Regardless of any statistics or in-depth analysis I can only begin with the sheer emotion, largely relief, in witnessing a performance of such style, class and dominance. Sunderland perhaps played into Liverpool’s hand by playing an open and progressive set up, but enormous respect can be given to the away side for coming to Anfield with a mind to play football; unlike many visitors this term!
Notable in the performance was the freedom of movement afforded to Steven Gerrard and his growing influence on Brendan Rodgers side. This comes alongside a seeming greater versatility hitting long, and short passes and moving at a consistently good tempo.
Notable in the performance was the freedom of movement afforded to Steven Gerrard and his growing influence on Brendan Rodgers side. This comes alongside a seeming greater versatility hitting long, and short passes and moving at a consistently good tempo.
Souvenir Cap Liverpool FC v AS Roma European Cup final 1984
It would be impossible to pick a man in red who did not graft and sacrifice for the cause this evening but a particular mention is worthwhile for both Jordan Henderson and Stewart Downing. Despite a near endless stream of criticism bordering on outright abuse both have suck to their task and worked to develop and adapt to the new Anfield reality. Henderson in particular is beginning to look like the player promised by his reputation on arrival.
Some of the best writers in the football business have struggled for the words to capture the phenomenon which is Luis Suarez but all I can say is he was simply unplayable tonight. His vision and understanding of the positional flow of the game has such an echo of Dalgleish yet possessing the touch and flair of Maradona, or dare I say even the great Messi, Suarez is, quite simply, world class.
In lifting a beautiful ball to the cool-beyond-his years Raheem Sterling Suarez showed a touch of genius which left the Kop breathless. Sterling’s finish was simply too good for a lad of his age.
Most pleasing perhaps is Suarez’s continued ability to finish with a breathtaking flair and accuracy, making a laughable mockery of the ridiculous criticisms of his ability levelled by some last season.
Moving up two places in the league is a reassuring feeling. Playing like future champions is feeling beyond my description.
It’s not about the long ball, or the short ball, it’s about the right ball.
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