News for November 2006

Chelsea 1, Manchester United 1

November 26, 2006 || posted by whitney

It was a tale of two halves. Both teams played hard and earned the 1-1 draw.

Goals

Saha 29
Carvalho 69

The Team

The 4-4-2 diamond was in effect.

Cudicini

Geremi, Terry, Carvalho, A. Cole

Makelele

Essien, Lampard

Ballack

Drogba, Sheva

First Half

Clever tactics by Sir Alex stifled the Chelsea attack.

After dominating the midfield, United finally picked up their goal on a quick counter attack. Both Rooney and Saha were not properly closed down, leading to the Saha goal on a beautiful curling strike.

Second Half

At the half, Mourinho counter the Man Utd tactics by bringing Robben on for Geremi and putting the more skillful Essien at RB.

This was the key to the Blues improved performance as Rooney was not tracking back to close Essien down.

The revamped team played with more flair and as the field opened up they gained more possesion, ultimately leading to the Carvalho goal off of the corner.

Misc. Thoughts

Ballack played well and was an important player in the midfield, while his distribution can improve, he's played well of late.

Sheva, on the other hand, had a limited effect on the game. I would like to see a return Robben/J. Cole to the starting lineup in his place.

Proper Match Reports

BBC

ESPN Soccernet

Sky Sports

Goals

Saha 0-1

Carvalho 1-1

We're Back

November 14, 2006 || posted by whitney

The management tool broke down, but it has been fixed.

Apologies to all, full coverage with links to goals will return this weekend.

best,

Whitney