Liverpool outclassed Manchester United 2-0 in the first leg of the Europa League at Anfield. The reds were a class apart from United and got a convincing victory that will give a huge boost in the Europa League run-in.
At one point, Liverpool had a staggering 73% possession. If it wasn’t for David De Gea, the tie would have been finished in the first 60 minutes. He made some fine saves and kept United in the game. The Kop was in fine voice and the rendition of YNWA was one of the best this season.
Jurgen Klopp got his tactics spot on and at times, the football being played was just exemplary. Daniel Sturridge and Roberto Firmino got on the scoresheet for the reds. Liverpool had an impressive 90% passing accuracy in the match.
Let’s take a look at the player ratings from the game against Man Utd:
1. Simon Mignolet: 6
Was a mere spectator for most of the game but did his job well when called on for. Dealt with crosses comfortably.
2. Nathaniel Clyne: 7.5
Won a penalty with a clever run. Brilliant in both attacking and defending and in this form there is hardly anyone better than the Englishman in the league.
3. Dejan Lovren: 7
Decent outing for the centre back. Dealt with the pace of Depay and Martial well, with an unnecessary booking a blot on his performance.
4. Mamadou Sakho: 7
Solid. Sakho was brilliant in the air and on ground. His passing was impressive. Best defender on the pitch.
5. Alberto Moreno: 6.5
Good defensive display. Needs to put more effort if he wants to play regularly.
6. Emre Can: 7
Comfortable night for the German. Kept the play ticking along nicely and is exuding confidence with each game.
7. Jordan Henderson: 6.5
The captain had a huge role in the second goal. Intercepted many passes, but a booking was uncalled for. Not a convincing display.
8. Coutinho: 7
The creative spark of Klopp’s side. Was a constant threat to United’s defense and asked questions to the defense for the whole game. Stupid booking to say the least.
9. Adam Lallana: 7.5
Unlucky not to score. Played brilliantly throughout the game and deservedly got an assist. Showed some nice tricks in the game.
10. Roberto Firmino: 8
His performances are reminding the fans of a certain Uruguayan and he is not disappointing at all. Turning out to be an excellent signing. United had no answers for the Brazilian.
11. Daniel Sturridge: 6.5
Looked sharp after getting a rest in the last two games. His movement was brilliant and scored a deserving penalty.
Subs :
Joe Allen: 7
The Welshman is grabbing whatever chances he is getting with both hands. A superb display by the little man and worked his socks off. Deserves a start.
Divock Origi: 6.5
Played a little cameo but showed his blistering pace. Becoming a useful player to have in the squad.
MOTM: Roberto Firmino.
