Liverpool grabbed an important victory at home to Bolton Wanderers yesterday, and stretched their unbeaten Premier League run to 6 matches. A first half goal from Dutch winger Dirk Kuyt, his third in 3 matches, was followed by a Kevin Davies own goal in the second period to confirm the victory.
Liverpool signalled their attacking intent as Aquilani came in for Lucas Leiva and David Ngog returned up front. However, it was the away side who had the better chances during a nervy first half. There was a clear sense of tension engulfing Anfield, and this was transmitted onto the pitch as Rafa's Reds struggled to create any clear cut chances for the majority of the first half.
Bolton ripped through the Liverpool defence on two occasions as they displayed an attacking style of play that was absent under the managerial reign of Gary Megson. First, Tamir Cohen, son of ex Red Avi Cohen, ran with the ball into the penalty area and the Israeli had a glorious chance to shock Anfield by giving Bolton an early lead, however the irrepresible Pepe Reina smothered the ball after Cohen had skipped past Jamie Carragher.
This missed opportunity didn't discourage the away side as they counter attacked well. Liverpool were dominating possession without penetrating the Trotter's backline. From another attack, Bolton broke away once again, this time Chung-Yong Lee raced through into the penalty area from the half way line, leaving several Liverpool player's in his wake. Reina forced him wide of goal as he arrived in the box but Lee still managed to get a shot off and would have scored if Kyrgiakos hadn't cleared off the line.
The Greek continued his good form in this game, and helped Liverpool to keep a clean sheet once again. Liverpool have now only conceded 1 goal in their last 6 Premier League matches. Over recent weeks Kyrgiakos has shown that he is a more than able central defender, and can definitely do a good job when required. There is no doubt that he wasn't Rafa's first choice signing however he has been good value for money, and could prove to be a more than adequate replacement for the Legend that was Sami Hyypia.
Liverpol took the lead shortly before half time through Dirk Kuyt. Riera sprayed a pass out to Insua on the left wing. The Argentine picked out Aquilani in the box who provided another assist for Kuyt as he headed the ball back across the box to the feet of the Dutchman. Kuyt scrambled the ball home from 6 yards to give Liverpool the vital first goal, and relieved a little of the tension that was looming over Anfield.
Liverpool came out for the second half looking to score a critical second goal to put the game to bed, however it was Bolton who pressurised Liverpool's defence in the opening moments of the half, with Liverpool's backline having to deal with several long throw ins and set pieces.
Liverpool had plenty of space to exploit as Bolton pushed forward in search of an equaliser, and they almost took advanatge through young striker David Ngog. Riera ran with the ball down the left and crossed for Stevie, who's first time effort rebounded out to the Frenchman. Everyone in Anfield expected to see the net bulge to confirm Liverpool's victory but this wasn't the case as Ngog's shot bounced onto the bar from 6 yards out.
It was a horrible miss but Ngog made up for his error on 70 minutes as he provided the pass to Insua who's effort from the edge of the box took a massive deflection off Bolton striker Kevin Davies to wrong foot Jaaskelainen.
The second goal relived everyone inside Anfield, of a red allegiance, and led to the Reds playing some excellent, high quality attacking football to reward the patient supporters who packed out Anfield once again. Maxi and Babel came onto the pitch as substitutes to add some extra attacking flair to the Liverpool line up.
Gerrard was inspirational throughout, and displayed his quality in attack as the game came to a conclusion. His cultured free kick was headed just over the bar by Lucas when Kuyt was better positioned to find the back of the net.
After this, Gerrard entertained the home crowd by turning a Bolton defender inside and out at least 5 times, to rapturous applause. The ball was then transferred to Insua via Lucas. The young left back, who showed his worth to the side with another terrific performance, whipped in a dangerous cross to the back post where Maxi Rodriguez just failed to connect with the ball as he slid into the 6 yard box. It would have been a perfect ending to the game, but it wasn't to be.
Liverpool must now look to sustain the level of performance they showed in the second half of this game, against Everton, Arsenal and Manchester City in 3 massive games that could rescue the Reds disappointing season. If we show this attacking flair and quality in the upcoming games then i am sure that the results will follow.
YNWA
Sunday, 31 January 2010
Friday, 29 January 2010
Reds Facing Crucial Period
The next month will determine whether Liverpool have rescued their season or fallen short once again as Liverpool face several crucial Premier League games in the battle for a place in the top 4, and also a difficult two legged Europa League tie against Romanian side Unirea, which is Liverpool's last chance of sliverware this season.
Liverpool have managed to spark a run of form over recent games, in an attempt to make something out of what has been an instantly forgettable season. Wins over Wolves, Villa and Spurs have propelled the Reds back towards the top end of the table, with draws away at Stoke and Wolves showing that the Reds have finally devloped a defensive backbone, even with Glen Johnson, Daniel Agger and Fabio Aurelio all on the treatment table.
However, Liverpool now face matches against Everton, Arsenal and Manchester City following their home game against Bolton on the weekend. Sandwiched in between these vital season defining Premier League games is a critical Europa League tie against Unirea.
Liverpool are expected to claim maximum points against Bolton, and, if they get an early goal, should do with consummate ease, even without Spanish striker Fernando Torres. Following Saturday's home game against Owen Coyle's side the Reds welcome Everton to Anfield for the Merseyside derby.
Everton, like Liverpool, have had a disappointing season and have struggled desperately with injuries. However, recently they have regained some form and have provided the Goodison faithful with something to cheer, as they've beaten both Manchester City and Steve Bruce's Sunderland team. Furthermore, the Bluenoses managed to earn an impressive point in the snow at the Emirates Stadium, and were only a few minutes away from claiming a massive 3 points.
Everton will be a difficult match for Rafa's Reds but if Liverpool play at the level that they know they can, then the Reds should collect all 3 points from the Derby. It will be a fiesty and fiery occasion (as all Derby's tend to be) but Liverpool have shown the determination and desire in recent performances to show that they will not shy away from a tough, physical fight. Also, with several key players likely to still be out, or not at full fitness, a physical battle could play right into the Red's hands, and may be the best way to win what will be a heated contest.
On the 10th February Liverpool travel to London to face Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. The Londoners have embarked on an impressive unbeaten streak in the League following their embarrasing 0-3 reversal at home to Chelsea on the 29th November. At that point many pundits and punters, including myself, ruled Arsenal out of the title race however they have proven their title credentials with a 10 match unbeaten run, including 7 wins and 3 draws.
Amongst those victories is a 2-1 win at Anfield on the 13th December, in a match which truly proved that football is a game of two halves. Liverpool dominated the first half, defying their form this season, to go into the break with a one goal lead. It should have been 3 or 4. Arsenal came back out for the second half a changed side. They pressed and harried the Reds into mistakes, causing Glen Johnson to score an own goal. From that point on Liverpool capitulated and failed to make a single chance. Arshavin scored at Anfield for the 5th time in 2 seasons to break Red hearts, and leave Liverpool's season in tatters.
The Gunners will pose a stern test for Liverpool and will be confident of claiming victory over a Liverpool side that has been woeful at times this season. Liverpool must go to London with a positive mentailty, however they must be defensively stable otherwise they could be ripped apart by the attacking quality of Fabregas, Arshavin and Rosiscky.
The Europa League (which used to be known as the UEFA Cup) has never been a popular trophy. Like the Carling Cup it is shunned and mocked but this season it is vitally important for the Redmen. The newly formed Europa League is Liverpool's only hope of silverware so takes on an importance of its own. Also, the winner is given a place in next season's Champions League. If Liverpool fail to finish 4th then this competition could be their only route into the elite European tournament.
Unirea Urziceni, similarly to Liverpool, dropped down into the Europa League after finishing 3rd in Champions League Group G. However, they did achieve some notable results in the group stages, thrashing Rangers 4-1 at Ibrox and defeating table topping Sevilla 1-0 in Romania. In fact, they survived longer in the competition than the Reds as they went into matchday 6 with a chance of qualifying for the last 16, however they disappointingly lost 3-1 at Stuttgart.
Liverpool will aim to get the job done at Anfield in the first leg of this tricky tie. With a difficult fixture at Eastlands squeazed in between, Rafa will hope to raise an unassailable lead at Anfield and then give some squad players and youngsters a run out in Romania, leaving the first teamers to rest at home.
Perhaps the most important fixture in February is the away match at Roberto Mancini's Manchester City, as they are one of the Reds main rivals for 4th spot. City have experienced a revival following the ugly saga when Mark Hughes was replaced by Italian boss Mancini, with a run of wins ensuing. However, they showed their fragility when they succembed to a ramapant Everton just after the New Year, losing 2-0.
Moreover, they are likely to suffer, pyschologically at least, after being dumped out of the Carling Cup by bitter rivals Manchester United, as the Red Devils triumphed 4-3 on aggregate. The Carling Cup was the Blue Mancs main chance of winning a trophy this season, and they will be devestated at missing out on a trip to Wembley. Liverpool should have more players back from injury by the time the Reds visit Eastlands, and it would prove to be a huge win if they could grab 3 points from City.
Liverpool are facing a season defining month and must be playing well or this could turn out to be an unimaginably horrible season. On the other hand, if we can claim a few wins on the trot then it could turn our season around.
Here's hoping...
YNWA
Liverpool have managed to spark a run of form over recent games, in an attempt to make something out of what has been an instantly forgettable season. Wins over Wolves, Villa and Spurs have propelled the Reds back towards the top end of the table, with draws away at Stoke and Wolves showing that the Reds have finally devloped a defensive backbone, even with Glen Johnson, Daniel Agger and Fabio Aurelio all on the treatment table.
However, Liverpool now face matches against Everton, Arsenal and Manchester City following their home game against Bolton on the weekend. Sandwiched in between these vital season defining Premier League games is a critical Europa League tie against Unirea.
Liverpool are expected to claim maximum points against Bolton, and, if they get an early goal, should do with consummate ease, even without Spanish striker Fernando Torres. Following Saturday's home game against Owen Coyle's side the Reds welcome Everton to Anfield for the Merseyside derby.
Everton, like Liverpool, have had a disappointing season and have struggled desperately with injuries. However, recently they have regained some form and have provided the Goodison faithful with something to cheer, as they've beaten both Manchester City and Steve Bruce's Sunderland team. Furthermore, the Bluenoses managed to earn an impressive point in the snow at the Emirates Stadium, and were only a few minutes away from claiming a massive 3 points.
Everton will be a difficult match for Rafa's Reds but if Liverpool play at the level that they know they can, then the Reds should collect all 3 points from the Derby. It will be a fiesty and fiery occasion (as all Derby's tend to be) but Liverpool have shown the determination and desire in recent performances to show that they will not shy away from a tough, physical fight. Also, with several key players likely to still be out, or not at full fitness, a physical battle could play right into the Red's hands, and may be the best way to win what will be a heated contest.
On the 10th February Liverpool travel to London to face Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. The Londoners have embarked on an impressive unbeaten streak in the League following their embarrasing 0-3 reversal at home to Chelsea on the 29th November. At that point many pundits and punters, including myself, ruled Arsenal out of the title race however they have proven their title credentials with a 10 match unbeaten run, including 7 wins and 3 draws.
Amongst those victories is a 2-1 win at Anfield on the 13th December, in a match which truly proved that football is a game of two halves. Liverpool dominated the first half, defying their form this season, to go into the break with a one goal lead. It should have been 3 or 4. Arsenal came back out for the second half a changed side. They pressed and harried the Reds into mistakes, causing Glen Johnson to score an own goal. From that point on Liverpool capitulated and failed to make a single chance. Arshavin scored at Anfield for the 5th time in 2 seasons to break Red hearts, and leave Liverpool's season in tatters.
The Gunners will pose a stern test for Liverpool and will be confident of claiming victory over a Liverpool side that has been woeful at times this season. Liverpool must go to London with a positive mentailty, however they must be defensively stable otherwise they could be ripped apart by the attacking quality of Fabregas, Arshavin and Rosiscky.
The Europa League (which used to be known as the UEFA Cup) has never been a popular trophy. Like the Carling Cup it is shunned and mocked but this season it is vitally important for the Redmen. The newly formed Europa League is Liverpool's only hope of silverware so takes on an importance of its own. Also, the winner is given a place in next season's Champions League. If Liverpool fail to finish 4th then this competition could be their only route into the elite European tournament.
Unirea Urziceni, similarly to Liverpool, dropped down into the Europa League after finishing 3rd in Champions League Group G. However, they did achieve some notable results in the group stages, thrashing Rangers 4-1 at Ibrox and defeating table topping Sevilla 1-0 in Romania. In fact, they survived longer in the competition than the Reds as they went into matchday 6 with a chance of qualifying for the last 16, however they disappointingly lost 3-1 at Stuttgart.
Liverpool will aim to get the job done at Anfield in the first leg of this tricky tie. With a difficult fixture at Eastlands squeazed in between, Rafa will hope to raise an unassailable lead at Anfield and then give some squad players and youngsters a run out in Romania, leaving the first teamers to rest at home.
Perhaps the most important fixture in February is the away match at Roberto Mancini's Manchester City, as they are one of the Reds main rivals for 4th spot. City have experienced a revival following the ugly saga when Mark Hughes was replaced by Italian boss Mancini, with a run of wins ensuing. However, they showed their fragility when they succembed to a ramapant Everton just after the New Year, losing 2-0.
Moreover, they are likely to suffer, pyschologically at least, after being dumped out of the Carling Cup by bitter rivals Manchester United, as the Red Devils triumphed 4-3 on aggregate. The Carling Cup was the Blue Mancs main chance of winning a trophy this season, and they will be devestated at missing out on a trip to Wembley. Liverpool should have more players back from injury by the time the Reds visit Eastlands, and it would prove to be a huge win if they could grab 3 points from City.
Liverpool are facing a season defining month and must be playing well or this could turn out to be an unimaginably horrible season. On the other hand, if we can claim a few wins on the trot then it could turn our season around.
Here's hoping...
YNWA
Wednesday, 27 January 2010
Back to Mediocrity
Like a pig returning to the muck after a wash, Liverpool returned back to the mire of mediocrity last night after a miserable display from the Reds finished in a disappointing goal less draw away to relegation threatened Wolves. To make things worse, Tottenham Hotspur comfortably eased to a 2-0 victory over Fulham at White Hart Lane to move 4 points clear of the Reds and Manchester City, who are in 5th and 6th position respectively.
The Reds started quickly, and battered the home side for the first couple of minutes but from then onwards Liverpool were poor and lacked creativity, even with Maxi starting for the first time and Steven Gerrard back after a hamstring injury had forced him to miss the games against Stoke and Spurs.
Liverpool could have taken the lead in the first minute as Riera flashed a header across the 6 yard box. After this Dirk Kuyt had a 20 yard effort blocked by Wolves defender Jody Craddock however, apart from these opportunites, there wasn't much goal mouth action at either end with both teams struggling to gain superiority in the middle third.
The home side's only opening in the first half came on 32 minutes when lone striker Kevin Doyle, who toiled tirelessly all night for Wolves, shot just wide after Matt Jarvis had done well to whip in a cross from the left wing following a surging forward run.
Liverpool were hoping for a better second half, and they started the second period in a similar fashion to the first, with Albert Riera going close to breaking the deadlock, however his hooked effort from the edge of the box was saved impressively by Hanneman in the Wolverhampton goal.
Wolves performed with a stubborn resistance throughout, dominating the second half of play. Liverpool were placed under pressure from the home team who were desperate for a memorable win in front of their own supporters.
Doyle gave the Reds defence a scare when he smashed a shot inches over the bar from 25 yards out. Also, Karl Henry saw his shot blocked as Wolves were in the ascendency. However, Liverpool hit back and worked endlessly in an attempt to score a vital winning goal but they just lacked the creativity needed to break down a resistant Wolves defensive wall. If Liverpool had had Torres up front instead of Kuyt they could have snatched a late winner, like the Spanish superstar did at a snowy Villa Park ealier this season, but it simply wasn't to be.
Liverpool must now look to take all three points from the game on the weekend against Owen Coyle's resurgent Bolton side. One thing is for sure, they must perform a hell of a lot better to grab 3 crucial points in the race for the 4th Champions League spot.
YNWA
The Reds started quickly, and battered the home side for the first couple of minutes but from then onwards Liverpool were poor and lacked creativity, even with Maxi starting for the first time and Steven Gerrard back after a hamstring injury had forced him to miss the games against Stoke and Spurs.
Liverpool could have taken the lead in the first minute as Riera flashed a header across the 6 yard box. After this Dirk Kuyt had a 20 yard effort blocked by Wolves defender Jody Craddock however, apart from these opportunites, there wasn't much goal mouth action at either end with both teams struggling to gain superiority in the middle third.
The home side's only opening in the first half came on 32 minutes when lone striker Kevin Doyle, who toiled tirelessly all night for Wolves, shot just wide after Matt Jarvis had done well to whip in a cross from the left wing following a surging forward run.
Liverpool were hoping for a better second half, and they started the second period in a similar fashion to the first, with Albert Riera going close to breaking the deadlock, however his hooked effort from the edge of the box was saved impressively by Hanneman in the Wolverhampton goal.
Wolves performed with a stubborn resistance throughout, dominating the second half of play. Liverpool were placed under pressure from the home team who were desperate for a memorable win in front of their own supporters.
Doyle gave the Reds defence a scare when he smashed a shot inches over the bar from 25 yards out. Also, Karl Henry saw his shot blocked as Wolves were in the ascendency. However, Liverpool hit back and worked endlessly in an attempt to score a vital winning goal but they just lacked the creativity needed to break down a resistant Wolves defensive wall. If Liverpool had had Torres up front instead of Kuyt they could have snatched a late winner, like the Spanish superstar did at a snowy Villa Park ealier this season, but it simply wasn't to be.
Liverpool must now look to take all three points from the game on the weekend against Owen Coyle's resurgent Bolton side. One thing is for sure, they must perform a hell of a lot better to grab 3 crucial points in the race for the 4th Champions League spot.
YNWA
Monday, 25 January 2010
Gerrard Fitness Boost
Steven Gerrard has been named in Liverpool's squad to face Wolves at Molineaux tommorow night, providing Liverpool with a timely boost. Liverpool's inspirational captain had been expected to be out for around two weeks after pulling his hamstring on the 13th January during the FA Cup replay against Reading however he has returned ahead of schedule, as he started training again on the weekend. This is brilliant news for Liverpool, and will help the Reds to add some more attacking quality to the hard work shown in recent matches.
Daniel Agger and Fabio Aurelio both missed the midweek game at home to Tottenham and are expected to miss out again tommorow, so Rafa will probably continue with a back four of; Carragher, Skrtel, Kyrgiakos and Insua, which worked very well against both Stoke and Spurs.
Liverpool go into tomorrow night's game on the back of two positive performances and results. Liverpool displayed fighting spirit and determination at the Britannia Stadium and at home to Tottenham Hotspur, to earn an impressive 4 points.
Reds fans will be hoping for more of the same as Liverpool wait for their star names to recover from injury and add some attacking flair to the hard work and endeavour that has devloped in the Reds game over recent weeks.
YNWA
Daniel Agger and Fabio Aurelio both missed the midweek game at home to Tottenham and are expected to miss out again tommorow, so Rafa will probably continue with a back four of; Carragher, Skrtel, Kyrgiakos and Insua, which worked very well against both Stoke and Spurs.
Liverpool go into tomorrow night's game on the back of two positive performances and results. Liverpool displayed fighting spirit and determination at the Britannia Stadium and at home to Tottenham Hotspur, to earn an impressive 4 points.
Reds fans will be hoping for more of the same as Liverpool wait for their star names to recover from injury and add some attacking flair to the hard work and endeavour that has devloped in the Reds game over recent weeks.
YNWA
Friday, 22 January 2010
YANK$ LIAR$ OUT!
I learnt about an absolutely unbelievable news story today, related to Liverpool Football Club. During a protest against the Hicks and Gillett regime 2 Liverpool fans were arrested, held at a police station for 6 hours and then charged with public order offences.
The fans were shouting, "YANKS OUT!" like many concerned supporters have been, and the police deemed this to be a racial slur although it was clearly an attack on the owners of Liverpool Football Club and not the American people. In fact, Liverpool fan's hatred of Hicks and Gillett has precisely the square root of nothing to do with the fact that they are American. Clearly Americans are extremely clever business men and can be successful even in the football industry (take a look at Randy Lerner at Aston Villa) however Hicks and Gillett are simply a nightmare.
If they kept their promises they would be the ideal owners of Liverpool Football Club. There's just one problem. Every time their lips move they lie. For example, they claimed that they would start the construction of a new stadium within 60 days of their takeover. 3 years later and there are still no developments on this front. They've also been claiming that the financial climate has made it impossible for them to build. This is an illogical claim if you think about it. Surely, with builders desperate for any sort of work, it would be much cheaper to undertake a major building operation, such as the building of a football staudium. As the financial climate improves the builders will have more work and will be able to demand more money. Simple common sense is all that is needed to see through the Yanks smokescreen of lies and spin.
Secondly, they claimed that the club was brought "without a single penny of debt on the club." Another lie. When David Moores owned the club Liverpool had around £44 million worth of debt. Not ideal, but definitely manageable. Now, Liverpool are an astronomical £237 million in the red and seem to be heading further and further into a black hole of debt. These eye watering debt levels, in the long run, are unsustainable. The worrying thing is Liverpool are nowhere near paying off these huge debts that the Yanks have afflicted on our great club. With interest payments alone amounting to around £30 million every year, the club is struggling just to pay these, let alone hack into the debt owed. Of course, this leaves Rafa potless and searching for bargains in each and every single transfer window.
Also, for the first time ever, money used to give star performers a pay rise, is being taken out of the transfer budget. Pay rises are vital in any business (just ask any banker worth his salt) however they are especially important in football as Rafa's star players could easily go to another top level club and earn so much more money then they currently do at Anfield. To keep some of them happy, they must be given pay rises. These pay rises are cutting Rafa's transfer budget, which is frankly ridiculous. It has never happened like that and never should.
Furthermore, the Yanks promised they would support Rafa in the transfer window. George Gillett even said that he would give Rafa money if he asked for "Snoogy Doogy." Of course, once again these were just empty promises that haven't been kept. Rafa had a net spend of just £10,000 this summer. No manager should ever be expected to achieve anything better than a top 8 finish with these levels of investment, but Rafa is expected to not only provide Champions League football year after year, but also to compete for the Premier League Title. Expectations are way too high at Anfield and must be brought down to realistic levels, that are consistent with the amount of money that Benitez has had to invest in the playing sqaaud.
Rafa has spent, in net terms, just over £80 million during his 5 year stint in charge of Liverpool. Most of this money has been earned through successful runs in the money spinning UEFA Champions League. Hardly any of the cash that Rafa has spent came from the back pockets of messers Hicks and Gillett. Instead, it has been earned through Rafa doing well in Europe, and also through the boss buying players cheaply then selling them for profit. This profit has been reinvested into the development of the squad, however in this January transfer window it looks like things have got even worse, with Rafa not even given the money generated through player sales.
If Hicks and Gillett were born and raised opposite Anfield it would make absolutely no difference. Liverpool fans would still despise them for their lies, and the way in which they have dragged our famous club into the mire of debt. It is a damning indictment of our politically correct culture that a police officer doesn't even have the common sense to realise that Liverpool fans do not detest the Yanks for their racial background, rather they can't stand the lies that roll along their slimy tongues.
YNWA
The fans were shouting, "YANKS OUT!" like many concerned supporters have been, and the police deemed this to be a racial slur although it was clearly an attack on the owners of Liverpool Football Club and not the American people. In fact, Liverpool fan's hatred of Hicks and Gillett has precisely the square root of nothing to do with the fact that they are American. Clearly Americans are extremely clever business men and can be successful even in the football industry (take a look at Randy Lerner at Aston Villa) however Hicks and Gillett are simply a nightmare.
If they kept their promises they would be the ideal owners of Liverpool Football Club. There's just one problem. Every time their lips move they lie. For example, they claimed that they would start the construction of a new stadium within 60 days of their takeover. 3 years later and there are still no developments on this front. They've also been claiming that the financial climate has made it impossible for them to build. This is an illogical claim if you think about it. Surely, with builders desperate for any sort of work, it would be much cheaper to undertake a major building operation, such as the building of a football staudium. As the financial climate improves the builders will have more work and will be able to demand more money. Simple common sense is all that is needed to see through the Yanks smokescreen of lies and spin.
Secondly, they claimed that the club was brought "without a single penny of debt on the club." Another lie. When David Moores owned the club Liverpool had around £44 million worth of debt. Not ideal, but definitely manageable. Now, Liverpool are an astronomical £237 million in the red and seem to be heading further and further into a black hole of debt. These eye watering debt levels, in the long run, are unsustainable. The worrying thing is Liverpool are nowhere near paying off these huge debts that the Yanks have afflicted on our great club. With interest payments alone amounting to around £30 million every year, the club is struggling just to pay these, let alone hack into the debt owed. Of course, this leaves Rafa potless and searching for bargains in each and every single transfer window.
Also, for the first time ever, money used to give star performers a pay rise, is being taken out of the transfer budget. Pay rises are vital in any business (just ask any banker worth his salt) however they are especially important in football as Rafa's star players could easily go to another top level club and earn so much more money then they currently do at Anfield. To keep some of them happy, they must be given pay rises. These pay rises are cutting Rafa's transfer budget, which is frankly ridiculous. It has never happened like that and never should.
Furthermore, the Yanks promised they would support Rafa in the transfer window. George Gillett even said that he would give Rafa money if he asked for "Snoogy Doogy." Of course, once again these were just empty promises that haven't been kept. Rafa had a net spend of just £10,000 this summer. No manager should ever be expected to achieve anything better than a top 8 finish with these levels of investment, but Rafa is expected to not only provide Champions League football year after year, but also to compete for the Premier League Title. Expectations are way too high at Anfield and must be brought down to realistic levels, that are consistent with the amount of money that Benitez has had to invest in the playing sqaaud.
Rafa has spent, in net terms, just over £80 million during his 5 year stint in charge of Liverpool. Most of this money has been earned through successful runs in the money spinning UEFA Champions League. Hardly any of the cash that Rafa has spent came from the back pockets of messers Hicks and Gillett. Instead, it has been earned through Rafa doing well in Europe, and also through the boss buying players cheaply then selling them for profit. This profit has been reinvested into the development of the squad, however in this January transfer window it looks like things have got even worse, with Rafa not even given the money generated through player sales.
If Hicks and Gillett were born and raised opposite Anfield it would make absolutely no difference. Liverpool fans would still despise them for their lies, and the way in which they have dragged our famous club into the mire of debt. It is a damning indictment of our politically correct culture that a police officer doesn't even have the common sense to realise that Liverpool fans do not detest the Yanks for their racial background, rather they can't stand the lies that roll along their slimy tongues.
YNWA
Thursday, 21 January 2010
Reds Claim Massive 3 Points
Liverpool moved into 6th place in the Premier League last night, only 1 point behind their opponents from last night's game, Spurs, who sit in that all important 4th place. It was a terrific and gutsy performance from Liverpool, who were missing several key players once again. Agger, Gerrard, Torres and Benayoun are all still injured, however the Reds managed to put in a determined and energetic performance to claim a crucial 3 points against one of their main rivals for a Champions League spot.
Liverpool chased and harried the Spurs players all night, just like they had at Stoke on the weekend, however this time, with Aquilani and Riera back in the starting 11, the Reds played some quality attacking football in what was a fiercly thought, competitive and open encounter.
Liverpool gained the early initiative as they took the lead after only 6 minutes. A long punt up the field was chested down by Dirk Kuyt to the feet of Alberto Aquilani, who showed flashes of brilliance once again last night as he begins to adapt to the rapid and hectic nature of the Premier League. Aquilani played a neat pass back to Kuyt who placed the ball past Gomes and into the Kop net. This set Liverpool off to a positive start, and after this the Reds dominated possession for much of the first half.
For once, it wasn't Liverpool complaining about the referee after the match as the Spurs players and fans were furious with some of the decisions that went against the London side. Towards the end of the first half Greek defender Sotirios Kyrgiakos seemed to be pulling the shirt of ex Red Peter Crouch in the penalty area, while defending a free kick. It would have been harsh to give a penalty, although considering the fact that Everton were awarded a penalty on Saturday after Micah Richards commited a similar offense, it wouldn't have been surprising to have seen Howard Webb point to the spot.
An even worse decision was made one minute into the second period. Jermain Defoe, who had been walking back into an onside position, dispossessed Reina after he had received a weak pass back from Jamie Carragher. The England striker then went on to slot the ball home, however the goal was ruled out for offside. I don't understand how it could have been offside though as the pass was from a Liverpool player, Carrragher, therefore making it impossible to be offside. It's a very confusing rule and the FA have to make it more clear after this fiasco.
Tottenham then went on to put the home side under pressure for large parts of the second half, with Liverpool becoming more and more defensive as the game progressed. This is a trait that has been characteristic of the Reds over past weeks and must be eradicated soon, as it has cost us far too many late goals.
However, Liverpool responded in the closing stages of the match by pressurising the Tottenham goal. Kyrgiakos missed from 10 yards, and Riera headed onto the cross bar from Aquilani's centre as the Reds began to fight back. Liverpool finally got a crucial second goal from the penalty spot in the 92nd minute. Dirk Kuyt managed to slot the ball home twice, as he was forced to retake his spot kick after encroachment from some players. However, both times he found the back of the net to confirm a fantastic Liverpool win that puts us right back in the race for 4th spot.
A special mention must be given to the amazing supporters who created an awesome atmosphere around Anfield. Before the game around 300 supporters greeted the Liverpool bus with flags unfurled and songs celebrating Liverpool's illustrious history aired.
Spurs boss Harry Redknapp even said, "You come here to Anfield, you stand there and listen to that crowd, and it's the greatest sight in football."
Those fans demonstrated that Rafa Benitez and all of the players will never walk alone.
YNWA
Liverpool chased and harried the Spurs players all night, just like they had at Stoke on the weekend, however this time, with Aquilani and Riera back in the starting 11, the Reds played some quality attacking football in what was a fiercly thought, competitive and open encounter.
Liverpool gained the early initiative as they took the lead after only 6 minutes. A long punt up the field was chested down by Dirk Kuyt to the feet of Alberto Aquilani, who showed flashes of brilliance once again last night as he begins to adapt to the rapid and hectic nature of the Premier League. Aquilani played a neat pass back to Kuyt who placed the ball past Gomes and into the Kop net. This set Liverpool off to a positive start, and after this the Reds dominated possession for much of the first half.
For once, it wasn't Liverpool complaining about the referee after the match as the Spurs players and fans were furious with some of the decisions that went against the London side. Towards the end of the first half Greek defender Sotirios Kyrgiakos seemed to be pulling the shirt of ex Red Peter Crouch in the penalty area, while defending a free kick. It would have been harsh to give a penalty, although considering the fact that Everton were awarded a penalty on Saturday after Micah Richards commited a similar offense, it wouldn't have been surprising to have seen Howard Webb point to the spot.
An even worse decision was made one minute into the second period. Jermain Defoe, who had been walking back into an onside position, dispossessed Reina after he had received a weak pass back from Jamie Carragher. The England striker then went on to slot the ball home, however the goal was ruled out for offside. I don't understand how it could have been offside though as the pass was from a Liverpool player, Carrragher, therefore making it impossible to be offside. It's a very confusing rule and the FA have to make it more clear after this fiasco.
Tottenham then went on to put the home side under pressure for large parts of the second half, with Liverpool becoming more and more defensive as the game progressed. This is a trait that has been characteristic of the Reds over past weeks and must be eradicated soon, as it has cost us far too many late goals.
However, Liverpool responded in the closing stages of the match by pressurising the Tottenham goal. Kyrgiakos missed from 10 yards, and Riera headed onto the cross bar from Aquilani's centre as the Reds began to fight back. Liverpool finally got a crucial second goal from the penalty spot in the 92nd minute. Dirk Kuyt managed to slot the ball home twice, as he was forced to retake his spot kick after encroachment from some players. However, both times he found the back of the net to confirm a fantastic Liverpool win that puts us right back in the race for 4th spot.
A special mention must be given to the amazing supporters who created an awesome atmosphere around Anfield. Before the game around 300 supporters greeted the Liverpool bus with flags unfurled and songs celebrating Liverpool's illustrious history aired.
Spurs boss Harry Redknapp even said, "You come here to Anfield, you stand there and listen to that crowd, and it's the greatest sight in football."
Those fans demonstrated that Rafa Benitez and all of the players will never walk alone.
YNWA
Tuesday, 19 January 2010
Reds Can Only Get Better
Liverpool have not been playing well recently. That's an undeniable fact. As much as i hate to say it Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa have all played far better, and much more consistently this season.
However, as regular readers will know, i like to be optimistic, and the good news is that Liverpool can only get better, whereas Spurs and Villa can only get worse. It's a simply theory and it goes like this; it's a hell of a lot easier for a great team (eg, Liverpool) to have a poor season than for a good team (eg Aston Villa or Birmingham) to have an excellent season.
Ignoring the abysmal performances against Reading in the FA Cup Liverpool's results have improved recently with wins against Wigan, Wolves and Aston Villa coming in between a pathetic 2-0 reversal away to bottom of the table Portsmouth. Also, Liverpool gained a vital, and for many unexpected, point away to the battling Stoke City. These results have given the Reds a respectable 10 out of the 15 points available, even though the team hasn't been performing anywhere near the dizzying heights of the second half of last season.
During the same period Villa have taken 7 out of the available 15 points, and have not scored a Premier League goal in their last 3 matches. These matches include a 3-0 reverse at the Emirates Stadium, where Cesc Fabregas was on top form, scoring 2 goals from the bench, and a heart breaking 1-0 defeat to Rafa's Redmen, with Torres scoring a last minute winner in the snow. Furthermore, Villa could only manage a 0-0 draw at home to the relegation threatened West Ham at the weekend.
Tottenham Hotspur have fared slightly better than Liverpool over the past 5 matches, claiming 11 out of 15 points, however this is a slightly disappointing return when you consider the fact that Spurs have been in a much richer vein of form over the season than Liverpool have. Also, they have drawn 2 out of their last 3 games. Both were games they were expected to win, as they drew 0-0 away to Fulham and at home to Hull City.
It is surprising that Liverpool have only been 1 point worse than Tottenham over the last 5 Premier League games (and 3 points better off than Villa), considering the amount of negative press Liverpool have had, with some journalists even claiming that Liverpool are heading into mid table obscurity, despite the fact that Liverpool are a mere 4 points off that all important 4th spot. If you believe all you read in the papers Liverpool have been in such horrible form that you'd expect them to have only 1 or 2 points from their last 5 matches, however this is not the case.
This brings me back to my theory. Liverpool have been showing signs recently that things are beginning to look up, with 10 points taken from a possible 15. Villa on the other hand have been on decline, and Tottenham haven't fared much better. This is because Villa and Tottenham are not on the same level as Liverpool, over a sustained period of time. As i said above, it is much easier for a great team like Liverpool to have a poor season, than for a good team, like Spurs or Villa, to have an excellent season. It is much easier to lose several games on the bounce than to win consecutive matches because poor form is contagious. Good form is also contagious, however it is easily lost and much harder to retain. Poor form, on the other hand, is notiriously difficult to stop and is easily obtainable, with only one disappointing result enough to plunge a team into a disappointing run of results.
Liverpool are on their way back to the top. We'll finish fourth this season as we are better than Spurs, Villa and City however i suspect that we might be fighting for a fourth place finish once again next season, while City should be right in the thick of the title race, with their supreme riches given them a considerable advanatge. I suspect that Arsenal might be dragged into the top 4 fight next season, with City taking their place in the battle for top spot.
Only time will tell...
YNWA
However, as regular readers will know, i like to be optimistic, and the good news is that Liverpool can only get better, whereas Spurs and Villa can only get worse. It's a simply theory and it goes like this; it's a hell of a lot easier for a great team (eg, Liverpool) to have a poor season than for a good team (eg Aston Villa or Birmingham) to have an excellent season.
Ignoring the abysmal performances against Reading in the FA Cup Liverpool's results have improved recently with wins against Wigan, Wolves and Aston Villa coming in between a pathetic 2-0 reversal away to bottom of the table Portsmouth. Also, Liverpool gained a vital, and for many unexpected, point away to the battling Stoke City. These results have given the Reds a respectable 10 out of the 15 points available, even though the team hasn't been performing anywhere near the dizzying heights of the second half of last season.
During the same period Villa have taken 7 out of the available 15 points, and have not scored a Premier League goal in their last 3 matches. These matches include a 3-0 reverse at the Emirates Stadium, where Cesc Fabregas was on top form, scoring 2 goals from the bench, and a heart breaking 1-0 defeat to Rafa's Redmen, with Torres scoring a last minute winner in the snow. Furthermore, Villa could only manage a 0-0 draw at home to the relegation threatened West Ham at the weekend.
Tottenham Hotspur have fared slightly better than Liverpool over the past 5 matches, claiming 11 out of 15 points, however this is a slightly disappointing return when you consider the fact that Spurs have been in a much richer vein of form over the season than Liverpool have. Also, they have drawn 2 out of their last 3 games. Both were games they were expected to win, as they drew 0-0 away to Fulham and at home to Hull City.
It is surprising that Liverpool have only been 1 point worse than Tottenham over the last 5 Premier League games (and 3 points better off than Villa), considering the amount of negative press Liverpool have had, with some journalists even claiming that Liverpool are heading into mid table obscurity, despite the fact that Liverpool are a mere 4 points off that all important 4th spot. If you believe all you read in the papers Liverpool have been in such horrible form that you'd expect them to have only 1 or 2 points from their last 5 matches, however this is not the case.
This brings me back to my theory. Liverpool have been showing signs recently that things are beginning to look up, with 10 points taken from a possible 15. Villa on the other hand have been on decline, and Tottenham haven't fared much better. This is because Villa and Tottenham are not on the same level as Liverpool, over a sustained period of time. As i said above, it is much easier for a great team like Liverpool to have a poor season, than for a good team, like Spurs or Villa, to have an excellent season. It is much easier to lose several games on the bounce than to win consecutive matches because poor form is contagious. Good form is also contagious, however it is easily lost and much harder to retain. Poor form, on the other hand, is notiriously difficult to stop and is easily obtainable, with only one disappointing result enough to plunge a team into a disappointing run of results.
Liverpool are on their way back to the top. We'll finish fourth this season as we are better than Spurs, Villa and City however i suspect that we might be fighting for a fourth place finish once again next season, while City should be right in the thick of the title race, with their supreme riches given them a considerable advanatge. I suspect that Arsenal might be dragged into the top 4 fight next season, with City taking their place in the battle for top spot.
Only time will tell...
YNWA
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