A simply stunning match, no doubt the best one of the season so far- arguably an all time classic. Liverpool eventually came out on top thanks to Lallana’s 95th minute winner, which produced one of the craziest and most brilliant celebrations you’ll ever see on a football pitch. Liverpool took the lead against the run of play through Firmino, but after a series of mishaps at the back, the Reds found themselves 3-1 down after 53 minutes. With 15 minutes to go, Milner capped off an incredible comeback to put Liverpool 4-3 up and in the driving seat once more, only for a 92nd minute belter from Sebastian Bassong to equalise at 4-4, before Lallana struck the dramatic winner in a pulsating and frankly ridiculous encounter. Here’s how I rated our players.
Source: liverpoolfc.com
Simon Mignolet- 4/10
It would be harsh to throw to much criticism at Mignolet despite conceding four goals. Only really the second Norwich goal could be blamed partially on him, as Naismith beat Mignolet from a very tight angle. He should have done better. Otherwise, he failed to exude a great deal of confidence or authority in his six yard box.
Nathaniel Clyne- 6/10
Despite being beaten in several individual battles with Robbie Brady early on, Clyne produced one of his best attacking performances for Liverpool. Made plenty of forward runs, and produced an excellent cross in the build-up to Henderson’s goal. Wasn’t troubled too much defensively and couldn’t be blamed for any of Norwich’s goals. Won 100% of his attempted tackles and headers.
Kolo Toure- 5/10
Some good, some bad. Toure played well in parts but looked unconvincing at times, whilst he was slow to react for Mbokani’s goal. Part of a defence that conceded four goals against Norwich, it would be hard to rate him much higher.
Mamadou Sakho- 5/10
Strong in the air and accurate with his passing (92% completion), Sakho did some things well but gave Mbokani far too much space for the first Norwich goal. Along with Toure, he can’t be rated much higher after conceding four goals.
Alberto Moreno- 3/10
I’ve been one of Moreno’s biggest plaudits this season- he has been much improved, especially from a defensive point of view. This was a total disaster of a performance, however, as he looked like the Moreno of last season. Caught up the pitch out of position far too often, leaving his side vulnerable to the overlap. After getting away with one bad challenge on Naismith in the area, he stupidly decided to hack him down again to give away a penalty. Brainless defending.
Lucas Leiva- 5/10
Got stuck into some heavy challenges and broke up play well on numerous occasions. However, he switched off for Naismith’s goal and failed to track his runner. Lazy and irresponsible from an experienced player.
Emre Can- 4/10
A strangely quiet game for Emre Can. He’s usually a very noticeable player on the pitch with his all-action, aggressive style, but on this occasion he failed to stamp any authority on the game and went missing far too much.
Jordan Henderson- 6/10
A game of two halves for the captain. In the first 45, Henderson was well off the pace, unable to control the midfield as his passing wasn’t up to his usual high standards and he gave the ball away too often. After half time, however, he stepped up a gear and helped haul his team back into the game with a smashing finish at 3-2.
James Milner- 6/10
Source: liverpoolfc.com
Full of graft as usual but this time he had the end product to go with it. His deft through ball found Firmino for the opening goal, whilst he took his goal superbly. A lesson in how to finish one-on-one situations. Some sloppy passing at times, but an effective display nonetheless.
Jordon Ibe- 5/10
Some promising runs down the left but lacking quality with his final ball. Substituted after 59 minutes for Lallana, who had a much greater impact on the game.
Roberto Firmino- 8/10
At times, Firmino was very isolated up front but he took both his chances superbly to add another two goals to his collection. His sublime flick provided the assist for Henderson’s goal too. In this forward role he is adding consistent end product to go with his undeniable ability. Looking more and more a £29 million player every week.
Substitutes
Adam Lallana- 9/10
Could not ask for any more from a substitute. Exquisite pass for Firmino’s equalising goal at 3-3, and then provided us with one of the greatest moments in recent seasons to win it in the 95th minute. Smashing celebration too.
Christian Benteke- 5/10
Held the ball up well on several occasions but found himself needlessly offside. Had a small role in the build up to Lallana’s goal.
Steven Caulker- N/A
The usual 90th minute cameo appearance, it was Caulker’s header which was cleared to Lallana to score the winner. Bet he enjoyed that.
Red Regista
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