Messi Magic as Football triumphs Frogs
From the Nou Camp.
December 20/21, 2011.
-Juventuzeuters
Unfortunately, brave Lyon fell away to Football. They were never going to win, but did have a draw eyed up until the last minute. The first half was a cagey battle of defensive reflexes and bodily sacrifice going against all that is beautiful in the world of kick about. While Lyon held the ball as much as possible, their chances were limited. Barcelona were visibly frustrated having had the ball in Lyon's box several times only to be stopped by a skiddish brazilian and a giant Croat.
The second half saw a rejuvenated Barcelona take the game to the French side. With Lyon fumbling about the edge of their box and struggling to move forward, Javier Mascherano, the least likely source, smashed a brilliant 20 yard strike past the heroic Hugo Loris.
Almost immediately, Lyon answered. Running forward with a string of counter attacks formulated by the determination of Reveliere, Briand and Gomis working down the right. This eventually gave Barca an ill-timed throw in their own area. (which they tossed the wrong way) The result was a corner taken by Kim Kallstrom and headed into the back of the net by Lovren.
The remainder of the match saw a back and forth counter attacking style. Much different from the tactical first half. Eventually Football would win out. After having the ball for the last 10 minutes of time in the Lyon half, Lionel Messi, dispelled critics and scored a well positioned tap-in after a gaf by Cris, who probably won't be playing again now that the manager has noticed John Mensah at the end of the bench

D).