predicted

As predicted, a good win against quite a pretty Benfica side. Roll on Athletico Madrid.

The thing with Benfica is, throughout this entire encounter, they didn't score a goal through open play. The striker's general finishing was quite woeful, and it's difficult to understand how he's gotten 31 goals this season in Portugal? Two penalties and a free-kick hardly constitutes a goal threat does it?

The much maligned Lucas Levia had his finest game in a Red shirt tonight. I thought he was outstanding. His goal was sublime - a well-timed run between the centre-halves, completed by his rounding and beating of the keeper was coolness itself. He was everywhere tonight - blocking and breaking up attacks. I was very impressed.

Sotirios Kyrgiakos brought some much-needed steel to the defence, and Daniel Agger was so calm and unruffled at left-back. I know he's out of position, but did he look the business rather than the hapless (and suspended) Insua?

The shame is this kind of form is likely to be a very temporary thing for both Lucas, and the club as a whole for the rest of the season?

This win is dedicated to Paddy. RIP xxx