27 Feb 2015 13:12:33
Well, I either wanted to win it, or go out in the first round.
It's always nice to win something but hopefully we can push on in the FA cup and League now.
Terrible performance though. The only people who i remember making a (fair) tackle is Allen and Skrtel. Mingolet excellent again.
You have to ask the question though; Why when we are in need of a goal and possibly going to penalties do you take off the two most effective attacking players on the night (Balotelli and Ibe) particularly as Balo is so adept from the spot? Manquillo might as well have put on a Besiktas shirt. Can, Sturridge and Sterling were dissapointing (not awful, just not at their usual standard) in particular and compeltely failed to take advantage of Balotelli's neat flicks and hold up play. He looks a new man. Hopefully when we hit some form, and Sturridge is sharp, he and Balo can add a few goals to the team.
Dissapointing performance but hopefully we can really change gear in the race for top 4 now.
27 Feb 2015 15:23:47
We're playing 3 at the back with 2 holding mids and 2 wing-backs as part time wide attackers only leaving (largely) 3 people really trying to score goals. Result is a better defensive record but a poor attacking one. When we played just Lucas holding the balance was better but until he's back I think we'll simply struggle to create much. Would be nice if we could find a bit more balance to the team.
27 Feb 2015 23:46:23
Agree, our biggest problem is losing a top quality defensive midfielder who can give the confidence for others to push forward.
With Lucas there, Hendo feels free to kick on upfield, the wingbacks feel more confident play will be broken up on the counter, and we can put Can in the CB's to play the ball out from the back.
I think it's critical we buy someone like Wanyama, Schneiderlin, Khedira or Illara to really kick the team forward next year
28 Feb 2015 06:58:10
Our players looked really tired
I remember BR saying the bigger pitch will help us but I felt it worked the other way