farlieonfootie

Liverpool End of Season Review

2016-05-27T15:26:00.000-04:00


photo by mcclave	via PhotoRee

Correspondent Scott is back from a short break:

Well, I suppose after a lengthy pause, and given that the season has ended, a review of sorts is in order. But first, as you faithful readers have no doubt ascertained, Farlieonfootie experienced a down-sizing in the writing and editorial department. Said downsizing was not done via fiat on a per capita basis, but rather voluntarily on a personal production volume basis. In other words, the Boss Man and Correspondent Ed are resting on their literary laurels.

Yet this sporadic contributor remains hopeful they will both emerge from their hibernation given recent developments at their respective teams. First, despite the last gasp/collapse, Spurs won a Champions League spot and Correspondent Ed must be optimistic of a more sustained title challenge next year. Plus he can watch nearly all the Tottenham players play for England this summer in Euro 2016. As for the Boss Man (I have firmly adopted Ed's monicker), Champs League may have just eluded his Red Devils but he can take heart that Beelzebub incarnate (AKA Jose Mourinho) will be arriving at Old Trafford to unleash his slash and burn form of team building.

Come on back, comrades. Leicester may be champions and Villa may have gone down, but Liverpool are still mid-table.

Which brings me to my topic - how can it be, I was recently asked, that Liverpool are so happy and optimistic when they finished about the same spot as they did last year under the new Celtic coach, and lost two cup finals? Well, I suppose getting to 2 cup finals was sort of an achievement. But, more importantly, the discerning aficionado can see the style of play that Klopp is instilling and can see that the players move with more purpose and intensity. It isn't just the gangenpress; it is the work rate all over the field, both with and without the ball.

What I have enjoyed most this year is the resurgence of players who were deemed to have been failures. Notably, both Dejan Lovren and Adam Lallana have found a new gear under the German coach. In fact, most every player except the poor Christian Benteke has excelled under Klopp. The Belgian is too much of a talent to be hidden under a bushel and only brought out for Cup matches so one hopes Jurgen will find a place for him or let him go to shine in the right system.

Other players like Joe Allen, Lucas Leiva and Kolo Toure might not have played as much as they would have liked but made important contributions when called upon. Youngsters like Ibe and Ojo were able to impress. Sturridge was mostly healthy. Coutinho was mostly sublime. Sakho was sturdy and Clyne was reliable. Moreno was erratic but exciting. Henderson was marginalized due to injury, as was Skrtl. Mignolet was generally brilliant with the occasional wobble. While Firmino's season, perhaps more than others, showed the same trajectory as the team overall - starting slowly with a few bumps but gathering momentum, even if unable to separate from the pack yet.

As for the future, I'm always optimistic but this time there are more reasons to be. Some summer shopping to spruce things up, along with the aforementioned momentum, could very easily see Liverpool legitimately challenge for Top 4 next year, and maybe even more. Of course, TV money is very quickly bringing increased parity to the BPL - it wasn't all down to Chelsea and the Manchester clubs underperforming this year.

In summary, another mediocre year for Liverpool, tinged with a bit of quality here and there, more so toward the end. Things are looking up, as we have to do from 8th place, and a higher finish next year is a lock. The only question is how much higher. Oh, and when will the rest of the Farlieonfootie writers break out a keyboard again?

This is farlieonfootie for May 27 -- Happy Memorial Day weekend, everyone.

Whose Perch is it?

2016-03-21T15:37:00.002-04:00


photo by Alan Vernon.	via PhotoRee

This article is genuinely funnier to read after the events of this past weekend, although I'm guessing that's not the case for Liverpool-loving Correspondent Scott, who wrote it:

When title hopes are long gone and domestic cups are snatched away early, there is always a special satisfaction in humbling an historic, acrimonious rival. Prior to Thursday night, it had been Liverpool regularly capitulating to Manchester United. But after a dominating display at Anfield last week, the good Reds weathered an early flurry by Martial & Co. to again show more verve going forward and more resolute defending. It was a deserved aggregate win for Liverpool as they will now progress in Europa and Manchester United are left with slim chances to save this lost season. If I were ever to take the low road to schadenfreude, there was no better time than when the camera panned to Darth Ferguson in the stands (he of “knock them off their f-ing perch” infamy), smile wiped resoundingly from his ever-red face. But I digress…

The Klopp effect is taking time to take root, especially without an influx of players chosen by him, but through the erratic play and results one can see a growing confidence and cohesion. No doubt the return of Sturridge and a healthy Coutinho is a big factor, each of them consistently befuddling defenders. Coutinho’s deftly chipped finish past an amazingly in-form De Gea is Exhibit A as to why the Brazilian is our most important player and why he is making inroads on the Brazil national team.

Progress has been made in other areas as well. A previously porous defense has turned particularly parsimonious, even when regulars are out injured. Sakho has begun to impose and his partnership with Lovren, especially, has been solid. Clyne has had an off day here and there but has been remarkably consistent and even the rampaging Spaniard, Moreno, has begun to show his defensive chips instead of only his ability to gallop forward. Even Milner, when conscripted to left back out of necessity, holds the line when not wearing a path down the outside channel.

Other players, too, are starting to acclimate and hit their stride. Firmino comes in and out of games but when he comes in, boy does he ever, combining with the surging Lallana as well as the aforementioned Coutinho and Sturridge. Emre Can continues his development into a top-notch player by breaking up plays and showing the work rate of a Milner acolyte.

All that is to say, Liverpool have won 3 in a row in the league and are progressing in Europa. The fans are Klopping in the stands and this supporter has allowed hopes to become cautiously optimistic. It would be nice to get on that perch again.

This is farlieonfootie for March 21.

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

2016-01-08T10:23:00.000-05:00


photo by Carla216	via PhotoRee

Scott's Liverpool side start of the New Year with a resvolution:

My how things have changed. It doesn’t seem that long ago that Jurgen Klopp was gangenpressing his way to a Bundisliga championship, Stoke City were hacking down Premier League opponents under the direction of Tony Pulis, who now coaches such thuggery at West Bromwich Albion, and West Ham United were happy just not to be in the relegation zone. But now, the Kloppmeister is reining over a stuttering (and limping) Liverpool side struggling to escape mid-table irrelevance, Mark Hughes’ Stoke City were favorites to beat the Reds, and West Ham comprehensively dismantled those Top 4 pretenders.

Of course, much as some things change, others remain, irritatingly, the same: Liverpool’s incessant underperforming, Daniel Sturridge’s perpetual sabbatical, and the literary aesthetic requirement that all lists be in groups of three. Oh, and there’s also that bit about Liverpool not having the requisite world-class players to mount a serious title challenge.

That said, a 1-0 victory away to Stoke in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final was at least a stutter-step in the positive direction. The first half was characterized by absolute dominance by the Reds, with a touch of poor finishing and a dash of hamstring pull. The second half yielded less dominance, more poor finishing and another dash (and a half, if you count the hobbling Kolo Toure) of hamstring pull.

I never thought an FA Cup game against lowly Exeter City could bring on such nervy anticipation. But lately we seem to play much better against Premier League title challengers than we do against League 2 opposition. Because no matter whom you play, you can only win if you score and goals have eluded Liverpool even as we dictate proceedings and create chances. Even the normally reliable Benteke has squandered brilliant opportunities in front of goal.

Changes are needed at Anfield and, while we can see some of them being made already under the enthusiastic German’s direction, more can’t come soon enough.

This is farlieonfootie for January 8th.

Two Steps Forward for Liverpool....

2015-11-30T08:37:00.001-05:00

...but two steps backward for your editor, who was delayed in adding this post from pre-Thanksgiving. Without further ado, Correspondent Scott on the 4-1 thrashing of City:

While Mangala might have gotten the scoring started when he couldn't sort out his own feet quickly enough to prevent his own-goal, the writing was already on the wall from the first whistle that Liverpool had come to the Etihad with their tails up and ready to play. Swarming pressing, intricate and creative passing, tireless running and resolute defending made the Reds' opponents seem like a League One team at times. Sure, City's talismanic Kompany was out injured, but I doubt even the towering Belgian could have stemmed the sea of red shirts that poured forward swiftly and relentlessly.

Liverpool could have (should have?) easily scored a few more (kudos to Joe Hart for multiple 1v1 saves) and, were it not for some individual brilliance from Aguero, could have also kept a clean sheet away at the home of the then league leaders. Whenever you hear someone say that a coach only has a minor impact on a team's performance, look no further than a quick comparison between the last couple Liverpool games under Rodgers and this game against Manchester City.

Of course Klopp is managing expectations (as he should after the Crystal Palace debacle) and saying a top 4 finish will be difficult. And, indeed it will. But the flurry of games over the next few weeks should be a pretty good barometer as to whether a return to the Champions League is actually attainable or merely a momentary glimmer of hope, much like Leiscester City’s 1^st place standing in the table. The keys to ongoing success will be to maintain the defensive stoutness spearheaded by the very-in-form Skrtl and the resurgent Mignolet, while continuing the replenishment of confidence that has imbued Firmino, Moreno and others.

This is farlieonfootie for November 30.

Clapping Klopp at the Kop

2015-11-11T15:14:00.001-05:00


photo by kevinzim	via PhotoRee

With Scott's prodigious output, we may have to re-fashion this as a Liverpool blog:

Despite the recent stumble to Crystal Palace, the Kop is still wildly clapping for Klopp. It does look like there has been an injection of enthusiasm and belief into the squad, but will it last? Ever the optimist, I like to think so and, with a couple quality transfers in January, I think Liverpool will be challenging for the Top 4, notwithstanding their current mid-table position.

Winning the ball back in dangerous positions can always turn a game and Jurgen has the Reds swarming frenetically in the offensive half. Of course, such effort is not sustainable over 90 minutes so the key will be for Liverpool to learn to toggle on and off in unison - if one goes they all go - no lone hunters who will invariably be picked apart by even mediocre passing.

We may need to re-fashion this as a Liverpool blog with Scott's continual writing:

Naturally, there is more to Klopp's system than the Gangenpress. The formation has changed from the Rodgers days, alternating between the Christmas tree 4-3-2-1 and the 4-2-3-1, which allows more width farther up the pitch. Either setup allows for a chance to control the midfield, which integrates into Klopp's passing system.

The pundits were driving me nuts about the lack of crossing service for Christian Benteke's aerial prowess (when he's actually healthy), but pundits are not always wrong and the latter of the above 2 formations addresses that issue. The Belgian has been more than impactful during his precious minutes on the pitch, showing a chasm of quality between him and the overwhelmed Divok Origi who deputized in his absence.

Again agreeing with the pundits, more quality striking power needs to be on the Boxing Day wish list as Daniel Sturridge's eternal injury issues may very well completely sabotage that promising career. Also problematic are Mamadou Sakho's hamstrings which appear to rule out the towering lefty every couple games. Although, it does appear that the formerly hapless Dejan Lovren has found, at least for now, some semblance of his confidence and ability.

Change can be good for a club (hear that, Chelsea?) and, while I believe Brendan Rodgers will land on his feet given his abilities, it seems Liverpool was too much for him. The change from an up-and-comer to a high stakes proven commodity was the right move at the right time and.

May the Normal One be anything but.

This is farlieonfootie for November 11.

A Curious Visit from George

2015-10-01T10:30:00.000-04:00


photo by A National Acrobat	via PhotoRee

We're back, with our once a month post -- from Correspondent Scott:

With Liverpool’s recent results having slapped me into some type of disbelieving stupor, the confluence of (1) coaching my daughter in a tournament this past weekend and (2) a delightful visit from my boyhood soccer coach, George Merrin, brought me to my senses, such as they are. Of course, Liverpool’s 3-2 squeaker over Aston Villa helped too. Long-time readers of farlieonfootie will remember I paid homage to George when he last visited in 2011, thankfully not his last visit as thought at the time. George hails from England but now lives in Australia and was my soccer coach when I lived in Saudi Arabia – the most influential coach I ever had, as you can probably tell by the fact that we have stayed in touch for the last 30 years. It was so meaningful to me for him to visit and see just how far his influence extends – An English coach training an American in Saudi Arabia fostered a passion for the game that led to my humble coaching efforts with 9 year old girls (and often shambolic literary efforts hereon). The very definition of a legacy.

As some may recall, George is a life-long Canaries fan and fate would have that Liverpool played Norwich City on his first weekend in town. He was very pleased with the 1-1 result and I suppose watching with him and seeing his enjoyment took some of the sting out of a draw we were supposed to win. Or I should say temporarily took the sting out since Liverpool’s poor play has swelled to such proportions that Brendan Rodgers has every reason to fear for his job. In fact, it could be that only Daniel Sturridge’s return has saved the Liverpool gaffer….for now.

At least Philippe Coutinho is back from suspension to bamboozle opponents and James Milner seems to be hitting his stride. Injuries to Christian Benteke and Jordan Henderson certainly don’t help but Mamadou Sakho back in the lineup seems to give some assurances over the schizophrenic Dejan Lovren. However, no injuries or lineup changes can excuse needing penalties to send off Carlisle United in the League Cup. Liverpool is like a misfiring engine that may or may not get into gear. We’ll see if a Merseyside derby this weekend can spark it to life.

I’m just about to drive George to the airport now for his flight to visit family in the UK and I’ll be sure to tune into Norwich’s game this weekend and look for him in the stands. It should be easy to spot him with his yellow and green scarf.

This is farlieonfootie for October 1st saying "Rabbit rabbit."

Liverpool Self-destructs

2015-09-01T11:52:00.001-04:00


photo by Steve Punter	via PhotoRee

It could be a long season for Scott:

It all started so well with narrow wins over Stoke City and Bournemouth, followed by a tough nil-nil away draw to Arsenal. Win the points at home against the "lesser" competition, and pick some up on the road against the Heavies, and Liverpool would survive the early season Schedule of Death. Alas, the script got torn up at Anfield this weekend after a gruesome 3-0 capitulation to West Ham, made possible by some truly asinine defensive blunders. Sure, there was a strong scent of misfortune wafting about each of the three concessions, but that was barely noticeable due to the spectacle of self-immolation put on by Liverpool's defense. I had not yet jumped on the Joe Gomez bandwagon, nor the Dejan Lovren comeback car, and certainly won't now.

On the first goal, Martin Skrtl was blamed by the announcers for a headed clearance that did not exit the danger area. Ok, maybe, but where were the midfielders to help gather it or at least pressure the turnover? But most concerning to me was the sight of Gomez, practically with a consoling arm around Manuel Lanzini, ushering him toward the goal and politely standing aside while the Argentine turned in the pass from the aforementioned turnover. Merely putting his foot a few inches forward would have blocked the shot. And, yes, poor Gomez is not left-footed and does not have much experience on the left but, come on, does he have to cut in to use his right every time? He attempted only one left foot cross that I noted and that one floated into the stands behind the goal. Gomez might work better in another position, and will surely improve, but his performance is just not good enough when you have one of the best headers of the ball in the game (Christian Benteke) starving for service in the penalty area.

While Gomez' shortcomings were technical and positional, Lovren's may be medical as he appeared to have suffered some sort of aneurysm on the second goal. Sliding over to cover on the left (Gomez' side, coincidentally), the Croat was completely in control of the situation and could have simply booted up the field or knocked out of bounds, or at least successfully escorted the ball out of touch like he tried. Instead, he failed with his intention and then, inexplicably, contrived to literally pass the ball to Lanzini in the penalty area. The ensuing cross, block, fortuitous rebound and inevitable goal could only be met by the beleaguered defender's woeful grimace, only partially hidden by hands to face.

The third goal was not quite as shockingly fraught with ineptitude as the first two but had the glaring similarity of a fortuitous rebound for West Ham, which was followed by indecision concerning the who and when of a challenge. In any case, the game was done and dusted by then, evidenced by the shameful mass exodus of shell-shocked Liverpudlians.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t merely defensive frailties that colluded against the Reds’ best intentions. The game was also frustratingly full of errant passes and bricked controls when it mattered in the forward third. The 59% possession statistic was more than flattering given that most of that was defenders passing it back and forth. We’ve seen this before and will see it again – Liverpool needs to figure out a way to break down teams that pack it in with a goal advantage.

It's only one game and these things happen in sports. And at least a couple other Champions League contenders, notably Manchester United and Chelsea, similarly stumbled this weekend. But it won’t be easy to bounce back as we next travel to Old Trafford, sans the red-carded creator Philippe Coutinho. Time to tweak again, Mr. Rodgers.

This is farlieonfootie making the deadline on September 1.

Goodbye Stevie G

2015-06-01T17:36:00.002-04:00


photo by StewieD	via PhotoRee

Correspondent Scott's final love song to Steven Gerrard:

In the end, it all unraveled so tragically. Ousted from the FA Cup by Aston Villa before collapsing at the end of the season in the league, Steven Gerrard certainly deserved a better swan song. So anemic were Liverpool's performances at the end of number 8's time at Anfield that, instead of the celebratory send off the Liverpudlian Lifer deserved, his legacy stumbled to the finish in cringe-worthy fashion, his late goals notwithstanding.

Fortunately, the broom of time will sweep away the refuse that was May 2015 and, left behind near the Shankly Gates, will be the shining moments of a truly brilliant career, spent entirely at the club of his boyhood, the club of his birth.

While the league title evaded Gerrard during his illustrious career, that fact must balanced against the respect and esteem he has garnered for his loyalty to one club during an era of ever-increasing short-cut transfers for riches and glory. Saying no to the likes of Chelsea and Real Madrid, Liverpool's long-time captain chose to remain a Red and fight for the title with them. That he fell short of that goal takes none of the shine from his sterling career. And, that his powers began to fail toward the end of his stay at Anfield, similarly, subtracts nothing from his achievements or legacy.

Stevie G! Oh Captain, my Captain!

Off to a far-away Galaxy. We thank you and wish you well.

This is farlieonfootie trying to figure out how to wash our mouth out with soap on June 1.

Ins and Outs

2015-05-06T10:58:00.001-04:00

In which Scott is judgmental:

With only half a handful of games left in the current season, most Liverpool eyes are cast forward with anticipation to the summer transfer window, now that Top 4 is but a shiny toy yanked from reach just as the Reds leaped to claim it. Rather than futilely jumping again and again, now is the time to build the ladder, with fresh players, that will climb to the summit of the Premier League once more.

Who will stay and who will go? Much has been written on the topic, but a few things stand out:

Balotelli just didn't work out and needs to be moved on. His style doesn't fit the current system and, despite flashes of brilliance, his frustration gets the better of him too often and his work rate barely registers at times. I still believe he is too often unfairly maligned, but his skill set is better suited for a different style of play.

Given that I was ready to write him off two years ago, along with most others, I can't believe I'm saying this but Henderson should be Gerrard's heir apparent to the Captaincy. The example of his work rate alone would be a fine contribution to that position, but his increasing ability to score and make the incisive pass puts him over the top. And with Gerrard gone next year, he won't have to captain sheepishly from the shadows.

Gerrard going to MLS is one of the blessings of this season. He was going to have to be more and more marginalized, so difficult for all parties when such a legend is involved. And the team can certainly use his wages for in in incoming talent.
I don't know what Lambert's wages are, but as a solid squad player and "change of pace option" I think he should be retained. He was not given much of a chance this year and the few opportunities that he did have were generally in the midst of desperation or dismal team play.

Borini has not done enough to stay. Too bad we couldn't get the 14M for him last year. When on the field, which is not often, he plays so desperately that he throws the hole team off.

Rodgers (yes, even the Manager is fodder here) should be retained, unquestionably. Has he been perfect or faultless? Of course not. But he did take this team to 2nd last year and within a whisper of Top 4 this year after losing 50 goals. He deserves another season. Then we'll see.

Sterling just needs to take what is given him, gratefully, and learn how to tap in a sitter. Then he can moan about earning Ronaldo/Messi wages. Yes, he is a bright star with a very promising future. But we've all seen our fair share of stars fizzle right after being crowned.

Glen Johnson just isn't good enough. And given his high wages, he is a near certainty to move on. In fact, he often doesn't even look interested in playing very hard.

We'll see what the summer holds, but those are some initial thoughts. In the meantime, who would have thought Man U would have stunk it up even more than us over the past 3 games. If Pardew's crew can edge the Red Devils and if Chelsea complacense manifests, who knows?

This is farlieonfootie for May 6.

Ode on (a Melancholic) Liverpool

2015-04-23T10:37:00.004-04:00


photo by Zest-pk	via PhotoRee

In which Scott waxes lyrically about the reds:

Historians may disagree, but I think Keats may have been a Liverpool fan. Still, despite his admonitions, I'm tempted to go to Lethe, hand in hand with the downy owl, sucking the ruby grape of Proserpine all the while. Such is the weeping cloud of melancholy that has fallen as quickly as Liverpool's Top 4 chances and FA Cup Dreams.

My very last post, granted some time ago, waxed on about the Rising Reds and all that was right in their footballing world. Yet Joy's hand was, indeed, at his lips bidding adieu to the Beauty that died by the feet of Manchester United and Arsenal in the league.

Then, in the very temple of FA Cup delight, Melancholy unveiled her sovereign shrine, and Aston Villa hid the green hill in an April shroud. There aren't enough globed peonies in all the world on which to glut the collective Liverpool sorrow.

So, with a half-dozen games left to play, while the English poet may have aptly described our sorrow, he also explains that Melancholy and Joy are inextricably intertwined, each needing the other. Joy's grape of previous success was burst on palate fine and we now taste the sadness of Melancholy's might. Until she's veiled again in Delight's temple...

Whether she be shrouded by a Top 4 finish or a successful 2015-2016 season remains to be seen.

This is farlieonfootie for April 23.

Upward and Onward: Scott on Liverpool's Run of Form

2015-03-12T11:40:00.001-04:00


photo by extranoise	via PhotoRee

Absence is said to make the heart grow fonder and my brief absence from posting to this prestigious blog has found me smitten with how Liverpool are playing, that Blackburn black eye notwithstanding. Brendan Rodgers tinkered with formations and lineups to help the Reds emerge from their late 2014 downward spiral and now sees his charges conceding fewer goals, scoring more and, most importantly, winning. No losses so far in 2015 and, aside from the aforementioned FA Cup debacle at Anfield, they have played some of the best soccer in the EPL of late. Exhibit A was their comprehensive victory over a Manchester City side that was beginning to hit full stride with a healthy Sergio Aguero. One can only hope that Blackburn was a hiccup and this improving run of form can carry them to a Top Four finish.

Still, there are issues to resolve. For one, how does Rodgers rotate and rest players like Philippe Coutinho and Raheem Sterling, especially with the injury bug ravaging several key players like Steven Gerrard and Lucas Leiva? Getting bounced from the Europa League, after the sting passes, should actually be helpful to the long-term financial fitness of the club as fewer games and less travel bodes well for a strong finish and a coveted UCL place, with its monetary benefits.

In the meantime, the return of Daniel Sturridge, while undeniably giving the team a boost, has presented Rodgers with a new puzzle to solve - how to fit last year's 20 goal scorer back into the squad without upsetting the equilibrium so recently restored. Statistics have been put forth illustrating that Sturridge does best with a strike partner up top but the formation that righted the ship plays with only one. Decisions, decisions...

And what of Mario Balotelli? He is much maligned but is also recently much improved. The issue is that he does not exactly fit the current system plus, let's face it, he seems to lack the requisite intensity at times. Although I would love to see Balotelli in the Chelsea game to harass Voldemourimho's minions and, in particular, Count Dooku Costa! (Mixing movie metaphors means more mirth).

With Swansea up next, Liverpool have a far from easy but definitely winnable game to catapult them back to their recently scintillating form.

This is farlieonfootie for March 12.

Shaping Up

2015-02-21T08:25:00.001-05:00

More to the point, it's been a while since Ed has written anything:

It’s been a while since I’ve written on Spurs, and a lot has happened. First and foremost, Harry Kane put us past Arsenal with two magnificent goals. Kane continues to play at a high level and pundits are wondering if this run is real or if he’s doomed to return to the norm or something below that. We shall see. Regardless, he seems to look like he knows how to play even if he’s not scoring, and Kane and Eriksen have become a terrific punch for Spurs.

The following week despite some good play int he first half, Spurs lost on a Mario Balotelli goal in the final minutes. What are the odds of that happening? Well, prior to his snatching the penalty kick ball out of the hands of his captain this week, Balotelli had about one goal for Liverpool, so I’d say the odds were pretty low. But to be fair, this shot was really just a tap in for Super Mario, so it would have been hard to mess it up. But what I liked most about this game was that Spurs seemed extremely annoyed and frustrated at the end of the game — as if they felt they should’ve won the game. I can’t recall seeing a Spurs team react like that to a loss against a big Club. Interesting, and I think a good sign. (On an unrelated note, I’m still not sure why Brendan Rodgers thought bringing this guy in was a good idea; clearly a desperate move by a desperate manager. But while Rodgers has Liverpool playing well with the return of Daniel Sturridge, it seems that the number of players he brought in that didn’t work out seems a luxury that only could be afforded the bigger clubs.
But returning to Spurs — has Poch’s style finally revealed itself? Clearly he likes to press high in the pitch, and his forwards and midfielders are required to run hard the entire game. The pressing style has paid dividends for Spurs, though, with several of their goals in the transition. But more notably, in addition to preferring younger players like Mason and Benteleb, Poch also put all the players through intensive conditioning after his arrival. Again, all of this suggests he likes his teams to play a little like the “Heavy Metal” style of the Jurgen Klopp, a coach that one clown of a FoF columnist suggested may be one of the best coaches in Europe. A difference, though is that Klopp hunts in huge packs when he presses, and the attacks that follow are at full pace, whereas Spurs pressing is definitely more expansive.

Poch is also using the entire Spurs roster, one that may not have been his but is pretty deep care of Gareth Bale. Will this depth allow them to make the top four? Hmmmm, with Liverpool rebounding and Arsenal playing well, it’s going to be tough for anyone to make the top four, including teams that are already there.

This is farlieonfootie for February 21.

Stoking a Blazing Hearth: Scott on Liverpool

2015-02-12T22:25:00.001-05:00

Scott is admiring Liverpool's form of late:

With that nail-biter of a victory over Spurs on Tuesday, I'm ready to say that Liverpool are firmly back on track and the team is starting to gel and acclimate to this season's formation and personnel changes. Yes, it all started happening far too late for a shot at the title (which was probably never a real possibility anyway) but a top 4 finish and another go in the Champions League is well within reach, present form continuing.

That Tuesday's victory was achieved without the services of Raheem Sterling is another plus. And that super-sub Mario Balotelli provided the tap-in winner is the icing on the cake, post-goal scowl notwithstanding.
It was far from easy with Tottenham looking the more dangerous at times, scoring 2 levelers to dampen the Kop mood before Adam Lallana to Balotelli helped them find their full voice. Harry Kane, in particular, continued his blistering form with a deft turn and power finish.

But, in the end, it was a bit of luck on Lazar Markovic's first goal that made the difference as Hugo Lloris should have done better with the under-hit shot. Still, 3 points were needed and gained so the Liverpool Express continues to gain momentum and, importantly, belief.

Questions surrounding Brendan Rodgers have surely evaporated as his back three formation seems to play to the team's strengths. Plus, he has shown leadership with his judicious use of Steven Gerrard and the brief sabbatical given to Sterling a few weeks ago. Most recently, his substitutions on Tuesday proved pivotal as it was sub to sub that resulted in the game winner. All the while, Jordan Ibe has been seamlessly, and advantageously, slotted into the side, even as the effective Daniel Sturridge has returned. Rodgers' naysayers are a shrinking cadre, shivering outside the warming hearth that is Anfield.

With more challenging fixtures coming fast and furious, while this is the time to acknowledge the tectonic shifts that are piecing together an effective Liverpool team, it is not the time for complacency or idle introspection. Rather, now is the time to fire the afterburners and blaze that hearth unrelentingly through mid-May.

YNWA.

This is farlieonfootie for February 12.

Stevie G is Tired: Ruminations on the FA and League Cups

2015-01-30T11:09:00.000-05:00


photo by twob	via PhotoRee

...from Correspondent Ed:

The League Cup and the FA Cup have taught us some lessons. First, the difference between the top tier of English football and the middle tiers isn't that much. Part of this is the higher level of play in the lower leagues than in the past. Part is also that the premier league teams just aren't that good. And of course there's that difference between teams that want it more and teams that don't. It's amazing how far hustling will get you.

But again, let's not diminish the abilities of some of these lower level teams. Bradford City at times looked phenomenal against Chelsea-- consider their last goal, patience in a tight spot, a terrific run, and clean finish. And so did Middlesbrough. Dare we also say Cambridge? Well maybe not, but they did seem to reveal the overall weakness of the fourth place team in the league.

And what if that pesky Liverpool team? Well, they looked pretty good at times against Chelsea in the league cup, even for a team without a striker. Had that team included Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge, would it have even been close?

And what of MLS bound Stevie G.? Did he look old? Did he look slow? Well, in my opinion he looked the smartest man on the pitch, making great passes and runs out of an unfamiliar right forward position. On defense, he effectively closed down Nemanja Matic on several occasions. Consider also Steven Gerrard's replacement at the holding position, Lucas Leiva. Lucas was certainly all over the field but his reckless tackles gave him one yellow and could easily have had him tossed out with a second yellow at least three times thereafter.

If I had to guess anything about Stevie G, I'd guess he's tired. Not physically fatigued but rather mentally tired of playing hard only to fail to reach the summit year after year. There will be no BPL championship, and there will not be another Champions League title either. Will an MLS Cup will make him happy? Maybe, but I suspect that with his luck he'll end up losing out to Frank Lampard's team.

And, oh, how about those Spurs? They don't seem to look that much better than last year's team, and they certainly aren't that great in possession, but Poch seems to be one of those managers that sneaks his way to victories. They had all but blown it against League 1 Sheffield when Christian Eriksen's last second perfect goal (just pass it into the corner, kids) put them in the League Cup final. Nice!

This is farlieonfootie for January 30.

Stamford Bridge is Falling Down?

2015-01-21T14:32:00.003-05:00


photo by Free-ers	via PhotoRee

Correspondent Scott may not be so happy by this time next week:

Liverpool thoroughly outplayed Chelsea in the first leg of the Capital One Cup semi-final leg at Anfield. Unfortunately, of their 19 shots (6 on target), they only converted one, largely due to the heroic efforts of Thibault Courtois. Meanwhile, a lackluster Chelsea squad managed only two shots with only one of those on target. Yet, theirs being a penalty, the final score ended even and sets the stage for a must-score situation for the Reds in the return fixture. Scotland Yard needs to investigate this most outrageous of stolen victories.

I can happily write that reports of Liverpool’s demise this season were premature. They may not consistently keep this form through the end of the season but they are winning games and dominating top competition. With a more settled back three of Can, Skrtl and Sakho, a re-found Lucas, the surging Moreno and Markovic, the sparingly used Gerrard, the workhorse Henderson, the shifty Coutinho and the speedy Sterling, Liverpool gave the visiting Blues much more than they could handle. They attacked, they pressed and they eventually starting picking the locks on Chelsea’s defense. Were it not for an unfortunate error by Emre Can who then overcommitted and bundled Eden Hazard, it would be the Reds now in pole position.

For large stretches of the game, Chelsea couldn’t complete more than one or two passes before Liverpool won the ball back and pressed forward again. This was even more true in the second half when Liverpool actually began to make use of their possession and get their shots on target. The substitute Adam Lallana was especially unfortunate to see his well-vollied shot parried away by the diving Courtois. And Gerrard hit the post. And there were other close calls all while Simon Mignolet at the other end was rarely called on to do more than field a ball passed to his feet and pass it back.

Yes, Jose Voldemourinho is likely treating this game like the first half of the two ties, but if Liverpool are able to muster the same energy and creativity, while eliminating any defensive mistakes, Stamford Bridge just might go falling down next Tuesday.

This is farlieonfootie for January 21.

Kandy Kaned, Glovers and Stevie G.

2015-01-07T12:38:00.001-05:00

Ed is still in the holiday mood:

Spurs are usually a team on decline in the festive season. Too many games for too thin a squad. But not this year. After a scoreless draw against Manchester United (we’ll take it against that payroll), Harry Kane went big and busted up Chelsea for Spurs best win in the BPL perhaps . . . ever?

The emergence of Kane has dramatically changed Spurs. With 17 goals in about as many games in all competitions, Spurs seem finally to have found their striker. His emergence from the Spurs own academy makes it even sweeter. One might be tempted to say that the team is finally catching on to Mauricio Pochettino’s direction — and I’d say there is something to that — but correlation is not equal to causation and it still remains difficult to tell. Recall that the same was said of Brendan Rodgers brilliance when he had Suarez and Sturridge, but now that they’re gone the press would say he can’t get anything right.

Kane is not merely scoring, but he’s playing the target man especially welll, and he’s also taking the space aggressively with the dribble like few strikers I’ve seen in the league. Kane isn’t that fast, but he’s fast enough and clever enough to use leverage and positioning to keep him in front of defenders. He’s a pleasure to watch operate and will most certainly be called up for England in the future.

* * *

I should note my sorrow at the loss of the Yeovil Town Glovers at the hands of a somewhat fortunate Manchester United. The Glovers gave 110%, and for most if not all of the match made me wonder why players like Rooney and Falcao were paid so much more than some of the players on the mid-third division team.

The FA Cup is a great competition, but at no time is it greater than the third round when premier league clubs have to play at tiny grounds throughout the country. It’s simply a pleasure to see top tier players go against what appear to be true club teams on un-pampered (and sometimes awful) grounds. There’s simply nothing more fun than watching Eden Hazard kick a ball into a tree behind the goal, or Steven Gerrard put one into a busy road next to the pitch.

* * *

Wait, did I mention Stevie G? His departure from Liverpool will, I suspect, mark the end of the Brendan Rodgers era. Gerrard has taken his lumps of late — and in my opinion his critics are largely wrong. As far as I can tell, he’s looked pretty similar to the player he was last year and the year before. I suspect he’d look a lot better if there was anyone on the team who knew how to score a goal. I think even Minulet would look better then. The problem is that when you lose as frequently as Liverpool are this season it makes for lots of blame to go around. The biter, for all his problems, seemed worth even more than his crazy sales price (I wonder also if he’s enjoying Barcelona or finding it, as I suspect, unsatisfying in the same way Alexis Sanchez may have — ultimately there’s Messi and Neymar and Iniesta and . . . . one ball.)

According to the news, Gerrard is headed for the LA Galaxy. Eh. Could have gone somewhere more exciting, but I’m guessing the weather and the money have made it the place to be.

This is farlieonfootie for January 7.

You Make Your Own Luck

2015-01-01T17:33:00.001-05:00

Scott's rose-tinged spectacles are fully polished up for this entry:

With 2014 behind Liverpool, a brighter 2015 awaits. Glimpses of the quality football to come have been seen over the past 4 games against Manchester United (I'm still scratching my head over that loss), Bournemouth (a deserved Capital One Cup victory), Burnley (a scrappy win over an under-valued club) and Swansea (with more than just a bit of luck).

Yes, there is still quite a way to go and the champagne I crack tonight will be solely to ring in the new year and not to toast Liverpool's completed turnaround. But with several players beginning to click and Brendan Rodgers finally finding a formation that seems to best utilize the talent available, it may not be long before another bottle is uncorked.

As ridiculous as it seems, in addition to the 2 quality goals against Swansea, the two lucky ones also boost my hopes. We all know that the best teams get "lucky" more than others and, in my estimation, shared by many, that luck is the product of a self-belief and confidence that manifests itself in the fortuitous block of a goalie's clearance or a generous own-goal. The best teams just KNOW they are going to win and play hard expecting that result, completing that self-fulfilling prophesy when that same expectant effort shakes a goal loose from the opposition. For too long this season, Liverpool have been playing scared, waiting for the other shoe to drop in the form of another crossbar rattled on one side before a mistake on the other leads to a depressingly familiar billowing of net. But at Anfield recently the roles were reversed and may it be a sign of things to come.

Helping, the “luck” along are several players who seem to be getting traction in the side as they gel with their teammates. Adam Lallana was a revelation against Swansea and is beginning to look like the confident, dangerous player that pillaged so many defenses for the Saints. His vision, control, work-rate and finishing (OK, maybe not the left footer he skied over the crossbar) were excellent. Add to that the on-again off-again Philippe Coutinho, who flipped the on switch again, and you have a dangerously offensive midfield. The Brazilian’s mazy runs repeatedly put defenders on their heels as he breaks forward to shoot or distribute.

Unfortunately for the Croat, leaving Dejan Lovren on the bench has seemed to help shore things up defensively. With Kolo Toure experiencing a renaissance, Martin Skrtl making fewer errors and even contributing offensively with his head, and Alberto Moreno flying forward to join the attack, things are far from perfect at the back, but looking up.

Raheem Sterling didn’t score against Swansea but his movement and efforts up top in the middle gave the opposition headaches all game. After all, It was his unselfish run that created the space for Lallana to penetrate to the left and score his goal. I am continually amazed at how strong the youngster is on the ball now compared to 2 years ago.

So, if we take all the above, throw it in a bag (along with a healthy dash of Daniel Sturridge) and shake it up, it seems we have the makings of a good team marinating, and ready to get cooking in 2015.

Of course, since this won’t get posted until after the New Year’s Day Leicester game, watch my optimism boomerang back and slap the half-full glass right out of my hand…

This is farlieonfootie saying "Rabbit Rabbit" for January 1st. Happy New Year!

I Know What You're Thinking (about United, Spurs and Liverpool)

2014-12-18T15:07:00.002-05:00

Ed weighs in on some football and a fantasy trip to the Hawaiian Islands:

I've decided to take a brief time out from my recent Magnum PI immersion and give you, my many fans, a few tired thoughts from the weekend's action.

First, United under Van Gaal is starting to look more like United did under Alex Ferguson -- more the red ferrari than the blue Vauxhall wagon of Moyes's tenure. They're winning when they really shouldn't be, and scoring when the other team seems to have more chances. Part of that always seemed to be luck when Ferguson did it, but interestingly it looks the same for Van Gaal. In addition, Van Gaal seems hell bent to prove that you can be totally weird and yet still beloved by fans and players alike so long as you are winning. As I write this, I remain unclear as to why he likes to do his homework during games, and why sometimes it appears that he needs to be nudged and awoken to the fact that his team has just scored. His post game interviews? Not really English. Kind of. Maybe a little. But not really. And finally, the flat face, the kooky hair style -- really?

Second, Spurs fans love affair with Harry Kane is getting as strong as Higgy-baby's love affair with the Lads. Alongside a forgettable Roberto Soldado, Kane scored yet again and did a terrific job as target man as well. As for another Spurs' Academy product, Ryan Mason, I'm still unclear why he's starting. He's certainly feisty and decent with the ball, but Dembele showed he is dramatically better both offensively and defensively. I suspect Moussa will be included in the starting lineup more frequently in the weeks to come.

Third, the heat on Brendan Rogers is rising faster than TC on a mission in his Island Hopper chopper. I find it hard to say whether Rogers is really that bad a manager. Clearly his players aren't that good. Clearly he also changes tactics with astounding frequency. But they almost won it a year ago, and they're top Striker is a guy that didn't start on his mid-table team last year (see again, You're Only as Good as Your Front Two). Plus, the formation he put on the field did account for a large number of chances many of which should have been goals. Defensively it was all about player mistakes. Does it surprise anyone that Coutinho isn't good at getting back to play defense? I don't know. Right now I blame him somewhat for some of the players he's brought in, but I'm not sure I can say anything else until I see them play with Sturridge back. By the way, is that every happening?

Well, enough soccer talk. A little voice inside me is telling me it's time to get back to the couch and finish off my trip to Hawaii . . . .

This is farlieonfootie for December 18.

Poor Finishing Finishes Liverpool: Manchester United 3 - Liverpool 0

2014-12-15T14:45:00.002-05:00

David Dea Pictured Behind HisTrusty Defenders

photo by anyjazz65

via PhotoRee

Our resident Liverpool correspondent, Scott, is going to have a hard time getting over this one:

It was the stuff of nightmares. You do so many things right but still lose, and emphatically at that. When Liverpool visited Old Trafford they brought an attacking intention that had the home side pinned back at the beginning. Even when things got a bit more even with the flow of the game, there were still large stretches when it was the visiting Reds who created the more and better chances. Unfortunately, as with every recipe, when one ingredient is left out it can wreak havoc with the final result. In this case, Liverpool left out the finishing, especially Raheem Sterling who was ubiquitous on the day but pathetic in terms of billowing the net.

Yes, Manchester United looked good at times and they are clearly a team in ascent as they cobble their newcomers into a functioning team, something Liverpool is still working on.  But on the balance of the game, I would say Liverpool were the better side.  They just couldn’t finish.  Of course, that was not United’s problem as Philippe Coutinho let Wayne Rooney trot right by him to slot home just seconds after Sterling used David De Gea for target practice for the first of many times.  Sure the Spaniard is big but the goal is a lot bigger and it’s not like he is magnetic (is he?).  Mata then scores a goal that should have been disallowed due to offsides (in fairness to the refs, it was really hard to see the brush of Robin Van Persie’s hair even in slow motion) and what should have been a 2-0 advantage to Liverpool was, instead, a frustrating reversed scoreline.

Nor was it the day that would see Mario Balotelli break his league duck with Liverpool, despite coming on after the interval.  Instead, it was the usual flashes of petulance and ball-control brilliance followed by a pin ball save by that damn De Gea.  Then, it was Liverpool’s eagerness to fight back into the match that left them exposed at the back, again, allowing the third goal for a ridiculously unjust scoreline.  Even so, if Dejan Lovren could have actually managed to clear the ball at his feet instead of teeing it up for the onrushing opponents, that goal could have been avoided.

Much will be made of this defeat, which is a shame, in my opinion.  They played better than they have at many times during the season and a 2-1 or 3-1 win would not have been an unreasonable outcome based on the game.  Specifically they, again, created many opportunities to score and didn’t just shut down creatively when approaching the opposing penalty area.  But, oh for some finishing….

This is farlieonfootie for December 15.

Mortality and Hope: Liverpool 1 - Stoke City 0

2014-12-01T12:43:00.001-05:00


photo by procsilas	via PhotoRee

Scott has some thoughts on this weekend's performance and more:

It was ugly. It was frustrating. It was close. And it was hard. But, in the end, thanks to Glen Johnson's brave header, Liverpool finally prevailed in the league. Many are pointing only to how hard it was. And still others, like correspondent Ed, are focusing solely on how poorly the Reds are playing of late. Ed and his ilk may, indeed, be right to do so because, let's face it, Liverpool have been simply awful over the last several games, and not much better before then.

But what I saw in this game, after what I hope and pray was the bottom of Liverpool football during a first half that saw nary a shot on goal, was the faintest glimmer of hope. Sure, Johnson's staple-stitch inducing header (for which, no doubt, he will receive a Purple Star) finally garnered 3 points. But more important to me was the 4 or 5 occasions in the second half when Liverpool produced legitimately dangerous passing combinations in and around the penalty area that showed they have not completely forgotten how to play attacking football in the forward third. May it be a harbinger of similar style….

o I think Gerrard's time as a starter is rapidly coming to an end. Quite frankly, his mobility is starting to remind me of what I see playing on Monday nights with Ed and the others of our generation. There comes a point when leadership can no longer overcome an aging body. Giving Emre Can an extended run of games seems to make sense. Stevie, you will always be our favorite talisman but the time is drawing near for us all to accept your mortality.

o Kolo Toure is proving himself once again. If he just keeps it simple and avoids the occasional aneurism, he can help our defensive efforts.

o Meanwhile, Simon Mignolet needs to get a hard crack on the knuckles every time he goes for a cross outside the six yard box. He has flapped at more crosses this season than a pelican trained to fetch balls. OK, that's silly, but the visual, I believe, is on point with respect to awkwardness.

o Philippe Coutinho needs to let everybody know before the game which of his personas has come to play that day. Is it the fancy-footed Brazilian who leaves twisted defenders in his wake before firing on goal or slotting a through ball? Or is it the sloppy midfielder who passes more to the other team than his cohorts, as he did against Stoke City, especially in the first half. While the former is more common, the latter can be dangerously self-destructive.

o Rickie Lambert's hold up play is exceptional. Now to add more quick passing around the box and the finishing we so desperately need.

o Speaking of finishing, both Joe Allen and Lucas Leiva, for all their other talents, could use a refresher course. Or maybe the whole course all over again. Or maybe just remember the two things I tell my 8 year old girls team: keep the ball down and try not to hit the guy in the green shirt who can use his hands.

o And more on finishing. If Liverpool can parlay this victory into an upward trajectory of quality and results as we finish this year, maybe we can at least finish 20104 with our heads held high.

This is farlieonfootie saying “Rabbit Rabbit” on December 1.

Great Dane!: Thoughts on Spurs and More

2014-11-26T12:28:00.001-05:00


photo by Laertes	via PhotoRee

Ed has thoughts on Spurs and more:

Spurs finally won. More than that, they played at a pace that made them look like they wanted to win. Granted, they picked up that pace after a somewhat fortunate red card sent Hull to ten men, but hey, they got it done.

For the first time in some time, Danish star Christian Eriksen finally had a good game. His goal was terrific as was his creativity in the middle of the field. Eriksen is a number 10 and dies not play wide to the same effect. The modern game requires speed wide, and he doesn't have much of it.

Which of course brings up the question -- where does Lamela play when Eriksen is central? Well it turns out he played in pretty much the same position as Erikson. Weird but on this day effective.

Another note is Harry Kane. Kane is certainly not a top Striker -- he's big but not that big, average on the ball, and a good but not great shooter. But...he's playing better now than any other striker Spurs have, meaning, of course he's scoring goals. A brilliant commentator brought this point up not long ago in a blog piece titled "Your Only as Good as Your Front Two." Spurs finally have someone who is putting the ball in the back of the net. If that continues it will make all the difference.

Some additional thoughts from around the league:

-- Manchester United won this week against a better Arsenal side in typical Arsenal fashion. Now United are in the top four. Wow they don't seem to have played even remotely good enough this year to deserve that placement.

-- Chelsea continues to kick everyone's butt. Mourinho may have been forced to resort to stealth face pinching at Real Madrid, but he certainly knows the formula for winning the premier league. And how much of a beast is that Costa guy? Wow, I get it now.

-- Liverpool just ain't good. Correspondent Scott laments the team and speaks of Rodgers being on the hot seat. But the real problem was summed up in that same article I referenced above -- 50 goals are gone this year. What's more, many of rest of the players are kind of "eh." Joe Allen? Borini? Balotelli? Would Chelsea ever start any of those guys? Regardless, I liked seeing Lambert up top -- and he earned his starting spot with a great first touch and goal very early in the game.

-- Yannick Bolasie may be a name that haunts Scott Roberts because he simply dominated his side of the field for Chrystal Palace against Liverpool. His speed and terrific runs -- note how he shoved the Liverpool defender off course on a great through ball to pick up an under hit pass -- where fun to watch. In fact, I'll give him my player of the week award. He was definitely the most influential player in that match against the Reds. Come to think of it, why not player of the week honors? Great job, Yannick!

This is farlieonfootie for November 26.

Was it All Just a Dream?

2014-11-25T17:00:00.003-05:00

In which Scott asks the question all Liverpool fans have on their mind:

Did we really finish second last year? Was that really Liverpool who nearly won the title were it not for a certain slip? And, even if so, was that really just the first slip in this huge slide to mid-table, and then below?

After an Adam Lallana to Rickie Lambert connection gave Liverpool a dream start to the game last weekend, it was more of the season’s usual fare: sloppy defending and meek attacking. Sure we can move the ball from the back to the tip of the forward third. But then we seem to have no idea how to penetrate from there, aside from the odd dribble from Raheem Sterling (although not this past weekend) and Philippe Coutinho. It is infuriating to watch such impotency. And the defense not only lacks the disciplined organization that is required, but also is fraught with individual miscues and poor decisions

Liverpool is a team in disarray and in full downward spiral. Normally, I can always see the light at the end of the tunnel, even if I can’t find the positives in a game. Now, however, I don’t even know where to start. Not only have they lacked the quality to win, it seems their belief in their ability to win has been throttled out of them. The recently much-maligned Brendan Rodgers has much to repair, even beyond the porous defense and toothless offense.

I still think it is too early to sack Rodgers. He has had to deal with some injury setbacks and, arguably, some of his transfers in have taken longer to fit in than would have been expected. Not to mention Mario Balotelli’s dearth of goals. But whatever he does to get this team back on track, he better do it quickly and the plan cannot include Daniel Sturridge any time soon.

Because it is so hard to watch. At least when Arsenal lose, they do it by being the better team (i.e. against Manchester United). Liverpool were second best against a relegation team. At this point, even if it had been all a dream, the dream has nearly faded to black.

This is farlieonfootie for November 25.

Better But Not Enough: Chelsea 2 - Liverpool 1

2014-11-11T17:41:00.001-05:00

Correspondent Ed's gone AWOL, but never fear -- Scott remains on the Liverpool beat:

Liverpool played much better today against an undefeated and in-form Chelsea side whose tactics were unrecognizable from last April's parking lot display. Right from the start the energy on both sides was frenetic and the Blues pressured way up the pitch.

The Reds played better than their previous few Premiership outings but it was not enough. But had they played like this last week, against "lesser" competition, they might have fared better. And I feel with just that little more that Daniel Sturridge could bring to the side, they might have fared better today too.

Alas, instead, Liverpool conspired against themselves when, after a fortunate deflection of Emre Can's shot, they conceded on yet another sloppy jumble in front of goal. Ugly goals are the bane of football fans, unless they benefit your team, of course. So, when 6 red shirts are mostly watching the 4 blue shirts to their goalside, it's time to really shake the defensive snow globe. Perhaps a certain Ivorian could help in that regard given his mid-week display in Madrid.

Yet, it wasn't just sloppy defending that hampered Liverpool. Especially at the end of the first half, the number of errant passes in dangerous locations was staggering. Only several fortunate blocks, especially by Glen Johnson who actually had a very solid game, spared the Reds a darker shade of blush.

Ultimately, it was another error by a man in red that lead to the go-ahead and winning goal. Many will credit the move and cross, but Philippe Coutinho, as excellent as he was going forward, needed only to contain Azpilecueta on the sideline, and thereby contain the danger of his counter-attacking run. But the Brazilian got too close in an effort to win the ball back, allowing the Spaniard to slip by him and deliver the cross that eventually fell to the ravenous Diego Costa

Speaking of Costa, I have come to the conclusion that he is a dirty player. His cynical, calculated shoves (very plural) to the back had me berating his image on the TV.

Errors weren't only made defensively. While having an otherwise solid game, despite not scoring again, Mario Balotelli had me thumping my couch in frustration with his careless, consistent offsides. Once, maybe twice...OK. But 4 or more times? I expect more awareness from my U9 Girls. We have struggled to give the Italian the ball in dangerous positions so when we can, he needs to not erase all the hard work that led to that final pass by drifting offside.

There were some bright spots: Johnson's defending (in general), Coutinho's dangerous runs through the middle with the ball, Raheem Sterling's tenacity and strength on the ball and Emre Can's work all over the pitch.

Sturridge would have helped but he's not back yet and it wasn't enough. Better but not enough. Let's hope the trend continues until it IS enough.

This is farlieonfootie for November 11.

Chaos and Capitulation: Newcastle 1 - Liverpool 0

2014-11-07T19:33:00.001-05:00

Scott is searching for answers, and he may want to begin by looking in Barcelona:

What has happened to Liverpool? Perhaps the rose-colored glasses impaired (most of) the collective Kop vision, but only the most pessimistic of supporter would have predicted the current state of affairs.

Sure, Newcastle have refound their form and their speedy strikers are bound to give any team reason for pause. But the complete lack of creativity in the forward third was mind-blowing. You would have thought that Chelsea had loaned the Toon team their two buses, so impenetrable was (New)castle.

Then to concede on yet another sloppy melee in front of goal, when just a right foot could have made the difference. Like a newly-declawed cat, the Reds stumbled and swatted their harmless paws, seemingly both confused and bemused by their impotence.
After that performance, such as it was, it was little wonder that Brendan Rodgers fielded a capitulation side at Real Madrid. That the youngsters kept things close (per the scoreboard anyway) perhaps bodes well for the future but does nothing much to help them against Chelsea this weekend.

Might we see the once mighty, then middling, then re-surging and now slumping Reds "slip" further yet at the hands of Voldemourimho? The smart money would say yes but Rodgers, Gerrard and Co. have much to atone for and one can never underestimate the pride of such men.

Let us all be proud.

This is farlieonfootie for November 7.

You're As Good As Your Front Two (or One)

2014-11-03T14:51:00.002-05:00


photo by emdot	via PhotoRee

Ed sums up the current state of the Barclay's Premier League:

You're As Good As Your Front Two (or One) -- Is it true? Well, in this year's Premier League it seems to be.

Take Manchester City. They are a completely different team with Sergio Aguero in the lineup. He put four up on Spurs and another on United though he could have had another in the first game and two more from PK's in the second. Dzeko is an excellent player but Aguero may be the best in the BPL.

Take Liverpool. Without Sturridge and Suarez they've looked completely ordinary. Or maybe worse than that. Everyone's picking on Stevie G, but the bottom line is they've had 50 premier league goals on the bench or playing for another team. Good luck making the top four without them.

Take Chelsea. Diego Costa has put them on top; Fernando Torres and Samuel Eto were never going to get it done.

And of course take Spurs. Since the move of Bale they've struggled. Adebayor is back in mid-contract form, and Soldado just doesn't seem very good. The top scorer on the team has been, shockingly, Nacer Chadli. But I'm hoping that may change with academy boy Harry Kane.

Midweek in the Europa League Kane put three in the back of the net and played goal. Okay, he gave up a goal on the only shot at him, but still, it's the effort that counts. And Sunday against Aston VIlla, when Coach Pochitino finally removed the listless and ineffective Adebayor and replaced him with Kane, Spurs attack came alove. He also finished the game with a terrific winner off a free kick.

One often wonders what makes teams pay so much for finishers. But this year's BPL is a great reminder. It recalls that wonderful adage of Ray Hudson: "God must love mediocre strikers because he sure makes lots of them."

This is farlieonfootie for November 3.

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