[Welcome back to halftime coverage of this thrilling Europa League second-leg playoff match. What a first half we've just witnessed! Anzhi Makhachkala lead AZ Alkmaar 1-0, but the story of the half has to be Vladimir Gabulov, the Russian wall between the sticks,] the lead commentator began, his voice laced with awe.
[Absolutely. Gabulov's been nothing short of extraordinary. AZ Alkmaar has thrown everything at him, but he's stood firm,] the co-commentator replied. He leaned back slightly, adjusting his headset. [That save from Benjamin in the 45th minute? Top class. Reflexes like that don't come easy]
The large stadium screen cut to highlights of Gabulov's sprawling saves, and the look of frustration on the AZ Alkmaar players' faces.
