I have just noticed that the Swedish State bookie offers 2.35 on the Russian win. I would never stand up and scream that we will have sure winner in this final. It does not work that way. Generally you should back the better odds in any given final but I kind of like this Russian side. Any team that can outclass a decent side like Bayer Leverkusen 4-1 in Germany and give one of the best European sides, Bayern Munich, a 4-0 beating deserves support. Villarreal are enjoying their all time best season but they were knocked out by Zenit, despite the fact that Zenit were in the middle of a winter break.
Rangers have by no means stolen their right to be in this final, not at all, their disciplined displays in Europe this season are admirable, but it is difficult to stand up and say that their football in general is something to shout about. I will not call their approach negative, they are simply using their resources the best way that they can. A typical Swedish attitude, now master minded by coach W Smith.
Rangers have a mostly fit squad at the moment despite all their many matches lately. McCulloch, C Adam, Hemdani and De Marcus Beasley could all be in the group and only C Burke and keeper McGregor are still missing. Expect one Rangers striker from the start but it will not be D Cousin as he is suspended.
4-0 up against Bayern, the leading Zenit striker Progrebnyak picked up a booking and his stupidity earned him a suspension for this final. Maybe one should say that the Zenit coach Advocaat was the biggest idiot. Why was Pogrebnyak still on the pitch? Fortunately the other Russian international striker Arshavin will make his timely return for this match. Also Sirl and Ricksen are back in contention. Pogrebnyak and Luca Toni have been in sensational form during this UEFA Cup. It is also worth remembering that the Zenit coach Dick Advocaat, not so long ago coached Rangers. Advantage Zenit! The match takes place in Manchester. Advantage Rangers! Backing Zenit! (2.32).
|
