Not sure what game some people were watching (~cough~ Panthro). I only saw the second half, but from what I saw we showed lots to be encouraged about. What a transformation from last season. We'd have lost that 6-0 last year. We showed discipline in defence, still tried to move the ball about against ten men, made attacking substitutions and showed heart AND ability. We played as a team - again!!
Also, from what I saw in the second half, that was one of Haidara's best performances for us. Defensively he was excellent and that while still trying to get forward when he could. I think sometimes too many of us take our pre-conceived ideas into account when judging performances. On Thauvin, this was his first league start and it showed at times, but he also showed that he is comfortable on the ball and I am excited about what he will offer us going forward.
Have seen the red card incident now and think it was one of those that could go either way. Can understand why it was given as red, but also think if some other players had done he same it would have been yellow. The pundits on NBC now also saying they don't think it's red, so at best it is obviously one that splits opinion. Whatever the rights and wrongs though, Mitro needs to learn not to involve himself in those situations while still trying to keep the physical side of his game. I don't think we would win an appeal, so maybe the 3 games out could have a long term benefit for him. Because of his build and looks its easy to forget he's still a kid who has a lot to learn.