An emphatic 5-1 victory ensured Liverpool progress to the 4th round of the FA Cup against Oldham on Friday night.
Steven Gerrard started his first game for The Reds since the 15th of October, while Jamie Carragher returned to partner Sebastian Coates in the centre of defence. Fabio Aurelio, Martin Kelly and Jonjo Shelvey were also given starts by manager Kenny Dalglish, all looking to impress to stay in contention with the first team.
Oldham started off the brighter of the two teams, creating a host of early chances to unsettle nerves around Anfield.
They were soon rewarded for their efforts; a wonder strike from Robbie Simpson left Pepe Reina with no chance as it thumped into the corner.
Craig Bellamy soon put Liverpool back on level terms; Jonjo Shelvey’s shot from distance deflected in off the Welshman 66 seconds after the visitors took the lead.
Late in the second half Liverpool were awarded a penalty. Maxi Rodriguez was fouled inside the area, leaving referee Neil Swarbrick no option but to point to the spot. Up stepped captain Steven Gerrard to fire into the top corner, his 3rd goal of the season.
With the lead, the hosts were able to dictate play and retain possession. They soon added to the score line, Jonjo Shelvey converted Craig Bellamy’s cross to make it 3-1 in the 68th minute.
There was still time for substitutes Andy Carroll and Stewart Downing to bag much-needed goals. Birthday boy Carroll unleashed his left foot with a pile driver from outside the box, while Downing opened his Liverpool account with a 95th minute strike.
FT Liverpool 5-1 Oldham
MOTM: Craig Bellamy.
The Welshman is growing from strength to strength on Merseyside and is fast becoming one of the signings of the season. This performance was no different, he was at the forefront of every Liverpool attack and caused Oldham’s back four constant problems.
With Luis Suarez banned for 5 games and others not finding their goal scoring touch, much of the goal scoring burden will fall onto Bellamy’s shoulders, he has shown over the past few months that he is fully capable of supplying Liverpool with the attacking threat they have been short of as late.
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