Rooney & RVP, ACN, Previews, The Joy of Six, Everton, Lawro vs. Hulk Hogan

Barney Ronay is a great writer. One of our favorites. Today, he's got a column on Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie. Here's his lead: Manchester United pair stand near each other and score goals for the same team, but each carries a distinct, individual threat. Yes. Yes, they do. And it looks like they'll bring the trophy back to Old Trafford this season.

Can Everton really make the top four in the Premier League? They currently sit fifth. Tactician Expert Michael Cox takes a look at what's been going on at Goodison Park this campaign.

Jonathan Wilson is in South Africa. He's talking about The Faso. The Burkina Faso, that is. They'll face South Africa in the final of the ACN on Sunday. They've proven they can play with the big boys.

Germany defeated France yesterday in Paris. It was only a friendly, but it was the Germans first win in France since 1935. 1935! OK, so they won their fair share in France in WWII (ouch!), but we're talking about football here, folks. Anyway, Raphael Honigstein knows his Germany. So who were the winners and losers of yesterday's contest?

The USA lost to Honduras on Wednesday. You already knew that. Here's some more analysis for ya.

Record of Manchester United with Mark Halsey in charge: Won 18 Drawn 3 Lost 0 - Goals for 47 Against 11

Right. What have we got in terms of matches this weekend? Let's begin in England, shall we? Manchester United vs. Everton looks good on paper but the match is at Old Trafford and we can't see them dropping points at home. Look who will be the ref! Paul Merson disagrees. Check his predictions below to see why. The early match tomorrow is Tottenham vs. Newcastle (7:45am EST on ESPN2). That one could offer up some solid action. Newcastle just bought 36 French guys to boost their squad while Spurs don't have any strikers. Still, Bale is on fire and Clint is returning to form. It should be a tight contest. Here's a preview for all the EPL action followed by your usual Friday fun.

Premier League Spotlight

Ten Things to Look Out For

Lawro and Hulk Hogan's Predictions

Paul Merson's Predictions

Moving on! Italy! Yes, Serie A action will be taking place this weekend. Juventus vs. Fiorentina looks to be exciting. Lazio/Napoli might be nice. Here's a preview. Over in Spain, they'll be out and about as well. Leaders Barcelona host Getafe while Real Madrid welcome Sevilla. Preview? Yes. 

The Joy of Six: Tales From the Boot Room! You don't need any more intro than that!

Bleh! That'll do! Enjoy the weekend.

Onward!!

-SSN