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
Showing posts with label Christian Benteke. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christian Benteke. Show all posts
Saturday, October 29, 2016
Sunday, May 15, 2016
Ings And Henderson Return, but Liverpool Settle For Draw
Liverpool came into the day with plenty left to play for. They were still fighting for a European spot, just as a back up in case they fail to win the Europa League. They were also fighting for money.
According to the broadcasters, each spot up the table earns about an extra million in your pocket. Unfortunately, the day did not get off to a rousing start.
In the 13th minute, West Brom break through the Liverpool defense to take a 1-0 lead. The Reds defense was caught flat footed as Leko sliced through them and then Rondon finished it off. Rondon took it on the right side of the box, took a quick touch around the defender and slotted it just under Adam Bogdan.
In typical Jurgen Klopp fashion though, the Reds didn't give up. It wasn't really a team effort that equalized the game. Jordan Ibe took the game on his shoulders. Ibe, who has all but disappeared in recent weeks to months, came out like a man in form. He cut through the West Brom back line from the center line, into the box and as Benteke led some opposition away, Ibe finished it off from the center of the box in the 23rd minute.
After those goals, it somewhat settled into a typical end of season affair. Liverpool had a chance or two into the attacking third, but nothing that created much danger. The most interesting thing was actually the yellow cards. Brad Smith got one for simulation and then James McClean was awarded one for a rather foolish challenge on Jon Flanagan, well in the Liverpool area.
The first half was about what one would expect, outside of conceding the goal. Liverpool dominated the possession by almost 50% in the difference. However, given the mixture of regulars who were either returning from injury or had fallen out of the starting XI and the younger players, there wasn't enough cohesion to really get things rolling.
Liverpool just escaped the hangman's noose right away in the second half. After giving away a free kick, Rondon got a flick off the head that beat Bogdan but rang off the nearside post. The defenders were composed enough to make the clearance and the Reds survived the exchange.
The second half was much the same as the first, minus the possession. West Brom actually had the better of the chances as they threatened the target quite a few times.
Most of them never truly made it on target with any danger, but it still was a bit too uncomfortable for supporters of the Reds. Rondon will also feel unlucky not to have scored. After missing several in the first half and the flick earlier in the second, in the 66th minute he bobbled an initial chance, but still got a shot on goal that was barely deflected wide.
In a bit of good news for the team, both Danny Ings and Jordan Henderson entered the game in the 64th minute. Neither of them did anything spectacular, but just being on the pitch was enough for them given their injuries.
In the end, the game would finish 1-1. It was a fair result given the overall nature of the game, but again a bit disappointing for fans simply because West Brom were one of the lowest scoring teams in the league and their club conceded.
The focus now shifts to Basel, Switzerland and the matchup with Sevilla. Liverpool will have it all to do. The Spaniards are two time champions in this competition and Liverpool have gotten by more on guile and will than actual skill in many fixtures. They'll need it all to come up with a win on Wednesday, but there's no reason they cannot summon it.
Random Thoughts:
- It was good to see Hendo and Ings back. It's unlikely Ings will have shown enough to get into the Europa Final squad, but I loved his energy earlier in the season. You can never tell who will stay or go under a new manager, but I'd like to see Ings get a good run under Klopp.
- Lucas is a fine player and I respect his talents. However, the combination of him playing as a central defender by itself and then pairing him with Martin Skrtel is a nightmare.
- Springboarding off that idea, what ever happened to Steven Caulker? I understand you can get both Lucas and Allen on with this formation, but Lucas is a midfielder. Defensive as he might be, he just shouldn't be a central defender in my opinion.
- Liverpool spent way too much time defending in the second half. I understand this is a makeshift squad, but they did fine in the first half and looked like a recreation league side at times in the second.
- I still think he has a good future, but Ibe is too much like Raheem Sterling at times. Incredible skill, but a penchant for taking on too many defenders when better options are available.
- Even as a fan of Brendan Rodgers, there is no doubt this club is better under Klopp. That said, it's all the more disappointing that their inconsistencies had them finish in eighth, which is lower than any finish under Rodgers.
- Nothing to do with the West Brom game, but I'm not liking what I'm hearing about the Europa Final. Telling people without tickets to stay away, rumors of Liverpool supporters being kept out or not able to buy extra tickets. It just doesn't have a good smell.
Walk On
According to the broadcasters, each spot up the table earns about an extra million in your pocket. Unfortunately, the day did not get off to a rousing start.
In the 13th minute, West Brom break through the Liverpool defense to take a 1-0 lead. The Reds defense was caught flat footed as Leko sliced through them and then Rondon finished it off. Rondon took it on the right side of the box, took a quick touch around the defender and slotted it just under Adam Bogdan.
In typical Jurgen Klopp fashion though, the Reds didn't give up. It wasn't really a team effort that equalized the game. Jordan Ibe took the game on his shoulders. Ibe, who has all but disappeared in recent weeks to months, came out like a man in form. He cut through the West Brom back line from the center line, into the box and as Benteke led some opposition away, Ibe finished it off from the center of the box in the 23rd minute.
After those goals, it somewhat settled into a typical end of season affair. Liverpool had a chance or two into the attacking third, but nothing that created much danger. The most interesting thing was actually the yellow cards. Brad Smith got one for simulation and then James McClean was awarded one for a rather foolish challenge on Jon Flanagan, well in the Liverpool area.
The first half was about what one would expect, outside of conceding the goal. Liverpool dominated the possession by almost 50% in the difference. However, given the mixture of regulars who were either returning from injury or had fallen out of the starting XI and the younger players, there wasn't enough cohesion to really get things rolling.
Liverpool just escaped the hangman's noose right away in the second half. After giving away a free kick, Rondon got a flick off the head that beat Bogdan but rang off the nearside post. The defenders were composed enough to make the clearance and the Reds survived the exchange.
The second half was much the same as the first, minus the possession. West Brom actually had the better of the chances as they threatened the target quite a few times.
Most of them never truly made it on target with any danger, but it still was a bit too uncomfortable for supporters of the Reds. Rondon will also feel unlucky not to have scored. After missing several in the first half and the flick earlier in the second, in the 66th minute he bobbled an initial chance, but still got a shot on goal that was barely deflected wide.
In a bit of good news for the team, both Danny Ings and Jordan Henderson entered the game in the 64th minute. Neither of them did anything spectacular, but just being on the pitch was enough for them given their injuries.
In the end, the game would finish 1-1. It was a fair result given the overall nature of the game, but again a bit disappointing for fans simply because West Brom were one of the lowest scoring teams in the league and their club conceded.
The focus now shifts to Basel, Switzerland and the matchup with Sevilla. Liverpool will have it all to do. The Spaniards are two time champions in this competition and Liverpool have gotten by more on guile and will than actual skill in many fixtures. They'll need it all to come up with a win on Wednesday, but there's no reason they cannot summon it.
Random Thoughts:
- It was good to see Hendo and Ings back. It's unlikely Ings will have shown enough to get into the Europa Final squad, but I loved his energy earlier in the season. You can never tell who will stay or go under a new manager, but I'd like to see Ings get a good run under Klopp.
- Lucas is a fine player and I respect his talents. However, the combination of him playing as a central defender by itself and then pairing him with Martin Skrtel is a nightmare.
- Springboarding off that idea, what ever happened to Steven Caulker? I understand you can get both Lucas and Allen on with this formation, but Lucas is a midfielder. Defensive as he might be, he just shouldn't be a central defender in my opinion.
- Liverpool spent way too much time defending in the second half. I understand this is a makeshift squad, but they did fine in the first half and looked like a recreation league side at times in the second.
- I still think he has a good future, but Ibe is too much like Raheem Sterling at times. Incredible skill, but a penchant for taking on too many defenders when better options are available.
- Even as a fan of Brendan Rodgers, there is no doubt this club is better under Klopp. That said, it's all the more disappointing that their inconsistencies had them finish in eighth, which is lower than any finish under Rodgers.
- Nothing to do with the West Brom game, but I'm not liking what I'm hearing about the Europa Final. Telling people without tickets to stay away, rumors of Liverpool supporters being kept out or not able to buy extra tickets. It just doesn't have a good smell.
Walk On
Wednesday, May 11, 2016
Liverpool Get Just Rewards At The Death Of Chelsea Clash
There may have been nothing on the line but pride, but any match with Liverpool and Chelsea is always enough to stir emotions by the supporters at the very least. The game opened up well. There was great offensive play in the box for Liverpool in the 5th minute, but it ended with a Coutinho shot blocked from about nine yards out. Liverpool came up with many opportunities going forward, but couldn't get much in the way of actual chances on net out of their possession in the first 20 minutes.
Chelsea had it's moments as well. Simon Mignolet was forced into a good save to his left in the 22nd minute, proving that even a wounded animal can still be dangerous. They seemed more than willing to absorb Liverpool's pressure and counter when given the chance.
Conversely, Liverpool's offense seemed poised to strike, but would flounder at the strangest of times. Adam Lallana flubbed a breakaway chance off his heel and instead of going wide to Sturridge, took a wasteful shot right into the defender about half an hour in.
It would prove to be rueful misses since Chelsea would be the first to score. Suddenly in form, Eden Hazard took on almost the entirety of the Liverpool defense and somehow won. He cut through about three or four defenders, slotted a shot to the right that pierced the defense and got past a diving Mignolet. 1-0 to the visitors, whose fans failed to live up to their claims of walking out in the 26th minute to honor John Terry.
The goal seemed to fluster the Reds. Both the fans and the players on the team seemed to grow anxious and unsure. That was exemplified in the 39th minute when Traore almost scored. Mignolet came out to claim a loose ball in the box and probably could have reached it if he kept going. Unsure of it though, he retreated and ended up in no-man's land and was fortunately not made to pay for it.
Frustrations seemed to linger and grow as the first half went on. Coutinho was upset when a foul was called on him against Hazard. The same could be said of Emre Can, who picked up a yellow card for a swipe at best and a trip at worst on the same player in the 44th minute. It seemed as though Liverpool needed the halftime whistle to go, hoping to only concede the one goal.
The Reds got a good chance right before the half from a free kick. James Milner put it toward the back post and while Begovic cleared it, Can took a drive that was blocked. It was much ado about nothing for Liverpool. In somewhat typical league fashion, they dominated possession (though stats said it was 52/48), pinged passes around as though they were playing against a Championship side and then got scored on.
Ten minutes in, Chelsea had another good shot that force Mignolet to ground. He spilled a rebound from the Hazard shot, but was quick to pounce on it.
Liverpool finally got on the front foot about 15 minutes into the half. Sturridge got a good right foot into a shot from close range, but put it right into Begovic. Moments later, Kolo Toure got a lame head onto a cross that was easily grabbed by the keeper.
The Reds seemed to need about 10 minutes for every flurry to come. They had another one in the 71st minute. This time Lallana stretched to get a foot on a Moreno cross, but Begovic was right there again. Nathaniel Clyne poked one back into the box, but too far for Sturridge to deflect.
Traore almost scored himself on Chelsea's counter. Mignolet came up strong down low for the third or fourth time in the game. It seemed as though the entire game would flow Liverpool's way with no success only to see Chelsea go the other way and create.
That almost came true in the 89th minute. Liverpool were again putting pressure on. Having just checked in, Sheyi Ojo almost scored immediately. Instead the ball would end up going the other way after a bit more Liverpool possession and another breakaway shot from Pedro stopped by Mignolet.
Nearly at the death, Liverpool finally got their just rewards. Ojo sent in a dangerous ball, that could have been a shot or cross. Regardless, Begovic was tested by it. He got a palm to it, but deflected it right to Benteke who just chested it into the net.
That goal would be the final score of the game. It was a proper end really since Liverpool had done the most throughout the game. Clearly fans of Chelsea won't see it that way as they wasted a few chances and were stopped by Mignolet each time. Given the flow of the game though, Liverpool deserved some sort of point and were lucky to get it.
Random Thoughts:
- Liverpool extended their 12 match unbeaten streak at home to 13. Perhaps deserve was too strong of a word, but Liverpool got the point which is good.
- It was just one of those contests that was a perfect example of Liverpool's league season. They have played well and not gotten rewarded at times and have gotten rewarded when it seemed they should not have.
- It was nice to see Benteke score the goal. He has been unfairly lumped in with Mario Balotelli in terms of being a failure at Anfield. While the results in terms of goals have been a bit similar, Benteke has had a much better attitude and if he can keep fit could still flourish under Jurgen Klopp.
- It would have been quite disappointing to drop a game to Chelsea even though the season is basically lost for both sides. Liverpool are trying to keep European hopes alive just in case they fail to win in Basel, but should have had a stronger performance in terms of finishing regardless.
- The announcers kept saying this game and the final one on Sunday mean very little in terms of Liverpool's hopes of winning the Europa title. I think that is true, but it still makes little sense for us supporters as to why the team can play so well and fight so hard in the tournament and come out a bit flat overall in the league.
Walk On
Chelsea had it's moments as well. Simon Mignolet was forced into a good save to his left in the 22nd minute, proving that even a wounded animal can still be dangerous. They seemed more than willing to absorb Liverpool's pressure and counter when given the chance.
Conversely, Liverpool's offense seemed poised to strike, but would flounder at the strangest of times. Adam Lallana flubbed a breakaway chance off his heel and instead of going wide to Sturridge, took a wasteful shot right into the defender about half an hour in.
It would prove to be rueful misses since Chelsea would be the first to score. Suddenly in form, Eden Hazard took on almost the entirety of the Liverpool defense and somehow won. He cut through about three or four defenders, slotted a shot to the right that pierced the defense and got past a diving Mignolet. 1-0 to the visitors, whose fans failed to live up to their claims of walking out in the 26th minute to honor John Terry.
The goal seemed to fluster the Reds. Both the fans and the players on the team seemed to grow anxious and unsure. That was exemplified in the 39th minute when Traore almost scored. Mignolet came out to claim a loose ball in the box and probably could have reached it if he kept going. Unsure of it though, he retreated and ended up in no-man's land and was fortunately not made to pay for it.
Frustrations seemed to linger and grow as the first half went on. Coutinho was upset when a foul was called on him against Hazard. The same could be said of Emre Can, who picked up a yellow card for a swipe at best and a trip at worst on the same player in the 44th minute. It seemed as though Liverpool needed the halftime whistle to go, hoping to only concede the one goal.
The Reds got a good chance right before the half from a free kick. James Milner put it toward the back post and while Begovic cleared it, Can took a drive that was blocked. It was much ado about nothing for Liverpool. In somewhat typical league fashion, they dominated possession (though stats said it was 52/48), pinged passes around as though they were playing against a Championship side and then got scored on.
Ten minutes in, Chelsea had another good shot that force Mignolet to ground. He spilled a rebound from the Hazard shot, but was quick to pounce on it.
Liverpool finally got on the front foot about 15 minutes into the half. Sturridge got a good right foot into a shot from close range, but put it right into Begovic. Moments later, Kolo Toure got a lame head onto a cross that was easily grabbed by the keeper.
The Reds seemed to need about 10 minutes for every flurry to come. They had another one in the 71st minute. This time Lallana stretched to get a foot on a Moreno cross, but Begovic was right there again. Nathaniel Clyne poked one back into the box, but too far for Sturridge to deflect.
Traore almost scored himself on Chelsea's counter. Mignolet came up strong down low for the third or fourth time in the game. It seemed as though the entire game would flow Liverpool's way with no success only to see Chelsea go the other way and create.
That almost came true in the 89th minute. Liverpool were again putting pressure on. Having just checked in, Sheyi Ojo almost scored immediately. Instead the ball would end up going the other way after a bit more Liverpool possession and another breakaway shot from Pedro stopped by Mignolet.
Nearly at the death, Liverpool finally got their just rewards. Ojo sent in a dangerous ball, that could have been a shot or cross. Regardless, Begovic was tested by it. He got a palm to it, but deflected it right to Benteke who just chested it into the net.
That goal would be the final score of the game. It was a proper end really since Liverpool had done the most throughout the game. Clearly fans of Chelsea won't see it that way as they wasted a few chances and were stopped by Mignolet each time. Given the flow of the game though, Liverpool deserved some sort of point and were lucky to get it.
Random Thoughts:
- Liverpool extended their 12 match unbeaten streak at home to 13. Perhaps deserve was too strong of a word, but Liverpool got the point which is good.
- It was just one of those contests that was a perfect example of Liverpool's league season. They have played well and not gotten rewarded at times and have gotten rewarded when it seemed they should not have.
- It was nice to see Benteke score the goal. He has been unfairly lumped in with Mario Balotelli in terms of being a failure at Anfield. While the results in terms of goals have been a bit similar, Benteke has had a much better attitude and if he can keep fit could still flourish under Jurgen Klopp.
- It would have been quite disappointing to drop a game to Chelsea even though the season is basically lost for both sides. Liverpool are trying to keep European hopes alive just in case they fail to win in Basel, but should have had a stronger performance in terms of finishing regardless.
- The announcers kept saying this game and the final one on Sunday mean very little in terms of Liverpool's hopes of winning the Europa title. I think that is true, but it still makes little sense for us supporters as to why the team can play so well and fight so hard in the tournament and come out a bit flat overall in the league.
Walk On
Sunday, May 8, 2016
Liverpool Cruise Against Watford; Gain More Experience For Youth
Coming off their thrilling win in the Europa League on Thursday, you couldn't have been shocked to see a completely different Liverpool squad. Somewhat surprisingly, there were more players still in the lineup than anticipated.
There were still a lot of changed. Simon Mignolet, Alberto Moreno and Coutinho were the only holdovers from the Villareal game. Lucas and Allen were also the regulars playing again, though they didn't start the previous fixture. The changes, as they have in several games in the past, seemed to put Liverpool in a position of having to feel out their own game instead of just attacking Watford.
Initially it almost cost them. A careless backpass was almost intercepted, Moreno had to make a tackle to save a breakaway and a failed clearance from a cross led to a chance wasted by Almen Abdi as he flubbed it off his shin.
Liverpool on the otherhand were a bit like the ocean. Calm most of the time, but attacking in waves. They would probe forward and spend a moment or two in the attacking third before their infamiliarity with eachother would cause an errant pass. Benteke's inclusion also changed the offensive objectives.
The big Belgian is a fine player, but often gets glued to one spot. Instead of cutting in and out of the channels, he almost exclusively wants the ball served to him in the center and in the air. It isn't a bad thing, but it certainly creates a different dynamic. Daniel Sturridge may not run 100mph for every single ball, but he comes out wide and goes wing to wing and tries to find the open spaces. Benteke seems to be more willing to hope he can make spaces after getting the ball.
Much the way the entire first half had gone, the first goal of the game was a little underwhelming visually. Nevertheless it was a strong finish by Joe Allen to give Liverpool the 1-0 lead with about 10 minutes remaining in the half. The long ball into the box following a free kick was neatly nodded down by Benteke into the pathh of Allen who slid to knock it just under the diving goalkeeper.
The second half opened with much of the same from Liverpool, pushing numbers forward. However, it was a lapse at the back that almost and probably should have ended in a Watford equalizer. The defenders got caught flat footed and Odion Ighalo was left alone at the top of the box. He went for precision instead of power and that allowed Mignolet to get a fingertip to it, just enough to parry it wide about 10 minutes into the half.
The way much of the second half went, it seemed as though the game would either end 1-0 or Watford might find an equalizer. Then second half substitute, Roberto Firmino took it upon himself to change that. Receiving a pass from Benteke, the Brazilian took the ball about 20 yards, pulled it back from a defender and cut a shot into the side netting in the 76th minute.
Once on top by two, the Reds seemed to find a bit more comfort. They made several quality attacks, mostly through Benteke and were unfortunate to not add another goal. Fans always want to see as many balls hit the back of the net as possible, but this was a decent game that offered quality time to up and coming players.
Sheyi Ojo and Kevin Stewart got good experience, Jon Flanagan got a start and never seemed to wear down, Connor Randall and Cameron Brannagan got a few minutes of time and for all his faults, Bentke seemed to gain a bit of confidence and better effort.
Beating Watford isn't going to set the world on fire, but you can only defeat the team that is on the pitch. Liverpool did that and it's a positive given some of their poor performances following European games as well. It also kept the main roster rested so they'll be available for selection against Chelsea coming up.
Random Thoughts
- As a goalkeeper, I'm not quite sure why they would have needed to rest Mignolet if Danny Ward had been healthy. Granted, I'm not in the shape that pros are, but I can't imagine not being able to play two or three games in a week. It's not like us keepers are sprinting for 90 minutes.
- As crazy as fans and players can get in the top leagues like the EPL, I'm glad the worst you usually see is a stamp. A player for Pittsburgh in the USL straight up kicked a player from Red Bulls 2 with his spikes in the spine on May 7. There is video of it online if you want to see it. Quite the disgusting display.
- Defenders, or good defenders I should say, don't grow on trees but it will be nice to get some fresh blood in next season. I like Lucas, but playing him as a center back gives me fits. Sadly though, he's been more consistent than Skrtel who may be gone in the transfer window.
Walk On
There were still a lot of changed. Simon Mignolet, Alberto Moreno and Coutinho were the only holdovers from the Villareal game. Lucas and Allen were also the regulars playing again, though they didn't start the previous fixture. The changes, as they have in several games in the past, seemed to put Liverpool in a position of having to feel out their own game instead of just attacking Watford.
Initially it almost cost them. A careless backpass was almost intercepted, Moreno had to make a tackle to save a breakaway and a failed clearance from a cross led to a chance wasted by Almen Abdi as he flubbed it off his shin.
Liverpool on the otherhand were a bit like the ocean. Calm most of the time, but attacking in waves. They would probe forward and spend a moment or two in the attacking third before their infamiliarity with eachother would cause an errant pass. Benteke's inclusion also changed the offensive objectives.
The big Belgian is a fine player, but often gets glued to one spot. Instead of cutting in and out of the channels, he almost exclusively wants the ball served to him in the center and in the air. It isn't a bad thing, but it certainly creates a different dynamic. Daniel Sturridge may not run 100mph for every single ball, but he comes out wide and goes wing to wing and tries to find the open spaces. Benteke seems to be more willing to hope he can make spaces after getting the ball.
Much the way the entire first half had gone, the first goal of the game was a little underwhelming visually. Nevertheless it was a strong finish by Joe Allen to give Liverpool the 1-0 lead with about 10 minutes remaining in the half. The long ball into the box following a free kick was neatly nodded down by Benteke into the pathh of Allen who slid to knock it just under the diving goalkeeper.
The second half opened with much of the same from Liverpool, pushing numbers forward. However, it was a lapse at the back that almost and probably should have ended in a Watford equalizer. The defenders got caught flat footed and Odion Ighalo was left alone at the top of the box. He went for precision instead of power and that allowed Mignolet to get a fingertip to it, just enough to parry it wide about 10 minutes into the half.
The way much of the second half went, it seemed as though the game would either end 1-0 or Watford might find an equalizer. Then second half substitute, Roberto Firmino took it upon himself to change that. Receiving a pass from Benteke, the Brazilian took the ball about 20 yards, pulled it back from a defender and cut a shot into the side netting in the 76th minute.
Once on top by two, the Reds seemed to find a bit more comfort. They made several quality attacks, mostly through Benteke and were unfortunate to not add another goal. Fans always want to see as many balls hit the back of the net as possible, but this was a decent game that offered quality time to up and coming players.
Sheyi Ojo and Kevin Stewart got good experience, Jon Flanagan got a start and never seemed to wear down, Connor Randall and Cameron Brannagan got a few minutes of time and for all his faults, Bentke seemed to gain a bit of confidence and better effort.
Beating Watford isn't going to set the world on fire, but you can only defeat the team that is on the pitch. Liverpool did that and it's a positive given some of their poor performances following European games as well. It also kept the main roster rested so they'll be available for selection against Chelsea coming up.
Random Thoughts
- As a goalkeeper, I'm not quite sure why they would have needed to rest Mignolet if Danny Ward had been healthy. Granted, I'm not in the shape that pros are, but I can't imagine not being able to play two or three games in a week. It's not like us keepers are sprinting for 90 minutes.
- As crazy as fans and players can get in the top leagues like the EPL, I'm glad the worst you usually see is a stamp. A player for Pittsburgh in the USL straight up kicked a player from Red Bulls 2 with his spikes in the spine on May 7. There is video of it online if you want to see it. Quite the disgusting display.
- Defenders, or good defenders I should say, don't grow on trees but it will be nice to get some fresh blood in next season. I like Lucas, but playing him as a center back gives me fits. Sadly though, he's been more consistent than Skrtel who may be gone in the transfer window.
Walk On
Sunday, May 1, 2016
Liverpool Youth Follow Poor Europa Performance With One Of Their Own
The week didn't begin very well for LIverpool. A lackluster performance in Spain ended in a late defeat at Villareal in the Europa League. Fans were thus quite eager to get to the weekend and hopefully remove the sour taste in their mouths with a fixture against Swansea.
It would not be that simple. For all the talk of respecting the league, Jurgen Klopp played a very young squad with only four regulars in the starting XI. It was an understandable change, but the reasoning given was a bit flimsy.
Regardless of all that, the game opened up a bit tight, but opened up quickly. Sigurdsson had the first strike for Swansea in the 12th minute that was right at Danny Ward. The reserve goalkeeper did have to get low and smother the ball, but was not tested in terms of range on that chance.
It wasn't too much longer before the chances ended up as a result. Andre Ayew had been creating several opportunities and was rewarded in the 21st minute. Liverpool failed to defend a corner kick very well and Ayew flew into the six yard area to hammer home the goal with his head. 1-0 to Swansea with Liverpool barely registering a blip on the game.
26th minute brought more of the same. Ward came up with a fantastic kick save on the initial shot then showed good reflexes to stand up and punch away the rebound chance. Swansea were rewarded with a free kick just outside the right of the box moments later and the kick was again almost scored on because of poor marking on set pieces.
Normally Liverpool find that moment to turn things around following a poor spell, but things went from bad to worse really. Jack Cork took the ball in the middle of the pitch and with almost the entirety of the Liverpool defense backing well into the penalty box, he curled one into the side netting on the right. Ward had no chance and Liverpool's backline were looking at each other quizzicly for the umpteenth time in the game and it was only the 33rd minute.
Sturridge came close to chipping the goalkeeper in the 35th minute, but it went wide. The Reds would not really create much after that, seemingly trying to see the game into the half with only a two goal deficit.
Plenty of change made prior to the half. Benteke came on for Coutinho, pushing the formation to a 4-4-2 and Lucas came in for Chirivella. After the changes, Liverpool seemed a bit more cohesive in terms of knocking the ball around, but the first five minutes still saw nothing toward goal.
Liverpool's attack began to build a little more each time, but once they passed the 60th minute there didn't seem to be the urgency needed to overcome a two goal deficit. The effort would have been fine for only needing one goal to equalize, but when there is only 30 minutes remaining and you're down two, there should be a massive push.
The push did finally come just past that 60th minute. In the 65th, on a corner kick, Benteke slipped away from his mark who was grasping the jersey and got the head onto it to put it into the goal.
The one goal deficit would not last long. Liverpool's defending was more than suspect again. They failed to defend a cross from the left of the box, Sheyi Ojo could not manage a clearance once it bumped into him and then three defenders could not converge quickly enough on Ayew before he slipped his second into the net.
Brad Smith picked up a second yellow, making Liverpool play with 10 men for the last 15 minutes. However, 3-1 would end up being the final, capping off an incredibly disappointing week that had so much promise at the start. Liverpool concede a late goal in Spain in the Europa League to fall late in the midweek game and allow too many early on the weekend to a team that was still part of the relegation conversation just weeks ago.
The Reds had better rebound quickly. A loss this Thursday (or even a draw) will mean 2015-16 was a lost season in every aspect. As good as Jurgen Klopp has proven to be for this team, it is possible they finish lower in the table than they ever did under Brendan Rodgers. Finishing well in the Europa League is all that seems to be left outside of individual game performances. Thursday becomes all the more important now.
Random Thoughts
- I like Klopp and I don't think he lies to the media. However, it does seem a bit against belief to say you aren't saving players for Europe when you play four regulars (3 if you don't count Sturridge who hadn't started in almost a month) and have seven players 23 or younger.
- It's a shame we couldn't see more from a 4-4-2 formation. It doesn't fit much of today's game, but I still like having two strikers. Unfortunately, Benteke hadn't played in weeks and Sturridge was in a bit of a pouty mood and they never really meshed. Add to that the midfield didn't give them much service and there wasn't much there to be seen.
- The crowd at Anfield is always great, but they'll need to be on top of their own game come Thursday. Regardless of who is on the field, Liverpool have entered one of those periods where their performances are just lacking all around. A top notch atmosphere against Villareal might boost their play.
Walk On
It would not be that simple. For all the talk of respecting the league, Jurgen Klopp played a very young squad with only four regulars in the starting XI. It was an understandable change, but the reasoning given was a bit flimsy.
Regardless of all that, the game opened up a bit tight, but opened up quickly. Sigurdsson had the first strike for Swansea in the 12th minute that was right at Danny Ward. The reserve goalkeeper did have to get low and smother the ball, but was not tested in terms of range on that chance.
It wasn't too much longer before the chances ended up as a result. Andre Ayew had been creating several opportunities and was rewarded in the 21st minute. Liverpool failed to defend a corner kick very well and Ayew flew into the six yard area to hammer home the goal with his head. 1-0 to Swansea with Liverpool barely registering a blip on the game.
26th minute brought more of the same. Ward came up with a fantastic kick save on the initial shot then showed good reflexes to stand up and punch away the rebound chance. Swansea were rewarded with a free kick just outside the right of the box moments later and the kick was again almost scored on because of poor marking on set pieces.
Normally Liverpool find that moment to turn things around following a poor spell, but things went from bad to worse really. Jack Cork took the ball in the middle of the pitch and with almost the entirety of the Liverpool defense backing well into the penalty box, he curled one into the side netting on the right. Ward had no chance and Liverpool's backline were looking at each other quizzicly for the umpteenth time in the game and it was only the 33rd minute.
Sturridge came close to chipping the goalkeeper in the 35th minute, but it went wide. The Reds would not really create much after that, seemingly trying to see the game into the half with only a two goal deficit.
Plenty of change made prior to the half. Benteke came on for Coutinho, pushing the formation to a 4-4-2 and Lucas came in for Chirivella. After the changes, Liverpool seemed a bit more cohesive in terms of knocking the ball around, but the first five minutes still saw nothing toward goal.
Liverpool's attack began to build a little more each time, but once they passed the 60th minute there didn't seem to be the urgency needed to overcome a two goal deficit. The effort would have been fine for only needing one goal to equalize, but when there is only 30 minutes remaining and you're down two, there should be a massive push.
The push did finally come just past that 60th minute. In the 65th, on a corner kick, Benteke slipped away from his mark who was grasping the jersey and got the head onto it to put it into the goal.
The one goal deficit would not last long. Liverpool's defending was more than suspect again. They failed to defend a cross from the left of the box, Sheyi Ojo could not manage a clearance once it bumped into him and then three defenders could not converge quickly enough on Ayew before he slipped his second into the net.
Brad Smith picked up a second yellow, making Liverpool play with 10 men for the last 15 minutes. However, 3-1 would end up being the final, capping off an incredibly disappointing week that had so much promise at the start. Liverpool concede a late goal in Spain in the Europa League to fall late in the midweek game and allow too many early on the weekend to a team that was still part of the relegation conversation just weeks ago.
The Reds had better rebound quickly. A loss this Thursday (or even a draw) will mean 2015-16 was a lost season in every aspect. As good as Jurgen Klopp has proven to be for this team, it is possible they finish lower in the table than they ever did under Brendan Rodgers. Finishing well in the Europa League is all that seems to be left outside of individual game performances. Thursday becomes all the more important now.
Random Thoughts
- I like Klopp and I don't think he lies to the media. However, it does seem a bit against belief to say you aren't saving players for Europe when you play four regulars (3 if you don't count Sturridge who hadn't started in almost a month) and have seven players 23 or younger.
- It's a shame we couldn't see more from a 4-4-2 formation. It doesn't fit much of today's game, but I still like having two strikers. Unfortunately, Benteke hadn't played in weeks and Sturridge was in a bit of a pouty mood and they never really meshed. Add to that the midfield didn't give them much service and there wasn't much there to be seen.
- The crowd at Anfield is always great, but they'll need to be on top of their own game come Thursday. Regardless of who is on the field, Liverpool have entered one of those periods where their performances are just lacking all around. A top notch atmosphere against Villareal might boost their play.
Walk On
Sunday, March 20, 2016
Liverpool Unbelievably Lose to Southampton
Liverpool came into their league match against Southampton with plenty of momentum. Perhaps it is true that none of it had come from league matches, but one would have thought the team was flying high by advancing in the Europa League over their old rivals, Manchester United. The team did come out flying but their wings ended up clipped in the end.
Liverpool was not doing anything with their own possession for the first quarter hour. Southampton was creating a bit more in the way of problems. Though he defended well overall, there was a question of whether or not Dejan Lovren gave up a penalty early in the contest. Ultimately no pen was given and play resumed.
Then in the 13th minute, Lovren was called upon to get a block in on a tight quarters chance for the men in stripes.
The Reds did not cover themselves in glory with their early chances. Divock Origi hit Daniel Sturridge with a shot that might have had a good chance at scoring in the 16th minute, but only moments later Coutinho would not be denied.
Fed the ball near the left sideline, Coutinho took on one defender and then cut the ball back toward the center of the pitch. Still a good 25 or more yards from goal, he whipped his right foot around it and banged one off the post and into the net.
No doubt there will be those that claim the keeper should have stopped it. However, on viewing the replay not only was it a superb placement of the shot, but the defenders in front kind of waved their foot at the ball, which would throw off any goalkeeper.
The offensive floodgates opened a little bit due to Southampton having to push. Origi created again by taking on defenders with speed and then instead of shooting he left it off in the box for Sturridge. Sturridge, clearly cognizant of his terrible right footed miss in the midweek game, wanted to keep it on his left. He did a quick little dance move that might land him a spot on Dancing with the Stars and when the defender moved just enough he sliced his left foot through the ball and into the far netting.
Liverpool should have taken a 3-0 lead in the 26th minute, but Joe Allen could not finish it off. Give credit to the goalkeeper who made a good reaction save with the kick, but Allen was forced too close to the keeper with the pass, which allowed the keeper to cut off the angle.
Allen thought he got his just desserts in the 33rd minute. The Welshman somewhat scuffed the ball on the shot following the corner but it found it's way through all the bodies and into the net. Unfortunately, the linesman raised his flag late and deemed Sakho to have been offside and in a spot that interfered with the goalkeeper.
Everything seemed to be going the Reds' way. They had won the possession battle at the half, shots, shots on target and even corners. It was all about to come crashing down though.
In the 49th minute, halftime sub, Martin Skrtel was called for holding onto the attacker's arm and a penalty was given. Simon Mignolet saved the shot, but the reprieve was short lived. In the 64th minute, Southampton made Liverpool pay for a careless turnover in midfield. The Saints charged up field, slid a pass through to Mane who ripped it past Mignolet.
Southampton knotted the game up with a cracking strike from Graziano Pelle in the 83rd minute. The Saints again capitalized on the suddenly shaky Liverpool defending who failed to clear the initial ball in.
Then the defense just fell apart. They almost gave the ball away with a weak pass from Can, gave a poor pass back to Mignolet who flubbed the clearance and then Skrtel whiffed on the head ball. Southampton then finished off the comeback with an 86th minute goal by Mane.
It was an embarassing defeat both due to the defending and the lack of finishing that the Reds were made to rue. So many chances were wasted, but it seemed insignificant given the 2-0 lead.
Origi shot too close to the goalkeeper, going near post in the 51st resulting in an easy save. In the 59th minute, Adam Lallana's pass to Emre Can was just deflected enough to get it away from Can's foot for the finish. Then the maligned Christian Benteke sliced one across the face of goal but wide in the 73rd.
Combine those with all the misses in the first half as well and you get the result that happened. Questions will rise from the substitutions, especially putting Skrtel on if there was no injury to Lovren but it falls to the players. They could have easily won four or five to nothing and instead allowed their opponent to take all the points.
For whatever reason, Liverpool cannot seem to concentrate and see things out in the league. Now they face the potential embarrassment of being passed up by Chelsea, who are only three points back of the Reds despite their own woeful start to the season.
Now Liverpool must face Tottenham, a team with title aspirations, at Anfield on April 2. Thank goodness it's not on the 1st because Liverpool have played like an April Fool's joke enough as it is.
Random Thoughts:
- Skrtel was just awful. Given the circumstances of being up 2-0 I suppose I get the idea behind the change. Skrtel had been out injured so give him 45 minutes with not much pressure. It completely backfired though. The centerback was either to blame entirely or at least played a part in two of the goals given up and almost conceded a penalty goal as well. If this is the way he is going to play - he has made a habit of clutching and grabbing and getting away with it - then personally I'm more than happy to ship him off and take my chances with Lovren.
- Thank goodness I'm not the one getting paid to figure this team out because I can't. I know Southampton are having a decent season, but how in the world Liverpool can take down teams like United and City and play well against Arsenal etc and then butcher a game they had in hand is just unbelievable.
- My old buddy Adam Lallana disappeared again. Yes, he had a few good passes in the attacking end but he's just an enigma to me. If he has the talent to dominate matches like he did a few weeks ago, it boggles the mind that he can be a non-factor so much of the time.
Walk On
Liverpool was not doing anything with their own possession for the first quarter hour. Southampton was creating a bit more in the way of problems. Though he defended well overall, there was a question of whether or not Dejan Lovren gave up a penalty early in the contest. Ultimately no pen was given and play resumed.
Then in the 13th minute, Lovren was called upon to get a block in on a tight quarters chance for the men in stripes.
The Reds did not cover themselves in glory with their early chances. Divock Origi hit Daniel Sturridge with a shot that might have had a good chance at scoring in the 16th minute, but only moments later Coutinho would not be denied.
Fed the ball near the left sideline, Coutinho took on one defender and then cut the ball back toward the center of the pitch. Still a good 25 or more yards from goal, he whipped his right foot around it and banged one off the post and into the net.
No doubt there will be those that claim the keeper should have stopped it. However, on viewing the replay not only was it a superb placement of the shot, but the defenders in front kind of waved their foot at the ball, which would throw off any goalkeeper.
The offensive floodgates opened a little bit due to Southampton having to push. Origi created again by taking on defenders with speed and then instead of shooting he left it off in the box for Sturridge. Sturridge, clearly cognizant of his terrible right footed miss in the midweek game, wanted to keep it on his left. He did a quick little dance move that might land him a spot on Dancing with the Stars and when the defender moved just enough he sliced his left foot through the ball and into the far netting.
Liverpool should have taken a 3-0 lead in the 26th minute, but Joe Allen could not finish it off. Give credit to the goalkeeper who made a good reaction save with the kick, but Allen was forced too close to the keeper with the pass, which allowed the keeper to cut off the angle.
Allen thought he got his just desserts in the 33rd minute. The Welshman somewhat scuffed the ball on the shot following the corner but it found it's way through all the bodies and into the net. Unfortunately, the linesman raised his flag late and deemed Sakho to have been offside and in a spot that interfered with the goalkeeper.
Everything seemed to be going the Reds' way. They had won the possession battle at the half, shots, shots on target and even corners. It was all about to come crashing down though.
In the 49th minute, halftime sub, Martin Skrtel was called for holding onto the attacker's arm and a penalty was given. Simon Mignolet saved the shot, but the reprieve was short lived. In the 64th minute, Southampton made Liverpool pay for a careless turnover in midfield. The Saints charged up field, slid a pass through to Mane who ripped it past Mignolet.
Southampton knotted the game up with a cracking strike from Graziano Pelle in the 83rd minute. The Saints again capitalized on the suddenly shaky Liverpool defending who failed to clear the initial ball in.
Then the defense just fell apart. They almost gave the ball away with a weak pass from Can, gave a poor pass back to Mignolet who flubbed the clearance and then Skrtel whiffed on the head ball. Southampton then finished off the comeback with an 86th minute goal by Mane.
It was an embarassing defeat both due to the defending and the lack of finishing that the Reds were made to rue. So many chances were wasted, but it seemed insignificant given the 2-0 lead.
Origi shot too close to the goalkeeper, going near post in the 51st resulting in an easy save. In the 59th minute, Adam Lallana's pass to Emre Can was just deflected enough to get it away from Can's foot for the finish. Then the maligned Christian Benteke sliced one across the face of goal but wide in the 73rd.
Combine those with all the misses in the first half as well and you get the result that happened. Questions will rise from the substitutions, especially putting Skrtel on if there was no injury to Lovren but it falls to the players. They could have easily won four or five to nothing and instead allowed their opponent to take all the points.
For whatever reason, Liverpool cannot seem to concentrate and see things out in the league. Now they face the potential embarrassment of being passed up by Chelsea, who are only three points back of the Reds despite their own woeful start to the season.
Now Liverpool must face Tottenham, a team with title aspirations, at Anfield on April 2. Thank goodness it's not on the 1st because Liverpool have played like an April Fool's joke enough as it is.
Random Thoughts:
- Skrtel was just awful. Given the circumstances of being up 2-0 I suppose I get the idea behind the change. Skrtel had been out injured so give him 45 minutes with not much pressure. It completely backfired though. The centerback was either to blame entirely or at least played a part in two of the goals given up and almost conceded a penalty goal as well. If this is the way he is going to play - he has made a habit of clutching and grabbing and getting away with it - then personally I'm more than happy to ship him off and take my chances with Lovren.
- Thank goodness I'm not the one getting paid to figure this team out because I can't. I know Southampton are having a decent season, but how in the world Liverpool can take down teams like United and City and play well against Arsenal etc and then butcher a game they had in hand is just unbelievable.
- My old buddy Adam Lallana disappeared again. Yes, he had a few good passes in the attacking end but he's just an enigma to me. If he has the talent to dominate matches like he did a few weeks ago, it boggles the mind that he can be a non-factor so much of the time.
Walk On
Tuesday, February 9, 2016
Liverpool Lose In FA Clash, But Perhaps That's Best
Liverpool were facing their personal kryptonite in West Ham United in an FA Cup replay. Liverpool had failed to score in 2015-16 against the Hammers and it was another slow start for Liverpool. The Reds almost conceded a goal when Lucas deflected a shot that almost snuck in near post, but rang off the bar instead. After that string of play that favored the Hammers, Liverpool actually took the momentum for themselves.
Liverpool wasted a chance in the 25th minute when Coutinho's cross slipped under Benteke's foot and Ibe was not ready for it. However, despite that miss, the maligned Belgian striker actually had a good half and deserved more than he received.
Later on, Coutinho evened up the shots off the post in the 34th minute. Benteke had nifty footwork along the endline and slipped it to the top of the six yard area where the Brazilian slapped it off the woodwork. The big Belgian almost put one in himself moments later when he connected with a header off the corner, but the West Ham keeper, Randolph, got a foot to it. It may have been cleared away by the defender at the post as well, but it was a great chance.
The pendulum of momentum began to swing back the other direction toward the end of the half. West Ham almost took the lead on a fantastic free kick from Dimitri Payet in the 38th minute that knicked the goalkeeper's fingers and blasted off the post before Simon Mignolet parried away the rebound. The scorelessness would not last forever though.
Liverpool had defended reasonably well, as a squad, but fell asleep in the 45th minute. The entire back four had settled way too deep in the box, allowing a cross deep into the area. Michail Antonio was on the back side to volley it home, giving Mignolet absolutely no chance to stop it and forcing Liverpool to score just to keep any hope alive. It was a crushing blow against a team that Liverpool had really put on the back foot for most of the half only to see one in the back of their own net. Luckily for the Reds it was only for that one half.
Liverpool came out with good energy from the locker room and were rewarded. The Reds finally smashed the goose egg when Coutinho leveled the game with a sneaky free kick in the 48th minute. Benteke set up the kick drawing the foul just outside the box and Coutinho struck it along the ground just under the jumping wall. It was a good sight for the Liverpool faithful to see Coutinho score in his first inclusion since his injury and to see Benteke show more of why the club brought him in in the first place.
Benteke was still determined to get his own. He was fortunate to not have a handball called in the 56th minute, but he almost smashed one in just moments later after a good bit of skill on the left side of the box by Brad Smith. Unfortunately there were too many defenders around.
More good sights for Liverpool fans as Daniel Sturridge and Divock Origi came in in 59th minute. However, despite their inclusion and the potential offensive spark it could provide, Liverpool were extremely fortunate to not concede a penalty in the 67th minute. Thiago Illori tugged on the attacker's arm in the box, which was clearly evident on replay but fortunately not caught by the official or the linesman.
In terms of good sights, it was good to see West Ham take off Cheikhou Kouyate after his head injury. There may have been plans to bring on Andy Carroll anyway, but there is just no sense in keeping a player on who was clearly knocked out and seemed to be struggling afterward. Injuries piled up for both sides as Kevin Stewart took cleats to the ankle a bit later, but he was able to stay in the game.
The momentum swung back and forth wildly as the end of regulation was in sight. Benteke almost slid one in on the free kick in the 79th minute, but Randolph made a good stop after seeing it late coming over the wall. Valencia butchered a header in the 84th minute that should have buried Liverpool since the West Ham attacker was basically wide open on the far side and took a good cross. Liverpool with a great chance to end it in stoppage time. The ball fell to Ibe and he struck it with a strong left foot only to see Randolph push it away, but not quite far enough for Sturridge to get onto the rebound.
Alas, the game would not end in the allotted 90 minutes. This definitely put extra pressure on Sturridge and Origi who were coming in for the first time following their injuries and were going to have to play at least an hour's worth of football. Benteke blasted one wide from basically the middle of the box in the 99th minute and then shot a breakaway right into the keeper moments later. Unfortunately those wasted chances, in addition to several wasted by Sturridge and others in extra time, cost Liverpool.
West Ham waited until the death, but made the most of a foul given against Lucas. Set pieces have been the arch enemy of Liverpool all season long and were again. A good service toward the back post was met with a towering header by Ogbanna, who sliced it back across goal giving no one a chance to do anything about it. Liverpool deserved better due to their overall play, but West Ham were also the deserving winners given their play as well.
In the end, Liverpool won't fret too much since the team played reasonably well and very well in spurts. They lost the match, but have taken fixtures off the schedule and now allow themselves to focus more on the Capital One Cup final at Wembley and the Europa League. It's never pleasant to lose a game, especially in excruciating fashion, but Liverpool needed to have their focus sharpened. Being active in all competitions just wasn't going to allow that to happen, so the loss isn't quite so terrible. From here on out though, it's up to the players to take their individual performances and keep them progressing.
Random Thoughts:
- While the worrisome nature of Daniel Sturridge will never go away, just seeing his abilities on display makes you ponder the possibilities in the future. Since Liverpool seem to want to play an attacking three, just his inclusion gives you so many more options. You could have a top two with Beneteke and Coutinho tucked in behind. You can go with Benteke or Firmino up top and Coutino and Sturridge on the sides. Sturridge could be the main striker with Firmino and Coutinho out wide. It's amazing to think that one man can make you rethink the entire attacking possibilities for this team, however he has to stay on the field and that's been something he hasn't shown an ability to do. Therefore it's impossible to get too excited yet.
- Health is the key all around. I've mentioned that this team needs a complete overhaul, but there's still talent there. Smith and Jon Flanagan give you more options at the wingback position with Nathaniel Clyne a decent talent as well. I already mentioned the attacking possibilities as well. But all of these players have to keep themselves healthy. Whether that falls on the training staff, the coaches or the players themselves is an unknown but they just need to keep this team on the pitch.
- We all knew it would be impossible for Jurgen Klopp to stay calm the entire game. Nevertheless it was good to see him back on the sidelines after an emergency surgery kept him out of the weekend game.
Walk On
Liverpool wasted a chance in the 25th minute when Coutinho's cross slipped under Benteke's foot and Ibe was not ready for it. However, despite that miss, the maligned Belgian striker actually had a good half and deserved more than he received.
Later on, Coutinho evened up the shots off the post in the 34th minute. Benteke had nifty footwork along the endline and slipped it to the top of the six yard area where the Brazilian slapped it off the woodwork. The big Belgian almost put one in himself moments later when he connected with a header off the corner, but the West Ham keeper, Randolph, got a foot to it. It may have been cleared away by the defender at the post as well, but it was a great chance.
The pendulum of momentum began to swing back the other direction toward the end of the half. West Ham almost took the lead on a fantastic free kick from Dimitri Payet in the 38th minute that knicked the goalkeeper's fingers and blasted off the post before Simon Mignolet parried away the rebound. The scorelessness would not last forever though.
Liverpool had defended reasonably well, as a squad, but fell asleep in the 45th minute. The entire back four had settled way too deep in the box, allowing a cross deep into the area. Michail Antonio was on the back side to volley it home, giving Mignolet absolutely no chance to stop it and forcing Liverpool to score just to keep any hope alive. It was a crushing blow against a team that Liverpool had really put on the back foot for most of the half only to see one in the back of their own net. Luckily for the Reds it was only for that one half.
Liverpool came out with good energy from the locker room and were rewarded. The Reds finally smashed the goose egg when Coutinho leveled the game with a sneaky free kick in the 48th minute. Benteke set up the kick drawing the foul just outside the box and Coutinho struck it along the ground just under the jumping wall. It was a good sight for the Liverpool faithful to see Coutinho score in his first inclusion since his injury and to see Benteke show more of why the club brought him in in the first place.
Benteke was still determined to get his own. He was fortunate to not have a handball called in the 56th minute, but he almost smashed one in just moments later after a good bit of skill on the left side of the box by Brad Smith. Unfortunately there were too many defenders around.
More good sights for Liverpool fans as Daniel Sturridge and Divock Origi came in in 59th minute. However, despite their inclusion and the potential offensive spark it could provide, Liverpool were extremely fortunate to not concede a penalty in the 67th minute. Thiago Illori tugged on the attacker's arm in the box, which was clearly evident on replay but fortunately not caught by the official or the linesman.
In terms of good sights, it was good to see West Ham take off Cheikhou Kouyate after his head injury. There may have been plans to bring on Andy Carroll anyway, but there is just no sense in keeping a player on who was clearly knocked out and seemed to be struggling afterward. Injuries piled up for both sides as Kevin Stewart took cleats to the ankle a bit later, but he was able to stay in the game.
The momentum swung back and forth wildly as the end of regulation was in sight. Benteke almost slid one in on the free kick in the 79th minute, but Randolph made a good stop after seeing it late coming over the wall. Valencia butchered a header in the 84th minute that should have buried Liverpool since the West Ham attacker was basically wide open on the far side and took a good cross. Liverpool with a great chance to end it in stoppage time. The ball fell to Ibe and he struck it with a strong left foot only to see Randolph push it away, but not quite far enough for Sturridge to get onto the rebound.
Alas, the game would not end in the allotted 90 minutes. This definitely put extra pressure on Sturridge and Origi who were coming in for the first time following their injuries and were going to have to play at least an hour's worth of football. Benteke blasted one wide from basically the middle of the box in the 99th minute and then shot a breakaway right into the keeper moments later. Unfortunately those wasted chances, in addition to several wasted by Sturridge and others in extra time, cost Liverpool.
West Ham waited until the death, but made the most of a foul given against Lucas. Set pieces have been the arch enemy of Liverpool all season long and were again. A good service toward the back post was met with a towering header by Ogbanna, who sliced it back across goal giving no one a chance to do anything about it. Liverpool deserved better due to their overall play, but West Ham were also the deserving winners given their play as well.
In the end, Liverpool won't fret too much since the team played reasonably well and very well in spurts. They lost the match, but have taken fixtures off the schedule and now allow themselves to focus more on the Capital One Cup final at Wembley and the Europa League. It's never pleasant to lose a game, especially in excruciating fashion, but Liverpool needed to have their focus sharpened. Being active in all competitions just wasn't going to allow that to happen, so the loss isn't quite so terrible. From here on out though, it's up to the players to take their individual performances and keep them progressing.
Random Thoughts:
- While the worrisome nature of Daniel Sturridge will never go away, just seeing his abilities on display makes you ponder the possibilities in the future. Since Liverpool seem to want to play an attacking three, just his inclusion gives you so many more options. You could have a top two with Beneteke and Coutinho tucked in behind. You can go with Benteke or Firmino up top and Coutino and Sturridge on the sides. Sturridge could be the main striker with Firmino and Coutinho out wide. It's amazing to think that one man can make you rethink the entire attacking possibilities for this team, however he has to stay on the field and that's been something he hasn't shown an ability to do. Therefore it's impossible to get too excited yet.
- Health is the key all around. I've mentioned that this team needs a complete overhaul, but there's still talent there. Smith and Jon Flanagan give you more options at the wingback position with Nathaniel Clyne a decent talent as well. I already mentioned the attacking possibilities as well. But all of these players have to keep themselves healthy. Whether that falls on the training staff, the coaches or the players themselves is an unknown but they just need to keep this team on the pitch.
- We all knew it would be impossible for Jurgen Klopp to stay calm the entire game. Nevertheless it was good to see him back on the sidelines after an emergency surgery kept him out of the weekend game.
Walk On
Saturday, January 23, 2016
Liverpool Win the Game As Defenders Bury Their Heads In the Sand
For whatever reason, games against Norwich City take on much more fear than they should. Liverpool had not been beaten by the Canaries in 22 years, but these games always seem to produce a bit of doubt. Will the Reds produce or will they be overconfident? Those questions came right to the forefront at the start of this away match.
Liverpool failed to come out with any energy or intensity and produced a very dull affair. Norwich actually dominated the proceedings in the first five minutes or so before the Reds finally started taking more possession. Liverpool eventually scored the first goal of the game, but it really came against the run of play. Roberto Firmino managed to slip past the defense as he was played onside by a near-side defender when Firmino was on the far side. The Brazilian chunked the shot, in reality, but it clipped off the goalkeeper's foot, then off the post and in. It was the kind of fortune that would be in rare supply on this day.
The game settled into another lull before the dread began to creep in. Norwich, regardless of possession or flow, just seemed to be more on the front foot. When that has happened in much of this season, nothing good usually follows for Liverpool and nothing did. Liverpool again succumbed to their failures on corner kicks for the equalizing goal. None could clear the ball far enough and it fell to Mbokani, who backheeled it in. Then, rubbing salt in the wound, the former Evertonian, Steven Naismith smashed one in after sneaking in past the slumbering Liverpool defenders in the 41st minute.
One would have hoped that the halftime talk might have livened things up, but it only got worse in the second half. Norwich still pushed forward with vigor and found themselves up by two goals not long into the second 45. Alberto Moreno inexplicably went for another challenge on the endline after miraculously getting away with the first and was called for the penalty. Hoolahan's shot was just slotted over Simon Mignolet, who had guessed correctly, and made the score 3-1. The game seemed almost hopelessly out of reach, but Liverpool - as is their want - like to always show some glimmer.
Not even a full two minutes afterward, Jordan Henderson found a bit of space in the now napping Canary backline and slotted home a right footer. Unfortunately for Liverpool, it drew them within one instead of drawing the game. Fortunately for them, it would not be their last score. Showing a rare bit of teamwide form, Liverpool scored after several successive good touches. Firmino actually started off the play with a one touch flick toward the near sideline. Milner kept the movement going and then the oft maligned Adam Lallana managed to chase down the ball and smartly play it into space in the box. Firmino was in that space and he coolly nudged it over the keeper to knot the game at three.
Then, as inexplicably as they lost the lead, Liverpool regained it. Some strange Jedi mindtrick must have come into play because Russel Martin tried a backpass that was unnecessary even if James Milner was not in the path. In fact, Milner was and he made Norwich pay when he nudged it just to the right to throw the keeper off and then rolled it in. 4-3 was the score after that play with still at least 15 minutes to go. Those 15 minutes would not end quietly.
Bassong tied up the game in the 92nd minute after Liverpool just stood around again. Red jerseys seemed rooted to the ground as they just flailed about while the defender put one home. Then, only moments later, Lallana scored to put Liverpool back on top just before the final whistle. In the end, it was an absolutely terrible match that will be celebrated because three points were taken by Liverpool. So much was wrong with everything that happened defensively and in midfield and the attack really did not look like something that could put together 5 goals. Nevertheless a win goes in the back pocket and perhaps Liverpool can build off it with the knowledge that they probably did not deserve the result.
Random Thoughts:
- Perhaps I should hate on more players. While in reality, fans should know they have absolutely no affect on the field, it seems like the more I dislike a player or the more I am ready for players to be sold the better they perform. Joe Allen has been a goal scoring machine and Adam Lallana was actually productive. In the spirit of this, I have soured greatly on Benteke so I fully expect a hat-trick in his next start.
- Springboarding off the last idea, it is time to totally redo this team. It's almost impossible to have a completely different XI by next summer, but there just isn't enough quality as a squad for Liverpool. Lots of us like players as individuals, but there is no longer any one player that you can say must be kept or there is no way you could find a replacement. Klopp needs to have free reign in bringing in his players and sell off everyone else.
- Can we please get more former goalkeepers as color commentators? As a broadcaster and goalkeeper, I'm constantly sickened by the constant phrase of "he's got to to better with that" or be stronger or the worst: He's got to cover that near post. If you haven't played keeper, you don't have the first clue what goes into the spot. That's not to downplay anyone's feelings on an individual play, but I'd just like these people to be put into those actual situations and see how, in their infinite wisdom, they would have done differently.
Walk On
Liverpool failed to come out with any energy or intensity and produced a very dull affair. Norwich actually dominated the proceedings in the first five minutes or so before the Reds finally started taking more possession. Liverpool eventually scored the first goal of the game, but it really came against the run of play. Roberto Firmino managed to slip past the defense as he was played onside by a near-side defender when Firmino was on the far side. The Brazilian chunked the shot, in reality, but it clipped off the goalkeeper's foot, then off the post and in. It was the kind of fortune that would be in rare supply on this day.
The game settled into another lull before the dread began to creep in. Norwich, regardless of possession or flow, just seemed to be more on the front foot. When that has happened in much of this season, nothing good usually follows for Liverpool and nothing did. Liverpool again succumbed to their failures on corner kicks for the equalizing goal. None could clear the ball far enough and it fell to Mbokani, who backheeled it in. Then, rubbing salt in the wound, the former Evertonian, Steven Naismith smashed one in after sneaking in past the slumbering Liverpool defenders in the 41st minute.
One would have hoped that the halftime talk might have livened things up, but it only got worse in the second half. Norwich still pushed forward with vigor and found themselves up by two goals not long into the second 45. Alberto Moreno inexplicably went for another challenge on the endline after miraculously getting away with the first and was called for the penalty. Hoolahan's shot was just slotted over Simon Mignolet, who had guessed correctly, and made the score 3-1. The game seemed almost hopelessly out of reach, but Liverpool - as is their want - like to always show some glimmer.
Not even a full two minutes afterward, Jordan Henderson found a bit of space in the now napping Canary backline and slotted home a right footer. Unfortunately for Liverpool, it drew them within one instead of drawing the game. Fortunately for them, it would not be their last score. Showing a rare bit of teamwide form, Liverpool scored after several successive good touches. Firmino actually started off the play with a one touch flick toward the near sideline. Milner kept the movement going and then the oft maligned Adam Lallana managed to chase down the ball and smartly play it into space in the box. Firmino was in that space and he coolly nudged it over the keeper to knot the game at three.
Then, as inexplicably as they lost the lead, Liverpool regained it. Some strange Jedi mindtrick must have come into play because Russel Martin tried a backpass that was unnecessary even if James Milner was not in the path. In fact, Milner was and he made Norwich pay when he nudged it just to the right to throw the keeper off and then rolled it in. 4-3 was the score after that play with still at least 15 minutes to go. Those 15 minutes would not end quietly.
Bassong tied up the game in the 92nd minute after Liverpool just stood around again. Red jerseys seemed rooted to the ground as they just flailed about while the defender put one home. Then, only moments later, Lallana scored to put Liverpool back on top just before the final whistle. In the end, it was an absolutely terrible match that will be celebrated because three points were taken by Liverpool. So much was wrong with everything that happened defensively and in midfield and the attack really did not look like something that could put together 5 goals. Nevertheless a win goes in the back pocket and perhaps Liverpool can build off it with the knowledge that they probably did not deserve the result.
Random Thoughts:
- Perhaps I should hate on more players. While in reality, fans should know they have absolutely no affect on the field, it seems like the more I dislike a player or the more I am ready for players to be sold the better they perform. Joe Allen has been a goal scoring machine and Adam Lallana was actually productive. In the spirit of this, I have soured greatly on Benteke so I fully expect a hat-trick in his next start.
- Springboarding off the last idea, it is time to totally redo this team. It's almost impossible to have a completely different XI by next summer, but there just isn't enough quality as a squad for Liverpool. Lots of us like players as individuals, but there is no longer any one player that you can say must be kept or there is no way you could find a replacement. Klopp needs to have free reign in bringing in his players and sell off everyone else.
- Can we please get more former goalkeepers as color commentators? As a broadcaster and goalkeeper, I'm constantly sickened by the constant phrase of "he's got to to better with that" or be stronger or the worst: He's got to cover that near post. If you haven't played keeper, you don't have the first clue what goes into the spot. That's not to downplay anyone's feelings on an individual play, but I'd just like these people to be put into those actual situations and see how, in their infinite wisdom, they would have done differently.
Walk On
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Liverpool Youngsters Prove Prognosticators Wrong
Nobody likes a replay. The players have to play a game that wasn't originally scheduled. Fans don't care for them because it's more money out of their pocket to buy tickets against teams they likely didn't want to see. It's possible that the networks don't even care for them because they have to scramble to sell advertising space that wasn't planned for as well. Nevertheless, a replay against Exeter at Anfield could not be avoided. It was a very bland start to the game for both clubs despite Liverpool enjoying much of the possession.
The Reds wouldn't take too long to net the first goal though. Brad Smith set up the eventual first goal quite nicely. Smith started the play by really stretching the opponent by taking up space in the wide areas. Then, he worked a nice one two with Christian Benteke and slotted it perfectly to a wide open Joe Allen in the 10th minute. It looked like LFC were ready to burst the game open, but that would not happen in the first half.
On the bright side, Benteke looked fairly good in the opening 25 minutes, but could not finish despite several header opportunities. What was positive about him, beyond the finishing, was his movement. He looked interested in the game instead of trying to blame his faults on his young teammates, which has become a bit of a habit of late. It was also nice to see Jodan Ibe try a couple shots from distance in the 39th minute instead of his usual Raheem Sterling-esque style of dribbling until space evaporates. The second opportunity from in the box might have been laid back for a cross but the idea wasn't terrible.
A repeat of Manchester United outcome was definitely in fans' minds given the amound of chances wasted, especially Benteke's shot right into the defender's feet in the 45th. Still, it was a decent first half of play for the Liverpool youngsters.
The second half was an interesting mix. Liverpool saw Jon Flanagan return in the 51st minute, though he wasn't called on to really do much. Then Ibe thought he had scored in the 54th minute on a blistering shot that rang off the crossbar and fell to the turf behind the line. However, with goal line technology it was all conjecture for fans and was rightly not given. Also, Liverpool as a club, regardless of age, continued their run of finishing or lack thereof as well.
Joao Teixeira took too long and was blocked in the 72nd minute and then the ensuing chances were a bit comical and ended with a slow roller off the foot of Sheyi Ojo that resulted in a training ground save. Ojo made up for the poor shoot with a fantastic one just minutes later. Just two touches into the box from the right side, Ojo put it on his left foot and just scooped it into the side netting. The Reds then put the final nail in the coffin in the 82nd minute. Benteke took on a couple defenders and peeled back. Then he slid a pinpoint pass to Teixeira who just bashed it past the keeper from about 7 yards.
In the end, it was what you would expect from a Liverpool standpoint. There weren't any mind-blowing moments, but Liverpool played more than well enough to get the victory. On the one hand, it continues to add fixtures to their schedule but if Jurgen Klopp continues to use the FA Cup as an opportunity for youth players and bench players, then it's not as much of an issue. Also a win is always a positive no matter the opponent and no matter who is on the field. This game in no way takes away the sting of the loss to Manchester United, but there were enough positives to at least smooth a few frazzled nerves.
Random Thoughts:
- Apologies for no write-up following the United clash. I had a fever, slept through the live game and didn't feel up to watching a 1-0 loss when I saw the score listed on social media.
- Fans always want wins, but this win over Exeter was nice because all the talking heads were saying Liverpool would get embarrassed if they played the youngsters again. It wasn't a flawless game, but I think 3-0 speaks for itself.
- Joe Allen is a scoring machine! Wait...what? Oh well. I'd still rather him not be on the field if given a better option, which is almost anyone.
- Is this game truly a breakthrough for Benteke? I highly doubt it. I want the striker to be successful at Liverpool, but I just don't know that he has the mentality. He really is becoming another Balotelli without the off-field problems. Simply an enigma.
- Good to see some people catching up to my take on Adam Lallana. A good article summed it up here: http://www.football365.com/news/16-conclusions-liverpool-0-1-man-united and even former Blue, Craig Burley had an opinon on Mr. Cruyff Turn that I agreed with. The talent is there, but living in St. Louis, I've seen talent be there for USL players too. That doesn't mean they know how to produce or are truly meant to play at the highest levels consistently.
- It's both a good and bad thing, but it's kind of a shame that left back might be the biggest position in terms of depth for Liverpool. Personally, despite some of his defensive faults, I have no problem with Alberto Moreno. Brad Smith has also shown that he could be very capable of making the first squad soon, now Flanagan has returned and I thought Joe Gomez was good in the role before injury as well.
- As I prepare for the inevitable firestorm of online reaction...I have no problem with extending Simon Mignolet's contract.
Walk On
The Reds wouldn't take too long to net the first goal though. Brad Smith set up the eventual first goal quite nicely. Smith started the play by really stretching the opponent by taking up space in the wide areas. Then, he worked a nice one two with Christian Benteke and slotted it perfectly to a wide open Joe Allen in the 10th minute. It looked like LFC were ready to burst the game open, but that would not happen in the first half.
On the bright side, Benteke looked fairly good in the opening 25 minutes, but could not finish despite several header opportunities. What was positive about him, beyond the finishing, was his movement. He looked interested in the game instead of trying to blame his faults on his young teammates, which has become a bit of a habit of late. It was also nice to see Jodan Ibe try a couple shots from distance in the 39th minute instead of his usual Raheem Sterling-esque style of dribbling until space evaporates. The second opportunity from in the box might have been laid back for a cross but the idea wasn't terrible.
A repeat of Manchester United outcome was definitely in fans' minds given the amound of chances wasted, especially Benteke's shot right into the defender's feet in the 45th. Still, it was a decent first half of play for the Liverpool youngsters.
The second half was an interesting mix. Liverpool saw Jon Flanagan return in the 51st minute, though he wasn't called on to really do much. Then Ibe thought he had scored in the 54th minute on a blistering shot that rang off the crossbar and fell to the turf behind the line. However, with goal line technology it was all conjecture for fans and was rightly not given. Also, Liverpool as a club, regardless of age, continued their run of finishing or lack thereof as well.
Joao Teixeira took too long and was blocked in the 72nd minute and then the ensuing chances were a bit comical and ended with a slow roller off the foot of Sheyi Ojo that resulted in a training ground save. Ojo made up for the poor shoot with a fantastic one just minutes later. Just two touches into the box from the right side, Ojo put it on his left foot and just scooped it into the side netting. The Reds then put the final nail in the coffin in the 82nd minute. Benteke took on a couple defenders and peeled back. Then he slid a pinpoint pass to Teixeira who just bashed it past the keeper from about 7 yards.
In the end, it was what you would expect from a Liverpool standpoint. There weren't any mind-blowing moments, but Liverpool played more than well enough to get the victory. On the one hand, it continues to add fixtures to their schedule but if Jurgen Klopp continues to use the FA Cup as an opportunity for youth players and bench players, then it's not as much of an issue. Also a win is always a positive no matter the opponent and no matter who is on the field. This game in no way takes away the sting of the loss to Manchester United, but there were enough positives to at least smooth a few frazzled nerves.
Random Thoughts:
- Apologies for no write-up following the United clash. I had a fever, slept through the live game and didn't feel up to watching a 1-0 loss when I saw the score listed on social media.
- Fans always want wins, but this win over Exeter was nice because all the talking heads were saying Liverpool would get embarrassed if they played the youngsters again. It wasn't a flawless game, but I think 3-0 speaks for itself.
- Joe Allen is a scoring machine! Wait...what? Oh well. I'd still rather him not be on the field if given a better option, which is almost anyone.
- Is this game truly a breakthrough for Benteke? I highly doubt it. I want the striker to be successful at Liverpool, but I just don't know that he has the mentality. He really is becoming another Balotelli without the off-field problems. Simply an enigma.
- Good to see some people catching up to my take on Adam Lallana. A good article summed it up here: http://www.football365.com/news/16-conclusions-liverpool-0-1-man-united and even former Blue, Craig Burley had an opinon on Mr. Cruyff Turn that I agreed with. The talent is there, but living in St. Louis, I've seen talent be there for USL players too. That doesn't mean they know how to produce or are truly meant to play at the highest levels consistently.
- It's both a good and bad thing, but it's kind of a shame that left back might be the biggest position in terms of depth for Liverpool. Personally, despite some of his defensive faults, I have no problem with Alberto Moreno. Brad Smith has also shown that he could be very capable of making the first squad soon, now Flanagan has returned and I thought Joe Gomez was good in the role before injury as well.
- As I prepare for the inevitable firestorm of online reaction...I have no problem with extending Simon Mignolet's contract.
Walk On
Friday, January 8, 2016
Liverpool's Youth Squad Salvage an FA Draw
While anyone could have excused Liverpool's youth infused lineup in any cup competition, it was frightening to see the extent the injury bug has actually forced Jurgen Klopp's hand. Christian Benteke was the only first squad player included in the starting XI. Despite this, the young team seemed to gel as the opening stages of the game went on. Unfortunately, some youthful mistakes cost the Reds.
Tom Nicoll finished off a great goal for Exeter after some breckdown on the left side of Liverpool's defense led to a cross. The Reds equalized only three minutes later when Jerome Sinclair found the back of the net on what would have been called a penalty if he had not scored. Liverpool had some back and forth after the quick burst of scoring.
As will happen with youth, they looked good at times and quite suspect at others. Joao Carlos Teixeira almost scored for Liverpool in the 17th minute. He made a good move but the ball got caught up between his feet and then his shot was blocked. Soon after, Exeter almost took the lead for a second time in the 30th minute when Noble put a chance over the bar and made a case for a penalty. Christian Ribero should have scored for the home side in the 41st minute as he failed to score on a header after he exposed the left side of the defense again. Unfortunately for the Reds, the cracks were too much to keep together for the full 45.
Lee Holmes gave Exeter the lead they may not have expected but probably deserved. Adam Bogdan received a bit of a bump that could have been called a foul, but the Liverpool goalkeeper should have done better. The ball sailed past his hand and into the upper corner on the near side as Bogdan looked around for the whistle that would never come.
Liverpool tried their best in the second half. Benteke was denied in the 51st minute after his powerful header was smartly saved by the Exeter goalkeeper. While the game wasn't the easiest on the eyes, it was good to see this young squad not giving up. They got their own just desserts in the 74th minute. A low cross from the recently inserted Ojo was cleared away from the six yard area but right to Brad Smith who banged it home for the 2-2 scoreline, which would be the final.
Teixeira could have scored in the 81st minute. He would have had a better chance if he one timed it but he elected to take a touch, which allowed the keeper to come out and cut off the angle. Alas, the result was exactly what nobody wanted. Exeter fans will feel it was an opportunity missed against an extremely weakened Liverpool squad. Liverpool will be happy with essentially their youth squad getting a result, but now another fixture is added to an already crowded schedule.
You'd like to see more from Benteke against a lesser opponent. Cases could be made to insert Adam Lallana in an effort to finish off the game to avoid the replay. However, the thing to take away from this contest is actually that Klopp has proven he can change. Klopp's biggest problem, if it can be said to be a problem, is that he wants to win everything. He hasn't prioritized any competition over the other. Whether it was his hand being forced or an actual decision he made, Klopp wisely changed his lineup. Whether he keeps the strategy going forward is up to him, but it's a good sign.
Random Thoughts:
- I have no problem with him as a person, but if Liverpool are forced to use Enrique at centerback in the league then they are in serious trouble. Lucas may be a better choice.
- The field was absolutely terrible. I actually don't fault the groundskeeper. I'm sure they have a limited budget to make repairs, if any. However, from a viewer aspect it was terrible and had to have made for a bad match. I've seen better fields back when I played CYC.
- Strikers are a precious commodity and Liverpool have none in the cupboard. While Benteke could work extremely well with Daniel Sturridge, the latter's injury problems could force the big Belgian's departure from the team. Today's game also showed that the Reds don't have any true strikers coming through the pipeline either.
Tom Nicoll finished off a great goal for Exeter after some breckdown on the left side of Liverpool's defense led to a cross. The Reds equalized only three minutes later when Jerome Sinclair found the back of the net on what would have been called a penalty if he had not scored. Liverpool had some back and forth after the quick burst of scoring.
As will happen with youth, they looked good at times and quite suspect at others. Joao Carlos Teixeira almost scored for Liverpool in the 17th minute. He made a good move but the ball got caught up between his feet and then his shot was blocked. Soon after, Exeter almost took the lead for a second time in the 30th minute when Noble put a chance over the bar and made a case for a penalty. Christian Ribero should have scored for the home side in the 41st minute as he failed to score on a header after he exposed the left side of the defense again. Unfortunately for the Reds, the cracks were too much to keep together for the full 45.
Lee Holmes gave Exeter the lead they may not have expected but probably deserved. Adam Bogdan received a bit of a bump that could have been called a foul, but the Liverpool goalkeeper should have done better. The ball sailed past his hand and into the upper corner on the near side as Bogdan looked around for the whistle that would never come.
Liverpool tried their best in the second half. Benteke was denied in the 51st minute after his powerful header was smartly saved by the Exeter goalkeeper. While the game wasn't the easiest on the eyes, it was good to see this young squad not giving up. They got their own just desserts in the 74th minute. A low cross from the recently inserted Ojo was cleared away from the six yard area but right to Brad Smith who banged it home for the 2-2 scoreline, which would be the final.
Teixeira could have scored in the 81st minute. He would have had a better chance if he one timed it but he elected to take a touch, which allowed the keeper to come out and cut off the angle. Alas, the result was exactly what nobody wanted. Exeter fans will feel it was an opportunity missed against an extremely weakened Liverpool squad. Liverpool will be happy with essentially their youth squad getting a result, but now another fixture is added to an already crowded schedule.
You'd like to see more from Benteke against a lesser opponent. Cases could be made to insert Adam Lallana in an effort to finish off the game to avoid the replay. However, the thing to take away from this contest is actually that Klopp has proven he can change. Klopp's biggest problem, if it can be said to be a problem, is that he wants to win everything. He hasn't prioritized any competition over the other. Whether it was his hand being forced or an actual decision he made, Klopp wisely changed his lineup. Whether he keeps the strategy going forward is up to him, but it's a good sign.
Random Thoughts:
- I have no problem with him as a person, but if Liverpool are forced to use Enrique at centerback in the league then they are in serious trouble. Lucas may be a better choice.
- The field was absolutely terrible. I actually don't fault the groundskeeper. I'm sure they have a limited budget to make repairs, if any. However, from a viewer aspect it was terrible and had to have made for a bad match. I've seen better fields back when I played CYC.
- Strikers are a precious commodity and Liverpool have none in the cupboard. While Benteke could work extremely well with Daniel Sturridge, the latter's injury problems could force the big Belgian's departure from the team. Today's game also showed that the Reds don't have any true strikers coming through the pipeline either.
Saturday, January 2, 2016
Liverpool Continue Their Jeckyll and Hyde Performances
In the latest episode of As Liverpool Turns, the game did not start on the correct foot. Since the initial shine wore off of Jurgen Klopp, the team he is in charge of have been Jekyll and Hyde. We saw the Hyde part toward the beginning of the match, especially in the back four. After being the saving grace in their Boxing Day match, the back four were to blame for the initial goal given up against West Ham in the first match of 2016.
Alberto Moreno made a run up the left hand side, only to be fouled and not given a free kick. Whether you believe it was a foul or not quickly became irrelevant. Moreno stayed on the ground in an effort to make it look worse than it was, West Ham drove down through his vacated position and slipped a beautiful cross inside the box. It was finished off by Michail Antonio and so were Liverpool.
The Reds looked a shambles during the opening quarter hour. Very little in attack and akin to a man's first attempt at walking on stilts in defense. If not for the woodwork, Liverpool would have been down 2-0 in the 17th minute after Manuel Lanzini sent a knuckleball past a bewildered Simon Mignolet, only to see it ricochet back toward the field.
In attack, Liverpool looked just as shaky in the first half. There was no attack for the first few minutes and when they got a little more cohesive, none of the attacking players were able to keep the ball settled down. Sadly, the Reds' best attack in the opening half hour was when Jordan Ibe dribbled it over the endline. That same statement could be made for the entire half, with the exception of a few decent corners and a side footer from Emre Can knicking off the crossbar.
As a whole, the opening half was just a shambles. Fortunately for the Reds, the back four rebounded from their weak start and redeemed themselves. Moreno came all the way across the field to make a smart tackle to avoid a shot on goal and Nathaniel Clyne made a block during a counter attack that would have seen Mignolet have a 50/50 chance, at best, to save it.
Liverpool opened up the second more positively, but things just weren't quite on. Benteke was set up nicely by Moreno in the 51st minute, but oddly opened up his body to direct the shot well wide instead of trying to strike the ball. Then, despite the ok chances and decent possession, it all went to pot. Andy Carroll, was set up with a header on the counter attack and the former Liverpool striker made his ex-team pay.
That would be the final score and continue to prove that this current incarnation of Liverpool are simply an enigma. They show up against the big boys, but in a season where the big boys are not the teams to contend with, they fail to play well enough against the other clubs. What is more, this squad always seems on the cusp. A win would have seen them, if only temporarily, within two points of a top four spot. Now they remain five back with Spurs still to play this weekend and playing equally enigmatic Everton.
There are excuses, but weak ones. Danny Ings, Daniel Sturridge, Divock Origi, Jordan Henderson and James Milner are all out with various injuries. With the exception of Ings and Sturridge though, none of those names really pop off the page as really making the difference in any loss this season. January might provide no reinforcements, regardless of their need. Whether they are truly good enough or not, these players have to stand up and be accounted. This run of inconsistency is simply not good enough from a professional at this level.
Random Thoughts:
- As much as I may dislike Adam Lallana, perhaps the team does play better with him in there. A trio of Coutinho, Firmino and Ibe should be a force to be reckoned with. They should have been switching constantly and making runs in behind to support Benteke. Instead, they were mired in quicksand without a clue.
- People wanting to get rid of Simon Mignolet should watch the 69th minute. He is pretty bad at corner kicks, that much is true. However, he is one of the better shot stoppers in the league. He denied Carroll on the initial header and then sprawled to collect the rebound as well. I've made this point in the past, but unless there is someone out there that is head and shoulders better in every aspect, I would not be willing to change goalkeepers simply to have someone who is only better at defending corners.
- Chances are Liverpool will have to wait until the summer to make any significant additions. That said, every mediocre to poor result makes even myself hope for something to happen in the January window. Initially it seemed a good idea to wait, let the season play out and hope players returning from injury would be enough. Now, standing pat in the winter seems a terrible mistake.
Walk On
Alberto Moreno made a run up the left hand side, only to be fouled and not given a free kick. Whether you believe it was a foul or not quickly became irrelevant. Moreno stayed on the ground in an effort to make it look worse than it was, West Ham drove down through his vacated position and slipped a beautiful cross inside the box. It was finished off by Michail Antonio and so were Liverpool.
The Reds looked a shambles during the opening quarter hour. Very little in attack and akin to a man's first attempt at walking on stilts in defense. If not for the woodwork, Liverpool would have been down 2-0 in the 17th minute after Manuel Lanzini sent a knuckleball past a bewildered Simon Mignolet, only to see it ricochet back toward the field.
In attack, Liverpool looked just as shaky in the first half. There was no attack for the first few minutes and when they got a little more cohesive, none of the attacking players were able to keep the ball settled down. Sadly, the Reds' best attack in the opening half hour was when Jordan Ibe dribbled it over the endline. That same statement could be made for the entire half, with the exception of a few decent corners and a side footer from Emre Can knicking off the crossbar.
As a whole, the opening half was just a shambles. Fortunately for the Reds, the back four rebounded from their weak start and redeemed themselves. Moreno came all the way across the field to make a smart tackle to avoid a shot on goal and Nathaniel Clyne made a block during a counter attack that would have seen Mignolet have a 50/50 chance, at best, to save it.
Liverpool opened up the second more positively, but things just weren't quite on. Benteke was set up nicely by Moreno in the 51st minute, but oddly opened up his body to direct the shot well wide instead of trying to strike the ball. Then, despite the ok chances and decent possession, it all went to pot. Andy Carroll, was set up with a header on the counter attack and the former Liverpool striker made his ex-team pay.
That would be the final score and continue to prove that this current incarnation of Liverpool are simply an enigma. They show up against the big boys, but in a season where the big boys are not the teams to contend with, they fail to play well enough against the other clubs. What is more, this squad always seems on the cusp. A win would have seen them, if only temporarily, within two points of a top four spot. Now they remain five back with Spurs still to play this weekend and playing equally enigmatic Everton.
There are excuses, but weak ones. Danny Ings, Daniel Sturridge, Divock Origi, Jordan Henderson and James Milner are all out with various injuries. With the exception of Ings and Sturridge though, none of those names really pop off the page as really making the difference in any loss this season. January might provide no reinforcements, regardless of their need. Whether they are truly good enough or not, these players have to stand up and be accounted. This run of inconsistency is simply not good enough from a professional at this level.
Random Thoughts:
- As much as I may dislike Adam Lallana, perhaps the team does play better with him in there. A trio of Coutinho, Firmino and Ibe should be a force to be reckoned with. They should have been switching constantly and making runs in behind to support Benteke. Instead, they were mired in quicksand without a clue.
- People wanting to get rid of Simon Mignolet should watch the 69th minute. He is pretty bad at corner kicks, that much is true. However, he is one of the better shot stoppers in the league. He denied Carroll on the initial header and then sprawled to collect the rebound as well. I've made this point in the past, but unless there is someone out there that is head and shoulders better in every aspect, I would not be willing to change goalkeepers simply to have someone who is only better at defending corners.
- Chances are Liverpool will have to wait until the summer to make any significant additions. That said, every mediocre to poor result makes even myself hope for something to happen in the January window. Initially it seemed a good idea to wait, let the season play out and hope players returning from injury would be enough. Now, standing pat in the winter seems a terrible mistake.
Walk On
Wednesday, December 30, 2015
Liverpool Winning Games In Manchester United Style
It's not something any Liverpool supporter wants to think about, but right now Liverpool are winning in the same way Manchester United was winning earlier in the season. The wins aren't pretty by any stretch of the imagination, but at this stage of the season three points is really all that matters. Liverpool dominated most of the play in the opening 45, but failed to make a notch on the scoreboard. Roberto Firmino blasted one off the post in the 25th minute after faking out two defenders. Firmino was very solid in the first half, but just could not add to his league goal tally, which only sits at one currently. Firmino was also denied with a spectacular save by Vito Mannone off his header in the 36th.
Liverpool had 66% of the possession in the first half, but couldn't break down the Sunderland defense. As the game moved along, the Blackcats came close to countering as well. The back four switched off for a moment and former Red, Fabio Borini almost poached a goal in the 33rd. Sunderland also wasted a dangerous free kick when Adam Johnson skied it from just outside the box after a foolish challenge from Sakho.
Whether by skill or pure luck, Benteke took advantage of an early miscue by the Sunderland defenders and Liverpool scored only seconds into the second half. The pass seemed to go through several bodies without taking a solid touch only to find the Belgian alone in the box behind everyone as he slotted it just past the keeper. After that, there was very little to speak of for either team, both positively or negatively. Liverpool were extremely clumsy in the 77th minute and almost conceded. A poor Firmino clearance almost led to a goal. Late substitute, Jordan Ibe, butchered a chance in the 88th minute that would have sealed the game by smashing the shot over the bar. Then Benteke did the same as he shot into the goaltender in the 92nd.
Ultimately the three points were earned and the team moved up to seventh and within five points of a Champions League spot. They also tied themselves on points with hated rival, Manchester United. Much like their rivals, the wins have not been visually pleasing to the fans but they all count the same at the end of the year. The interesting thing to view has been the different trajectories of the teams. Despite being equal on points, United is in crisis and might fire their manager while Liverpool are on more of a slow, steady rise and are being praised for falling in line with Jurgen Klopp.
One of the things that remains a concern is the lack of goals. Liverpool are currently the only team in the top ten that are not on the positive side of goal differential. Liverpool's main problem seems to be they win games by one goal and then lose by multiple goals. As well as the Red's defense can play at times, they need to figure out a way to score more frequently. The defense is not good enough to win all the games for the team, so more goals are an absolute must. The same is said for the Red Devils. It's not an enviable position for Liverpool fans to be in - to be compared to anything from Manchester - but when the Champions League and even the top of the league is still within at least a dream, then the Reds will take it.
Random Thoughts:
- I'd like to thank either NBC Sports or ATT Uverse for saying the game started at 2pm. I turned it on a minute after 2 and the game was already 16 minutes in. At least nothing major happened.
- The sport is one of inconsistency, but the Brazilians of Liverpool need to find a way to do more in every game. While Firmino had a pretty decent showing, Coutinho was almost nonexistent.
- Say what you will about the tackle, but many Reds' fans had to be worried when Sakho looked to be injured. Skrtel is already nursing an injury and Sakho, himself, only recently returned from injury. With only Kolo Toure in central defense left, any further injury might force Emre Can back into the uncomfortable role of defender.
Walk On
Liverpool had 66% of the possession in the first half, but couldn't break down the Sunderland defense. As the game moved along, the Blackcats came close to countering as well. The back four switched off for a moment and former Red, Fabio Borini almost poached a goal in the 33rd. Sunderland also wasted a dangerous free kick when Adam Johnson skied it from just outside the box after a foolish challenge from Sakho.
Whether by skill or pure luck, Benteke took advantage of an early miscue by the Sunderland defenders and Liverpool scored only seconds into the second half. The pass seemed to go through several bodies without taking a solid touch only to find the Belgian alone in the box behind everyone as he slotted it just past the keeper. After that, there was very little to speak of for either team, both positively or negatively. Liverpool were extremely clumsy in the 77th minute and almost conceded. A poor Firmino clearance almost led to a goal. Late substitute, Jordan Ibe, butchered a chance in the 88th minute that would have sealed the game by smashing the shot over the bar. Then Benteke did the same as he shot into the goaltender in the 92nd.
Ultimately the three points were earned and the team moved up to seventh and within five points of a Champions League spot. They also tied themselves on points with hated rival, Manchester United. Much like their rivals, the wins have not been visually pleasing to the fans but they all count the same at the end of the year. The interesting thing to view has been the different trajectories of the teams. Despite being equal on points, United is in crisis and might fire their manager while Liverpool are on more of a slow, steady rise and are being praised for falling in line with Jurgen Klopp.
One of the things that remains a concern is the lack of goals. Liverpool are currently the only team in the top ten that are not on the positive side of goal differential. Liverpool's main problem seems to be they win games by one goal and then lose by multiple goals. As well as the Red's defense can play at times, they need to figure out a way to score more frequently. The defense is not good enough to win all the games for the team, so more goals are an absolute must. The same is said for the Red Devils. It's not an enviable position for Liverpool fans to be in - to be compared to anything from Manchester - but when the Champions League and even the top of the league is still within at least a dream, then the Reds will take it.
Random Thoughts:
- I'd like to thank either NBC Sports or ATT Uverse for saying the game started at 2pm. I turned it on a minute after 2 and the game was already 16 minutes in. At least nothing major happened.
- The sport is one of inconsistency, but the Brazilians of Liverpool need to find a way to do more in every game. While Firmino had a pretty decent showing, Coutinho was almost nonexistent.
- Say what you will about the tackle, but many Reds' fans had to be worried when Sakho looked to be injured. Skrtel is already nursing an injury and Sakho, himself, only recently returned from injury. With only Kolo Toure in central defense left, any further injury might force Emre Can back into the uncomfortable role of defender.
Walk On
Saturday, December 26, 2015
Liverpool's Boxing Day Match Ends In Victory
Merry Christmas to all the Reds fans out there. Hopefully you all had a wonderful holiday spent with family, friends or perhaps some alone time if you had too much of the prior two. On to the point - Liverpool. The Reds came out very nicely against the league leaders, Leicester City.
Outside of a quick chance in the first two minutes, a header from Jamie Vardy about halfway through the first half and a huge save from Simon Mingolet against Mahrez late in the half, it was mostly Liverpool in the attacking third. Liverpool looked like a classic LFC squad playing against what Leicester would normally be thought of as. It was pure dominance by the team in Christmas red. Unfortunately for the Kop and for fans around the world, Liverpool could not find the back of the net in the opening half.
They had plenty of opportunities. Divock Origi was extremely lively in the striker role. Coutinho was causing loads of problems in a roaming role when on attack. There were lots of good runs and pushes toward goal. Yet, again, Liverpool could not find paydirt. Their best chances included a header from Sakho, a shot from Origi that almost snuck past Kasper Schmeichel on the near side and another on the far side that just skimmed wide.
The big question would be whether Liverpool would rue their missed chances to poach a goal against the team that was top of the table. Unfortunately for the Reds, their best attacker couldn't make it through the entire half. Origi, though very inconsistent game to game, looked the most likely man to score out of the entire 22 on the pitch. He picked up an apparent injury and could not finish the half, ceding his position to Christian Benteke who has been out of form and out of the lineup.
Liverpool continued their offensive play in the second half as well. With the scoreline being what it was, Leicester pushed forward into a few more counters, but it was still mostly Liverpool in possession and in the offensive third. Then, with a little under half an hour left in the game, Liverpool finally found a little gold.
Benteke managed to find a bit of space toward the top of the box and was found with the cross. The big Belgian had to stretch to reach the ball, but got the perfect amount of touch with his right foot to slide it past the defenders and beat the keeper. Anfield rose to life with that tally and though Liverpool stayed on the attack, it was now on the much maligned Liverpool defense and goalkeeper to keep the three points.
The team would need them as the Foxes started knocking on the doorstep. Mingolet managed a top notch save in the 74th minute, only to struggle on a couple ensuing set pieces. Sakho was in perfect position, whether by design or luck, and saved a potential goal, allowing Mingolet to claim it off his thigh in the 82nd minute. The Liverpool defenders held off mad scrambles toward the end of regulation and in fact went the full 90 without conceding.
Liverpool almost butchered the game in stoppage time however. The Leicester keeper was joining the attack and not only did Benteke fail to score on an empty net - allowing the block from a defender - but Leicester almost created a score at the death. In the end, it was an incredibly hard earned three points and Liverpool were the deserving victors. They changed their own formation to force Leicester into unfamiliar situations, they had tons of energy and performed every facet of the game well enough to get the win. While the Boxing Day match was a bit too much of a boxing match toward the end of the game, it was still a good performance by the Reds and a good way to cap off the holiday.
Random Thoughts:
- Christian Benteke is quickly becoming Mario Balotelli without the attitude and distraction. You can tell the talent is there, but it is quite incomplete right now. While the missed goal in stoppage time was the cherry on top, Benteke is simply an enigma right now. Coming into the year everyone said Origi was the incomplete forward and Benteke was already more of a finished product. Based on performance and the clear opinion of the manager, that situation seems to be reversed right now.
- The Brazilian duo of Coutinho and Firmino are also a bit maddening. Coutinho was fantastic in the first half only to disappear, aside from his near goal skimming off the top netting, in the second half. Firmino has flashes, brief glimpses but little more. Much like Benteke, you can tell the skill is there but he still struggles to adjust to the English game.
- Outside of one or two minor mistakes, Dejan Lovren had a very good game. He will likely never shake his current status with many Liverpool fans but his performance against the Foxes was exactly what many expected from him when he signed.
Walk On
Outside of a quick chance in the first two minutes, a header from Jamie Vardy about halfway through the first half and a huge save from Simon Mingolet against Mahrez late in the half, it was mostly Liverpool in the attacking third. Liverpool looked like a classic LFC squad playing against what Leicester would normally be thought of as. It was pure dominance by the team in Christmas red. Unfortunately for the Kop and for fans around the world, Liverpool could not find the back of the net in the opening half.
They had plenty of opportunities. Divock Origi was extremely lively in the striker role. Coutinho was causing loads of problems in a roaming role when on attack. There were lots of good runs and pushes toward goal. Yet, again, Liverpool could not find paydirt. Their best chances included a header from Sakho, a shot from Origi that almost snuck past Kasper Schmeichel on the near side and another on the far side that just skimmed wide.
The big question would be whether Liverpool would rue their missed chances to poach a goal against the team that was top of the table. Unfortunately for the Reds, their best attacker couldn't make it through the entire half. Origi, though very inconsistent game to game, looked the most likely man to score out of the entire 22 on the pitch. He picked up an apparent injury and could not finish the half, ceding his position to Christian Benteke who has been out of form and out of the lineup.
Liverpool continued their offensive play in the second half as well. With the scoreline being what it was, Leicester pushed forward into a few more counters, but it was still mostly Liverpool in possession and in the offensive third. Then, with a little under half an hour left in the game, Liverpool finally found a little gold.
Benteke managed to find a bit of space toward the top of the box and was found with the cross. The big Belgian had to stretch to reach the ball, but got the perfect amount of touch with his right foot to slide it past the defenders and beat the keeper. Anfield rose to life with that tally and though Liverpool stayed on the attack, it was now on the much maligned Liverpool defense and goalkeeper to keep the three points.
The team would need them as the Foxes started knocking on the doorstep. Mingolet managed a top notch save in the 74th minute, only to struggle on a couple ensuing set pieces. Sakho was in perfect position, whether by design or luck, and saved a potential goal, allowing Mingolet to claim it off his thigh in the 82nd minute. The Liverpool defenders held off mad scrambles toward the end of regulation and in fact went the full 90 without conceding.
Liverpool almost butchered the game in stoppage time however. The Leicester keeper was joining the attack and not only did Benteke fail to score on an empty net - allowing the block from a defender - but Leicester almost created a score at the death. In the end, it was an incredibly hard earned three points and Liverpool were the deserving victors. They changed their own formation to force Leicester into unfamiliar situations, they had tons of energy and performed every facet of the game well enough to get the win. While the Boxing Day match was a bit too much of a boxing match toward the end of the game, it was still a good performance by the Reds and a good way to cap off the holiday.
Random Thoughts:
- Christian Benteke is quickly becoming Mario Balotelli without the attitude and distraction. You can tell the talent is there, but it is quite incomplete right now. While the missed goal in stoppage time was the cherry on top, Benteke is simply an enigma right now. Coming into the year everyone said Origi was the incomplete forward and Benteke was already more of a finished product. Based on performance and the clear opinion of the manager, that situation seems to be reversed right now.
- The Brazilian duo of Coutinho and Firmino are also a bit maddening. Coutinho was fantastic in the first half only to disappear, aside from his near goal skimming off the top netting, in the second half. Firmino has flashes, brief glimpses but little more. Much like Benteke, you can tell the skill is there but he still struggles to adjust to the English game.
- Outside of one or two minor mistakes, Dejan Lovren had a very good game. He will likely never shake his current status with many Liverpool fans but his performance against the Foxes was exactly what many expected from him when he signed.
Walk On
Sunday, December 20, 2015
The Force Is Not Strong With Liverpool Against Watford
My apologies for the title, but after a game like that one has to try and pick up their spirits. You know the day is not going to go well when the club allow a goal such as the one given up in the first few minutes. Rarely, in this writer's eyes, is the goalkeeper truly to blame for a goal but Adam Bogdan was at fault for the opening goal of the contest.
It appeared as though Bogdan overjumped in his attempt to claim the ball and had to adjust the position of his hands. He spilled the ball and while a case could be made that it was kicked from his grasp, you still expect a Premier League goalkeeper to be able to handle that sort of ball. Bogdan again looked panicked in the 34th minute when he wildly attempted to punch a ball that he could have easily claimed it. That original play did solidify two things, however. Firstly, Liverpool may be the worst they've ever been in the last three seasons at set pieces.
Whether corner kicks or free kicks, the Reds seem completely inept and unable to defend. Fans, quite rightly, shake in their boots every time because it's as though you can sense the goal will be conceded. Even when they do not concede, they never really look very confident during the transaction.
Secondly, unless a transfer can be made in the January window, perhaps the question of whether Bogdan should start over Simon Mingolet is now put to rest. It was by no means a majority, but there were growing rumbles that Bogdan should be given a look instead of Mingolet. He was given that chance and botched it almost from the start. Bogdan was a hero in the penalty shoot out in the league cup, but those competitions are probably where his talents are best served.
The Reds tried to do something positive. They had a blast from Nathaniel Clyne blocked in the ninth minute and then an opportunity again in the 11th. Despite any of that, Liverpool never really looked settled into the game. Understandably, they may have been complacent due to the fact that the club had not lost to Watford in the league in this century.
But the players needed to realize the position of their opponent in the table, not necessarily only focus on the name of the team. The Hornets currently sit in seventh, but have been as high as fifth at times this season and Liverpool treated them as though they were a team from the relegation zone. Liverpool never seemed interested or ready to match the energy and the physicality of their exuberant foes.
Liverpool just seemed completely unaware for the majority of the fixture. That point was nevermore evident than in the 38th minute. Adam Lallana was driving at the defender with Jordan Henderson streaking up the wing. Instead of easily finding his teammate, Lallana had a poor touch and took it right into the defender. No attack was gained at all
The game, as a whole, also showed what has been evident from the entire league this season but has now reared its head for Liverpool - there is absolutely no team this season that is very good. No disrespect to Leicester City, because they have earned their top spot, but when they are the top team in the league you can tell that nobody else is playing up to standard.
Teams like Manchester City, Arsenal, Everton, Tottenham, Manchester United and Liverpool have just never gotten into a role for a long stretch. Liverpool can blow City out of the stadium and then drop games to Newcastle or Watford. The same has been true of all the "big clubs." There is absolutely nothing wrong with smaller clubs doing well or bigger ones struggling, but as far as the Reds are concerned, they had better figure out who they are and what they're truly capable of. If they do not, it will be another wasted season resting on the laurels of a coaching change as an excuse.
Random Thoughts:
- I believe Jurgen Klopp is doing the best he can, but these lineups without a true strikr are just not working with any consistency. No, Christian Benteke and Divock Origi have not lived up to expectation but they have to be given the opportunity. Granted, we do not see what these players do in training, but strikers have to be given the chance to produce.
- Can we please not start Adam Lallana? Just once? The man is talented, but he is completely lost right now. He provides nothing offensively or defensively outside of a rare moment or two. I see no reason why Lallana cannot sit on the bench while Firmino stays in his position and either Benteke or Origi play up front. The trio of Firmino, Coutinho and a true striker can't be any worse than a trio of nothing but wingers.
- Klopp's honeymoon is over. Not with the fans, but with the players. The German may be unwilling to change much in January, but he will have to make big changes to the club to fit how he wants to play. The current group of Reds don't seem to be able to do it right now.
Walk On
It appeared as though Bogdan overjumped in his attempt to claim the ball and had to adjust the position of his hands. He spilled the ball and while a case could be made that it was kicked from his grasp, you still expect a Premier League goalkeeper to be able to handle that sort of ball. Bogdan again looked panicked in the 34th minute when he wildly attempted to punch a ball that he could have easily claimed it. That original play did solidify two things, however. Firstly, Liverpool may be the worst they've ever been in the last three seasons at set pieces.
Whether corner kicks or free kicks, the Reds seem completely inept and unable to defend. Fans, quite rightly, shake in their boots every time because it's as though you can sense the goal will be conceded. Even when they do not concede, they never really look very confident during the transaction.
Secondly, unless a transfer can be made in the January window, perhaps the question of whether Bogdan should start over Simon Mingolet is now put to rest. It was by no means a majority, but there were growing rumbles that Bogdan should be given a look instead of Mingolet. He was given that chance and botched it almost from the start. Bogdan was a hero in the penalty shoot out in the league cup, but those competitions are probably where his talents are best served.
The Reds tried to do something positive. They had a blast from Nathaniel Clyne blocked in the ninth minute and then an opportunity again in the 11th. Despite any of that, Liverpool never really looked settled into the game. Understandably, they may have been complacent due to the fact that the club had not lost to Watford in the league in this century.
But the players needed to realize the position of their opponent in the table, not necessarily only focus on the name of the team. The Hornets currently sit in seventh, but have been as high as fifth at times this season and Liverpool treated them as though they were a team from the relegation zone. Liverpool never seemed interested or ready to match the energy and the physicality of their exuberant foes.
Liverpool just seemed completely unaware for the majority of the fixture. That point was nevermore evident than in the 38th minute. Adam Lallana was driving at the defender with Jordan Henderson streaking up the wing. Instead of easily finding his teammate, Lallana had a poor touch and took it right into the defender. No attack was gained at all
The game, as a whole, also showed what has been evident from the entire league this season but has now reared its head for Liverpool - there is absolutely no team this season that is very good. No disrespect to Leicester City, because they have earned their top spot, but when they are the top team in the league you can tell that nobody else is playing up to standard.
Teams like Manchester City, Arsenal, Everton, Tottenham, Manchester United and Liverpool have just never gotten into a role for a long stretch. Liverpool can blow City out of the stadium and then drop games to Newcastle or Watford. The same has been true of all the "big clubs." There is absolutely nothing wrong with smaller clubs doing well or bigger ones struggling, but as far as the Reds are concerned, they had better figure out who they are and what they're truly capable of. If they do not, it will be another wasted season resting on the laurels of a coaching change as an excuse.
Random Thoughts:
- I believe Jurgen Klopp is doing the best he can, but these lineups without a true strikr are just not working with any consistency. No, Christian Benteke and Divock Origi have not lived up to expectation but they have to be given the opportunity. Granted, we do not see what these players do in training, but strikers have to be given the chance to produce.
- Can we please not start Adam Lallana? Just once? The man is talented, but he is completely lost right now. He provides nothing offensively or defensively outside of a rare moment or two. I see no reason why Lallana cannot sit on the bench while Firmino stays in his position and either Benteke or Origi play up front. The trio of Firmino, Coutinho and a true striker can't be any worse than a trio of nothing but wingers.
- Klopp's honeymoon is over. Not with the fans, but with the players. The German may be unwilling to change much in January, but he will have to make big changes to the club to fit how he wants to play. The current group of Reds don't seem to be able to do it right now.
Walk On
Sunday, December 13, 2015
Liverpool Deserve Better, but Settle for a Point Against West Brom
Liverpool came in waves. They looked like scoring early in the game, pushing so many numbers forward at the West Brom defense. However they were unable to connect on the final ball that would've put them ahead. West Brom came back for a few moments and while they didn't truly create a scoring chance, they did enough to at least threaten. After gaining their composure, the Reds charged forward again and were rewarded.
After several close calls and missed passes, the Reds finally hit on all cylinders for a goal in the 21st minute. Coutinho, who was very good all half with the exception of his finishing, sent in a great cross to the far side of the box. Jordan Henderson finished off a header from Lallana that saw the captain in a bit of space in the area where all he had to do was get a good foot on it. Henderson did just that and put his team up by a goal. Sadly, for as good as Liverpool looked in attack, the lead did not last all that long.
Whether under Brendan Rodgers or Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool have struggled on set pieces including corner kicks. Just such a play was where they were made to pay. Simon Mignolet came after the ball but missed on a wild, swinging punch. Despite the bevy of red shirts in the box, the follow-up shot found it's way through and Liverpool shockingly found themselves level. Even removing the sting of the goalkeeping mistake, it was a punch to the throat for Liverpool and their fans because West Brom really hadn't done enough to deserve to be on level footing.
Almost rubbing salt in the wound, West Brom looked like they had gone up by a goal on the stroke of halftime. Liverpool looked clueless on the set piece once again. They allowed three, if not four, attackers to get in behind them. Despite the fact that it was correctly ruled offside in the end, did not alleviate the fact the Reds appeared to be rooted into the field when the ball was struck. It was a rather disappointing way to end a fairly positive 45 minutes of play but only being level seemed much better as well.
The second half played out very similarly to the first. Liverpool came out with good energy and possession. Again, they looked more than capable of scoring within the first five to 10 minutes. Benteke barely missed a goal from a header in the 51st minute that would have really put a strangle on the momentum. The same could be said of Dejan Lovren's chance only minutes later. It was deflected out for a corner, but was just begging to be taken and claim the game for Liverpool.
Much the same way as the first half went, though, West Brom found themselves poaching something from the clutches of nothing. Again, coming off a set piece corner, Liverpool just looked lost and allowed Olsson to knick one in after his tally was wiped off the board with the offside call at the break. Similarly to the first half, it wasn't just disappointing to see the ball hit the back of the net but to also see it come from nothing. Liverpool were in charge of the match only to see it slip from there fingers, if only momentarily.
The Reds seemed to gain confidence on the pitch after a nasty injury to Lovren. Lallana had an opportunity to score in the 80th minute that was smartly saved, but should have been finished off as well. Benteke butchered a head ball chance a minute later. In the end though, luck favored Liverpool - at least in the grand sense.
Liverpool avoided disaster when Rondon mucked up a glorious chance in the 88th minute, spraying a shot wide when all he had was Mignolet to worry about. Moments later Henderson smashed an opportunity right at the goalkeeper and Jordan Ibe blasted one just wide after that. But then Liverpool were favored by fortune in the 97th. Origi, who came on puzzlingly for the injured Lovren, took advantage of the advantage given by the official. His shot was deflected off a defender into the back of the net and gained Liverpool the point they deserved.
While Liverpool probably should have gotten all three points, they deserved the one. The old adage says sometimes it is better to be lucky than good and that was true on this night. It was a mixture of relief, due to Liverpool almost losing to both Newcastle and West Brom, and the feeling of getting what was owed. Liverpool can't rely on that luck every match, but they'll take it for this one.
Random Thoughts:
- Overall, Adam Lallana had a pretty decent game. I still wonder what he has over the heads of Liverpool's managers. Whether Rodgers or Klopp, they continue to use Lallana in a starting role when he seems to do little on the field to deserve it. Granted, we are not there for daily training but it just doesn't seem like he produces enough to have that spot.
- Mignolet deserves some blame for the first West Brom goal, but not nearly the amount he will be given. I admit I am biased, being a keeper that also struggled on corner kicks, but people do not realize how difficult a skill it is to rightly judge the flight of a ball and connect with it when there are so many bodies in the box. There is constant chatter to get a new keeper, but Mingolet is one of the best pure shot stoppers around. Unless they can get someone who is a 100% upgrade, it would be foolish to seek out someone who is simply a little bit better at handling corner kicks.
- I am still a supporter of Brendan Rodgers, but those are the kind of games his teams would probably have lost. Jurgen Klopp has definitely instilled a huge amount of belief and energy in this LFC squad.
Walk On
After several close calls and missed passes, the Reds finally hit on all cylinders for a goal in the 21st minute. Coutinho, who was very good all half with the exception of his finishing, sent in a great cross to the far side of the box. Jordan Henderson finished off a header from Lallana that saw the captain in a bit of space in the area where all he had to do was get a good foot on it. Henderson did just that and put his team up by a goal. Sadly, for as good as Liverpool looked in attack, the lead did not last all that long.
Whether under Brendan Rodgers or Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool have struggled on set pieces including corner kicks. Just such a play was where they were made to pay. Simon Mignolet came after the ball but missed on a wild, swinging punch. Despite the bevy of red shirts in the box, the follow-up shot found it's way through and Liverpool shockingly found themselves level. Even removing the sting of the goalkeeping mistake, it was a punch to the throat for Liverpool and their fans because West Brom really hadn't done enough to deserve to be on level footing.
Almost rubbing salt in the wound, West Brom looked like they had gone up by a goal on the stroke of halftime. Liverpool looked clueless on the set piece once again. They allowed three, if not four, attackers to get in behind them. Despite the fact that it was correctly ruled offside in the end, did not alleviate the fact the Reds appeared to be rooted into the field when the ball was struck. It was a rather disappointing way to end a fairly positive 45 minutes of play but only being level seemed much better as well.
The second half played out very similarly to the first. Liverpool came out with good energy and possession. Again, they looked more than capable of scoring within the first five to 10 minutes. Benteke barely missed a goal from a header in the 51st minute that would have really put a strangle on the momentum. The same could be said of Dejan Lovren's chance only minutes later. It was deflected out for a corner, but was just begging to be taken and claim the game for Liverpool.
Much the same way as the first half went, though, West Brom found themselves poaching something from the clutches of nothing. Again, coming off a set piece corner, Liverpool just looked lost and allowed Olsson to knick one in after his tally was wiped off the board with the offside call at the break. Similarly to the first half, it wasn't just disappointing to see the ball hit the back of the net but to also see it come from nothing. Liverpool were in charge of the match only to see it slip from there fingers, if only momentarily.
The Reds seemed to gain confidence on the pitch after a nasty injury to Lovren. Lallana had an opportunity to score in the 80th minute that was smartly saved, but should have been finished off as well. Benteke butchered a head ball chance a minute later. In the end though, luck favored Liverpool - at least in the grand sense.
Liverpool avoided disaster when Rondon mucked up a glorious chance in the 88th minute, spraying a shot wide when all he had was Mignolet to worry about. Moments later Henderson smashed an opportunity right at the goalkeeper and Jordan Ibe blasted one just wide after that. But then Liverpool were favored by fortune in the 97th. Origi, who came on puzzlingly for the injured Lovren, took advantage of the advantage given by the official. His shot was deflected off a defender into the back of the net and gained Liverpool the point they deserved.
While Liverpool probably should have gotten all three points, they deserved the one. The old adage says sometimes it is better to be lucky than good and that was true on this night. It was a mixture of relief, due to Liverpool almost losing to both Newcastle and West Brom, and the feeling of getting what was owed. Liverpool can't rely on that luck every match, but they'll take it for this one.
Random Thoughts:
- Overall, Adam Lallana had a pretty decent game. I still wonder what he has over the heads of Liverpool's managers. Whether Rodgers or Klopp, they continue to use Lallana in a starting role when he seems to do little on the field to deserve it. Granted, we are not there for daily training but it just doesn't seem like he produces enough to have that spot.
- Mignolet deserves some blame for the first West Brom goal, but not nearly the amount he will be given. I admit I am biased, being a keeper that also struggled on corner kicks, but people do not realize how difficult a skill it is to rightly judge the flight of a ball and connect with it when there are so many bodies in the box. There is constant chatter to get a new keeper, but Mingolet is one of the best pure shot stoppers around. Unless they can get someone who is a 100% upgrade, it would be foolish to seek out someone who is simply a little bit better at handling corner kicks.
- I am still a supporter of Brendan Rodgers, but those are the kind of games his teams would probably have lost. Jurgen Klopp has definitely instilled a huge amount of belief and energy in this LFC squad.
Walk On
Thursday, November 26, 2015
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
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
Saturday, November 21, 2015
Liverpool Stun Manchester City and Their Own Supporters
Let's be honest here. Even the most ardent supporter of Liverpool FC had to be worried about facing Manchester City at the Etihad. People can be positive all they want, but in many heart of hearts people had to know defeat was immanent. People would have been right to believe that. Still no Christian Benteke or Daniel Sturridge to start. Dejan Lovren was in for the injured Sakho. Also, Liverpool had not won at City since 2008. A draw would be a spectacular result.
How little we know. Yes, there will be those that thump their chests and say they knew the result that happened was always what would come forth but few (if any) would have predicted what would transpire. Liverpool came out to a very aggressive start and took the game to their hosts. Apart from an early Sergio Aguero run into the box, City had little in the way of attack in the opening 10 minutes.
Despite their early pressure, Liverpool didn't trouble Joe Hart much but still came out of those same 10 minutes with the lead. Yes, it came off an own goal. Yes, Mangala probably should have sorted his feet out better. However, Liverpool created the goal with tenacious backtracking by Coutinho and then a good slotted ball for Firmino. Firmino's ball may not have been the greatest cross, but he put it into a dangerous area and was rewarded.
Those are the things that have to happen for a team such as the Reds. They don't have the best player in the league at every position. Some would say none of their starters are the best player in the league at that position. Regardless of all that conjecture, they came out as a team to start. They defended together, moved across field together and pushed forward together. It was something not seen in quite some time from this Reds' squad.
The second goal was definitely something to excite the fans. It was extremely reminiscent of the type of goals scored in Luis Suarez' final season with Liverpool. In the 23rd minute, the Brazilian connection that supporters have been hoping for since the summer finally came to fruition. Firmino took a bouncing ball over to the right, slotted it back across the box toward the penalty spot and it was neatly finished off by Coutinho as he went through the wickets of Hart.
The Reds just seemed to get better with each opportunity. The lead up to the third goal included at least five passes. Several of the passes came on the edge of the box, including a cheeky backheel by Emre Can that was fielded by Coutinho who then just tapped it to Firmino, who was standing in a more advantageous position. To top it all off, all of that happened in the first half hour and it could have been a fourth in the 35th minute when Firmino was robbed by a sprawling Hart and then shaved the post a minute later.
Unfortunately for the Reds, the first half couldn't be all roses and sunshine. Liverpool got a tiny bit careless with the ball in the 44th minute and the turnover led directly to an Aguero cracker of a goal. Simon Mingolet, who was rarely challenged had no shot to save the smash. City continued their turnaround in the opening minutes of the second half as well, pushing forward right out of the gate. It was not to be their night though.
City could have and should have brought the score to 3-2 in the 64th minute after James Milner's backpass was intercepted by Raheem Sterling who then played a ball for Aguero. The following shot was delayed just a moment which allowed Mingolet to scramble back and make a great save. Then Liverpool crushed all hope of the home fans when Martin Skrtel struck one sweetly off the shoelaces in the 81st minute.
Liverpool fans will soak up this victory and all the good feelings and bragging rights that come with it. Once that is done, the questions will now arise. Football is a fickle sport, but which Liverpool is the real one? Are we more likely to see the LFC seen in a defeat to Crystal Palace or the one on the field for the victory over Manchester City? Can Liverpool really contend for a top four spot or was this just one good performance a flash in the pan? Only the players and manager can tell the answers now. Clearly fans don't know, because so many did not expect this result in the first place.
Random Thoughts:
- You have to hope for the best but expect the worst in regards to Coutinho's potential injury. Liverpool just can't seem to keep anyone healthy the last few years. Just when the team seemed poised to have a solid scoring partnership, it seems the way things turn out for the Reds to have it dashed by another injury.
- It was surprising to see Firmino in the forward slot with no Benteke or Sturridge, given the focus on the latter two training prior to the match.
- Liverpool obviously had a few players out on international duty, but I think the extra week of nothing but training had to help. As mentioned at the end of the article, only the players know if this was a one-off or the start of the true Liverpool but they need to hold onto whatever mentality they used to win this contest. It will come in handy when the games start flying at you during the holidays.
- How sweet was it that Sterling was kept so quiet in this game? Yes, he has lived up to much of the potential seen in him. He is going to be a great player despite what any of us fans wished or thought. Nevertheless, for one night, it was the kind of performance or lack thereof that Liverpool fans take extra pleasure from. It was the cherry on top.
Walk On
How little we know. Yes, there will be those that thump their chests and say they knew the result that happened was always what would come forth but few (if any) would have predicted what would transpire. Liverpool came out to a very aggressive start and took the game to their hosts. Apart from an early Sergio Aguero run into the box, City had little in the way of attack in the opening 10 minutes.
Despite their early pressure, Liverpool didn't trouble Joe Hart much but still came out of those same 10 minutes with the lead. Yes, it came off an own goal. Yes, Mangala probably should have sorted his feet out better. However, Liverpool created the goal with tenacious backtracking by Coutinho and then a good slotted ball for Firmino. Firmino's ball may not have been the greatest cross, but he put it into a dangerous area and was rewarded.
Those are the things that have to happen for a team such as the Reds. They don't have the best player in the league at every position. Some would say none of their starters are the best player in the league at that position. Regardless of all that conjecture, they came out as a team to start. They defended together, moved across field together and pushed forward together. It was something not seen in quite some time from this Reds' squad.
The second goal was definitely something to excite the fans. It was extremely reminiscent of the type of goals scored in Luis Suarez' final season with Liverpool. In the 23rd minute, the Brazilian connection that supporters have been hoping for since the summer finally came to fruition. Firmino took a bouncing ball over to the right, slotted it back across the box toward the penalty spot and it was neatly finished off by Coutinho as he went through the wickets of Hart.
The Reds just seemed to get better with each opportunity. The lead up to the third goal included at least five passes. Several of the passes came on the edge of the box, including a cheeky backheel by Emre Can that was fielded by Coutinho who then just tapped it to Firmino, who was standing in a more advantageous position. To top it all off, all of that happened in the first half hour and it could have been a fourth in the 35th minute when Firmino was robbed by a sprawling Hart and then shaved the post a minute later.
Unfortunately for the Reds, the first half couldn't be all roses and sunshine. Liverpool got a tiny bit careless with the ball in the 44th minute and the turnover led directly to an Aguero cracker of a goal. Simon Mingolet, who was rarely challenged had no shot to save the smash. City continued their turnaround in the opening minutes of the second half as well, pushing forward right out of the gate. It was not to be their night though.
City could have and should have brought the score to 3-2 in the 64th minute after James Milner's backpass was intercepted by Raheem Sterling who then played a ball for Aguero. The following shot was delayed just a moment which allowed Mingolet to scramble back and make a great save. Then Liverpool crushed all hope of the home fans when Martin Skrtel struck one sweetly off the shoelaces in the 81st minute.
Liverpool fans will soak up this victory and all the good feelings and bragging rights that come with it. Once that is done, the questions will now arise. Football is a fickle sport, but which Liverpool is the real one? Are we more likely to see the LFC seen in a defeat to Crystal Palace or the one on the field for the victory over Manchester City? Can Liverpool really contend for a top four spot or was this just one good performance a flash in the pan? Only the players and manager can tell the answers now. Clearly fans don't know, because so many did not expect this result in the first place.
Random Thoughts:
- You have to hope for the best but expect the worst in regards to Coutinho's potential injury. Liverpool just can't seem to keep anyone healthy the last few years. Just when the team seemed poised to have a solid scoring partnership, it seems the way things turn out for the Reds to have it dashed by another injury.
- It was surprising to see Firmino in the forward slot with no Benteke or Sturridge, given the focus on the latter two training prior to the match.
- Liverpool obviously had a few players out on international duty, but I think the extra week of nothing but training had to help. As mentioned at the end of the article, only the players know if this was a one-off or the start of the true Liverpool but they need to hold onto whatever mentality they used to win this contest. It will come in handy when the games start flying at you during the holidays.
- How sweet was it that Sterling was kept so quiet in this game? Yes, he has lived up to much of the potential seen in him. He is going to be a great player despite what any of us fans wished or thought. Nevertheless, for one night, it was the kind of performance or lack thereof that Liverpool fans take extra pleasure from. It was the cherry on top.
Walk On
Saturday, October 31, 2015
Liverpool Rally Behind the "Normal One"...Bye Bye "Special One"?
It was an improbable result to imagine a few months ago. Chelsea were flying high as champions of the Premier League and Liverpool were still struggling to deal with injuries and get new signings to gel within the squad. My, how things have changed. Liverpool have struggled to find the results but they still looked like a team with plenty in front of them. Chelsea on the other hand have appeared to be a shell of a team despite the majority of last year's championship squad still being in place.
The match got off to a rough start for the Reds and a dream start for Chelsea. Ramires was fed a line drive cross from the right in the fourth minute and he smartly finished it off with the head. Simon Mingolet had no chance and the defenders, though ball watching yet again, were left relatively powerless even if they were in perfect position. As mentioned, it was a dream start for Ramires, who had just signed a new contract, a dream start for the Blues and a perfect start for Jose Mourinho.
Chelsea almost doubled their advantage two minutes later after a free kick led to a header on the near side that sliced across the face of goal. Martin Skrtel was tightly marking John Terry and almost surely prevented a goal. Then Mourinho became Mourinho. Despite all his talents as a manager and skills for providing wins for whichever club he is managing, Mourinho can't help but slide into defensive shells when he thinks it is beneficial. You can't argue completely with his tactics as he has won so much, but it does not provide beautiful football when his teams often have so much skill.
Although Liverpool never looked disinterested, they just seemed to lack that spark, as we have seen so many times, unfortunately, regardless of who the manager is. But, seemingly from nowhere, the Reds would get that spark. Coutinho, known mainly for his right foot, created a large area of space just outside the box as he cut the ball back to his left as the halftime break was approaching. Whether it was intentional or not, there was not a ton of power on the shot but it was placed to perfection. Asmir Begovic, the Blues' goalkeeper was left with no chance at all as the shot came from near the center of the pitch and was slotted neatly into the left hand side of the net.
Immediately after the goal was scored, the camera cut to Mourinho, who was headed down the walkway to the dressing room. Whether he was already down there and came back to see the goal or the goal forced his departure is unknown, but a sweet sight for the Liverpool supporters. It almost seemed a bit of foreshadowing, for the result of the contest and for the possible future of the Chelsea manager.
Nothing would be for sure for most of the second half. The game went almost 30 minutes with little from either side to make one believe this would not be another game where Liverpool would fail to score more than a goal and another contest where Chelsea would not take full points. That all changed in the 74th minute. Fulfilling a Liverpool penchant for scoring goals in bunches after a long dry spell, Coutinho knocked home his second of the contest. Starting from a nothing play, a long ball from midfield, Christian Benteke nodded it down. The ball went just by a teammate, but came right to the Brazilian and he made sure to put it to bed. Getting a deflection off the defender helped the ball in, but the right footer may have been destined for a goal no matter what.
The icing on the cake came nine minutes later. The Chelsea defense went to sleep and Benteke made them pay. The summer signing, despite injuries, still proving he is a capable scorer took the ball after an Adam Lallana stepover. The big striker took a couple dribbles at the reeling defenders, tucked the ball away and that was all she wrote. Chelsea had chances before and after that, including a little chip attempt that Mingolet scrambled back to parry away, but there was always a hint this would be the result from that reaction at the half.
These are teams that are not headed in polar opposite directions, being as neither is where they want to be. However, Liverpool are on the edge, peeking in at the top four now. Chelsea, on the other hand, are dangling over that relegation zone. Few gave Liverpool much of a chance, given their lack of scoring and playing at Stamford Bridge, but those are the games that show why you go out and play and not let the pundits decide. There are still a myriad of things to alter and get better with for the Reds, but few victories taste as sweet as one over Chelsea and the players and their manager earned it.
Random Thoughts:
- Being a fan of a team that sings "Manchester is full of s***" leaves little room to take a moral stand. However, it seemed like all of Chelsea's songs had to do with spiteful things, like Steven Gerrard and never winning again etc. Made the final result a little bit sweeter with their silence.
- Oh how I look forward to a day when Liverpool has two healthy strikers. I'm no tactical genius and will never claim to be a coach. That said, this team just seems set up to play with two strikers and Coutinho tucked in behind. You have to have everyone healthy, which seems impossible of late, and it creates problems with who to play in midfield but if it is beneficial to the team then that's all anyone can ask for.
- Mourinho proved how much of a clown he can be as he refused to say anything to the postmatch reporter. He kept saying he had nothing to say and looking at the man like he was an idiot for doing his job. The egotist may feel better for not speaking, but he has done himself no favors.
- I never root for anyone to lose their job, no matter how much I dislike them. Even so, to paraphrase a certain dark lord of the Sith - This will be a day long remembered. Liverpool may have seen to the end of Mourinho and perhaps caused the relegation of Chelsea.
- That last one was a bit harsh, but when you have family members who root for Chelsea, it's ok to have a little dig ;)
Walk On
The match got off to a rough start for the Reds and a dream start for Chelsea. Ramires was fed a line drive cross from the right in the fourth minute and he smartly finished it off with the head. Simon Mingolet had no chance and the defenders, though ball watching yet again, were left relatively powerless even if they were in perfect position. As mentioned, it was a dream start for Ramires, who had just signed a new contract, a dream start for the Blues and a perfect start for Jose Mourinho.
Chelsea almost doubled their advantage two minutes later after a free kick led to a header on the near side that sliced across the face of goal. Martin Skrtel was tightly marking John Terry and almost surely prevented a goal. Then Mourinho became Mourinho. Despite all his talents as a manager and skills for providing wins for whichever club he is managing, Mourinho can't help but slide into defensive shells when he thinks it is beneficial. You can't argue completely with his tactics as he has won so much, but it does not provide beautiful football when his teams often have so much skill.
Although Liverpool never looked disinterested, they just seemed to lack that spark, as we have seen so many times, unfortunately, regardless of who the manager is. But, seemingly from nowhere, the Reds would get that spark. Coutinho, known mainly for his right foot, created a large area of space just outside the box as he cut the ball back to his left as the halftime break was approaching. Whether it was intentional or not, there was not a ton of power on the shot but it was placed to perfection. Asmir Begovic, the Blues' goalkeeper was left with no chance at all as the shot came from near the center of the pitch and was slotted neatly into the left hand side of the net.
Immediately after the goal was scored, the camera cut to Mourinho, who was headed down the walkway to the dressing room. Whether he was already down there and came back to see the goal or the goal forced his departure is unknown, but a sweet sight for the Liverpool supporters. It almost seemed a bit of foreshadowing, for the result of the contest and for the possible future of the Chelsea manager.
Nothing would be for sure for most of the second half. The game went almost 30 minutes with little from either side to make one believe this would not be another game where Liverpool would fail to score more than a goal and another contest where Chelsea would not take full points. That all changed in the 74th minute. Fulfilling a Liverpool penchant for scoring goals in bunches after a long dry spell, Coutinho knocked home his second of the contest. Starting from a nothing play, a long ball from midfield, Christian Benteke nodded it down. The ball went just by a teammate, but came right to the Brazilian and he made sure to put it to bed. Getting a deflection off the defender helped the ball in, but the right footer may have been destined for a goal no matter what.
The icing on the cake came nine minutes later. The Chelsea defense went to sleep and Benteke made them pay. The summer signing, despite injuries, still proving he is a capable scorer took the ball after an Adam Lallana stepover. The big striker took a couple dribbles at the reeling defenders, tucked the ball away and that was all she wrote. Chelsea had chances before and after that, including a little chip attempt that Mingolet scrambled back to parry away, but there was always a hint this would be the result from that reaction at the half.
These are teams that are not headed in polar opposite directions, being as neither is where they want to be. However, Liverpool are on the edge, peeking in at the top four now. Chelsea, on the other hand, are dangling over that relegation zone. Few gave Liverpool much of a chance, given their lack of scoring and playing at Stamford Bridge, but those are the games that show why you go out and play and not let the pundits decide. There are still a myriad of things to alter and get better with for the Reds, but few victories taste as sweet as one over Chelsea and the players and their manager earned it.
Random Thoughts:
- Being a fan of a team that sings "Manchester is full of s***" leaves little room to take a moral stand. However, it seemed like all of Chelsea's songs had to do with spiteful things, like Steven Gerrard and never winning again etc. Made the final result a little bit sweeter with their silence.
- Oh how I look forward to a day when Liverpool has two healthy strikers. I'm no tactical genius and will never claim to be a coach. That said, this team just seems set up to play with two strikers and Coutinho tucked in behind. You have to have everyone healthy, which seems impossible of late, and it creates problems with who to play in midfield but if it is beneficial to the team then that's all anyone can ask for.
- Mourinho proved how much of a clown he can be as he refused to say anything to the postmatch reporter. He kept saying he had nothing to say and looking at the man like he was an idiot for doing his job. The egotist may feel better for not speaking, but he has done himself no favors.
- I never root for anyone to lose their job, no matter how much I dislike them. Even so, to paraphrase a certain dark lord of the Sith - This will be a day long remembered. Liverpool may have seen to the end of Mourinho and perhaps caused the relegation of Chelsea.
- That last one was a bit harsh, but when you have family members who root for Chelsea, it's ok to have a little dig ;)
Walk On
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