2009–10 Leeds United F.C. season, Transfers, In
1Transfer fee was officially undisclosed, however it was reported by The Times that the fee was £250,000. 2The club has the option of extending the player's contact by an additional year.


2009–10 Leeds United F.C. season, Transfers, Out
EU = if holds or not a European Union passport; Country: when 2 flags, 1st flag = country that plays for internationally, 2nd flag = country of birth; N = number on jersey; P = Position (for position name, pause mouse pointer on abbreviation); Name = Name on jersey (for more extensive name, pause mouse pointer on name); Age = age on the day of the signing; Moving from = only indicate the club the player was playing before start playing for this club in this season, for the type of the moving see Status column; Moving to = only indicates the club the player is going to play next, for the type of the moving see Status column; Ends = when the player's current contract ends; n/a = Not applicable.


2009–10 Leeds United F.C. season, Transfers, Out
1The Professional Football Compensation Committee decided that Everton should pay Leeds an initial compensation fee of £600,000 followed by £200,000 upon Garbutt's first full international appearance and £150,000 after the player has made 5, 10, 20, 30 and 40 appearances (thus totalling  £750,000 from this final clause). It was also ruled that Leeds should receive 20% of any profit that Everton makes from future sale of the player. 2Transfer fee was officially undisclosed, however it was reported by The Guardian that the fee was approximately an upfront £6 million with an additional £2 million in variables. 3The total compensation fee for the two academy players was reported to be £800,000.


2009–10 Leeds United F.C. season, Club, Club officials
Last updated: 15 May 2009Source: Leeds United A.F.C. 2009/10 Season Official Handbook


2009–10 Leeds United F.C. season, Club, First team coaching and medical staff
Last updated: 6 September 2009Source: Leeds United A.F.C. 2009/10 Season Official Handbook


2009–10 Leeds United F.C. season, Club, Other staff
Last updated: 6 September 2009Source: Leeds United A.F.C. 2009/10 Season Official Handbook


2009–10 Leeds United F.C. season, Awards, Internal Awards, Official Player of the Year Awards
The results of the 2009–10 Leeds United A.F.C. Player of the Year Awards were announced at a dinner on 8 May 2010 at Elland Road.


2009–10 Leeds United F.C. season, Awards, External Awards, League One Team of the Week
The following Leeds players have been selected in the official League One team of the week.


2009–10 Lega Basket Serie A
The 2006–07 Lega Basket Serie A season, known as the Serie A TIM for sponsorship reasons, was the 88th season of the Lega Basket Serie A, the highest professional basketball league in Italy.


2009–10 Lega Basket Serie A
The regular season ran from 11 October 2009 to May 2010. The top 8 teams made the play-offs whilst the lowest ranked teams, B.C. Ferrara and the bankrupt club NSB Napoli, were relegated to the Legadue.


2009–10 Lega Basket Serie A
Montepaschi Siena won their 5th title by winning the playoff finals series against Armani Jeans Milano.


2009–10 Lega Basket Serie A, Rules, Format
The participating 16 teams disputed the regular season based on home-and-away matches. At the end of regular season, the highest ranked 8 teams were admitted into play-off, with the lowest two ranked teams being relegated to LegADue


2009–10 Lega Basket Serie A, Rules, Squad rules
Every team was allowed to present in its roster up to 6 athletes that haven't been "formed" in Italy (of which at least 3 have to be citizens of European Union), out of total 12 players in squad.


2009–10 Lega Basket Serie A, Participating teams
The newcomers, compared to 2008–09 Serie A, were Cimberio Varese, returning to Serie A after one season in LegADue, and Vanoli Cremona, created by unification of Vanoli Soresina (promoted to Serie A through playoff) with Juvi Basket Cremona (that ceded the title of Serie A Dilettanti to Basket Brescia Leonessa). Another change was reallocation of NSB Napoli to PalaBarbuto in Napoli. On 13 April NSB Napoli was excluded from the league. Results of matches already played against the team were discarded.


2009–10 Lega Basket Serie A, Play-offs, Quarterfinals
Quarterfinals are played in a 2–2–1 format: i.e. the first 2 matches are played at the higher seed's home stadium, the following two at the other team's home, and the fifth match, if necessary, is played again at the higher seed's home stadium.


2009–10 Lega Basket Serie A, Play-offs, Semifinals
Semifinals were disputed in 2–2–1 format: the first 2 matches are played at the better placed team home stadium, the following two at the other team home, and the fifth match, if required, was played again at the better-placed team.


2009–10 Lega Basket Serie A, Play-offs, Finals
The final was disputed in 2–2–1–1–1 format: the first 2 matches were played at the better placed team home stadium, the following two at the other team home, the fifth match, if required, was played again at the better-placed team. The sisth match played again at the lower-placed team and if necessary a seventh game at the better-placed team.


2009–10 Lega Basket Serie A, Coppa Italia
The top eight teams at the halfway point of the regular season (15 rounds) competed in the Italian Cup, seeded according to their league placement at that time. The cup was won by top seed Montepaschi Siena, for second year in a row (and second time ever).


2009–10 Lega Basket Serie A, Supercoppa Italiana
The Italian Supercup was played as a single match before the start of the season between the previous year's Serie A champion and Coppa Italia winner (if a club wins both, the match instead pits the top two teams from the previous season's league). This season, the game, played 30 September in Siena, pitted three-time defending league champion Montepaschi Siena against Coppa Italia runner-up Virtus Bologna.


2009–10 Lega Pro Prima Divisione
The 2009–10 Lega Pro Prima Divisione season was the thirty-second football league season of Italian Lega Pro Prima Divisione since its establishment in 1978, and the second since the renaming from Serie C to Lega Pro.


2009–10 Lega Pro Prima Divisione
It was divided into two phases: the regular season, played from 23 August 2009 to May 2010, and the playoff phase from May to June 2010.


2009–10 Lega Pro Prima Divisione
The league was contested by 36 teams, geographically divided into two divisions of 18 teams each. Teams only played other teams in their own division, once at home and once away for a total of 34 matches each.


2009–10 Lega Pro Prima Divisione
Teams finishing first in the regular season, plus one team winning the playoff round from each division were promoted to Serie B; teams finishing last in the regular season, plus two relegation playoff losers from each division were relegated to Lega Pro Seconda Divisione. Four teams were theus promoted to Serie B and six teams were relegated to Lega Pro Seconda Divisione.


2009–10 Lega Pro Prima Divisione, Events, Start of season
The league was to feature four teams relegated from Serie B in 2008–09; Rimini, Pisa, Avellino, and Treviso. On July 9, the Covisoc (Commissione di Vigilanza sulle Società Calcistiche, Vigilancy Commission on Football Clubs) organization announced that Pisa, Avellino, and Treviso did not pass the financial requirements in order to be admitted to the league. The clubs were allowed to appeal the decision until 11 July. On 10 July, Pisa announced they were not appealing the exclusion from the league due to their failure to meet the financial requirements. The next day, Treviso and Avellino failed to appeal the exclusion as well.


2009–10 Lega Pro Prima Divisione, Events, Start of season
It is to feature six teams promoted from 2008–09 Lega Pro Seconda Divisione; the three division winners - Varese, Figline & Cosenza, and the three playoff winners - Como, Giulianova & Pescina V.d.G..


2009–10 Lega Pro Prima Divisione, Events, Start of season
The remaining 26 teams were to come from the teams that played in 2008–09 Lega Pro Prima Divisione that were neither promoted nor relegated. Of those, Venezia (17th in Girone A), and Perugia (8th in Girone B) were also listed by the Covisoc organization as not having met the financial requirements to be admitted. On July 11, Venice mayor Massimo Cacciari announced Venezia did not manage to fulfil the financial requirements to appeal the exclusion. On the other hand, the commission did allow Perugia to remain in Prima Divisione on appeal.


2009–10 Lega Pro Prima Divisione, Events, Start of season
On 30 July 2009, the four vacancies created were filled by the following teams, all of which were destined to play in Lega Pro Seconda Divisione for the 2009–10 season before the call-up:


2009–10 Lega Pro Prima Divisione, Events, Exclusion of Potenza from the league
On 19 March 2010, after an investigation and a consequent trial at the Italian Football Federation, Federal Court of Justice, Potenza was found guilt of match-fixing involving a 2008 league match against Salernitana and was punished with immediate exclusion from the league. It was the first time in Italian professional football that a club was excluded from a league during the season for a corruption case. In April 1993 Unione Sportiva Arezzo was excluded from Serie C1 Girone A with still seven matches to go, but due to bankruptcy and subsequent failure of their license.


2009–10 Lega Pro Prima Divisione, Events, Exclusion of Potenza from the league
The verdict was however partly reverted on appeal later on 2 April, when the Tribunale Nazionale di Arbitrato per lo Sport (National Arbitration Court for Sports) admitted Potenza back to the league in order to allow the club complete the season; however the club will nevertheless appear as last-placed in the final table, regardless of the results from the coming games, thus forcing Potenza to play in the Lega Pro Seconda Divisione for the 2010–11 season.


2009–10 Lega Pro Prima Divisione, Play-offs, Relegation
Paganese and Pro Patria relegated to Lega Pro Seconda Divisione.


2009–10 Lega Pro Seconda Divisione
The 2009–10 Lega Pro Seconda Divisione season will be the thirty-second football league season of Italian Lega Pro Seconda Divisione since its establishment in 1978, and the second since the renaming from Serie C to Lega Pro.


2009–10 Lega Pro Seconda Divisione
It will be divided into two phases: the regular season, played from September 2009 to May 2010, and the playoff phase from May to June 2010.


2009–10 Lega Pro Seconda Divisione
The league will also be composed of 54 teams divided into three divisions of 18 teams each, whose teams will be divided geographically. Teams will play only other teams in their own division, once at home and once away for a total of 34 matches each.


2009–10 Lega Pro Seconda Divisione
Teams finishing first in the regular season, plus one team winning the playoff round from each division will be promoted to Lega Pro Prima Divisione; teams finishing last in the regular season, plus two relegation playoff losers from each division will be relegated to Serie D.  In all, six teams will be promoted to Prima Divisione, and nine teams will be relegated to Serie D.


2009–10 Lega Pro Seconda Divisione, Events, Start of season
On July 9, the Covisoc (Commissione di Vigilanza sulle Società Calcistiche, Vigilancy Commission on Football Clubs) organization announced that 11 Seconda Divisione clubs did not pass the financial requirements in order to be admitted to the league. The clubs were allowed to appeal the decision until July 11. Seven were eventually saved. Of the remaining four, two did not bother to file submissions even before the review started, one did not appeal Covisoc's decision, while the fourth team lost on appeal.


2009–10 Lega Pro Seconda Divisione, Events, Start of season
The league was to feature six teams relegated from 2008–09 Lega Pro Prima Divisione: Pro Sesto, Sambenedettese, Legnano, Pistoiese, Juve Stabia, and Potenza. Three vacancies were created from this group. Two teams were excluded from the 2009–10 season as they did not pass the financial requirements: Sambenedettese did not appeal the commission's decision, while Pistoiese lost on appeal. On July 30, Potenza was called up to Prima Divisione to fill a vacancy.


2009–10 Lega Pro Seconda Divisione, Events, Start of season
It was to feature nine teams promoted from 2008–09 Serie D as division winners: Biellese (that did not file any registration papers, and thus, will be excluded from the league and replacing by Spezia) - Girone A, P.B. Vercelli - Girone B, Sacilese - Girone C, Crociati Noceto - Girone D, Sporting Lucchese - Girone E, Pro Vasto - Girone F, Villacidrese - Girone G, Brindisi - Girone H, and Siracusa - Girone I.


2009–10 Lega Pro Seconda Divisione, Events, Start of season
The remaining 39 teams were to come from the group of teams that played in 2008–09 Lega Pro Seconda Divisione that were neither relegated nor promoted. Another four vacancies were created from this group. Ivrea (9th in Girone A) failed to register for the upcoming season. Alessandria - 2nd in Girone A, Andria - 5th in Girone C, and  Viareggio - 2nd in Girone B - all promotional playoff losers in the Second Divisione 2008–09 season were called up to Prima Divisione anyway to fill vacancies.


2009–10 Lehigh Mountain Hawks men's basketball team
The 2009–10 Lehigh Mountain Hawks men's basketball team represented Lehigh University during the 2009–10 NCAA Division I men's basketball season. The Mountain Hawks, led by third-year head coach Brett Reed, played their home games at Stabler Arena and were members of the Patriot League. They finished the season 22–11, 10–4 in Patriot League play to finish in first place in the conference.


2009–10 Lehigh Mountain Hawks men's basketball team
Following the regular season, Lehigh won the Patriot League Basketball Tournament to earn the conference's automatic bid into the 2010 NCAA Tournament. This was their fourth NCAA Tournament appearance with their previous trip coming in 2004. As the No. 16 seed in the Midwest region, they fell to No. 1 seed Kansas in the Round of 64.


2009–10 Leicester City F.C. season
The 2009–10 season was Leicester City F.C. 's 105th season in the English football league system and their 58th in the second tier of English football. It was their first season back in the Championship after promotion from League One as champions in 2008–09. It was also the club's 125th anniversary season.


2009–10 Leicester City F.C. season
Having just been promoted, Nigel Pearson's side surprised many by spending most of the season in the play-offs. They eventually finished fifth, reaching the play-offs. This was considered an impressive finish and a stride forward by many, considering Leicester were relegated from the same division two seasons previously. They eventually lost out in the play-off semi-finals to Cardiff City on a penalty shoot-out.


2009–10 Leicester City F.C. season, Pre-season
After winning League One by seven points, manager Nigel Pearson sought to strengthen the squad ahead of the Championship campaign. 2008–09 loanees Jack Hobbs and Wayne Brown were quickly signed on permanent deals from Liverpool and Hull City respectively. Veterans Barry Hayles, Bruno Ngotty, Paul Henderson, Patrick Kisnorbo and Marc Edworthy were released at the end of their contracts. The Foxes further added to their squad with the captures of goalkeeper Chris Weale, defender Robbie Neilson and midfielders Richie Wellens and Dany N'Guessan. However, the forward line remained unreinforced until 19-year-old Martyn Waghorn arrived on loan from Sunderland just before the opening game against Swansea City.


2009–10 Leicester City F.C. season, Pre-season
Joe Mattock, part of the England squad for the European U-19 Championships, handed in a transfer request just 48 hours before the first match of the season. He eventually moved to fellow Championship club West Bromwich Albion for an undisclosed fee.


2009–10 Leicester City F.C. season, Pre-season, Kit and sponsorship
Leicester City's home kit for the 2009–10 season was unveiled before the final home game of 2008–09 against Scunthorpe United. To mark the 125th anniversary of the club's founding in 1884, the design of the front of the shirt had earlier been put to an online vote, with the fans deciding to keep the home shirt blank and sponsorless. A special badge was created for this kit, to be used for one season only.


2009–10 Leicester City F.C. season, Pre-season, Kit and sponsorship
The blue and black design of the away kit mirrors the shirts worn in the club's first game in 1884. It is branded with the logo of LOROS, a charity providing hospice care in Leicestershire. The charity will receive a percentage of the sale price of each shirt sold from their shops.


2009–10 Leicester City F.C. season, Pre-season, Kit and sponsorship
Both strips are manufactured by Joma, following the expiration of the club's previous deal with Jako.


2009–10 Leicester City F.C. season, Pre-season, Friendlies
After reporting back for pre-season training on 1 July, the club remained unbeaten through six pre-season games:


2009–10 Leicester City F.C. season, Record
2009–10 was Leicester City's 58th season at the second tier of English football. Their record of winning the division on six occasions (although not since 1980) is second only to Manchester City. Prior to the 2009–10 season, their record at this level was:


2009–10 Leicester City F.C. season, Players, 2009–10 squad
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.


2009–10 Leicester City F.C. season, Awards, Club awards
At the end of the season, Leicester's annual award ceremony including categories voted for by the players and backroom staff, the supporters and the supporters club, saw the following players recognised for their achievements for the club throughout the 2009–10 season.


2009–10 Leinster Rugby season
The 2009–10 Leinster Rugby season was Leinster's ninth competing in the Celtic League which they finished runners up in, alongside which they were competing in the 2009–10 Heineken Cup as defending champions until they were knocked out at the semi-finals by Stade Toulousain who went on to win the competition.


2009–10 Leinster Rugby season, Squad
Note: Flags indicate national union as has been defined under WR eligibility rules. Players may hold more than one non-WR nationality.


2009–10 Libyan Cup
The 2009–10 Libyan Cup was the 20th edition of the competition since its inception in 1976. Nasr secured their third title, defeating Madina 2–1 in a close final at the 11 June Stadium.


2009–10 Libyan Cup, Round of 32
The draw for the Round of 32 was made on January 7, 2010. If scores are level after 90 minutes, then the tie goes to a penalty shootout. Ties were played from January 18–20.


2009–10 Libyan Cup, Round of 16
The draw for the round of 16 was made on January 28, 2010 at 21:30 EET.


2009–10 Libyan Cup, Quarter finals
1 Madina awarded tie, after Ahly Tripoli quit the competition amid protests with the Libyan Football Federation.


2009–10 Libyan Cup, Semi finals
Draw made on May 20, at LFF headquarters in Tripoli.


2009–10 Libyan Cup – Round of 16
The draw for the Round of 16 of the 2009–10 Libyan Cup was made on January 28, 2010 at 21:30 EET. The dates and times for the 8 ties were confirmed on January 31. Ties are to be played over the period February 7–February 9, 2010. If any of the ties end in a draw after 90 minutes, then the tie goes immediately to a penalty shootout.


2009–10 Libyan Cup – Round of 32
The Round of 32 for the 2009–10 Libyan Cup consists of the 14 Libyan Premier League clubs, in addition to the 18 who qualified from the previous rounds. The draw was conducted on Thursday, January 7 at LFF headquarters in Tripoli. The dates and times for the matches were decided as follows:


2009–10 Libyan Federation Cup
The 2009–10 Libyan Federation Cup is the third edition of the competition since its inception in 2007. This competition was designed to give playing time to squad players who do not play in either the league or cup competitions. The competition is also designed to run while the Libyan national team is playing.


2009–10 Libyan Federation Cup, System
The 14 Libyan Premier League teams for the 2009–10 season participate in this competition. They are split into four groups, two of three and two of four. These groups are based on geographical location. The teams will play each other home and away. The top team in each of the four groups will progress.


2009–10 Libyan Federation Cup, System
The winners of Group A face the winners of Group C, while the winners of Group B face the winners of Group D. Both matches will be two-legged ties.


2009–10 Libyan Federation Cup, System
The semi-finals and final will also both be two-legged affairs.


2009–10 Libyan Federation Cup, Rules
Each participating club must include four reserve-team players on the pitch at all times. This makes sure the youth players get playing time.


2009–10 Libyan League Cup
The 2009–10 Libyan League Cup is the 3rd edition of the competition since its inception in 2007. This year's edition sees the 14 teams competing in the 2009–10 Libyan Premier League split up into four groups depending on geographical location; seven teams from the West and the other seven from the East. The top team from each group advanced to a two-legged semi-final, before a two-legged final to decide the winners. The competition is aimed at giving younger players and fringe first team players game time.


2009–10 Libyan League Cup
Group matches were played in March, with the semi-finals and final taking place in late May and early June.


2009–10 Libyan Premier League
The 2009–10 Libyan Premier League (known as the Libyana Premier League for sponsorship reasons) is the forty-second edition of the competition since its establishment in 1963. A total of 14 clubs contested the league, with Ittihad Tripoli the defending champions.


2009–10 Libyan Premier League
This has been reduced from the system of 16 teams that had been in place since the 2007–08 season. The season was scheduled to begin on 1 October 2009, but was later postponed until 8 October 2009. The season was scheduled to finish on 14 May 2010. However, this was later delayed to 1 June due to CAF fixtures and national team commitments.


2009–10 Libyan Premier League
The league paused for its mid-season break on 13 January 2010, and continued on 28 January 2010. There was another break after Round 16 (19 February – 22 March), due to the national team's fixtures, and CAF competition. Next season, the league will be again reduced, this time to 12 teams.


2009–10 Libyan Premier League, Summary
Ittihad secured their 16th top flight title with three games to spare after a 2–0 home win over Najma on 18 May 2010. This was their sixth league title in succession and their eighth in the last nine seasons.


2009–10 Libyan Premier League, Summary
Ahly Tripoli were expelled from the league and had their record for the second half of the season expunged on 17 May 2010. Having failed to show for two successive matches in protest at unfair treatment spanning a number of years from the Libyan Football Federation, which was sparked by their 1–2 home defeat to bitter rivals Ittihad, they vowed not to compete in competitions run by the LFF. As a result, they were relegated to the Libyan Second Division, meaning each side would now play only 25 games.


2009–10 Libyan Premier League, Summary
Tahaddy became the second side to be relegated on 22 May, after Shat, Olomby, Sweahly and Najma all won their respective matches on that day. Due to their inferior head-to-head record, even a victory against Shat on the final day would not have seen them avoid the drop. Their relegation was confirmed after their 3–1 win over Hilal was awarded 2–0 to Hilal after it was discovered Tahaddy had played a suspended player.


2009–10 Libyan Premier League, Summary
In one of the tightest relegation battles in recent history, Sweahly, Olomby, Shat and Najma all started the final round of fixtures within two points of each other, and all facing the danger of the drop. Sweahly hosted Ittihad, Shat were at home to already relegated Tahaddy, Najma travelled to Tersanah, who had secured their safety the previous week, and Olomby faced Nasr at Zaawia Stadium. Olomby went behind early on to Salem al Rewani's spot kick, before equalising on 31 minutes through Aymen Rhifi and Najma took the lead on the half-hour through Chakib Lachkhem's penalty.


2009–10 Libyan Premier League, Summary
Sweahly went in front against a much weakened Ittihad side through ex-Ittihad defender Keba Paul Koulibaly's penalty on 43 minutes. At the break, it was Olomby who would be relegated. Shat scored two goals in the first two minutes of the second period against Tahaddy, and added a further two goals for a comfortable 4–0 victory. Najma held on against a lacklustre Tersanah side, meaning they needed Nasr to hold Olomby to face a relegation playoff.


2009–10 Libyan Premier League, Summary
Sweahly faced a scare when Saami al Ghoula equalised on 72 minutes, but Tunisian forward Jemail Khemir put them back in front three minutes later, ensuring their survival. With time running out, Rhifi netted on 82 minutes to send the Second Division champions down. Olomby now face a two-legged playoff against Wahda for a place in next season's Premier League.


2009–10 Libyan Premier League, Teams
As the league reduced in size from 16 to 14 teams, four teams were relegated from last season's competition. These four teams were Aman al Aam, Wefaq Sabratha, Jazeera and Wahda Tripoli. Newly promoted Aman al Aam lasted just one season, though a spirited fightback towards the end of the season meant that their fate was sealed only on the final day, when Hilal got the point they needed to survive. Wefaq Sabratha, another of the newly promoted clubs, were relegated despite a decent start to season.


2009–10 Libyan Premier League, Teams
However, a 15-game winless run left them languishing in the relegation zone, and they failed to recover. Jazeera ended their two-year stint in the top flight with a poor showing, losing 20 of their 30 games, and despite a decent run of form towards the back end of the season, it was too little too late. Wahda were rooted to the bottom of the table for the whole season, and did not win a game until a 2–1 away victory at Al Shat in mid-May. Their return of 11 points from 30 games one of the worst in Libyan history.


2009–10 Libyan Premier League, Teams
Only two clubs were promoted from the Libyan Second Division; Najma finished as champions (see Libyan Second Division 2008-09 - Championship Stage), while Tahaddy secured their return to the top flight after a one-year absence.


2009–10 Libyan Premier League, League table, Positions by round
NB: Note: The classification was made after the weekend of each matchday, so postponed matches were only processed at the time they were played to represent the real evolution in standings. These postponed matches are:


2009–10 Libyan Premier League, Relegation Playoff
The second-placed team in the Libyan Second Division Promotion Stage, Wahda, faced a two-legged play-off match against the 11th placed team in the Premier League, Olomby for a place in the Premier League next season. The draw was made on 2 June. The matches took place on 5 and 9 June, with Olomby winning 3–1 on aggregate and retaining their place in the top flight for next season.


2009–10 Libyan Premier League, Continental Competitions, 2009 North African Cup Winners Cup
FAR Rabat - Ahly Benghazi W (0–0, 0–1) 1–0 on aggregate


2009–10 Libyan Premier League, Continental Competitions, 2009 North African Cup Winners Cup
Ahly Benghazi L - CS Sfaxien (a)   (1–1, 0–0 ) 1–1 on aggregate


2009–10 Libyan Premier League, Continental Competitions, 2009 North African Cup of Champions
ES Tunis - Ittihad Tripoli L (2–1, 2–2) 4–3 on aggregate


2009–10 Libyan Second Division, Format
This year, 47 teams will participate in the competition, split up into 5 groups depending on their geographical location. The top team in each group will progress to the Championship Play-off, where the five teams will play each other home and away to determine the automatic promotion place to the 2010-11 edition of the Libyan Premier League. The second-placed team in this promotion stage will face a two-legged playoff against the 11th placed Premier League team from this season to determine the 12th and final spot in next season's Premier League competition. The bottom team in each of the five groups will be relegated to the Libyan Third Division.


2009–10 Libyan Second Division – Group E
This article details Group E for the 2009–10 Libyan Second Division


2009–10 Liechtenstein Cup
The 2009–10 Liechtenstein Cup was the sixty-fifth season of Liechtenstein's annual football cup competition. Seven clubs competed with a total of eighteen teams for one spot in the second qualifying round of the UEFA Europa League. Defending champions were FC Vaduz, who won the cup continuously since 1998 and defended their title.


2009–10 Liechtenstein Cup, First round
The First Round featured twelve teams. The only first teams of a club that had to compete in this round were FC Triesen and FC Triesenberg, while the other two teams eligible for the first round, FC Ruggell and FC Balzers II, received a bye. The games were played on 18 – 19 August 2009.


2009–10 Liechtenstein Cup, Second round
The six winners of the First Round, along with the two teams who had received a bye, competed in the Second Round. The first teams of FC Balzers, USV Eschen/Mauren, FC Schaan and FC Vaduz were all given a bye in this round. The games were played on 15, 16, and 23 September 2009.


2009–10 Liechtenstein Cup, Quarterfinals
The four winners of the Second Round, along with the four teams who had received a bye, competed in the Quarterfinals. The games were played on 20, 21, 27, and 28 October 2009.


2009–10 Liechtenstein Cup, Semifinals
The four winners of the Quarterfinals competed in the Semifinals. The games were played on 6 April 2010.


2009–10 Liechtenstein Cup, Final
The final, played between FC Vaduz and USV Eschen/Mauren was played in the national stadium, Rheinpark Stadion, which is also FC Vaduz' home-ground. At full-time the score was 1-1, but after penalties FC Vaduz had a winning scoreline of 4-2. The game was played on 13 May 2010.


2009–10 Liga ABF
The Liga ABF 2009–10 was the 53rd season of women's handball top flight in Spain since its establishment, running from 12 September 2010 to 15 May 2010. Fourteen teams took part in the championship, with CB Castro Urdiales and CBM Murcia replacing relegated teams CB Monóvar and CB Zuazo.


2009–10 Liga ABF
Defending champion SD Itxako won its second title, while EHF Cup runner-up CBF Elda was second and BM Sagunto, Mar Alicante and CB León also qualified for EHF's competitions. BM Gijón and CB Ribarroja were relegated, with the latter (CB Amadeo Tortajada's successor) being disbanded following the end of the season.


2009–10 Liga Alef
The 2009–10 Liga Alef season was the first season since the 1998–99 Liga Alef season, in which Liga Alef regained its status as the third tier of Israeli football, due to the closure of Liga Artzit.


2009–10 Liga Alef
Maccabi Ironi Jatt (champions of the North Division) and Hapoel Herzliya (champions of the South Division) won the title and promotion to Liga Leumit.


2009–10 Liga Alef
Promotion and relegation play-offs held. however, from the promotion play-offs, no club achieved promotion to Liga Leumit, as Liga Alef second placed play-off winner, Maccabi HaShikma Ramat Hen went down to Maccabi Be'er Sheva of Liga Leumit in the decisive match.


2009–10 Liga Alef, Promotion play-offs
The 2nd placed clubs in each division, Ironi Sayid Umm al-Fahm and Maccabi HaShikma Ramat Hen faced each other in Haberfeld Stadium, Rishon LeZion, and the winner advanced to the decisive play-off match against the 14th placed Liga Leumit club Maccabi Be'er Sheva.


2009–10 Liga Alef, Promotion play-offs
Maccabi HaShikma Ramat Hen qualified for the decisive play-off match against Maccabi Be'er Sheva.


2009–10 Liga Alef, Relegation play-offs, North play-off
Hapoel Bnei Jadeidi (which replaced the disqualified 14th placed club in Liga Alef North, Hapoel Bnei Tamra) faced the Liga Bet play-offs winner, Hapoel Ramot Menashe Megiddo. the winner earned a spot in the 2010–11 Liga Alef.


2009–10 Liga Alef, Relegation play-offs, South play-off
The 14th placed club in Liga Alef South, Shimshon Bnei Tayibe, faced the Liga Bet play-offs winner, Ironi Ramla. the winner earned a spot in the 2010–11 Liga Alef.


2009–10 Liga Bet
The 2009–10 Liga Bet season was the first season since the 1998–99 Liga Bet season, in which Liga Bet regained its status as the fourth tier of Israeli football, due to the closure of Liga Artzit.


2009–10 Liga Bet
Ahi Acre (champions of the North A division), Hapoel Daliyat al-Karmel (champions of the North B division), Maccabi Kabilio Jaffa (champions of the South A division) and Bnei Eilat (champions of the South B division) won the title and promotion to Liga Alef.


2009–10 Liga Bet
The clubs ranked 2nd to 5th in each division entered a promotion play-off, at the end of which, in the North section Hapoel Ramot Menashe Megido won against Hapoel Bnei Jadeidi from Liga Alef North and was promoted to Liga Alef, while in the South section, Ironi Ramla lost to Shimshon Bnei Tayibe from Liga Alef South and failed to gain promotion.


2009–10 Liga Bet
At the bottom, Hapoel Halat el-Sharif Tamra (from North A division), Hapoel Bnei Musmus/Ma'ale Iron (from North B division), Hapoel Ramat Israel (from South A division) and Hapoel Tirat Shalom (from South B division) all finished bottom and were all automatically relegated to Liga Gimel.


2009–10 Liga Bet
The clubs ranked 12th to 15th in each division entered a relegation play-off, at the end of which Maccabi Kabul (from North A division), Beitar Ihud Mashhad (from North B division), Otzma F.C. Holon (from South A division) and Maccabi Be'er Ya'akov (from South B division) dropped to Liga Gimel as well.


2009–10 Liga Bet, Promotion Play-offs, North divisions, North A division
Hapoel Kafr Sumei and Beitar Nahariya advanced to the North A division promotion play-offs final.


2009–10 Liga Bet, Promotion Play-offs, North divisions, North B division
Hapoel Iksal and Hapoel Ramot Menashe Megido advanced to the North B division promotion play-offs final.


2009–10 Liga Bet, Promotion Play-offs, North divisions, North B division
Hapoel Ramot Menashe Megido advanced to the North regional final.


2009–10 Liga Bet, Promotion Play-offs, North divisions, North Regional final
Hapoel Ramot Menashe Megido advanced to the promotion play-off match against Hapoel Bnei Jadeidi from Liga Alef.


2009–10 Liga Bet, Promotion Play-offs, North divisions, Promotion Play-off Match
Hapoel Ramot Menashe Megido promoted to Liga Alef; Hapoel Bnei Jadeidi relegated to Liga Bet.


2009–10 Liga Bet, Promotion Play-offs, South divisions, South A division
Hapoel Azor and Hapoel Kiryat Ono advanced to the South A division promotion play-offs final.


2009–10 Liga Bet, Promotion Play-offs, South divisions, South B division
Ironi Ramla and Moadon Tzeirei Rahat advanced to the South B division promotion play-offs final.


2009–10 Liga Bet, Promotion Play-offs, South divisions, South Regional final
Ironi Ramla advanced to the promotion play-off match against Shimshon Bnei Tayibe from Liga Alef.


2009–10 Liga Bet, Promotion Play-offs, South divisions, Promotion Play-off Match
Shimshon Bnei Tayibe remained in Liga Alef; Ironi Ramla remained in Liga Bet.


2009–10 Liga Bet, Relegation Play-offs, North A division, Semi-finals
Beitar Haifa and Hapoel Nahariya remained in Liga Bet. Maccabi Kabul and Maccabi Kafr Sumei qualified for the North A division relegation play-off final.


2009–10 Liga Bet, Relegation Play-offs, North A division, Final
Maccabi Kafr Sumei remained in Liga Bet. Maccabi Kabul relegated to Liga Gimel.


2009–10 Liga Bet, Relegation Play-offs, North B division, Semi-finals
Hapoel Migdal HaEmek and Maccabi Barta'a remained in Liga Bet. Beitar Ihud Mashhad and Hapoel Beit She'an/Mesilot qualified for the North B division relegation play-off final.


2009–10 Liga Bet, Relegation Play-offs, North B division, Final
Hapoel Beit She'an/Mesilot remained in Liga Bet. Beitar Ihud Mashhad relegated to Liga Gimel.


2009–10 Liga Bet, Relegation Play-offs, South A division, Semi-finals
Beitar Petah Tikva and Hapoel Mahane Yehuda remained in Liga Bet. Hapoel F.C. Ortodoxim Jaffa and Otzma F.C. Holon qualified for the South A division relegation play-off final.


2009–10 Liga Bet, Relegation Play-offs, South A division, Final
Hapoel F.C. Ortodoxim Jaffa remained in Liga Bet. Otzma F.C. Holon relegated to Liga Gimel.


2009–10 Liga Bet, Relegation Play-offs, South B division, Semi-finals
Maccabi Sderot and Hapoel Rahat remained in Liga Bet. Maccabi Be'er Ya'akov and Beitar Giv'at Zeev qualified for the South B division relegation play-off final.


2009–10 Liga Bet, Relegation Play-offs, South B division, Final
Beitar Giv'at Zeev remained in Liga Bet. Maccabi Be'er Ya'akov relegated to Liga Gimel.


2009–10 Liga Femenina de Baloncesto
The 2009–10 Liga Femenina de Baloncesto was the 47th edition of the Spanish premier championship for women's basketball teams. Defending champion Ros Casares again defeated CB Avenida in the final to win its fourth title in a row, an overall seventh. CB Rivas and CDB Zaragoza also qualified for the championship play-offs. Ros Casares, Avenida and Rivas qualified for the 2010–11 Euroleague, while Zaragoza and CB Islas Canarias qualified for the 2010–11 Eurocup. On the other hand, Real Canoe and CB Estudiantes were relegated.


2009–10 Liga Femenina de Baloncesto, Regular season
1 Despite qualifying for the FIBA EuroCup Uni Girona withdrew from the competition for financial reasons. It was replaced by CB Islas Canarias. 2 Despite avoiding relegation Real Canoe withdrew from the championship for financial reasons. CB Puig d'en Valls subsequently bought its place in the championship.


2009–10 Liga Gimel
The 2009–10 Liga Gimel season saw 91 clubs competing in 7 regional divisions for promotion to Liga Bet. This was the first season since 1998–99 that Liga Gimel was the fifth tier in the Israeli football league system.


2009–10 Liga Gimel
Hapoel Shefa-'Amr (Upper Galilee), F.C. Kfar Kama (Jezreel), F.C. Givat Olga (Samaria), Maccabi Bnei Jaljulia (Sharon), Hapoel Oranit (Tel Aviv), Bnei Yichalel Rehovot (Central) and Hapoel Katamon Jerusalem (South) all won their respective divisions and were promoted to Liga Bet.


2009–10 Liga Gimel
During the summer, as several vacancies were created in Liga Bet, runners-up Bnei Kabul (Upper Galilee) and Maccabi Daliyat al-Karmel (Samaria) were also promoted to Liga Bet, as well as third-placed Ironi Nesher (Samaria).


2009–10 Liga Gimel, Upper Galilee Division
Bnei Kabul competed with Maccabi Daliyat al-Karmel from the Samaria division for a vacant spot in Liga Bet, and lost the match 1–3. After the match another spot became available in Liga Bet, and Bnei Kabul was promoted as well.


2009–10 Liga Gimel, Samaria Division
Maccabi Daliyat al-Karmel competed with Bnei Kabul from the Upper Galilee division for a vacant spot in Liga Bet, and promoted after winning the match 3–1.


2009–10 Liga Gimel, South Division
During the season, Hapoel Bnei Beit Safafa and Hapoel Hura (both after 2 matches) folded and their results were annulled.


2009–10 Liga I
The 2009–10 Liga I was the ninety-second season of Liga I, the top-level football league of Romania. Unirea Urziceni were the defending champions.


2009–10 Liga I, Teams
Farul Constanța, Otopeni and Gloria Buzău were relegated at the end of the 2008–09 season. They were joined by Argeș Pitești, who were demoted upon a decision of the Professional Football League on 8 July 2009, after their owner, Cornel Penescu, was found guilty of corruption. As a consequence, 15th-placed Gaz Metan Mediaș were spared relegation.


2009–10 Liga I, Teams
The four relegated teams were replaced by the champions and runners-up from both 2008–09 Liga II divisions. Ceahlăul Piatra Neamț and Ploiești were promoted from Seria I while Unirea Alba Iulia and Internațional Curtea de Argeș were promoted from Seria II.


2009–10 Liga I, Teams
Promoted team FC Ploiești were renamed FC Astra Ploiești, effective to 1 July 2009.


2009–10 Liga I, Champion squad
Goalkeepers: Nuno Claro  (26 / 0); Boris Peškovič  (5 / 0); Eduard Stăncioiu (4 / 0). Defenders: Hugo Alcântara  (22 / 3); Nelson Cabrera  (5 / 0); Ricardo Cadú  (28 / 5); Edimar  (16 / 0); Léo Veloso  (10 / 0); Gabriel Mureșan (28 / 2); Cristian Panin (29 / 0); Felice Piccolo  (10 / 0); Tony  (19 / 0).


2009–10 Liga I, Champion squad
Midfielders: Andrei Boroștean (1 / 0); Davide Bottone  (7 / 0); Emmanuel Culio  (28 / 1); Dani  (21 / 0); Ciprian Deac (24 / 2); Roberto De Zerbi  (4 / 0); Emil Dică (14 / 1); Nicolae Dică (13 / 0); Sebastián Dubarbier  (16 / 3); Darío Flores  (5 / 1); André Leão  (5 / 0); Sixto Peralta  (26 / 3); Eugen Trică (1 / 0). Forwards: Cristian Bud (15 / 7); Sergiu Buș (1 / 0); Didi  (7 / 0); Yssouf Koné  (21 / 6); Bogdan Mara (16 / 1); Nei  (20 / 5); Diego Ruíz  (1 / 0); Lacina Traoré  (25 / 6). (league appearances and goals listed in brackets)


2009–10 Liga I (women's football)
The 2009–10 season of the Liga I Feminin was the 20th season of Romania's premier women's football league. ASA Târgu Mureş won the championship.


2009–10 Liga II
The 2009–10 Liga II was the 70th season of the second tier of the Romanian football league system. The season started on 15 August 2009 and ended on 5 June 2010.


2009–10 Liga II
The format has been maintained to two series, each of them consisting of 18 teams. At the end of the season, the top two teams of the series promoted to Liga I and the bottom fifth places from both series relegated to Liga III. Two more teams relegated this season due to the format changing applied starting with the next season.


2009–10 Liga II, Team changes, Note (**)
FC Argeș Pitești was relegated for match fixing, Gaz Metan Mediaș, which initially relegated, was spared from relegation.


2009–10 Liga II, Team changes, Note (**)
CS Buftea sold its Liga II place to third tier club Săgeata Stejaru.


2009–10 Liga II, Team changes, Note (**)
Liberty Salonta withdrew at the end of the season, CFR Timișoara, which initially relegated, was spared from relegation.


2009–10 Liga III
The 2009–10 Liga III season was the 54th season of Liga III, the third tier of the Romanian football league system. The season started on August 21, 2009 and ended on June 4, 2010.


2009–10 Liga III
The winners of each division got promoted to the 2010–11 Liga II season.


2009–10 Liga III
The bottom six from each division were relegated at the end of the season to the county football leagues (Liga IV). From the 12th placed teams, another one was relegated. To determine this team, separate standings were computed, using only the games played against the clubs ranked 1st through 11th.


2009–10 Liga IV
The 2009–10 Liga IV was the fourth level of the Romanian football league system. The champions of each county association play against one from a neighboring county in a playoff on a neutral venue to gain promotion. The number of teams differ from one county association to another.


2009–10 Liga IV Alba
The 2009–10 Liga IV Alba was the 42nd season of the Liga IV Alba, the fourth tier of the Romanian football league system. The season began on 29 August 2009 and ended on 6 June 2010.


2009–10 Liga IV Alba
Performanța Ighiu crowned as county champion and qualify to the promotion play-off for Liga III.


2009–10 Liga IV Alba, Promotion play-off
Champions of Liga IV – Alba County face champions of Liga IV – Sibiu County.


2009–10 Liga IV Bacău
The 2009–10 Liga IV Bacău was the 42nd season of Liga IV Bacău, the fourth tier of the Romanian football league system. The season began on 15 August 2009 and was concluded on 6 June 2010.


2009–10 Liga IV Bacău, Promotion play-off
Champions of Liga IV – Bacău County face champions of Liga IV – Mureș County.


2009–10 Liga IV Bihor
The 2009–10 Liga IV Bihor was the 42nd season of the Liga IV Bihor, the fourth tier of the Romanian football league system. The season began on 16 August 2009 and ended on 6 June 2010. Bioland Paleu was crowned as county champion and qualify to the promotion play-off.


2009–10 Liga IV Bihor, Promotion play-off
Champions of Liga IV – Bihor County face champions of Liga IV – Sălaj.


2009–10 Liga IV Prahova
The 2009–10 Liga IV Prahova was the 42nd season of the Liga IV Prahova, the fourth tier of the Romanian football league system. The season began on 15 August 2009 and ended on 5 June 2010.


2009–10 Liga IV Prahova, Promotion play-off
Champions of Liga IV – Prahova County face champions of Liga IV – Dâmbovița County.


2009–10 Liga IV Suceava
The 2009–10 Liga IV Suceava was the 42nd season of the Liga IV Suceava, the fourth tier of the Romanian football league system. The season began on 16 August 2009 and ended on 6 June 2010.


2009–10 Liga IV Suceava, Promotion play-off
Champions of Liga IV – Suceava face champions of Liga IV – Iași County.


2009–10 Liga IV Teleorman
The 2009–10 Liga IV Teleorman was the 42nd season of the Liga IV Teleorman, the fourth tier of the Romanian football league system. The season began on 29 August 2009 and ended on 5 June 2010.


2009–10 Liga IV Teleorman, Promotion play-off
Champions of Liga IV – Teleorman County face champions of Liga IV – Dolj County.


2009–10 Liga Indonesia Premier Division
The 2009–10 Liga Indonesia Premier Division (also known as Liga Joss Indonesia for sponsorship reasons) was the 15th season of the Liga Indonesia Premier Division, the second level of the Indonesian football pyramid. The season was held from 25 November 2009 to 29 May 2010.


2009–10 Liga Indonesia Premier Division, Groups
Notes: PS Banyuasin and Persibom Bolaang Mongondow withdrew their participation in this competition; Persikad Depok was disqualified by Football Association of Indonesia.


2009–10 Liga Indonesia Premier Division, First round
Matches were played from 25 November 2009 to 1 April 2010.


2009–10 Liga Indonesia Premier Division, First round, Ranking of third-placed teams
Two best-ranked third placed team will also qualify for the second round.


2009–10 Liga Indonesia Premier Division, Second round
Matches were played from 18 May 2010 to 23 May 2010.


2009–10 Liga Leumit
The 2009–10 Liga Leumit was the 11th season since it became the second-tier in 1999 and the 68th season of second-tier football in Israel. It began on 21 August 2009 and ended on 15 May 2010.


2009–10 Liga Leumit, Changes from 2008–09 season, Structure changes
League size has been increased from twelve to sixteen teams for this season, teams will thus play a home-and-away round-robin schedule for a total of 30 matches.


2009–10 Liga Leumit, Changes from 2008–09 season, Structure changes
After the conclusion of this "regular season", teams will be split up into three playoff groups according to their league position. Points earned during the season will be halved and taken over to the respective playoff group. The best six teams will compete for the promotion spots. Clubs ranked 7th through 10th will engage in a placement round, while the bottom six teams will play out two relegation spots.


2009–10 Liga Leumit, Changes from 2008–09 season, Team changes
Maccabi Kiryat Ata were directly relegated to the 2009–10 Liga Alef after finishing the 2008–09 season in last place.


2009–10 Liga Leumit, Changes from 2008–09 season, Team changes
Due to the increase in the number of teams, seven teams were directly promoted from the 2008–09 Liga Artzit. These were champions Sektzia Nes Tziona, runners-up Hapoel Ashkelon, third-placed Hapoel Marmorek, fourth-placed Hapoel Rishon LeZion, fifth-placed Ironi Bat Yam, sixth-placed Beitar Shimshon Tel Aviv and seventh-placed Hapoel Nazareth Illit.


2009–10 Liga Leumit, Changes from 2008–09 season, Team changes
In addition, five teams were directly promoted from the 2008–09 Liga Leumit to the 2009–10 Israeli Premier League. These were champions Hapoel Haifa, runners-up Hapoel Acre, third-placed Hapoel Be'er Sheva, fourth-placed Hapoel Ramat Gan and fifth-placed Hapoel Ra'anana.


2009–10 Liga Leumit, Playoffs
Key numbers for pairing determination (number marks position after 30 games):


2009–10 Liga Leumit, Playoffs, Top Playoff
The points obtained during the regular season were halved (and rounded up) before the start of the playoff. Thus, Ironi Kiryat Shmona started with 31 points, Hapoel Kfar Saba with 26, Sektzia Nes Tziona with 24, Ironi Ramat HaSharon with 23, Ironi Bat Yam with 23 and Hapoel Ashkelon started with 22.


2009–10 Liga Leumit, Playoffs, Middle Playoff
The points obtained during the regular season were halved (and rounded up) before the start of the playoff. Thus, Hapoel Nazareth Illit started with 22 points, Ahva Arraba with 22, Hapoel Rishon LeZion with 20 and Maccabi Herzliya started with 20.


2009–10 Liga Leumit, Playoffs, Bottom Playoff
The points obtained during the regular season were halved (and rounded up) before the start of the playoff. Thus, Hapoel Bnei Lod started with 20 points, Hakoah Ramat Gan with 19, Maccabi Be'er Sheva with 18, Beitar Shimshon Tel Aviv with 17, Hapoel Jerusalem with 12 and Hapoel Marmorek started with 7.


2009–10 Liga Leumit, Promotion/Relegation playoff, Promotion playoff
The 3rd-placed team Hapoel Kfar Saba faced the 14th-placed Israeli Premier League team Hapoel Ramat Gan. The winner Hapoel Ramat Gan earned a spot in the 2010–11 Israeli Premier League. The match took place on 22 May 2010.


2009–10 Liga Leumit, Promotion/Relegation playoff, Relegation playoff
The 14th-placed team Maccabi Be'er Sheva faced the Liga Alef promotion playoff winner Maccabi HaShikma Ramat Hen. The winner Maccabi Be'er Sheva earned a spot in the 2010–11 Liga Leumit. The match took place on 31 May 2010.


2009–10 Liga Nacional de Básquet season
The 2009–10 Liga Nacional de Básquet season was the 26th season of the top professional basketball league in Argentina. The regular season started on 7 October 2009. Peñarol won their second title, defeating Atenas in the finals.


2009–10 Liga Nacional de Básquet season, Promotions and relegations
Torneo Nacional de Ascenso Champions from the previous season La Unión and runners-up Unión de Sunchales were promoted, occupying the berths left by Ben Hur and Monte Hermoso. Central Enterriano, also from the second-tier tournament, traded places with Independiente de Neuquén, who had to sell their berth due to financial difficulties.


2009–10 Liga Nacional de Básquet season, Regular season, First stage
The first stage took place between 7 October and 25 November 2009. Teams were divided into two zones. The top three teams from each zone plus the best fourth team overall and a wildcard competed in the Torneo Súper 8 that took place in December.


2009–10 Liga Nacional de Básquet season, Regular season, Torneo Súper 8
The sixth edition of Torneo Súper 8 took place on 17–20 December 2009 in the city of Mar del Plata. Peñarol won their second title, defeating Atenas in the Final.


2009–10 Liga Nacional de Básquet season, Regular season, Second stage
The second stage started on 27 November 2010. All 16 teams were ranked together. Each team carried over half of the points obtained in the first stage.


2009–10 Liga Nacional de Básquet season, Playoffs, Championship playoffs
The Playoffs started on 31 March 2011 and ended on 25 May 2011. Peñarol defeated Atenas in the Finals.


2009–10 Liga Nacional de Básquet season, Playoffs, Relegation playoffs
The relegation series began on 2 April. Central Entrerriano and Quilmes lost their respective series and were relegated to the Torneo Nacional de Ascenso.


2009–10 Liga Nacional de Hockey Hielo season
The 2009–10 Liga Nacional de Hockey Hielo season was the 38th season of the top level of Spanish ice hockey. The season began with the dispute of the Copa de la Federación (Federation Cup), a preparatory tournament which was won by CH Jaca. The regular season of the Liga Nacional began on 24 October and ended on 31 January.


2009–10 Liga Nacional de Hockey Hielo season, Play-offs
The playoffs were best-of-five series and started on February 6, ending on March 7 with the final victory of CH Jaca.


2009–10 Liga Nacional de Hockey Hielo season, Play-offs
After the end of the championship was decided the champion of the Copa del Rey, the last tournament of the season, which was won by CG Puigcerdà.


2009–10 Liga Națională (men's handball)
The 2009–10 Liga Națională was the 52nd season of Romanian Handball League, the top-level men's professional handball league. The league comprises 13 teams. CSM Medgidia withdrew from the championship and all of its results were cancelled. HCM Constanța were the defending champions, for the second time in a row.


2009–10 Liga Premier de Ascenso season
The 2009–10 Liga Premier de Ascenso season was split in two tournaments Apertura and Bicentenario. Liga Premier was the third-tier football league of Mexico. The season was played between 22 August 2009 and 16 May 2010.


2009–10 Liga Premier de Ascenso season, Torneo Apertura, Inter–groups matches
In the Apertura 2009 and Bicentenario 2010 tournaments, the league determined the celebration of two weeks of matches between teams belonging to different groups.


2009–10 Liga Premier de Ascenso season, Torneo Apertura, Liguilla
The fifth or sixth best teams of each group play two games against each other on a home-and-away basis. The higher seeded teams play on their home field during the second leg. The winner of each match up is determined by aggregate score. In the Round of 8, quarterfinals and semifinals, if the two teams are tied on aggregate the higher seeded team advances. In the final, if the two teams are tied after both legs, the match goes to extra time and, if necessary, a penalty shoot-out.


2009–10 Liga Premier de Ascenso season, Torneo Bicentenario, Liguilla
The fifth or sixth best teams of each group play two games against each other on a home-and-away basis. The higher seeded teams play on their home field during the second leg. The winner of each match up is determined by aggregate score. In the Round of 8, quarterfinals and semifinals, if the two teams are tied on aggregate the higher seeded team advances. In the final, if the two teams are tied after both legs, the match goes to extra time and, if necessary, a penalty shoot-out.


2009–10 Liga Premier de Ascenso season, Promotion to Liga de Ascenso
Universidad del Fútbol won the two tournaments corresponding to the season, however, due to being a reserve team of C.F. Pachuca, it did not have the right to be promoted. By regulation, the place in the upper category was offered to Altamira F.C., the team with the second best performance in the season, so this club finally won the promotion after paying US$ 470,000 for the place.


2009–10 Liga de Ascenso season
The 2009-2010 season was the first under the new name Liga de Ascenso, renamed from Primera A.


2009–10 Liga de Ascenso season
Also the Clausura part of the tournament was renamed Bicentenario 2010 in honor of the 200 year anniversary of the declaration for Mexican Independence.


2009–10 Liga de Ascenso season, Changes
From Clausura 2009 to the new format there were many changes, the 3 group format was dropped in favor of 1 single table with the top 7 teams advancing to the playoffs, the top team over all to the semifinals and the next 6 teams to the quarterfinals.


2009–10 Liga de Ascenso season, Changes
The number of teams decreased from 27 to 17 teams


2009–10 Liga de Ascenso season, Torneo Apertura
The 2009 Liga de Ascenso Apertura was the first and inaugural football tournament of the 2009–10 Liga de Ascenso season. The tournament began on July 31, 2009 and ended on December 13, 2009.


2009–10 Liga de Ascenso season, 2010 Liga de Ascenso Bicentenario Clausura 2010
The 2010 Liga de Ascenso Bicentenario is the second football tournament of the 2009–10 Liga de Ascenso season.


2009–10 Liga de Ascenso season, Relegation table
Relegation is determined by a quotient of the total points earned in the Liga de Ascenso divided by the total number of games played over the past three seasons of the Liga de Ascenso (for clubs that have not been the Liga de Ascenso all three season, the last consecutive seasons of participation are taken into account). The club with the lowest quotient is relegated to the Segunda División Profesional for the next season.


2009–10 Liga de Honra
The 2009–10 Liga de Honra season (also known as Liga Vitalis due to sponsorship reasons) is the 20th season of the second-tier football in Portugal. It began on 13 August 2009 and will end on 9 May 2010. Olhanense are the defending champions.


2009–10 Liga de Honra, Teams
Trofense were relegated to the Liga de Honra after finishing 16th and last in the Portuguese Liga 2008–09 season. Trofense were to be accompanied by Belenenses, who finished in 15th place. Belenenses were ending a ten-year stretch in the Portuguese top-level league, while Trofense returned to the Liga da Honra after just one year in the top flight.


2009–10 Liga de Honra, Teams
However, Estrela de Amadora, who finished in 11th place, were instead relegated to the Liga Vitalis for economic problems. The club was eventually relegated to the Second Division, the third-tier of Portuguese football due to the same problems, alongside Vizela, who had finished 10th last season but were relegated due to the Apito Dourado scandal.


2009–10 Liga de Honra, Teams
Due to those relegations, Boavista and Gondomar, the 15th and 16th teams, respectively, should have remained in the Liga de Honra but both were still relegated due to economic difficulties for Boavista and involvement in the Apito Dourado case for Gondomar. To make up for the loss of four teams (instead of the regular two), Penafiel and Carregado, losers of the previous year's Second Division promotion play-offs, were invited to the Liga de Honra.


2009–10 Liga de Honra, Top goalscorers
Updated to games played on 2 May 2010Source:  (in Portuguese)


2009–10 Liga de Nuevos Talentos season
The 2009–10 Liga de Nuevos Talentos season was split in two tournaments Apertura and Bicentenario. Liga de Nuevos Talentos was the fourth–tier football league of Mexico. The season was played between 13 August 2010 and 22 May 2010.


2009–10 Liga de Nuevos Talentos season, Relegation Table
Last updated: 24 April 2010 Source: P = Position; G = Games played; Pts = Points; Pts/G = Ratio of points to games played


2009–10 Liga de Nuevos Talentos season, Promotion Final
The Promotion Final is a series of matches played by the champions of the tournaments Apertura and Clausura, the game was played to determine the winning team of the promotion to Liga Premier de Ascenso. The first leg was played on 19 May 2010, and the second leg was played on 22 May 2010.


2009–10 Ligakupa
The 2009–10 Ligakupa was the third edition of the Hungarian League Cup, the Ligakupa.


2009–10 Ligat Nashim
The 2009–10 Ligat Nashim was the 12th season of women's league football under the Israeli Football Association.


2009–10 Ligat Nashim
Two teams, ASA Tel Aviv University and Maccabi Kishronot Hadera topped the table with an equal number of points, and a play-off match was used to determine the champion, won 6–0 by ASA Tel Aviv University.


2009–10 Ligat Nashim
By winning, ASA Tel Aviv University qualified to 2010–11 UEFA Women's Champions League.


2009–10 Ligat Nashim
As the IFA decided to establish a second division for Ligat Nashim, the bottom four clubs were relegated at the end of the season.


2009–10 Ligue 1
The 2009–10 Ligue 1 season was the 72nd since its establishment. Bordeaux were the defending champions. The fixtures were announced on 5 June 2009, and play commenced on 8 August and ended on 15 May 2010. There were three promoted teams from Ligue 2, replacing the three teams that were relegated from Ligue 1 following the 2008–09 season. A total of 20 teams competed in the league with three clubs suffering relegation to the second division, Ligue 2. All clubs that secured Ligue 1 status for this season were subject to approval by the DNCG before becoming eligible to participate. In addition, German sportswear company Puma became the official provider of match balls for the season after agreeing to a long term partnership with the Ligue de Football Professionnel.


2009–10 Ligue 1
The season began on 8 August 2009 under a new format with 16 clubs beginning play simultaneously followed by 4 clubs competing the following day. Under the new format, the showcase match of the opening week will contest the winners of the league the previous season and the winners of the second division the previous season. In the match this year, defending champions Bordeaux defeating second division champions Lens 4–1 at the Stade Chaban-Delmas.


2009–10 Ligue 1
On 5 May 2010, Marseille defeated Rennes 3–1 to claim their 9th Ligue 1 title and their first since the 1991–92 season. Because of their Coupe de la Ligue title, Marseille claimed the league and league cup double. It is the second straight season a club has won the league and league cup double with Bordeaux achieving it last season.


2009–10 Ligue 1, Awards, Yearly awards
The nominees for the Player of the Year, Goalkeeper of the Year, Young Player of the Year, Manager of the Year and Goal of the Year in Ligue 1. The winner was determine at the annual UNFP Awards, which was held on 9 May. The winners are displayed in bold.


2009–10 Ligue 2
The Ligue 2 2009–10 season was the sixty-ninth edition since its establishment. The fixtures were announced on 5 June 2009, and the league began on 7 August and ended on 14 May 2010.


2009–10 Ligue 2
German sportswear company Puma became the official provider of match balls for the season after agreeing to a long term partnership with the Ligue de Football Professionnel.


2009–10 Ligue 2, DNCG Ruling on Arles-Avignon
All clubs that secured status for Ligue 2 play this season had to be approve by the DNCG before becoming eligible to participate.


2009–10 Ligue 2, DNCG Ruling on Arles-Avignon
On 23 June, the DNCG ruled that AC Arles-Avignon would not be allowed to play in Ligue 2 following their promotion from the Championnat National, due to irregularities in the club's financial accounts and management. On 3 July, following an appeal, the DNCG reversed its decision reinstating Arles' Ligue 2 status.


2009–10 Ligue 2, Awards
The nominees for the Player of the Year, Goalkeeper of the Year, and Manager of the Year in Ligue 2. The winner was determined at the annual UNFP Awards, which was held on 9 May. The winners are displayed in bold.


2009–10 Ligue Inter-Régions de football, League tables
A total of 47 teams contest the division, which is divided into three tables west, center and east, including 41 sides remaining in the division from last season, three relegated from the Algerian Championnat National 2, and three promoted from the Regional League I (4th Division).


2009–10 Ligue Magnus season
The 2009–10 Ligue Magnus season was the 89th regular season of the ice hockey elite league in France and the sixth season of the Ligue Magnus.


2009–10 Lincoln City F.C. season
The 2009–10 season saw Lincoln City compete in Football League Two where they finished in 20th position with 50 points.


2009–10 Lithuanian Football Cup
The 2009–10 Lithuanian Football Cup is the 21st season of the Lithuanian annual football knock-out tournament. The competition started around 28 May 2009 with the matches of the First Round and will end in May 2010 with the Final. FK Sūduva are the defending champions.


2009–10 Lithuanian Football Cup
The winner of this competition earned a place in the second qualifying round of the 2010–11 UEFA Europa League.


2009–10 Lithuanian Football Cup, First round
In this round entered 35 teams from the Lithuanian third, fourth and fifth divisions. The matches were played around 28 May 2009.


2009–10 Lithuanian Football Cup, Second round
This round featured eighteen winners from the first round. The matches were played around 25 June 2009.


2009–10 Lithuanian Football Cup, Third round
Seven teams from the 2009 I Lyga, Lithuania's second division, entered the competition in this round and joined the nine winners from the second round. The matches were played between 27 July and 9 August 2009.


2009–10 Lithuanian Football Cup, Fourth round
This round featured eight winners from the third round. The matches were played on 18 August 2009.


2009–10 Lithuanian Football Cup, Fifth round
Four teams ranked fifth through eighth from the 2009 A Lyga entered the competition in this round and joined the four winners from the fourth round. The matches were played on 21 October 2009.


2009–10 Lithuanian Football Cup, Quarterfinals
Four teams ranked first through fourth from the 2009 A Lyga entered the competition in this round and joined the four winners from the fifth round. The matches were played on 7 and 8 November 2009.


2009–10 Lithuanian Football Cup, Semifinals
The first legs were played on March 31, 2010. The second legs were played on April 14, 2010. Second semifinal game in Marijampolė between FK Vėtra and FK Sūduva ended in some controversy. While full-time ended in a draw, during added time each team scored a goal. After the final whistle FK Vėtras players left the field thinking that the game ended in their victory on the away goal rule. But since in LFF Cup the away goal rule does not apply for goals scored during the added time, FK Vėtra premature celebrations were stopped by the referee and players had to return to the field for a penalty shootout which was won by FK Vėtra nonetheless.


2009–10 Lithuanian Football Cup, Final
The final is to be held at the S. Darius and S. Girėnas Stadium in Kaunas.


2009–10 Lithuanian Hockey League season
The 2009–10 Lithuanian Hockey League season was the 19th season of the Lithuanian Hockey League, the top level of ice hockey in Lithuania. Four teams participated in the league, and Sporto Centras Elektrenai won the championship.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season
The 2009–10 Premier League was Liverpool's 118th season since their foundation, and their 48th consecutive year in the top flight. They were sponsored for an eighteenth season by Carlsberg, but this association would end at the end of the year. Rafael Benítez was the club's manager, this being his sixth season in charge. His association with the club would also end at the end of the year, however.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season
Having finished second in the previous league campaign, Liverpool qualified automatically for the 2009–10 UEFA Champions League group stage for the first time since the 2002–03 season. This season Liverpool made major moves in the transfer market, selling important players such as Xabi Alonso and Sami Hyypiä, while signing Alberto Aquilani from Roma and Glen Johnson from Portsmouth.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season
After a season of poor results and inconsistent play, as well as injuries to main striker Fernando Torres, Liverpool finished 7th in the Premier League, their lowest finish in 11 years, and failed to progress beyond round 4 of either domestic cup. They were eliminated from the League Cup at the hands of Arsenal in the Fourth Round in a 2–1 defeat at the Emirates Stadium on 26 October. They were then knocked out of the FA Cup on 13 January. After a 1–1 draw with Championship team Reading at the Madejski Stadium in the Third Round, Liverpool lost the replay at Anfield 2–1 after extra time.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season
In addition to a poor domestic campaign, Liverpool failed to qualify for the knockout stage of the UEFA Champions League, finishing third in their group and entering the UEFA Europa League Round of 32; Liverpool were knocked out in the semi-finals by eventual winners Atlético Madrid. They lost the first leg at the Vicente Calderón Stadium 1–0, and despite forcing extra time in the second leg, and then going on to win 2–1, they were eliminated on the away goals rule.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season
A week after the end of the Premier League season, Liverpool announced they had terminated Rafael Benítez's contract by mutual consent.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Pre-season
Liverpool confirmed that long-serving centre-back Sami Hyypiä would be leaving the club after 10 years to join German club Bayer Leverkusen. Liverpool also confirmed that José Segura, the ex-Olympiacos manager, would be joining the club as Academy technical manager, starting on 1 June.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Pre-season
Liverpool announced their pre-season programme on 6 May 2009, including a tour of Asia and a friendly against Espanyol, as part of a clause of the deal that brought Albert Riera to the club. Liverpool started their pre-season campaign against St. Gallen in Switzerland on 15 July, which ended 0–0, a game in which Rafael Benítez gave playing time to most of his players. Glen Johnson made his debut for Liverpool and earned himself the Fans Man of the Match award from Liverpool F.C. TV.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Pre-season
They played their second encounter with Rapid Wien at the Ernst Happel Stadium on 19 July, which Liverpool lost 1–0 from a goal from midfielder Steffen Hofmann. The Asian tour began with a match against Thailand on 22 July, which ended 1–1, with Liverpool's early goal coming from Ryan Babel and the Thai's from substitute Sutee Suksomkit. This was followed by a trip to Kallang to play Singapore, a game which Liverpool won 5–0 with goals from Andriy Voronin, Albert Riera, two by Krisztián Németh and Fernando Torres.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Pre-season
They then played Espanyol on 2 August, where they suffered a heavy 3–0 defeat thanks to two goals from Ben Sahar and one from Luis García. They then enjoyed their first win of the campaign, against Lyn Oslo on 5 August, winning won 2–0 with goals from Voronin and David N'Gog. They ended the pre-season with a 1–2 loss against Atlético Madrid on 8 August at Anfield. Goals from Sergio Agüero and Diego Forlán put the Spaniards 0–2 up until Lucas pulled one back late on for the Reds.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Team kit
The team kit for the 2009–10 season was produced by Adidas. The home kit remained the same as the previous season. The away kit was black with gold trim. The third kit changed in August 2009 to a new white kit. It was announced that longtime sponsor Carlsberg would be leaving the club after 18 years to be replaced by British bank Standard Chartered, who commenced a four-year £80 million deal with the club in May 2010.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Reserve squad
Updated 23 March 2010 Squad Numbers refer to players' first team squad number (for season 2009–10), where applicable. Reserve and youth games are 1–11. See Liverpool F.C. Reserves and Academy


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Reserve squad
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, August
The fixtures for the 2009–10 Premier League season were announced on 17 June, with Liverpool being handed an away fixture to Tottenham Hotspur. Spurs took the lead a minute before half time when left back Benoît Assou-Ekotto scored from 30 yards, after Tom Huddlestone's free kick had been blocked. Liverpool showed more urgency after half time, and were awarded a penalty on 55 minutes when Glen Johnson's run was ended by keeper Heurelho Gomes' challenge. Steven Gerrard converted the penalty to equalise for Liverpool.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, August
However, Tottenham regained the lead on 64 minutes when Cameroonian centre-half Sébastien Bassong headed home a Luka Modrić free kick. Liverpool seemed unable to respond, and fashioned few chances. They had a penalty appeal turned down on 84 minutes when Andriy Voronin seemed to be tripped by Assou-Ekotto in the box, but Spurs hung on for a 2–1 win. Liverpool manager Rafael Benítez later criticised referee Phil Dowd for his failure to award Liverpool a penalty, and was later charged with improper conduct by the FA.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, August
Liverpool's first home match was against Stoke City four days later. Liverpool took the lead after five minutes when Fernando Torres swept home Steven Gerrard's cross. The lead was doubled moments before half time when Glen Johnson acrobatically finished after Dirk Kuyt's header had been blocked off the line. Good work from Gerrard on the right saw Kuyt make it 3–0 five minutes from time, before Frenchman David N'Gog headed a fourth in stoppage time.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, August
Liverpool suffered their first home league defeat since a 0–1 loss to Manchester United on 16 December 2007 against Aston Villa the following Monday. The away side took the lead when Lucas inadvertently headed into his own net from an Ashley Young cross on 33 minutes. Villa doubled their lead in first half injury time when Curtis Davies headed home from a corner. Liverpool did manage to pull one back through Fernando Torres, but Gerrard's poorly timed tackle on Nigel Reo-Coker led to a penalty, which Ashley Young converted to consign Liverpool to a 3–1 defeat. Manager Rafael Benítez criticised his senior players for the defeat and demanded a better performance for the next match, away at Bolton Wanderers.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, August
At the Reebok Stadium, Liverpool had to twice come back from behind against Bolton. They took the lead on 33 minutes when poor marking from a corner saw Kevin Davies bundle the ball home from close range. Glen Johnson equalised four minutes before the break when a Liverpool corner was not properly cleared, and he stroked home left-footed from twenty yards. Bolton regained the lead two minutes after the break when Davies headed down Jussi Jääskeläinen's long punt for Tamir Cohen to smash home.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, August
The turning point of the game was Sean Davis' sending off on 53 minutes for a second bookable offence. Liverpool equalised just a few minutes later when Fernando Torres finished tidily following good work from Dirk Kuyt. Liverpool continued to press and finally got the winner on 83 minutes, when Torres' knockdown from a Glen Johnson was met by a shot from Gerrard, who had earlier hit the bar. Gerrard later felt he "owed" the performance after poor performances in the defeats to 'Spurs and Villa.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, September
Liverpool's next match came after the international break, where they faced newly promoted Burnley at home. Despite comments made prior to the match by goalkeeper Pepe Reina that the league title was 'not a realistic ambition this season', Liverpool comfortably dispatched the East Lancashire club 4–0 to go up to fourth in the table, thanks to an inspired performance from Yossi Benayoun, who scored a hat-trick. Liverpool manager Rafael Benítez later praised Benayoun's work ethic, and stated that he was an 'example to the rest of the squad' Michael Shields, attended this match as a special guest, his first since Istanbul, just three days after being released from prison.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, September
Liverpool travelled to the Boleyn Ground the following week, a ground that they won 3–0 at the previous season. They looked to be heading for a similar result when Fernando Torres' goal put the visitors 1–0 up after thirteen minutes. However, Jamie Carragher brought young striker Zavon Hines down on the half-hour, and Alessandro Diamanti converted the spot kick, which he appeared to touch twice. However, Dirk Kuyt put Liverpool back in front four minutes before the break, when he got a slight touch on a Steven Gerrard header.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, September
West Ham then equalised on half time through Carlton Cole after poor defending from a corner kick. The second half was approached slightly more cautiously by the home side, and substitute Ryan Babel made the desired impact when his ball was headed home by Torres. Liverpool held on for the remaining 15 minutes for their second consecutive 3–2 away win. Benítez praised Torres for his role in the win; Torres had stated earlier that week that he felt he was not playing to standard.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, September
The club's last Premier League match of the month came at home on 26 September, against Hull City. Liverpool took the lead after Fernando Torres slotted past Boaz Myhill. Hull then equalised four minutes later, when defensive frailties were pounced upon by Geovanni. Liverpool retook the lead when Torres rounded Myhill, and the Spaniard completed his hat-trick with a solo effort on 47 minutes. Steven Gerrard made the game safe when his cross accidentally sailed in on the hour. Substitute Ryan Babel then came off the bench to tap in a fifth and he inadvertently deflected Albert Riera's shot in injury time to make it 6–1.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, October
Liverpool lost their first big four game 2–0 to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The match was level until Nicolas Anelka guided the ball over Pepe Reina on the hour mark. With Liverpool pouring forward in search of an equaliser, Liverpool were left stretched at the back. With Chelsea attempting to kill time in the corner, Didier Drogba outmuscled Emiliano Insúa and squared back for Florent Malouda to double Chelsea's lead in added time.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, October
Then, Liverpool lost their next match to Sunderland, falling out 1–0. The solitary, controversial goal was scored by Darren Bent. Andy Reid picked out Bent in the box and he directed it straight to Reina. However, a beach ball, thrown onto the field by a spectator deflected the ball into the net. Liverpool were not able to react to the shock goal, and Sunderland held on for the win.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, October
On 25 October, Liverpool prepared to face off with Manchester United. Manager Rafa Benítez was under pressure following four straight defeats, but he was calm as he spoke to the press. Fábio Aurélio had a chance when his header was saved by Edwin van der Sar. Liverpool sustained their pressure throughout the second half. They finally took the lead on 65 minutes when Fernando Torres outmuscled Rio Ferdinand and fired his shot into the top corner of the net. United finally reacted after the goal, but were not able to fashion any clear cut chances.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, October
Antonio Valencia hit the crossbar, but that was the closest the visitors came to an equaliser. Their plight was not helped by Nemanja Vidić's sending off for a second bookable offence on 90 minutes. Javier Mascherano was also sent off for two bookings on 95 minutes, when he tackled van der Sar. David N'Gog finally secured the three points for Liverpool when he broke away and slotted past van der Sar to secure victory, Liverpool's third consecutive victory over their rivals.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, October
Liverpool's final match of the month came away to Fulham. Liverpool fell behind after 24 minutes when Bobby Zamora tapped home. Liverpool equalised three minutes before half time, when Fernando Torres finished from 20 yards. After the break, Fulham started to put Liverpool under pressure, and when Torres was taken off on the hour, they lost their main attacking threat. Fulham retook the lead on 73 minutes, when another breakaway resulted in Erik Nevland finishing off a Paul Konchesky cross.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, October
Liverpool were left chasing the game at this point, and they lost two men in three minutes; Philipp Degen was sent off for a tackle on Zamora, and Jamie Carragher was later sent off for a professional foul. This was Liverpool's fifth defeat in 11 matches, and it left them 9 points behind Chelsea at the top.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, November
Liverpool's first match of the month was home to Birmingham City. Liverpool took the lead on 13 minutes, when David N'Gog finished off after several saves from Joe Hart. Birmingham fought back, however, and equalised on 26 minutes, when a harmless free kick resulted in Christian Benítez heading home. Birmingham took the lead in the third minute of first half stoppage time, when Cameron Jerome netted from 35 yards. Liverpool brought on Steven Gerrard at the break, and he converted Liverpool's equaliser on 71 minutes, from the penalty spot, after N'Gog had adjudged to be fouled by Lee Carsley. TV replays showed that N'Gog had dived. Liverpool could not find the winner, but this would have been harsh on Birmingham, who had defended well throughout.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, November
Liverpool's next match after the international break was another home game, this time to Manchester City. Liverpool took the lead five minutes into the second half when Martin Škrtel got the vital touch from a Gerrard free kick. City got back into the game on 69 minutes; poor marking from Craig Bellamy's corner left Emmanuel Adebayor with a free header from six yards. City then silenced Anfield when they took the lead on 76 minutes; Shaun Wright-Phillips turned Sotirios Kyrgiakos and crossed for Stephen Ireland to finish from close range. However, City could not hold on to their lead, and Yossi Benayoun was left to tap home just 72 seconds after Ireland's goal.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, November
Liverpool headed into the Merseyside derby having exited the Champions League, and with just one win in 10. Everton were also in poor form, though they started the brighter of the two teams. Liverpool were content to soak up the pressure, and took the lead on 12 minutes, when Javier Mascherano's 30-yard shot was deflected in by Joseph Yobo. Everton's Jo had two goals ruled out for offside, and though Everton had the possession, they could not convert this into goals.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, November
Everton were left chasing the game late into the second half, and Yobo's defensive error allowed Gerrard to tee up Albert Riera, whose powerful shot Tim Howard could not hold, allowing Dirk Kuyt to tap in with ten minutes remaining. Liverpool had further chances to add to their goal tally, but 2–0 flattered Liverpool, who had taken their chances, and defended well.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, December
On a high after the derby win, The Reds travelled to Ewood Park as they faced Blackburn Rovers in what was Steven Gerrard's 500th game for Liverpool. Rovers manager Sam Allardyce has a good record against Liverpool, and he managed to contain the Reds in a goalless draw. Chances were few and far between, with the best chance falling to the young Frenchman David N'Gog late on; his scuffed shot hit the bar.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, December
Liverpool's next game was at home to Arsenal. The home side started well, dominating Arsenal in the early stages. Their pressure paid off four minutes before the break when Dirk Kuyt tapped home from close range. Cesc Fàbregas later revealed that manager Arsène Wenger had given his players the hairdryer treatment at half time, making it clear in no uncertain terms that they had played awfully in the first period. Arsenal returned invigoured after the second half, and put Liverpool under a period of intense pressure in the opening exchanges of the second half.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, December
Arsenal equalised when Samir Nasri's cross was inadvertently deflected into his own net by Glen Johnson. Buoyed by the goal, Arsenal pushed on and took the lead five minutes later through a goal from Andrey Arshavin which gave Reina no chance at his near post. Arsenal held on for their first win at Anfield since October 2003.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, December
Liverpool managed to regain the winning touch with a 2–1 win over Wigan Athletic at Anfield three days later. The away side gave a good account of themselves, and aside from David N'Gog's early goal, matched Liverpool for spells. Liverpool wrapped up the win 11 minutes from time with Fernando Torres' 11th goal of the season. Wigan got a late consolation through Charles N'Zogbia, which was more than deserved.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, December
Liverpool travelled to Fratton Park to face bottom of the table Portsmouth in what was seen as an easy game. Liverpool manager Rafa Benítez had made an eyebrow-raising team selection upon his team's visit the previous season, and he also raised questions about his selection as he picked out-of-favour Andrea Dossena on the left. Daniel Agger's close-range header was the visitors' best chance of the half, but it was Portsmouth who took the lead six minutes from the end, Algerian Nadir Belhadj rifling in a shot from what seemed an impossible angle.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, December
Javier Mascherano was sent off in first-half injury time after a two-footed lunge on Tal Ben Haim. The away side pressured for an equaliser in the second half, with Asmir Begović pulling off a stupendous save from Steven Gerrard's heavily deflected shot. The home side sealed the win with seven minutes to go when Frédéric Piquionne volleyed home from 10 yards by sealing Portsmouth's first victory over Liverpool since April 2007. Many fans called for Benítez's exit after the game, despite his 'guarantee' of a fourth-place finish.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, December
The boxing day fixture saw Liverpool host Wolves. An even first half saw Kevin Doyle miss the away side's best chance as he headed over from six yards, but Stephen Ward's controversial red card early in the second half proved a turning point. Steven Gerrard powered in a header just after the hour, and Yossi Benayoun added a second deflected shot eight minutes later.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, December
Liverpool's last match of the decade was a crunch match for 4th place with Aston Villa at Villa Park. The game turned out to be rather poor, with both teams cancelling each other out. Villa missed good chances through Gabriel Agbonlahor and John Carew, but with the game heading for a draw, Fernando Torres slotted past Brad Friedel in the third minute of stoppage time to give Liverpool a vital three points.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, January
Liverpool's first Premier League match of the calendar year pitted them against Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium, just days after they had been knocked out of the FA Cup by Championship side Reading at Anfield. The away side were weakened by injuries, but still put in a creditable performance. Lucas appeared to be tripped by Danny Higginbotham in the penalty area on 26 minutes, but referee Lee Mason booked the Brazilian for diving. Stoke were content to sit back and let Liverpool have possession, and the away side lacked a cutting edge that would have killed the game.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, January
They did take the lead on 57 minutes, with Greek defender Sotirios Kyrgiakos knocking in after Thomas Sørensen had dropped Fábio Aurélio's free kick. Stoke put Liverpool under heavy pressure in the last quarter of an hour, and made the breakthrough when Robert Huth scrambled home. Dirk Kuyt missed a golden opportunity to win the game in the sixth minute of injury time, but his header hit the post.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, January
Liverpool faced another important showdown with Tottenham at Anfield. Spurs manager Harry Redknapp felt that his side could get a result at Anfield, with Liverpool missing key players and in poor form. Liverpool, however, started strongly, taking the lead in the sixth minute through Dirk Kuyt's 6th-minute strike. Tottenham were off-par, and despite the ruling out of Jermain Defoe's goal, failed to test Reina. The home side earned a penalty in injury-time when substitutes Maxi Rodríguez and David N'Gog combined, with the latter being tripped in the box. Kuyt was made to re-take his penalty, but still sent Heurelho Gomes the wrong way to secure Liverpool's third win in four.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, January
Despite their impressive form, Liverpool were disappointing once more, as they failed to break down Wolves at Molineux. Albert Riera's early effort was comfortably saved by Marcus Hahnemann, but the away side failed to create any clear-cut chances, and the best opportunities in a drab game fell to Wolves' Kevin Doyle, whose goalbound shot was cleared by Emiliano Insúa.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, January
Liverpool's next game was at home to Bolton. They failed to impress, but still managed to grind out a 2–0 win, with Dirk Kuyt grabbing his third goal in as many games as he toe-poked in from close range. Emiliano Insúa's long-range strike was deflected into his own net by Kevin Davies for the second. David N'Gog should have added a late third, but missed a sitter, hitting the crossbar from five yards out with the goal gaping. Rafael Benítez praised The Reds' defence, as they kept a third consecutive clean sheet, and a fifth in the last six games.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, February
Liverpool prepared to renew rivalries with Everton on 6 February at Anfield. The Toffees were in scintillating form, earning impressive draws at The Emirates and at Stamford Bridge in their nine-game unbeaten run. The game turned out to be more of a physical battle than a football match, with Jamie Carragher's tackle on Steven Pienaar within the first 10 seconds setting the precedent. Sotirios Kyrgiakos was sent off on 34 minutes for a lunge on Marouane Fellaini, but the away side failed to capitalise on his absence, particularly in the air.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, February
The best chance of the half fell to Everton's Tim Cahill, but his close range header went just over. Liverpool took the lead 10 minutes into the second half, Dirk Kuyt heading in from close range from Steven Gerrard's corner. The home side then had to defend as Everton pinned them back for periods. Liverpool threatened on the break, but could not find a second. Everton disappointed, and despite the introduction of Yakubu and Victor Anichebe, could not create a clear opening. Liverpool held on to complete a second double over Everton in three seasons.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, February
Liverpool's second game of February was away to title contenders Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. Liverpool lost the game 1–0 thanks to Abou Diaby's header. Liverpool's penultimate game of February was away to also top 4 challengers Manchester City at Eastlands. The game finished 0–0. Liverpool players Fernando Torres & Yossi Benayoun both made cameo appearances on their return from injuries, but neither could swing the game in Liverpool's fortunes.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, February
Liverpool's third and final game of February was against to Blackburn Rovers at Anfield. Liverpool had captain Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres on the same scoresheet for only the third time in the Barclays Premier League this season. Steven Gerrard scored after 20 minutes and Fernando Torres netted 2 minutes before half time after Rovers had equalised from the penalty spot after Jamie Carragher's foul in the box.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, March
Liverpool opened March with a 1–0 loss to Wigan Athletic at the DW Stadium. Dirk Kuyt gifted the goal to Wigan, attempting to pass it back to Pepe Reina, but Hugo Rodallega skipped past Javier Mascherano and chipped the ball over the oncoming Reina to ultimately win the game for the Latics ten minutes before half-time. Glen Johnson came on as a substitute for Liverpool on his return from injury. Liverpool's second game of March was at home to near relegated Portsmouth.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, March
Portsmouth were in the hunt to do the 'double' over Liverpool after their morale-boosting 2–0 victory back in December. Fernando Torres opened the scoring for Liverpool with his 14th goal of the season after 28 minutes. Ryan Babel doubled Liverpool's advantage on the half-hour mark. Italian Alberto Aquilani scored his first goal in English football to make it 3–0 on 32 minutes. Fernando Torres scored his second of the night and Liverpool's fourth on 77 minutes. Portsmouth grabbed a sole consolation in the last minute thanks to Nadir Belhadj, but Liverpool ran out comfortable winners.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, March
Liverpool's third game of March saw them renew rivalries with old foes Manchester United at Old Trafford. Liverpool took the lead after just five minutes after Dirk Kuyt released captain Steven Gerrard, who fed in Fernando Torres. Torres shot with excellent power which left United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar with no chance. Controversy flared when Liverpool's Argentinian midfielder Javier Mascherano appeared to have fouled Antonio Valencia in the penalty box. TV replays clearly showed that the foul was outside of the box. Wayne Rooney took the penalty and scored the rebound after Pepe Reina's save.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, March
United continued to pour forward in numbers, and finally got the goal their play deserved, when veteran winger Ryan Giggs crossed. The ball missed everyone apart from Ji Sung Park, who scored despite the close attention from the Liverpool right back Glen Johnson. The 2–1 win for United was Sir Alex Ferguson's 100th home Barclays Premier League win.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, March
Liverpool wrapped up March with an impressive 3–0 win over Sunderland at Anfield. Liverpool took the lead with only 6 minutes on the clock. Great work from in-form Spaniard Fernando Torres on the left resulted in him cutting inside two defenders before a high, curling shot flew into the top right-hand corner. Liverpool cruised into a 2–0 lead when a corner broke loose to right back Glen Johnson, who skipped past a Sunderland defender before unleashing a left-foot strike that took a deflection.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, March
Sunderland rarely exerted any pressure to force Liverpool into defensive play in the second half, which meant Liverpool could counter-attack without worrying about numbers at the back. During one of these counterattacks, Liverpool scored their third and final goal, with Johnson fooling everyone by releasing the ball through to Fernando Torres. Torres scored into an empty net to give Liverpool three goals and three points.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, April
Liverpool started off their top 4 battle run in with a 1–1 draw against Birmingham City at St Andrews. Liverpool took the lead just two minutes into the second half, when a corner on the left side on the edge of the 18-yard box fell short to Steven Gerrard, who curled an effort past City goalkeeper Joe Hart. Birmingham equalised near the end of the game to deal Liverpool's top four ambitions another blow. Liverpool's second game of April was a drab home game against Europea League-contending Fulham at Anfield.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, April
Liverpool were without striker Fernando Torres for this game because he was in Spain seeing a specialist about his recent knee injury. Mark Schwarzer was Fulham's hero, shutting out Liverpool all day long with a string of superb saves to keep Fulham's Europa League dream alive. Liverpool were now three points off the top four, having played a game more than Tottenham and Manchester City. Liverpool's third game of April was a Monday night fixture to relegation threatened West Ham United at Anfield.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, Premier League, April
Liverpool took three points from this game, but needed to beat Chelsea to keep their hope of a Champions League place alive. Steven Gerrard's back-pass allowed Chelsea to score, and after that, Chelsea pressed home their advantage. The loss for Liverpool meant they failed to qualify for the Champions League. Liverpool ended their campaign with a 0–0 draw at the KC Stadium against Hull City, in which youngster Jack Robinson made his debut for the reds.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, UEFA Champions League
The draw for the group stage of the UEFA Champions League was made on 27 August 2009 in Monaco. As Liverpool were seeded in Pot 1, this meant that they could not be drawn with teams from the same pot, such as Barcelona, Milan or Bayern Munich. However, they faced the possibility of being drawn in the same group as Real Madrid, Internazionale or Juventus. Liverpool were drawn into Group E with 7-times Ligue 1 champions Lyon, Hungarian champions and Champions League debutants Debrecen and Italian side Fiorentina. Their first match was at home to Debrecen, on 16 September.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, UEFA Champions League
Liverpool's managing director Christian Purslow said that the club was "pretty happy" with the draw.


2009–10 Liverpool F.C. season, Match results, UEFA Champions League
Liverpool's first game was at Anfield, where they faced Debreceni. The Hungarian champions had chances to score in the first half. However, in the last minute of the first half, Fernando Torres' shot was parried by Vukašin Poleksić; however, Dirk Kuyt was on hand to score the opener. In the second half, Liverpool only briefly threatened to score, while the visitors never really had a sustained period of pressure. Rafa Benítez was frustrated by his team's failure to take the many chances they created throughout the match, and was relieved just to get the three points.