Showing posts with label Liverpool. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Liverpool. Show all posts
Andy Carroll’s late header fired Liverpool into the FA Cup final, beating Everton 2-1. Nikica Jelavić fired Everton into the lead, before Luis Suarez equalised and Carroll snatched a winner.
Liverpool will now play the winners of Tottenham and Chelsea, who will contest the second semi final.
A minute’s silence was held before kick off, as Wembley paid tribute to 96 Liverpool fans who lost their lives at Hillsborough, ahead of tomorrow’s 23rd anniversary.
There was also a tribute for the late Gary Ablett, who played for and won an FA Cup with both teams.
Kenny Dalglish made a host of changes to the team that beat Blackburn, Luis Suarez, Stuart Downing and Steven Gerrard all returned, while there was a starting place for Daniel Agger at left back. Maxi Rodriguez, who bagged a brace in mid-week was on the bench, along with Craig Bellamy.
The first chance of the match fell to Liverpool. Glen Johnson and Andy Carroll combined as Jay Spearing’s curled effort rose just over the bar.
At the opposite end, Leighton Baines’ free kick hit the roof of the net after Daniel Agger fouled Jelavić.
Martin Skrtel then recorded the first shot on target in the game; Andy Carroll knocked down Steven Gerrard’s cross towards the defender, but his effort fell straight into the clutches of Tim Howard.
However, it was Everton who took the lead in the 24th minute. A defensive error including Jamie Carragher and Daniel Agger gifted Jelavić an opportunity through on goal, which the Croatian took and slotted past the helpless Brad Jones.
Liverpool replied instantly to try and draw level. Stewart Downing’s cross was inches away from the head of Andy Carroll, while Phil Neville had to make a last ditch block to deny Luis Suarez’ cross to Steven Gerrard.
The half time whistle blew and Everton entered the interval with a one-goal lead in an uneventful first period.
Liverpool could’ve equalised immediately after the restart when Downing stood up a cross on a back post, Andy Carroll met the delivery with a thumping header 5 yards from goal, but it was just wide of the target. Perhaps trying to get it on target would’ve been a better option than placing it intricately into the corner
Liverpool were on the up and a totally different side to the one that showed up in the first half. Stuart Downing again created panic within the Everton penalty area, as his low cross required frantic defending from the Blues.
But constant pressure soon paid off and Liverpool equalised. Sylvain Distin’s back pass was weak, allowing Luis Suarez to latch onto it and slot past Howard with the outside of his right boot.
Liverpool had started brightly in the second half and continued to attack Everton after their goal.
Andy Carroll created space for himself on the edge of the box, but dragged his effort just past the post. The number 9 desperately trying to make up for his glaring miss early in the second half.
The big man was involved within play minutes later, this time Luis Suarez blocked his scuffed effort on goal before it was scrambled away by the Everton defence.
Kenny Dalglish went in search of a winner, introducing Maxi Rodriguez and Craig Bellamy.
Bellamy almost made an instant impact, latching on to Andy Carroll’s flick on he sprinted clear of the defence, but Baines recovered and conceded a corner.
From the resulting corner Coleman fouled Steven Gerrard on the edge of the box in the 85th minute. Craig Bellamy whipped in a searching cross, which Andy Carroll glanced in rising above blue shirts. After his constant persistence in the second half the £35million man created a hero of himself celebrating with the Liverpool fans.
Maxi then had a chance to wrap up proceedings and save a tense finish, but his shot from Luis Suarez’ inviting pass across the face of goal struck the outside of the post.
Liverpool held on to march into their second cup final of the season.
After going a goal down Liverpool showed passion, character and desire to not only equalise, but also go on to snatch a late winner. Each man made himself count and together they overcame a deficit. Something we saw in the midweek win against Blackburn and previously in the draw to Aston Villa.
MOTM: Luis SuarezThe little Uruguayan was a constant pest to the Everton back line all game. If he was not shooting, he was creating and if he was not creating he was hustling defenders, which eventually lead to his goal. Andy Carroll was the perfect foil for the number 7, his presence created space for Suarez to apply his trade and run the back four ragged.
Sikander Najib
Andy Carroll snatched a late winner to give Liverpool three points against relegation threatened Blackburn Rovers. Two early goals from Maxi Rodriguez in quick succession put the visitors ahead, but Blackburn hit back after Alexander Doni was sent off, Yakubu with the two goals.
On his return to Ewood Park, Kenny Dalglish made six changes to his starting line up. Regulars Luis Suarez, Steven Gerrard, Jose Enrique, Stewart Downing were rested, while Dirk Kuyt and Jamie Carragher were also out of the first team. In came Bellamy, Maxi, Carroll, Johnson, Coates and Spearing.
Maxi Rodriguez gave the visitors the lead when Martin Skrtel released Craig Bellamy with a cross-field pass. The Welshman squared for the awaiting Maxi Rodriguez, leaving him the simple task of tapping it in.
Maxi then bagged his second of the evening. Jonjo Shelvey dispossessed David Dunn on the half way line, advancing forward, the midfielder forced Robinson into a save. However the rebound fell to Carroll, whose attempt was blocked again, but Maxi was on hand to secure his brace with a neat finish with his weaker foot.
Then, the pivotal moment of the match. A loose pass from John Flannagan released Junior Hoillet through on goal, but Doni fouled him in an attempt to deny the Canadian a clear goal scoring opportunity. The referee was left with no option but to send him off. The Brazilian was distraught as he trudged off the pitch, the second time in three games Liverpool’s ‘keeper saw red.
Third choice Brad Jones was called into action for the first time in the league for Liverpool. Former teammate Yakubu stepped up for the penalty, but the Australian guessed correctly, saving the timid penalty. The shot stopper pointed to the sky in celebration for his son, Luca, who recently passed away from Leukaemia.
But Yakubu soon made up for his missed penalty. A free kick from Dunn found the Nigerian, who glanced in a header towering above the Liverpool defence.
With a man over, Liverpool looked in shock, while Blackburn were applying the pressure in search of an equaliser.
The halftime whistle couldn’t have come quicker for the Reds.
The visitors were back on the front foot after the restart, Craig Bellamy whipped in a promising corner, but Andy Carroll’s header was just wide of the target.
Shelvey then had another chance to restore the two-goal lead, but his shot from distance was harmlessly off target. A simple pass to Bellamy on the right seemed a better option.
Blackburn were then awarded another penalty. Brad Jones bundled over Yakubu after his clearance deflected off the Nigerian and looped up in the penalty area. Jones was relieved to only see a yellow card to his name. Yakubu stepped up once again, but this time converted to level the scores at 2-2.
The ‘keeper was then called into action, again. This time from his own player. Andy Carroll misjudged his headed clearance, looping below the bar; Jones saved the number 9’s blushes with his fingertips.
Blackburn applied more pressure in the final minutes to snatch a late winner, but it was Liverpool who snatched three points in stoppage time.
Sebastian Coates knocked a cleared corner back into the box where Daniel Agger’s header picked out Andy Carroll; the Englishman thumped a header past the diving Paul Robinson. Jubilation broke out amongst the travelling Kop as Carroll went off to celebrate.
After the character and passion of the Liverpool players had been questioned in recent weeks they had put that doubt to bed with a resilient performance against a determined Blackburn side fighting for survival in the Premier League. They showed desire to snatch a late winner with a player short, and fought constantly throughout the game with a weakened line up. Kenny Dalglish will be hoping for the same mentality come Saturday.
MOTM: Jordan Henderson
Once again in an unfamiliar role, the England u21 captain looked calm and assured throughout the game. There was shades of Steven Gerrard filling it at right back in the 2005 Champions League final. He tackled, passed accurately and strode forward with every attack. Henderson portrayed bags of energy striding forward and tracking back. A mature performance from a young player.
Sikander Najib
Luis Suarez snatched a late equaliser as Liverpool came from a goal down to draw with Aston Villa. The result ends three successive defeats for Liverpool, leaving them in 8th.
Stewart Downing returned to face his former club, while Doni was forced to make his debut as Reina served the first of his three game ban. Jonjo Shelvey retained his place as Kuyt partnered Suarez upfront.
A minute’s silence was held prior to kick off in remembrance to the Hillsborough tragedy, the anniversary of which is next weekend.
Shay Given was forced into a save in the opening minutes as Stuart Downing skinned Alan Hutton to deliver a searching cross that found Kuyt on the back post, but Given reacted well and kept out the Dutchman’s shot. There were calls that the ball had crossed the line, but Michael Oliver waved away claims.
However, it was Aston Villa who took the lead on 10 minutes. Herd finished superbly on the edge of the area, after Doni failed to punch away a cross.
Chances came few and far between after the opener for both sides; Liverpool shared the majority of the possession, while Villa looked to hold onto a slender one-goal lead.
Liverpool had two penalty decisions turned down. The first a handball that would’ve been harsh if given, then a clear trip on Suarez by Hutton as he was through on goal.
A couple of minutes later Dirk Kuyt spurned the best chance of the half. Suarez’ cross found Gerrard at the back post, his shot was well wide of the target, but it fell to Kuyt who could only strike it over the bar as it seemed easier to score from 3 yards out.
Suarez then worked himself into a promising position, but he could only fire straight at Given with his weaker left foot.
Liverpool started the second half as they ended the first. Creating more chances to draw level. This time Gerrard’s cross was headed superbly by Suarez onto the post, Given then frantically palmed it away as it rebounded across the face of goal.
Dalglish sensed a change was needed, and a change came in the 65th minute. Craig Bellamy and Andy Carroll entered as Stewart Downing and Jonjo Shelvey excited. A rather bewildering decision, as Downing was purchased in the summer to supply Carroll with crosses to latch onto.
Bellamy’s first touch was a shot wide of the target. He then crossed for Kuyt, who appealed for a handball on Lichaj. The referee once again waved away claims for a penalty.
Liverpool had found belief. They went in search of an equaliser, and the introduction of Agger, after a lengthy absence, almost paid dividends. The Dane’s thunderous drive was just wide of the goal.
But then, in the 82nd minute, Liverpool’s pressure finally counted. Steven Gerrard cross found Agger on the back post, his header struck the crossbar falling to Luis Suarez, who had the simplest of tasks of tapping home.
Liverpool continued to pile on the pressure in the final 10 minutes. Gerrard’s strike was smartly kept out by Given, but Suarez crossed in the clearance only for a goal line scramble to deny the hosts a late, deserved winner.
The result would still upset Kenny Dalglish and fans, but there’s no refuting the character and desire of the players to get something out of the game. In recent weeks when Liverpool had found themselves behind heads had dropped and the opposition would easily run away with the 3 points. But the passion that has been found wanting recently had returned, and if it hadn’t had been for poor finishing, striking the woodwork on 3 occasions and goal keeper heroics, the hosts would’ve deservedly got the three points.
MOTM: Luis Suarez
Sikander Najib
Liverpool lifted their first piece of silverware in 6 years at Wembley on Sunday beating Cardiff 3-2 on penalties after an intense 120 minutes couldn't keep the sides apart.
The Reds came up against tricky fixtures during the competition, facing away trips to Stoke, Chelsea, Brighton and eventually a semi final encounter over two legs against Manchester City.
Watch Steven Halliwell's compilation of the 2011/12 Carling Cup competition.
READ MORE
The Reds came up against tricky fixtures during the competition, facing away trips to Stoke, Chelsea, Brighton and eventually a semi final encounter over two legs against Manchester City.
Watch Steven Halliwell's compilation of the 2011/12 Carling Cup competition.
Video made by Steven Halliwell @Ste_Halliwell11
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| Liverpool's first piece of silverware in 6 years |
Liverpool beat Cardiff 3-2 on penalties (2-2 AET) to lift the Carling Cup for a record 8th time on Sunday afternoon. Cardiff took the lead through Joe Mason, before Martin Skrtel hit back after the break. Dirk Kuyt looked to have sealed the victory in extra time, but Ben Turner broke Liverpool hearts in the last minute to send the tie to penalties.
Kenny Dalglish made one change to the team that ran out comprehensive 6-1 winners against Brighton, Daniel Agger replacing Jamie Carragher in the centre of defence. Craig Bellamy missed out on a start against the club who he supported as a child, and where he had a loan spell last season.
It wasn’t long until Liverpool threatened to open the scoring. Glen Johnson struck the cross bar in the opening minutes.
After much of the early Liverpool pressure, Cardiff shocked Liverpool supporters by taking the lead. Kenny Miller slipped through Joe Mason, who tucked the ball through Pepe Reina’s legs to send their fans into ecstasy.
The Reds looked to draw level instantly. Jose Enrique curled a shot wide with his weaker right foot, while Charlie Adam’s shot narrowly missed the target.
Stuart Downing’s clever trickery left Kevin McNaughton in knots, before sending in an inviting cross, which Henderson failed to make contact with and Gerrard hoofing his attempt off target.
Daniel Agger was next to come close to levelling the scores on the stroke of half time. Gerrard whipped in a cross, which the Dane headed straight at the Cardiff ‘keeper.
Liverpool were quick out of the blocks at the start of the second half. Suarez forced Heaton into another save to deny the Uruguayan.
The number 7 was soon at it again, tricking his was through the Cardiff penalty area, before a last ditch tackle from McNaughton denied him a shot at goal.
A change was needed. Dalglish responded by sending on the on looking Craig Bellamy in place of Jordan Henderson.
The substitution impact was immediate. Minutes after coming on Liverpool were level. Downing’s cross was nodded towards goal by Carroll towards Suarez, whose header was denied by the post, but Martin Skrtel followed up and slipped the ball through a crowd of defenders into the back of the net.
Liverpool pushed to find a goal that would give them the lead. Skrtel coming close again with a volley from an acute angle that was kept out by Heaton.
The ‘keeper was called into action again, tipping Downing’s fierce effort past the post.
As the game seemed to be going into extra-time, Kenny Miller was presented with a glorious opportunity to snatch a late winner. A well-worked free kick found the Scot in behind the Liverpool defence, but could only blaze his attempt over the bar.
Into extra-time, Heaton was, not for the first time, called into action. Tipping Suarez long shot around the post. The Uruguayan then had his header cleared off the post by Taylor.
Craig Bellamy then curled an effort past the top corner, before Glen Johnson’s effort flew off target.
The prolonged pressure finally came to fruition in the 108th minute. Substitute Dirk Kuyt’s initial shot was dragged wide, but the Dutchman found the back of the net with the round, sending the Liverpool fans into jubilation. Kenny Dalglish had one hand on the trophy.
Into the dying minutes of the game, Kuyt then pulled off heroics in his own box, clearing a Cardiff header off the line. But, from the following corner Ben Turner converted to level the tie at 2-2 and send the game to penalties. The scenes at Wembley were a stark contrast, Cardiff supporters ecstatic, while there was heartbreak for the Liverpool fans.
Gerrard and Adam missed Liverpool’s two opening penalties either side of Kenny Miller cracking his effort off the post. Don Cowie converted his penalty to give Cardiff a 1-0 lead in the shootout.
Kuyt slotted his penalty to his left, while Rudy Gestede struck the post to leave it level at 1-1.
Stewart Downing and Peter Whittingham scored the next penalties, followed by Glen Johnson finding the top corner, leaving Anthony Gerrard to convert his.
The cousin of Steven Gerrard dragged his penalty wide to give Liverpool their 8th League Cup final and 6-year wait for silverware, over.
Sikander Najib @AttackoftheKop
Liverpool will host Stoke City in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup on Sunday 18th March 2012, kick off 4pm. The game will be broadcast live on ITV1.
The two clubs have already met in a cup competition earlier in the season, where Liverpool came from a goal down to beat The Potters 2-1, courtesy of a Luis Suarez brace at the Britannia Stadium. The victory progressed Kenny Dalglish's men to the quarter finals of the Carling Cup.
In a strange sense of Déjà vu, Liverpool defeated Brighton in the Carling Cup, followed by the win at Stoke in their campaign to the final. They will have to do the same in the FA Cup if they are to reach Wembley for the second time this season. A good omen on their side.
Sikander Najib @Attackofthekop
After getting beaten by arch rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford and being held by Spurs at Anfield, the gap between Liverpool and fourth spot has widened to four points, and with Arsenal on a good run of form of late, Liverpool might have to wait another year for Champions League football to return to Anfield. But then again, the Reds are also in the final of the Carling Cup and have a fifth round FA Cup clash with Brighton to look forward to.
It has been a mixed season so far for Liverpool as far as the results on the pitch are concerned, with the Reds failing to find the required amount of consistency in the league to qualify for Europe’s elite competition, but then again at the same time, have been impressive in the domestic competitions, knocking out the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United out of both the domestic cups. But what constitutes a successful season for Liverpool Football Club? Will just a trophy do or is Champions League qualification necessary? Or even both?
There is no doubt whatsoever that when a season starts, Liverpool Football Club should be aiming to win the league, not just a place in the top four, but keeping in mind where we were at this stage last season, coupled with the fact that Kenny Dalglish’s side are still in rebuilding phase, Liverpool are far off from mounting a title challenge. So, instead, a place in the top four was the more realistic target, and to be honest, with 13 games still to play, a place in one of the Champions League spots this season is still possible. Its been more than 2 painful years now since we were last involved in the Champions League, and without a doubt, failure to get involved in it next season will cause a massive uproar from the Anfield faithful. Those famous European nights at Anfield have been sorely missed in the last couple of seasons by the fans, and even from a financial point of view, the loss in revenue has been immense. No European football also acts as a barrier to attracting world class players to the club, and keeping in mind the rise of Harry Redknapp’s Spurs and the oil money of the Sheikhs at the Etihad, a finish in the top four should be of paramount importance.
On the other hand, a trophy does you no harm whatsoever, especially after a trophy drought of nearly 6 years, and despite some people labeling the Carling Cup as a ‘Mickey Mouse Cup’, sometimes even a trophy of relatively less importance, can act as springboard to further success. A Liverpool win in the Carling Cup could possibly inspire the Reds to lift the FA Cup as well, and who knows, even a place in the top four. Confidence will pour into this young side as a result, and it could also help in attracting top quality players to Merseyside.
Obviously every Liverpool fan, including myself, wants the club to win trophies and get back into the Champions League as soon as possible, but if I were given an option, I’d chose a cup double rather than just a place in the top four. Liverpool Football Club exists to win trophies and for me, seeing a Liverpool side back to winning trophies would constitute a successful season.
Umar Khurrum @UmarKhurrum.
Liverpool secured their first league victory of 2012 with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Wolves on Tuesday night. Second half goals from Andy Carroll, Craig Bellamy and Dirk Kuyt were enough to send Kenny Dalglish’s men back to Merseyside with all three points.
There were a host of changes to the Liverpool line up that knocked Manchester United out of the FA Cup on Saturday. Steven Gerrard was left out of the squad along with Maxi Rodriguez, while Jay Spearing returned from an injury. Craig Bellamy found himself within the starting eleven with Charlie Adam, Dirk Kuyt and Glen Johnson.
After an enthralling first half, the game was poised in the balance. Both teams had threatened to take the lead, but neither landed the knock out blow.
However, after a bright start to the second half Liverpool were in front. The service Andy Carroll had been craving for all season arrived in the 52nd minute via a Charlie Adam low cross, the number 9 easily tapping in from close range to celebrate his first anniversary with The Reds.
Liverpool extended their lead 10 minutes later, Bellamy’s low shot squeezed past Hennessey in the Wolves goal. The Welshman’s ninth of the campaign.
A quick counter-attack instigated by Jose Enrique increased Liverpool’s lead to three in the 78th minute. The Spaniard’s cross field pass from his own half released Dirk Kuyt, who exchanged passes with Charlie Adam before slotting past Hennessey to bag his 50th league goal. An accolade he had been searching for many months.
The result leaves Liverpool in 5th place, four points adrift of Chelsea and two ahead of Arsenal and Newcastle, who have a game in hand.
Kenny Dalglish’s men host Tottenham next Monday, the last team to beat them at Anfield in the league.
Sikander Najib @AttackoftheKop
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.
Craig Bellamy scored twice against his former club Newcastle as Liverpool ran out victors at Anfield on Friday night.
Steven Gerrard came off the bench to net his second of the campaign and keep The Reds in hot pursuit of 4th.
Kenny Dalglish made two changes to the side that drew against Blackburn on Boxing Day. Craig Bellamy and Jay Spearing found themselves on the team sheet at the expense of Maxi Rodriguez and Luis Suarez.
Andy Carroll lead the Liverpool line as Luis Suarez served his one game ban for a finger gesture at Craven Cottage earlier in the month. The former Newcastle number nine has endured a tough time at Anfield since his £35million move and was hoping to repay the faith that manager Kenny Dalglish has laid with him by getting one over on his former team.
As they have done for most of the season, Liverpool started the game on the front foot. Daniel Agger starting his 10th consecutive match, the first time in his Liverpool career, surged forward, evading Newcastle challenges before he dragged his long range shot wide. The first piece of action for a packed Anfield crowd.
The tempo to the game seemed grind to an abrupt halt after a promising start, until the 15th minute. Jose Enrique’s low cross along the face of goal failed to find the awaiting Stewart Downing.
The winger then sought to test Tim Krul from long range, but the Dutch ‘keeper was equal to the shot with a save to his near post. The number 19’s first Liverpool goal continuing to elude him.
For much of the opening 25 minutes Pepe Reina was a virtual spectator, Liverpool retained possession and looked the more likely to open the scoring.
However, it was Yohan Cabaye who shocked the hosts to snatch the lead and send the travelling fans into jubilation.
The Frenchman flicked on a searching Ryan Taylor cross, which appeared to be heading towards the bottom corner before a nick off Daniel Agger deviated the path of the ball, leaving Reina no chance.
For the second game running, Kenny Dalglish’s men had to come from behind if they wanted a result out of the game.
They did just that, Liverpool levelled within 4 minutes of conceding. Charlie Adam collected Jose Enrique’s cross and fired it back into the 6-yard box. Taking a deflection, it fell kindly to Craig Bellamy on the penalty spot; the Welshman obliged and squeezed it into the bottom corner with a neat finish beating four Newcastle players on the line.
The almost instant reply inspired Anfield to find their voice, and with it the Liverpool creativity. Martin Skrtel went close to giving The Reds the lead as he glanced Bellamy’s corner just wide.
With Luis Suarez suspended and Steven Gerrard on the bench there was a lack of ingenuity within the Liverpool side. As a result, numerous promising attacks fizzled out without significantly troubling the Newcastle defence.
The hosts maintained their dominance going into the second half, but scenes of Steven Gerrard making his entrance, replacing Charlie Adam, lifted spirits around Anfield.
The inspirational number 8 made an immediate impact; his cross was inches away from Andy Carroll, starved of service for much of the game.
Minutes later, he exposed the Newcastle defence again. This time a delightful ball lofted over the back line found Andy Carroll, but the number 9’s first touch let him down enabling Krul to come out and collect the ball.
Gerrard’s introduction showed snippets of a potential bright partnership between him and the new Kop No 9.
But it was the other ex Newcastle forward who broke Geordie hearts. Craig Bellamy’s 67th minute free kick sneaked in between Danny Simpson and Tim Krul to give the hosts a 2-1 lead.
Demba Ba almost struck back moments later; latching onto a through ball he chipped the oncoming Reina, only for a spectacular goal line clearance from Martin Skrtel to deny Newcastle an immediate equaliser. The Slovakian displaying why he is keeping Jamie Carragher out of the starting line up.
A 3rd Liverpool goal would’ve removed any last minute anxiety around Anfield, it was nearly there when captain Gerrard delivered yet another searching cross for Andy Carroll. This time, the £35mil man fended off the defender and crashed his thumping header into the cross bar. The woodwork denying Liverpool, yet again.
The provider then turned goal scorer, after an impressive 25-minute cameo he capped off his performance with a clinical goal. Jordan Henderson slipped in the advancing Gerrard who coolly slotted through Tim Krul’s legs, just as he appeared to over run it.
FT Liverpool 3-1 Newcastle
MOTM: Craig Bellamy
The ever-present Welshman showcased his abilities once again. Unfazed by facing his former employers he was the catalyst of Liverpool’s attack, scoring two goals in the process.
Sikander Najib @AttackoftheKop
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| Charlie Adam fires home from the penalty spot for the opener |
Andy Carroll and Charlie Adam were on target as Liverpool extended their unbeaten run to 7 games with a dominant 2-0 victory over West Brom on Saturday evening.
Record signing Carroll bagged his third of the campaign on the stroke of half time, finishing tidily into the bottom corner. Charlie Adam had earlier put The Reds in front with a 9th minute penalty.
The result moves Dalglish’s men up to 5th, just one point away from 3rd placed Chelsea.
Roy Hodgson was up against his successor and was hoping for the same result, which saw the Reds go down in defeat in April last season.
The team news was fuelled with speculation, social networking sites went over drive with rumours that Steven Gerrard had picked up yet another injury along with Jamie Carragher. This was believed to be the case with manager Kenny Dalglish confirming fans’ fears. However Luis Suarez had shaken off an ankle injury sustained in the midweek Carling cup-tie at Stoke to feature in the starting line up alongside Andy Carroll. Lucas had returned from his one match ban against Norwich to partner Charlie Adam in the centre of midfield.
Liverpool had again started on the front foot. Within a minute Jose Enrique launched a pinpoint pass finding Luis Suarez in acres of space in front of the goal, but uncharacteristically the Uruguayan’s touch deserted him.
He was then involved again, setting up Charlie Adam on the edge of the area, but the Scotsman’s shot with his less favoured right foot flew several yards over the bar.
In recent games Liverpool had struggled to make an early break through after dominating but their persistence was rewarded with a spot kick in the 8th minute. Suarez linked up with Glen Johnson before being hurled to the ground by Jermone Thomas, the referee’s assistance waved for a foul, leaving Lee Mason with no choice but to point to the spot. The decision was greeted with several West Brom players expressing their displeasure towards the decision as well as the 25,000 home fans packed into the Hawthorns.
Charlie Adam stepped up to take the penalty and coolly slotted it away, sending ‘keeper Ben Foster the wrong way.
A one-goal lead was always dangerous to go by on by but Liverpool stamped their authority on the game. They retained the ball and were patient in possession. West Brom couldn’t match the fluidity of the Reds; they were second to every loose ball and adopted a deep approach, paying their opposition with a lot of respect.
The lead was almost extended to two, the flair and guile of Luis Suarez allowed him to burst down the right and delivered a searching cross for Andy Carroll who met it sweetly with his head, only for it to be blocked by what appeared to be Steven Reid’s arm. A penalty decision would’ve been harsh if given.
It seemed Luis Suarez was able to convert the difficult chances rather than the simpler ones. Martin Skrtel cleverly picked out Suarez from a resulting corner but the Uruguayan was only able to lift the ball over the bar from 8 yards out.
West Brom finally provided an attack of their own, but the Liverpool defence stood firm. Paul Scharner’s fierce long-range effort was well blocked by Slovakian Martin Skrtel.
A second goal would’ve provided Liverpool will the perfect cushion going into half time and it arrived just on the stroke of the break. A misplaced pass was seized upon by Lucas, delivering a crisp outside of the foot pass to Suarez on the right. The striker looked up and drilled an accurate ball to Andy Carroll, who fended off a defender and poked the ball into the back of the net.
The Suarez and Carroll partnership had now brought in 8 goals in 10 games. Plenty to get the Liverpool fans excited about.
After the break, West Brom were the same dejected side but their best chance of the game came courtesy of Somen Tchoyi. The Cameroon international found space on the edge of the area and shot across the face of Reina’s goal, with it only narrowly going wide.
At the other end Suarez was still in search of his first goal of the game. His inaccurate shots were the only thing stopping him on two occasions and on 57 minutes it appeared as he was going to get his reward after Andy Carroll neatly laid off Suarez, but his powerful drive was superbly blocked by Olsson.
Foster then kept out Jose Enrique, as his shot appeared to have been floating into the top corner. From the resulting corner Downing was left unmarked on the edge of the area, but his shot was well wide of the target.
Liverpool were again hampered by a combination of lack of finishing and opposition goal keeping brilliance. Andy Carroll came close to a second goal, but Ben Foster smartly saved his scissor kick shot on the edge of the box.
Downing was then close to getting his maiden goal in a red shirt but his powerful shot struck the post in injury time. This was the 10th time the woodwork had denied the Reds this season, four more than any other Premier League side.
My MOTM: I will shy away from the obvious catalyst in this Liverpool side and my Man of the Match vote goes to Lucas Leiva. The Brazilian was first to every loose ball and never let any of the West Brom attackers space on the ball, hunting them down viciously. He occasionally linked up front in attack but his tough tackling and sweeping up was badly missed against Norwich last week. Another great performance from the ever growing Lucas Leiva.
News Update: Earlier in the day Liverpool were drawn with a tricky visit to Chelsea in the ¼ finals of the Carling Cup. The draw has been harsh to Kenny Dalglish’s men, with away trips to Brighton and recently Stoke.
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| Craig Bellamy celebrates his first of the season |
Craig Bellamy scored his first league goal of the season as Liverpool were held to a 1-1 draw at home to Norwich.
The Welshman scored a crucial goal on the end of a dominant first half display, only for Grant Holt to snatch a point for Norwich on the hour mark.
A mosaic reading ”JFT 96” was erected on the Kop before kick off in correspondence to the parliament debate for full disclosure of Hillsborough documents.
The inclusion of Bellamy in the first XI seemed somewhat of a shock, leaving Andy Carroll and Jordan Henderson starting on the bench for the second consecutive game. Glen Johnson Made his first start of the season after injuries in place of Martin Kelly. Gerrard and Adam were deployed in the centre in the absence of the suspended Lucas Leiva who picked up his 5th yellow card of the campaign last week.
Liverpool had started brightly; in the second minute Martin Skrtel struck the upright with a header from a corner. Then Suarez came close when a cheeky turn on the edge of the area left him through on goal, but he couldn’t find a finish to match the build up.
Charlie Adam then rocketed a pinpoint 40 yard pass to Bellamy who skipped past the defender and found Suarez with the cross. The Uruguayan struck it first time only to be denied by a combination of Ruddy’s fingertips and the post.
Norwich were hanging on, they couldn’t keep the Reds attacking fluidity at bay. The passing was direct and the movement was threatening.
Pepe Reina was relatively quite, but Hoolahan fired from an acute angle forcing a save from the Spanish ‘keeper. The Canaries reminding Liverpool that they’re still in the contest.
Liverpool looked the more likely to take the lead and came close again when a fumble by John Ruddy allowed Luis Suarez to collect the ball but he was unable to find Dirk Kuyt in the box.
Finally the deserved breakthrough came via Craig Bellamy. Russell Martin had brought down Suarez but Bellamy stormed through to collect the loose ball and slotted past Ruddy with a deflection to give the Reds the lead on the stroke of half time.
Norwich, however were still in the game and lucky not to be 4 or 5 goals down.
After the restart Anthony Pilkington came close but his shot was straight at Reina, allowing him to make a comfortable save.
The post then denied Suarez for the second time and Liverpool’s third. After a sublime piece of skill on the edge of the area, nutmegging Barnett but his shot was deflected onto the post. The Uruguayan was everywhere bar the score sheet, consistently pestering the Norwich defence but to no avail.
On the hour mark Norwich’s resilience was rewarded. Anthony Pilkington delivered an enticing cross, which was met by Grant Holt to nod home between two defenders and Reina. The Spaniard had come steaming out to collect the ball but it seemed like the wrong decision as it left the Norwich forward with a simple task of directing his header on target.
The Reds definitely rued their missed chances throughout the game; the result should’ve been put beyond Norwich within the opening 20 minutes. However Norwich dug in and found themselves level.
Norwich nearly went ahead shortly after. Grant Holt was unmarked at the back post and directed his header across goal only to be kept out by an outstanding Pepe Reina save.
Liverpool set out for a win, Henderson was introduced for the lively Bellamy, a somewhat bewildering substitution considering how the Welshman played. Again it was Suarez pulling the strings to restore order but it was just one of those days for the Uruguayan.
Carroll was then introduced and very nearly gave the Reds a vital late goal to clinch victory but his towering header narrowly flew past the post.
A Suarez volley was then turned over by the impressive Ruddy right at the death to deny Liverpool once again.
Liverpool had amassed 29 attempts for just one goal. They rued their missed chances and will need to improve on their finishing if they want to return to the prestigious Champions League.
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| Captain Gerrard marked his first start in 8 months with a goal |
Manchester United scored a late equaliser to deny Liverpool victory in Saturday’s 1-1 lunchtime kick–off.
Steven Gerrard opened the scoring with a brilliant free kick in the 68th minute, the captain’s first start since March. However Javier Hernandez levelled 10 minutes later to deny Liverpool 3 points.
The team sheets brought about some surprises, captain Steven Gerrard found a place in the starting XI in place of number 9 Andy Carroll. But the biggest shock was from the Manchester dressing room; Rooney and Nani were named amongst the substitutes. Alex Ferguson had adopted a more defensive role; Phil Jones was playing just in front of the back 4, offering added protection.
Chairman Tom Werner accompanied NBA star LeBron James in the director’s box on the first anniversary of FSG’s takeover, while LeBron made just his first outing to Anfield since becoming a minority shareholder in the club.
The opening minutes saw a timid approach from both teams, with passes misplaced and over hit. But the first chance of the game fell to Phil Jones after Patrice Evra surged to the by-line and lofted a cross to the back post only for Jones to hit the side netting with his resulting header.
It was then Liverpool’s turn to threat an opener, a short corner from Charlie Adam found Steven Gerrard, the skipper guided a teasing ball across the face of the goal, unfortunately for the reds no one was in the right place to tap in from close distance.
Suarez then tried an audacious attempt from 40 yards, taking a shot in the hope of catching Spanish ‘keeper De Gea off his line, but it was to no avail as he was left untroubled.
Suarez was involved again; a burst from Charlie Adam into the opposition half followed a long-range drive deflected off Jonny Evans and fell kindly to the Uruguayan who easily brushed aside the defender but the shot was straight at De Gea, allowing him to save easily.
Liverpool had asserted their dominance on the game, but the threat of Manchester United was still evident. Ji Sung Park tackled Jose Enrique to steal the ball from the Spaniard but his attempt was well wide off the target.
The first half had been anything but a spectacle to watch, at times it was very sloppy and because of United’s defensive tactics it was hard for Liverpool to break down the resilient defence. Suarez was isolated upfront with minimal support, the counter attack from Liverpool was ineffective. The strike force lacked pace. It seemed as if the game was crying out for Bellamy. A fast-paced, wide man to compliment Downing on the opposite wing or to partner Suarez.
In contrast to the first half the second was very different, an injury to Phil Jones hampered his performance in the middle of the park, the game was a lot open allowing both teams to attack. Liverpool took full advantage of this, Dirk Kuyt’s effort appeared to have struck Jonny Evan’s arm but referee Andre Marriner waved on play and United broke instantly with Ashley Young’s shot just going wide across the face of goal.
Liverpool’s dominance finally paid off in the 68th minute when Charlie Adam’s weaving run was cut short by Rio Ferdinand’s foul on the Scotsman on the edge of the area. The United defender was lucky not to see a second yellow and sent off. Captain Gerrard stepped up to the ball, a familiar sight among Liverpool supporters. Gerrard’s strike squirmed its way through an exposed gap in the wall, sending The Kop into jubilation and leaving De Gea fixed to the spot as the ball nestled into the back of the net.
United responded with sending on Hernandez, Rooney and Nani coming on for Jones, Park and Young. Two of the substitutes then combined for the equaliser. Nani’s free kick was allowed to bounce in the area, leaving Hernandez with a simple header from 5 yards out, after his dazzling movement left Skrtel grounded.
Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea had come under immense scrutiny in recent weeks but he was crucial for United to hang on to the 1-1 draw. Downing’s cross was met by Dirk Kuyt straight after United’s equaliser but the ‘keeper was equal to the shot. He then pulled off another stunning one handed stop from Liverpool substitute Jordan Henderson’s looping shot, which appeared to be finding its way into the top corner.
The youngster had another chance in the 92nd minute but his free header was guided over the target
The disappointment with the draw from Liverpool fans proved how far the club has come within the year FSG has took over the club.
Next up for the Reds is Norwich at Anfield next week.
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| Andy Carroll celebrates his first league goal of the season |
Andy Carroll scored to get off the mark in the Premier League this season in a 2-0 controversial win over Everton in the 216th Merseyside Derby.
There was only one change in the team from the Wolves win last week, Dirk Kuyt, the ever dependable Dutchman had come in for Jordan Henderson. Kenny Dalglish kept Suarez and Carroll upfront, with captain Steven Gerrard amongst the substitutions along with Craig Bellamy.
The game started with a high tempo between both teams, the Everton crowd was roaring in the lunchtime kick off and the team responded with a dominant display in the opening minutes. But it was Luis Suarez who had the first chance of the game, a free header on goal in the opening minutes, but the effort was straight at Tim Howard. Tim Cahill almost instantly put The Toffees in front with a header that was looping into Pepe Reina’s goal, only for the Spaniard to fingertip the ball over the bar. Sylvain Distin then came close to making the break through, but his shot inside the box flew over the bar.
As always a Merseyside derby wouldn’t be complete without a red card and one arrived on 23 minutes into the game when Jack Rodwell lunged in on Luis Suarez. Referee Martin Atkinson did not hesitate to brandish a redcard, the 20th between the two teams in the Premier League, the most in any fixture. However on a second look, the decision had seemed harsh, as Rodwell had got the ball.
The red card seemed to have a massive impact on Everton’s game; instead of their early high-tempo and attacking play they adopted a deeper, more reserved approach. Tim Cahill moved onto the left, leaving Louis Saha as a lone striker upfront.
The change of tactic allowed Liverpool to keep more possession of the ball, something they had earlier lacked. But they failed to make the man advantage count untill Phil Jagielka brought down Suarez on the edge of the area, after a clever turn from the Uruguayan. Dirk Kuyt, the man for the big occasion stepped up to take the penalty in search of his 50th goal. However Tim Howard was equal to the penalty, tipping it around the post. The Dutchman had chosen the wrong fixture to miss his first penalty for the reds.
It was then Charlie Adam’s turn in added time to try and force the breakthrough. The Scotman’s fierce strike struck the crossbar from 25 yards out. Everton were still hanging on.
The second half had started where the 1st had left. Liverpool were in search of an opener, with waves of attack leaving Everton sitting deep looking to counter the reds. Tim Cahill set up Saha but he fired wide from just inside the area. The Frenchman was involved again, but in the opposite box. Everton’s number 8 cleared a corner met by the head of Andy Carroll off the line.
Howard tipped another Andy Carroll effort just around the post as it was creeping into the bottom corner. Sensing a change, the 67th minute saw the introduction of Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, continuing his rehabilitaion after a 6-month injury lay off. Along with him came Craig Bellamy for Stewart Downing and Charlie Adam.
Craig Bellamy made an impact straight away; the Welshman released Jose Enrique on the left, crossing the ball, Dirk Kuyt cleverly ducked under the cross allowing Andy Carroll to volley home his first Premier League goal of the season. A much needed confidence booster for the reds number 9.
Luis Suarez put the result beyond doubt in the 83rd minute when a miss clearance from Distin, hit the Uruguayan’s chest, dropping for him nicely to place the ball in the back of the net from 5 yards.
Kuyt almost made up for his missed penalty when Everton’s defence had fallen asleep. But his shot only managed to hit the post. During the game there were also numerous incidents of coins and bottles thrown at Bellamy and Suarez when they went up to take their corners.
The fixture dubbed the “Friendly Derby” was anything but on this occasion.
