Match report 21 January 2009

An incident packed game with 14 men taking to the pitch.

The bibs were initially a man down, as the injured Andrew was not yet available to take to the pitch, and were quickly 2 goals behind, but the bibbed newcomer Fernando had to leave the pitch with an injured calf muscle and that levelled the playing field (pun intended).

There is a worrying trend as to how many injuries afflict Spanish players and Rafa Benitez already irritated by the demand placed on Torres by the national side would definitely have had words with the Spanish authorities about Fernando, if he had been part of the Liverpool squad - goodness knows he is 100 times better than some of them!

The game tilted the way of the bibs and with the class of Stuart, Yusuf and Jason - it is no wonder. These three were like a triumvirate of Gerrard, Lampard and Barry that could actually gel.

Given that sort of midfield and attack and with the likes of newcomer Rory in defence, who scored on his debut with a priceless strike from 20 yards, and Luke masterful in attacking midfield, reminiscent of Alan Hudson in his prime, it was always going to be difficult for the bibless to maintain their slender advantage.

Dickon, Paul C and Paul O'C would have made Pink Floyd proud with their brick wall of a defence, whilst John did so much successful dribbling it was a surprise the pitch was not waterlogged, Andrew playing at less than full strength, nevertheless proved a handful and Matt and the relative newcomer Chris were powerhouses in midfield, but it was all to no avail as the bibless went down 12-9 when bad light stopped play.