Calling Out ESPN

That I have issues with ESPN's quality of writing is an understatement. For the 'world wide leader in sports' awash in cash it's inexcusable to subject readers with this:

"Chelsea suffered their first home defeat in the Champions League group stage for ten years as Basel caused a major upset..."

Jesus me. Who edits this stuff.

As if I wasn't already annoyed, then they came up with this piece of irritation:

Elsewhere in Group H, Celtic produced a rousing European display away to AC Milan but were beaten 2-0, thanks to a late own goal by Emilio Izaguirre and a further effort from Sulley Muntari.
The Hoops, who beat Barcelona in last season’s group stage, were resolute at the San Siro, but eventually came undone as the Rossoneri got a huge slice of luck when defender Cristian Zapata's drive in the 82nd minute appeared to be heading wide before it deflected off Celtic left-back Izaguirre and ended up behind Fraser Forster.

Ok, I admit I support AC Milan but can they get any less objective? This is a 'round up' report. I don't need damn editorializing. Blah, blah, BLAH!

Am I the only one who has grown tired of the 'little engine that could' angle with Celtic?

Rousing? They played well, solid performance indeed. They accounted well for themselves and even came within a cross bar of taking the lead, but what was so rousing about it? Yes, they played at the legendary San Siro but it's no easier to win in Scotland either. Celtic is in Champions League and as such are a quality side that demand and command respect. 

Like usual, the English/Scottish are hard done by (according to the press) despite 'spirited' play only to go down to a 'slice of luck' a phrase borrowed from the English announcer I reckon.

Get bent. Boo-hoo-hoo, always a bridesmaid never a bride. Yeah, it was an own goal, but that's life. Funny how Arsenal's 'slice of luck' wasn't mentioned after Aaron Ramsey gave them a 2-1 lead. Funny.

Last season Juventus absolutely obliterated Celtic over two-legs yet the narrative was set in a way that led people to believe Celtic were close to winning. The coach said as much which raised an eyebrow or two.

On all levels they were outclassed just like Bayern Munich showed its class and strength in dismissing Juve in impressive fashion in the quarter-finals.

It was the same with England against Italy at Euro 2012. Standing behind the ball letting your opponent come with much desire to advance or attack is not "proud" play. It's called hanging on before a superior opponent.

In any event, this was the case today. AC Milan did not play their 'A' lineup as they are battling injuries to key players yet still held an edge in possession, shots on goal, quality chances as well as total completed passes.

They made their luck.

If Celtic put in a rousing performance, Milan were resilient given it wasn't their best effort.

So fuck off ESPN staff writers.