Liverpool FC came into the final day of the 2014-15 Premier League season with little to play for outside of pride. Only a relatively unwanted spot in the Europa League was on the line. However, Liverpool could not even muster the pride to send their captain out with style and barely registered a game played when the full 90 was finished. Only the club's leader, who will travel across the pond to play in MLS after a month off, managed to send himself off with a bit of flare. Steven Gerrard gave his fans one last memory to close out his European career, but the rest of the team let the supporters down.
Liverpool came out with a bit of attack and looked the more likely to score through the first 10 or 15 minutes. Instead, Stoke got a counter attack and struck against a porous Liverpool back line. In truth, Liverpool had their chances. Adam Lallana had at least two that he could have put away and was not awarded a penalty that could have changed the complexion of the game when it was 3-0. Other chances were missed or saved as well. In the end, it did not matter as Liverpool had perhaps the worst first half performance as a team in many a memory.
Supporters can and will heap on Brendan Rodgers. He picked this team, was part of the selection committee that made the transfers and chose the formations. However, over the course of the season, it has become apparent that neither Jose Mourinho, Jurgen Klopp or anyone really was going to make a difference from the sidelines with this club. The loss of both Luis Suarez, to transfer, and Daniel Sturridge, to injury, was more than anyone in the club was going to be able to make up for. Really, Liverpool performed up to the standard they had last season. The results were just different.
People will say that statement is nonsense, but the club scored 99 goals last season and 52 this season. If you remove all of Suarez and Sturridge's goals from last years totals, then the goal totals almost even out over the two years. Unfortunately, that just further proves the club's inability to find goal scoring talent. There is attacking talent in this team, but it woefully underperformed all season and was nowhere close to the teamwide performance needed to replace those lofty numbers put up last season.
Supporters must now look to the future. Sadly for them, the future is very cloudy at the moment. Unless you can bring in a Jurgen Klopp, I think Rodgers will be on the sidelines next season. The problem with that is Rodgers has been an enigma in his time at Anfield. Throw away the first year as that is often a feeling out period. His second year, he almost wins the league and figures out a way to build his squad around its strengths even if it doesn't use his most preferred formation. Third season opens poorly, has a great run of form in the winter months and then hits a brick wall at the end.
Rodgers is a good tactician and knows how to place a squad when it has definitive strengths. For two straight seasons he has gotten his club to perform to top capabilities from Christmas through March. Alas, he has failed to inspire his team to perform in the spring and early fall. He has yet to show that either he or this unnamed transfer committee can choose players capable of actually performing in a Liverpool shirt.
Going forward, whether Rodgers is the manager or not, Liverpool have to settle on a formation. Yes, it is good to be fluid and capable of changing depending on personnel or injuries or an opponent. However, the Reds have used at least three formations, if not more, over the last two seasons alone. Beyond just having versatility, the players have not been allowed to settle into a steady position. Raheem Sterling has played a wingback, an attacking wing and a striker. Emre Can has played a centerback in a back three, a winger on occasion and even less at his natural position in the midfield. Adam Lallana was jockeyed back and forth between winger and wing back. Steven Gerrard ping ponged back and forth between attack and holding roles.
The list goes on and on of players put in several different spots. We were all sold on the depth of this squad prior and during the season. Now at its end, all are left to wonder who, if anyone really deserves to come back. We all know that there isn't enough money available or enough suitors for the current crop of players to make literal wholesale changes. Simon Mingolet will almost surely be the starting keeper going into next year and deservedly so given his form second half of the season. Martin Skrtel, for good or bad will most likely be back next season. Jordan Ibe just signed a new contract and will feature more prominently and Coutinho will have even more responsibility come the new season.
Outside of that, there are nothing but question marks. Rodgers claims that Liverpool will not sell and Sterling will see out his contract. A fine sentiment, but do you really want to receive no fee when the player leaves? Rumors persist on social media that Joe Allen will stay and Lucas will go. While that sentence should be reversed, I do not understand this groundswell of support for Lucas. He cannot stay healthy and provides absolutely nothing in attack. He is a solid defender, but if this club is depending on Lucas and/or Allen, then they will remain in dire straights.
Emre Can was brought in to be a midfielder and should be placed back in that role. He did a serviceable job, but is not and may never be a back line defender. He lacks the speed to play on the wing, lacks the knowledge to play well in the center and lacks the physicality, despite his size, to make the clearances he needs to. Rickie Lambert is all but gone. Mario Balotelli has loads of potential, but even as a personal fan, I understand that business comes first and this club may not be a fit and if someone is willing to spend on the Italian enigma, it would be wise to cash in. Sakho can be a good defender, but looks less comfortable on the ball than a goalkeeper.
Jordan Henderson is relatively young and capable, but isn't that top talent needed to put up performances week in and week out. Adam Lallana may stay or go and sadly, despite his effort and talents shown at Southampton, it may not actually affect the team much in either instance. Sadly, that is the case for much of this squad. Whether they stay or go, may not make much of a difference. It all depends on who the manager brings in.
I am no football genius. I do not know all the inner workings of who is available and who would be the best fit for the Reds. Danny Ings has been mentioned, but could be just another Rickie Lambert. Christian Benteke would be a nice add, but may be a pipe dream. The discouraging thing going into this summer is that Liverpool need the exact same things they needed last offseason, plus more. It will be a long offseason for this club. But, for right or wrong, those that follow the club with their hearts will drink the kool-aid come next season and will always believe. Liverpool have too much history, too much pride and too much support to become one of the also-rans. We've seen teams make turnarounds following one decent to good transfer window. All the fans can do now is hope that Brendan Rodgers, or whoever is in charge, will make good this time and restore Liverpool to some form of glory.
Random thoughts:
- For all their talents and media hype, Coutinho and Raheem Sterling did not do nearly enough this year. Both had single digit goal scoring totals, when the team needed so much more. Both will be good footballers going forward, but either lack the talent to carry a team alone or as a duo or simply need more supporting cast.
- On principle, I applaud BR for sitting Sterling. Some will say it cost Liverpool the game, but given how bad that first half went, I doubt Sterling would've made a dent. Regardless of what his future holds, Sterling should take a long look in the mirror and decide what he wants, not what his agent tells him he wants. Even taking my supporter's hat off, Sterling would be better suited continuing to grow at Liverpool and then even bigger money will be available in a few years time. If he wants less playing time and increased scrutiny that will come by playing at some other clubs, that is his prerogative. However, with the way things have played out over the last few weeks, the player and his agent have done nothing but paint the youngster in a poor light, which will not be viewed well by potential suitors.
- It was not a good year to be a manager on Merseyside. After looking like great tacticians last year, both Rodgers and Roberto Martinez had less than stellar campaigns. While both are still viewed as good coaches, their performances this year may put both in the unemployment line.
- As I mentioned in the blog, I am one of, if not the only Mario Balotelli supporters left. He presents an interesting problem for the club. If you can recoup some of your money, then selling may be a good option. However, there is talent in the man if it can be harnessed. Unfortunately, nobody has managed to do that yet. Also, to get the best out of him, you really need to form the squad around his talents, which would be a double edged sword. If he produces it works out. If he doesn't, then you may have several players in wrong positions again. This season showed that, whether it is Balotelli or even Sturridge, that playing with only one true striker (sometimes none at all) does not befit this club at the moment.
- Thank the maker that Steven Gerrard at least scored a memorable goal in his final Premier League match. It was bad enough to see his team go out with an embarrassing performance, but if he would have been subbed off at the half or done nothing of note, it would not have been fitting.
- The hole that Gerrard will leave will be bigger than just the space he took on the field. In the post match show on NBC, they spoke about the respect Gerrard gave to everyone around the stadium and training ground. From the lunch lady to the parking attendants, Gerrard was held in high regard by everyone at the club. It will be nearly impossible to replace the leadership he brought and the gravitas he carried. Sadly, we may have witnessed the last of a dying breed. In today's age, we may never again see a player spend his entire career, from youth to pro, at one club. Those with the talent are drawn away by more money. Those who stay are often replaced by someone younger. While not on the level of Messi or Ronaldo, Gerrard was a once in a generation player in his own way.
Best wishes to all you Reds supporters during this long offseason. Let us all hope for a much better end to next season. This space will not be completely void during the summer. I may transition to writing about Saint Louis FC or just sports in general. If you wish to keep up with my musings, you may follow me on facebook or twitter: https://twitter.com/TPanula. I post my blogs and YouTube shows on there.
Walk On.
Sunday, May 24, 2015
Saturday, May 16, 2015
Gerrard Farewell Spoiled by Liverpool Defense
It was supposed to be the perfect send off for a club legend. It was supposed to be a tearful, heartfealt goodbye to the man who had stuck by the club through thick and thin when greener pastures were readily available. Instead, the same old problems reared their ugly head and spoiled the occasion. Steven Gerrard was even pushed forward, trying to come up with that magic moment he has become synonymous with. It was not meant to be.
Liverpool looked great out of the gate. The team was fresh, cohesive and on point. The passing was good and the team was dominant. Liverpool looked like they would rule the day. Midway through the first half, the Reds were controlling 80% of the possession. By the end of the match, Liverpool still held the edge in possession 66% to 34%. Unfortunately, it led to nothing.
Adam Lallana gave the Reds hope that the sunny day would end with a glowing finish. Lallana knicked away a poor pass from former Liverpool defender, Martin Kelly, raced past Scott Dann and then flipped one just over goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey. Lallana went straight for the team captain to celebrate and embraced his leader tightly. Alas, it was to be the last true bright spot for Liverpool for the rest of the match.
Despite chances and possession, Liverpool failed to create and capitalize. Crystal Palace poached the equalizer just before the half. The Reds gave up an ill advised foul close to the penalty area just two minutes before the break. Jason Puncheon went over the wall and far post, putting it in the back of the net. Simon Mingolet, perhaps having scouted Puncheon's last free kick attempt took a step to the near post right off the kick, leaving him no chance to recover once the ball went the other way.
Wilfried Zaha, the former Manchester United foe, turned out to be a thorn in the side of his rival again. Only 22 seconds after coming onto the pitch, Zaha struck and Liverpool conceded. Down 2-1 for most of the second half, Liverpool tried to push forward. They moved Gerrard into an attacking position and put on Rickie Lambert in an attempt to spur the offense. Emre Can was given more leway to venture upfield as well. It was for naught though as the club either fumbled away decent chances or passed the ball too many times instead of looking for a shot.
Palace put the nail in the coffin in extra time. The spoilers were wrongly awarded a penalty kick when Lucas fouled Zaha just outside the box. Glenn Murray's spot kick was neatly saved by Simon Mingolet, but the Belgian was given no help on the rebound attempt and Murray slotted it just past Mingolet's outstretched left foot.
Liverpool, for a second season, failed to fully show up against Crystal Palace in a late season match. Excluding a cup match, Liverpool are now 0-1-2 in their last few league games against Palace. The Eagles have looked most comfortable in spoiling Liverpool's party the last few seasons. Again, the lack of a true scorer cost the Reds. Though it was almost impossible, the loss also officially eliminates Liverpool from Champions League football next season. Just another grain of salt in the wound.
Ultimately this game is just another example of the changes that need to be made to this club. There was really little to play for, outside of pride and to send Gerrard off the Anfield pitch with a fond memory. Liverpool failed to do that and just about everyone on the pitch failed to prove that they are assured of a place in the team next season. Big changes are in store for the club in red next year. Unfortunately, regardless of the talent they may bring in, there will still be a huge hole. That hole will be in the shape of a number 8. Leadership is a value that is hard to recruit and hopefully someone can at least partially fill those large shoes.
Walk On.
Liverpool looked great out of the gate. The team was fresh, cohesive and on point. The passing was good and the team was dominant. Liverpool looked like they would rule the day. Midway through the first half, the Reds were controlling 80% of the possession. By the end of the match, Liverpool still held the edge in possession 66% to 34%. Unfortunately, it led to nothing.
Adam Lallana gave the Reds hope that the sunny day would end with a glowing finish. Lallana knicked away a poor pass from former Liverpool defender, Martin Kelly, raced past Scott Dann and then flipped one just over goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey. Lallana went straight for the team captain to celebrate and embraced his leader tightly. Alas, it was to be the last true bright spot for Liverpool for the rest of the match.
Despite chances and possession, Liverpool failed to create and capitalize. Crystal Palace poached the equalizer just before the half. The Reds gave up an ill advised foul close to the penalty area just two minutes before the break. Jason Puncheon went over the wall and far post, putting it in the back of the net. Simon Mingolet, perhaps having scouted Puncheon's last free kick attempt took a step to the near post right off the kick, leaving him no chance to recover once the ball went the other way.
Wilfried Zaha, the former Manchester United foe, turned out to be a thorn in the side of his rival again. Only 22 seconds after coming onto the pitch, Zaha struck and Liverpool conceded. Down 2-1 for most of the second half, Liverpool tried to push forward. They moved Gerrard into an attacking position and put on Rickie Lambert in an attempt to spur the offense. Emre Can was given more leway to venture upfield as well. It was for naught though as the club either fumbled away decent chances or passed the ball too many times instead of looking for a shot.
Palace put the nail in the coffin in extra time. The spoilers were wrongly awarded a penalty kick when Lucas fouled Zaha just outside the box. Glenn Murray's spot kick was neatly saved by Simon Mingolet, but the Belgian was given no help on the rebound attempt and Murray slotted it just past Mingolet's outstretched left foot.
Liverpool, for a second season, failed to fully show up against Crystal Palace in a late season match. Excluding a cup match, Liverpool are now 0-1-2 in their last few league games against Palace. The Eagles have looked most comfortable in spoiling Liverpool's party the last few seasons. Again, the lack of a true scorer cost the Reds. Though it was almost impossible, the loss also officially eliminates Liverpool from Champions League football next season. Just another grain of salt in the wound.
Ultimately this game is just another example of the changes that need to be made to this club. There was really little to play for, outside of pride and to send Gerrard off the Anfield pitch with a fond memory. Liverpool failed to do that and just about everyone on the pitch failed to prove that they are assured of a place in the team next season. Big changes are in store for the club in red next year. Unfortunately, regardless of the talent they may bring in, there will still be a huge hole. That hole will be in the shape of a number 8. Leadership is a value that is hard to recruit and hopefully someone can at least partially fill those large shoes.
Walk On.
Sunday, May 10, 2015
Good Result Not Enough
Hopefully all the mothers out there are having or have had a great Mother's Day. The mothers of the Liverpool players will be proud of their sons. They gave a good effort, for the most part, in an always difficult road match against Chelsea. There were lots of storylines heading into this one. Steven Gerrard's last trip to Stamford Bridge, the master manager against his former pupil, Chelsea closing out the championship the week prior and Liverpool essentially needing a win to keep their Champions League hopes alive.
The match opened up inauspiciously for Liverpool, as the bane of the club reared its head. Set pieces have long been a point of contention for this team and again it led to a goal. This time off a corner kick. John Terry, the old adversary, peeled his way back from the crowd and jumped over Rickie Lambert and nodded it past Simon Mingolet and Steven Gerrard, who was on the near post. Though no one could really blame Gerrard for not getting a foot on it, it was just another pinch of salt in the wounds that Chelsea love to rub so vigorously.
Despite the poor start, Liverpool actually enjoyed a good deal of possession and attack. Unfortunately for them, the Blues' defense was too well organized for much of the half and really the game overall. Liverpool poked and prodded, seeked and searched to no avail for much of the opening 45. It was not until late in the half that the skies would brighten for the Reds fortunes.
As if to say he was not about to let his legacy end at Stamford Bridge with the slip that played a part in Liverpool's downfall last season, Steven Gerrard rose up. The captain, admittedly with the aide of a slight push, found himself wide open on the back post of Liverpool's own corner kick. The equalizer came in the 44th minute after Gerrard neatly headed the ball down into the pitch and it bounded just past Tibault Courtois and into the net. For a player that has had his struggles with fitness, fan appreciation and on-field play this season, it was a far better memory to leave Chelsea with than last season's end. Gerrard even received a rare standing ovation from the road fans when he was subbed out.
Sadly, his heroics were ultimately for naught. Liverpool and Chelsea turned into Mayweather and Paquiao for the second half, mainly content to lunge forward on occasion but mainly coming to nothing. Liverpool only put four shots on target all game and their opponents, only three. Hardly the stuff of attacking legends. It was a bittersweet result due to the fact that if you asked anyone mid-season, if they would take a 1-1 draw in Chelsea's home stadium, only a food would not.
Alas, for Liverpool, while the result was good for form, it was not good enough to save their last remaining goal for the season. While the Reds have had glimpses and flashes of the team of last season, ultimately they are left wondering how it all went so poorly. A fifth place finish, in one of the most competitive leagues in the world would be nothing to scoff at, but is a bitter pill to swallow. The pill is extra bitter when you come to the realization that nothing was accomplished. Champions League, although mathematically still alive, is gone. Another season will pass without silverware, even though the club got to the semi-finals in two competitions. Also, another season goes by without a league title. All were goals set at the beginning of the year, all seemed plausible and now all are simply dust in the wind.
The club must now look to the future, while honoring the past. Gerrard will most likely get a grand send off in his final game at Anfield in a week's time. Liverpool's last two games are certainly winnable and, at this stage, you may as well look to finish with as many points as possible. The dreams of the year may be gone, but fans still have two more weeks to enjoy and that's better than nothing at all.
Walk On.
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Game In Hand Goes To Pot
Let me preface today's blog with the fact that I did not see the entirety of today's match due to another DVR SNAFU (Which did not end up mattering as I saw the entire first half). Liverpool's faint glimmer of hope for Champions League football has been all but dashed. A midweek clash with Hull City, a squad fighting to stay above the relegation zone, seemed to be the good medicine Liverpool would need following a disappointing weekend match against West Brom. Despite manager Brendan Rodgers' claims that the club played well on the weekend and just did not score, the team failed to answer the call in a time when three points are ever so precious.
Again, three points were needed to continue any hope of playing in Europe's top competition in this Tuesday match and Liverpool, again, failed to answer the bell. This club, simply, has been a disappointment this season. Despite glimmers and flashes of what could be, there have been far too many bad performances from the team.
Liverpool did create chances. 12 shots and nine on target are not stats to be scoffed at, but the quality of some of the attempts leaves much to be desired. While the Reds could easily have had two or three goals in the first half - one coming off Mario Balotelli's backheel that went straight at the keeper, one coming off Coutinho's one-timer that went straight at the keeper and one that Jordan Henderson shot straight at the keeper - the bottom line is that the team did not finish their chances. As fans we want to believe that there is talent in this squad, but either it is not being utilized correctly or it is simply not there.
People may blame Mario Balotelli for the loss, and would not be completely incorrect, but in fairness he was in position to make three Hull City attackers offside. Unfortunately, the pass went to the one attacker smart enough to stay onside and nobody defended the ball. Yes, Balotelli played the man offside and shoulders a large bit of blame, but the lack of urgency in attempting to defend that ball was shocking. Premier League defenders should not be standing with their feet in quicksand and watching the ball go over their heads as though they were watching the first rocket blast into outer space.
One can also argue that the lack of urgency in this squad is quite alarming. Fine, you go down by a goal in a late season match, only three days removed from your last match and one on the road. But to see little to no fight after the halftime break is shocking. If not for Simon Mingolet, a goalkeeper many fans were willing to place on the sacrificial altar during the January window, this team would have lost many more than 10 games. The score would have been much worse than 1-0 in today's match as well. Mingolet has been a rare bright spot in the month of April as the team has crumbled around him.
The sad part of all this is we have reached the point where cold, hard, calculated moves must be made. Personally, I really like Brendan Rodgers. But if he has lost the ear of this team and seems unable to pull off the moves to keep Liverpool in the upper echelon, then he must go. Raheem Sterling is a great young talent. However, as good as he is and can be, seven goals is not good enough. I would not advocate selling him, but he has to do more than simply dribble and show speed to be a player deserving of the money he wants. Coutinho is in the same boat. He is a fantastic player, but more must be accomplished. He cannot simply keep the ball on a string and show filthy moves and then blast the ball over the bar. Sadly, despite their lack of truly accomplishing anything this season, those two have been the lone bright spots on this squad (at least in attacking terms).
Again, once the season is finished and every result tabulated, I will go more into depth about what this team needs and who is just not good enough. As supporters, though, we are incredibly disappointed and frustrated right now. Unfortunately, last year seems to be fools gold and we all took a piece. Everyone knew, the loss of one of the top five players in the world in Suarez was going to be a big blow, but we did not know that it would deprive the team of all its scoring. Nobody has stepped up to fill the void and players that were to be counted on in important roles like Daniel Sturridge and Lucas continue to get injured if you look at them the wrong way.
Even taking the supporter hat off, this team has become difficult to watch. The club is slow at the back, ineffective through the midfield and lack cutthroat, clinical finishing in attack. At this moment, we are all at a loss. Anger presents many options and opinions in the heat of the moment, but many are lacking any true thought or consideration. The winds of change are surely stirring inside the Shankly Gates, but for now all the fans can do is hope the season ends on an up-note. It is a sad state of affairs, given the promise going into the year, but that is what they are left with.
Walk On.
Again, three points were needed to continue any hope of playing in Europe's top competition in this Tuesday match and Liverpool, again, failed to answer the bell. This club, simply, has been a disappointment this season. Despite glimmers and flashes of what could be, there have been far too many bad performances from the team.
Liverpool did create chances. 12 shots and nine on target are not stats to be scoffed at, but the quality of some of the attempts leaves much to be desired. While the Reds could easily have had two or three goals in the first half - one coming off Mario Balotelli's backheel that went straight at the keeper, one coming off Coutinho's one-timer that went straight at the keeper and one that Jordan Henderson shot straight at the keeper - the bottom line is that the team did not finish their chances. As fans we want to believe that there is talent in this squad, but either it is not being utilized correctly or it is simply not there.
People may blame Mario Balotelli for the loss, and would not be completely incorrect, but in fairness he was in position to make three Hull City attackers offside. Unfortunately, the pass went to the one attacker smart enough to stay onside and nobody defended the ball. Yes, Balotelli played the man offside and shoulders a large bit of blame, but the lack of urgency in attempting to defend that ball was shocking. Premier League defenders should not be standing with their feet in quicksand and watching the ball go over their heads as though they were watching the first rocket blast into outer space.
One can also argue that the lack of urgency in this squad is quite alarming. Fine, you go down by a goal in a late season match, only three days removed from your last match and one on the road. But to see little to no fight after the halftime break is shocking. If not for Simon Mingolet, a goalkeeper many fans were willing to place on the sacrificial altar during the January window, this team would have lost many more than 10 games. The score would have been much worse than 1-0 in today's match as well. Mingolet has been a rare bright spot in the month of April as the team has crumbled around him.
The sad part of all this is we have reached the point where cold, hard, calculated moves must be made. Personally, I really like Brendan Rodgers. But if he has lost the ear of this team and seems unable to pull off the moves to keep Liverpool in the upper echelon, then he must go. Raheem Sterling is a great young talent. However, as good as he is and can be, seven goals is not good enough. I would not advocate selling him, but he has to do more than simply dribble and show speed to be a player deserving of the money he wants. Coutinho is in the same boat. He is a fantastic player, but more must be accomplished. He cannot simply keep the ball on a string and show filthy moves and then blast the ball over the bar. Sadly, despite their lack of truly accomplishing anything this season, those two have been the lone bright spots on this squad (at least in attacking terms).
Again, once the season is finished and every result tabulated, I will go more into depth about what this team needs and who is just not good enough. As supporters, though, we are incredibly disappointed and frustrated right now. Unfortunately, last year seems to be fools gold and we all took a piece. Everyone knew, the loss of one of the top five players in the world in Suarez was going to be a big blow, but we did not know that it would deprive the team of all its scoring. Nobody has stepped up to fill the void and players that were to be counted on in important roles like Daniel Sturridge and Lucas continue to get injured if you look at them the wrong way.
Even taking the supporter hat off, this team has become difficult to watch. The club is slow at the back, ineffective through the midfield and lack cutthroat, clinical finishing in attack. At this moment, we are all at a loss. Anger presents many options and opinions in the heat of the moment, but many are lacking any true thought or consideration. The winds of change are surely stirring inside the Shankly Gates, but for now all the fans can do is hope the season ends on an up-note. It is a sad state of affairs, given the promise going into the year, but that is what they are left with.
Walk On.
Saturday, April 25, 2015
Champions League All But Gone
Liverpool came into this weekend with much to do. They needed results in pretty much every match, with all three points to come from as many games as possible. Only getting one point against a team like West Brom was not something that favored Liverpool's chances of sneaking into the top four. Unfortunately for the Reds, that is exactly the result they gained in this road match. Draws against Chelsea or even Stoke would've been more stomachable, but now the Reds must walk on with the knowledge that they could not break down a team that has flirted with relegation a few times this season.
Liverpool came out positively, as they usually do before it all goes to pot. Even without Daniel Sturridge, Lucas or Sakho, this was a team filled with enough talent on the ball to be able to do things. And things they did, until the final third. Liverpool were strong on the ball, mixed up the attack fairly well and plunged ahead with speed. Unfortunately, that same bug bit them that has been an issue all season. That bug is a lack of scoring punch.
Daniel Sturridge, for all his talents, has been a non-factor all year because he is either injured or played with a fear of getting injured. Raheem Sterling is a fantastic talent for the future, but a combination of contract disputes, a possible lack of off-field maturity and a simple positional change have limited what he has been able to accomplish this season. Mario Balotelli appears to be a failed experiment, both of his own doing and a lack of support when on the field. There are little to no true striking options coming off the bench, woefully proven by Fabio Borini coming into this match as a sub after having not even been included in the team for several weeks.
Despite the relative negativity of options, the Reds had their chances. Steven Gerrard narrowly missed on a free kick that was literally on the edge of the penalty box, in the first half. Balotelli put one over the bar as did a few other Liverpool attacks. The first half seemed littered with potential chances wasted by putting too much on and under the shot.
If the first half was a half of shots missing over the bar, the second was a half filled with chanced put off the bars. The Reds' best chance - one that probably should've been finished off - was a scramble in the box in the 56th minute. After an early scramble on the left side, Balotelli slid for a shot that was blocked by the defender. Coutinho then put it back in the mixer only to have it saved. The rebound came to Jordan Henderson. While Henderson was granted little time to decide, his shot came too low and was blocked instead of hitting a relatively open net.
Balotelli linked well on a chance for Jordan Ibe in the 63rd minute. Ibe's shot grazed the defender's leg and then crashed off the crossbar. Coutinho just missed one of his trademark long shots as it skimmed off the top netting in the 81st minute. Finally, a fitting end for Liverpool's day was a cross from Gerrard at the death that was narrowly headed wide by Dejan Lovren.
Liverpool had 74% of the possession. They more than doubled the shots taken of their opponent, 22-10. While those stats should be encouraging, they really are not. Despite 22 shots, only 5 were listed as on target, compared to four for West Bromwich Albion. As previously mentioned, Liverpool just did not take care of their opportunities. Give the opponent some credit. West Brom packed it in, often with seven or more players in the box, but Liverpool just did not have that finishing touch as they have not had much of the year. West Brom also had a pretty good record against the Reds in recent times.
The game itself was not a travesty. Liverpool had their chances. Liverpool defended reasonably well, though West Brom could have scored a couple times - one in particular that was too close was the opportunity cleared off the line by Lovren. Interestingly enough, when I awoke today the first thought in my head was what to write if this ended up being a goalless draw. Now I'm kicking myself.
In the grander scheme, this result just further cemented the uncertainty Liverpool will go into the summer with. Regardless of your feelings on him, Brendan Rodgers' job is in increasing jeopardy. Regardless of who the manager is next year, depth at striker is going to be a huge need in the off season. What is there to do about Mario Balotelli? His resale value will be exceedingly low, but if you keep him then he needs to be in a system where he is not the lone striker. His work rate and skills simply do not allow that to be a viable position for him. However, he is no longer the type of talent you can build a system to fit either. The defense has plenty of question marks as well, but I'll save that for the end of the year.
Though the game itself was simply boring, what is crushing about it is that it almost wipes out any chance at the Champions League. Realists will say it was almost impossible to begin with, but there were enough opportunities left for it still to be a reality. Now, there's just too much left to chance even if the Reds were to win out. While Liverpool has a seemingly easy schedule with only Chelsea left as a major obstacle, the teams ahead don't have much on their ledger either. Manchester United finishes off the year with matches against Everton, West Brom, Crystal Palace, Arsenal and Hull. Given their form, Arsenal seems the only likely spot they might drop points. City, meanwhile, end against Tottenham, QPR, Swansea and Southampton. A more slippery slope, perhaps, but still unlikely to produce the kinds of results Liverpool would need.
Liverpool currently sit nine points behind second place Manchester City, with five matches to go. If Liverpool win four of those they gain 12 points. 15 points if they upset Chelsea and won them all. Unfortunately the math just doesn't favor them. Even with all 12 or 15 points, that means that their opponents can only pick up 3-4 points of their remaining games. Sadly, that just isn't going to happen.
Random Thoughts:
- Many will disagree with me, especially given this result, but I still feel Rodgers is a good enough coach to win at Liverpool. I stated in my video blogs that Liverpool needs to put feelers out on Jurgen Klopp. If he is willing to come and not use Liverpool as a bargaining chip, then the time for change may be now. If not Klopp though, I don't see much out there that would really be better. Rodgers' failings have mainly come during the off seasons. He is a great tactitian and makes changes in season to turn things around. He must be better at judging players not in his system though, if he is to really return Liverpool to their previous heights.
- From a personal standpoint, I have come to the conclusion that Sturridge will never be fit enough to fully be counted on by Liverpool. I would not sell him for a pittance, but if you continue to try and build your offense around him, I just don't believe he will give you enough games. Sturridge can still be a valuable piece now and then if you keep him, but significant changes need to be made to the Reds' attack.
Walk On.
Liverpool came out positively, as they usually do before it all goes to pot. Even without Daniel Sturridge, Lucas or Sakho, this was a team filled with enough talent on the ball to be able to do things. And things they did, until the final third. Liverpool were strong on the ball, mixed up the attack fairly well and plunged ahead with speed. Unfortunately, that same bug bit them that has been an issue all season. That bug is a lack of scoring punch.
Daniel Sturridge, for all his talents, has been a non-factor all year because he is either injured or played with a fear of getting injured. Raheem Sterling is a fantastic talent for the future, but a combination of contract disputes, a possible lack of off-field maturity and a simple positional change have limited what he has been able to accomplish this season. Mario Balotelli appears to be a failed experiment, both of his own doing and a lack of support when on the field. There are little to no true striking options coming off the bench, woefully proven by Fabio Borini coming into this match as a sub after having not even been included in the team for several weeks.
Despite the relative negativity of options, the Reds had their chances. Steven Gerrard narrowly missed on a free kick that was literally on the edge of the penalty box, in the first half. Balotelli put one over the bar as did a few other Liverpool attacks. The first half seemed littered with potential chances wasted by putting too much on and under the shot.
If the first half was a half of shots missing over the bar, the second was a half filled with chanced put off the bars. The Reds' best chance - one that probably should've been finished off - was a scramble in the box in the 56th minute. After an early scramble on the left side, Balotelli slid for a shot that was blocked by the defender. Coutinho then put it back in the mixer only to have it saved. The rebound came to Jordan Henderson. While Henderson was granted little time to decide, his shot came too low and was blocked instead of hitting a relatively open net.
Balotelli linked well on a chance for Jordan Ibe in the 63rd minute. Ibe's shot grazed the defender's leg and then crashed off the crossbar. Coutinho just missed one of his trademark long shots as it skimmed off the top netting in the 81st minute. Finally, a fitting end for Liverpool's day was a cross from Gerrard at the death that was narrowly headed wide by Dejan Lovren.
Liverpool had 74% of the possession. They more than doubled the shots taken of their opponent, 22-10. While those stats should be encouraging, they really are not. Despite 22 shots, only 5 were listed as on target, compared to four for West Bromwich Albion. As previously mentioned, Liverpool just did not take care of their opportunities. Give the opponent some credit. West Brom packed it in, often with seven or more players in the box, but Liverpool just did not have that finishing touch as they have not had much of the year. West Brom also had a pretty good record against the Reds in recent times.
The game itself was not a travesty. Liverpool had their chances. Liverpool defended reasonably well, though West Brom could have scored a couple times - one in particular that was too close was the opportunity cleared off the line by Lovren. Interestingly enough, when I awoke today the first thought in my head was what to write if this ended up being a goalless draw. Now I'm kicking myself.
In the grander scheme, this result just further cemented the uncertainty Liverpool will go into the summer with. Regardless of your feelings on him, Brendan Rodgers' job is in increasing jeopardy. Regardless of who the manager is next year, depth at striker is going to be a huge need in the off season. What is there to do about Mario Balotelli? His resale value will be exceedingly low, but if you keep him then he needs to be in a system where he is not the lone striker. His work rate and skills simply do not allow that to be a viable position for him. However, he is no longer the type of talent you can build a system to fit either. The defense has plenty of question marks as well, but I'll save that for the end of the year.
Though the game itself was simply boring, what is crushing about it is that it almost wipes out any chance at the Champions League. Realists will say it was almost impossible to begin with, but there were enough opportunities left for it still to be a reality. Now, there's just too much left to chance even if the Reds were to win out. While Liverpool has a seemingly easy schedule with only Chelsea left as a major obstacle, the teams ahead don't have much on their ledger either. Manchester United finishes off the year with matches against Everton, West Brom, Crystal Palace, Arsenal and Hull. Given their form, Arsenal seems the only likely spot they might drop points. City, meanwhile, end against Tottenham, QPR, Swansea and Southampton. A more slippery slope, perhaps, but still unlikely to produce the kinds of results Liverpool would need.
Liverpool currently sit nine points behind second place Manchester City, with five matches to go. If Liverpool win four of those they gain 12 points. 15 points if they upset Chelsea and won them all. Unfortunately the math just doesn't favor them. Even with all 12 or 15 points, that means that their opponents can only pick up 3-4 points of their remaining games. Sadly, that just isn't going to happen.
Random Thoughts:
- Many will disagree with me, especially given this result, but I still feel Rodgers is a good enough coach to win at Liverpool. I stated in my video blogs that Liverpool needs to put feelers out on Jurgen Klopp. If he is willing to come and not use Liverpool as a bargaining chip, then the time for change may be now. If not Klopp though, I don't see much out there that would really be better. Rodgers' failings have mainly come during the off seasons. He is a great tactitian and makes changes in season to turn things around. He must be better at judging players not in his system though, if he is to really return Liverpool to their previous heights.
- From a personal standpoint, I have come to the conclusion that Sturridge will never be fit enough to fully be counted on by Liverpool. I would not sell him for a pittance, but if you continue to try and build your offense around him, I just don't believe he will give you enough games. Sturridge can still be a valuable piece now and then if you keep him, but significant changes need to be made to the Reds' attack.
Walk On.
Sunday, April 19, 2015
The Season That Got Away?
Hopes ran incredibly high for Liverpool Football Club coming into this season. In reality, it was never going to be easy with lots of new faces and the gaping hole left on the score sheet by the sale of Luis Suarez. However, it was impossible to contain the enthusiasm of the supporters after nearly ending the long drought of a league title the year prior. As the year progressed though, that enthusiasm has turned to exasperation as the Reds' fans have seen their team falter and slip on multiple occasions this year.
Liverpool came out positively in the FA Cup semifinal against Aston Villa. They enjoyed the better of the possession in the first half and pushed forward a decent amount, although the chances weren't always there. Aston Villa did have their own opportunities to go forward as well, though despite the announcers claim that they deserved better, Villa's opportunities came only due to Liverpool's lack of cohesive defending.
Liverpool even took the lead in the match as well. The Reds did not dominate the way they should have, but they made enough of possession for much of the first half. Steven Gerrard's tackle in the midfield led to possession. The ball pinged around the midfield players, including Jordan Henderson and Lazar Markovic, before Raheem Sterling laid it back to Coutinho. Coutinho ran onto the ball, took a shot that was deflected by defender Jores Okore and the ball hit the back of the net.
That was the last good run of form for the club the rest of the afternoon. The goal was created by the hole left by injured Nathan Baker, but Liverpool failed to take advantage again. Okore did settle in after creating the deficit, but Liverpool did little to bother the back line of the Villans. Aston Villa did do plenty to bother Liverpool's back line though.
Christian Benteke, the in-form striker in England, was the man to knot it up. Benteke was left reasonably unmarked in the 36th minute. Villa found him after slicing through Liverpool's defenses and he was not about to miss. The game was tied at the half and many suspected there would be changes to the Liverpool XI and they were right. However those changes proved to change little, if anything about this lackluster performance.
Mario Balotelli was brought on right out of the tunnel for Lazar Markovic, who was invisible during his 45 minutes on the pitch. Balotelli's inclusion, pushed Gerrard back into a defensive role after the captain did nothing in his time spent on the attack. Later in the half, Glen Johnson was subbed in for Joe Allen, in a bit of a head scratcher, since the Liverpool attack was the side of the game that seemed to really be suffering.
The changes, whether tactical or via substitution, did nothing to change the outcome of the game. Aston Villa managed the game winner nine minutes after the half. The Villans once again carved up the Liverpool defense and Fabian Delph took care of his business. Liverpool did try their best to create chances late on in the match, but it was too little too late.
Steven Gerrard had a pair of free kicks that were sent straight at the keeper. Mario Balotelli failed to cleanly settle the ball in the 60th minute, on the edge of the box, that could have led to a solid chance. Gerrard had an excellent chance on a head ball that seemed to be going in only to have it headed away by the defender placed on the back post. Balotelli charged forward quite often, but could do nothing in the end to change the fate of the Reds. Fittingly the match ended with a blast from Dejan Lovren that went about 10 yards off target.
There will be no miraculous ending to Steven Gerrard's chapter of the long story in Liverpool history. The Reds now have no chance at any silverware this season despite making the semifinals of both the league and domestic cups. The chance at European football is also slipping away as Liverpool's league form has faltered at the worst possible moment as well. A season that started with so much promise has melted into an amalgam of despair and anger for all parties involved.
Perhaps this team will prove its detractors wrong. Perhaps they will rally themselves in the league and sneak into the top four before the season's end. Perhaps. More likely is that all dreams of any tangible positives for this season have been dashed like waking from a dream. Time will tell. Regardless, the players on this team have to prove that they belong in a Liverpool shirt because as of right now massive changes could be on the way unless things radically change.
Random Thoughts:
- Gerrard settled into the match late on, but was non-existent for most of it. Say what you will about lack of playing time in recent months or injury or constant shifting of position, Gerrard simply was not the player we have become accustomed to seeing. Fox Sports' Warren Barton put it very well - it is simply time for Gerrard to move on. He does not provide enough in attack and is too slow in defense. Nothing can take away from anyone's memories of his spectacular play over the course of his career and this was not the way anyone hoped he would leave. However, his best days in the Premier League have faded into memory and the move to MLS looks like the best choice to be made each time.
- Linesmen need a refresher in what is offside. Aston Villa, honestly, deserved to win that match but Liverpool were robbed of an equalizer by the incorrect offside call in the 89th minute. Some may argue that the defenders may not have let up a step had the flag not gone up, but as it stands, Mario Balotelli was not offside and ended up slotting the ball into the back of the goal. Unfortunately, it was called offside and the result is a loss.
Walk On
Liverpool came out positively in the FA Cup semifinal against Aston Villa. They enjoyed the better of the possession in the first half and pushed forward a decent amount, although the chances weren't always there. Aston Villa did have their own opportunities to go forward as well, though despite the announcers claim that they deserved better, Villa's opportunities came only due to Liverpool's lack of cohesive defending.
Liverpool even took the lead in the match as well. The Reds did not dominate the way they should have, but they made enough of possession for much of the first half. Steven Gerrard's tackle in the midfield led to possession. The ball pinged around the midfield players, including Jordan Henderson and Lazar Markovic, before Raheem Sterling laid it back to Coutinho. Coutinho ran onto the ball, took a shot that was deflected by defender Jores Okore and the ball hit the back of the net.
That was the last good run of form for the club the rest of the afternoon. The goal was created by the hole left by injured Nathan Baker, but Liverpool failed to take advantage again. Okore did settle in after creating the deficit, but Liverpool did little to bother the back line of the Villans. Aston Villa did do plenty to bother Liverpool's back line though.
Christian Benteke, the in-form striker in England, was the man to knot it up. Benteke was left reasonably unmarked in the 36th minute. Villa found him after slicing through Liverpool's defenses and he was not about to miss. The game was tied at the half and many suspected there would be changes to the Liverpool XI and they were right. However those changes proved to change little, if anything about this lackluster performance.
Mario Balotelli was brought on right out of the tunnel for Lazar Markovic, who was invisible during his 45 minutes on the pitch. Balotelli's inclusion, pushed Gerrard back into a defensive role after the captain did nothing in his time spent on the attack. Later in the half, Glen Johnson was subbed in for Joe Allen, in a bit of a head scratcher, since the Liverpool attack was the side of the game that seemed to really be suffering.
The changes, whether tactical or via substitution, did nothing to change the outcome of the game. Aston Villa managed the game winner nine minutes after the half. The Villans once again carved up the Liverpool defense and Fabian Delph took care of his business. Liverpool did try their best to create chances late on in the match, but it was too little too late.
Steven Gerrard had a pair of free kicks that were sent straight at the keeper. Mario Balotelli failed to cleanly settle the ball in the 60th minute, on the edge of the box, that could have led to a solid chance. Gerrard had an excellent chance on a head ball that seemed to be going in only to have it headed away by the defender placed on the back post. Balotelli charged forward quite often, but could do nothing in the end to change the fate of the Reds. Fittingly the match ended with a blast from Dejan Lovren that went about 10 yards off target.
There will be no miraculous ending to Steven Gerrard's chapter of the long story in Liverpool history. The Reds now have no chance at any silverware this season despite making the semifinals of both the league and domestic cups. The chance at European football is also slipping away as Liverpool's league form has faltered at the worst possible moment as well. A season that started with so much promise has melted into an amalgam of despair and anger for all parties involved.
Perhaps this team will prove its detractors wrong. Perhaps they will rally themselves in the league and sneak into the top four before the season's end. Perhaps. More likely is that all dreams of any tangible positives for this season have been dashed like waking from a dream. Time will tell. Regardless, the players on this team have to prove that they belong in a Liverpool shirt because as of right now massive changes could be on the way unless things radically change.
Random Thoughts:
- Gerrard settled into the match late on, but was non-existent for most of it. Say what you will about lack of playing time in recent months or injury or constant shifting of position, Gerrard simply was not the player we have become accustomed to seeing. Fox Sports' Warren Barton put it very well - it is simply time for Gerrard to move on. He does not provide enough in attack and is too slow in defense. Nothing can take away from anyone's memories of his spectacular play over the course of his career and this was not the way anyone hoped he would leave. However, his best days in the Premier League have faded into memory and the move to MLS looks like the best choice to be made each time.
- Linesmen need a refresher in what is offside. Aston Villa, honestly, deserved to win that match but Liverpool were robbed of an equalizer by the incorrect offside call in the 89th minute. Some may argue that the defenders may not have let up a step had the flag not gone up, but as it stands, Mario Balotelli was not offside and ended up slotting the ball into the back of the goal. Unfortunately, it was called offside and the result is a loss.
Walk On
Monday, April 13, 2015
Liverpool Keep Hope Alive with Win Over Newcastle
The odds of getting into the top four are fairly slim for Liverpool Football Club, but at this point in the season all they can do is the best they can and see where the chips may fall. With this in mind, Liverpool got off to a good start both overall and within the match itself. The Reds dominated the opening 20 to 25 minutes and came away with an early lead for their efforts.
Brendan Rodgers did an excellent job of changing the team shape, given his lack of choices for the team due to injury and suspension. Liverpool were without Daniel Sturridge, Steven Gerrard and Martin Skrtel, all of whom usually play an important role in the team. Instead of just jamming his pieces into the same formation, Rodgers went to a back four defensively and placed Raheem Sterling on the outside with Coutinho in the middle to create mismatches in attack.
The tactic paid off in the ninth minute when Jordan Henderson sent in a nicely weighted long cross from the right. Sterling neatly coddled it with the laces, sliced through two defenders and finessed the shot over the monstrous Tim Krul. Again, the opening 25 minutes went almost all Liverpool's way. Coutinho showed fantastic skill in the 22nd minute, with a nifty settle, deft flick and cross toward goal. The cross was too pacey but showed Liverpool's dominance in attack for those kinds of moments.
Liverpool also looked positive against the physicality. Newcastle were very physical after going down by a goal and the smaller Reds side managed that side of the game very well. Liverpool's downfall in the second part of the first half was on the counter attack. The Reds were extremely positive when in possession, but when they gave it up, the Magpies created several chances. Newcastle continued their attack and continued to come close to evening the game at the end of the first and opening 10 minutes of the second half.
Mingolet had a top chance hit right at him in the 28th minute, Dejan Lovren was very lucky not to concede a penalty in the 38th minute, Mehdi Abeid nearly knotted it up with a blast just over the bar right before half and Mingolet smartly dove to the right and parried away a chance in the first minute of extra time before halftime.
Despite the occasional defensive lapses, Liverpool got the job done and kept the sheet clean. Simon Mingolet was not called upon often, but came up big for his club when asked to. The back four were not stellar by any means, but played well enough given the opponent to do their job. It is a system that will not work against every opponent, but that almost makes the performance a bit better when you aren't used to something and it works anyway.
Attacking, Liverpool have not looked much better throughout the season. There have been better flashes of brilliance, but as a whole, this game showed much promise. Sterling shook off the media hype and the backlash of the fans and scored. Joe Allen, of all people, gave Liverpool a cushion when he booted home a volley after missing the initial header. Jordan Henderson looked revived and bombed up the field off the ball like a true attacker. Coutinho, though kept off the scoresheet, was excellent on the ball. He made good decisions and continues his growth as a player. The way he keeps the ball on a string is, at times, mind boggling. Sterling and Coutinho dribble into trouble sometimes, but if they can continue to grow as players and make good mental decisions, those moments are more forgivable.
The big question now for Liverpool is what to do about the lineup. The FA Cup semifinal looms on the weekend and results must be continued to keep any chance at the top four alive. Given those important fixtures, do you tinker? Despite his skill and problems created for defenders, the team has often played better when not relying on Daniel Sturridge to score. Despite his legend status and calmness on the ball, Steven Gerrard has been inconsistent in his time on the pitch. Conversely, despite their recent good run of form, do you trust Lucas and Allen to not revert to early season form? Do you trust an attacking trio bereft of a true striker?
These are questions that only Brendan Rodgers can truly answer. Once he makes those choices, it is down to the players to perform. There were many, yours truly included, that questioned the starting XI for the Newcastle match. Players are the ones that ultimately decide whether managers choices will pay off or not. In the end, no fan can say they don't want Gerrard or Sturridge on the team sheet. It merely remains to be seen what contributions they have left to make and whether those contributions are made in 90 minutes or less.
Plenty remains this season for Liverpool. Silverware can be obtained. Manchester City continues to leave the door unlocked and the window cracked on top four possibilities. It is not what fans envisioned after last season's glorious run and heartbreaking end. However, when the club is at least in a position to look to themselves and still have good things happen then the season is still on a spot to be looked upon positively. Now it falls on the players to end it right.
Random Thoughts:
- Say what you will about the contract situation and who is to blame, Raheem Sterling is still a great talent. He is not the finished product yet though. A player worthy of the salary he is reportedly demanding would finish off the left footed chance in the 57th minute. Yes, the 6'4 Krul is a daunting physical presence, but Sterling needs to finish that. It could have haunted his team. Instead it did not and the young player can focus more on the training ground to get a better weak foot.
- Coutinho continues to amaze. As much as he frustrated and lacked skill last season, he has grown by leaps and bounds this season. As mentioned, he dribbles into trouble a tad too often but his touch in tight spaces is, at the moment, top ten in the world worthy.
- As a member of the Keeper's Union, I would be misguided not to bring up Simon Mingolet with praise. I honestly wondered if he would be able to recover mentally after being replaced by Brad Jones earlier this year. We will never know if he would have been reinstated if Jones did not get injured, but instead of wilting Mingolet came back with vengence. He is still not the perfect keeper and probably not in the top 10 in the world, but he has been a huge reason the club has performed so well - results against Arsenal and United not withstanding.
- I've been particularly pleased with the growth of Jordan Henderson. After a very slow start to the year, he has performed very admirably in the absence of Steven Gerrard and even when in the team with him. Henderson has been moved around from attacking midfield to defensive midfield to a wide position and done all reasonably well (some better than others obviously). The thing that I like about him is he is simply doing the best he can. He will never be another Gerrard and fans should not judge him in those shoes. But his decision making has improved as has his skill level this season. He cannot be judged based off others achievements, but whether he is the future captain or not, he has shown that he can be a valuable asset to this club.
Walk On.
Brendan Rodgers did an excellent job of changing the team shape, given his lack of choices for the team due to injury and suspension. Liverpool were without Daniel Sturridge, Steven Gerrard and Martin Skrtel, all of whom usually play an important role in the team. Instead of just jamming his pieces into the same formation, Rodgers went to a back four defensively and placed Raheem Sterling on the outside with Coutinho in the middle to create mismatches in attack.
The tactic paid off in the ninth minute when Jordan Henderson sent in a nicely weighted long cross from the right. Sterling neatly coddled it with the laces, sliced through two defenders and finessed the shot over the monstrous Tim Krul. Again, the opening 25 minutes went almost all Liverpool's way. Coutinho showed fantastic skill in the 22nd minute, with a nifty settle, deft flick and cross toward goal. The cross was too pacey but showed Liverpool's dominance in attack for those kinds of moments.
Liverpool also looked positive against the physicality. Newcastle were very physical after going down by a goal and the smaller Reds side managed that side of the game very well. Liverpool's downfall in the second part of the first half was on the counter attack. The Reds were extremely positive when in possession, but when they gave it up, the Magpies created several chances. Newcastle continued their attack and continued to come close to evening the game at the end of the first and opening 10 minutes of the second half.
Mingolet had a top chance hit right at him in the 28th minute, Dejan Lovren was very lucky not to concede a penalty in the 38th minute, Mehdi Abeid nearly knotted it up with a blast just over the bar right before half and Mingolet smartly dove to the right and parried away a chance in the first minute of extra time before halftime.
Despite the occasional defensive lapses, Liverpool got the job done and kept the sheet clean. Simon Mingolet was not called upon often, but came up big for his club when asked to. The back four were not stellar by any means, but played well enough given the opponent to do their job. It is a system that will not work against every opponent, but that almost makes the performance a bit better when you aren't used to something and it works anyway.
Attacking, Liverpool have not looked much better throughout the season. There have been better flashes of brilliance, but as a whole, this game showed much promise. Sterling shook off the media hype and the backlash of the fans and scored. Joe Allen, of all people, gave Liverpool a cushion when he booted home a volley after missing the initial header. Jordan Henderson looked revived and bombed up the field off the ball like a true attacker. Coutinho, though kept off the scoresheet, was excellent on the ball. He made good decisions and continues his growth as a player. The way he keeps the ball on a string is, at times, mind boggling. Sterling and Coutinho dribble into trouble sometimes, but if they can continue to grow as players and make good mental decisions, those moments are more forgivable.
The big question now for Liverpool is what to do about the lineup. The FA Cup semifinal looms on the weekend and results must be continued to keep any chance at the top four alive. Given those important fixtures, do you tinker? Despite his skill and problems created for defenders, the team has often played better when not relying on Daniel Sturridge to score. Despite his legend status and calmness on the ball, Steven Gerrard has been inconsistent in his time on the pitch. Conversely, despite their recent good run of form, do you trust Lucas and Allen to not revert to early season form? Do you trust an attacking trio bereft of a true striker?
These are questions that only Brendan Rodgers can truly answer. Once he makes those choices, it is down to the players to perform. There were many, yours truly included, that questioned the starting XI for the Newcastle match. Players are the ones that ultimately decide whether managers choices will pay off or not. In the end, no fan can say they don't want Gerrard or Sturridge on the team sheet. It merely remains to be seen what contributions they have left to make and whether those contributions are made in 90 minutes or less.
Plenty remains this season for Liverpool. Silverware can be obtained. Manchester City continues to leave the door unlocked and the window cracked on top four possibilities. It is not what fans envisioned after last season's glorious run and heartbreaking end. However, when the club is at least in a position to look to themselves and still have good things happen then the season is still on a spot to be looked upon positively. Now it falls on the players to end it right.
Random Thoughts:
- Say what you will about the contract situation and who is to blame, Raheem Sterling is still a great talent. He is not the finished product yet though. A player worthy of the salary he is reportedly demanding would finish off the left footed chance in the 57th minute. Yes, the 6'4 Krul is a daunting physical presence, but Sterling needs to finish that. It could have haunted his team. Instead it did not and the young player can focus more on the training ground to get a better weak foot.
- Coutinho continues to amaze. As much as he frustrated and lacked skill last season, he has grown by leaps and bounds this season. As mentioned, he dribbles into trouble a tad too often but his touch in tight spaces is, at the moment, top ten in the world worthy.
- As a member of the Keeper's Union, I would be misguided not to bring up Simon Mingolet with praise. I honestly wondered if he would be able to recover mentally after being replaced by Brad Jones earlier this year. We will never know if he would have been reinstated if Jones did not get injured, but instead of wilting Mingolet came back with vengence. He is still not the perfect keeper and probably not in the top 10 in the world, but he has been a huge reason the club has performed so well - results against Arsenal and United not withstanding.
- I've been particularly pleased with the growth of Jordan Henderson. After a very slow start to the year, he has performed very admirably in the absence of Steven Gerrard and even when in the team with him. Henderson has been moved around from attacking midfield to defensive midfield to a wide position and done all reasonably well (some better than others obviously). The thing that I like about him is he is simply doing the best he can. He will never be another Gerrard and fans should not judge him in those shoes. But his decision making has improved as has his skill level this season. He cannot be judged based off others achievements, but whether he is the future captain or not, he has shown that he can be a valuable asset to this club.
Walk On.
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