andyfm

Actually, in a lot of games last season, it was true. How many times did virtually one opposition shot on target end in one opposition goal? There was a big period last season when that seemed to happen every week.

I second that. I firmly believe our support is the best there is, but ignoring any problems or undesirable actions that do exist is very shortsighted. Unless you believe all our fans are Jesus reincarnated of course.

After last year's away performances, not conceding a goal early on was a big priority. Imagine if we'd gone one down and a couple of heads had dropped with "here we go again". I was disappointed we did not attack more in the first half, but it was entirely understandable. It will take Pepe a little time to work out how the extra physicality of the penalty area! It is probably quite a culture shock (see Villarreal keeper's remarks for example!) Momo looks like he gets nervous/overexcited. His distribution first half was the worst I have seen in a long time, but he was steadier after the break. Plenty of potential there once he settles in. Halsey was better than usual, though that is saying very little. Tosser. However, saying we didn't offer enough going forward, but could have had 5 against a top 6 team away from home, when we dominated and they had hardly a chance, seems a little harsh to me. I was disppointed not to get all 3 points and that is a vast improvement on last season already.

My second post and I'm bound to be accused of being a blue! I don't think Staveros was being racist, he was purely taking the open goal presented to him by the location of the poster to make a very old point about the popularity of our respective teams. The reds are world famous. Also I am not sure why people are still questioning why we bought Crouch. From the formation and style we played against Boro, it is incredibly obvious why we bought Crouch. The attacking midfielders will be pushing on, and given the number of chances Stevie had, then I would expect it to be quite profitable over the season if El Crouchinho can be as effective as I hope at bringing them into the play more often. Let's face it, for the last few seasons, we have played front pairings that have frankly not worked well enough. A bit like the problem Everton seemed to have against the Mancs. They have forwards incapable of improving the team's play.

Blimey, it's like the Spanish Inquisition! Must be the effect of our new gaffer and players.