Ok, caught the replay late last night. Overall, I'm pleased with the fact that such a young team went away from Anfield, in Europe, and came away with a win and 5 goals to boot. How can anybody not be happy with that?!
Yes, the defense was shaky. Enrique had a howler for the first, Wisdom and Coates could have done better on the second, and we should never get caught out like that for their third.
BUT, we showed plenty of fight and character last night. That more than anything should be pleasing to everyone. We fought and fought and fought. Never got our heads down. That's not only self-belief and character, that's a tremendous attitude shown.
A few player notes for me:
Suso - for his debut, I thought he was great. Awesome close control on the ball, good touches and passing. Needs to work on his play in the final third, however you can tell he's going to be a big time player.
Assaidi - I thought he started brilliantly. Really looked to take a man on and had some good energy. He defo faded a bit, so I think we're looking at a bit of a Bellamy replacement here. Good impact sub player and squad option to start the odd game, like yesterday for example.
Henderson - got the highest rating on WhoScored.com and got two assists. Those saying he was useless yesterday should rewatch the game. Did a good job of keeping play moving. Wasn't very forward thinking at times, but I don't think he had to be. Decent shout for MOTM in my opinion.
Shelvey - love this kid. That's all. Love him.
Pacheco - didn't seize the opportunity in my opinion. But at the same time, we have to remember that WF is his natural position, not ST, so maybe a bit of slack can be given his way. I'd really like to see him play on the left of the 4-3-3 and see how he does.
Borini - to those writing him off.... Did you not see the improvement in the team once he came on? He's an intelligent player, knows how to make good runs, and drew a defender away on one of Shelvey's goals. Watch him closely and you'll appreciate him much more.
Overall, I'm happy we got a win. 3 points in Europe, 2 full debuts for Suso and Wisdom (brilliant goal!), goals off of corners. Very young side came out and got the job done. And even more experienced because of it. Well done Brendan!
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