2:45pm, live in the US on espn2
Group stage so far:
Liverpool: 2-1 Marseille (a)
PSV: 0-3 Atlético (h)
Last 3 matches:
Liverpool: 2-0 Everton (a); 2-1 Crewe (h); 0-0 Stoke (h)
PSV: 1-0 Volendam (h); 3-0 Jong PSV (a); 0-1 AZ Alkmaar (a)
Referee: Felix Brych (GER)
Guess at a squad:
Reina
Arbeloa Carragher Agger Aurelio
Mascherano Alonso
Kuyt Gerrard Babel
Torres
Does Benitez have a Champions League squad and a Premier League squad?
We saw the 4-2-3-1 against Marseille, but that could have been because Liverpool was away. At home, maybe Benitez will stick with the 4-4-2 he’s used in the league and that looked better against United and Everton (let’s all agree that Stoke didn’t happen). But I’ve a sneaking suspicion we haven’t seen the last of the 4-2-3-1.
Also, I’d be somewhat surprised if Liverpool lined up against Dutch opposition without Kuyt and Babel.
So, I’m guessing that Liverpool will pretty much deploy the same line-up that went out against Marseille, with only Alonso in for Lucas, Aurelio for Dossena, and Agger for Skrtel. Of course, that would mean Keane would miss out again, which doesn’t really seem likely, especially after he and Torres finally linked up for a goal last Saturday. But I still don’t see where he fits in the 4-2-3-1.
I expect to see Aurelio over Dossena now that Fabio was fit enough for an appearance off the bench on Saturday. I’m far less positive about Agger – that’s pretty much just a hunch – and I reiterate, Benitez does seem hesitant to rotate at center back if he can avoid it.
Benitez announced that both Mascherano and Benayoun are back in the squad after missing the weekend through injury. Maybe this means that Masch might be limited to an appearance off the bench, with Lucas again starting in the CL, but any time Masch is available, I struggle leaving him out of my guess at a squad.
It’s a different PSV team than Liverpool faced in 2007, but they’re still the reigning Dutch champions four years running. Ibrahim Afellay, the highly-rated youngster, is a doubt for the match because of a toe injury sustained in training last week. Nordin Amrabat is another quick youngster who could cause problems; the right-winger has earned a fair bit of praise in his first season at PSV.
Atletico shellacked PSV in Eindhoven in the first group match, losing 3-0, with Aguero torching the Dutch for the hour he was on the pitch. But while the loss may show some weaknesses in the side, PSV will assuredly want to pick up some much needed points before their two CL matches against Marseille.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are in position to get six points from six to start the group stage, in contrast to last season’s one point from the first three matches. Aside from that blip two weekends past, the team is rounding into shape, and I’m most pleased to see goals from Torres reappear. More of the same on Wednesday, please.
30 September 2008
27 September 2008
Liverpool 2-0 Everton
Reina
Arbeloa Skrtel Carragher Dossena
Kuyt Alonso Gerrard Riera
Torres Keane
Goals:
Torres 59’ 63’
Just as promised: hands up, I was wrong. Liverpool deployed the 4-4-2, with Alonso for Mascherano because of injury the only deviation from my guess at a squad, and Liverpool leave Goodison two-nil winners thanks to the genius of Fernando Torres.
The first half left me wishing for the 4-2-3-1, though. Liverpool didn’t get a shot on target, and were probably second best even though they had more possession. Not out of character for a Merseyside derby, it was an exceptionally cagey 45 minutes.
Everton will rue their missed opportunities. Skrtel could have been whistled for a penalty within 4 minutes, shoulder-to-shoulder with Yakubu trying to shield the ball to Reina (incidentally, Yakubu’s got Drogba syndrome – someone that large shouldn’t fall over that easily, and I thoroughly enjoyed his yellow for diving in the 48th). Cahill had the chance of the first half, but was unable to turn his body to poke in Arteta’s corner that ran through the box. And Carragher had to clear off the line in the 28th, although it wouldn’t have counted for an invisible foul on Reina.
Meanwhile, as in the past, Liverpool couldn’t link attack and midfield even though Gerrard and Alonso did well in the center, and the first 45 felt an awful lot like last Saturday against Stoke. However, things changed fairly quickly in the second half.
Within 10 minutes of the restart, Liverpool finally started getting shots off, even though none tested Tim Howard. They continued to up the pressure, with Gerrard and Alonso’s dominance in midfield beginning to pay off, and in the 59th minute, that man Torres finally made the breakthrough, with a lot of credit going to his strike partner.
Keane, who continued to be frustrated up front (and still looks hesitant to shoot), got to the byline and chipped a perfect cross for Torres to volley in at the far post. The way the two strikers celebrated shows what the goal meant to them. And less than 4 minutes later, the same player put the game on ice when Kuyt and Keane linked up excellently, with the ball falling to an open Torres after Kuyt was tackled in the box. Liverpool’s number nine doesn’t make mistakes from there.
Liverpool had the ball in the net twice more within four more minutes. First, Kuyt’s was rightfully ruled out because the ball went over the byline before Riera’s cross. Then, Torres was wrongly denied his hat-trick when Riley blew for a foul by Kuyt (unsurprisingly, Riley couldn’t keep his whistle out of his mouth), which would have been his best goal of the three.
After that spell and two goals to the good, Liverpool looked content to sit back and wait for the counter. Everton let a couple of chances go begging before Cahill was red carded for a late, studs up two-footed tackle on Alonso in the 80th minute, the third red card in the last three derbies. Howard made a superb save on Gerrard in the 84th, and Saha unleashed a cracker that wasn’t far wide in the 89th, but Liverpool easily saw out the end.
So what can I say? Benitez knows this team better than I, and even though the first half wasn’t the most aesthetically pleasing, Liverpool did the job. Merseyside derbies are usually tight contests, and that’s where players like Torres make the difference.
All credit to Liverpool’s number nine. He had been frustrated for long spells and earned a yellow card for dissent in the 50th minute. For the most part, Jagielka did an excellent job denying him space. But when given the opportunity in the 59th and 63rd minutes, he won the game for the away side.
In addition, I’ve got to highlight Gerrard’s performance. I still believe he sits too deep in the 4-4-2 to attack as effectively as he did last season, but he was involved in everything in the middle of the park, and with Alonso, was the key to Liverpool getting more and more possession (and making better use of it) as the game went on. And don’t let my praise for Gerrard detract from Alonso’s performance: the Spaniard was just as responsible for Liverpool’s play in the middle, and that’s where the game was won. It was Alonso who sent in the throughball for Keane to set up Liverpool’s first.
And yes, I’ve got to mention Kuyt as well. It’s uncharacteristic for me to criticize him, and I should have remembered that these are the types he thrives in. He worked his shorts off, denied Everton space whenever possible, and was much more involved in the second half when he looked to come infield more often.
But other than a couple of questionable moments from Skrtel and Dossena, I’ve got little to complain about. It’s very hard to nitpick after a win in the derby. Wins over Everton and United make last Saturday much easier to forget. Even though I don’t think the formation or the team’s fully settled, Liverpool’s made their best start to the season under Benitez. Now, they’ve got to continue that against PSV on Wednesday.
Arbeloa Skrtel Carragher Dossena
Kuyt Alonso Gerrard Riera
Torres Keane
Goals:
Torres 59’ 63’
Just as promised: hands up, I was wrong. Liverpool deployed the 4-4-2, with Alonso for Mascherano because of injury the only deviation from my guess at a squad, and Liverpool leave Goodison two-nil winners thanks to the genius of Fernando Torres.
The first half left me wishing for the 4-2-3-1, though. Liverpool didn’t get a shot on target, and were probably second best even though they had more possession. Not out of character for a Merseyside derby, it was an exceptionally cagey 45 minutes.
Everton will rue their missed opportunities. Skrtel could have been whistled for a penalty within 4 minutes, shoulder-to-shoulder with Yakubu trying to shield the ball to Reina (incidentally, Yakubu’s got Drogba syndrome – someone that large shouldn’t fall over that easily, and I thoroughly enjoyed his yellow for diving in the 48th). Cahill had the chance of the first half, but was unable to turn his body to poke in Arteta’s corner that ran through the box. And Carragher had to clear off the line in the 28th, although it wouldn’t have counted for an invisible foul on Reina.
Meanwhile, as in the past, Liverpool couldn’t link attack and midfield even though Gerrard and Alonso did well in the center, and the first 45 felt an awful lot like last Saturday against Stoke. However, things changed fairly quickly in the second half.
Within 10 minutes of the restart, Liverpool finally started getting shots off, even though none tested Tim Howard. They continued to up the pressure, with Gerrard and Alonso’s dominance in midfield beginning to pay off, and in the 59th minute, that man Torres finally made the breakthrough, with a lot of credit going to his strike partner.
Keane, who continued to be frustrated up front (and still looks hesitant to shoot), got to the byline and chipped a perfect cross for Torres to volley in at the far post. The way the two strikers celebrated shows what the goal meant to them. And less than 4 minutes later, the same player put the game on ice when Kuyt and Keane linked up excellently, with the ball falling to an open Torres after Kuyt was tackled in the box. Liverpool’s number nine doesn’t make mistakes from there.
Liverpool had the ball in the net twice more within four more minutes. First, Kuyt’s was rightfully ruled out because the ball went over the byline before Riera’s cross. Then, Torres was wrongly denied his hat-trick when Riley blew for a foul by Kuyt (unsurprisingly, Riley couldn’t keep his whistle out of his mouth), which would have been his best goal of the three.
After that spell and two goals to the good, Liverpool looked content to sit back and wait for the counter. Everton let a couple of chances go begging before Cahill was red carded for a late, studs up two-footed tackle on Alonso in the 80th minute, the third red card in the last three derbies. Howard made a superb save on Gerrard in the 84th, and Saha unleashed a cracker that wasn’t far wide in the 89th, but Liverpool easily saw out the end.
So what can I say? Benitez knows this team better than I, and even though the first half wasn’t the most aesthetically pleasing, Liverpool did the job. Merseyside derbies are usually tight contests, and that’s where players like Torres make the difference.
All credit to Liverpool’s number nine. He had been frustrated for long spells and earned a yellow card for dissent in the 50th minute. For the most part, Jagielka did an excellent job denying him space. But when given the opportunity in the 59th and 63rd minutes, he won the game for the away side.
In addition, I’ve got to highlight Gerrard’s performance. I still believe he sits too deep in the 4-4-2 to attack as effectively as he did last season, but he was involved in everything in the middle of the park, and with Alonso, was the key to Liverpool getting more and more possession (and making better use of it) as the game went on. And don’t let my praise for Gerrard detract from Alonso’s performance: the Spaniard was just as responsible for Liverpool’s play in the middle, and that’s where the game was won. It was Alonso who sent in the throughball for Keane to set up Liverpool’s first.
And yes, I’ve got to mention Kuyt as well. It’s uncharacteristic for me to criticize him, and I should have remembered that these are the types he thrives in. He worked his shorts off, denied Everton space whenever possible, and was much more involved in the second half when he looked to come infield more often.
But other than a couple of questionable moments from Skrtel and Dossena, I’ve got little to complain about. It’s very hard to nitpick after a win in the derby. Wins over Everton and United make last Saturday much easier to forget. Even though I don’t think the formation or the team’s fully settled, Liverpool’s made their best start to the season under Benitez. Now, they’ve got to continue that against PSV on Wednesday.
26 September 2008
Liverpool at Everton 09.27.08
7:45am Eastern Time, live in the US on Setanta
Last four head-to-head:
1-0 Liverpool (h) 03.30.08
2-1 Liverpool (a) 10.20.07
0-0 (h) 02.03.07
0-3 Everton (a) 09.09.06
Last three matches:
Liverpool: 2-1 Crewe (h); 0-0 Stoke (h); 2-1 Marseille (a)
Everton: 0-1 Blackburn (a); 2-2 Hull (a); 2-2 Standard Liege (h)
Referee: Mike Riley
He’s no Mark Clattenburg, that’s for sure.
Guess at a squad:
Reina
Arbeloa Skrtel Carragher Dossena
Kuyt Gerrard Mascherano Riera
Torres Keane
What I’d like to see:
Reina
Carragher Skrtel Agger Dossena
Alonso Mascherano
Gerrard Keane Riera
Torres
In the 25 months of this blog, I can only think of a couple of times where I posted what I want to see instead of my best guess at what I expect to. I can’t think of any where I’ve posted both. It’s not as if I’ve anywhere near the qualifications to second-guess Rafa, no matter how much Liverpool football I watch.
But because I’m in one of those moods, and it’s not as if the football’s been very good outside of the Manchester and Marseille matches, I can’t help myself this time. Maybe it’ll even prompt a debate. And I have reasons in fun list format!
1) Gerrard and Torres have played their best together in the 4-2-3-1, and the formation worked in the second half of last season.
2) Alonso and Mascherano were outstanding together in midfield against the Mancs.
3) I know it’s still early, but Torres and Keane are misfiring as a partnership. Liverpool’s played six games with that pairing. They’ve scored 4, and Torres has only gotten one of them.
4) I’m still in the pro-Kuyt category, but he’s not played well on the right recently. I do think he’ll be better in the 4-4-2 with a wide man like Riera on the opposite side, but if it’s the 4-2-3-1, it’s either him or Keane making way. With two articles on the front page of the official site today, chances are he’s playing though.
5) We know Gerrard can play on the right, even if it’s not his favorite. But I reckon he’d have more impact on the flanks than Keane, and besides, the role is different in the 4-2-3-1 than in the 4-4-2.
6) Having Gerrard, Masch, and Alonso on the field for a contentious away game can only help Liverpool win the battle in midfield. And if the past is any precedent, it’ll probably be cagey, and the game will be won in the center of the pitch.
7) Carra’s proven he’s capable at right back (especially when either Kuyt or Gerrard, with their respective work ethics, are on the right), and Agger needs to get back into the fold.
8) This isn’t a reason, but it is an admission that I’m beginning to worry about buying Keane. However, despite my attempts to curtail this, I’m admittedly prone to overreaction.
Of course, I hope I’m wrong (in either what I want to see or my evaluation of the 4-4-2), and I’ll be the first to admit when I am.
And since this attempts to be a preview, I’ll try and play the rest of it straight.
Despite Agger playing well against Crewe, we’ll probably see Carragher/Skrtel again. Both have done well in the own right, and Benitez seems reluctant to rotate at center back if he can avoid it. But I’d be very surprised if Agger doesn’t force a look-in sooner rather than later; as said in the reasons above, I wouldn’t mind if that meant Carragher moved over to right back.
Mascherano will definitely be needed in a game like this, and I imagine if it’s 4-4-2 and someone’s making way, it’ll be Alonso. Liverpool missed him in the meeting at Anfield last season (when he was suspended thanks to the Steve Bennett fiasco against the Mancs).
Riera seemingly has to play given how he looked like improving Liverpool’s left against the Mancs and the fact that he didn’t play in midweek.
In 9th, with seven points from five games, Everton’s not had the start they wanted. But Cahill’s returning to fitness, Arteta can still pull the strings, and Yakubu’s always a goal threat. Liverpool fans saw against Liege that new signing Felliani can be a threat, even if he was hauled off at halftime on Wednesday. And make no mistake – that Everton were booed in midweek means little tomorrow. Recent form is never an indicator of how Merseyside derbies will play out, for either side.
After last weekend’s disappointment, this is the perfect game to turn around any lost confidence, as Liverpool will assuredly be up for the match. Last year, Liverpool did the double over Everton (in contrast to the year before), and in hilarious fashion in the match at Goodison. Here’s hoping precedent is a predictor in this case. I may not be a Scouser, but this is still the team I want to see Liverpool beat more than any other.
Last four head-to-head:
1-0 Liverpool (h) 03.30.08
2-1 Liverpool (a) 10.20.07
0-0 (h) 02.03.07
0-3 Everton (a) 09.09.06
Last three matches:
Liverpool: 2-1 Crewe (h); 0-0 Stoke (h); 2-1 Marseille (a)
Everton: 0-1 Blackburn (a); 2-2 Hull (a); 2-2 Standard Liege (h)
Referee: Mike Riley
He’s no Mark Clattenburg, that’s for sure.
Guess at a squad:
Reina
Arbeloa Skrtel Carragher Dossena
Kuyt Gerrard Mascherano Riera
Torres Keane
What I’d like to see:
Reina
Carragher Skrtel Agger Dossena
Alonso Mascherano
Gerrard Keane Riera
Torres
In the 25 months of this blog, I can only think of a couple of times where I posted what I want to see instead of my best guess at what I expect to. I can’t think of any where I’ve posted both. It’s not as if I’ve anywhere near the qualifications to second-guess Rafa, no matter how much Liverpool football I watch.
But because I’m in one of those moods, and it’s not as if the football’s been very good outside of the Manchester and Marseille matches, I can’t help myself this time. Maybe it’ll even prompt a debate. And I have reasons in fun list format!
1) Gerrard and Torres have played their best together in the 4-2-3-1, and the formation worked in the second half of last season.
2) Alonso and Mascherano were outstanding together in midfield against the Mancs.
3) I know it’s still early, but Torres and Keane are misfiring as a partnership. Liverpool’s played six games with that pairing. They’ve scored 4, and Torres has only gotten one of them.
4) I’m still in the pro-Kuyt category, but he’s not played well on the right recently. I do think he’ll be better in the 4-4-2 with a wide man like Riera on the opposite side, but if it’s the 4-2-3-1, it’s either him or Keane making way. With two articles on the front page of the official site today, chances are he’s playing though.
5) We know Gerrard can play on the right, even if it’s not his favorite. But I reckon he’d have more impact on the flanks than Keane, and besides, the role is different in the 4-2-3-1 than in the 4-4-2.
6) Having Gerrard, Masch, and Alonso on the field for a contentious away game can only help Liverpool win the battle in midfield. And if the past is any precedent, it’ll probably be cagey, and the game will be won in the center of the pitch.
7) Carra’s proven he’s capable at right back (especially when either Kuyt or Gerrard, with their respective work ethics, are on the right), and Agger needs to get back into the fold.
8) This isn’t a reason, but it is an admission that I’m beginning to worry about buying Keane. However, despite my attempts to curtail this, I’m admittedly prone to overreaction.
Of course, I hope I’m wrong (in either what I want to see or my evaluation of the 4-4-2), and I’ll be the first to admit when I am.
And since this attempts to be a preview, I’ll try and play the rest of it straight.
Despite Agger playing well against Crewe, we’ll probably see Carragher/Skrtel again. Both have done well in the own right, and Benitez seems reluctant to rotate at center back if he can avoid it. But I’d be very surprised if Agger doesn’t force a look-in sooner rather than later; as said in the reasons above, I wouldn’t mind if that meant Carragher moved over to right back.
Mascherano will definitely be needed in a game like this, and I imagine if it’s 4-4-2 and someone’s making way, it’ll be Alonso. Liverpool missed him in the meeting at Anfield last season (when he was suspended thanks to the Steve Bennett fiasco against the Mancs).
Riera seemingly has to play given how he looked like improving Liverpool’s left against the Mancs and the fact that he didn’t play in midweek.
In 9th, with seven points from five games, Everton’s not had the start they wanted. But Cahill’s returning to fitness, Arteta can still pull the strings, and Yakubu’s always a goal threat. Liverpool fans saw against Liege that new signing Felliani can be a threat, even if he was hauled off at halftime on Wednesday. And make no mistake – that Everton were booed in midweek means little tomorrow. Recent form is never an indicator of how Merseyside derbies will play out, for either side.
After last weekend’s disappointment, this is the perfect game to turn around any lost confidence, as Liverpool will assuredly be up for the match. Last year, Liverpool did the double over Everton (in contrast to the year before), and in hilarious fashion in the match at Goodison. Here’s hoping precedent is a predictor in this case. I may not be a Scouser, but this is still the team I want to see Liverpool beat more than any other.
23 September 2008
Liverpool 2-1 Crewe
Cavalieri
Degen Agger Hyypia Insua
Pennant Lucas Plessis El Zhar
Ngog Babel
Subs:
Torres for Ngog 66’
Carragher for Degen 73’
Keane for El Zhar 87’
Goals:
Agger 15’
O’Conner 25’
Lucas 58’
Update: No dice. Missed the LFC.tv effort, no full-match torrents I can find so far. Very infrequently, the internet disappoints. Here's a link to the RAWK thread with goals and highlights, as some sort of substitute.
This is a placeholder; for the first time in recent memory, there weren’t even any streams, just radio commentary. And it was BBC Radio Stoke, so they weren't quite focusing on Liverpool.
Hopefully I’ll see it later; LFCTV is showing it at midnight UK time. Chances are, there'll be streams for that, at the least.
So I can’t comment on much. Agger (welcome back!) scored on a free kick through the wall, Crewe replied within 10 minutes after what sounded like questionable defense on a corner. Lucas finally broke the tie with a header from Pennant’s cross.
I’m glad Torres saw 20 or so minutes for match fitness, and he forced Crewe’s keeper to make two key saves in the last ten minutes. Carra came on because of an injury to Degen; if not for the injury, Keane would have come on 15 minutes sooner.
The commentators went mad in the 87th minute, but Pope was off target. Sounded like way too much late pressure after Torres’ two chances.
I'm interested to see El Zhar on the left, Babel up top (neither Babel nor Ngog were mentioned much in the first half), and Insua (naturally).
People will probably see a close result and Arsenal’s six-goal romp, and find complaints. Not seeing a lick of action, a win’s a win for me, but I’ll assuredly have more to say when I actually see the game.
Degen Agger Hyypia Insua
Pennant Lucas Plessis El Zhar
Ngog Babel
Subs:
Torres for Ngog 66’
Carragher for Degen 73’
Keane for El Zhar 87’
Goals:
Agger 15’
O’Conner 25’
Lucas 58’
Update: No dice. Missed the LFC.tv effort, no full-match torrents I can find so far. Very infrequently, the internet disappoints. Here's a link to the RAWK thread with goals and highlights, as some sort of substitute.
This is a placeholder; for the first time in recent memory, there weren’t even any streams, just radio commentary. And it was BBC Radio Stoke, so they weren't quite focusing on Liverpool.
Hopefully I’ll see it later; LFCTV is showing it at midnight UK time. Chances are, there'll be streams for that, at the least.
So I can’t comment on much. Agger (welcome back!) scored on a free kick through the wall, Crewe replied within 10 minutes after what sounded like questionable defense on a corner. Lucas finally broke the tie with a header from Pennant’s cross.
I’m glad Torres saw 20 or so minutes for match fitness, and he forced Crewe’s keeper to make two key saves in the last ten minutes. Carra came on because of an injury to Degen; if not for the injury, Keane would have come on 15 minutes sooner.
The commentators went mad in the 87th minute, but Pope was off target. Sounded like way too much late pressure after Torres’ two chances.
I'm interested to see El Zhar on the left, Babel up top (neither Babel nor Ngog were mentioned much in the first half), and Insua (naturally).
People will probably see a close result and Arsenal’s six-goal romp, and find complaints. Not seeing a lick of action, a win’s a win for me, but I’ll assuredly have more to say when I actually see the game.
22 September 2008
Liverpool v Crewe 09.23.08
3pm Eastern Time, not on TV in the US
Last three matches:
Liverpool: 0-0 Stoke (h); 2-1 Marseille (a); 2-1 United (h)
Crewe: 3-4 Southend (h); 2-0 Colchester (h); 2-5 Leeds (a)
Referee: Michael Oliver
Guess at a squad:
Cavalieri
Degen Agger Hyypia Insua
El Zhar Plessis Lucas Benayoun
Ngog Keane
I’d be very surprised to see many first-team regulars. This really shouldn’t be like last year, when Torres started and scored a hat-trick in the first Carling Cup match against Reading. Plus, Liverpool has a Merseyside derby in the early game on Saturday.
That said, this is still a complete guess at a squad. Benayoun, Keane, and Lucas may not start, seeing as how all have had time with the first team so far this season. However, I’m not really sure who would step in from the reserves. Seems too soon for Pacheco or Nemeth up top, even though fans were hardly sated by the few glimpses of them in the preseason.
Riera could see time to further adapt to English football, but he'll probably be left out for Saturday. I also doubt Babel will start again, especially if Liverpool field a reserve side, but he's an alternative. And Spearing may start ahead of Lucas, but the Brazilian needs match practice returning late from the internationals and having only played against Villa and Marseille.
I do expect Agger and Hyypia to finally spell Carra and Skrtel (if Agger doesn’t play, something is definitely wrong), and imagine we’ll see Degen get a start now that he’s fit enough for the bench, although Darby has to be in contention as well. And hopefully – although I’ll admit it’s pretty much just hope – we’ll see Insua too; with Aurelio injured again, he and Dossena are the only two choices at LB.
Liverpool has a very good B-side, and Benitez has done well staffing the reserves and Academy with prospects from all over the world. I expect a reasonable cup run because of the talent in this team, and the fact that they’re up against a League One side in the first round should help (in contrast to, say, playing Reading). But as we saw against Luton, Havant and Barnsley in the FA Cup, those sides also play without pressure unfancied and with nothing to lose.
The season certainly doesn’t hinge on this tournament, but any win boosts the morale, and having the reserves take a step up and play their part could only bode well for the future.
Last three matches:
Liverpool: 0-0 Stoke (h); 2-1 Marseille (a); 2-1 United (h)
Crewe: 3-4 Southend (h); 2-0 Colchester (h); 2-5 Leeds (a)
Referee: Michael Oliver
Guess at a squad:
Cavalieri
Degen Agger Hyypia Insua
El Zhar Plessis Lucas Benayoun
Ngog Keane
I’d be very surprised to see many first-team regulars. This really shouldn’t be like last year, when Torres started and scored a hat-trick in the first Carling Cup match against Reading. Plus, Liverpool has a Merseyside derby in the early game on Saturday.
That said, this is still a complete guess at a squad. Benayoun, Keane, and Lucas may not start, seeing as how all have had time with the first team so far this season. However, I’m not really sure who would step in from the reserves. Seems too soon for Pacheco or Nemeth up top, even though fans were hardly sated by the few glimpses of them in the preseason.
Riera could see time to further adapt to English football, but he'll probably be left out for Saturday. I also doubt Babel will start again, especially if Liverpool field a reserve side, but he's an alternative. And Spearing may start ahead of Lucas, but the Brazilian needs match practice returning late from the internationals and having only played against Villa and Marseille.
I do expect Agger and Hyypia to finally spell Carra and Skrtel (if Agger doesn’t play, something is definitely wrong), and imagine we’ll see Degen get a start now that he’s fit enough for the bench, although Darby has to be in contention as well. And hopefully – although I’ll admit it’s pretty much just hope – we’ll see Insua too; with Aurelio injured again, he and Dossena are the only two choices at LB.
Liverpool has a very good B-side, and Benitez has done well staffing the reserves and Academy with prospects from all over the world. I expect a reasonable cup run because of the talent in this team, and the fact that they’re up against a League One side in the first round should help (in contrast to, say, playing Reading). But as we saw against Luton, Havant and Barnsley in the FA Cup, those sides also play without pressure unfancied and with nothing to lose.
The season certainly doesn’t hinge on this tournament, but any win boosts the morale, and having the reserves take a step up and play their part could only bode well for the future.
20 September 2008
Liverpool 0-0 Stoke City
Reina
Arbeloa Skrtel Carragher Dossena
Kuyt Gerrard Alonso Riera
Torres Keane
It was exactly what was feared. When the best you can say was at least Liverpool didn’t lose, against a team many tip for relegation, it’s not a good day at the office.
It’s bad, bad déjà vu reminiscent of the draw against Birmingham early last season, except the strike force was Torres and Keane instead of Kuyt and Voronin. Plus the added stomach punch of a good goal wrongly ruled out before some fans were in their seats.
Liverpool should have been up within two minutes, and it should have been Gerrard’s 100th goal. Sonko fouled Torres on the left, and Gerrard’s free kick ended up in the back of the net just like Alonso’s first against Derby last year. However, the linesman flagged for offside, even though no other player got a touch and it was questionable whether anyone was even past the last man when the ball was kicked.
Despite that, it did look only a matter of time. Liverpool utterly dominated possession – Stoke had one real chance at goal, when Alonso gave the ball to Kitson in the 5th minute, only for the striker to blast over – and Keane again should have opened his account in the 8th, but his first-time shot was straight at Sorenson.
It didn’t take long for chances to become harder to come by. Aside from Alonso’s lovely curler that was palmed away in the 29th, Liverpool rarely worked the keeper. The shots that the home side furnished came mainly from distance, and in the first half, Alonso had more of them than the two strikers combined. That’s not a recipe for success against a team like Stoke.
The away fans started singing, “It’s just like watching Brazil,” in reference to Stoke’s yellow and blue kit. I felt like I was watching Arsenal. And that’s not a compliment.
Frustrating doesn’t even come close to summing it up. Facing a side willing to park all 11 men in their own half isn’t exactly a new phenomenon. And Liverpool simply could not break Stoke down.
All too often, the team was content with shots from distance, and no one could summon much accuracy. 30 shots, six on target. That could be the start and finish of this match review. At the same time, the crossing was atrocious (with Dossena especially guilty), and Stoke’s big defenders usually out-muscled Torres and Keane when the balls were on target. Liverpool had 19 corners – nineteen! – and not a single one caused problems.
The home side had a few better chances in the second half than in the first, with Sorenson again saving a shot Keane should have buried, Kuyt getting two opportunities within 30 seconds around the 67th, and Torres heading over, ricocheting a left-footed shot off a defender, and turning Griffin only to shoot high. But the script stayed the same. Babel (for Riera) and Benayoun (for Keane) were brought on, but neither could change proceedings as they have in the past.
No one can walk away happy with their performance today, but today’s display will probably galvanize those already opposed to Kuyt. And I’ve got no defense. His first touch was gash, he spurned chances he should have scored (not that he was the only one), and that Liverpool struggled to link midfield and attack falls partly on his shoulders.
Even though the attack wasn’t good enough, Liverpool still had the requisite chances to win. You can try and explain it away as bad luck, but the team simply wasn’t good enough, and nowhere near accurate enough. When you have the amount of shots Liverpool had, even with most coming from distance, things happen when you test the keeper. Liverpool never tested Sorenson enough, and lacked the ideas and creativity needed to break down a defense like this. And that’s after adding players like Torres, Keane and Riera in the last year.
The worst part about it is we’ve been here before. And after the encouraging moments over the past week, despite Liverpool not scoring as much as they should, it’s even more disappointing. Now Liverpool's got the same amount of points as if they'd only drawn United and beaten Stoke at Anfield like they should have.
Arbeloa Skrtel Carragher Dossena
Kuyt Gerrard Alonso Riera
Torres Keane
It was exactly what was feared. When the best you can say was at least Liverpool didn’t lose, against a team many tip for relegation, it’s not a good day at the office.
It’s bad, bad déjà vu reminiscent of the draw against Birmingham early last season, except the strike force was Torres and Keane instead of Kuyt and Voronin. Plus the added stomach punch of a good goal wrongly ruled out before some fans were in their seats.
Liverpool should have been up within two minutes, and it should have been Gerrard’s 100th goal. Sonko fouled Torres on the left, and Gerrard’s free kick ended up in the back of the net just like Alonso’s first against Derby last year. However, the linesman flagged for offside, even though no other player got a touch and it was questionable whether anyone was even past the last man when the ball was kicked.
Despite that, it did look only a matter of time. Liverpool utterly dominated possession – Stoke had one real chance at goal, when Alonso gave the ball to Kitson in the 5th minute, only for the striker to blast over – and Keane again should have opened his account in the 8th, but his first-time shot was straight at Sorenson.
It didn’t take long for chances to become harder to come by. Aside from Alonso’s lovely curler that was palmed away in the 29th, Liverpool rarely worked the keeper. The shots that the home side furnished came mainly from distance, and in the first half, Alonso had more of them than the two strikers combined. That’s not a recipe for success against a team like Stoke.
The away fans started singing, “It’s just like watching Brazil,” in reference to Stoke’s yellow and blue kit. I felt like I was watching Arsenal. And that’s not a compliment.
Frustrating doesn’t even come close to summing it up. Facing a side willing to park all 11 men in their own half isn’t exactly a new phenomenon. And Liverpool simply could not break Stoke down.
All too often, the team was content with shots from distance, and no one could summon much accuracy. 30 shots, six on target. That could be the start and finish of this match review. At the same time, the crossing was atrocious (with Dossena especially guilty), and Stoke’s big defenders usually out-muscled Torres and Keane when the balls were on target. Liverpool had 19 corners – nineteen! – and not a single one caused problems.
The home side had a few better chances in the second half than in the first, with Sorenson again saving a shot Keane should have buried, Kuyt getting two opportunities within 30 seconds around the 67th, and Torres heading over, ricocheting a left-footed shot off a defender, and turning Griffin only to shoot high. But the script stayed the same. Babel (for Riera) and Benayoun (for Keane) were brought on, but neither could change proceedings as they have in the past.
No one can walk away happy with their performance today, but today’s display will probably galvanize those already opposed to Kuyt. And I’ve got no defense. His first touch was gash, he spurned chances he should have scored (not that he was the only one), and that Liverpool struggled to link midfield and attack falls partly on his shoulders.
Even though the attack wasn’t good enough, Liverpool still had the requisite chances to win. You can try and explain it away as bad luck, but the team simply wasn’t good enough, and nowhere near accurate enough. When you have the amount of shots Liverpool had, even with most coming from distance, things happen when you test the keeper. Liverpool never tested Sorenson enough, and lacked the ideas and creativity needed to break down a defense like this. And that’s after adding players like Torres, Keane and Riera in the last year.
The worst part about it is we’ve been here before. And after the encouraging moments over the past week, despite Liverpool not scoring as much as they should, it’s even more disappointing. Now Liverpool's got the same amount of points as if they'd only drawn United and beaten Stoke at Anfield like they should have.
19 September 2008
Liverpool v Stoke City 09.20.08
10am Eastern Time, live in the US on Setanta.
Last 4 head-to-head:
8-0 Liverpool (a; League Cup) 11.29.2000
2-1 Liverpool (h; League Cup) 10.25.1994
3-2 Liverpool (a; League Cup) 10.09.1991
2-2 (h; League Cup) 09.25.1991
Last 3 matches:
Liverpool: 2-1 Marseille (a); 2-1 United (h); 0-0 Villa (a)
Stoke: 2-3 Everton (h); 1-2 Boro (a); 3-2 Cheltenham (a)
Referee: Andre Marriner. Sigh. Since ynwa.tv doesn’t have a post up, I’ll quickly summarize. Marriner was at the helm for Liverpool’s first league loss last season at Reading, ignoring two very good penalty shouts, as well as the draw at Boro. I do not like Andre Marriner.
Guess at a squad:
Reina
Arbeloa Skrtel Hyypia Dossena
Kuyt Gerrard Alonso Riera
Torres Keane
I really could either way with the line-up. It’s no secret I’m a big fan of the 4-2-3-1, and was very glad to see it back on Tuesday.
However, I would be very surprised if Benitez doesn’t return to the 4-4-2 for league play, especially with Liverpool at home against a promoted (but clearly dangerous) team. Plus, I would be very, very surprised to see the £19.3m Keane on the bench for two matches in a row.
As both Gerrard and Torres returned last match, each playing a bit more than an hour, both should be fit and available on Saturday, and if that’s the case, both should start.
That Riera, Keane, and Alonso were on the bench, but fit, makes me think we’ll see all three on from the start on Saturday, with Babel most likely reprising his role off the bench. Even with the Dutchman’s continued development, I’d be surprised if Benitez gave him two starts in the space of five days. It was very hard to leave Mascherano out of my guess at a line-up – I can’t imagine how hard it is for Rafa – but his defensive mopping-up shouldn’t be as needed as it was against either United or Marseille, and he did have that knee problem against United.
I also know it’s a sin to omit Carragher from any line-up, but Skrtel’s played very well of late and both his and Hyypia’s aerial presence will be needed against Stoke, especially against the long throw they used so well against Everton last week. I highly doubt Hyypia would miss a game like this, especially since he’s not on the CL roster.
As said earlier, Liverpool cannot underrate Stoke. They may lie in 19th, but they beat a team that Liverpool could only draw (and failed to score against), and gave both Boro and Everton a real run for their money. Liverpool’s susceptibility on set plays, even if it hasn’t been an issue so far this season, really frightens me with Delap’s long throws.
It was said best in the sub-headline on the official site’s article with Benitez’ pre-match quotes: “Rafael Benitez admits last week's triumph over Manchester United will count for nothing if his side fail to beat Barclays Premier League newcomers Stoke City tomorrow.”
The last two wins were absolutely enormous for the club – both the results and the confidence boost – especially the one six days ago. Leaving Anfield without three points tomorrow would throw almost all of that hard work away.
Last 4 head-to-head:
8-0 Liverpool (a; League Cup) 11.29.2000
2-1 Liverpool (h; League Cup) 10.25.1994
3-2 Liverpool (a; League Cup) 10.09.1991
2-2 (h; League Cup) 09.25.1991
Last 3 matches:
Liverpool: 2-1 Marseille (a); 2-1 United (h); 0-0 Villa (a)
Stoke: 2-3 Everton (h); 1-2 Boro (a); 3-2 Cheltenham (a)
Referee: Andre Marriner. Sigh. Since ynwa.tv doesn’t have a post up, I’ll quickly summarize. Marriner was at the helm for Liverpool’s first league loss last season at Reading, ignoring two very good penalty shouts, as well as the draw at Boro. I do not like Andre Marriner.
Guess at a squad:
Reina
Arbeloa Skrtel Hyypia Dossena
Kuyt Gerrard Alonso Riera
Torres Keane
I really could either way with the line-up. It’s no secret I’m a big fan of the 4-2-3-1, and was very glad to see it back on Tuesday.
However, I would be very surprised if Benitez doesn’t return to the 4-4-2 for league play, especially with Liverpool at home against a promoted (but clearly dangerous) team. Plus, I would be very, very surprised to see the £19.3m Keane on the bench for two matches in a row.
As both Gerrard and Torres returned last match, each playing a bit more than an hour, both should be fit and available on Saturday, and if that’s the case, both should start.
That Riera, Keane, and Alonso were on the bench, but fit, makes me think we’ll see all three on from the start on Saturday, with Babel most likely reprising his role off the bench. Even with the Dutchman’s continued development, I’d be surprised if Benitez gave him two starts in the space of five days. It was very hard to leave Mascherano out of my guess at a line-up – I can’t imagine how hard it is for Rafa – but his defensive mopping-up shouldn’t be as needed as it was against either United or Marseille, and he did have that knee problem against United.
I also know it’s a sin to omit Carragher from any line-up, but Skrtel’s played very well of late and both his and Hyypia’s aerial presence will be needed against Stoke, especially against the long throw they used so well against Everton last week. I highly doubt Hyypia would miss a game like this, especially since he’s not on the CL roster.
As said earlier, Liverpool cannot underrate Stoke. They may lie in 19th, but they beat a team that Liverpool could only draw (and failed to score against), and gave both Boro and Everton a real run for their money. Liverpool’s susceptibility on set plays, even if it hasn’t been an issue so far this season, really frightens me with Delap’s long throws.
It was said best in the sub-headline on the official site’s article with Benitez’ pre-match quotes: “Rafael Benitez admits last week's triumph over Manchester United will count for nothing if his side fail to beat Barclays Premier League newcomers Stoke City tomorrow.”
The last two wins were absolutely enormous for the club – both the results and the confidence boost – especially the one six days ago. Leaving Anfield without three points tomorrow would throw almost all of that hard work away.
16 September 2008
Liverpool 2-1 Marseille
Reina
Arbeloa Skrtel Carragher Dossena
Mascherano Lucas
Kuyt Gerrard Babel
Torres
Goals:
Cana 23’
Gerrard 26’ 32’ (pen)
Welcome back, Steven Gerrard.
The first half was eminently watchable, end-to-end stuff. With the return of Gerrard and Torres, Liverpool went back to the 4-2-3-1, while Marseille weren’t content to allow Liverpool the leeway they did in France last season.
Hatem Ben Arfa was particularly threatening early on, dictating play from both flanks, but both Niang and Kone got in on the act. In the 14th minute, Niang should have opened the scoring when he perfectly timed his run to get in on goal, but shot over from an awkward angle.
Within three minutes, Liverpool nearly tallied three times themselves. First, Babel blazed over after doing all hard work by turning the defender exquisitely. Then, Mandanda saved Gerrard’s low effort, with Torres mishitting a diving header onto the roof of the net from the subsequent corner.
Liverpool failed to learn from the close call earlier on, and Cana was able to beat the offside trap (with Carragher the guilty party), running onto Cheyrou’s ball over the top and beating Reina one-on-one.
However, it didn’t take the visitors long to respond. Three minutes, in fact. Torres stole the ball near midfield and countered, getting the ball to Kuyt on the right. The Dutchman laid off for Gerrard, who magnificently thundered a side-footer into the far corner with his first touch. It was a ridiculous shot – one of his best – and for Gerrard that’s saying something. I guarantee it makes pretty much every goal of the season list.
Four minutes later, Liverpool won a penalty when Zubar misjudged a long ball out of defense that Babel was able to run onto, and the defender stuck a leg out to bring him down. Gerrard tallied twice, having to retake the penalty when the referee blew for encroachment on the first attempt, shooting to the same side (his right) both times. It’s his 14th goal in Europe (in 55 appearances), and his 99th for the club.
The two quick goals slowed, but didn't stop, Marseille, with Niang an ever-present danger. Valbuena on for M’Bami in the 41st helped Marseille even more, with the creative midfielder quick to dictate proceedings.
And Valbuena made his biggest impact after the break. Liverpool were seemingly content to allow Marseille possession in search of an equalizer, and looked to counter on the break. It’s not a surprising tactic, and it’s worked in the past, but that the team adopted it so early in the second half didn’t ease the nerves brought on by remembering games last season where Liverpool lost a lead. That Riera came on for Torres (with Babel moving up top) and Benayoun for Gerrard (with the formation looking more and more like a 4-4-1-1) in the 64th and 69th minutes only exacerbated these tactics.
As in the first half, Niang and Kone’s speed unsettled, but Valbuena was the architect of most of Marseille’s good work. Popping up on both sides of the pitch, he regularly looked to beat defenders and get crosses into the box, with his goal at Anfield last season lingering in the memory. Only Ziani’s lack of accuracy prevented Marseille from scoring in the 66th and 72nd after good work from Kone and Niang respectively.
But the counter-attack goal that Liverpool sought should have come in either the 76th or 78th, both times through Babel. First, Mandanda produced an outstanding save, making himself big after the ball fell to Babel following Riera’s cross. Soon after, the striker hit the outside of the post after getting into the box on the left.
Liverpool should have paid for it in the last few minutes, but Pepe Reina literally saved the day (sorry, sorry, too easy of a pun). First, Niang put a header wide and shouted for a penalty that he probably should have gotten, with Arbeloa looking like he pushed the striker in the back. Then, Reina had to make two excellent saves: on Cheyrou’s shot-cum-center across the six-yard box in the 92nd and then on Niang’s strike following a cushioned header. Liverpool are probably lucky to be leaving France with a win.
It was heartening to see Liverpool go back to the 4-2-3-1, and it’s no coincidence Gerrard was as influential as he was. He was in the perfect position to receive Kuyt’s layoff for the first, although it was an absolutely awesome shot he’d struggle to replicate. And Babel, Kuyt, and Gerrard were able to switch positions as needed, with the three probably Liverpool’s best players in the first half.
Babel particularly impressed, and it’s not hyperbole to suggest it was his best performance as a starter. He truly does look bigger and stronger than last season, and defenders struggle to get the ball away from him if his first touch or passing doesn’t let him down. His two chances in the latter stages show the threat he can be as a striker on the counter, with the second leg against Arsenal in the CL another excellent example.
I’m admittedly a bit worried by the way Liverpool sat back, and neither Mascherano nor Lucas were at their best, meaning Liverpool was lacking in midfield, but there were far more positives than negatives. Once again, I’m most impressed by the team’s determination, scoring two after going down early. Liverpool’s won five games this season. They’ve had to overturn a deficit in three of them. That’s character and confidence, two traits that should serve the team very well.
Arbeloa Skrtel Carragher Dossena
Mascherano Lucas
Kuyt Gerrard Babel
Torres
Goals:
Cana 23’
Gerrard 26’ 32’ (pen)
Welcome back, Steven Gerrard.
The first half was eminently watchable, end-to-end stuff. With the return of Gerrard and Torres, Liverpool went back to the 4-2-3-1, while Marseille weren’t content to allow Liverpool the leeway they did in France last season.
Hatem Ben Arfa was particularly threatening early on, dictating play from both flanks, but both Niang and Kone got in on the act. In the 14th minute, Niang should have opened the scoring when he perfectly timed his run to get in on goal, but shot over from an awkward angle.
Within three minutes, Liverpool nearly tallied three times themselves. First, Babel blazed over after doing all hard work by turning the defender exquisitely. Then, Mandanda saved Gerrard’s low effort, with Torres mishitting a diving header onto the roof of the net from the subsequent corner.
Liverpool failed to learn from the close call earlier on, and Cana was able to beat the offside trap (with Carragher the guilty party), running onto Cheyrou’s ball over the top and beating Reina one-on-one.
However, it didn’t take the visitors long to respond. Three minutes, in fact. Torres stole the ball near midfield and countered, getting the ball to Kuyt on the right. The Dutchman laid off for Gerrard, who magnificently thundered a side-footer into the far corner with his first touch. It was a ridiculous shot – one of his best – and for Gerrard that’s saying something. I guarantee it makes pretty much every goal of the season list.
Four minutes later, Liverpool won a penalty when Zubar misjudged a long ball out of defense that Babel was able to run onto, and the defender stuck a leg out to bring him down. Gerrard tallied twice, having to retake the penalty when the referee blew for encroachment on the first attempt, shooting to the same side (his right) both times. It’s his 14th goal in Europe (in 55 appearances), and his 99th for the club.
The two quick goals slowed, but didn't stop, Marseille, with Niang an ever-present danger. Valbuena on for M’Bami in the 41st helped Marseille even more, with the creative midfielder quick to dictate proceedings.
And Valbuena made his biggest impact after the break. Liverpool were seemingly content to allow Marseille possession in search of an equalizer, and looked to counter on the break. It’s not a surprising tactic, and it’s worked in the past, but that the team adopted it so early in the second half didn’t ease the nerves brought on by remembering games last season where Liverpool lost a lead. That Riera came on for Torres (with Babel moving up top) and Benayoun for Gerrard (with the formation looking more and more like a 4-4-1-1) in the 64th and 69th minutes only exacerbated these tactics.
As in the first half, Niang and Kone’s speed unsettled, but Valbuena was the architect of most of Marseille’s good work. Popping up on both sides of the pitch, he regularly looked to beat defenders and get crosses into the box, with his goal at Anfield last season lingering in the memory. Only Ziani’s lack of accuracy prevented Marseille from scoring in the 66th and 72nd after good work from Kone and Niang respectively.
But the counter-attack goal that Liverpool sought should have come in either the 76th or 78th, both times through Babel. First, Mandanda produced an outstanding save, making himself big after the ball fell to Babel following Riera’s cross. Soon after, the striker hit the outside of the post after getting into the box on the left.
Liverpool should have paid for it in the last few minutes, but Pepe Reina literally saved the day (sorry, sorry, too easy of a pun). First, Niang put a header wide and shouted for a penalty that he probably should have gotten, with Arbeloa looking like he pushed the striker in the back. Then, Reina had to make two excellent saves: on Cheyrou’s shot-cum-center across the six-yard box in the 92nd and then on Niang’s strike following a cushioned header. Liverpool are probably lucky to be leaving France with a win.
It was heartening to see Liverpool go back to the 4-2-3-1, and it’s no coincidence Gerrard was as influential as he was. He was in the perfect position to receive Kuyt’s layoff for the first, although it was an absolutely awesome shot he’d struggle to replicate. And Babel, Kuyt, and Gerrard were able to switch positions as needed, with the three probably Liverpool’s best players in the first half.
Babel particularly impressed, and it’s not hyperbole to suggest it was his best performance as a starter. He truly does look bigger and stronger than last season, and defenders struggle to get the ball away from him if his first touch or passing doesn’t let him down. His two chances in the latter stages show the threat he can be as a striker on the counter, with the second leg against Arsenal in the CL another excellent example.
I’m admittedly a bit worried by the way Liverpool sat back, and neither Mascherano nor Lucas were at their best, meaning Liverpool was lacking in midfield, but there were far more positives than negatives. Once again, I’m most impressed by the team’s determination, scoring two after going down early. Liverpool’s won five games this season. They’ve had to overturn a deficit in three of them. That’s character and confidence, two traits that should serve the team very well.
Subscribe to:
Posts
(
Atom
)