Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Champions League Semi-Final Second Leg: Manchester United 1 Barcelona 0



The quality and goals weren't all there, but we got the exciting game hoped for. Over the two legs I thought MU, mainly due to Fergie's selection, made hard work of what should have been a pretty easy task. Barca had loads of possession but hardly ever really threatened. Only Messi seemed to realise attacking the goal increases the chances of scoring. Fuck me, that kid can play soccer. Ronaldo looked bright, but Messi's ball control was spellbinding. That said, why Rijkaard didn't bring on Henry and Gudjohnsen earlier is beyond me.
MU showed what an excellent defense they have. I'd always thought Wes Brown was an average player made better by those around him, but over the two legs he was exceptional. Not even the biggest MU hater would deny Paul Scholes his moment of glory [well The Editor might]. I remember watching an interview years ago on French TV in which Zidane was asked which contemporary player he enjoyed watching the most. The moderator listed 5 or 6 players only to be amazed to hear that Zidane studied videos of Scholes in order to improve his game.

The champions of England have set up a all-English Champions League final through the brilliance of an Englishman, Paul Scholes
Scholes cannon sends Red Army to Moscow

Nobody deserves a trip to the Champions League final more than Paul Scholes
Little big man reaps the reward

Tony Cascarino: Analysis
Shrewd Alex Ferguson passes tactical test

Whenever the Argentine prodigy touched the ball, the crowd booed. It wasn't disrespect or displeasure or any accusation of dark intent. It was pure terror...
Messi sets shining example Ronaldo must match

1 comment:

The Editor said...

Fine -- way to go Paul Scholes. Wanker. Ginger-twat. Good job.