A victory which was never really in much doubt from the first few minutes, though it took its time coming. We started off with a dynamic drive which promised much but after a couple of clear cut chances seemed to lose our way slightly. The opposition defence was obviously weak, Robert in particular having success when he got the ball against their right back (Robert's overall performance was an open statement to the manager, tracking back well on several occasions in a way rarely seen from him). If our defence seemed to be troubled by Tbilisi then it was perhaps partly down to one of the strange truths about football---it is difficult to play against a team when it is so easy. The lack of immediate urgency begins to affect the play and it becomes hard to constantly produce the hustle bustle. However, despite a couple of scare moments, the backline was never really that trouble and Given could almost have been by his still pregnant wife's side without being missed. When Shearer's opener came it wasn't a surprise, more of a puzzle as to how we hadn't already scored two or three. Bellamy's clincher came from very sloppy defending (and it must be noted that the Tbilisi defence had produced several superb saving tackles throughout the game) but was no more than we deserved.
With the three strikers on again Bellamy was once more relegated to the right side role, and must be pleased to have still managed a goal. For the last quarter of an hour or so however he demonstrated just how much more naturally he performs in a central role. The manager is therefore left with a problem for although Bellamy may stake a claim to the central position Shearer keeps on being Shearer and the player of the night was undoubtedly Kluivert. Playing slightly withdrawn from his strike partner almost everything good about our player passed at one point through the dutchman. His touch was simply sublime seeming to only fail him twice, both inside the box in a good position. Only a amazingly fortuitous goal line clearance further prevented him getting the goal the display richly deserved. The manager's headache must have been further complicated by the introduction of Milner, which allowed Bellamy's central role. The youngster demonstrated many of the attributes distinctly missing from Bellamy's willing wing play, at he certainly seemed to out to make a point. Further notice goes to Bowyer, who must have covered an awful lot of ground in a hard working fashion.
Another step on the road to qualification taken, though it is a little disappointing not to have helped the goal difference along some more against the group's weakest opposition. A draw out in France would see us neatly through at least, though we must be looking to win the group and avoid the Champion's League rejects for another round. It's also good to be back on the winning trail so quickly and quite convincingly. Fulham on Sunday should provide a tougher home test but it is one we should hopefully pass, assuming Souness can cure those headaches.
(@23:11)
