AnfieldTalk LFC news

Thank you, Kenny

noreply@blogger.com (Bri) — Wed, 16 May 2012 17:56:00 +0000

The announcement after days of speculation and the news spread quickly amongst the football world: Kenny Dalglish actually sacked as Liverpool manager.

Kenny proudly shows off his love for Liverpool,
and we are proud to call him royalty.

The 2011/12 season has been a mixed bag for many fans. The form in the league was shockingly bad. New signings such as Stewart Downing and Charlie Adam failed to live up to Anfield standards. And the club still hasn't seemed to have fully been able to shake off the effects Luis/Evra scandal.

However there was still things to be proud about. Not all the signings were gloomy as Jose Enrique walked onto the pitch in the Red shirt as if he had been born in it. And probably greatest of all, the three trips to Wembley, in which Liverpool won two and brought back home a cup after a six year drought.

But according to FSG, it was not enough. The league form simply could not be ignored, and Kenny has now parted ways with the club.

Fans have already shown this has absolutely no effect on Kenny's legendary status. King Kenny will always be just that...a King. And a saviour. He came to our rescue at a time of need, cutting his holiday short to save the rest of the season in January 2011. Suddenly the cloud of gloom that seemed to have leered over Anfield for awhile broke. Spirits were lifted of the players' and fans' alike and it showed. He had (and still has) respect from everyone.

The King has managed to leave him mark a second time on the club. Results may not have been ideal, but he came to bring hope back to the club. Although many are feeling down now about his departure, King Kenny will always be football royalty. His service and love for the club has made a positive impact. Nothing can change that.

Thank you, Kenny.

Swansea v Liverpool match report

noreply@blogger.com (Bri) — Sun, 13 May 2012 16:06:00 +0000

The last game of the 2011/12 season was not ideal for Liverpool as they lost at the Liberty Stadium against Swansea, one nil.

There were a few changes for Liverpool. Steven Gerrard and Martin Skrtel were out with injury while keeper Pepe Reina was out due to Illness. Doni would replace him between the sticks.

Andy Carroll, who has been impressive in the last few games, also started alongside Luis Suarez.

A series of sloppy passes early on almost gave Swansea the lead. Swans’ Joe Allen took the ball off Jonjo Shelvey and hauled it across the pitch. He attempted a shot with Danny Graham close to goal, but Allen failed to shoot on target and Graham was unable to reach the ball in time to get it in the net at point blank range.

Later, another mistake where Doni picked up a ball passed by Carroll turned into an indirect free kick for the Swans. It was blocked but then turned into a corner, where it was then cleared by the Liverpool defence.

Carroll and Ashley Williams got into a scuffle when Williams became the blame for Carroll’s fall. They both received a yellow card just before halftime.

In the 56th minute, Carroll had his shot at an amazing goal but it was blocked by the Swans’ keeper Michel Vorm. 76 minutes in, Carroll tried again but it went directly into Vorm’s hands.

But Swansea sealed all three points in the final minutes. Graham took advantage of a well taken cross and put the ball past Doni in the 87th minute. Any last minute efforts were fruitless, including Daniel Agger trying to make use a corner, but the ball went terribly wide.

Unfortunately it summed up Liverpool’s season as the Reds of Merseyside finish in eighth place on the Barclay’s Premier League table for the 2011/12 season.

Swansea v Liverpool match preview

noreply@blogger.com (Ste_Macca) — Sun, 13 May 2012 07:04:00 +0000

Liverpool today travel to Swansea in their last game of the Premier League. Kick off is 3pm. Liverpool midfielder Maxi Rodriguez is expected to start in what could be could be his last game for the club. Signed in 2010 Maxi has played 72 games for Liverpool with 17 goals to his name. Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard could miss this game as Euro 2012 looms. He also missed out the win over Chelsea with a minor back problem. When the clubs first met this season it finished 0-0. Liverpool have only won 14 Premier League games this season out of 37.

Liverpool v Chelsea match preview

noreply@blogger.com (Bri) — Tue, 08 May 2012 16:34:00 +0000

Liverpool play their last home match of the 2011/12 season against the last team they probably want to see atthe moment...Chelsea FC.

The Reds met Chelsea at Wembley last Saturday for the FA Cup final, inwhich Chelsea walked away with the trophy winning 2-1.

Andy Carroll came on in the second half of that match and changed the pace after scoring the Reds' only goal. There is hope that the Geordie will start tonight at Anfield. Overall, it is expected to be the same squad with few changes.

Chelsea could make a few changes themselves. Fernando Torres might start in his first return to Anfield since his departure last year. There is a chance Didier Drogba would be on the bench.

Because there is nothing left to lose this season, Liverpool are only looking to get revenge for Saturday and be putting in all their enegry to win in their last home game, while Chelsea will be still chasing Newcastle on the Barclay's Premier League table. A top four finish for them is still a slight possibility.

We're sure manager Kenny Dalglish will be giving it all for the fans tonight after that dismal display over the weekend. Chelsea beware.

LFC news round up

noreply@blogger.com (Ste_Macca) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 10:01:00 +0000

Alberto Aquilani
On-loan midfielder Aquilani looks set to return to Liverpool after reports in Italy that AC Milan are not willing to make a deal. AC Milan are reported to not want to pay the mandatory £5million clause if Aquilani plays 25 games. Already this season he has played 21 domestic appearances. Also Joe Cole could be set to return to Liverpool if Lille cannot find the cash to buy him.

They are currently paying his high wages of around £90,000 a week and are third in the league. Lille president Michel Seydoux has already voiced his concerns that money could be a problem and that a Champions League place would free up some money to buy him.

Steven Gerrard
Liverpool FC captain Steven Gerrard is set to make a come-back against Norwich on Saturday. Gerrard was left out the squad in the 0-1 defeat by West Brom at Anfield due to a hamstring problem. There was fears that Gerrard would face quite some time on the sidelines but Liverpool manager Dalglish has rubbished those rumours expecting to be ready for the Norwich game and also the home game against Fulham.

Liverpool confirm American tour

Liverpool Football Club have announced details of a summer tour of North America starting with a friendly game in Canada. Liverpool will face Toronto FC which is also the home of Toronto Blue Jays baseball team.

Liverpool v WBA Match Report

noreply@blogger.com (Bri) — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 16:53:00 +0000

Roy Hodgson’s return to Liverpool proved to be positive for him as his team West Brom Albion won over Liverpool at Anfield one-nil.

The first half of the game was painful for both sides as no goals were scored, but Liverpool continued their run of bad luck at home with many chances but having none converted to goals.

Enrique tried early on but the defender kicked it well over the bar. Another chance came from a corner kick, but Daniel Agger was also not able to grasp the chance well enough. Andy Carroll’s header was also over the bar.

The chances did not just come for Liverpool. West Brom also tried to open the scoring and kept returned keeper Pepe Reina plenty busy. Liam Ridgewell had a ball bounce off him towards the direction of the Spaniard but Reina quickly stopped it. And Peter Odemwingie tried a long ball effort that went wide of the goal.

The second half did not get any better. The Reds hit the woodwork twice. First, Jordan Henderson had his shot bounce back, and Dirk Kuyt’s ball also hit the post low and narrowly missed out.

In the 66th minute, chaos ensued when a throw in started the sequence of three clearances in succession at the West Brom goal.

Odemwingie finally put the Baggies one up ten minutes later. He sent Reina the wrong way after picking up a ball from a poor clearance by Glen Johnson.

Though the team did push on the defense for awhile, the Reds seemed to have fizzled out hope in the final minutes, letting Hodgson and the Baggies head back home with all three points.

Blackburn v Liverpool Match Report

noreply@blogger.com (Bri) — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 10:07:00 +0000

It was a crazy night at Ewood Park when Liverpool defeated Blackburn 3-2 in the final minutes.

Manager Kenny Dalglish made several changes to the previous line-up in anticipation of the upcoming FA Cup semi-final at the weekend, including resting captain Steven Gerrard, but the side did not seem weak in the slightest.

After 13 minutes, Maxi Rodriguez proved just that. Martin Skrtel picked out Craig Bellamy, who then crossed it beautifully to the Argentinian. Maxi easily put it past Rovers keeper Paul Robinson.

It only took a couple minutes later for Maxi to repeat it, putting the Reds two up after both Andy Carroll and Jonjo Shelvey were denied their chance to be on the scoresheet.

All seemed well until a messy back pass from Jon Flanagan caused stand in keeper Alexander Doni to fumble and take down Blackburn’s Juinor Hoilett in the process. Doni was shown an immediate red card, and Brad Jones stepped up take his place. Jones was able to save Yakubu’s penalty as his first touch.

In the 36th minute, Blackburn scored their first goal of the evening from a free kick by David Dunn that was then headed into the net by Yakubu.

The Rovers were granted a second penalty 61 minutes in when Jones pushed Yakubu in the box and was given a yellow. This time, he would make it past Jones, granting the home side some hope for a draw.

It looked to be a draw when the game came into extra time, but Carroll saved the day and claimed all three points for the Reds. Daniel Agger passed the ball high into the box where Carroll was able to gain control and put it past Robinson, claiming victory for the Reds after a long drought.

Liverpool v Aston Villa Match Report

noreply@blogger.com (Bri) — Sun, 08 Apr 2012 19:01:00 +0000

Unlucky Liverpool managed just a point at Anfield against Aston Villa with a 1-1 draw.

Striker Dirk Kuyt was all over Villa from the beginning, giving keeper Shay Given a startle early on but he grasped onto it, denying the Dutch international.

But Villa found the back of their goal first. Barry Bannan passed the ball to James Herd, who then put it past stand-in Red keeper Doni.

Before the halftime whistle was blown, Liverpool called for two penalties but both were denied by the referee including a potential handball and Luis Suarez being fouled inside the box. Instead the referee saw the foul as a dive and the Uruguayan saw a yellow card.

The biggest blow of the evening was when captain Steven Gerrard crossed the ball into the box, but Kuyt missed his chance at point blank range and somehow the ball went over the net instead of in it.

Given definitely saw more threat from Liverpool in the second half. First he had to stop a header from Suarez, and then he came under pressure from substitutes Craig Bellamy and Daniel Agger.

With only eight minutes to spare, Liverpool levelled the score. Agger attempted to head the ball into the net from a corner, but it was salvaged by Suarez from two yards out and put past the Villa keeper.

Liverpool’s spirits were obviously lifted after that, and they spent the last few moments putting pressure on, including a last minute effort by Gerrard. Villa were able to hold on though, and both teams walked away with a point each.

LFC news round up

noreply@blogger.com (Ste_Macca) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 09:46:00 +0000

Liverpool & Everton fans unite
The Hillsborough Justice Campaign have announced plans that they will follow on from their campaign that saw 25,000 posters handed out at the Carling Cup Final with another 30,000 Don’t Buy The S*n posters for the FA Cup semi-final against Everton. 20,000 posters available in red and also 10,000 in blue, which will be handed out around the Wembley stadium on the day. The Hillsborough Justice Campaign have asked supporters from both clubs to show their support and help by spreading the word amongst fellow fans.

23rd Hillsborough Memorial details
Details have been announced for the 23rd Hillsborough Memorial Service at Anfield. Fans who wish to attend are being advised that a ticket must be required to enter the service at Anfield. The tickets are available at a maximum of four per application, free of charge, by phoning the Ticket Office on 0843 170 5555, postal application to Liverpool Football Club Ticket Office, PO Box 204, Liverpool, L69 3JF or by visiting the Liverpool FC Store at Liverpool One in the city centre or via the Ticket Office at Anfield. Fans who are unable to make the service will be able to watch it live via the clubs TV channel or the clubs official website.

Kenny Dalglish will not quit
Ex Liverpool player Mark Lawrenson believes Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish will not be sacked nor will he walk away. "I don't believe he'll be sacked. It's a poor run, but the new owners are not going to make knee-jerk decisions." said Lawrenson. Pressure is mounting on Dalglish after some really poor results which now leaves Liverpool 8th in the league. "They could win the FA Cup this season, which would be two trophies, and that would be a strange thing to be sacked for. "As a manager in the Premier League, it's a crisis if you lose a couple of games. "They have Aston Villa at home at the weekend and I hate saying it's a must-win, but it is. I think Dalglish will be fine, but at any level, you have to win games." Said Lawrenson

LFC news round up

noreply@blogger.com (Ste_Macca) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 18:23:00 +0000

Charlie Adam
Liverpool player Charlie Adam will have to wait another two weeks to find out the full extent of his injury. Adam suffered his injury in the 3-2 defeat by QPR. "Charlie's got another two weeks and then we'll find out a proper diagnosis without people speculating," said Dalglish. "We will wait and see in a couple of weeks how long he's going to be out,".

Liverpool want Martinez
Liverpool, Man United & Man City are reportedly in the hunt for the signature of Athletic Bilbao midfielder Javi Martinez. The 23 year old has had a fantastic season. Other clubs Barcelona, Real Madrid and Inter Milan have also been linked with the Martinez, who has a £34million buyout clause in his contract.

New dates announced, Fulham & Chelsea
Liverpool Football Club have announced two new dates for the fixtures against Fulham & Chelsea.
Liverpool's game with Fulham was originally scheduled for the FA Cup semi-final weekend but will now take place at Anfield on Tuesday May 1, 2012. Kick off 7.45pm.
The match against Chelsea has now been switched to Saturday May 5 with 12.45pm kick off, but this game will be rearranged in the event that one of the clubs progresses to the FA Cup final.

Liverpool v Wigan Match Report

noreply@blogger.com (Bri) — Sun, 25 Mar 2012 12:37:00 +0000

Fans were left disappointed at Anfield when Liverpool lost 2-1 against Wigan Athletic.

It was an even further blow for the Reds as it was Wigan’s second league win in 14 games and first ever at Anfield.

The Lactics seemed a bit wary at first, but Victor Moses broke through to try his luck, but defender Martin Skrtel was able to block the early shot.

Unfortunately for Moses, he would see Skrtel’s boot when the Slovakian gave a high kick to the face in an effort to block him again. Moses had to leave the field after some treatment, but it earned Wigan a penalty at the half hour mark, which Shaun Maloney took and put past Pepe Reina for his first goal in a Wigan shirt.

Lactic keeper Ali Al Habsi became busy after that. Liverpool responded passionately but the keeper kept denying them a goal, including a curl by Luis Suarez and a shot by Steven Gerrard.

Manager Kenny Dalglish made an early change at halftime, replacing Jordan Henderson with striker Andy Carroll.

Two minutes into the second half, the Reds levelled up when Gerrard neatly passed the ball to Suarez to put it past Al Habsi.

The Uruguayan seemingly scored another goal only a few moments later. Skrtel’s header stumbled near the goal, and Suarez fumbled it into the net, but the goal was disallowed when the referee ruled it bounced off his arm.

Wigan responded with another goal to put them in the lead. James McCarthy’s shot was blocked by Jamie Carragher, but the ball was picked up by Gary Caldwell, and he then put it past a shocked Reina.

Liverpool fought back but in the end were defeated, the fifth time in six league games, and it sees the Reds still in seventh on the Barclay’s Premier League table.

QPR v Liverpool match preview

noreply@blogger.com (Ste_Macca) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 10:57:00 +0000

QPR v Liverpool

Tonight, Liverpool play away to QPR in the Premier League. KO 8pm. Liverpool face QPR on the back of a good run. An impressive derby win & beating a tough Stoke side to earn a place in the FA cup semi finals. Although recent league games have not been kind for the Redmen. The 1-0 defeat at Sunderland recently was Liverpool's fourth loss in five away league matches. Adel Taarabt is fit and available for QPR, DJ Campbell is still some time away from fitness. For Liverpool, striker Craig Bellamy could make a start after being out for two games after taking a knock. Glen Johnson is still out.

Running for Justice

noreply@blogger.com (Bri) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 19:55:00 +0000

The call for justice for the 96 fans who lost their lives at Hillsborough has been going on for 23 years, but a few fans are now raising awareness in a different way.

Dom Williams and his five teammates are hoping to do just that by running 76 miles from Hillsborough to Anfield in only three days.

Although a new runner by some standards, Williams is fully dedicating himself for the cause. This includes some serious training all in the name of justice.

"I started running last July and have not really stopped since," he said. "I do a lot of very hilly miles, this varies between 25 and 55 miles a week depending on how the body is feeling."

Recently, Liverpool Football Club gave their backing to the team's journey and announced that the run could be ended on the pitch at Anfield. Since then, Sheffield Wednesday have now also showed the same gesture, saying the six runners could start their trek right inside Hillsborough as well.

Not only have the two clubs shown their backing, but the support has also been pouring in from the community as well. Words of encouragemnt and donations to the fundraiser have been coming in from football fans worldwide. Williams expressed just how important it has been in the build-up.

He said: "Without the support, we could not go ahead. It just means we, as a team, have a huge responsibility to do ourselves proud and make this run as successful as it can possibly be.

"It really needs to be successful on two counts, firstly we want to raise a huge amount of money so when we present the cheques on the pitch at Anfield on either the 14th April or the 22nd April it is not embarrassing. Secondly that we raise public awareness not just in Liverpool but right around the country."

You can donate and find out more about Dom and his team by going to http://www.hillsborough-anfieldrun.co.uk/

Liverpool v Everton Match Review

noreply@blogger.com (Ste_Macca) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 15:21:00 +0000

Liverpool will host Everton on Tuesday night at Anfield, 8pm kick off.
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard looks set to return after a hamstring injury who managed a run out second half in the defeat against Sunderland & also Glenn Johnson could start if fit enough.
Stewart Downing looks set to return along with Andy Carroll while Agger and Lucas are still out injured.

Captain Gerrard could land his 400th Premier League game if selected tomorrow night and has also issued a rally cry the consistency levels are "just not good enough".
This may be David Moyes 10th season in charge at Everton, but he has yet to taste victory at Anfield.

Liverpool v Arsenal Match Report

noreply@blogger.com (Bri) — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 11:23:00 +0000

Liverpool saw their unbeaten at home run ended with a defeat to Arsenal.

The Reds nearly took the lead after 19 minutes when a penalty was given to the home side after a challenge from Arsenal’s keeper Wojciech Szczesny on Dirk Kuyt.

The Dutchman, coming off from a high for his part in last week’s Carling Cup, failed to get past Szczensy when he took the penalty.

But soon after, Liverpool would get on the scoresheet with the help of Arsenal. Jordan Henderson took a corner, but the Gunners’ Laurent Koscielny in an attempt to head the ball away ended up heading it into his own net, past a stunned Sczcesny.

Arsenal soon made up for the folly of an own goal with a goal by Robin Van Persie. A cross from Barcary Sagna saw the star Dutchman beat the defenders in red to put the ball past Pepe Reina and level the scoring.

The second half had a slow start since Mikel Arteta collided with Henderson . Arteta suffered a concussion and jaw injury from it.

Kuyt created a cross that looked for sure to become a goal by Martin Kelly but the defender wasted the shot by seemingly misjudging the timing of the cross.

In the eight minutes of stoppage time, Van Persie scored his 30th goal of the season and the game winner. Alex Song’s ball to Van Persie was perfect to see the Gunners walk away from Anfield victorious.

Although Liverpool were arguably the better side in the afternoon, they could not convert any of the chances to goals, giving Arsenal all three points and leaving the Reds even farther from the desired top four position.

LFC News Round Up

noreply@blogger.com (Ste_Macca) — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 14:18:00 +0000

Liverpool defender Daniel Agger will be sidelined for up to 3 weeks after fracturing his rib while playing in the Carling Cup Final against Cardiff City. Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has stated he will not be playing against Arsenal on Saturday & could be at least 3 weeks before he returns to action. Also Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard has returned from England duties with a tight hamstring, medical staff at Melwood are unsure if he will be fit enough for Saturdays Arsenal game at Anfield.

Meanwhile, Middlesbrough manager Tony Mowbray has rejected rumours surrounding Liverpool player JonJo Shelvey over a possible move. Shelvey, who joined the Reds from Charlton for over £1m in April 2010, was recently on loan at Blackpool earlier this season but was brought back to Melwood after Lucas was sidelined for the rest of the season. He has made 28 appearances for Liverpool.

Carling Cup Final Review

noreply@blogger.com (Ste_Macca) — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 11:02:00 +0000

Carling Cup final
Venue: Wembley Stadium

Liverpool striker Craig Bellamy is now fit to face his former club after an injection to ease a back problem. Liverpool defender Daniel Agger is set to return, after having been rested in the FA Cup win over Brighton.
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has taken the League Cup seriously this season and with three Premiership teams beaten deserve their place in the final. Liverpool have not been to Wembley since 1996.
Liverpool have met Cardiff City in the League Cup once before winning 2-1 in a fourth round tie at Anfield 2007.Kenny Dalglish says victory in Sunday's Carling Cup final against Cardiff at Wembley would mean alot to both himself and Liverpool supporters after six years without a trophy.

"It means a lot to me. More importantly it means a lot to a lot of people who have had to endure a few years when we've not been" Dalglish said. "It is just reward for the loyalty and support they have shown."
Liverpool midfielder Charlie Adam cannot wait to end Liverpool's six year wait for some silverware. "We're ready and we're looking forward to it and it's going to be a great occasion for everybody," "For me it will be a proud occasion because this club is a massive club.
The club has won trophies home and abroad before but to be part of a team that can be successful is great. "We're on the first step of hopefully achieving success and if we can do that, then great."

Liverpool v Brighton Match Report

noreply@blogger.com (Bri) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 16:42:00 +0000

Liverpool soared into the next round of the FA Cup winning 6-1, with a little help from three own goals from Brighton.

Defender Martin Skrtel headed a ball from a corner kick in the early minutes to open the scoring. Brighton answered with a goal by Kazenga LuaLua from a free kick just outside the box.

The visitors may have made some intention known with the equaliser, but they seemed to lack any fighting power after that. Liverpool created most of the chances from there on.

Unfortunately for Brighton, they left their mark into their own net. The first of their own goals came just before halftime when a header from Reds’ defender Glen Johnson was cleared but then bounced back into the net by Brighton’s Liam Bridcutt.

In the second half, Andy Carroll stepped up to the plate, scoring from eight yards out after a fantastic pass from Stewart Downing.

Poor Bridcutt got his second own goal of the evening from a corner gone wrong. Reds’ captain Steven Gerrard was initially denied a goal but the loose ball was again bounced back in by Bridcutt, adding insult to injury.

Only three minutes later did Brighton’s final own goal come. Brighton’s Lewis Dunk attempted to keep Luis Suarez’s cross away from the goal with his knees. The consequence would be the ball going into his own net.

Suarez attempted to get on the score sheet finally when Dirk Kuyt was brought down in the box for a penalty. The Uruguayan missed his shot, but a few minutes later he redeemed himself with a goal.

It started out as a cross from defender Jose Enrique to Andy Carroll, who then headed it to Suarez. He then got his name on the scoresheet from one yard out, and ending the rout at 6-1.

Liverpool will now face Stoke City in the sixth round of the FA Cup.

LFC news round up

noreply@blogger.com (Ste_Macca) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 16:37:00 +0000

Toni Silva on loan

Liverpool winger has been loaned out to Northampton Town for a month. Northampton Town manager Aidy Boothroyd is excited by the prospect of a Premier League quality player at his club.

"At a club like ours, we've got to get youngsters before anybody knows about them. We don't want to get excited too soon, but he's got Premier League quality."Said Boothroyd.

Liverpool v Brighton FA Cup

Liverpool play Brighton at Anfield. The last time these two sides met, Liverpool won 2-1 in the League Cup. Craig Bellamy & Dirk Kuyt were the scorers that day. Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher expects a tough game this Sunday.

"There are no easy games in the FA Cup - I could tell you that from the teams we've been knocked out by over the years," Carragher told www.liverpoolfc.tv. "We've had some bad results against lower league opposition, but that's what makes the FA Cup what it is.

Manchester United v Liverpool Match Report

noreply@blogger.com (Bri) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 14:56:00 +0000

Old Trafford hosted what is arguably the most heated game of the season when Liverpool visited this afternoon, but the Reds would walk away empty handed after Manchester United won 2-1.

The drama started before the whistle even blew. The eyes were more on Luis Suarez and Patrice Evra during the players’ handshakes. While it was expected for the two to shake hands and move on, it was Suarez who refused to shake Evra’s hand, leaving the Red Devils’ captain clearly angry.

Suarez soon seemed to be the distraction between Evra and Rio Ferdinand when the two defenders clashed, seeing Ferdinand land on his neck. A couple of minutes later the veteran would be up again.

Liverpool wasted no time putting the pressure on. Glen Johnson tested keeper David De Gea early on with a low shot but De Gea was able to get it away.

Formally retured Paul Scholes nearly put the Red Devils ahead with a close header but it went straight to Reds’ keeper Pepe Reina.

Danny Welbeck tried again but it was cleared by Daniel Agger when Welbeck made an attempt to find Wayne Rooney in the box.

Just before halftime, Liverpool were granted a corner kick. It was taken by Stewart Downing, and the ball went to Martin Skrtel who blasted it over the bar.

Suarez was left furious a couple minutes later when Ferdinand tackled him. The Uruguayan expected a free kick and was not given it. With his anger escalating, manager Kenny Dalglish kept motioning him to calm down.

More drama at halftime when there was pushing and shoving in the tunnel, with the police having to get involved. It took the players about five minutes to get to their dressing room.

Wayne Rooney scored the first goal of the game from a corner kick in the opening minutes of the second half.

Only a few minutes later, Rooney would double that lead. A pass from Valencia allowed Rooney to easily make it 2-0. It was poor defending from Liverpool.

He tried to make it a hat trick but finally the defense pulled through and the ball was cleared away.

Dalglish made some essential changed in the 61st minute with strikers Andy Carroll and Craig Bellamy replacing midfielders Stewart Downing and Jay Spearing. His final change would be Charlie Adam for Drik Kuyt with 15 minutes left to play.

With only ten minutes left, of all players it was Suarez who got the ball past De Gea to get Liverpool on the scoreboard.

Johnson’s powerful kick nearly leveled it up for the Reds but De Gea sprung it away over the bar. Nothing would come from the corner given.

Of course the scuffle could not be laid to rest. After the final whistle, celebrations from Manchester United players brought in front of Suarez caused more pushing and shoving from the two teams.

Liverpool v Spurs Match Report

noreply@blogger.com (Bri) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 21:57:00 +0000

Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur's meeting at Anfield ended in a stalemate in what was an important game for both teams.

While Liverpool were without defender Jose Enrique for the first time, Spurs were without their manager Harry Redknapp, who could not get to the game due to a glitch in transportation. The Reds also were able to include Luis Suarez back on the roster after the Uruguayan served his eight match ban (nin in total) imposed by the FA.

There was some excitement in the beginning however, when a cat occupied the pitch in the first ten minutes. It took a couple of minutes, but a steward managed to remove the feline from Tottenham’s penalty area.

Finally some real excitement started on the pitch about 20 minutes later. Charlie Adam curled a ball Dirk Kuyt’s way but the Dutch International was offside. A couple minutes later, young Jay Spearing took a shot from outside the box, just nicking the post.

Defender Glen Johnson tried his luck in opening the scoring five minutes before halftime but Spurs’ keeper Brad Friedel stopped it.

Gareth Bale responded for Tottenham but had no power behind his back-kick and Reina caught it.

The second half saw Liverpool even more alive against the Spurs. Even defender Martin Kelly got in on the chances by firing from 25 yards out, but again Friedel saved the effort.

Finally the most talked about man of the last few months was welcomed back onto the pitch. Suarez substituted Kuyt in the 65th minute. He immediately made his presence known by nearly opening the scoring himself but Spurs’ Scott Parker cleared the ball away.

Only a couple minutes later, Parker would find himself on the ground, responding to an accidental kick by Suarez. The Urguayan is booked for it.

Carroll had a brilliant opportunity to finally do it for Liverpool but the ball, which bounced back from the post after Daniel Agger’s attempted header, went clear over the net when the striker was less than ten yards out.

The Reds saw yellow again thanks to Martin Skrtel’s high-flying tackle into Bale.

Poor Carroll could not get that ball to go where it needed to. Glen Johnson’s cross found his head but Carroll headed it too wide.

Despite all the great chances for Liverpool left and right, it was Tottenham with the best chance. Bale had nothing but the ball and a lot of space, until Reina came out. Although a bit messy, the ball was cleared away.

The game ended with both teams taking away a mere point.

LFC news round up

noreply@blogger.com (Ste_Macca) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 18:34:00 +0000

Liverpool v Tottenham

Liverpool entertain Tottenham on Monday night in what could catapult Liverpool on a good run to claim a Champions League spot if they win. Liverpool welcome back Suarez who has served an 8 match ban. Steven Gerrard is also expected to start after being rested for the win over Wolves. The last time these two sides met, Liverpool were well beaten 4-0 at White Hart Lane. Liverpool are unbeaten in the Premier League at Anfield this season although have also earned seven draws.

Gerrard should be England captain Ex England manager Graham Taylor has said that Liverpool player Steven Gerrard should be the next England captain. "Gerrard's been captain before and I'd expect Fabio Capello to give it to him, "said Taylor. Steven Gerrard who has 89 caps and scored 19 goals for his country is the ideal choice for the armband alot of England fans have said.

Carling Cup Final Referee chosen

Referee Mark Clattenburg aged 39, has been chosen to take charge of the Carling Cup final between Liverpool and Cardiff City on Sunday, February 26. Simon Beck and Mick McDonough of will be the assistants. The fourth official for the final will be Anthony Taylor.

Wolves v Liverpool Match Report

noreply@blogger.com (Bri) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 21:43:00 +0000

Liverpool left Molineaux Stadium with three more points tonight in the Premier League after triumphing over Wolves 3-0.

Manager Kenny Dalglish omitted skipper Steven Gerrard from the night, rumoured to be out with a slight injury but Jay Spearing started after spending some time on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.

After 30 minutes, Dirk Kuyt attempted a repeat of his winning goal only a few days earlier that knocked Manchester United out of the FA Cup, but it was too high above the bar to make any threat.

But Wolves produced the best chance in the first half. Michael Kightly had a one on one with keeper Pepe Reina while just on the edge of the box but the ball just went wide right.

Charlie Adam for Liverpool created a great chance for Andy Carroll but it was blocked by Stephen Ward. Jordan Henderson tried his luck too but his shot was saved by Wolves keeper Wayne Hennessey. It was not a convincing first half for either side as the halftime whistle blew at 0-0.

After halftime, Adam tried again with a fantastic cross right to Carroll who slotted the ball into the left hand corner of the net and finally opening the scoring in the 52nd minute.

Less than ten minutes Craig Bellamy battled it out between three Wolves defenders, taking a shot that Hennessey struggled to stop. It brushed his gloves into the net then doubling Liverpool’s lead.

It was Kuyt who finished it again with the third and final goal. Assisted yet again by Adam, Kuyt put another ball past Hennessey in the right corner of the net.

Although Carroll was obviously hungry for his second goal of the night and had a couple close calls towards the final minutes, the game ended at 3-0 with Liverpool claiming victory.

LFC's Reduc@te offers unique learning for kids

noreply@blogger.com (Bri) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:24:00 +0000

Anfield is home to Liverpool Football Club and has been the stage for some highs and lows of English and European football.

There is another group, however, that call Anfield home.

For 13 years now, Liverpool have been running an educational programme called Reduc@te. For the youths that participate in the program, the draw is that it takes place at Anfield.

“I always believed that the principal initial attraction of the education centre was the location, for example here at Anfield, but the materials once here have to be of consistently top quality,” said Education Centre Manager Keith White.

“The combination of these two things leads to much improved educational interest and performance from the children of all ages who attend.”

Originally set up in 1999, Reduc@te is an after school programme for children in primary and secondary school covering numeracy, literacy and ICT (information and communications technology). The best part of Reduc@te for the kids is that they receive this tutoring right at Anfield, including learning experiences in the club store and museum, discovering the ins and outs of the financial side of a successful business.

Reduc@te is not only in the time after school. The programme offers full days, specifically focusing on certain activities such as Spanish and French, Football Globalisation days and Respect Weeks.

Students at secondary school get to enjoy Business days, where they learn about all sorts of activities off of the pitch to understand how the club generates revenue through business partnerships. They get to spend two and half hours with senior members of staff at Anfield to ensure the greatest learning experience possible.

The project was originally funded by the government, but since the introduction of the Coalition Government in 2010, the club has continued with the programme. White indicates that this can be a positive.

“Here at Liverpool we have kept going and even have a brand new centre,” he said. “With a blank canvass we can put on any educational programmes without any direction from Government, national or local,”

Due to no involvement from the government now either local or national, Reduc@te is not just limited to schools in Merseyside. Any school from anywhere can attend. White ensures that he helps design a curriculum suitable to what any attending school’s goals would be from participating in the programme.

“The curriculum is designed around what schools want from their visits and so to this end I and the schools work in partnership,” he said. “This is a successful tried and tested way of ensuring that all visits receive first class evaluations from schools which have visited.”

Because it combines quality learning tools, a specifically tailored curriculum and child-friendly atmosphere, Reduc@te has proven successful with children and leaving educators happy with the experience. After all, the chance to be involved with one of the biggest football clubs in the world would make any child eager to learn.

Liverpool v Manchester United Match Report

noreply@blogger.com (Bri) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 13:07:00 +0000

In what is always a tense meeting between the two teams, Liverpool managed to knock Manchester United out of the FA Cup in the fourth round, 2-1.

Patrice Evra was inevitably greeted by boos and chants after the Luis Suarez debacle but despite the negativity thrown that way, United still dominated the ball.

However, it was Liverpool that opened the scoring in the 21st minute and in front of the United fans too.

Chris Smalling headed out an attempt by Liverpool’s Jose Enrique, allowing the Reds a corner. Captain Steven Gerrard took the corner and it was headed into the net by defender Daniel Agger.

But the Red Devils’ persistence paid off not long after. Ji-Sung Park put the ball past keeper Pepe Reina into the bottom right corner of the net from only eight yards out in the 39th minute.

The second half seemed a near repeat of the first. United continued to control the midfield, and Liverpool was giving the ball away too much for comfort. Manager Kenny Dalglish made some changes in the 63rd minute including Charlie Adam on for Dirk Kuyt and Dirk Kuyt for Jamie Carragher. Later, Craig Bellamy would replace Steven Gerrard. After all of the subs were made only then did United begin to falter. Alex Ferguson tried to avoid the prospect of a replay by also making changes including Berbatov for Ryan Giggs and Hernandez for Paul Scholes.

And it was Dirk Kuyt who saved the trouble of a possible replay at Old Trafford. In the 88th minute, the Dutch international easily blast the ball past United keeper David De Gea from a pass off of Andy Carroll. Anfield naturally filled with deafening roars of cheers.

Dalglish spoke highly of Kuyt and the rest of the team’s efforts after the match.

“For Dirk it's a fantastic day and it's a great day for us to go through to the next round of the FA Cup,” he said. “To beat Manchester United is a great achievement for everybody.”

The draw for the fifth round of the FA Cup will be at 3.40pm on Sunday.