With Liverpool’s name already in the pot of the last sixteen, Rafael Benitez earned the right to shuffle his pack on his travel to Eindhoven while even affording to keep some of his favourites back home in Liverpool. It was one of the most rotated side in his five years at Anfield, but once again the boss showed how well he knows the pack on his favoured table, a table that has seen him consistently defy the odds.
Admittedly, there was nothing against the odds yesterday. This was no repeat of Olympiakos in 2004, or even for the matter, last year’s Marseille at the Stade Velodrome. Still he managed to make the most of some of his lads that this year have been constantly getting the wrap, and also were part of a side that was hammered just a month away in the Carling Cup exit at White Hart Lane. This time though, having just a couple more of old heads alongside them, most notably Jamie Carragher, they looked miles better from that forgettable night. Simultaneously, their confidence and aptitude soared. Some might argue the difference might have only been a weaker opposition. It might be the case, but still the called up lads all gave up a very good account of themselves, and the three goals were all well taken goals that will give them a shoot in their arms, or in this case better in their feet.
Robbie Keane was once again absent from the score-sheet but his work rate and sublime pass that paved the way for N’Gog’s first goal is enough on a night like yesterday in my books. Ryan Babbel showed glimpses of last year’s much better campaign, while Albert Riera showed a left peg that so far has mostly paraded skill and sleekness. Yesterday, it showed a more sinister side to it, and I for one would be looking forward to see this powerful side of it more often.
Liverpool’s name was already in its pot, but with a makeshift side, Liverpool ensured their name to be in the more exclusive pot of group winners. It will take us ten days to learn the next opponents, and I am sure in these days a certain old friend, will have a few sleepless nights as deep down he will be dreading the red shirt, the red flags and the red bricks of Anfield.
Admittedly, there was nothing against the odds yesterday. This was no repeat of Olympiakos in 2004, or even for the matter, last year’s Marseille at the Stade Velodrome. Still he managed to make the most of some of his lads that this year have been constantly getting the wrap, and also were part of a side that was hammered just a month away in the Carling Cup exit at White Hart Lane. This time though, having just a couple more of old heads alongside them, most notably Jamie Carragher, they looked miles better from that forgettable night. Simultaneously, their confidence and aptitude soared. Some might argue the difference might have only been a weaker opposition. It might be the case, but still the called up lads all gave up a very good account of themselves, and the three goals were all well taken goals that will give them a shoot in their arms, or in this case better in their feet.
Robbie Keane was once again absent from the score-sheet but his work rate and sublime pass that paved the way for N’Gog’s first goal is enough on a night like yesterday in my books. Ryan Babbel showed glimpses of last year’s much better campaign, while Albert Riera showed a left peg that so far has mostly paraded skill and sleekness. Yesterday, it showed a more sinister side to it, and I for one would be looking forward to see this powerful side of it more often.
Liverpool’s name was already in its pot, but with a makeshift side, Liverpool ensured their name to be in the more exclusive pot of group winners. It will take us ten days to learn the next opponents, and I am sure in these days a certain old friend, will have a few sleepless nights as deep down he will be dreading the red shirt, the red flags and the red bricks of Anfield.
posted by jean paul at 6:35 pm
1 Comments:
Nice read mate, we had a great time at the match, good atmosphere and a great trip all round really. Some impressive goals too although I haven't seen them on the box yet.
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