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
Showing posts with label Joe Allen. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Joe Allen. Show all posts
Sunday, May 8, 2016
Thursday, April 7, 2016
Liverpool Almost Steal Win, Settle for Vital Draw in Germany
Liverpool taking on Borussia Dortmund sounds like something that should be taking place in the Champions League. Instead it was a quarterfinal leg in the Europa League. There was a lot of build up to this match, much of it surrounding the fact that Jurgen Klopp was returning to his old post for the first time.
As any coach would say, he was not on the pitch so the focus should not have been on him. Still, the media never listens to such things. Regardless of where the focus was before the match, it ended up on the field during the game.
In the first half hour, it was a typical European match with both sides prodding and probing and feeling out the opponent and the official. Each side got a good chance, but nothing came of it initially.
Dortmund seemed to be taking a hold of the match. Aubameyang just missed a goal from a free kick around the 30 minute mark. The shot was a knuckler that ended up deflecting off a leaping Sakho in the wall and sliced just wide of the net.
The German side then picked up the pace and created several more pushes up the field. They seemed to be pushing the Liverpool defense onto their heels. The Nigerian international had another strike at goal around the 35th minute, but could not find the back of the net. That coupled with Sakho spoiling a 2 on 1 with Aubameyang and Reus that could have spelled the end.
Instead, seemingly against the run of play, Liverpool would strike. In the 36th minute, Divok Origi found a bit of space in the offensive end and made the most of it. Taking possession in the box, off James Milner's header, he managed to settle the ball and instead of hitting it first time, he took an extra touch to his right, got the shot off which took a little knick off the defender and went inside the left post.
Not only did Liverpool send their traveling fans and the thousands, if not millions, watching around the world into a frenzy they got the important away goal. Anytime you give yourself that cushion, you've done well. They still needed to see things out against an extremely talented offensive team, which would not be easy.
The lead almost didn't last through the half. Dejan Lovren came up with a huge block to deny Aubameyang just outside the six yard area in extra time. Then Simon Mignolet had to come up with a block of his own, stopping Marco Reus on the doorstep after the defense did not push off the goal line when the initial corner was stopped.
The joy wouldn't last for long into the second half. Only two minutes and change in, Liverpool gave up a corner. Dortmund took it short and then sent it in from a better angle. Liverpool's defense stood and watched as Mats Hummels attacked the ball and banged it in with the header. Adam Lallana challenged at the end, but he was flat footed and stood no chance.
The Reds seemed undaunted by the goal though. They immediately attacked. Their initial foray into the area was dealt with, but moments later they just pounded away at the net. Chance after chance, two taken by Coutinho were blasted toward net but Roman Weidenfeller was up to the task on three straight occasions with one or two other ones being blocked. The goal could not be taken, but it was a fantastic response.
In the end, the game settled down and little happened after that mad fury. Liverpool had a few more pushes up the field and Dortmund had a couple long balls into the box that forced some nervy moments out of the Liverpool keeper, but both teams seemed settled into a 1-1 draw in the end.
It was a fine result for Liverpool, but the win would have been the ultimate. While Liverpool gave themselves that important away goal, they cannot sit on their laurels in the home match next week. You simply cannot assume you will get the clean sheet at Anfield, so the away goal rule may not even come into play.
However, on the positive side, if Liverpool can pull a similar performance at home as they did on the road then they will be in a great position to make it to the semifinals. Dortmund will look to take better advantage of Liverpool's defending, but after one leg Liverpool is in a good spot and that's all you could ask (though we would have loved the win).
Random Thoughts:
- Those that read this regularly know Joe Allen is right up there with Adam Lallana in my book. I know taking Henderson off was likely due to possible injury or preventing one, but eesh. Gives me the willies when Allen is on. Credit where credit is due though, he did almost set up a score for Coutinho.
- The drawback of being a goalkeeper is that you marvel at opposing keepers coming up with saves while cursing them in the same breath. Weidenfeller was absolutely the only reason Liverpool did not win.
- Like any person that watches this team regularly, the defending gives me pause if not gut problems. That said, both Sakho and Lovren came up with game saving blocks that could have altered the course of the game if not taken.
- I'm probably the only person that doen't analyze every single lineup. That said, it will be interesting to see who is on the pitch next Thursday given players getting more healthy vs players who produced in this fixture.
Walk On
As any coach would say, he was not on the pitch so the focus should not have been on him. Still, the media never listens to such things. Regardless of where the focus was before the match, it ended up on the field during the game.
In the first half hour, it was a typical European match with both sides prodding and probing and feeling out the opponent and the official. Each side got a good chance, but nothing came of it initially.
Dortmund seemed to be taking a hold of the match. Aubameyang just missed a goal from a free kick around the 30 minute mark. The shot was a knuckler that ended up deflecting off a leaping Sakho in the wall and sliced just wide of the net.
The German side then picked up the pace and created several more pushes up the field. They seemed to be pushing the Liverpool defense onto their heels. The Nigerian international had another strike at goal around the 35th minute, but could not find the back of the net. That coupled with Sakho spoiling a 2 on 1 with Aubameyang and Reus that could have spelled the end.
Instead, seemingly against the run of play, Liverpool would strike. In the 36th minute, Divok Origi found a bit of space in the offensive end and made the most of it. Taking possession in the box, off James Milner's header, he managed to settle the ball and instead of hitting it first time, he took an extra touch to his right, got the shot off which took a little knick off the defender and went inside the left post.
Not only did Liverpool send their traveling fans and the thousands, if not millions, watching around the world into a frenzy they got the important away goal. Anytime you give yourself that cushion, you've done well. They still needed to see things out against an extremely talented offensive team, which would not be easy.
The lead almost didn't last through the half. Dejan Lovren came up with a huge block to deny Aubameyang just outside the six yard area in extra time. Then Simon Mignolet had to come up with a block of his own, stopping Marco Reus on the doorstep after the defense did not push off the goal line when the initial corner was stopped.
The joy wouldn't last for long into the second half. Only two minutes and change in, Liverpool gave up a corner. Dortmund took it short and then sent it in from a better angle. Liverpool's defense stood and watched as Mats Hummels attacked the ball and banged it in with the header. Adam Lallana challenged at the end, but he was flat footed and stood no chance.
The Reds seemed undaunted by the goal though. They immediately attacked. Their initial foray into the area was dealt with, but moments later they just pounded away at the net. Chance after chance, two taken by Coutinho were blasted toward net but Roman Weidenfeller was up to the task on three straight occasions with one or two other ones being blocked. The goal could not be taken, but it was a fantastic response.
In the end, the game settled down and little happened after that mad fury. Liverpool had a few more pushes up the field and Dortmund had a couple long balls into the box that forced some nervy moments out of the Liverpool keeper, but both teams seemed settled into a 1-1 draw in the end.
It was a fine result for Liverpool, but the win would have been the ultimate. While Liverpool gave themselves that important away goal, they cannot sit on their laurels in the home match next week. You simply cannot assume you will get the clean sheet at Anfield, so the away goal rule may not even come into play.
However, on the positive side, if Liverpool can pull a similar performance at home as they did on the road then they will be in a great position to make it to the semifinals. Dortmund will look to take better advantage of Liverpool's defending, but after one leg Liverpool is in a good spot and that's all you could ask (though we would have loved the win).
Random Thoughts:
- Those that read this regularly know Joe Allen is right up there with Adam Lallana in my book. I know taking Henderson off was likely due to possible injury or preventing one, but eesh. Gives me the willies when Allen is on. Credit where credit is due though, he did almost set up a score for Coutinho.
- The drawback of being a goalkeeper is that you marvel at opposing keepers coming up with saves while cursing them in the same breath. Weidenfeller was absolutely the only reason Liverpool did not win.
- Like any person that watches this team regularly, the defending gives me pause if not gut problems. That said, both Sakho and Lovren came up with game saving blocks that could have altered the course of the game if not taken.
- I'm probably the only person that doen't analyze every single lineup. That said, it will be interesting to see who is on the pitch next Thursday given players getting more healthy vs players who produced in this fixture.
Walk On
Saturday, February 6, 2016
Liverpool Implode; Only Get Draw Against Lowly Sunderland
The weather in Liverpool was a bit of a harbinger for the day. Cloudy and dim but not completely devoid of something better. It was a typical start for the Reds on the day. Liverpool held the majority of the possession in the first quarter hour but could not find that final ball in the attacking areas as has been their way of late.
Liverpool and Alberto Moreno finally created a chance in the 20th minute. Moreno flashed a left footer across the face of goal, but saw it saved with the left foot of the keeper. Later on in the 30th minute, James Milner was fed a great pass that got into the box. However, instead of shooting, he tried to lay it off on the ground to Adam Lallana, with too many defenders in between. Liverpool again were foiled by themselves in the 40th minute. Joe Allen plunged down the left but served it too far behind Jordan Henderson. Henderson tried to back heel it into the path of a teammate, but again there was just too much reliance on luck instead of knowing where each pass would end up. Roberto Firmino probably came closest to scoring in the first 45 with a crack off the left foot in the 44th minute that sailed about two feet over goal.
LFC had 82% possession and yet nothing was really created. There were chances, as there are in any game, but you never really go the feeling that Liverpool were going to score. It was something we've seen all too often this season. While many, including this writer, are souring on many of the players that take the pitch, there is still just too much potential for this squad to be floundering the way they have been in 2016.
Firmino was again the closest to scoring in the early stages of the second half. Unfortunately, like his earlier chance, it just sailed away from target. Fortunately, though, the Brazilian did not let his missed chances get into his head. In the 59th minute, Firmino got into the space behind the defenders as he readied himself for a cross from the near side off Milner's foot. Firmino just got a nod onto it and cut it back across the grain, giving the Sunderland keeper no shot. 1-0 to the Reds at that point, but still a half hour for either more glory or doom to creep in.
Liverpool definitely put the pressure on after their initial score. Jordan Ibe blasted one off the head of a defender immediately after the goal. Then in the 65th minute both Lallana and Ibe were stopped by good kick saves by Vito Mannone. Henderson also just slashed one wide a minute later. Finally Liverpool would get some cushion in the 70th minute. Firmino intercepted a cross, but instead of taking the shot he dropped it back to the penalty spot where it was finished off by Lallana.
However, Liverpool still never really felt comfortable. Patrick van Aanholt hit the side netting for the opposition in the 66th minute and could have easily laid it into the path of Jermain Defoe. Then the lump in the throat got bigger as Sunderland poached one in the 82nd minute from Adam Johnson. Johnson struck it sweetly and curled it around the wall, but Simon Mignolet should have saved it. Then, in the 89th minute, Dafoe evened it up. Liverpool's defenders just kind of stood behind all the attackers, which allowed Dafoe to spin and easily put it in.
Sadly, this sort of result has come to be more expected than not. The fools in the mainstream media will have a field day, writing clickbait articles about how Jurgen Klopp hasn't had a positive affect and how he hasn't earned as many points per game as his predecessor. The bottom line is that the players just aren't good enough. Changes are in order to get this club back where it needs to be, but for now fans just never know what they're in for. One game you'll see the team that thrashed Manchester City and the next you could lose to a team in the relegation zone. It's not a comfortable feeling, but there's nothing to be done about it at the moment. It's simply the current reality for the Reds.
Random Thoughts:
- Only time will tell how good Alex Teixeira will be. I still contend that Liverpool were right not to pay the amount that China ended up spending to get him.
- As a keeper, I've been there. You know you should have been better, but just failed to get a ball. Therefor, I empathize with Mignolet. Even so, he had to stop that ball from the free kick. There was enough time for him to see it and get down. He was just slow to react and it cost the team.
- I understand that injuries are a part of the modern game. It's because of the fitness regime these players use to keep in top physical condition and eventually the body wears out. That said, either Liverpool need new physios or they just have terrible luck. To be forced to waste two subs in the first half due to injury is just pushing it. Part of me expected Daniel Sturridge to be inserted just so the team could make it three for three.
- You would've hoped the team could perform for their manager, who was out with an apparent appendicitis. Sadly, this lot couldn't even hold a two goal lead for their leader.
Walk On
Liverpool and Alberto Moreno finally created a chance in the 20th minute. Moreno flashed a left footer across the face of goal, but saw it saved with the left foot of the keeper. Later on in the 30th minute, James Milner was fed a great pass that got into the box. However, instead of shooting, he tried to lay it off on the ground to Adam Lallana, with too many defenders in between. Liverpool again were foiled by themselves in the 40th minute. Joe Allen plunged down the left but served it too far behind Jordan Henderson. Henderson tried to back heel it into the path of a teammate, but again there was just too much reliance on luck instead of knowing where each pass would end up. Roberto Firmino probably came closest to scoring in the first 45 with a crack off the left foot in the 44th minute that sailed about two feet over goal.
LFC had 82% possession and yet nothing was really created. There were chances, as there are in any game, but you never really go the feeling that Liverpool were going to score. It was something we've seen all too often this season. While many, including this writer, are souring on many of the players that take the pitch, there is still just too much potential for this squad to be floundering the way they have been in 2016.
Firmino was again the closest to scoring in the early stages of the second half. Unfortunately, like his earlier chance, it just sailed away from target. Fortunately, though, the Brazilian did not let his missed chances get into his head. In the 59th minute, Firmino got into the space behind the defenders as he readied himself for a cross from the near side off Milner's foot. Firmino just got a nod onto it and cut it back across the grain, giving the Sunderland keeper no shot. 1-0 to the Reds at that point, but still a half hour for either more glory or doom to creep in.
Liverpool definitely put the pressure on after their initial score. Jordan Ibe blasted one off the head of a defender immediately after the goal. Then in the 65th minute both Lallana and Ibe were stopped by good kick saves by Vito Mannone. Henderson also just slashed one wide a minute later. Finally Liverpool would get some cushion in the 70th minute. Firmino intercepted a cross, but instead of taking the shot he dropped it back to the penalty spot where it was finished off by Lallana.
However, Liverpool still never really felt comfortable. Patrick van Aanholt hit the side netting for the opposition in the 66th minute and could have easily laid it into the path of Jermain Defoe. Then the lump in the throat got bigger as Sunderland poached one in the 82nd minute from Adam Johnson. Johnson struck it sweetly and curled it around the wall, but Simon Mignolet should have saved it. Then, in the 89th minute, Dafoe evened it up. Liverpool's defenders just kind of stood behind all the attackers, which allowed Dafoe to spin and easily put it in.
Sadly, this sort of result has come to be more expected than not. The fools in the mainstream media will have a field day, writing clickbait articles about how Jurgen Klopp hasn't had a positive affect and how he hasn't earned as many points per game as his predecessor. The bottom line is that the players just aren't good enough. Changes are in order to get this club back where it needs to be, but for now fans just never know what they're in for. One game you'll see the team that thrashed Manchester City and the next you could lose to a team in the relegation zone. It's not a comfortable feeling, but there's nothing to be done about it at the moment. It's simply the current reality for the Reds.
Random Thoughts:
- Only time will tell how good Alex Teixeira will be. I still contend that Liverpool were right not to pay the amount that China ended up spending to get him.
- As a keeper, I've been there. You know you should have been better, but just failed to get a ball. Therefor, I empathize with Mignolet. Even so, he had to stop that ball from the free kick. There was enough time for him to see it and get down. He was just slow to react and it cost the team.
- I understand that injuries are a part of the modern game. It's because of the fitness regime these players use to keep in top physical condition and eventually the body wears out. That said, either Liverpool need new physios or they just have terrible luck. To be forced to waste two subs in the first half due to injury is just pushing it. Part of me expected Daniel Sturridge to be inserted just so the team could make it three for three.
- You would've hoped the team could perform for their manager, who was out with an apparent appendicitis. Sadly, this lot couldn't even hold a two goal lead for their leader.
Walk On
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
It Take Pens To Drop Potters, But Liverpool Will Be At Wembley
Liverpool came into the second leg of the Capital One Cup semifinal up 1-0 with an important away goal, however the Liverpool side that doesn't seem threatening was the one that appeared in the first half. Emre Can's strike was the only really good scoring opportunity of the opening 45 minutes of play for the Reds. They pressed toward goal a few times and were not without skill at all, but there just wasn't that quality that is needed in the final third.
Instead they seemed to be hanging onto the knife's edge. Stoke, though having similar statistical numbers, seemed to be threatening much more. Some of that was due to Liverpool's inadequate defending on corners always putting fan's hearts in their throats and some was simply due to actual lax defending. In the end it would cost them. Marko Arnautovic scored in the first minute of extra time and put his team up 1-0 in the game and even 1-1 in the semifinals.
Arnautovic was clearly offside when viewing the replay, but in the end it doesn't matter. Decisions go for or against teams all the time. Liverpool needed to defend better and simply didn't. If the officials had gotten the call correct, it would have helped the situation, but you could almost feel the goal coming at some point regardless. There can be little doubt that Jurgen Klopp intended his team to try to see out a 1-0 decision over two legs, but that seemed to be the intention of the players on the field. Arnautovic's goal threw a wrench into those plans and the idea of penalties was something that would really stick in the craw of the faithful. It was up to Liverpool to pull it together over the second 45 minutes.
It seemed as though the Reds had taken that to heart as almost from the get-go, Liverpool earned a dangerous freekick from just outside the box. Unfortunately the kick was relatively wasted by Alberto Moreno. The Reds kept up the pressure with Firmino striking one off the near post in the 48th minute. Liverpool had a few other pushes upfield, but only for the first 15 minutes or so. Once the half settled in, Stoke regained their confidence.
Again trying to take advantage of freekicks and corners, they almost struck in the 61st minute. Only a full stretch, sliding tackle by Sakho, who was already dealing with a hamstring issue, managed to stop the go-ahead goal. Liverpool didn't go quietly though. They pressured and were pressured. Their best chance to date came when the ball fell to Jon Flanagan in the 77th minute, but there were so many bodies in front of him that he could do nothing with it. It would be the last real opportunity in regulation as extra time was called for.
Liverpool had a chance early in the extra time as Firmino flashed one wide. Former Red, Peter Crouch did the same from a header just moments later. Then just before the break, Stoke should have scored. Van Ginkle put one off the post after a good feed from Crouch. Van Ginkel almost ended it again in the 24th minute of extra time with a volley that was smothered by Simon Mignolet. In the end, neither team could score despite mistakes made in important areas and the match came down to penalties.
It was as nerve wracking as you would expect and perhaps more than anyone would anticipate given the low esteem the competition has in most eyes. Liverpool didn't blink though. Mignolet saved Crouch's attempt after allowing the initial goal, but Can put it off the post. Then the teams traded four consecutive goals each. Finally, the beleaguered Belgian came through and denied Stoke's second penalty in sudden death. Joe Allen finished off the contest and, perhaps a year too late for Steven Gerrard, Liverpool will be playing in a championship final at Wembley Stadium. It was not the prettiest of games, but earning your way into a final is nothing to be scoffed at.
Random Thoughts:
- Since it seems to be doing some good, I still don't care for Joe Allen.
- I hate penalties. I have yet to figure out a good alternative though. I used to say just let them run til they hit the ground, but would that really be more appealing? I suppose not when you see how the mistakes pile up when fatigue sets in.
- Good on Migs to be a hero. Sure it's a low level cup competition, but he made two big saves. Nobody for Stoke skied one or hit the bar. It was the keeper who came up when he needed to.
- Klopp gambled and won on this occasion. I applaud his decisions given how things turned out, but extra time could have gone extremely differently. Klopp essentially went with Sakho as his only true defender when he pulled off Kolo Toure for Allen and then Flanagan for Jordan Ibe. Yes, I'm aware Moreno was out there, but even though I like him, he's not much of a real defender.
- Whether it's Everton or Manchester City, the final will be no easy game. That said, it will be nice to see Liverpool in a final.
Walk On
Instead they seemed to be hanging onto the knife's edge. Stoke, though having similar statistical numbers, seemed to be threatening much more. Some of that was due to Liverpool's inadequate defending on corners always putting fan's hearts in their throats and some was simply due to actual lax defending. In the end it would cost them. Marko Arnautovic scored in the first minute of extra time and put his team up 1-0 in the game and even 1-1 in the semifinals.
Arnautovic was clearly offside when viewing the replay, but in the end it doesn't matter. Decisions go for or against teams all the time. Liverpool needed to defend better and simply didn't. If the officials had gotten the call correct, it would have helped the situation, but you could almost feel the goal coming at some point regardless. There can be little doubt that Jurgen Klopp intended his team to try to see out a 1-0 decision over two legs, but that seemed to be the intention of the players on the field. Arnautovic's goal threw a wrench into those plans and the idea of penalties was something that would really stick in the craw of the faithful. It was up to Liverpool to pull it together over the second 45 minutes.
It seemed as though the Reds had taken that to heart as almost from the get-go, Liverpool earned a dangerous freekick from just outside the box. Unfortunately the kick was relatively wasted by Alberto Moreno. The Reds kept up the pressure with Firmino striking one off the near post in the 48th minute. Liverpool had a few other pushes upfield, but only for the first 15 minutes or so. Once the half settled in, Stoke regained their confidence.
Again trying to take advantage of freekicks and corners, they almost struck in the 61st minute. Only a full stretch, sliding tackle by Sakho, who was already dealing with a hamstring issue, managed to stop the go-ahead goal. Liverpool didn't go quietly though. They pressured and were pressured. Their best chance to date came when the ball fell to Jon Flanagan in the 77th minute, but there were so many bodies in front of him that he could do nothing with it. It would be the last real opportunity in regulation as extra time was called for.
Liverpool had a chance early in the extra time as Firmino flashed one wide. Former Red, Peter Crouch did the same from a header just moments later. Then just before the break, Stoke should have scored. Van Ginkle put one off the post after a good feed from Crouch. Van Ginkel almost ended it again in the 24th minute of extra time with a volley that was smothered by Simon Mignolet. In the end, neither team could score despite mistakes made in important areas and the match came down to penalties.
It was as nerve wracking as you would expect and perhaps more than anyone would anticipate given the low esteem the competition has in most eyes. Liverpool didn't blink though. Mignolet saved Crouch's attempt after allowing the initial goal, but Can put it off the post. Then the teams traded four consecutive goals each. Finally, the beleaguered Belgian came through and denied Stoke's second penalty in sudden death. Joe Allen finished off the contest and, perhaps a year too late for Steven Gerrard, Liverpool will be playing in a championship final at Wembley Stadium. It was not the prettiest of games, but earning your way into a final is nothing to be scoffed at.
Random Thoughts:
- Since it seems to be doing some good, I still don't care for Joe Allen.
- I hate penalties. I have yet to figure out a good alternative though. I used to say just let them run til they hit the ground, but would that really be more appealing? I suppose not when you see how the mistakes pile up when fatigue sets in.
- Good on Migs to be a hero. Sure it's a low level cup competition, but he made two big saves. Nobody for Stoke skied one or hit the bar. It was the keeper who came up when he needed to.
- Klopp gambled and won on this occasion. I applaud his decisions given how things turned out, but extra time could have gone extremely differently. Klopp essentially went with Sakho as his only true defender when he pulled off Kolo Toure for Allen and then Flanagan for Jordan Ibe. Yes, I'm aware Moreno was out there, but even though I like him, he's not much of a real defender.
- Whether it's Everton or Manchester City, the final will be no easy game. That said, it will be nice to see Liverpool in a final.
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
Wednesday, January 13, 2016
Liverpool Pull Off Miracle Draw Against League Leaders
Throw records out the window. Forget about the injury report. Rivalry games are their own animals and the beast showed up for a good one between Liverpool and Arsenal. This game opened up fast and furious, with the Reds in control of the first quarter hour. Liverpool had the bulk of the possession and looked like the side that crushed Manchester City 4-1 instead of the one that has struggled at times.
Adam Lallana came close to finishing off a good bit of play in the 6th minute, only to clash with a defender that as correctly not called a penalty. Only four minutes later, Liverpool would strike. After bounding around with several cracks following a corner kick, Roberto Firmino finished off a left footer through the wickets of the defender and past a helpless Petr Cech. Unfortunately instead of turning into a one-way affair, it turned into a boxing match straight out of Hollywood.
Arsenal answered in the 14th minute when Aaron Ramsey struck on a play from nothing. Arsenal had had almost no attack at all and then when the ball just slipped through the defenders, Ramsey made Liverpool pay at the near post. The pendulum swung back the other way in the 19th minute.
Firmino, like his Brazilian compatriot Coutinho (who is out injured), after it had bounced around like a hot potato outside the box and spun a brilliant curling shot into the upper 90. It was a fantastic goal and a fantastic finish to a run of play that Liverpool had shown up to that point. Alas, things would turn sour from then on.
In the 25th minute, Arsenal almost equalized but Sakho cleared the initial attempt over the bar only to see an even worse goal go in directly off the ensuing corner kick. Everything went wrong on that corner kick. Simon Mignolet did not react well to the deflection from Olivier Giroud, the defenders watched the ball with little reaction until it was too late and Liverpool had nobody on the near post when one body would have easily stopped the attempt.
Liverpool had a few runs and chances before the end of the half, but could not capitalize and would be made to pay soon after the half. Not even ten minutes into the second frame, Giroud would again strike against shoddy Liverpool defending. With bodies just flailing around and flopping on the ground, the Frenchman had a brilliant first touch and then spun against the grain to strike one past the defenders and behind a helpless Mignolet, who was left no time to react.
Liverpool, again, were not without chances. Jordan Ibe made a good run on the right only to be unrewarded and berated by Benteke, who was in no position to receive a pass due to so many players in between. Then, much like their opponents, Liverpool pulled one from nowhere. Again, taking advantage of failures to clear, Liverpool kept the ball alive. Benteke headed one across the box in stoppage time and the recent sub, Joe Allen, smashed one in off the fingertips of Cech.
The final whistle would go not long after with a 3-3 scoreline as the final of this midweek clash. It was an insane contest. The Liverpool that dominated the game for so long early, deserved much more than what they got. In contrast, the Liverpool that was floundering in the rain and snow while Arsenal consolidated the momentum deserved much worse than this result. Everything taken as a whole, it was a fair result to both squads.
Arsenal will be disappointed because they are now tied on points, instead of in sole possession of the top spot in the table. Liverpool will be disappointed because three points would have drawn them much closer to the top four. Instead, both will be satisfied because they could easily have lost as they could have won. Both will take positives out of this game due to their team's tenacity. Liverpool have another crack at glory as they take on the hated Manchester United on the weekend. Given the two clubs' positions in the table, that contest holds even more importance. For now, they must rest and focus on the things they did right on this night.
Random Thoughts:
- In an effort to not be two-faced, I will not say that this one goal does enough to put Joe Allen in a good light in my eyes. That said, as anyone who follows the club, you celebrate good performances by any player and even if only for one brief moment, Joe Allen was a huge factor.
- As a goalkeeper, I will always side with my fellow union members. I have constantly said that Mignolet is a great shot stopper and unless you can find a keeper who is better at everything - not just better at defending corners - then you don't make a change. That said, Mignolet seems to make a case against me repeatedly. There were several things that could have gone differently on that initial Giroud goal, but Mignolet was not blameless by any stretch.
- On a personal note, it was a fantastic result for me personally. I desperately wanted the win, but given the cloud of doom and feeling of unworthiness over the St. Louis area after the Rams left in the manner they did, it was nice to be distracted for a few hours and see some good football as well. For those that want further insight into my feelings on that matter you can see my YouTube show here: https://youtu.be/kcTno6Ir4qY
- For fans, two points out of six against Arsenal isn't great, but the way each individual game played out it was more than enough. Now, onto the weekend.
Walk On
Adam Lallana came close to finishing off a good bit of play in the 6th minute, only to clash with a defender that as correctly not called a penalty. Only four minutes later, Liverpool would strike. After bounding around with several cracks following a corner kick, Roberto Firmino finished off a left footer through the wickets of the defender and past a helpless Petr Cech. Unfortunately instead of turning into a one-way affair, it turned into a boxing match straight out of Hollywood.
Arsenal answered in the 14th minute when Aaron Ramsey struck on a play from nothing. Arsenal had had almost no attack at all and then when the ball just slipped through the defenders, Ramsey made Liverpool pay at the near post. The pendulum swung back the other way in the 19th minute.
Firmino, like his Brazilian compatriot Coutinho (who is out injured), after it had bounced around like a hot potato outside the box and spun a brilliant curling shot into the upper 90. It was a fantastic goal and a fantastic finish to a run of play that Liverpool had shown up to that point. Alas, things would turn sour from then on.
In the 25th minute, Arsenal almost equalized but Sakho cleared the initial attempt over the bar only to see an even worse goal go in directly off the ensuing corner kick. Everything went wrong on that corner kick. Simon Mignolet did not react well to the deflection from Olivier Giroud, the defenders watched the ball with little reaction until it was too late and Liverpool had nobody on the near post when one body would have easily stopped the attempt.
Liverpool had a few runs and chances before the end of the half, but could not capitalize and would be made to pay soon after the half. Not even ten minutes into the second frame, Giroud would again strike against shoddy Liverpool defending. With bodies just flailing around and flopping on the ground, the Frenchman had a brilliant first touch and then spun against the grain to strike one past the defenders and behind a helpless Mignolet, who was left no time to react.
Liverpool, again, were not without chances. Jordan Ibe made a good run on the right only to be unrewarded and berated by Benteke, who was in no position to receive a pass due to so many players in between. Then, much like their opponents, Liverpool pulled one from nowhere. Again, taking advantage of failures to clear, Liverpool kept the ball alive. Benteke headed one across the box in stoppage time and the recent sub, Joe Allen, smashed one in off the fingertips of Cech.
The final whistle would go not long after with a 3-3 scoreline as the final of this midweek clash. It was an insane contest. The Liverpool that dominated the game for so long early, deserved much more than what they got. In contrast, the Liverpool that was floundering in the rain and snow while Arsenal consolidated the momentum deserved much worse than this result. Everything taken as a whole, it was a fair result to both squads.
Arsenal will be disappointed because they are now tied on points, instead of in sole possession of the top spot in the table. Liverpool will be disappointed because three points would have drawn them much closer to the top four. Instead, both will be satisfied because they could easily have lost as they could have won. Both will take positives out of this game due to their team's tenacity. Liverpool have another crack at glory as they take on the hated Manchester United on the weekend. Given the two clubs' positions in the table, that contest holds even more importance. For now, they must rest and focus on the things they did right on this night.
Random Thoughts:
- In an effort to not be two-faced, I will not say that this one goal does enough to put Joe Allen in a good light in my eyes. That said, as anyone who follows the club, you celebrate good performances by any player and even if only for one brief moment, Joe Allen was a huge factor.
- As a goalkeeper, I will always side with my fellow union members. I have constantly said that Mignolet is a great shot stopper and unless you can find a keeper who is better at everything - not just better at defending corners - then you don't make a change. That said, Mignolet seems to make a case against me repeatedly. There were several things that could have gone differently on that initial Giroud goal, but Mignolet was not blameless by any stretch.
- On a personal note, it was a fantastic result for me personally. I desperately wanted the win, but given the cloud of doom and feeling of unworthiness over the St. Louis area after the Rams left in the manner they did, it was nice to be distracted for a few hours and see some good football as well. For those that want further insight into my feelings on that matter you can see my YouTube show here: https://youtu.be/kcTno6Ir4qY
- For fans, two points out of six against Arsenal isn't great, but the way each individual game played out it was more than enough. Now, onto the weekend.
Walk On
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Liverpool Win the Game But Lose the Injury War in League Cup Match
The Capital One Cup, as ever, is a competition of major consternation for fans. Some see the value, especially if things are not going well in the league, and others see it as nothing but a distraction. In the opening 45 minutes of the semifinal against Stoke, both sides would see their opinions validated.
Liverpool saw things come crashing down in the grand scheme of things, as an already injury riddled team was bitten once more. Hamstring injuries cost both Dejan Lovren and, perhaps more importantly, Coutinho their days very early in the contest. On the flip side of that coin, one of the substitutes, Jordan Ibe, provided the moment of brilliance that would put the Reds on top of the match.
Ibe put in a left footer in the 37th minte. After initially controlling what appeared to be a mishit shot by Joe Allen, Ibe neatly tucked it into the side netting on the far side to finish off one of many first half chances by Liverpool. Unfortunately for the Reds, it was their only score of the half when they should have had several. Even the commentator, Jon Champion, mentioned that it should not have been a surprise that Liverpool had the lead but by how many.
That failure to score more than one in the opening half looked like something Liverpool might rue once the second opened. Stoke, having received a stern talking to in the locker room no doubt, came out strong and tested the weakened Liverpool backline. Due to Lovren's injury, James Milner came on as the sub and Lucas was pushed into a de facto center back role. This worked fine when Liverpool were on the attack early in the game, but was decidedly a disadvantage in the second.
Liverpool created the odd chance, but never seemed to fully regain their grasp on the game. Even when seemingly defending well, things almost went wrong. In the 77th minute, a deflected shot almost chipped Simon Mignolet. Fortunately the keeper was on his toes and able to poke it over the crossbar.
The night seemed to get worse as it went on. Kolo Toure was suffering from a hamstring injury with all the Reds' subs used up. As he soldiered on, Jonathan Walters almost equalized right at the death but saw it scrape the face of goal and go wide.
Liverpool will count their blessings with the 1-0 victory. While they should have won by more and should be disappointed to once again fail to score more than a goal and rely on defense in the second half, they will be glad to have scored the all important away goal and kept their hopes of a Wembly final alive and well.
Fans will, no doubt, lament the injuries. Liverpool could well be without any of their center backs going into their FA Cup match against Exeter on January 8th. Depending on severity, they could be without Coutinho for awhile with important matches in the league coming up. Sadly, given the team's league form of late, the focus may need to stay on cup competitions. At this stage, all fans can do is wait for the ever-growing injury report.
Random Thoughts:
- It was nice to be able to see this match on television. It won't last, since it is only a free preview of BeInSports for ATT-Uverse, but at least I didn't have to worry about virus-laden links to online viewing.
- Liverpool will almost have to turn to their youth teams for defending in their next match, regardless of how much importance they wish to put on a cup match. With every single central defender currently hobbled, it might not be worth the risk to send anyone out there at less than 100%. Especially when none of them might even be at 50%. LFC's best hope is that Toure only had a cramp.
- Jurgen Klopp's recent comment about hating hamstrings is going from an amusing comment to an actual disdain. Since few, if any, of those reading this (and certainly myself) have not played at a professional level, we can't fully understand the complexities of injuries and how the amount games or lack thereof can impact it. That being said, it seems too coincidental that almost all of Liverpool's injuries seem to be hamstring related. Either the training staff needs to be examined or the training methods.
Walk On
Liverpool saw things come crashing down in the grand scheme of things, as an already injury riddled team was bitten once more. Hamstring injuries cost both Dejan Lovren and, perhaps more importantly, Coutinho their days very early in the contest. On the flip side of that coin, one of the substitutes, Jordan Ibe, provided the moment of brilliance that would put the Reds on top of the match.
Ibe put in a left footer in the 37th minte. After initially controlling what appeared to be a mishit shot by Joe Allen, Ibe neatly tucked it into the side netting on the far side to finish off one of many first half chances by Liverpool. Unfortunately for the Reds, it was their only score of the half when they should have had several. Even the commentator, Jon Champion, mentioned that it should not have been a surprise that Liverpool had the lead but by how many.
That failure to score more than one in the opening half looked like something Liverpool might rue once the second opened. Stoke, having received a stern talking to in the locker room no doubt, came out strong and tested the weakened Liverpool backline. Due to Lovren's injury, James Milner came on as the sub and Lucas was pushed into a de facto center back role. This worked fine when Liverpool were on the attack early in the game, but was decidedly a disadvantage in the second.
Liverpool created the odd chance, but never seemed to fully regain their grasp on the game. Even when seemingly defending well, things almost went wrong. In the 77th minute, a deflected shot almost chipped Simon Mignolet. Fortunately the keeper was on his toes and able to poke it over the crossbar.
The night seemed to get worse as it went on. Kolo Toure was suffering from a hamstring injury with all the Reds' subs used up. As he soldiered on, Jonathan Walters almost equalized right at the death but saw it scrape the face of goal and go wide.
Liverpool will count their blessings with the 1-0 victory. While they should have won by more and should be disappointed to once again fail to score more than a goal and rely on defense in the second half, they will be glad to have scored the all important away goal and kept their hopes of a Wembly final alive and well.
Fans will, no doubt, lament the injuries. Liverpool could well be without any of their center backs going into their FA Cup match against Exeter on January 8th. Depending on severity, they could be without Coutinho for awhile with important matches in the league coming up. Sadly, given the team's league form of late, the focus may need to stay on cup competitions. At this stage, all fans can do is wait for the ever-growing injury report.
Random Thoughts:
- It was nice to be able to see this match on television. It won't last, since it is only a free preview of BeInSports for ATT-Uverse, but at least I didn't have to worry about virus-laden links to online viewing.
- Liverpool will almost have to turn to their youth teams for defending in their next match, regardless of how much importance they wish to put on a cup match. With every single central defender currently hobbled, it might not be worth the risk to send anyone out there at less than 100%. Especially when none of them might even be at 50%. LFC's best hope is that Toure only had a cramp.
- Jurgen Klopp's recent comment about hating hamstrings is going from an amusing comment to an actual disdain. Since few, if any, of those reading this (and certainly myself) have not played at a professional level, we can't fully understand the complexities of injuries and how the amount games or lack thereof can impact it. That being said, it seems too coincidental that almost all of Liverpool's injuries seem to be hamstring related. Either the training staff needs to be examined or the training methods.
Walk On
Wednesday, April 8, 2015
Liverpool Earn Wembley Appearance
Liverpool earned their way into an appearance at Wembley Stadium for an FA Cup semifinal match with Aston Villa. A hard fought replay against Blackburn Rovers went the Reds' way with a 1-0 win. In very few ways, if any, was this the game Liverpool fans were hoping for, but it was a victory. Following two bad losses to Manchester United and Arsenal in the league and several weeks of controversy surrounding the contract status of Raheem Sterling, Liverpool simply needed some positivity.
It wasn't the prettiest of games. Much of the first half, for Liverpool, was spent in possession that went nowhere. The Reds had the ball, knocked it around the back, pushed forward now and then but really created nothing. There was a nice flick back by Daniel Sturridge in the 16th minute that almost led to a chance. Coutinho had a sharp angle chance blocked in the 18th minute and Liverpool attacked reasonably well in the 20 minute stages. However, there was very little true pressure placed on Blackburn's keeper Simon Eastwood.
For a bit, it even seemed as though things would continue to pile up on Liverpool. Mamadou Sakho picked up an apparent hamstring injury and had to be subbed off in the 27th minute. The Reds were already shorthanded with suspensions to key players and the chosen substitute, Kolo Toure, was about as far from anything resembling good form as you can be in his time against Arsenal.
Things continued in the woe category as Coutinho appeared to have a golden chance in the 36th minute, when his shot seemed destined for the bottom right corner only to have Eastwood come up with a last second save. Eastwood was screened until the ball was about four yards out, which made the stop even more improbable. On the flip side of that coin, Simon Mingolet was called into action in the second half as well. Two huge saves, both diving to his left, probably saved the result for his club.
Mere moments after leaping to stop a drive heading for the upper left side of the goal, Mingolet kept one out of the bottom left with a save rivaling his counterpart. The Belgian keeper saw it very late and was screened by several of his own players. There was also a question of potential handball by Joe Allen, and by the letter of the law it may have been, but it was unintentional and did not alter the shot in any manner. That moment was really a catalyst for Liverpool.
They turned up the pressure in the 50th minute onward. They did allow the occasional counterattack or two, but really steadied the game. Kolo Toure had an excellent block in the 66th minute, not totally erasing his previous performance, but at least putting him back in a more positive light. Finally, Coutinho broke the deadlock in the 70th minute. Coutinho replaced Jordan Henderson on the corner kick and did not have a very good attempt, in all honesty. However, the Brazilian recouped possession, took a quick pass from Henderson in the box and rocketed a shot across the face of goal and in off the post.
One knock on the Reds' squad was their lack of urgency the rest of the half. Plenty could have gone wrong in the final 20 minutes and despite Liverpool's dominance of possession, they did not really seek out that second goal. It almost came back to bite them when Eastwood had a brilliant turn and shot in the box. Mingolet saw the shot late, but got down to block it and smother the 94th minute attempt and ultimately the Reds got the win.
Things haven't gone Liverpool's way lately and a win was sorely needed. While positives weren't abundantly available, they were there. The Reds did not crush the second tier opponent and did not look like world beaters, but they got the job done. They overcame the obstacle of suspensions to Steven Gerrard, Martin Skrtel and Emre Can. Toure did a reasonably good job of coming in and defending. Dejan Lovren was solid in possession and made no mistakes. Joe Allen will never be anyone's first choice, outside of perhaps his manager, but he did a solid job and did exactly what was asked of him in every way. Mingolet continued his top form. Sterling and Coutinho looked very positive as well.
Nobody will ever confuse Blackburn for a true stern test, but Liverpool did what was necessary and took enough away from the game to look forward instead of worrying too much about the last two games. That said, questions still linger for this side as they progress. Though Manchester City continues to leave the door cracked, gaining a top four spot will be incredibly difficult. The specter of a Europa League spot also looms. A league match against Chelsea is still on the horizon, but a date in Wembley Stadium is a pretty sweet carrot to put in your pocket. Now the team must simply look to themselves and do the best they can.
Random thoughts:
- I understand he was playing out of position, but I was confused to see Jordan Henderson constantly in the center of the field when he was technically listed as a wing back.
- Springboarding off that idea, again I realize that Henderson, Sterling or Adam Lallana are all out of position in the wingback position, but you have to put your best players in their best position and let the rest fall where it may. Sterling has been useless in the wing position and should always be part of the attacking trio in the current set up.
- Liverpool's defending corp needs to catch a break. Can will be available in the next match, but the injury to Sakho now throws more cloudiness into an already murky situation back there.
- Speaking of injury, given his recent history, Sturridge's asking to be subbed off was a bit troubling. He did not appear to be laboring, but one still worries when he asks to be removed.
- Liverpool supporters will always do their best to support whoever slips on the red kit. However, changes have to be made to this squad. Age and injury have played a huge role but players like Allen and Lucas just aren't good enough to be consistently relied upon and regardless of what formation Liverpool use going forward, they have to find a true wingback. The constant rotation on the outside is frustrating as a fan and provides no stability from a team standpoint.
- Things have been set up in a positive way for Liverpool. Aston Villa is probably going to be more concerned with staying out of the relegation zone and is in poor form to begin with. A finals appearance is not assured, but seems likely. Unfortunately, Liverpool may be forced to see an in-form Arsenal team once more, should that finals spot be attained.
Walk On.
It wasn't the prettiest of games. Much of the first half, for Liverpool, was spent in possession that went nowhere. The Reds had the ball, knocked it around the back, pushed forward now and then but really created nothing. There was a nice flick back by Daniel Sturridge in the 16th minute that almost led to a chance. Coutinho had a sharp angle chance blocked in the 18th minute and Liverpool attacked reasonably well in the 20 minute stages. However, there was very little true pressure placed on Blackburn's keeper Simon Eastwood.
For a bit, it even seemed as though things would continue to pile up on Liverpool. Mamadou Sakho picked up an apparent hamstring injury and had to be subbed off in the 27th minute. The Reds were already shorthanded with suspensions to key players and the chosen substitute, Kolo Toure, was about as far from anything resembling good form as you can be in his time against Arsenal.
Things continued in the woe category as Coutinho appeared to have a golden chance in the 36th minute, when his shot seemed destined for the bottom right corner only to have Eastwood come up with a last second save. Eastwood was screened until the ball was about four yards out, which made the stop even more improbable. On the flip side of that coin, Simon Mingolet was called into action in the second half as well. Two huge saves, both diving to his left, probably saved the result for his club.
Mere moments after leaping to stop a drive heading for the upper left side of the goal, Mingolet kept one out of the bottom left with a save rivaling his counterpart. The Belgian keeper saw it very late and was screened by several of his own players. There was also a question of potential handball by Joe Allen, and by the letter of the law it may have been, but it was unintentional and did not alter the shot in any manner. That moment was really a catalyst for Liverpool.
They turned up the pressure in the 50th minute onward. They did allow the occasional counterattack or two, but really steadied the game. Kolo Toure had an excellent block in the 66th minute, not totally erasing his previous performance, but at least putting him back in a more positive light. Finally, Coutinho broke the deadlock in the 70th minute. Coutinho replaced Jordan Henderson on the corner kick and did not have a very good attempt, in all honesty. However, the Brazilian recouped possession, took a quick pass from Henderson in the box and rocketed a shot across the face of goal and in off the post.
One knock on the Reds' squad was their lack of urgency the rest of the half. Plenty could have gone wrong in the final 20 minutes and despite Liverpool's dominance of possession, they did not really seek out that second goal. It almost came back to bite them when Eastwood had a brilliant turn and shot in the box. Mingolet saw the shot late, but got down to block it and smother the 94th minute attempt and ultimately the Reds got the win.
Things haven't gone Liverpool's way lately and a win was sorely needed. While positives weren't abundantly available, they were there. The Reds did not crush the second tier opponent and did not look like world beaters, but they got the job done. They overcame the obstacle of suspensions to Steven Gerrard, Martin Skrtel and Emre Can. Toure did a reasonably good job of coming in and defending. Dejan Lovren was solid in possession and made no mistakes. Joe Allen will never be anyone's first choice, outside of perhaps his manager, but he did a solid job and did exactly what was asked of him in every way. Mingolet continued his top form. Sterling and Coutinho looked very positive as well.
Nobody will ever confuse Blackburn for a true stern test, but Liverpool did what was necessary and took enough away from the game to look forward instead of worrying too much about the last two games. That said, questions still linger for this side as they progress. Though Manchester City continues to leave the door cracked, gaining a top four spot will be incredibly difficult. The specter of a Europa League spot also looms. A league match against Chelsea is still on the horizon, but a date in Wembley Stadium is a pretty sweet carrot to put in your pocket. Now the team must simply look to themselves and do the best they can.
Random thoughts:
- I understand he was playing out of position, but I was confused to see Jordan Henderson constantly in the center of the field when he was technically listed as a wing back.
- Springboarding off that idea, again I realize that Henderson, Sterling or Adam Lallana are all out of position in the wingback position, but you have to put your best players in their best position and let the rest fall where it may. Sterling has been useless in the wing position and should always be part of the attacking trio in the current set up.
- Liverpool's defending corp needs to catch a break. Can will be available in the next match, but the injury to Sakho now throws more cloudiness into an already murky situation back there.
- Speaking of injury, given his recent history, Sturridge's asking to be subbed off was a bit troubling. He did not appear to be laboring, but one still worries when he asks to be removed.
- Liverpool supporters will always do their best to support whoever slips on the red kit. However, changes have to be made to this squad. Age and injury have played a huge role but players like Allen and Lucas just aren't good enough to be consistently relied upon and regardless of what formation Liverpool use going forward, they have to find a true wingback. The constant rotation on the outside is frustrating as a fan and provides no stability from a team standpoint.
- Things have been set up in a positive way for Liverpool. Aston Villa is probably going to be more concerned with staying out of the relegation zone and is in poor form to begin with. A finals appearance is not assured, but seems likely. Unfortunately, Liverpool may be forced to see an in-form Arsenal team once more, should that finals spot be attained.
Walk On.
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
Bland Midweek Win Pushes Liverpool Back into Fifth
Liverpool's midweek match against Burnley in the league provided no real surprises. Liverpool managed a relatively easy win over a side struggling to get out of the relegation zone. Burnley had only won four times in 27 matches prior and had not won at Anfield in 41 years. Therefor, the mountain for them to climb was always going to be a difficult one and the Liverpool players made it even steeper by coming out and doing their jobs.
It was by no means a perfect game. The Reds failed to convert on chances that they may have if clicking on all cylinders, but ultimately it did not matter too much. Daniel Sturridge had a pretty good game. Obviously his form has had peaks and valleys since his return, but he remains a key for the squad to get into the top four by the end of the season. Sturridge scored a very good goal. Jordan Henderson sent in a beautiful cross from the right wing and Sturridge slipped between two defenders to nod in the second goal of the game. However, he failed to score on a breakaway and turned away from a cross that may have led to a goal as well.
Sturridge's game continues to evolve as he regains his fitness. When he is at his best, he continues to be a catalyst for good things for Liverpool. The only downside to his current form is, at times, he seems to be bitten by the Balotelli bug. There are brief times where the effort appears to not be there. There are times he shrinks back from challenges and does not go full boar the way he had last season. This is forgivable given the several injuries he accrued before finally settling back in the team this year, but one can only hope that once he feels 100% confident that he will attack without holding back.
This was one of those games where there really wasn't a whole lot to glean from it. Liverpool won, which they were expected to do. They held onto the ball for the majority of the game, which they were expected to do. They limited the chances of their opponent, which given Burnley's goal differential of minus 20 before the match, didn't seem like too tall of an order.
Things were not negative coming out of this game though, despite the lack of enthusiasm from yours truly. Liverpool could have had more goals and should have, but other than that they did what they needed to do. They needed to win to stay within reach of the top four and did so, not knowing how the results of other matches were going. They got the victory without really expending a lot of energy as well, which is a definite plus given the 120 minutes they poured into their match against Besiktas and the emotion it took to get a victory over Manchester City only 3 days later. In addition to that, they got another clean sheet, which is something they struggled to do at the beginning of the year but are now getting in regularity.
As a team, nothing spectacular came from the match but as individuals there were several top notch performances. Coutinho continues to show that when his head is in the game, he is a game changer. He has speed, touch, shiftiness, an eye for the pass and an ability to score. The fact that Liverpool locked him up for several more years is a definite plus. Emre Can continues to show improvement and versatility. He is solid enough to use as part of the back three, but has shown the talent going forward and on the ball that he will be a very useful talent in the midfield in the years to come. Some have even gone as far to say that he will be the one to step into Steven Gerrard's shoes. I think those shoes are too big for Can to fill alone, but he definitely seems capable of making that void not as wide.
Joe Allen has also become quite the player in the recent weeks. He hasn't done anything flashy or put his name on the score sheet, but that is the point. Many fans, pundits and even myself often questioned why he was even in the squad, let alone the starting XI. Allen was weak on the ball, failed to win challenges and made poor decisions in his passing game in the first half of the season. But he has stepped up in a huge way since Gerrard's injury. By no means has the Welshman played like Gerrard, but he hasn't made mistakes and that's what you look for from a player of his quality. He doesn't need to make the flashy passes or fancy moves. He doesn't need to make pinpoint crosses or even stay on the ball long. He needs to be a linchpin in the midfield and an extra defender when needed and he has done just that.
Then there is Jordan Henderson. Henderson had plenty of scrutiny brought upon him with the penalty kick controversy a few weeks ago. He wasn't given a totally fair shake due to many assuming he will automatically be made captain once Gerrard comes to America. He did himself no favors by not playing particularly well either. However, the past few games he has really stepped up his game and not just due to the fact he has scored. Henderson has grown over the past couple weeks and dealt with adversity very well. He shrugged off the Europa League nonsense and came up huge for his team. Henderson scored an incredible goal in a big match against City that would have been the goal of the month or week, if not for Coutinho's strike. Then he scored a cracker of a shot against Burnley and dropped a cross right onto Sturridge's head for the insurance tally. Henderson might not be the captain in future years and will definitely never be the next Gerrard, but as long as he's the best Jordan Henderson he can be then he has justified his place in this club.
The bottom line is that Liverpool continue to win. Win pretty, win ugly, with with style or just get the job done. They did that today. It won't go down in the annals of Anfield as an historic or memorable match, but it didn't need to be. Over the course of a season, there are so many matches that it's impossible to show flair and style every single time. Even the super-clubs like Barcelona or Bayern Munich can't accomplish that. In the end, as long as the club continues to win then it doesn't matter how it was accomplished. Just continue to win and the rest will take care of itself.
Walk On
It was by no means a perfect game. The Reds failed to convert on chances that they may have if clicking on all cylinders, but ultimately it did not matter too much. Daniel Sturridge had a pretty good game. Obviously his form has had peaks and valleys since his return, but he remains a key for the squad to get into the top four by the end of the season. Sturridge scored a very good goal. Jordan Henderson sent in a beautiful cross from the right wing and Sturridge slipped between two defenders to nod in the second goal of the game. However, he failed to score on a breakaway and turned away from a cross that may have led to a goal as well.
Sturridge's game continues to evolve as he regains his fitness. When he is at his best, he continues to be a catalyst for good things for Liverpool. The only downside to his current form is, at times, he seems to be bitten by the Balotelli bug. There are brief times where the effort appears to not be there. There are times he shrinks back from challenges and does not go full boar the way he had last season. This is forgivable given the several injuries he accrued before finally settling back in the team this year, but one can only hope that once he feels 100% confident that he will attack without holding back.
This was one of those games where there really wasn't a whole lot to glean from it. Liverpool won, which they were expected to do. They held onto the ball for the majority of the game, which they were expected to do. They limited the chances of their opponent, which given Burnley's goal differential of minus 20 before the match, didn't seem like too tall of an order.
Things were not negative coming out of this game though, despite the lack of enthusiasm from yours truly. Liverpool could have had more goals and should have, but other than that they did what they needed to do. They needed to win to stay within reach of the top four and did so, not knowing how the results of other matches were going. They got the victory without really expending a lot of energy as well, which is a definite plus given the 120 minutes they poured into their match against Besiktas and the emotion it took to get a victory over Manchester City only 3 days later. In addition to that, they got another clean sheet, which is something they struggled to do at the beginning of the year but are now getting in regularity.
As a team, nothing spectacular came from the match but as individuals there were several top notch performances. Coutinho continues to show that when his head is in the game, he is a game changer. He has speed, touch, shiftiness, an eye for the pass and an ability to score. The fact that Liverpool locked him up for several more years is a definite plus. Emre Can continues to show improvement and versatility. He is solid enough to use as part of the back three, but has shown the talent going forward and on the ball that he will be a very useful talent in the midfield in the years to come. Some have even gone as far to say that he will be the one to step into Steven Gerrard's shoes. I think those shoes are too big for Can to fill alone, but he definitely seems capable of making that void not as wide.
Joe Allen has also become quite the player in the recent weeks. He hasn't done anything flashy or put his name on the score sheet, but that is the point. Many fans, pundits and even myself often questioned why he was even in the squad, let alone the starting XI. Allen was weak on the ball, failed to win challenges and made poor decisions in his passing game in the first half of the season. But he has stepped up in a huge way since Gerrard's injury. By no means has the Welshman played like Gerrard, but he hasn't made mistakes and that's what you look for from a player of his quality. He doesn't need to make the flashy passes or fancy moves. He doesn't need to make pinpoint crosses or even stay on the ball long. He needs to be a linchpin in the midfield and an extra defender when needed and he has done just that.
Then there is Jordan Henderson. Henderson had plenty of scrutiny brought upon him with the penalty kick controversy a few weeks ago. He wasn't given a totally fair shake due to many assuming he will automatically be made captain once Gerrard comes to America. He did himself no favors by not playing particularly well either. However, the past few games he has really stepped up his game and not just due to the fact he has scored. Henderson has grown over the past couple weeks and dealt with adversity very well. He shrugged off the Europa League nonsense and came up huge for his team. Henderson scored an incredible goal in a big match against City that would have been the goal of the month or week, if not for Coutinho's strike. Then he scored a cracker of a shot against Burnley and dropped a cross right onto Sturridge's head for the insurance tally. Henderson might not be the captain in future years and will definitely never be the next Gerrard, but as long as he's the best Jordan Henderson he can be then he has justified his place in this club.
The bottom line is that Liverpool continue to win. Win pretty, win ugly, with with style or just get the job done. They did that today. It won't go down in the annals of Anfield as an historic or memorable match, but it didn't need to be. Over the course of a season, there are so many matches that it's impossible to show flair and style every single time. Even the super-clubs like Barcelona or Bayern Munich can't accomplish that. In the end, as long as the club continues to win then it doesn't matter how it was accomplished. Just continue to win and the rest will take care of itself.
Walk On
Saturday, February 7, 2015
Bolton Replay May Have Cost Liverpool Merseyside Derby
One of the worries brought up over the course of the past few weeks was how playing an extra match - one that could have been prevented - would affect the team. Given the result of the replay, it seemed worth it to keep Liverpool in the FA Cup tournament. It was a spectacular win, one covered in my previous blog post. It was one that should have given this club loads of confidence heading into their next match - the all important Merseyside Derby.
However, it seemed to have the opposite affect. Liverpool looked tired and listless. Several players had solid performances, but several had less than stellar matches and even bordered on being awful. Steven Gerrard was one of those players. His game was by no means actually awful, but compared to what we have come to expect from the Liverpool captain, it was by no means a typical Gerrard match. He looked slow and a bit off. Gerrard's touch was nowhere near where one would hope it would be, given the fact this match could have been his last Merseyside Derby. His passes were off the mark from the very beginning.
In a play that garnered a chuckle from the NBC broadcast crew, Gerrard sprayed one out wide toward winger Jordan Ibe, when Ibe had already clearly made a run up the pitch. Similar passes were made later in the match as well. By no means is this a statement against Gerrard as a player. It could simply be time catching up or it could be a lack of form given his relative lack of playing time over recent weeks. Or, the most likely answer in reality, is it was just a poor performance and should be written off as such. Unfortunately, we have come to expect great things from Gerrard so often that anything less comes off as much worse than it was in reality.
The Liverpool skipper was by far, not the only player who had a less than stellar match. When you look at the overall performances of the team as a whole, Raheem Sterling, Emre Can and Martin Skrtel were the only players that had good performances. Lucas' departure so early in the match may have been a cause, perhaps throwing the team into a disarray. Joe Allen came on in his stead, and while he did not do anything wrong, he did what Joe Allen tends to do - nothing.
Allen gives his all out there during the match, usually doing a decent job of closing down or trying to plug up space. But given his normal position of a defensive, holding midfielder he just rarely cuts it. He is too small to be effective as a fourth or fifth defender, often getting muscled off the ball especially against Everton on this night. He gives the ball away too often in areas that may not lead to direct counter attacks, but still put his defensive teammates in a poor spot.
Even Daniel Sturridge had a poor showing. Sturridge did nothing wrong, really, but outside of a few nice moments he really disappeared in the late stages of the second half. This is not necessarily a reflection on him. He was not being set up in very opportune spots and often tried to get things going in a positive manner only to run into defenders. The team gained a brief spark when Sturridge first entered the game, but offensively you could tell they were looking to him too much after that instead of taking the game by the scruff.
The defense also returned to their shaky play. They did not fail to mark their counterparts or allow players in behind them. However, their footwork was questionable at best. Emre Can, save for his overconfident play late in the match against Lukaku, was very good. Martin Skrtel was ok. However, Sakho more than made up for both of them and that's not a good thing. Sakho marks his men very well and is a solid defensive back, but there are recreational league players who show better foot skills than Liverpool's left back.
Ultimately, I could go on for paragraph after paragraph singling out players and moments in the match. The bottom line is that this was a very disappointing match. It wasn't an end of the world result. Liverpool gained a point and are still alive. However, it was a match that was winnable and given circumstances in the table it would have been much more valuable to gain the three points as opposed to just one. No one can argue that a draw is not better than a loss, but the listlessness of the match just put a negative spin on this.
The Bolton replay may be to blame. While in the grand scheme of things, it is a positive thing for the club to remain in the FA Cup, it could be partially to blame for this type of result. Despite being a lower level club, Bolton really took it to the Reds in their midweek clash. Despite having their lone goal come on a questionable penalty, Bolton took the game to Liverpool and the Reds had to expend quite a bit of energy to score their own two goals. From the beginning of the Merseyside Derby, you could see that Liverpool just didn't have that jump and energy that you would normally see in such a rivalry match. The extra game is surely to blame, at least in part, for that.
It is not just Liverpool to blame for this result. Everton came out with a game plan and executed it reasonably well. The disappointing thing was just the way the match played out. It was boring, it was uneventful, it lacked pace and punch except for Jordan Ibe's blast on the Liverpool side and a great save by Simon Mingolet at the end of the match after a smart shot by Sheamus Coleman.
Liverpool just did not come out with the energy one would have hoped. Even though the club has struggled to finish goals in games past, if Liverpool came out and played with the form they have shown over the past few weeks there is no doubt they would have won. Everton lack much of the skill that the Reds have and if both are at their best, Liverpool should have gotten a win. Instead, Everton played ok and Liverpool made many mistakes and a 0-0 draw is what is the result.
Again, this result is not the end of the world. A point is a point and every point is valuable at this point in the season. It is just disappointing that so many players were either affected by the extra game during the week or lacked the mental fortitude to summon the energy for a derby. It is disappointing to watch two teams that need wins going forward to put so little into the match as a whole. It was disappointing to have the legend of Steven Gerrard end so unremarkably in regards to the Merseyside Derby. Both teams will go on their respective paths for the rest of the season, but this was just a disappointing match to watch.
Random thoughts:
- Perhaps it is just me, since I do not live in the cauldron of Liverpool and do not have to deal with the rivals literally living on my doorstep. However, Everton seem like those rivals that you hate and want to destroy in the derby but are ok with them doing well other than that. As long as Liverpool finish at least one place above them, Everton can finish as high as they want sort of deal. Maybe I'm wrong.
- In addition to the faults I found with the players, I wasn't completely on board with the substitutes. Ibe starting is fine due to his speed and youthful exuberance. I was a bit shocked to see Coutinho come off, even though he has played a lot of games lately. Joe Allen coming on makes sense from a positional sense but I would not have seen a problem using Markovic to replace Lucas and moving Gerrard back. Lambert is basically in the same boat with Fabio Borini and Mario Balotelli. He just doesn't do much.
- Liverpool had lots of shots and though credited with 6 on target, it was disappointing to not take advantage of Tim Howard not being in net. Being American, I am biased, but Howard is still one of the best Premier League keepers and not winning when he is not in the match makes it a bit more disappointing.
- I did not understand why Reds and Blues could not sit together. Everything I have heard in the past is that fan bases have intermingled during the Merseyside Derbies. I did not get the reasoning to not allow this just because the match was held at night.
Walk On
However, it seemed to have the opposite affect. Liverpool looked tired and listless. Several players had solid performances, but several had less than stellar matches and even bordered on being awful. Steven Gerrard was one of those players. His game was by no means actually awful, but compared to what we have come to expect from the Liverpool captain, it was by no means a typical Gerrard match. He looked slow and a bit off. Gerrard's touch was nowhere near where one would hope it would be, given the fact this match could have been his last Merseyside Derby. His passes were off the mark from the very beginning.
In a play that garnered a chuckle from the NBC broadcast crew, Gerrard sprayed one out wide toward winger Jordan Ibe, when Ibe had already clearly made a run up the pitch. Similar passes were made later in the match as well. By no means is this a statement against Gerrard as a player. It could simply be time catching up or it could be a lack of form given his relative lack of playing time over recent weeks. Or, the most likely answer in reality, is it was just a poor performance and should be written off as such. Unfortunately, we have come to expect great things from Gerrard so often that anything less comes off as much worse than it was in reality.
The Liverpool skipper was by far, not the only player who had a less than stellar match. When you look at the overall performances of the team as a whole, Raheem Sterling, Emre Can and Martin Skrtel were the only players that had good performances. Lucas' departure so early in the match may have been a cause, perhaps throwing the team into a disarray. Joe Allen came on in his stead, and while he did not do anything wrong, he did what Joe Allen tends to do - nothing.
Allen gives his all out there during the match, usually doing a decent job of closing down or trying to plug up space. But given his normal position of a defensive, holding midfielder he just rarely cuts it. He is too small to be effective as a fourth or fifth defender, often getting muscled off the ball especially against Everton on this night. He gives the ball away too often in areas that may not lead to direct counter attacks, but still put his defensive teammates in a poor spot.
Even Daniel Sturridge had a poor showing. Sturridge did nothing wrong, really, but outside of a few nice moments he really disappeared in the late stages of the second half. This is not necessarily a reflection on him. He was not being set up in very opportune spots and often tried to get things going in a positive manner only to run into defenders. The team gained a brief spark when Sturridge first entered the game, but offensively you could tell they were looking to him too much after that instead of taking the game by the scruff.
The defense also returned to their shaky play. They did not fail to mark their counterparts or allow players in behind them. However, their footwork was questionable at best. Emre Can, save for his overconfident play late in the match against Lukaku, was very good. Martin Skrtel was ok. However, Sakho more than made up for both of them and that's not a good thing. Sakho marks his men very well and is a solid defensive back, but there are recreational league players who show better foot skills than Liverpool's left back.
Ultimately, I could go on for paragraph after paragraph singling out players and moments in the match. The bottom line is that this was a very disappointing match. It wasn't an end of the world result. Liverpool gained a point and are still alive. However, it was a match that was winnable and given circumstances in the table it would have been much more valuable to gain the three points as opposed to just one. No one can argue that a draw is not better than a loss, but the listlessness of the match just put a negative spin on this.
The Bolton replay may be to blame. While in the grand scheme of things, it is a positive thing for the club to remain in the FA Cup, it could be partially to blame for this type of result. Despite being a lower level club, Bolton really took it to the Reds in their midweek clash. Despite having their lone goal come on a questionable penalty, Bolton took the game to Liverpool and the Reds had to expend quite a bit of energy to score their own two goals. From the beginning of the Merseyside Derby, you could see that Liverpool just didn't have that jump and energy that you would normally see in such a rivalry match. The extra game is surely to blame, at least in part, for that.
It is not just Liverpool to blame for this result. Everton came out with a game plan and executed it reasonably well. The disappointing thing was just the way the match played out. It was boring, it was uneventful, it lacked pace and punch except for Jordan Ibe's blast on the Liverpool side and a great save by Simon Mingolet at the end of the match after a smart shot by Sheamus Coleman.
Liverpool just did not come out with the energy one would have hoped. Even though the club has struggled to finish goals in games past, if Liverpool came out and played with the form they have shown over the past few weeks there is no doubt they would have won. Everton lack much of the skill that the Reds have and if both are at their best, Liverpool should have gotten a win. Instead, Everton played ok and Liverpool made many mistakes and a 0-0 draw is what is the result.
Again, this result is not the end of the world. A point is a point and every point is valuable at this point in the season. It is just disappointing that so many players were either affected by the extra game during the week or lacked the mental fortitude to summon the energy for a derby. It is disappointing to watch two teams that need wins going forward to put so little into the match as a whole. It was disappointing to have the legend of Steven Gerrard end so unremarkably in regards to the Merseyside Derby. Both teams will go on their respective paths for the rest of the season, but this was just a disappointing match to watch.
Random thoughts:
- Perhaps it is just me, since I do not live in the cauldron of Liverpool and do not have to deal with the rivals literally living on my doorstep. However, Everton seem like those rivals that you hate and want to destroy in the derby but are ok with them doing well other than that. As long as Liverpool finish at least one place above them, Everton can finish as high as they want sort of deal. Maybe I'm wrong.
- In addition to the faults I found with the players, I wasn't completely on board with the substitutes. Ibe starting is fine due to his speed and youthful exuberance. I was a bit shocked to see Coutinho come off, even though he has played a lot of games lately. Joe Allen coming on makes sense from a positional sense but I would not have seen a problem using Markovic to replace Lucas and moving Gerrard back. Lambert is basically in the same boat with Fabio Borini and Mario Balotelli. He just doesn't do much.
- Liverpool had lots of shots and though credited with 6 on target, it was disappointing to not take advantage of Tim Howard not being in net. Being American, I am biased, but Howard is still one of the best Premier League keepers and not winning when he is not in the match makes it a bit more disappointing.
- I did not understand why Reds and Blues could not sit together. Everything I have heard in the past is that fan bases have intermingled during the Merseyside Derbies. I did not get the reasoning to not allow this just because the match was held at night.
Walk On
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
