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I am surprised at the lack of positivity this is the best home performance thus far I have seen us put in against a top seed and top side in years.
We have flirted with danger certainly but we have a plan, we keep the ball to a degree and have varied our approach.
Robinson looking well up for it. Some good spells. Some nervous spells. Good watch. Would like to see more aggression from Ogbene in terms disrupting the Portugese at the back and to see Doherty being a bit more incisive with his passing.. he's getting into positions but not making the most of them.
Shaky opening 10 mins but have grown into the game. Our right and their left are wide open. Ogbene has struggled to get into the game. Portugal dont look that bothered tbh. Could see a couple of goals in the 2nd half.
Ref has given us very little although I've seen those penalties given for the challenge on Ronaldo. An extra body in midfield would help - maybe Knight on for Ogbene?
Robinson playing well again.
Kind of surprised at the seeming consensus here on Ogbene — with his pace and some of his runs, I’m really liking the look of him. Far from the finished article but I can see why Kenny has selected him.
He was a little unucky with a few balls played behind him that should've been to feet. Took him a good 20 mins or so to get into the game. Certainly wouldn't be writing him off or anything.Quote:
Originally Posted by irishfan86
I think he's a long term asset.. just looks off tonight.. Robinson looks right on it though.. maybe bring in Idah as a target man with Robinson playing off him?
Also think tonight is set up for a Mc Clean winner tbh
Funny seeing Ogbene of Rotherham go toe to toe with Danilo of PSG. I think he's growing into the game. Hopefully he backs himself a bit more now and gets found by his teammates.
I'm in two minds about the performance. Portugal had a solid ten minutes early on and have done nothing since. I just don't know how much of that is down to us really.Quote:
Originally Posted by DCWA
It's very similar to the away game really, and Portugal then upped a gear or two late on.
But can't be that downbeat about things so far for sure
First play of the half and he backs himself on a dribble. Palinha should have been booked.Quote:
Originally Posted by Olé Olé
Not sure how that isn’t a booking after the very soft one given against Ogbene if first half.Quote:
Originally Posted by Olé Olé
Agree. Think he’s causing them a few problems now.Quote:
Originally Posted by irishfan86
Better already from Ogbene. And less playing around at the back. Playing well.
Every time I see Ogbene with Ireland all I can think of is Michail Antonio. Right sided utility player turned good centre forward through sheer grit and determination. Not saying he'll reach the heights of Antonio but seeing him torment and battle Danilo like Antonio did Van Dijk!
Hendrick hasn't put a foot wrong all match, very interesting substitution putting Hourihane on in his place.
This, objectively speaking, is fairly dire stuff from both sides
Portugal look so disinterested. It's mad it's like they've been forced to fulfill some long standing end of season friendly obligation made a couple of years back.
I'm just glad Pepe didn't start kicking Robinson when he fell to the ground.
Pepe off for two very harsh yellows.
We've beaten them at their own game :)
Portugal are, and have been, there for the taking really. They just haven't looked at it.
We have no excuse for not winning this match.