It certainly wasn’t a classic, but we’re through to the fourth round of the Carabao Cup after Fabian Schar’s spot kick sealed a 1-0 win. Here’s our player ratings and comments from last night’s game:
Dubravka (6) – Virtual spectator as we dominated possession. No saves of any note but went off injured after a hefty challenge, where he was brave in the challenge to deny the visitors
Livramento (6) – Played almost exclusively as a right winger for most of the game aside from 15 minutes at left back at the start of the second half. Took up some great positions but needs to improve his delivery into the box on a more consistent basis
Krafth (6.5) – Typically solid performance from Mr dependable. Defensively solid and tidy in possession, whether at right-back or centre-back.
Schar (8) – Man of the match. Scored the match-winning penalty and was our most creative player against the low block. Some lovely long diagonals to start the attacks, setting up chances for Barnes, Willock and Miggy. A class above
Kelly (5.5) – Looked lost as a left-back in the first half offering very little in an attacking sense. Moved to centre back for the second half and performed much better although admittedly didn’t have much to do
Longstaff (5) – Thrives on finding the pockets of space which just weren’t available tonight. Gave away cheap fouls and wasted a chance to force his way into the line up against Everton.
Joelinton (6) – Lack of creativity showed tonight. Energetic performance didn’t hit the heights we know he’s capable of.
Willock (5) – Still finding his feet. Thrives on those deep runs in behind the defence which weren’t available tonight. Important to get 90 minutes under the belt as he still looks a bit low on match sharpness.
Almiron (6) – Bright in bursts but should’ve opened the scoring in the first half but lacked the composure. Goal rightly ruled out for offside. Won the penalty and linked the play well, just didn’t add that sparkle of quality where it mattered.
Barnes (5) – Had one decent opportunity but was frustrated and kept in check by the Wimbledon defence. Lack of overlap from Kelly hurt his output. Was taken off at the break.
Osula (6.5) – Tough game for the centre forward, who wasn’t given nearly enough service, but looked bright when given an opportunity. Suited to playing on the counter to use his pace but can be proud of his first start. Clearly powerful, quick and made some clever runs in behind.
Subs:
Vlachidimos (6) – Won’t have an easier half than that. Had nothing to do aside from claiming one cross!
Guimaraes (7) – The only midfielder who showed an ability to pick a pass. His vision sets him apart from the rest of the team.
Hall (6.5) – A valuable attacking asset down the left and developing a strong understanding with Gordon. Looks to have won the left back battle with Kelly.
Gordon (6.5) – Added energy and pace to a game which was lacking both. Seems to be regaining his confidence and the new contract will hopefully see an increase in his productivity
Burn (N/A) – On for the final few minutes.
