The First Jersey

My first ever football jersey was gifted to me by a friend when we were leaving Secondary School. It was a Newcastle jersey. The one with white and black stripes, bishop collar and Brown Ale as sponsors designed by Adidas. There was no inscription behind. Whenever I wore that jersey I always imagined I was Alan Shearer (a Newcastle Legend) but I have this big bro that I call the spoiler. I was feeling fly in this jersey one day I went to visit him in Unilag and what he said made me not even have an iota of respect for Shearer anymore. He said a half legged Jurgen Klinsmann was way better than Alan Shearer. I mean Shearer who went on to set a Premiership record in terms of goals scored and someone just reduced him to nothing. It was the last time I wore that jersey.

I still keenly follow Newcastle United though like I follow Aston Villa, Juventus, Real Madrid, Aberdeen and Kano Pillars. I am beginning to fancy Mountain of Fire Football Club.

However, my first real football jersey was bought for me by my darling mum (rest on mum). I got a call from her that very day in September, 2003. She was in the UK and she asked red or white? I didn’t have to ask her what she was talking about, I knew it was a MANCHESTER UNITED jersey. I said red and she was like what should be inscribed behind it. That was where I had a problem. I was torn between writing Nistelrooy (my favourite Man U player at the time) or the new summer signing C. Ronaldo. I decided to get greedy and ask for two jerseys, she almost went livid. I told her C.Ronaldo only for me to call her 5 minutes later that she should ask them to write something else. I wanted to settle for something that would last a very long time.

I asked her to tell the guys at the store to have “FAN 4 LIFE” written behind the kit.

The 2nd jersey with “FAN 4 LIFE” inscribed behind

 

I got a hold of my precious jersey on the 21st of September, 2003 the day Manchester United played out a goalless draw with Arsenal. It was the season the Gunners went unbeaten in the league. If only Ruud Van Nistelrooy had scored the penalty Man U had in that game, the story would have been different.

14 years on and I can boast to have had 22 Manchester United jerseys though a large number gifts from very special people (12 of them). Every 29th of December you will always see spotting a Manchester United jersey, it became a tradition since December 29, 2004. So if you want to make my year just present me with a Manchester United jersey.

 

Now you know!

2010 Christmas In ABZ

The bro and his wife were going to London for Christmas and I didn’t even ask if I could tag along because I wanted to experience what Christmas felt like in ABZ. Pardon me, we call Aberdeen (Scotland) ABZ or pronounced as Abs. The couple left on the morning of the 24th of December and I decided to go cut my hair after they left and strangely a lady cut my hair for me for the first time (a great day loomed).

Hair cut out of the way, had my bath and headed out to hang out with my reading buddy so we could at least work on our course works for a bit before having fun later. I went with a bottle of Jack Daniels (JD). Bro called me that they had touched down London safely and advised I bought whatever I needed before Christmas day. I took the advice with a pinch of salt not knowing I would regret it (I am generally not stubborn and my brothers and friends can attest to this, lol).

After working on the course work for a couple of hours, Mo made dinner for us and boy she can cook, as a matter of fact she loved cooking. We had eba and ewedu and afterwards FO, Pete and I started drinking the JD mixing it with Sprite. We tried to read some more but hey who were we fooling? We slept off in turns whilst gisting to wrap up the day. When we all woke up at about past 10pm, we decided to take a walk to get more drinks as Christmas day drew closer. It dawned on us that no Tesco, Sainsbury or ASDA opened on the day. We were hopeful and kept walking on when two white men approached us, though we were shocked until we heard their accent and found out they were Canadians. They apparently came to work on an oil rig but got stuck in Aberdeen due to bad weather. So they asked us where the action was and that they were looking for where to get booze.

 

BL, yours truly, FO and JM

Alas we found like minded people. We told them it was exactly the same thing we were hunting for and all 5 of us continued the search. We walked into small stores to find out if they had booze or knew where we could get but the response we got was same; no place would be opened till after the holidays. We were still very hopeful and we kept walking until we met an old man in a Mini Mart and engaged him in conversation asking him if he could just tell us where to get drinks. His response brightened our day when he said we should walk to the end of Market Street which was about 2 kilometers away from where we were and that we would find a Polish Pub there.

 

We got to the Pub and guess what? They were still open, it looked like their day had just started. I was like thank GOD, we finally found one. We had booze and snacked on chicken wings while at it. We didn’t head home till about 2.30am.

 

It was a Christmas to remember. I made new friends, walked a distance for booze and got my hair cut by a lady.

 

5 of the BEST: The Coaches

 

Before the end of the 2012/13 European soccer season,  I had known only one football manager all my life and he never did wrong (so I will like to think), even when he admitted he regretted selling Jaap Stam I still didn’t see it as a wrong move. You still don’t know who I am talking about? Its definitely Sir Alex Ferguson now. Who else could it have been? No disrespect to the other coaches that were around when Fergie was the head honcho at Manchester United. He was just too perfect for the team and a look at the trophy cabinet will only buttress the point of how good he was.

Post Fergie Era

There are a whole lot of coaches or managers out there today but there are only 5 I would pick from the pool if I was asked for  my favourites.  Find below my five best football coaches/managers:

Antonio Conte

1. Antonio Conte: the very first time I heard this name was during the Euro 2000 tournament jointly hosted by Netherlands and Belgium. I could remember vividly that day in June, on the 11th to be precise which was my cousin’s birthday. I went out with the big boys that night and when the game came on I could just see the passion all over Conte’s ball play on the day. He didn’t disappoint me on this day and he even scored Italy’s first goal in the Azzuri’s 2-1 victory over Turkey. The moment he was announced the coach of my favourite Italian team and the 4th best team in the world, Juventus I was so happy for him (yes he doesn’t know me). He won the Serie A for 3 straight seasons and also bagged the Serie A manager of the year 3 years in a row. He stepped down as Juventus’ manager in July of 2014 after winning the Serie A with a record 102 points to take over the reins of the Italian National team. He led Italy to the quarter finals of Euro 2016 losing to Germany 6-5 on penalties after playing out a 1-1 draw in regulation time. He agreed to sign for Chelsea before the Euro 2016 tournament and he’s my favourite coach at the moment though he’s in charge of a rival team. Conte’s passion for the game is the reason I admire him a whole lot. If I had my way I would have preferred him to be the coach of my beloved Manchester United.
   

   Allegri, Ancelotti, Mourinho and Zidane

2. Jose Mourinho: the self-acclaimed Special One is what the football world needs. Someone who will always have something to say about anything #SomeSortOfEntertainment. I had known there was something really special about him when he was in charge at Porto. In the 2003 UEFA Cup Final (now Europa League) he beat Celtic 3-2 in the final to claim the trophy and in 2004 he beat my beloved Man United in the 2nd round of the Champions League. Yes beating Man United has to be special. Mourinho went on to win the Champions League of that year causing Chelsea to snap him up in the summer. Mourinho was an instant hit when he signed for the Blues winning the Premiership and League Cup in his first season. His first spell with Chelsea brought about 6 trophies (2 Premiership titles, 2 League Cups, 1 FA Cup and 1 Charity Shield). Mourinho signed for Inter in 2008 and with them he won the Champions League, the Italian Serie A (twice), Supercoppa Italiana and the Coppa Italia. He also won the Spanish La Liga with Real Madrid, the Copa Del Rey and the Supercoppa de Espana in a 3 year stint before a return to Chelsea in 2013 where he won the league one more time (2015). He’s currently at the helm of affairs for Manchester United.
3. Zinedine Zidane: I am sure you are shocked to find this young man on the list. For me it is not too early to add Zidane into the frame. He won the Champions League for Real Madrid within 6 months of handling the team. If he didn’t win the Champions League people will say it was because he wasn’t experienced. 15 months into the job and it’s looking like he could win the league though he faces serious competition from Barcelona and maybe Sevilla and Atletico Madrid. At some point he was my best footballer (between 2000 and 2004). His playing days was trophy laden-ed. He was named FIFA Player of the Year 3 times (1998, 2000 and 2003),he also won the World Cup (1998) and Euro 2000 with France. He won the Champions League as a player with Real Madrid and as assistant to my next favourite coach on the list. Zizou as Zinedine Zidane is popularly called has a very impressive resume. Shine on Zizou.
4. Carlo Ancellotti: I didn’t use to like Italian coaches to be honest. I saw Arrigo Sacchi’s men beat the Super Eagles at the 1994 World Cup. I believed Sacchi set his team up to hurt and get the key players of the Nigerian team out of the game. That was my take and that I will stick with till my dying day. There’s something special about Carlo though. He has this calm demeanour which I really like. He has been to different places like mazes as a Manager coaching Chelsea, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain not forgetting the club he played for A.C Milan. He is presently in charge of Bayern Munich. Not much to say about the gentleman but what is there not to like about him? I digress.
5. Massimiliano Allegri: even if you don’t like the guy I am sure you love the name *winks*. The former A.C Milan coach is now the boss at Juventus (the fourth best club in the world). He has not let the big foot Antonio Conte left behind deter him. He’s on track to winning his 3rd Serie A title, he has also won the Coppa Italia twice and the Supercoppa Italiana once. He led Juventus to the final of the 2015 Champions League final which held in Berlin,Germany losing to Barcelona 3-1.

There you have it, my favourite coaches of the beautiful game (at the moment) and strangely they all have ties with the Italian Serie A. Notable mentions; Diego Simeone, Pep Guardiaola, Marcelo Bielsa, Guus Hiddink, Luciano Spalletti, Thomas Tuchel, Jurgen Klopp, Mauricio Pochettino, Jorge Sampaoli and Claudio Ranieri to mention a few.

250 Goals

 

The departure of Ruud Van Nistelrooy from Manchester United to Real Madrid in 2006 paved the way for me to love Wayne Rooney.  The longest I have loved a Manchester United player before now was for 5 years and it was David Beckham. 11 years on (2006 till date) and no one has toppled Wayne Wazza Rooney in my books. Cristiano Ronaldo came in at some point though but his reign at the top of my list was short like leprechauns (thank you Notorious B.I.G for that line, I have always wanted to use it). I was privileged to watch Rooney’s debut for the Red Devils against Fenerbache in 2004 where he bagged a hat-trick and an assist. I wasn’t surprised at his ability on his United debut night because I had been following his progress since his wonder goal for Everton against Arsenal in 2002.

My love for him has not been as a result of his goal scoring exploits but his commitment, desire and passion for both the Three Lions of England and Manchester United. Yes someone will say he tried to force a move out of Old Trafford twice because he wanted more money but that doesn’t make him less of a great player or better put a LEGEND.

Fast forward through 13 years and Wayne Rooney is Manchester United’s all-time top scorer snatching the crown from Sir Bobby Charlton. Rooney equaled Charlton’s record of 249 goals when the Red Devils triumphed 4- 0 over Reading in the FA Cup third round of games. 2 weeks after the Reading game Rooney came off the bench to salvage a draw for Man United with a brilliant free-kick to break Bobby Charlton’s record. Rooney has now scored 250 goals for Manchester United in 546 games and ranked 7th position behind the likes of Paul Scholes, Bill Foulkes, Ryan Giggs and Bobby Charlton in the all-time appearance list for the Red Devils.

Rooney peeling off in celebration as Ander shares his joy

Goal record broken, UEFA Champions League , 5 EPL titles, 3 EFL Cups and a host of other football trophies won, Wayne Rooney can quit Manchester United with a sense of accomplishment. He can head to China while I boast that Rooney’s feat happened in my time.

 

 

All hail the Manchester United King of Goals.

 

Top 16 Sporting Moments of 2016

2016 is about to hit a climax but there were some amazing and unbelievable events in the world of sports this year. From soccer to Formula 1 to tennis and even basketball, we witnessed surprises and some will call it luck but don’t we all need an element of luck to hit success at some point in our lives?

On a personal note 2016 gave me joy and I must thank the Almighty GOD for sparing my life. March 4 and December 18, 2016 are days I won’t forget that easy but that is story for another day. Back to the matter *in Wizkid’s voice* , I have penned down my top 16 Sporting Moments of 2016 and I would love your take on it or even your top 16 Sporting Moments if you so desire.

Find my list below:

1. Leicester City’s English Premier League win  #Underdogs

2. Portugal winning Euro 2016 in France #Luck

3. Nico Roseberg’s Formula 1 triumph #Push

4. Cleveland Cavalier’s NBA success #Deserved

5. Andy Murray ending the year as world’s number 1 in Tennis #Improved

6. Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s move to Manchester United #Highlight

7. Leicester City’s qualification for the knock out phase of the UEFA Champions League #Progress

8. Kevin Durrant joining Golden State Warriors #PerfectMove

9. Real Madrid’s Champions League triumph #LaUnDecima

10. Henrik Mkhitaryan’s goal for Manchester United against Sunderland on Boxing Day #Baller

11. Rangers FC of Enugu’s league winning feat in the Nigerian Premier League #LongTimeComing

12. Brazil’s gold winning success at the Rio Olympics #Finally

13. Serena Williams tying Steffi Graf’s record for the number of Grandslams won (22) #ModernErasFinest

14. Kobe Bryant’s last game for the Los Angeles Lakers. He raked in 60 points from 50 shots when the Lakers beat Utah Jazz in April #BowsOutInStyle

15. Allen Iverson’s hall of fame speech #Emotional

16. Usain Bolt’s Olympic success (winning gold) in the 100meters, 200meters and the 4 x 100m relay at the Rio Olympics #Legend

There you have it, my top 16 Sporting Moments of 2016. Happy New Year in advance guys and stay Blessed. Thanks for your time.

Top 16 Songs of 2016

Like I said couple of years back Naija music has improved seriously though it’s now like the Nollywood of those days where a movie is released everyday and 3 times on Sunday. To stay relevant in the Nigerian music scene you have to release a 7/10 rated single every other day or feature in the song of an A-list artist (my opinion). I have not listened to too many songs but the ones I have listened to I listened to them a lot.

For the first time in about 3 years I am going to start my top songs of the year without Olamide Baddo headlining the list. He didn’t even make the top 5 of my list but trust me he’s still my favourite Nigerian rapper and not that he didn’t drop tight jams this year, he has done well this year and for someone that has released an album every year over the last 5 years, he oozes consistency.

Here are my top 16 songs of 2016:

16. Soweto Baby – DJ Maphorisa ft Wizkid

15. OLUWAni – Reekado Banks

14. Ohema- DJ Spinall ft Mr. Eazi

13. Skin Tight – Mr Eazi

12. Finally – Mastercraft ft Flavour and Sarkodie 

11. Emergency – D’banj

10. Konkobility – Olamide

9. Pray for Me – Darey ft Soweto Gospel Choir

8. Reggae Blues – Mr Songz ft Olamide, Orezi, KCee & Iyanya

7. Fada Fada – Phyno ft Olamide Baddo

6. Hollup – Mr. Eazi

5. MamaCita – Tinie Tempah ft Wizkid

4. Oya Come Make We Go- 2Baba ft Sauti Sol

3. Ja Won Laya – Ill Bliss ft Reekado Banks and Mr. Eazi

2. Pana- Tecno

1. Hola Hola – Sugar Boy

As always I expect this list to be rubbished (lol) but these songs always got me going.

Thanks for reading guys and have a prosperous 2017 filled with favour from the ALMIGHTY. Don’t forget to attack the comment section to have your say. BLESS !!!

Pam and David…….. Episode 3

“Hello David.” Shola said as David walked into the compound. “Hi Shola, how was day?” David responded.

“I am fine and my day went very well. Thank you.” Shola replied.

“How was your day and how did it go with your boss at the office?” She asked him. “Well I have to first start by saying thank you very much for the inspiration last night and how can I forget the meal too. My boss liked the proposal. Thank you very much.” David said.

“Don’t mention David, I am glad I could be of help and most importantly I am happy you enjoyed the meal. So do you want me to make you something to eat tonight? You look pretty tired.” Shola said grabbing his hand. “I will be fine Shola”. David responded.

“Can we at least have a chat?” Shola asked. “I am sorry I will also have to decline on that offer too. I have to come up with a final draft of what you helped me work on last night.” David said. “I was not going to take much of your time, but do what you have to do.” Shola said walking away.

Sigh, why are women like this? First it was Pam overreacting and now Shola. David thought to himself as he walked into his apartment.

 

*

“Good morning Rachael.” David greeted as he walked into the Corporate Affairs Department. “Good morning.” Rachael responded not looking up. “I have come to show you the first draft of the presentation.” David said. “Put it in a flash and drop it on my table.”

Rachael replied still not looking up, engrossed with the story (Dear Future Husband) she was reading on www.tomiadesina.wordpress.com . David did as he was told and left for his office.

On his way back to his office David bumps into Pamela.

“Hi Pam.” David said with a smile.

“Hello David.” Pam responded grudgingly.

“I am sorry about the other day, I had a deadline and I bumped into my boss on my way to the pitch who reminded me of the assignment I needed to deliver by the next morning.” David explained. I am so sorry he added. “It’s fine David.” Pamela replied. “I promise to make it up to you Pam.” David said. “Make it up? You don’t have to do anything, have nice day David.” Pam said walking away hurriedly.

There must be something about these ladies this week. Could it be that time of the month for all three of them? David thought to himself as he settled down at his desk to carry on with the day’s work.

*Femi had been in a corner eavesdropping all the while.

 

“Hey sexy Pam.” Femi said tickling Pam. “Stop jor.” Pam responded. “You really need to go easy on David, he didn’t mean to be a no-show the other day. He had a deadline and trust me he was close to losing his job. As a matter of fact you can say he’s lucky to still have his job.” Femi explained. “Please just be easy on him and remember he’s a shy guy he probably wouldn’t know how to put it to you.” Femi added. “I hear you Mr. Defender of the Universe.” Pam said. “But I would love to tease him a little.” She chipped in. “How do you mean?” Femi asked. “No worries, you will find out. He’s your guy. Not so?” Pam said.

 

*

Announcement: The Managing Director (MD) would be having a voluntary discussion session at the close of business and the discussion is on the late Stephen Keshi. Chidinma announced via the Public Address System

 

“Oh not again, I thought we had a session last week.” Femi said as he took a sit. “These sessions apparently are good for you.” David responded.

“Are you trying to say something?” Femi asked as he munched on Fastizers Fun Cookies chatting away on his phone. “The essence of these kinds of gathering is for you to learn more about other things asides what you do in your functional silo at the office.” David retorted.

“Oh you don’t say.” Femi said chuckling. “You don’t want your kids to ask you questions and you not having an idea of what they are talking about.” David chipped in laughing.

“Can we change the subject please?” Femi said timidly. “Okay bro. So what’s up with you?” David said. “Nothing much and yes I spoke to Pam and she said you guys saw earlier. Anyway she still seemed livid from Monday’s incident but I have been able to convince her it wasn’t your fault and that you are sincerely sorry.” Femi replied.

“Why are ladies like this?” David asked. “How do you mean?” Femi asked back.

“How come she believed you when you explained to her and she wouldn’t even listen to me?” David responded slightly raising his voice.

Femi laughed. “Well I have gotten you a wildcard to redeem yourself by 5pm today.” Femi said. “I don’t get you.” David sauntered.

“You saw me fondling my phone didn’t you? I was getting you another shot to be with Pam and that would be during the voluntary discussion today. Be prepared to sit next to her.” Femi narrated. “Gosh do I have to teach you everything?” Femi added. “Are you serious?” David asked.

“And you didn’t let me in on the plan? David chipped in.” “See this guy o.” Femi said. “Okay let me tell her you wouldn’t be available.” Femi said angrily. “Relax bro, someone cannot play with you?” David said.

 

 

*

The MD welcomed the attendees and asked each person present to say one or two things about the late former Super Eagles Captain and Coach. The MD then spoke extensively about the life and leadership approach of Keshi also known as the “Big Boss” ending the summit by taking questions from those in attendance.

“Not a bad session. I didn’t know the country had such a charismatic footballer.” David said to Pam.

“Yes a wonderful session but how would you know Stephen Keshi when you don’t even know jack about football.” Pam responded.

“You still seemed pissed though.” David muttered. “For the umpteenth time David, I am not upset.” Pam said.

“Pam can I ask you for something?” David said picking his words carefully. “Sure go ahead.” Pam said.

“Would you hang out with me on Friday night?” David asked. “Like a date?” Pam asked back.

“Just hang out over ice-cream and pizza. Nothing cheesy.” David replied. “And what do I tell my boyfriend? I am hanging out with another boy on a Friday night?” Pam asked.

“I didn’t mean it that way.” David stuttered. “I didn’t say you had ulterior motives David. I am just saying, if my boyfriend calls me during the said hang out day what do I tell him I am doing? You obviously don’t expect me to lie.” Pam clarified.

“My bad.” David said shyly, walking away. “Good night to you too.” Pam said going the other way.

Pam and David………… Episode 2

The walk to the Astro Turf was a pretty long one. David was about to lose his job if he didn’t come up with a better pitch for his presentation and now he’s been set up by Femi to have a chance at speaking with Pam.

Lost in his thoughts, David bumped into Rachael who was carrying a pile of files.

“Watch where you are going” Rachael squealed.

“I am very sorry” David apologized.

“Mr. man have you finished with the rework of the assignment you were given?” Rachael snapped at him. “You’d rather go and play football right? It seems you do not love your job anymore.” She added.

The words Rachael uttered, walking away. The only reason David was going to learn to hit a soccer ball right was because of Pamela, but if he didn’t wrap up his work in good time, he wouldn’t be seeing her again.

*

“Good evening David,” Shola said as he walked into the compound. “Hi.” He replied casually, heading for the stairs.

“Why the long face? She asked, stopping him. “Shola please not now”. He responded.

“At some point David you will have to speak to me. Just man up and tell me you do not ever want to have anything to do with me. We are neighbours for crying out loud. It’s you people that will tell us to shoot our shot, I’m doing it now and you are being immature about it, damn!!!” She ranted.

David took a deep breath. “Shola, it is not like that, I have had a long day and it might get worse.”

“David we all have problems but what good does it do us if we keep them to ourselves. I am not asking you to tell me whatever it is but do you think you can solve them all by yourself if you are already looking worn out?” She replied.

“It is work, Shola.” David started slowly, I am in a big fix that might get me out of a job in the next 12 hours if it is not sorted.

“I totally get it if you do not want to speak to me about it and yes these things happen to the best of us. Now let me pitch this to you.” She said holding his right hand. I will make you dinner while you relax and try to make sense of whatever you have to do. Is that fine? Shola asked. You can even think out loud, who knows I might have a silly idea or two that could be helpful she added.

“Okay I guess that will be fine then.” he answered.

*

“David what sort of embarrassing stunt did you pull yesterday evening?” Femi yelled “We waited for you at the pitch! Pam was there and you didn’t show up.”

“Calm down, Femi I did not intend to stand you up David responded. You remember how I was trying to tell you I might not be having a desk come today? If you had heard me out you probably would not be upset with me right now but pray for me.” David stated.

 

*

Rachael smiled as David walked into her office.

“Please have a seat”. She said.

David looking confused gently pulled a chair and sat down. She was smiling which wasn’t strange but the odd thing was he was offered a seat by Rachael, so he didn’t know what to expect. Has my stay at the organization been cut short by this mishap? He thought to himself.

“I am really impressed with the re-work”. Rachael finally said snapping him out of his thoughts. “This will work and I am amazed that you truly have something up in your head.” She added.

“Thank you.” David responded. He didn’t even know how to react.

“Go and put the proposal into PowerPoint slides and also prepare yourself to pitch to Senior Management next week Monday at the EXCO meeting.” Rachael quipped.

“Huh?” David muttered. “Yes you heard me right.” Rachael retorted.

“Okay I will bring the first draft tomorrow.” David responded as he took his leave.

 

*

“Hi David.” Pam said. “

Hello Pam.” David greeted back.

“I am so sorry for standing you up yesterday, I didn’t mean to.” David quickly added.

“So what is your excuse for not turning up?” Pam asked.

“I had a deadline to meet. I was on my way to the pitch when I was reminded again by Rachael that if I didn’t come up with a better presentation of the proposal I am currently working on I would lose my job.” David explained.

“Oh really? You expect me to believe that bullshit story you just dropped?” Pam said and walked away.

“It’s the truth Pam.” David said. “Please the football game didn’t last the whole day”. Pam snapped banging the door of the first floor as she walked out.

“Damn it, what’s it with ladies and impatience?” David muttered.

“Hey David”. Femi said stretching his hand towards David.

“What’s it with ladies and impatience?”  David asked Femi.

“What happened?” Femi asked.

“I was trying to explain to Pam what happened yesterday and she just snapped at me and walked out.” David responded.

“Hahahahahahaha.” Femi laughed. “That’s why you are looking like you have the world on shoulders?” Femi said. “Relax man.” Femi added.

“But seriously why is she upset?” David asked. “David like I said calm down.” Femi said. “She is upset and rightly so bro.” Femi chipped in.

“How do you mean?” David asked. “You know she squeezed out a slot for you for the game yesterday evening? She even got in a heated argument with Michael because she was keeping your slot for you.” Femi explained.

“Wow, I have messed up big time.” David yelled forgetting he was in a corporate organization. “You sure did and a phone call would have been good enough.” Femi added.

“How do I get out of this mess?” David asked.

“Just go to Slot across the road and get her an iPhone 7.” Femi joked.

“Very funny.” David retorted.

“Please be serious.” David added. “Relax bro, I got you.” Femi said. “So how did it go with Rachael?” Femi asked.

“As you can see I still have a desk.” David responded. “Nice one, so drinks on you on Friday bro.” Femi said walking out. “For your mind, work still plenty.” David said to the air.

Thank GOD at least the hard bit has been done, I am left to undoing the mess with Pam. David said to himself as he unlocked his laptop to finish the first draft of his presentation.

Read Episode 3

Pam and David……….. Episode 1

Nobody likes Monday! David was not an exception and this Monday morning, he was going to be in more trouble than he had envisaged. He had woken up thirty minutes late on a day he had to pitch his new plans for the content section of the company to the director. Definitely not a great way to start. He tugged into his jeans and sneakers hurriedly as he kept his eyes on the clock. He had exactly ten minutes to make the BRT bus to Obanikoro. He grabbed his Mac book and a sweatshirt and made for the stairs.

“David! Good morning” Shola said as she stopped him on the stairway.

He managed to catch his breath. Shola, his next door neighbour, wasn’t the lady he wanted to have a conversation with that morning but he couldn’t help it, she always had something to say to him. He guessed she might have a crush on him. She was a sweet lady but he couldn’t act on her feelings because he had sold his ‘mumu’ buttons to a lady at the office who wouldn’t even see him. “Shola, I am running late. Can we do this in the evening?” He asked.

Shola wasn’t buying it. “You said this yesterday.”

“And I am saying this today too. Please, I’ll say hi once I’m back.” He said, bailing himself out and running down the stairs. He could hear Shola hiss as he escaped her but he couldn’t be bothered. Today was not the day for fickle emotions.

**

“Hold that door!”

David didn’t just hold the door, he held his breath! Well literally because he had to use his hand to stop the elevator door from jamming. He was stupid, he should have used his leg but he couldn’t think straight as the voice that had asked for his help was Pam’s.

“I am so sorry.” Pamela said as the elevator door shut after them. David was squirming in pain, even though he tried to be cool about this. She could see this. She managed a smile. “A drop of hot coffee on the hand could actually ease the pain.”

David turned to her with a raised eyebrow. “Really?”

“Yeah.” Pam replied with an assuring stare.

He stretched his hand forward with hope.

Pam burst into a horrid laugh. “Seriously?!”

David got the joke and then smiled. “Good joke. I am David. I am the content creator.”

“Of course, I know you.” She replied and stepped out of the elevator as they reached the last floor.

 

“Man United messed up big time, how could they have handed Martial’s squad number to Ibrahimovic without his consent?” Femi could be heard having a chat with some of the guys in Finance and Accounts Department. “It is bollocks!” one of the guys responded.

“And I hear they are still in pursuit of Paul Pogba for an outrageous fee of €105m, what is football turning into? Anyway when the likes of Antonio Conte’s Chelsea and Pep Guardiola’s Man City deal with us well this season maybe we would understand Foreman does not mean Four Man (Four Men)”. Femi added.

David walked in with a grimace on his face, still seething from the pain, but not enough pain to keep him away from discussing football. “Femi, the Pogba buy might make triple the amount being paid for him in terms of merchandize sales and season tickets, I am only saying though.” “No way David, I disagree” Femi retorted. “If Pogba is bought that much then maybe countries should be sold to get the services of Ronaldo and Messi.” He added.

David chuckled. “But, remember Paul Pogba has got age on his side, he’s only 23.” David said.

“Anyway how was your weekend bro and why have you been clutching your wrist, are you okay?” Femi asked, changing the topic.

“It was a minor accident but its fine.” David responded.

“Its fine and you have been rubbing on it since you got here? You better go to Admin and get Deep Heat or something for the pain you are making a mess at hiding” Femi chipped in, getting off his desk.

“I will Femi but that is not the reason I am here, I want to speak to you about something that really bothers me and I hope I can confide in you?” David indicated in a low tone.

*

David stood before Rachel as she examined the document he had spent all night working on. She wasn’t smiling, so maybe that was positive for him. The irony with Rachel was; if she had the cause to laugh while taking a look at your work, it was sure that you had done crap. So, her not laughing was good news for David right now. He waited anxiously for her response which wasn’t coming. He was slowly beginning to think her silence was another negative.

“Okay!” Rachel announced and looked up from the laptop with a smile. “This is crap.”

David swallowed painfully. He had stayed up all night to do that work. How could she call it crap?!

“When I turn in figures for the month, it’s going to be short because your Unit is so clueless about what to do in moving in the organization forward. Do you know what that means?”

David nodded slowly.

“No, you don’t.” She replied, rising to her feet. “Here’s what going to happen. I’m going to give you another chance and that’s twenty four hours to come up with a game plan. Something that can push massive traffic to our site and inadvertently push our ratings out there and if by the end of that deadline, I’m still smiling over your work; you might as well clean out your stuff.” She concluded, closing the lid of the laptop.

David picked the laptop and hurried out. Now his day was going from bad to worse. He had to figure out something and quickly too. He slid into his chair as soon as he returned to the common room and opened his laptop. He had no idea of what to do but he needed to come up with something.

“Hey man, I have got news.”

“Now is not the time.” David replied.

Femi took his seat on the table. “What did Rachel say to have you so worked up?”

“Nothing.”

Femi shrugged. “Then I have got news!”

“I don’t want to hear anything you have to say, Femi!” David barked.

Femi stared at him with some concern. “Bro, what’s up man? You are yelling at me.”

David took a deep breath. “I am sorry but I need you to get off my table right now because if you don’t, I am not going to have a table by next tomorrow.”

“That bad?!” Femi probed.

David nodded.

“Hello guys!” Pam said walking in with a folder.

David turned to Femi with a ‘what is she doing here’ stare. Femi winked at him in response before returning to his seat.

Pam walked over to David. “I got your request. You are in alpha team for the football game. See you at six.” She said and walked out.

Football!!! He was terrible at football and Femi knew this!

 

Read Episode 2

5 Shot Weekend

1. Song I am listening to – MamaCita (Tinie Tempah ft. Wizkid)
2. Quote I am pondering on – One of the most beautiful qualities of true friendship is to understand and to be understood.
3. What I am reading – What the dog saw by Malcolm Gladwell
4. Blog I would be feasting on – http://www.tomiadesina.wordpress.com
5. Movie to watch – Urge starring Pierce Brosnan

My Pastor Is A Man Utd Fan

My last post was titled The Manchester United Struggles and since sharing that article Man Utd have won two consecutive games with the most recent one against Leicester City this past Saturday. Now I am not saying that the team is back to its best (obviously not) but it takes a bit of pressure off Jose Mourinho and the lads.

I am yet to believe the team won Leicester City because Wayne Rooney was benched because the team beat Northampton and Rooney played. Now my point is maybe Rooney should be benched for a few more games to find out if he really is the problem. “Maybe” being the keyword. Only time will tell right? I figured.

It was a good first half for Man United when they hosted Leicester City on Saturday at Old Trafford and I say good first half because they scored all of their 4 goals in the first half in the 4-1 drubbing of the Foxes. I was happy Paul Pogba’s name was on the score sheet but I disagree with him being man of the match. A Daley Blind or Ander Herrera would have been a better choice for most valuable player on the day.

So I recently found out my pastor was a Manchester United fan. During his sermon he said he had promised not to talk about his team anymore this year but he couldn’t hold his thoughts this past Sunday as his sermon that was centered around self-belief. He said he believed the way Mourinho was forced out of Chelsea brought about his lack of confidence and self-belief. He also said Mourinho was afraid of failure and scared to make big decisions but the moment he benched some of the big names of his new club (Man Utd) a bit of that confidence seem to be coming back. Now do I agree with him? Yea to an extent but I won’t delve into that now. I am just happy my pastor is a Manchester United fan, #Shikena.

I look forward to Man U’s Europa league game against Zorya Luhansk of Ukraine on Thursday night. Yes my team is not in the Champions League but still have nothing but love for the Old Lady of Turin (Juventus) and Los Merengues (Real Madrid) and I will catch their games too.

 

Thanks for your time guys………………………… BLESS !!!

The Manchester United Struggles

We Manchester United fans have been so spoilt by Sir Alex Ferguson that we can’t seem to phantom what it means to lose 3 straight games let alone not winning trophies. It is not that Man Utd won trophies every year under Fergie but the former gaffer clearly didn’t play this terribly even in the 2005/2006  season which I considered my worst season as a Man Utd fan under Ferguson. Do I blame us? Hell No.

 

The post Fergie era has witnessed the appointment of three managers or let’s say 4 including Ryan Giggs’ temporary stint after David Moyes was sacked before the climax of the 2013/14 season. Louis Van Gaal took over from Giggs in the 2014/15 season with the latter serving as his assistant during the Dutch man’s 2 year stay. Despite winning the FA Cup in his 2nd year after a 4th place finish in his first season Van Gaal was relieved of duties for failing to qualify for the Champions League (I was made to believe that) meaning the Red Devils had to face the rigors of Thursday night football (Europa League).

 

Jose Mourinho

There are 5 top football managers I deeply admire; Zinedine Zidane (you might argue he’s not yet proven), Max Allegri, Antonio Conte, Carlo Ancelloti and Jose Mourinho. Of these 5, 4 were already engaged leaving Jose Mourinho the only choice from my wish list. Along came Jose Mourinho, the proven one, the special one, the happy one , the only one , the next one or whatever you choose to call him. His task was clear, take us back to the glory days and his CV was oozing of raptness so it felt like we had the man (I still feel he is the man for the job) to help us dominate again.

6 games on with 3 consecutive wins and 3 consecutive losses and the whole world wants to tear the young man into shreds. I think we need to be patient with the manager and please don’t chew me if you are a Manchester United fan. The problem might slightly lie with the manager but he needs time to get his selection right.

 

 

Wayne Rooney

The 3-1 loss to Watford at Vicarage road saw fans calling for the retirement of Wayne Rooney. The player was at an all time low with his performance on Sunday afternoon. His worst performance in a Manchester United jersey if you asked me. Wayne Rooney still remains my favourite Red Devil but I think its time he has his place on the bench or shipped off to the MLS or even China (He can always come back when those leagues are on their weird break). I also feel Rooney is the reason why £89m pound man Paul Pogba is yet to put up a superb shift, yea I used the word superb because he has just been effective so far. I clearly understand it is difficult to bench your captain or freeze him out of the team but the earlier Mourinho (not that I know any better than him) realizes that Rooney and Pogba won’t work in that midfield of ours the better for the team. 

 

Northampton

Manchester United face Northampton in the 3rd round of the English Football League Cup (wonder why they keep changing the name of the tournament) on Wednesday night. Anything short of a win would not be acceptable. Just like we saw the resilience of the Chelsea side on Tuesday night I would love my  beloved Man Utd team to show same and even more.

 

Take us back to the glory days Jose, I believe in you………………………….. Thank you

 

Thanks for your time guys and sorry for the hiatus.

England Out #BrExit: Euro 2016

England clearly weren’t going to win the Euros, that was a very tall order for Roy Hodgson but I have had a commitment to this English National team since the 2002 World Cup and Roy would not be the reason I would stop supporting the Three Lions of England. I have told close family and friends that I cease to be a fan of the team after the Euro 2016 tournament which is holding in France.

My reason for ending my relationship with the English National team is not for football reasons, however it’s the recently concluded referendum on the UK’s exit from the European Union. As in I don’t know what they were thinking GOD keep us alive to see how things pan out over there. This referendum saga has affected the best thing since the last best thing which is football with the English Premiership being hit the hardest. I mean your league thrives because of the in flux of foreign players and now you want to make it difficult for football fans to enjoy the game ? Come on. Let me end it here , I feel it is early too early to take a stand (like say na my country, lol).

Back to the crux of the matter, the Three Lions of England were bundled out of the Euro 2016 tournament by Iceland 2-1 and for me it was a disgrace for the National team “I Loved”. I mean a nation with about 300,000 inhabitants but that’s not even the painful part, a country without a standing army and that’s not even hurtful enough. The most abusive part of the loss was that the team coach of the Iceland National team was a dentist as in a frigging dentist. Yes I know Lars Lagerback is joint coach with the dentist who goes by the name of Heimir Hallgrimsson. You had only one job Roy Hodgson and it was just coach a bunch of players nothing else. Losing to someone who has to fend for his family through two means of earning a living is an absolute disgrace Messr Hodgson.

England took the lead in the 4th minute via the penalty spot after Raheem Sterling was fouled by the goalkeeper and Captain Wayne Rooney stepped up to take the penalty. Goal, 1 nil and you thought England had it covered from there only for them to concede a goal 2 minutes later. You would think yes these things happen and the Three Lions will clip the Icelandic wings and humble them. I thought wrong , 1-1 it was until the 18th minute where Iceland got a second. 2-1 it ended at half time in favour of a country that is less than the population of inhabitants that dwell in Ikeja.

I don’t have much to say about the game, still hurting till now. Game ended 2-1 and it’s another exit from Europe making it 2 in a week referring to the referendum (BRExit). 

Whatever happens to England from here is totally their business but henceforth my relationship with the UK is follow Man Utd, Aston Villa, Newcastle, Aberdeen FC, Rory Mcilroy and Lewis Hamilton. 

I will like to see Italy win the Euros after watching a spirited performance against Spain yesterday. England has Messed-It for me so I quit after 7 tournaments of religiously supporting them.

Thanks for your time guys and keep the sticks coming. Love you all…… BLESS

The Crush

Ok this has to be the strangest crush story ever. I mean how do you admire someone from a distance for about 28 years and you probably only said hello once (which she initiated)? It would have been better if it was a celebrity crush but hey you went to Primary School with this girl.

This is the story of a very shy guy who had his eyes on a stunner back in his Primary school days. Itunu was (still is according to the guy) a drop dead gorgeous girl, chocolate skinned and slim and in Falz the Bahd Guy’s voice *I like that chocolate skin with caramel topping*. So he saw this beautiful girl everyday and three times on Friday for 5 years and no hello or high or even lie that she had a stain on her uniform the whole time. Jeez I am livid as I write this but hey there’s always a weird story out there (pardon my English).

The girl gained admission into Secondary School from Primary 5 leaving the young lad a year earlier than anticipated and to make matters worse his mum had told him he was going to a boarding school so there was no chance of a reunion. Then one of those days while on his way home he was fortunate to see her again, oh I forgot to mention her Secondary School and the Primary School share boundaries and I wonder why he never even went over to her school to say hello. Ok back to the gist, so he was lucky to have seen her again and he still did not say hello until she walked up to him and said AO how are you. Can you imagine ?

As if that was not enough, he didn’t see her for years and should have been grateful for stumbling into her when she came to his University with her younger brother to pay for her brother’s school fees and yes you guessed right he didn’t man up to say hello. I thought it was meant to be third time the charm?

The story isn’t interesting to me sef anymore and you why? He saw her again in church one Sunday (15th May, 2016) and you need not guess anymore he didn’t say hello, as a matter of fact he left before service was over for no reason and the dude still had the effontery to say she was still looking as stunning as ever and that he did not see a ring on her finger (yea that finger).

 

 

Simeone Vs Zidane: UCL 2016 Final

After witnessing a weekend filled with Cup finals (21st May, 2016 through May 22nd, 2016) where my beloved Manchester United won a 12th FA Cup trophy at the expense of Crystal Palace in Wembley. One of the other teams I follow passionately, Juventus also nicked the Coppa Italia under the noses of A.C Milan to end the season as double winners (they also won the Serie A). Bayern Munich also beat Borrusia Dortmund on penalties to win the DFB Pokal Cup and ultimately hand Manager Pep Guardiola a nice farewell as he leaves the club to link up with Manchester City. Zlatan Ibrahimovic was able to sign out of the French Ligue 1 in style by winning the Coupe De France with Paris Saint Germaine (P.S.G) bagging a brace in the 4-2 win over Olympique Marseille. Barcelona rounded up their season beating Sevilla 2-0 to win the Copa Del Rey.

Now to the main event you all have been impatiently waiting for, the UEFA Champions League (UCL) final which holds in San Siro, Milan on Saturday the 28th of May, 2016. The game which is between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid is one match I am really looking forward to and it would have been great if I was in the stadium but I will pick watching it with my guys ahead of that though. Diego Simeone who’s the Manager of Atletico Madrid would be trying to lay hands on the trophy he lost to city rivals in a repeat of the the 2014 final which was played at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon , Portugal. Carlo Ancelotti was at the helm of affairs for Real Madrid on that night in Lisbon but Diego Simeone would be up against Zinedine Zidane who is a former Real player who took charge of the team when Rafa Benitez was sacked in January, 2016. Zidane has shown he is capable of handling the Real Madrid when his side pushed Barcelona till the final day of the season losing the La Liga title losing by a point and taking the team all the way to the UCL final.

Simeone (Inter Milan) vs Zidane (Juventus) during a Serie A match

I respected managers of both sides as footballers and I just cannot wait for the game to start even though I already have a side I would be rooting for on the night. This is the Champion League final and even though Atletico Madrid has had the better of Real in the last 3 seasons with 4 wins and two draws but within these past 3 seasons you will agree that Real Madrid stepped up when it mattered most and it was at the 2014 Champions League final. Real beat Atletico 4-1 to claim their 10th Champions League crown (La Decima). Barring any foul play this game would be and interesting one.

Players to watch out for

Atletico Madrid: Antoine Griezmann, Saul Niguez, Jan Oblak, Fernando Torres, Yannick Carassco, Koke and Diego Godin

Real Madrid: Cristiano Ronaldo (if 100% fit), Luka Modric, Karim Benzema, Gareth Bale, Casemiro, Sergio Ramos and Keylor Navas

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Prediction

I am going to stick my head out for a Real Madrid win. It will not be easy and Simeone has worked too hard to get to the final beating perennial favourites Barcelona and Bayern Munich in quarter finals and semi-finals but I think Real Madrid has what it takes to nick this one. Real to win 2-1 and also predicting Ronaldo to score one of the goals for Real Madrid.

 

Thanks for your time guys. Remain BLESSED !!!

 

Please follow me on twitter and instagram; @dipoogun and mention for a follow back.

My Worst EPL Season Ever

The 2015/16 English Premier League (EPL) season surely was an interesting one for the neutrals after Leicester City Football Club shocked the football world by winning the title with two games to spare. Winning the league on game day 36 was not new as my darling Manchester United did win the league several weeks to the end of the season on a number of occasions but the surprise for many was that Leicester City a team given an odd of 5000/1 to win the league and also a team that battled relegation the most part of last season were crowned champions. I keep my reservations as to how they won the league, after all that’s not why we are here.

I am however not bothered about who won the EPL, that’s by the way. Manchester United has won the EPL 13 times out of a possible 24 times and the closest to the Red Devils in terms of winning it is Chelsea (4) followed by Arsenal (3) who last won it 2004 where they went unbeaten throughout the season. Manchester City have clinched the EPL twice with Blackburn Rovers and newly crowned champions Leicester City winning it once a piece. My reason for calling this season my worst EPL season is because the two other teams (Aston Villa and Newcastle United) I follow religiously in the league were relegated. Aston Villa’s relegation was something I saw coming though because they had poor results which confined them to bottom of the league all through the season but Newcastle’s drop to the English Championship is something that hit me the hardest despite Villa being my favourite of the two. Rafa Benitez should have been hired earlier than he was brought on to manage Newcastle. I strongly doubt if a manager that has coached in the Champions League this season would want to be part of life in the Championship. Only time will tell.

Aston Villa

Aston Villa is truly a special team to me and I will let you guys know why in the nearest future. I still haven’t forgiven myself for not visiting Villa Park when I was at the Midlands like I won’t forgive myself when myself, big bro, his wife and our man Mr. Ade drove past Newcastle Upon Tyne in October, 2010. The relegation of these two teams only mean that I will strive hard to watch the English Championship (2nd tier of English football) and trust me I will still follow them as religiously as I did when they were in the Premiership.

Newcastle

I have never had a season this bad to be honest and I can only be consoled if Manchester United win the English FA Cup come May 21st and Real Madrid wins the UEFA Champions League on the 28th of May even though Juventus (a team I can always count on these days) had made me proud few weeks back by winning the Italian Serie A for a fifth time in a row. Aberdeen FC also let me down after giving me hope of winning the Scottish Premier League title before faltering at the turn of the year. Rangers is back though so we can look forward to the Old Firm Derby ( Rangers versus Celtic) next season when Scottish Premiership kicks off. In the Nigerian league I will love to see Kano Pillars win it but I must confess I have been impressed by the MFM lads and Enugu Rangers.

 

Thanks for your time guys and do have a fabulous week ahead.

 

Please follow me on Twitter @dipoogun and on Instagram via the same handle.

EPL Out, Euro 2016 In

The English Premiership hit a tumultuous climax today. The Champions Leicester wrapped up their League campaign with a 1 all draw at Stamford Bridge against a Chelsea team that won it last season and which also happens to be the team that sacked their manager Claudio Ranieri 12 years ago.

All final 10 games of the season was supposed to kicked off simultaneously and though we had known the relegated teams (Newcastle,Norwich and Aston Villa) and the champions but the fight for 2nd spot between Tottenham and Arsenal and the battle for the final Champions League spot between Manchester City and Manchester United looked all but settled in favour of City. As faith would have it there was a bomb scare at United’s home ground so only 9 of the the 10 games happened. Maybe they shouldn’t even bother playing the game again as Man City clinched the 4th spot to make it to the play off phase of the Champions League after drawing with Welsh side Swansea City. Arsenal however pipped Tottenham Hotspur to 2nd place beating Aston Villa 4-0 and Tottenham losing 5-1 to already relegated Newcastle.

Everton earned a bit of respite beating Norwich City 3-0 after a poor run of form to end the season on a high in front of their home fans. Westbromwich Albion held Liverpool to a 1-1 draw at the Hawthorns and Watford also played out a draw with Sunderland with the game ending 2-2 at Vicarage Road. Southampton thrashed Crystal Palace 4-1 at Saint Mary’s Stadium and Stoke City was also able to crown the end to their season with a 2-1 win over Westham United.

An interesting season it has been and we await the third team that would join Burnley and Middlesbrough in the Premiership come next season. The European league has ended almost everywhere and we await the season ending club tourney, the UEFA Champions League final which holds on the 28th of May, 2016 in Milan Italy. The Champions League final is between Real Madrid and Athletico Madrid.

The beauty of this year is that the football games never cease as we also look forward to the Euros which is holding in France from June 10 to July 10, 2016. Teams have started naming their provisional squads for the tournament. We also have the Copa America and the Olympics to look forward to. Oh my what a year 2016 is.

Thanks again guys for your time. Stay Blessed !!!

 

Catch me on Twitter @dipoogun and on Instagram @dipoogun

Kobe Bean Bryant: The Mamba Bows Out In Style

I became an ardent Basketball follower in the late 90s and I will always allude my love for the sport to my big brothers, Big Doz and Big Yomz because they always talked about it. I remember both these guys loved Shaquille O’Neal so much even Big Yomz had to name his football team back in High School Shaq Attackers. As I mentioned earlier, I started following the sport keenly in the late 90s and from the very first game I saw Shaquille O’Neal play in (delayed broadcast though), he became been my all-time best player of the sport, but that is story for another day. So before I get to the crux of the matter I am a Shaquille O’Neal man but much respect to Kobe Bryant.

Most of my adult life, I have been known (to friends and family) to just do stuffs that confound everyone around me, it is not that I want to be different, I usually just want to find out for myself rather than take other people’s words. I am a shy person and I have had my fair share of conversations going askew, and in those moments, to make it feel like news if I could I would puke an elephant. So it was when a good friend asked me to share a plate of pounded yam and egusi with her and such was my disappointment that I vowed to never take her words or recommendation at anything seriously ever again. It was the worst meal I have had in a while and this is coming from someone who has had to endure enough disappointing meals at a place I would not love to mention. Other people’s opinion tend to be a little too over-implied.

So is the way I feel when I hear the name Kobe Bryant but I am going to try to be as objective as possible.

Kobe Bryant might not be the best player to play the game but I know you cannot make a list of 10 greatest National Basketball Association (NBA) without throwing his name into the frame. Born Kobe Bean Bryant on the 23^rd of August 1978, the Philadelphia native who is 6 feet 6 inches tall moved into the NBA straight from High School spending 20 years with the Los Angeles Lakers. He won 5 NBA titles (2000 – 2002, 2009, 2010) with the Lakers, made the NBA All-Star team 18 times (1998, 2000 – 2016), he was twice named NBA finals Most Valuable Player (2009 and 2010) and also led the NBA in scoring twice (2009 and 2010) just to mention a few.

Is Mamba as Kobe is also known as good as advertised? Yes he is, for him to be the third highest scoring player in NBA history Mamba is surely as good as portrayed. Kobe Bryant made a total of 33,663 points from 1,346 games scoring 8,378 free throws and 1,827 three pointers including 11,719 field goals. Kobe sits pretty behind legends Kareem Abdul-Jabaar and Karl Malone both of whom scored 38,387 and 36,928 points respectively. This puts Kobe ahead of my all-time best player (Shaquille O’Neal) in terms points scored but on the flipside the Mamba is credited with the most field goal misses in the history of the game and Shaq is not on the list of most misses. Kobe Bryant had about 14,481 misses from over 27,000 attempts.

Kobe is arguably the best ever player to have donned the Lakers jersey and clearly one of the best to ever play the game and even the sex scandal of 2003 (the charges against him were dropped) could not steal the shine off his beautiful career. Kobe hit a career high 81 points in 2006 against the Toronto Raptors making him record the second highest points in a single game behind Wilt ‘The Stilt’ Chamberlain’s record of 100 points for Philadelphia Warriors when they came up against New York Knicks in 1962. Kobe was also part of the U.S Olympic team that beat Spain to clinch gold at the Beijing Olympics in 2008.

He played his final game for the Lakers against Utah Jazz signing off with 60 points on the night from 50 shots and it was rumored that Shaquille O’Neal had dared him to score 50 points before the game.

 

Kobe Bean Bryant retires from the game he played for 20 years……….. All the best Mamba

 

Thanks for your time guys.

England: My Preferred 23 To France 2016

The European version of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) is about 2 months away and I really cannot wait for one of the biggest football tournaments to kick-off. The 2015/16 season has been a disappointment for me despite it not being over yet. My beloved Man Utd have been faltering on all angles and sincerely I think it is high time the United board moved on from Louis Van Gaal. Yes I was happy with his arrival but now I am not anymore. I have been heart broken too many times this season and I cannot wait for it to be over. As if that is not enough, the other European teams I follow are doing terribly too except for Juventus that looks braced for another Serie A title. Real Madrid cannot win La Liga and surely will not win the Champions League, Aston Villa are destined for the Championship, Newcastle might follow in the Villa track (though my gut feeling says Newcastle will escape relegation) and Aberdeen looked poised for Scottish Premier League crown before faltering along the line.

Back to the matter at hand, as you all know (if you did not now you would) The Three Lions of England is my “adopted” favourite National Team and this has been since the 2002 World Cup which held in South Korea and Japan. I have never missed any of their games in any tournament since I became a fan, yes I get a lot of heartbreaks but I will still stand by this team. As the Euro 2016 which holds in France between June and July draws near myself and my people from one of the best Chat Group in the world (Naija Pundits) have been speculating what players will make the cut for the various teams we would be supporting when the tourney kicks off including England. So I have decided to share my preferred English 23 to the Euros. Find my list below.

 

England celebrating a goal against Germany in Berlin

1. Joe Hart – Goal Keeper (Manchester City)
2. Fraser Forster – Goal Keeper (Southampton)
3. John Ruddy- Goal Keeper (Norwich)
4. Nathan Clyne – Right Back (Liverpool)
5. Chris Smalling – Center Back (Manchester United)
6. Gary Cahill – Center Back (Chelsea)
7. Danny Rose – Left Back (Tottenham Hotspurs)
8. Eric Dier – Center Back/Holding Midfielder/Right Back (Tottenham Hotspurs)
9. Ross Barkley – Attacking Midfielder (Everton)
10. Jordan Henderson – Central Midfielder (Liverpool)
11. Harry Kane – Striker (Tottenham Hotspurs)
12. Jamie Vardy – Striker (Leicester City)
13. John Stones – Center Back (Everton)
14. Phil Jagielka – Center Back (Everton)
15. Kyle Walker – Right Full Back (Tottenham Hotspurs)
16. Michael Carrick – Central Midfielder (Manchester United)
17. Dele Alli – Attacking Midfielder (Tottenham Hotspurs)
18. Danny Welbeck – Forward (Arsenal)
19. Wayne Rooney – Forward (Manchester United)
20. Raheem Sterling- Winger (Manchester City)
21. Aaron Cresswell  – Left Back (Southampton)
22. Danny Drinkwater – Holding Midfielder (Leicester)
23. James Milner – Winger/Central Midfielder (Liverpool)

There you have it, the best 23 players in England that would make me proud. It would be nice to have Michael Carrick in the squad because his experience matters a lot and yes Rooney might have been misfiring at the start of the season but he started 2016 in good form though an injury in February has kept him out of the team for a couple of months but his wealth of experience would also go a long way.

No place for Daniel Sturridge in my team, no beef (like he knows me) its just that I could not drop a more experienced Rooney and Welbeck is more of an utility player (that’s how I feel) and we all know Harry Kane and Jamie Vardy are the top scoring English players in the EPL so it was a no-brainer putting them in the squad of 23. I would also loved Ryan Bertrand to go but Aaron Cresswell and Danny Rose are having a brilliant season and being majorly injury free.

Criticize, comment and share, it probably might get to Roy Hodgson (Hehehehehe).

 

Thanks for your time as always and stay BLESSED. Have a lovely week ahead.

The Other Me (Short Film)

My favourite writers’ favourite writer is back with another monster blockbuster, stay tuned and be entertained. Tomi Adesina never disappoints and this short film is to commiserate with the World Autism Day which is today April 2nd, 2016. Please help support the cause and may the ALMIGHTY continually bless you and yours.                          Synopsis: Olamide, an autistic young man prepares for the biggest day of his life; a date with the love of his life, Sharon. Due to his condition, what seemingly should be his most exciting day becomes a nightmare.        Written and directed by Tomi Adesina, The Other Me is a compelling short film on Autism which raises awareness on the condition and speaks against discriminating people living with it. It was produced by Tomi Adesina and Michael Tayo Babalola’s BlueHouse Films in association with Omobolaji Opakunbi’s Phalanx Pictures. The film stars Taiwo Adeboboye and Adebukola Oladipupo, among others. On World Autism Day, April 2nd, 2016 awareness would be raised by various people on Autism. BlueHouse Films and Phalanx Pictures would be doing same with this project. The date for the official release of the short film is yet to be announced.   For sponsorship; please contact: 08139263829 or 08039446273   Join the conversation on Social Media by using all or any of the following media: Twitter: @bluehousefilms #TheOtherMe #AutismSpeaks Instagram: @bluehousefilms Facebook: facebook.com/bluehousefilms

Leicester City for the Crown

 

From struggling with relegation in the 2014/15 season to title contenders this term, the story of Leicester City Football Club is that of a mirage if you ask me. The fairy tale obviously started with Nigel Pearson whom was in charge during the relegation threatened campaign of 2014/15, I say this because if the team had been relegated I am sure current Manager Claudio Ranieri would not have been appointed or even if he was called to take the job he would have turned down a team that was already relegated. They avoided the drop and Ranieri was employed to at least stabilize the team and make them a regular premiership side (my thoughts though).

Leicester City is however not new to the English Premier League (EPL) as they gained promotion under the tutelage of Martin O’neill in 1996 from the old Division 1 (Now Championship). I remember a certain Emile Heskey burst into limelight with Leicester City, they had players like Frank Sinclair, Matt Elliot, Muzzy Izzet. They even played in the UEFA Cup a couple of times when they won the League Cup twice (97 and 2000 with a runners up medal in 1999) and were in the top 10 of the EPL for 4 consecutive seasons. They went down to lower tier of English football and not much was heard about them after they were relegated to the Championship in 2002. After a 12 year hiatus, they gained promotion back into the Premier League.

The Emergence

Leicester City has now become a force to reckon with (at least for now) sitting pretty atop the EPL with 5 points ahead of Tottenham Hotspurs in 2^nd place, 11 points ahead of 3^rd placed Arsenal and 15 points ahead of 4^th placed Man City who are in the battle for the final Champions League spot with Manchester United and Westham United. Earlier part of the season had people saying Leicester cannot win the EPL and that they would drop down to their normal position amongst the other relegation battlers and I will not exonerate myself from this rant. I stopped saying Leicester will not win the League in February and this was because Man City were still inconsistent and Arsenal did not take advantage of the little blip Leicester faced.

I am not categorically saying Leicester has won the league but at least a Champions League slot is assured and with 8 games to go (7 for Leicester and Tottenham) you never can tell but I seriously tip them for the title or maybe Spurs so I can spite their North London rivals (Arsenal). This Leicester City side reminds me of Jose Mourinho’s side of 2006, grinding out 1-0 wins (12 already this season) and stats show that they have garnered more points against the remaining teams they have left to play in comparison to Tottenham’s side of the divide.

 

Key Players for Leicester

Riyad Mahrez and Jamie Vardy

I would have loved to say Riyad Mahrez is the best Leicester City player because he has hit double figures in goals and assists but Jamie Vardy for me is Leicester’s main man this term and reason being he looks like he is playing strictly for the team as they inch close to the title and not the EPL’s top scorer crown (simply put, playing for the greater good). I will not list players because the whole team have given a good account of themselves.

 

 

My Prediction?

Like I stated above I seriously tip Leicester to be crowned EPL champions but would be glad if Spurs could also win the league and hopefully the management of my beloved Manchester United team can snatch Tottenham’s head coach Mauricio Pochettino. No disrespect to Jose Mourinho even though it is looking likely the Portuguese would sign for United come May/June.

 

Thanks for your time people and sorry I have been away for too long. Love you all.

Top 15 Songs of 2015

Hello guys, we have gotten to that part of the year where I share my favourite songs of the year and as the drill goes 15 songs will make my list. The year opened with some smashing singles as expected and it sure was difficult narrowing all the awesome songs released in 2015 into a list of 15 tracks. I am sure there is a possibility of having 2015 songs on the list and it still will have flaws. Please remember I stated it is my top 15 songs of 2015 so pardon me if it does not cut it for you. Thank you you in advance.

15. The Money (Davido ft Olamide): I wonder how these dudes don’t burn out, they work too hard and they always ensure their fans get top quality songs. I am hoping they have an album together sometime soon. The Money is a banger any time any day and three times on Sunday.

14. Reggae Blues (Mr Songz ft Olamide, KCee, Orezi and Iyanya): this is one song I heard months after it was released, before listening to the song I had this colleague that was always singing the chorus and I did not like it one bit. The moment I found out Olamide was on the track it became a favourite for me. Nice song and the cast seemed right.

13. Fans Mi (Davido ft Meek Mill): I am not a big fan of Nigerians doing collabos with Americans because it always seem like the featured artistes does not drop lines according to the message the song is trying to pass but this is an exception. Not only because I am a big Davido fan but the song actually is something you can buck to making you forget about the lyrics spat.

12. Gbese (Lil Kesh): an Olamide protégé and no surprise he’s on the list. Gbese is a good dance jam and for me Lil Kesh is easily the next big thing in Naija music.

11. Lagos Boys (Olamide): a third Olamide joint on the chart. Do we have to keep spelling out how good this guy is? I figured.

10. Karashika (Falz ft Phyno and Chigurl): Falz is truly the bahd guy. I think his album (Stories That Touch) is the only album released this year that can go head to head with Olamide’s Eyan Mayweather in terms of picking the best album released in 2015. This Karashika song is one hell of a jam and Phyno and Chigurl made it super sweet.

9. Kabiyesi (Dr Sid): Dr. Sid will always drop that one single that will keep you on the dance floor. Kabiyesi is a song I can have on replay all day and the video was very good too.

8. Wish Me Well (Timi Dakolo): a song produced by Cobhams needs no introduction. Timi was a beast on this one.  A very powerful song I must add which comes off his Love and Consequence album.

7. My Woman, My Everything (Patoranking ft Wande Coal): Patoranking I must say is going to be around for a while because his style is unique and for now competition is none. Who else do you feature on a track like this other than Wande Coal. Both artiste made a monster out of this hit.

6. Asimapeyin (Wande Coal): the Black Diamond totally killed this track, no one could have done it better. For me Wande Coal is the best vocalist in the country. Sick beats and the video was just right.

5.  Melo Melo (Olamide): is there anything Olamide touches that does not turn to gold? Melo Melo is not the type of song I expected from Olamide, the melody was so slow and Olamide still jumped on it and killed it. He’s surely Nigeria’s best artiste at the moment.

4. Raba (Dj Shabsy ft ShugaBoy & Kiss Daniel): now this song for me is a song that I like for no particular reason. Nice beat and the lyrics  was on point. Lo tori mi lo je gbese. And thanks to my guys Qunle and O’Larry, I wouldn’t have discovered this song. I barely listen to the radio except if I want to listen to Front Page News and Analysis and Sports Express on Classic fm, Sports Yarn on Naija fm and when I am in transit and I missing a football game I tune into Brilla fm. So Qunle was always raving about the song and O’Larry sent it me via bbm. It’s been stuck on my playlist ever since. Now you people made me add football gist into what I wanted to make purely musical, hehehehe. And no I am not getting paid for mentioning those radio stations (wish I was).

3.GODWin (Korede Bello): another hit that got us singing along from beginning to end. The Mavin star introduced himself with this monster hit (after the Dorobucci craze) though I have not been a big fan of his follow up singles but with Don Jazzy you are in good hands. Korede Bello should come good in the nearest future.

2. Duro (Tekno): the first time I heard this song it was a hit for me but barely heard it after that first day. A trip to Abeokuta and my man iBee had this song on replay for about 30 minutes. Getting back to Lagos Duro was the only song gushing out of my mouth and the video is on point. This song will still be a hit next year.

1. Bobo (Olamide): this has to be the best song of 2015 without a shadow of doubt. Olamide the best Nigerian rapper over the last 4 years kills it with this track off his 5th studio album titled Eyan Mayweather. I don’t think there’s any song that rocked our airwaves as much as Bobo did this year. Even my boss knows how crazy I am about this song. Wo Bobo weyrey lo ba de #SongOfTheYearByMiles

There you have it, my top 15 songs of 2015. There are other songs I wish I could have added to the list and some of them are Soldier (Falz ft Simi), Ladi (Olamide and Phyno ft Lil Kesh), Efejoku (Lil Kesh), Igbeyawo (Oritsefemi), Gift (Iyanya ft Do Jazzy), Concur (Timaya ft Don Jazzy), Katapot (Reekado Banks), Jamb Question (Simi ft Falz), Don’t Stop (Olamide), Indomie (MasterKraft ft Olamide and CDQ), Simati Niya (Cynthia Morgan), Celebrity Girlfriend (Falz ft Reekado Banks), Give Thanks (Oritsefemi), Baby Abeg (Orezi) just to mention a few.

I was going to do my top ten albums of the year but I realized just 3 albums made the cut for me and they are Wande Coal’s Wanted, Olamide’s Eyan Mayweather and Falz’ Stories That Touch.

Thanks for your time guys and hope you are having fun this season. May the ALMIGHTY continually protect us and may 2016 bring us good tidings (Amen).

Happy Birthday to me, all I want for my birthday is a Play Station 4, Plenty Money, Good Health many more Birthdays and More of GOD.

 

Follow on me Twitter @dipoogun and also on Instagram via the same handle.

My A-Z of the English Premier League Thus Far

A. Africans are lighting up the EPL big time (Riyald Mahrez, Odion Ighalo, Seydou Mane, Andrew Ayew, Yannick Bolasie)

B. Brendan Rogers was sacked in the 60^th minute of the Merseyside Derby on the 4^th of October, 2015

C. Chris Smalling aka Mike clearly has been the most improved defender in the league over the last 9  months and has surely done enough to make the team of the season come May, 2015

D. David De Gea is still a Man Utd player and he has not let the summer transfer speculation of leaving for Real Madrid affect his performance for the Red Devils

E. Eva Carneiro was dropped to the bench by Jose Mourinho. This was when Chelsea’s woes started

F. Fabregas gases out

G. Grealish dumped Ireland for England. The attacking midfielder who plys his trade with Aston Villa (UCL winners of 1982) chose to play for England ahead of Ireland in September, 2015

H. Home clearly has not been home for my darling Aston Villa

I. Inler Gokan goes from Napoli starting XI to Leicester City Bench, from playing in Europe to strictly domestic football

J. Jamie Vardy goes from playing for a non-league side (Fleetwood) 3 years ago to being Goleador (Top scorer) contender in the EPL

K. Kane finally found his scoring boots after a drab start to the season.

L. Leicester City move from relegation battle to title chasers thanks to Claudio ‘The Tinkerman’ Ranieri

M. Mourinho has gone from being the “Special One” to the “Happy One” and now steadily “Flogged One”

N. Non English players still dominate the league

O. Ozil, Ossit or whatever you want to call him has been the reason Arsenal sits pretty in the top four at the moment.

P. Payet will surely be missed by Westham. Hes out till the New Year

Q. Quitting was the best option for Dick Advocaat

R. Riyald Mahrez is one of the reasons Leicester City have a voice this season and why they would not be drawn into the relegation battle this season

S. Sam Allardyce gets the nod of steering Sunderland out of relegation troubles

T. Tickets for Euro 2016 already certain for Jamie Vardy, Ross Barkley, Joe Hart and Chris Smalling

U. Unpredictable

V. Van Gaal confronted by some of the players. I cannot even confront Van Gaal in my dreams (I would wake up to apologize) or virtually. The man scares me

W. Westham the big team beaters after having Man City, Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea for lunch and losing to teams below them on the table. A Robin Hood-esque kind of thing, robbing from the rich and giving to the poor

X. Xclude Chelsea from the title race. I guess that’s a no-brainer

Y. Yohan Cabaye and Yannick Bolasie: Crystal Palaces’ fulcrum

Z. Zero loss at home for both Man United and Tottenham Hotspurs and Zero loss away for Leicester City

Taxi Driver

Hi guys, been a very very very long minute. I apologize for the hiatus and I know as always I would be forgiven. Bless you guys.

Before watching the Taxi Driver (Oko Ashewo) movie I had seen only two other Nigerian movies (Ije and October 1) at the cinemas. I had made mention to some of my friends and colleagues that I would catch the movie the day it premiered which was 13th November, 2015 but one thing led to the other and someone really dear to me was mad at me so there was no ginger whatsoever to go to the cinema. I had a doctor’s appointment (strangely) the next day and after the check up I was advised to do something fun with myself but the only fun thing that came to my head was to catch a game of football with some of my mates. Sadly it was the International Football break so club football was put on hold for friendly matches, World Cup qualifiers and Euro 2016 play off games. DSTV didn’t have the rights to show the games I was interested in watching so it was a boring period for me.

I eventually went to watch the movie with best writer I know and the director of the DocuDrama #HerLines on Tuesday November 17, 2015. Choi I have not seen a better movie critic but that is story for another day.

When the movie started, the sound didn’t come on until someone volunteered to go and talk to the guys in charge, the good thing was we were barely a minute into the movie. I must say the movie started on wonderful note which apparently surprised me. I watch movies based on the characters and trust me Femi Jacobs wasn’t one of those characters that would drag me to the cinema so you probably guessed right if you thought it was Odunlade Adekola that made me go to the cinema on this day. I am a big fan of Odunlade but Femi Jacobs killed this movie as in he would be the reason I would watch the movie over and over again. As a matter of fact I would go to the cinema just to go and watch a flick starring Femi Jacobs henceforth.

A few minutes into the movie the fire alarm was triggered and if you remember what happened in Paris on Friday the 13th of November, 2015 you would agree it was right for us to have panicked. It turned out to be a false alarm, though a man and a lady walked out for a few minutes just to be double sure. The movie was really interesting but got confusing at some point. The last 10 minutes however shed perfect light to the story line.

I must say the Taxi Driver is the 3rd best movie “I have seen” this year just after Last Knights and Entourage. Yea my movie taste can be poor but I wouldn’t say those that support Arsenal or Liverpool have terrible taste, its a matter of choice #IDigress. I will rate the Taxi Driver 7.5/10 and that’s high for a Nigerian movie.

 

Thanks for your time guys and also your patience. Do have a fabulous weekend.

 

Please comment, share and follow @dipoogun on Instagram and Twitter. Also like the facebook page DipoWrites. Bless !!!

 

The Mayor of Dustbin Estate

I have known this pretty lady from my Secondary School days and then I thought she was just a pretty face nothing more. We didn’t get talking till after 2 years and that was when we were in Junior Secondary School 3 (J.S.S 3). Yes I was shy like that and trust me she was the one who attempted to be friends with me (no bragging, it is who she is). I always get endeared to people like that. We finished high school and our paths crossed often, she was a classic people person always checking up on people. We eventually went to the same University and this was where my respect for her grew tremendously. She was always talking about helping the less privileged and that she would start up a foundation that would help spread love to the streets.

It wasn’t long after she graduated from Olabisi Onabanjo Univeristy, Ogun State that she birthed the charity foundation called Love On The Streets (LOTS), where the major aim of the foundation is to get every child off the street by feeding them and ensuring they got proper education. This is the most selfless act ever in my books, maybe it is because of my love for kids. I have tried to support Tolu in my little way but never visited her base of operation which is popularly known as Dustbin Estate. To mark my late mum’s birthday in December 2012 I called Tolu up to find out how I could visit Dustbin Estate which is located at Awodi-Ora area of Ajegunle. I did not recollect ever going to Ajegunle before in my life before that day in December.

I got there and I couldn’t believe my eyes, people practically leaving on refuse, making shelter with wood. She took me round the whole of the Dustbin Estate and I couldn’t help but shake my head feeling the pains of the residents. That particular year I visited the Estate, Tolulope Sangosanya fed 150 families for Christmas and took kids to Shoprite for them to feel loved and let them know there’s a bright future ahead.

Her Current Projects with the LOTS Foundation

• Christmas for every family: this is essentially is about feeding families in the Dustbin Estate during Christmas period
• Christmas Hamper for every child: this includes getting basic school supply, multivitamins and basic toiletries for the kids for the next academic session
• Literacy is a right not a privilege: boosting literacy, aiding kids to be able to read and write
• Child welfare: this project essentially relies on donations in cash/kind so children can eat at least 3 balanced diet on a weekly basis
• Clean water and sanitation: the community lacks clean water, toilets and the aim of this project is to fix water pumps, toilets and bathrooms to accommodate the population of the community
• Get involved: this is a way of telling individuals/corporate bodies and what have you to volunteer or get involved in supporting the cause.

At the time I visited she mentioned she wanted to build like a Low Cost Housing Estate and ensure the Dustbin Estate is always in good shape.

On a personal note this young lady’s biggest achievement is (still ongoing) ensuring the kids in this Estate are educated one way or the other. I call her my elder sister of 11 days because she was born December 18^th and me December 29^th (same year).

Keep up the good work Mama Sango, the good LORD will continually bless your efforts and reward you accordingly.

 

For donations or sponsorship please reach out via the details below:

 

Address:                              LOTS Resource Center

                                                  Flat 1, Emmanuel Villa

                                                  No. 48, Odofin Akinsanya Street

                                                 Off Mechanic Bus Stop, Awodi-Ora,

                                                 Ajeromi Ifelodun L.G.A, Apapa Lagos,

                                                 Nigeria

                                                 Office hours (9am – 4pm)

                                               http://www.lotscharityfoundation.org

Twitter:                                     @dustbinestate

Instagram:                                @toludustbinestate

Email:                                     toluboni@yahoo.com or  projectlots@yahoo.com

Mobile:                                   234-8023826171

 Account Details:               LOTS Charity Foundation, 0013502376 (GT Bank)

Please guys help support this cause. GOD Bless you all immensely.

I Will Miss You My Brother

I am going to miss you ‘Seun Lewis. It feels weird calling you a family friend or a cousin because I knew you all your life. So the title ‘BROTHER’ is what I will gladly confer on you because you have been a brother to me in many ways I cannot explain. Getting that call from L2ce on that Thursday evening that you had passed on made me put life into perspective; nothing is ASSURED.

You were my first experience of knowing what having a younger brother felt like. It was always fun to hear you call me Popo (instead of Dipo) as a toddler. I will never forget how we used to drag ourselves up and down in Unilag Staff School waiting for Mummy (your mum) to come get us. I remember the Saturday morning ritual of having moin moin (bean pudding) and garri with you and your siblings whom also happen to be my siblings before I go for lessons with Mide.

 

R.I.P Seun Lewis

With Seun after a Football game

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You grew up to be a man anybody would be proud of and I will always remember how you ensured I was well taken care of whenever there’s a party or event at your house and when I don’t turn up in time you always placed a call to find out where I was or what happened. You only missed my birthday twice since I had known you and that was in 2010 when I was in Aberdeen and 2014 due to my indecisiveness. You truly were like a brother like my brothers, just like my mother’s child.

Your love for football cannot be quantified and your objectivity on football matters is something I admired. I would miss our football banters, we were always against each other when it came to teams we supported. You supported Arsenal in England and Manchester United was my team, you supported Roma in Italy while I supported Juventus.

Seun Lewis it is sad you are no more but I was happy to see how loved you were on the day you were buried. I really don’t know how mummy and daddy would take your loss but looking into the eyes of L2ce and Mide on Tuesday (06/10/2015) when you were being lowered down painted a picture in my head…………………….. YOU WOULD SORELY BE MISSED. Even the football team whom you always played with every Saturday were present donning shirts with your pictures on it. It is going to be hard to deal with your demise but I can categorically say you lived a good life but with you heaven has gained an ANGEL.

So I am not going to say goodbye my brother because you live on in my heart, I would rather focus and take solace on the times shared.

Her Lines (The Docudrama)

Morning guys, I trust you had a wonderful weekend. This post is about a Docu Drama (Her Lines) coming soon  which was written and directed by my very good friend Tomi Adesina, an amazing writer (https://tomiadesina.wordpress.com/). You guys should anticipate the best thing to hit your screens in a bit (September 28, 2015). There is a link to the teaser for Her Lines which has BlueHouse Films as the Production Company as you read. Please support this cause by spreading the word. Bless you all.

 

Writer: Tomi Adesina

Director: Tomi Adesina

Producers: Michael Tayo Babalola & Tomi Adesina

Cinematographer: Omobolaji Opakunbi

Genre: Docudrama

Media & Distribution: YouTube (Online platform)

Production Company: BlueHouse Films

 

Her Lines tells a story poetically in visual form which shifts focus from the diversity and versatility of the human hair and advocates for acceptance from within. It abstractly explains perception of the human mind and subtly re-emphasizes the sole essence of self-acceptance.

Written and directed by Screenwriter and popular fiction series blogger, Tomi Adesina of Dear Future Husband, All Fun and Games, Hearts and Homes and currently the popular Legal blog drama Fola King, Her Lines is a docudrama that follows the journey of three ladies in relation to their hair and beauty, a reflection about their identities and self-perception of the world at large. Creative Photographer, Michael-Tayo Babalola co-produced the docudrama with Tomi Adesina.

The hair was styled by Olufunke Williams and Dolapo Morakinyo was the make-up artist on this project.

This docudrama stars Faith Anny, Joy Ugochukwu and Grace Ogedengbe. The docudrama was produced by BlueHouse Films.

Watch the teaser video here: https://youtu.be/tivPzHTofUM

Her Lines is scheduled for release on September 28, 2015 and would be available for download via BlueHouse Films official YouTube channel: https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCH8fG70Plv8Dy_u7FgXTFzw Please subscribe by following the link to direct you to the YouTube channel; then click on subscribe.

Join the conversation on Social Media by using all or any of the following media:

Twitter: @bluehousefilms #HerLines

Instagram: @bluehousefilms

Facebook: facebook.com/bluehousefilms

50: The Special Number

It was all about Wayne Rooney in the past week after breaking Sir Bobby Charlton’s England goal scoring record. Mr. Charlton’s record of 49 goals stood for 45 years and Rooney whom would turn 30 in October levelled with Sir Charlton’s 49 goal record with his 106th cap for England (same amount of games it took Charlton to hit the 49 goal mark) scoring a penalty against San Marino in the 2016 European Nations Cup qualifier.

 

Rooney had been criticized for his lack of goals for his club Manchester United after 10 league games without a league goal which unfortunately equals his record of the barren run he had as a teenager at Everton. Wayne Rooney has had good form in the Champions League for his club scoring a hatrick against Club Brugge in the final qualifying round but it is his domestic form that worries me and fans alike.

 

On the 8th of September, 2015 Wayne Rooney became England’s all-time leading scorer when he scored an 84th minute, wait for it PENALTY. 50 goals in 107 appearances for the Liverpudian and this record looks likely to stay for a while. The most important thing is that he is the all-time top scorer for England and this would hopefully pave the way for him to resume goal scoring duties for Manchester United. With his record equaling and record breaking goals coming from the penalty spot one would think he’s all about penalties but it would shock you to know of his 50 goals only 6 of them were from the penalty spot.

 

My only criticism of the young man is his performances at tournaments. He has scored 6 goals in 5 tournaments (Euro 2004, World Cup 2006 and 2010, Euro 2012 and World 2014) which is poor for a striker and I say this because despite his dedication to whatever team he plays for he needs to get amongst the goals more. Have a look at Thomas Muller who has scored 10 goals in 2 World Cup tourneys.

 

Wayne Rooney announced himself to World at the Euro 2004 which held in Portugal where he scored 4 goals before rupturing his metarsal in the quarter final loss against the hosts. A game I strongly believed England would have won if he was available all through the game. He didn’t score at the 2006 and 2010 World Cup but managed a paltry goal at both Euro 2012 (the winner against Sweden in a group game) and World Cup 2014 (in the loss against Uruguay in England’s second group game). I must point out that none of these tournament goals were penalties

 

Let us have a look at the breakdown of Wazza’s goals.

• 6 Tournament goals
  4 at Euro 2004 (A brace each against Switzerland and Croatia)
  1 at Euro 2012 (Against Sweden)
  1 at World Cup 2014 (Against Uruguay)
• 30 goals in both World Cup and European Championship qualifiers
• 14 in friendly games

 

He scored 11 with his head, 34 with his right foot and 5 with his left foot. 42 of those goals were in the box and 8 from outside the box. Which brings me to the conclusion that he really thrives as a center forward.

 

I have been rubbing Rooney’s feat in the faces of friends and family and what I hear is what’s in scoring 50 goals or he’s been scoring against weaker teams. “A goal is a goal if the goal of scoring a goal is achieved” so be it a goal against San Marino or Germany it is still a goal.

I pray he scores many more goals before he hangs his boots.

 

Thanks for reading guys and do have a BLESSED week.

Follow on twitter @dipoogun and Instagram @dipoogun

100 Days of PMB

Like I said during the elections of March and April, 2015 I don’t know much about politics and it’s not that I have something against politicians, I just think its way too complicated for me. It is not like football. So I hear President Muhammadu Buhari (PMB) has hit the 100 day mark as President of this great Nation. I think I prefer to say over 3 months and not 100 days, 100 days makes it sound like it has been a long while. So people have been airing their views on the most powerful man in the country, some have said good stuff and some have said bad stuff but I want to say my own too (lol).

Power has improved but I don’t think this should be up for discussion at all. Constant power is our right as citizens of this country. It has been erratic in the past but has improved since the new Sheriff came to town. Some say it is because of the rain oh please the rain last year was much than it has been this year so I don’t buy that story.

I also heard some looters have returned their loot and some are willing to follow suit. Is this is a good thing? I think it is. Whatever means these stolen funds can be recovered should be adopted. Nigeria would be great again that I know. Yea President Buhari dissolved the NNPC board, replaced some Head of Parastatals and blah blah blah. It is his decision and it is in his power to do so. It’s not that the newly appointed people are way better but let’s see what they are set out to achieve.

The fight or settlement with Boko Haram is on and we can have his head for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dunch (dinner and lunch, you can look it up) or dinner if he fails on any of the promises they put before us whether it was PMB himself or APC who made them, we heard promises. While some people have issues with why it is taking President Buhari long to appoint ministers and why he has decided to run the Petroleum Ministry for 18 months before naming a Minister to run it, you are not out of order in seeking answers or clarification to these questions but patience is still needed. Let him fail before you have his head.

So I was asked my take on what PMB’s first 100days was and my response was I can’t judge him based on 3 months in power, we are in this for at least 4 years with him so we have to be patient. I also pointed out that PMB might not have had a hand in the constant power or returned loots but I will say without batting an eyelid that his ‘PRESENCE’ played a part. The fear of going to jail made the people in charge sit up and do the right thing.

On this final note I plead again let’s be patient with PMB and see what Nigeria will become during his reign. Remember I am a novice in talking politics so I am might not be politically correct and that’s why you will find this article in my Attempt section.

 

Thank you for your time guys and have a wonderful weekend. The English Premier League is back fellas.

 

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Top 4 Predictions: 2015/16 Season

Yea I know it’s taken too long to put out this post and I apologize. The European football season is in full gear now as all the top 5 leagues have started their race to May 2016 where we would know the league winners, the Champions league and Europa league qualifiers and those that would be relegated. My top 4 predictions last season were not accurate but I predicted 4 league winners out of the 5 leagues with the Spanish La Liga the part I faltered in. This season is going to be pretty difficult because while the big boys feel comfortable because of their status the so called lower sides seem to have started on an impressive note. Imagine Leicester City, Swansea City and Crystal Palace (no pun intended) sitting pretty in the top 4 of the English Premier League. It is early days though and only time will tell and if you ask me it’s good for the listed teams to gather all the points they can now so as to avoid fighting relegation come 2016.

Before the season kicked off, Arsenal had won The Asia Barclay’s Premier League Trophy, The Emirates Cup and The Community Shield to show they could be title contenders (being hearing this since 2005). A few of my friends tagged Arsenal overwhelming favourites to win the EPL after the capture of Petr Cech from Chelsea but they were quick to switch lanes when the Gunners got thrashed 2-0 at home by Slaven Bilic’s West Ham on the opening day of the season and who caused them the game? You would not have been wrong if you said Petr Cech. Two errors two goals conceded. Manchester United had a bright start to the season too but Swansea dimmed the light last weekend and defending champions Chelsea have been erratic so far, 1 win, 2 losses and a draw. Man City has to be the best team in the whole of Europe so far with four league games played and all four games won with no goals conceded. That’s what potential title winners are made of.

Barcelona might have a 100% win rate so far but not convincing though Real Madrid isn’t high up there for me personally and that’s because Rafa Benitez is at the helm of affairs. I respect him but I don’t think he’s the one for Real Madrid. Borrusia Dortmund would probably give Bayern Munich a run for their money this season and you just have to give it to new coach Thomas Tuchel. France doesn’t look negotiable as I expect P.S.G to reign supreme and as for the Serie A, defending champions Juventus have lost both games played this season (their worst start to a season) but would still hand them this season’s title  because they would be back at the top as soon as the team gels. Look out for Inter Milan and Roma too.

Now I have decided to call on a few friends and family to share with us their top 4 predictions in Europe’s top 5 leagues (English Premiership, Italian Serie A, Spanish La Liga, German Bundesliga and the French Ligue Un) for the 2015/16 season and just like last time out there is a female (Tomi) in the mix. Find our predictions below.

IsiDags

English Premier League: Man City, Man Utd, Chelsea, Arsenal

Spanish La Liga: Barca, Real Madrid, Athletico Madrid, Sevilla

German Bundesliga: Bayern, Dortmund, Schalke/Bayer Leverkusen, Bayer Leverkusen/Schalke

Italian Serie A: Juve , Roma, AC Milan, Napoli

French Ligue Un: PSG, Olympique Marseille, Monaco, I really don’t know

 

Phammo

English Premier League: Man City, Chelsea, Arsenal, Man Utd

Spanish La Liga: Barcelona, Athletico Madrid, Real Madrid, Sevilla

German Bundesliga: Dortmund, Bayern Munich, Wolfsburg, Bayer Leverkusen

Italian Serie A: AC Milan (dreamer), Inter Milan, Roma, Juventus

French Ligue Un: PSG, Lyon, Olympique Marseille, Lille

 

Marco Bode

English Premier League: Man City, Arsenal, Chelsea, Man Utd

Spanish La Liga: Real Madrid, Barcelona, Athletico Madrid,  Valencia

German Bundesliga: xxxx, xxxx, xxxx, xxxx

Italian Serie A: Roma, Juventus, Inter, Lazio/Fiorentina

French Ligue Un: xxxx, xxxx, xxxx, xxxx

 

Damz Baba

English Premier League: Man City, Arsenal, Chelsea, Man Utd

Spanish La Liga: Real Madrid, Athletico Madrid, Barcelona, Sevilla

German Bundesliga: Dortmund, Bayern Munich, Wolfsburg, Bayer Leverkusen

Italian Serie A: Juventus, Sampdoria, Inter Milan, Lazio

French Ligue Un: PSG, Olympique Marseille, Monaco, Lille

 

Big Yomz

English Premier League: Man City, Man Utd, Chelsea, Arsenal

Spanish La Liga: Real Madrid, Barcelona, Athletico Madrid, Valencia

German Bundesliga: Bayern Munich, Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen, Werder Bremen

Italian Serie A: Roma, Juventus, AC Milan, Inter Milan

French Ligue Un: PSG, Lyon, Monaco, Olympique Marseille

 

OD

English Premier League: Man City, Chelsea, Man Utd, Arsenal

Spanish La Liga: Barcelona, Real Madrid, Athletico Madrid, Sevilla

German Bundesliga: Bayern, Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen, Wolfsburg

Italian Serie A: Juventus, Roma, Inter Milan, Lazio

French Ligue Un: xxxx, xxxx, xxxx, xxxx

 

Tomi

English Premier League: Man City, Chelsea, Man Utd, Arsenal

Spanish La Liga: Barcelona, Real Madrid, Athletico Madrid, Sevilla

German Bundesliga: Bayern, Dortmund, Wolfsburg, Bayer Leverkusen

Italian Serie A: Juventus, AC Milan, Napoli, Inter Milan

French Ligue Un: PSG, Lille, Olympique Marseille, Lyon

 

O’Larry

English Premier League: Arsenal, Man City, Man Utd, Chelsea

Spanish La Liga: Real Madrid, Barcelona, Athletico Madrid, Sevilla

German Bundesliga: Bayern Munich, Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen, Wolfsburg

Italian Serie A: Juventus, Roma, Napoli, Inter Milan

French Ligue Un: xxxx, xxxx, xxxx, xxxx

 

AdeO

English Premier League: Man City, Chelsea, Man Utd, Arsenal

Spanish La Liga: Barcelona, Real Madrid, Athletico Madrid, Valencia

German Bundesliga: Bayern Munich, Wolfsburg, Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen

Italian Serie A: Roma, Juventus, AC Milan, Inter Milan

French Ligue Un: xxxx, xxxx, xxxx, xxxx

 

Yours Truly (Dipo)

English Premier League: Man City, Man Utd, Chelsea, Arsenal

Spanish La Liga: Barcelona, Real Madrid, Athletico Madrid Sevilla

German Bundesliga: Bayern Munich, Dortmund, Wolfsburg, Bayer Leverkusen

Italian Serie A: Juventus, Roma, Inter Milan, Napoli

French Ligue Un: PSG, Monaco, Lille, Lyon

 

There you have it guys, our top 4 predictions for the 2015/16 season. Thanks for your time and do have a wonderful week ahead,

 

Follow on twitter @dipoogun and on instagram @dipoogun

Game Week 4 Predictions

Another weekend of footy, yay. I have never had a worse streak of predictions like I have had in the last 3 game weeks. It was so bad that the closest I was to getting any prediction right was the Monday night football match between Arsenal and Liverpool and the Super Sunday clashes where Chelsea faced West Brom and Man City’s trip to Merseyside to face Everton. I won’t give up and I will continue to pitch myself against my friends (you all are welcome). This weekend will serve us with some tricky games and I think you guys should look out for the Man Utd versus Swansea game on Sunday (not because I am a Manchester United fan), the game between Newcastle and Arsenal should also be seen. Another game to look forward to is the visit of Everton to Tottenham’s White Hart Lane which should be the game of the weekend.

This weekend I am up against a colleague (Prof Dennis) and a very close relative (SL) for the predictions of this weekend. Thanks to OpeCole and TFancy for their predictions last week. Find our predictions below.

 

Games	Prof Dennis	SL	Dipo
Newcastle Vs Arsenal	0 – 2	1 – 3	2 – 2
Aston Villa Vs Sunderland	1 – 0	0 – 1	1 – 0
Bournemouth Vs Leicester	1 – 1	0 – 1	2 – 2
Chelsea Vs Crystal Palace	3 – 1	2 – 1	3 – 0
Liverpool Vs West Ham	2 – 0	0 – 1	0 – 0
Man City Vs Watford	3 – 0	3 – 0	3 – 0
Stoke City Vs West Brom	1 – 1	2 – 0	2 – 2
Tottenham Vs Everton	0 – 0	2 – 2	2 – 1
Southampton Vs Norwich	1 – 0	2 – 1	3 – 1
Swansea Vs Man Utd	1 – 2	1 – 1	0 – 2

 

Thanks for stopping by guys. Have a wonderful weekend.

 

Follow on twitter @dipoogun and instagram @dipoogun

David De Gea: To Sell or Not To Sell?

I had already said I wasn’t going to say anything about the David De Gea saga until when my cute Alhaja friend, remember her from my last post of 2013 (http://www.dipoogun.com/the-last-piece-of-the-year/) broached the topic yesterday. She was of the opinion that maybe David De Gea should be punished and in the process lose his superstar status for not being loyal to the club. She could have a point no doubt but I think we should all look at it from another angle, well at least we Manchester United fans and the neutrals should. De Gea for me was the best goaltender in the whole of the world last season and I wouldn’t trade him for anything hence my stand on blaming the club instead of shredding the lad. It’s no longer news Real Madrid wants to sign him but I have not ‘seen’ him say anywhere he wants out of United but if he did then he has a right to.

 

Firstly, I think Man Utd should cut their losses either by selling him on a cheap now or just let him run down the remainder of his contract and let him go on free because I know that World record fee they are expecting won’t happen. Yes it’s true there aren’t much goalkeepers that are as good De Gea but the Red Devils shouldn’t hold on to an unhappy player, it’s unhealthy for the team. I think Louis Van Gaal is being too rigid on this issue, scratch that Van Gaal is a naturally rigid person so maybe we should just let him do his thing.

 

Secondly, I think Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure would have been a shock to the lad just as it was publicly stated that it was to Robin Van Persie. David De Gea could have re-evaluated his situation from that moment David Moyes was named Ferguson’s replacement. David Moyes couldn’t attract top names let alone retain some of the experienced players (I still won’t forgive him for letting Patrice Evra and Nemanja Vidic go). Moyes ensured Manchester United finished 7th (he was sacked with a few games to go, with Ryan Giggs handed the reins temporarily) which is the worst placing I have witnessed personally and alas a position that gave Mr. David De Gea the leverage to stall on a new deal, not that he was offered one yet but it was only a matter of time. Enter Van Gaal and the team improved from 7th to move back into the elite zone (Top 4) of the EPL.

De Gea probably wanted to see if things would pick up but as it is there is a bit of uncertainty and negotiations of him signing a new contract came a tad bit late. Ordinarily contract negotiations should have started when he had about 18 months left on the present deal. I mean who turns down a Real Madrid even if it meant you were going straight to the bench? The De Gea matter could drag till the end of the transfer window but Manchester United and we the fans should prepare to move on.

 

Finally, I blame Manchester United for the De Gea quagmire because if a buyout clause was inserted into his contract at the initial stage he probably wouldn’t leave for cheap or for free. I think English teams are guilty of this act of not inserting a buyout clause in their players’ contract. Now this has given Real Madrid the leverage to threaten Man Utd with the fact that they will wait till De Gea’s contract runs out next summer and get him on a free transfer with a huge sign on fee promised to the player. Louis Van Gaal should move on and probably stick with the goalkeeping trio of Sergio Romero, Sam Johnstone and Ander Lindergard or move for alternatives like Jan Oblak from Slovenia who plys his trade with Atletico Madrid or Bernd Leno who is German and plays for Bayer Leverkusen.

A big shout out to my man Darren and my cute Alhaja friend for inspiring this post, BLESS you guys.

 

 

Thanks guys for your time and stay BLESSED!!!

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Game Week 3 Predictions

Another weekend of footy is here and yes I know I haven’t posted my top 4 predictions for the top 5 European leagues for this season yet i.e teams that will end up in the top 4 of the English, Italian, Spanish, French and German leagues . I am taking my time though I already know what my list is looking like in my head and trust me it’s going to be a lot different from last season’s predictions. The European season is going to be one hell of a ride this time out and all we can do is Sit Tight And Relax as it all unfolds.

My predictions for Game Week 2 were really awful but I must say Slimee and Fletcher did a good job. A big thank you to you guys for honouring me. I am glad my beloved Manchester United picked up all 3 points against Aston Villa (my second best team) last week though not in convincing fashion and I was so happy with the 3-1 result of the first leg of the Champions League qualifiers against Club Brugge of Belgium. The Champions League game has been the most impressive so far for me this young season. Memphis Depay came to the party not just appearance wise but with a stellar performance scoring a brace. A couple of additions (a center back and a striker specifically) to this Manchester United side would be fine.

This week I would be up against OpeCole and TFancy in the prediction series. Find below our predictions for this weekend’s Barclays Premiership round of matches.

Games	OpeCole	TFancy	Dipo
Man Utd Vs Newcastle	2 -0	1 – 0	2 – 0
Crystal Palace Vs Aston Villa	2- 1	2 – 1	1 – 2
Leicester City Vs Tottenham Hotspurs	2 -1	0 – 1	1 – 3
Norwich City Vs Stoke City	1 – 0	1 – 2	1 – 3
Sunderland Vs Swansea City	1 – 1	1 – 2	1 – 3
Westham Vs Bournemouth	2 – 2	2 – 2	2 -0
Westbrom Vs Chelsea	0 – 3	0 – 2	0 – 3
Everton Vs Man City	2 – 3	0 – 2	1 – 3
Watford Vs Southampton	0 – 0	1 – 0	0 – 3
Arsenal Vs Liverpool	3 – 1	2 – 0	2 – 2

Thank you for your time guys and do have a fabulous weekend.

Follow on twitter @dipoogun and on instagram @dipoogun

 

Throw Back: My Favourite Brazilian

I picked up my phone one boring day and I thought about writing something on what sealed my love for football, don’t get me wrong I would have loved the sport regardless but seeing this football wizard back then ensured I put no sport above soccer. I was supposed to post the article on that very day the thought of writing it crept in and as I hit the publish button it showed loading only for it to show error posting article. I was going to re-post it and I could not find the post again. I was livid and abandoned it till today.

I had seen a lot of football games and an unquantifiable amount of fantastic footballers before I caught a glimpse of this short man. Please pardon me I always call people I am taller than short even if its by half an inch (I always get bullied or intimidated with height at home too).  The first time I saw him play was on the 20th of June, 1994 and I clearly remember it was a Monday night. The little man was playing for Brazil in their first group game of the U.S.A ’94 World Cup against Russia. I had school the next day and it was past my bed time like they always said back then but I had a very understanding mum who knew my love for the sport was second to what I had for her (rest on mom). He was their main striker and he got one of the goals in their 2-0 victory over the Russians.

I couldn’t wait to watch Brazil’s next game, I had found a team to roll with at the tournament. Despite Nigeria’s participation and my young age I knew the Super Eagles had no chance of winning the tourney so why not pitch my tent with potential winners? Brazil was up against Cameroon in their next group game and they made mince meat of the Central Africans beating them 3-0 and the Little Devil was amongst the scorers again. I wasn’t disappointed one bit by his performance. The second game was played on a Friday night and couldn’t wait to get to school on Monday to tell my friends I had dumped Rashidi Yekini as my best player and settled for this Short Genius. I even asked my bro Big Doz about this super talented player’s past and how come I hadn’t heard about him before the U.S ’94 World Cup.

Brazil went on to win the World Cup of 1994 all thanks to the Short One and he was awarded the golden ball of the tournament for his efforts. He was even named World Footballer of the year at the end of the year. The U.S.A ’94 World Cup has been the best I have seen till date because it’s the only World Cup tournament I have successfully predicted the winner from day 1, I saw majority of the games and I think it had the most talented bunch of players from Bebeto, Dunga, Ronald Koeman, Carlos Valderamma, Faustino Asprilla, Gheorge Hagi, Gheorge Popescu, Diego Maradona, Gabriel Batistuta, Claudio Cannigia, Roy Keane, Roberto Baggio, Franco Baresi, Danille Massaro, Dino Baggio, Jorge Campos, Fernando Hierro, Luis Enrique, Emmanuel Amunike, and George Finidi. I could go on but that’s story for another day.

Back to the crux of the post, my Little Devil was born on the 29th of January (he celebrates his birthday exactly a month after mine), 1966 and he played for a number of clubs most notably Barcelona, PSV Eindhoven, Flamengo, Vasco Da Gama and Valencia.

My favourite Brazilian is none other than Romario De Souza Faria whom for me is the best Brazilian footballer ever. Did I hear some say Pele? I never saw Pele play and I wouldn’t be washed by some black and white highlights on TV.

 

Thanks for your time guys. Stay blessed and watch out for this weekend’s EPL predictions from myself and my friends.

 

Follow on Instagram @dipoogun and twitter @dipoogun.

Game Week 2 Predictions

The English Premier League came upon us with a bang and I am sure a large number of us were caught unaware by some of the results of this first round of fixtures. Allow me let you in on my opinion as regards some of the games and going by my predictions of these round of games, you will understand why I was taken aback by some of the results. The Manchester United versus Tottenham Hotspurs game was the Premier League’s opener and the final score was quite of a surprise for me because I predicted a massive victory for United but the lone goal scoreline wasn’t what I hoped for. An own goal by Kyle Walker sealed the 3 points for Manchester United. The Red Devils were far from impressive though I was happy with Matteo Darmian’s performance however, my man of the match on the day was Ashley Young (call me blind, lol).

I didn’t get a lot of predictions right and as a matter of fact 3 out of 10 were correct and no perfect score in terms of actual score prediction. I wouldn’t have thought the Chelsea game against Swansea would have ended in a draw, I didn’t even expect Chelsea to concede a goal let alone draw the game. Swansea held the Blues to a 2-2 draw with the Chelsea goalie Thibaut Courtois getting sent off. An Arsenal loss to Westham would have been a mirage before kick off but the Hammers were determined to steal 3 points from the Emirates Stadium. 3 points Westham wanted, 3 points they got.  Not to worry guys my poor prediction in the first round of games will not deter me and I have decided to up the ante by inviting two of my friends to join me. So Slimee, Fletcher (not their real names) and myself are going to act like prophets for game week two.

Find below our predictions. You can be part of the fun by using the comment box to indicate interest. Thanks for your time guys and do have a wonderful weekend ahead.

Games	Slimee	Fletcher	Dipo
Aston Villa Vs Man Utd	0 – 2	1 – 3	0 – 3
Southampton Vs Everton	2 – 1	2 – 0	3 – 1
Totteham Vs Stoke	2 – 1	2 – 2	2 – 1
Sunderland Vs Norwich	0 – 1	1 – 0	2 – 2
Swansea Vs Newcastle	1 – 0	2 – 1	2 – 1
Watford Vs Westbrom	0 – 0	1 – 3	0 – 2
Westham Vs Leicester City	1 – 0	2 – 2	2 – 0
Crystal Palace Vs Arsenal	1 – 2	2 – 3	2 – 1
Man City Vs Chelsea	2 – 1	1 – 1	0 – 0
Liverpool Vs Bournemouth	2 – 0	2 – 0	3 – 1

It’s Back

Hello fellas, I am sure a lot of you guys will agree with me that there’s one person we all break up with at a particular point every year but we gladly take ourselves back in less than 3months. The break up lasts for a short while but we always look forward to making up. We are always in this relationship for about 9 to 10 months usually between August and May. I am sure you are already looking forward to the start of another 10 month long relationship. The English Premier League is back, sorry wives, girlfriends, side chicks and what have you the best thing (football) since sliced bread stages another come back to our screens. No disrespect to the fans of other European leagues that have started or will start or I didn’t mention you know my primary teams resides in England, yes you got them right Manchester United, Aston Villa and Newcastle United.

With all teams rearing to go and relatively strengthened (though the transfer window closes 6pm on the 1st of September, 2015) we can only brace ourselves for an explosive season. I am still yet to get my top 4 predictions in and that’s because I usually wait to get a glimpse of all first round of Premier league games, so expect my predictions next week inclusive of the other top 4 leagues (German Bundesliga, French Ligue Une, Spanish La Liga and Italian Serie A). I think to make the predictions more interesting we should add teams that would be relegated to the fray. Yay or Nay? We should put that to a vote or simply wait till the winter break when the fight for survival heats up. We could also have a go at each other making predictions every weekend, for example I make my own predictions and one of you guys make yours. I will start with the first person to drop a comment. Is that fair enough? I guess.

I will like to make predictions for this weekend’s round of Premiership games and please if you want us to form our Fantasy League (its really interesting o) you can hit me up.

Predictions for the weekend

1. Manchester United 3 Vs Tottenham Hotspurs 1
2. Bournemouth 1 Vs Aston Villa 2
3. Everton 2 Vs Watford 0
4. Leicester City 1 Vs Sunderland 1
5. Norwich City 1 Vs Crystal Palace 2
6. Chelsea 2 Vs Swansea City 0
7. Arsenal 3 Vs Westham United 1
8. Newcastle United 1 Vs Southampton 3
9. Stoke City 2 Vs Liverpool 2
10. Westbrom 1 Vs Manchester City 1

There you have it, my predictions for this weekend and yes I love Newcastle but I think they will need time to blend their United Nations (players from many European countries). As for Watford that have decided to spend all the money made from gaining promotion into the EPL they probably would still struggle. The usual suspects (Chelsea and Arsenal) wouldn’t have problems bagging 3 points and yes I am so confident my beloved Manchester United will nick the 3 points from Tottenham in tomorrow’s lunch time kick-off. Only time will tell.

 

Do have a fantastic weekend guys and stay BLESSED!!!

 

Follow on twitter @dipoogun and Instagram @dipoogun.

Throw Back: Atlanta ’96

Picks mic *When Nigeria beat Brazil, When Nigeria beat Brazil eh, Bebeto come dey cry* Drops mic.

This was probably the biggest football game in the world the year it was played and on a personal note the biggest and most interesting game I have seen any Nigerian team play. It was in 1996 at the Atlanta Olympic games and the Dream team shook the whole world in what for me was the second best come back in football’s history, the first being Manchester United’s 1999 Champions League final’s 2-1 triumph over Bayern Munich. I was in boarding school then and I didn’t give Nigeria a shot at going far in the tourney after losing to Brazil in the group stage.

The loss in the group stage however didn’t deter the Dream Team which was what the Nigerian football team to the Olympics in 1996 was called (the name was however adopted for the U-23 teams afterward). They pulled through the group stage after beating Japan and Hungary in their final two group games before thrashing Mexico in the quarter-final  qualifying for the semi-final where they met Brazil again. My prediction that night? You probably guessed right if you said I thought Brazil would win again. It was past lights out in the hostel and the only chance you had in catching the game back then was if you were close to the house masters or certain teachers that had televisions in their quarters.

I wasn’t going to miss the game because Daffy, Balo and PD(we were the go to guys when it came to sports in  our set)  were sure of watching it and I wouldn’t want them rubbing it in my face. I mean how could I miss this sort of game? I saw Bebeto play at the 1994 World Cup in U.S.A and had heard a lot about Ronaldo De Lima prior to the Olympics though I was sad my all time best Brazilian player (Romario De Souza Faria Filho) didn’t make it to the tournament. The time approached (I think it was 12 am or there about) and I met the hostel gate open which to me was a good thing, clearly some of the lads had gone to the catch the game too. I walked for a bit and heard voices which signaled to me the game had started. I joined up with some of my seniors and mates behind J.O’s (one of the house masters) window to catch the game, it wasn’t comfortable but I could break an arm to watch a football match.

The Dream Team ensured they proved me wrong by beating the Samba boys of Brazil 4-3, nicking the game in extra time thanks to Nwankwo Kanu’s golden goal. It was a night or should I say an early morning of wild celebrations. I couldn’t believe Nigeria beat the Almighty Brazil which also had superstars like Rivaldo, Juninho, Aldair, Roberto Carlos, Savio etc  to progress to final of the male soccer event of the Atlanta Olympics. That 31st day of July, 1996 will forever be in my mind. Nigeria went on to win the gold medal of the football event beating Argentina 3-2 in the final.

Please find below clips of that great semi-final game. #ItsThrowBackThursdayPeople.

Thanks for your time guys and do have a wonderful long weekend ahead. Happy Eid al-Fitr and we shall continually celebrate more in good health and wealth (Amin).

 

Follow on twitter @dipoogun and on instagram via same handle.

My Team, My Second Religion

A new football season is upon us and transfer activities and pre-season games take the order of the day. The 2014/2015 football season (EPL) wasn’t a surprise to me as it panned out exactly as I predicted; Chelsea to win the league, Manchester City to finish runner up, Arsenal will come third and my beloved Manchester United would complete the top 4. For confirmation you can follow this link http://www.dipoogun.com/top-4-predictions-201415-season/.

Enter the new season. I am not making my top 4 predictions just yet, I will wait till the season starts. I usually judge who wins the EPL by the excitement and enthusiasm shown by the players of a particular team (the regular top 4 sides in particular) in their first game. Last season I only saw Chelsea for 20 minutes and was convinced they would win the league, despite an unconvincing run in during the latter part of the season. Same way I felt about Manchester City in the 2013/2014 season and Manchester United in the preceding season. I digress.

My team, my second religion (Manchester United) have concluded the signing of 3 players during this rather slow transfer period and they are Memphis Depay from Dutch side PSV Eindhoven, Matteo Darmian from Italian side Torino and in case you missed it the last player Man Utd signed from Torino went on to become a Legend. Does the name Dennis Law ring a bell? The third player signed was Bastian Schweinsteiger from German champions Bayern Munich and he would be the first German player to feature for Manchester United’s senior team.  All 3 players are good signings judging by their stats, but I only saw Memphis Depay play at the Brazil 2014 World Cup and he wasn’t a regular (barely started) though he scored a wonder against Australia in Netherland’s second group game. Matteo Darmian represented Italy at the same tournanent and unfortunately for him they were eliminated in the first round.

As for Bastian Schweinsteiger I know him very well (not that he’s my friend) and if I start to talk about his achievements this post would be too lengthy. Simply put he’s won major tournaments for club and he won the World Cup with Germany. I have always admired him and wished Man Utd had signed him about 4 years ago. I think he’s a tad bit old now and might have problems adapting with the pace and pressure of the English Premier League but the £14.4m price tag shows he isn’t over priced and a good bargain of some sort for the Red Devils. I would however have preferred a younger Morgan Schneiderlin though because he’s been in the league a few years, he’s much fitter (I think) and by miles the best tackler in the EPL over the last 3 years. I sincerely pray King Louis (Louis Van Gaal) still goes after the acquisition of Schneiderlin and gets us a striker (I would love Kareem Benzema), a Center Back Nicolas Otamendi comes to mind but I think he’s a bit slow and most importantly a goalkeeper because David De Gea is gone to me its just a matter of time and the earlier that is sorted the better.

My grudge with King Louis (not that he knows me) is allowing youthful goalkeeper Ben Amos leave and the subsequent sale of Tom Lawrence, Martin Keane and Saidy Janko. These are a core group of our youth set up and this brings to me asking if Louis Van Gaal is really the man for this United job. I still respect him though but I think he should have sealed deals before letting players such as Van Persie, Nani go and even the eminent departure of David De Gea. My major concerns would be Adnan Januzaj, Juan Mata and Maroune Fellaini because if these lads don’t get enough playing time they would walk out the door by the end of the season.

 

I will love Ryan Giggs to take over from Louis Van Gaal, but that’s story for another day. Thanks for your time guys and do have a fabulous week ahead filled with Blessings from the ALMIGHTY.

 

Follow me on twitter @dipoogun and on instagram via the same handle.

6 Reasons Why You Should Watch The Movie “ENTOURAGE”

Its no longer news that the best movie of 2015 has been released. Trust me after you get a sniff of this blockbuster you probably wouldn’t visit the cinema again this year again.  This movie I have eagerly anticipated, this movie I have raved about and this movie I am glad was made. Entourage was first made as an 8 season series and I have seen the series 5 times already and I mean all 8 seasons though season 3 was my least favourite of the lot but hey I ain’t complaining.  A certain Mark Kermode criticized the movie but like he said he saw the movie for 15 secs and he hated it. How do you judge a movie that way? How do you loathe a movie you haven’t seen or how do you feel contempt after watching a movie for 15 seconds? Has he got some sort of beef with the producers of the movie? Well Mr. Kermode your opinion doesn’t really count and besides the movie got a 7.4/10 IMDB rating.

The movie Entourage  is the story of the rise to fame of popular actor Mark Wahlberg, who also played about a minute long cameo in the movie and was also in a few scenes of the series. Entourage is about movie star Vinnie Chase and his childhood friends (Eric who’s also his manager , Turtle and his brother Johny Drama) living the Hollywood life of fast cars and chasing hot girls/models. My personal favourite character is Ari Gold, the former actor agent turned Studio head. Ari is a wonderful actor and he took his role like his life depended on it. You will see the passion in every scene he appeared in.

I am not going to talk about scenes in the movie because that would mean I am a spoiler but I will share reasons why you should see the movie (well reasons why I feel you should see it).

Find below 6 reasons why you should see the movie and if you haven’t seen the series please look for it and watch it #ThankMeLater :

1. The movie got a 7.4/10 rating from The Internet Movies Database (IMDb) platform so it’s clearly not an average movie
2. I am not a fan of going to the cinema with guys but trust me when I say you should go to see Entourage with your close friends. You will totally relate with it.
3. The bond these four friends shared for me was amazing, it was beyond brotherly love. Its something one can learn from
4. About 50 cameos and wait for it………… Arsenal fans would love to know Thierry Henry is a part of that list. The great Warren Buffet was surprisingly in the movie and I loved his scene where he was conversing with Ari Gold.
5. Johny Drama finally got a deserved recognition (if you watched the series you will get me)
6. To have a good laugh watch the movie with people that have seen the series.

N/B: Its a PG-18 rated movie

Thanks for your time people. If you catch me at the cinema again this year and it’s not Entourage I am going in to watch or I watched I give you the permission to smack me. Stayed Blessed guys.

 

 

Follow on twitter @dipoogun and instagram @dipoogun.

Photo Source: Warner Bros 

My Tailor

A few months back I gave my tailor some fabrics to sew, native precisely as we call it in this part of town. He told me it would take a week for him to finish all 5 of them. I had no issues with the delivery date as there was no urgent need for the clothes. Luckily for me he gave our security guard the clothes a day before it was due. You will find out why I used the phrase “Luckily for me”. The security guard didn’t hand the clothes to me until about 2 days after they were given to him. When I got the clothes I went to the tailor’s so I could give him his balance but I didn’t find him at his shed. Yes shed, my tailor isn’t a big boy like that but trust me he’s good, very good. Anyways moving on, I checked back the next day and still didn’t find him.

Alas I saw him 3 days later and asked him where he had been only for him to tell me he was robbed of some clothes when he was asleep under his shed. A large Ghana Must Go bag was moved right under his nose. The stuff he was making for a dude that was getting married that weekend too was in the bag . Every new job he got was gone. You see why I used the phrase “Luckily for Me”? My clothes would have also disappeared if they weren’t ready before due day.  I asked if he went to the Police Station and he said he did. He was asked to write a statement and after he was done with the statement he was asked who he suspected. His response was he didn’t suspect anybody and that nobody came to mind.

His next sentence shocked me. He told me the Police said if he didn’t suspect anybody then he himself is the number one suspect. As in I have never heard such before. They told him he had to bail himself and he was like he had no more money on him that he had already given them all he had before he wrote the statement. They were having none of it. He told them he wanted to call his lawyer and they agreed. His lawyer came to his rescue and bailed him, for free at that.

He hasn’t found the bag till date and I am wondering was there a point of him reporting the case to the Police in the first place? No effort whatsoever to help find the bag. I digress. My tailor might have been careless no doubt but hey these things happen.

Thanks for your time people and may the ALMIGHTY continually keep us in good health and wealth (Amen). Have a fabolous week ahead.

 

Follow on Twitter @dipoogun and on Instagram @dipoogun

10 Possible Hilarious Transfers

The 2014/2015 European football season ended in style with Barcelona winning club football’s biggest tournament (The UEFA Champions League) after taking Juventus to the cleaners (3-1). The result didn’t match Barca’s dominance of the game and if the game was played 7 times Barcelona would have won it all. Yes I supported Juventus and I did so because I have always supported them (well since 2003) and wouldn’t stop now. Moving on swiftly, Now is the time to know who gat the money *in Don Jazzy’s voice* as transfer rumors will spread like wild fire and some transfers would actually be done.  Speaking of which Juventus have secured the signing of Paulo Dybala from Palermo and Sami Khedira on a free transfer from Real Madrid, clearly the Champions League finalists are taking no prisoners in their aim of continuous domination of the Serie A and hopefully go one better than they did in this season’s competition.

My beloved Man Utd have also signed Memphis Depay from PSV Eindhoven though I am hoping that’s one of many to come. Barcelona nicked Alexi Vidal from Sevilla but wait I thought they weren’t allowed to sign players? Oh they can sign but the players can’t play till 2016. Clear case of you can collect bribe now and not spend it till 2016 *sips lipton*. More transfer are expected in the coming months, its still early hours because the transfer window closes August 31, 2015. Louis Van Gaal please bring in quality, thank you.

I will like to share with you 10 hilarious transfers that can (will never happen) possibly occur in the summer.

1. Lee Cattermole to Man U

2. John Mikel Obi to Barcelona

3. Bobby Zamora to Man City for £25m

4. Vurnon Anita to Barcelona

5. John O’Shea to Arsenal (possible)

6. Cristiano Ronaldo  becomes highest paid player after signing for Westham

7. Shola Ameobi to spearhead Bayern Munich’s attack after Robert Lewandowski fails to impress

8. Karl Henry to sign for Real Madrid (in need of an enforcer after imminent the departure of Sami Khedira)

9. Real Madrid pays £80m for the services of self-acclaimed best player in the world Nicklaus Bendtner

10. Jose Mourinho signs Messi in exchange for Eden Hazard,Oscar, Petr Cech Nemanja Matic and £2m Mikel Obi was rejected because money was preferred.

Credit: iBeeTuneBoxXsun

Thanks for your time guys. Hope your week is going well though? Stay Blessed

 

Follow on Twitter @dipoogun and on instagram @dipoogun

The Old Lady

For the first time in my life I saw the Champions League without my best team (Manchester United) in participation. Can you imagine that? Yea the haters are having a ball, make una enjoy. We would catch up next season, calm down.

The 2014/2015 Champions League season kicked off with me rooting for my 4th and 5th best teams in the world which are Juventus and Real Madrid (like I had a choice). My friends were already taking shots at me because they felt Juventus would drop at best during the second round phase of the competition because they hired Massimiliano Allegri as manager. It’s not that I am playing GOD but I had strong belief in the team and if you read my top 4 predictions before the season started you will understand what I am talking about.

Juventus finished second behind Atletico Madrid in the group phase of the Champions League before brushing aside Dortmund in the second round to make it to the quarter finals where they met Monaco whom had conquered Arsenal too in the second round. Juventus eased past Monaco (always wanted to put that phrase this way) to set up a semi-final match up with Real Madrid (my proposed final). Just before the semi-final draws, I had put up a Hash Tag stating #ZonedOut Juventus for the trophy on my BBM which raised questions from my friends. They were asking why I wanted Juventus for the trophy and I took them down memory lane where in 2003 my love for Juventus started. Juventus had knocked Real Madrid out in the semi-finals of the Champions League and the fashion in which they did it endeared me to the side especially the energy of Pavel Nedved and Edgar Davids. These two players showed the nerve modern football players lack.

I am also happy to point out that Juventus is gunning for a treble with the Italian Serie A already in their grip, they look  to put the Coppa Italia and the Champions League into their trophy cabinet. They would be vying for the Coppa Italia trophy in a final against Lazio on the 20th of May, 2015 before taking on Barcelona in Berlin for the Champions League trophy which would be played on the 6th of June, 2015.

3-2 aggregate win for Juventus over Real Madrid has given them the opportunity to win the Champions league for the third time in their history which would put them level with my beloved Manchester United. Do I care? Hell No, as long as they aren’t playing against the Red Devils. I don’t need to say more about where my allegiance lies all I can say is the OLD LADY WILL SING COME JUNE 6, 2015.

In case you missed it, Italy won the World Cup in 2006 at the Berlin Stadium in Germany and Juventus (an Italian side) would also come out on top in Berlin.

 

Thanks for your time guys and do enjoy the rest of the week……………………… BLESS !!!

 

Please follow me on twitter via @dipoogun and on Instagram via the same handle.

Digital Journalism

Summarize your experience with Online Learning and its impact for the working adult in a blog post with no more than 1500 words, briefly sharing how the different Lessons you have undertaken during the program at BAU Online has helped you shape your career as a budding digital journalist or media professional.

Writing has always been a something I had passion for but I never had that enabling environment to give it a chance professionally. I do some amateur writing which is in form of taking personal inventory on how I see things. I own a blog (www.dipoogun.com) and I have tried to be consistent in putting posts up but I realize there’s something missing and that was the professional touch from a good citadel of learning. The zeal was there all that was missing was the time to start a program that would enhance and sharpen the already existing raw talent in me. I had heard of some courses I could take online but I didn’t seem to be interested because I thought of the difficulty of doing an internet based program. I was wrong about that assertion.

 

A couple of months back a friend sent me the link to BAU online platform but I didn’t even open it until I got a mail from Deal Dey talking about a deal in the course Digital Journalism, I didn’t have anything to lose so I clicked on the link and it eventually took me to BAU online portal after making payment online. I immediately started going through the lessons on offer and I realized that I had waited too long to discover BAU online. I saw journalism in a different light and seamless way the lessons were delivered endeared me more to the program. The only stumbling block I had was merging reading for the course with work but I later found out how flexible the course can be. The Digital Journalism course and the other programs on the BAU Online platform is suitable for anybody who can read and write and you don’t have to be rooted to a particular place to be able to run the courses. It can be run anywhere as long as there is internet access and it is mobile friendly which simply means you can use a device as small as your mobile phone.

 

The program has helped me develop a strategy to help me as a working adult to be able to blog conveniently without even breaking a sweat. I can work all day while I can use a moment or two (break time) to think about a story to blog about and just wait till I get to the comfort of my bed to write and post which inadvertently has also helped me manage my time. I have also learnt how to attach files on to my blog after reading Journalism 2.0. Reading the Journalism 2.0 also exposed on how to report news or stories to a particular demography in terms of headlines and body contents. I also picked up the importance of timeliness in terms of disseminating information and also being precise and direct when writing without beating about the bush ensuring the efficacy of strong verbs in the process.

 

In terms of Personal Branding I have learnt how to set myself apart from the crowd which will go a long way in helping me become a force to reckon with. I have found the Crowdsourcing part of the program an ideal means of carrying out whatever Writing/Journalism assignment I have or may have to undertake. I use Crowdsourcing as a means of getting ideas for writing, for example I majorly get inspiration from a hang out with my friends.

 

The use of Social Media is a key element of Journalism these days and it has to be used positively because it’s speaks volumes about who the Writer or Journalist is. It’s a big advantage to be on a large number of Social Media sites as this will help spread one’s reach and also be able to tap into the advantage of Crowdsourcing. Social Media is a key Public Relations medium because it also brings about knowledge sharing between Journalists/Writers and the public. Since the start of this program I been open what the possibilities the Social Media platform can bring. Information or knowledge can be shared to millions of people via Facebook, Twitter and for me the most interesting is the Google+ Hangout forum where up to 10 people can share information via video chat. Another Social Media tool that fascinates me is the use of Podcast. I have always wanted to know what it entailed in making use the Podcast tool but reading the Journalism 2.0 has made it clear. I can basically run commentary on my favourite sports and in the nearest future record interviews with my favourite celebrities.

 

I have learnt to upload quality pictures using suitable resolutions and if there’s need to compress pictures to suit a particular post or article I can handle it effortlessly. I also learnt to crop multiple images to fit a particular post for the web or blog. All the acronyms which seemed like rocket science to me when I first started blogging have been duly explained in the course of running this program. Knowing the meaning of HTML, FTP, ASCII, HTTP etc can solely be attributed to embarking on this journey of Digital Journalism. Clearing browser’s cache was also a bit of task for me but reading Journalism 2.0 helped sort that issue out.

 

Taking this course via the BAU Online Portal has also opened my eyes to the way I will convey messages to my peers, superiors and even to little kids. Simply put; Effective Communication. It has helped me prepare for challenges in the new age Digital Journalism and also the learning resources provided have been some sort of a guide in putting inexperienced and to an extent experienced people in this field on the right pedestal to success.

 

The lessons undertaken during this program has helped me sharpen my writing (though I am still learning) and I can see the vast improvement in my writing thanks to comments and positive criticism from my friends, colleagues and even my bosses. I realized like it was stated during the program that ‘consistency in writing is one of the best ways to be good at writing’. I am working really hard in this regard so I can be relevant in this field. There also enough references from the BAU lessons that will surely help in improving my strengths and work on my weaknesses. I have learnt how I can make my brand acceptable, seen/heard in terms of spread and also carve a niche for myself in the process. I have intentions of publishing a book and possibly gain work experience from a media outfit that can help sharpen my skills.

 

My take away from the Digital Journalism Program at BAU Online are:

• It covers a lot you need to know about Journalism from traditional methods to the latest trends in Digital Journalism
• It has made me more aware of the use of Digital Journalism
• The Essentials of creating a good and lasting brand
• The BAU Online Digital Journalism course has also helped changed the way I perceive information and in the process broken down what new age journalism entails
• I realized that Crowd sourcing is a strong point for me as ideas I get off my peers form a basis of some of my posts
• I have been able get that confidence in applying for jobs such as Content Writing, Social Media Manager and the likes
• Ensuring I understood that the first brand to be created is the ME brand (you are what you put out there)
• The most important take away from the BAU Online program is the means of Effective Communications

 

This message contains confidential information and is intended only for the Digital Journalism Program at BAU Online. If you are not the named addressee you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this article.

 

PacMan Versus MoneyMan

This is going to be the biggest fight in boxing history and the biggest payday for any sports man (correct me if I am wrong). The fight between Manny ‘PacMan’ Pacquaio and Floyd ‘MoneyMan’ Mayweather is something that the whole world had been hoping would happen and now we are just a couple of days away to the biggest event on the face of the earth this year, second to the Presidential Elections held in Nigeria (yes I love my country).

I think it was good the fight didn’t happen 5 years ago because it wouldn’t have been appreciated then as it is now and the fighters wouldn’t have earned as much as they are expected to earn now. 5 years ago they would have earned about $18m each but now their earnings would exceed $100m, wow you said? I know right. Another thing is those that know nothing about boxing are also interested in this fight holding on the 2nd of May, 2015 (3a.m Nigerian time on the 3rd of May, 2015).

The day this fight was announced my friend Mr. Chips buzzed me and said Dipo I would love to watch this fight with you and the reason being that he knew I liked both fighters. He has seen me watch Aston Vs Newcastle and he understands that situation will determine whom I would support but in the case of this fight he wanted to just see my face as it goes down. Body Language is the only way you can get one’s perception in this kind of situation.

When Mr. Chips told me he wanted to watch the fight with me I told him no problem but I would be busy all day and tracking me would be hard. I have 3 colleagues getting married on the 2nd of May (yea I know in Nigeria the fight is about 3a.m on Saturday like I stated earlier) but you know how these owambes could end up. I told him I will keep him posted though.

His call got me thinking. Dipo what’s your take on this fight? It hit me after the call that I wasn’t even sure who’s side I would be rooting for on the day. A tough call for me but at the end of this post you should have an idea who I would want to win.

Mayweather for me is like a Muhammad Ali, he can go all through the 12 rounds and not break a sweat and eventually even win but PacMan on the other hand is the kind of boxer I like, let’s get it done over with. He goes for the kill and he’s really aggressive. Mayweather is in a bit of a tight corner because he’s undefeated and would want to keep his record intact but Pacqauio has been beaten before and has nothing to lose going into this fight, besides they both would be rewarded handsomely win or lose.

My Verdict

This fight might end in a draw to bring about a rematch and enrich all parties involved once more. It could also end in a PacMan win prompting a rematch before the end of the year. I have a feeling if PacMan loses he wouldn’t be bothered about a rematch though because he doesn’t need to keep up appearances like Mayweather who needs to continually make money on a regular to maintain his high profile life style. 

Thanks for reading guys, I did this in a rush so pardon any errors.

Did I hear someone say I haven’t given my verdict? I am sorry, but because I get bored easily I would want a PacMan victory. That’s still not a verdict? It would end in a draw. I am sitting pretty on the fence.

Follow me on Twitter and Instagram via @dipoogun

They Will All Pay

I didn’t mean to scare you with the title of this post, I have just been livid with the way Manchester United lost their last two EPL games. It painful when your team plays very well and end up losing but hey I am an advocate for results and not beautiful football, I modestly concede the title of all play and no win to Arsenal football club of London.

My beloved Man Utd played two straight away games (not an excuse) against Chelsea and Everton. Chelsea are closing in on the title I had predicted they would since their first league match against Burnley and they showed stuff of champions in this game. Nothing fantastic about their play and after scoring the goal (the only goal of the game) it was clear to me the league was won already.

Everton came into the game against the Red Devils with their best run this season (4wins, 1 draw) and I was so confident of victory that I  even took Leighton Baines and Phil Jaglieka out of my Fantasy League Team because I knew Man Utd would score, it was just going to be a matter of how many.

We got bruised, battered and brushed by the Merseyside team. The game ended 3-0 which for me is a disgrace. Everton? No it’s not acceptable, not on paper nor in real life. Well that’s gone I just pity Manchester United’s next opponents (Westbromwich Albion) because all the goals they refused to score against Chelsea would be scored against them. Then we will slightly take it easy on Crystal Palace because I am a big fan of Alan Pardew (Palace’s Manager) and annihilate Arsenal before crushing Steve Bruce’s Hull City on the final day of the season. As a matter of fact “THEY WILL ALL PAY”. Watch this space and tell the world Dipo said so.

 

Thanks for your time people and do have a fantastic weekend ahead…………………….. BLESS !!!

You can stalk me on twitter via @dipoogun and Instagram via same handle.

Atiku Was The Man

It’s rare to hear me talk politics, I would rather talk football, play pranks or simply do what I do best which is keep to myself. The last 6 months has seen me talk politics, maybe because I got conscious of happenings around me or I have simply become more matured (take your pick). I don’t know if I have bragged about the best chat room on the face of the planet before but I will do so again even if I had. Naija Pundits as this group is called is one group that I have actually been able to participate in conversations freely without holding back. These ladies and gentlemen, yes we have two ladies in our midst, are very brilliant minds. The group was initially created for football gists but we have found ourselves talking about much more (politics, movies, series, relationship, business ideas, exhibit stupidity etc).

So towards the end of last year, the last quarter of 2014 precisely the talk about politics got intense and anytime politics is mentioned I try to take their attention off it but they simply ignore me. It was then I knew the saying “if you can’t beat them it’s best you join them” was effective. In no time I started sharing my political views (not that I have much) with some of my colleagues and bosses, I registered to vote and ensured I got my Permanent Voters Card (PVC). I haven’t confessed this to the lads before but they made me register and vote. It was like they had spies on me. It’s what integrity does to a man (Act like your every move is watched). I started talking politics and even the guys in the group were shocked. I voted and I was glad I did.

I just have this short summary of all that has happened in the Nigerian  political sphere over the past year till date. It has been a well played script and in as much as I respect Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s (this man has been around like forever) role in handing the All Progressives Congress (APC) the chance to rule Nigeria I will also give kudos to Alhaji Atiku Abubakar for the initial creation of another People’s Democratic Party (PDP) or the threat to create another PDP (which ever works for you) and the defection of some major PDP players  to the APC. The division created at the National level which paved way for defecting elements (or people if its what you prefer) to APC is something Atiku should be lauded for. It surely opened the eyes of Nigerians.

Alhaji Atiku Abubakar for me was the man who made it happen for APC. I rest my case.

Remember I am at the beginner’s level when it comes to talking politics so tamper justice with mercy when reading this and forgive me for I probably might not know what I am saying.

I’m glad all these political brouhaha is over, at least for the next four years. My Naija Pundits will go back to talking about things I can really enjoy and contribute to confidently without falling out of place.

GOD Bless Nigeria and everywhere else. For the ladies check out @arm_candy_lekki on instagram for your fashion accessories (bags, fez caps etc), we are coming for the men soonest.

 

Thanks for your time people.

 

Follow on twitter @dipoogun and on instagram via the same handle………………………….. STAY BLESSED

The 7 That Have Stood Out

Its no longer news that David DeGea is Manchester United’s best player this season and as a matter of fact there have been times where he’s been the one only to come to the party. Man Utd holding on DeGea is only a matter of time because I know Real Madrid will come calling and for the right price (£50m at the least) he would be sold. I don’t want him to leave but footballers always come up with that I want to go back home excuse, blah de blah blah. This season has been somewhat good for me on a personal level because all I wanted was a top four finish for my beloved Man Utd team and we are there (though mathematically not so). I have taken time to assess the team and I have found out that there have been 7 players whom have held their own for the Red Devils this season, excluding David DeGea because he needs no mention.

Below are the 7 players that have stood out this season for Manchester United:

1. Ashley Young: I was shocked he wasn’t sold during the pre-season. Glad he was retained because he stepped up, scratch that he stepped up big time. He has played as a wing back, full back, winger, midfielder. Just name it and he flourished giving other players a run for their money.

2. Daley Blind: I saw this lad play at the World Cup in Brazil and I was impressed. The moment he was linked with Manchester United my joy knew no bounds. Glad he was brought in. He’s always wanting the ball which reminds me of a certain Darren Fletcher (in his prime).

3. Michael Carrick: he was injured at the start of the season and it was clear a piece was missing in the team. His return to the squad saw Man Utd string 7 straight victories in a row with the game against Arsenal freshest in my memory. He’s been edged out by David Degea as United’s top performer this season. Mr. Carrick like I love to call him is the most experienced player in the squad.

4. Antonio Valencia: I just love the power and pace he brings to the team. So sad he’s turned Rafael into a bencher. Valencia has held his own this season and I am glad he’s hardly ever injured.

5. Maroune Fellaini: he was almost sent on loan to Napoli for a season but I thank GOD for that injury he had which ensured he stayed back at Carrington. He’s performed greatly for the club this season and he may not know me but he’s definitely repaying the faith I had in him. I like strong players and he sure used his strength well.

6. Ander Herrera: Small lad but a bundle of skill. Amazing vision and technique. All he needs is a bit of flesh and he’s good to go because the EPL isn’t just about skill, you need power too. With over 20 appearances (7 as a sub), he’s scored 5 goals that have truly counted with 4 assists to match.

7.Wayne ‘Wazza’ Rooney: people who know me know that this dude has been my best Manchester United player since the departure of Ruud Van Nistelrooy (yea I will pick Rooney over Ronaldo any day), hence my saving the favourite for last. Wayne Mark Rooney like my friend who has got a mad crush on him always call him is a one of the best team players around. He’s the first player to have scored over 10 goals in 11 consecutive Premier League Seasons. Do I still need to brag about his consistency? I figured. A fighter and one of the reasons United will made the top 4 (Liverpool has got nothing on us).

Watch out for my boys next season, we would be a tough nut to crack and surely we would be amongst the favourites to win the league next season.

Thanks people for the unending love and support. May the ALMIGHTY reach out to you all……………….. BLESS !!!

 

Follow me on twitter (@dipoogun) and instagram (@dipoogun)

11/04/2015 and 12/04/2015

11/04/2015

Lent ended for me on the 4th of April, 2015, so Fish Friday returned 10th April, 2015 (not that there was any break of some sort). SO the Great Guy came through as always. After a few drinks and fish, going home was clearly next on the agenda despite the night being young. There was election the next day so we needed to be home early. Got home few minutes past 9 and I didn’t know when I snoozed, I always snooze off in the middle of a BB Chat or a Whatspp convo. So sorry guys, it’s not my fault but my bed seem to be too comfy that i just sleep off when my body touches it.

I got out of bed 7.05am on Saturday to brush and dress up then hook up with my colleague BK so we could go for accreditation in respect of the day’s election. We got there and in less than 10 minutes accreditation was done, well myself and BK were done.  And I didn’t have issues this time around. My accreditation was done one time as the card reader decided to give itself brain when it got to my turn (lol). We were asked to come back at 1.30pm for voting proper. I went home to rest and have breakfast while at it (grilled guinea fowl with garri Ijebu).

While resting I was chatting with my Igbo friend who was trying to school me on who to vote for. I went back to the polling booth so I could get the voting over and done with and head home to watch the football games lined up for the day. Voted and on my way home I met a friend. We chatted for a bit then said our good byes. The games not all of them were boring except the Real Madrid (5th best team ever) versus Eibar game and the Tottenham versus Aston Villa (2nd best team ever) game. Yes the Parma versus Juventus game was boring because Juventus (4th best team ever) lost.

12/04/2015

I was watching the Formula 1 but decided to abandon it for church after confirming there was vehicular movement. Right move right? I know so too. GOD forgive me I abandoned it because I knew my man Lewis Hamilton was going to win. During Praise and Worship I was prompted by the ESPN app on my phone confirming Hamilton’s victory.

The biggest game in Manchester, the biggest game in Europe and the biggest game in the world was played on this day. I was confident of  a Manchester United victory not because Man Utd was in a rich vein of form prior to the game but because Arsenal had won the day before day and I think playing after Arsenal in the past few games (4 games in a row) have put that positive pressure on my beloved Man Utd.

After service I went to see my brother and his family before stopping by at TA’s place. Now stopping over at TA’s place was tactical and if you read my post on my football superstitions you will understand why. Let me do the honours of briefing first timers. My beloved Man Utd team always (most of the time) lose whenever I have a issues with my female friends and during the course of the week TA was upset with me or should I say I was mad at her so I had to ensure we were cool. This was exactly an hour to the game. Got that out of the way and headed to SO’s to catch the game with confidence. We had some bubbly and Domino’s pizza to go. EA (an Arsenal fan but rooting for Man Utd and I am sure you know why) and SJB joined myself and SO in catching the game, so the match was on point. Thanks to Mrs SO for the hospitality, GOD Bless you hon.

The game was won 4-2 by Manchester United and it was the best 3points I have seen my team take in a long while. We and I say we because I am die-hard Man Utd fan (live with it) played awesome football. 3 players stood out for me on this day and they were Ashley Young, David DeGea and my man of the match by miles Maroune Fellaini.

 

How was my weekend? You still want to know? It was GRAND. I voted, I saw family and friends and Manchester United won the Mancunian Derby.

 

Thanks for your time people and do have a wonderful week but don’t forget to share and drop comments. Stay Blessed.

 

Follow on twitter @dipoogun and instagram via same handle.

Walk Away

MA used to hear that people had liver but LO’s liver was on another level. As in some cunning stuff, Mickey Stone and his gang in Hustle (A UK Series) has got nothing on LO. MA had heard of the phrase ‘Walk Away’ but that was on the game show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. MA always heard LO say I want to go and Walk Away whenever food matters arose but never bothered to find out what he meant.

Let’s go and grab something to eat  LO said to MA. MA responded saying he was broke and he would just chill for Cousin T to get back from class and make lunch. LO was persistent so MA decided to go with him. The Amala Joint was just across the hall we lived (it never was but we always called it across). They got to the Joint and they placed their orders. After eating MA was expecting LO to pay so they could take their leave. LO told MA to go ahead that he would sort the bill. MA made for the exit and one of the staff of the Joint approached him asking for money, he just pointed in LO’s direction and said LO would pay. They let him go and LO stayed back making use of the toothpick in a relax mode.

15 minutes later LO joined MA in the hall and MA asked why he took so long before returning to the hall saying abi o lo fi cigar step down (did you go for a smoke)? LO smiled and said he used his famous Life Line at the Joint which was Walk Away. MA probed further asking what LO meant and LO responded saying he didn’t pay for the food. MA was livid and walked out of the room. MA returned to the room moments later to grab his phone. LO started looking for his phone asking MA if he saw it with MA giving a resounding NO.

It was at this moment LO knew he MESSED UP, he figured he forgot the phone at the Amala Joint. He went there to search for the phone. He wasn’t even scared they could spot him for not paying for his meal. The dude was brave though. He didn’t find the phone and he came back to the hall to tell MA and his other hall mates his phone had been stolen. He didn’t know MA had relayed what happened earlier to them. Immediately he announced his phone had been stolen they all bursted out in laughter saying hope he had learn’t his lesson and how a b**ch karma was.

Did LO put a stop this Walk Away Lifeline? No he didn’t, as a matter of fact he intensified his efforts on the Walk Away Lifeline till he graduated. LO helluva guy.

Do not try this anywhere, you could get lynched or burnt alive (lol).

Thanks for your time and I hope you had a wonderful Easter? Enjoy the rest of the week. Bless y’all.

 

Follow on twitter and instagram via @dipoogun.

I Voted

Like I said in my post on Elections it was a big task getting my Permanent Voters Card (PVC) and for this reason alone I decided I must cast my vote. Why go through the stress and just sit at home. I woke up at about 7.20am on Saturday 28 March, 2015 which was the day of the Presidential, Senatorial and Federal House of Assembly elections. I said my prayers, brushed my teeth and had my bath in preparation for the day. My Polling Unit (PU) was about 2km away from home which meant I would walk 8km to get accredited and vote. Who cared, the exercise would be worth it as long as the end result of the day was me casting my votes.

I left the house 8.05am for the PU to get accredited. There Soldiers and Policemen all around keeping peace in the area but shockingly I was or should I say I was nearly accosted by a drunken man who said “kilon worry e, e kan ga Sha” (what’s your problem, you are just tall Sha ), with fear gripping me I stepped aside a bit and added pace to my movement. The guy walked away when he saw the cops drive by.

I got to my PU where accreditation had started and it seemed to be going well until a lady’s finger print couldn’t be read by the card reader. It later worked and guess what yours truly’s finger prints couldn’t be read too, I tried it like 4 more times and threatened to leave but deep inside me I couldn’t, I  needed to vote and I wasn’t going to give up now. I used spirit to clean my hand, it didn’t work, washed my hands but nothing changed. I was asked to go and eat (lol) and I responded saying its LENT season, the woman just laughed. I was finally accredited after about 30mins of waiting. I headed home to rest for the main event (Voting) which was to commence at 1.30pm.

I left home at 1.15pm to go and vote and on getting there the queue was long, the sun was hot scorching and at 1.45pm the voting had not started. Voting finally commenced at 2.16pm with the coordinators telling us 152 of us were accredited. At some point a dude was sharing cold pure water to everyone on the queue. He offered me and I said no, he said se bottle water le fe ni (is it bottled water you want ) and I said no again. He walked away giving me side eye. I was fasting so I couldn’t accept it. I got to vote at about 2.55pm and I must say it was a very peaceful election in my zone.

So I participated in a National election for the first time in my life, I feel proud of myself and hopefully my first ever vote will count. I won’t tell you who I voted for because it’s still my secret. I must say a boring weekend it was for we football lovers, the elections held at the wrongest time. I know there were some friendly matches and Euro 2016 qualifiers but they will never match up to the EPL, La Liga, Bundesliga et al. To make matters worse The Three Lions of England played on Saturday night.

Shout out to TA my darling friend who not only voted but also waited at her PU to monitor and count the votes to ensure there was no abracadabra. Bless you hon.

Thanks people and hope you guys also voted? GOD Bless Nigeria and everywhere else. Do have a fabulous week filled with the Blessings of the ALMIGHTY. BLESS !!!

 

Follow me on Twitter @dipoogun and on Instagram via the same handle.

Pam and David…… Season Finale

“Hi Dave.” Femi greeted. Please free me.” David responded. “Guy relax now. I was going to tell you about it but didn’t know how to broach it with you.” Femi said. “Femi please GET LOST I don’t ever want to see your face again.” David threw back lividly, walking away. “Fine, I don’t know how shacking up with a girl in your compound is an offense but if you don’t want to listen to me all well and good. I am out.” Femi retorted at the top of his voice.

“I don’t know why it is what I want you are eyeing.” David said. Huh, what did you just say? Femi remarked walking towards David. “You heard me right.” David barked. “I am sure you are the reason Pam doesn’t want to be with me. David added.”

“What the F*** is wrong with you David?” Femi asked. “You want Pam, you want Shola too? You are sick.” Femi chipped in. “Your Pam has been acting all mean and inconsiderate so I decided why not fall back to Shola who genuinely loves me only for her to be sleeping with you.” David calmly explained. “You see David the world doesn’t revolve around you. You cannot eat your cake and have it and I think you are being selfish. So because you could not score with Pam you want to now fall back to Shola? Then you must be a joker.” Femi narrated.

“Thank you.” David said walking away.

*

Femi returns to the Office Cafeteria and still meets Pam there. He explains what happened between himself and David to her.

“So he was pissed that you were hooking up with his neighbor? That is childish though. I don’t want to be with someone like that.” Pam said. “I tire for the guy o.” Femi added. “He should just please do my work or else I will take a memo to the MD and trust me he doesn’t want me to do that.” Pam rambled. “But wait a minute, did you just consider dating David?” Femi asked. “Come off it Femi, he’s cute to be honest but he just lost some points with that childish behavior.” Pam alleged.

“Sexy Pam, I think you like this guy. Just give him a chance.” Femi urged. “Get out.” Pam said jokingly. “You are saying this because of the Shola girl right? To get David off your back on the matter.” Pam added. “It’s not that jor, I just think if you like him give him a chance. I can vouch that he’s a good lad, he’s just shy.” Femi stated. “Okay you know what? Tell him we could hang out later tonight for the TGIF (Thank GOD it’s Friday) on the condition that he starts my work first.” Pam said. “Easy Peasy.” Femi responded. “He would do that in no time, he’s that good.” Femi bragged. “Cool, so we can say we have a deal.” Pam added.

 

Femi goes to David’s desk but doesn’t meet him on seat. He drops a note which read, Pam has agreed to hang out with you during TGIF on the condition you start her work ASAP.

 

*Announcement: This is Chidinma Ihenacho from the MD’s office. All Staff are supposed to leave the office by 5pm for the TGIF holding at the Valley in Yaba.

“Hi David.” Pam greeted. “Hey Pam, I am so sorry about earlier. I was really in a bad mood.” David explained. “It is fine and I think you have Femi to thank for my letting go of the past.” Pam said.  “I don’t know why he likes you so much or worries about you. He even said nice things about you which I would be hoping to find out myself.” Pam added. “So so so you mean we can hang out later tonight?” David stuttered. “No I only said I want to find out if the nice things Femi said about you are true.” Pam responded. “But gosh you are too gentle a man. Of course we can hang out and chat during the TGIF.” Pam added. “What about your boyfriend?” David asked. “We could discuss him too if you so please.” Pam jested. “Oh no I wouldn’t want that.” David motioned. “See you later then.” Pam said walking away. “Take care dear.” David muttered.

Jumping up for joy, David screamed yes she’s agreed to speak with me forgetting he was in a corporate environment. He bumps into the MD who had never seen him so happy and loud.

“What is wrong with you?” The MD asked. “I am so sorry sir.” David responded. “No seriously what happened? Never seen you in a joyous mood and I can’t remember you getting a promotion though you came in highly recommended for one.” The MD said. “It is nothing really sir.” David said. “Ok then.” The MD responded. “Hope you have finished your slides for the presentation on Monday?” The MD probed. “I am wrapping it up already sir and I would give to Rachael for review before the day runs out.” Good then the MD said. “Speaking of Rachael, I will advise you don’t let her down because she so much believes in you.” The MD added walking away.

This has to be the best week of my life. First it was my hang out with Pam and now Rachael happens to be a good boss. David mumbled to himself as he went to his office.

 

*At the Valley

“Hey bro.” David greeted Femi. “Hi Dave.” Femi responded. “I am so sorry about earlier bro. I didn’t mean to spaz out like that.” David said. “It is fine bro. I am also sorry I didn’t mention Shola to you though she told me she had feelings for you but I knew you had eyes for Pam.” Femi narrated. “You slimy son of a gun.” David said jokingly. “But seriously how could you pass on an offer to date Shola?” Femi asked. “That girl is fine and has got brains as in brilliant.” Femi added. “Yea she is a nice girl as a matter of fact very decent and friendly but you know how we (men) can be now.” David said. “So we cool?” Femi asked stretching his hands for a brotherly hug. “We sure are.” David said hugging Femi back.

“Sorry to break the bromance.” Pam said from behind David. “Sexy Pam what’s up now?” Femi greeted. “Hey Pam, you look so good.” David hailed. “Did you go home to change or something?” David chipped in. “I have told you to stop calling me that.” Pam said facing Femi. “Hello Dave.”  Pam greeted David. “And yes I went home to change because I am going out with my boyfriend from here.” She added sarcastically. “Hahahahahaha.” Femi laughed. “Let me free you guys, Shola is almost here.” He added. “Ok Mr. Lover boy.” Pam said. “David.” Pam called snapping David back to life. “I was just joking about the boyfriend gist o.” Pam said. “You got me there.” David slurred.

Pam and David got talking and she explains why she was being so hard on him. She also told him she was single and she lied to him the other day about her having a boyfriend because she really liked him and was willing to find out if he would still push for a hang out.

“So you seem to be a gentleman just as I was told by Femi.” Pam said. “I am?” David responded smiling sheepishly. “Yea.” Pam answered. “Will you please be my girlfriend Pam?” David asked. “Come on things don’t work that way. You have not even known me, you have not even taken me out for lunch or taken me shopping and do all the fun things aspiring boyfriends do for girls they like.” Pam yakked. “Oops, I am sorry I was moving too fast. You are simply irresistible Pam.” David said. “Besides I don’t earn that much to do all these you have listed.” David added. “Oh really but you want to quickly have girlfriend abi? No wonder you are still single.” Pam responded. “I am sorry Pam, I guess I am not the right man for you.” David stated. “Awww you sound cute David. I just love messing with you. We would make a lovely couple.” Pam said. “Can I assume you are agreeing to date me Pamela?” David asked. “Hell No.” Pam responded. “I can consider you though because you called my name right unlike some Yoruba people.” She said chuckling. Yes David I will date you.

 

The End.

Top 16 Songs of 2016

Like I said couple of years back Naija music has improved seriously though it’s now like the Nollywood of those days where a movie is released everyday and 3 times on Sunday. To stay relevant…

Source: Top 16 Songs of 2016

Pam and David……………… Episode 4

*Staff of the First Floor’s Lunch Time Out with the Boss

“Why are you always keeping to yourself?” The Managing Director (MD) asked David. “I have never seen you hold a conversation with anyone outside your floor.” The MD added. “Huh?” David muttered pointing at himself. “Yes you.” The MD retorted.

“It is not only about work, you should at least socialize once in a while with your colleagues. That was the same thing you did during the UK trip too, you were always indoors.” Added the MD. “I am sorry sir.” David responded. “You don’t need to be sorry, it is for your own good.” The MD said.

“Any impediment to discharging your daily duties?” The MD asked all in attendance. An unrehearsed no was the response he got. “Good.” The MD said. “Is there anyone who would love to swap Units or Departments?” The MD asked.

At first the room was quiet. The MD then asked all heads of Unit/Department to leave to ensure that their subordinates were comfortable with the question. The MD now asked again, who would want to change Units/Departments?

David slowly raising his right hand stated he would like to change his Unit.

“David is there a particular reason why you want to change your Unit? I thought you were doing what you loved doing as the Contents person? Are there any issues?” The MD presenting David with a flurry of questions. “Erm I think I will stay put where I am sir.” Thank you. David said. “What is wrong with this boy?” The MD asked jokingly. “Is there anything else?” The MD asked further. “The team chorused No.”

The MD asked that the Heads of Units/Departments to come back in to finish their lunch and asked all to return to their desks afterwards.

*

“What is wrong with you?” Femi asked David. “I am sorry I don’t follow bro?” David responded with a puzzled look. “You wanted to speak about something that was bothering you when the MD asked us who would love to switch Units. You just froze and changed your mind.” Femi retorted. “Well I just thought about what I was going to say and I didn’t want to put Rachael in trouble.” David responded. “Trouble? How?” Femi asked. “I clearly don’t get along with her and you know this but I will rather weather the storm than get her into trouble with the MD.” David said. “David you are missing something, you don’t have to be friends with Rachael. I believe she’s hard on you because she sees you have the potential to be the best in your field. So man up and stop being a sissy.” Femi said tapping David on the shoulder. “Okay, thanks Femi.” David responded. “I am sure the MD will still call you to find out if you really had anything to say back there. He worries about everybody so brace yourself up and prepare to tell him something good.” Femi quipped. “Yea I will.” David responded.

“Bad guy!!! How did it go with Pam yesterday?” Femi asked. “Please let’s not talk about her Femi.” David said. “What happened bro? Talk to me.” Femi pushed for an answer. “Femi drop it.” David raised his voice slightly. “Okay if you say so.” Femi said walking away. “I am sorry I snapped.” David said catching up with him. “She has a boyfriend and I expected you of all people to have told me she was a no go area.” David added. “Boyfriend?” Femi asked. “Yes she mentioned him when I asked her out on a date yesterday after the voluntary discussion session with the MD.”

Hmmm was all Femi could chip in.

“Is there something you think I should have known?” David asked. “No.” Femi answered.

*

David walked into the compound and it felt strange not seeing Shola anywhere around. He had lost out on the chance of dating Pam, could he score with Shola? These were the thoughts he had in his head. He proceeded to going to her flat to check up on her.

David knocked.

“Hi Shola.” David said. “Hello David.” Shola responded tying her wrapper properly. “I didn’t see you when I walked into the compound which was unusual so I decided to stop by and say hello before going to my flat.” David explained. “Oh thanks David.” Shola responded.

“Who is that Shola?” A male voice said from inside. “I am so sorry I didn’t know you had company.” David jealously said. “It’s my neighbor.” Shola responded looking inwards the apartment.

Shola’s male companion came out and saw David about walking away. He froze.

“Femi what are you doing here and how come you got here (from the office) before me?” David asked gnashing his teeth.

Shola steps in. “You guys should get a grip. David please leave, I would see you later.” Shola motioned to David. “Sorry bro.” Femi hollered.

David kept his cool and walked away.

*

“Hey David.” Pam said as she walked to David’s desk. “Hello Pam.” David responded. “Please I need a favour from you David.” Pam beckoned. “What can I do you for?” David asked. “I want Shile in I.T to help design a website for a client and would like you to help come up with contents for the website.” Pam said. “That will cost you N20, 000 (Twenty Thousand Naira).” David said without looking up.  “Haba David I asked for a favour.” Pam responded. “Well we all have targets and I have defaulted for the past 5 months so maybe it is time I started earning some business development points.” David sauntered.

“You seem to be in a bad mood.” Rachael said and walked away.

Abeg make everybody free me. David said in a low tone.

*

“What is wrong with your friend?” Pam asked Femi as she took her seat next to him at the staff cafeteria. “Please just let him be for now Pam. I think the game you are playing with him is getting to him.” Femi offered. “I don’t think so, I went to meet him for work not leisure and his response was cold.” Pam said. “Well I don’t know then.” Femi responded. “That’s strange, did you two have a fight?” Pam asked. “No, why?” Femi said. “Never mind.” Pam said.

David walks into the Cafeteria and on seeing Pam and Femi, he walked right out.

“And you say you two ain’t fighting?” Pam asked Femi again. “Well I can bet David left because he saw you.” Femi said looking at Pam. “David.” Femi called. “Get LOST.” David responded.

Hahahaha…………… Pam laughed and said to Femi, got ya. You better go and settle the beef with your friend so he can do my work. She chipped in laughing.

Read Episode 3

Read Episode 2

Read Episode 1