by Allez les rouges Wed Feb 20, 2008 4:01 pm
Think some people are being unbelievably unfair on Inter (despite some recent more balanced posts from Blue, Bash and Tweedle) – some criticism is predictable and inevitable given their recent status, but they deserve credit for what approached a masterclass in defensive rearguard action before Cordoba's exit and the late goals, which had an element of fortune about them. (Not that Liverpool didn't deserve any luck, but Inter can consider themselves somewhat unfortunate to have lost by more than one goal in the circumstances.) Liverpool might've dominated from the start but it's the height of naivety to suggest the ludicrous sending-off had no influence on the game – I agree with Blue that Inter seemed to be just finding their feet at that stage and who knows what we might have seen 11 v 11. We were cheated of a real spectacle, and as disappointing as Inter's lack of ambition might have been (very harsh to criticize them with ten men though), I think people are being very harsh on the quality of the game in general too – there were a few lovely touches even in a disappointing Inter display to remind one of what one is missing in the thin Premiership gruel; a stunning Zanetti run to beat a couple of players before being dispossessed by the excellent Mascherano stood out for me. Liverpool looked for so long, as so often, like they were struggling to break down a resolute defence and keeper with a mere bludgeon and no rapier to accompany it, but fair play – even if Inter's chances are now very slender they have a duty to their fans and fans of European football in general to show what they're capable of at home.
Prophetic words from Blue before the game on how disastrous a red card might prove, and I didn't notice the bit where children eats humble pie re Rafa's selection – I thought it was clever when I saw the 4-2-3-1 formation with Lucas and Masch letting Gerrard loose with Kuyt and Babel on the flanks,. and certainly game, set and probably match to Benitez over Mancini on the tactical front.
Home
wrote:
kas wrote:Is it just me who thinks the praise for Gerrard's goal is way over the top and it wasn't actually intended as a shot? I mean, he fired it into an area where there were a lot of Liverpool players lurking.
) when was the last time he scored a "clean" goal ?!
