Liverpool Banter Archive September 17 2016

 

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17 Sep 2016 17:07:34
The echo have done have written a review on what GW does its a great read.

Believable6 Unbelievable13

17 Sep 2016 17:45:32
Interesting read. I'm still not 100% convinced but I'll be more than happy to change that opinion if we continue that level of performance.


17 Sep 2016 17:56:05
Neil jones who wrote it went as far to elaborate that he "does abit of everything. Also quoting >Energy, pace, strength, awareness, courage, skill – it was all on show. "
Great analysis. Sounds like someone who hasn't a clue what to write on the lad So jots down aload of adjectives. Wijnaldum's role to me is highly questionable. Yes we have a winning side atm but I still believe one or two players could be easily replaced by those on the bench and we could be even better.


17 Sep 2016 18:45:27
Gini looks to me as the type of player who's all about end product. He's not going to influence games consistently over the 90 minutes with clever passing or positioning or by making crunching tackles, so he needs to pop up in the final third with goals and assists. He drifted in and out of the first four league games (although, tbf, he got two assists) . He was far more involved in the general play last night, but he still didn't do anything special.

Basically to keep his place long-term, he needs to score goals like he did at Newcastle. That's how he'll be judged, ultimately. But 5 games in to his Liverpool career, I'm not going to crucify him for having not hit the net yet, and the way our midfield is set up seems to be effective at the moment, so I'm happy to give it more time.


17 Sep 2016 19:34:58
Klopp bought him to play role Dahoud or Zielinski suppose to play- transit defence to attack with simple passes or dribble. Simple as that.


17 Sep 2016 20:15:08
Leek I don't always agree with what u spout but I think you hit the nail on the head there my friend.


17 Sep 2016 20:19:33
I thought he was solid . Did everything he had to do . Very impressive in the simple things . Great win last night but long way to go .


17 Sep 2016 20:44:21
Don't hurt me guys, but I actually agree with Leekuanyew!

Gini does one thing that for a long time none of our midfielders have done. He is everything Joe Allen was supposed to be. He just links play so effectively. He is nearly always available to receive the ball and he has the composure, first touch and bravery to turn on the ball as he receives it and take it forward or play it forward. He doesn't just play it the way he is facing, he always looks to move the ball forwards which is a very under appreciated skill. As Lee says, he is the transition from defence to attack.

Ultimately, it is a pretty irrelevant skill if you have no end product, but Gini has proven all the way through his career he can score and create goals. He has already created goals for us, both for Lallana weirdly which does suggest they are on a very similar wavelength. That could be a connection which helps us break down stubborn defences.

He definitely needs to improve defensively but in the last two games I don't think he has even done too badly regarding that side of his game.

I was skeptical about him in midfield, but we have played 4 teams who were all considered top 4 or title contenders before the season and Gini hasn't exactly let the games pass him by!

In short, I like him.


17 Sep 2016 21:39:12
To explain his role as simple as possible it goes like this.

He is the piece of thread that holds the 2 pieces of fabric together and without that we would get ripped apart.


18 Sep 2016 04:36:02
I don't rate Wijnaldum and all of a sudden my opinion has not changed. Teams who have pressed us easily bypassed our midfield. Teams who sat back has also cut us wide open on counter attacks. He is a poor man's Fabrigas who couldn't care about defending nor he would ever dictate the game from the middle.
Wijnaldum is nothing like Dahoud. The lad is a brilliant ball playing midfielder.


{Ed001's Note - Wijnaldum is nothing like Fabregas, have you actually ever watched either play? Fabregas is slow and weak. Wijnaldum is neither. They do not even play the same style of football at all either. You couldn't have picked two midfielders less alike without going to considerable effort.}

18 Sep 2016 09:19:16
Who is GW like in your opinion Ed

Also do you think he is still lazy or has he impressed you enough.


{Ed001's Note - off the top of my head I can't think of anyone. Lazy? It is mental laziness that is his issue, he doesn't see what is happening around him to react to it. That is why he goes missing for large periods. He just carries on doing what he does, rather than being able to see that things have changed and react to it. So far you can see the coaching is making a difference to that, because he is being challenged to use his brain more. He has to be thinking on his feet to work with the other players around him. That challenge has so far looked to be improving him, as he is not going to sleep anything like as much. It is far too early to judge, but he does look a lot better so far. It needs to be maintained in the long term, not just for a few games though.}

18 Sep 2016 09:20:47
I dunno Ed001, I would say Gini is more like Fabregas than Lee Cattermole.


{Ed001's Note - I can see more comparisons with Cattermole than Fabregas. At least Cattermole runs.}

18 Sep 2016 09:28:31
Good point. Well made ed.


18 Sep 2016 09:44:23
Big Al, your just dying to be proved right about wijnaldum lad aren't you? It's going to take a hat trick every other game for you to grudgingly admit you were wrong. Give him a chance, if he doesn't cut it you can come on here at the end of the season and say I told you all so, just stop picking at anyone who has anything positive to say about the kid.


18 Sep 2016 11:07:04
It's all fun and games until you play Liverpool FC, all this talk of Everton being a problem will be extinguished when we embarrass them, much like the last time we played them.


18 Sep 2016 12:24:57
Waro it's an opinion. Get over it. I'm not writing down bull to appease anyone. I'll comment my own opinion and if the edd's post it then great. I watch Wijnaldum closely every game. Has he slightly improved? Yes. Is He being carried by a very good system and team? Yes. He's a passenger that right now in Klopps eye suits the team. However henderson IS our midfield. if henderson gets injured or simply over run by a man city than certain Players will be fully exposed. I Will give Wijnaldum a full Season before I say well the lads improved and looks like a Liverpool player, a player good enough. For know he has a lot of work to do in my eyes.


18 Sep 2016 13:57:25
So your doing as I've said big Al, good lad.


18 Sep 2016 16:04:07
I like Wijnaldum. When he gets 1 goal he'll get a bundle.
I think he'll get 15 league goals this season.


17 Sep 2016 16:01:29
Mattaldinho, you were saying a couple of weeks ago Liverpool should have hired Billic instead of Klopp. You stated he was tactically superior. If by being tactically superior means your team concedes 7 goals in 90 minutes of you were right. Klopp is a top coach i am glad we have him.

Believable14 Unbelievable7

17 Sep 2016 16:23:19
Yes, I remember Mataldinho getting into a dumb argument about how Bilic was better than Klopp because WH beat us three times last season. I guess Bilic is now being found out as not as good and Klopp is showing how good a manager and attacking genius he is. Oh, how the tables have turned.


17 Sep 2016 16:44:10
See if we slip up with hull lads before you all get too big for your boots.


17 Sep 2016 16:47:05
Your vending what I said with bilic aswell, I never said we should of gone for him. I say things to play doctors advocate. Nothing more.

Have you not seen every team that plays burnley win but we couldn't.


17 Sep 2016 16:50:28
So if we slip up to Hull you can say Mike phelan is better. 😁.


17 Sep 2016 17:00:00
Clutching at straws lad, give up.


17 Sep 2016 17:04:24
Daft arguments on both sides. We can judge over the course of the season.


17 Sep 2016 17:12:56
Why are people's opinions twisted and called up when things aren't going well? He's entitled to have an opinion. Also we've won nothing yet with klopp and it's September?
Perspective.


17 Sep 2016 17:13:15
Doctors advocate? 😂😂.


17 Sep 2016 17:21:29
Doctors advocate? Remember the doctors in the detail! 😂.


17 Sep 2016 17:24:42
Billic done great last year.

I like his honesty.

I think west ham owners are deluded.
Europa league and moving to a new stadium + poor transfer window have had a huge effect.

Klopp is doing great this seasin.


17 Sep 2016 17:31:25
Can tell how young some of you are, your getting excited because we beat a couple big teams.


17 Sep 2016 18:22:26
And we can all tell you're a lot younger.


17 Sep 2016 19:11:19
Already cleared this up with ed 1 I'm 5 or 6.


17 Sep 2016 19:37:34
Bilic is definitely tactically superior. Imagine klopp has Bilic'so players, we will concede 14 goals not 7. Well play so far by Bilic ( which in german coincidentally means cheap- Billig)


{Ed001's Note - hahaha Bilic has done nothing to suggest he is tactically superior. He has had one good season and suddenly a failed manager is rated as a genius, yet Klopp has had 14 good seasons and one ropey one and you rate the failure above him. Moronic is too good a word for some of your comments. I stand by what I said before West Ham brought in Bilic, he will cost them badly if they stick with him.}

17 Sep 2016 20:08:10
Look at all those trophies Bilic has won and the finals he's been in.


17 Sep 2016 20:47:50
Thank god. Normal service is resumed as Leekuanyew returns to posting nonsense!


17 Sep 2016 21:40:37
Billic is an average coach and and an average manager, West Ham will be in serious trouble this season believe me. I do believe that Sullivan and Gold want the best for West Ham but have no idea how to get it.


18 Sep 2016 01:05:38
Still trying to work out the logic mattildnho, so because other teams have beaten burnley, bilic is a better tactical coach than klopp.

Ok, so i pressume westham have beaten burnley? No? They haven't played each other yet!


18 Sep 2016 09:54:51
Mattaldinho, you sound like you want us to lose to Hull so you can say I told you so, just like big Al. What the fook is wrong with people today, they'd rather see there own side lose to say I told you so, there's quite a few of you who seem to want failure because your knee jerk reactions after the Burnley game, maybe you all should take a step back and realise you've over reacted and get behind klopp and the team. We may not perform against hull who knows, but if we don't you'd be I'll advised to come on here with I told you so"s because in the long term your all going to look stupid because klopp will do it I'm a 1000% sure of that and when he does I don't want to see anything other than grovelling apologies. Some modern day fans are a disgrace.


18 Sep 2016 10:43:16
Seriously, all Bilic did was pull off a mini-Brendan last season. Got the team to punch above their weight off the back of one genius player, but to a lesser scale than Liverpool in 13/ 14 because they had much better all-round team. Early days in this season, but it looks like he is now being found out, even with his genius player hanging around, unlike Suarez. Bilic seems like a great guy and I hate to death ride him, but it's just the way it's looking.


17 Sep 2016 14:23:52
Just wondering if any who where bitching after Burnley have come back with any other wise words to offer?

Believable8 Unbelievable12

17 Sep 2016 14:57:54
I bitched and moaned like a little girl, because it was last season all over again. Looks like I was wrong, although we always play well against top teams. I'm very very impressed with how we have played with our tough start.

For me though the challenge has always been the lesser teams so let's wait and see what happens with hull, we should absolutely demolish them shouldn't we?

It will be a tough game, hope we get over the line and burnly was a blip.


17 Sep 2016 16:27:59
Beating the big teams have never been a problem for us as we have the best record of any top six club vs City, Chelsea and and Spurs over the past ten years. Arsenal and Utd, not so much and that is historical yet we have been competitive against both. The challenge now is to replicate such perfs against the lesser teams and that is our challenge moving forward. First test? Hull next Sat.


17 Sep 2016 17:09:04
Were I Klopp I would be reminding my players of the Burnley result and demanding they show a marked improvement. To me this is clearly an issue of mentality. They have the talent.


18 Sep 2016 01:56:01
Maybe you should give klopp a call and tell him what he needs to tell the players.


18 Sep 2016 02:53:02
We had 80% possession against Burnley but just no cutting edge. I know that has been our problem in the past but with these forwards and Mane back, I think Klopp will sort it out and we'll start scoring against the Lower sides earlier in the game like we did in 13/ 14.

Also bear in mind we got caught on the break twice but no Matip or Karius and Hendo/ Wij/ Llalana still learning their new setup and Milner still growing into LB. I don't think we'll be quite so naive or easy to score against next time.


19 Sep 2016 08:53:25
I think Klopp's doing nicely without my input.
So whatare people disagreeing about? That our players are talented or that the inconsistencies are largely down to them not going into games against less fancied teams with the right mental approach?


17 Sep 2016 13:59:01
Hi ed's and reds

Two great games on the bounce. Thought we looked great in both

Last night two goals from people we perhaps wouldn't expect to score, Hendos goal was a peach, seriously what a quality goal. All over Chelsea in the first half, second half they put us under pressure but it was nice to see us do well and hold onto the lead

Was actually on a date with a with a girl that supports Chelsea, the reds did me proud. Feels odd watching on a Friday night still. Think they did us proud though, I was panicking after the scored though. What a great weekend so far. Bring on the next game.

Believable3 Unbelievable13

17 Sep 2016 14:30:05
Bang her?


17 Sep 2016 15:22:02
Unicorn 😛😛.


17 Sep 2016 18:28:54
Hope you took the p**s and sent her home crying.


19 Sep 2016 08:56:15
Great date you are Bod.


17 Sep 2016 12:22:32
What a feeling waking up On a Saturday after the reds have just got a massive win ey boys? Still buzzing.
Would just like to say a couple things, I was made up for hendo last night getting his deserved goal played quality last night and looks to be back to his best we didn't half miss him last season.
I have never been too keen on Lallana but he is staring to prove me wrong. He isn't half playing well under klopp looks a different player the confidence is surging through him and we are greatly benefitting from it. Winjnaldum is another I wasn't too sure we needed but he puts in a good shift and is improving every game think if he just adds a goal soon then we will see the best of him once he is ozzing with confidence. Milner class at left back reliable, hardworking and good getting forward as well looks as if klopp may have preformed a master stroke playing him left back. And Matip wow. What a player and for free! Looks an absolute rock and when he gets on the ball and brings it out of defence he looks so assured and commanding finally some solidity at the back with him and lovren looking brilliant together! The whole team worked endlessly last night and I think the main thing for me was when Chelsea scored we would usually panic and concede again but we kept composed and they couldn't get the ball of us! Was so happy we seen the game out fully deserved the win and loving the Hugs at the end from klopp with the players. All I ever hear is how jealous other fans are of us having klopp what a guy. Defiantly the man to take us forward.
Hope you have a great weekend eds and reds.

Believable10 Unbelievable10

17 Sep 2016 16:33:49
Dill, we some post and just to add that Klopp made two great subs by bringing on Lucasand Stewart on to shut up shop and cut out Chelsea's attacks. Great to know that Klopp may like attacking footie but is now learning to shut up shop and protect a lead. Great team performance and awesome team win.


18 Sep 2016 12:12:08
Yeah I agree with that one mate, was nice to see another part to his game, thinking defensively and bringing on two players to stop Chelsea playing and as you said shut up shop.


17 Sep 2016 11:53:40
LFC TV showing Klopp after last nights game hugging all of his players, BOOM, what a manager, brings tears to your eyes, I'm sure it'll be on YouTube or Twitter too, worth a watch lads
PS all the Hendo haters are a bit quiet today.

Believable12 Unbelievable2

17 Sep 2016 16:36:53
Don't worry Sid, they will be back bleating on and on about him the moment we lose or he has a bad game. They will never get over the fact that Hendo is a fantastic player and leader who has the full backing of the manager and his teammates. I would ask them to let it go but I know they won't.


17 Sep 2016 16:56:16
Sis, Hamilton, re Henderson, just because someone doesn't rate him the highly as someone else doesn't mean they hate him, its not black and white, it just opinions and isn't that what football and I suppose this page is about. You know I am sure we all rate different players differently let's not slag each other for having an opinion as long as its put in the right way.


17 Sep 2016 11:16:27
Don't know if anyone has posted about this. Has anyone seen Grujic's reaction to Hendo's goal? Did make me laugh 😆.

Believable8 Unbelievable10

17 Sep 2016 13:01:07
I saw it yesterday during the second replay and couldn't help but laugh out loud.


17 Sep 2016 15:46:40
What did he do?


17 Sep 2016 16:38:22
He was in shock when Hendo scored and it looked like he didn't see it. It was priceless. Check the his reaction when the bench erupted with joy during the slow motion replay.


17 Sep 2016 18:24:14
like see him on pitch sometime he looked really good player pre season.


17 Sep 2016 10:58:28
We played last night and got three great points, but this Friday football is weird. Today i feel like we did not play and are not playing until Tuesday. lol😃.

Believable3 Unbelievable11

17 Sep 2016 10:40:27
Morning All.
Great night watching the reds, a well drilled performance from Klopp and a complete underestimation from Conte. I think he knew we would come out quick, but if they could weather the first 20 minutes then they would be ok. I don't think his style suits the premier league, he is stereotypically defensive and waits for his opponent to falter. Such hesitation simply will not work in the Prem.
I thought Matip was superb, quick into every challenge with Costa, making sure the Brazilian / Spaniard couldn't get hold of the ball and lay it off into Oscar Willian or Hazard. That is where Chelsea have been so effective recently, a very Arsenal style of play.
In all honesty I have wondered recently whether or not Henderson would rediscover his passing ability but he demonstrated that he is indeed coming back to his best last night. I would say Chelsea's midfield allowed him too much time to pick a pass quite a bit, but he played some exquisite balls, and the goal, superb. He smashes about 3/ 4 a game from that sort of range and is never a million miles off but hasn't tested a keeper this season from there, and still hasn't, because Courtois couldn't get anywhere near that ball to test his ability to save it, he might as well have been sat on my couch with me.
Windjalum and Lallana were both tireless again. Coutinho Sturridge and Mane brilliant link up and defending from the front. I thought you could tell right from the start of the second half that Sturridge wasn't quite right, he wasn't closing down with anywhere near the same pace or intensity as in the first 45.
Clyne was simply Clyne, offered plenty down the wing but was little more than average defensively. He gave away a similar ball to that which cost us the Vokes goal at one point.
Milner has been superb at Left Back. Positionally he can be a little eratic but he is such an athlete that he can recover well.
Lovren was a Rolls Royce. Understated and class. Can really see him and Matip developing a great partnership.
Lucas was a bit rash, but did the job needed. Didn't feel that Origi really got into the game, closed down well but that was about it.

All in all a good performance from the whole team.
Fantastic to come away from the Emirates, White Hart Lane and Stamford Bridge with 7 points. That will hopefully pay dividend come the end of the season. 5 games in and I am mildly optimistic. Still not getting carried away. Top 4 and maybe a semi or final in a domestic cup would be great.

Sorry about the long post.

Believable4 Unbelievable10

17 Sep 2016 15:34:33
Bit harsh on clyne he kept one of (if not the) best players in the league very quiet.


17 Sep 2016 16:40:31
I thought Clyne was solid and kept Hazard quiet the whole game.


17 Sep 2016 10:04:15
Gotta love this site I asked for people view on GW cause he slips under the radar with me so just wanted couple of opinions of what he has been bringing and if maybe can may be suited better in that roll although playing who we are play I doubt were carrying anyone

All I did was ask relax guys.

Believable1 Unbelievable7

17 Sep 2016 11:48:19
What roll? The majority from last night's chat think he played well and is playing well.
I disagree and I do think he's a passenger.


17 Sep 2016 15:39:14
if you don't think Wijuldum had a good game last night you either a) have already passed judgement on him and not wanting to change your view or b) don't appreciate a player unless he makes some 'Hollywood' play.
He was good last night, and against Leicester. I was critical of the purchase but I'm beginning to change my tune on him.


17 Sep 2016 16:42:23
Wiji had a very good game last night and this is coming from someone who doesn't think he's needed.


17 Sep 2016 09:54:07
Really pleased with the performance yesterday. Especially for Henderson, a lot of his work and ability seems to go unnoticed. That goal and performance certainly won't.

Our next league game is hull so we need the three points to really get some momentum and consistency going.

Just like to comment on Conte who I believe was shown up by Jurgen last night. He completely set his side up the wrong by way to defend deep and allow us time and space on the ball. Even after we went 1-0 up. Costa wasn't enough to occupy matip and lovren. How long did he take to make a change despite his side not threatening at all? It just seemed like he had no idea to answer the questions klopp and Liverpool were throwing at him

The reason I've highlighted this is because Chelsea have been spoken about as title challengers and nearly certs for top 4. I think we have just as good a chance as them and we can really push this season with klopp here and team performances like that. Roll on Derby!

Believable6 Unbelievable4

17 Sep 2016 16:47:49
Spot on, LFCSTE29. Conte looked confused, lost an bewildered during the game and during the post match presser. He got tactically schooled by Klopp who completely set us out to take the game to them and instead of Conte to react by getting his guys to step up to the task, he like his team, shrunk and dropped deep, allowing us to pick them apart. Ed01 was right about Conte. He is limited tactically and was found out yesterday.


17 Sep 2016 09:37:25
Have few words to share with you guys. First of all congrats to our captain, he finally seems fit and going on a level of "that" season. I admitt i thought he would never recover fully but wow. Forget about the goal he was true leader on the pitch. ball flow, movement, running in the last 10 minutes when he felt gini and lallana are almost dead so he awaken lallana and made him alive again. only minus is the goal conceded but that happens. and we have to give the credit to Jurgen Klopp not for the win but for this teamspirit and workrate. you have to be cool guy if you can make your players run like that whole game. many have tried he actually made results with this tactic, our players (most of them) would die for him.
sorry for the long post enjoy.

Believable8 Unbelievable3

17 Sep 2016 09:18:19
Look at the cost of centre backs coming into the premier league this year, then look at matips cost. Then ask yourself who you would rather have? I know it's still early days but that whole back 4 last night looked really good.

Milner and Clyne looked solid. Infact the goal, came from poor midfield tracking and maybe Matip shouldn't of slid in but generally the whole team defended so well. No need at all for a dm if the team can work together like that.

Very very impressed, hope now the so called "easier teams" we have coming up prove to be just that.

Believable4 Unbelievable1

17 Sep 2016 09:48:17
I made the exact same point the other day.

All looking very good so far with Matip.


17 Sep 2016 10:49:15
Must of missed that puzzled. Very similar to john stones, if not better defensively. Brings the ball forward like a midfielder. Ended up on the end of a pass in the Chelsea box.


17 Sep 2016 11:25:11
Have to say I agree bar Milner, players had a lot of success walking past him last night.


18 Sep 2016 11:17:03
That's very harsh on Milner, their only goal of the game came from the opposite side and he had a very good game, making key tackles and interceptions and constantly providing an attacking outlet.


17 Sep 2016 08:33:22
What s fantastic way to start the weekend! We can all relax over Liverpool and enjoy the other results now, wasn't keen on playing Friday night but I was confident over Chelsea, matip and Lovren have got a great partnership brewing hendos goal was simply stunning, my only criticism is mignolet seems like he wants to be chased down to the last second before he clears the ball for a throw in! Anyway we have a favourable run of fixtures now to look forward to, onwards and upwards from here!

Believable11 Unbelievable1

17 Sep 2016 09:57:44
Migs makes me shudder anytime he's near the ball or a cross is coming in.


17 Sep 2016 08:25:21
Just seen the result from last night that drunk a missed it all. Hopefully we can follow up with the so called easier teams. ynwa.

Believable4 Unbelievable1

17 Sep 2016 08:53:39
Really good performance, only criticism I have is that Klopp never wants to see a game out. At 60 minutes I was screaming at the TV for Lucas or Stewart to come and solidify things in front of goal. I just wish, as boring as it sounds, we'd grind a game out 1-0 or 2-0 just to show we can do it. Chelsea were poor all game and had no right to get back into the game, yet we let matic just stroll though our defence, and he's hardly a tricky bloke to see!


17 Sep 2016 09:09:49
Get used to it chubney, Kloppo wants goals, excitement and entertainment, not games which are over after 60 mins.
I love this kamikazee approach 😄😎.


17 Sep 2016 09:14:54
Plus all it does is invite teams to make attacking changes and get at you more! The best defence is a strong offence metefore comes in here, if there scared of us and pinned back there not gunna rush forward and risk our press catching them out leaving big gaps.


17 Sep 2016 10:00:40
You would want to risk holding on against a team like Chelsea, and potentially have tk rely on mignolet?

You have a de gea then yeah that'd a plan but we can't risk just taking shot agyrt shot against us with him in goal. Besides when a team had to play against you when there losing its prime time to counter them.

Ny favorite part last time what 70-80 minutes when we just played like Barcelona, and took the piss out of them with the ball, was an absolute Jo and tbh brendans/ peps/ val galls wet dreams. That was the pinncale of just saying this is our victory pesants. See you st anfield.


17 Sep 2016 10:39:29
I get that migs doesn't inspire anyone with confidence, but if we had subbed on Lucas/ Stewart for Widjnaldium we would still have had Origi, Lallana, Coutinho and Mane on the pitch, hardly defensive, just slightly more solid. Chelsea were always going to have a spell of good play, and the 10 minutes they did we conceded. Just feel like these are the sort of games we should learn how to manage.


17 Sep 2016 11:47:14
I think it sends a psychological message to the opposition that we aren't confident enough. You should send on more attacking players and get the opponents running backwards not forwards. 😎.


17 Sep 2016 16:53:51
When you make such changes, you are literally tellingt He opposition that you are no longer interested in attacking them and being on the front foot hence, the other team get confidence and then flood you with attackers that will put pressure on you for the final half hour, an eternity in football.


17 Sep 2016 07:39:27
Brilliant result and brilliant performanced yesterdsy across the board. Big shout out particularly to our defence yesterday. My only criticism is Matip who was amazing otherwise, in Costa's goal. In particular him sliding with his hands behind the back in order not to hit the ball with his hands. I was always very much against this hands behind the back of defenders. Not sure who started it but it really limits the movement. I hope Klopp tell him and the others to drop it. I prefer thevsmall risk of hand ball.

Believable5 Unbelievable4

17 Sep 2016 08:00:04
What a signing Joel Matip was. It's no wonder Schalke did their utmost to keep him.
Commanding, assured, composed. and he seems to have adjusted to the speed of the Premier League really quickly. Every player makes mistakes occasionally, but if he continues to play like he is, we've got a great CB for many years to come. He's still only young.
And it's great news that he doesn't seem to want to go to the African Nations Cup in January.
Great signing from Klopp.


17 Sep 2016 07:36:34
Great game and as lots have commented already the CBs were outstanding, fullbacks solid, Hendo was MOM for me, everywhere and a stunning finish. Further forward Widjnaldum continues to steadily improve and was a real engine, giving Chelsea no time on the ball while Llalana, Coutinho, Sturridge and Mane all looked good. Only average player IMO was Migs who continues to look sluggish on the ball. He also flaps occasionally but at least he's being more decisive and clearing out players in his way a bit more often and to be fair has also made a few decent saves in the last couple of games. Much better than previous season but Karius should still be given a shot.

One of the biggest positives of last few months is we really seem to have improved on defensive set pieces. How many times did we crumble under pressure due to conceding off crosses or corners before, but now with Matip in there, Lovren a bit more confident, keeper coming out etc. I don't feel that sense of panic when we are facing a dangerous free kick. It's a big factor in making sure the opposition don't always feel they've got a chance due to Liverpool having a soft underbelly.

Good game lads, now let's make sure we capitalise but putting Hull away.

Believable5 Unbelievable1

17 Sep 2016 08:17:27
Great goal hendo so happy to see our captain score a brilliant goal well done mate.


16 Sep 2016 23:15:54
Ed1 if you're around mate, just wondering your thoughts on the game?

Believable2 Unbelievable0

{Ed001's Note - Once again another good team performance with most of the team playing well. Most of all, it was pleasing to see the desire, the will to win present in all our players. Added to Klopp's tactics of harrying Chelsea, that will to win was essential to our chances. Conte was completely outmatched tactically, he had no answer to Klopp's set up.

Positives:
Henderson's goal, not just because it was a thing of beauty but because it showed what he is really capable of. His lack of composure in front of goal has always held him back from achieving his true potential, hopefully the confidence boost will fix that.
Lovren's goal, the ball from Coutinho was right onto his toe and his finish was top class, especially for a centre half.
James Milner is looking better and better at left back, though Willian was not the stiffest test he will face all season.
Matip and Lovren look like a pair, rather than two individuals.
We always looked dangerous, like we could score on every attack.
The biggest positive of all is that we did it without Firmino. We did not seem to miss him at all. That is a big thing with a player of such quality, when you lose them it can often have a negative effect on performances as the rest of the team lose heart. We looked galvanised.

Negatives:
The mix up in midfield leading to their goal. All 3 players were in place to track the run of Matic, but all of them left it to the others. As captain, Hendo has to carry the main portion of the blame there, he should be the one either tracking or getting someone else to track. He should have been the one instructing the players on the pitch. Those kind of things happen, usually less as players grow used to each other's game, but even the most well adapted team will make those kind of errors. Still, that doesn't mean you should just accept them, you have to look to improve communication within the side.
Milner's refusal to ping an early ball in with his left foot when the opportunity presented itself, especially after Origi came on. His constant desire to turn back onto his right will be an issue against the better organised teams in the league.
I hate to say this as people think I am just getting on his back and he is a genuinely nice fella, but Mignolet. Time after time he puts us under pressure with his kicking and dawdling on the ball. Luckily Conte is not tactically astute, or he would have instructed his forwards to pressure him more on the ball. Even so, Migs' decision making is appalling, his passing is weak and often wayward. He gives the opposition hope. Winning teams crush the hope of the opposition even before they get on the pitch, not give out hope that they can't hold onto a lead.

17 Sep 2016 09:16:02
I also think despite a short spell in the first half where a few passes went astray wijnaldum had his best display for us. He is becoming more and more assured and if he continues he will become a real asset to the team. You are right ed, we are finally building a team rather than having a group with a few outstanding players we are building an outstanding team.

I have to cencede to your opinion on conte too ed, i think the italian team fooled me into thinking he had a framework. He is a motivator nothing more.

Despite the mistake in tracking back hendo once again proved he is a top player and our deserved captain.

All in all very encouraging and mindful of burnley so will not be getting too carried away about our prospects in our coming supposedly easier fixtures.


17 Sep 2016 10:34:24
Mignolets terrible. End of. Ed there is no discussion. He's appalling and a major Thorne in our side, especially with our ambitions him in the side could literally be the difference between 2nd and 6th.

People believe its not that bad.

Its not just its his general goal keeping its the hope he gives other sides, the worry he causes the defenders (especially if they make different decisions to take a harder move because they don't want to give it to him), his passes is not just because there's klopps intructioms ( (he wants them to pass the ball out the back) . He doesn't have a clue about reading a game, matip surrounded by 3 Chelsea players within 4/ 5 feet of him clearly not in a position to receive the ball. Yes klopps wants you to pass out but its not possible there smash it up the field. He's that type well you told me.

Needs to go. If he doesn't your talking and elevation of our entire team, which won't be understood properly until he's replaced. Kafius has to come in.


17 Sep 2016 12:45:08
He's not terrible. Terrible is a ridiculous word to describe him. Not the best, but he's not terrible.


17 Sep 2016 17:25:21
Whether Migs is "terrible" or just "not great" is not so much the issue. The important questions are "is Karius better? " and "how does Klopp ease him in? " Hope he starts in the cup.


17 Sep 2016 18:02:47
I think while we romped for most of the first half, I think it became clear we were missing what Firmino offers by late in the first and in the second half.

Mane wasn't as influential without Firmino; Bobby is great at pressing and retrieving balls in the middle, and spotting Mane's excellent runs on the counter. They also interact brilliantly in the final third.

Coutinho has moments of magic (like this assist) but is still not the same pressing/ force in the middle like Firmino. I don't think we would have retreated as often in the 2nd half, with Firmino leading the attack -- as he usually drops deep and helps build up play / counter, which was missing for most of the 2nd half.


17 Sep 2016 18:06:35
I don't know how many times Mignolet played the ball to a defender who was being closed down by two players. Terrible, brainless, decision-making. He creates panic, confusion, and disorder at the back.

IMHO, we have two very brainless footballers on this team; Moreno and Mignolet. Thankfully Klopp has finally found a way (and reason) to drop Moreno (perhaps for good), but Mignolet is still there causing trouble. Bring in Karius and let's move on from the Mignolet Moment (a moment that has lasted several seasons too long) .


16 Sep 2016 22:29:39
Ed001, always intruiging to read your post match thoughts, care to indulge?

Believable3 Unbelievable1

{Ed001's Note - I will do that in a bit, once I have caught up on all the posts waiting across the sites.}

17 Sep 2016 06:34:44
Jordan Hendersons strike was stunning but so too was his composure beforehand. He took Cahills clearance and killed it dead with Matic rushing him, it was beautiful control. Makes the goal even better than the first time i saw it.

Believable12 Unbelievable1

17 Sep 2016 05:50:02
Brilliant result against Chelsea and fully deserved as well - team starting to look very good together.

Mignolet - 5/ 10 - the only poor player. Put his players under pressure again and had to be told, multiple times by multiple players, to calm down and take his time. Surely he's dropped as soon as Karius is fully fit?

Clyne - 6/ 10 - did reasonably well defensively, was up against Hazard and marshalled him pretty comfortably. Still no end product what-so-ever offensively but if he defends well every game i'll be happy.

Milner - 7/ 10 - didn't really put a foot wrong, strong in the tackle, positionally excellent and provided a good outlet getting forward. He's still stymied in attack by being predominantly right-footed (and thus cutting back) but he's done very well. I was very critical of the decision not to buy a left-back - it's early days but perhaps goes to show why Klopp is the manager of the club and fans like myself aren't!

Lovren - 8/ 10 - didn't put a foot wrong he was commanding in the air, distributed the ball well and took his goal excellently to - hope the lad keeps it up.

Matip - 7/ 10 - I thought he was at fault for their goal - in particular his none challenge on Matic in the build-up - but apart from that he was very assured at the back and kept the team in possession with his calmness on the ball.

Henderson - 8/ 10 - Imperious in midfield he was everywhere, tackling everyone and he played phenomenally well. His passing range was evident and he goal was a worldie. Man of the match for me - not for the goal, but for how effective he was in midfield.

Lallana - 6/ 10 - game of two halfs for him thought he was excellent in the first, incisive passing, quick one-touch stuff with the ball, really helped our fluidity. Thought he went back to typical Lallana in the 2nd, far too much dithering on the ball and as a result much less effective. To be fair to the lad the movement of the team wasn't as good 2nd half and this might have contributed.

Wijnaldum - 7/ 10 - decent display. He is growing into the role that cannot be argued with. Thought his energy levels and his defensive work was very good against Chelsea and his passing, whilst unspectacular, was accurate and helped us maintain possession. Would like to see more contributions further up the pitch but he was decent and certainly contributed positively to the result and performance.

Coutinho - 6/ 10 - his link up play is always very good and I think he was involved with a lot of our more positive moves offensively including a number of really good passes. He tracked back well too and worked hard and deserves credit for that - I think ultimately though he didn't contribute as much as he might of wanted to. Never the less he did well.

Mane - 7/ 10 - He;s a nightmare for defenders and once again he caused issues. Lots of pace, lots of movement and good link-up play. I think his best moments in this game though were his defensive ones. He was constantly tracking back to double-up on Hazard with Clyne and it helped stifle their most dangerous player. This work ethic is a huge plus and really helped us squeeze Chelsea - without it Hazard would have had far more space and perhaps threatened us more - as it was he did little.

Sturridge - 6/ 10 - I thought he linked up very well, he thrives off of the movement of our other attacking players and it allows him space. Unfortunately Chelsea sit deep and in numbers so his influence was somewhat reduced. He looks sharp though and I think a few goals will do him the world of good.

Subs:

Origi - 6/ 10 - in a period of the game were we wanted a result and as such were not attacking with the intent we showed in the first half. He had one noteworthy chance, a header from about 6 yards out, that would have sealed the game. I think he should of scored it. Apart from that he was just working hard out of possession as Chelsea tried to get forward - hasn't quite hit the ground running yet but it's early days.

Stewart - 6/ 10 - solid if unspectacular. Provides steel in the midfield and is economical in possession - a very good squad player to have.

Lucas - 5/ 10 - gave away a couple of cheap freekicks in dangerous area's. To be fair to him the one he got a yellow-card for was just a blatant dive - no, not dive, Hazard basically threw his leg out to guarantee contact and the ref lapped it up.

Overall we played very well and controlled the game for 60 minutes. The last 30 was tense to watch but, in truth, we were very good defensively and Chelsea did not have that many noteworthy opportunities. The goal we conceded was sloppy but I think there is a sharpness and focus coming into our game and the errors and gradually being reduced. People say grinding out wins are what top teams must learn to do and we did it we ground it out for the last 30 minutes and deserved 3 points. The real test now comes against what we term 'lesser' opposition - can we produce the same quality and, more importantly, the same results? Time will tell, but the signs are good.

Believable6 Unbelievable6

17 Sep 2016 07:04:18
seano you gave wijnaldum 7 out of 10 now watch your back big al and frankly will hunt you down.


17 Sep 2016 07:16:11
@Kloppdakop - lol i'm not his biggest fan either but you have to give credit were it is due, he had a decent game and, against a strong Chelsea midfield, did well.


17 Sep 2016 09:21:31
I disagreed with your post but only on a couple of scores, lucas added the bite and calmness we needed after they scored and migs would have gotten less from me. He put us under pressure unnecessarily on a number of occasions and failed to collect an easy ball and was frankly lucky to get a free kick because he bottled it. Other than that excellent sum up, thanks.


17 Sep 2016 09:58:11
@Seano agree with most of that, good write up.


17 Sep 2016 09:58:40
Hazard's cheat was appalling and I thought Lucas did well when he came on. Klopp seemed pretty pleased with him at the end. It's difficult for Lallana not to dwell on the ball if no one is showing for him, that's why he looked better in the first half.
What was really enjoyable was the way the team weathered pressure period then forced them into the back foot again by attacking whenever we could. Thought our passing was excellent all match. A very good all round performance where we got the points we deserved. Can't wait for the next game.


17 Sep 2016 10:55:14
@ND - completely agree with your thoughts on how we weathered pressure then went on to attack again, it was excellent play from us and really stopped Chelsea building up a head of steam - I think got it absolutely spot on tactically and deserves a lot of credit for that.


17 Sep 2016 05:14:15
Hendo's goal was brilliant. And everyone thinks that, but let's not forget about Lovren's goal.
The timing of the run, and the finish was top class.
If our defenders can do that, imagine how scary our forwards must be for opposition teams.

Believable8 Unbelievable1

17 Sep 2016 04:42:49
Fantastic result last night. Was watching the game from 3am to 5am where I am in Singapore, and boy was it totally worth it!
I was really impressed with Gini. He hardly gave the ball away and had super decision making. It was also quite clear that he was giving it everything, even when his legs appeared to be dying on him in the final minutes.
I see people rightfully going on behind Matip, but I also thought Lovren was at least equally good as well.
On the Chelsea front, I think they lack creativity in the middle of the park with Matic and Kante both playing. That said, I was really impressed with what I saw of Kante (given that I didn't follow Leicester much last season) .

Believable4 Unbelievable1

17 Sep 2016 03:04:19
I can throw my hands up and admit I was wrong. I've said some bad things about Milner in the past, but it really looks like he was meant to be in lb. although, our midfield does look so much better without him.

Believable2 Unbelievable1

17 Sep 2016 02:38:29
". The resilience of the second halves of every game makes a great season and not just a great result. The art of grinding out the results makes your season. "
#LearningCurve.

Believable1 Unbelievable1

17 Sep 2016 01:58:27
Can we play on a Friday every week?

Believable0 Unbelievable1

17 Sep 2016 01:17:27
Great game 3 points to take from it;
Firstly Milner at lb looks inspired and he's starting to look very comfortable there. There's not many better players than Willian to face in the PL.
Secondly, the midfield 3 of lallana, Wijuldum and Hendo look a little undroppable at present. Klopp proving he knows more than all of us because Wijuldum is getting better each game and looks an astute signing.
Thirdly, Luiz for 32mill or Matip for FREE - what a great signing and him and lovern are starting to look like they could be our first choice CB pairing for the next 5 years.

Early days and not going to get carried away as had a lot of false dawns but we look pretty good at the minute!

Believable3 Unbelievable0

17 Sep 2016 02:40:39
Willian is worse than average and his stats are poor than Townsend. Clyne was fantastic against the league's best winger. Thought Chlesea's tactics backfired. Sitting back and absorbing pressure works fine with Bonucci and Chialini.


17 Sep 2016 03:00:07
Lovern and matip were immense and I thought our midfield were top drawer. Was impressed with wijuldum throughout great work rate and energy. Think mane strikes the fear of God into all defenders and this creates space for others. 10pts from 4 games away to Arsenal Chelsea Spurs and home Leicester is sn excellent return. In Klopp we trust. YNWA.


17 Sep 2016 03:34:34
Wiji and a Lallana were great today. In fact, the whole team was awesome. Matip for Free? Klopp is a genius. Great job, redmen!


16 Sep 2016 23:37:14
Love and hate watching games like that, was standing for the last 20 minutes but that's why we love football! Really enjoying watching a commanding Liverpool play again. Something negative I did see just because of ed001's comments about it last week is minoglet putting defenders under pressure from his awful passing. Yes they're the ones giving it away but they shouldn't be receiving it when they do. He hasn't been playing poorly but I think if Karius comes in and proves to be a steady GK it could really change how our back 4 play.

Believable4 Unbelievable3

17 Sep 2016 03:36:31
He did it again all game. Mingo just doesn't survey the pitch or his defenders before passing to them hence, they seem surprised when they receive the ball because there are players on top of them already.


16 Sep 2016 23:33:40
Dont know if anyone else has noticed but does Jame Milner seem to look very comfortable at LB to anyone else? The guy in fairness has barely put a foot wrong since being played there almost as if he was born to play that position but nobody realised. The guy was immense tonight as was everyone else, great performance overall once again, long may it continue.

Believable14 Unbelievable1

17 Sep 2016 03:37:36
I don't know if he's born to play the position but he is improving with every game.


17 Sep 2016 06:18:57
He is professional football player first. But I have to give it to GW who covered for ever him well when he goes forward. GW has the legs to recover just like Milner.


16 Sep 2016 23:32:39
Not a bad start to the season considering 3 away trips to spurs, arsenal and chelsea.

Hendos goal.

Believable8 Unbelievable0

17 Sep 2016 03:38:36
Should have gotten all nine points from those games but I'll take seven any day of the week.


16 Sep 2016 23:23:29
Anyone else have the pleasure of acknowledging grujic's face after hendersons goal? . Brilliant.

Believable10 Unbelievable0

17 Sep 2016 00:13:13
Its like he missed it and was wondering what had happened.


17 Sep 2016 03:41:25
You should seem Victor Moses' face when they show LFCs bench rising during the slow motion. PRICELESS!


16 Sep 2016 23:03:09
Hi ed's

I have to agree with You on last weeks comments regarding Winjnaldum, he is improving more and more with each game. Hope to see him at his best.
Good 3 points.
Enjoy the weekend.
Cheers.

Believable8 Unbelievable0

 
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