The World Cup is finally Spain's thanks to some late theatrics.

-Congrats to Spain on winning their first ever World Cup, edging Netherlands 1-0 in extra time. The hero was Andres Iniesta, who took a pass from Cesc Fabregas and blasted it past Maarten Stekelenburg with only a few minutes to spare- touching off a celebration. Iniesta slid to the ground and was mobbed by teammates. They’d hold off the Dutch for the remainder which included three extra minutes.

Unfortunately for Arjen Robben, he only got a couple of chances as Spain keyed on him in a hotly contested, physical match that featured plenty of fouls, yellow cards and even a red to John Heitinga in the second extra period which didn’t help Holland.

The Spanish were the aggressor controlling possession. Still, they found themselves deadlocked against a feisty opponent who did whatever they could to keep it scoreless. Quite a few hard fouls that prevented glorious chances, leading to kicks including one try that sailed high and wide. Spain also had another great opportunity but a sliding Stekelenburg stoned Fabregas point blank in extras. Robben came back the other way for a great chance but was blocked. There also was a close call where he would’ve been in all alone but was correctly whistled offside.

Iniesta’s winner came after the refs accidentally incorrectly ruled that Wesley Sneijder’s wide attempt went out of bounds without it touching anyone. However, replays showed that it deflected off a Spain player and out which would’ve meant a corner for Netherlands. Instead, Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas quickly made a good goal kick that led directly to the World Cup decider. With the Dutch caught, Spain completed a three-on-two with Fabregas passing across for Iniesta who didn’t disappoint, kicking it inside the right post for 1-0 in the 115th minute.

The right team won. Even if they screwed up. At least such a competitive championship game didn’t go to kicks. Congrats again to Spain on winning their first World Cup in the tournament’s 80-year history. Thanks again to Univision for outstanding coverage that dwarfs our country. And with Espana winning, the Spanish announcers went bonkers. What a great day for them. And of course, a memorable month that also saw tennis’ best player Rafael Nadal win his second Wimbledon last week. Not bad.

-I’m not gonna say much right now about it. Only that LeBron is LeFraud. Think it pretty much speaks for itself. ESPN is an embarrassment.

-That out of the way, I’m actually excited about the Knicks. Yeah. They overpaid A’mare Stoudemire in years and dough-5 for $100 million. But the former Sun wanted to be here and reunites with Mike D’Antoni while filling a need in the paint. Sure. The contract is risky for an injury prone big who’s battled knee and eye problems. But he’ll fit in nicely, running the floor, finishing with authority and providing an interior presence. 

Along with the sign and trade of David Lee to Golden State for a package that included Anthony Randolph, the Knicks are going in a different direction. With Ray Felton about to sign and sophomore Tony Douglas backing up, the orange and blue finally seem to have a plan. Don’t forget emerging star Danillo Galinari and athletic deluxe Wilson Chandler. This is a young nucleus who should made basketball at the Garden fun again. That’s what we’ve been looking for.

-So, the Nets’ big plan was to court LeFraud, fail miserably and then sign Travis Outlaw and Jordan Farmar. No offense. But how’s that big ad Mikhail Prokhorov and Jay Z took out across from MSG working out?!?!?!?!

-If a larger than life egomaniac barely even discussed puppet Jim Gray’s question about playing in the Big Apple, then he didn’t ever consider it. I don’t know about you but I don’t want guys like that on my team.

-RIP Bob Sheppard. The Voice Of God will always be synonymous with Yankee Stadium. When you heard the legendary Yankee PA announcer introduce lineups, you felt a Godly presence in the Bronx that’s hard to describe. There was just a feeling at the ballpark. It’s like everything stopped. Bob Sheppard will always be the Yankees’ only voice. God bless.

-Can someone explain how there are so many Yankees on the AL roster? I root for them but it’s ridiculous that Derek Jeter is on the team. And hell. Even Nick Swisher over Kevin Youkilis is a bit much even if the likeable right fielder deserves it. It’s about time they ditched the All-Star Game.

-The Mets got a second straight huge outing from Johan Santana, who followed up a shutout with seven more scoreless in a 3-0 win to salvage the last game of a series versus first place Atlanta. Instead of falling six games out and slipping behind suddenly resurgent Philly, the Amazin’s sit second four back. They are in it because of All-Stars David Wright and Jose Reyes, who each have had big first halfs.

However, without the production from rookie first baseman Ike Davis along with unsung heroes Angel Pagan and R.A. Dickey, they’d be sunk. Full marks to Jerry Manuel for keeping his team in it after a rough start. These Mets are resilient and easy to admire. Fasten your seatbelts for a great second half pennant race.

-I admit I was glad when Cliff Lee went to Texas even if it seems awfully strange how it happened after it sounded like they agreed to a deal with the Yanks that featured Jesus Montero, David Adams and Zach McAllister. I covered the latter two and really feel McAllister could crack the Yankee rotation in 2012. Starting pitching ain’t the problem. Relief and another bat remain needs. Besides, why sacrifice prospects when the biggest payroll can just flash the wallet at Lee this November?

-Is Joba still better than Phil Hughes?!?!?!?!?!

-Robby Cano’s having a great year but the MVP is Miguel Cabrera’s to lose.

-Ilya Kovalchuk, can you please make up your mind before September?

Jose Reyes has finally returned to lead the Mets.

-Can the Mets keep it up? Their 5-1 homestand taking two of three from the Yanks and sweeping the Phils without allowing a run was a statement. Incredibly inspiring baseball from Jerry Manuel’s club led finally by the resurgent Jose Reyes, who is back to being himself in the leadoff spot. He tormented the Mets’ biggest rival by going 8-for-13 with three extra base hits including his first home run, five RBI’s, two stolen bases and five runs scored. That’s the Reyes that’s the team’s MVP. Jason Bay continued to produce following the two-homer game off C.C. Sabathia with three more RBI’s. Angel Pagan is the club’s most improved player, getting five hits and swiping three bases in the series.

As for the staff, what a job by every Met pitcher blanking arguably the best offense for all 27 innings. Miraculous stuff from Hisanori Takahashi, vet knuckler R.A. Dickey and potential All-Star Mike Pelfrey, who bested Cole Hamels yesterday by going seven strong for win No.7. The pen continues to get the job done. At 25-23 following a dreadful road trip, the Amazin’s are in third a half game behind Atlanta and two out. The NL East should be tight all year. Especially with the improved Nats hanging around along with the Marlins. If Carlos Beltran returns healthy, they could give the Mets a leg up on the wild card competition. The Phils couldn’t play any worse but are still the team to beat.

-Meanwhile, across town the Yanks get Curtis Granderson back in center batting second against the Indians in the Bronx tonight. An early two-run Nick Swisher homer has given Phil Hughes a lead. He’s already struckout five in looking to rebound from back-to-back disappointing efforts. The guys in Pinstripes haven’t played well lately. Even if they took two of three from favorite whipping boy Minnesota, Javier Vazquez again got lit up in a blowout loss yesterday. Joe Girardi’s guys really haven’t been the same since a hot start, leaving too many runners on and not getting consistent relief. Even Sabathia has struggled. With Boston finally red hot having swept a two-game set in Tampa, the defending champs need to get revved up. A Memorial Weekend series against lowly Cleveland could be just what the doctor ordered.

-Randy Winn has been so bad that he might want to consider changing his name to Randy Loss. At least it would better explain how Brian Cashman signed him. Not much better on Nick “DL” Johnson. Kevin Russo stays.

-Best move of the offseason is Rod Barajas, whose 10 homers pace the Amazin’s with his 27 RBI’s second to David Wright. Vet backup Henry Blanco has also been instrumental helping improve the pitching staff. Though we’re not sure anyone can aid Olli Perez and John Maine.

-Like most, I thought Big Papi was done. Good news if you own his rookie cards.

-Considering the continued trips to the DL for Jorge Posada, what if the Bronx Bombers didn’t have Francisco Cervelli as insurance? From the time I covered him out here on the ‘06 Penn-League champion Staten Island Baby Bombers, Cervelli’s been a winner. The guy always worked hard and did it with a smile. Nice to see him getting rewarded.

-All things considered, the Yanks actually miss Phil Coke. Wasn’t Ian Kennedy in that trade too? He’s not faring too badly out in The Desert.

-I voted for him because I thought he’d make a good President. Not because I wanted to know what Mr. Obama thought about LeBron going to Chicago. How about focusing on your job which just got a lot harder due to this BP oil spill in Louisiana.

-Didn’t catch it but kudos to Ron Artest on saving Kobe Bryant’s Lakers on what sounded like a very unpredictable conclusion breaking Sun hearts. The kid I saw when he starred for LaSalle Academy could always ball. It’s just a matter of staying focused on the court.

-Love to see the Suns force a seventh in Hollywood and somehow get it done just for my close buddy P. He deserves it.

-I don’t feel sorry for Coach Calhoun or UConn. Unfortunately, they probably won’t get severely punished or miss any postseason play. Nice job NCAA!

-When I wrote that column begging for change at St. John’s, they must’ve heard me. But you know, the way those guys played down the stretch for Norm Roberts, you could tell how much they enjoyed playing for him. Such a heartbreaking ending for a nice guy who at least brought back respect to the program. Now, we’ll see if Steve Lavin can take that next giant step forward with a senior core featuring D.J. Kennedy, Malik Boothe, Sean Evans, Paris Horne, Justin Burrell and Dwight Hardy.

-As an avid hockey fan who did a preview on our Battle Of New York blog, has the Stanley Cup begun yet? More proof that Gary Bettman’s still working for David Stern.

-Should be interesting to see what the Celtics come up with in what amounts to a must win versus the Magic. If they lose, just imagine how Boston will feel after witnessing the wrong kind of history made by their Bruins in that same building. They should’ve put it away already.

-And finally, a salute to The Richburg family who buried their son Thursday. Lyndzay was a wonderful human being who touched everyone he was around making us smile and laugh. We’ll forever miss him but his spirit shines down brightly in our hearts.

This time, Alvin Gentry’s squad got nice balance with six different players netting double digits with plenty coming from a productive bench that outscored the Lakers’ bench 54-20. Channing Frye finally found the range (four 3’s) and Leandro Barbosa added 14 with Jared Dudley and Goran Dragic (8 Pts, 8 A) delivering money performances. Louis Amundson also was effective going for seven points and seven boards as the Suns hammered LA on the glass 51-36.

In a game where Nash, Amare and J-Rich didn’t dominate while Kobe did what he could registering a game high 38 along with 10 assists and seven rebounds, it didn’t matter because Phoenix’ bench was the difference. Only Lamar Odom contributed for LA with a double double (15/10) and three dimes. Bryant didn’t get enough from Pau Gasol or Ron Artest. So, the series goes back to Hollywood all even with the pressure squarely on the defending champs. How will they respond to Bryant’s criticism regarding the lack of defense? See ya Thursday night at Staples.

-Meanwhile, in an hour-plus, D-Howard and the Magic go for two in a row when they host the Celts. Can they get a repeat performance from Jameer Nelson? Will the ghost of Vince Carter reappear? Boston can’t play much worse than the other night. Figure KG, Pierce and Rondo to be determined to get it done.

-The Mets look to carry momentum forward from an 8-0 drubbing of the suddenly slumping Phils, who’ve dropped three straight. The Amazin’s have reeled off three in a row and at .500 (23-23), are just four off the pace. This team is resilient and seems to enjoy playing for Jerry Manuel. If Jason Bay and Jose Reyes remain hot, they should be fine. Do the Phils have a response at Citi Field?

-As for the Yanks, they completed the postponed game with a 1-0 shutout over the Twins. Runs have come at a premium lately. They’ve been leaving too many runners on and paying dearly. Even a lineup as potent as the Bronx Bombers can’t survive a power outage. We’ll see if the domination of their favorite opponent continues.

Giant Meets Jet: Justin Tuck shakes Darrelle Revis' hand in Times Square after the first ever Super Bowl was delivered to New York/New Jersey in 2014.

-The chance of a Giants/Jets Super Bowl just got a lot more exciting. With today’s fourth vote giving the nod to New York/New Jersey for 2014 at the new Meadowlands Stadium which opens this summer, it energizes two passionate fanbases who can now dream the unthinkable. Imagine the first ever Super Bowl in classic cold weather as it should be played featuring both the locals who play their games there fighting for bragging rights. This is huge.

For years, not a word was uttered because it was about as possible as our chances with Jessica Alba. Now with a brand new spanking stadium, it’s reality. Imagine if the Giants and Jets really make this once in a lifetime marquee event. Picture all the press/superhype. It would be electric. Big Blue and Gang Green fans going at it over the airwaves and in the stands (hopefully not literally).

I never really cared one way or another if this actually happened but now that it’s official, how can one not be genuinely pumped? Even if neither team makes it which would royally suck, the Lombardi Trophy will be back where it belongs with its proud father looking on from upstairs smiling. Football was meant to be played in tough conditions. Not sunshine. The games I enjoy the most are the ones where heavy wind, rain or snow are involved because it truly tests our warriors. Football players are like gladiators battling for every inch, laying it all on the line. Now, we get the kind of rock ‘em sock ‘em pigskin Lombardi would appreciate. It’s about time!

-Do you think Brandon Jacobs cares to retract that statement if the two teams actually make the big game?

-A final thought on the whole New York SB Extravaganza. Let’s be real. The stadium is located in East Rutherford, New Jersey. So, it’s really the Garden State’s game. As a fellow New Yorker, even though the two clubs honor New York due to tradition which always leaves a bitter taste in Jersey friends’ mouths, they do play in New Jersey. Maybe it’s time to actually recognize that along with how nice the state is. Some of my best friends represent it quite well.

-Look. Superman finally arrived and ripped the Celtics for 32 points, 16 boards and four swats in the Magic’s well earned 96-92 overtime Game Four win at TD Garden avoiding the sweep. That’s great and all for the freak known as Dwight Howard, who could be confused for a superhero. He’s bigger and stronger than everybody. So, he should dominate. Especially in a league where the center is almost extinct. Somehow, when the big man who shares a birthday with me finally delivers, it’s overcelebrated. What ever happened to consistency? Somehow in this new Hyped Era Error, expectations dropped. Why???

-If ever there was a player whose name needed to be changed to Dog, we present the sad case of former NBA star Vince Carter. If he had any sorta drive, he could’ve been one of the greats. Instead, there’s a tireless worker like Reggie Miller calling him out on ESPN and justifiably so.

-Do you think Hedo Turkoglu would’ve bricked those two free throws in Game Two?!?!?!?!?!

-Who knew that KG still had this kind of fire in him? He looked done a couple of months ago. Maybe he was just playing possum the whole time.

-Is there a better pure shooter than Ray Allen? Even now, the former Uconn star is money in crunch time. You can’t give him any space.

-I’ll always say it until proven otherwise. With the game on the line, nobody is better than Kobe. LeBron, take notes. And that goes for the club that gets him.

-Really pleased to see the Suns rise up and send a message to LA that it won’t come easy. Can’t say enough about the kind of dominant performance Amare Stoudemire had. Those 42 and 11 were monstrous. Some great power moves and strong finishes too, resulting in three-point plays. Everyone of them emphatic. When his team needed a score, Amare delivered. Hopefully, he and the rest of the Suns can duplicate it as they look to even the series tonight.

-Figure Kobe to get more help from sidekicks Lamar Odom, Pau Gasol, Ron Artest and Derek Fisher. They weren’t good in crunch time.

-In the NHL playoffs which have been totally unpredictable, we get the Blackhawks and Flyers for Lord Stanley. Two Cup starved traditional markets that haven’t won in a while. For Chicago, it’s been almost five decades since Bobby Hull and the Blackhawks won it all in ‘61. Now, leading Conn Smythe candidate Jonathan Toews along with sidekick Patrick Kane plus money performer Dustin Byfuglien (Big Buff) take aim at bringing the best sports trophy back to the Windy City. When the puck drops for Game One at the United Center Saturday, that place will be on fire.

For the Flyers, it’s been a miraculous run starting with a shootout win over the Rangers on the last day of the season just to sneak into the playoffs. Since, all they’ve done is takeout the hated Devils, stun the Bruins in historic fashion from 3-0 down joining the Leafs, Islanders and most recently, the Red Sox. Then they took care of another destined team in Montreal, getting two Jeff Carter tallies to advance to their first Cup Final since 1997 when they were unceremoniously dumped out in four straight by the Red Wings. Can Mike Richards, playoff hero Simon Gagne, Chris Pronger and amazing story Michael Leighton bring the Cup back to Broad Street for the first time since they repeated in 1975?

Two great storylines for a league that’s heating up. NBC can’t possibly screw this up. Or can they?

-No matter what you think of it, the Subway Series matters. No. I’m not one of those who puts much stock in the six games the Mets and Yankees play. However, it’s impossible to ignore the turnout for it at Citi Field. With attendance way down in Year Two, they soldout the place. Plenty of walk ups who wanted to be part of the first three-game set between our two New York clubs.

Baseball is still No.1 here and probably always will be. With all the history dating back to the glory days of the Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Giants along with the Yankees (formerly New York Highlanders), NYC is rich in tradition and could support a third team if that ever happened. Just experiencing the turnout the local Staten Island Yankees get anytime the Cyclones pay a visit to the Ferry Terminal for Class A ball is enough to fully grasp what baseball means in this town.

So, even if the cool half dozen might not mean a whole lot in the grand scheme of things for the Yanks and Mets, it means plenty to the fans. No wonder I got so much flak from J Beck, Johnny Rockets and all the other Met supporters the other night.

The big bat of Ike Davis has changed the Mets season.

-The Met season didn’t truly begin until Ike Davis was recalled. Since, the Amazin’s have turned it around going 5-1 on a huge homestand, including an impressive sweep of the Braves which only featured the big first base slugger’s first home run. A moon shot that went 450 feet. Still amazing to think they played the first dozen without him, opting for Mike Jacobs and Fernando Tatis. Makes you question what the thinking was. Well, that and Jerry Manuel’s decision to bat Frank Catalanotto cleanup. But hey. At least they didn’t wait till May.

-Is Mike Pelfrey really this good or will he hit a rough patch? In Year 3, the true test won’t come till July-August. Still have to love what they’re getting from a guy who was a huge question mark entering the season.

-Jose Reyes third at least gives them a solid middle even with David Wright scuffling.

-Jonathon Niese has pitched well meaning maybe 1-2-3 are good but Oli Perez and John Maine remain sore spots.

-Amazing what happens when Robby Cano takes advice from Alex Rodriguez on hitting in key situations. He’s finally starting to look like the player we always envisioned. MVP year??? Ironic too because A-Rod’s struggles were well documented till last October. Well, at least the Yankee second baseman hasn’t followed Alex’s other oddities. Some things are better off not being explained.

-I was in favor of bringing Javier Vazquez back. Especially for Da Melk Man. But here he is in phase II emulating the nightmarish 2004 that ended with one swing of the bat from Johnny Damon. He’s pitched well everywhere else including the White Sox. So, the AL argument is weak. Yes, Javy serves ‘em up but maybe it’s a New York thing. Uh oh.

-Joba’s better in the pen while Phil Hughes is better in the rotation. Just what we thought all along.

-How come I think of the Curtis Granderson trade as not just for Austin Jackson and Phil Coke but also Damon? Nice to see Jackson off to a good start in Motown.

-If only the rest of Melo’s Nugget teammates had the same kind of determination he does. He did all he could before they woke up which turned out a little too late to get it even against the harder working Jazz coached by Jerry Sloan. Coincidence? We think not. Especially with Denver minus George Karl. Charles Barkley’s right. They need a good kick in the ass. Adrian Dantley was a great player but he’s way too passive. Just look at his press conferences. Still, what a disappointing series for the Nuggets. Can they save it? It says here they win Game Five big and won’t lose Game Seven. All comes down to Salt Lake. We’ll see what they’re made of.

-Anyone else surprised that the Mavs are down to the super experienced Spurs 3-1?!?!?!?!?! Quoting 2Pac, “Some things will never change.”

-Watching Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook’s Thunder is refreshing. It’s also what young legs are capable of against older ones. Especially the banged up Lakers. Figure Kobe to will them through.

-Gotta love D-Wade, whose team trailed 3-0 to the Celts. With it tight and it essentially over, all he did was set a franchise playoff mark with 46 points, including five from downtown and a couple of monster jams including a poster on KG, who looked like he was biting his lip after getting victimized. Considering what a cheap shot artist he is, it was perfect.

-Everyone talks about the Magic who derailed LeBron and the Cavs last year. But the Hawks also could make some noise. First, they have to get Game Four at Milwaukee and ice this series. We’ll see if they’re up to the challenge.

-The Garden is quiet with little going on in May. Great job Jazzy Jim! When the Knicks don’t get LeBron, Wade or Chris Bosh, what will they think?

-I’ve always been a big fan of Jameer Nelson and now he’s showing why. How do you think all those teams that passed on him feel these days?

-Gotta love Joakim Noah. The dude is a great interview. That stuff he said about Cleveland following Game Two was classic:

But also, the kid from the Bronx can also ball. He’s developed into the Bulls’ leader. Yep. They got that one right.

-I still say the Celts are too old and can be picked off in the second round.

-One chance to win or lose. Who do you want with the ball? Kobe, LeBron, Wade or the Spurs big three: Duncan-Parker-Ginobili?

Happy Monday

-As per usual, it’s past bedtime. I’ll def have to get up for the latest St. John’s debacle. They’re taking on UConn in Round One of the Big East Tournament at The Mecca. Too bad there’s no good ballin’ around these parts. Word of friendly advice: Follow HS. It’s better!

-Should I care that the Knicks held off the Hawks last night after nearly blowing a 10-point lead the final 2:53? For whatever odd reason, the orange and blue own Hotlanta, making it three wins on what’s otherwise evolved into a disappointing season. Nice to see Coach D’Antoni give rook Toney Douglas (11 Pts, 3 A in 23+) some PT for a change. Anyone who’s remotely followed them has to know how poorly No D’s run his bench. With a banged up T-Mac out, he did it out of necessity.

-I’m not pretending to be an NBA guru but Sergio Rodriguez’ ain’t the answer at PG. It’s been mixed results for the self-proclaimed Spanish Chocolate, whose speed and tempo are noticeable. However, there’s a reason he’s already on his fourth club as he has a tendency to hold onto the ball too much and over dribble, sometimes leading to turnovers. The 23 year-old can get into the lane and dish but isn’t strong enough to take the punishment. In extended minutes, his production hasn’t been much better than what he did with Sacramento. He’s better suited as a backup. It’s wiser for the Knicks to give Douglas more of a role and find a true No.1 either this summer or next.

-I know they don’t play any D but am still at a loss for words over Jazzy Jim’s ballers turning a 16-point first quarter lead into a 20-point blowout home loss to the lowly Nets. How is that possible? Makes one ponder if the players have already tuned out the second-year coach.

-Welcome to New York Antrel Rolle and Antonio Cromartie. Can’t say anything on Rolle but we know that Cromartie ‘gets around’ 2Pac style.

-I’ll never be an Oscars guy because I don’t see the point in celebrities having a gala to celebrate themselves. They’re already in fantasy land. However, big ups to Sandra Bullock and Jeff Bridges. In general, I just can’t get into awards. The last time it was relevant was when MTV stood for music.

-Even if Oliver Perez struggles, the Mets can take solace in what they’ve seen from Ike Davis and Fernando Martinez. Both have impressed with the young first base slugging prospect showing a potent bat and a quick glove. If he continues to play well, why not keep him up? He’s got much more upside than Daniel Murphy. What’s Fernando Tatis doing on the roster anyway?

-The Nick Johnson DL Watch is already on.

-I’ll say it. Zach McAllister has more upside than Joba. Not just cause we share a birthday. While Yankee brass tries to figure out if Joba or Phil Hughes are the No.5 starter, expect McAllister to fly under the radar.

-If they don’t get good news on Jose Reyes, will the Amazin’s still Believe In 2010?!?!?!?!?!

-Maybe Big Ben should try using his head more wisely.

-I hope Jim Sorgi isn’t the Giants’ backup plan with David Carr gone.

-Ninety-six teams in the tournament is lunacy. Why even play the regular season?

-We love ya Joannie Rochette.

-Who would’ve thought we’d miss Olympic curling?

Jets coach Rex Ryan and his team have plenty to smile about these days.

It’s been way too long since I updated here. So, I’m finallllllly back!

-Got to start off with the Jets, who are on an improbable run a win away from the Super Bowl. While it’s true they’ve had things break right just getting in due to the Colts not going for it (yada yada yada) and the team they conquered Cinci laying down, who cares?!?!?!?!?! Sometimes in sports, you need breaks. So, what if Nate Kaeding saw his shadow from four years prior morphing into the new Tinman. Does it take away from the fact Rex Ryan’s hungry Gang Green beat up the San Diego frauds on both sides of the ball in the second half to string the 17-14 upset? Hell No! As the fun coach echoed, they’re here. No need to apologize. Can they do the impossible and upset Peyton Manning and those same Colts who will be going full throttle this time? No doubt it will be extremely tough. But this team has the same heart our Giants had. They’ll need a heavy dose of Thomas Jones and super rook Shonn Greene along with an efficient Mark Sanchez offensively while getting to Peyton. Plus the usual dominant coverage from real D MVP Darrelle Revis and clutch tackling like last Sunday. Speaking of which, did the Bolts break one tackle? It’ll be fun to see if the Jet D can keep Peyton, Reggie Wayne, Dallas Clark and Joseph Addai in check. To pull this off, they’ll have to play the perfect game. The 1990 Giants did it against the 49ers. That’s who they remind us of. Here’s their chance to silence everyone.

-LaDainian Tomlinson just went nowhere again.

-Is there a worse big game coach than Norv Turner? Yet the Chargers signed him for three more years. Same franchise that axed Marty Schottenheimer off a 14-2 season. Granted, Marty never won the big one either but he’s a better coach who’s much more proven.

-Did anyone see Shawne Merriman last week? Tila Tequila is more relevant.

-Someone should send the tape of that second half to the Giant D and entitle it, “Defense 101: The Art Of Tackling.”

-So, it’s Bret Favre aiming for another Super Bowl in those ugly Viking colors. Well, at least to Packer fans. Favre’s one of the all-time great QBs who had an amazing day in last week’s startling 34-3 rout of the Cowboys. But could he just show some class? Even if Keith Brooking came off like a bitch, he had a point. Especially with it already out of reach. What was the point of that last score to Sidney Rice? Did he have the over? Or did it come from the coach who in no uncertain terms, made it clear he didn’t like that many had the Boys rolling through. Who knows. I used to be a pretty big fan of Favre’s but as fun as he is to watch on the gridiron, he’s such a fraud off it. We’ll see how he and the rest of the Vikes fare in the battle of artificial turf against Drew Brees, Reggie Bush, Marques Colston and Jeremy Shockey this weekend.

-I’ve never been a fan of his but good on Wade Phillips getting two more years in Big D.

-Ain’t it great not to have Tom Brady and Bill Belichick around?

-If this is it for Kurt Warner, he’ll be missed. The classy man who took the league by storm leading the 1999 Rams to Super Bowl glory and then guided the Cardiac Cards in a SB epic last year before falling to Big Ben and the Steelers was one of the most accurate QBs ever. Just look at how prolific he still was in tearing apart the Packers in that unreal 51-45 OT wildcard thriller. Sick.  Two-time league MVP. SB MVP. Second most efficient QB in NFL history. Second highest average passing yards/game trailing only Peyton. Too many great achievments dignify Captain Kurt for Canton.

-Norv Turner just onsided with over two minutes left sealing his team’s fate again. How do you lose on your own home field against a team that went three-and-our the first four times?

-This idea that Phil Rivers is in the same class as Peyton, Brady, Favre and Warner is done. He is a very good QB who’s put up tremendous stats that overwhelm Big Ben and Eli from that same draft class. But until he delivers in a big spot, he can’t quite measure up. Especially given what’s around him.

-For everyone who wants to criticize a washed up Tomlinson for a dozen meaningless carries, it still doesn’t explain how Darren Sproles was reduced to a non-factor.

-So yeah. Brian and Rob “Kraze” Davis’ Bills hired <gulp> Chan Gailey. What. They couldn’t make contact with Tom Landry’s ghost.

-How badly do the Jets want it? Shaun Ellis came back and is playing with a busted hand.

-Three intriguing SB storylines:

A.Favre vs Peyton

B.Favre vs Jets

C.Brees vs Peyton

-Didn’t see this till now. Rex gave the game ball to Marty Schottenheimer, whose son Brian Schottenheimer is one of the best offensive minds. Pretty cool stuff.

-Speaking of under the radar, keep a close eye on American Sam Querrey, who’s been playing some good tennis lately including a recent win over Roddick and might take the tuneup in New Haven.

-Does a fading James Blake who’s down to No.21 have something left to make some noise? We’ll see.

-I don’t get too excited for preseason but the annual Jets/Giants clash is always an entertaining watch for the fan reaction alone.

-If it were me, I’d have waited before naming Mark Sanchez over Kellen Clemens. But something tells me Rex Ryan has a lot of his Dad in him. Meet the New Boss. Same as the Old Boss.

-I have to agree with WFAN’s Steve Somers. Why pull Pat Misch after seven on 96 pitches when he’s held the lifeless Cubs in check? There’s not much else for the wounded Mets to play for than pride. Would it have hurt to send him out for the eighth? Instead, goats Milton Bradley and Alfonso Soriano helped Sweet Lou’s underachieving club rally for four off reliever Brian Stokes.  Well, at least Craig Carton’s happy.

-It’s always nice to see Robinson Cano do something rare like deliver in a big spot as his walkoff three-run jack in extras sent the Yanks to another come from behind win. Hope the second baseman saves a couple for October.

-Speaking of which, does any Bronx Bomber fan want to see those pesky Angels in October now that they’ve added southpaw Scott Kazmir? Yikes.

-I guess Kazmir became the odd man out in Tampa with James Shields, Matt Garza, Jeff Niemann, Andy Sonnastine and David Price still in the rotation. It’s still a nice pickup for the Halos who add Kazmir to John Lackey, Jered Weaver, Ervin Santana and Joe Saunders.

-He won’t win MVP again like Dustin Pedroia did in a down year but Derek Jeter has put together an incredible season. At age 35, the Yankee captain still performs at a peak level belying his years. Just more proof of what hard work and true dedication are all about.

-Until further notice, MVP is Joe Mauer with Mark Teixeira, Jeter, Michael Young, Bobby Abreu, Chone Figgins, Justin Morneau, Miguel Cabrera and Carlos Pena all in the discussion. And to be fair, Ichiro continues to defy logic and deserves votes.

-Too bad for Hanley Ramirez that Albert Pujols is in the same league. Rounding out the list are Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, Matt Kemp and Brian McCann.

-How many young players are as polished as Andrew McCutchen? They might suck but the Pirates at least have someone to build around. All cause they didn’t rush him.

-LVP Candidates:

AL-Vernon Wells, Jose Guillen, Grady Sizemore

NL-Soriano/Bradley, Jose Reyes, Edgar Renteria

-Cy Young Race:

AL-Zach Greinke, Justin Verlander, Felix Hernandez, C.C. Sabathia, Roy Halladay

NL-Chris Carpenter, Matt Cain, Tim Lincecum, Jason Marquis, Javier Vazquez

-I know it’s rating-sessed but could ESPN please refrain from any more exclusives with LeBron?

-I don’t care about Brett Favre and hope he fails.

-If he’s their best weapon, why can’t the Jets give Leon Washington some love?

-Expect a big season from Steve Smith in Big Blue. We like him for at least 70 receptions.

-Brandon Marshall’s just the latest example of a me-first athlete who doesn’t get it. I don’t care how talented you are. Just shutup and play for your teammates.

-I’ve never been a big TO fan but at least he backs it up and never gets in trouble.

-We’ll miss ya Ted Kennedy. The last of a rich legacy.

-Am I the only one who smiles when Tiger chokes?

-Gordon Beckham’s a keeper at the hot corner for the Chisox.

-Assuming David Lee holds out and Nate Robinson still ain’t signed, just what kind of team are the Knicks planning on fielding?

-Quentin Richardson just got traded again.

-Rick Pitino cheated and got caught. So what. This stuff happens. But he needs to stop making excuses. Stick to hoops.

-That Coach Calipari sure is a great example for Kentucky.

-Should we just hand Tim Tebow the Heisman and the Gators the BCS already?

-Hockey training camp is around the corner which means tropical storms are here to stay.

While many other things get attention here, I could care less because this weekend, Roger Federer is chasing history. That assumes he gets the better of veteran German Tommy Haas, who gave him all he wanted in Paris before the Fed Express rallied from two sets down en route to finally completing the career grand slam with his straight set win over Robin Soderling. The same guy he straighted in a tighter Round of 16 Wimbledon match.

Watching Federer all these years dominate tennis a la Pistol Pete Sampras, who he’s currently tied with in slams (14), it always amazes how artistic the 27 year-old Swede looks. He can strike breathtaking shots turning them into a Picasso painting. No wonder he’s nicknamed The Maestro. Whether it’s that running forehand much like Sampras, the backhand up the line, one of those sneaky droppers or textbook volleys, the man does everything so smoothly. Kinda like the Gilette shaving commercial he promotes with close buddy Tiger Woods. Even the serve which has always been the most overlooked aspect of his game because he doesn’t hit as many aces as Pete did, Feds just knows when to come up with the goods, using great placement and saves the aces for the dramatic.

It’s just so easy to appreciate what Federer has been over these six years with it all starting on the fresh lawns of the All England Club in 2003. So many detractors had him dead and buried when Rafael Nadal dethroned the King last year in arguably the greatest match ever. And even after Federer rebounded to win a ridiculous fifth consecutive U.S. Open for No.13, the same people still denounced him after that meltdown in the fifth against Rafa down under. It wasn’t so much that they had crowned Nadal but the way they treated such a great champion was maddening.

It was almost like they’d forgotten everything Roger did. How remarkable he’d been. Few dominate any sport the way he has. Not even Tiger holds a candle. Look how long it took him to win 14. And now, here’s an athlete aiming for 15 slam titles in six years. Unheard of in a sport where players frequently burnout at tender ages. Not the Federer Express.

Might it have been different had Rafa not lost to Soderling last month and was healthy enough to defend his title? Possibly. But no matter what happens the next three days, it won’t lessen what Roger has done. If he does it, no one can ever take it away from him.

And wouldn’t it be fitting if he had to face old American rival Andy Roddick on Sunday? That’s if A-Rod can muster enough energy today versus adopted Brit Andy Murray following a great five set win over another former No.1 Lleyton Hewitt.

Today, we get the kind of tennis that will be remembered forever. Even minus Nadal, you have three of the four guys you’d want for such possible history. Tremendous credit goes out to Haas for being in top form to beat Novak Djokovic. The Andy versus Andy semi could be one to cherish. It has all the makings of something special. Roddick trying to get back to a Wimbledon final. Murray with all the pressure on him to take one giant step closer to becoming the first Great Britain player to win the big trophy since Fred Perry back in 1936.

Everyone expects Federer to get through against Haas but figure the German to push him. He’s always been such a great competitor. So, we could see plenty of long rallies from the baseline.

Of course, I’m rooting for Roger. But as John McEnroe has said many times over on NBC:

“The sport of tennis has won.“

No matter what, that’s the sentiment.

-Kudos to Serena Williams on her well fought three set semifinal win over Russian Elena Dementieva- taking the final set 8-6 after saving a match point at 4-5 and digging out of a 0-30 hole the next service game. She maybe cocky but has tremendous heart which always seems to show on the big points like that backhand volley that saved her against a quality opponent, who played as well as possible. This looked like a great match. Based on the final few games we caught on the ESPN Insta Classic replay, the ball striking was tremendous with each combatant going toe to toe like two boxers. Dementieva certainly didn’t have anything to be disappointed about as she gave as good as she got putting Serena on the ropes. The 10-time slam winner earned it in what amounted to the longest women’s semi in Wimbledon history, lasting two hours and 45 minutes. Great stuff.

-No surprise that it will once again be a repeat of last year- an all Williams final with older sis and two-time defending champion Venus dismantling overrated No.1 Russian Dinara Safina, dropping only one game. Yikes. I feel sorry for Safina and hope she can learn from what’s happened to her at the first three slams. As for Venus, she’s going for a third consecutive crown and aiming for No.6 in London. How impressive would that be. You’d have to start mentioning her in the same breath as all-time great Martina Navratilova, who only took home a record nine crowns. Venus is just unbelievable on grass. I know Serena’s the toughest opponent she could face but I really feel she’ll make it No.6 tomorrow. It should be worth waking up early for.

-Good on Venus defending poor Safina. When a journalist tried to say the women’s game is in a bad state, the elegant Williams didn’t mince words:

“Are you trying to be down on women’s tennis. You’re trying to be down, basically. I don’t deal with down at all. I’m just making sure you’re not trying to be down because I respect Dinara Safina immensely and I think you should too.”

Of course, she’s right. Sure. It’s extremely disappointing that Safina, who’s ranked No.1 didn’t offer any resistance. But that’s not Venus’ fault. Sometimes, it happens that way. Heck. Safina even admitted early in the tournament that this was her weakest surface. So, it was a little surprising she made the semis. She had to fight off former champ Amelie Mauresmo and surprising German teen Sabine Lisicki just to get there. In the same rounds, Venus dropped only five total games in wins over seeds Ana Ivanovic (ret.) and Agnieszka Radwanska. That might have had an affect.

-Is the women’s game lacking? Perhaps. But Maria Sharapova’s not ready yet to seriously challenge as was proven in her second round disappointment. There are some young talents like Caroline Wozniacki and Victoria Azarenka, who could be heard from. And you have to like what we saw from Georgia teen Melanie Oudin. So, it’s not entirely accurate. Next month, Kim Clijsters returns for the U.S. Open. That should give it a boost. It might also help if 2008 runner-up Jelena Jankovic remembered the form that made her a serious threat. It was nice to see Dementieva have a nice run following her poor showing in Roland Garros. If only she knew how to win.

-Sometimes, things go in cycles. The men’s game used to just be Federer before Nadal challenged him. Then, Djokovic and Murray emerged and Roddick has gotten back in solid form. Soderling looks like he’s not going away. Aside from that, what makes the men’s game so compelling is that there are always upsets. Though I called Hewitt’s big second round win over rising Argentine Juan Martin Del Potro, whose game is just not as polished on grass. Ditto young Croat Marin Cilic, who was edged by Haas 10-8 in the fifth earlier this tournament.

With grinders like Fernando Verdasco and Nikolay Davydenko plus big hitters Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Fernando Gonzalez, the rest of the season should be entertaining.

With a subpar showing, it was another rough weekend for Mike Pelfrey and the Mets.

-It was another tough weekend for the Mets, who after a good Friday night opening win backed by surprising Fernando Nieve couldn’t follow suit- dropping the final two to the defending AL champion Rays at Citi Field. That included a 3-1 loss the previous day with Johan Santana bouncing back from last week’s dreadful showing against the Yanks. However, he only got one run and allowed a go-ahead solo homer to Carlos Pena in a rain delayed 3-1 defeat. Sunday wasn’t much kinder to Amazin fans, who again had to endure more rain with it swirling around causing another delay in a seesaw game which saw the Met pen unable to protect a 5-4 lead on Brian Schneider’s second dinger of the series. Instead, the Rays teed off on struggling youngster Bobby Parnell, who didn’t retire a batter giving up four straight hits including B.J. Upton’s go-ahead two-run blast into the second deck in left. By the time he was done, he’d been charged with four earned with the Rays going ahead 8-5.

Even when the Mets crept within two on Gary Sheffield’s RBI ground out, they stranded the tying runs in the home seventh with Ryan Church going down swinging on a payoff pitch from one-time Yankee Randy Choate. Jerry Manuel went to resurgent righty Sean Green but for a second consecutive day, he couldn’t stop the bleeding loading the bases before Tampa pushed across a pair of insurance runs against lefty Pedro Feliciano to pad their margin.

And so, Manuel’s club settled for one win this weekend- good enough to actually gain ground on the slumping Phillies, who continued their bewildering play at Citizen’s Bank Park by losing 2-1 to the Orioles, getting swept. Yes. That means they’ve lost their last six and eight of nine on a disastrous homestand to Boston, Toronto and Baltimore. Yikes. That even included first base slugger coming off the hospital bed to hit a go-ahead pinchhit three-run home run putting the Phils up 5-3 in the seventh. But Ryan Madson’s struggled lately since taking over for injured Brad Lidge in the closer role. He couldn’t hold it allowing a tying and go-ahead two-run dinger in a crushing 6-5 loss Saturday. Ace Cole Hamels pitched well going eight while fanning 10 but the Birds were able to push two runs across which was enough because Jeremy Guthrie and two relievers combined to shutdown the Philly offense posting a 2-1 win.

So, the Mets despite dropping yet another series are still just two out of first. They’re a game over (34-33) but very much alive entering two more big series in Queens with first Albert Pujols and the Cards coming in for four before the Yankees pay a visit to Queens next weekend. It won’t get any easier.

-Amazingly enough, with the Phils and Mets scuffling, the Marlins with their 6-5 win over the Yankees pulled within three games- just one behind the Amazin’s. Florida took advantage of C.C. Sabathia departing early with tightness in his left biceps. Though afterwards, the Yankee ace indicated it wasn’t that bad. We’ll have to wait and see.

The Marlins cashed in against the shaky Yankee middle relief with superstar Hanley Ramirez (2-run shot) and Cody Ross (s0lo) going yard off Brett Tomko to go ahead 4-3. Earlier, the Yanks scored three on a Mark Teixeira RBI double and Alex Rodriguez two-run base hit. But things quickly changed with Florida’s Jorge Cantu driving in a pair in the home seventh making it 6-3.

The Yanks mounted a late rally against first-year closer Matt Lindstrom putting together three straight two out hits including rookie Brett Gardner’s two-run three-bagger that cut it to 6-5. But with the tying run 90 feet away following a Johnny Damon walk, Derek Jeter failed to deliver in the clutch a second day in a row grounding into a fielder’s choice. The Captain also couldn’t get down a bunt the day prior eventually killing a rally with a 4-4-3 twin killing in a 2-1 loss. Damon’s outfield misplay turned out to be the difference.

So, it was another banner weekend for Joe Girardi, whose club has only won one series in the last four. And they were handed it. The good news is they still lead the wildcard by a game over the Angels and Blue Jays with the Rays now within two. The bad news is they’re now four behind Boston, who squeaked past the Braves 6-5 on immortal Nick Green’s walkoff blast taking two of three up at Fenway.

Will the panic button be pushed? Why should it? They can still get it righted this week headed to Atlanta for three beginning tomorrow and then across town for three more. Besides. It’s not like the new regime will do anything drastic. They hardly even show a pulse which kind of reminds ya of what the new Golden Palace sounds like.

-So what else is going on? Well, the Cubs finally are showing signs after sweeping Cleveland by scoring off former pitcher Kerry Wood twice to continue their great comebacks that started Thursday over the White Sox. Derrek Lee, who we blasted is proving us wrong swinging a hot bat with four homers and nine RBI’s during a four-game win streak that has them back to three over (34-31) just two and a half behind the Cards and one in back of Milwaukee. The veteran first baseman has hit in 18 straight. Heck. Even Alfonso Soriano got a big hit winning a game with a walkoff. Perhaps things are finally turning at Wrigley.

-The surprising Giants just swept the first place Rangers winning by two runs, a run and a run against good competition at Pac Bell. A day following a wacky conclusion that saw the winning run come in via a wild pitch, San Fran got a great effort from Barry Zito. Yes. The lefty actually took a no-hitter into the seventh before veteran Andruw Jones broke it up with a two-run homer that tied it. However, the pesky Giants cameback with a runscoring single off the bat of veteran right fielder Randy Winn to get Baked Zito his third ‘W’ in the last four outings. Zito went seven fanning eight while walking four to lower his ERA to 4.54. Not bad. At least, they’re finally getting a return on the once failed $126 million investment. Bob Howry worked a scoreless eighth and closer Brian Wilson tossed a 1-2-3 ninth including Brandon Boggs swinging to end it for his 19th save.

Give credit to veteran skipper Bruce Bochy, who despite no big bats has his club playing very well. Yes. The Giants at 37-31 lead the wildcard. Of course, it’s still early with a slew of teams including the Brewers, Cubs, sizzling Rockies who are invoking 2007 memories, Reds, Mets and Marlins all closeby. But you have to tip your cap to the former San Diego manager. His best bats are his catcher Bengie Molina, who hits cleanup, leadoff center fielder Aaron Rowand and heavy third baseman Pablo Sandoval, who swings a good stick. While all have proved to be solid players, none are what you’d deem scary. The Giants are getting zilch from free agent shortstop Edgar Renteria. Yet somehow, with a bunch of no-names and the majors’ deepest staff, they’re finding ways to win. It doesn’t matter how. They all count.

Will the Giants hang around long enough for maybe GM Brian Sabean to do something like perhaps add a bat? It sure would be nice to see.

-As for the Rockies, what can you say. They’ve now won five straight following a weekend sweep of the Pirates. And that’s 16 of 17 suddenly making them wildcard players at 36-33. They’re 16-4 in the month of June and show no signs of letting up. Why the improvement under vet skipper Jim Tracy? Because they’re hitting better with Clint Barmes now their everyday second baseman and former first round pick Ian Stewart showing some pop at the hot corner in place of slumping Garrett Atkins, who for one day cameback and contributed with an RBI playing first to give vet Todd Helton a day off.

They come up with big hits and also are pitching better with Tracy allowing his starters to go deeper into games. Josh Fogg and Joel Peralta have been steady bullpen influences getting the ball to closer Huston Street, who has saved eight in a row following a slow start.

Colorado will get a good test over the next week on a nine-game road trip with stops at the Halo’s, A’s and Dodgers. They’ll have three solid starters in a pair of six-game winners Aaron Cook and Ubaldo Jimenez. Plus nine-game winner Jason Marquis. Yep. That same Marquis who became the odd man out of the Windy City. Remarkable stuff. As a native Staten Islander who grew up in the same village as him we’re awfully proud.

-Ain’t it kinda sad that Andruw Jones has as many homers (8) as Met co-leader Carlos Beltran (8)?

-And how does one explain David Wright pacing the senior circuit with a .344 average but striking out 69 times in 252 at bats? And he only has four long balls. Insane.

-Best wishes to ex-Met left fielder Endy Chavez, who accidentally collided with Seattle teammate shortstop Yuniesky Betancourt and had to be carted off the field after tearing his ACL and MCL. The former Game Seven 2006 NLCS near Amazin hero is done for the rest of the season and could miss part of next Spring. Hope he makes it back.

-Final thought:

1B Adrian Gonzalez- .275-23-45, 46 runs, 57 BB (.418 OBP), .602 SLG

Just imagine if he played on a contender instead of in total obscurity in San Diego.