This was a strange one… something I haven’t really seen from Liverpool much over the past few years. In our 0-2 loss at Fiorentina, we were out-hustled, out-classed, and even out-played. That does not often happen, even against the best of sides. But for it to happen at Fiorentina was a real shock, and the 0-2 loss was the least that we deserved. In fairness, we could have even lost by more, and only Fernando Torres’ overhit volley was even remotely threatening all match long. The shame of the match was not the loss, but the effort (or lack thereof).
It would be very easy to say that this was a one-off, and let’s hope that this is indeed the case. After all, Liverpool had scored in 21 consecutive Champions League matches until this point, so we were due for an off-day at the office. However, it means that things will be much more tense in group play for us, with our two matches against Lyon becoming especially critical now. I believe we will come out of the group, as we have a lot of quality, but it will become difficult.
One thing this match stressed to me, unfortunately, is that Lucas is not progressing like Rafa had claimed over the pre-season. He has not been at the races over the past few matches, which is not entirely surprising, and is letting himself and the supporters down. For a moment there, I thought “hey, this kid is finally coming good for us.” Not so much anymore. If Mascherano sees his place disappearing because of Lucas, I’ll be extremely disappointed. I would much rather see Benayoun there… or Aquilani when he is fit. My guess is that Aquilani will displace the Brazilian when he is fit. Or at least that is the hope.
Either way, we had just won six matches in a row before we ran into the purple buzzsaw, so perhaps I should not be too critical here. After all, we have been playing well and scoring loads of goals. With our next match at Chelsea over the weekend, though, it is tough to be super optimistic. A win OR a draw will suffice, to be honest, with a loss being the only unacceptable option. My guess is that it will be 1-1, with Drogba and Torres scoring.
COME ON YOU REDS! Let’s get it back together!
Loading ...
