As the season has gone on, the chances for silverware have dwindled for Liverpool. Everything was on the table at season's start, but now there was only the league cup and maybe the Europa League. With so many games remaining in Europe, the league cup was the focus on this day but the opponent was no pushover in Manchester City.
The first half left much to be desired, but didn't end up costing anyone anything. In the 23rd minute, Liverpool caught on the counter attack. Sergio Aguero almost picked out the bottom corner and Simon Mignolet got a tip to it and deflected it just enough to knock it to the post. While Liverpool had a bit of possession, they just never threatened.
However, every time City got into the box, they were swarmed by Liverpool defenders but you just had a pit in your stomach expecting a penalty. In the 33rd minute, Liverpool got a free kick just outside the box and wasted it, which was something you figured could not happen in this match. Coutinho took it off the initial touch and whether he was crossing it or shooting, all he did was slice it away from target. It was seemingly not the Brazilian's game as in the 45th minute the ball was deflecting around and came to Coutinho who vollied it nowhere near target again.
The first half was mostly much ado about nothing with both side wasting some opportunities. Unfortunately it didnt take long for a goal to be scored in the second and it wasn't scored by the Reds. Fernandino put City up 1-0 in the 49th, slipping one just underneath Simon Mignolet and into the far-side side netting.
It wasn't the best of goals to give up, but people who have never played the position don't understand how difficult it is to actually stop the ball when it's on the ground and closer to you. After that tally it was all about missed chances for both sides. In the 55th minute, Sturridge slid one through into the box but Milner blasted it wide. Then in the 60th minute Sterling missed an absolute sitter that should have made it 2-0 but instead left Liverpool with life. Only two minutes later, the Reds were fortunate not to concede a penalty when Moreno swung his leg blindly at Aguero.
In 77th minute, Milner was again fed in the box and elected not to shoot and nothing came of the lame cross. Two minutes after that, Sterling pooched another one wide right in front of net, further solidifying what Liverpool supporters already believed about him. It was shaping up to be the kind of day where Sterling's misses would be the only enjoyment to take from the match.
Then, seemingly out of nowhere, in the 84th minute the Reds pressed up. Sturridge got the ball across the area to Adam Lallana. After Lallana smashed it off the near post, Coutinho was alone on the spot to bang home the rebound. In the 87th min, Mignolet makes a huge save on the doorstep and then came up with another brave stop lunging in front of Yaya Toure in the 88th minute.
With nobody claiming the dramatic goal at the death the two teams went to extra time. It actually seemed like it could end up being Liverpool's day as the extra periods went on. Despite appearing to have less energy, they kept plugging away and getting breaks.
Divock Origi took a good turn in the 12th min but fired it over the goal by almost as much height as distance he was away from the goal. Then, Aguero almost ended it in the 15th minute, but another fingertip save by Mignolet kept it out. Following that, it was Liverpool's turn to waste chances.
In the 17th minute, Lallana got in Sturridge's way on a clear header. Then moments later, Caballero denied Origi, on his own header, on the doorstep. Milner almost connected with Origi in the 21st minute and if Origi could have only gotten a toe to it, it may have scored. A minute after, Milner almost went from hero to goat as he nearly botched the game trying to head it to Mignolet and Aguero put it over the goal. No goals were given up though and to the dreaded penalty kicks.
Penalties:
Can - make, Lucas - miss (save), Coutinho - miss (save: hesitation BS), Lallana - miss (save)
Fernandino - miss (post), Navas - make, Aguero - make, Yaya Toure - make
As you can see, Liverpool fell on penalties 1-1 (3-1). What is frustrating is the Reds' inability to take a simply kick. You're 12 yards out with nobody to beat but the keeper and they just look absolutely terrible. Coutinho tried that ridiculous hesitation step that makes my blood boil every time I see it. Lucas' shot was ok but he would have been better served to shoot right down the middle and then Lallana's was just a top save by Caballero.
Conversely, many people will blame Mignolet because they have a personal vendetta against the man. However, he guessed correctly on every shot. It just came down the penalty takers for City were better than those for Liverpool.
Some will say City deserved to win, given the amount of chances they wasted. City won and Liverpool did not. This was the type of match where deserve had nothing to do with it. Liverpool would not have "deserved" to win if they had but they did not "deserve" to lose. Everything transpired and this was the outcome. There were several things that could have changed one way or the other and the outcome could have been completely different.
It was positive to see the Reds battle until the end. They have clearly adopted the spirit of their manager and if they can pick up on that so quickly, it bodes well for future teams when better players trickle in. For now though, it is just more evidence that the players on the pitch just aren't the quality we thought or need. Yes, the Europa League remains but as of this moment it's just a pipe dream and the silverware Liverpool had the best shot at slipped through their grasp.
Random Thoughts:
- Not to harp on the goalkeeping issue, but I really do get frustrated by the lack of understanding people who have never played the position. Yes, Mignolet would have been better served by standing his ground and making a kick save. However, when you have players within six yards of target and you have miliseconds to make a decision, it's never as simple as the pundits and toolboxes that yell at TVs make it.
- Say goodbye to Daniel Sturridge. While I really hope he was playing for time and just trying to get the match to penalties, seeing him on the ground grasping at his calf gives me the impression that he will be listed as injured within a day or two and most likely miss the rest of the year.
- I still have hope for Christian Benteke, but that means absolutely nothing since I had hope for Mario Balotelli. For whatever reason, the Belgian has fallen off the face of the earth as far as Jurgen Klopp is concerned and is looking like another wasted transfer.
- Going back to the Sturridge issue, it made me think - why is it that it seems like it's always attacking players that get cramped up and injure themselves? I know that's not 100% accurate, but just in general it seems like you only see attacking players go out in such a way. Yes, strikers sprint more, but defenders are constantly on the move and you just don't seem to see them laboring and walking and struggling as much.
- Ugh, Liverpool as I said did not "deserve" to win, but jeez if Milner could have put away his chances. It was not his best of days offensively, to be sure.
Walk On
Sunday, February 28, 2016
Thursday, February 25, 2016
Liverpool Keep Champions League Hopes Alive with Narrow Win In Europa
Liverpool came into their second leg match with Augsburg FC with everything left to do. While a first leg draw on the road was a satisfactory result that didn't put them behind the eight ball, it still gave them no room for error at home.
Not even a minute in and it was almost disaster. Augsburg had a chance toward goal that ultimately went over the frame. How crushing would it have been to concede in the first sixty seconds at Anfield? After the hiccup to start the game, the Reds settled in.
An odd series of events led to Liverpool's first goal, from a penalty kick by James Milner. It originated off a corner kick. First, Sakho was very lucky not to be called for a push in the box. Then, two Augsburg players clashed together (one of whom was the one pushed by Sakho), getting their arms entangled. In the confusion, the ball went off the defender's hand. Even though the official seemed to be in a spot that would make a call difficult, he whistled the hand ball instead of a push and a penalty was awarded. Milner barely snuck it under the keeper, who rightly guessed the direction but could not get down to ground quick enough.
It wasn't shaping up to be a red letter day for the officials. Liverpool almost got their second in the 20th minute when a cross just missed Daniel Sturridge and Milner, but Sturridge was offside when the kick was taken. Nevertheless it was good to see Liverpool's offense looking so strong after that initial defensive miscue. Only a couple minutes after the missed cross, Sturridge danced around the box on the near side and fed Coutinho who was stopped at point blank range before Marwin Hitz smothered the rebound.
25th minute, shot from outside the box was calmly saved by Simon Mignolet. He won't get much credit, but those are tough because it was bouncing and lots of bodies in front. 36th minute, Lucas tried to play a desperate ball back to Mignolet and didn't get it there. Fortunately, the angle was to much for Caiuby and Augsburg could not capitalize.
The first half ended with just the one goal separating the squads. In typical Liverpool fashion, they outplayed their opponent but failed to finish them off. The Reds had the better of shots and possession but only the penalty kick goal to show for it. With 45 minutes to play and Augsburg needing only a draw, with the away goal factor, it was all still to play for.
The second half was mainly uneventful with a few spurts of action here and there. On the Liverpool side, there was too much defending, though they still had a chance or two. On the negative side, Coutinho almost got injured in the 60th minute on an innaucuous challenge. While the foul deserved the yellow card it got, it really barely touched Coutinho on the back of the leg, but he then jammed his leg into the ground. Fortunately, he stayed on the field long enough to not provide too much worry going forward.
Sturridge got taken out for Divock Origi in the 66th. It was another match where he provided moments but still looks to be making his way back slowly and insecurely from injury. The only other thing one began to wonder given the substitutes (Coutinho was taken off with 10 minutes remaining) is if Klopp was resting a lot of hope on a 1-0 lead in an effort to preserve these players for the Cup final on Sunday.
The gamble almost did not pay off. More defensive miscues almost lead to a goal in the 70th. Mignolet came all the way to the edge of the 18 to make a sliding save and then a good clearance avoided an empty net goal. Then with a chance to put the nail in the coffin, Jordan Henderson couldn't put one past Hitz in the 77th with nobody to beat but the keeper.
Liverpool was hanging by the skin of their teeth as time ticked away. They most likely should have conceded in the 87th minute. The German side were pressing but the pass from the endline was too far behind the striker in front and Lucas managed to toe poke the ball away from danger afterward. Then, a free kick in the 89th minute almost scored as well. With the kick coming just 25 yards away and from the middle of the pitch it ended up just skimming the outside of the post. It likely would have beaten Mignolet, though it would have been close.
In the end, it was the result needed. Liverpool deserved to win given their overall play through the two legs, with this match specifically on their side. However, there was a lot of sloppy play in the midfield and defensive sides. Mignolet provided solid, decisive goalkeeping (something that has been lacking in his play) but the Reds failed to score enough goals to give them any comfort again. They will be moving on, which is all that really matters, but for a side that was thought to be one of the stronger ones Liverpool could place on the pitch there was a lot left to be desired.
Random Thoughts:
- Those of you from St. Louis will know where I'm coming from. Seeing Coutinho grab his hamstring was a bit of a jarring moment. I've seen too many injuries this year, mostly on the St. Louis Blues side, but seemingly with all teams I support.
- I know the front three are a fluid group, but there seemed to be an effort to get Firmino in a more central role. I'm not sure that's beneficial for Sturridge. If he's comfortable on the outside, then I'm not one to disagree, but he seems more suited to be in that striker role with Coutinho and Firmino as more wing players.
- I'm sure there are some people out there that will find fault in something Mignolet did. However, I wish he could be as decisive and active in all matches as he was in this one. I still maintain he is one of the better shot-stoppers around. If he could just not look so weak on set pieces, he would be fine to keep. But it might be too late for him to magically alter his mindset at this stage.
Walk On
Not even a minute in and it was almost disaster. Augsburg had a chance toward goal that ultimately went over the frame. How crushing would it have been to concede in the first sixty seconds at Anfield? After the hiccup to start the game, the Reds settled in.
An odd series of events led to Liverpool's first goal, from a penalty kick by James Milner. It originated off a corner kick. First, Sakho was very lucky not to be called for a push in the box. Then, two Augsburg players clashed together (one of whom was the one pushed by Sakho), getting their arms entangled. In the confusion, the ball went off the defender's hand. Even though the official seemed to be in a spot that would make a call difficult, he whistled the hand ball instead of a push and a penalty was awarded. Milner barely snuck it under the keeper, who rightly guessed the direction but could not get down to ground quick enough.
It wasn't shaping up to be a red letter day for the officials. Liverpool almost got their second in the 20th minute when a cross just missed Daniel Sturridge and Milner, but Sturridge was offside when the kick was taken. Nevertheless it was good to see Liverpool's offense looking so strong after that initial defensive miscue. Only a couple minutes after the missed cross, Sturridge danced around the box on the near side and fed Coutinho who was stopped at point blank range before Marwin Hitz smothered the rebound.
25th minute, shot from outside the box was calmly saved by Simon Mignolet. He won't get much credit, but those are tough because it was bouncing and lots of bodies in front. 36th minute, Lucas tried to play a desperate ball back to Mignolet and didn't get it there. Fortunately, the angle was to much for Caiuby and Augsburg could not capitalize.
The first half ended with just the one goal separating the squads. In typical Liverpool fashion, they outplayed their opponent but failed to finish them off. The Reds had the better of shots and possession but only the penalty kick goal to show for it. With 45 minutes to play and Augsburg needing only a draw, with the away goal factor, it was all still to play for.
The second half was mainly uneventful with a few spurts of action here and there. On the Liverpool side, there was too much defending, though they still had a chance or two. On the negative side, Coutinho almost got injured in the 60th minute on an innaucuous challenge. While the foul deserved the yellow card it got, it really barely touched Coutinho on the back of the leg, but he then jammed his leg into the ground. Fortunately, he stayed on the field long enough to not provide too much worry going forward.
Sturridge got taken out for Divock Origi in the 66th. It was another match where he provided moments but still looks to be making his way back slowly and insecurely from injury. The only other thing one began to wonder given the substitutes (Coutinho was taken off with 10 minutes remaining) is if Klopp was resting a lot of hope on a 1-0 lead in an effort to preserve these players for the Cup final on Sunday.
The gamble almost did not pay off. More defensive miscues almost lead to a goal in the 70th. Mignolet came all the way to the edge of the 18 to make a sliding save and then a good clearance avoided an empty net goal. Then with a chance to put the nail in the coffin, Jordan Henderson couldn't put one past Hitz in the 77th with nobody to beat but the keeper.
Liverpool was hanging by the skin of their teeth as time ticked away. They most likely should have conceded in the 87th minute. The German side were pressing but the pass from the endline was too far behind the striker in front and Lucas managed to toe poke the ball away from danger afterward. Then, a free kick in the 89th minute almost scored as well. With the kick coming just 25 yards away and from the middle of the pitch it ended up just skimming the outside of the post. It likely would have beaten Mignolet, though it would have been close.
In the end, it was the result needed. Liverpool deserved to win given their overall play through the two legs, with this match specifically on their side. However, there was a lot of sloppy play in the midfield and defensive sides. Mignolet provided solid, decisive goalkeeping (something that has been lacking in his play) but the Reds failed to score enough goals to give them any comfort again. They will be moving on, which is all that really matters, but for a side that was thought to be one of the stronger ones Liverpool could place on the pitch there was a lot left to be desired.
Random Thoughts:
- Those of you from St. Louis will know where I'm coming from. Seeing Coutinho grab his hamstring was a bit of a jarring moment. I've seen too many injuries this year, mostly on the St. Louis Blues side, but seemingly with all teams I support.
- I know the front three are a fluid group, but there seemed to be an effort to get Firmino in a more central role. I'm not sure that's beneficial for Sturridge. If he's comfortable on the outside, then I'm not one to disagree, but he seems more suited to be in that striker role with Coutinho and Firmino as more wing players.
- I'm sure there are some people out there that will find fault in something Mignolet did. However, I wish he could be as decisive and active in all matches as he was in this one. I still maintain he is one of the better shot-stoppers around. If he could just not look so weak on set pieces, he would be fine to keep. But it might be too late for him to magically alter his mindset at this stage.
Walk On
Thursday, February 18, 2016
Liverpool Fail To Score; Leave European Fate to Anfield Rematch
For whatever reason, Liverpool have looked better in cups and foreign leagues than they have domestically, at least from a consistency point. So, it's no wonder that before their first-leg match with Augsburg, Jurgen Klopp flat out said that the Europa League is perhaps the Reds' best chance at gaining access to the Champions League.
It was an ambitious start by both clubs. The first five minutes looked more like a hockey game than the kind of football games many are used to seeing. The ball pinged back and forth between teams and up and down the field with more time going forward than spent possessing in the midfield.
One of the negatives of that kind of page was it showed Daniel Sturridge's unwillingness to go full sprint if he doesn't absolutely know he'll win the ball. That was something we've seen in the past, several times in fact, given his injury history. It's understandable, but frustrating when compared to the constant energy and fire Liverpool fans had grown accustomed to seeing out of former striker Luis Suarez.
First quarter hour was extremely uneventful. Firmino had a good opportunity in the 8th minute, but not only did he slip initially but he somewhat flubbed the shot off his left foot after cutting it back nicely past the initial defender.
Liverpool's best chance came on a weakly deflected header from a corner kick that safely ended in the keeper's hands. The Reds did have the better of offensive breaks, but seemed to lack much with possession. Liverpool actually almost scored in the 22nd minute when the defender's slide challenge deflected off Sturridge and forced a diving save. Sturridge continued showing he's not quite back when he failed to get a good settle on the ball that could have led to a good shot in the 43rd.
Ultimately it was a bland first half that produced very few legitimate chances for either side. Augsburg had their best opportunities when the clock hit 45 and after. Simon Mignolet stoned a great shot from only about seven yards out and then dove to stop a stinging cross only moments later.
The second half opened up quite the opposite of the first. Not much going on in the first ten minutes or so, but then things opened up even if only briefly. In the 54th minute James Milner narrowly missed Sturridge with his cross that surely would have ended in the net. Then Augsburg sliced a shot just wide only moments later, only to be followed by another Liverpool attempt toward goal. Despite all this flurry and activity, the score remained 0-0. The positive, however, was that even with the German side's opportunity, Liverpool had ratcheted up the intensity and looked the more likely to score.
Perhaps showing how much luck played into his last goal, rather than skill, Kolo Toure absolutely butchered a sure goal by missing a header in the 60th minute. Liverpool almost ended up ahead anyway as the ball bounced around off several defenders, but ended up landing right on the goal line to be caught by the keeper.
Ultimately, perhaps the score was what it should have been. Liverpool could not do much toward the end of the game, if they did much the entire match. Ibe rolled one on goal right at the keeper, but with little pace behind it. On the flip side Augsburg knicked one off the post with four minutes left in regulation.
Fans will no doubt be disappointed, not only in the scoreline, but with the lack of authority really stamped on this game by Liverpool. However, going back to Anfield next week and not finding yourself down can only be a plus. That said, it does put a lot of pressure on one game because if you allow a goal it forces you to score two. But hey, at least Liverpool got a better result on the road than Manchester United. There's always comfort in that.
Random Thoughts:
- I like Emre Can as a player and think he'll develop into a good talent. I dislike his mentality though. Too often he tries to bully players and then act as though he was done wrong if a foul goes against him. His physical style is fine, but don't look so wounded every time something doesn't go your way.
- I can usually give or take Alexi Lalas as a commentator, but I had to laugh at his assessment of Sturridge's performance. He eventually elaborated, but initially all Lalas said was "He didn't get hurt..."
- It's interesting to hear that apparently Americans are more like Germans than English when it comes to the common chants the fans use.
Walk On
It was an ambitious start by both clubs. The first five minutes looked more like a hockey game than the kind of football games many are used to seeing. The ball pinged back and forth between teams and up and down the field with more time going forward than spent possessing in the midfield.
One of the negatives of that kind of page was it showed Daniel Sturridge's unwillingness to go full sprint if he doesn't absolutely know he'll win the ball. That was something we've seen in the past, several times in fact, given his injury history. It's understandable, but frustrating when compared to the constant energy and fire Liverpool fans had grown accustomed to seeing out of former striker Luis Suarez.
First quarter hour was extremely uneventful. Firmino had a good opportunity in the 8th minute, but not only did he slip initially but he somewhat flubbed the shot off his left foot after cutting it back nicely past the initial defender.
Liverpool's best chance came on a weakly deflected header from a corner kick that safely ended in the keeper's hands. The Reds did have the better of offensive breaks, but seemed to lack much with possession. Liverpool actually almost scored in the 22nd minute when the defender's slide challenge deflected off Sturridge and forced a diving save. Sturridge continued showing he's not quite back when he failed to get a good settle on the ball that could have led to a good shot in the 43rd.
Ultimately it was a bland first half that produced very few legitimate chances for either side. Augsburg had their best opportunities when the clock hit 45 and after. Simon Mignolet stoned a great shot from only about seven yards out and then dove to stop a stinging cross only moments later.
The second half opened up quite the opposite of the first. Not much going on in the first ten minutes or so, but then things opened up even if only briefly. In the 54th minute James Milner narrowly missed Sturridge with his cross that surely would have ended in the net. Then Augsburg sliced a shot just wide only moments later, only to be followed by another Liverpool attempt toward goal. Despite all this flurry and activity, the score remained 0-0. The positive, however, was that even with the German side's opportunity, Liverpool had ratcheted up the intensity and looked the more likely to score.
Perhaps showing how much luck played into his last goal, rather than skill, Kolo Toure absolutely butchered a sure goal by missing a header in the 60th minute. Liverpool almost ended up ahead anyway as the ball bounced around off several defenders, but ended up landing right on the goal line to be caught by the keeper.
Ultimately, perhaps the score was what it should have been. Liverpool could not do much toward the end of the game, if they did much the entire match. Ibe rolled one on goal right at the keeper, but with little pace behind it. On the flip side Augsburg knicked one off the post with four minutes left in regulation.
Fans will no doubt be disappointed, not only in the scoreline, but with the lack of authority really stamped on this game by Liverpool. However, going back to Anfield next week and not finding yourself down can only be a plus. That said, it does put a lot of pressure on one game because if you allow a goal it forces you to score two. But hey, at least Liverpool got a better result on the road than Manchester United. There's always comfort in that.
Random Thoughts:
- I like Emre Can as a player and think he'll develop into a good talent. I dislike his mentality though. Too often he tries to bully players and then act as though he was done wrong if a foul goes against him. His physical style is fine, but don't look so wounded every time something doesn't go your way.
- I can usually give or take Alexi Lalas as a commentator, but I had to laugh at his assessment of Sturridge's performance. He eventually elaborated, but initially all Lalas said was "He didn't get hurt..."
- It's interesting to hear that apparently Americans are more like Germans than English when it comes to the common chants the fans use.
Walk On
Sunday, February 14, 2016
Liverpool Open The Scoring Floodgates Against Villa
Only days after wondering what sort of formation and lineup combination the return of Daniel Sturridge could produce, we found out. It would be a starting three up top with Sturridge, Coutinho and Firmino. It paid dividends fairly quickly as well.
One of the few negatives was shown quickly. Firmino tried to feed Sturridge in the 12th minute instead of shooting. While the idea wasn't terrible, one could only hope that would not be the theme of the day and the offense would flow instead of trying to set up Sturridge in particular.
The fears were allayed fairly quickly after that initial chance though. Liverpool scored in the first quarter hour and Sturridge got his first goal of the calendar year. It came from a nice cross in by Coutinho and Sturridge nodded it in.
The Reds (or should we call them the Whites?...nah) doubled their lead about ten minutes later. James Milner scored from a free kick in the 25th minute, though he had absolutely no intention to. The Aston Villaa keeper took a few steps toward the ball, waved his hands at it, but nobody got a touch onto it. Even as a goalkeeper, it was quite stunning to see something you might see on a high school field.
The half ended rather ignominiously. Liverpool allowed a large amount of pressure as time ticked away. Fortunately for them, Villa put a cross right into Simon Mignolet's hands after the good build up. Then, to counter, Liverpool should have had a third but Sturridge was denied with a fantastic save by Mark Bunn in the 44th minute.
In the second half, Liverpool got off to a good start again, but it took awhile for it to pay off. In the 58th minute, Firmino took the ball on the left, fed it into the middle and Emre Can finished it off for the third goal of the day. Really, it was shoddy defending as there were three players that failed to close in on the German midfielder, but those are the situations that a team like Liverpool must take advantage of and they did.
Almost immediately following, the Reds fell asleep for a moment and it almost cost them. Mignolet thwarted the cross and the defenders managed to dispose of the rebound. But fear not Liverpool fans for this was Aston Villa they were playing. Mere seconds after replacing Sturridge, Divock Origi made it 4-0. The Reds quickly threw the interception into the path of the striker and Origi just tucked it past the keeper.
Then a bit of justice in the 65th minute. Villa should have been given a red card for a clumsy challenge on Origi but only received a yellow. Then, only three touches after the free kick, the ball hit the back of the net for the fifth time with Nathaniel Clyne getting the glory. It wasn't long before Liverpool struck again too.
In the 71st minute, absolutely atrocious defending led to a goal by Kolo...Kolo Toure. Even writing it strikes a strange chord. The defender who had not scored in nearly five years, was left all alone just north of the penalty spot and went unchallenged on the header, which led to an easy tuck in for 6-0.
The amount of goals almost gave me writers cramp, but it was worth it. These aren't the type of performances anyone expects every game, but it would be nice to see this offense a bit more often than not. Liverpool can now focus on the Europa League with two matches coming against FC Ausburg in consecutive weeks. That competition is not very prestigious any longer, but it is likely the only way to get a Champions League spot at this juncture, so all preparations must be made. For now, let us bask in the offense which has not shone out from behind the clouds much this season.
Random Thoughts:
- It is somewhat crazy to think Liverpool went from a negative goal difference to positive in one game. Now, they must find a way to keep it that way. As long as you win more than not, it's not a huge stat, but it just doesn't pass the eye test when Liverpool are the only team in the top 10 that did not have a positive goal difference until now.
- This game was a perfect example of why Daniel Sturridge is so frustrating on many levels. First, you saw his talent on display. It was a good performance and makes you wish that the man could stay healthy for an entire season or at least the majority of one. Then you also saw his reluctance to go full boar, most likely due to his injury history. He put a foot toward a ball instead of going for a header early in the second and then pulled his run when he could have gotten on the end of an Alberto Moreno cross if he had kept going. Nevertheless, it was a good sight to see his odd little dance.
Walk On
One of the few negatives was shown quickly. Firmino tried to feed Sturridge in the 12th minute instead of shooting. While the idea wasn't terrible, one could only hope that would not be the theme of the day and the offense would flow instead of trying to set up Sturridge in particular.
The fears were allayed fairly quickly after that initial chance though. Liverpool scored in the first quarter hour and Sturridge got his first goal of the calendar year. It came from a nice cross in by Coutinho and Sturridge nodded it in.
The Reds (or should we call them the Whites?...nah) doubled their lead about ten minutes later. James Milner scored from a free kick in the 25th minute, though he had absolutely no intention to. The Aston Villaa keeper took a few steps toward the ball, waved his hands at it, but nobody got a touch onto it. Even as a goalkeeper, it was quite stunning to see something you might see on a high school field.
The half ended rather ignominiously. Liverpool allowed a large amount of pressure as time ticked away. Fortunately for them, Villa put a cross right into Simon Mignolet's hands after the good build up. Then, to counter, Liverpool should have had a third but Sturridge was denied with a fantastic save by Mark Bunn in the 44th minute.
In the second half, Liverpool got off to a good start again, but it took awhile for it to pay off. In the 58th minute, Firmino took the ball on the left, fed it into the middle and Emre Can finished it off for the third goal of the day. Really, it was shoddy defending as there were three players that failed to close in on the German midfielder, but those are the situations that a team like Liverpool must take advantage of and they did.
Almost immediately following, the Reds fell asleep for a moment and it almost cost them. Mignolet thwarted the cross and the defenders managed to dispose of the rebound. But fear not Liverpool fans for this was Aston Villa they were playing. Mere seconds after replacing Sturridge, Divock Origi made it 4-0. The Reds quickly threw the interception into the path of the striker and Origi just tucked it past the keeper.
Then a bit of justice in the 65th minute. Villa should have been given a red card for a clumsy challenge on Origi but only received a yellow. Then, only three touches after the free kick, the ball hit the back of the net for the fifth time with Nathaniel Clyne getting the glory. It wasn't long before Liverpool struck again too.
In the 71st minute, absolutely atrocious defending led to a goal by Kolo...Kolo Toure. Even writing it strikes a strange chord. The defender who had not scored in nearly five years, was left all alone just north of the penalty spot and went unchallenged on the header, which led to an easy tuck in for 6-0.
The amount of goals almost gave me writers cramp, but it was worth it. These aren't the type of performances anyone expects every game, but it would be nice to see this offense a bit more often than not. Liverpool can now focus on the Europa League with two matches coming against FC Ausburg in consecutive weeks. That competition is not very prestigious any longer, but it is likely the only way to get a Champions League spot at this juncture, so all preparations must be made. For now, let us bask in the offense which has not shone out from behind the clouds much this season.
Random Thoughts:
- It is somewhat crazy to think Liverpool went from a negative goal difference to positive in one game. Now, they must find a way to keep it that way. As long as you win more than not, it's not a huge stat, but it just doesn't pass the eye test when Liverpool are the only team in the top 10 that did not have a positive goal difference until now.
- This game was a perfect example of why Daniel Sturridge is so frustrating on many levels. First, you saw his talent on display. It was a good performance and makes you wish that the man could stay healthy for an entire season or at least the majority of one. Then you also saw his reluctance to go full boar, most likely due to his injury history. He put a foot toward a ball instead of going for a header early in the second and then pulled his run when he could have gotten on the end of an Alberto Moreno cross if he had kept going. Nevertheless, it was a good sight to see his odd little dance.
Walk On
Tuesday, February 9, 2016
Liverpool Lose In FA Clash, But Perhaps That's Best
Liverpool were facing their personal kryptonite in West Ham United in an FA Cup replay. Liverpool had failed to score in 2015-16 against the Hammers and it was another slow start for Liverpool. The Reds almost conceded a goal when Lucas deflected a shot that almost snuck in near post, but rang off the bar instead. After that string of play that favored the Hammers, Liverpool actually took the momentum for themselves.
Liverpool wasted a chance in the 25th minute when Coutinho's cross slipped under Benteke's foot and Ibe was not ready for it. However, despite that miss, the maligned Belgian striker actually had a good half and deserved more than he received.
Later on, Coutinho evened up the shots off the post in the 34th minute. Benteke had nifty footwork along the endline and slipped it to the top of the six yard area where the Brazilian slapped it off the woodwork. The big Belgian almost put one in himself moments later when he connected with a header off the corner, but the West Ham keeper, Randolph, got a foot to it. It may have been cleared away by the defender at the post as well, but it was a great chance.
The pendulum of momentum began to swing back the other direction toward the end of the half. West Ham almost took the lead on a fantastic free kick from Dimitri Payet in the 38th minute that knicked the goalkeeper's fingers and blasted off the post before Simon Mignolet parried away the rebound. The scorelessness would not last forever though.
Liverpool had defended reasonably well, as a squad, but fell asleep in the 45th minute. The entire back four had settled way too deep in the box, allowing a cross deep into the area. Michail Antonio was on the back side to volley it home, giving Mignolet absolutely no chance to stop it and forcing Liverpool to score just to keep any hope alive. It was a crushing blow against a team that Liverpool had really put on the back foot for most of the half only to see one in the back of their own net. Luckily for the Reds it was only for that one half.
Liverpool came out with good energy from the locker room and were rewarded. The Reds finally smashed the goose egg when Coutinho leveled the game with a sneaky free kick in the 48th minute. Benteke set up the kick drawing the foul just outside the box and Coutinho struck it along the ground just under the jumping wall. It was a good sight for the Liverpool faithful to see Coutinho score in his first inclusion since his injury and to see Benteke show more of why the club brought him in in the first place.
Benteke was still determined to get his own. He was fortunate to not have a handball called in the 56th minute, but he almost smashed one in just moments later after a good bit of skill on the left side of the box by Brad Smith. Unfortunately there were too many defenders around.
More good sights for Liverpool fans as Daniel Sturridge and Divock Origi came in in 59th minute. However, despite their inclusion and the potential offensive spark it could provide, Liverpool were extremely fortunate to not concede a penalty in the 67th minute. Thiago Illori tugged on the attacker's arm in the box, which was clearly evident on replay but fortunately not caught by the official or the linesman.
In terms of good sights, it was good to see West Ham take off Cheikhou Kouyate after his head injury. There may have been plans to bring on Andy Carroll anyway, but there is just no sense in keeping a player on who was clearly knocked out and seemed to be struggling afterward. Injuries piled up for both sides as Kevin Stewart took cleats to the ankle a bit later, but he was able to stay in the game.
The momentum swung back and forth wildly as the end of regulation was in sight. Benteke almost slid one in on the free kick in the 79th minute, but Randolph made a good stop after seeing it late coming over the wall. Valencia butchered a header in the 84th minute that should have buried Liverpool since the West Ham attacker was basically wide open on the far side and took a good cross. Liverpool with a great chance to end it in stoppage time. The ball fell to Ibe and he struck it with a strong left foot only to see Randolph push it away, but not quite far enough for Sturridge to get onto the rebound.
Alas, the game would not end in the allotted 90 minutes. This definitely put extra pressure on Sturridge and Origi who were coming in for the first time following their injuries and were going to have to play at least an hour's worth of football. Benteke blasted one wide from basically the middle of the box in the 99th minute and then shot a breakaway right into the keeper moments later. Unfortunately those wasted chances, in addition to several wasted by Sturridge and others in extra time, cost Liverpool.
West Ham waited until the death, but made the most of a foul given against Lucas. Set pieces have been the arch enemy of Liverpool all season long and were again. A good service toward the back post was met with a towering header by Ogbanna, who sliced it back across goal giving no one a chance to do anything about it. Liverpool deserved better due to their overall play, but West Ham were also the deserving winners given their play as well.
In the end, Liverpool won't fret too much since the team played reasonably well and very well in spurts. They lost the match, but have taken fixtures off the schedule and now allow themselves to focus more on the Capital One Cup final at Wembley and the Europa League. It's never pleasant to lose a game, especially in excruciating fashion, but Liverpool needed to have their focus sharpened. Being active in all competitions just wasn't going to allow that to happen, so the loss isn't quite so terrible. From here on out though, it's up to the players to take their individual performances and keep them progressing.
Random Thoughts:
- While the worrisome nature of Daniel Sturridge will never go away, just seeing his abilities on display makes you ponder the possibilities in the future. Since Liverpool seem to want to play an attacking three, just his inclusion gives you so many more options. You could have a top two with Beneteke and Coutinho tucked in behind. You can go with Benteke or Firmino up top and Coutino and Sturridge on the sides. Sturridge could be the main striker with Firmino and Coutinho out wide. It's amazing to think that one man can make you rethink the entire attacking possibilities for this team, however he has to stay on the field and that's been something he hasn't shown an ability to do. Therefore it's impossible to get too excited yet.
- Health is the key all around. I've mentioned that this team needs a complete overhaul, but there's still talent there. Smith and Jon Flanagan give you more options at the wingback position with Nathaniel Clyne a decent talent as well. I already mentioned the attacking possibilities as well. But all of these players have to keep themselves healthy. Whether that falls on the training staff, the coaches or the players themselves is an unknown but they just need to keep this team on the pitch.
- We all knew it would be impossible for Jurgen Klopp to stay calm the entire game. Nevertheless it was good to see him back on the sidelines after an emergency surgery kept him out of the weekend game.
Walk On
Liverpool wasted a chance in the 25th minute when Coutinho's cross slipped under Benteke's foot and Ibe was not ready for it. However, despite that miss, the maligned Belgian striker actually had a good half and deserved more than he received.
Later on, Coutinho evened up the shots off the post in the 34th minute. Benteke had nifty footwork along the endline and slipped it to the top of the six yard area where the Brazilian slapped it off the woodwork. The big Belgian almost put one in himself moments later when he connected with a header off the corner, but the West Ham keeper, Randolph, got a foot to it. It may have been cleared away by the defender at the post as well, but it was a great chance.
The pendulum of momentum began to swing back the other direction toward the end of the half. West Ham almost took the lead on a fantastic free kick from Dimitri Payet in the 38th minute that knicked the goalkeeper's fingers and blasted off the post before Simon Mignolet parried away the rebound. The scorelessness would not last forever though.
Liverpool had defended reasonably well, as a squad, but fell asleep in the 45th minute. The entire back four had settled way too deep in the box, allowing a cross deep into the area. Michail Antonio was on the back side to volley it home, giving Mignolet absolutely no chance to stop it and forcing Liverpool to score just to keep any hope alive. It was a crushing blow against a team that Liverpool had really put on the back foot for most of the half only to see one in the back of their own net. Luckily for the Reds it was only for that one half.
Liverpool came out with good energy from the locker room and were rewarded. The Reds finally smashed the goose egg when Coutinho leveled the game with a sneaky free kick in the 48th minute. Benteke set up the kick drawing the foul just outside the box and Coutinho struck it along the ground just under the jumping wall. It was a good sight for the Liverpool faithful to see Coutinho score in his first inclusion since his injury and to see Benteke show more of why the club brought him in in the first place.
Benteke was still determined to get his own. He was fortunate to not have a handball called in the 56th minute, but he almost smashed one in just moments later after a good bit of skill on the left side of the box by Brad Smith. Unfortunately there were too many defenders around.
More good sights for Liverpool fans as Daniel Sturridge and Divock Origi came in in 59th minute. However, despite their inclusion and the potential offensive spark it could provide, Liverpool were extremely fortunate to not concede a penalty in the 67th minute. Thiago Illori tugged on the attacker's arm in the box, which was clearly evident on replay but fortunately not caught by the official or the linesman.
In terms of good sights, it was good to see West Ham take off Cheikhou Kouyate after his head injury. There may have been plans to bring on Andy Carroll anyway, but there is just no sense in keeping a player on who was clearly knocked out and seemed to be struggling afterward. Injuries piled up for both sides as Kevin Stewart took cleats to the ankle a bit later, but he was able to stay in the game.
The momentum swung back and forth wildly as the end of regulation was in sight. Benteke almost slid one in on the free kick in the 79th minute, but Randolph made a good stop after seeing it late coming over the wall. Valencia butchered a header in the 84th minute that should have buried Liverpool since the West Ham attacker was basically wide open on the far side and took a good cross. Liverpool with a great chance to end it in stoppage time. The ball fell to Ibe and he struck it with a strong left foot only to see Randolph push it away, but not quite far enough for Sturridge to get onto the rebound.
Alas, the game would not end in the allotted 90 minutes. This definitely put extra pressure on Sturridge and Origi who were coming in for the first time following their injuries and were going to have to play at least an hour's worth of football. Benteke blasted one wide from basically the middle of the box in the 99th minute and then shot a breakaway right into the keeper moments later. Unfortunately those wasted chances, in addition to several wasted by Sturridge and others in extra time, cost Liverpool.
West Ham waited until the death, but made the most of a foul given against Lucas. Set pieces have been the arch enemy of Liverpool all season long and were again. A good service toward the back post was met with a towering header by Ogbanna, who sliced it back across goal giving no one a chance to do anything about it. Liverpool deserved better due to their overall play, but West Ham were also the deserving winners given their play as well.
In the end, Liverpool won't fret too much since the team played reasonably well and very well in spurts. They lost the match, but have taken fixtures off the schedule and now allow themselves to focus more on the Capital One Cup final at Wembley and the Europa League. It's never pleasant to lose a game, especially in excruciating fashion, but Liverpool needed to have their focus sharpened. Being active in all competitions just wasn't going to allow that to happen, so the loss isn't quite so terrible. From here on out though, it's up to the players to take their individual performances and keep them progressing.
Random Thoughts:
- While the worrisome nature of Daniel Sturridge will never go away, just seeing his abilities on display makes you ponder the possibilities in the future. Since Liverpool seem to want to play an attacking three, just his inclusion gives you so many more options. You could have a top two with Beneteke and Coutinho tucked in behind. You can go with Benteke or Firmino up top and Coutino and Sturridge on the sides. Sturridge could be the main striker with Firmino and Coutinho out wide. It's amazing to think that one man can make you rethink the entire attacking possibilities for this team, however he has to stay on the field and that's been something he hasn't shown an ability to do. Therefore it's impossible to get too excited yet.
- Health is the key all around. I've mentioned that this team needs a complete overhaul, but there's still talent there. Smith and Jon Flanagan give you more options at the wingback position with Nathaniel Clyne a decent talent as well. I already mentioned the attacking possibilities as well. But all of these players have to keep themselves healthy. Whether that falls on the training staff, the coaches or the players themselves is an unknown but they just need to keep this team on the pitch.
- We all knew it would be impossible for Jurgen Klopp to stay calm the entire game. Nevertheless it was good to see him back on the sidelines after an emergency surgery kept him out of the weekend game.
Walk On
Saturday, February 6, 2016
Liverpool Implode; Only Get Draw Against Lowly Sunderland
The weather in Liverpool was a bit of a harbinger for the day. Cloudy and dim but not completely devoid of something better. It was a typical start for the Reds on the day. Liverpool held the majority of the possession in the first quarter hour but could not find that final ball in the attacking areas as has been their way of late.
Liverpool and Alberto Moreno finally created a chance in the 20th minute. Moreno flashed a left footer across the face of goal, but saw it saved with the left foot of the keeper. Later on in the 30th minute, James Milner was fed a great pass that got into the box. However, instead of shooting, he tried to lay it off on the ground to Adam Lallana, with too many defenders in between. Liverpool again were foiled by themselves in the 40th minute. Joe Allen plunged down the left but served it too far behind Jordan Henderson. Henderson tried to back heel it into the path of a teammate, but again there was just too much reliance on luck instead of knowing where each pass would end up. Roberto Firmino probably came closest to scoring in the first 45 with a crack off the left foot in the 44th minute that sailed about two feet over goal.
LFC had 82% possession and yet nothing was really created. There were chances, as there are in any game, but you never really go the feeling that Liverpool were going to score. It was something we've seen all too often this season. While many, including this writer, are souring on many of the players that take the pitch, there is still just too much potential for this squad to be floundering the way they have been in 2016.
Firmino was again the closest to scoring in the early stages of the second half. Unfortunately, like his earlier chance, it just sailed away from target. Fortunately, though, the Brazilian did not let his missed chances get into his head. In the 59th minute, Firmino got into the space behind the defenders as he readied himself for a cross from the near side off Milner's foot. Firmino just got a nod onto it and cut it back across the grain, giving the Sunderland keeper no shot. 1-0 to the Reds at that point, but still a half hour for either more glory or doom to creep in.
Liverpool definitely put the pressure on after their initial score. Jordan Ibe blasted one off the head of a defender immediately after the goal. Then in the 65th minute both Lallana and Ibe were stopped by good kick saves by Vito Mannone. Henderson also just slashed one wide a minute later. Finally Liverpool would get some cushion in the 70th minute. Firmino intercepted a cross, but instead of taking the shot he dropped it back to the penalty spot where it was finished off by Lallana.
However, Liverpool still never really felt comfortable. Patrick van Aanholt hit the side netting for the opposition in the 66th minute and could have easily laid it into the path of Jermain Defoe. Then the lump in the throat got bigger as Sunderland poached one in the 82nd minute from Adam Johnson. Johnson struck it sweetly and curled it around the wall, but Simon Mignolet should have saved it. Then, in the 89th minute, Dafoe evened it up. Liverpool's defenders just kind of stood behind all the attackers, which allowed Dafoe to spin and easily put it in.
Sadly, this sort of result has come to be more expected than not. The fools in the mainstream media will have a field day, writing clickbait articles about how Jurgen Klopp hasn't had a positive affect and how he hasn't earned as many points per game as his predecessor. The bottom line is that the players just aren't good enough. Changes are in order to get this club back where it needs to be, but for now fans just never know what they're in for. One game you'll see the team that thrashed Manchester City and the next you could lose to a team in the relegation zone. It's not a comfortable feeling, but there's nothing to be done about it at the moment. It's simply the current reality for the Reds.
Random Thoughts:
- Only time will tell how good Alex Teixeira will be. I still contend that Liverpool were right not to pay the amount that China ended up spending to get him.
- As a keeper, I've been there. You know you should have been better, but just failed to get a ball. Therefor, I empathize with Mignolet. Even so, he had to stop that ball from the free kick. There was enough time for him to see it and get down. He was just slow to react and it cost the team.
- I understand that injuries are a part of the modern game. It's because of the fitness regime these players use to keep in top physical condition and eventually the body wears out. That said, either Liverpool need new physios or they just have terrible luck. To be forced to waste two subs in the first half due to injury is just pushing it. Part of me expected Daniel Sturridge to be inserted just so the team could make it three for three.
- You would've hoped the team could perform for their manager, who was out with an apparent appendicitis. Sadly, this lot couldn't even hold a two goal lead for their leader.
Walk On
Liverpool and Alberto Moreno finally created a chance in the 20th minute. Moreno flashed a left footer across the face of goal, but saw it saved with the left foot of the keeper. Later on in the 30th minute, James Milner was fed a great pass that got into the box. However, instead of shooting, he tried to lay it off on the ground to Adam Lallana, with too many defenders in between. Liverpool again were foiled by themselves in the 40th minute. Joe Allen plunged down the left but served it too far behind Jordan Henderson. Henderson tried to back heel it into the path of a teammate, but again there was just too much reliance on luck instead of knowing where each pass would end up. Roberto Firmino probably came closest to scoring in the first 45 with a crack off the left foot in the 44th minute that sailed about two feet over goal.
LFC had 82% possession and yet nothing was really created. There were chances, as there are in any game, but you never really go the feeling that Liverpool were going to score. It was something we've seen all too often this season. While many, including this writer, are souring on many of the players that take the pitch, there is still just too much potential for this squad to be floundering the way they have been in 2016.
Firmino was again the closest to scoring in the early stages of the second half. Unfortunately, like his earlier chance, it just sailed away from target. Fortunately, though, the Brazilian did not let his missed chances get into his head. In the 59th minute, Firmino got into the space behind the defenders as he readied himself for a cross from the near side off Milner's foot. Firmino just got a nod onto it and cut it back across the grain, giving the Sunderland keeper no shot. 1-0 to the Reds at that point, but still a half hour for either more glory or doom to creep in.
Liverpool definitely put the pressure on after their initial score. Jordan Ibe blasted one off the head of a defender immediately after the goal. Then in the 65th minute both Lallana and Ibe were stopped by good kick saves by Vito Mannone. Henderson also just slashed one wide a minute later. Finally Liverpool would get some cushion in the 70th minute. Firmino intercepted a cross, but instead of taking the shot he dropped it back to the penalty spot where it was finished off by Lallana.
However, Liverpool still never really felt comfortable. Patrick van Aanholt hit the side netting for the opposition in the 66th minute and could have easily laid it into the path of Jermain Defoe. Then the lump in the throat got bigger as Sunderland poached one in the 82nd minute from Adam Johnson. Johnson struck it sweetly and curled it around the wall, but Simon Mignolet should have saved it. Then, in the 89th minute, Dafoe evened it up. Liverpool's defenders just kind of stood behind all the attackers, which allowed Dafoe to spin and easily put it in.
Sadly, this sort of result has come to be more expected than not. The fools in the mainstream media will have a field day, writing clickbait articles about how Jurgen Klopp hasn't had a positive affect and how he hasn't earned as many points per game as his predecessor. The bottom line is that the players just aren't good enough. Changes are in order to get this club back where it needs to be, but for now fans just never know what they're in for. One game you'll see the team that thrashed Manchester City and the next you could lose to a team in the relegation zone. It's not a comfortable feeling, but there's nothing to be done about it at the moment. It's simply the current reality for the Reds.
Random Thoughts:
- Only time will tell how good Alex Teixeira will be. I still contend that Liverpool were right not to pay the amount that China ended up spending to get him.
- As a keeper, I've been there. You know you should have been better, but just failed to get a ball. Therefor, I empathize with Mignolet. Even so, he had to stop that ball from the free kick. There was enough time for him to see it and get down. He was just slow to react and it cost the team.
- I understand that injuries are a part of the modern game. It's because of the fitness regime these players use to keep in top physical condition and eventually the body wears out. That said, either Liverpool need new physios or they just have terrible luck. To be forced to waste two subs in the first half due to injury is just pushing it. Part of me expected Daniel Sturridge to be inserted just so the team could make it three for three.
- You would've hoped the team could perform for their manager, who was out with an apparent appendicitis. Sadly, this lot couldn't even hold a two goal lead for their leader.
Walk On
Tuesday, February 2, 2016
Liverpool Outclassed and Out-"Foxed" by Leicester
Things never seem to slow down in English football when you progress in competitions outside of the league. Such is the case for many teams, including Liverpool FC. Due to the hectic schedule created by the FA Cup, the entire league had midweek fixtures. Liverpool were faced with the task of taking on league title hopeful, Leicester City. Both teams came out looking to take the game by the scruff, but it would not go according to plan for either.
Liverpool wasted a great chance in the 15th minute, mere moments after conceding an opportunity to the Foxes that resulted in a good save by Simon Mignolet.. Then, the Reds went down the field, and got it into the box. Unfortunately, Roberto Firmino tried to lay the ball back for Lallana on a header and instead gave it right to the defense. Playing against a team ahead of you in the table, you must convert those chances.
Mignolet came up huge again with a spectacular save on Mahrez in the 35 minute. The ball came in from about 25 yards out and was labled for the upper corner with a curler. Liverpool squandered another chance in the 40th minute when Alberto Moreno skied a shot in the instead of crossing it back across the box. It was the type of decision that you applaud for taking initiative and criticize for being selfish when there were better options, all at once.
It was the kind of half that makes for pundit's dreams. There were enough positives for either side so that whoever is on the individual team's side, they could point to this or that as being something to build on for the second half or at least the next game. There was also enough done wrong, i.e. poor defending and lax defensive shape leading to breaks down the field, that national pundits could point out everything either team had done wrong. Case in point, the NBC studio crew said Leicester had won the half when people in red saw Liverpool control a bit more of the possession. At 0-0 though, neither side was fully right or wrong.
The second half opened up quite similarly. Both squads bombed up the pitch with hopefulness and purpose. Neither could really do much with the ball in the final third however. It was not until the 60th minute that there was a breakthrough. After Liverpool had gotten the ball into the box, Emre Can relinquished possession when surrounded by three defenders. The Foxes just ripped a long ball up the right side for Jamie Vardy and he made Liverpool pay. The up and coming striker took the ball on the bounce and just blasted a shot first-time from about 25 yards out and into the net.
Many will blame Mignolet or the defending, but it was a quality goal, brilliantly taken and any goalkeeper in the same situation would have been in the same spot on the field. It was up to the players on the Liverpool side to attempt an equalizer from then on, while not conceding another. Alas, that was not in the cards.
While the second goal was again expertly taken by Vardy, the defending was surely to blame. Sakho failed to judge the ball on the first attempt and then failed to head it clear of the attacking players. Then the Leicester strike force was given yards of space as the Liverpool defenders dropped off, which allowed them to pick out Vardy in the box. Dejan Lovren had a moment where he fell asleep and by the time he turned around all he could do was tokenly lunge at the attempt. There was no savior on that play however as Vardy slotted it past Lovren and over the diving Mignolet.
Liverpool's attack petered out following the first goal and all but disappeared after the second. The apathy could be seen in full force on a corner kick in the 76th minute. The kick itself was decent, but there was absolutely no movement toward the ball at all. There was no one attacking and no one with the fortitude to put forth some effort. Liverpool did not just lay down and die. Nathaniel Clyne had a shot that would have surely scored in the 80th minute if not for a good block on the six yard line, but there just wasn't enough of it to make a difference.
Leicester are having a magical season, very similar to what Liverpool experienced the year Luis Suarez almost led them to the title. They are currently a feel good story and everything that is right with the sport. However, despite their top notch play and deserved place in the table, it still stings for a club like Liverpool to be so out-classed by a team that was in the relegation zone just last season. There have been far worse losses in the past and this season, but this one really showed how far the club has fallen and how much work will be needed in the off-season to turn things around. There is undoubtedly enough talent for Jurgen Klopp to work with so that he does not need an entirely new starting XI in one summer, but the overhaul will be wide spread and much needed.
Random Thoughts:
- I'm pleased Liverpool did not allow themselves to be held to ransom by Shaktar. You can catch my thoughts in this video, which included some other soccer topics - https://youtu.be/3WUvQ2_eNBw
- I will never root for any club over Liverpool, but I am pulling for Leicester. Similarly to how everyone expected the bottom to drop out when Liverpool were challenging a couple years ago, everyone keeps expecting the bubble to burst for the Foxes. Maybe it eventually will, but they are still a pretty good story and play some pretty entertaining football.
- While I do truly believe my statement that the entire team does not need to be replaced in one summer transfer window, I don't know who I would say is safe. Perhaps Coutinho or maybe Firmino, simply because of his price and the fact he was just bought, but outside of those I don't know if there is any player that I would be shocked to see sold or would empathize with if a replacement was purchased.
Walk On
Liverpool wasted a great chance in the 15th minute, mere moments after conceding an opportunity to the Foxes that resulted in a good save by Simon Mignolet.. Then, the Reds went down the field, and got it into the box. Unfortunately, Roberto Firmino tried to lay the ball back for Lallana on a header and instead gave it right to the defense. Playing against a team ahead of you in the table, you must convert those chances.
Mignolet came up huge again with a spectacular save on Mahrez in the 35 minute. The ball came in from about 25 yards out and was labled for the upper corner with a curler. Liverpool squandered another chance in the 40th minute when Alberto Moreno skied a shot in the instead of crossing it back across the box. It was the type of decision that you applaud for taking initiative and criticize for being selfish when there were better options, all at once.
It was the kind of half that makes for pundit's dreams. There were enough positives for either side so that whoever is on the individual team's side, they could point to this or that as being something to build on for the second half or at least the next game. There was also enough done wrong, i.e. poor defending and lax defensive shape leading to breaks down the field, that national pundits could point out everything either team had done wrong. Case in point, the NBC studio crew said Leicester had won the half when people in red saw Liverpool control a bit more of the possession. At 0-0 though, neither side was fully right or wrong.
The second half opened up quite similarly. Both squads bombed up the pitch with hopefulness and purpose. Neither could really do much with the ball in the final third however. It was not until the 60th minute that there was a breakthrough. After Liverpool had gotten the ball into the box, Emre Can relinquished possession when surrounded by three defenders. The Foxes just ripped a long ball up the right side for Jamie Vardy and he made Liverpool pay. The up and coming striker took the ball on the bounce and just blasted a shot first-time from about 25 yards out and into the net.
Many will blame Mignolet or the defending, but it was a quality goal, brilliantly taken and any goalkeeper in the same situation would have been in the same spot on the field. It was up to the players on the Liverpool side to attempt an equalizer from then on, while not conceding another. Alas, that was not in the cards.
While the second goal was again expertly taken by Vardy, the defending was surely to blame. Sakho failed to judge the ball on the first attempt and then failed to head it clear of the attacking players. Then the Leicester strike force was given yards of space as the Liverpool defenders dropped off, which allowed them to pick out Vardy in the box. Dejan Lovren had a moment where he fell asleep and by the time he turned around all he could do was tokenly lunge at the attempt. There was no savior on that play however as Vardy slotted it past Lovren and over the diving Mignolet.
Liverpool's attack petered out following the first goal and all but disappeared after the second. The apathy could be seen in full force on a corner kick in the 76th minute. The kick itself was decent, but there was absolutely no movement toward the ball at all. There was no one attacking and no one with the fortitude to put forth some effort. Liverpool did not just lay down and die. Nathaniel Clyne had a shot that would have surely scored in the 80th minute if not for a good block on the six yard line, but there just wasn't enough of it to make a difference.
Leicester are having a magical season, very similar to what Liverpool experienced the year Luis Suarez almost led them to the title. They are currently a feel good story and everything that is right with the sport. However, despite their top notch play and deserved place in the table, it still stings for a club like Liverpool to be so out-classed by a team that was in the relegation zone just last season. There have been far worse losses in the past and this season, but this one really showed how far the club has fallen and how much work will be needed in the off-season to turn things around. There is undoubtedly enough talent for Jurgen Klopp to work with so that he does not need an entirely new starting XI in one summer, but the overhaul will be wide spread and much needed.
Random Thoughts:
- I'm pleased Liverpool did not allow themselves to be held to ransom by Shaktar. You can catch my thoughts in this video, which included some other soccer topics - https://youtu.be/3WUvQ2_eNBw
- I will never root for any club over Liverpool, but I am pulling for Leicester. Similarly to how everyone expected the bottom to drop out when Liverpool were challenging a couple years ago, everyone keeps expecting the bubble to burst for the Foxes. Maybe it eventually will, but they are still a pretty good story and play some pretty entertaining football.
- While I do truly believe my statement that the entire team does not need to be replaced in one summer transfer window, I don't know who I would say is safe. Perhaps Coutinho or maybe Firmino, simply because of his price and the fact he was just bought, but outside of those I don't know if there is any player that I would be shocked to see sold or would empathize with if a replacement was purchased.
Walk On
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