Bring on the draw!

There are few things as sweet as a comprehensive win in front of the home fans in European competition. It's was Toulouse's destiny to lose... (thank you, thank you, tip your waitress).

I have to admit, I was quite nervous at the site of Sebastian Leto getting his first nod for the side in such a crucial fixture, as well as the redundant pairing of Mascherano and Sissoko in central midfield. But evidently, it never really mattered. Momo and Masch bossed the middle of the park with ease, while Kuyt and Yossi both created havoc for the Toulouse defense, resulting in four goals (which could've easily been eight). Was a bit troubled by Riise's play in defense (plenty of giveaways from him), Hyypia's wayward positioning (even though he scored a goal, he really seems to be showing his age), and Mascherano, although dominant at winning 50/50 balls, killed most of our attacks in the first half. MotM probably has to go to Kuyt.

Still, bloody great stuff from the lads, today. Always a pleasure to have these dominating victories, especially early in the season. From the look of it, our next four games in the league (Derby, Pompey, Birmingham, Wigan) should be the perfect platform to ride this wave.

We finally sold that Argie waste, Paletta, yesterday, too. I have to admit, I'm not broken up about that news at all. I never rated Paletta. Always felt, while still young, he was a liability. Fortunately, Arbeloa has shown that he has the capability to play in the center of defense in addition to his accustomed role on the left side. Arbs is quickly becoming one of my favorites on the side. Should definitely be considered as permanent a fixture as a healthy Jamie Carragher.

Now to the Champions League draw, this Friday. Feels good to be in pot 1 as a top seed (along with Chelsea, Arsenal, Man United, Barcelona, Real Madrid, AC Milan, and Inter Milan). However, I can't shake the feeling that we'll be making difficult trips to both Spain and Germany (in my head, it's already Valencia and Schalke which would be tough). Can't really say I'm too bothered by anyone in pot 4 and I have no doubts about progressing through to the knockout stages.