by badradio » Fri Apr 02, 2010 5:08 pm
Honestly I still think the ref was too harsh on sending off Babel...I mean, it's obvious Babel shouldn't have done that, but the ref must have the sensibility to see what's an aggression and what's a 'discussion' between 2 players. He certainly didn't hurt Luisão, he had an unsporting behaviour and should have received a yellow card for that...the ref job is also to lead the game in order to things go well. I don't believe that 'discussion' would bring more problems for the game.. I think it would end there..and it would have been better for the game.
I mean, it was wrong, but he didn't elbowed nobody, no real harming, he wasnt trying to hurt. That's what I don't like in football...refs nowadays give yellows for the most stupid thing (like David Luiz for giving the ball 4 meters behind where the foul was taken), and then let very hard tackles go through (by the way, I think Luisão foul deserved a yellow, no more than that too)...
I know it's frustrating losing like you did...even if you all can admit the 2 penalties were right decisions. It's always frustrating...and I understand that. What makes me kind of 'sad' is how most Liverpool supporters ranted about the Benfica fans. I mean, besides those stupid episodes with the 2 things thrown on the pitch by that idiot, Benfica fans did what every team do in these big matches...obviously you whristle ref's decisions, opposition players...but that's it. It's obvious we would try, just like you'll do next week, to create an 'hostile' atmosphere...it's nothing against you, but just to pressure the opponents.
I remember Babel was 'booed' when he came off (I think that was expectable), just like Torres for being such an ladie on the pitch (sorry, guys, he has LOADS of talent, but he was clearly tired and trying to force as many fouls as possible)...but when Gerrard came off Benfica fans actually clapped him. If you re watch the game you can hear it. It's just a matter on how you behave on the field.
When Manchester United faced us in 2006 before getting you on the draw, we needed to win the last group match against Man Utd at our home. Cristiano Ronaldo was returning to Portugal, he had recently played on that stadium and was largely supported...It's even said he is a benfica fan.
I guess it was his first time facing a portuguese team and press talked about it...We knew he was a key player, so we whristle him all game, like we did to all opposition. Cristiano got nervous, had a terrible game..and when he was subbed he gave our stand the finger...he wasn't expecting that reception as a portuguese...but on the field he's our opponent.
And it's not such an hostile atmosphere...I mean, in a turkish way....it was the first time we had that thing happening on a european match (throwing the 'missiles'), players are safe, Benfica supporters have fair play, never had a problem with other team's fans... It's not like some turkish, greek hells, where you can't even wear your scarf safely or player are sent things all the time in corners, etc.
That's pretty much 'boo-ing'... The match ends, we even clap your team if needed.
I mean, Estadio da Luz and Anfield are known for being tough stadiums for a reason...not only on support but how it makes it difficult to opponents..
But, anyway, I can't change how you feel about it..just wanted to say that 'hate' english press is saying is rubbish. No hate at all towards Liverpool...