Went to the match.
Thought Melbourne held their own in the first half.
Were defensively very strong, giving Hiroshima few real chances.
Leckie was taken off at half time and thought that made a big difference with Hiroshima able to take control in the
second half. For all the hate Leckie gets for the Socceroos, when I watch him live, I am always super impressed with how much
work he does. So much energy spent closing down opponents, blocking passing lanes. That sort of effort is not readily recorded in
stats but prevented Hiroshima getting any control in the midfield.
Lack of match fitness also likely began to impact Melbourne in the second half.
Once wholesale subs were made for Melbourne, I thought City were right back in it.
Have to comment about one player, Caputo. Not sure what City sees in him but obviously they have a lot of faith.
To me this was another match where he contributed little.
For a centre forward, rarely scores and few assists.
Doesn't win long balls and not great at holding the ball up with his back to defenders.
Also his effort at pressing is infuriating, trots casually around while his team mates are working their asses off.
Think City has an excellent defence and solid midfield but they will struggle to score in the Champions League.
Now if they had a solid CF of the Fornaroli/Berisha type, I think this team could actually go far in the Champions League.
