9 Men Milan Stumble Again
Having two players sent off in the second period simply cost Milan the game, which is already difficult to begin with. Cristian Zapata might reconsider his decision to lunge a tackle the resulted in his dismissal along with a penalty kick, but Kevin Prince Boateng might really need to control his discipline after he also got a marching order 10 minutes from time.
Eying to end their negative period, Milan were actually starting the match brightly as they created several goal scoring chances through Giampaolo Pazzini, Antonio Nocerino, Stephan El Shaarawy and Riccardo Montolivo. However, an excellent performance from Udinese's goalie, Brkic managed to kept the scoreline at 0-0. After the early 15 minutes, the Rossoneri's lack of cohesiveness were shown again as the new tactical change apparently create some defensive issues as the players looked confused in positioning themselves.
This confusing situation led to several individual errors in midfield, with Nocerino, Montolivo and Ambrosini seemed lost at times in covering the Zebrette's players because inconsistent pressing from Milan's wide players, including wing backs. Urby Emmanuelson's might have to improve his defensive contribution, since as a wide striker it's essential that he consistently close down opponents' flanks.
Still, it wasn't an exquisite open play that carved Milan open, as from a dead ball situation, the home team scored through Ranegie flicked header. Evidently the miss-communication between Phillippe Mexes and Cristian Abbiati caused the whole mess as the goalie mistimed his attempted clearance, despite there's probably no reason for him to venture outside of his goal.
The Rossoneri picked themselves up again in the second period and grabbed a deserved equalizer through Stephan El Shaarawy's brilliant long range effort. However, another defensive howler during a corner, resulted in a penalty kick and also sending off for Cristian Zapata. Antonio Di Natale converted the spot kick and continue his goal scoring habbit against the Red and Black team.
Despite playing with only 10 men, Milan kept on pushing for an equalizer and did create several chances which they failed to convert once again. Things got more complicated when Boateng also followed Zapata's path, as he received a marching order 10 minutes before the final whistle. 9 men Rossoneri didn't stop their attempt at searching for a goal but it was simply too difficult for them.
This third defeat in four games apparently haven't nailed the coffin yet for Massimiliano Allegri as he could remain at the helm at least until the upcoming international break, unless more terrible result arrives. Once again, Allegri should really focus on motivating his players even more and bring back that self belief so individual errors on the pitch can be minimized.
Comments