Chelsea v Man U

[OwdBillCook]

Wow - that must have been quite a game to watch!

I think I was hoping for a draw - but is a Chelsea win actually best for our European prospects?
I'm really not sure. Chelsea are only one point behind us now, with a game in hand. On the other hand, Man U are only 4 points ahead with 8 games to go.
Chelsea have a couple of should-win games, but then are away to Man City, Arsenal and then Villa which looks tough for them to get any points.
We have a better run in than Man U I think, so maybe tonight's result is actually in our favour.

[Zippity]

It was a cracking game for the neutral.

Well, I say 'neutral'...I wanted both teams to lose.

Personally, I think Europe's a bust this season. every time we get players back, we lose another couple to injury. The players are knackered and the lack of consistency is killing us.

[OwdBillCook]

My head says you're right.
But I can't give up on hoping!

If we can cling on to get some sort of European football then I think it would really help in keeping belief that the project is on track.
The downside is of course the extra fixtures, which I think had a big influence on what happened this season.
Seems you just can't win!!

[Magzer]

Both teams are as haphazard as we are so it's all to play for.
There'll be twists and turns until the end.
Let's hope we get the rub of the green, although I won't hold my breath the way our luck's went.

I'm glad Man u got beat.

[HughieG]

My head says you're right.
But I can't give up on hoping!

If we can cling on to get some sort of European football then I think it would really help in keeping belief that the project is on track.
The downside is of course the extra fixtures, which I think had a big influence on what happened this season.
Seems you just can't win!!

Villa can do it; manage being competitive in the PL and conf. league. There’s no reason we can’t do the same, even in the Europa League.

[OwdBillCook]

Aye, that's true - Villa have certainly had a great season. And yes, I don't see why we cannot do the same next year.

But.... Whilst it's statistically possible for us to have had so many injuries this season through sheer misfortune, it is very unlikely I'd guess.

Two things come to my mind.
First - the squad of players was too few of enough quality to compete in the Premiership, the European Champions League and the 2 domestic cups.
Second - if that is the case, then you have to adapt your style. "Intensity is us" is fine, a bit like KK's Entertainers, but when you are overstretched than you have to back off.
I guess we've learned that the hard way this season. I expect next season will see a more considered approach.

[tinostongue]

Both teams are as haphazard as we are so it's all to play for.
There'll be twists and turns until the end.
Let's hope we get the rub of the green, although I won't hold my breath the way our luck's went.

I'm glad Man u got beat.

What made it better was the timing of Chelsea’s winning goal, excellent!