Liverpool were facing their personal kryptonite in West Ham United in an FA Cup replay. Liverpool had failed to score in 2015-16 against the Hammers and it was another slow start for Liverpool. The Reds almost conceded a goal when Lucas deflected a shot that almost snuck in near post, but rang off the bar instead. After that string of play that favored the Hammers, Liverpool actually took the momentum for themselves.
Liverpool wasted a chance in the 25th minute when Coutinho's cross slipped under Benteke's foot and Ibe was not ready for it. However, despite that miss, the maligned Belgian striker actually had a good half and deserved more than he received.
Later on, Coutinho evened up the shots off the post in the 34th minute. Benteke had nifty footwork along the endline and slipped it to the top of the six yard area where the Brazilian slapped it off the woodwork. The big Belgian almost put one in himself moments later when he connected with a header off the corner, but the West Ham keeper, Randolph, got a foot to it. It may have been cleared away by the defender at the post as well, but it was a great chance.
The pendulum of momentum began to swing back the other direction toward the end of the half. West Ham almost took the lead on a fantastic free kick from Dimitri Payet in the 38th minute that knicked the goalkeeper's fingers and blasted off the post before Simon Mignolet parried away the rebound. The scorelessness would not last forever though.
Liverpool had defended reasonably well, as a squad, but fell asleep in the 45th minute. The entire back four had settled way too deep in the box, allowing a cross deep into the area. Michail Antonio was on the back side to volley it home, giving Mignolet absolutely no chance to stop it and forcing Liverpool to score just to keep any hope alive. It was a crushing blow against a team that Liverpool had really put on the back foot for most of the half only to see one in the back of their own net. Luckily for the Reds it was only for that one half.
Liverpool came out with good energy from the locker room and were rewarded. The Reds finally smashed the goose egg when Coutinho leveled the game with a sneaky free kick in the 48th minute. Benteke set up the kick drawing the foul just outside the box and Coutinho struck it along the ground just under the jumping wall. It was a good sight for the Liverpool faithful to see Coutinho score in his first inclusion since his injury and to see Benteke show more of why the club brought him in in the first place.
Benteke was still determined to get his own. He was fortunate to not have a handball called in the 56th minute, but he almost smashed one in just moments later after a good bit of skill on the left side of the box by Brad Smith. Unfortunately there were too many defenders around.
More good sights for Liverpool fans as Daniel Sturridge and Divock Origi came in in 59th minute. However, despite their inclusion and the potential offensive spark it could provide, Liverpool were extremely fortunate to not concede a penalty in the 67th minute. Thiago Illori tugged on the attacker's arm in the box, which was clearly evident on replay but fortunately not caught by the official or the linesman.
In terms of good sights, it was good to see West Ham take off Cheikhou Kouyate after his head injury. There may have been plans to bring on Andy Carroll anyway, but there is just no sense in keeping a player on who was clearly knocked out and seemed to be struggling afterward. Injuries piled up for both sides as Kevin Stewart took cleats to the ankle a bit later, but he was able to stay in the game.
The momentum swung back and forth wildly as the end of regulation was in sight. Benteke almost slid one in on the free kick in the 79th minute, but Randolph made a good stop after seeing it late coming over the wall. Valencia butchered a header in the 84th minute that should have buried Liverpool since the West Ham attacker was basically wide open on the far side and took a good cross. Liverpool with a great chance to end it in stoppage time. The ball fell to Ibe and he struck it with a strong left foot only to see Randolph push it away, but not quite far enough for Sturridge to get onto the rebound.
Alas, the game would not end in the allotted 90 minutes. This definitely put extra pressure on Sturridge and Origi who were coming in for the first time following their injuries and were going to have to play at least an hour's worth of football. Benteke blasted one wide from basically the middle of the box in the 99th minute and then shot a breakaway right into the keeper moments later. Unfortunately those wasted chances, in addition to several wasted by Sturridge and others in extra time, cost Liverpool.
West Ham waited until the death, but made the most of a foul given against Lucas. Set pieces have been the arch enemy of Liverpool all season long and were again. A good service toward the back post was met with a towering header by Ogbanna, who sliced it back across goal giving no one a chance to do anything about it. Liverpool deserved better due to their overall play, but West Ham were also the deserving winners given their play as well.
In the end, Liverpool won't fret too much since the team played reasonably well and very well in spurts. They lost the match, but have taken fixtures off the schedule and now allow themselves to focus more on the Capital One Cup final at Wembley and the Europa League. It's never pleasant to lose a game, especially in excruciating fashion, but Liverpool needed to have their focus sharpened. Being active in all competitions just wasn't going to allow that to happen, so the loss isn't quite so terrible. From here on out though, it's up to the players to take their individual performances and keep them progressing.
Random Thoughts:
- While the worrisome nature of Daniel Sturridge will never go away, just seeing his abilities on display makes you ponder the possibilities in the future. Since Liverpool seem to want to play an attacking three, just his inclusion gives you so many more options. You could have a top two with Beneteke and Coutinho tucked in behind. You can go with Benteke or Firmino up top and Coutino and Sturridge on the sides. Sturridge could be the main striker with Firmino and Coutinho out wide. It's amazing to think that one man can make you rethink the entire attacking possibilities for this team, however he has to stay on the field and that's been something he hasn't shown an ability to do. Therefore it's impossible to get too excited yet.
- Health is the key all around. I've mentioned that this team needs a complete overhaul, but there's still talent there. Smith and Jon Flanagan give you more options at the wingback position with Nathaniel Clyne a decent talent as well. I already mentioned the attacking possibilities as well. But all of these players have to keep themselves healthy. Whether that falls on the training staff, the coaches or the players themselves is an unknown but they just need to keep this team on the pitch.
- We all knew it would be impossible for Jurgen Klopp to stay calm the entire game. Nevertheless it was good to see him back on the sidelines after an emergency surgery kept him out of the weekend game.
Walk On
Showing posts with label West Ham United. Show all posts
Showing posts with label West Ham United. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 9, 2016
Saturday, January 30, 2016
Liverpool Draw and Add Their Fixture Glut
Coming into the fourth round of the FA Cup, Liverpool were placed in the unenviable position of needing to rest players but not being allowed to take West Ham United lightly due to being thumped by the Hammers twice in the league. So, what you got was a mishmash of young players and first-squad players that hadn't seen as much playing time. In the opening 45 minutes of play, it was actually a lineup that played well.
Liverpool dominated possession, not only in general but in the attacking third. They created a few chances, though not enough to score given the 0-0 scoreline at the half, but still enough to look positive. The best chance was a Cameron Brannagan blistering shot that may have been heading for the lower 90, but was saved by the West Ham keeper's fingertips. Everyone was lively and seeming to be feeding off the energy their coach, Jurgen Klopp has in spades.
The downfall of the contest was also the lineup. The young team was no longer playing against Exeter. They were going against an actual Premier League side and you could tell. While there was energy and enthusiasm to burn, you could also tell this was not a starting XI that had played together. Several ideas were tried, but did not come off due to players not only not being on the same page, but sometimes not even in the same chapter. For as well as someone like Brad Smith has played of late, he constantly flicked balls to nowhere or sent passes to no one because there was no cohesiveness between the squad. Ultimately it did not cost the team in the first half.
The second half was a different matter. Both sides came out looking to end it in the first minutes. West Ham came closest in the 50th minute when the ball was bouncing around and actually caught the arm of Steven Caulker. Liverpool were lucky to survive both the handball and the scrum to follow without conceding. The Reds seemed to catch their breath a bit after that scare and returned to their front foot and pushed forward.
Joao Teixeira struck one on target in the 63rd minute, trying to rip one near post that was turned away by Darren Rudolph. Then Rudolph came up huge again in the 75th minute. A great through-ball found Christian Benteke in the box. His shot was quickly stopped, the rebound from Joe Allen was al but smothered and then Benteke had a second attempt that was turned away.
In the end, none of it mattered. The game was good experience for the young players again. From a mental standpoint, it was good to play so well against West Ham, which has not been the case in the last few matches. But since neither team could score - though West Ham came unnervingly close in stoppage time - it means another match added to an already overcrowded schedule. No fan wants their team to lose and no manager truly wants to give up on a match or tournament, however the FA Cup is really putting a strain on the squad. It will be interesting to see if Klopp continues the run of younger players in the FA Cup, but for now Liverpool must focus on a rather good performance if not a result.
Random Thoughts:
- Something should change about the replays. I fully understand that it means more TV money for the smaller clubs, which can keep them afloat for an entire season. However, if the FA refuses to make any changes to the schedule over the holidays, then something has to give. It just adds too many unwanted matches.
- It's easier said than done, but Liverpool need to find a game changer. They need someone who will stand up and put the team on their shoulders in games like this. Whether it's the first squad or this younger team, there just isn't that player in the side that you know can make the difference.
- This is truly a random thought since it has nothing to do with the game. Forget about Alex Teixeira. I have no problems with the player, but it just doesn't seem worth it to be held for ransom by Shaktar. Every rumor says the price is going up and then Shaktar will say you had better double the last offer. That's ridiculous. Teixeira is talented, but even though all teams try to lowball their first offer there just can't be a way that doubling the price is worth it.
Walk On
Liverpool dominated possession, not only in general but in the attacking third. They created a few chances, though not enough to score given the 0-0 scoreline at the half, but still enough to look positive. The best chance was a Cameron Brannagan blistering shot that may have been heading for the lower 90, but was saved by the West Ham keeper's fingertips. Everyone was lively and seeming to be feeding off the energy their coach, Jurgen Klopp has in spades.
The downfall of the contest was also the lineup. The young team was no longer playing against Exeter. They were going against an actual Premier League side and you could tell. While there was energy and enthusiasm to burn, you could also tell this was not a starting XI that had played together. Several ideas were tried, but did not come off due to players not only not being on the same page, but sometimes not even in the same chapter. For as well as someone like Brad Smith has played of late, he constantly flicked balls to nowhere or sent passes to no one because there was no cohesiveness between the squad. Ultimately it did not cost the team in the first half.
The second half was a different matter. Both sides came out looking to end it in the first minutes. West Ham came closest in the 50th minute when the ball was bouncing around and actually caught the arm of Steven Caulker. Liverpool were lucky to survive both the handball and the scrum to follow without conceding. The Reds seemed to catch their breath a bit after that scare and returned to their front foot and pushed forward.
Joao Teixeira struck one on target in the 63rd minute, trying to rip one near post that was turned away by Darren Rudolph. Then Rudolph came up huge again in the 75th minute. A great through-ball found Christian Benteke in the box. His shot was quickly stopped, the rebound from Joe Allen was al but smothered and then Benteke had a second attempt that was turned away.
In the end, none of it mattered. The game was good experience for the young players again. From a mental standpoint, it was good to play so well against West Ham, which has not been the case in the last few matches. But since neither team could score - though West Ham came unnervingly close in stoppage time - it means another match added to an already overcrowded schedule. No fan wants their team to lose and no manager truly wants to give up on a match or tournament, however the FA Cup is really putting a strain on the squad. It will be interesting to see if Klopp continues the run of younger players in the FA Cup, but for now Liverpool must focus on a rather good performance if not a result.
Random Thoughts:
- Something should change about the replays. I fully understand that it means more TV money for the smaller clubs, which can keep them afloat for an entire season. However, if the FA refuses to make any changes to the schedule over the holidays, then something has to give. It just adds too many unwanted matches.
- It's easier said than done, but Liverpool need to find a game changer. They need someone who will stand up and put the team on their shoulders in games like this. Whether it's the first squad or this younger team, there just isn't that player in the side that you know can make the difference.
- This is truly a random thought since it has nothing to do with the game. Forget about Alex Teixeira. I have no problems with the player, but it just doesn't seem worth it to be held for ransom by Shaktar. Every rumor says the price is going up and then Shaktar will say you had better double the last offer. That's ridiculous. Teixeira is talented, but even though all teams try to lowball their first offer there just can't be a way that doubling the price is worth it.
Walk On
Saturday, January 2, 2016
Liverpool Continue Their Jeckyll and Hyde Performances
In the latest episode of As Liverpool Turns, the game did not start on the correct foot. Since the initial shine wore off of Jurgen Klopp, the team he is in charge of have been Jekyll and Hyde. We saw the Hyde part toward the beginning of the match, especially in the back four. After being the saving grace in their Boxing Day match, the back four were to blame for the initial goal given up against West Ham in the first match of 2016.
Alberto Moreno made a run up the left hand side, only to be fouled and not given a free kick. Whether you believe it was a foul or not quickly became irrelevant. Moreno stayed on the ground in an effort to make it look worse than it was, West Ham drove down through his vacated position and slipped a beautiful cross inside the box. It was finished off by Michail Antonio and so were Liverpool.
The Reds looked a shambles during the opening quarter hour. Very little in attack and akin to a man's first attempt at walking on stilts in defense. If not for the woodwork, Liverpool would have been down 2-0 in the 17th minute after Manuel Lanzini sent a knuckleball past a bewildered Simon Mignolet, only to see it ricochet back toward the field.
In attack, Liverpool looked just as shaky in the first half. There was no attack for the first few minutes and when they got a little more cohesive, none of the attacking players were able to keep the ball settled down. Sadly, the Reds' best attack in the opening half hour was when Jordan Ibe dribbled it over the endline. That same statement could be made for the entire half, with the exception of a few decent corners and a side footer from Emre Can knicking off the crossbar.
As a whole, the opening half was just a shambles. Fortunately for the Reds, the back four rebounded from their weak start and redeemed themselves. Moreno came all the way across the field to make a smart tackle to avoid a shot on goal and Nathaniel Clyne made a block during a counter attack that would have seen Mignolet have a 50/50 chance, at best, to save it.
Liverpool opened up the second more positively, but things just weren't quite on. Benteke was set up nicely by Moreno in the 51st minute, but oddly opened up his body to direct the shot well wide instead of trying to strike the ball. Then, despite the ok chances and decent possession, it all went to pot. Andy Carroll, was set up with a header on the counter attack and the former Liverpool striker made his ex-team pay.
That would be the final score and continue to prove that this current incarnation of Liverpool are simply an enigma. They show up against the big boys, but in a season where the big boys are not the teams to contend with, they fail to play well enough against the other clubs. What is more, this squad always seems on the cusp. A win would have seen them, if only temporarily, within two points of a top four spot. Now they remain five back with Spurs still to play this weekend and playing equally enigmatic Everton.
There are excuses, but weak ones. Danny Ings, Daniel Sturridge, Divock Origi, Jordan Henderson and James Milner are all out with various injuries. With the exception of Ings and Sturridge though, none of those names really pop off the page as really making the difference in any loss this season. January might provide no reinforcements, regardless of their need. Whether they are truly good enough or not, these players have to stand up and be accounted. This run of inconsistency is simply not good enough from a professional at this level.
Random Thoughts:
- As much as I may dislike Adam Lallana, perhaps the team does play better with him in there. A trio of Coutinho, Firmino and Ibe should be a force to be reckoned with. They should have been switching constantly and making runs in behind to support Benteke. Instead, they were mired in quicksand without a clue.
- People wanting to get rid of Simon Mignolet should watch the 69th minute. He is pretty bad at corner kicks, that much is true. However, he is one of the better shot stoppers in the league. He denied Carroll on the initial header and then sprawled to collect the rebound as well. I've made this point in the past, but unless there is someone out there that is head and shoulders better in every aspect, I would not be willing to change goalkeepers simply to have someone who is only better at defending corners.
- Chances are Liverpool will have to wait until the summer to make any significant additions. That said, every mediocre to poor result makes even myself hope for something to happen in the January window. Initially it seemed a good idea to wait, let the season play out and hope players returning from injury would be enough. Now, standing pat in the winter seems a terrible mistake.
Walk On
Alberto Moreno made a run up the left hand side, only to be fouled and not given a free kick. Whether you believe it was a foul or not quickly became irrelevant. Moreno stayed on the ground in an effort to make it look worse than it was, West Ham drove down through his vacated position and slipped a beautiful cross inside the box. It was finished off by Michail Antonio and so were Liverpool.
The Reds looked a shambles during the opening quarter hour. Very little in attack and akin to a man's first attempt at walking on stilts in defense. If not for the woodwork, Liverpool would have been down 2-0 in the 17th minute after Manuel Lanzini sent a knuckleball past a bewildered Simon Mignolet, only to see it ricochet back toward the field.
In attack, Liverpool looked just as shaky in the first half. There was no attack for the first few minutes and when they got a little more cohesive, none of the attacking players were able to keep the ball settled down. Sadly, the Reds' best attack in the opening half hour was when Jordan Ibe dribbled it over the endline. That same statement could be made for the entire half, with the exception of a few decent corners and a side footer from Emre Can knicking off the crossbar.
As a whole, the opening half was just a shambles. Fortunately for the Reds, the back four rebounded from their weak start and redeemed themselves. Moreno came all the way across the field to make a smart tackle to avoid a shot on goal and Nathaniel Clyne made a block during a counter attack that would have seen Mignolet have a 50/50 chance, at best, to save it.
Liverpool opened up the second more positively, but things just weren't quite on. Benteke was set up nicely by Moreno in the 51st minute, but oddly opened up his body to direct the shot well wide instead of trying to strike the ball. Then, despite the ok chances and decent possession, it all went to pot. Andy Carroll, was set up with a header on the counter attack and the former Liverpool striker made his ex-team pay.
That would be the final score and continue to prove that this current incarnation of Liverpool are simply an enigma. They show up against the big boys, but in a season where the big boys are not the teams to contend with, they fail to play well enough against the other clubs. What is more, this squad always seems on the cusp. A win would have seen them, if only temporarily, within two points of a top four spot. Now they remain five back with Spurs still to play this weekend and playing equally enigmatic Everton.
There are excuses, but weak ones. Danny Ings, Daniel Sturridge, Divock Origi, Jordan Henderson and James Milner are all out with various injuries. With the exception of Ings and Sturridge though, none of those names really pop off the page as really making the difference in any loss this season. January might provide no reinforcements, regardless of their need. Whether they are truly good enough or not, these players have to stand up and be accounted. This run of inconsistency is simply not good enough from a professional at this level.
Random Thoughts:
- As much as I may dislike Adam Lallana, perhaps the team does play better with him in there. A trio of Coutinho, Firmino and Ibe should be a force to be reckoned with. They should have been switching constantly and making runs in behind to support Benteke. Instead, they were mired in quicksand without a clue.
- People wanting to get rid of Simon Mignolet should watch the 69th minute. He is pretty bad at corner kicks, that much is true. However, he is one of the better shot stoppers in the league. He denied Carroll on the initial header and then sprawled to collect the rebound as well. I've made this point in the past, but unless there is someone out there that is head and shoulders better in every aspect, I would not be willing to change goalkeepers simply to have someone who is only better at defending corners.
- Chances are Liverpool will have to wait until the summer to make any significant additions. That said, every mediocre to poor result makes even myself hope for something to happen in the January window. Initially it seemed a good idea to wait, let the season play out and hope players returning from injury would be enough. Now, standing pat in the winter seems a terrible mistake.
Walk On
Saturday, August 29, 2015
The Wheels on the LFC Bus Fall Off Completely
Liverpool's defense had been a bright spot in the opening three games of the season. They had looked reasonably formidable. They were cohesive as a back four at the very least and making smart decisions. Those of you who pay attention to sentence structure will notice that all those statements were in past tense.
After three weeks of doing their best to erase the mistakes of the past two seasons, last year in particular, the Liverpool defense fell apart. No one will say this team was a brick wall defensively to open the year, but they looked solid and the two wing backs had drawn praise by many, including in this space. With the exception, perhaps, of Nathaniel Clyne, all of the defenders were to blame for the team's poor start.
West Ham scored just three minutes into the contest as Liverpool had apparently gotten too used to playing Monday night games and not shaken off the cobwebs. The youngster, Gomez, failed to clear the ball from his side and allowed a cross into the box. Martin Skrtel got a head to the initial cross, but did not put enough on it to relieve the pressure. The defense then just sort of stopped and ball watched as the ball pinged around and ended up in the back of the net of the foot of Manuel Lanzini.
Similarly, in the 29th minute, more horrid defending cost Liverpool again. Dejan Lovren had been stout and courageous in his first three games back in a starting role this year. Within the span of about 30 seconds he completely dashed any good will he managed to accrue during those previous games. Lovren unwisely chose not to knock the ball over the touchline on the near side when he had a West Ham attacker right on his back. Then the Croatian compounded his mistake by fumblingly trying to handle the ball. He succeeded in playing the ball right to the opponent and the Reds' keeper, Simon Mingolet was given no chance for a save for a second time in a row.
Offensively, the Liverpool squad looked shaky as well. Credit has to go to West Ham for their efforts to close down space and not allow passing lanes. However, despite the fact he hit the post earlier in the contest, Liverpool's offensive impotence was exemplified by Firmino slotting the ball over the end line with pace instead of playing a soft pass into the path of Clyne. In his defense, Firmino is still getting used to his new squad, but it was still a pass that needed to be connected on given Liverpool's lack of chances overall.
After the half, the questions continued for Liverpool. The announcers on the match figured Liverpool would change tactics to be more offensive minded. Interestingly enough, the only change was Alberto Moreno in for Emre Can, a decision that perhaps added a little speed but really did not change any of what ailed the squad. If anything, Liverpool risked the potential of giving up more goals by going to a back three, regardless of the fact that Clyne stayed on and Moreno was in a defensive winger position.
Then the day went from bad to worse. Coutinho, who had picked up a silly yellow card right before the half, was given his second in the 53rd minute of the contest. Though on replay, the sliding challenge looked like it should not even been a foul, let alone a card, the fact remained that the Brazilian should have been smarter and not put himself in that position. So, down two goals and only 10 men on the field, things looked extremely bleak for the home team.
Danny Ings came on in the 60th minute and Liverpool seemed to play a tiny bit better down a man. James Milner was afforded a great opportunity to score in the 62nd minute, only to see it slice through the defense but comfortably wide of the post. Moments later, Ings made a driving run up the right and cut into the middle. Unfortunately, it petered out as Benteke put the return pass too close to the keeper.
The offensive push hit a lull for much of the latter stages of the second half for Liverpool. They seemed as though they might get a bit of a bump as West Ham were put to 10 men after a straight red card for studs up. Instead, little fight was put into the match from that point on. The coffin lid was sealed tightly shut with a final nail coming in the 92nd minute as the visitors made it 3-0 and won at the Anfield for the first time ever in the Premier League and the first time overall since the 60's.
It was a dreadful day overall for the boys in red. From the opening whistle, things did not seem to go their way by their own design. Their tactics, masterfully employed against Arsenal, were turned against them on this day. Liverpool were allowed to possess all day long, but given no space with which to work. Once the opening goal was scored, Liverpool had little chance. West Ham packed it in behind the ball and closed down the space.
For all the positives that seemed to have been gained over the opening three matches, whether the defending of Lovren or the apparent upgrade in skill offensively, one game effectively set this club back to the doldrums of last season. The defending was horrid. The midfield lacked creativity. The forward line was nonexistent. A long season lays ahead and West Ham have already proven they have the will to knock off the top teams, proven by a 2-0 win in the opening match against Arsenal.
For Liverpool though, questions must be answered. Can the team consistently give service to Chritian Benteke. Though the young striker has looked brilliant at times, when no service was available, he looked more like Mario Balotelli in a Liverpool shirt than the Benteke of the previous few contests. Coutinho cannot be the only man capable of taking on defenders or this team will not achieve its goals. Coutinho, though supremely skilled is still a work in progress and is not ready to be the only man on the team. The defending simply cannot be that bad. The back line will never be the strongest link in this squad, but they cannot make the kinds of mistakes made in this match or scores like today's will be a regular thing.
Those who have read this column regularly know that rarely a negative spin is put on things and by no means is the sky falling. Teams lose. Liverpool was never going to go undefeated. West Ham deserve a lot of credit for the game they played. For those that wear the red however, it stings when the first game you lose is not the one most people would have predicted when looking at the schedule. It doesn't get any easier for Liverpool either. A week off and then a trip to the devil's den, Old Trafford to play Manchester United September 12. A lot of football remains, but Liverpool must learn from their mistakes instead of constantly repeating them to be successful.
Random Thoughts:
- I was as excited about the addition of Roberto Firmino as any, but for now he may not be a starter for this team. While I understand that Jordan Ibe is still growing as a player as well, the team seems to have done better with him as a starter and using Firmino as a sub than the other way around. The Brazilian will acclimate quicker than most, due to playing in Germany, but the English game is hard to step right into.
- Not to keep harping on the defense, but really, how do you go from three straight clean sheets to allowing three goals?
- I know I gave a bit of a jab to Balotelli in the article, but I wish him well with AC Milan as he has been loaned out. There is no buyback clause, so if he does well we could see him in a Liverpool shirt again and I would be very happy for it. His fans have dwindled down to a few, but I am still among them. The man is very talented, but just cannot get his head wrapped around all the things that come with being that talented i.e. workrate and not doing silly things off the field.
- It was good to see Danny Ings get a bit of time. He is a bit small, but if that is the kind of work he's willing to put in every game then I hope we see more of him. I would also like to see Divock Origi get a game or two just to see what is there.
Walk on
After three weeks of doing their best to erase the mistakes of the past two seasons, last year in particular, the Liverpool defense fell apart. No one will say this team was a brick wall defensively to open the year, but they looked solid and the two wing backs had drawn praise by many, including in this space. With the exception, perhaps, of Nathaniel Clyne, all of the defenders were to blame for the team's poor start.
West Ham scored just three minutes into the contest as Liverpool had apparently gotten too used to playing Monday night games and not shaken off the cobwebs. The youngster, Gomez, failed to clear the ball from his side and allowed a cross into the box. Martin Skrtel got a head to the initial cross, but did not put enough on it to relieve the pressure. The defense then just sort of stopped and ball watched as the ball pinged around and ended up in the back of the net of the foot of Manuel Lanzini.
Similarly, in the 29th minute, more horrid defending cost Liverpool again. Dejan Lovren had been stout and courageous in his first three games back in a starting role this year. Within the span of about 30 seconds he completely dashed any good will he managed to accrue during those previous games. Lovren unwisely chose not to knock the ball over the touchline on the near side when he had a West Ham attacker right on his back. Then the Croatian compounded his mistake by fumblingly trying to handle the ball. He succeeded in playing the ball right to the opponent and the Reds' keeper, Simon Mingolet was given no chance for a save for a second time in a row.
Offensively, the Liverpool squad looked shaky as well. Credit has to go to West Ham for their efforts to close down space and not allow passing lanes. However, despite the fact he hit the post earlier in the contest, Liverpool's offensive impotence was exemplified by Firmino slotting the ball over the end line with pace instead of playing a soft pass into the path of Clyne. In his defense, Firmino is still getting used to his new squad, but it was still a pass that needed to be connected on given Liverpool's lack of chances overall.
After the half, the questions continued for Liverpool. The announcers on the match figured Liverpool would change tactics to be more offensive minded. Interestingly enough, the only change was Alberto Moreno in for Emre Can, a decision that perhaps added a little speed but really did not change any of what ailed the squad. If anything, Liverpool risked the potential of giving up more goals by going to a back three, regardless of the fact that Clyne stayed on and Moreno was in a defensive winger position.
Then the day went from bad to worse. Coutinho, who had picked up a silly yellow card right before the half, was given his second in the 53rd minute of the contest. Though on replay, the sliding challenge looked like it should not even been a foul, let alone a card, the fact remained that the Brazilian should have been smarter and not put himself in that position. So, down two goals and only 10 men on the field, things looked extremely bleak for the home team.
Danny Ings came on in the 60th minute and Liverpool seemed to play a tiny bit better down a man. James Milner was afforded a great opportunity to score in the 62nd minute, only to see it slice through the defense but comfortably wide of the post. Moments later, Ings made a driving run up the right and cut into the middle. Unfortunately, it petered out as Benteke put the return pass too close to the keeper.
The offensive push hit a lull for much of the latter stages of the second half for Liverpool. They seemed as though they might get a bit of a bump as West Ham were put to 10 men after a straight red card for studs up. Instead, little fight was put into the match from that point on. The coffin lid was sealed tightly shut with a final nail coming in the 92nd minute as the visitors made it 3-0 and won at the Anfield for the first time ever in the Premier League and the first time overall since the 60's.
It was a dreadful day overall for the boys in red. From the opening whistle, things did not seem to go their way by their own design. Their tactics, masterfully employed against Arsenal, were turned against them on this day. Liverpool were allowed to possess all day long, but given no space with which to work. Once the opening goal was scored, Liverpool had little chance. West Ham packed it in behind the ball and closed down the space.
For all the positives that seemed to have been gained over the opening three matches, whether the defending of Lovren or the apparent upgrade in skill offensively, one game effectively set this club back to the doldrums of last season. The defending was horrid. The midfield lacked creativity. The forward line was nonexistent. A long season lays ahead and West Ham have already proven they have the will to knock off the top teams, proven by a 2-0 win in the opening match against Arsenal.
For Liverpool though, questions must be answered. Can the team consistently give service to Chritian Benteke. Though the young striker has looked brilliant at times, when no service was available, he looked more like Mario Balotelli in a Liverpool shirt than the Benteke of the previous few contests. Coutinho cannot be the only man capable of taking on defenders or this team will not achieve its goals. Coutinho, though supremely skilled is still a work in progress and is not ready to be the only man on the team. The defending simply cannot be that bad. The back line will never be the strongest link in this squad, but they cannot make the kinds of mistakes made in this match or scores like today's will be a regular thing.
Those who have read this column regularly know that rarely a negative spin is put on things and by no means is the sky falling. Teams lose. Liverpool was never going to go undefeated. West Ham deserve a lot of credit for the game they played. For those that wear the red however, it stings when the first game you lose is not the one most people would have predicted when looking at the schedule. It doesn't get any easier for Liverpool either. A week off and then a trip to the devil's den, Old Trafford to play Manchester United September 12. A lot of football remains, but Liverpool must learn from their mistakes instead of constantly repeating them to be successful.
Random Thoughts:
- I was as excited about the addition of Roberto Firmino as any, but for now he may not be a starter for this team. While I understand that Jordan Ibe is still growing as a player as well, the team seems to have done better with him as a starter and using Firmino as a sub than the other way around. The Brazilian will acclimate quicker than most, due to playing in Germany, but the English game is hard to step right into.
- Not to keep harping on the defense, but really, how do you go from three straight clean sheets to allowing three goals?
- I know I gave a bit of a jab to Balotelli in the article, but I wish him well with AC Milan as he has been loaned out. There is no buyback clause, so if he does well we could see him in a Liverpool shirt again and I would be very happy for it. His fans have dwindled down to a few, but I am still among them. The man is very talented, but just cannot get his head wrapped around all the things that come with being that talented i.e. workrate and not doing silly things off the field.
- It was good to see Danny Ings get a bit of time. He is a bit small, but if that is the kind of work he's willing to put in every game then I hope we see more of him. I would also like to see Divock Origi get a game or two just to see what is there.
Walk on
Saturday, January 31, 2015
Liverpool Returns to League Action With Solid Win
The Reds returned to league action after what seemed like an eternity of cup matches in recent memory. They did so in fine fashion as well taking down West Ham United by a final of 2-0. Liverpool could, and perhaps should, have had more goals as well. In typical Liverpool fashion for this year, there were mistakes made along the way that keep their performances from being very good or great. However, there cannot be too many complaints following a victory against a side that was a point up in the table before the match began.
Since columns are usually written by whiney, frustrated people I may as well join their ranks for a few paragraphs and begin with the things I saw wrong with this match. Firstly, though a very talented player, Lazar Markovic returned to his shaky form from earlier this season. Markovic has speed up and down the field and hustles non-stop. It is his touch that falters him in important moments though.
In the seventh minute, Markovic failed to convert what should have been an early goal. It was not a gimme shot, but still for one as talented as he and one with the aspirations of being an Anfield legend, you have to put those away. Markovic also blasted one wide of the post just before the halftime break, which would have also put his team up by a goal again. He was clearly disappointed in himself, but the shot was not overly rushed and though there were some players in front it has to be put in the net.
Markovic was by no means the only player to falter in their attacking. Alberto Moreno was set up with a very nice cross by Raheem Sterling in the 47th minute. Moreno was unmarked and managed only to flail his left leg at the ball and connect just enough to at least keep the ball in play. Moreno is more of an attacking defender, in the mold of Roberto Carlos, but it was still a golden opportunity that needs to be better handled. Jordan Henderson also continued to prove that there is a pretty big drop off from Steven Gerrard to himself.
Henderson should not aspire to be Stevie G. It is an effort in futility. Henderson just isn't the quality of Gerrard and probably never will be. That does not mean that he is not or cannot be a top player at the club. Henderson gives his best on the pitch almost every game. He just lacks that final ball or touch that Gerrard brings to the captaincy. There were two free kicks that pop to mind, including the 70th minute, where Hendo blasted it right into the wall. He is not beyond learning to get better touch on those, but for right now Liverpool will have to find someone with better quality to replace Gerrard on free kicks come next season.
Before you begin to wonder where all this negativity comes from and think perhaps you were dreaming and the scoreline was reversed, fear not. Liverpool was indeed victorious and there were many good things to come from the match. Liverpool kept a clean sheet for the fourth match in a row. The defense, while still questionable and still giving fans that queezy feeling, played a very solid match. West Ham did not have a shot on target until the 32nd minute. With the exception of set pieces, the Hammers really created nothing from the flow of play. The one nit-picky item of mention regarding the back three was their inability to make quick passes out. Too often in the first half, they were forced to retreat in possession. This may well be due to a lack of off the ball movement, but the bottom line was West Ham continually pressured the ball and Liverpool were forced backward more than one would like.
The offense was very good. As previously mentioned, they did not finish as many chances as they should have. In addition to the misses by Henderson and Markovic, Jordan Ibe and Daniel Sturridge did not capitalize on chances in the 78th and 83rd minutes. Overall, however, they were good on the passes. Most balls were within a range that, even if they failed to do so, they had an opportunity to obtain and push into space. Sterling continued to show his growth as a star and his connection with Coutinho as they connected on Liverpool's first goal.
Liverpool were a bit fortunate with the deflection, but the chip pass from Coutinho to Sterling was cheekily created and deftly handled. Sterling then showed good composure - something that has at times lacked in his game this season - and slotted it past the goalkeeper. While he still occasionally tries to over-perform, Sterling continues to show that when he is within himself and composed that he could be an all-world caliber player. It may still be a likelihood to happen, Liverpool need to get pen to paper on a new deal for young Raheem.
One would be remiss to not mention the return of Daniel Sturridge as one of the biggest positives. Sturridge lacked his usual first touch, no doubt caused by not playing a game since August. He looked clearly rusty and a bit over-eager to run around. However, both he and the team looked very good when together on the pitch for the first time in almost five months. Liverpool looked very similar to their attack of last season with a formation of Sturridge, Sterling and Coutinho all rotating around. If Sturrige had not scored, his return would still have been a good omen of things to come with the ease the attacking line slipped into with his inclusion.
Sturridge was not about to let a chance to put his own little chapter in the Anfield annals though. 15 had a couple of good chances, as mentioned, in the 78th minute. Then, only two minutes later, Sturridge would bury one in the 80th minute to put his team up by two. Not only was the shot powerful and accurate, but with his weak foot. That is definitely an encouraging sign due to the fact that even when the SAS connection was flying last season, Sturridge's weak foot was often a weakness that he was uncomfortable using. On this evening, Sturridge struck the ball with supreme confidence and coupled with the sharp angle, made the goal all the more impressive.
Liverpool may still have questions within the squad. They may still not have quite enough to regularly challenge the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City, but they continue to move in positive ways. The moves made in the lineup are beneficial more than hindrances, as they were earlier. Lallana fit in well in his more central role and despite his falterings on this night, Markovic has proven that he is more than capable of playing a wing attacker or a more defensive winger position as well. That does nothing but help the depth of this club as they continue forward with Europa competitions and the FA Cup. Mistakes are made by just about any club. The important thing, for now, is the belief has returned. Walk on.
Random Thoughs:
- Liverpool need to take advantage of their fixture list in the league coming up. With the exception of the City match on March 1, all of February and March feature winnable games. If Liverpool can continue their current form, they could easily find themselves contending for a top four spot in April and May.
- Being a keeper, it pains me a bit to mention, but the manner in which keepers get so butt-hurt with the smallest of touches is aggravating. Adrian, West Ham's goalkeeper, was brushed along the ribs by Coutinho - who was trying to avoid contact. By his reaction, you would think Adrian had been shanked in the lunch line at the state penitentiary. Really? Goalkeepers are not accustomed to being hit, but these sorts of overreactions are not beneficial to the game.
- Speaking of overacting, I'm tired of players putting their teammates in peril because they want to lay on the deck in hopes of earning their opponent a yellow card. Markovic went down in the box after being grazed along the face and stayed down for a good 30 seconds. He is by no means the only player to do such things, but sooner or later those sorts of actions will be punished by an attack taking advantage of one fewer player involving themselves in the play.
Since columns are usually written by whiney, frustrated people I may as well join their ranks for a few paragraphs and begin with the things I saw wrong with this match. Firstly, though a very talented player, Lazar Markovic returned to his shaky form from earlier this season. Markovic has speed up and down the field and hustles non-stop. It is his touch that falters him in important moments though.
In the seventh minute, Markovic failed to convert what should have been an early goal. It was not a gimme shot, but still for one as talented as he and one with the aspirations of being an Anfield legend, you have to put those away. Markovic also blasted one wide of the post just before the halftime break, which would have also put his team up by a goal again. He was clearly disappointed in himself, but the shot was not overly rushed and though there were some players in front it has to be put in the net.
Markovic was by no means the only player to falter in their attacking. Alberto Moreno was set up with a very nice cross by Raheem Sterling in the 47th minute. Moreno was unmarked and managed only to flail his left leg at the ball and connect just enough to at least keep the ball in play. Moreno is more of an attacking defender, in the mold of Roberto Carlos, but it was still a golden opportunity that needs to be better handled. Jordan Henderson also continued to prove that there is a pretty big drop off from Steven Gerrard to himself.
Henderson should not aspire to be Stevie G. It is an effort in futility. Henderson just isn't the quality of Gerrard and probably never will be. That does not mean that he is not or cannot be a top player at the club. Henderson gives his best on the pitch almost every game. He just lacks that final ball or touch that Gerrard brings to the captaincy. There were two free kicks that pop to mind, including the 70th minute, where Hendo blasted it right into the wall. He is not beyond learning to get better touch on those, but for right now Liverpool will have to find someone with better quality to replace Gerrard on free kicks come next season.
Before you begin to wonder where all this negativity comes from and think perhaps you were dreaming and the scoreline was reversed, fear not. Liverpool was indeed victorious and there were many good things to come from the match. Liverpool kept a clean sheet for the fourth match in a row. The defense, while still questionable and still giving fans that queezy feeling, played a very solid match. West Ham did not have a shot on target until the 32nd minute. With the exception of set pieces, the Hammers really created nothing from the flow of play. The one nit-picky item of mention regarding the back three was their inability to make quick passes out. Too often in the first half, they were forced to retreat in possession. This may well be due to a lack of off the ball movement, but the bottom line was West Ham continually pressured the ball and Liverpool were forced backward more than one would like.
The offense was very good. As previously mentioned, they did not finish as many chances as they should have. In addition to the misses by Henderson and Markovic, Jordan Ibe and Daniel Sturridge did not capitalize on chances in the 78th and 83rd minutes. Overall, however, they were good on the passes. Most balls were within a range that, even if they failed to do so, they had an opportunity to obtain and push into space. Sterling continued to show his growth as a star and his connection with Coutinho as they connected on Liverpool's first goal.
Liverpool were a bit fortunate with the deflection, but the chip pass from Coutinho to Sterling was cheekily created and deftly handled. Sterling then showed good composure - something that has at times lacked in his game this season - and slotted it past the goalkeeper. While he still occasionally tries to over-perform, Sterling continues to show that when he is within himself and composed that he could be an all-world caliber player. It may still be a likelihood to happen, Liverpool need to get pen to paper on a new deal for young Raheem.
One would be remiss to not mention the return of Daniel Sturridge as one of the biggest positives. Sturridge lacked his usual first touch, no doubt caused by not playing a game since August. He looked clearly rusty and a bit over-eager to run around. However, both he and the team looked very good when together on the pitch for the first time in almost five months. Liverpool looked very similar to their attack of last season with a formation of Sturridge, Sterling and Coutinho all rotating around. If Sturrige had not scored, his return would still have been a good omen of things to come with the ease the attacking line slipped into with his inclusion.
Sturridge was not about to let a chance to put his own little chapter in the Anfield annals though. 15 had a couple of good chances, as mentioned, in the 78th minute. Then, only two minutes later, Sturridge would bury one in the 80th minute to put his team up by two. Not only was the shot powerful and accurate, but with his weak foot. That is definitely an encouraging sign due to the fact that even when the SAS connection was flying last season, Sturridge's weak foot was often a weakness that he was uncomfortable using. On this evening, Sturridge struck the ball with supreme confidence and coupled with the sharp angle, made the goal all the more impressive.
Liverpool may still have questions within the squad. They may still not have quite enough to regularly challenge the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City, but they continue to move in positive ways. The moves made in the lineup are beneficial more than hindrances, as they were earlier. Lallana fit in well in his more central role and despite his falterings on this night, Markovic has proven that he is more than capable of playing a wing attacker or a more defensive winger position as well. That does nothing but help the depth of this club as they continue forward with Europa competitions and the FA Cup. Mistakes are made by just about any club. The important thing, for now, is the belief has returned. Walk on.
Random Thoughs:
- Liverpool need to take advantage of their fixture list in the league coming up. With the exception of the City match on March 1, all of February and March feature winnable games. If Liverpool can continue their current form, they could easily find themselves contending for a top four spot in April and May.
- Being a keeper, it pains me a bit to mention, but the manner in which keepers get so butt-hurt with the smallest of touches is aggravating. Adrian, West Ham's goalkeeper, was brushed along the ribs by Coutinho - who was trying to avoid contact. By his reaction, you would think Adrian had been shanked in the lunch line at the state penitentiary. Really? Goalkeepers are not accustomed to being hit, but these sorts of overreactions are not beneficial to the game.
- Speaking of overacting, I'm tired of players putting their teammates in peril because they want to lay on the deck in hopes of earning their opponent a yellow card. Markovic went down in the box after being grazed along the face and stayed down for a good 30 seconds. He is by no means the only player to do such things, but sooner or later those sorts of actions will be punished by an attack taking advantage of one fewer player involving themselves in the play.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
