Once the second goal went in for Atletico, we looked tired physically. And we looked tired mentally after about 30 mins, our concentration levels were not as good as the first leg or Anfield. Azpi and Iva, who never get tired, looked knack'd, as did Ashley who had not played all season and then played three big games back to back. After Luiz hit the cross bar we looked spent, maybe we could have raised ourseleves if that had gone in. Two days recovery was not enough after Anfield. There is no doubt an extra day would have helped Iva, Ash, Asp and even Willian. Atletico's game obviously took less out of them, and the psychological benefit of the halftime equaliser helped them too. A bridge too far for us... should we have rested Ash, Asp, Iva, Willian v Liverpool?
Atletico played Sunday night at 4 o'clock, away at Valencia, and it was largely the same side that played Chelsea. Where as Chelsea rested most of there players that played last night in the Liverpool game. So I'm not sure you can use that as an excuse, as Atletico with the title in there hands didn't have the luxury of resting anyone
Agree. But tiredness seemed to affect them less, of course with the benefit of a goal before half time. And we looked tired and they didn't. I think every observer would admit that three of our fittest players Ash, Azpi and Iva looked a little tired. Our players obviously need days off and a game of golf more than theirs
Maybe it had something to do with the intensity of the game, it seemed quite a fast paced match. Also never underestimate how much nerves can take out of a players performance. I'd imagine with a CL final spot up for grabs, there was a lot of nervous energy used up
Not sure. Just think the old adage of goals change games was very evident. We were very good first half and then a goal practically out of nothing just before half time changed everything. Even at 2-1 down, we hit the post and then they go up the other end and score. At 2-2 with the time left I would have fancied us to get another but 3-1 and it's over. They controlled the game only after it was over. The first 3/4 of the tie (both legs), we did everything as planned and little moments made the difference. As I say, Terry's or Luiz's header goes in and it could be a very different outcome. On reflection Eto'o came on too soon. It was too early to kitchen sink it and then he gave away the pen with a classic strikers challenge. Actually think both sides were quite well matched.
Agree. But maybe the first goal would have been stopped with better concentration... and tiredness was creeping in before HT. A fit Hazard would have tracked Juanfran three months ago!
Fact is LOECW--we were not good enough on the night! It was disappointing for all Blues I know, but at least it gave some pleasure to luvgonzo and King Shergar ---the True Brits!!
Like you support any of the other big English sides in Europe? It's bragging rights at the end of the day, you guys would have been unbearable had you won it again. I remember how bad it was the first time
Think tiredness was an issue, not tiredness because of the last hectic week, but Ivan Azpi and JT, especially have played far too much all year. Joses stubbornness in not playing Cole even in rotation, was key to the others getting no rest, and his ego has unwittingly damaged the Club. For all his good points, his bad ones do have a negative influence. He needs to see a cognitive therapist and get to the bottom of his demons. This is not a short term critique of Jose but an 8 year long observation of not just the manager, but the man. He has no need to prove anything to anyone, but seems to always be trying to prove something to himself. Anyway, fresh new start and every reason to be positive. Don't think any one else would have achieved what Jose has this year and he should be congratulated.
Like United to do well in Europe. And Arsenal. Only club I actively want to lose in Europe are Spurs. Wanted them to overhaul Liverpool's five times under Saffa, but realised in the 00s that Saffa wasn't good enough. I'll support Liverpool in Europe for our co-efficient and tiredness factor too
Atletico are also on the crest of a wave at the moment as well. A lot to be said about a fully focused side all pulling in the right direction, momentum etc. Similar for Liverpool in the league. I don't believe player for player either AM or Liverpool are better than us but both certainly carrying better and more consistent form. Complacency has largely been our downfall these last few weeks where as these sides are going for it every single week.
