According to the Daily Telegraph, RBS (Royal Bank of Scotland) will soon receive yet another injection of capital of up to £25.5 billion of tax payer money, which will take taxpayer ownership up to 95%, following the collapse of the high street bank as a result of the recession which currently engulfes Britain.
As taxpayers, surely we deserve a say in how RBS is run, and who they lend their (our) money to.
RBS have provided the loans for Hicks and Gillett to buy Liverpool Football Club. In simple terms, the Yanks borrowed money off RBS, to buy the club, and are now paying back that loan using money generated from the club, which ultimately derives from the back pocket of your average supporter.
RBS are not acting in our interests. Clearly, the Americans are loathed by Liverpool fans (taxpayers), and must be ousted as soon as possible.
Unfortunately, the only realistic way to oust the Yanks is for RBS to demand full payment immediately, which would force Hicks and Gillett to sell up quickly.
For this to happen we must make our voices heard.
I recently found out about a Facebook campaign, designed to force RBS to end their support of the Yanks regime. The creator of the group has circulated an email, and has encouraged Reds to forward it to people at RBS.
Here are the addresses to send the email: Stephen.Hester@rbs.co.uk; John.HOURICAN@rbs.com; Roger.Lowry@rbs.co.uk; rebecca.oliphant@rbs.com; Public.Affairs@rbs.co.uk
Here is the message (please add the appropriate surname at the start of the email, sign your name at the end and if you're not a British taxpayer, or future taxpayer, then delete the relevant sections of text)
Dear
Having reviewed the company accounts in relation to Liverpool Football Club and Parent Company Kop Football Ltd, of which there is approximately £237m worth of debt; it is clear that the business model operated by the current owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett is unsustainable.
Whilst I appreciate any refinancing package deal is a confidential matter between the Royal Bank of Scotland and the current owners of Liverpool Football Club, it is also a very personal issue for many Liverpool supporters around the world. As a British Tax Payer and a lifelong Liverpool fan, I can assure you that I am not happy that my hard earned money is being used to pay for the purchase of Liverpool Football Club for George Gillett and Tom Hicks.
There is an ever increasing sense of anger and resentment towards the owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett, which is likely to turn towards RBS if the refinancing deal is extended in the coming months.
It is my understanding that if the refinancing deal is renegotiated beyond July 2010, then a campaign in protest against the Royal Bank of Scotland will take place which will include billboards with anti-RBS messages encouraging Liverpool fans to boycott RBS in a similar manner to the boycott of the Sun Newspaper (please see below)
http://www.spiritofshankly.com/debtliescowboys.html
http://www.anfieldroad.com/dont-buy-the-sun/
If your objective is "the long term success of Liverpool Football Club" then I urge you to formally refuse any longer term refinancing for Hicks and Gillett, thus leaving the current obligations needing to be immediately repaid.
We as supporters of Liverpool Football Club are effectively paying the loan repayments for Hicks and Gillett, and as taxpayers have a "controlling stake" in RBS. We should therefore have a say in where our money is being invested.
The ball is firmly in your court.
Kind Regards,
Liverpool Supporter
YNWA
Friday, 12 March 2010
Thursday, 11 March 2010
Not Great, but Not Bad
It was never going to be easy. Only 3 days after what many supporters consider to be the worst performance of the season, where the Reds failed to register a single shot on target away to Wigan Athletic, and facing opponents who had lost just one of their last 16 European matches on home soil was always going to be an exceptionally difficult task for a Liverpool team starved of confidence after a wretched season.
However, the players showed their commitment to the cause, worked hard and had a few chances which, if converted, would have secured an excellent result. Unfortunately, Eden Hazard curled a free kick into the back of the net 7 minutes from time to spoil an otherwise positive evening, however Liverpool are still favourites to progress.
Before the game ex Red Bruno Cheyrou, now playing for Anorthosis Famagusta, in an interview with liverpoolfc.tv, said, "I think that it (Lille's pitch) is the best playing surface in France." This claim proved to be laughable, as Liverpool had to play on yet another awful pitch, with brown patches dominating areas, and bobbles covering the abysmal surface. It was hazardous for Liverpool, and nearly proved costly at one point, when Reina took two attempts to collect a weak shot, due to a massive bobble on the pitch.
The early onslaught from the home side caused Liverpool to remain defensive for the first 20 minutes, however, despite their dominance, Lille failed to seriously test Reina. The best opening for Lille came after only 10 minutes when Hazard easily beat Insua, who was disappointing in the first half but slightly better in the second, before gliding past Agger. Hazard, who was one of Lille's best players, went on to slide a dangerous centre across the face of the goal, but it didn't trouble Reina.
Liverpool survived the early pressure, and then started to create a few opportunites of their own. On 15 minutes Fernando Torres ripped past several Lille defenders, before sliding in a beautiful pass to Ryan Babel, who was clean through on goal. Unfortuantely, Babel just couldn't get to the ball and it was cleared behind for a corner, but it was a great move from the Reds, as Torres and Babel combined well.
10 minutes later, Torres and Babel skillfully exchanged passes once again, before Torres played the Dutchman through on goal, however Babel's poor shot was comfortably dealt with by the experienced goalkeeper, Mickael Landreau.
Liverpool continued to dominate the game for the last 20 minutes of the first half, as Reina was left with nothing to do for large periods.
Gerrard turned neatly and then fired just over the bar on the half hour, a sign that the skipper is regaining some resemblance of his past form. After this, Liverpool went extremely close to taking the lead, with their best move of the match.
Fernando Torres, who was another player to put in a vastly improved performance, sped away out of his own half on a brilliant counter attacking run, before he was fouled on the edge of the 18 yard box. Gerrard whipped in a pacy free kick, which the keeper did well to push to the edge of the area, where Glen Johnson met the ball.
The England right back, who was returning to the starting line up for the first time since 29th December, clipped in a fantastic cross to the back post. Torres leaped highest to meet the ball with his head, and it took a magnificent stop from the keeper, on his goalline, to stop the Reds taking the lead.
Liverpool went into the half time break on top, and came out for the second half looking to score a vital away goal, although it was the French team that began the second period brighter. Lille even had the ball in the back of the net on 49 minutes, but it was ruled out for offside, when replays later showed that the player was never offside, as he was clearly being played onside by Emiliano Insua.
2 minutes later Lucas shot wide of goal, after Torres had flicked on Mascherano's long pass. After this Ryan Babel, who was impressive once again and deserves a run of games to show what he can do, stung the keeper's hands with a fierce effort from 18 yards out.
The home side came back into the game, and went close to scoring on two occasions. Both times it was Lille striker Frau who went very close to giving his side the lead. Firstly, he fired in a powerful shot from 25 yards out that swerved in the air, causing Reina to punch the ball clear.
With 20 minutes remaining Frau had another go, this time sending a thunderous strike inches over the cross bar, from 35 yards out.
It was a wonderful effort from the Frenchman, who was a threat all evening. Liverpool must make sure that they keep him quiet in the second leg, otherwise he could score a crucial away goal, which would almost certainly send Liverpool crashing out of Europe.
Lille's second half control finally paid off on 83 minutes. Hazard, who had dramatically dived in an attempt to win his team an undeserved spot kick only a minute earlier, swung in a tremendous free kick which sailed past everyone in the packed penalty area, before sneaking in at the back post. Reina could have done better, but there was not much the Reds could do, it was simply a beautiful strike from a talened player.
Worryingly, Lille went close to scoring a second, which would have seen Liverpool really struggling going into the second leg. The ball was dinked over the heads of the Reds defenders, and fell to the feet of Lille substitute Pierre-Emerick Aubameya, who's shot deflected off Agger and onto the post.
In response Liverpool toiled in search of a critical away goal, however it didn't come. A goalmouth scramble nearly led to Torres finding the back of the net, but the ball was cleared to safety, and then, with seconds remaining, Reina hoofed a long punt upfield. Torres flicked the ball on to Riera, who played an excellent pass out to Gerrard in space on the left, but, unfortunately, the Reds captain couldn't find the back of the net.
As the commentators for Five summarised following the only goal of the match, a 1-0 result isn't great for Liverpool, but it isn't a bad result either, especially considering the unbelievable pressure that both Rafa and the players have been put under over recent days by a media all to happy to label yet another club as "in crisis".
Whilst it is never good to leave the away leg having failed to score an away goal, Liverpool are by no means out of this competition yet, and should progress to the next round if they manage to keep the Lille attack quiet at Anfield.
The Reds can now concentrate on another "must win" game, this time at home to bottom club Portsmouth, who are one of only a handful of clubs in a worse financial situation than Liverpool. Hopefully Rafa can break his Monday night curse (the Reds boss has never claimed victory in a Monday game) and help Liverpool to a crucial 3 points.
YNWA
However, the players showed their commitment to the cause, worked hard and had a few chances which, if converted, would have secured an excellent result. Unfortunately, Eden Hazard curled a free kick into the back of the net 7 minutes from time to spoil an otherwise positive evening, however Liverpool are still favourites to progress.
Before the game ex Red Bruno Cheyrou, now playing for Anorthosis Famagusta, in an interview with liverpoolfc.tv, said, "I think that it (Lille's pitch) is the best playing surface in France." This claim proved to be laughable, as Liverpool had to play on yet another awful pitch, with brown patches dominating areas, and bobbles covering the abysmal surface. It was hazardous for Liverpool, and nearly proved costly at one point, when Reina took two attempts to collect a weak shot, due to a massive bobble on the pitch.
The early onslaught from the home side caused Liverpool to remain defensive for the first 20 minutes, however, despite their dominance, Lille failed to seriously test Reina. The best opening for Lille came after only 10 minutes when Hazard easily beat Insua, who was disappointing in the first half but slightly better in the second, before gliding past Agger. Hazard, who was one of Lille's best players, went on to slide a dangerous centre across the face of the goal, but it didn't trouble Reina.
Liverpool survived the early pressure, and then started to create a few opportunites of their own. On 15 minutes Fernando Torres ripped past several Lille defenders, before sliding in a beautiful pass to Ryan Babel, who was clean through on goal. Unfortuantely, Babel just couldn't get to the ball and it was cleared behind for a corner, but it was a great move from the Reds, as Torres and Babel combined well.
10 minutes later, Torres and Babel skillfully exchanged passes once again, before Torres played the Dutchman through on goal, however Babel's poor shot was comfortably dealt with by the experienced goalkeeper, Mickael Landreau.
Liverpool continued to dominate the game for the last 20 minutes of the first half, as Reina was left with nothing to do for large periods.
Gerrard turned neatly and then fired just over the bar on the half hour, a sign that the skipper is regaining some resemblance of his past form. After this, Liverpool went extremely close to taking the lead, with their best move of the match.
Fernando Torres, who was another player to put in a vastly improved performance, sped away out of his own half on a brilliant counter attacking run, before he was fouled on the edge of the 18 yard box. Gerrard whipped in a pacy free kick, which the keeper did well to push to the edge of the area, where Glen Johnson met the ball.
The England right back, who was returning to the starting line up for the first time since 29th December, clipped in a fantastic cross to the back post. Torres leaped highest to meet the ball with his head, and it took a magnificent stop from the keeper, on his goalline, to stop the Reds taking the lead.
Liverpool went into the half time break on top, and came out for the second half looking to score a vital away goal, although it was the French team that began the second period brighter. Lille even had the ball in the back of the net on 49 minutes, but it was ruled out for offside, when replays later showed that the player was never offside, as he was clearly being played onside by Emiliano Insua.
2 minutes later Lucas shot wide of goal, after Torres had flicked on Mascherano's long pass. After this Ryan Babel, who was impressive once again and deserves a run of games to show what he can do, stung the keeper's hands with a fierce effort from 18 yards out.
The home side came back into the game, and went close to scoring on two occasions. Both times it was Lille striker Frau who went very close to giving his side the lead. Firstly, he fired in a powerful shot from 25 yards out that swerved in the air, causing Reina to punch the ball clear.
With 20 minutes remaining Frau had another go, this time sending a thunderous strike inches over the cross bar, from 35 yards out.
It was a wonderful effort from the Frenchman, who was a threat all evening. Liverpool must make sure that they keep him quiet in the second leg, otherwise he could score a crucial away goal, which would almost certainly send Liverpool crashing out of Europe.
Lille's second half control finally paid off on 83 minutes. Hazard, who had dramatically dived in an attempt to win his team an undeserved spot kick only a minute earlier, swung in a tremendous free kick which sailed past everyone in the packed penalty area, before sneaking in at the back post. Reina could have done better, but there was not much the Reds could do, it was simply a beautiful strike from a talened player.
Worryingly, Lille went close to scoring a second, which would have seen Liverpool really struggling going into the second leg. The ball was dinked over the heads of the Reds defenders, and fell to the feet of Lille substitute Pierre-Emerick Aubameya, who's shot deflected off Agger and onto the post.
In response Liverpool toiled in search of a critical away goal, however it didn't come. A goalmouth scramble nearly led to Torres finding the back of the net, but the ball was cleared to safety, and then, with seconds remaining, Reina hoofed a long punt upfield. Torres flicked the ball on to Riera, who played an excellent pass out to Gerrard in space on the left, but, unfortunately, the Reds captain couldn't find the back of the net.
As the commentators for Five summarised following the only goal of the match, a 1-0 result isn't great for Liverpool, but it isn't a bad result either, especially considering the unbelievable pressure that both Rafa and the players have been put under over recent days by a media all to happy to label yet another club as "in crisis".
Whilst it is never good to leave the away leg having failed to score an away goal, Liverpool are by no means out of this competition yet, and should progress to the next round if they manage to keep the Lille attack quiet at Anfield.
The Reds can now concentrate on another "must win" game, this time at home to bottom club Portsmouth, who are one of only a handful of clubs in a worse financial situation than Liverpool. Hopefully Rafa can break his Monday night curse (the Reds boss has never claimed victory in a Monday game) and help Liverpool to a crucial 3 points.
YNWA
Tuesday, 9 March 2010
Latics Punish Reds Dreadful Performance
Last night was a horror show for the Reds, as a dreadful performance left their Champions League hopes hanging from a string. Liverpool failed to control a game they were expected to win, and this cost them dearly, as Wigan's dominance tested the Reds backline and eventually led to Rodallega tapping home a winner from close range, to condemn the Reds to their 9 defeat of the season, with 7 of those coming on the road.
Javier Mascherano's performance in the right back position was the only positive to come out of what was a miserable night for Liverpool. Masch sped up and down the right wing, and looked dangerous in attack whilst remaining defensively solid, and should be a better back up right back than Jamie Carragher, who returned to his favoured role at centre back.
Rafa Benitez, even when we lose, almost always claims that his team "controlled the game", yet even he was unable to say this last night as Wigan dominated the game in the middle of the park. Gerrard was anonymous once again, and Torres' finishing was dreadful for a stiker of his quality, but he can be excused as he is still nowhere near match fit.
Liverpool started the game with a few chances which, if they had been taken, could have shaped a different outcome to this vital clash. Gerrard wasted the Reds first opportunity as he blasted high and wide from 25 yards out, after Mascherano's cross had been cleared to the edge of the 18 yard box.
On 8 minutes Liverpool squandered their best chance of the match. Gerrard's corner was headed out to the edge of the box, where Lucas met the ball and headed it to Torres, who's shot skimmed the post and went behind for a goal kick. It was a great chance as the Spanish striker had a lot of space to strike the ball home, however his poor shot failed to test ex Red Chris Kirkland, who was in goal for the home side.
After this, former Newcastle player, Charles N'Zogbia, whipped a dangerous centre across the face of the goalmouth. Any touch would have sent the ball into the net but, thankfully for the Redmen, no one managed to connect and the game remained goalless.
Charles N'Zogbia was made to look like Christiano Ronaldo last night as he terrorized young left back Emiliano Insua, who put in yet another shocking performance against low grade opponents, similar to the game he had against Reading's Jobi McAnuff, who was also made to look like a world-beater thanks to a disappointing display from the inexperienced Argentine.
Don't get me wrong, on the whole i think Insua is a terrific young player with bags of potential, however i believe that he needs a rest at the moment, as he isn't use to playing so much football at such a high level. Unfortunately he will not be granted this rest, as Fabio Aurelio is plauged with injuries.
Rodallega shot over the bar from a free kick on the edge of the box, before Steven Gerrard wasted a brilliant chance on the half hour. Maxi Rodriguez played a pass to Kuyt, who then set Benayoun free in the box. Yossi skillfully played the ball past Figueroa before squaring the ball to our captain. Stevie slipped up when controlling the ball, but managed to pick himself up, however his left footed shot was scuffed agonisingly wide from only 6 yards out, and with the keeper already beaten, it was an embarrasing miss from the Reds number 8.
Wigan's dominance in the midfield paid off on 35 minutes as they deservedly took the lead. Dirk Kuyt somehow found himself in the left back position, and, as he tried to play the ball back to Lucas, N'Zogbia managed to steal possession, turn, then place a wonderful cross with the outside of his right foot right into the path of Rodallega, who made no mistake from 6 yards out, tapping the ball past Pepe Reina.
Minutes before half time Torres headed over the bar when he probably should have scored, causing Liverpool to head into the break 1-0 behind, and needing a significant improvement if they were to get anything from this frustrating match.
You would have thought that Liverpool came out for the second half desperate to grab the game by the scruff of the neck and transform their fortunes, however this wasn't the case, as Wigan started the second half brightly, denying Liverpool the opportunity to place them under any sustained spell of pressure.
On the hour Wigan should have doubled their lead as some poor decision making from the Reds backline nearly cost them dear. A long punt up the field reached the edge of the Liverpool box. Pepe Reina came out to try and collect the ball, however he missed it and it ran through to Marcelo Moreno, who tried to lob the ball into the net from a difficult angle. The ball was going in until Sotorios Kyrgiakos, who was returning from suspension, headed the ball off the line. From the resultant corner the home side went close again, as Moreno, who was becoming increasingly involved in Wigan's attacking play, headed just over the bar.
Liverpool continued to struggle to create anything in attack, and looked vunerable when the Latics pushed forward. With 17 minutes remaining the home side almost inflicted the killer blow, as Scharner nearly slid onto a ball from the right hand side, but he couldn't tap the ball home, due to Kyrgiakos putting him under pressure with a sliding tackle.
2 minutes later Liverpool should have been back on level terms, and they would have been, if Fernando Torres had been fully fit and firing on all cylinders. Unfortunately he wasn't, as he missed a tremendous opportunity, shooting wide from 6 yards out after Dirk Kuyt had headed Maxi's cross down to Torres' feet.
By this point most Liverpool supporters knew it just wasn't going to be our night, as yet another away horror show cost Liverpool further ground in the race for 4th spot. Rodallega had a great chance to compound the Reds misery, as he took possession off Ryan Babel, however he shot high and wide, when he only had one more defender to beat.
Liverpool are really struggling on the road this season. Last season's terrific away form, which yielded an impressive 13 victories and only 2 loses, has not been replicated this year, with Liverpool finding it hard to score goals away from their Anfield fortress, as a result of injuries to key forward thinking players, like Torres, Johnson and Benayoun.
Hopefully this shocking display can be the kick up the backside the players need, and lead to a turn-around in fortunes, starting with the Europa League clash in Lille on Thursday. One thing that is certain is that Liverpool can kiss goodbye to next season's Champions League if they perform anywhere near as badly as they did last night again.
YNWA
Javier Mascherano's performance in the right back position was the only positive to come out of what was a miserable night for Liverpool. Masch sped up and down the right wing, and looked dangerous in attack whilst remaining defensively solid, and should be a better back up right back than Jamie Carragher, who returned to his favoured role at centre back.
Rafa Benitez, even when we lose, almost always claims that his team "controlled the game", yet even he was unable to say this last night as Wigan dominated the game in the middle of the park. Gerrard was anonymous once again, and Torres' finishing was dreadful for a stiker of his quality, but he can be excused as he is still nowhere near match fit.
Liverpool started the game with a few chances which, if they had been taken, could have shaped a different outcome to this vital clash. Gerrard wasted the Reds first opportunity as he blasted high and wide from 25 yards out, after Mascherano's cross had been cleared to the edge of the 18 yard box.
On 8 minutes Liverpool squandered their best chance of the match. Gerrard's corner was headed out to the edge of the box, where Lucas met the ball and headed it to Torres, who's shot skimmed the post and went behind for a goal kick. It was a great chance as the Spanish striker had a lot of space to strike the ball home, however his poor shot failed to test ex Red Chris Kirkland, who was in goal for the home side.
After this, former Newcastle player, Charles N'Zogbia, whipped a dangerous centre across the face of the goalmouth. Any touch would have sent the ball into the net but, thankfully for the Redmen, no one managed to connect and the game remained goalless.
Charles N'Zogbia was made to look like Christiano Ronaldo last night as he terrorized young left back Emiliano Insua, who put in yet another shocking performance against low grade opponents, similar to the game he had against Reading's Jobi McAnuff, who was also made to look like a world-beater thanks to a disappointing display from the inexperienced Argentine.
Don't get me wrong, on the whole i think Insua is a terrific young player with bags of potential, however i believe that he needs a rest at the moment, as he isn't use to playing so much football at such a high level. Unfortunately he will not be granted this rest, as Fabio Aurelio is plauged with injuries.
Rodallega shot over the bar from a free kick on the edge of the box, before Steven Gerrard wasted a brilliant chance on the half hour. Maxi Rodriguez played a pass to Kuyt, who then set Benayoun free in the box. Yossi skillfully played the ball past Figueroa before squaring the ball to our captain. Stevie slipped up when controlling the ball, but managed to pick himself up, however his left footed shot was scuffed agonisingly wide from only 6 yards out, and with the keeper already beaten, it was an embarrasing miss from the Reds number 8.
Wigan's dominance in the midfield paid off on 35 minutes as they deservedly took the lead. Dirk Kuyt somehow found himself in the left back position, and, as he tried to play the ball back to Lucas, N'Zogbia managed to steal possession, turn, then place a wonderful cross with the outside of his right foot right into the path of Rodallega, who made no mistake from 6 yards out, tapping the ball past Pepe Reina.
Minutes before half time Torres headed over the bar when he probably should have scored, causing Liverpool to head into the break 1-0 behind, and needing a significant improvement if they were to get anything from this frustrating match.
You would have thought that Liverpool came out for the second half desperate to grab the game by the scruff of the neck and transform their fortunes, however this wasn't the case, as Wigan started the second half brightly, denying Liverpool the opportunity to place them under any sustained spell of pressure.
On the hour Wigan should have doubled their lead as some poor decision making from the Reds backline nearly cost them dear. A long punt up the field reached the edge of the Liverpool box. Pepe Reina came out to try and collect the ball, however he missed it and it ran through to Marcelo Moreno, who tried to lob the ball into the net from a difficult angle. The ball was going in until Sotorios Kyrgiakos, who was returning from suspension, headed the ball off the line. From the resultant corner the home side went close again, as Moreno, who was becoming increasingly involved in Wigan's attacking play, headed just over the bar.
Liverpool continued to struggle to create anything in attack, and looked vunerable when the Latics pushed forward. With 17 minutes remaining the home side almost inflicted the killer blow, as Scharner nearly slid onto a ball from the right hand side, but he couldn't tap the ball home, due to Kyrgiakos putting him under pressure with a sliding tackle.
2 minutes later Liverpool should have been back on level terms, and they would have been, if Fernando Torres had been fully fit and firing on all cylinders. Unfortunately he wasn't, as he missed a tremendous opportunity, shooting wide from 6 yards out after Dirk Kuyt had headed Maxi's cross down to Torres' feet.
By this point most Liverpool supporters knew it just wasn't going to be our night, as yet another away horror show cost Liverpool further ground in the race for 4th spot. Rodallega had a great chance to compound the Reds misery, as he took possession off Ryan Babel, however he shot high and wide, when he only had one more defender to beat.
Liverpool are really struggling on the road this season. Last season's terrific away form, which yielded an impressive 13 victories and only 2 loses, has not been replicated this year, with Liverpool finding it hard to score goals away from their Anfield fortress, as a result of injuries to key forward thinking players, like Torres, Johnson and Benayoun.
Hopefully this shocking display can be the kick up the backside the players need, and lead to a turn-around in fortunes, starting with the Europa League clash in Lille on Thursday. One thing that is certain is that Liverpool can kiss goodbye to next season's Champions League if they perform anywhere near as badly as they did last night again.
YNWA
Monday, 8 March 2010
Lucas vs Aquilani
In Liverpool's 4-2-3-1 system there is room for two holding midfield players. This season Lucas and Mascherano have been filling in these roles quite competently, however Alberto Aquilani, a £20 million summer signing, is now looking to take one of those two positions. Mascherano is a certainty as, on top form, he is one of the best defensive midfielders in the world. On top of that, he is captain of Diego Maradona's Argentina side.
A fight for the other holding midfield role now seems to be developing between Lucas Leiva and Alberto Aquilani, and Lucas defintely has the upper hand, as he is one of only 3 players to have played a part in every single League game this season (the other two are Pepe Reina and Dirk Kuyt.)
The role of Lucas in the first team is probably the most divisive issue between supporters today. His supporters, including myself, recognise his tremendous work rate, thirst for a tackle and commitment to the cause, whilst appreciating the fact that he is only 23 years old and has time to improve further.
His detractors on the other hand, use him as a scapegoat for all of the team's problems this season, citing the fact that he hasn't got the same passing range as Xabi Alonso as a legitimate criticism, while conveniently forgetting that very few players display the same abilites as Xabi Alonso. It's like criticising David Ngog for not being at the same level as Fernando Torres.
Conversely, most fans with half a brain are united in their opinion of Alberto Aquilani. He's a talented player with potential, but he must be given at least a season and a half to get used to the rapid nature of England's Premier League, and to fully recover from his horrible injury problems, that meant he hadn't kicked a ball in anger for several months before he had even arrived on Merseyside.
Of course, the mass media will spout their usual rubbish about Aquilani not being good enough for the Premier League, and Rafa supposedly throwing £20 million down the drain, however they seem to be forgetting that Arsene Wenger, one of the best managers in Premier League history, says that foreigners should be given at least a season to adapt to the pace of the English game.
Also, when discussing Aquilani the mass media rarely mention the fact that Chelsea spent £18 million on Yuri Zhirkov, when the left sided player has only made 8 League appearances for Chelsea during this campaign.
Hypocritically, the London based media forget that one of their teams has spent a ridiculous amount of money on a player who has scarcely featured this season, while complaining that Rafa spent £2 million more on a player who has appeared in one more League game, and has much more attacking quality and potential than Zhirkov, who is likely to spend the duration of his Chelsea career living in the shadow of England's first choice left back, Ashley Cole.
The Italian, who has represented his national team 11 times, scoring 2 goals, has been plauged with an ankle injury, that has restricted him to substitute appearances and only the occasional start this year.
Aquilani needs gametime to get match fit, however, due to the poor performance from the team overall this season, he has been denied the opportunity to build up his match fitness in low pressure encounters, normally at Anfield, against sides who Liverpool are expected to beat.
The pressure Liverpool are under is so intense that Rafa cannot afford to risk playing Aquilani in a must win game, as, currently,he is nowhere near as good as Lucas defensively. Also, Aquilani is unlikely to last a full 90 minutes, therefore causing Rafa to start him on the bench and bring him on only if neccesary.
While this has frustrated many supporters who were eager to see Aquilani immediately transform Liverpool's fortunes, it is the sensible route, and, if he manages to get a full pre-season under his belt, should allow Aquilani a fresh start next season.
For the rest of this season i expect Rafa to stick with Lucas, who has shown signs of an improvement in his passing range and attacking ability recently, however i think that Aquilani will start a lot more games next season as Rafa tries to embed a more attacking mentality into his side, in an attempt to challenge Chelsea and the Manchester teams at the top of the table.
YNWA
A fight for the other holding midfield role now seems to be developing between Lucas Leiva and Alberto Aquilani, and Lucas defintely has the upper hand, as he is one of only 3 players to have played a part in every single League game this season (the other two are Pepe Reina and Dirk Kuyt.)
The role of Lucas in the first team is probably the most divisive issue between supporters today. His supporters, including myself, recognise his tremendous work rate, thirst for a tackle and commitment to the cause, whilst appreciating the fact that he is only 23 years old and has time to improve further.
His detractors on the other hand, use him as a scapegoat for all of the team's problems this season, citing the fact that he hasn't got the same passing range as Xabi Alonso as a legitimate criticism, while conveniently forgetting that very few players display the same abilites as Xabi Alonso. It's like criticising David Ngog for not being at the same level as Fernando Torres.
Conversely, most fans with half a brain are united in their opinion of Alberto Aquilani. He's a talented player with potential, but he must be given at least a season and a half to get used to the rapid nature of England's Premier League, and to fully recover from his horrible injury problems, that meant he hadn't kicked a ball in anger for several months before he had even arrived on Merseyside.
Of course, the mass media will spout their usual rubbish about Aquilani not being good enough for the Premier League, and Rafa supposedly throwing £20 million down the drain, however they seem to be forgetting that Arsene Wenger, one of the best managers in Premier League history, says that foreigners should be given at least a season to adapt to the pace of the English game.
Also, when discussing Aquilani the mass media rarely mention the fact that Chelsea spent £18 million on Yuri Zhirkov, when the left sided player has only made 8 League appearances for Chelsea during this campaign.
Hypocritically, the London based media forget that one of their teams has spent a ridiculous amount of money on a player who has scarcely featured this season, while complaining that Rafa spent £2 million more on a player who has appeared in one more League game, and has much more attacking quality and potential than Zhirkov, who is likely to spend the duration of his Chelsea career living in the shadow of England's first choice left back, Ashley Cole.
The Italian, who has represented his national team 11 times, scoring 2 goals, has been plauged with an ankle injury, that has restricted him to substitute appearances and only the occasional start this year.
Aquilani needs gametime to get match fit, however, due to the poor performance from the team overall this season, he has been denied the opportunity to build up his match fitness in low pressure encounters, normally at Anfield, against sides who Liverpool are expected to beat.
The pressure Liverpool are under is so intense that Rafa cannot afford to risk playing Aquilani in a must win game, as, currently,he is nowhere near as good as Lucas defensively. Also, Aquilani is unlikely to last a full 90 minutes, therefore causing Rafa to start him on the bench and bring him on only if neccesary.
While this has frustrated many supporters who were eager to see Aquilani immediately transform Liverpool's fortunes, it is the sensible route, and, if he manages to get a full pre-season under his belt, should allow Aquilani a fresh start next season.
For the rest of this season i expect Rafa to stick with Lucas, who has shown signs of an improvement in his passing range and attacking ability recently, however i think that Aquilani will start a lot more games next season as Rafa tries to embed a more attacking mentality into his side, in an attempt to challenge Chelsea and the Manchester teams at the top of the table.
YNWA
Friday, 5 March 2010
Another Must Win Game as Reds face Wigan
The Reds have yet another must win game on Monday evening as they face Roberto Martinez's Wigan Athletic side. In what is becoming a fiercly competitive fight for fourth spot, Liverpool must now seize a fantastic opportunity to gain much needed momentum in the battle for Champions League qualification.
Liverpool are the only team battling for fourth place who are in League action this weekend, and must exploit this fact by claiming all 3 points against Wigan to gain a psychological advantage over their rivals.
A win would take Liverpool 2 points clear in fourth position, giving them a slender but significant lead in the race for fourth. Admittedly, Villa, Spurs and Manchester City will all have at least one game in hand, however those games are not guarenteed points, as any footballer will rightly point out, it's much better to have the points on the board than to have games in hand.
For once all of Liverpool's star performers returned injury free from international duty, leaving Rafa Benitez with nearly a full squad to choose from. Martin Skrtel is out for around 6 weeks after breaking a metatarsal in his right foot during the second leg of Liverpool's last 32 Europa League clash in Romania, and Fabio Aurelio is facing 2 weeks on the sidelines with a damaged thigh muscle which he picked up at home to Blackburn Rovers in a bruising battle, last time out at Anfield.
Apart from Skrtel and Aurelio Rafa has a fully fit sqaud to choose from, following the news that Glen Johnson is in contention for a role on Monday evening. The return of the marauding right back is excellent news for Liverpool, as his attacking brillance will add an extra dimension to their forward play. Also, his return to the right back berth will allow Jamie Carragher, who has worked dilligently in place of Johnson, to move back into his favoured role at the centre of the Reds defence, where he is at his exceptional best.
After a difficult, physical encounter with Sam Alladyce's Blackburn Rovers in their last League outing Liverpool will have to deal with a different challenge when they travel to the DW Stadium, the home of Wigan Athletic.
Since the appointment of Roberto Martinez in June 2009 Wigan have been adapting to the Spaniard's positive, attacking tactics following years of dodged and determined battling, which had earned them Premiership status but was unlikely to take them much further. His free flowing style of play is encouraging to see from a side that is usually associated with the type of tactics that saw Aaron Ramsey suffer a horrific leg break, however Wigan's new forward thinking mentality plays right into Liverpool's hands.
If the Reds manage to continue their fantastic defensive work, which has earned them 7 clean sheets from their last 10 League matches, then they should be able to pick off the home side on the counter attack, as the return to fitness of Fernando Torres and Yossi Benayoun will allow the Reds to penetrate a frail Wigan backline.
Liverpool must aim to keep it tight for the first 20-30 minutes, then hit Wigan hard on the counter attack. If they manage to do this then it should be a comfortable 3 points for Rafa's Redmen, that keeps them firmly in contention for the final Champions League position.
YNWA
Liverpool are the only team battling for fourth place who are in League action this weekend, and must exploit this fact by claiming all 3 points against Wigan to gain a psychological advantage over their rivals.
A win would take Liverpool 2 points clear in fourth position, giving them a slender but significant lead in the race for fourth. Admittedly, Villa, Spurs and Manchester City will all have at least one game in hand, however those games are not guarenteed points, as any footballer will rightly point out, it's much better to have the points on the board than to have games in hand.
For once all of Liverpool's star performers returned injury free from international duty, leaving Rafa Benitez with nearly a full squad to choose from. Martin Skrtel is out for around 6 weeks after breaking a metatarsal in his right foot during the second leg of Liverpool's last 32 Europa League clash in Romania, and Fabio Aurelio is facing 2 weeks on the sidelines with a damaged thigh muscle which he picked up at home to Blackburn Rovers in a bruising battle, last time out at Anfield.
Apart from Skrtel and Aurelio Rafa has a fully fit sqaud to choose from, following the news that Glen Johnson is in contention for a role on Monday evening. The return of the marauding right back is excellent news for Liverpool, as his attacking brillance will add an extra dimension to their forward play. Also, his return to the right back berth will allow Jamie Carragher, who has worked dilligently in place of Johnson, to move back into his favoured role at the centre of the Reds defence, where he is at his exceptional best.
After a difficult, physical encounter with Sam Alladyce's Blackburn Rovers in their last League outing Liverpool will have to deal with a different challenge when they travel to the DW Stadium, the home of Wigan Athletic.
Since the appointment of Roberto Martinez in June 2009 Wigan have been adapting to the Spaniard's positive, attacking tactics following years of dodged and determined battling, which had earned them Premiership status but was unlikely to take them much further. His free flowing style of play is encouraging to see from a side that is usually associated with the type of tactics that saw Aaron Ramsey suffer a horrific leg break, however Wigan's new forward thinking mentality plays right into Liverpool's hands.
If the Reds manage to continue their fantastic defensive work, which has earned them 7 clean sheets from their last 10 League matches, then they should be able to pick off the home side on the counter attack, as the return to fitness of Fernando Torres and Yossi Benayoun will allow the Reds to penetrate a frail Wigan backline.
Liverpool must aim to keep it tight for the first 20-30 minutes, then hit Wigan hard on the counter attack. If they manage to do this then it should be a comfortable 3 points for Rafa's Redmen, that keeps them firmly in contention for the final Champions League position.
YNWA
Tuesday, 2 March 2010
Run in Favours Reds
Liverpool are facing a difficult battle with Manchester City, Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur in what could be the closest fight for fourth spot in years. While this is interesting and refreshing for the neutral, delighted at the break up of the so called "Big Four", Liverpool fans are crippled with nerves as they face the prospect of failing to qualify for the Champions League for the first time during the reign of Rafael Benitez.
Of course, the only reason Liverpool supporters have come to expect Champions League qualification as a minimum requirment for a successful season is because of the impressive managerial work of Rafael Benitez. Before he arrived in the summer of 2004 Liverpool had only experienced Champions League football twice, in 01/02 and 02/03, as the Reds regularly finished 3rd and 4th which, at the time, wasn't good enough for Champions League qualification.
Liverpool have tasted top level European football during every year of Rafa's reign, thanks to a consistent performance in the League, with two 3rd place finishes, one 4th place finish and a runners up position following a disappointing finish of 5th place in his inaugrual season. This has been good enough to secure Champions League football, and the riches that come with it.
Some might argue that it has become easier to qualify for the Champions League, due to the number of places in the competition now available to the top English sides, however the quality of the tournament has also increased, with more and more top sides from Spain, Italy and England getting the chance to play in Europe's top club competition, thanks to the increase in numbers for these successful countries.
Also, the quality of competing clubs in the Premier League has increased as Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal have all grown and become footballing super powers, due to a combination of mega rich owners and fantastic foreign managers. On top of that, in recent years Rafa has had to fight against the likes of Tottenham and Everton for a position in the top 4.
In fact, in 2004/05, Rafa's first year in charge, Liverpool finished 5th, outside of the qualifying places for the 2005/06 Champions League campaign, however they managed to gain entry into the competition due to the fact that they won the competition in 2005, albeit they had to start right at the beginning, facing Welsh side Total Network Solutions (named after their sponsors) in the first qualifying round.
Liverpool now face a massive challenge if they are to continue to develop along with Europe's mega rich super clubs, who are essentially guarenteed Champions League football year after year.
Manchester City are one point ahead of them, and also have a game in hand, as a result of their massive spending during the summer. Also, Tottenham have gleaned one more point from their 28 matces, however they have played the same amount of games as the Reds.
The outsiders, Aston Villa, are 3 points behind Liverpool, but they have played 2 games less. While the games in hand can be seen as an advantage, it is much better to have the points in the bag, rather than having to rely on taking all 3 points from rearranged clashes, which are likely to fall during a midweek, congesting the fixture list and increasing the risk of injury.
One major fact is in Liverpool's favour though. They have a much easier run in then their opponents. Aston Villa also have a comfortable run of games heading into the business end of the season, however i expect them to crumble as they always do towards the end of the League season, because Martin O'Neil refuses to rotate his side, leading to critical players suffering from injuries and burnout.
While Liverpool face games against Wigan, Portsmouth and Sunderland Manchester City face tough games against Manchester United, Arsenal and Aston Villa. Liverpool do have to play both Manchester United away and Chelsea at home, however they will not have to face any of their rivals for the coveted fourth spot, unlike City and Villa.
Tottenham Hotspur have winnable games in their run in, just like City, Liverpool and Villa, but they face a horrible period in April as they host Arsenal and Chelsea before travelling to Old Trafford. Hopefully those games will be the downfall for the Londoners, costing them 4th spot.
Villa, like the Reds, have one of the easier run ins, with matches against Wigan, Wolves and Bolton likely to earn the Villans 3 points. However, they also face a tricky tie at Stoke, and games away to Chelsea and Manchester City, as well as a home match against the resurgent Everton, who have recorded victories over both Chelsea and Manchester United in recent weeks.
By my calculations Liverpool should earn 23 points from their remaining fixtures, giving them a total of 71 points. Both Villa and City should finish with 67 points after registering 22 and 18 points respectively, whilst Tottenham fair the worst, gleaning a meagre 13 points from the rest of their games giving them a total of 62 points. This would leave Liverpool in 4th, Villa and City fighting for 5th based on goal difference, and Spurs left behind in 7th.
Of course these figures aren't completely reliable as they will be affected by my obvious Liverpool bias (as a Red i think we can win any game), however i believe them to be as accurate as possible. Also, the changes in form that will entail between now and the end of the season will obviously affect my results, making my estimates less accurate, however that is exactly what they are-estimates.
All we can do is hope, and back the lads and Rafa all the way to the end of the season because one things is for sure. This fight is going to go down to the wire.
YNWA
Of course, the only reason Liverpool supporters have come to expect Champions League qualification as a minimum requirment for a successful season is because of the impressive managerial work of Rafael Benitez. Before he arrived in the summer of 2004 Liverpool had only experienced Champions League football twice, in 01/02 and 02/03, as the Reds regularly finished 3rd and 4th which, at the time, wasn't good enough for Champions League qualification.
Liverpool have tasted top level European football during every year of Rafa's reign, thanks to a consistent performance in the League, with two 3rd place finishes, one 4th place finish and a runners up position following a disappointing finish of 5th place in his inaugrual season. This has been good enough to secure Champions League football, and the riches that come with it.
Some might argue that it has become easier to qualify for the Champions League, due to the number of places in the competition now available to the top English sides, however the quality of the tournament has also increased, with more and more top sides from Spain, Italy and England getting the chance to play in Europe's top club competition, thanks to the increase in numbers for these successful countries.
Also, the quality of competing clubs in the Premier League has increased as Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal have all grown and become footballing super powers, due to a combination of mega rich owners and fantastic foreign managers. On top of that, in recent years Rafa has had to fight against the likes of Tottenham and Everton for a position in the top 4.
In fact, in 2004/05, Rafa's first year in charge, Liverpool finished 5th, outside of the qualifying places for the 2005/06 Champions League campaign, however they managed to gain entry into the competition due to the fact that they won the competition in 2005, albeit they had to start right at the beginning, facing Welsh side Total Network Solutions (named after their sponsors) in the first qualifying round.
Liverpool now face a massive challenge if they are to continue to develop along with Europe's mega rich super clubs, who are essentially guarenteed Champions League football year after year.
Manchester City are one point ahead of them, and also have a game in hand, as a result of their massive spending during the summer. Also, Tottenham have gleaned one more point from their 28 matces, however they have played the same amount of games as the Reds.
The outsiders, Aston Villa, are 3 points behind Liverpool, but they have played 2 games less. While the games in hand can be seen as an advantage, it is much better to have the points in the bag, rather than having to rely on taking all 3 points from rearranged clashes, which are likely to fall during a midweek, congesting the fixture list and increasing the risk of injury.
One major fact is in Liverpool's favour though. They have a much easier run in then their opponents. Aston Villa also have a comfortable run of games heading into the business end of the season, however i expect them to crumble as they always do towards the end of the League season, because Martin O'Neil refuses to rotate his side, leading to critical players suffering from injuries and burnout.
While Liverpool face games against Wigan, Portsmouth and Sunderland Manchester City face tough games against Manchester United, Arsenal and Aston Villa. Liverpool do have to play both Manchester United away and Chelsea at home, however they will not have to face any of their rivals for the coveted fourth spot, unlike City and Villa.
Tottenham Hotspur have winnable games in their run in, just like City, Liverpool and Villa, but they face a horrible period in April as they host Arsenal and Chelsea before travelling to Old Trafford. Hopefully those games will be the downfall for the Londoners, costing them 4th spot.
Villa, like the Reds, have one of the easier run ins, with matches against Wigan, Wolves and Bolton likely to earn the Villans 3 points. However, they also face a tricky tie at Stoke, and games away to Chelsea and Manchester City, as well as a home match against the resurgent Everton, who have recorded victories over both Chelsea and Manchester United in recent weeks.
By my calculations Liverpool should earn 23 points from their remaining fixtures, giving them a total of 71 points. Both Villa and City should finish with 67 points after registering 22 and 18 points respectively, whilst Tottenham fair the worst, gleaning a meagre 13 points from the rest of their games giving them a total of 62 points. This would leave Liverpool in 4th, Villa and City fighting for 5th based on goal difference, and Spurs left behind in 7th.
Of course these figures aren't completely reliable as they will be affected by my obvious Liverpool bias (as a Red i think we can win any game), however i believe them to be as accurate as possible. Also, the changes in form that will entail between now and the end of the season will obviously affect my results, making my estimates less accurate, however that is exactly what they are-estimates.
All we can do is hope, and back the lads and Rafa all the way to the end of the season because one things is for sure. This fight is going to go down to the wire.
YNWA
Monday, 1 March 2010
Race for Fourth Heats Up
The race for that all important fourth Champions League position intensified this weekend as all 3 teams in League action gained vital victories in tricky encounters. Manchester City claimed an historic 4-2 victory over Chelsea in the "Battle of the Bridge", becoming the first team to defeat Chelsea at their Stamford Bridge home this season. Meanwhile, Tottenham won 2-1 at home to the resurgent Evertonians to take all 3 points out of a difficult game.
Liverpool were at home to Blackburn Rovers as Aston Villa contestsed the Carling Cup Final. It was a difficult match for the Reds as Sam Alladyce's over physical side definitely let the home side knew that they were in for a fight. Also, the Reds had added pressure on them as both City and Tottenham had both taken maximum points out of their earlier weekend clashes. It was crucial that Liverpool did the same in order to keep up with their opponents in the race for fourth spot.
There was no urgency in Liverpool's early play as the visitors took the early intiative during the first 20 minutes, peppering Pepe Reina's goal with shots. After only 1 minute the Blackburn captain Christopher Samba tested Reina with a header from Diouf's corner, before a wicked shot from distance flew just over the top left hand corner of Reina's goal.
Blackburn definitely started the better, however Reina was more than a match for many of their efforts. He saved Pedersen's shot from 18 yards out with ease as it went straight at him. After only 15 minutes Croatian striker Kalinic had a great chance to give Rovers a fully deserved 1-0 lead, as Lucas was caught in possession in his own half. Liverpool now found themselves in a 2 against 2 position, and Kalinic had the ball. Fortunately for the Redmen his effort went just wide of the post without worrying the Reds keeper.
Blackburn's early dominance seemed to spark Liverpool into life as they responded to the visitor's attacking football. They responded in the best possible way on 19 minutes as they took the lead, following a wonderful move.
Lucas fed the ball to Gerrard, who then played a brilliant 1-2 with Dutch winger Dirk Kuyt. Gerrard then sprayed the ball out to Yossi Benayoun on the left, who cut into the box with a neat run. The Israeli playmaker returned the ball to Gerrard who moved into space before powering the ball past Robinson with his left foot. It was an excellent movement from the Reds, which gave them a critical one goal advantage, despite of the fact that they had started disappointingly.
Soon after, Pedersen forced Reina into a terrific double save, as his first effort was rebounded back out to him. He received a brilliant long pass from Samba, then fired in a fiery strike which Reina was equal to. The ball fell back to the feet of the Norwegian who shot at goal again, only to be denied by our dynamic Spanish keeper.
Kuyt had a gilt edged opportunity to double the Reds lead on the half hour, as he headed wide from 6 yards out after Gerrard's corner had searched him out. It was an excellent opportunity and one which Kuyt should have took full advantage of.
Blackburn found a way back into the game on 38 minutes as they were rightly awarded a penalty following a handball by Jamie Carragher. Kalinic tried to turn in the box, after he had received a pass, however he was crowded out by Liverpool players. Carragher had slid in and
he sneakily handled the ball in order to move it away from the feet of Kalinic and Alan Wiley, spotting the offence, rightly awarded the away side a penalty. It was one of few correct decisions from the ageing referre.
Andrews stepped up to take the spot kick, and slotted the ball underneath Reina's body and into the net. It was a poor penalty and one that Reina, especially considering the good form he displayed in the rest of the game, could have stopped.
Parity was restored, however it was shortlived as Fernando Torres returned to goalscoring form. Once again, some expert build up play from the Reds led to an opening which they took full advantage of. Lucas played a fantastic through ball to Torres, which reminded me of Xabi Alonso, but the Spanish superstar was halted by a superb sliding tackle from Samba. The ball fell to Maxi Rodriguez, who reacted swiftly and played a square pass to Torres, who tapped home from 3 yards out to earn the Reds a crucial lead going into the half time break.
Sam Alladyce always sets his sides out to be physical and challenge in the tackle, however some of his players crossed the line yesterday. 5 minutes into the second half N'zonzi was given a yellow card for grabbing Lucas round the neck while competiting for an aerial ball. In frustration at receiving a booking N'zonzi shoved Lucas away, pushing him in the face. It was the most blatant red card there has ever been, as the offence was commited right in front of him, yet, somehow, Wiley managed to miss the vile behaviour displayed by N'zonzi and failed to show him a second yellow.
Liverpool ignored the away side's antics and continued to display some wonderful attacking football. On 54 minutes Benayoun made a tricky run into the centre of the pitch, after receving the ball on the left wing. He then played a pass into Kuyt, but he stepped over the ball and allowed it to run into the path of Steven Gerrard. At high speed Gerrard nudged the ball back to Kuyt, before the Dutchman spread a pass out to Maxi on the right. The free signing, who performed well showing signs of his potential throughout, shot inches wide of the post as the Reds performed some sizzling attacking football.
After this, Mascherano, who started at right back due to Liverpool's injuries in defence, put a cross into the box. Kuyt controlled the ball using his knee before attempting an audacious overhead kick. It was an inventive effort which only just missed the target.
Another example of Blackburn's overly aggresive play came on 80 minutes when Pascal Chimbonda kicked Maxi in the chest following a foul challenge by the Spanish attacker. It was another red card offence that went ignored by the under performing Wiley.
Reina made an expert stop in the last few minutes of injury time as Blackburn threw men forward in an effort to score the equaliser and earn what would have been a tremendous point for the Rovers. A ball was pumped into the box from a free kick and Christopher Samba met it with his head, forcing Reina into a full stretch save to stop the ball sneaking into the bottom corner.
After a frustratingly slow start it was a good performance from the Reds, especially in attack, as the return of Benayoun and Torres added extra impetus and cutting edge. Also, Gerrard was moved into a deeper position alongside Lucas in midfield, which allowed him to pull the strings in the middle of the park. Furthermore, it ensured that he wasn't man marked by a holding midfielder. It's a tactic that Rafa should seriously consider using in future games as it brings the best out of the skipper.
A 2-1 victory keeps Liverpool in the race for 4th spot, and ensures that the battle for Champions League football will go all the way down to the wire. Liverpool must continue this attacking brand of football if they are to earn the right to dine at Europe's top table next season.
YNWA
Liverpool were at home to Blackburn Rovers as Aston Villa contestsed the Carling Cup Final. It was a difficult match for the Reds as Sam Alladyce's over physical side definitely let the home side knew that they were in for a fight. Also, the Reds had added pressure on them as both City and Tottenham had both taken maximum points out of their earlier weekend clashes. It was crucial that Liverpool did the same in order to keep up with their opponents in the race for fourth spot.
There was no urgency in Liverpool's early play as the visitors took the early intiative during the first 20 minutes, peppering Pepe Reina's goal with shots. After only 1 minute the Blackburn captain Christopher Samba tested Reina with a header from Diouf's corner, before a wicked shot from distance flew just over the top left hand corner of Reina's goal.
Blackburn definitely started the better, however Reina was more than a match for many of their efforts. He saved Pedersen's shot from 18 yards out with ease as it went straight at him. After only 15 minutes Croatian striker Kalinic had a great chance to give Rovers a fully deserved 1-0 lead, as Lucas was caught in possession in his own half. Liverpool now found themselves in a 2 against 2 position, and Kalinic had the ball. Fortunately for the Redmen his effort went just wide of the post without worrying the Reds keeper.
Blackburn's early dominance seemed to spark Liverpool into life as they responded to the visitor's attacking football. They responded in the best possible way on 19 minutes as they took the lead, following a wonderful move.
Lucas fed the ball to Gerrard, who then played a brilliant 1-2 with Dutch winger Dirk Kuyt. Gerrard then sprayed the ball out to Yossi Benayoun on the left, who cut into the box with a neat run. The Israeli playmaker returned the ball to Gerrard who moved into space before powering the ball past Robinson with his left foot. It was an excellent movement from the Reds, which gave them a critical one goal advantage, despite of the fact that they had started disappointingly.
Soon after, Pedersen forced Reina into a terrific double save, as his first effort was rebounded back out to him. He received a brilliant long pass from Samba, then fired in a fiery strike which Reina was equal to. The ball fell back to the feet of the Norwegian who shot at goal again, only to be denied by our dynamic Spanish keeper.
Kuyt had a gilt edged opportunity to double the Reds lead on the half hour, as he headed wide from 6 yards out after Gerrard's corner had searched him out. It was an excellent opportunity and one which Kuyt should have took full advantage of.
Blackburn found a way back into the game on 38 minutes as they were rightly awarded a penalty following a handball by Jamie Carragher. Kalinic tried to turn in the box, after he had received a pass, however he was crowded out by Liverpool players. Carragher had slid in and
he sneakily handled the ball in order to move it away from the feet of Kalinic and Alan Wiley, spotting the offence, rightly awarded the away side a penalty. It was one of few correct decisions from the ageing referre.
Andrews stepped up to take the spot kick, and slotted the ball underneath Reina's body and into the net. It was a poor penalty and one that Reina, especially considering the good form he displayed in the rest of the game, could have stopped.
Parity was restored, however it was shortlived as Fernando Torres returned to goalscoring form. Once again, some expert build up play from the Reds led to an opening which they took full advantage of. Lucas played a fantastic through ball to Torres, which reminded me of Xabi Alonso, but the Spanish superstar was halted by a superb sliding tackle from Samba. The ball fell to Maxi Rodriguez, who reacted swiftly and played a square pass to Torres, who tapped home from 3 yards out to earn the Reds a crucial lead going into the half time break.
Sam Alladyce always sets his sides out to be physical and challenge in the tackle, however some of his players crossed the line yesterday. 5 minutes into the second half N'zonzi was given a yellow card for grabbing Lucas round the neck while competiting for an aerial ball. In frustration at receiving a booking N'zonzi shoved Lucas away, pushing him in the face. It was the most blatant red card there has ever been, as the offence was commited right in front of him, yet, somehow, Wiley managed to miss the vile behaviour displayed by N'zonzi and failed to show him a second yellow.
Liverpool ignored the away side's antics and continued to display some wonderful attacking football. On 54 minutes Benayoun made a tricky run into the centre of the pitch, after receving the ball on the left wing. He then played a pass into Kuyt, but he stepped over the ball and allowed it to run into the path of Steven Gerrard. At high speed Gerrard nudged the ball back to Kuyt, before the Dutchman spread a pass out to Maxi on the right. The free signing, who performed well showing signs of his potential throughout, shot inches wide of the post as the Reds performed some sizzling attacking football.
After this, Mascherano, who started at right back due to Liverpool's injuries in defence, put a cross into the box. Kuyt controlled the ball using his knee before attempting an audacious overhead kick. It was an inventive effort which only just missed the target.
Another example of Blackburn's overly aggresive play came on 80 minutes when Pascal Chimbonda kicked Maxi in the chest following a foul challenge by the Spanish attacker. It was another red card offence that went ignored by the under performing Wiley.
Reina made an expert stop in the last few minutes of injury time as Blackburn threw men forward in an effort to score the equaliser and earn what would have been a tremendous point for the Rovers. A ball was pumped into the box from a free kick and Christopher Samba met it with his head, forcing Reina into a full stretch save to stop the ball sneaking into the bottom corner.
After a frustratingly slow start it was a good performance from the Reds, especially in attack, as the return of Benayoun and Torres added extra impetus and cutting edge. Also, Gerrard was moved into a deeper position alongside Lucas in midfield, which allowed him to pull the strings in the middle of the park. Furthermore, it ensured that he wasn't man marked by a holding midfielder. It's a tactic that Rafa should seriously consider using in future games as it brings the best out of the skipper.
A 2-1 victory keeps Liverpool in the race for 4th spot, and ensures that the battle for Champions League football will go all the way down to the wire. Liverpool must continue this attacking brand of football if they are to earn the right to dine at Europe's top table next season.
YNWA
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)