Not the best evening, but the best team won. Whilst we seemed to be in control for the first half, a keystone cops moment on half time saw them equalise. The second half was then a different game. Once Ashley went off for Eto’o, that was that. Maybe Jose went for the 2nd goal a bit too soon, but if it had worked we’d be praising him. It wasn’t to be. Eto’o finally contributed something to the game and gave away the penalty. I presume it was as I haven’t heard otherwise. That was it then – chasing two more goals. The inevitable happened, and in went a third for them. We did have 10 chances on target, and Courtois saved the ones he needed to very well, bu, that aside, we were still outplayed in the 2nd half by a better team on the night. No arguments.
It’s got the makings of an excellent final. I said 2 rounds ago that I thought Athletico’s name was on the cup, and it looks like it could be. That said, Real looked awesome last night. It’ll definitely be a good final.
There’s always next year for us. 8 semi-finals in 11 years isn’t too bad. We have struggled to finish the job, though, but it’s steady form at the top, amongst Europe’s elite. Hopefully we can do better next season. Only two teams in Europe have finished better than us this season, and only two teams in the PL can do the same. That isn’t too bad, all things considered.
And we’ve helped keep the coefficient up for England in Europe, too, so Arse[nal] should be thanking us that their annual 4th place trophy gets them some European football each season. I haven’t heard any praise from them as yet.
Anyway, here’s to two decent games for our last two games of the season. We’re taking a crowd to Cardiff, too, so that’ll be good. That will be quite lively, probably. Trains are booked before 8am for that one. Then, depending on how it all finishes we’ll either be satisfied or celebrating. I’m not holding my breath, but enjoy the games I will.
After those two games we can all have a break and look forward to next season. This season has been good, all in all. Some great trips away with some great guys. And the Usual Suspects will all be there yet again next season, for sure. Over land and sea.
I’ll post my European away scheme renewal form in the morning.
Win or lose, up the Blues.