Sunday, November 25, 2007

Reds Meant Business In St James' Park

Newcastle 0 Liverpool 3
Gerrard 28, Kuyt 46, Babel 66



Match Goals


As the international break was over, it's time to be back for Premiership football. Many would have still be talking about England's disability to qualify for the Euros and Steve Mcclaren's sacking. Nevertheless, all I care is Liverpool getting the points in the league which was at St James Park last night.

Yes, they did. 3 points in the bag, a convincingly 3-0 win over Newcastle at their home. What else can I ask for? It's a great result at the right time for Liverpool as over the week, there are reports about the rift between Liverpool boss and the American owners. I do not know what really happened, but I do know that as long as Rafa maintain their unbeaten ways, I believe he would be fine.

Liverpool started brightly though the fact that Momo Sissoko was in the team. Harry Kewell and Lucas Levia also started. We spread the ball well and passing was neat. Sadly so, Captain Steven Gerrard was being booed by the fans in the stadium. It's definitely due to England's mishap during the week. It's normal for him to get some stick especially from these hostile fans, however, I do think it's unfair to Stevie.

Still, Stevie did his talking on the pitch. He was not affected by the constant boos and went on to scored a stunner. On the 28th minute, the away side got a freekick outside the penalty box. Up step Stevie, he didn't reserved any power from the lay off by Lucas to him. Top Corner. Gave Shay Given no chance.



Liverpool had several great chances, but they also missed them terribly. This time around, Torres was being the main culprit. He could have got a hat-trick but the fact that he didn't stop trying showed how determined this young man is. He hit the post at the end of first half was the closest he could score last night.



Liverpool managed to add another to their advantage right after the break. Steven Gerrard's corner was flicked by Big Sami onto Dirk Kuyt knee, rebounding into goal. It's lucky goal by the Dutchman and Liverpool was in a comfortable position with 2 goals up.



Newcastle was clueless in the whole game. I do wonder what happen to them at home. They left too much space in the middle of park, which ended up pressuring the defence.

Ryan Babel came on as Liverpool played on a counter-attacking football. The flying winger was quick, strong and determined to get forward whenever he's given the chance. He got his rewards then by scoring a nice 3rd goal for Liverpool. A 1-2 with Stevie gave Babel space to shoot straight into the bottom corner.



2 players who impressed me last night. Harry Kewell & Lucas Levia. Even though both of them didn't score, their hard work in the game for the team was not neglected. Harry had been injured for a long time and it's great to see him back. He's definitely one of those who can help Liverpool push further as long as he's fit. He needs several games more to gain back his match fitness, which I agreed with Rafa, he would be like a new signing.

Lucas Levia. The number 21 Brazilian was superb in the middle, protecting the back four last night. His tackling was precise and passing was not too bad. (Better than Momo's) At such a young age, he has turned out to be an exciting prospect for Liverpool. His intelligence on the pitch and the individual control can be seen clearly from last night's match, at least for me.

I do not know whether we played really well or it's Newcastle who made us look good. Even so, the important fact is that we got the points which we needed. Game set, next game, Porto. 2nd Final in the Champions League.

You'll Never Walk Alone..

No comments: