The defense held firm and IMO found some confidence as the game went on. Beye kept the ball well and was strong in the tackle, impressive for his second game. Davies and Carlos got more involved as of late and battled at every opportunity. Shorey, well thats why he was brought IMO, very good in possession, loves to run with the ball and passes very well. His defensive display was better. I especially liked the fact he seem to stay with his man more , 9/10 times he didn't challenge, just ran in his way, none of that giving up bollox we have seen in the past, well played.
Brad what a performance save after save, strong with decent distribution.
OUR midfield was superb, NRC put in the type of performance that was last seen at Villa when Boateng was here. Sidwell also gave us great movement, Petrov played his usual game, well played. Milner seemed to be roaming around more and was on the left and the right side a few times. A Young had a quiet game by his standards, but kept Johnson quiet.
Gabby, unsung hero IMO. The amount of work he put in was unbelievable ran and ran. He make a big difference to games because of his pace. L Pool had to keep deep and double up on him, this stretched the game and kept the pressure of us. You do not get this with Heskey or Carew. Infact its hard to think of another player who has these attributes, Drogba can play it and so can Anelka.
MOTM Got to be NRC with Brad closely behind. More importantly for me though is the fact that all the players played at or close to their personnel best (bar A Young). UTV
PS I Agree, its a nice top, L Pool must hate the site of white shirts