2013 - October
Results:
CSKA Moscow 1-1 D - Being away in Russia, I decided to opt for the 4-3-2-1 formation. I really wanted the win too after the draw with Dortmund. Depsite dominating and having many shots on target, only one was scored. Thanks to super sub Morata as well! Overall, a poor result in Europe yet again. However, I think we hit the woodwork at least three times, so maybe an unlucky result too.
Levante 2-3 W - I had to rest some players after the trip to Russia. The most notable was switching Ramos to centre back to rest Varane and bringing Nacho in. I dominated the game once again, Morata was the MOTM by a mile! Scoring two goals and setting up Bale. Levante did attempt to get back into the game with a three minute double by Angel but we held out for the win.
Malaga 2-0 - W It was a fairly even game until Bale scored in the 58th minute then Malaga did not manage to shoot again. Isco scored just before full time. Di Maria also made his return from injury.
Napoli 0-2 W Playing Barcelona three days after this game made the team selection difficult. Two tough teams both away and I felt like I needed to win this game because of the two previous draws in Europe. I dropped Bale and brought in Di Maria and droppend Varane and played Ramos in centre back again, bringing Nacho in to fill the right back position. Both goals were scored in the first twenty minutes, it was looking very easy. Even thought Napoli played a lot better in the second half, they did not come back, also thanks to Casillas for saving a penalty!
Barcelona 0-0 D - The big game! Being away, I played my defensive 4-3-2-1 formation. Pepe was suspended so Varane came in. Bale was back in for Di Maria. They had a strong team out, I had a strong team, I guess you could say I was just hoping. I had got dominated in the first half. Casillas played very well. But I wasn't going to change anything until they had scored. On the 50th minute Pique got a red card, I thought that was it and went overload, we had shot after shot but never scored. Therefore, in the end it was a very even game and a fair, possibly good result!
Sevilla 2-0 W - With Sevilla being last in the league without a win, I decided to give some of the key players a much needed rest. Including Ronaldo. This gave the likes of young Jese a chance, also Casemiro who has not been impressive. A good result however, Pepe got a red card therefore, is banned for at least one match. Furthermore, both of the goalscorers Di Maria and Alonso are out for two weeks and five weeks.
Review:
Overall a very good month. Not much to complain about, not much to be excited about. Looking comfortable in games, hopefully Ronaldo will start scoring like Ronaldo and other players pick up in form.
Player of the month: Morata
To be fair, mainly based just on the stunning performance in the Levante game, scoring two goals and setting up the third. Looks like a bright future!