Now THAT was more like a pre-season game after the upbeat fun of Tranmere. 1-1 with some good play early that just lacked that final sharpness, but mostly a slow paced bore. Particularly second half. That said the lashing down rain cutting up a pitch that the rugby fella's had played on Wednesday didn't help matters.
From the first half team: Woodburn sound as an 8 with his small space ability. Getting a good look inside where he's looked far better suited the 23's with his lack of pace. Coutinho, Firmino and Salah interchanging nicely. Let down by Firmino's wooden touch. Salah legging the Wigan LB from half way and being 5 yards or so clear the penalty area <RAPID> ..... Then scoring after neat play from the two Brazilians. Coutinho, Firmino, Salah ..... Goal. That could well be a theme going forward. Nobody defending the second ball from Wigans goal. Not often that happens ..... Southampton, anytime you're ready to end this charade we'd be appreciative. Ta.
From the second half side: Uhmmmm, yeah ..... Gomez showing his versatility looking just as competent at RB as he does anywhere else the back-line. Although why Stewart was in the centre and Joe out the right was an interesting choice in the numbers game. Uhmmmm ..... Solanke lively again. Sturridge should have won it. Chirivela tidy again. And that was pretty much that.
No injuries. Which wasn't for the lack of Wigan's tackles. More fitness. Onto Hong Kong.
It is interesting to note Moreno hasn't featured at all in two games and 2 different 22's. And Markovic completely disappeared after he couldn't even cut it against a Conference side. Be surprised if Flanagan lasts the summer too. For as game as he is, he's just no pace and needs too many touches for the speed we play at now.
Up the Glad I Jibbed It Reds!
OptaJoe