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
Showing posts with label Southampton. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Southampton. Show all posts
Sunday, May 7, 2017
Saturday, November 19, 2016
Liverpool Create But Can't Finish Against Southampton
Liverpool came into today's match riding high. They've been scoring goals, racking up points and looking like a real title contender.
Liverpool had not lost since their disappointing 2-0 loss to Burnley, of all teams. The Reds had been flying high and there were all sorts of mentions by the broadcast team about how the team was performing better than they had since 1987 or more goals at this point since the 1800's, etc.
Southampton did not care much about all that. They wanted a point from this match, come hell or high water. For the first 45 minutes it looked like they would get at least that.
They parked the bus and put all ten men behind the ball, giving Liverpool absolutely no space in which to work. Liverpool had a chance or two off Southampton mistakes, but there really wasn't anything from the Reds that would trouble the goalkeeper by being on frame.
The second half would be more of the same, but the spaces were more readily available. The Old Boys were trying to probe a little further forward in an attempt to take all three points.
While they came close to poaching a goal in the 59th minute when Charlie Austin overpowered the defender for a header that skimmed wide, the Reds were the one afforded more chances. Unfortunately, their top guys were not on top form.
Coutinho flubbed one off his left foot about 10 minutes into the second half. He could have been given a penalty since the defender made a lot of contact with him and none on the ball (to the naked eye, there appeared to be a block but was none), but you expect better from the Brazilian.
Speaking of Brazilians, Firmino was played into space on the right in the 69th minute and came close to scoring. He probably should have, but ended up flashing it just wide as he tried to cut it back across goal.
Liverpool had some opportunities off set pieces or corner kicks, but just could not find that bit of magic to break the deadlock. With each second ticking off the clock, the match looked like it was going to end in a slightly less boring result than the Manchester United fixture.
The Reds kept their foot on the gas trying to get the three points. Daniel Sturridge finally got some game time late on.
His inclusion almost immediately paid dividends. He lofted a cross into a dangerous area and Nathaniel Clyne almost finished it off in the 79th minute. Sadly, it just shaved the goal again and did not hit the net.
In the end, there was nothing in it for the Liverpool offense. They created a handful of chances throughout, but could not finish.
The only sad thing was the lack of possession they had when it mattered most, in stoppage time. The Reds looked a bit out of sorts during all of that.
Nevertheless, it was a decent performance in the grand scheme. Liverpool remain top of the table on the number of goals they have scored.
A point on the road is always important. It was not nearly the result we all wanted, but nothing to be too disappointed with either.
Random Thoughts:
- Very random, but the Paul Pogba commercial bothers me. The insinuation seems to be the woman at the start would be his mother. Yet she calls him Pogba. My friends have called me by my last name, but nobody in your family would call you by your last name.
- Though I've made my feelings fairly apparent regarding Adam Lallana, he's had a fantastic year this season. You wonder if his creativity and work rate might have been a deciding factor in being able to break down Southampton if he was not injured.
- I feel bad for Dejan Lovren. Clearly I have not kept myself in the loop because I can't remember what he did that makes him the only player the fans booed. Liverpool had at least two ex-Southampton players on the field and at least three on the team and Lovren gets all the ill will.
Walk On
Liverpool had not lost since their disappointing 2-0 loss to Burnley, of all teams. The Reds had been flying high and there were all sorts of mentions by the broadcast team about how the team was performing better than they had since 1987 or more goals at this point since the 1800's, etc.
Southampton did not care much about all that. They wanted a point from this match, come hell or high water. For the first 45 minutes it looked like they would get at least that.
They parked the bus and put all ten men behind the ball, giving Liverpool absolutely no space in which to work. Liverpool had a chance or two off Southampton mistakes, but there really wasn't anything from the Reds that would trouble the goalkeeper by being on frame.
The second half would be more of the same, but the spaces were more readily available. The Old Boys were trying to probe a little further forward in an attempt to take all three points.
While they came close to poaching a goal in the 59th minute when Charlie Austin overpowered the defender for a header that skimmed wide, the Reds were the one afforded more chances. Unfortunately, their top guys were not on top form.
Coutinho flubbed one off his left foot about 10 minutes into the second half. He could have been given a penalty since the defender made a lot of contact with him and none on the ball (to the naked eye, there appeared to be a block but was none), but you expect better from the Brazilian.
Speaking of Brazilians, Firmino was played into space on the right in the 69th minute and came close to scoring. He probably should have, but ended up flashing it just wide as he tried to cut it back across goal.
Liverpool had some opportunities off set pieces or corner kicks, but just could not find that bit of magic to break the deadlock. With each second ticking off the clock, the match looked like it was going to end in a slightly less boring result than the Manchester United fixture.
The Reds kept their foot on the gas trying to get the three points. Daniel Sturridge finally got some game time late on.
His inclusion almost immediately paid dividends. He lofted a cross into a dangerous area and Nathaniel Clyne almost finished it off in the 79th minute. Sadly, it just shaved the goal again and did not hit the net.
In the end, there was nothing in it for the Liverpool offense. They created a handful of chances throughout, but could not finish.
The only sad thing was the lack of possession they had when it mattered most, in stoppage time. The Reds looked a bit out of sorts during all of that.
Nevertheless, it was a decent performance in the grand scheme. Liverpool remain top of the table on the number of goals they have scored.
A point on the road is always important. It was not nearly the result we all wanted, but nothing to be too disappointed with either.
Random Thoughts:
- Very random, but the Paul Pogba commercial bothers me. The insinuation seems to be the woman at the start would be his mother. Yet she calls him Pogba. My friends have called me by my last name, but nobody in your family would call you by your last name.
- Though I've made my feelings fairly apparent regarding Adam Lallana, he's had a fantastic year this season. You wonder if his creativity and work rate might have been a deciding factor in being able to break down Southampton if he was not injured.
- I feel bad for Dejan Lovren. Clearly I have not kept myself in the loop because I can't remember what he did that makes him the only player the fans booed. Liverpool had at least two ex-Southampton players on the field and at least three on the team and Lovren gets all the ill will.
Walk On
Sunday, March 20, 2016
Liverpool Unbelievably Lose to Southampton
Liverpool came into their league match against Southampton with plenty of momentum. Perhaps it is true that none of it had come from league matches, but one would have thought the team was flying high by advancing in the Europa League over their old rivals, Manchester United. The team did come out flying but their wings ended up clipped in the end.
Liverpool was not doing anything with their own possession for the first quarter hour. Southampton was creating a bit more in the way of problems. Though he defended well overall, there was a question of whether or not Dejan Lovren gave up a penalty early in the contest. Ultimately no pen was given and play resumed.
Then in the 13th minute, Lovren was called upon to get a block in on a tight quarters chance for the men in stripes.
The Reds did not cover themselves in glory with their early chances. Divock Origi hit Daniel Sturridge with a shot that might have had a good chance at scoring in the 16th minute, but only moments later Coutinho would not be denied.
Fed the ball near the left sideline, Coutinho took on one defender and then cut the ball back toward the center of the pitch. Still a good 25 or more yards from goal, he whipped his right foot around it and banged one off the post and into the net.
No doubt there will be those that claim the keeper should have stopped it. However, on viewing the replay not only was it a superb placement of the shot, but the defenders in front kind of waved their foot at the ball, which would throw off any goalkeeper.
The offensive floodgates opened a little bit due to Southampton having to push. Origi created again by taking on defenders with speed and then instead of shooting he left it off in the box for Sturridge. Sturridge, clearly cognizant of his terrible right footed miss in the midweek game, wanted to keep it on his left. He did a quick little dance move that might land him a spot on Dancing with the Stars and when the defender moved just enough he sliced his left foot through the ball and into the far netting.
Liverpool should have taken a 3-0 lead in the 26th minute, but Joe Allen could not finish it off. Give credit to the goalkeeper who made a good reaction save with the kick, but Allen was forced too close to the keeper with the pass, which allowed the keeper to cut off the angle.
Allen thought he got his just desserts in the 33rd minute. The Welshman somewhat scuffed the ball on the shot following the corner but it found it's way through all the bodies and into the net. Unfortunately, the linesman raised his flag late and deemed Sakho to have been offside and in a spot that interfered with the goalkeeper.
Everything seemed to be going the Reds' way. They had won the possession battle at the half, shots, shots on target and even corners. It was all about to come crashing down though.
In the 49th minute, halftime sub, Martin Skrtel was called for holding onto the attacker's arm and a penalty was given. Simon Mignolet saved the shot, but the reprieve was short lived. In the 64th minute, Southampton made Liverpool pay for a careless turnover in midfield. The Saints charged up field, slid a pass through to Mane who ripped it past Mignolet.
Southampton knotted the game up with a cracking strike from Graziano Pelle in the 83rd minute. The Saints again capitalized on the suddenly shaky Liverpool defending who failed to clear the initial ball in.
Then the defense just fell apart. They almost gave the ball away with a weak pass from Can, gave a poor pass back to Mignolet who flubbed the clearance and then Skrtel whiffed on the head ball. Southampton then finished off the comeback with an 86th minute goal by Mane.
It was an embarassing defeat both due to the defending and the lack of finishing that the Reds were made to rue. So many chances were wasted, but it seemed insignificant given the 2-0 lead.
Origi shot too close to the goalkeeper, going near post in the 51st resulting in an easy save. In the 59th minute, Adam Lallana's pass to Emre Can was just deflected enough to get it away from Can's foot for the finish. Then the maligned Christian Benteke sliced one across the face of goal but wide in the 73rd.
Combine those with all the misses in the first half as well and you get the result that happened. Questions will rise from the substitutions, especially putting Skrtel on if there was no injury to Lovren but it falls to the players. They could have easily won four or five to nothing and instead allowed their opponent to take all the points.
For whatever reason, Liverpool cannot seem to concentrate and see things out in the league. Now they face the potential embarrassment of being passed up by Chelsea, who are only three points back of the Reds despite their own woeful start to the season.
Now Liverpool must face Tottenham, a team with title aspirations, at Anfield on April 2. Thank goodness it's not on the 1st because Liverpool have played like an April Fool's joke enough as it is.
Random Thoughts:
- Skrtel was just awful. Given the circumstances of being up 2-0 I suppose I get the idea behind the change. Skrtel had been out injured so give him 45 minutes with not much pressure. It completely backfired though. The centerback was either to blame entirely or at least played a part in two of the goals given up and almost conceded a penalty goal as well. If this is the way he is going to play - he has made a habit of clutching and grabbing and getting away with it - then personally I'm more than happy to ship him off and take my chances with Lovren.
- Thank goodness I'm not the one getting paid to figure this team out because I can't. I know Southampton are having a decent season, but how in the world Liverpool can take down teams like United and City and play well against Arsenal etc and then butcher a game they had in hand is just unbelievable.
- My old buddy Adam Lallana disappeared again. Yes, he had a few good passes in the attacking end but he's just an enigma to me. If he has the talent to dominate matches like he did a few weeks ago, it boggles the mind that he can be a non-factor so much of the time.
Walk On
Liverpool was not doing anything with their own possession for the first quarter hour. Southampton was creating a bit more in the way of problems. Though he defended well overall, there was a question of whether or not Dejan Lovren gave up a penalty early in the contest. Ultimately no pen was given and play resumed.
Then in the 13th minute, Lovren was called upon to get a block in on a tight quarters chance for the men in stripes.
The Reds did not cover themselves in glory with their early chances. Divock Origi hit Daniel Sturridge with a shot that might have had a good chance at scoring in the 16th minute, but only moments later Coutinho would not be denied.
Fed the ball near the left sideline, Coutinho took on one defender and then cut the ball back toward the center of the pitch. Still a good 25 or more yards from goal, he whipped his right foot around it and banged one off the post and into the net.
No doubt there will be those that claim the keeper should have stopped it. However, on viewing the replay not only was it a superb placement of the shot, but the defenders in front kind of waved their foot at the ball, which would throw off any goalkeeper.
The offensive floodgates opened a little bit due to Southampton having to push. Origi created again by taking on defenders with speed and then instead of shooting he left it off in the box for Sturridge. Sturridge, clearly cognizant of his terrible right footed miss in the midweek game, wanted to keep it on his left. He did a quick little dance move that might land him a spot on Dancing with the Stars and when the defender moved just enough he sliced his left foot through the ball and into the far netting.
Liverpool should have taken a 3-0 lead in the 26th minute, but Joe Allen could not finish it off. Give credit to the goalkeeper who made a good reaction save with the kick, but Allen was forced too close to the keeper with the pass, which allowed the keeper to cut off the angle.
Allen thought he got his just desserts in the 33rd minute. The Welshman somewhat scuffed the ball on the shot following the corner but it found it's way through all the bodies and into the net. Unfortunately, the linesman raised his flag late and deemed Sakho to have been offside and in a spot that interfered with the goalkeeper.
Everything seemed to be going the Reds' way. They had won the possession battle at the half, shots, shots on target and even corners. It was all about to come crashing down though.
In the 49th minute, halftime sub, Martin Skrtel was called for holding onto the attacker's arm and a penalty was given. Simon Mignolet saved the shot, but the reprieve was short lived. In the 64th minute, Southampton made Liverpool pay for a careless turnover in midfield. The Saints charged up field, slid a pass through to Mane who ripped it past Mignolet.
Southampton knotted the game up with a cracking strike from Graziano Pelle in the 83rd minute. The Saints again capitalized on the suddenly shaky Liverpool defending who failed to clear the initial ball in.
Then the defense just fell apart. They almost gave the ball away with a weak pass from Can, gave a poor pass back to Mignolet who flubbed the clearance and then Skrtel whiffed on the head ball. Southampton then finished off the comeback with an 86th minute goal by Mane.
It was an embarassing defeat both due to the defending and the lack of finishing that the Reds were made to rue. So many chances were wasted, but it seemed insignificant given the 2-0 lead.
Origi shot too close to the goalkeeper, going near post in the 51st resulting in an easy save. In the 59th minute, Adam Lallana's pass to Emre Can was just deflected enough to get it away from Can's foot for the finish. Then the maligned Christian Benteke sliced one across the face of goal but wide in the 73rd.
Combine those with all the misses in the first half as well and you get the result that happened. Questions will rise from the substitutions, especially putting Skrtel on if there was no injury to Lovren but it falls to the players. They could have easily won four or five to nothing and instead allowed their opponent to take all the points.
For whatever reason, Liverpool cannot seem to concentrate and see things out in the league. Now they face the potential embarrassment of being passed up by Chelsea, who are only three points back of the Reds despite their own woeful start to the season.
Now Liverpool must face Tottenham, a team with title aspirations, at Anfield on April 2. Thank goodness it's not on the 1st because Liverpool have played like an April Fool's joke enough as it is.
Random Thoughts:
- Skrtel was just awful. Given the circumstances of being up 2-0 I suppose I get the idea behind the change. Skrtel had been out injured so give him 45 minutes with not much pressure. It completely backfired though. The centerback was either to blame entirely or at least played a part in two of the goals given up and almost conceded a penalty goal as well. If this is the way he is going to play - he has made a habit of clutching and grabbing and getting away with it - then personally I'm more than happy to ship him off and take my chances with Lovren.
- Thank goodness I'm not the one getting paid to figure this team out because I can't. I know Southampton are having a decent season, but how in the world Liverpool can take down teams like United and City and play well against Arsenal etc and then butcher a game they had in hand is just unbelievable.
- My old buddy Adam Lallana disappeared again. Yes, he had a few good passes in the attacking end but he's just an enigma to me. If he has the talent to dominate matches like he did a few weeks ago, it boggles the mind that he can be a non-factor so much of the time.
Walk On
Sunday, October 25, 2015
Liverpool Snatches a Draw From the Jaws of Victory
It was always going to be a tough task - turning around Liverpool FC. There were those, like myself, that had consumed the kool-aid and believed the signings were good and the team just wasn't playing up to snuff. Then there were those, that while overly negative at times, probably had a better grasp on what the truth of this team really was. Liverpool, for all their successes in years past, for all the money they've spent and for as close to a title they came just a few seasons ago, really aren't one of the big boys at the moment.
As has been the case the last few weeks, regardless of who was the manager, Liverpool managed to create a few chances but they simply don't have the ability to finish right now. In his midweek meetings with the press, Jurgen Klopp even acknowledged his players seem to be experiencing a bit of anxiety in the attacking end. The team has a lot of skill on the ball, but there just isn't that true threat on goal. Granted, much of that, at the moment, is due to injuries. Christian Benteke did not start the match against Southampton even though he was fit enough to be in the squad and Daniel Sturridge continues to prove that he may be the Derrick Rose of the Premier League - boatloads of talent that is rarely on the field.
Divock Origi has the ability to develop into a top class player, but he is far from the finished product right now. He has done his best in the last couple matches featured in a starting role, but just appears more suited to the role being asked of Adam Lallana than the main striker. Whether from a forced perspective or simply wanting a change of pace, Klopp wisely put on the big Belgian after the half.
Almost immediately, Benteke had an impact. Only two minutes into the second 45, Lallana played a ball through to the left. Benteke ran onto it and almost slid it back across to the Englishman, with Coutinho waiting even further along if it slipped through. Alas, it only went for a corner, but Liverpool used that energy to keep up the pressure and earn two more corners immediately after. The second half also served as a wake-up call for the Anfield faithful.
The glow of Klopp's arrival perhaps wearing off just a bit, the first half saw the Red's supporters a bit quiet and apprehensive like they were in the final few weeks of Brendan Rodgers' reign. In the second frame, they were more lively even breaking out a brief rendition of some songs during the 52nd minute. Despite the good vibes, the apprehension remained on the field.
Liverpool still looked decent when in attack mode, but like a baseball hitter gripping the bat too tightly, they were just pressing too much. Alberto Moreno blasted one across the face of goal with too much pace in the 56th minute and then ripped one 20 feet over the bar a minute later. Moreno did make up for those miscues with an absolutely perfectly timed tackle in the box when Southampton seemed to have a breakaway in the 60th minute.
Firmino came on for Lallana in the 67th minute and then the game entered a rather dull period. The squads traded trips up the field and then back with little to show. As things seemed determined to settle into another goalless draw, James Milner took the ball up the right side in the 78th minute and lofted one into the box. It seemed too far out for much to come of it, but Benteke got full power behind the header and placed it right into the upper 90 for Liverpool's first goal. It was a top notch goal and one that fans will hope gives Benteke the lift to further goals coming.
Unfortunately, the good feelings were short lived. The bane of Liverpool, no matter who they have in the back four, has been set pieces and a long free kick was their undoing in this match. Unable to clear the initial attempt, Gaston Ramirez headed it back across the goal for Mane to finish off past a lunging Milner and Simon Mingolet. While there was little blame for any one player, it just had that stomach turning feel of Liverpool snatching a draw from the jaws of victory.
The bottom line is that this team remains disappointing. Southampton is a good side, but Liverpool needed to find a way to win. Other than a bit more optimism in the stands and a bit more effort shown on the field, there has been no difference in the results of Rodgers and Klopp. That's no knock against the new manager, just the truth. It's a bit of a harsher reality for those of us that drank the aforementioned kool-aid, because we're coming to the realization that the players simply aren't good enough.
Injuries have played a huge role in results but nobody has outperformed themselves simply because they have a new manager. Coutinho seems to have actually regressed a step since the change. There is definitely a more positive vibe with Klopp in charge, but it just hasn't translated onto the field and into goals. Klopp seems to have shored up the defense overall, but they've also conceded a goal in two of the three games the German has been in charge. In the end it's just more proof that the turnaround may be farther away than any of us envisioned and definitely farther away than we had hoped.
Random Thoughts:
- I was glad to see Liverpool legend, Stevie Nicol actually agreed with me about Adam Lallana, since it had seemed I was alone in the thoughts that he's just not that great. He has technical ability unmatched by many in the game. However, he cannot score and doesn't seem to do a great job of setting anyone else up to score either. He would be a nice change of pace player off the bench, but as a starter he just isn't getting it done.
- I'm eager to see what new and creative ways people come up with to put this result on Simon Mingolet. I understand it's the trait of typical lazy fans who have no concept of how to play the position, but I always get a tickle out of their insane need to blame goalkeepers for any goal.
- I keep hoping for the day when Liverpool will have two healthy strikers. Perhaps I'm old fashioned or perhaps I'm too stuck in the old American style but I just think you need two true strikers. Benteke is a strong man, but especially in the Premier League, if you don't have the second layer of attackers capable of providing quick support, then a holding striker just isn't going to create enough offense.
Walk On
As has been the case the last few weeks, regardless of who was the manager, Liverpool managed to create a few chances but they simply don't have the ability to finish right now. In his midweek meetings with the press, Jurgen Klopp even acknowledged his players seem to be experiencing a bit of anxiety in the attacking end. The team has a lot of skill on the ball, but there just isn't that true threat on goal. Granted, much of that, at the moment, is due to injuries. Christian Benteke did not start the match against Southampton even though he was fit enough to be in the squad and Daniel Sturridge continues to prove that he may be the Derrick Rose of the Premier League - boatloads of talent that is rarely on the field.
Divock Origi has the ability to develop into a top class player, but he is far from the finished product right now. He has done his best in the last couple matches featured in a starting role, but just appears more suited to the role being asked of Adam Lallana than the main striker. Whether from a forced perspective or simply wanting a change of pace, Klopp wisely put on the big Belgian after the half.
Almost immediately, Benteke had an impact. Only two minutes into the second 45, Lallana played a ball through to the left. Benteke ran onto it and almost slid it back across to the Englishman, with Coutinho waiting even further along if it slipped through. Alas, it only went for a corner, but Liverpool used that energy to keep up the pressure and earn two more corners immediately after. The second half also served as a wake-up call for the Anfield faithful.
The glow of Klopp's arrival perhaps wearing off just a bit, the first half saw the Red's supporters a bit quiet and apprehensive like they were in the final few weeks of Brendan Rodgers' reign. In the second frame, they were more lively even breaking out a brief rendition of some songs during the 52nd minute. Despite the good vibes, the apprehension remained on the field.
Liverpool still looked decent when in attack mode, but like a baseball hitter gripping the bat too tightly, they were just pressing too much. Alberto Moreno blasted one across the face of goal with too much pace in the 56th minute and then ripped one 20 feet over the bar a minute later. Moreno did make up for those miscues with an absolutely perfectly timed tackle in the box when Southampton seemed to have a breakaway in the 60th minute.
Firmino came on for Lallana in the 67th minute and then the game entered a rather dull period. The squads traded trips up the field and then back with little to show. As things seemed determined to settle into another goalless draw, James Milner took the ball up the right side in the 78th minute and lofted one into the box. It seemed too far out for much to come of it, but Benteke got full power behind the header and placed it right into the upper 90 for Liverpool's first goal. It was a top notch goal and one that fans will hope gives Benteke the lift to further goals coming.
Unfortunately, the good feelings were short lived. The bane of Liverpool, no matter who they have in the back four, has been set pieces and a long free kick was their undoing in this match. Unable to clear the initial attempt, Gaston Ramirez headed it back across the goal for Mane to finish off past a lunging Milner and Simon Mingolet. While there was little blame for any one player, it just had that stomach turning feel of Liverpool snatching a draw from the jaws of victory.
The bottom line is that this team remains disappointing. Southampton is a good side, but Liverpool needed to find a way to win. Other than a bit more optimism in the stands and a bit more effort shown on the field, there has been no difference in the results of Rodgers and Klopp. That's no knock against the new manager, just the truth. It's a bit of a harsher reality for those of us that drank the aforementioned kool-aid, because we're coming to the realization that the players simply aren't good enough.
Injuries have played a huge role in results but nobody has outperformed themselves simply because they have a new manager. Coutinho seems to have actually regressed a step since the change. There is definitely a more positive vibe with Klopp in charge, but it just hasn't translated onto the field and into goals. Klopp seems to have shored up the defense overall, but they've also conceded a goal in two of the three games the German has been in charge. In the end it's just more proof that the turnaround may be farther away than any of us envisioned and definitely farther away than we had hoped.
Random Thoughts:
- I was glad to see Liverpool legend, Stevie Nicol actually agreed with me about Adam Lallana, since it had seemed I was alone in the thoughts that he's just not that great. He has technical ability unmatched by many in the game. However, he cannot score and doesn't seem to do a great job of setting anyone else up to score either. He would be a nice change of pace player off the bench, but as a starter he just isn't getting it done.
- I'm eager to see what new and creative ways people come up with to put this result on Simon Mingolet. I understand it's the trait of typical lazy fans who have no concept of how to play the position, but I always get a tickle out of their insane need to blame goalkeepers for any goal.
- I keep hoping for the day when Liverpool will have two healthy strikers. Perhaps I'm old fashioned or perhaps I'm too stuck in the old American style but I just think you need two true strikers. Benteke is a strong man, but especially in the Premier League, if you don't have the second layer of attackers capable of providing quick support, then a holding striker just isn't going to create enough offense.
Walk On
Sunday, March 1, 2015
Liverpool Continue to March Up the Table
Liverpool managed a fantastic game against Manchester City, just days after a disastrous exit to Besiktas in the Europa League. While it certainly helped to get the huge boost that the Anfield faithful always provide, Liverpool came out with a zest for the game and with energy many feared would be lacking after expending 120 minutes of strength in Istanbul. Liverpool opened the game very positively, almost creating a chance mere minutes into the game.
Then the floodgates opened. Both teams bombed back and forth. Manchester City, title dreams slowly vanishing like that last sweet dream that fades into the morning, put forth a solid attack. Absorbing the first two or three minutes, they lashed out toward the Kop with reckless abandon. Their attacks often left holes in the back, which Liverpool were able to take advantage of in turn.
Despite his failings in Europe, Brendan Rodgers' decisions continue to bear fruit domestically. While the boss has labeled it as an injury, the consensus is that Coutinho was held out of the road game at Istanbul merely to give him a rest. Regardless of what the truth is, the decision turned out to be a genius one as Coutinho dominated the game from the Reds' point of view. The Brazilian talent was solid on the ball, made great decisions and slotted deft passes into places only his teammates could get the ball. Coutinho may not have scored the opening goal, but he formulated Liverpool's attack for most of the first half. He presented Manchester City with problems as he was too fast in some instances and too skilled to be marked in others.
Jordan Henderson, who despite recent games of solid play is not known for his clinical finishing, smashed what Arlo White described as one of the potential goals of the year. Little did White know what was to come later. Henderson, for his part, took the pass on the left side of the box. pushed it past the lunging defender and though it seemed as though he may have pushed it too far away, Vincent Kompany did not close the distance. Henderson then smashed a brilliant right footed curler into the upper 90 and Joe Hart stood no chance.
Liverpool's lead would not last forever, unfortunately for their fans. Though the Reds were able to withstand the onslaught in the opening foray of the match, their defensive lapses could not hold back the wave forever. Sergio Aguero managed to avoid several tackles as he slid along the top of the box. The City striker's skill managed to draw enough attention that Edin Dzeko slipped into the space between center backs. Dzeko took the pass neatly from Aguero, spotted it past the sliding Simon Mingolet and knotted up the game.
Both teams continued to take their chances and heading into the half, it appeared as though momentum may be sliding toward City. However, Liverpool took control of the game in the second half. Defying conventional wisdom which said City would have more energy having played on Tuesday and Liverpool on Thursday, the Reds took the game to their opponents. Coutinho took the game into his hands as well.
In the 75th minute, Coutinho scored a brilliant goal that was very similar to Henderson's but from an even tighter angle. Liverpool's manager had nothing but praise for his young player. "He is a joy to work with and a joy to watch," said Rodgers. "He is a kid who has so much ahead of him in the game. He is 22 years of age. People forget that he came to us at 19. He is a sensational footballer. To beat Joe Hart at that angle and power was a phenomenal shot."
Not only was it important to get the victory over City for the simple morale booster, of beating a team that is above you in the table and defeated you soundly earlier in the season, but to keep moving up the table yourself. Liverpool came into the match one point behind Southampton, who sat in sixth. The Saints lost on Saturday, which allowed Liverpool a chance to even tie for fourth spot. The win vaulted them two points over the Saints and into a tie with Arsenal. The tie did not last long as Liverpool's Merseyside companion, Everton, could not take down the Gunners but at least the Reds have a Champions League spot within an extremely realistic grasp.
Liverpool are the only Premier League team yet to lose a league match in the calander year of 2015. Rodgers believes working into a Champions League spot may be an even bigger accomplishment than hoped for. "If we can get into the top four, it is an even bigger accomplishment than last season because of our starting position."
Liverpool continue to take their Kopites on a rollercoaster of a season. Their lack of success in Europe and the ups and downs of cup competitions have kept fans guessing and wondering. In the league, they have yet to let people down. A loss is bound to come at some time and Liverpool still have Arsenal and Manchester United above, but they have placed themselves in a position where things are in their hands. The Reds have winnable matches the next two league games and then face all-important fixtures against the Red Devils at home and the Gunners on the road. Points are at a premium. As long as Liverpool continue to pick them up in each game, then there may be more European nights at Anfield next season.
Random Thoughts:
- I cannot imagine not starting Daniel Sturridge if he is fit, but he seems to be proving himself more of an asset at this stage coming off the bench. He failed to put the nail in the coffin on a couple chances, but still threatened the goal and one has to figure if he was in full form he would've slotted the goals in.
- Liverpool deserved to win. Bottom line. That said, Manchester City failed to connect on several chances that, given their skill, you would normally expect them to finish off. The formation still suits the Reds, but I just worry about their defensive skill if faced with a team that is flying.
- Adam Lallana continues to be a bit of a mystery. Some games he looks fantastic, like this one against City. Others, he completely disappears like against Southampton. Perhaps the occasion of facing his former team was too much for him on that night.
Walk On
Then the floodgates opened. Both teams bombed back and forth. Manchester City, title dreams slowly vanishing like that last sweet dream that fades into the morning, put forth a solid attack. Absorbing the first two or three minutes, they lashed out toward the Kop with reckless abandon. Their attacks often left holes in the back, which Liverpool were able to take advantage of in turn.
Despite his failings in Europe, Brendan Rodgers' decisions continue to bear fruit domestically. While the boss has labeled it as an injury, the consensus is that Coutinho was held out of the road game at Istanbul merely to give him a rest. Regardless of what the truth is, the decision turned out to be a genius one as Coutinho dominated the game from the Reds' point of view. The Brazilian talent was solid on the ball, made great decisions and slotted deft passes into places only his teammates could get the ball. Coutinho may not have scored the opening goal, but he formulated Liverpool's attack for most of the first half. He presented Manchester City with problems as he was too fast in some instances and too skilled to be marked in others.
Jordan Henderson, who despite recent games of solid play is not known for his clinical finishing, smashed what Arlo White described as one of the potential goals of the year. Little did White know what was to come later. Henderson, for his part, took the pass on the left side of the box. pushed it past the lunging defender and though it seemed as though he may have pushed it too far away, Vincent Kompany did not close the distance. Henderson then smashed a brilliant right footed curler into the upper 90 and Joe Hart stood no chance.
Liverpool's lead would not last forever, unfortunately for their fans. Though the Reds were able to withstand the onslaught in the opening foray of the match, their defensive lapses could not hold back the wave forever. Sergio Aguero managed to avoid several tackles as he slid along the top of the box. The City striker's skill managed to draw enough attention that Edin Dzeko slipped into the space between center backs. Dzeko took the pass neatly from Aguero, spotted it past the sliding Simon Mingolet and knotted up the game.
Both teams continued to take their chances and heading into the half, it appeared as though momentum may be sliding toward City. However, Liverpool took control of the game in the second half. Defying conventional wisdom which said City would have more energy having played on Tuesday and Liverpool on Thursday, the Reds took the game to their opponents. Coutinho took the game into his hands as well.
In the 75th minute, Coutinho scored a brilliant goal that was very similar to Henderson's but from an even tighter angle. Liverpool's manager had nothing but praise for his young player. "He is a joy to work with and a joy to watch," said Rodgers. "He is a kid who has so much ahead of him in the game. He is 22 years of age. People forget that he came to us at 19. He is a sensational footballer. To beat Joe Hart at that angle and power was a phenomenal shot."
Not only was it important to get the victory over City for the simple morale booster, of beating a team that is above you in the table and defeated you soundly earlier in the season, but to keep moving up the table yourself. Liverpool came into the match one point behind Southampton, who sat in sixth. The Saints lost on Saturday, which allowed Liverpool a chance to even tie for fourth spot. The win vaulted them two points over the Saints and into a tie with Arsenal. The tie did not last long as Liverpool's Merseyside companion, Everton, could not take down the Gunners but at least the Reds have a Champions League spot within an extremely realistic grasp.
Liverpool are the only Premier League team yet to lose a league match in the calander year of 2015. Rodgers believes working into a Champions League spot may be an even bigger accomplishment than hoped for. "If we can get into the top four, it is an even bigger accomplishment than last season because of our starting position."
Liverpool continue to take their Kopites on a rollercoaster of a season. Their lack of success in Europe and the ups and downs of cup competitions have kept fans guessing and wondering. In the league, they have yet to let people down. A loss is bound to come at some time and Liverpool still have Arsenal and Manchester United above, but they have placed themselves in a position where things are in their hands. The Reds have winnable matches the next two league games and then face all-important fixtures against the Red Devils at home and the Gunners on the road. Points are at a premium. As long as Liverpool continue to pick them up in each game, then there may be more European nights at Anfield next season.
Random Thoughts:
- I cannot imagine not starting Daniel Sturridge if he is fit, but he seems to be proving himself more of an asset at this stage coming off the bench. He failed to put the nail in the coffin on a couple chances, but still threatened the goal and one has to figure if he was in full form he would've slotted the goals in.
- Liverpool deserved to win. Bottom line. That said, Manchester City failed to connect on several chances that, given their skill, you would normally expect them to finish off. The formation still suits the Reds, but I just worry about their defensive skill if faced with a team that is flying.
- Adam Lallana continues to be a bit of a mystery. Some games he looks fantastic, like this one against City. Others, he completely disappears like against Southampton. Perhaps the occasion of facing his former team was too much for him on that night.
Walk On
Sunday, February 22, 2015
Lesser Lineup Still Puts Liverpool In Reach Of Top Four
Liverpool put a bit of a scare into supporters when they announced their lineup for an important match up against Southampton. The Reds were coming off a tough late week Europa League match where they put out a strong lineup, so changes were understandable. However the changes still seemed a bit odd. It had been rumored that Dejan Lovren would return to the lineup the last few games, but many had assumed he would take Emre Can's place, thus pushing Can to the midfield, not join him in the back three.
Once again, however, manager Brendan Rodgers' decisions all paid off. Daniel Sturridge was not forced to start on two days rest, Raheem Sterling was placed back into the striking role that sparked the team to its resurgence having rested most of the Besiktas match, Lovren and Lazar Markovic were given significant playing time which will be important the longer Liverpool stay alive in three separate competitions and Jordan Ibe continues his growth as a potential first team player.
The match got off to a rousing start for both Southampton and Liverpool and the Reds managed to bulge the net before some of us had even sat down for breakfast. Liverpool took a 1-0 lead in the third minute on an absolute cracker from Coutinho. The Brazilian speedster managed to rip an unstoppable shot from about 30 yards away from goal and just bank it in off the crossbar and across the goal line.
Not only did Liverpool score their game winning goal within the first five minutes, but the referee had a terrible day within that time span as well. Two potential penalties, one that was not and one that probably was, were not whistled in favor of Southampton. Truth be told, it was a pretty interesting day for the officials in this match. After two no calls early in the match, it became clear that the officials were going to do their best not to interject themselves. Joe Allen escaped a pretty clear penalty and then Raheem Sterling was not awarded a penalty after being chopped down with a trailing leg by the Saints sliding defender in the box only minutes later.
Even as a former keeper, it seemed as though Simon Mingolet was guilty of a handball outside of the penalty area that would have seen the Belgian netminder sent off. None of these were called and, more often than not, the yellow cards that were handed out were softer than some of the no calls. In the end though, both sides had things called in their favor and not called in their favor and it really evened out. The match official had a bad day, but fans are often more accepting of this when the calls and no calls are equal on both sides. Of course, it is easier to say when you are on the winning side of that coin.
Regardless of the referee and his decisions, Liverpool and Southampton played a strong attacking style deserving of such importance in the table. Both teams were brave in all aspects despite tremendously bad conditions with rain coming down in buckets at times, a swirling wind and the usual cold of a winter's night in England. Both squads fought through this adversity valiantly and fortunately for fans of the Reds, Liverpool managed to have a bit more skill, a bit more guile and managed to put more goals in the net.
It seemed for the longest time that the game would either end in a 1-1 draw, with Southampton gaining a few chances late in the match or a 1-0 win for Liverpool. Then in the 73rd minute, Raheem Sterling made the Saints pay for a slip in the box. The youngster, Matt Targett, who had done a decent job defending Jordan Ibe all afternoon, slipped on his clearance attempt and the ball fell right to Sterling. Sterling did not get full force behind the ball, but it was enough off the right foot to get past the defender and slip through the diving goalkeepers hands into the back of the goal. 2-0 for Liverpool and two points away from the top four.
The Saints managed a few more chances in the dying moments of the contest, but it was all for naught as Liverpool held on. Mingolet managed his sixth clean sheet in 2015 and continues to look confident in his position even if some supporters still worry about him at times. Southampton had a few injuries, so some might say they were not able to put out their strongest lineup, however neither did Liverpool and ultimately regardless of who was on the pitch, Liverpool made the plays and got the win.
The Mario Balotelli controversy was given a rest due to him not being needed, which was another positive for the team. In terms of the player, it may have been good to see if he could continue his form. Yet, Liverpool looked dangerous enough in attack without him and once the second goal was scored, a more defensive substitution made sense (even if it was Glen Johnson). As long as none of the sensationalist media out there try to make more of it than there is by saying Balotelli was left off as punishment, then the whole situation can pass quietly into the night and Liverpool can concentrate on winning matches.
No answers have been given as to the big question that ended the last blog, but that's a great thing for Liverpool. While it would be easier to say this competition represents the team's best chance at this goal or that goal, Liverpool continue to win and that is a better "problem" to have than wondering which games have more significance and when to rest players. If the bench keeps stepping up and giving performances like they did on this day against the Saints, then Liverpool may be able to put all energies into all competitions and still have a realistic chance of attaining their goals in each.
Random Thoughts:
- Being a former referee, I often see things through their eyes and give them the benefit of the doubt. However, I'm a bit tired of officiating crews being too afraid to make big calls. Whether you're neutral, a Reds fan or Saints fan it is very hard to argue that there should not have been at least two penalties given in that match and at least one red card if not two. Very poor showing, but as I stated in the blog at least it was even for both sides.
- Daniel Sturridge is a great player and he continues to spark the rest of the team. Yet, I can't help but feeling he's holding back just a little bit due to his penchant for reinjuring himself. It was not quite as evident in this match, but I continue to see signs that he is reluctant to be kicked or tackled and will avoid those situations even if it costs him the ball. All part of returning from injury I suppose, but you just hope it does not present a problem in an important match down the line.
- I will give the devil his due, so to speak, in regards to Joe Allen. This space has been no friend to Mr. Allen in recent weeks and often for good reason. He played a solid game against Southampton, however and was an important cog in the Liverpool machine. He was positioned well defensively throughout the game and made several good passes and clearances. Hopefully he can continue that form since a return for Gerrard and Lucas seems unlikely for another few weeks.
- While Arsenal and Manchester United are still above the Reds, some small part of me takes even more satisfaction - other than just being a fan - each time Liverpool move up the table, because of ESPN FC. Nobody, outside of Stevie Nicol think they can or will finish top four. This would be fine if they would not fall back on the idea that "it is not mathematically likely." There are still 12 matches in the Premier League left, including big matches against Arsenal and Manchester United. Don't tell me it's not mathematically possible when there are six points to be had from those matches alone and Liverpool sit two points out of the top four as we speak.
Walk On
Once again, however, manager Brendan Rodgers' decisions all paid off. Daniel Sturridge was not forced to start on two days rest, Raheem Sterling was placed back into the striking role that sparked the team to its resurgence having rested most of the Besiktas match, Lovren and Lazar Markovic were given significant playing time which will be important the longer Liverpool stay alive in three separate competitions and Jordan Ibe continues his growth as a potential first team player.
The match got off to a rousing start for both Southampton and Liverpool and the Reds managed to bulge the net before some of us had even sat down for breakfast. Liverpool took a 1-0 lead in the third minute on an absolute cracker from Coutinho. The Brazilian speedster managed to rip an unstoppable shot from about 30 yards away from goal and just bank it in off the crossbar and across the goal line.
Not only did Liverpool score their game winning goal within the first five minutes, but the referee had a terrible day within that time span as well. Two potential penalties, one that was not and one that probably was, were not whistled in favor of Southampton. Truth be told, it was a pretty interesting day for the officials in this match. After two no calls early in the match, it became clear that the officials were going to do their best not to interject themselves. Joe Allen escaped a pretty clear penalty and then Raheem Sterling was not awarded a penalty after being chopped down with a trailing leg by the Saints sliding defender in the box only minutes later.
Even as a former keeper, it seemed as though Simon Mingolet was guilty of a handball outside of the penalty area that would have seen the Belgian netminder sent off. None of these were called and, more often than not, the yellow cards that were handed out were softer than some of the no calls. In the end though, both sides had things called in their favor and not called in their favor and it really evened out. The match official had a bad day, but fans are often more accepting of this when the calls and no calls are equal on both sides. Of course, it is easier to say when you are on the winning side of that coin.
Regardless of the referee and his decisions, Liverpool and Southampton played a strong attacking style deserving of such importance in the table. Both teams were brave in all aspects despite tremendously bad conditions with rain coming down in buckets at times, a swirling wind and the usual cold of a winter's night in England. Both squads fought through this adversity valiantly and fortunately for fans of the Reds, Liverpool managed to have a bit more skill, a bit more guile and managed to put more goals in the net.
It seemed for the longest time that the game would either end in a 1-1 draw, with Southampton gaining a few chances late in the match or a 1-0 win for Liverpool. Then in the 73rd minute, Raheem Sterling made the Saints pay for a slip in the box. The youngster, Matt Targett, who had done a decent job defending Jordan Ibe all afternoon, slipped on his clearance attempt and the ball fell right to Sterling. Sterling did not get full force behind the ball, but it was enough off the right foot to get past the defender and slip through the diving goalkeepers hands into the back of the goal. 2-0 for Liverpool and two points away from the top four.
The Saints managed a few more chances in the dying moments of the contest, but it was all for naught as Liverpool held on. Mingolet managed his sixth clean sheet in 2015 and continues to look confident in his position even if some supporters still worry about him at times. Southampton had a few injuries, so some might say they were not able to put out their strongest lineup, however neither did Liverpool and ultimately regardless of who was on the pitch, Liverpool made the plays and got the win.
The Mario Balotelli controversy was given a rest due to him not being needed, which was another positive for the team. In terms of the player, it may have been good to see if he could continue his form. Yet, Liverpool looked dangerous enough in attack without him and once the second goal was scored, a more defensive substitution made sense (even if it was Glen Johnson). As long as none of the sensationalist media out there try to make more of it than there is by saying Balotelli was left off as punishment, then the whole situation can pass quietly into the night and Liverpool can concentrate on winning matches.
No answers have been given as to the big question that ended the last blog, but that's a great thing for Liverpool. While it would be easier to say this competition represents the team's best chance at this goal or that goal, Liverpool continue to win and that is a better "problem" to have than wondering which games have more significance and when to rest players. If the bench keeps stepping up and giving performances like they did on this day against the Saints, then Liverpool may be able to put all energies into all competitions and still have a realistic chance of attaining their goals in each.
Random Thoughts:
- Being a former referee, I often see things through their eyes and give them the benefit of the doubt. However, I'm a bit tired of officiating crews being too afraid to make big calls. Whether you're neutral, a Reds fan or Saints fan it is very hard to argue that there should not have been at least two penalties given in that match and at least one red card if not two. Very poor showing, but as I stated in the blog at least it was even for both sides.
- Daniel Sturridge is a great player and he continues to spark the rest of the team. Yet, I can't help but feeling he's holding back just a little bit due to his penchant for reinjuring himself. It was not quite as evident in this match, but I continue to see signs that he is reluctant to be kicked or tackled and will avoid those situations even if it costs him the ball. All part of returning from injury I suppose, but you just hope it does not present a problem in an important match down the line.
- I will give the devil his due, so to speak, in regards to Joe Allen. This space has been no friend to Mr. Allen in recent weeks and often for good reason. He played a solid game against Southampton, however and was an important cog in the Liverpool machine. He was positioned well defensively throughout the game and made several good passes and clearances. Hopefully he can continue that form since a return for Gerrard and Lucas seems unlikely for another few weeks.
- While Arsenal and Manchester United are still above the Reds, some small part of me takes even more satisfaction - other than just being a fan - each time Liverpool move up the table, because of ESPN FC. Nobody, outside of Stevie Nicol think they can or will finish top four. This would be fine if they would not fall back on the idea that "it is not mathematically likely." There are still 12 matches in the Premier League left, including big matches against Arsenal and Manchester United. Don't tell me it's not mathematically possible when there are six points to be had from those matches alone and Liverpool sit two points out of the top four as we speak.
Walk On
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