Comments about Shakhtar

Hey folks,



I was pleased with the Shakhtar game because our fringe players got a chance to shine:



1.  Afellay had a superb game.  He tested the goal keeper with 2 powerful shots, one long distance and another in close range.  He played well and was at the ready.  This will build confidence as he prepares for his first classico.



2.  Mascherano has finally proved his worth.  Not only does he dominate the mid-field, he also does will to fall back and support our back line.



3.  Adriano was attacking and defending at the same time!  He did well to run up the pitch and also did well to freeze out Shakhtar Eduardo.



I was also please to see the real Shakhtar come out and play.  Pyatov had a great game!  The back line did well against a better team that was constantly pressing.  Jadon had a Ronaldinho style free kick into the upper corner stopped by a superb Valdes, who also did will to stop Mkhitariyan at point blank range.  Mkhitariyan also played well and showed his talent with a pinpoint cross to an attacking colleague.



I was not pleased to see Milito play the way he did.  To be honest, he is not the same player who did well to neutralize Ronaldinho many years ago.  Maybe the injury has had its toll, but there is also a psychological component there and it shows.  Before he is cut loose, I hope the management gives him a chance at the Defensive Midfield position, where he will find comfort knowing that there is another line of defense behind him (which is probably what he really needs to excel).  I think he does not fancy being the last line of defense, especially when Pique, Alves, and Adriano leave him back there all alone.