Making pitches smaller would change the game more than softer balls imo, and I'm not sure it would decrease crossing. Smaller pitches would lead to a more compact defence, harder to play through and teams may actually cross more because of that...
I don't think xG is relevant in regard to Liverpool messing up counters when they had the numerical advantage. If a chance isn't created then xG isn't involved (?) but you would say Liverpool certainly SHOULD have created some good chances out of...
I actually think Rooney is a great shout, because if it's about just natural talent I don't think I've seen a better 16 year old other than Messi.
Lots of incredible players mentioned, but few of them played top league games at 16 and were...
The only one I can think of that matches it is the 4-3 against City with the Owen winner. Very similar ending to that game :lol:
edit: though not really that important or meaningful as the OP stipulated, sorry
honestly don't mind this at all, it's what everyone's doing at home and at the pub. Far better than the utterly placid and disinterested commentary on ITV today
I love how every player contributed and every player can be proud of what they did out there. A proper team performance, where the players will look at each other and think you fecking bossed it today.