In your predicted lineup, I like the engine room. It's like retro Wednesday, especially with the ceremony on tap to honor the 2015 team. Those two guys know what it is like to wear the badge with honor and have been doing it for a long time. I imagine Ayala will get some minutes in the second half, either for Paredes or Chara. It is a must win game, but it will be difficult with quick turnaround, the heat, and the pressure to keep pace. I hope they are able to play more like a team, especially the front four, whoever they might be. If I were Phil, I might start Gage Guerra on the wing and bring on Fernandez as a 10 for Da Costa so he doesn't have to go 90. Ian Smith can play on the wing to back up Guerra or even Moreno, and switch Guerra to the right. If you need to, you could start Fernandez at the 10 and bring on Da Costa, if fitness levels are an issue.
I think the best term for PTFC's necessary demeanor Wed is "come out on the front foot" - push the action, attack and PUT SHOTS ON GOAL.
Enough with 'feeling out' the first 20 minutes!
In your predicted lineup, I like the engine room. It's like retro Wednesday, especially with the ceremony on tap to honor the 2015 team. Those two guys know what it is like to wear the badge with honor and have been doing it for a long time. I imagine Ayala will get some minutes in the second half, either for Paredes or Chara. It is a must win game, but it will be difficult with quick turnaround, the heat, and the pressure to keep pace. I hope they are able to play more like a team, especially the front four, whoever they might be. If I were Phil, I might start Gage Guerra on the wing and bring on Fernandez as a 10 for Da Costa so he doesn't have to go 90. Ian Smith can play on the wing to back up Guerra or even Moreno, and switch Guerra to the right. If you need to, you could start Fernandez at the 10 and bring on Da Costa, if fitness levels are an issue.