Despite being held to a fifth league draw from ten matches by Newcastle United yesterday, Reds manager Brendan Rodgers was full of praise for his side…
Another home game and another frustrating result in which Liverpool dominated proceedings but yet again couldn’t find the goals needed to turn their performance into a deserved victory.
In fact it took a sublime 67th minute strike from Luis Suarez, in which he controlled a long through ball on his chest, held-off Newcastle captain Fabricio Coloccini and then rounded goalkeeper Tim Krul before slotting home, to even secure a share of the spoils.
The hosts started brightly and were full of energy and tempo but, after a number of half chances had fallen by the wayside, the Magpies took the lead just before half time through a brilliantly controlled Yohan Cabaye volley from a tight angle.
Liverpool regrouped at the interval and went on to have a number of chances to win the game, including two guilt-edge openings for substitute Jonjo Shelvey, but ultimately not even a late red card to Coloccini could help them clinch the three points.
Speaking at his post-match press conference, Kop boss Brendan Rodgers commented: “I thought our performance was outstanding. In the first half our possession and intensity was relentless, we had some chances but we just switched off before half-time.
“I’m really pleased about how our game is developing. The patience in our game.
“It’s important we move the ball quickly through the lines, which we’re doing. And importantly we’re creating chances while playing this way.
“But that’s five draws now in 10 leagues games, and of those draws we should have won at least three.”
During the game the Reds enjoyed almost 60% of possession and registered 20 shots to Newcastle’s 10 and 14 corners to the visitors 3.
The main statistic will always be the final score however and failure to win leaves Liverpool in 11th place with only 11 points from their 10 Premier League games to date; a tally that includes just 2 wins.
There are however further positives, in addition to those outlined by Rodgers, with the trio of teenagers, Andre Wisdom, Suso and particularly Raheem Sterling, impressing once more.
Undoubtedly top of the list however was the performance of Suarez. The Uruguayan’s stunning strike topped another brilliant shift full of vigour and craft.
“I thought he was unplayable. Coloccini getting sent off was frustration. I don’t think he could get near him today, and he’s a good defender, Coloccini. He has been a great player over these last number of years for Newcastle,” added Rodgers.
“Suarez is so bright, so clever, he’s a world-class striker. On that form today he really frustrates and provokes defenders.
“He is an absolute joy to work with. Every single day he’s in to train, to get better and improve. He’s still a young player and he’s committed his best years to us here.”
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