Liverpool faced one of the glaring problems they are currently having with cup competitions. The problem is they are still in all of them. The question is whether or not that is a good thing.
As fans, we all love to see Liverpool Football Club as much as we can. Those of us with odd work schedules or commitments elsewhere are especially appreciative to have extra chances to see live games when it is difficult to get an eyeball on the league matches.
With that in mind, we have to be a little more pragmatic when it comes to the priorities. Fans and players, alike, want silverware. The EFL Cup (formerly Capital One Cup) might have the least prestige, but it would still be a trophy.
On the same line of thinking, the FA Cup is nowhere near what it once was. Liverpool themselves proved that with the lineup they used in the first leg against Plymouth.
The average age of the players on the pitch during that game was barely over 20 and that was including players like Lucas, who is in his 30's. Liverpool went with a bit more of an evenly spread lineup in the replay, but you are still giving younger players plenty of looks in these games.
The problem becomes how you deal with it. Some are fine going with nothing but youth to get them experience and exposure at the expense of the result. Others want a full effort to be put into every single match, regardless of opponent.
That puts managers in a precarious position. Jurgen Klopp himself has basically said they want to win every time out. His team sheet does not always reflect that, but Liverpool have not shown any indication of "purposely" dropping a match to save legs for other competitions.
Call it crazy, but we've seen other clubs cleverly put out a squad they knew would likely not pick up a win in cup games. The idea is if they win they get experience and if they lose, that is one less fixture to worry about on the schedule.
The problem becomes the no-win scenario these games present. If you put out a strong team and lose, you are blasted for it. If you put up a strong team and win, people wonder if you are overexposing them to fatigue. The opposite is true as well.
Put out a weak team and fans question your willingness to win. Put out a weak team and win and you get no credit as manager or player because you're the bigger club.
So, Liverpool were left to wonder what to do against Plymouth Argyle. Their kids could not break down the battle tested, fourth-tier team.
What do you do in the replay? Play the same team and hope or use the regulars and win?
Klopp went for both. We saw a starting lineup with players like Lucas, Daniel Sturridge, Divock Origi and Coutinho. They were mixed in with several prospects including youngster Ben Woodburn and then Harry Wilson in the second half.
The game opened up lively enough. Liverpool even broke the deadlock with the most unlikely person imaginable.
Lucas, who had not scored in seven years, put the first goal of the game in. With the cross coming from the left, Lucas ran to the near post and rewarded his efforts with a slick header that curled inside the post and past the keeper.
Unfortunately, the mixture of experience and youth looked just like that the rest of the match. The game remained 1-0 well into the latter stages of the game and you could tell the squad on the field did not have much experience with each other.
Loris Karius was called into action far too often for a match against a fourth level team, regardless of which players were on. He was still a little shaky, but it was enough to keep out the shots he should have.
Liverpool were fortunate much of the match though too. A shot in the 75th minute clattered off the post after a volley from Jake Jervis.
The Reds did themselves no favors either. Sturridge missed a good chance midway through the second half. Liverpool were also gifted a penalty in the 87th minute only to see Origi side foot it right into the goalkeeper.
In the end, none of it mattered. Lucas' goal held up the entire way and Liverpool won to make it to the fourth round of the FA Cup.
The issue now is whether that is a good thing. As mentioned, we all want to see the club do well, but are more games good when Liverpool's league form is slipping a bit?
As a fan, we don't understand fatigue the way players do. We see they are not having to play in Europe, so who cares about a few cup games?
Well, when the squad is only so deep, it can make a difference. For now, we should all be happy that Liverpool is good enough to keep pressing on.
If the Reds can continue to use their youth in these games and win, then so be it. It's good to get them time on a bigger stage.
We can only hope that these cup games don't complicate matters to the point where the Reds miss out on the top four. We don't want to be Arsenal, where top four is our only concern, but it would be a step in the right direction if the Reds cannot catch Chelsea.
Wednesday, January 18, 2017
Tuesday, December 27, 2016
Liverpool Open Shakily And Then Find Their Footing Against Stoke
We always knew this match was going to be a bit of an odd one. On a normal night, Stoke City would have no business on the field with Liverpool. That is not meant as a knock to Stoke, but the talent level is just different. As a fixture coming between the Merseyside Derby and a match against Manchester City, there was always the potential for disaster.
It seemed headed in that direction after some early chances for the Reds. In the 12th minute, Stoke City scored the opening goal of the contest. It was another example of poor defending that is invading all sports, but football particularly.
Too many people just scrambling around. After a poor clearance, Sadio Mane clumsily fumbled the ball off his chest. Stoke sent a cross in and Jonathan Walters header beat Simon Mignolet at the near post.
Mignolet rectified the situation in the 18th minute. Former Red, Joe Allen, sent a low shot from the right toward the far post. The Liverpool goalkeeper made a kick save that would make any NHL tender proud.
Despite the fact that Liverpool had the better of the pressure and the chances, it seemed as though Liverpool would not find an equalizer. When they did though, they grabbed the game by the scruff.
Adam Lallana got a fortunate one in the 35th minute. The goal itself was anything but lucky as Lallana showed great awareness pouncing on a loose ball and tucking it in from a tight angle. The bounce that led to the goal was a bit fortunate as it caught all the defenders unaware. That's how the ball bounces though. Literally.
Liverpool was not happy to go into the break tied up. They would claim the lead for themselves in the 44th minute. Roberto Firmino put one in that seemed destined to stay out.
His goal gave me three reactions in a matter of seconds. The shot looked guaranteed to score, so the fist went in the air. When it hit the post, there was a feeling of exasperation. The second post was almost funny and then relief when the ball actually went in.
Some more relief came in the second half. It took about 15 minutes, but the Reds got that insurance goal to give their back line a bit more breathing space.
Divock Origi drove past the defender on the left side and sent a beautiful ball in. Sadio Mane would have put it in, but Imbula was forced to at least attempt a block and ended up scoring an own goal. Regardless of who put it in, you'll take the 3-1 lead all day long, especially how the team has defended.
The Reds kept their foot on the gas thankfully. Taking advantage of a truly awful back pass, Daniel Sturridge scored 54 seconds into his shift. It was a tidy finish in the 70th minute after a nifty move to get around the goalkeeper. Even as a fan of Liverpool you wonder what the Stoke defender was even looking at.
The final 20 minutes were fairly pedestrian. Not a clear cut chance for either team, though Liverpool came closest with a Dejan Lovren cross smashing off Firmino and over the bar almost immediately after Sturridge's goal.
In the end, it was mostly a feel good day. Though the team lost, several former Reds (Crouch, Johnson, Allen) got nice ovations. The Reds had a good enough performance, put four goals in and only allowed one. More importantly, they got the win.
There were still issues at the back, but these are the teams you absolutely must beat and they did. Liverpool are back up to second in the table with a chance to cement that spot against Manchester City on the weekend.
Random Thoughts:
- Personally, it was a pick me up to get the win today. Normally celebrity deaths don't bother me, but as a Star Wars fan, I was hit by Carrie Fisher's death. It was nice to have some positivity to cushion that.
- I'm quickly running out of any reasons to dislike Adam Lallana. I've never hated him, but always felt there were better options. I still like certain players more, but in terms of performance, there isn't a better choice at the moment.
- The announcer mentioned it and I agree. With Coutinho coming back and Sturridge getting healthy, the loss of Mane won't be felt I don't think.
Walk On
It seemed headed in that direction after some early chances for the Reds. In the 12th minute, Stoke City scored the opening goal of the contest. It was another example of poor defending that is invading all sports, but football particularly.
Too many people just scrambling around. After a poor clearance, Sadio Mane clumsily fumbled the ball off his chest. Stoke sent a cross in and Jonathan Walters header beat Simon Mignolet at the near post.
Mignolet rectified the situation in the 18th minute. Former Red, Joe Allen, sent a low shot from the right toward the far post. The Liverpool goalkeeper made a kick save that would make any NHL tender proud.
Despite the fact that Liverpool had the better of the pressure and the chances, it seemed as though Liverpool would not find an equalizer. When they did though, they grabbed the game by the scruff.
Adam Lallana got a fortunate one in the 35th minute. The goal itself was anything but lucky as Lallana showed great awareness pouncing on a loose ball and tucking it in from a tight angle. The bounce that led to the goal was a bit fortunate as it caught all the defenders unaware. That's how the ball bounces though. Literally.
Liverpool was not happy to go into the break tied up. They would claim the lead for themselves in the 44th minute. Roberto Firmino put one in that seemed destined to stay out.
His goal gave me three reactions in a matter of seconds. The shot looked guaranteed to score, so the fist went in the air. When it hit the post, there was a feeling of exasperation. The second post was almost funny and then relief when the ball actually went in.
Some more relief came in the second half. It took about 15 minutes, but the Reds got that insurance goal to give their back line a bit more breathing space.
Divock Origi drove past the defender on the left side and sent a beautiful ball in. Sadio Mane would have put it in, but Imbula was forced to at least attempt a block and ended up scoring an own goal. Regardless of who put it in, you'll take the 3-1 lead all day long, especially how the team has defended.
The Reds kept their foot on the gas thankfully. Taking advantage of a truly awful back pass, Daniel Sturridge scored 54 seconds into his shift. It was a tidy finish in the 70th minute after a nifty move to get around the goalkeeper. Even as a fan of Liverpool you wonder what the Stoke defender was even looking at.
The final 20 minutes were fairly pedestrian. Not a clear cut chance for either team, though Liverpool came closest with a Dejan Lovren cross smashing off Firmino and over the bar almost immediately after Sturridge's goal.
In the end, it was mostly a feel good day. Though the team lost, several former Reds (Crouch, Johnson, Allen) got nice ovations. The Reds had a good enough performance, put four goals in and only allowed one. More importantly, they got the win.
There were still issues at the back, but these are the teams you absolutely must beat and they did. Liverpool are back up to second in the table with a chance to cement that spot against Manchester City on the weekend.
Random Thoughts:
- Personally, it was a pick me up to get the win today. Normally celebrity deaths don't bother me, but as a Star Wars fan, I was hit by Carrie Fisher's death. It was nice to have some positivity to cushion that.
- I'm quickly running out of any reasons to dislike Adam Lallana. I've never hated him, but always felt there were better options. I still like certain players more, but in terms of performance, there isn't a better choice at the moment.
- The announcer mentioned it and I agree. With Coutinho coming back and Sturridge getting healthy, the loss of Mane won't be felt I don't think.
Walk On
Monday, December 19, 2016
A Late Bit Of Magic And Luck Turn Merseyside Red
Liverpool and Everton on a Monday night. As fans of either side would say, there could be nothing better than to have the spotlight to themselves for the 227th Merseyside Derby.
It would be a contentious game, but a fun one. Neutrals might not have gotten much enjoyment out of it, but it was a solid rivalry game as opposed to some of the ones we have seen in recent memory.
It was a very slow build for either team, despite the energy pouring forth from each player. In the 37th minute, the first real chance came for Liverpool. After a great passing buildup, including a dummy run by Mane, the pass was too far behind Origi. He lifted it high and wide even from in close to goal, but there was little opportunity for him to do much else with it.
Conversely, Liverpool were fortunate not to concede in the 44th minute. Funes Mori was not defended during a corner kick and the Reds got lucky he did not put a powerful header on target.
Liverpool came alive, a bit, in the 50th minute. A miscue at the back could not be capitalized as Maarten Steklenburg made a save and then the Reds kept scrambling but could not get that final ball toward net.
It is unfortunate that Liverpool don't have more of an aerial presence. When Everton's goalkeeper got hurt, it would have been the perfect time to just flight balls into the box. Instead, the Reds gained no advantage from him staying on for a minute or two and gave Everton a chance to make the change and get Joel Robles warmed up.
Midway through the second half, Ross Barkley should have been red carded for his challenge on Jordan Henderson. Hendo was lucky not to be more injured. As an official, I understand the yellow, but on replay (if officials had the luxury) it would have been a sending off.
The chances began to come a bit more often for the Reds later on. Roberto Firmino failed to convert a bicycle kick in the 77th minute.
It would have been almost impossible to get his foot on as the cross didn't have enough air under it by the time it got to the Brazilian. Then he almost broke the deadlock in the 80th minute with a fantastic volley from the penalty spot. Unfortunately, Robles was up to the task, diving to his left and getting palms to it.
Just when it seemed all was gone and the Reds would have to settle for a point against another inferior opponent, they found that bit of magic. Second half substitute Daniel Sturridge found his way past a couple defenders and sent a slow roller toward net.
It beat Robles but clanged off the post. Sadio Mane managed to get to it before the lunging goalkeeper and pop it in in the fourth minute of added time. The Reds almost had another when Firmino went five hole on Robles, but Ronald Coleman spoiled it with a fantastic sliding block on the line.
In the end, it was a fantastic win even if the team did not dominate the way they could have. As far as rivalry games go, it was a solid match for both sides. Those are the ones you love to win. When your opponent did enough to deserve a point and you crush their spirits, it's very satisfying.
Liverpool didn't play their best by any stretch. When you get three points though, it all gets cleaned in the wash.
This is the game that the Reds have not been winning in recent weeks. They dropped a terrible result to Bournemouth and then managed a disappointing draw with West Ham. To finally win a match they have struggled to finish off in recent form is quite the relief.
Now Liverpool must keep that form going against teams they have to beat. You're going to have big wins or tough losses against the top of the table, but it's those middle and lower teams where you must get the three points.
Random Thoughts:
- I am not one of those that has continually bashed Dejan Lovren. Given his skill set, I think he has performed as well as can be expected most days with the obvious exception here and there. That said, I have been rather impressed with Ragnar Klavan. I'm not sure an injury should keep Joel Matip out of the lineup once healthy, so maybe a combo of Klavan and Matip would work nicely in the center.
- Given their form, when healthy, it is almost impossible not to have a front three of Firmino, Coutinho and Mane. That said, the bit of magic Sturridge can muster when he is on his game is hard to keep on the bench. It's a pity that he has been so injury prone. Someone with his skill should never have been taken out of the lineup, though we all know why it happened and nobody can complain that it did happen.
- In your too much information of the day, I managed to miss the blasted goal. Just when I decided nobody was going to score, I went to use the bathroom. Of course, moments later I can hear Arlo White screaming about Mane's winner. What can you do?
- Given Liverpool's defensive woes, it seems unlikely they can truly mount a challenge for the league. The win at least gives them a chance since they will be second in the table during Christmas. That means they don't have to worry about vaulting over teams, but can rather worry about their own results and hope Chelsea falter in the second half.
Walk On
It would be a contentious game, but a fun one. Neutrals might not have gotten much enjoyment out of it, but it was a solid rivalry game as opposed to some of the ones we have seen in recent memory.
It was a very slow build for either team, despite the energy pouring forth from each player. In the 37th minute, the first real chance came for Liverpool. After a great passing buildup, including a dummy run by Mane, the pass was too far behind Origi. He lifted it high and wide even from in close to goal, but there was little opportunity for him to do much else with it.
Conversely, Liverpool were fortunate not to concede in the 44th minute. Funes Mori was not defended during a corner kick and the Reds got lucky he did not put a powerful header on target.
Liverpool came alive, a bit, in the 50th minute. A miscue at the back could not be capitalized as Maarten Steklenburg made a save and then the Reds kept scrambling but could not get that final ball toward net.
It is unfortunate that Liverpool don't have more of an aerial presence. When Everton's goalkeeper got hurt, it would have been the perfect time to just flight balls into the box. Instead, the Reds gained no advantage from him staying on for a minute or two and gave Everton a chance to make the change and get Joel Robles warmed up.
Midway through the second half, Ross Barkley should have been red carded for his challenge on Jordan Henderson. Hendo was lucky not to be more injured. As an official, I understand the yellow, but on replay (if officials had the luxury) it would have been a sending off.
The chances began to come a bit more often for the Reds later on. Roberto Firmino failed to convert a bicycle kick in the 77th minute.
It would have been almost impossible to get his foot on as the cross didn't have enough air under it by the time it got to the Brazilian. Then he almost broke the deadlock in the 80th minute with a fantastic volley from the penalty spot. Unfortunately, Robles was up to the task, diving to his left and getting palms to it.
Just when it seemed all was gone and the Reds would have to settle for a point against another inferior opponent, they found that bit of magic. Second half substitute Daniel Sturridge found his way past a couple defenders and sent a slow roller toward net.
It beat Robles but clanged off the post. Sadio Mane managed to get to it before the lunging goalkeeper and pop it in in the fourth minute of added time. The Reds almost had another when Firmino went five hole on Robles, but Ronald Coleman spoiled it with a fantastic sliding block on the line.
In the end, it was a fantastic win even if the team did not dominate the way they could have. As far as rivalry games go, it was a solid match for both sides. Those are the ones you love to win. When your opponent did enough to deserve a point and you crush their spirits, it's very satisfying.
Liverpool didn't play their best by any stretch. When you get three points though, it all gets cleaned in the wash.
This is the game that the Reds have not been winning in recent weeks. They dropped a terrible result to Bournemouth and then managed a disappointing draw with West Ham. To finally win a match they have struggled to finish off in recent form is quite the relief.
Now Liverpool must keep that form going against teams they have to beat. You're going to have big wins or tough losses against the top of the table, but it's those middle and lower teams where you must get the three points.
Random Thoughts:
- I am not one of those that has continually bashed Dejan Lovren. Given his skill set, I think he has performed as well as can be expected most days with the obvious exception here and there. That said, I have been rather impressed with Ragnar Klavan. I'm not sure an injury should keep Joel Matip out of the lineup once healthy, so maybe a combo of Klavan and Matip would work nicely in the center.
- Given their form, when healthy, it is almost impossible not to have a front three of Firmino, Coutinho and Mane. That said, the bit of magic Sturridge can muster when he is on his game is hard to keep on the bench. It's a pity that he has been so injury prone. Someone with his skill should never have been taken out of the lineup, though we all know why it happened and nobody can complain that it did happen.
- In your too much information of the day, I managed to miss the blasted goal. Just when I decided nobody was going to score, I went to use the bathroom. Of course, moments later I can hear Arlo White screaming about Mane's winner. What can you do?
- Given Liverpool's defensive woes, it seems unlikely they can truly mount a challenge for the league. The win at least gives them a chance since they will be second in the table during Christmas. That means they don't have to worry about vaulting over teams, but can rather worry about their own results and hope Chelsea falter in the second half.
Walk On
Sunday, December 4, 2016
Liverpool Stunned, Defense Proving To Be Achilles Heel
Welcome back. It's been a few games between articles due to my yearly trek down south to cover the NAIA National Championship. In that time Liverpool pulled off a couple simple wins.
They defeated Sunderland over the weekend 2-0. Then, it was a cool finish by the same scoreline over Leeds in the league cup. In that last one featured a fine score by 17 year old Ben Woodburn, who many are claiming could be the next big thing.
Probably best to pump the brakes on that one since it was just one goal against a team that has floundered near the bottom of the Championship in recent times. Still, always good to see new talent.
Speaking of new talent, the Reds were forced to put some new faces in the starting XI due to some injury woes. Lucas was playing at center back for the until Joel Matip. Lucas generally does a fine job, but is always worrying since he's truly a midfielder.
Also getting a start was Divock Origi. Coutinho was unable to make the start, but with Daniel Sturridge also being less than 100%, the Belgian got the nod.
Initially, the Cherries looked quite good. They didn't have a ton of possession, but they were defending well and the press was throwing the Reds - clad in greenish, yellow highlighter kits - off kilter.
It seemed like the day would not go well based on Liverpool's first chance. Origi was served a cross from the near side and was wide open on the back post. Somehow, he managed to miss it with a slight slip in the 11th minute and it stayed level. That wouldn't be the case for too much longer though.
In the 20th minute Sadio Mane took a beautifully flighted ball, from the left touchline, in the box. The goalkeeper, Artur Boruc, left himself in no man's land and Mane just tucked it past and Bournemouth could just watch it roll in.
If Bournemouth were disappointed by the first, they were exasperated by the second. Boruc had just made the mistake by not coming out far enough and then made an even bigger one. In the 23rd minute, the ball was popped over the top, to the right, for Divok Origi.
The goalkeeper came out of the penalty area for some inexplicable reason. Origi just touched it past him and then finished it off with a bad angle goal that just tucked inside the far post.
In typical Liverpool fashion, they couldn't make it easy on themselves. After holding the lead through the halftime break, the Reds gave up an early penalty to the Cherries in the 56th minute.
They converted and then it appeared to be game on. Fortunately for Liverpool fans, it also woke up their team.
In the 64th minute, Mane cut through defenders on the right side of the box. He served up Emre Can at the top of the 18 and he ripped a right footed curler past the keeper to restore the two goal lead.
Flipping back to the negative side, Mane appeared to pick up an injury. Fortunately, Adam Lallana was fit enough to be a sub, otherwise the Reds may have had to turn to one of the kids they had on the bench.
Liverpool were denied a goal to increase their lead with around 18 minutes left. Goal line technology said it missed scoring by a whisker. That decision became crucial since Ryan Fraser tucked one in in the 75th minute.
The Reds gave it away at the top of the attacking 18 and that set the wheels in motion. The train came off the track right after. A cheap free kick was given away, Fraser crossed it from the right and Lewis Cook smashed it home to even up the game at three apiece.
Lorus Karius looked shaky throughout the game, but came up big. In the 82nd minute he made a game saving stop as Benik Afobe was in alone near the spot.
Despite the face Bournemouth looked the better side for the last ten minutes, Liverpool still almost took it. Origi had a wonderful spin volley in added time, but got just too far underneath it.
In the end, it was a deserved defeat. A whistler of a shot could not be caught cleanly by Karius. Though he blocked the second chance, Ake cleaned up the mess and put Bournemouth up 4-3 with only a minute or so left in stoppage time.
It was a rather sickening result. To find yourself up 2-0 and then 3-1 and not only not win, but lose is ridiculous. Jurgen Klopp is a fantastic manager, but as much as he gets his team to believe and push forward, he has not found a way to fix their defensive woes.
So many have said the back line is why Liverpool will not win the league. With results like this one, those doubts are well founded.
Full credit goes to Bournemouth as they never gave up. Down two goals twice to one of the giants, they kept at it. Nevertheless, Liverpool have to find a way to see this one out no matter the circumstance and they did not get the job done.
Random Thoughts:
- Karius proved me right in this game. I don't know that Simon Mignolet would have fared any better, but Karius is not an improvement in the slightest in my eyes.
Walk On
They defeated Sunderland over the weekend 2-0. Then, it was a cool finish by the same scoreline over Leeds in the league cup. In that last one featured a fine score by 17 year old Ben Woodburn, who many are claiming could be the next big thing.
Probably best to pump the brakes on that one since it was just one goal against a team that has floundered near the bottom of the Championship in recent times. Still, always good to see new talent.
Speaking of new talent, the Reds were forced to put some new faces in the starting XI due to some injury woes. Lucas was playing at center back for the until Joel Matip. Lucas generally does a fine job, but is always worrying since he's truly a midfielder.
Also getting a start was Divock Origi. Coutinho was unable to make the start, but with Daniel Sturridge also being less than 100%, the Belgian got the nod.
Initially, the Cherries looked quite good. They didn't have a ton of possession, but they were defending well and the press was throwing the Reds - clad in greenish, yellow highlighter kits - off kilter.
It seemed like the day would not go well based on Liverpool's first chance. Origi was served a cross from the near side and was wide open on the back post. Somehow, he managed to miss it with a slight slip in the 11th minute and it stayed level. That wouldn't be the case for too much longer though.
In the 20th minute Sadio Mane took a beautifully flighted ball, from the left touchline, in the box. The goalkeeper, Artur Boruc, left himself in no man's land and Mane just tucked it past and Bournemouth could just watch it roll in.
If Bournemouth were disappointed by the first, they were exasperated by the second. Boruc had just made the mistake by not coming out far enough and then made an even bigger one. In the 23rd minute, the ball was popped over the top, to the right, for Divok Origi.
The goalkeeper came out of the penalty area for some inexplicable reason. Origi just touched it past him and then finished it off with a bad angle goal that just tucked inside the far post.
In typical Liverpool fashion, they couldn't make it easy on themselves. After holding the lead through the halftime break, the Reds gave up an early penalty to the Cherries in the 56th minute.
They converted and then it appeared to be game on. Fortunately for Liverpool fans, it also woke up their team.
In the 64th minute, Mane cut through defenders on the right side of the box. He served up Emre Can at the top of the 18 and he ripped a right footed curler past the keeper to restore the two goal lead.
Flipping back to the negative side, Mane appeared to pick up an injury. Fortunately, Adam Lallana was fit enough to be a sub, otherwise the Reds may have had to turn to one of the kids they had on the bench.
Liverpool were denied a goal to increase their lead with around 18 minutes left. Goal line technology said it missed scoring by a whisker. That decision became crucial since Ryan Fraser tucked one in in the 75th minute.
The Reds gave it away at the top of the attacking 18 and that set the wheels in motion. The train came off the track right after. A cheap free kick was given away, Fraser crossed it from the right and Lewis Cook smashed it home to even up the game at three apiece.
Lorus Karius looked shaky throughout the game, but came up big. In the 82nd minute he made a game saving stop as Benik Afobe was in alone near the spot.
Despite the face Bournemouth looked the better side for the last ten minutes, Liverpool still almost took it. Origi had a wonderful spin volley in added time, but got just too far underneath it.
In the end, it was a deserved defeat. A whistler of a shot could not be caught cleanly by Karius. Though he blocked the second chance, Ake cleaned up the mess and put Bournemouth up 4-3 with only a minute or so left in stoppage time.
It was a rather sickening result. To find yourself up 2-0 and then 3-1 and not only not win, but lose is ridiculous. Jurgen Klopp is a fantastic manager, but as much as he gets his team to believe and push forward, he has not found a way to fix their defensive woes.
So many have said the back line is why Liverpool will not win the league. With results like this one, those doubts are well founded.
Full credit goes to Bournemouth as they never gave up. Down two goals twice to one of the giants, they kept at it. Nevertheless, Liverpool have to find a way to see this one out no matter the circumstance and they did not get the job done.
Random Thoughts:
- Karius proved me right in this game. I don't know that Simon Mignolet would have fared any better, but Karius is not an improvement in the slightest in my eyes.
Walk On
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, November 6, 2016
Liverpool Crush Watford But Still Concede A Goal
Liverpool came into their match with Watford expecting three points. The last time that was the case, the Reds got blanked in a rather depressing match against Burnley early in the year.
Though the match opened up closely, you didn't get the feeling that this would end the same way. Watford was focusing on defending, but there just seemed to be too much space for the Reds to not get goals.
The chances came, but from odd spots. The visitors almost got the first score of the game when a challenge in the midfield blasted a ball toward the Liverpool goal. It wasn't overly close in the end, but it was enough to put a small lump in Loris Karius' throat.
For Liverpool, it was central defender Lucas with two chances. He has not scored in six goals, but was unlucky to not find one early in the first half. Still, the team would not be held off the sheet for long.
Sadio Mane scored in the 27th minute with a fantastic flick from the corner. Coutinho made the wise choice to go short on the corner to Milner. The Brazilian got it back at a better angle and flung it into the box where Mane lunged toward it and just let it glance off his forehead.
Not even a full three minutes later, in the 30th minute, Coutinho finally got his own goal. Slicing through two defenders, he tucked it into the lower right side with power. It was a fitting finish to make up for the one he had just flashed wide minutes earlier.
It had seemed like Liverpool took their foot off the gas, but this offense can strike like lightning. In the 43rd minute, they got the ball up field with only a few touches. Adam Lallana served the ball in and Emre Can headed it back to where it came from, leaving the new goalkeeper absolutely nothing to do but stand there.
Liverpool were capable of being up by five or so. Nevertheless, being up by three and keeping Watford off the board for 45 minutes was a very good start.
LFC came out with the same kind of energy in the second half, but it looked a bit too easy. They looked like a team that was more interested in setting up something fancy or getting goals for those that didn't have them yet instead of taking the game by the throat.
That didn't keep them from scoring though. Some lax defending from Watford in the 57th minute allowed a cross to find a wide open Firmino. His goal made it 4-0. That wouldn't hold for long.
The Reds pushed numbers forward after a giveaway in midfield, fresh off a poor clearance by Watford. Firmino bullied his way onto the ball into the box on the right. He then slipped a deft pass to Mane, who put it to sleep with all the care of a new parent. That made it 5-0 just before stroke of the 61st minute.
Unfortunately, despite all the goal scoring, the Reds could not keep the defense compact. Liverpool got loose at the back following a couple subs, though the subs had nothing to do with it as players. Karius made some great saves to keep the clean sheet until the 75th minute.
Then, the defending became too poor and Janmat was all alone in the area. He bent it around the keeper and gave Watford its first goal of the game, keeping Liverpool's streak of not having clean sheets alive and well.
We have long known that Liverpool does not have the best defending in the league. It is a very makeshift unit, trying to do its best on most nights. Still, it is disappointing for the team to have played so well and then lose that extra little cherry of the clean sheet when Watford had not pressured until those late moments.
Liverpool were very unlucky to not return the margin of victory back to five earlier than they did. The team kept trying to set up Daniel Sturridge, but the home ground woodwoork was not kind. He did pick up an assist on Georginio Wijnaldum's score in the 91st minute, which at least got him off the goose egg in a red shirt.
In the end, it was a fantastic win, but the clean sheet gone spoiled it just a little. You can't be too disappointed with that fact though because Liverpool took advantage of other team's slipups. The Reds are atop the table for the first time in what feels like forever.
It is only by a point, but to see Liverpool on top alone feels pretty good.
Random Thoughts:
- I like Ian Darke as a broadcaster very much. He might have been a little too colorful with his description of Joel Matip though. As a broadcaster myself, I'm not sure I'd describe the lanky defender as slim and elegant.
- Say what you want about his demeanor or ability to stay healthy, but you have to feel for Sturridge. He should have had two goals and maybe more, but was denied by the posts twice and the goalkeeper just as many times.
- The shutout aspect probably isn't as important to some. As a goalkeeper, these were the games that were frustrating because there was no reason the chances should have even come.
- Nothing to do with the game, but how in the world did Danny Ings get hurt? He hasn't played in forever and then suffers a knee injury that will knock him out? Injuries happen, but to lose almost all or all of a season due to a training injury seems excessive.
Walk On
Though the match opened up closely, you didn't get the feeling that this would end the same way. Watford was focusing on defending, but there just seemed to be too much space for the Reds to not get goals.
The chances came, but from odd spots. The visitors almost got the first score of the game when a challenge in the midfield blasted a ball toward the Liverpool goal. It wasn't overly close in the end, but it was enough to put a small lump in Loris Karius' throat.
For Liverpool, it was central defender Lucas with two chances. He has not scored in six goals, but was unlucky to not find one early in the first half. Still, the team would not be held off the sheet for long.
Sadio Mane scored in the 27th minute with a fantastic flick from the corner. Coutinho made the wise choice to go short on the corner to Milner. The Brazilian got it back at a better angle and flung it into the box where Mane lunged toward it and just let it glance off his forehead.
Not even a full three minutes later, in the 30th minute, Coutinho finally got his own goal. Slicing through two defenders, he tucked it into the lower right side with power. It was a fitting finish to make up for the one he had just flashed wide minutes earlier.
It had seemed like Liverpool took their foot off the gas, but this offense can strike like lightning. In the 43rd minute, they got the ball up field with only a few touches. Adam Lallana served the ball in and Emre Can headed it back to where it came from, leaving the new goalkeeper absolutely nothing to do but stand there.
Liverpool were capable of being up by five or so. Nevertheless, being up by three and keeping Watford off the board for 45 minutes was a very good start.
LFC came out with the same kind of energy in the second half, but it looked a bit too easy. They looked like a team that was more interested in setting up something fancy or getting goals for those that didn't have them yet instead of taking the game by the throat.
That didn't keep them from scoring though. Some lax defending from Watford in the 57th minute allowed a cross to find a wide open Firmino. His goal made it 4-0. That wouldn't hold for long.
The Reds pushed numbers forward after a giveaway in midfield, fresh off a poor clearance by Watford. Firmino bullied his way onto the ball into the box on the right. He then slipped a deft pass to Mane, who put it to sleep with all the care of a new parent. That made it 5-0 just before stroke of the 61st minute.
Unfortunately, despite all the goal scoring, the Reds could not keep the defense compact. Liverpool got loose at the back following a couple subs, though the subs had nothing to do with it as players. Karius made some great saves to keep the clean sheet until the 75th minute.
Then, the defending became too poor and Janmat was all alone in the area. He bent it around the keeper and gave Watford its first goal of the game, keeping Liverpool's streak of not having clean sheets alive and well.
We have long known that Liverpool does not have the best defending in the league. It is a very makeshift unit, trying to do its best on most nights. Still, it is disappointing for the team to have played so well and then lose that extra little cherry of the clean sheet when Watford had not pressured until those late moments.
Liverpool were very unlucky to not return the margin of victory back to five earlier than they did. The team kept trying to set up Daniel Sturridge, but the home ground woodwoork was not kind. He did pick up an assist on Georginio Wijnaldum's score in the 91st minute, which at least got him off the goose egg in a red shirt.
In the end, it was a fantastic win, but the clean sheet gone spoiled it just a little. You can't be too disappointed with that fact though because Liverpool took advantage of other team's slipups. The Reds are atop the table for the first time in what feels like forever.
It is only by a point, but to see Liverpool on top alone feels pretty good.
Random Thoughts:
- I like Ian Darke as a broadcaster very much. He might have been a little too colorful with his description of Joel Matip though. As a broadcaster myself, I'm not sure I'd describe the lanky defender as slim and elegant.
- Say what you want about his demeanor or ability to stay healthy, but you have to feel for Sturridge. He should have had two goals and maybe more, but was denied by the posts twice and the goalkeeper just as many times.
- The shutout aspect probably isn't as important to some. As a goalkeeper, these were the games that were frustrating because there was no reason the chances should have even come.
- Nothing to do with the game, but how in the world did Danny Ings get hurt? He hasn't played in forever and then suffers a knee injury that will knock him out? Injuries happen, but to lose almost all or all of a season due to a training injury seems excessive.
Walk On
Saturday, October 29, 2016
Liverpool Open The Floodgates In Wild One Against Palace
Liverpool got things off to a good start. Despite his defensive deficiencies, Alberto Moreno put a great move on the defender from the left of the box. He then sent it to the middle where Emre Can put the finish on it. Can was a bit fortunate to get a deflection off the defender, but that's why you put it on net sometimes.
The Liverpool goal came in the 15th minute. They were not in charge for very long. A little over two minutes later Crystal Palace took advantage of a dreadful mistake by the Liverpool back line.
Joel Matip oddly decided to nod the ball down to Dejan Lovren instead of clearing it away. Lovren then puzzlingly tried to kick it back to Loris Karius. None of the touches were good and Lovren's popped up in the air to be finished off with a header over Karius by McArthur.
Jurgen Klopp could do nothing but give a wry smile, though you can bet he was not smiling inside. These things happen in the game, but they seem to happen to Liverpool far too often.
Lovren did not stay in the doghouse for long. Corner kicks are usually the downfall for Liverpool, but this time they paid dividends. Coutinho served it up and Loven bullied his way past the defender and powered the header into the back of the net.
All of this happend and the game was barely 20 minutes old. Fantastic to watch for neturals and fans of offense, but not so much for managers. Klopp was happy with the goal, but you could tell by his body language that he still was not completely pleased with the way the game was flowing.
Sadly, his feelings would prove to be true. Despite creating plenty of pressure and a few chances (that didn't end up on goal mind you), Liverpool could not hold onto the lead for a second time.
Liverpool's main problem when in possession after their second goal was trying to be too cute. They passed up several opportunities to shoot, trying to set up the pretty pass. As a hockey fan, it was too reminiscent of watching the St. Louis Blues. Still the lead remained, or so we thought.
In the 33rd minute, it disappeared. Liverpool had a poor clearance that only got to midfield. It was blasted back up toward the area. Although he had been brilliant offensively, Moreno failed to get a block on the cross and McArthur gained his second goal of the game to knot it up.
The offense kept flowing even after that. Coutinho thought he had broken the deadlock in the 37th minute with a header. It went off the goalkeeper and off the post. 30 seconds later, Mane should have scored but leaned back and ripped it over the goal.
The Reds would retake the lead though in the 44th minute. Again, off a corner kick, if you can believe it. This time, the kick came from the right corner and it was another central defender on the end of it. Matip skied over the defenders and banged it in. The goalkeeper got a touch and it went off the crossbar, but there was enough power to still go in.
The second half began no less adventurously. It was the Eagles pressuring early however. Benteke, the former Liverpool man, almost blasted home the equalizer in the 48th minute. A quick turn and volley forced a reaction save from Karius.
Liverpool finally got back onto the offensive side of things in the 54th minute. A nicely weighted pass from Coutinho found Mane. Mane took the shot just inside of the area, but a right foot from the keeper thwarted the attempt.
As the game went on, the Reds became a little bit fortunate defensively. The official was right not to give a penalty on a string of bodies falling down and then minutes later, Can was likely fortunate not to concede a penalty. Whatever side you fall on those decisions, Liverpool were fortunate simply because they were in situations that the official had a decision to make and often they reward the offense.
Almost immediately after the Can no-call, Liverpool took advantage and went up by two goals. Firmino finished off the goal lifting it over the sliding keeper and giving his team a commanding 4-2 lead.
The game settled in after that tally. Liverpool wasted a bit of an opportunity with too many passes again and then Coutinho shot right at the keeper, but for the most part the teams knew their fate and just saw the contest out.
The scoreline did not do Liverpool's goal difference any favors as they continue to bleed a little at the back. Still, the win kept them tied atop the table on points and the longer you can stay in or near that position, the better shape you will be in at the end of the season.
It was a bit sloppy from a defensive standpoint and the offense could have been a little bit less cheeky, but it's a victory and that is what matters.
Random Thoughts:
- Crystal Palace seems to pick up former Liverpool players the way the Reds take former Southampton guys. They may not have had storied careers in red, but it was good to see Benteke and Martin Kelly play relatively well.
- I hate to keep harping on this, because I have nothing against the player. According to the television commentators, the reason Karius is favored is because he is better with the ball at his feet. I have not noticed that myself, but at least it is a reason.
- Speaking of Karius, it was good to see him make some saves. It seemed as though every goal he had been giving up prior to this contest was on the only shots he would face. Keepers need to make saves to keep their confidence up and feel like contributors.
- I know it's simply because we can see highlights of every game so we see all the mistakes. Still, it seems like the mistakes that led to Palace's first goal happen way too often in professional football these days.
- I'm curious where Georginio Wijnaldum will fit back into the lineup. It does not seem as though he would have been removed if he did not pick up a knock, but with the team playing well without him starting, there doesn't seem to be a glaring hole for him to fill.
Walk On
The Liverpool goal came in the 15th minute. They were not in charge for very long. A little over two minutes later Crystal Palace took advantage of a dreadful mistake by the Liverpool back line.
Joel Matip oddly decided to nod the ball down to Dejan Lovren instead of clearing it away. Lovren then puzzlingly tried to kick it back to Loris Karius. None of the touches were good and Lovren's popped up in the air to be finished off with a header over Karius by McArthur.
Jurgen Klopp could do nothing but give a wry smile, though you can bet he was not smiling inside. These things happen in the game, but they seem to happen to Liverpool far too often.
Lovren did not stay in the doghouse for long. Corner kicks are usually the downfall for Liverpool, but this time they paid dividends. Coutinho served it up and Loven bullied his way past the defender and powered the header into the back of the net.
All of this happend and the game was barely 20 minutes old. Fantastic to watch for neturals and fans of offense, but not so much for managers. Klopp was happy with the goal, but you could tell by his body language that he still was not completely pleased with the way the game was flowing.
Sadly, his feelings would prove to be true. Despite creating plenty of pressure and a few chances (that didn't end up on goal mind you), Liverpool could not hold onto the lead for a second time.
Liverpool's main problem when in possession after their second goal was trying to be too cute. They passed up several opportunities to shoot, trying to set up the pretty pass. As a hockey fan, it was too reminiscent of watching the St. Louis Blues. Still the lead remained, or so we thought.
In the 33rd minute, it disappeared. Liverpool had a poor clearance that only got to midfield. It was blasted back up toward the area. Although he had been brilliant offensively, Moreno failed to get a block on the cross and McArthur gained his second goal of the game to knot it up.
The offense kept flowing even after that. Coutinho thought he had broken the deadlock in the 37th minute with a header. It went off the goalkeeper and off the post. 30 seconds later, Mane should have scored but leaned back and ripped it over the goal.
The Reds would retake the lead though in the 44th minute. Again, off a corner kick, if you can believe it. This time, the kick came from the right corner and it was another central defender on the end of it. Matip skied over the defenders and banged it in. The goalkeeper got a touch and it went off the crossbar, but there was enough power to still go in.
The second half began no less adventurously. It was the Eagles pressuring early however. Benteke, the former Liverpool man, almost blasted home the equalizer in the 48th minute. A quick turn and volley forced a reaction save from Karius.
Liverpool finally got back onto the offensive side of things in the 54th minute. A nicely weighted pass from Coutinho found Mane. Mane took the shot just inside of the area, but a right foot from the keeper thwarted the attempt.
As the game went on, the Reds became a little bit fortunate defensively. The official was right not to give a penalty on a string of bodies falling down and then minutes later, Can was likely fortunate not to concede a penalty. Whatever side you fall on those decisions, Liverpool were fortunate simply because they were in situations that the official had a decision to make and often they reward the offense.
Almost immediately after the Can no-call, Liverpool took advantage and went up by two goals. Firmino finished off the goal lifting it over the sliding keeper and giving his team a commanding 4-2 lead.
The game settled in after that tally. Liverpool wasted a bit of an opportunity with too many passes again and then Coutinho shot right at the keeper, but for the most part the teams knew their fate and just saw the contest out.
The scoreline did not do Liverpool's goal difference any favors as they continue to bleed a little at the back. Still, the win kept them tied atop the table on points and the longer you can stay in or near that position, the better shape you will be in at the end of the season.
It was a bit sloppy from a defensive standpoint and the offense could have been a little bit less cheeky, but it's a victory and that is what matters.
Random Thoughts:
- Crystal Palace seems to pick up former Liverpool players the way the Reds take former Southampton guys. They may not have had storied careers in red, but it was good to see Benteke and Martin Kelly play relatively well.
- I hate to keep harping on this, because I have nothing against the player. According to the television commentators, the reason Karius is favored is because he is better with the ball at his feet. I have not noticed that myself, but at least it is a reason.
- Speaking of Karius, it was good to see him make some saves. It seemed as though every goal he had been giving up prior to this contest was on the only shots he would face. Keepers need to make saves to keep their confidence up and feel like contributors.
- I know it's simply because we can see highlights of every game so we see all the mistakes. Still, it seems like the mistakes that led to Palace's first goal happen way too often in professional football these days.
- I'm curious where Georginio Wijnaldum will fit back into the lineup. It does not seem as though he would have been removed if he did not pick up a knock, but with the team playing well without him starting, there doesn't seem to be a glaring hole for him to fill.
Walk On
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