLAYER: Sergio Parisse

ONE TO WATCH: Giovanbattista Venditti

PREDICTED FINISH: 6^th

Scotland

Although they went out at the first hurdle, Scotland will be greatly encouraged by their 2011 World Cup performances. Coming within 1 point of Argentina and 4 points of England was a major achievement considering Scotland possess a squad with much less talent and quality than those two opponents. Coach Andy Robinson continues to make steady improvements with his team and this Six Nations should be no different. After a period of being cast adrift from the rest of the Six Nations along with Italy, Scotland are finally clawing their way back to shore and beginning to compete again with the likes of Ireland and England. Scotland have a very tight defence that will be hard to beat. John Barclay and Kelly Brown are superb forwards, whilst Second-Row Richie Gray has been a revelation for the Scots. Despite some good backs such as Jo Ansbro, Scotland lack the flair to score serious points, and their excellent defence is often not quite able to compensate for the lack of points. I definitely believe Scotland will be very close against Ireland and England, and when they meet Italy in the final round of the tournament the Scots should be good enough to stop themselves finishing with the Wooden Spoon.

Richie Gray-Rising Star

KEY PLAYER: Richie Gray

ONE TO WATCH: Jo Ansbro

PREDICTED FINISH: 5^th

Wales

Of all the Northern Hemisphere teams Wales certainly performed the best in the World Cup. Despite a controversial red card to captain Sam Warburton, Wales only just lost to France in an enthralling semi-final. Now, the Welsh will be looking to perform at a similar level for another 5 games, and if they can do that they will surely secure a Championship victory. Many players emerged with a bang onto the world stage in 2011, and people like Toby Faletau, Rhys Preistland and George North will be desperate to show they can perform to the highest level on a consistent basis. However, an injury to Matthew Rees this week will be a blow, and missing Gethin Jenkins, Alun-Wyn Jones and Luke Charteris will mean a much weaker pack than the one that impressed so many at the World Cup. I think Wales will be too good for Scotland, Italy and England, but the opening game against Ireland on Saturday will be very tough, especially with Ireland looking for revenge for their World Cup defeat to Wales in November. The game with France at the Millenium Stadium will be crucial, and I suspect the winner of that game will have the Six Nations trophy to collect at the end of the game.

Sam Warburton-Welsh leader

KEY PLAYER: Sam Warburton

ONE TO WATCH: Alex Cuthbert

PREDICTED FINISH: 1st

It's all still to play for in the Premier League

We are just past the halfway stage in the Premier League season, and we look set for one of the most exciting run-ins in the history of the league, with everything wide open at this stage. Year after year, the Premier League lives up to its tag as the best league in the world, and this season has certainly been no different, but what will be the outcome of all the important positions come the final day on the 13^th May.

Starting from the bottom, and the relegation battle looks set for a climax that will go as close as possible to matching last year’s incredible “Survival Sunday” which condemned West Ham, Birmingham and Blackpool to the Championship.

                                                                                      

Despite a recent resurgence, I really cannot see Steve Kean and Blackburn pulling themselves out of danger, and with influential captain Christopher Samba today submitting a transfer request their future looks bleaker still. With all the unrest at the club, survival would be an incredible achievement, but with the playing squad available and manager currently in place I am afraid to say relegation looms.

Wigan are another team for whom time must surely be running out. After scraping survival in each of the last 5 top flight seasons, I really do think this is the year Wigan will finally drop back down to the Championship. With what I believe to be the weakest squad in the league, even a manager I highly rate in Roberto Martinez will finally fold to the thankless task of trying to keep Wigan in the league this season in my opinion.

So that leaves one final place that a group of teams are vying to avoid. Currently in the dreaded bottom three with Wigan are QPR.  QPR are currently a team in free fall. However, the recent appointment of Mark Hughes as manager will be looked back on as the crucial moment that determined the outcome of their season. Hughes is a manager I rate extremely highly and I believe he has what it takes to steer QPR clear of the relegation zone. Furthermore, QPR are sure to have money to spend in this January transfer window, and I feel Hughes is a manager who will spend wisely. For these reasons I think QPR will survive.

Emmanuel Frimpong-Could
hold the key to Wolves survival

Just hovering above the relegation zone as they have all season are Wolves. In their third year back in the English top flight they are yet again in a relegation battle. The capture of Emmanual Frimpong on loan from Arsenal is one that I believe will change their season in a way similar to the impact Jamie O’Hara had after coming in from Tottenham at the very same stage last season. O’Hara coming back from injury very soon will also have a huge impact. With Roger Johnson coming back to his best after a shaky start, I feel Wolves will also be able to secure a 4^th consecutive Premier League campaign, mainly fired to survival by striker Steven Fletcher.

Despite a strong start, I feel Norwich will be a team that will fall off dramatically to enter the relegation dogfight. Their defence certainly looks shaky to me and their attacking football will be hard to maintain successfully against top flight opposition. They have little strength in depth and as the season wears on they will be likely to struggle.

Gary Cahill-Looks set for Chelsea

Bolton Wanderers also look a team that are doomed at the moment, currently sat in 19^th position. Quite how they have got into such a predicament I am unsure, as Owen Coyle has always seemed a capable manager and their squad appears to contain too much quality to go down. The return of tricky winger Chung-Yong Lee will boost Bolton, but the imminent departure of England defender Gary Cahill will put a huge dent in their team.  For that reason I believe Bolton will be the final team to make up the bottom three and join Wigan and Blackburn in the Championship next season.

I feel the likes of Swansea and West Brom have just enough quality to stay clear of the endangered pack, whilst Martin O’Neill has the players at his disposal to easily steer Sunderland to a mid-table finish despite a below par start under Steve Bruce. The likes of Stoke, Everton, Aston Villa and Fulham are also set to fulfil their expected mid-table finishes, although if not careful the latter two of those teams could slip into a relegation battle.

Up to the business end of the league and the top 4 spots are set to be as fiercely contested as they have been in years. As I see it, there are 7 realistic contenders for the four coveted Champions League places.

The current top three of Tottenham, Man City and Man Utd are pretty much certain to fill the top three spaces, leaving one of Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal and Newcastle to take 4^th spot.

After a shocking start, Arsenal have recovered well. However, their weekend loss to Swansea exposes their defensive frailties once again, and I just feel Arsenal will slip up on too many occasions to creep into the Champions League places.

Conversely, Newcastle endured a dream start to the campaign, going unbeaten for their first 10 games. After a slight stutter Newcastle have got back on track, shown by a convincing 3-0 victory over Manchester United last week. However, the loss of influential midfielder Check Tiote and in-form striker Demba Ba to the African Cup of Nations is likely to see Newcastle fall back and struggle to secure what would be a shock top 4 finish.

Liverpool are another team in the hunt for 4^th. After a summer of big spending to avoid another disappointing season, Liverpool have been solid but unspectacular. You do feel, however, that the team simply lack the amount of goals required to finish as highly as fourth, whilst the 8 match ban currently being served by skilful forward Luis Suarez for racist remarks is a massive blow to their aspirations.

Despite a horrendous run of form in recent weeks, Chelsea have chosen to stick with under-fire manager Andre Vilas-Boas. As their rebuilding continues, I feel the Londoners will just have enough to make the top four yet again. However, the team simply do not have the required ability to put up any sort of title challenge, and for that reason their season looks destined to be one that will be looked back on as disappointing.

Now to the title race, and up until the last few weeks it looked certain Man City would be taking home their first ever Premier League trophy. However, a recent falter has allowed rivals Man Utd to regain ground, and even opened the door for Tottenham to make this very much a three horse race.

Tottenham have one of the most dynamic and pacy teams in the world at the moment. Their wide men of Lennon and Bale are crucial, whilst playmakers Modric and Van der Vaart make them a supreme attacking force. However, defensively they are weaker than their title rivals, and I feel this will eventually cost Spurs and they will finish just short.

Man Utd-trying to defend their title

Man Utd have arguably their weakest team of the Fergie era. With Nemanja Vidic out for the season their defence is not as strong as it previously has been, whilst their lack of an influential playmaker in central midfield is a huge issue that needs addressing in January. However, any team that has the likes of Rooney, Nani and Young in it will be there or there abouts, and the red side of Manchester will certainly not give up their title without a fight.

Losing Yaya Toure will
be a huge blow to City

Man City, meanwhile, started off like a runaway train. With an abundance of attacking talent such as Aguero, Silva, Balotelli and Nasri, City have lit up the league with their free flowing football, whilst centre back Vincent Kompany has been sublime in maintaining  a tight defence. Yaya Toure has been another key man in gelling the side together from the heart of midfield, yet losing him to the African Cup of Nations along with brother Kolo is an irreplaceable loss that will be hard to overcome. However, the strength of depth City possess will, in my opinion, pull them through and I believe come May the blue side of Manchester will be lifting the title having stolen the trophy from their city rivals.

So, at the halfway stage of this enthralling Barclays Premier League season, it really is all to play for. I have told you what I believe will be the final outcomes of the important positions once the 13^th May arrives, but with every position so delicately poised, I am likely to be wrong. If there is one thing we have learnt in the many years watching the English top flight it is this: expect the unexpected!