Obviously disappointing to lose the game, but all in all there is plenty to be positive about. We played some superb football and at times we were able to cut Liverpool open. We had 12 shots, which is the most any side has registered at Anfield in nearly a year, and if we play how we did throughout that 2nd half and at times in the 1st half for the rest of the season we'll be absolutely fine.
That all said, I was honestly considering going home at half time and not watching the 2nd half. It wasn't even about the performance, it was just the manner of Liverpool's goals that annoyed me. I don't wanna scapegoat the guy at all, but it just can't be avoided that Hanley really was a weak link for us., and if we'd had Zimbo or Klose in there instead then I think things could've been different (not saying we would've won). The first goal his body positioning was just all wrong, and the 4th he just has zero awareness of what's going on around him. The 2nd goal is unfortunate to be fair, Lewis makes a good tackle and it just happens to rebound off Trybull and perfectly into Salah's path. As for the 3rd, why on Earth is Jamal marking Van Dijk from a corner? He's by far Liverpool's best header of a ball, so surely we put our best header of it, Godfrey, on him?
Defensively we were not great at all. As I said Hanley was a massive weak link, and the two sitting in front of the defence didn't really protect them brilliantly. Going forwards though we were brilliant, just needed a little more composure.
Between Pukki and Cantwell for man of the match. Pukki was a constant pest and finished brilliantly for his goal. Absolutely delighted that he got on the score-sheet and has shown that he is more than capable of stepping up. What a revelation Cantwell has been. Obviously superb in pre-season but to put in a performance like he did at Anfield is just amazing. Seems to have really matured since last season and was arguably our best player today. Aarons was great as expected, Godfrey was solid overall and won every header in the 2nd half, and Lewis was generally very good too, and was actually brilliant going forward. Fair play to Tim Krul as well, definitely warranted his place in the XI. Made 2 or 3 outstanding saves and can't be faulted for any of the goals. Buendia showed in flashes what he can do, particularly with the assist for Pukki. Trybull and McLean unfortunately didn't really cover themselves in any glory. Obviously it was always going to be difficult at Liverpool away to have any sort of control, but McLean in particular looked well out of his depth, as oppose to Leitner who was fantastic when he came on, made us look much better as a team. Hate to say it as well but Stiepermann was just nowhere near the level required. It is very very early doors so no reason to write anyone off though.
All in all frustrating but not disheartening, and plenty to be proud of. Ultimately our season is not going to be decided in away games against the big 6. Just looking forward to Newcastle at home next week now! OTBC
Other than that 12 shots on goal at Anfield is pretty damn good.
