On this Thanksgiving holiday in America, it is usual to pig out on food and watch football. It isn't as usual to watch the kind of football you actually use your feet. Such was the case on this day as the Europa League provided a rare occasion to look forward to. Liverpool were in action, at home, against Bordeaux. With plenty to be thankful for, given recent league results, Liverpool fans and players may have had a bit of a food coma. Ok, enough of the holiday puns.
To open up the game, the Reds looked solid going forward but just weren't on point in terms of placing the ball on target. Following the opening five minutes there were way too many Bordeaux chances. Bordeaux pushed forward and kept challenging the back line of Liverpool, despite not creating too much to trouble Simon Mignolet. Liverpool then countered a few times. Christian Benteke missed a good chance in 21st minute with a walloping volley.
Despite the miss, Liverpool seemed to rebound a bit after that. In the 29th minute, Benetke scored but was called offside. However, the crowd reaction was amazing. Perhaps the mics were just turned up, but it was an impressive explosion of sound from the faithful. Alas, for them, the elation would not last long. In addition to the offside call, the French side took a 1-0 lead only minutes later after a rare call for possessing the ball too long on Mignolet.
The Reds, in typical fashion from what they have shown under Jurgen Klopp, kept plugging away. They were rewarded when Liverpool were the beneficiary of a somewhat weak penalty call and James Milner smartly finished it off. Liverpool then finally got on the positive side of the ledger in the 45th minute with an absolute blast from Benteke. It was a fitting finish to the half for the striker and the team as he was rewarded for his hard work.
Liverpool came out with just as much energy in the second half. After a bit of an inauspicious start, with some fouls against, Liverpool found their footing and pushed forward. Another weak foul call, this time against the Reds(at least the official was consistent), denied Benteke his second goal and Liverpool's third. Following that converted but not counted chance, the Reds seemed to pour toward the goal at will.
Ultimately it came to nothing as neither team would score in the final 45 minutes. Liverpool looked capable but could not find that final ball. Bordeaux looked dangerous in the final moments, after Liverpool had made a few changes, but they could not convert. It was an interesting turn of events given the situation. Liverpool didn't really pack it in, despite having a spot in the knockout round wrapped up. Bordeaux didn't get caught on the counter despite needing to open up the game to keep any hope of advancing alive.
In the end, it was a nice win for Liverpool and a nice break in the norms of the day for their fans in America. It wasn't a spotless result. There were plenty of missed chances. The game could have easily seen two or more Reds' goals, but two sufficed. Liverpool allowed too many opportunities despite getting the win. That kind of performance may not result in something positive against higher quality teams. Nevertheless it was a victory. There were no injuries (in terms of the players who played on the field). Benteke continued to look like he may be well worth the price paid. Plenty to still improve on, but plenty to be thankful for.
Random Thoughts:
- Really? Another Daniel Sturridge injury? I feel for him as a person, but as a player he must be made of the thinnest possible glass you can find. Hopefully it is just something that needs a day or two rest, but just the idea is ridiculous at this stage.
- Fans will be fans. I live in a city where the running joke is everyone is trying to beat the traffic by leaving early even though they all leave at the same time so they get stuck anyway. That said, I do think the Klopp comments had something to do with the crowd reaction. As mentioned, rarely have I heard a reaction like that and the goal did not even stand. Could have been the audio, but the crowd at Anfield seemed to have extra juice.
Walk On
Thursday, November 26, 2015
Saturday, November 21, 2015
Liverpool Stun Manchester City and Their Own Supporters
Let's be honest here. Even the most ardent supporter of Liverpool FC had to be worried about facing Manchester City at the Etihad. People can be positive all they want, but in many heart of hearts people had to know defeat was immanent. People would have been right to believe that. Still no Christian Benteke or Daniel Sturridge to start. Dejan Lovren was in for the injured Sakho. Also, Liverpool had not won at City since 2008. A draw would be a spectacular result.
How little we know. Yes, there will be those that thump their chests and say they knew the result that happened was always what would come forth but few (if any) would have predicted what would transpire. Liverpool came out to a very aggressive start and took the game to their hosts. Apart from an early Sergio Aguero run into the box, City had little in the way of attack in the opening 10 minutes.
Despite their early pressure, Liverpool didn't trouble Joe Hart much but still came out of those same 10 minutes with the lead. Yes, it came off an own goal. Yes, Mangala probably should have sorted his feet out better. However, Liverpool created the goal with tenacious backtracking by Coutinho and then a good slotted ball for Firmino. Firmino's ball may not have been the greatest cross, but he put it into a dangerous area and was rewarded.
Those are the things that have to happen for a team such as the Reds. They don't have the best player in the league at every position. Some would say none of their starters are the best player in the league at that position. Regardless of all that conjecture, they came out as a team to start. They defended together, moved across field together and pushed forward together. It was something not seen in quite some time from this Reds' squad.
The second goal was definitely something to excite the fans. It was extremely reminiscent of the type of goals scored in Luis Suarez' final season with Liverpool. In the 23rd minute, the Brazilian connection that supporters have been hoping for since the summer finally came to fruition. Firmino took a bouncing ball over to the right, slotted it back across the box toward the penalty spot and it was neatly finished off by Coutinho as he went through the wickets of Hart.
The Reds just seemed to get better with each opportunity. The lead up to the third goal included at least five passes. Several of the passes came on the edge of the box, including a cheeky backheel by Emre Can that was fielded by Coutinho who then just tapped it to Firmino, who was standing in a more advantageous position. To top it all off, all of that happened in the first half hour and it could have been a fourth in the 35th minute when Firmino was robbed by a sprawling Hart and then shaved the post a minute later.
Unfortunately for the Reds, the first half couldn't be all roses and sunshine. Liverpool got a tiny bit careless with the ball in the 44th minute and the turnover led directly to an Aguero cracker of a goal. Simon Mingolet, who was rarely challenged had no shot to save the smash. City continued their turnaround in the opening minutes of the second half as well, pushing forward right out of the gate. It was not to be their night though.
City could have and should have brought the score to 3-2 in the 64th minute after James Milner's backpass was intercepted by Raheem Sterling who then played a ball for Aguero. The following shot was delayed just a moment which allowed Mingolet to scramble back and make a great save. Then Liverpool crushed all hope of the home fans when Martin Skrtel struck one sweetly off the shoelaces in the 81st minute.
Liverpool fans will soak up this victory and all the good feelings and bragging rights that come with it. Once that is done, the questions will now arise. Football is a fickle sport, but which Liverpool is the real one? Are we more likely to see the LFC seen in a defeat to Crystal Palace or the one on the field for the victory over Manchester City? Can Liverpool really contend for a top four spot or was this just one good performance a flash in the pan? Only the players and manager can tell the answers now. Clearly fans don't know, because so many did not expect this result in the first place.
Random Thoughts:
- You have to hope for the best but expect the worst in regards to Coutinho's potential injury. Liverpool just can't seem to keep anyone healthy the last few years. Just when the team seemed poised to have a solid scoring partnership, it seems the way things turn out for the Reds to have it dashed by another injury.
- It was surprising to see Firmino in the forward slot with no Benteke or Sturridge, given the focus on the latter two training prior to the match.
- Liverpool obviously had a few players out on international duty, but I think the extra week of nothing but training had to help. As mentioned at the end of the article, only the players know if this was a one-off or the start of the true Liverpool but they need to hold onto whatever mentality they used to win this contest. It will come in handy when the games start flying at you during the holidays.
- How sweet was it that Sterling was kept so quiet in this game? Yes, he has lived up to much of the potential seen in him. He is going to be a great player despite what any of us fans wished or thought. Nevertheless, for one night, it was the kind of performance or lack thereof that Liverpool fans take extra pleasure from. It was the cherry on top.
Walk On
How little we know. Yes, there will be those that thump their chests and say they knew the result that happened was always what would come forth but few (if any) would have predicted what would transpire. Liverpool came out to a very aggressive start and took the game to their hosts. Apart from an early Sergio Aguero run into the box, City had little in the way of attack in the opening 10 minutes.
Despite their early pressure, Liverpool didn't trouble Joe Hart much but still came out of those same 10 minutes with the lead. Yes, it came off an own goal. Yes, Mangala probably should have sorted his feet out better. However, Liverpool created the goal with tenacious backtracking by Coutinho and then a good slotted ball for Firmino. Firmino's ball may not have been the greatest cross, but he put it into a dangerous area and was rewarded.
Those are the things that have to happen for a team such as the Reds. They don't have the best player in the league at every position. Some would say none of their starters are the best player in the league at that position. Regardless of all that conjecture, they came out as a team to start. They defended together, moved across field together and pushed forward together. It was something not seen in quite some time from this Reds' squad.
The second goal was definitely something to excite the fans. It was extremely reminiscent of the type of goals scored in Luis Suarez' final season with Liverpool. In the 23rd minute, the Brazilian connection that supporters have been hoping for since the summer finally came to fruition. Firmino took a bouncing ball over to the right, slotted it back across the box toward the penalty spot and it was neatly finished off by Coutinho as he went through the wickets of Hart.
The Reds just seemed to get better with each opportunity. The lead up to the third goal included at least five passes. Several of the passes came on the edge of the box, including a cheeky backheel by Emre Can that was fielded by Coutinho who then just tapped it to Firmino, who was standing in a more advantageous position. To top it all off, all of that happened in the first half hour and it could have been a fourth in the 35th minute when Firmino was robbed by a sprawling Hart and then shaved the post a minute later.
Unfortunately for the Reds, the first half couldn't be all roses and sunshine. Liverpool got a tiny bit careless with the ball in the 44th minute and the turnover led directly to an Aguero cracker of a goal. Simon Mingolet, who was rarely challenged had no shot to save the smash. City continued their turnaround in the opening minutes of the second half as well, pushing forward right out of the gate. It was not to be their night though.
City could have and should have brought the score to 3-2 in the 64th minute after James Milner's backpass was intercepted by Raheem Sterling who then played a ball for Aguero. The following shot was delayed just a moment which allowed Mingolet to scramble back and make a great save. Then Liverpool crushed all hope of the home fans when Martin Skrtel struck one sweetly off the shoelaces in the 81st minute.
Liverpool fans will soak up this victory and all the good feelings and bragging rights that come with it. Once that is done, the questions will now arise. Football is a fickle sport, but which Liverpool is the real one? Are we more likely to see the LFC seen in a defeat to Crystal Palace or the one on the field for the victory over Manchester City? Can Liverpool really contend for a top four spot or was this just one good performance a flash in the pan? Only the players and manager can tell the answers now. Clearly fans don't know, because so many did not expect this result in the first place.
Random Thoughts:
- You have to hope for the best but expect the worst in regards to Coutinho's potential injury. Liverpool just can't seem to keep anyone healthy the last few years. Just when the team seemed poised to have a solid scoring partnership, it seems the way things turn out for the Reds to have it dashed by another injury.
- It was surprising to see Firmino in the forward slot with no Benteke or Sturridge, given the focus on the latter two training prior to the match.
- Liverpool obviously had a few players out on international duty, but I think the extra week of nothing but training had to help. As mentioned at the end of the article, only the players know if this was a one-off or the start of the true Liverpool but they need to hold onto whatever mentality they used to win this contest. It will come in handy when the games start flying at you during the holidays.
- How sweet was it that Sterling was kept so quiet in this game? Yes, he has lived up to much of the potential seen in him. He is going to be a great player despite what any of us fans wished or thought. Nevertheless, for one night, it was the kind of performance or lack thereof that Liverpool fans take extra pleasure from. It was the cherry on top.
Walk On
Sunday, November 8, 2015
Klopp Drops First Game
Don't let the headline fool you. There is little blame to be had by the Liverpool manager, Jurgen Klopp, here. If any blame would be on him, it would be the lack of team rotation after naming a strong squad for the midweek Europa contest against Rubin Kazan. However, it is understandable, despite the perception of that competition, at this point if Klopp believes they can get something out of that tournament then that's the decisions you have to make.
That said, supporters were right to expect better than they got on Sunday. Unfortunately they would not get it. Crystal Palace has been a large thorn in the side of the Reds recently, but they had only won twice previously at Anfield. You can make that three now. Palace came out flying right out of the gate. Alan Pardew's squad were listed as a 4-4-2, but played much closer to a 4-2-4 to start the game.
Throwing caution to the wind, they threw all their efforts into the attack and were rewarded for it. Yannick Bolasie put the Eagles up in the 21st minute after a poor clearance by Emre Can. For his part, there wasn't a ton different Can could have done differently, but it is still expected for a professional to be able to handle it better. Instead of booting it straight up the field, it sliced back across the box and then Bolasie made the Reds pay.
Following the goal, Liverpool seemed to wake up a bit. They had good possession, made decent passes and were sparked on by the Anfield crowd. All the work would pay off in the end, literally, when Coutinho put one in just before the half. In the 42nd minute, the Brazilian finished off what was a solid play begun by Jordan Ibe. Ibe took on his defender on the right wing, got the ball into the box and made a good cross. The ball was flicked by Adam Lallana, just taking it out of the path of Chrisitan Benteke but set up a strong finish for Coutinho.
The only disappointing thing about the goal, despite it being the only one of the contest, is it continually gives people hope about Coutinho. The man is immensely talented, but has not found that form and consistency that makes you really know he will be a constant performer and one to be feared by other squads. As things stand right now, he is incredibly dangerous in possession but only scores enough to give that glimmer of hope that each time might be the one to spring him into stardom.
The second half would prove to be one of frustration. Liverpool, by the end of the contest, had 2/3 of the possession but could make nothing of it. They had the ball in the box several times. They had several corner kick opportunities (14 in total). They should have been able to do something due to the fact that Palace didn't set up shop. Instead nothing came of it.
This has been a problem under Brendan Rodgers and continues under Klopp. Choose what players you like and which you don't. At the moment it doesn't matter because none perform with any consistency to really make you believe there will be any breakout this season. There are far too many passes in close quarters instead of taking a chance to get one in. Then, to counter that, players will try to shoot from 30 yards or more when the chances of scoring from that distance are minimal at best.
The strange thing about this game is that if it ended in a draw, there wasn't a ton to be negative about. Yes there was the large number of possession without enough true chances, but it was something you could live with if you get at least a point. When you don't get that point, everything becomes magnified and looks a lot worse. Such was the case against Crystal Palace when long-time Liverpool fan, Scott Dann finished off a goal off a corner kick.
Dann was afforded two opportunities, further proving Liverpool's lack of set piece marking and defensive deficiencies. That simply cannot happen. It's one thing for Dann to win the initial headball, but then to get another crack after Simon Mingolet's save is a combination of luck on Dann's part and lack of defensive closure on Liverpool's.
In the end, it's a blip on the screen for Liverpool. There was no way this team was going to go undefeated this season under Klopp. This result was going to happen eventually. What's disappointing is the performances of the individuals. The lack of that true finisher that you know will step up in those key moments is really starting to haunt this Liverpool squad. We keep saying maybe when this happens or if that happens. Right now it's looking like having a healthy Daniel Sturridge will never happen. Someone else has to step into that role and quickly.
Random Thoughts:
- I mentioned everyone has the players they like and some they don't. Adam Lallana is that player for me. I want to like him because you can tell there is skill in there, but he simply doesn't do ANYTHING. He has a few stepovers and some speed and then nothing. It's gotten to the point that I cringe everytime I see his name in the team sheet even though there isn't a clear replacement.
- I fully expect Klopp to recall as many loans as he can. Personally, I have no problem putting out strong teams for the Europa League, but eventually it will come back to haunt the team in the long run if they don't have enough players to make a decent rotation (especially with the busy Christmas schedule approaching).
That said, supporters were right to expect better than they got on Sunday. Unfortunately they would not get it. Crystal Palace has been a large thorn in the side of the Reds recently, but they had only won twice previously at Anfield. You can make that three now. Palace came out flying right out of the gate. Alan Pardew's squad were listed as a 4-4-2, but played much closer to a 4-2-4 to start the game.
Throwing caution to the wind, they threw all their efforts into the attack and were rewarded for it. Yannick Bolasie put the Eagles up in the 21st minute after a poor clearance by Emre Can. For his part, there wasn't a ton different Can could have done differently, but it is still expected for a professional to be able to handle it better. Instead of booting it straight up the field, it sliced back across the box and then Bolasie made the Reds pay.
Following the goal, Liverpool seemed to wake up a bit. They had good possession, made decent passes and were sparked on by the Anfield crowd. All the work would pay off in the end, literally, when Coutinho put one in just before the half. In the 42nd minute, the Brazilian finished off what was a solid play begun by Jordan Ibe. Ibe took on his defender on the right wing, got the ball into the box and made a good cross. The ball was flicked by Adam Lallana, just taking it out of the path of Chrisitan Benteke but set up a strong finish for Coutinho.
The only disappointing thing about the goal, despite it being the only one of the contest, is it continually gives people hope about Coutinho. The man is immensely talented, but has not found that form and consistency that makes you really know he will be a constant performer and one to be feared by other squads. As things stand right now, he is incredibly dangerous in possession but only scores enough to give that glimmer of hope that each time might be the one to spring him into stardom.
The second half would prove to be one of frustration. Liverpool, by the end of the contest, had 2/3 of the possession but could make nothing of it. They had the ball in the box several times. They had several corner kick opportunities (14 in total). They should have been able to do something due to the fact that Palace didn't set up shop. Instead nothing came of it.
This has been a problem under Brendan Rodgers and continues under Klopp. Choose what players you like and which you don't. At the moment it doesn't matter because none perform with any consistency to really make you believe there will be any breakout this season. There are far too many passes in close quarters instead of taking a chance to get one in. Then, to counter that, players will try to shoot from 30 yards or more when the chances of scoring from that distance are minimal at best.
The strange thing about this game is that if it ended in a draw, there wasn't a ton to be negative about. Yes there was the large number of possession without enough true chances, but it was something you could live with if you get at least a point. When you don't get that point, everything becomes magnified and looks a lot worse. Such was the case against Crystal Palace when long-time Liverpool fan, Scott Dann finished off a goal off a corner kick.
Dann was afforded two opportunities, further proving Liverpool's lack of set piece marking and defensive deficiencies. That simply cannot happen. It's one thing for Dann to win the initial headball, but then to get another crack after Simon Mingolet's save is a combination of luck on Dann's part and lack of defensive closure on Liverpool's.
In the end, it's a blip on the screen for Liverpool. There was no way this team was going to go undefeated this season under Klopp. This result was going to happen eventually. What's disappointing is the performances of the individuals. The lack of that true finisher that you know will step up in those key moments is really starting to haunt this Liverpool squad. We keep saying maybe when this happens or if that happens. Right now it's looking like having a healthy Daniel Sturridge will never happen. Someone else has to step into that role and quickly.
Random Thoughts:
- I mentioned everyone has the players they like and some they don't. Adam Lallana is that player for me. I want to like him because you can tell there is skill in there, but he simply doesn't do ANYTHING. He has a few stepovers and some speed and then nothing. It's gotten to the point that I cringe everytime I see his name in the team sheet even though there isn't a clear replacement.
- I fully expect Klopp to recall as many loans as he can. Personally, I have no problem putting out strong teams for the Europa League, but eventually it will come back to haunt the team in the long run if they don't have enough players to make a decent rotation (especially with the busy Christmas schedule approaching).
Saturday, October 31, 2015
Liverpool Rally Behind the "Normal One"...Bye Bye "Special One"?
It was an improbable result to imagine a few months ago. Chelsea were flying high as champions of the Premier League and Liverpool were still struggling to deal with injuries and get new signings to gel within the squad. My, how things have changed. Liverpool have struggled to find the results but they still looked like a team with plenty in front of them. Chelsea on the other hand have appeared to be a shell of a team despite the majority of last year's championship squad still being in place.
The match got off to a rough start for the Reds and a dream start for Chelsea. Ramires was fed a line drive cross from the right in the fourth minute and he smartly finished it off with the head. Simon Mingolet had no chance and the defenders, though ball watching yet again, were left relatively powerless even if they were in perfect position. As mentioned, it was a dream start for Ramires, who had just signed a new contract, a dream start for the Blues and a perfect start for Jose Mourinho.
Chelsea almost doubled their advantage two minutes later after a free kick led to a header on the near side that sliced across the face of goal. Martin Skrtel was tightly marking John Terry and almost surely prevented a goal. Then Mourinho became Mourinho. Despite all his talents as a manager and skills for providing wins for whichever club he is managing, Mourinho can't help but slide into defensive shells when he thinks it is beneficial. You can't argue completely with his tactics as he has won so much, but it does not provide beautiful football when his teams often have so much skill.
Although Liverpool never looked disinterested, they just seemed to lack that spark, as we have seen so many times, unfortunately, regardless of who the manager is. But, seemingly from nowhere, the Reds would get that spark. Coutinho, known mainly for his right foot, created a large area of space just outside the box as he cut the ball back to his left as the halftime break was approaching. Whether it was intentional or not, there was not a ton of power on the shot but it was placed to perfection. Asmir Begovic, the Blues' goalkeeper was left with no chance at all as the shot came from near the center of the pitch and was slotted neatly into the left hand side of the net.
Immediately after the goal was scored, the camera cut to Mourinho, who was headed down the walkway to the dressing room. Whether he was already down there and came back to see the goal or the goal forced his departure is unknown, but a sweet sight for the Liverpool supporters. It almost seemed a bit of foreshadowing, for the result of the contest and for the possible future of the Chelsea manager.
Nothing would be for sure for most of the second half. The game went almost 30 minutes with little from either side to make one believe this would not be another game where Liverpool would fail to score more than a goal and another contest where Chelsea would not take full points. That all changed in the 74th minute. Fulfilling a Liverpool penchant for scoring goals in bunches after a long dry spell, Coutinho knocked home his second of the contest. Starting from a nothing play, a long ball from midfield, Christian Benteke nodded it down. The ball went just by a teammate, but came right to the Brazilian and he made sure to put it to bed. Getting a deflection off the defender helped the ball in, but the right footer may have been destined for a goal no matter what.
The icing on the cake came nine minutes later. The Chelsea defense went to sleep and Benteke made them pay. The summer signing, despite injuries, still proving he is a capable scorer took the ball after an Adam Lallana stepover. The big striker took a couple dribbles at the reeling defenders, tucked the ball away and that was all she wrote. Chelsea had chances before and after that, including a little chip attempt that Mingolet scrambled back to parry away, but there was always a hint this would be the result from that reaction at the half.
These are teams that are not headed in polar opposite directions, being as neither is where they want to be. However, Liverpool are on the edge, peeking in at the top four now. Chelsea, on the other hand, are dangling over that relegation zone. Few gave Liverpool much of a chance, given their lack of scoring and playing at Stamford Bridge, but those are the games that show why you go out and play and not let the pundits decide. There are still a myriad of things to alter and get better with for the Reds, but few victories taste as sweet as one over Chelsea and the players and their manager earned it.
Random Thoughts:
- Being a fan of a team that sings "Manchester is full of s***" leaves little room to take a moral stand. However, it seemed like all of Chelsea's songs had to do with spiteful things, like Steven Gerrard and never winning again etc. Made the final result a little bit sweeter with their silence.
- Oh how I look forward to a day when Liverpool has two healthy strikers. I'm no tactical genius and will never claim to be a coach. That said, this team just seems set up to play with two strikers and Coutinho tucked in behind. You have to have everyone healthy, which seems impossible of late, and it creates problems with who to play in midfield but if it is beneficial to the team then that's all anyone can ask for.
- Mourinho proved how much of a clown he can be as he refused to say anything to the postmatch reporter. He kept saying he had nothing to say and looking at the man like he was an idiot for doing his job. The egotist may feel better for not speaking, but he has done himself no favors.
- I never root for anyone to lose their job, no matter how much I dislike them. Even so, to paraphrase a certain dark lord of the Sith - This will be a day long remembered. Liverpool may have seen to the end of Mourinho and perhaps caused the relegation of Chelsea.
- That last one was a bit harsh, but when you have family members who root for Chelsea, it's ok to have a little dig ;)
Walk On
The match got off to a rough start for the Reds and a dream start for Chelsea. Ramires was fed a line drive cross from the right in the fourth minute and he smartly finished it off with the head. Simon Mingolet had no chance and the defenders, though ball watching yet again, were left relatively powerless even if they were in perfect position. As mentioned, it was a dream start for Ramires, who had just signed a new contract, a dream start for the Blues and a perfect start for Jose Mourinho.
Chelsea almost doubled their advantage two minutes later after a free kick led to a header on the near side that sliced across the face of goal. Martin Skrtel was tightly marking John Terry and almost surely prevented a goal. Then Mourinho became Mourinho. Despite all his talents as a manager and skills for providing wins for whichever club he is managing, Mourinho can't help but slide into defensive shells when he thinks it is beneficial. You can't argue completely with his tactics as he has won so much, but it does not provide beautiful football when his teams often have so much skill.
Although Liverpool never looked disinterested, they just seemed to lack that spark, as we have seen so many times, unfortunately, regardless of who the manager is. But, seemingly from nowhere, the Reds would get that spark. Coutinho, known mainly for his right foot, created a large area of space just outside the box as he cut the ball back to his left as the halftime break was approaching. Whether it was intentional or not, there was not a ton of power on the shot but it was placed to perfection. Asmir Begovic, the Blues' goalkeeper was left with no chance at all as the shot came from near the center of the pitch and was slotted neatly into the left hand side of the net.
Immediately after the goal was scored, the camera cut to Mourinho, who was headed down the walkway to the dressing room. Whether he was already down there and came back to see the goal or the goal forced his departure is unknown, but a sweet sight for the Liverpool supporters. It almost seemed a bit of foreshadowing, for the result of the contest and for the possible future of the Chelsea manager.
Nothing would be for sure for most of the second half. The game went almost 30 minutes with little from either side to make one believe this would not be another game where Liverpool would fail to score more than a goal and another contest where Chelsea would not take full points. That all changed in the 74th minute. Fulfilling a Liverpool penchant for scoring goals in bunches after a long dry spell, Coutinho knocked home his second of the contest. Starting from a nothing play, a long ball from midfield, Christian Benteke nodded it down. The ball went just by a teammate, but came right to the Brazilian and he made sure to put it to bed. Getting a deflection off the defender helped the ball in, but the right footer may have been destined for a goal no matter what.
The icing on the cake came nine minutes later. The Chelsea defense went to sleep and Benteke made them pay. The summer signing, despite injuries, still proving he is a capable scorer took the ball after an Adam Lallana stepover. The big striker took a couple dribbles at the reeling defenders, tucked the ball away and that was all she wrote. Chelsea had chances before and after that, including a little chip attempt that Mingolet scrambled back to parry away, but there was always a hint this would be the result from that reaction at the half.
These are teams that are not headed in polar opposite directions, being as neither is where they want to be. However, Liverpool are on the edge, peeking in at the top four now. Chelsea, on the other hand, are dangling over that relegation zone. Few gave Liverpool much of a chance, given their lack of scoring and playing at Stamford Bridge, but those are the games that show why you go out and play and not let the pundits decide. There are still a myriad of things to alter and get better with for the Reds, but few victories taste as sweet as one over Chelsea and the players and their manager earned it.
Random Thoughts:
- Being a fan of a team that sings "Manchester is full of s***" leaves little room to take a moral stand. However, it seemed like all of Chelsea's songs had to do with spiteful things, like Steven Gerrard and never winning again etc. Made the final result a little bit sweeter with their silence.
- Oh how I look forward to a day when Liverpool has two healthy strikers. I'm no tactical genius and will never claim to be a coach. That said, this team just seems set up to play with two strikers and Coutinho tucked in behind. You have to have everyone healthy, which seems impossible of late, and it creates problems with who to play in midfield but if it is beneficial to the team then that's all anyone can ask for.
- Mourinho proved how much of a clown he can be as he refused to say anything to the postmatch reporter. He kept saying he had nothing to say and looking at the man like he was an idiot for doing his job. The egotist may feel better for not speaking, but he has done himself no favors.
- I never root for anyone to lose their job, no matter how much I dislike them. Even so, to paraphrase a certain dark lord of the Sith - This will be a day long remembered. Liverpool may have seen to the end of Mourinho and perhaps caused the relegation of Chelsea.
- That last one was a bit harsh, but when you have family members who root for Chelsea, it's ok to have a little dig ;)
Walk On
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Liverpool Only Manage One Goal Again In Cup Win
Ah the Capital One Cup - you provide such divisiveness. Purists, like the current Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, still see the benefit of trying to put everything you can (within reason) into cup competitions. Others say they aren't worth it and it would actually be better for a team to be eliminated so they can concentrate on the league. None are fully right or wrong. Both have valid arguments.
What is interesting is despite his claims of still being acclimated to English culture and not valuing this competition, Klopp actually fielded the first "Cup squad" Liverpool have probably put forth this season. Despite the lack of experience, Liverpool had that youthful exhuberance and created some decent chances. Roberto Firmino began to show flashes of what has been expected of him by the Kop and featured heavily in the opening goal of the match, which was smartly finished off by Nathaniel Clyne.
What made the goal even better - besides the obvious fact that it put the team ahead - was it was the kind of goal Liverpool have conceded so often. It was on a run of play, Clyne snuck in behind the defender who was appealing for offside and all he had to do was tuck it in. No easy task, but supporters have had to see that same goal so many times but against them, it was nice to see the Reds take advantage.
As is their way, Bournemouth put a lot into attack and were no slouch. Adam Bogdan had to deny three chances from Junior Stanislas alone. Nevertheless, the Reds held a slim possession advantage as the first 45 came to a close. Things never quite end up easy for Liverpool though.
Right out of the gate, Bournemouth created a chance that was narrowly missed. Shaun MacDonald won a header and the defense was caught ball watching. The ball barely slid wide of the post and MacDonald probably should've been awarded a penalty kick for his shirt almost being removed by the Liverpool defender.
On the flip side, Liverpool should have been up by two in the 58th minute. Good pressure from the midfield led to a turnover and Firmino raced into the box. Under light pressure, he fired a shot that beat the keeper but was always curling away from the left post as the shot came from the right. Firmino really should have done better and it was one of those chances that the club could've rued at the end of the contest.
The possession continued to favor the Reds as the gas slowly went out of Bournemouth. Liverpool didn't create a ton of chances but they were still relatively lively on the ball. Joao Teixeira almost scored after Joe Allen earned a free kick in the 80th minute, however it was neatly saved.
Bogdan was almost lulled to sleep for the second half only to see a toe ball from Matt Ritchie almost sneak in the near post. The secondary keeper was wise to it though and quickly got down to save it. In the end that was enough to hold on for a night of firsts. It was Bogdan's first win in regulation time. It was Klopp's first win with the club. Clyne's first goal with the team ended up being the game winner.
Much like the tournament itself, there were good aspects and bad. Getting the bad over with first, Liverpool again failed to score more than one goal. Liverpool have only scored more than once in one game all season, a 3-2 win over Aston Villa. Despite the good play from Firmino, Teixeira, Jordan Ibe and several others, they aren't getting statistical production from their scorers. Eventually the players you expect to produce need to start producing.
On the good side, fans got to see a lot of the young talent they had been clamoring for. Teixeira looked very comfortable on the ball and like Ibe and Raheem Sterling before him, has a chance to be a special player if brought up correctly. As mentioned, the goal Liverpool scored was from the run of play instead of a set piece. And what is more, the club won. Not convincingly or spectacularly, but at least the cloud of Klopp's first win has evaporated.
Going forward, it falls on each person to decide what matters to them. Are Liverpool still in that phase where a win is a win, no matter how or who they come against? Or is showing glimpses and flashes of good play with little to show for it not quite enough. Despite what most pundits will tell you, there is no real answer. Each person has their own view of it.
The bottom line is Liverpool are still alive. Think what you will of the Capital One Cup, but LFC have made the quarterfinals for the fifth time in the last decade. They're still alive after spectacular crashes from the competition by Chelsea and Arsenal the day before. They're still alive in a competition that can provide great experience for the squad players. They still have a chance for silverware, regardless of the prestige.
Random Thoughts:
- It would be nice not to have to watch these matches on virus laden streams in the US. Even if I had BeInSports, which I don't, the match wasn't shown live.
- Though most vocal fans hate him, I thought Dejan Lovren had a good game. He was solid in the back and only made one clear mistake in the second half that was quickly cleaned up by Clyne.
- Divock Origi was more lively on the ball but clearly has more developing to do. The sad thing is he may not be what was advertised, but he is still young enough to change any negative perception he has earned of late.
- Brendan Rodgers was more animated than many Premier League managers when his team scored, but Klopp takes it to another level. He really is a football man and turns into a fan when the ball hits the net, despite his position. It's refreshing to see.
Walk On
What is interesting is despite his claims of still being acclimated to English culture and not valuing this competition, Klopp actually fielded the first "Cup squad" Liverpool have probably put forth this season. Despite the lack of experience, Liverpool had that youthful exhuberance and created some decent chances. Roberto Firmino began to show flashes of what has been expected of him by the Kop and featured heavily in the opening goal of the match, which was smartly finished off by Nathaniel Clyne.
What made the goal even better - besides the obvious fact that it put the team ahead - was it was the kind of goal Liverpool have conceded so often. It was on a run of play, Clyne snuck in behind the defender who was appealing for offside and all he had to do was tuck it in. No easy task, but supporters have had to see that same goal so many times but against them, it was nice to see the Reds take advantage.
As is their way, Bournemouth put a lot into attack and were no slouch. Adam Bogdan had to deny three chances from Junior Stanislas alone. Nevertheless, the Reds held a slim possession advantage as the first 45 came to a close. Things never quite end up easy for Liverpool though.
Right out of the gate, Bournemouth created a chance that was narrowly missed. Shaun MacDonald won a header and the defense was caught ball watching. The ball barely slid wide of the post and MacDonald probably should've been awarded a penalty kick for his shirt almost being removed by the Liverpool defender.
On the flip side, Liverpool should have been up by two in the 58th minute. Good pressure from the midfield led to a turnover and Firmino raced into the box. Under light pressure, he fired a shot that beat the keeper but was always curling away from the left post as the shot came from the right. Firmino really should have done better and it was one of those chances that the club could've rued at the end of the contest.
The possession continued to favor the Reds as the gas slowly went out of Bournemouth. Liverpool didn't create a ton of chances but they were still relatively lively on the ball. Joao Teixeira almost scored after Joe Allen earned a free kick in the 80th minute, however it was neatly saved.
Bogdan was almost lulled to sleep for the second half only to see a toe ball from Matt Ritchie almost sneak in the near post. The secondary keeper was wise to it though and quickly got down to save it. In the end that was enough to hold on for a night of firsts. It was Bogdan's first win in regulation time. It was Klopp's first win with the club. Clyne's first goal with the team ended up being the game winner.
Much like the tournament itself, there were good aspects and bad. Getting the bad over with first, Liverpool again failed to score more than one goal. Liverpool have only scored more than once in one game all season, a 3-2 win over Aston Villa. Despite the good play from Firmino, Teixeira, Jordan Ibe and several others, they aren't getting statistical production from their scorers. Eventually the players you expect to produce need to start producing.
On the good side, fans got to see a lot of the young talent they had been clamoring for. Teixeira looked very comfortable on the ball and like Ibe and Raheem Sterling before him, has a chance to be a special player if brought up correctly. As mentioned, the goal Liverpool scored was from the run of play instead of a set piece. And what is more, the club won. Not convincingly or spectacularly, but at least the cloud of Klopp's first win has evaporated.
Going forward, it falls on each person to decide what matters to them. Are Liverpool still in that phase where a win is a win, no matter how or who they come against? Or is showing glimpses and flashes of good play with little to show for it not quite enough. Despite what most pundits will tell you, there is no real answer. Each person has their own view of it.
The bottom line is Liverpool are still alive. Think what you will of the Capital One Cup, but LFC have made the quarterfinals for the fifth time in the last decade. They're still alive after spectacular crashes from the competition by Chelsea and Arsenal the day before. They're still alive in a competition that can provide great experience for the squad players. They still have a chance for silverware, regardless of the prestige.
Random Thoughts:
- It would be nice not to have to watch these matches on virus laden streams in the US. Even if I had BeInSports, which I don't, the match wasn't shown live.
- Though most vocal fans hate him, I thought Dejan Lovren had a good game. He was solid in the back and only made one clear mistake in the second half that was quickly cleaned up by Clyne.
- Divock Origi was more lively on the ball but clearly has more developing to do. The sad thing is he may not be what was advertised, but he is still young enough to change any negative perception he has earned of late.
- Brendan Rodgers was more animated than many Premier League managers when his team scored, but Klopp takes it to another level. He really is a football man and turns into a fan when the ball hits the net, despite his position. It's refreshing to see.
Walk On
Sunday, October 25, 2015
Liverpool Snatches a Draw From the Jaws of Victory
It was always going to be a tough task - turning around Liverpool FC. There were those, like myself, that had consumed the kool-aid and believed the signings were good and the team just wasn't playing up to snuff. Then there were those, that while overly negative at times, probably had a better grasp on what the truth of this team really was. Liverpool, for all their successes in years past, for all the money they've spent and for as close to a title they came just a few seasons ago, really aren't one of the big boys at the moment.
As has been the case the last few weeks, regardless of who was the manager, Liverpool managed to create a few chances but they simply don't have the ability to finish right now. In his midweek meetings with the press, Jurgen Klopp even acknowledged his players seem to be experiencing a bit of anxiety in the attacking end. The team has a lot of skill on the ball, but there just isn't that true threat on goal. Granted, much of that, at the moment, is due to injuries. Christian Benteke did not start the match against Southampton even though he was fit enough to be in the squad and Daniel Sturridge continues to prove that he may be the Derrick Rose of the Premier League - boatloads of talent that is rarely on the field.
Divock Origi has the ability to develop into a top class player, but he is far from the finished product right now. He has done his best in the last couple matches featured in a starting role, but just appears more suited to the role being asked of Adam Lallana than the main striker. Whether from a forced perspective or simply wanting a change of pace, Klopp wisely put on the big Belgian after the half.
Almost immediately, Benteke had an impact. Only two minutes into the second 45, Lallana played a ball through to the left. Benteke ran onto it and almost slid it back across to the Englishman, with Coutinho waiting even further along if it slipped through. Alas, it only went for a corner, but Liverpool used that energy to keep up the pressure and earn two more corners immediately after. The second half also served as a wake-up call for the Anfield faithful.
The glow of Klopp's arrival perhaps wearing off just a bit, the first half saw the Red's supporters a bit quiet and apprehensive like they were in the final few weeks of Brendan Rodgers' reign. In the second frame, they were more lively even breaking out a brief rendition of some songs during the 52nd minute. Despite the good vibes, the apprehension remained on the field.
Liverpool still looked decent when in attack mode, but like a baseball hitter gripping the bat too tightly, they were just pressing too much. Alberto Moreno blasted one across the face of goal with too much pace in the 56th minute and then ripped one 20 feet over the bar a minute later. Moreno did make up for those miscues with an absolutely perfectly timed tackle in the box when Southampton seemed to have a breakaway in the 60th minute.
Firmino came on for Lallana in the 67th minute and then the game entered a rather dull period. The squads traded trips up the field and then back with little to show. As things seemed determined to settle into another goalless draw, James Milner took the ball up the right side in the 78th minute and lofted one into the box. It seemed too far out for much to come of it, but Benteke got full power behind the header and placed it right into the upper 90 for Liverpool's first goal. It was a top notch goal and one that fans will hope gives Benteke the lift to further goals coming.
Unfortunately, the good feelings were short lived. The bane of Liverpool, no matter who they have in the back four, has been set pieces and a long free kick was their undoing in this match. Unable to clear the initial attempt, Gaston Ramirez headed it back across the goal for Mane to finish off past a lunging Milner and Simon Mingolet. While there was little blame for any one player, it just had that stomach turning feel of Liverpool snatching a draw from the jaws of victory.
The bottom line is that this team remains disappointing. Southampton is a good side, but Liverpool needed to find a way to win. Other than a bit more optimism in the stands and a bit more effort shown on the field, there has been no difference in the results of Rodgers and Klopp. That's no knock against the new manager, just the truth. It's a bit of a harsher reality for those of us that drank the aforementioned kool-aid, because we're coming to the realization that the players simply aren't good enough.
Injuries have played a huge role in results but nobody has outperformed themselves simply because they have a new manager. Coutinho seems to have actually regressed a step since the change. There is definitely a more positive vibe with Klopp in charge, but it just hasn't translated onto the field and into goals. Klopp seems to have shored up the defense overall, but they've also conceded a goal in two of the three games the German has been in charge. In the end it's just more proof that the turnaround may be farther away than any of us envisioned and definitely farther away than we had hoped.
Random Thoughts:
- I was glad to see Liverpool legend, Stevie Nicol actually agreed with me about Adam Lallana, since it had seemed I was alone in the thoughts that he's just not that great. He has technical ability unmatched by many in the game. However, he cannot score and doesn't seem to do a great job of setting anyone else up to score either. He would be a nice change of pace player off the bench, but as a starter he just isn't getting it done.
- I'm eager to see what new and creative ways people come up with to put this result on Simon Mingolet. I understand it's the trait of typical lazy fans who have no concept of how to play the position, but I always get a tickle out of their insane need to blame goalkeepers for any goal.
- I keep hoping for the day when Liverpool will have two healthy strikers. Perhaps I'm old fashioned or perhaps I'm too stuck in the old American style but I just think you need two true strikers. Benteke is a strong man, but especially in the Premier League, if you don't have the second layer of attackers capable of providing quick support, then a holding striker just isn't going to create enough offense.
Walk On
As has been the case the last few weeks, regardless of who was the manager, Liverpool managed to create a few chances but they simply don't have the ability to finish right now. In his midweek meetings with the press, Jurgen Klopp even acknowledged his players seem to be experiencing a bit of anxiety in the attacking end. The team has a lot of skill on the ball, but there just isn't that true threat on goal. Granted, much of that, at the moment, is due to injuries. Christian Benteke did not start the match against Southampton even though he was fit enough to be in the squad and Daniel Sturridge continues to prove that he may be the Derrick Rose of the Premier League - boatloads of talent that is rarely on the field.
Divock Origi has the ability to develop into a top class player, but he is far from the finished product right now. He has done his best in the last couple matches featured in a starting role, but just appears more suited to the role being asked of Adam Lallana than the main striker. Whether from a forced perspective or simply wanting a change of pace, Klopp wisely put on the big Belgian after the half.
Almost immediately, Benteke had an impact. Only two minutes into the second 45, Lallana played a ball through to the left. Benteke ran onto it and almost slid it back across to the Englishman, with Coutinho waiting even further along if it slipped through. Alas, it only went for a corner, but Liverpool used that energy to keep up the pressure and earn two more corners immediately after. The second half also served as a wake-up call for the Anfield faithful.
The glow of Klopp's arrival perhaps wearing off just a bit, the first half saw the Red's supporters a bit quiet and apprehensive like they were in the final few weeks of Brendan Rodgers' reign. In the second frame, they were more lively even breaking out a brief rendition of some songs during the 52nd minute. Despite the good vibes, the apprehension remained on the field.
Liverpool still looked decent when in attack mode, but like a baseball hitter gripping the bat too tightly, they were just pressing too much. Alberto Moreno blasted one across the face of goal with too much pace in the 56th minute and then ripped one 20 feet over the bar a minute later. Moreno did make up for those miscues with an absolutely perfectly timed tackle in the box when Southampton seemed to have a breakaway in the 60th minute.
Firmino came on for Lallana in the 67th minute and then the game entered a rather dull period. The squads traded trips up the field and then back with little to show. As things seemed determined to settle into another goalless draw, James Milner took the ball up the right side in the 78th minute and lofted one into the box. It seemed too far out for much to come of it, but Benteke got full power behind the header and placed it right into the upper 90 for Liverpool's first goal. It was a top notch goal and one that fans will hope gives Benteke the lift to further goals coming.
Unfortunately, the good feelings were short lived. The bane of Liverpool, no matter who they have in the back four, has been set pieces and a long free kick was their undoing in this match. Unable to clear the initial attempt, Gaston Ramirez headed it back across the goal for Mane to finish off past a lunging Milner and Simon Mingolet. While there was little blame for any one player, it just had that stomach turning feel of Liverpool snatching a draw from the jaws of victory.
The bottom line is that this team remains disappointing. Southampton is a good side, but Liverpool needed to find a way to win. Other than a bit more optimism in the stands and a bit more effort shown on the field, there has been no difference in the results of Rodgers and Klopp. That's no knock against the new manager, just the truth. It's a bit of a harsher reality for those of us that drank the aforementioned kool-aid, because we're coming to the realization that the players simply aren't good enough.
Injuries have played a huge role in results but nobody has outperformed themselves simply because they have a new manager. Coutinho seems to have actually regressed a step since the change. There is definitely a more positive vibe with Klopp in charge, but it just hasn't translated onto the field and into goals. Klopp seems to have shored up the defense overall, but they've also conceded a goal in two of the three games the German has been in charge. In the end it's just more proof that the turnaround may be farther away than any of us envisioned and definitely farther away than we had hoped.
Random Thoughts:
- I was glad to see Liverpool legend, Stevie Nicol actually agreed with me about Adam Lallana, since it had seemed I was alone in the thoughts that he's just not that great. He has technical ability unmatched by many in the game. However, he cannot score and doesn't seem to do a great job of setting anyone else up to score either. He would be a nice change of pace player off the bench, but as a starter he just isn't getting it done.
- I'm eager to see what new and creative ways people come up with to put this result on Simon Mingolet. I understand it's the trait of typical lazy fans who have no concept of how to play the position, but I always get a tickle out of their insane need to blame goalkeepers for any goal.
- I keep hoping for the day when Liverpool will have two healthy strikers. Perhaps I'm old fashioned or perhaps I'm too stuck in the old American style but I just think you need two true strikers. Benteke is a strong man, but especially in the Premier League, if you don't have the second layer of attackers capable of providing quick support, then a holding striker just isn't going to create enough offense.
Walk On
Saturday, October 17, 2015
Klopp's Crew Keep Clean Sheet in Debut
It was the opening game of a new era. It was the first game of the Jurgen Klopp era. People wanted a quick turnaround, but none was to be had and it was unrealistic to hope for. Managerial changes can spur (no pun intended) change, but players are players. They can't be changed overnight. Nevertheless, Liverpool could have and should have scored in the 10th minute as Divock Origi's flick went off the crossbar and the rebound bounced too many ways for a clean rebound to be had.
Liverpool had their chances after that, and looked a bit more positive than in the last few weeks, but it was mostly Tottenham after the first 15 minutes. Simon Mingolet was forced to make a huge save in the 28th minute as Adam Lallana and Emre Can failed to fully get back, leaving the left wing open. Tottenham continued to build pressure, but the Reds managed to defend fairly well, constantly talking which, admittedly, was something a bit lacking under Brendan Rodgers. Liverpool managed to counter with a chance of their own in the 33rd minute, but still could not quite conjure enough to truly trouble the Spurs. Spurs then rebounded with more chances of their own. Harry Kane failed to put one in, hitting it off Mingolet's left leg and then Sakho with a block on the rebound opportunity.
The first 45 minutes of the Klopp era weren't really all that different, but really about what should have been expected. Liverpool came out with a lot of energy, but it wasn't really concentrated in one area. The players could clearly be seen wanting to perform well for their new manager, but not knowing exactly how other than to run. There was no momentous occasion to celebrate the change, but given the starting lineup Liverpool had to go with, it was no more than should've been expected. Still, you can't say that a scoreless draw at the half was not progress given the chances afforded to the opposition.
For the first 15 minutes of the second half, both teams seemed content to allow their opponent into the penalty area and then attempt to defend. Sure, you can claim it worked since it was still scoreless heading into the last half hour, but it's a dangerous way to play. The game calmed into somewhat of a lull during the 60th minutes. Both sides had an opportunity toward the box, or two, but nothing overtly dangerous. Liverpool's best chance was an appeal for penalty by Lallana in the 67th minute that went unheeded by the official.
Liverpool built up some very good pressure in the 70th minute, but could find no shots. Unfortunately for them, all their pressure only led to a counter attack for Harry Kane that was fortunately blocked before fully going toward goal. Joe Allen came on in the 81st minute, which was a bit confusing since Allen does not strike anyone as an attacking player, but came on in an attacking position. Jordan Ibe would have seemed a better fit, but perhaps Klopp wanted more possession or more defending up-field.
The substitution didn't seem to spark much either. Nothing to do with Allen really, but almost immediately after the switch, Spurs had another strong attack from Kane that was neatly parried away by Mingolet. Ibe did come onto the field moments later for Coutinho, who seemed to be laboring. That would be the last thing the Reds need at this point, considering that their entire lineup of forwards to be counted on was on the injury list for this weekend.
Most of the second half, as mentioned was relatively dull, but that made any chance for either side that much more intense. Can had a rip toward goal in the 90th minute that just skimmed a foot or so wide and that put the hearts of Liverpool fans in their throats as they were hoping for something miraculous. LFC supporters also had their hopes raised as Milner was awarded a free kick just outside the box with only minutes to go. Alas, the kick was wasted by Moreno and that would be all she wrote.
It was a rather uninspiring game, if you take all the pageantry and hype surrounding Klopp out of the occasion. It was much the same as we have seen all season, but it did have just a twinge of a better feel to it. Liverpool managed a bit more energy than some of the lethargic performances of late weeks. They had some good offensive chances, which is important given all the injuries the team had. A squad missing Daniel Sturridge, Christian Benteke and Danny Ings was always going to struggle to score (they've struggled even with those players). However, creating some chances knowing those players weren't even available as subs was a positive. A draw is much better than a loss, but this game proved what Klopp had already said in his press conference. He is not a miracle worker and it will be a process.
Random Thoughts:
- What kind of luck do Liverpool have if not bad luck? We all knew Benteke was unlikely and Ings is finished for the year, but to wake up and find Sturridge out with a swollen knee is extremely disheartening.
- People want to lump this all on Rodgers, but let us not forget that so many people were ready to give up on loan-outs like Lazar Markovic and more than willing to rid themselves of Ricki Lambert and Mario Balotelli. Now, given injuries, the Liverpool squad are very thin at positions they seemed deep in at the year's start. It's just the way things happen. To blame Rodgers is just piling on the hate.
- Mingolet continues to irritate people who want him out. He's not quite decisive enough on set pieces, but I still contend he's one of the league's best shot stoppers and am not sure exactly who his detractors want to bring in that will clearly be better.
Walk On
Liverpool had their chances after that, and looked a bit more positive than in the last few weeks, but it was mostly Tottenham after the first 15 minutes. Simon Mingolet was forced to make a huge save in the 28th minute as Adam Lallana and Emre Can failed to fully get back, leaving the left wing open. Tottenham continued to build pressure, but the Reds managed to defend fairly well, constantly talking which, admittedly, was something a bit lacking under Brendan Rodgers. Liverpool managed to counter with a chance of their own in the 33rd minute, but still could not quite conjure enough to truly trouble the Spurs. Spurs then rebounded with more chances of their own. Harry Kane failed to put one in, hitting it off Mingolet's left leg and then Sakho with a block on the rebound opportunity.
The first 45 minutes of the Klopp era weren't really all that different, but really about what should have been expected. Liverpool came out with a lot of energy, but it wasn't really concentrated in one area. The players could clearly be seen wanting to perform well for their new manager, but not knowing exactly how other than to run. There was no momentous occasion to celebrate the change, but given the starting lineup Liverpool had to go with, it was no more than should've been expected. Still, you can't say that a scoreless draw at the half was not progress given the chances afforded to the opposition.
For the first 15 minutes of the second half, both teams seemed content to allow their opponent into the penalty area and then attempt to defend. Sure, you can claim it worked since it was still scoreless heading into the last half hour, but it's a dangerous way to play. The game calmed into somewhat of a lull during the 60th minutes. Both sides had an opportunity toward the box, or two, but nothing overtly dangerous. Liverpool's best chance was an appeal for penalty by Lallana in the 67th minute that went unheeded by the official.
Liverpool built up some very good pressure in the 70th minute, but could find no shots. Unfortunately for them, all their pressure only led to a counter attack for Harry Kane that was fortunately blocked before fully going toward goal. Joe Allen came on in the 81st minute, which was a bit confusing since Allen does not strike anyone as an attacking player, but came on in an attacking position. Jordan Ibe would have seemed a better fit, but perhaps Klopp wanted more possession or more defending up-field.
The substitution didn't seem to spark much either. Nothing to do with Allen really, but almost immediately after the switch, Spurs had another strong attack from Kane that was neatly parried away by Mingolet. Ibe did come onto the field moments later for Coutinho, who seemed to be laboring. That would be the last thing the Reds need at this point, considering that their entire lineup of forwards to be counted on was on the injury list for this weekend.
Most of the second half, as mentioned was relatively dull, but that made any chance for either side that much more intense. Can had a rip toward goal in the 90th minute that just skimmed a foot or so wide and that put the hearts of Liverpool fans in their throats as they were hoping for something miraculous. LFC supporters also had their hopes raised as Milner was awarded a free kick just outside the box with only minutes to go. Alas, the kick was wasted by Moreno and that would be all she wrote.
It was a rather uninspiring game, if you take all the pageantry and hype surrounding Klopp out of the occasion. It was much the same as we have seen all season, but it did have just a twinge of a better feel to it. Liverpool managed a bit more energy than some of the lethargic performances of late weeks. They had some good offensive chances, which is important given all the injuries the team had. A squad missing Daniel Sturridge, Christian Benteke and Danny Ings was always going to struggle to score (they've struggled even with those players). However, creating some chances knowing those players weren't even available as subs was a positive. A draw is much better than a loss, but this game proved what Klopp had already said in his press conference. He is not a miracle worker and it will be a process.
Random Thoughts:
- What kind of luck do Liverpool have if not bad luck? We all knew Benteke was unlikely and Ings is finished for the year, but to wake up and find Sturridge out with a swollen knee is extremely disheartening.
- People want to lump this all on Rodgers, but let us not forget that so many people were ready to give up on loan-outs like Lazar Markovic and more than willing to rid themselves of Ricki Lambert and Mario Balotelli. Now, given injuries, the Liverpool squad are very thin at positions they seemed deep in at the year's start. It's just the way things happen. To blame Rodgers is just piling on the hate.
- Mingolet continues to irritate people who want him out. He's not quite decisive enough on set pieces, but I still contend he's one of the league's best shot stoppers and am not sure exactly who his detractors want to bring in that will clearly be better.
Walk On
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