This was a typical Liverpool performance this season. Although the Reds had the lion’s share of possession and played some attractive football in parts, there was a total lack of cutting edge up front. Leicester were not spectacular, but they defended well and made the most of the chances they had. It took a stunning strike from Vardy and a fortunate second goal by the Englishman to secure the 3 points for the league leaders. Liverpool did not play badly, but the lack of firepower was evident once again. The impending return of Coutinho, Origi and hopefully Sturridge to training will provide a much-needed boost for Klopp’s attacking options. Here’s how I rated our players on the night.
Source: liverpoolfc.com
Simon Mignolet- 7/10
Made two superb first-half saves to deny firstly Okazaki, and then Mahrez with a stunning acrobatic stop. Liverpool’s evening could have been a lot worse without Mignolet’s efforts in goal, although he flapped at a couple of high balls, showing a lack of confidence and authority in the air.
Nathaniel Clyne- 5/10
Gave away possession under pressure a few times, but generally solid and untroubled. Did well to limit Albrighton’s influence on the game, and had a powerful shot on target blocked in the second half. Got forward well and tried to make things happen, albeit with limited success.
Dejan Lovren- 5/10
Very strong in the air, winning 10/10 of his aerial duels. However, the pace of Vardy and movement of Okazaki caused him problems as he looked less assured than he has done this season, with a couple of clumsy challenges.
Mamadou Sakho- 4/10
After a reasonably impressive first half, Sakho endured a torrid second half, as he misjudged and hesitated with high balls for both Leicester goals. He was also fortunate not to give away a penalty as he lunged desperately on Okazaki in the box. He is struggling ever since his return from injury. Needs to step up.
Alberto Moreno- 5/10
Got forward at every opportunity, exploiting the space down Leicester’s right wing. Full of energy and enthusiasm, but lacked quality on the ball. Spurned a great opportunity in the first half as he shot high and wide after collecting Firmino’s through ball. Unlucky not to score with a cross-shot in the second half. Mahrez gave him a difficult evening.
Lucas Leiva- 5/10
Broke up play well on several occasions, making a game-high 6 tackles. Tidy on the ball, but wasted a couple of good shooting opportunities, firing way off target. Often caught too high up the pitch as Leicester exploited the space left in midfield.
Emre Can- 5/10
Had several decent attempts on goal, all blocked, but was generally quiet and had a limited influence on the game. Sometimes sloppy in his passing, wasting possession far too easily.
Jordan Henderson- 5/10
Source: liverpoolfc.com
Clearly not best-suited to a right-midfield role, but put in a workmanlike shift to contain the attacking left back, Fuchs. Created 3 chances and won back possession well on several occasions, but only lasted 66 minutes with his troubling heel injury. Made his 200th appearance for the club.
James Milner- 6/10
One of Liverpool’s better performers on the night, Milner was full of endeavour and showed some skilful footwork at times. Put plenty of deliveries into the area but had little to aim at. Did well to largely contain Mahrez for most of the game.
Adam Lallana- 5/10
Playing in a second-striker role, Lallana’s movement was clever and he showed plenty of nice touches on the ball. Almost created the opening goal as Fuchs headed his cross narrowly over the bar. However, he faded as the match progressed as his influence dwindled.
Roberto Firmino- 4/10
A difficult and frustrating evening for Firmino who received very little support up front. Made some intelligent runs, although his first touch wasn’t up to scratch and his passing accuracy of 58% was indicative of his poor use of the ball.
Substitutes
Christian Benteke- 4/10
Hardly contributed anything aside from finding himself offside on several occasions.
Joe Allen- N/A
Brighter than most of Liverpool’s midfielders. Very unfortunate not to start the game.
Joao Teixeira- N/A
Good to see him get some Premier League action- hopefully he gets more chances throughout the remainder of the season.
Red Regista
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