by Lando_Griffin » Sun Mar 05, 2006 4:07 pm
This will be a big test.
As much as we'd like to write Benfica off, they are in the lead and have players who could easily score a goal, particularly from a free kick. We must play like we are the underdogs, and not go into the game with a "We'll win easily" mentality.
The obvious and well-documented problem with our team is goalscoring. We HAVE to score on Tuesday, or we are out. We NEED 2 goals without reply to avoid extra-time or an unfair exit.
We know the defence is good enough to keep a clean sheet, barring individual errors/cheating.
I'd go with the following team:
Reina
Finnan JC Sami Riise
Alonso
Garcia Kewell
Gerrard
Fowler
Crouch.
An attacking formation, with our best goalscorers. I'd stick Cisse on for the last 30 minutes if need be, taking Finnan off and reverting to 3-4-3:
Reina
JC Sami Riise
Alonso
Gerrard Kewell
Garcia
Cisse Fowler
Crouch.
I'd put Stevie on the right in that situation, as Garcia alone would not be able to stop a Benfica break.
If we are REALLY in need of a late goal, I'd throw caution to the wind and give 2-4-4 at go, with Reina acting as a sweeper to JC and Sami:
Reina
JC Sami
Alonso
Gerrard Riise
Garcia
Kewell
Cisse
Fowler
Crouch.
Obviously that's a system I don't want to see!!!!!! (As I want us to win comfortably!)
Best of luck lads - we're right behind you.
Up the 'pool!
Last edited by
Lando_Griffin on Sun Mar 05, 2006 4:07 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Rafa Benitez - An unfinished Legend.