May 2012 Archives

England: I would not normally pay any attention to the Daily Mail, but someone else read it, so I didn't have to.

Newcastle are ready to unleash the power of prayer on the Premier League, with plans for a dedicated religious room for three key players who have lit up their season.

Papiss Cisse, Demba Ba and Hatem Ben Arfa are devout Muslims and they could play a key role on Sunday when Newcastle host Manchester City with the dreams of both clubs in the balance. United want to secure a berth in Europe and City want to clinch their first title since 1968.

It seems that several other clubs, including Manchester City, do have rooms set aside for those players (of all faiths) who wish to pray, but haven't been bleating about it. And it seems Allah is as unimpressed as God when it comes to boasting about one's religion. The final score? Newcastle United 0 - 2 Manchester City.

We must embrace religion, says Newcastle boss Pardew as he considers introducing prayer room—Daily Mail, 5th May 2012; Manchester City moved to within touching distance of their first title for 44 years, as Yaya Toure scored twice to secure a crucial 2-0 victory over Newcastle United.—BBC Sport, 6th May 2012.