Liverpool Feast and Advance in Europa

On this Thanksgiving holiday in America, it is usual to pig out on food and watch football.  It isn't as usual to watch the kind of football you actually use your feet.  Such was the case on this day as the Europa League provided a rare occasion to look forward to.  Liverpool were in action, at home, against Bordeaux.  With plenty to be thankful for, given recent league results, Liverpool fans and players may have had a bit of a food coma.  Ok, enough of the holiday puns.

To open up the game, the Reds looked solid going forward but just weren't on point in terms of placing the ball on target.  Following the opening five minutes there were way too many Bordeaux chances.  Bordeaux pushed forward and kept challenging the back line of Liverpool, despite not creating too much to trouble Simon Mignolet.  Liverpool then countered a few times.  Christian Benteke missed a good chance in 21st minute with a walloping volley.

Despite the miss, Liverpool seemed to rebound a bit after that.  In the 29th minute, Benetke scored but was called offside.  However, the crowd reaction was amazing.  Perhaps the mics were just turned up, but it was an impressive explosion of sound from the faithful.  Alas, for them, the elation would not last long.  In addition to the offside call, the French side took a 1-0 lead only minutes later after a rare call for possessing the ball too long on Mignolet.

The Reds, in typical fashion from what they have shown under Jurgen Klopp, kept plugging away.  They were rewarded when Liverpool were the beneficiary of a somewhat weak penalty call and James Milner smartly finished it off.  Liverpool then finally got on the positive side of the ledger in the 45th minute with an absolute blast from Benteke.  It was a fitting finish to the half for the striker and the team as he was rewarded for his hard work.

Liverpool came out with just as much energy in the second half.  After a bit of an inauspicious start, with some fouls against, Liverpool found their footing and pushed forward.  Another weak foul call, this time against the Reds(at least the official was consistent), denied Benteke his second goal and Liverpool's third.  Following that converted but not counted chance, the Reds seemed to pour toward the goal at will.

Ultimately it came to nothing as neither team would score in the final 45 minutes.  Liverpool looked capable but could not find that final ball.  Bordeaux looked dangerous in the final moments, after Liverpool had made a few changes, but they could not convert.  It was an interesting turn of events given the situation.  Liverpool didn't really pack it in, despite having a spot in the knockout round wrapped up.  Bordeaux didn't get caught on the counter despite needing to open up the game to keep any hope of advancing alive.

In the end, it was a nice win for Liverpool and a nice break in the norms of the day for their fans in America.  It wasn't a spotless result.  There were plenty of missed chances.  The game could have easily seen two or more Reds' goals, but two sufficed.  Liverpool allowed too many opportunities despite getting the win.  That kind of performance may not result in something positive against higher quality teams.  Nevertheless it was a victory.  There were no injuries (in terms of the players who played on the field).  Benteke continued to look like he may be well worth the price paid.  Plenty to still improve on, but plenty to be thankful for.

Random Thoughts:
- Really?  Another Daniel Sturridge injury?  I feel for him as a person, but as a player he must be made of the thinnest possible glass you can find.  Hopefully it is just something that needs a day or two rest, but just the idea is ridiculous at this stage.

- Fans will be fans.  I live in a city where the running joke is everyone is trying to beat the traffic by leaving early even though they all leave at the same time so they get stuck anyway.  That said, I do think the Klopp comments had something to do with the crowd reaction.  As mentioned, rarely have I heard a reaction like that and the goal did not even stand.  Could have been the audio, but the crowd at Anfield seemed to have extra juice.

Walk On

Bland Midweek Win Pushes Liverpool Back into Fifth

Liverpool's midweek match against Burnley in the league provided no real surprises.  Liverpool managed a relatively easy win over a side struggling to get out of the relegation zone.  Burnley had only won four times in 27 matches prior and had not won at Anfield in 41 years.  Therefor, the mountain for them to climb was always going to be a difficult one and the Liverpool players made it even steeper by coming out and doing their jobs.

It was by no means a perfect game.  The Reds failed to convert on chances that they may have if clicking on all cylinders, but ultimately it did not matter too much.  Daniel Sturridge had a pretty good game.  Obviously his form has had peaks and valleys since his return, but he remains a key for the squad to get into the top four by the end of the season.  Sturridge scored a very good goal.  Jordan Henderson sent in a beautiful cross from the right wing and Sturridge slipped between two defenders to nod in the second goal of the game.  However, he failed to score on a breakaway and turned away from a cross that may have led to a goal as well.

Sturridge's game continues to evolve as he regains his fitness.  When he is at his best, he continues to be a catalyst for good things for Liverpool.  The only downside to his current form is, at times, he seems to be bitten by the Balotelli bug.  There are brief times where the effort appears to not be there.  There are times he shrinks back from challenges and does not go full boar the way he had last season.  This is forgivable given the several injuries he accrued before finally settling back in the team this year, but one can only hope that once he feels 100% confident that he will attack without holding back.

This was one of those games where there really wasn't a whole lot to glean from it.  Liverpool won, which they were expected to do.  They held onto the ball for the majority of the game, which they were expected to do.  They limited the chances of their opponent, which given Burnley's goal differential of minus 20 before the match, didn't seem like too tall of an order.

Things were not negative coming out of this game though, despite the lack of enthusiasm from yours truly.  Liverpool could have had more goals and should have, but other than that they did what they needed to do.  They needed to win to stay within reach of the top four and did so, not knowing how the results of other matches were going.  They got the victory without really expending a lot of energy as well, which is a definite plus given the 120 minutes they poured into their match against Besiktas and the emotion it took to get a victory over Manchester City only 3 days later.  In addition to that, they got another clean sheet, which is something they struggled to do at the beginning of the year but are now getting in regularity.

As a team, nothing spectacular came from the match but as individuals there were several top notch performances.  Coutinho continues to show that when his head is in the game, he is a game changer.  He has speed, touch, shiftiness, an eye for the pass and an ability to score.  The fact that Liverpool locked him up for several more years is a definite plus.  Emre Can continues to show improvement and versatility.  He is solid enough to use as part of the back three, but has shown the talent going forward and on the ball that he will be a very useful talent in the midfield in the years to come.  Some have even gone as far to say that he will be the one to step into Steven Gerrard's shoes.  I think those shoes are too big for Can to fill alone, but he definitely seems capable of making that void not as wide.

Joe Allen has also become quite the player in the recent weeks.  He hasn't done anything flashy or put his name on the score sheet, but that is the point.  Many fans, pundits and even myself often questioned why he was even in the squad, let alone the starting XI.  Allen was weak on the ball, failed to win challenges and made poor decisions in his passing game in the first half of the season.  But he has stepped up in a huge way since Gerrard's injury.  By no means has the Welshman played like Gerrard, but he hasn't made mistakes and that's what you look for from a player of his quality.  He doesn't need to make the flashy passes or fancy moves.  He doesn't need to make pinpoint crosses or even stay on the ball long.  He needs to be a linchpin in the midfield and an extra defender when needed and he has done just that.

Then there is Jordan Henderson.  Henderson had plenty of scrutiny brought upon him with the penalty kick controversy a few weeks ago.  He wasn't given a totally fair shake due to many assuming he will automatically be made captain once Gerrard comes to America.  He did himself no favors by not playing particularly well either.  However, the past few games he has really stepped up his game and not just due to the fact he has scored.  Henderson has grown over the past couple weeks and dealt with adversity very well.  He shrugged off the Europa League nonsense and came up huge for his team.  Henderson scored an incredible goal in a big match against City that would have been the goal of the month or week, if not for Coutinho's strike.  Then he scored a cracker of a shot against Burnley and dropped a cross right onto Sturridge's head for the insurance tally.  Henderson might not be the captain in future years and will definitely never be the next Gerrard, but as long as he's the best Jordan Henderson he can be then he has justified his place in this club.

The bottom line is that Liverpool continue to win.  Win pretty, win ugly, with with style or just get the job done.  They did that today.  It won't go down in the annals of Anfield as an historic or memorable match, but it didn't need to be.  Over the course of a season, there are so many matches that it's impossible to show flair and style every single time.  Even the super-clubs like Barcelona or Bayern Munich can't accomplish that.  In the end, as long as the club continues to win then it doesn't matter how it was accomplished.  Just continue to win and the rest will take care of itself.

Walk On

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

Liverpool Victorious Amid Potential Controversy

There are several issues that emerged from what should've been just a nice victory for the team.  I'll try to address each while trying not to have an article that is magazine length.  Before we get to the 400 pound gorilla in the room, let's focus on the actual match first.  Clearly, from the title, you can discern that Liverpool were victorious in their first match in the Europa League tournament.

From the start, everything seemed to be going in Liverpool's favor.  They were drawn to have the opening game of two legs at home.  They were drawn against Besiktas, who are top of the Turkish league, but Liverpool have had an outstanding record against Turkish teams, especially at Anfield.  The Reds have also had all the momentum in recent weeks.

Brendan Rodgers put out a very solid team, with very few changes from the previous weekend.  Jordan Ibe was in play instead of Lazar Markovic due to Markovic's astonishing four game European ban.  The Reds came out and dominated the opening of the match, stringing together solid passes and working the ball up the field against a Besiktas formation that was clearly set up to play defense and counter.  Liverpool did a good job of holding the ball for the first portion of the first half, but when the chances weren't really coming in droves, the Turkish side began gaining confidence.  Liverpool were very lucky not to concede as their counterparts had fantastic goal scoring opportunities, including one that forced a miraculous save from Simon Mingolet in the 32nd minute.

Liverpool had their moments in the second half, both offensively - in a positive manner - and defensively - in a negative fashion.  As another example of manager's choices that continue to pay off, Rodgers put out even more offense in an attempt to win a game that was scoreless until the 85th minute.  Mario Balotelli, Raheem Sterling and Dejan Lovren all came in as attacking minded subs.  People will say Lovren is a defender, but the choice to insert him was still attacking minded because it allowed Emre Can to be pushed forward into a more positive midfield role.

Then came the controversy.  Liverpool gained their win when Jordan Ibe made a brilliant run up the right wing and sliced into the box.  Ibe was taken down and the Reds were awarded a penalty kick.  Mario Balotelli slotted home the spot kick into the bottom left corner and that was all she wrote about the actual game.  Liverpool had an opportunity for a second goal late in the contest, but the ball did not find its intended target and Besiktas were able to escape Anfield down only a goal heading home.

However, instead of being able to focus on a victorious night at Anfield and setting themselves up for a potential run at a European trophy, Liverpool fans are being forced into a silly controversy and having to choose sides when they should be uniting.  By now everyone has seen the incident, so I won't waste space describing it in detail.  With little to no actual detail coming out of any players' mouths, fans are left to speculate.  Was Jordan Henderson intending to take the kick?  Was Daniel Sturridge asking Henderson to take the kick or was he asking Henderson to tell Balotelli to let Sturridge take the kick?

The bottom line, for me, is it doesn't matter.  Henderson is a fine player and is growing into the role that Rodgers wants him to play as team captain.  Henderson is not and never will be Steven Gerrard.  That does not mean that he cannot be a decent captain.  No two captains are exactly alike in either playing style or team management.  Regardless of who wears the armband though, Henderson would not be my top choice to take a penalty.  There were two to four players on the pitch I would've chosen to take the penalty before Jordan Henderson.  There are plenty of football captains around the world who are not the designated penalty taker as well.  So Balotelli taking the kick and converting should not be a big deal.

Was Sturridge telling Henderson the captain should take the kick or making a case for himself?  Neither option really changes anything either.  Plenty of people argue over kick taking chances.  Usually it is done on free kicks, when it is a little less contentious but there are no ill effects going forward.  It was disheartening to see the trio part with some discord and Sturridge seemed a little churlish when congratulating the goal scorer.  However, one should hope that the actual players left their discord on the pitch and will be fine going forward.

The other discouraging thing out of that was Steven Gerrard's comments.  While Gerrard has earned the right, as both a club legend and team captain, to speak his mind and give whatever answers to a media member's question he chooses, what Gerrard actually did was pour gasoline on the fire.  There is a section of both the media and general public that will latch onto anything negative regarding Mario Balotelli and Gerrard saying his actions were in poor taste did nothing to assuage those people's feelings.

Despite my relative youth, I see things through old school eyes most times.  You should respect authority, when warranted and should conduct yourself in a certain manner.  Did Balotelli do this in the grand sense?  Probably not.  However, I do not feel he showed anyone up.  He was not completely disrespectful in his actions.  He would not have done the same thing to Steven Gerrard, but I don't feel he was disrespecting the captaincy of Jordan Henderson by his actions either.  Balotelli is egotistical and forthright.

Many of the talents in the game are, whether we agree with it or not.  Whether Henderson was the "designated penalty taker" or not, players like Luis Suarez or Gareth Bale or Diego Costa would have all done the same thing no matter who had the armband.  Liverpool fans will all take their sides and voice their opinions.  Yet, they should all still support Balotelli and the rest of the players regardless.  Fans should want Balotelli to be returning to form because that means there are more options and more talent to be put on the pitch.  Fans should want there to be harmony in the dressing room because the better the team gets along, the more they can easily connect on the pitch.

Another issue that popped up during this game was more of an overall question and it was posed by the broadcasters on Fox's showing of the game.  It was an intriguing question that fans, pundits and the manager himself could all have vastly differing views on.  The question was, with Liverpool still alive in several competitions, where do you focus your energies?  You have an opportunity at English silverware in the FA Cup.  You have an opportunity to still push into the top four in the league.  You also have a chance to get a Champions League spot as well as a European trophy if you go all out in the Europa League.

So the big question now - with no clear answer - is where do you put your full energies.  All contest deserve a full effort from the starting XI and looking for a result.  Nobody is saying that you want to lose a competition, however all have merits.  Sometimes that is not the case.  The Capital One Cup is often looked at as a competition that teams do not mind bowing out of.

Liverpool are deep enough that they could conceivably stay in and look to win all of their goals still ahead.  The problem becomes whether you wear out your players.  Liverpool's success has come from sticking with a fairly consistent starting XI, with a change here or there.  Do you keep all those players playing in all competitions and hope for the best when your team has had such injury problems?  Or do you change it up, use your depth and focus your main starting players on one competition.  If that is your option, which do you place more value on?

On the surface, the Europa League generally falls lowest on the totem pole.  On the surface, the league would be the highest priority and then the FA Cup.  However, things are not always as they appear on the surface.  The Fox broadcast made a point and it makes sense.  This weekend's match against Southampton may provide the answer.  Southampton are currently in fourth in the table and four points above Liverpool.  Though there are also two other teams above the Reds, the outcome of that match might make it easier to focus on a certain competition.

If Liverpool lose, then they are further away from the top four and have lost to one of their main competitors.  That result would make it easier to focus on the tournaments.  A win over Southampton keeps Liverpool at least three points from the top four and possibly only one point away from a Champions League slot.  It definitely is an intriguing question that will come to bear if the team can keep their form.

Random thoughts:

- Steven Gerrard is a legend and I hold him in high regard.  However, in this instance, I feel he would've been better suited in taking a page from Brendan Rodgers' book in how to answer the penalty question.

- It always amazes me how quickly certain sectors of the public lash out.  As soon as anyone suggests Balotelli has stood up to Henderson, it makes Henderson a bad choice as captain.  As I said in the main article, Henderson is not and never will be on the level of Gerrard.  But the man is only 24.  Not all captains are fully ready to lead their team to the fullest right from the get go.  Henderson may yet grow into a quality skipper for the Reds.

- To answer my own question regarding the competitions, unless Liverpool get smacked against Southampton, I feel the league still comes first.  Cup competitions all come down to the draw.  If you get a favorable draw, then you can put your best foot forward.  If not, then nothing is certain in tournament formats even if you have the better squad on paper.  Focus on steadily moving toward a top four spot with plenty of games left in the league and see how each draw goes in the Europa and FA.

- I hate to feel so strongly about a player just now getting their first big game action, since so many look good in spurts and then fall off.  But right now, Jordan Ibe looks like the real deal.  He has speed very close to Raheem Sterling and a body more like Sturridge and great footskills.  He also has shown himself to not shrink from the occasion.  He takes players on like a veteran or like a player who does not know any different at the very least.  If he continues to improve, then his future with the Reds could and should be extremely bright.

- I was glad to see smiles on the faces of Balotelli and his teammates in training today.  Regardless of how you feel about him, Liverpool are a more dangerous team if he is in form, if he has a good relationship with his teammates and if there is no rift going forward.  There is never complete harmony in a locker room, but there cannot be an actual rift and expect there to be success.

Walk On.

Everything Coming Up Gold For Brendan Rodgers

Things looked like they may be taking a turn for the worse from a Liverpool perspective following the most recent Merseyside Derby.  The matchup with Everton over the weekend was about as flat a performance as could be found in recent weeks or months.  It was such a poor performance that it forced one to wonder if Liverpool was reverting to it's early season form.  Their manager, their captain and their supporters would not allow this.

Liverpool came out with a solid attacking lineup with the right number of changes to spark the club back into form.  Raheem Sterling was surprisingly given the night off.  Sterling definitely deserved the time off given his run of games and placing the team on his back, however it was a bit of a surprise given the importance of the match.  Liverpool had a chance to climb within three points of the fourth spot for at least the night.  They were also pitted against a team directly above them in the table.  Conversely, Tottenham had an opportunity to put themselves into the third spot in the table and go seven points clear of Liverpool.  Clearly it was a huge game for both sides, thus making it a bit surprising that Sterling was not even available as a sub.  Clearly, it worked out.

Daniel Sturridge was given his first start since returning from injury and he did what he has done ever since his return - he gave the Reds a huge spark.  Sturridge almost banged one in with an outside left boot early in the match that was slapped away by Hugo Lloris.  Sturridge was also joined by Jordan Ibe and Coutinho in the attack.  While Coutinho did not do anything overly special during this match, he still strikes enough fear into defenders to cause them worry anytime he is on the ball.  Ibe was the one who impressed the most of the wingers though.

Admittedly, I wondered if it was a mistake to recall Ibe from his loan spell so early but the young attacker has shown his value in his short stint back with the club.  Ibe, full of youthful exuberance, bolted down the wings with pace and took on defenders at will to start the match.  With the exception of a few balls that could have been placed in better spots, Ibe made good passing choices and created the potential for scoring chances, even if it did not ultimately come off.  While it is still too early to say for sure how the young player will turn out, he is definitely showing that he has the skill to remain in Liverpool's plans and form a formidable attacking partnership with Sturridge, Sterling and/or whoever else the Reds use in attack.

Another positive Ibe has shown, so far, is his ability to play multiple positions.  He has the shooting ability to perhaps be a striker, if called upon.  He has the pace to be an attacking winger in Liverpool's current three up top.  He also proved today that he can help out in defense, which opens up the possibility should he be needed as part of the midfield.  His youth and versatility are just what Liverpool need at this moment.  Should he be thrust into a long-term starting role yet?  Probably not.  He needs time to acclimate to the Premier League game, but he has shown that he definitely deserves the minutes he is bound to get going forward.

Refocusing on the match itself, it was not all smiles and sunshine the entire 90 minutes.  The commentary team made several references to the quietness of the Anfield crowd and that it was most likely due to the strength of the Tottenham attack.  Harry Kane continues to prove, if only for this season, he is one of the premier attackers in the English Premier League.  Kane spurred on his team - no pun intended - and they responded in kind following his early equalizing goal.

From an outsider's perspective, this was an intensely enjoyable game to watch.  Perhaps not as much if you support either team, but just from the pure football/soccer aspect of the game it was an entertaining game.  Both teams had great strings of possession.  Both teams created chances, both squads squandered opportunities, both keepers made great saves, both teams defended well and both teams made mistakes.  It was like watching a top notch prize fight with boxers who went on all out attack.

Daniel Sturridge helped set up the first goal by drawing the defense towards him, which allowed Lazar Markovic to slip through a gap towards the left and then slide it past Lloris.  As a member of the keeper's union, I rarely say this, but Lloris should have stopped the shot.  He failed to get both hands extended toward the ball, allowing a slight bobble to hop over his bottom hand.  Nevertheless, it was a good offensive play all-around and well finished by the Serbian international.

Unfortunately for Liverpool, their defense was not up to the task 11 minutes later when Kane equalized.  While they marked well during the flow of play, Liverpool's bane continued to cause them problems as the defense looked a bit foolish on both Spurs' tallies.  Kane looked to be offside on the second goal, but that is up to the official to call.  Liverpool were guilty on this play, as are too many professional sides, but I grow tired of players making calls for the officials.  Play until the whistle is blown and then make your case when the danger is averted.  Yes, Tottenham had players offside but Liverpool looked just as foolish as their entire backline was standing around as the Spurs pounced on the rebound.

You cannot take credit away from the Spurs though.  Liverpool may have had their own faults on each goal, but credit goes to the Spurs for answering almost every jab, cross and hook.  Spurs are a much better team than Liverpool saw at the beginning of the season and deserving of their place in the table, but Liverpool are a better team as well.  Their players are playing better and their manager is managing better.

Brendan Rodgers has looked like a man lost at times during this year.  There have been times when even the most loyal supporter of the man and team have been forced to question his team selection, his tactics and in the larger sense, whether he is the man to lead this club going forward.  Rodgers took this all in stride, ever confident that his way would prove itself.  Though the season is far from over and things can still turn back the other way, Rodgers' way has proven itself.  It has taken the return of players from injury and a few odd tweaks that we may not all agree with, but you cannot argue with the results.

Liverpool's last defeat was a cup match against table leading Chelsea, on the road by a tight score of 1-0.  The last match Liverpool lost in the league was way back on December 14 to Manchester United.  Though the scoreline was embarrassing, that match may have actually been the turning point in terms of style of play.  Since that match, LFC have rattled off six clean sheets.  Finishing may still be a bit of a sticking point, but everything seems to be coming up gold for Rodgers the way it did last season.

This is further exemplified by the match winning goal.  Rodgers made some interesting substitution choices prior to the goal.  Instead of bringing on Adam Lallana early, he took off captain Steven Gerrard for the rarely seen of late, Dejan Lovren.  This pushed Emre Can out of his back three duties and put him in a more comfortable midfield spot.  Then, instead of taking off Ibe or Coutinho and gone with Lallana in a more possession minded attack, Rodgers put Lallana in Markovic' spot and left the speedy Coutinho and Ibe to strike up the wings.  Finally, instead of trying out a strike partnership of Mario Balotelli and Sturridge, which had created chances earlier in the year, Rodgers went with a bit of caution, not wanting to overuse his star forward.

All of these decisions paid dividends.  Lovren, while by no means challenged to a full extent, made no critical errors and presented Liverpool with the height and aerial ability the team needed at such a critical time in the match.  Lallana gave Liverpool fresh legs and enough pace and skill from the wing to cause problems while leaving no defensive liabilities.  Finally, and from a personal perspective most importantly, Mario Balotelli scored.  Not only did the Italian enigma score, but he scored the match winner.  He did what a striker is supposed to do - get into those critical areas behind the defense and finish it off when presented the chance.  Balotelli capped this off by being smart, yet irritating to the opponent and throwing a few players off their game.  He also managed a critical clearance in the final minutes as well.

Rodgers' celebration and jubilant reaction to Balotelli's goal further exemplified how much even the manager wanted that for the player.  Call it luck, call it a belief, call it having a good eye for certain decisions or call it what you will, the bottom line is that the vast majority of choices made by the Red's boss are coming off and that spells good things.  While success always boils down to the form of the players, Rodgers' success in his decision making had a big role in Liverpool almost winning a championship last season.  Perhaps now, if things hold form, his successes will lead to more on-field success for the club and more Champions League football.  For now, fans should just be happy with this massive result against Spurs and look forward to more exciting football to come.

Random Thoughts:

- Mario Balotelli really can do no right.  The man scored his first Premier League goal for the club, his first in almost three years and a match winner.  Yet, the color commentator on the NBCSports broadcast felt the need to point out that not celebrating and smiling will just further cement Balotelli as a villain among the fans.

- On a personal level, it was a huge joy to see Super Mario get the kind of goal he did.  Yes, I would've liked to see a smash from outside the box rip into the upper 90.  However, to come back into the team, after not even being a selection and then get into a good position and score the game winner is huge.  No, it does not excuse him from his past mistakes and no I'm not crazy enough to think this will be the start of a huge run of goals but he had to get at least one.  Maybe Balo will still be gone come the summer, but as a supporter of the player, it was a joy to see him finally score a league goal for Liverpool

- Phil Neville, the color commentator for NBCSports seemed to come off as pro-Tottenham at times.  His explanation of Martin Skrtel's yellow card was farcical.  Even during the replays he kept saying you could see the clip of the Spurs' calf, which you could not.

- I did not think the official had a bad game - though many on Twitter did - however the penalty not given to Daniel Sturridge looked like more of a penalty than the one actually called.  The announcers said it was a good challenge, but even if you get the ball you cannot scissor the attacker on the follow through.

- It was great to see Gerrard pop one in on the PK, but the camera angle made it look a lot closer than it was.  The fact that Lloris got a touch did not help matters.  Ah well, it went in.

Walk On.

Liverpool Returns to League Action With Solid Win

The Reds returned to league action after what seemed like an eternity of cup matches in recent memory.  They did so in fine fashion as well taking down West Ham United by a final of 2-0.  Liverpool could, and perhaps should, have had more goals as well.  In typical Liverpool fashion for this year, there were mistakes made along the way that keep their performances from being very good or great.  However, there cannot be too many complaints following a victory against a side that was a point up in the table before the match began.

Since columns are usually written by whiney, frustrated people I may as well join their ranks for a few paragraphs and begin with the things I saw wrong with this match.  Firstly, though a very talented player, Lazar Markovic returned to his shaky form from earlier this season.  Markovic has speed up and down the field and hustles non-stop.  It is his touch that falters him in important moments though.

In the seventh minute, Markovic failed to convert what should have been an early goal.  It was not a gimme shot, but still for one as talented as he and one with the aspirations of being an Anfield legend, you have to put those away.  Markovic also blasted one wide of the post just before the halftime break, which would have also put his team up by a goal again.  He was clearly disappointed in himself, but the shot was not overly rushed and though there were some players in front it has to be put in the net.

Markovic was by no means the only player to falter in their attacking.  Alberto Moreno was set up with a very nice cross by Raheem Sterling in the 47th minute.  Moreno was unmarked and managed only to flail his left leg at the ball and connect just enough to at least keep the ball in play.  Moreno is more of an attacking defender, in the mold of Roberto Carlos, but it was still a golden opportunity that needs to be better handled.  Jordan Henderson also continued to prove that there is a pretty big drop off from Steven Gerrard to himself.

Henderson should not aspire to be Stevie G.  It is an effort in futility.  Henderson just isn't the quality of Gerrard and probably never will be.  That does not mean that he is not or cannot be a top player at the club.  Henderson gives his best on the pitch almost every game.  He just lacks that final ball or touch that Gerrard brings to the captaincy.  There were two free kicks that pop to mind, including the 70th minute, where Hendo blasted it right into the wall.  He is not beyond learning to get better touch on those, but for right now Liverpool will have to find someone with better quality to replace Gerrard on free kicks come next season.

Before you begin to wonder where all this negativity comes from and think perhaps you were dreaming and the scoreline was reversed, fear not.  Liverpool was indeed victorious and there were many good things to come from the match.  Liverpool kept a clean sheet for the fourth match in a row.  The defense, while still questionable and still giving fans that queezy feeling, played a very solid match.  West Ham did not have a shot on target until the 32nd minute.  With the exception of set pieces, the Hammers really created nothing from the flow of play.  The one nit-picky item of mention regarding the back three was their inability to make quick passes out.  Too often in the first half, they were forced to retreat in possession.  This may well be due to a lack of off the ball movement, but the bottom line was West Ham continually pressured the ball and Liverpool were forced backward more than one would like.

The offense was very good.  As previously mentioned, they did not finish as many chances as they should have.  In addition to the misses by Henderson and Markovic, Jordan Ibe and Daniel Sturridge did not capitalize on chances in the 78th and 83rd minutes.  Overall, however, they were good on the passes.  Most balls were within a range that, even if they failed to do so, they had an opportunity to obtain and push into space.  Sterling continued to show his growth as a star and his connection with Coutinho as they connected on Liverpool's first goal.

Liverpool were a bit fortunate with the deflection, but the chip pass from Coutinho to Sterling was cheekily created and deftly handled.  Sterling then showed good composure - something that has at times lacked in his game this season - and slotted it past the goalkeeper.  While he still occasionally tries to over-perform, Sterling continues to show that when he is within himself and composed that he could be an all-world caliber player.  It may still be a likelihood to happen, Liverpool need to get pen to paper on a new deal for young Raheem.

One would be remiss to not mention the return of Daniel Sturridge as one of the biggest positives.  Sturridge lacked his usual first touch, no doubt caused by not playing a game since August.  He looked clearly rusty and a bit over-eager to run around.  However, both he and the team looked very good when together on the pitch for the first time in almost five months.  Liverpool looked very similar to their attack of last season with a formation of Sturridge, Sterling and Coutinho all rotating around.  If Sturrige had not scored, his return would still have been a good omen of things to come with the ease the attacking line slipped into with his inclusion.

Sturridge was not about to let a chance to put his own little chapter in the Anfield annals though.  15 had a couple of good chances, as mentioned, in the 78th minute.  Then, only two minutes later, Sturridge would bury one in the 80th minute to put his team up by two.  Not only was the shot powerful and accurate, but with his weak foot.  That is definitely an encouraging sign due to the fact that even when the SAS connection was flying last season, Sturridge's weak foot was often a weakness that he was uncomfortable using.  On this evening, Sturridge struck the ball with supreme confidence and coupled with the sharp angle, made the goal all the more impressive.

Liverpool may still have questions within the squad.  They may still not have quite enough to regularly challenge the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City, but they continue to move in positive ways.  The moves made in the lineup are beneficial more than hindrances, as they were earlier.  Lallana fit in well in his more central role and despite his falterings on this night, Markovic has proven that he is more than capable of playing a wing attacker or a more defensive winger position as well.  That does nothing but help the depth of this club as they continue forward with Europa competitions and the FA Cup.  Mistakes are made by just about any club.  The important thing, for now, is the belief has returned.  Walk on.

Random Thoughs:

- Liverpool need to take advantage of their fixture list in the league coming up.  With the exception of the City match on March 1, all of February and March feature winnable games.  If Liverpool can continue their current form, they could easily find themselves contending for a top four spot in April and May.

- Being a keeper, it pains me a bit to mention, but the manner in which keepers get so butt-hurt with the smallest of touches is aggravating.  Adrian, West Ham's goalkeeper, was brushed along the ribs by Coutinho - who was trying to avoid contact.  By his reaction, you would think Adrian had been shanked in the lunch line at the state penitentiary.  Really?  Goalkeepers are not accustomed to being hit, but these sorts of overreactions are not beneficial to the game.

- Speaking of overacting, I'm tired of players putting their teammates in peril because they want to lay on the deck in hopes of earning their opponent a yellow card.  Markovic went down in the box after being grazed along the face and stayed down for a good 30 seconds.  He is by no means the only player to do such things, but sooner or later those sorts of actions will be punished by an attack taking advantage of one fewer player involving themselves in the play.

Liverpool Lack the Quality to Defeat Chelsea

Before we get into the bulk of this, let me preface this blog by saying that I missed much of the match.  Sometimes life takes precedence.  Having said that, on to the game.  Liverpool did what they needed to do for a decent portion of this game with one of their rivals, Chelsea.  The Blues are one of the best teams in the world and showed it at the end of the extra time.

It can be hard for Liverpool supporters to stomach, especially those that have friends who support the Blues, but this season they have shown themselves to be one of the best in the world.  It is a good showing for the Reds in that they have put themselves in a position to challenge Chelsea.  The Liverpool from the beginning of the season would not have even reached extra time in this sort of matchup.  In fact, the contest may have been decided long before had the Reds played the way they were at the start of the season.  However, there really is no silver lining.  Regardless of any positivity in terms of progress, the simple fact is that at the end of extra time, Liverpool were dreadful.

Liverpool had their chances during the game.  They put 15 balls toward the goal and 4 on target.  Thibault Courtois made a few really good saves, but Liverpool just lack that critical finisher, regardless of the amount of potential talent they have on the field.  The second half of extra time was a prime example of this.  As mentioned, Chelsea is one of the top 5 clubs in the world right now, but Liverpool just don't have the ability to break down a defense at the moment.  Even with great talents like Raheem Sterling and Phillipe Coutinho, world class players like Gerrard, or decent players like Jordan Henderson they simply cannot consistently slice through a defense the way they did last season.

They have moments of brilliance.  The passing to set up Coutinho's chance that was kicked away by Coutinho was clinical.  We've seen glimpses of that throughout the year.  Simply not enough though.  The imminent return of Daniel Sturridge will improve things.  If he returns to even part of the form he had last season, he immediately improves the club's ability to score.  It is just frustrating that even though we see glimpses, there is still a huge disparity from what the club performed like last season and the big difference has basically been two players missing.

The extra time was extremely disappointing from a tactical standpoint.  The Reds looked decent enough until the goal.  After that, they really fell apart.  They had a few opportunities, but really nothing that troubled the Chelsea goalkeeper.  Again, all credit to the Blues.  They won the game.  However, the disparity in positive possession was quite astounding in the last 15 minutes.  Liverpool looked lost.  They blindly booted the ball around the pitch or headed the ball aimlessly up field with not inclination of where it might go.  The Blues, on the other side, were cool and calm and knocked the ball around with ease.  The Reds looked clueless when presented with opportunities on goal.  They sailed several balls well over the goal, not even troubling the defense or goalkeeper.

From a Liverpool perspective, it was simply not good enough.  Liverpool scored a quality goal at Anfield and had small windows of quality play.  But in the grand scheme, over two full matches and two full periods of extra time, they just simply did not do enough to earn the wins.  That is something that has to be rectified if Liverpool hope to return to the true upper echelon.

Despite the huge disappointment of not gaining a finals appearance in the league cup, Liverpool can still accomplish good things this season.  They have fixed enough of their problems to make a good run at a top four spot.  They still have an opportunity to reach Wembly with a good performance against Bolton and a reasonably favorable draw against Crystal Palace.  Good things can still come from the rest of this season, but for one match they simply were not good enough.  Walk on.

Personal thoughts:

- Blogs are, by nature, somewhat personal.  I usually try to separate my deeper feelings from the blog, but I'm going to let a few out here.

- I am a big Brendan Rodgers fan.  Most people, from what I've read, hated the reality series Being Liverpool.  I loved it.  I was really drawn to Rodgers' philosophy and feelings regarding the importance of the supporters and work ethic.  However, sometimes he is clearly off his rocker.  In the post match interview, he said Liverpool were the better side over the two days and were denied by Courtois.  Courtois was the reason Chelsea drew in the first game, but to say you were the better team for two contests when you really weren't isn't reality.  I understand trying to set a positive notion in the mind of the team, but some of his attempts to do so are completely from left field.

- Mario Balotelli is lost.  I am one of the few, if only, supporters of Super Mario.  Having part of my family be Italian makes me bias in that instance and I've seen the man's talent.  But right now, even I have to admit he is terrible and just appears lost.  I feel bad for him because I do think he wants to perform at Liverpool and wants to play well.  However, you can see in his performance that he shoots when he should pass and passes when he should shoot and seems incapable of making the right decision.  I hope he turns it around, if for no other reason than I own a Balotelli jersey, but the experiment may be a failure even for this dedicated supporter.

- Sterling and Coutinho have oodles of talent, but they are maddening.  Similarly to Balotelli, but on a much smaller scale they like to shoot when they should pass and pass when they should shoot.  When challenged by defenders that are actually world class, they seem to shrink.  They still attempt to challenge them, but they get way too close to the defenders and often give it away.  This is fine for early in matches because you want to test your opposition.  When you are in extra time, with a finals appearance on the line, you simply must retain the ball.  Too much carelessness.  They are young though, so plenty of time to still learn it.  Just frustrating for the moment.

- Jose Mourinho is one of the best managers in the world of club football, but he makes statements that make Rodgers look like a lyrical genius.  I completely understand sticking up for your team, but to simply ignore anything negative any of his players ever does, from diving to stomping, and yet whine about every single thing that does not go your way is aggravating at best.

- Whether it's FIFA or the FA, if they want to retain credibility they must suspend Diego Costa.  Taking all bias out of it, he may have gotten away with the stomps during the match but you cannot allow a player to deliberately stomp on an opponent and not be punished.  It would not matter to me if it was a Liverpool player that was the offender in such an instance.  Those things cannot be allowed in the game and regardless of who does it, they should be suspended.

15 chances, 4 on target.
BR says they were better side?

Liverpool Face Replay After Drawing With The Wanderers

Before we get into the meat of this, I would like to say I appreciate Fox Sports broadcast of this FA Cup match.  Most matches, you don't get to hear the crowd at Anfield sing You'll Never Walk Alone in full voice beforehand, but Fox allows the time before to hear the pageantry.  Unless you're just a die hard rival of Liverpool, you have to get taken in by the entire stadium singing.  Now then, on to the match.

Brendan Rodgers, again, proved that he's the manager and he'll make the decisions without the question of what others may think.  While some may have advocated the inclusion of an actual striker or perhaps even a true center back, Rodgers went his own way.  Even if you still want Sterling in the starting XI, you could argue that he should have played back in Coutinho or Lallana's spot.  A spot Sterling will likely have to get used to once Daniel Sturridge finally returns.  However, Rodgers' maligned favorites returned.

Glen Johnson, who has little if any fans left, got the start at right back.  Emre Can moved to center, Sakho stayed on the left.  Jose Enrique played at the wing along with Javier Manquillo.  Not exactly the stuff of defensive legends and they looked equally shaky to begin the match.  Liverpool would eventually take control about ten minutes in and keep control for much of the first half, but it was a first half performance that further proved this is a club that must look for more/better depth for future seasons.  Joe Allen does what Allen does, which is disappear.  The defensive three plus the wingbacks were decent enough for a match against Bolton, but if/when the competitions take on more meaning in the future years those pairings may not work.

Despite a very talented attacking three of Sterling, Lallana and Coutinho, the team lacked that decisive pass from the midfield or shot from the attackers.  Lots of balls thrown forward with possession, but nothing from it once they were 18 yards from goal in the first half.  Though they were clearly the more skilled side, Liverpool were actually lucky to be even at the half.  Bolton, quite frankly, should have made the Reds pay about 13 minutes before the half.  And absolute strike from Dean Moxey just outside the box skimmed barely wide.  Mingolet was fortunate not to give the ball away right before halftime as well since he was a bit too adventurous out of his area.

Lazar Markovic checked in right at the beginning of the half, looking to spark the team.  He almost did, but the Wanderers got away with a trip at the back on Markovic which would have allowed him a clear chance at goal.  The foul was not given, but Liverpool had a small bit of justice done in return when Bolton air mailed their own free kick just moments after.  The match went back and forth for the center portions of the second half.  Liverpool forced a fine save only to see Bolton smash a chance wide that should have been put on target, just into the 60th minute and again by Gudjohnson in the 65th, this time whacked over.

The Reds just couldn't find that final ball from either a shot or pass to really put the match away.  In the 66th minute, Sterling passed to Lallana instead of shooting.  Slightly odd subs came on with the offensively challenged Lucas entering and Fabio Borini for Manquillo.  But who moved to wing back?  Sterling?  It looked like it for a time.  The Reds still managed to create good chances, but it really was a disjointed effort with the players on the pitch in odd positions.  Borini was stopped by another great save in 70th minute and then Lucas actually got one on target in the dying moments, only to be parried away by the keeper.

Liverpool maintained a decent amount of possession.  They kept their cool in a match where their EPL counterparts were falling by the wayside.  They did have opportunities to score and they did what they needed to do defensively.  By no means though, did they play a good game.  Even the broadcasters said this squad reminded them more of the disjointed play of the Liverpool side seen back in November and prior.  The back three as well as the wing backs did their job, but they looked shaky all game in doing so.

Can is a fine player, one who many hope will stay in a Liverpool shirt for years to come.  However, he is not a center back.  He can be utilized on the side of a back three, but having a player with huge defensive vulnerabilities and little, if any, aerial prowess in the middle of your defense is quite frightening.  Allen is...well Allen.  Jose Enrique is a decent player and qualified to start for lower level clubs but though he gives his best, it just isn't good enough on a regular basis.  Jordan Henderson is another fine player, but he is quite inconsistent on the ball.

This was another match that makes you scratch your head.  Liverpool can earn, and I do mean earn, a draw with Chelsea and then draw against Bolton and make it feel like a poor result.  Given the context of many big clubs falling in the 4th round of the FA Cup, one can hang their hat on the idea that Liverpool is at least still alive.  But you can also ask yourself if you would rather have lost.  It goes against the very fiber of most fans, including myself.  However, if you look at the cold hard facts does another match really benefit Liverpool at all even if they win?

The Reds have a difficult match with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge three days after this match.  They have winnable, but important league matches to start off February and then begin their trek in the Europa League as well in February.  Another 90 minutes of football on the legs isn't exactly beneficial to Liverpool's aims for the rest of the year.  It is what it is though and the Reds have to find a way to deal with it.  It is not something they anticipated, but with Chelsea and Manchester City out of the competition, perhaps the FA Cup can now join the Capital One Cup as a competition Liverpool can realistically set their sights on this season.

As previously mentioned, this match further proved just how much Liverpool needs to invest in more depth.  I've gone on and on about the talent and potential within this team, but they just don't have enough talent to dominate teams the way a club of their stature should in these sorts of games.  Yes, money has been spent but now the difficult decisions need to be made.  Players need to be sold and replaced and solid, proven talent needs to be brought in to plug some of the gaps.  This will surely not happen in January, but BR and the back room staff had better have a solid plan heading into the summer transfer window to keep this team on the uptick.  Plenty of season left and silverware still on the table, but this was a relatively disappointing performance even if it did not eliminate the club.  Walk on.

Random thoughts:

- I know I am in the minority, but I sincerely hope that Mario Balotelli does have a reported infection.  Yes, they play a completely different position but the idea of Glen Johnson in the lineup and Balotelli not even a reserve puts quite a pit in my stomach.

- Eric Wynalda went down a few pegs in my book.  After the match he said he watched the last 20 minutes without his glasses because Liverpool were so boring.  The man is entitled to his opinion - and I did bag on the team in this blog - however boring seems a bit excessive.  They had chances.  Just don't have the offensive power to put them home.

- Funny how the entire ESPN FC staff was ripping on the FA Cup matchups being so bland and predictable.  How'd that workout?  Liverpool and Manchester United have replays and Chelsea and Man City are out.  FA Cup might not be quite what it was, but the little teams still give their all.

- I'm pretty sure the broadcasters kept inquiring as to why Rickie Lambert wasn't coming in the match.  The answer:  Liverpool had already made all their subs.  Being a broadcaster, it is easy to forget things but for both of them to forget and nobody in the stadium to tell them is slightly comical.

Champions League Exit Due to Same Old Issues

Liverpool supporters watched their team crash out of Europe's biggest tournament in heart pounding fashion, but ultimately the effort was too little, too late.  The same problems that have plagued this squad from day one led them to this point and after truly earning the right to be in the Champions League, they now make a rather early exit.

Questionable managerial decisions, including both frustrating starting XI choices and mind-bogglingly absurd absences of certain players on the bench were again en vogue.  Slow starts that peter out and get worse as the half continue were again all too visible to even the most novice viewer.  Favorable possession numbers leading to no attacking threat was again the modus operandi of this beloved team.

The reasons for starting Glen Johnson are unbeknownst to almost anyone except the manager.  While Johnson has been in decent form when in attack mode, he can at times look like he would be unable to defend a winger from a Sunday beer league.  Due to no new contract talk and the constant disapproval of the player, the only logical explanation for his constant inclusion is that Brendan Rodgers is hopeful a foolish team will come seeking Johnson's services in January instead of waiting for the free transfer in the summer.  I have seen it on several websites, that Javier Manquillo gets little favor due to his loanee status.

First of all, if this is true it makes no sense because Rodgers is the one that sought out the player's services.  Secondly, if there is no intention of bringing Johnson back, then what is the difference between using a loaned in player versus using a player that seemingly is going to be allowed to walk in the summer?

Departing from the ongoing issue of the starting lineup, the team just did not play the kind of first half needed to win a game that had to be won.  Many supporters, including this one, were gladdened by the energy and possession of the first five or ten minutes and the string of passes put together.  However it all went awry after that initial foray.  Liverpool had much more of the ball, but as the storm clouds unleashed their fury you could sense the clouds forming over the Reds' defense in the form of Basel's attack.  Minutes before and for much of the game following Basel's goal there was absolutely no attack for Liverpool.  Not just a toothless attack, but no attack at all.

The back four seemed solid to start the game.  Despite their usual lapses in marking, teammates were always there to back someone up and make the clearing ball.  However on the goal, I have seen less ball watching during high school matches.  No closing down, no movement.  All the back four just standing in a line while Lucas tried in vein to make up for his own defensive lapse.

The only thing that cannot be questioned is the Liverpool captain's ability to lead by example.  After the inexplicable red card to Lazar Markovic - that really should not have been given due to the fingernail clipping the bridge of the nose.  Yet Markovic is still to blame for even allowing the referee an opportunity to make a decision. - it was only Steven Gerrard that sent a message this was all unacceptable.  Gerrard made a crunching tackle almost immediately after, that sent a charge through the fans and the team.  Gerrard turned back the clock a bit, showing attacking flair and a bit of pace that we have not seen for awhile.  He willed the team forward and gave all his fellow compatriots no choice but to join him.  His equalizing goal and the emotion that poured forth after was something to make even the most hardened man smile and marvel at the skill of the hit on the free kick.

Unfortunately, even Gerrard's unwavering effort and unparalleled will was not enough to poach that second goal.  The Reds bombed forward with passion and effort but it was not to be.  The problem, as it has been in several games during the year, is that the team does not play an entire 90 minutes the way they did at the end.  While we all know it is impossible to expend that much effort for an entire match, Liverpool still have enough skill that they can dominate teams and create problems.  However they get in their own way and play with a timid style, hoping not to make a mistake rather than playing free flowing football like we saw last season.

Even the bright spots have flaws on this team.  Gerrard, no matter how skilled and iron willed, still needs time off and the team looks like a limp noodle without their captain.  Father time is undefeated and even Gerrard can't play in the attacking role all the time.  Raheem Sterling is trying to be Luis Suarez lite, but only taking the bad aspects of Suarez' game.  Sterling, in only his second full season in the starting lineup, has already gained a reputation as a diver and officials now err on the side of no call even when there is actually a penalty to be called.  Sterling also has a bad habit of taking on multiple defenders or playing with the ball when a defender is only a step away.

The rest of the team is well documented.  It is just a sad state of affairs in the Liverpool camp, mostly due to unnecessary confusion.  There are certain instances where a manager is within his rights to say he is the manager and simply made a decision, however we seem to be far from that with several decisions.  Fabio Borini languishes with the reserves while Rickie Lambert loses steam and the club has no other true striking option.  Regardless of the youngster's talent, the fact that Markovic comes on for a striker seems questionable at best when the club needs two goals and disgustingly stubborn at worst.

Injuries play a part.  Let it not be said that sensible fans do not realize this.  However the problems that were on display on this night at Anfield and the ones that have arisen all season, are not solved by the simple inclusion of Daniel Sturridge.  Even a potential partnership of Sturridge and a theoretically in-form Mario Balotelli is not enough to fully turn the whole thing around.  In today's day and age, you cannot have only one striking option.  Especially one that is 32.  The back four has to be changed.  Perhaps the inclusion of Sakho will help, but something has to change.  Whether it is tactical or philosophical, something has to change with this squad defensively beyond just a change in who starts.

The bottom line is that the players have to figure it out.  Yes, the manager has to play a big part in that, but the players have to take it upon themselves.  We all want Liverpool to succeed, but when visiting message boards and online forums, all one sees is the call for Brendan Rodgers' job.  While even the most staunch BR supporter has been led to question the man, the truth is that the team is just as much of a problem.  Jurgen Klopp, who has his own issues with a championship contending team languishing near relegation, is not going to magically come through the Shankly Gates and do any more with the same players BR has than the Irishman has.

Changes have to be made.  Whether on the training ground, within the hearts of the players or with actual personnel changes during the January transfer window, changes have to be made.  The manager needs to be more selfless and not let his ego get in the way of team decisions, as seems to be more the recent case.  The players have to find some sort of energy.  I do not believe this nonsense of Balotelli affecting the lockerrom, but even if he has there is no reason for him to continue to affect anyone when he is not even on the teamsheet.  There are no more excuses other than they have not been good enough.  This team has to find it within themselves to figure it out, otherwise magical Champions League nights at Anfield may have to wait many years again.  Walk on.