River opened up the 2011 Torneo Clausura tournament on a troublesome note as the club was only able to rescue one point versus Tigre. After a worrisome preseason return, River needed to bring home three points to start the year right. Even though the club is out of the relegation zone, the team is barely keeping a lead against those who closely lurk behind. Starting the tournament as the visiting squad could have been a factor, but there were many missed chances to score. Once again, Mariano Pavone lacked the final touch to put the ball inside the net, and Manuel Lanzini debuted as Ariel Ortega’s replacement with mixed reviews.
Watching this match brought me flashbacks of seasons passed. The lack of definition on the attack left the team in a serious predicament. Mariano Pavone, Erik Lamela, and Manuel Lanzini were responsible for River’s attack but they provided little on the pitch. The lack of goals encompassing the squad has been frustrating for the coaching staff, but not so more than the fan! How many times are we going to see missed chances that should have been drilled past the goalkeeper. Coach J.J. Lopez definitely needs to work on shooting during practice sessions because it is becoming ridiculous. Matias Almeyda proved again why he is the best player on the squad, as the veteran maintained a firm stance against his rivals. If more players were like him, this team would definitely be in better conditions.
It is important to make mention of Leandro Chichizola, River’s youngest player and current goalkeeper. Chichizola was able to clear many shots away, but his inexperience almost cost the team dearly. On two occasions he nearly gave the ball away to the rival, but he quickly regained control of the situation. If Coach J.J. Lopez opted to choose Chichizola as the main goalkeeper, then we have to respect his decision but little mistakes always cost us dearly. This 0-0 tie left a sour taste in my mouth, especially since the opponent was not that difficult to face. If memory serves me right, it is these matches that could define a tournament in the future. River, do me a favor and wake up.
