Predictable Is Good

Often times, people complain that soccer is to boring of a sport, without highlights or riveting plays to talk about. After the conclusion of AC Milan's most recent game, I would have to cede today's play as evidence toward that argument. Milan fans will be happy to do so, because today's 3-0 victory of Sampdoria was so assured, anything less then a dominating win would have been looked at as a negative result. The old man in the midfield, Clarence Seedorf, dusted off his shooting cleats and nailed a free kick from thirty yards out in the sixteenth minute to get things going. Just before half time, Antonio Cassano put away a penalty to make it 2-0, and early on in the second half Robinho finished a good chance for a 3-0 lead. Sampdoria never really looked in the game from the start, and may find themselves relegated once the season ends.

The only downside from this contest were 2 early injuries picked up by Pato and starting goalie Cristian Abbiati. Both were substituted, but thankfully neither injury looked serious and both substitutions were done for precautionary reasons. A mildly interesting story line existed, as Cassano was playing against his old team, but the atmosphere between both teams was very professional, with no extracurricular activities taking place. Everything went smoothly and as planned for both sides, giving the crowd reason to enjoy the game stress free. The most excited the crowd got was when the score board showed Inter losing to Parma. A brief roar, punctuated by extended applause receded immediately as the game at hand continued. With a six point lead at the top of the table and two games against sub par opponents approaching, things look fantastic for Milan. Players look like they want to score, and complacency has never been an issue in the past.

In an interesting side note, Berlusconi has announced that he will not be running for Prime Minister next year. While this may be drawing a line to far, he may want to go out on top with his beloved team. Or maybe it's because he barely survived this last scandal and used all his bargaining chips. Either way, I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if he rescinds this declaration and decides on another run. Looking ahead, things look relatively bright for both Milan and its owner, so I'll relax and eagerly await the next match. Forza Milan!