Football 101 for Red Sox Nation

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae on this first day of Euro 2008.

Those of you residing in Massachusetts are aware of the presence of the Portuguese in your great state - outside of Portugal, Massachusetts if home to the the largest segment of people who trace their ancestry back to the motherland. While most of them are members of Red Sox Nation - the hope here is that they will be tuning in today to watch Portugal play Turkey on the opening day of the big tournament.

The similarities between the Red Sox and the Quinas are striking - well, they were before Hazel brought the good karma to Boston in 2004 - full of potential, full of hope, in quest of a the championship. For those of you in New England who claim not to like soccer - take a few minutes to look at the the anatomy of the 2008 Portuguese National Team reconsider your dislike of the world's game - support the Quinas.

The Backbone



Ricardo Carvalho - the last line of defence - rarely spectacular, but always rock solid and makes everyone around him better. He is the backbone of the team.

Red Sox comparison - Jason Varitek




The Driving Force


Deco - while playing second fiddle to Ronaldo, the offence will flow through him; he will be the lynch pin that drives the team.

Red Sox Comparison - Manny Ramirez




The Legs - The need for speed






Ricardo Quaresma and Luis Nani - speed to burn, abundant raw talent, able to change the pace of the game. The future looks bright.

Red Sox Comparison - Jacoby Ellsbury




The Heart and Soul



Cristiano Ronaldo - a man who can take over a game on his own, loved by his peeps...enough said.

Red Sox Comparison - Big Papi




So there you have it gang - they won't be showing Euro 2008 at Game On or the Cask N' Flagon, but consider tuning in and supporting the good guys.

SATURDAY THREE PLAY
Coming off a 4-0 the other night - tonight's suggestions:

St. Louis over Houston - Adam Wainwright has been outstanding over his last few starts...expect that to continue. Lay $100 on the Cards - $114.

Chicago over Minnesota - you have to like Buehrle over Livan Hernanez who has been throwing batting practice this year. Lay $100 on the White Sox - $160.

New York over San Diego - the Mets should score some runs against Baek tonight, do you really expect the Padres to score runs? Thought not. Lay $100 on the Mets - $115.

That's it for today gang - thanks for taking the time to check in.

Hazel, here's hoping things are groovy in your world - if you are checking in today, why not have a peek at ESPN and see what their programming consists of today?

FORCA PORTUGAL

Song of the Day - A Portuguesa (its worth the read)

I'm Out!