The sporting week ahead (31/10/10)

Today

Before you have finished your breakfast this morning, Australia will have polished off England at rugby league. The clocks also went back overnight but can Liverpool turn back time (see what I did there?) and put in a half-decent performance for once at Bolton. It's Hallowe'en and we can expect blood-curdling challenges in two afternoon derbies as Villa host Birmingham and Newcastle entertain Sunderland. There will also be some scary hits at Wembley this evening as the San Francisco 49ers do battle with the Denver Broncos in the annual NFL game in London.

Tomorrow

Battle of the promoted boys as Ian Holloway's Blackpool look to bring the boinging Baggies back to earth and earn a first home win of the season.

Tuesday

Tottenham renew acquaintances with Internazionale. Here's a little tip: if it's 4-0 at half-time, don't switch off. It's a reverse of week three's fixtures so Manchester United go to Bursaspor and Rangers visit Valencia.

Wednesday

It's been crushingly dull for Chelsea in the Champions' League so far. Spartak Moscow are the latest suckers to don their hard hats at the Bridge tonight while Arsenal, who have also had it far too easy, travel to Shakhtar Donetsk.

Thursday

The Europa League has also flipped its fixtures so Liverpool have a tasty-looking tie at home to Napoli in the Group of Sleep while Man City go to Poland to take on Lech Poznan.

Friday

Bonfire Night and let's hope England's cricketers provide the fireworks (boom-tish!) on day one of their first tour match against Western Australia in Perth. Jimmy Anderson is set to miss out because of the rib he broke while boxing against Chris Tremlett. I'd laugh until my own ribs hurt if this incident was at all funny, rather than stupid.

Saturday

Super Saturday as rugby union offers England v the All Blacks and football serves up Man U v Wolves and the FA Cup first round. It's also the penultimate race for pole position in Brazil, while wonder horse Zenyatta goes for Breeders' Cup glory at Churchill Downs.