MiddleClassSports.com

I want to encourage all of you to set your DVR’s to ESPN2 at 2:30 this afternoon, so you won’t miss the second leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinal between Liverpool and Chelsea.

I told you that I want you to get interested in European soccer.  Allow me to explain this “leg” thing so that you know how it works.  In the Champions League, clubs (teams) are scheduled to play twice, once on each team’s home pitch (field).  It’s the ultimate in fairness.  After both legs have been played, the scores from the two matches are added up.  Whoever has the most goals wins.

The first leg in the Liverpool-Chelsea semifinal ended in a tie 1-1.  It was a heartbreaking result for Liverpool, as they gave up Chelsea’s one goal in the final seconds of the match.  To top it off, Liverpool scored the goal for Chelsea.  John Arne Riise, a defender for Liverpool, accidentally shot the ball into his own net.

This afternoon, the two teams meet in the second leg, this one being played at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea’s home pitch.  Chelsea has a huge advantage since Liverpool hasn’t won at Stamford Bridge in years, and because they are tied after playing at Anfield, Liverpool’s home pitch.

I’ll be watching, and pulling for Liverpool.  I hope you’ll join me.