Quote:
Originally Posted by Jagger
Yeah, of course, I'd gladly swap the two wins over Man U for winning the title, sweet as the 4-1 win was. In fact when I was watching Liverpool in the 80's that used to happen a lot. LPool would take the league but struggle against the Red Mancs. I'd gladly take the same situation again.
Perhaps I'll be able to repay Bagor a back handed compliment next year. Hey, you never know!
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DISCLAIMER - It's 4am, and I may have had a bit to drink, hence the time it is, and me being awake!
In the history of English football, Manchester United had tied Liverpool several times over both teams' history (until it got to 7, where Liverpool ran away with it, and haven't been touched until now) but have never pulled ahead. I personally think that Rafa Benitez is a very good manager, and that Liverpool are at max. 2 players away from being not only a contender for the league, but a team that will make it difficult for those guys 52.8ish kms to the east every single week.
I don't believe that Rafa is a Spanish Bill Shankly, or Bob Paisley, but I think he can match up to Mr. Ferguson as a manager in every aspect. He's definitely matched up to him as a strategist twice this year. As far as the "mind games", thanks to Rafa's "outburst" as was exaggerated (as usual, whereas Fergie complaining about referees and the schedule, which is prohibited by the respect campaign as far as I know, is just him stating the truth, right?) by the media, Rafa's mug was all over old trafford in banners, held by Man U fans. Must've felt like a home game for him almost.
Rafa's been called the guy who can win in an elimination setting, but can't do it in a situation like the league, where endurance is key. He did well this year I thought. Winning in the UEFA champions league where you were down 3-0 at half-time....it was a few years ago, but if anybody else were in charge of that team, I don't think that we would've seen what we did.
All I'm saying is that if Liverpool can acquire some additional depth (also, Dirk Kuyt showing a good 10 goals like what we saw about 21 hours ago would be wicked, but if not, an extra striker, and moving Dirk to midfield would do) then in my opinion, Liverpool is not only a competitor for the league next year, but a favourite. I feel the starting eleven is better than anything anybody else in the league can field. I'm looking forward to next season something huge. Until then, there's still a game against Tottenham next weekend to prove a point....and....well...I've lost my train of thought.
[/slightly alcohol influenced rant..?]