"After taking over the club in October 2010, chairman Tom Werner and principal owner John Henry made no secret of their desire to bring the team to Boston and on July 25, that wish will finally become a reality when the Reds of Liverpool face Italian giants AS Roma at the home of the Red Sox. The game, part of the historic ballpark’s 100th anniversary celebrations, is not the first ‘soccer’ game to be played at Fenway - 18 games have been played there since 80,000 fans turned up to see the New York Yankees of the American Soccer League beat Celtic 4-3 in 1931 - and while there may not be as much riding on this game as when the two teams met in the final of the 1984 European Cup, fans will still be desperate to see their team emerge victorious". www.LFCtour.com, 2012
Liverpool's First Half Team
Gulasci
Enrique
Carragher (c)
Skrtel
McLaughlin
Spearing
Shelvey
Aquilani
Sterling
Eccleston
Cole
Once again Brendan Rogers has mixed up all the players looking as though to see the abilities of the players in adapting to the players around them but also to see the fruits of their training in the first few weeks.
The First half saw the defence work hard as the ball was given away a few too many times allowing the opposition to attack. Gulasci did very well to make some one-on-one saves.
Shelvey - A Good few attacks from Shelvey with his footwork to get through the defence, he's really shown some quality in this game. Time and time again, Shelvey see's himself weave the ball in and out the feet of the defence and had a few shots but not yet successful on finish.
Spearing - seem to be making too many mistakes as he's not looking up, not playing the right ball, forcing the ball forward instead of playing it safe back to the defenders and generally not had a good game, he is better than this and I think he knows it too.
Raheem Sterling - racked up a yellow card for a silly mistake of running too early into a free kick however his game play was impressive though not quite the same as the game against Toronto however he has shown consistency.
Cole - had a beautiful chance as he tried looping the ball over the keeper from a well placed ball from Aquilani however it just hit the crossbar, making the plays and being inventive with his crosses but overall he has shown he is worthy of playing in the starting XI.
Overall the first team showed some brilliant chances and brilliant team work with a little trouble in midfield where Spearing and Shelvey were struggling to control the middle however Shelvey showed some real strength in attacking; and what seems to be something he learned from Gerrard's books. Aquilani showed his worth with picking out Eccleston and Sterling who were both moving very well. Eccleston lost out on a few chances but he is showing huge leaps of improvement. They kept a clean sheet in the first half and it was upto the second team to do better and score some goals.
Liverpool Second Half Team
Jones - Gulasci
Wilson - Enrique(59)
Agger - Carragher (c)
Sama - Skrtel (59)
Flanagan - McLaughlin
Lucas - Spearing(59)
Adjordan - Shelvey (59)
Pacheco - Aquilani
Suso - Sterling
Morgan - Eccleston
Adam - Cole
Second half - Rogers decided to change a few players around leaving a few players on, maybe to check out different tactics however, the experiment also left them wide open in some areas which Roma exploited. A brilliant shot from a tight angle off Michael Bradley gave Roma a goal ahead, while a second goal from Florenzi made it even more difficult for Liverpool to get back. With ten minutes left to go, Adam first touch from a collected loose ball from Pacheco, curls the ball low into the far right corner to bring Liverpool's hopes back up. Goal wise that's all there was.
Just as the first half, Shelvey played a well in the 15mins he played, having taken a free kick that was well taken just a little off the target; the distance would require the ball to be kept low and he did so very well.
Pacheco - well set-up play a few minutes into the second half, lack of control but good thinking. A second set-up saw Pacheco make his way down the left hand side with a beautiful cross but Suso unable to finish. With his acceleration and ball control, he will be a brilliant back up or a link up with Enrique. His set-up for Adam's goal cannot be overlooked, in the right place at the right time to give Liverpool a chance to get back into the game. The last few minutes of extra time saw the youngsters a little to anxious to try and score making few tackling errors.
Flanagan - made some interesting runs up forward on the right hand side and provided some good crosses, defensively needs to keep his head up and check the players around a bit more but otherwise a decent game. Worth sending him off to get some experience maybe at a championship team as I feel that's probably what he is lacking.
Morgan - got caught a few too many times offside, maybe too ambitious with a goal after the last game but the attacking prowess was good to see.
Adam - seemed to be doing well moving forward while his ability to pick out players on the run, he also played very well alongside Shelvey, both worked well, knew each others game and their partnership paid off. And then his goal to get Liverpool back in the game was one you would expect from him and nothing else.
Lucas - took quite the tackle from Bradley but seemed to take it well, glad to see he's looking fit, and his tackles are as strong as ever. It was good to see him holding down the midfield as he once did and supporting the youngsters was a major necessity.
The End score Finished Roma 2-1 Liverpool. Disappointing result but with Roma sporting much more of their starting eleven with Liverpool changing the team around so much, not too much was expected of them. They made some good chances, particularly Shelvey and Pacheco played well. For overall performance, I would place Shelvey as my Man Of The Match.
This game was always going to be a tough match and with Rogers wanting to see the youngsters abilities, this was a great opportunity to use as Roma was never a weak team to begin with and there are a lot of positives to take away from this.
Wednesday, 25 July 2012
Saturday, 21 July 2012
Toronto holds off Liverpool to a 1-1 Draw in Friendly
Toronto holds off Liverpool to a 1-1 Draw in Friendly
Liverpool started their pre-season game against Toronto
With a huge selection of the youngsters featuring in this game with few first team players.
First Half Team
Jones
Enrique
Sama
Wisdom
Carragher
Adam
Spearing
Aquilani
Eccleston
Ibe
Pacheco
Second Half Team
Gulasci
Skrtel
Robinson
Wilson
Flanagan
Adorjan
Shelvey
Suso
Cole
Sterling
Morgan
As Rogers mentioned in his conferences, and the formation he succeeded with at Swansea; they played a 4-3-3 with the midfield filled with the more experienced players while he played all the youngsters up front to see what they were capable of and to see whether they would do well along side current strikers.
Brendan Rogers has really given all the youngsters a chance with playing them all in this game with the more experienced players in tactical positions to help the youngsters.
Pacheco shows some real skill on the left hand side attacking well with a crucial shot in the last 5 minutes which could have been a turning point. Wisdom showing his keen eye to spot out players.
First half drama comes from a handball that was not given to Liverpool as Enrique played through 2 players and a one-two with Pacheco, Enrique takes a shot and it is deflected away by a Toronto Defender.
Over all in the first half, Liverpool were dominant in possession however there were a lack of chances being produced or utilised. It was very encouraging to see the youngsters fitting into Rogers style of play. With the quick feet of Pacheco and the strength of Eccleston there were some serious skill being seen.
Ibe showed some real skill with his accurate crosses and really put pressure on the Canadian defence.
In the second half the entire team was switched over playing more of the younger players.
The first half started well, with the team really putting pressure and opposition and making a lot more chances than before with the help of Morgan and
Wiedeman's ball parries off Gulasci as he couldn't keep his hands on it allowing Amarikwa to knock in an easy goal.
Morgan showed some brilliant skill with his first shot getting passed 3 players and really making a difference.
But Sterling gets played in and takes the ball past 2 defenders and the goalie with Morgan to finish a brilliant team effort goal.
Lucas came on for Adorjan to get his first game since his injury earlier on in the previous season. The crowd went wild to see the Brazilian on the pitch and it seems as though he was as good as ever but it did seem he was taking it a little lightly but I'm sure it was for precaution.
Liverpool continued to press on with Sterling making some excellent runs down the left but to no avail as Toronto began to double their numbers around him making it difficult for the youngster to play anyone through.
Roger's will be pleased to see what was displayed today and I'm sure everyone was impressed with the younger group of players and a nice sight to see Lucas back.
If Sterling really is to be given off on loan to give him some more experience, it would definitely do him some good but from his performance he seemed more than capable to deal with the Premier League.
More talks surround the possibility of Dempsey coming to Liverpool, Bellamy to leave for Cardiff City and Skrtel being linked away but nothing has yet to be shown. Talk of Walcott coming top Anfield has also been played down and Robin Van Persie has not been link yet.
To be fair, two halves of excellent quality but the second showed a lot more pace and attacking options and not only from the goal but his overall performance, Morgan get my vote for Man of the Match.
Monday, 16 July 2012
More Rumours and Chit Chat! Dempsey, Walcott, Carroll and American Tour!
More talk keeps coming as Dempsey and Walcott are said to have made agreements on fees however the signings themselves may take some time.
Andy Carroll still a Geordie?
With Maxi Rodriguez and Dirk Kuyt gone, Liverpool were in dire need of a winger and it seems BR has hit it on the nail as (of writing this) Walcott is said to be making his way to Liverpool on a fee of £15million.
Walcott's move from Southampton to Arsenal was a necessary move for him to be seen as a threat on the pitch. from 2006 he has improved, playing for England, he showed just exactly what he was capable of when he got himself a goal in the Euro 2012.
Did playing in the England squad persuade him to look at Liverpool as a smart move?
Playing along side, Carroll, Glen Johnson, Henderson, Downing and captained by Gerrard; one could say something felt right.
His pace and general game play has made him one of the Gunners favourite players and with Robin Van Persie also on a possible move out of the club, are Arsenal ready to let go of Walcott too?
Compatibility - As far as I can tell, Walcott would fit in nicely in the style of football BR intends to bring to the club just as much as Maxi and Kuyt would have fitted. Though I do not compare Kuyt and Maxi to Walcott as if he was just trying to fill their boots as each player has their unique ability and Walcott has that unique footwork and technique that is hard to find in any young player.
At only 23, he still have plenty of development in him and with the way he is going, I can only imagine what he would be capable of in the next season.
Liverpool have rejected a bid for Andy Carroll from Newcastle who seem to wish to bring him back to the north east however with a small bid of 13million, Liverpool were quick to say no thank you.
There are rumours of a new bid being put forward, how different it would be, we are unsure. Andy Carroll has expressed his determination to stay at Liverpool, putting it on the table clearly that he does not wish to be sold and would only take a loan move reluctantly.
Andy Carroll's progress at Liverpool didn't seem to shine that well, with Suarez, Bellamy and Enrique taking the lime light of the better signings Carroll has faced some serious criticism with his lack of form and goals however towards the end of the season, Carroll started picking up. His performance at Euro 2012 proved he was still capable of some brilliant goals when it counted.
Dempsey is said to be a definite with the signing and transfer taking longer than expected, it seems Carrolls place in the first team, maybe squandered.
Whether you believe any of the rumours, personally I do hope the story of Walcott is indeed true as I have been a fan of his skills and abilities and would happily accept his moving to Anfield should such a thing happen.
Speaking of Americans, Liverpool's squad set off for America for their tour this afternoon from John Lennon Airport, the team sheet was released as follows:
Andy Carroll still a Geordie?
With Maxi Rodriguez and Dirk Kuyt gone, Liverpool were in dire need of a winger and it seems BR has hit it on the nail as (of writing this) Walcott is said to be making his way to Liverpool on a fee of £15million.
Walcott's move from Southampton to Arsenal was a necessary move for him to be seen as a threat on the pitch. from 2006 he has improved, playing for England, he showed just exactly what he was capable of when he got himself a goal in the Euro 2012.
Did playing in the England squad persuade him to look at Liverpool as a smart move?
Playing along side, Carroll, Glen Johnson, Henderson, Downing and captained by Gerrard; one could say something felt right.
His pace and general game play has made him one of the Gunners favourite players and with Robin Van Persie also on a possible move out of the club, are Arsenal ready to let go of Walcott too?
Compatibility - As far as I can tell, Walcott would fit in nicely in the style of football BR intends to bring to the club just as much as Maxi and Kuyt would have fitted. Though I do not compare Kuyt and Maxi to Walcott as if he was just trying to fill their boots as each player has their unique ability and Walcott has that unique footwork and technique that is hard to find in any young player.
At only 23, he still have plenty of development in him and with the way he is going, I can only imagine what he would be capable of in the next season.
Liverpool have rejected a bid for Andy Carroll from Newcastle who seem to wish to bring him back to the north east however with a small bid of 13million, Liverpool were quick to say no thank you.
There are rumours of a new bid being put forward, how different it would be, we are unsure. Andy Carroll has expressed his determination to stay at Liverpool, putting it on the table clearly that he does not wish to be sold and would only take a loan move reluctantly.
Andy Carroll's progress at Liverpool didn't seem to shine that well, with Suarez, Bellamy and Enrique taking the lime light of the better signings Carroll has faced some serious criticism with his lack of form and goals however towards the end of the season, Carroll started picking up. His performance at Euro 2012 proved he was still capable of some brilliant goals when it counted.
Dempsey is said to be a definite with the signing and transfer taking longer than expected, it seems Carrolls place in the first team, maybe squandered.
Whether you believe any of the rumours, personally I do hope the story of Walcott is indeed true as I have been a fan of his skills and abilities and would happily accept his moving to Anfield should such a thing happen.
Speaking of Americans, Liverpool's squad set off for America for their tour this afternoon from John Lennon Airport, the team sheet was released as follows:
Goalkeepers
Peter Gulacsi
Brad Jones
Danny Ward
Brad Jones
Danny Ward
Defenders
Daniel Agger
Jamie Carragher
Jon Flanagan
Stephen Sama
Brad Smith
Glen Johnson
Jose Enrique
Martin Skrtel
Danny Wilson
Martin Kelly
Ryan McLaughlin
Andre Wisdom
Jack Robinson
Jamie Carragher
Jon Flanagan
Stephen Sama
Brad Smith
Glen Johnson
Jose Enrique
Martin Skrtel
Danny Wilson
Martin Kelly
Ryan McLaughlin
Andre Wisdom
Jack Robinson
Midfielders
Charlie Adam
Alberto Aquilani
Joe Cole
Suso
Lucas Leiva
Stewart Downing
Steven Gerrard
Jordan Henderson
Jonjo Shelvey
Jay Spearing
Raheem Sterling
Jordon Ibe
Alberto Aquilani
Joe Cole
Suso
Lucas Leiva
Stewart Downing
Steven Gerrard
Jordan Henderson
Jonjo Shelvey
Jay Spearing
Raheem Sterling
Jordon Ibe
Strikers
Adam Morgan
Andy Carroll
Daniel Pacheco
Krisztian Adorjan
Fabio Borini
Nathan Eccleston
Andy Carroll
Daniel Pacheco
Krisztian Adorjan
Fabio Borini
Nathan Eccleston
Brendan Rogers has a made a point that he will be checking out the youngsters to see what they're capable of first hand and after only a couple of weeks actually training with them, BR has high hopes for the youngsters.
Their first game is against Toronto FC at the Rogers Centre on 21st July at 4pm (local time)
For more information on the liverpool American Tour, visit this place
That's all from me for now!
I'll keep you up-to-date with all the latest news on LiverpoolFC.
I'm Andy, signing off!
YNWA
Friday, 13 July 2012
BORINI IS IN!
The first signing for Brendan Rodgers is Fabio Borini! For an undisclosed fee but thought to be in around the 7.5million euro mark, Borini has been given a full medical today and his own number 29 while signing everything in a number 6 top.
Borini is only 21 and has been hailed as the next Inzaghi.
For his first full interview at Melwood click here
Maxi has officially left Anfield, as sad as it is, he has been a player of immense talent and he will be missed with Kuyt also gone, Liverpool will be looking for a winger who can make the runs and create the crosses.
Maxi is said to have made the decision after talks with Rodgers on a mutual agreement, in which it seemed to be family related rather than any kind of dispute though the actual story has not been disclosed.
Moutinho is also on the target list for Liverpool and is said to be free at the moment so will be up for grabs but with interests coming from all directions Liverpool will need something outstanding to secure a hold on him.
Borini is only 21 and has been hailed as the next Inzaghi.
For his first full interview at Melwood click here
Maxi has officially left Anfield, as sad as it is, he has been a player of immense talent and he will be missed with Kuyt also gone, Liverpool will be looking for a winger who can make the runs and create the crosses.
Maxi is said to have made the decision after talks with Rodgers on a mutual agreement, in which it seemed to be family related rather than any kind of dispute though the actual story has not been disclosed.
Moutinho is also on the target list for Liverpool and is said to be free at the moment so will be up for grabs but with interests coming from all directions Liverpool will need something outstanding to secure a hold on him.
Thursday, 12 July 2012
What's the catch up?
Ok so here are the latest reported rumours...
Andy Carroll has had one of his friends shout out that he has no intention on leaving Liverpool and intends on fighting for his spot to prove himself and to be part of BR's plans.
Maxi Rodriguez is now apparently having talks with Club Atlético Newell's Old Boys, an Argentinian team, seeing as Maxi was not a big part of Kenny's Team however he could be a part of BR's... Talks are still continuing. Would you like to keep him? I know I would like to. He plays well with Bellamy and Suarez having the same style of upbringing in football style and both have pace to strike the heart of any defence. It was a shame he was not featured in Dalglish's team.
Liverpool are apparently on the forefront for Sturridge, what do you think of this buy?
Suarez, Skrtel and Agger to sign a new extension contract.
Rumours are that Reina may want to leave after reports of Spanish teams want him, LLoris is an apparent target for the club to replace him but I don't think we're in too much of a hurry with Doni and Jones both proving they're more than capable. We also still have Gulasci in the back should things go eerie.
Suso is hoping to impress BR and get a spot in the first squad. With Sterling also making the same rate of work to impress the new boss it seems we may actually see more of the new youngsters playing next season.
Fulham's Dempsey has been in the papers quite a lot and yet to have any confirmation about contact with Liverpool but that doesn't strike the whole story down. The price tag is in the region of £7.5. some reports are claiming a swap for Andy Carroll for Dempsey AND cash, which personally makes no sense.
Who would you like to see playing in the new squad? Who would you like to see be signed?
Leave your comments down below!
Andy Carroll has had one of his friends shout out that he has no intention on leaving Liverpool and intends on fighting for his spot to prove himself and to be part of BR's plans.
Maxi Rodriguez is now apparently having talks with Club Atlético Newell's Old Boys, an Argentinian team, seeing as Maxi was not a big part of Kenny's Team however he could be a part of BR's... Talks are still continuing. Would you like to keep him? I know I would like to. He plays well with Bellamy and Suarez having the same style of upbringing in football style and both have pace to strike the heart of any defence. It was a shame he was not featured in Dalglish's team.
Liverpool are apparently on the forefront for Sturridge, what do you think of this buy?
Suarez, Skrtel and Agger to sign a new extension contract.
Rumours are that Reina may want to leave after reports of Spanish teams want him, LLoris is an apparent target for the club to replace him but I don't think we're in too much of a hurry with Doni and Jones both proving they're more than capable. We also still have Gulasci in the back should things go eerie.
Suso is hoping to impress BR and get a spot in the first squad. With Sterling also making the same rate of work to impress the new boss it seems we may actually see more of the new youngsters playing next season.
Fulham's Dempsey has been in the papers quite a lot and yet to have any confirmation about contact with Liverpool but that doesn't strike the whole story down. The price tag is in the region of £7.5. some reports are claiming a swap for Andy Carroll for Dempsey AND cash, which personally makes no sense.
Who would you like to see playing in the new squad? Who would you like to see be signed?
Leave your comments down below!
Monday, 9 July 2012
Kind of a Review of 2011/12
This season we have seen some manic changes with the hope of
glory under the reign of King Kenny but this season has shown the resilience of
the Premier League. We can always look at this year being the lowest of the
season but there is a lot to learn from and for people to look and say, it was shocking
and terrible, one things we all know is the terrible luck we've had.
This season we've had some highs and some lows with results
and it has been a huge development time but there is a lot that needs to be
done. We all knew that this season was a season of building but the number of
chances we had and not consolidated those has been a disappointment.
As a team we've had a lot of work done, we saw a lot of
passes that gave the opposition the chance to score and many times we have seen
them take advantage of it.
But player wise, we have a collection of fantastic players
that need to be more of a team than a work alone man.
Results, beating the big teams and failing against the
weaker sides, as wins against the top teams, Chelsea, Manchester City,
Manchester United, but then to lose or only draw at home against the likes of
Blackburn and Wolves, teams who were at the bottom and struggling for form.
But the positives are what we need to look at and the
negatives is what we need to learn from.
But lets have a look at the top performers and the under
performers.
In no particular order, each player chosen have been one
that has influenced games and made an impact on the team as a whole.
Jose Enrique - The best buy out of all the players. A player
who has started essentially every game and made an impression from the first
game. His ability has done nothing but improve, worked well up front along side
the strikers to provide and has ensured Liverpool to have one of the best
defensive record this season and a reason why no goals have come from his side
of the pitch. Enrique has nothing to prove but to prove himself the best in the
world with his ability, his tackles has been brilliantly done, clean and strong
and committed into those tackles. his eye for a running forward has ensured
Liverpool to survive a not so successful frontal assault on the opposition.
Next season we can see a lot more from him, with nothing to
hold him back, but with only Jack Robinson as our only backup, injuries could
be a concern should anything happen to him.
Gerrard - The Skipper, our Captain Fantastic, with him back
on the seen, Gerrard had retaken his armband and led the team to some amazing
games, scoring a hat-trick against Everton and setting up some beautiful goals
throughout the season. At the Euro 2012 he captained England to the quarter
finals but were defeated on penalties by Italy, however his own record of 3
assists just shows his ability to pick out the players.
At 32 Gerrard will be leading Liverpool to many more
victories and with only the Premier League cup out of his grasp, he will be
ensuring everyone does their bit to win the league this season.
Skrtel - The Most Consistent Player of 2011/12. Skrtel has
exceeded his goal tally hopes for the season and having played a crucial part
on the central defence along side Agger, Johnson and Enrique, Skrtel has made a
name for himself and made himself an idol and future legend of Liverpool FC.
His own abilities and control in the back has ensured the back four have been
strong enough to hold off even the deadliest of attacks.
Although he had a stint with a red card that saw Liverpool
fall to 9 men against Spurs, he was back and playing his role in scoring goals
as well as keeping our net clear of any balls.
Suarez - El Pistolero! The one and only Suarez, scoring more
fantastical goals than ever. Having done well for Uruguay in winning the Copa
Del Rey and securing a place in the next world cup, Suarez has scored the goal
of the season and even with his 8 match ban, has shown his qualities. Hitting
the woodwork this season seemed to have been on the practice regime as a large
number of shots seem to ping off it.
He is an integral part of this team and needless to say, we
will be seeing a lot more from him in the future.
Agger - Agger, having finished his campaign in the Euro 2012
on a high, captaining Denmark to a group stage exit, he proved to everyone that
he was a defender to be feared. Along side Skrtel, Agger was the central
backbone of the defence ensuring nothing got through easily or at all. and the
partnership between the two has been brilliant. With Carragher coming closer to
the end of his career, we will be looking towards these guys to lead the
defence.
Bellamy - After a quick signing before the deadline, Bellamy
has been linked to many teams including a signing for his old club Cardiff City
but with Liverpool wanting to keep their choices open and strength at an all
time high, Bellamy is an essential member of the squad. With Rogers at the
Helm, you'll be seeing a lot more of Bellamy playing not just a role he is most
familiar with but a role he is best and personally I hope to see him upfront
along side Carroll and Suarez a lot more. Everyone sees him as a player that
can cross balls in but they also forget his ability to run with the ball and
his pace to attack down the middle from the sides. His footwork with the ball
is not quite the same as Suarez but his ability to keep up with Suarez and
support him up front will be necessary.
Coates - Having only appeared in a few matches, Coates has
shown his skills and ability and proven that he is a top class player, having
scored the only goal needed to ensure Uruguay a place in the World Cup and
setting up 3 goals for Suarez in the Copa Del Rey, he has huge potential. With
his height he will be essential in the box along side Carroll. his beauty of a
goal against QPR was, not only his first for Liverpool but one of mine and I'm
sure many of yours, favourite goals of 2011/12. Next season will be an
interesting time, having a squad of such ability and attacking prowess.
Those were the players that have done well, but what about
the others?
Henderson - A player of confusion would be the best way to
put it. throughout the season, Jordan Henderson has been a player said to be a
player of huge potential, a player of accuracy and a player who has excellent
ability to spot out the gaps in defences but this season has seen him confused,
not knowing what to do with the ball. Towards the end of the season he seemed
to pick up and his chance to play on the England squad has given him the chance
to improve a lot. Hopefully we shall see some of that improvement on the field
for Liverpool.
Spearing - With Lucas out we had to turn to Spearing and at
first I was quite enthusiastic about letting the younger players to have a go
but disappointment fell as he was sent off for a silly tackle and then his
performance fell and fell. Giving the ball away far too many times, pushing too
far forward than he should and not
landing the tackles and giving away free kicks far too easily. He is not a player
I would say we are in need of as he lacks the practice and intelligence to know
when to and when not to commit to a tackle.
Carroll - Many could argue that he was doing badly, some
would say we weren't utilising him properly, but at the end of the day, if you
are not providing or scoring, then you are not doing your job as a striker or
player. saying that he improved dramatically towards the end of the season,
scoring last minute goals to ensure wins and scoring in the Euro 2012.
Downing - Personally I don't think he has done terribly badly,
as he did his job, he made his runs, supported, crosses were on target and
scored goals but his problem was seen as his fault for not landing a ball on
Carroll's head but even he knows that you cannot cross a ball into an area when
no one is about. Having trained with the England squad I'm hoping to see a lot
more from him in the next season, hopefully more crosses similar to the
accuracy of Gerrard himself, hopefully he'll be able to get some tips from him.
That is the round up for the players, if you have any more
comments about the players leave them down below and lets discuss :)
Performance. Under performed, simply put, Liverpool are
better than this, the team knows this, the Managers know this and the way we
hesitate in the final third was terrible. With only Bellamy and Kuyt willing to
make the runs, we were limiting the chances we had and the amount of time taken
to wait for those people to move forward meant the defences of the opposition
were able to reorganise to stop any attack we had. The defence did well and
were the most consistent out of the positions while our striking force were
extremely lacking. Chances were not being taken, no hope for goals at all and
this seriously needs to be address. The Centre needs more work on their
communication as they were not able to hold
the centre giving the opposition too much space and far too much
possession in that area.
Red Cards. This season has seen to many, and 1 is already
too many though not always avoidable and with Suarez having his 8 match ban,
that put a huge strain on the team making things harder for themselves.
Penalties. How many did we miss? Carroll, Suarez even the
reliable Kuyt. Disappointment but with the Penalties, it is difficult to say,
it is a hit or miss, no other way about it.
Luck. Stressed so many times, Liverpool have had some
terrible luck this season having so many goals disallowed, bans, red cards,
this season has not been a lucky one. But next season we see Lucas return,
Gerrard at full strength, a new manager and a new approach that we hope to see
Liverpool return to their former glory. Luck has a little to do with the game
but in the end it is the players so we will be looking at how well the team
does on their America Tour over the Summer and keeping on top of the transfers
of this season.
To start off.
Gastron Ramirez has been said to sign for Liverpool by the
end of the week.
Diame also said to be linked with Liverpool
Kuyt has left for Fenerbahce. :(
Aurelio has moved... somewhere.
Players rumoured to leave: Maxi :( though he has mentioned
that he has intended to stay,
but we have heard this before from many players,
but lets hope he does not
Jack Robinson (on loan to Norwich or Bolton)...meh.... ,
Bellamy (Cardiff City) but again, he has reiterated his
intention to stay at Liverpool.
So that's it for this wek, I'll try to keep this more
updated with the America Tour and transfers, but until then, this has been Andy
Lai signing off!
YNWA...
Sunday, 24 June 2012
Eyes Fixed On England Tonight
We've seen Germany, Portugal and Spain go through, the favourites to get through but who will be the fourth?
It's that time again for England go into the Quarter-finals to take on Italy and I am sure everyone will be looking to see who will be played. So lets have a look.
As far as I can see, Liverpool and Arsenal will be teams with the players that will make or break it on the offence.
Italy's solid back four has shown through the group stage that they are capable of defending against even the toughest of opponents but what who or what can we do to break it down?!
Italy's defence is indeed solid however inconsistency and random lack of concentration as seen in their match against Spain and Croatia could be their undoing and England's glory.
Andy Carroll has to start.
Carroll's ability to hold the ball and head in the high crosses will be crucial in getting over the Italian defence who have been superb in defending against the Spanish side who excel with fancy footwork. We will be relying on Gerrard and possibly Downing (Though the more likely Milner would be selected) to spot Carroll as well as Walcott who can provide Carroll with the balls to nod them home while Chamberlain will be our counter man, one to attack on the counter and run riot with Walcott as support. However this would be best utilised in the final third, the first part will see England attacking variety points of entry, playing the wide balls as well as having Young and Wellbeck countering. Their familiarity with each other will help provide a strong and constant attacking piece of football.
We will have to see England playing much more aggressively if we have any hope of dealing a blow to Italy and going into the Semi Finals.
This is not going to be an easy game for the defence as Italy still have attacking strength in Di Natale, Balotelli and Cassano, all of who have put themselves on the scoreboard in this competition, our defence will need to look sharp. Balotelli essentially the Italian Carroll with an attitude (in the coolest way possible with a lot less hair), while Cassano has a Rooney style flair about him and Di Natale is your experienced Striker, picking out the weak points in a defence and taking advantage of it to put away the goals.
With only a couple of hours left before the match, I would pick my starting XI as:
Hart
G.Johnson, Terry, Lescott, A.Cole
Downing, Gerrard, Parker, Young
Carroll, Wellbeck
Sub at 60mins
Wellbeck < Oxlade-Chamberlain
Young < Walcott
Score prediction:
Hard to say but I go with...
England 2-1 Italy
Carroll and Gerrard to score
Balotelli to score
Almost time!!! See ya after the game!!
It's that time again for England go into the Quarter-finals to take on Italy and I am sure everyone will be looking to see who will be played. So lets have a look.
As far as I can see, Liverpool and Arsenal will be teams with the players that will make or break it on the offence.
Italy's solid back four has shown through the group stage that they are capable of defending against even the toughest of opponents but what who or what can we do to break it down?!
Italy's defence is indeed solid however inconsistency and random lack of concentration as seen in their match against Spain and Croatia could be their undoing and England's glory.
Andy Carroll has to start.
Carroll's ability to hold the ball and head in the high crosses will be crucial in getting over the Italian defence who have been superb in defending against the Spanish side who excel with fancy footwork. We will be relying on Gerrard and possibly Downing (Though the more likely Milner would be selected) to spot Carroll as well as Walcott who can provide Carroll with the balls to nod them home while Chamberlain will be our counter man, one to attack on the counter and run riot with Walcott as support. However this would be best utilised in the final third, the first part will see England attacking variety points of entry, playing the wide balls as well as having Young and Wellbeck countering. Their familiarity with each other will help provide a strong and constant attacking piece of football.
We will have to see England playing much more aggressively if we have any hope of dealing a blow to Italy and going into the Semi Finals.
This is not going to be an easy game for the defence as Italy still have attacking strength in Di Natale, Balotelli and Cassano, all of who have put themselves on the scoreboard in this competition, our defence will need to look sharp. Balotelli essentially the Italian Carroll with an attitude (in the coolest way possible with a lot less hair), while Cassano has a Rooney style flair about him and Di Natale is your experienced Striker, picking out the weak points in a defence and taking advantage of it to put away the goals.
With only a couple of hours left before the match, I would pick my starting XI as:
Hart
G.Johnson, Terry, Lescott, A.Cole
Downing, Gerrard, Parker, Young
Carroll, Wellbeck
Sub at 60mins
Wellbeck < Oxlade-Chamberlain
Young < Walcott
Score prediction:
Hard to say but I go with...
England 2-1 Italy
Carroll and Gerrard to score
Balotelli to score
Almost time!!! See ya after the game!!
Monday, 18 June 2012
Liverpool Fixtures are out! What's happening I wonder?
LFC's 2012-13 fixtures revealed
Here is our fixture list in full:
AUGUST
18 West Brom (A)
25 Manchester City (H)
SEPTEMBER
1 Arsenal (H)
15 Sunderland (A)
22 Manchester United (H)
29 Norwich City (A)
OCTOBER
6 Stoke City (H)
20 Reading (H)
27 Everton (A)
NOVEMBER
3 Newcastle United (H)
10 Chelsea (A)
17 Wigan Athletic (H)
24 Swansea City (A)
27 Tottenham (A)
DECEMBER
1 Southampton (H)
8 West Ham (A)
15 Aston Villa (H)
22 Fulham (H)
26 Stoke City (A)
29 QPR (A)
JANUARY 2013
1 Sunderland (H)
12 Manchester United (A)
19 Norwich City (H)
29 Arsenal (A)
FEBRUARY
2 Manchester City (A)
9 West Brom (H)
23 Swansea City (H)
MARCH
2 Wigan Athletic (A)
9 Tottenham (H)
16 Southampton (A)
30 Aston Villa (A)
APRIL
6 West Ham (H)
13 Reading (A)
20 Chelsea (H)
27 Newcastle United (A)
MAY
4 Everton (H)
12 Fulham (A)
19 QPR (H)
What are your thoughts?
Here is our fixture list in full:
AUGUST
18 West Brom (A)
25 Manchester City (H)
SEPTEMBER
1 Arsenal (H)
15 Sunderland (A)
22 Manchester United (H)
29 Norwich City (A)
OCTOBER
6 Stoke City (H)
20 Reading (H)
27 Everton (A)
NOVEMBER
3 Newcastle United (H)
10 Chelsea (A)
17 Wigan Athletic (H)
24 Swansea City (A)
27 Tottenham (A)
DECEMBER
1 Southampton (H)
8 West Ham (A)
15 Aston Villa (H)
22 Fulham (H)
26 Stoke City (A)
29 QPR (A)
JANUARY 2013
1 Sunderland (H)
12 Manchester United (A)
19 Norwich City (H)
29 Arsenal (A)
FEBRUARY
2 Manchester City (A)
9 West Brom (H)
23 Swansea City (H)
MARCH
2 Wigan Athletic (A)
9 Tottenham (H)
16 Southampton (A)
30 Aston Villa (A)
APRIL
6 West Ham (H)
13 Reading (A)
20 Chelsea (H)
27 Newcastle United (A)
MAY
4 Everton (H)
12 Fulham (A)
19 QPR (H)
What are your thoughts?
I think this seasons a bit more spread out with the teams we have to play, giving Liverpool less focused stress in a single month. It will be interesting to see how well West Ham, Reading and Southampton deal with the new relegation, will we be seeing the same as last year with the new boys taking everyone by surprise or will the surprise be they lasted that long?
Sam Allardyce has been done well with the Hammers and getting them into the premier league and a lot of new signings are heard to be signed to West Ham to bring back the days of entertaining football, you have to love Di Canio.
But to be frank, they all deserved to be in the premier league as the points between them showed their qualities, fighting for the top three. Only those 3 points separated the teams.
So that rivalry will see them into the premier league as to who can get the better of the other.
West Ham showed a lot of resilience in having to play previous premier league team Blackpool and Carling Cup Finalist Cardiff City to get into the Premier League. But now that they're they, maybe we will see the old dogs bite back.
Or Liverpool will trounce them...
Tell me what team you fear the most and lets break them down :P
Leave it in the comment section below!
Andy Lai! Signing out!
Saturday, 16 June 2012
Marriages All Round!!
Quick update:
The Liverpool squad have plenty to show for when it comes to being the family man, and with latest addition to being on their way are Martin Skrtel and Charlie Adams who have both had their wedding day today, so congratulations to them.
And to all those single liverpool fans... there are still other players you can become wags to :P
Also check out the top 10 liverpool player names being asked for to be placed on the back of the new football kits here ! Who would you have on your back????
The Liverpool squad have plenty to show for when it comes to being the family man, and with latest addition to being on their way are Martin Skrtel and Charlie Adams who have both had their wedding day today, so congratulations to them.
And to all those single liverpool fans... there are still other players you can become wags to :P
Also check out the top 10 liverpool player names being asked for to be placed on the back of the new football kits here ! Who would you have on your back????
Friday, 8 June 2012
I'm Back for Updates! Sorry for the Delay!
Well things have been a little hectic around here so I've not had access to the internet but I'm finally back and with quite a bit to talk about.
A lot has happened in the past few weeks and I should really bring things up to speed.
So the latest and the latter lot of news.
As many of you may know now, Liverpool have had a clean out with staff and players and more change is to come including the website itself.
For the sources of information, Liverpoolfc.tv was the site a lot of it came from, but now they will be changing to Liverpoolfc.com within the next month or so. There will be changes to the website throughout making any comment posted on the site and purchases made may have difficulty however they will suspending purchases during the change over and ensuring minimal amount of problems occur during such times of change.
Onto the players and team News Review!
Dalglish is out after Liverpool's higher-ups were convinced someone else was required to move the new team forward. Now there are a lot of mixed opinion on the matter, whether it was a good idea to sack Dalglish and personally I don't believe it was necessary however I can see some reasoning, whether it outweighed the cons of doing so is still unsure.
Considering the situation, 2 finals, 1 cup and the worse positioning ever in 50 odd years in the top-flight league, it does bring into question whether it was worth having him stay but saying that, this was a team that was under construction, it was being rebuilt, no-one in their right mind would think that a manager was going to be able to fix everything in a single season. No matter who came in as manager, it was going to be difficult and how it all turned out, I wasn't too disheartened as towards the end of the season, we saw a team that was finally fitting together. The players were finally understanding each other, Carroll was finally being utilised properly and the players were really coming together. However the higher-ups were not happy about the league positioning, and with teams such as Newcastle, Manchester City and Chelsea having a good season within the league, competition was going to be tough with a team that was still getting to know each other. Pressure was mounting over the success of the teams form, and with Merseyside rivals finishing above Liverpool by only a single place but with 4 points ahead, fans and the men upstairs were never going to be too happy.
Simply put, Liverpool had bad timing with having to build a new time while all other teams were further developing their teams. You cannot deny that all the teams above Liverpool at the end of the season, were having a decent season in the league, results speak for themselves. Are we willing to take that sitting down? Of course not! That wouldn't be the Reds Way.
This season what is needed, more than ever, is for the fans to get behind the team and usher in a new season, to put this season behind us, and to look forward. We have players of potential and players returning to Anfield and we'll be damned if we let this season be the beginning of our downfall.
With a solid set up front with Carroll, Suarez and Bellamy and our ever reliable skipper Stevie G at the Helm, this is one club that will not fall.
If anything, this season will see us rise to the occasion. With European football back on the plate and a tem that essentially consists of half the England squad, I really doubt there will be problems surviving the Europa League.
No matter what is said, the Europa league is still a league worth playing in, a perfect chance for those in the squad that are not use to playing European football to gain the experience and a chance to gauge what our capabilities are and our outlook for Champions League football.
Returning to our first story, Dalglish's departure sees a a new manager taking on the responsibility of moving Anfield back to Fortress status, that man is Brendan Rogers, Swansea City Manager has handed in his resignation letter and was officially made Liverpool's new manager.
He was happy to also release his letter that he had written to Swansea City of his exit, to read it click here.
Brendan Rogers was said to be first choice, however there was more talk of Martinez becoming the new manager than him. His acceptance was taken after a second attempt to bring him to Anfield.
The man that brought Swansea through promotion and made a huge impact in the Premier League as well as beating Liverpool in their last home game 1-0, I believe a lot of people may question his ability to manage a big team such as Liverpool but his pass ability has proven strong and is a man capable of holding a team that had very few known players to not only stay in top-flight football but also to hold a brilliant home record. Swansea was in the top 5 teams when it came to holding off alien teams on home soil, something Liverpool really need to bring back having lacked wins at home last season.
The man was capable of holding on with an unknown team, it can only be said, what is he capable with a team like Liverpool.
I for one am pleased to see a manager of his calibre come and take the reigns as his experience come more from recent football rather than the past and with the changing face of football, we need the experience of those who are are adaptable to the ever changing game.
Now with the departure of Dalglish, there were others that are leaving, Steve Clark left and is heading up West Bromwich Albion, Dirt Kuyt has expressed his wanting to leave Anfield and has done so. He moves to Fenerbahce.
Dirk Kuyt will be a player that will be missed, a man who I had strong game ethics, the man would literally chase the ball even if it was unreachable, he scored crutial goals constantly, people can question his scoring ability having scored many goals in the last two season with in the 6- yard box, but had he not been there, there would not be goals at all. He has been influential in many ways having set up his own charity to help teach football for those with disabilities, link here. A player brought in by Benitez and stayed for six-years but it was time for him to leave and join the Turkish team. From me, I hope him all the best at his new club.
More rumours are spreading of other players leaving however who, is still in the mist.
Joe Cole has returned after a season spell at Lille where he helped them into the top 3 in La Ligue, I'm sure he will be welcomed back with open arms.
Maxi has also reiterated his intentions on staying at Anfield which was a relief considering his lack of chances given last season.
Now for the England Squad news!
The players involve are Gerrard (Captain of England), Carroll, Downing, Henderson, Johnson and most recently, Martin Kelly.
With any manager, they will always look at players they have worked with and are familiar with and it is no surprise to see England consist of many Liverpool players after Hodgsons spell at Liverpool, although he didn't have the best time, he has seen potential and strength in the English boys at Anfield.
Gerrard was named Captain but I believe we all know why he is, the Skipper has done nothing but the thebest for Liverpool and for country and it was about time he took the armband.
Carroll's impressive performance at Newcastle and his development at Liverpool has shown strength. Downing admits his start at Anfield has not been great but neither was Skrtel's when he first came to Anfield and this season he was the most consistent. Henderson was a surprise as his season has not been great at all at Liverpool but his last appearance has shown promise in the England side. Johnson has always been ever reliable and with Martin Kelly as a back up it would be fitting.
I see this as a damn good opportunity for our players to spend more time on actual competition to work together and work even closer together than before. It would be brilliant warm up to the Europa league for European football and more opportunities to work out plays together.
If anything, I believe this will help strengthen Liverpool as a whole.
Each player has proven capabilities, though my doubts still fall on Henderson, however watching the last few games he has played, he has shown more resilience and focus in the game which is encouraging.
There is a lot of talk about Rio ferdinand not being picked and Martin Kelly being the replacement was a bad choice, but you can see the reasoning. Kelly has proven his ability having held off some of the strongest players in the Premier League at the beginning of the season when Johnson was still out and he has shown strength, and at the young age of 22, he still has many years to play for England. Starting them younger can only help develop them and I can see Kelly growing stronger still and taking over Johnson's position later on in time.
We shall see what England are capable of and with the results we will also be able to gauge Liverpool's squad too.
That's all for today, I'll try to keep it more up-to-date as the summer moves on.
This is Andy Lai, Signing off. YNWA.
A lot has happened in the past few weeks and I should really bring things up to speed.
So the latest and the latter lot of news.
As many of you may know now, Liverpool have had a clean out with staff and players and more change is to come including the website itself.
For the sources of information, Liverpoolfc.tv was the site a lot of it came from, but now they will be changing to Liverpoolfc.com within the next month or so. There will be changes to the website throughout making any comment posted on the site and purchases made may have difficulty however they will suspending purchases during the change over and ensuring minimal amount of problems occur during such times of change.
Onto the players and team News Review!
Dalglish is out after Liverpool's higher-ups were convinced someone else was required to move the new team forward. Now there are a lot of mixed opinion on the matter, whether it was a good idea to sack Dalglish and personally I don't believe it was necessary however I can see some reasoning, whether it outweighed the cons of doing so is still unsure.
Considering the situation, 2 finals, 1 cup and the worse positioning ever in 50 odd years in the top-flight league, it does bring into question whether it was worth having him stay but saying that, this was a team that was under construction, it was being rebuilt, no-one in their right mind would think that a manager was going to be able to fix everything in a single season. No matter who came in as manager, it was going to be difficult and how it all turned out, I wasn't too disheartened as towards the end of the season, we saw a team that was finally fitting together. The players were finally understanding each other, Carroll was finally being utilised properly and the players were really coming together. However the higher-ups were not happy about the league positioning, and with teams such as Newcastle, Manchester City and Chelsea having a good season within the league, competition was going to be tough with a team that was still getting to know each other. Pressure was mounting over the success of the teams form, and with Merseyside rivals finishing above Liverpool by only a single place but with 4 points ahead, fans and the men upstairs were never going to be too happy.
Simply put, Liverpool had bad timing with having to build a new time while all other teams were further developing their teams. You cannot deny that all the teams above Liverpool at the end of the season, were having a decent season in the league, results speak for themselves. Are we willing to take that sitting down? Of course not! That wouldn't be the Reds Way.
This season what is needed, more than ever, is for the fans to get behind the team and usher in a new season, to put this season behind us, and to look forward. We have players of potential and players returning to Anfield and we'll be damned if we let this season be the beginning of our downfall.
With a solid set up front with Carroll, Suarez and Bellamy and our ever reliable skipper Stevie G at the Helm, this is one club that will not fall.
If anything, this season will see us rise to the occasion. With European football back on the plate and a tem that essentially consists of half the England squad, I really doubt there will be problems surviving the Europa League.
No matter what is said, the Europa league is still a league worth playing in, a perfect chance for those in the squad that are not use to playing European football to gain the experience and a chance to gauge what our capabilities are and our outlook for Champions League football.
Returning to our first story, Dalglish's departure sees a a new manager taking on the responsibility of moving Anfield back to Fortress status, that man is Brendan Rogers, Swansea City Manager has handed in his resignation letter and was officially made Liverpool's new manager.
He was happy to also release his letter that he had written to Swansea City of his exit, to read it click here.
Brendan Rogers was said to be first choice, however there was more talk of Martinez becoming the new manager than him. His acceptance was taken after a second attempt to bring him to Anfield.
The man that brought Swansea through promotion and made a huge impact in the Premier League as well as beating Liverpool in their last home game 1-0, I believe a lot of people may question his ability to manage a big team such as Liverpool but his pass ability has proven strong and is a man capable of holding a team that had very few known players to not only stay in top-flight football but also to hold a brilliant home record. Swansea was in the top 5 teams when it came to holding off alien teams on home soil, something Liverpool really need to bring back having lacked wins at home last season.
The man was capable of holding on with an unknown team, it can only be said, what is he capable with a team like Liverpool.
I for one am pleased to see a manager of his calibre come and take the reigns as his experience come more from recent football rather than the past and with the changing face of football, we need the experience of those who are are adaptable to the ever changing game.
Now with the departure of Dalglish, there were others that are leaving, Steve Clark left and is heading up West Bromwich Albion, Dirt Kuyt has expressed his wanting to leave Anfield and has done so. He moves to Fenerbahce.
Dirk Kuyt will be a player that will be missed, a man who I had strong game ethics, the man would literally chase the ball even if it was unreachable, he scored crutial goals constantly, people can question his scoring ability having scored many goals in the last two season with in the 6- yard box, but had he not been there, there would not be goals at all. He has been influential in many ways having set up his own charity to help teach football for those with disabilities, link here. A player brought in by Benitez and stayed for six-years but it was time for him to leave and join the Turkish team. From me, I hope him all the best at his new club.
More rumours are spreading of other players leaving however who, is still in the mist.
Joe Cole has returned after a season spell at Lille where he helped them into the top 3 in La Ligue, I'm sure he will be welcomed back with open arms.
Maxi has also reiterated his intentions on staying at Anfield which was a relief considering his lack of chances given last season.
Now for the England Squad news!
The players involve are Gerrard (Captain of England), Carroll, Downing, Henderson, Johnson and most recently, Martin Kelly.
With any manager, they will always look at players they have worked with and are familiar with and it is no surprise to see England consist of many Liverpool players after Hodgsons spell at Liverpool, although he didn't have the best time, he has seen potential and strength in the English boys at Anfield.
Gerrard was named Captain but I believe we all know why he is, the Skipper has done nothing but the thebest for Liverpool and for country and it was about time he took the armband.
Carroll's impressive performance at Newcastle and his development at Liverpool has shown strength. Downing admits his start at Anfield has not been great but neither was Skrtel's when he first came to Anfield and this season he was the most consistent. Henderson was a surprise as his season has not been great at all at Liverpool but his last appearance has shown promise in the England side. Johnson has always been ever reliable and with Martin Kelly as a back up it would be fitting.
I see this as a damn good opportunity for our players to spend more time on actual competition to work together and work even closer together than before. It would be brilliant warm up to the Europa league for European football and more opportunities to work out plays together.
If anything, I believe this will help strengthen Liverpool as a whole.
Each player has proven capabilities, though my doubts still fall on Henderson, however watching the last few games he has played, he has shown more resilience and focus in the game which is encouraging.
There is a lot of talk about Rio ferdinand not being picked and Martin Kelly being the replacement was a bad choice, but you can see the reasoning. Kelly has proven his ability having held off some of the strongest players in the Premier League at the beginning of the season when Johnson was still out and he has shown strength, and at the young age of 22, he still has many years to play for England. Starting them younger can only help develop them and I can see Kelly growing stronger still and taking over Johnson's position later on in time.
We shall see what England are capable of and with the results we will also be able to gauge Liverpool's squad too.
That's all for today, I'll try to keep it more up-to-date as the summer moves on.
This is Andy Lai, Signing off. YNWA.
Friday, 25 May 2012
Apologies for lack of Blogging!
I'm stuck in the middle with moving and currently not able to continue blogging for a while, but I should be back within the next month. I will return soon enough!
Until then, check out Liverpoolfc.tv for more updates on Liverpool's progress!
Andy x
Tuesday, 1 May 2012
Day of Reckoning Approaches.. But first, Fulham
Today we see the Reds bring out, essentially would be seen as their second team. With a team of players who have had few first team starts it was an interesting choice of players for Kenny but it we all knew why this team was picked.
With the FA Cup Final coming next, Kenny wanted to see who was really fighting for first team and I think today showed a little of who should and who shouldn't be.
OK so they lost, 0-1 to the first team of Fulham. Admittedly, it didn't seem as though they were pushing particularly hard but it there were a few chances for Dempsey and what a job Doni did!
A warm welcome return for John Arne Riise, but a not so emphatic one for Murphy. Riise being one of the influential fall-backs of his time while at Anfield returns to strike back. Making his trademark runs down the flank but his not so trademarked shots and crosses that didn't really go anywhere, almost to say he didn't want to score.
Team Line-Up
Doni, Kelly, Coates, Skrtel, Aurelio, Henderson, Shelvey, Spearing, Maxi, Carroll, Kuyt
A disappointing O.G. from Skrtel in the first 5mins didn't help things as this second team looked to strike back but a lot of miscommunication between players as to where the ball was being placed put a lot more unnecessary stress on all of them.
Best players I can say that didn't show any real flaws in the game, Doni, Coates, Kelly, Carroll (Yes I know, he did well *SHOCK* * HORROR*).
But lets see what needs fixing. Aurelio has been out of games and not really played much this season with his position taken up by Johnson and Enrique. Having been out of shape his abilities was a little lacking but he still had his keen eye to spot a player and a few decent through balls.
Skrtel didn't exactly have the best of starts but he still held down the defence and controlled the defence line.
Henderson played in centre midfield but lacked real movement, his crosses were a little optimistic if not blind-eyed crosses as they never really hit the targeted players. His attacking strength seems lacking as he still hesitates to push forward, with a lack of ball control, Henderson was a little disappointing.
Shelvey, did well in pushing forward making runs and did it with real accuracy but his passing accuracy was devastating as Fulham were countering well with each lost pass causing a need to fall back.
Spearings link up play with Carroll and Kuyt showed some flaws, defensively he did well and was strong but on the offence as he moved forward, he tend to lose the ball while trying to play it into Maxi and or Kuyt.
Kuyt's played well but unable to link up with any of the others as he has not really played a lot with any of them making it difficult to know how to play it in. His crosses were pin point accurate as always but with a few players in the box lacking in experience it was up to Carroll to sort it out.
As a whole, the defence was very strong, Skrtel and Coates did extremely well to hold everyone off while Doni made some amazing saves that were crucial to the game.
Sterling later came on and showed some extremely skilful footwork and a lovely cross that couldn't be converted. With just a few minutes, Sterling had really made some extremely crucial movements that forced the Fulham defence to really scramble.
Carroll, about time he showed his footwork capabilities once again as he was able to really push forward, hold off the defence and provide for the others, it is a shame the final shots did not convert. Simply put he will definitely feature in the final but.
Shots from Shelvey, Maxi and Carroll were all in vain as they were all off target and no crosses were able to be converted into goals.
Today's game showed our defensive strength but the lack of forward attacks which leaves Suarez and Gerrard is guaranteed a position while, although Kuyt's strong work ethic and hard chasing of the ball has always been affective and useful, his later form has shown to waiver. As disappointing as it seems, I would say he would be placed on the bench but maybe played as a game changer in the later third of the game as a shock-sub as his pace would really cause damage in the later stage, just as he once did.
Considering this was a mixed team of players who had never really played together in a PL game, it was admirable for them to hold off the first team of Fulham who have recently been in pretty good form except the game against an extremely in-form Everton.
Kenny will have more trouble picking who to have in defence as they have all shown real strength in the back but what lacked was anything in the attack. As well as they did push harder from midfield, there was still weakness upfront.
As far as I can see, the starting XI would be as follows.
Starting XI: Reina, Enrique, Agger, Skrtel, Kelly, Gerrard, Downing, Kuyt, Bellamy, Carroll, Suarez
Bench: Doni, Coates, Carragher, Maxi, Henderson, Spearing, Sterling
Reina has always been the reliable one to be in the back with a keen eye and experience, he has to be the real choice to be in goal.
Enrique has earned his rightful place over the season as the left-back while the return of Agger and Skrtel as the centre back has shown good partnership.
Kelly may seem an odd choice but his performance today has shown he is capable of keeping up with forward striking force as well as falling back to defend. His crosses still need a little improvement but with a little push and pressure, this final may just be the push he needs to provide.
Downing's ability, as Enrique, has shown he is capable of playing on both left and right but with Kuyt covering the right, I would have Downing working along side Enrique to provide crosses for Carroll and Suarez. In the centre I would put Gerrard in his rightful place.
Up front, Carroll centred with Bellamy and Suarez moving from left to right. With their abilities to play either side and provide for each other, Suarez and Bellamy would run riot in the defence.
The bench would consist mainly of defensive players as this game would need our full force of attacks to break the defence line of Chelsea.
Expected Starting XI: Reina, Enrique, Skrtel, Carragher, Johnson, Gerrard, Downing, Spearing, Kuyt, Suarez Carroll.
Experience would most likely be Kenny's choice of strength to use so Carragher would be more likely choice while his work along side Skrtel has been better than with Agger. He's happy with the way Spearing is capable of falling back to defend. Kuyt would be played but swapped out for Bellamy later on in the game as he is hoping on allowing Kuyt's work along side Suarez and Carroll to be worth the try. Kuyt's reputation on scoring crucial goals in cup games have been a show brilliance and a light of hope within the game.
This would be interesting how Kenny decides to play this game.
With the FA Cup Final coming next, Kenny wanted to see who was really fighting for first team and I think today showed a little of who should and who shouldn't be.
OK so they lost, 0-1 to the first team of Fulham. Admittedly, it didn't seem as though they were pushing particularly hard but it there were a few chances for Dempsey and what a job Doni did!
A warm welcome return for John Arne Riise, but a not so emphatic one for Murphy. Riise being one of the influential fall-backs of his time while at Anfield returns to strike back. Making his trademark runs down the flank but his not so trademarked shots and crosses that didn't really go anywhere, almost to say he didn't want to score.
Team Line-Up
Doni, Kelly, Coates, Skrtel, Aurelio, Henderson, Shelvey, Spearing, Maxi, Carroll, Kuyt
A disappointing O.G. from Skrtel in the first 5mins didn't help things as this second team looked to strike back but a lot of miscommunication between players as to where the ball was being placed put a lot more unnecessary stress on all of them.
Best players I can say that didn't show any real flaws in the game, Doni, Coates, Kelly, Carroll (Yes I know, he did well *SHOCK* * HORROR*).
But lets see what needs fixing. Aurelio has been out of games and not really played much this season with his position taken up by Johnson and Enrique. Having been out of shape his abilities was a little lacking but he still had his keen eye to spot a player and a few decent through balls.
Skrtel didn't exactly have the best of starts but he still held down the defence and controlled the defence line.
Henderson played in centre midfield but lacked real movement, his crosses were a little optimistic if not blind-eyed crosses as they never really hit the targeted players. His attacking strength seems lacking as he still hesitates to push forward, with a lack of ball control, Henderson was a little disappointing.
Shelvey, did well in pushing forward making runs and did it with real accuracy but his passing accuracy was devastating as Fulham were countering well with each lost pass causing a need to fall back.
Spearings link up play with Carroll and Kuyt showed some flaws, defensively he did well and was strong but on the offence as he moved forward, he tend to lose the ball while trying to play it into Maxi and or Kuyt.
Kuyt's played well but unable to link up with any of the others as he has not really played a lot with any of them making it difficult to know how to play it in. His crosses were pin point accurate as always but with a few players in the box lacking in experience it was up to Carroll to sort it out.
As a whole, the defence was very strong, Skrtel and Coates did extremely well to hold everyone off while Doni made some amazing saves that were crucial to the game.
Sterling later came on and showed some extremely skilful footwork and a lovely cross that couldn't be converted. With just a few minutes, Sterling had really made some extremely crucial movements that forced the Fulham defence to really scramble.
Carroll, about time he showed his footwork capabilities once again as he was able to really push forward, hold off the defence and provide for the others, it is a shame the final shots did not convert. Simply put he will definitely feature in the final but.
Shots from Shelvey, Maxi and Carroll were all in vain as they were all off target and no crosses were able to be converted into goals.
Today's game showed our defensive strength but the lack of forward attacks which leaves Suarez and Gerrard is guaranteed a position while, although Kuyt's strong work ethic and hard chasing of the ball has always been affective and useful, his later form has shown to waiver. As disappointing as it seems, I would say he would be placed on the bench but maybe played as a game changer in the later third of the game as a shock-sub as his pace would really cause damage in the later stage, just as he once did.
Considering this was a mixed team of players who had never really played together in a PL game, it was admirable for them to hold off the first team of Fulham who have recently been in pretty good form except the game against an extremely in-form Everton.
Kenny will have more trouble picking who to have in defence as they have all shown real strength in the back but what lacked was anything in the attack. As well as they did push harder from midfield, there was still weakness upfront.
As far as I can see, the starting XI would be as follows.
Starting XI: Reina, Enrique, Agger, Skrtel, Kelly, Gerrard, Downing, Kuyt, Bellamy, Carroll, Suarez
Bench: Doni, Coates, Carragher, Maxi, Henderson, Spearing, Sterling
Reina has always been the reliable one to be in the back with a keen eye and experience, he has to be the real choice to be in goal.
Enrique has earned his rightful place over the season as the left-back while the return of Agger and Skrtel as the centre back has shown good partnership.
Kelly may seem an odd choice but his performance today has shown he is capable of keeping up with forward striking force as well as falling back to defend. His crosses still need a little improvement but with a little push and pressure, this final may just be the push he needs to provide.
Downing's ability, as Enrique, has shown he is capable of playing on both left and right but with Kuyt covering the right, I would have Downing working along side Enrique to provide crosses for Carroll and Suarez. In the centre I would put Gerrard in his rightful place.
Up front, Carroll centred with Bellamy and Suarez moving from left to right. With their abilities to play either side and provide for each other, Suarez and Bellamy would run riot in the defence.
The bench would consist mainly of defensive players as this game would need our full force of attacks to break the defence line of Chelsea.
Expected Starting XI: Reina, Enrique, Skrtel, Carragher, Johnson, Gerrard, Downing, Spearing, Kuyt, Suarez Carroll.
Experience would most likely be Kenny's choice of strength to use so Carragher would be more likely choice while his work along side Skrtel has been better than with Agger. He's happy with the way Spearing is capable of falling back to defend. Kuyt would be played but swapped out for Bellamy later on in the game as he is hoping on allowing Kuyt's work along side Suarez and Carroll to be worth the try. Kuyt's reputation on scoring crucial goals in cup games have been a show brilliance and a light of hope within the game.
This would be interesting how Kenny decides to play this game.
Monday, 23 April 2012
Lads From Nacional Come to Melwood
Luis Suarez has posted a photo of the youngsters from Nacional who will be training at the Academy and will be there for a few weeks as Liverpool look to seek out new talent.
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Click here for Photo
The youngsters have all been hand picked by the Liverpool Scouts to train at Melwood as communication between Nacional and Liverpool are still strong.
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Click here for Photo
The youngsters have all been hand picked by the Liverpool Scouts to train at Melwood as communication between Nacional and Liverpool are still strong.
Sunday, 22 April 2012
Hodgson Haunts Anfield
A disappointing game see the Reds lose 1-0 against West Bromich Albion as Hodgson's returns to Anfield to lead the Albion into their first win at Anfield in a long long time!
A return for Reina after his 3 match ban welcomes him to a home as the Kops number one stopper. Kenny has kept Gerrard out of this game so this game sees Henderson filling in for the skipper. Starting XI start for Maxi and Kuyt while the usual back four and front two stay the same.
Liverpool Line-up: Reina, Johnson, Skrtel, Agger, Enrique,Kuyt Henderson, Spearing, Rodriguez, Carroll, Suarez.
West Brom Line-up: Foster, Jones, McAuley, Olsson, Ridgewell, Brunt, Dorrans, Mulumbu, Thomas, Odemwingie.
Hodgson returns after a poor start to the season last year as Manager and he faces up against his replacement.
From the beginning a brilliant bright start from Liverpool, but a lack of finishing was, more to the point, non-existent.
Brilliant few chances from Carroll, Henderson catching the crossbar (after winning Bet188's crossbar challenge I'm not surprised), Suarez tearing through the defence but unable to get the final touch. Shots from Spearing and Henderson throughout the game, lovely set-ups from Johnson and Kuyt but still unable to capitalise.
Towards the end of the match, desperation fell over Anfield's Army as long balls were just being chucked into the area. Frustration could be seen in all the Liverpool players as they become more aggressive towards the WBA players than the game.
West Brom Albion deserve a lot of credit for disrupting the offence of Liverpool, while the fault falls for Johnson as a poor clearance drops to Odemwingie who calmly gained control to pop the ball passed Reina who was off balance. Olsson kept on top of Suarez, and did well but Suarez flared up with many missed call from the referee.
Not too impressve from Liverpool as the ball just would not get in the back of the net even with Ben Foster spilling the ball every single time he made a save. The counter attacks were slow as they spent too much time trying to wait for the rest of the team for support. The midfielders were not moving ahead fast enough to support the strike force, give West Brom plenty of time to fall back and regroup and hold their defence line.
Suarez did well to get passed them but not enough communication between the players left the team unable to get their passes down dropping their passing success rate by approx. 15% within the last 15mins.
Finishing.
Liverpool's problem. A problem that is quite essential to winning a game wouldn't you say? Today's game saw exactly how Liverpool play in the final third as they take far too much time being hesitant and nervous with the ball. The players are getting some brilliant balls in, but they player in the box are too easily manipulated by oppositions defence. Carroll's not moving about to lose his player to gain an advantage, as much as he can hold his ground, he isn't so capable against two.
Suarez has had a shot with every single part of his body but not one single shot has hit the net.
West Brom's defence were tight and able to deal with a lot of the attacks as Liverpool were unable to gain cohesive momentum of attack. Crosses from Kuyt proved useful at many times but it really isn't the role he shows his full potential.
With the Skipper out, Kuyt should have been played in the centre playing support role to Suarez and Carroll. His ability to run through the pitch with great speed makes him ideal for attacking and providing down the centre. Henderson played well however having him in the centre does not suit how he has developed in the team. Thus a switch between Kuyt and Henderson would have been more advantageous.
Maxi's lack of games has him on unfamiliar grounds as he wasn't at his best but still showed strength when attacking and providing for the Uruguayan.
(ever noticed Maxi and Tevez has that bottom lip thing going on? :-p)
Suarez was able to start some great runs in some very tight spots but again the finish was never around. Time and time again, the players are too muddled to know what is going on in the final third.
Bellamy soon came on for Kuyt, instead of changing tactics, he simply replaced the player. Wise in a sense but also a folly of a plan. Bellamy did well to make plenty of crosses but with a worn out centre attack, it was hard to see anyone getting a touch of the ball.
Fouls began to creep in with Skrtel getting frustrated with Long.
At the moment Liverpool need to focus on keeping their heads up and moving forward, trying to attack with who they have and move about and create some space for themselves.
Hodgson's style has always been a defensive play, having all four defenders as far back as they can afford to be; The midfielder's fall back into defensive position rather than attacking the player with the ball keeping a solid defensive structure which worked well against Liverpool as they were far too slow with the counter attacks and general movement.
So really Liverpool needed more from Spearing and Henderson attacking and moving forward, pressing the defence to force them out of position, dragging them across to the sides and opening up some space in the centre for Carroll and Suarez. Instead, Suarez has had to do it all himself a lot of the time.
The crossings, as well placed as they were, they were far too slow allowing the defence to tighten back up.
Player missed was definitely Gerrard, without him in the centre giving accurate through-balls for Suarez and Kuyt, this became a difficult game. Spearing spoke recently of stepping up his game and he has done well in this game but still needs to focus his shots more as he is blasting them far over the bar each time but doing well.
Henderson, individually has ability but not in a team, too many times has he played a terrible pass into a player who was surrounded.
Disappointing finish for the Reds but a brilliant performance, as Kenny has been saying, it is a team in the making and the frame work can be seen, the structure is coming together but the finishing touches are still needed.
Next game Liverpool travel to Carrow Road to try and take back a win after a draw at Anfield earlier in the season. With this loss, a win is a necessity if they wish to stay in the top half of the table.
Liverpool come to an end of a season with an extremely difficult run of matches.
Fulham (H), Chelsea (FA Cup Final), Chelsea (PL) (H), Swansea (A).
Fulham have been in form with a lot of goals from Dempsey while the final for the FA Cup could see Liverpool playing European football despite their current position. Chelsea are in form after a win against the Mighty Spanish Barcelona and a final game against Swansea who have only lost to 3 teams at home.
With the Form the Red's are in, potential to a late outbreak of beauty that was seen last season is possible but a lot of work needs to be done.
A return for Reina after his 3 match ban welcomes him to a home as the Kops number one stopper. Kenny has kept Gerrard out of this game so this game sees Henderson filling in for the skipper. Starting XI start for Maxi and Kuyt while the usual back four and front two stay the same.
Liverpool Line-up: Reina, Johnson, Skrtel, Agger, Enrique,Kuyt Henderson, Spearing, Rodriguez, Carroll, Suarez.
West Brom Line-up: Foster, Jones, McAuley, Olsson, Ridgewell, Brunt, Dorrans, Mulumbu, Thomas, Odemwingie.
Hodgson returns after a poor start to the season last year as Manager and he faces up against his replacement.
From the beginning a brilliant bright start from Liverpool, but a lack of finishing was, more to the point, non-existent.
Brilliant few chances from Carroll, Henderson catching the crossbar (after winning Bet188's crossbar challenge I'm not surprised), Suarez tearing through the defence but unable to get the final touch. Shots from Spearing and Henderson throughout the game, lovely set-ups from Johnson and Kuyt but still unable to capitalise.
Towards the end of the match, desperation fell over Anfield's Army as long balls were just being chucked into the area. Frustration could be seen in all the Liverpool players as they become more aggressive towards the WBA players than the game.
West Brom Albion deserve a lot of credit for disrupting the offence of Liverpool, while the fault falls for Johnson as a poor clearance drops to Odemwingie who calmly gained control to pop the ball passed Reina who was off balance. Olsson kept on top of Suarez, and did well but Suarez flared up with many missed call from the referee.
Not too impressve from Liverpool as the ball just would not get in the back of the net even with Ben Foster spilling the ball every single time he made a save. The counter attacks were slow as they spent too much time trying to wait for the rest of the team for support. The midfielders were not moving ahead fast enough to support the strike force, give West Brom plenty of time to fall back and regroup and hold their defence line.
Suarez did well to get passed them but not enough communication between the players left the team unable to get their passes down dropping their passing success rate by approx. 15% within the last 15mins.
Finishing.
Liverpool's problem. A problem that is quite essential to winning a game wouldn't you say? Today's game saw exactly how Liverpool play in the final third as they take far too much time being hesitant and nervous with the ball. The players are getting some brilliant balls in, but they player in the box are too easily manipulated by oppositions defence. Carroll's not moving about to lose his player to gain an advantage, as much as he can hold his ground, he isn't so capable against two.
Suarez has had a shot with every single part of his body but not one single shot has hit the net.
West Brom's defence were tight and able to deal with a lot of the attacks as Liverpool were unable to gain cohesive momentum of attack. Crosses from Kuyt proved useful at many times but it really isn't the role he shows his full potential.
With the Skipper out, Kuyt should have been played in the centre playing support role to Suarez and Carroll. His ability to run through the pitch with great speed makes him ideal for attacking and providing down the centre. Henderson played well however having him in the centre does not suit how he has developed in the team. Thus a switch between Kuyt and Henderson would have been more advantageous.
Maxi's lack of games has him on unfamiliar grounds as he wasn't at his best but still showed strength when attacking and providing for the Uruguayan.
(ever noticed Maxi and Tevez has that bottom lip thing going on? :-p)
Suarez was able to start some great runs in some very tight spots but again the finish was never around. Time and time again, the players are too muddled to know what is going on in the final third.
Bellamy soon came on for Kuyt, instead of changing tactics, he simply replaced the player. Wise in a sense but also a folly of a plan. Bellamy did well to make plenty of crosses but with a worn out centre attack, it was hard to see anyone getting a touch of the ball.
Fouls began to creep in with Skrtel getting frustrated with Long.
At the moment Liverpool need to focus on keeping their heads up and moving forward, trying to attack with who they have and move about and create some space for themselves.
Hodgson's style has always been a defensive play, having all four defenders as far back as they can afford to be; The midfielder's fall back into defensive position rather than attacking the player with the ball keeping a solid defensive structure which worked well against Liverpool as they were far too slow with the counter attacks and general movement.
So really Liverpool needed more from Spearing and Henderson attacking and moving forward, pressing the defence to force them out of position, dragging them across to the sides and opening up some space in the centre for Carroll and Suarez. Instead, Suarez has had to do it all himself a lot of the time.
The crossings, as well placed as they were, they were far too slow allowing the defence to tighten back up.
Player missed was definitely Gerrard, without him in the centre giving accurate through-balls for Suarez and Kuyt, this became a difficult game. Spearing spoke recently of stepping up his game and he has done well in this game but still needs to focus his shots more as he is blasting them far over the bar each time but doing well.
Henderson, individually has ability but not in a team, too many times has he played a terrible pass into a player who was surrounded.
Disappointing finish for the Reds but a brilliant performance, as Kenny has been saying, it is a team in the making and the frame work can be seen, the structure is coming together but the finishing touches are still needed.
Next game Liverpool travel to Carrow Road to try and take back a win after a draw at Anfield earlier in the season. With this loss, a win is a necessity if they wish to stay in the top half of the table.
Liverpool come to an end of a season with an extremely difficult run of matches.
Fulham (H), Chelsea (FA Cup Final), Chelsea (PL) (H), Swansea (A).
Fulham have been in form with a lot of goals from Dempsey while the final for the FA Cup could see Liverpool playing European football despite their current position. Chelsea are in form after a win against the Mighty Spanish Barcelona and a final game against Swansea who have only lost to 3 teams at home.
With the Form the Red's are in, potential to a late outbreak of beauty that was seen last season is possible but a lot of work needs to be done.
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