What a game. Jurgen Klopp’s first Premier League win as Liverpool boss was one to remember as Liverpool demolished Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. After going 1-0 down in the 4th minute with some sloppy defending allowing Ramires to put the home side ahead, the Reds were full of confidence and fight as they dominated possession before Coutinho’s stunning goal in first half stoppage time drew Liverpool level just before the break. The second half was a Red onslaught with Coutinho adding a second, before Benteke wrapped up an outstanding victory with another goal off the bench. Here’s how I rated our players.
Source: liverpoolfc.com
Simon Mignolet- 7/10
Relatively untroubled for most of the game as Liverpool dominated possession. Couldn’t do anything to stop Ramires’ powerful header and also made a splendid stop to tip Oscar’s superb lofted attempt from long range in the second half.
Nathaniel Clyne- 7/10
A really solid all-round display. His final ball still needs some work at times, but Clyne was defensively sound and used his athleticism to get up and down the right wing all game to support the attack whilst making sure he didn’t leave his flank exposed. Did well to ensure that Eden Hazard barely left a mark on the game.
Martin Skrtel- 8/10
Skrtel tends to swing from calamity to the supreme, and today was one of his most dominant performances of the season. He was imperious in the air, blocking shots and ensuring that Diego Costa hardly made any impact whatsoever. He was also kicked in the chest by Costa and admirably did not react- just got on with his job in a professional manner.
Mamadou Sakho- 8/10
Like his centre back partner, Sakho was a rock at the back. Dealt with some tricky situations well, staying calm on the ball when under pressure and defending superbly from set pieces and high balls into the box.
Alberto Moreno- 7/10
At fault for Chelsea’s goal, allowing Ramires a free header in the box by avoiding making a challenge. However, it was practically the first mistake we’ve seen from Moreno all season and he recovered well with a dynamic performance, like Clyne, constantly sprinting up and down the wing to contribute in defence and attack. Almost scored a superb solo goal, similar to his finish at White Hart Lane last season. His attitude is first class.
Lucas Leiva- 7/10
A mixed game for Lucas who has been in terrific form of late. Made a lot of needless fouls and was fortunate to avoid a second booking with a lazy challenge when already on a yellow. However, we provided a snarling, aggressive, steely presence in the centre of midfield, providing the platform for Liverpool’s attacks. His leadership and passion were key to driving the comeback.
Emre Can- 6/10
Not the best game from the big German, as his use of the ball in midfield was at times sloppy and inaccurate. However, his energy and physicality helped Liverpool dominate possession, pressing the opposition with great intensity. Booked for a rash challenge in the first half.
James Milner- 5/10
Milner’s performances this season have become a source of frustration with Liverpool fans. Once again, there was too much aimless running without the requisite quality on the ball. Heavy touches and clumsy fouls are a frequent feature of his displays at the moment. Substituted on 64 minutes for Benteke.
Philippe Coutinho- 9/10
For the first half an hour, Coutinho was having another shocker of a performance as has been the case in recent weeks. His passes were horribly misplaced and nothing was coming off. Then, on the brink of half time, he totally changed the complexion of the game in Liverpool’s favour, wrong footing Ramires on the edge of the area before curling a delicious left footed strike into the corner for a fully deserved equaliser, providing the boost Liverpool needed to push on for the win in the second half. He then put Liverpool 2-1 up with 15 minutes to go with the help of a small deflection off John Terry after collecting Benteke’s knock-down. A brilliant individual display and the perfect time to re-find his form.
Adam Lallana- 6/10
A rather quiet display from Lallana in terms of his influence in the final third, where he struggled to make a real impact. His work rate and enthusiasm however were crucial in winning back possession and pressing high up the pitch, which unsettled Chelsea and visibly made them nervous on the ball.
Roberto Firmino- 8/10
Firmino was tasked with leading the line in a ‘false nine’ role following his superb display against Bournemouth in midweek. He followed up with another impressive performance, with some excellent individual runs and slick link up play. His movement was intelligent, he pressed well and provided the assist from which Coutinho scored the equaliser. Firmino is starting to show why we paid so much to sign him in the summer. Much more to come from him still.
Substitutes
Christian Benteke- 9/10
You couldn’t really ask for much more off the bench. After recovering from a minor knee problem, Benteke replaced Milner with 25 minutes to go and completely transformed the game. His hold up play was fantastic, heading the ball down for Coutinho to score before cooly slotting away a goal of his own to wrap up the victory in emphatic style. He wasn’t cheap, but his ability to grab the game by the scruff of the neck is undeniable. A genuine menace in front of goal.
Jordon Ibe- 7/10
Source: liverpoolfc.com
Looked lively and positive for the final 15 minutes in place of Firmino- much improved from his earlier performances this season. Provided the pass for Benteke’s goal.
Dejan Lovren- N/A
A brief 3 minute cameo in midfield- hopefully not something we’ll ever see again, but Liverpool could afford to have a bit of fun at the end of a brilliant team performance.
Red Regista
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