Liverpool came into their fixture against Southampton with quite a bit on the line. While a draw would suffice if that was the final after 90, it would not have benefited the Reds very much.
A draw would have only put them up by four points over Manchester United with the Red Devils having two games in hand. Not exactly the spot you want to be in with your destiny not in your hands
As has become typical in recent games, things got off to a slow start against a team lower in the table than Liverpool. The Reds struggled to piece together a solid attack and were thwarted any time something began to build.
The one bright spot in the opening half was Roberto Firmino. He never came tantalizingly close to putting one in the twine, but his performance was very good.
In the 15th minute, Firmino had a nice steal inside the area. Unfortunately, his subsequent hot was blocked as he went far post and the defender was right there.
Firmino kept up his solid performance by out-muscling his opponent in the midfield in the 34th minute. Again, the attack could not be formed though, as he could only muster a long, rolling shot that was easily saved.
Halftime came and no score for either team. The scoreless draw after 45 was frustrating because the Saints literally conjured no attack at all. Liverpool just had no way of breaking things down.
There was a lot of early movement by the attacking players for Liverpool. It went in vain and you could tell there was frustration. They became static as the half wore on and the Reds were trying to lob balls across the packed defense after that.
There was not much the Liverpool manager could do either. Jurgen Klopp did a lot of jawing with the officials, but in terms of changing his attack there was only so much he could do short of putting new players in.
The second half did not yield much better in terms of final results. Liverpool had more energy, but were not able to really create.
It seemed like Liverpool would get nothing out of the match as it went a full hour without anything happening. Then the Reds were given the lifeline of a questionable penalty.
Even as a fan of Liverpool, I did not see the handball that was given for the Reds to have a penalty. Perhaps it was justice that James Milner failed to convert. Fraser Forester came up with a big save, but Milner should have gone for a higher shot.
Things finally opened up a bit around the 70th minute. The back and forth nature even brought about the comment from Jon Champion that we might even see a proper game of football.
Coutinho's day was a little disappointing. He was putting in the effort to get into good spots and even sent a few hard shots on target. Unfortunately, his trademark whipping curler ended up at the goalkeeper each time.
In the 78th minute, it seemed like Daniel Sturridge might strike. However, the ball released just enough near the spot that all he could do was toe-poke it toward the keeper.
By the final whistle, nobody had managed to bulge the old onion bag. Perhaps we should have seen it coming since Liverpool failed to score against the Saints in four matches this season.
Now, Liverpool must hope for results elsewhere to fall their way. They are only four points up on the fifth place team and can no longer fully control their own destiny.
They must focus on their final two matches and let everything else fall as it may.
Random Thoughts:
- Are soccer fans too used to not being able to use their hands? It seems when a ball is blasted into the crowd, nobody wants to attempt to catch it. They are content to take it off the midsection or even the head.
- I love Sadio Mane, but even as fast and creative as he is, it boggles the mind that he has made that big a difference. There still should be enough quality in the attack for them to score goals, but goals have been harder to come by without him.
- It stinks to have to complain about a clean sheet. The Reds played well enough defensively, though Southampton did little to actually attack. Still, this game feels like points lost.
Walk On
Sunday, May 7, 2017
Monday, May 1, 2017
Liverpool Survive Watford In Ugly Contest
Liverpool faced off against Watford looking to wash away the bad taste in their mouth from their previous game. As has become somewhat the norm, Liverpool failed to do anything against a lower level team and fell to Crystal Palace.
Unfortunately for the Reds and their fans, they were playing against another mid-to-lower level team in Watford. Watford came into the early May fixture set in 13th place (out of 20) and 26 points behind Liverpool.
Nevertheless, things started out as almost all matches against these smaller clubs have. Liverpool had most of the possession but could not do anything with it.
To top off the lack of attack, the Reds were faced with an early injury. Coutinho, one of the few people on the Reds capable of attacking one-on-one, injured his right leg. Though he tried to hobble on for a few minutes, it was all for naught. Jurgen Klopp and the staff were forced to take him out in the 13th minute and put in Adam Lallana.
People who have read this blog long enough know I am not the president of Lallana's fan club. He is a decent player with some good skill, but he is not Coutinho. The one thing both have in common is an ability to disappear for long stretches.
Fortunately, Lallana is a quality enough player to at least fill the void. He might not have as much creativity and skill in tight quarters, but he can finish when given the opportunity and a bit of space.
Alas, for Liverpool that space was hard to come by in the opening 45. The Reds threaded passes through the defenders, but there always seemed to be a double team awaiting the recipient of the pass.
A few long balls here or there got the Reds as far forward as the penalty area and a cross or two even got inside. There just was not much room to do anything.
While it does not make for an exciting game to watch, you have to marvel at the ability to keep shape for so long and not get drawn out. On the flip side, Liverpool wants to be considered a top-tier team and top-tier teams find ways to break down those kinds of defenses.
Lallana almost created a bit of magic in the 41st minute. With a long strike off a goalkeeper's punch from a corner, Lallana smashed a volley that rang off the crossbar. Unfortunately, it would not cross the goal line and goose eggs remained on the scoreboard.
Just when it seemed like things would go into the break even, there was a bit of brilliance out of nowhere. With a little chip cross into the box from the right hand side, Emre Can was waiting.
Unbelievably, he went for the bicycle kick and connected. Whether intentionally or not, he got a bit of loft on the shot instead of power. That was enough to lob it over the goalkeeper and give the Reds a spectacular goal for their 1-0 lead.
The second half was a little different, but not much. Liverpool still had most of the ball, but they were not afforded much more space.
Watford did venture forward more in an attempt to equalize, but the Reds could not spring counters too much. Capoue almost found the tying shot, but was rewarded with a yellow card when he protested too loudly after not being given a corner when Simon Mignolet tipped it over the bar.
Liverpool should have doubled the lead in the 76th minute. Lallana was fed into the box alone, but the ball took a bobble and fell behind him. The defender was able to clear and the Reds did nothing with the ensuing corner.
The end of the contest was not exactly the stuff of legend. Too many balls aimlessly up in the air by both squads.
Daniel Sturridge came achingly close to scoring in added time. If not for a huge save from Gomes, it would have been 2-0.
In the end, Liverpool gained the 3 points. It was not a pretty but they won.
Watford almost tied it at the death, but we're denied by the bar. Liverpool failed to capitalize on the break. Those final moments crystalized the game.
The Reds can't find ways to break down packed defenses. Still, they found that one moment and finally made the most of it.
Random Thoughts:
- can Liverpool get some luck with injury? For the last few years their stars keep going down. Danny Ings has been gine, Sturridge can't stay in, Mane is out and now Coutinho. Those are just the big names. All teams have injury, but it seems the Reds get them even worse.
- it's hard to pinpoint who needs to go or stay. As individuals, Liverpool have good players. If you can't comfortably beat the minnows though, you can't keep pinning title hope on other teams losing.
- you win how you win. However the Reds need to know they cannot rely on their back four to see these games out. Too many chances against. Liverpool must keep pressing to relieve pressure.
Walk On
Unfortunately for the Reds and their fans, they were playing against another mid-to-lower level team in Watford. Watford came into the early May fixture set in 13th place (out of 20) and 26 points behind Liverpool.
Nevertheless, things started out as almost all matches against these smaller clubs have. Liverpool had most of the possession but could not do anything with it.
To top off the lack of attack, the Reds were faced with an early injury. Coutinho, one of the few people on the Reds capable of attacking one-on-one, injured his right leg. Though he tried to hobble on for a few minutes, it was all for naught. Jurgen Klopp and the staff were forced to take him out in the 13th minute and put in Adam Lallana.
People who have read this blog long enough know I am not the president of Lallana's fan club. He is a decent player with some good skill, but he is not Coutinho. The one thing both have in common is an ability to disappear for long stretches.
Fortunately, Lallana is a quality enough player to at least fill the void. He might not have as much creativity and skill in tight quarters, but he can finish when given the opportunity and a bit of space.
Alas, for Liverpool that space was hard to come by in the opening 45. The Reds threaded passes through the defenders, but there always seemed to be a double team awaiting the recipient of the pass.
A few long balls here or there got the Reds as far forward as the penalty area and a cross or two even got inside. There just was not much room to do anything.
While it does not make for an exciting game to watch, you have to marvel at the ability to keep shape for so long and not get drawn out. On the flip side, Liverpool wants to be considered a top-tier team and top-tier teams find ways to break down those kinds of defenses.
Lallana almost created a bit of magic in the 41st minute. With a long strike off a goalkeeper's punch from a corner, Lallana smashed a volley that rang off the crossbar. Unfortunately, it would not cross the goal line and goose eggs remained on the scoreboard.
Just when it seemed like things would go into the break even, there was a bit of brilliance out of nowhere. With a little chip cross into the box from the right hand side, Emre Can was waiting.
Unbelievably, he went for the bicycle kick and connected. Whether intentionally or not, he got a bit of loft on the shot instead of power. That was enough to lob it over the goalkeeper and give the Reds a spectacular goal for their 1-0 lead.
The second half was a little different, but not much. Liverpool still had most of the ball, but they were not afforded much more space.
Watford did venture forward more in an attempt to equalize, but the Reds could not spring counters too much. Capoue almost found the tying shot, but was rewarded with a yellow card when he protested too loudly after not being given a corner when Simon Mignolet tipped it over the bar.
Liverpool should have doubled the lead in the 76th minute. Lallana was fed into the box alone, but the ball took a bobble and fell behind him. The defender was able to clear and the Reds did nothing with the ensuing corner.
The end of the contest was not exactly the stuff of legend. Too many balls aimlessly up in the air by both squads.
Daniel Sturridge came achingly close to scoring in added time. If not for a huge save from Gomes, it would have been 2-0.
In the end, Liverpool gained the 3 points. It was not a pretty but they won.
Watford almost tied it at the death, but we're denied by the bar. Liverpool failed to capitalize on the break. Those final moments crystalized the game.
The Reds can't find ways to break down packed defenses. Still, they found that one moment and finally made the most of it.
Random Thoughts:
- can Liverpool get some luck with injury? For the last few years their stars keep going down. Danny Ings has been gine, Sturridge can't stay in, Mane is out and now Coutinho. Those are just the big names. All teams have injury, but it seems the Reds get them even worse.
- it's hard to pinpoint who needs to go or stay. As individuals, Liverpool have good players. If you can't comfortably beat the minnows though, you can't keep pinning title hope on other teams losing.
- you win how you win. However the Reds need to know they cannot rely on their back four to see these games out. Too many chances against. Liverpool must keep pressing to relieve pressure.
Walk On
Sunday, April 23, 2017
Liverpool Continue To Bow To The Minnows With Loss To Palace
Liverpool came into their game against Crystal Palace in a good place, but not a great one. The Reds were set in the top four, but not separating themselves from the pack and not in fantastic form.
The Reds gained points in their last three games, but it was only a draw and two close wins. Considering the results came against Bournemouth, Stoke and West Brom, it was not an encouraging sign to be playing against another team in the bottom half.
Liverpool struggled to create against Palace early. In the 16th minute, there was way too much passing when the Reds had a break. You'd like to see Coutinho or Milner strike it first time, but instead they looked elsewhere for finishers and no shot ever came.
Former Liverpool man Christian Benteke narrowly missed to the right in the 22nd minute. Unfortunately, you could somewhat tell he was not likely to be held off the board the entire time.
Fortunately for Liverpool, they struck first. Coutinho returned to form on a beautiful free kick goal in the 24th minute. He placed it absolutely perfectly, up and over the wall and just inside the post, giving the goalkeeper no chance. It was important not only for the game, but for the Brazilian who has been a bit of a ghost of late.
Liverpool continued their attempts to be too cute after that though. In the 31st minute, Firmino had a good chance to set something up but he wasted it by just playing it into the crowd.
Those missed chances would be rued later. A sleeping defense allowed a ball over the top in the 42nd minute. You could see the goal coming a mile away as the cross went to the back post and Benteke finished it off with class. It was a fine play all around, but it could have been avoided much earlier and the Reds just seem to find ways to give up goals to teams that have no business scoring them.
Liverpool still had everything to play for in the second half, but you felt it was a missed opportunity. The equalizing goal was going to allow Palace to sit back and play for a point instead of having to open up to get a second half goal.
Surprisingly, the Eagles opened up on the front foot pushing toward goal in the early moments of the second 45. Fortunately, nothing came of it outside of a corner kick that was easily cleared.
Those early moments seemed to wake Liverpool a bit. They pushed forward into the sea of yellow and began to find space. The magical feet of Coutinho almost created something special in the 50th minute, but his left footed shot was shoveled over the bar. The main man took on what seemed like the whole of Palace just moments later inside the 18, but there were just too many bodies to lead the block.
The subsequent play seemed like it would fall Liverpool's way too. However, Lucas was the man on the strike from the corner. He is a fine defender and passer, but it seems like too many important moments fall to his feet. There is a reason he has not scored in the Premier League in eight seasons and he continued to show why.
Again, the missed chances came back to haunt the Reds. Palace kept building up their own attack and you could sense something was coming again.
Then, they finally struck in the 75th minute. Of course, it would be Benteke a second time. Liverpool's defending of the corner was woeful, missing a clearing attempt and the Belgian headed it home with power.
Coutinho had a decent chance late that went well over the bar, but it just was not going to be Liverpool's day. As a fan, it was very disappointing to see.
Unfortunately, it begs whether the problem might actually be Jurgen Klopp. Never one to blame managers for everything, but this is becoming too much of an issue that the team cannot crush lower opposition.
Nobody should be calling for the German's job. He is still the best choice for the spot, but he has to figure this out because it is unbecoming of a team with Champions League aspirations.
Random Thoughts:
- Thank goodness for the St. Louis Blues. It was a bad soccer weekend. Saint Louis FC lost to a lower team 2-1 as well and it was the same story. Score an early goal and then have some defensive miscues cost you all the points. Perhaps it is me? Nah...
- I love Sadio Mane for his energy and tenacity. He just does not seem to be the kind of player that makes that big a difference. This team does not seem to be set up to be a one man show, but the Reds don't seem to be able to do anything when he is gone.
- It's still too early to think about the summer, but can we ever have a year where we aren't demanding more impact players be brought in? When will Liverpool reach a point where you bring in supplemental players or that's all you need anyway? Seems like either injury or underperformance always make us want a big name and then they never sign one.
Walk On
The Reds gained points in their last three games, but it was only a draw and two close wins. Considering the results came against Bournemouth, Stoke and West Brom, it was not an encouraging sign to be playing against another team in the bottom half.
Liverpool struggled to create against Palace early. In the 16th minute, there was way too much passing when the Reds had a break. You'd like to see Coutinho or Milner strike it first time, but instead they looked elsewhere for finishers and no shot ever came.
Former Liverpool man Christian Benteke narrowly missed to the right in the 22nd minute. Unfortunately, you could somewhat tell he was not likely to be held off the board the entire time.
Fortunately for Liverpool, they struck first. Coutinho returned to form on a beautiful free kick goal in the 24th minute. He placed it absolutely perfectly, up and over the wall and just inside the post, giving the goalkeeper no chance. It was important not only for the game, but for the Brazilian who has been a bit of a ghost of late.
Liverpool continued their attempts to be too cute after that though. In the 31st minute, Firmino had a good chance to set something up but he wasted it by just playing it into the crowd.
Those missed chances would be rued later. A sleeping defense allowed a ball over the top in the 42nd minute. You could see the goal coming a mile away as the cross went to the back post and Benteke finished it off with class. It was a fine play all around, but it could have been avoided much earlier and the Reds just seem to find ways to give up goals to teams that have no business scoring them.
Liverpool still had everything to play for in the second half, but you felt it was a missed opportunity. The equalizing goal was going to allow Palace to sit back and play for a point instead of having to open up to get a second half goal.
Surprisingly, the Eagles opened up on the front foot pushing toward goal in the early moments of the second 45. Fortunately, nothing came of it outside of a corner kick that was easily cleared.
Those early moments seemed to wake Liverpool a bit. They pushed forward into the sea of yellow and began to find space. The magical feet of Coutinho almost created something special in the 50th minute, but his left footed shot was shoveled over the bar. The main man took on what seemed like the whole of Palace just moments later inside the 18, but there were just too many bodies to lead the block.
The subsequent play seemed like it would fall Liverpool's way too. However, Lucas was the man on the strike from the corner. He is a fine defender and passer, but it seems like too many important moments fall to his feet. There is a reason he has not scored in the Premier League in eight seasons and he continued to show why.
Again, the missed chances came back to haunt the Reds. Palace kept building up their own attack and you could sense something was coming again.
Then, they finally struck in the 75th minute. Of course, it would be Benteke a second time. Liverpool's defending of the corner was woeful, missing a clearing attempt and the Belgian headed it home with power.
Coutinho had a decent chance late that went well over the bar, but it just was not going to be Liverpool's day. As a fan, it was very disappointing to see.
Unfortunately, it begs whether the problem might actually be Jurgen Klopp. Never one to blame managers for everything, but this is becoming too much of an issue that the team cannot crush lower opposition.
Nobody should be calling for the German's job. He is still the best choice for the spot, but he has to figure this out because it is unbecoming of a team with Champions League aspirations.
Random Thoughts:
- Thank goodness for the St. Louis Blues. It was a bad soccer weekend. Saint Louis FC lost to a lower team 2-1 as well and it was the same story. Score an early goal and then have some defensive miscues cost you all the points. Perhaps it is me? Nah...
- I love Sadio Mane for his energy and tenacity. He just does not seem to be the kind of player that makes that big a difference. This team does not seem to be set up to be a one man show, but the Reds don't seem to be able to do anything when he is gone.
- It's still too early to think about the summer, but can we ever have a year where we aren't demanding more impact players be brought in? When will Liverpool reach a point where you bring in supplemental players or that's all you need anyway? Seems like either injury or underperformance always make us want a big name and then they never sign one.
Walk On
Sunday, March 19, 2017
Lackluster Result For Liverpool Despite Wild Game Against Man City
Liverpool came into their final match of the season against Manchester City knowing it was one of the more important games of the year. It was featured on national television in the United States and had large implications on the potential final finish in the table.
The game opened up with a rather furious pace and never really calmed down. Liverpool got into the book first, but not the one they wanted. Roberto Firmino got a yellow card in the first quarter hour, that put him behind the eight ball. Fortunately he never found himself in a spot to get another decision against him.
Both teams went up and down the pitch in the early going, but chances were a bit fewer and farther between. Manchester City got the first true test of the game. Simon Mignolet came up with a good kick save in the 20th minute. The Reds were lucky that David Silva smashed one over the bar on the rebound, otherwise they would have conceded the first of the game. That would become a theme.
Liverpool got the short end of the stick in the 18 yard box. They were denied on consecutive penalty decisions. The first one where Sadio Mane was taken down was probably not a penalty, but the second where Gregorio Wijnaldum probably was.
The Reds began to finally string some things together as the game continued on. Coutinho flashed one high and wide in the 35th minute. You knew he wanted it on his preferred right foot, but the defenders still fell for it anyway. Unfortunately, the finishing product was not there.
Then in the 40th minute the entire world thought it would surely end in a City goal. They got the ball down the left wing and sent in a fizzing low cross. Liverpool came up with the initial block and then a miss on the near side averted the danger.
Liverpool were awarded for their own efforts in the 50th minute. Firmino was in the box and the defender put his foot up under his armpit. The announcers said it was no penalty since they got the ball, but it ended in a penalty goal for James Milner.
The Reds had opportunities to put the game to bed, but failed to do so and that cost them in the end. Roberto Firmino was denied on the break in the 61st minute.
Sergio Aguero made the Reds pay for their lack of finishing and tied it up in the 69th minute. City had been flashing crosses across the face of goal all game long and finally hit pay dirt.
Liverpool wasted another opportunity in the 72nd minute. Adam Lallana had it just outside the box and laid it off to the side instead of taking a shooting chance. Then Firmino shot it off the side netting instead of sliding one back across.
The misses kept on coming and got even worse in the way they happened. Lallana absolutely butchered the game winning chance and just caught it with his studs. It was a beautifully weighted ball by Emre Can over the top and then laid back to a waiting Lallana. Instead of just tucking it in, he managed to almost completely whiff on it, sending fans into a frenzy but not the good kind.
Aguero sent a volley over the bar in stoppage time, further sending Liverpool hearts into their throats. Fortunately, when the final whistle came it finished a draw.
The game was disappointing in the fact that that both teams missed so many opportunities to take the winner. However, a draw was probably a fair result given that both teams benefited from calls or non-calls from the ref and missed chances.
Liverpool missed out on a chance to leapfrog City in the table. Still, the point gives them a four point cushion over Manchester United, so it was not a failed chance in the grand scheme of things.
Random Thoughts:
- Going back to the penalty call, I found it hard to believe all the NBC broadcasters felt it was not a penalty. I understand both are former defenders, but you cannot throw your foot up at face level of an attacking player and think you won't get something called on you. There was contact, it was from behind and it was reckless. Touching the ball first has nothing to do with it.
- As an official myself, another phrase I'm tired of is having to get control of the game. No official has ever thought to themselves they needed to let a game get out of hand. You take each situation as it comes and try to call it as best you can. It's a no win scenario as fans don't like it when you call a ticky-tac foul just to "get the game back under control" and yellow cards don't have the effect everyone thinks they do. So, the official can only try to take each foul situation as it comes.
- Where on Earth is Daniel Sturridge? I understand he's injured, but how can the guy continuously pick up injury in practice? Why does he seem to have fallen so far out of favor as well? It's kind of a sad end to what could have been a great career since you can't see him lasting much longer in a red shirt.
- I try to be a live and let live type person. However, it is satisfying seeing Raheem Sterling continue to falter against his old team. I still believe he would have been better off staying in Liverpool for his game, but his pocketbook says otherwise so you can't fault him too much.
Walk On
The game opened up with a rather furious pace and never really calmed down. Liverpool got into the book first, but not the one they wanted. Roberto Firmino got a yellow card in the first quarter hour, that put him behind the eight ball. Fortunately he never found himself in a spot to get another decision against him.
Both teams went up and down the pitch in the early going, but chances were a bit fewer and farther between. Manchester City got the first true test of the game. Simon Mignolet came up with a good kick save in the 20th minute. The Reds were lucky that David Silva smashed one over the bar on the rebound, otherwise they would have conceded the first of the game. That would become a theme.
Liverpool got the short end of the stick in the 18 yard box. They were denied on consecutive penalty decisions. The first one where Sadio Mane was taken down was probably not a penalty, but the second where Gregorio Wijnaldum probably was.
The Reds began to finally string some things together as the game continued on. Coutinho flashed one high and wide in the 35th minute. You knew he wanted it on his preferred right foot, but the defenders still fell for it anyway. Unfortunately, the finishing product was not there.
Then in the 40th minute the entire world thought it would surely end in a City goal. They got the ball down the left wing and sent in a fizzing low cross. Liverpool came up with the initial block and then a miss on the near side averted the danger.
Liverpool were awarded for their own efforts in the 50th minute. Firmino was in the box and the defender put his foot up under his armpit. The announcers said it was no penalty since they got the ball, but it ended in a penalty goal for James Milner.
The Reds had opportunities to put the game to bed, but failed to do so and that cost them in the end. Roberto Firmino was denied on the break in the 61st minute.
Sergio Aguero made the Reds pay for their lack of finishing and tied it up in the 69th minute. City had been flashing crosses across the face of goal all game long and finally hit pay dirt.
Liverpool wasted another opportunity in the 72nd minute. Adam Lallana had it just outside the box and laid it off to the side instead of taking a shooting chance. Then Firmino shot it off the side netting instead of sliding one back across.
The misses kept on coming and got even worse in the way they happened. Lallana absolutely butchered the game winning chance and just caught it with his studs. It was a beautifully weighted ball by Emre Can over the top and then laid back to a waiting Lallana. Instead of just tucking it in, he managed to almost completely whiff on it, sending fans into a frenzy but not the good kind.
Aguero sent a volley over the bar in stoppage time, further sending Liverpool hearts into their throats. Fortunately, when the final whistle came it finished a draw.
The game was disappointing in the fact that that both teams missed so many opportunities to take the winner. However, a draw was probably a fair result given that both teams benefited from calls or non-calls from the ref and missed chances.
Liverpool missed out on a chance to leapfrog City in the table. Still, the point gives them a four point cushion over Manchester United, so it was not a failed chance in the grand scheme of things.
Random Thoughts:
- Going back to the penalty call, I found it hard to believe all the NBC broadcasters felt it was not a penalty. I understand both are former defenders, but you cannot throw your foot up at face level of an attacking player and think you won't get something called on you. There was contact, it was from behind and it was reckless. Touching the ball first has nothing to do with it.
- As an official myself, another phrase I'm tired of is having to get control of the game. No official has ever thought to themselves they needed to let a game get out of hand. You take each situation as it comes and try to call it as best you can. It's a no win scenario as fans don't like it when you call a ticky-tac foul just to "get the game back under control" and yellow cards don't have the effect everyone thinks they do. So, the official can only try to take each foul situation as it comes.
- Where on Earth is Daniel Sturridge? I understand he's injured, but how can the guy continuously pick up injury in practice? Why does he seem to have fallen so far out of favor as well? It's kind of a sad end to what could have been a great career since you can't see him lasting much longer in a red shirt.
- I try to be a live and let live type person. However, it is satisfying seeing Raheem Sterling continue to falter against his old team. I still believe he would have been better off staying in Liverpool for his game, but his pocketbook says otherwise so you can't fault him too much.
Walk On
Saturday, March 4, 2017
Liverpool Should Play Arsenal Every Day
Liverpool came into their match against perennial top-four candidate Arsenal needing a result, particularly a win. While there was plenty of reason to think they would be able to get it, there were reasons to doubt whether it would happen too.
Fortunately, the Reds came to play and the Gunners stayed away. Liverpool put out a much more balanced side, with no less focus on attack.
After my own claims about the intelligence behind starting Lucas at center back (yes, I'm taking credit), the Reds put in Ragnar Klavan. It may not have had an immediate impact as Liverpool still look shaky on the counter, but it did have a calming effect on the team.
Liverpool looked much more focused and streamlined on their attacks, right from the get go. They came out and took the game to Arsenal and were rewarded for their efforts.
Even more impressive than Liverpool's intensity was the crispness of their attack. Not only did they score nice goals, but the plays that led up to each goal were discussion worthy as well.
Roberto Firmino put Liverpool ahead just nine minutes into the game. The buildup was just as satisfying as the finish.
Coming off a Simon Mignolet kick, the ball took a bounce through the midfield. Coutinho just flicked it to the right for Sadio Mane. Mane's speed allowed him to gain enough space for, admittedly, an awkward cross. However it found it's way to Firmino, who kept his composure and allowed the goalkeeper and defenders to fall like bowling pins in front of him.
The game stayed close until the 40th minute when Mane would get his just-desserts.
The Reds had an even better team performance in getting the season sweep over Arsenal. The offense was not as strong, but it did not need to be.
With the exception of Arsenal's initial boost from the substitute of Alexis Sanchez, Liverpool dominated the midfield. Liverpool did not have to do a ton of defending, but they looked pretty comfortable in most situations where they did. Mignolet was not called on to save the team's butts like in previous games.
It was a fun game to watch and, win or lose, that has not always been the case in recent times. Now, if the team could just bottle up these efforts and apply it to the teams mid-table and below.
Random Thoughts:
- It's fun to consider ourselves the third place team in the league, but it is hard to do so. We are currently even on points with Manchester City and they have two games in hand. More importantly, it gets the team into the top four though, where they are now two points up on Arsenal.
- Any suggestions on other suggestions I should make for the team? Clearly they listened and put Klavan in and that seemed to help, so I have all the power now.
- This is generally a Liverpool blog, but what is up with Arsenal sitting Sanchez? The guy is leading the league in goals. We will take it, but it was definitely a head scratcher.
- On a side note, nobody reading this will get it likely, but my wife apparently thinks Jurgen Klopp looks like Principal Brown from The Amazing World of Gumball. I don't know about her sometimes.
Fortunately, the Reds came to play and the Gunners stayed away. Liverpool put out a much more balanced side, with no less focus on attack.
After my own claims about the intelligence behind starting Lucas at center back (yes, I'm taking credit), the Reds put in Ragnar Klavan. It may not have had an immediate impact as Liverpool still look shaky on the counter, but it did have a calming effect on the team.
Liverpool looked much more focused and streamlined on their attacks, right from the get go. They came out and took the game to Arsenal and were rewarded for their efforts.
Even more impressive than Liverpool's intensity was the crispness of their attack. Not only did they score nice goals, but the plays that led up to each goal were discussion worthy as well.
Roberto Firmino put Liverpool ahead just nine minutes into the game. The buildup was just as satisfying as the finish.
Coming off a Simon Mignolet kick, the ball took a bounce through the midfield. Coutinho just flicked it to the right for Sadio Mane. Mane's speed allowed him to gain enough space for, admittedly, an awkward cross. However it found it's way to Firmino, who kept his composure and allowed the goalkeeper and defenders to fall like bowling pins in front of him.
The game stayed close until the 40th minute when Mane would get his just-desserts.
Mane's finish was fine, but again the buildup was just as good. Liverpool worked it up the left this time, pinged some passes around the box and then found a wide-open Mane on the back door. It was a sight. Also, it was not the first time the prolific winger stung the Gunners.2-0 MANE!!!!!!!! pic.twitter.com/LvnefERe9b— Liverpool Gifs (@LiverpoolGifs) March 4, 2017
The way the game played out, you honestly wish this year's Liverpool could play Arsenal every game. Granted, the first game was too close at 4-3 but Liverpool came out and played masterfully offensively (if not defensively).Sadio Mané goal vs Arsenal at the start of the season 🔥👊 #LFC pic.twitter.com/0iG26LrdJm— Anything Liverpool (@Anything_LFC) March 4, 2017
The Reds had an even better team performance in getting the season sweep over Arsenal. The offense was not as strong, but it did not need to be.
With the exception of Arsenal's initial boost from the substitute of Alexis Sanchez, Liverpool dominated the midfield. Liverpool did not have to do a ton of defending, but they looked pretty comfortable in most situations where they did. Mignolet was not called on to save the team's butts like in previous games.
It was a fun game to watch and, win or lose, that has not always been the case in recent times. Now, if the team could just bottle up these efforts and apply it to the teams mid-table and below.
Random Thoughts:
- It's fun to consider ourselves the third place team in the league, but it is hard to do so. We are currently even on points with Manchester City and they have two games in hand. More importantly, it gets the team into the top four though, where they are now two points up on Arsenal.
- Any suggestions on other suggestions I should make for the team? Clearly they listened and put Klavan in and that seemed to help, so I have all the power now.
- This is generally a Liverpool blog, but what is up with Arsenal sitting Sanchez? The guy is leading the league in goals. We will take it, but it was definitely a head scratcher.
- On a side note, nobody reading this will get it likely, but my wife apparently thinks Jurgen Klopp looks like Principal Brown from The Amazing World of Gumball. I don't know about her sometimes.
Monday, February 27, 2017
Liverpool Countered To Death By Leicester
After a lengthy break (around 16 days), Liverpool returned to action. They seemed to have everything set up for a victory but that's why we play the games.
Liverpool was going up against Leicester. The Reds had their form back with a strong win over Tottenham, Leicester was reeling from the unpopular firing of Claudio Ranieri and the Foxes had not scored a Premier League goal in 2017.
All set up for Liverpool right? Not so fast my friend.
The Foxes came out with a lot of energy in the first few moments. Liverpool looked shaky on the backline and just a step slow. Their goalkeeper kept them into the contest with a couple early saves, but it would not last long enough.
Liverpool's defensive lapses were clear when Leicester scored the opening goal in the 28th minute. Lucas, who has played valiantly but is not a defender, was charged with marking Jamie Vardy. However, he was shoulder to shoulder with the striker as the through ball was played and Vardy scored on a breakaway with, really, only Simon Mignolet to beat.
Liverpool did not hang their heads. They almost came up with a moment of brilliance just a short time later. Coutinho was denied the equalizer only a minute or so later when Kasper Schmeichel made himself big, diving to stop the Brazilian's one timer.
Despite the Reds dominance through midfield, they could not really spring things on the attack. That left too much room for the Foxes to feel they were in the game. The Liverpool defensive woes continued as well.
In the 40th minute, the Reds failed to fully clear the ball from the penalty area. Liverpool looked lost when defending their own 18 yard box and Danny Drinkwater managed to make them pay. With the ball falling perfectly to him, he volleyed it from about 22 yards and curled it perfectly into the side netting.
Unfortunately for Liverpool, the Foxes looked like the team that won the 2016 Premier League title as opposed to the team that was in danger of being relegated. Liverpool came through the tunnel to open the second half with spirit, but spirit does not win games alone.
At one point, the Reds had 79% of the possession. They were pressing up the field and trying to probe the defense. They could not find a hole though.
Like the previous season, Leicester were not interested in playing an open game once they had a solid lead. The Foxes had plenty of players back to defend each push up the field. Then Leicester poached another one.
Against the run of play, a cross found Vardy. Vardy headed it home for his second of the game and a 3-0 lead with less than 30 minutes to go.
Liverpool tried some things, including some subs and brief formation changes. None of it was enough though.
There were bright spots. A bit of brilliance with some solid passing along the left and a good run by Emre Can was finished off by Coutinho. The forward's first goal in 16 games made the score 3-1.
In the end there was not enough moments of brilliance by the Reds. Schmeichel made some good saves to deny Liverpool any attempts at a comeback, but you just never felt like it was going to happen.
From a neutral perspective, it was a fine game to behold. There was solid defending, good countering and enough offense to keep even borderline fans entertained. Even as a non-neutral, it was hard not be taken in by the storyline of it all, especially with the fans salute to Ranieri.
From a Liverpool perspective, it was a disappointing performance. Even with a manager as good as Jurgen Klopp, this team continues to come out flat at the most random times. You can chalk it up to the time off, but that's no excuse.
Liverpool must find a way to defend better even when they have the current players on the field. The Reds have to be more cognizant of counter attacks, because that has almost crept up to a level spot with set pieces as the team's biggest weakness.
The Reds could have lept over Arsenal back into the top four. Now they remain a point behind with the Gunners having a chance to push the gap to four with a game in hand. Fortunately, Liverpool face Arsenal next and can keep their fate in their own hands.
Random Thoughts:
- Where is Ragnar Klavan? I appreciate the talents of Lucas and James Milner, but you cannot have two midfielders comprising the left side of your defense? Liverpool brought this guy in and it seems hard to imagine that even a young central defender is not preferable to a midfielder out of position. Who knew that we would all be clamoring for Dejan Lovren.
- As far as I'm concerned, the biggest issue missing from Liverpool after their break, other than the speed level, was killer instinct. Possession does not mean a thing if you can't finish. Liverpool seemed hesitant to let fly in an attempt to keep pushing further or find that extra bit of space that never materialized. The Reds are at their best when they feel free to have a go from anywhere.
- I mentioned it above, but it bares repeating - Liverpool have to keep counterattacks to a minimum. It's impossible to have none, especially against good teams. Still, when the Reds did enough through the flow of the game to earn some points but looked absolutely lost at times when Leicester flung balls over the top, it's a big problem.
Walk On
Liverpool was going up against Leicester. The Reds had their form back with a strong win over Tottenham, Leicester was reeling from the unpopular firing of Claudio Ranieri and the Foxes had not scored a Premier League goal in 2017.
All set up for Liverpool right? Not so fast my friend.
The Foxes came out with a lot of energy in the first few moments. Liverpool looked shaky on the backline and just a step slow. Their goalkeeper kept them into the contest with a couple early saves, but it would not last long enough.
Liverpool's defensive lapses were clear when Leicester scored the opening goal in the 28th minute. Lucas, who has played valiantly but is not a defender, was charged with marking Jamie Vardy. However, he was shoulder to shoulder with the striker as the through ball was played and Vardy scored on a breakaway with, really, only Simon Mignolet to beat.
Liverpool did not hang their heads. They almost came up with a moment of brilliance just a short time later. Coutinho was denied the equalizer only a minute or so later when Kasper Schmeichel made himself big, diving to stop the Brazilian's one timer.
Despite the Reds dominance through midfield, they could not really spring things on the attack. That left too much room for the Foxes to feel they were in the game. The Liverpool defensive woes continued as well.
In the 40th minute, the Reds failed to fully clear the ball from the penalty area. Liverpool looked lost when defending their own 18 yard box and Danny Drinkwater managed to make them pay. With the ball falling perfectly to him, he volleyed it from about 22 yards and curled it perfectly into the side netting.
Unfortunately for Liverpool, the Foxes looked like the team that won the 2016 Premier League title as opposed to the team that was in danger of being relegated. Liverpool came through the tunnel to open the second half with spirit, but spirit does not win games alone.
At one point, the Reds had 79% of the possession. They were pressing up the field and trying to probe the defense. They could not find a hole though.
Like the previous season, Leicester were not interested in playing an open game once they had a solid lead. The Foxes had plenty of players back to defend each push up the field. Then Leicester poached another one.
Against the run of play, a cross found Vardy. Vardy headed it home for his second of the game and a 3-0 lead with less than 30 minutes to go.
Liverpool tried some things, including some subs and brief formation changes. None of it was enough though.
There were bright spots. A bit of brilliance with some solid passing along the left and a good run by Emre Can was finished off by Coutinho. The forward's first goal in 16 games made the score 3-1.
In the end there was not enough moments of brilliance by the Reds. Schmeichel made some good saves to deny Liverpool any attempts at a comeback, but you just never felt like it was going to happen.
From a neutral perspective, it was a fine game to behold. There was solid defending, good countering and enough offense to keep even borderline fans entertained. Even as a non-neutral, it was hard not be taken in by the storyline of it all, especially with the fans salute to Ranieri.
From a Liverpool perspective, it was a disappointing performance. Even with a manager as good as Jurgen Klopp, this team continues to come out flat at the most random times. You can chalk it up to the time off, but that's no excuse.
Liverpool must find a way to defend better even when they have the current players on the field. The Reds have to be more cognizant of counter attacks, because that has almost crept up to a level spot with set pieces as the team's biggest weakness.
The Reds could have lept over Arsenal back into the top four. Now they remain a point behind with the Gunners having a chance to push the gap to four with a game in hand. Fortunately, Liverpool face Arsenal next and can keep their fate in their own hands.
Random Thoughts:
- Where is Ragnar Klavan? I appreciate the talents of Lucas and James Milner, but you cannot have two midfielders comprising the left side of your defense? Liverpool brought this guy in and it seems hard to imagine that even a young central defender is not preferable to a midfielder out of position. Who knew that we would all be clamoring for Dejan Lovren.
- As far as I'm concerned, the biggest issue missing from Liverpool after their break, other than the speed level, was killer instinct. Possession does not mean a thing if you can't finish. Liverpool seemed hesitant to let fly in an attempt to keep pushing further or find that extra bit of space that never materialized. The Reds are at their best when they feel free to have a go from anywhere.
- I mentioned it above, but it bares repeating - Liverpool have to keep counterattacks to a minimum. It's impossible to have none, especially against good teams. Still, when the Reds did enough through the flow of the game to earn some points but looked absolutely lost at times when Leicester flung balls over the top, it's a big problem.
Walk On
Saturday, February 11, 2017
Real Liverpool Finally Show Up In 2017
Liverpool FC entered their pivotal clash with Tottenham on the wrong side of a streak. The Reds had a skid of three games without a win.
Additionally, they had only won one game since the start of the calendar year. They had looked solid in a couple of those matches, but things just were not going well by the final whistle blow.
So, it was important that Liverpool got off to a good start to get things rolling downhill instead of the usual uphill battle. That's exactly what happened in this instance, setting Anfield alight.
It was the player that had been missing in many of those matches that got things rolling. Sadio Mane scored in the 16th minute with a nice finish. After a great ball from the midfield, Mane used his speed to get through on a breakaway, cut back toward his right in the penalty box and tucked it past Hugo Lloris.
That goal was enough to get us all excited about the other 74 minutes, but we did not have to wait for long for another. It was Mane again in the 18th minute.
This time Liverpool came in force together. A shot from the right was initially saved from Lloris. The rebound came to the middle and the Spurs goalkeeper slid out to make another important stop. He could not control the rebound a second time and Mane was Johnny on the Spot from the left to bang it past and into the net to make it 2-0.
Mane almost had his third only moments later. Again coming down the right side, it appeared as though he got it through the goakeeper's legs and into the net. Unfortunately for those watching on television, it had just hit the side netting as Lloris barely got a leg on it as it went through the wickets.
As the game went on, Spurs got their way into it a bit more. Liverpool were a little lax on the backside and that allowed Tottenham a few chances. You almost got the feeling a goal before the half was coming. It never materialized.
The game settled in during the second half. Both teams pressed forward and created a chance here or there, but overall the game had calmed down quite a bit.
Coutinho missed a decent chance in the 74th minute. He slid it between the defender's leg, but it flashed wide of the left post.
Overall, it was an uneventful second 45. Other than the odd chance here or there the only things hitting the radar were potential injuries. Mane slipped on the warning track and appeared to tweak something for a moment. After that Adam Lallana got shaken up just moments later.
In the end, the victory was attained and that is what is most important. Liverpool needed a win and one against one of the big boys.
The Reds also temporarily jumped back into the top four. They are currently tied in points with Manchester City, who have a game in hand. However, Liverpool are now just one point back of the Spurs for second in the league.
It appears as though nobody will stay consistent enough to catch Chelsea. So, staying in the top four is the key issue right now and the Reds took a nice step to keep that focus alive.
Random Thoughts:
- To see Liverpool play so well against the team currently in second in the table is actually somewhat frustrating. It's great to see on the day, but it becomes sad that Liverpool can play so well against the top teams and have some of their worst games against the bottom feeders.
- At least the Reds can focus completely on the league right now. The Cup competitions were a distraction and while nobody wanted them to crash out of both, the Reds have no excuses going forward. It's league or nothing.
- As fans, we should savor the season because the summer is too long. However, this team needs to find some depth. I love James Milner and Lucas as players and admire their spirit for stepping into whatever role is asked of them. However, Liverpool cannot expect to keep winning and contending if they have midfield players in defender's roles. The Reds need players true to their position going forward.
Walk On
Additionally, they had only won one game since the start of the calendar year. They had looked solid in a couple of those matches, but things just were not going well by the final whistle blow.
So, it was important that Liverpool got off to a good start to get things rolling downhill instead of the usual uphill battle. That's exactly what happened in this instance, setting Anfield alight.
It was the player that had been missing in many of those matches that got things rolling. Sadio Mane scored in the 16th minute with a nice finish. After a great ball from the midfield, Mane used his speed to get through on a breakaway, cut back toward his right in the penalty box and tucked it past Hugo Lloris.
That goal was enough to get us all excited about the other 74 minutes, but we did not have to wait for long for another. It was Mane again in the 18th minute.
This time Liverpool came in force together. A shot from the right was initially saved from Lloris. The rebound came to the middle and the Spurs goalkeeper slid out to make another important stop. He could not control the rebound a second time and Mane was Johnny on the Spot from the left to bang it past and into the net to make it 2-0.
Mane almost had his third only moments later. Again coming down the right side, it appeared as though he got it through the goakeeper's legs and into the net. Unfortunately for those watching on television, it had just hit the side netting as Lloris barely got a leg on it as it went through the wickets.
As the game went on, Spurs got their way into it a bit more. Liverpool were a little lax on the backside and that allowed Tottenham a few chances. You almost got the feeling a goal before the half was coming. It never materialized.
The game settled in during the second half. Both teams pressed forward and created a chance here or there, but overall the game had calmed down quite a bit.
Coutinho missed a decent chance in the 74th minute. He slid it between the defender's leg, but it flashed wide of the left post.
Overall, it was an uneventful second 45. Other than the odd chance here or there the only things hitting the radar were potential injuries. Mane slipped on the warning track and appeared to tweak something for a moment. After that Adam Lallana got shaken up just moments later.
In the end, the victory was attained and that is what is most important. Liverpool needed a win and one against one of the big boys.
The Reds also temporarily jumped back into the top four. They are currently tied in points with Manchester City, who have a game in hand. However, Liverpool are now just one point back of the Spurs for second in the league.
It appears as though nobody will stay consistent enough to catch Chelsea. So, staying in the top four is the key issue right now and the Reds took a nice step to keep that focus alive.
Random Thoughts:
- To see Liverpool play so well against the team currently in second in the table is actually somewhat frustrating. It's great to see on the day, but it becomes sad that Liverpool can play so well against the top teams and have some of their worst games against the bottom feeders.
- At least the Reds can focus completely on the league right now. The Cup competitions were a distraction and while nobody wanted them to crash out of both, the Reds have no excuses going forward. It's league or nothing.
- As fans, we should savor the season because the summer is too long. However, this team needs to find some depth. I love James Milner and Lucas as players and admire their spirit for stepping into whatever role is asked of them. However, Liverpool cannot expect to keep winning and contending if they have midfield players in defender's roles. The Reds need players true to their position going forward.
Walk On
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