GK) Mignolet – 6
The Belgian has been impressive since signing from Sunderland in the summer, but this was his shakiest game. Looked uncomfortable when balls were delivered into the box, but made a brilliant save from Craig Gardner in the first half.
DRC) Toure – 8
Liverpool’s best defender this afternoon. The veteran Ivorian played on the right of a back three, and was totally solid defensively while providing a surprisingly impressive attacking option down the right flank, too.
DC) Skrtel – 7
Led Liverpool’s defence well, and dealt with everything delivered into the box well. Could have closed down Ki’s long shot that led to Sunderland’s goal better though.
DLC) Sakho – 7
Is still growing into a Liverpool player, and at times the lack of communication with his teammates was obvious. Was ultra solid in the air though, although was guilty of holding onto the ball too often when in possession. Made all of his tackles and interceptions, and is going to be a central figure in Liverpool’s defence for years to come.
DMC) Lucas – 6
Picked up a yellow card, which is unbelievably his fifth of the season, meaning he will miss the Reds’ next game at home to Crystal Palace. Was industrious in midfield, and intercepted Sunderland’s passes regularly, although his lack of dynamism is sometimes a cause for concern.
RWB) Henderson – 6
Played as a right wing back, and constantly got himself in attacking positions on the edge of Sunderland’s box. His final delivery was poor though, and Suarez was noticeably irritated by the poor service he received from the flanks.
LWB) Enrique – 7
Liverpool badly missed Enrique’s ability to retain possession up the left flank last week against Southampton, and the Spaniard was his usual dynamic self. Played very well, and didn’t let Adam Johnson get into the game.
MC) Gerrard – 7
Dictated Liverpool’s passing in a much improved second half performance, but like his partner Lucas, lacks the combativenesses nowadays to win back the ball sometimes. His experience helped Liverpool to close out the game however.
AMC) Moses – 8
The Nigerian is looking like a brilliant loan signing for Liverpool. He was bought in for his pace and directness, but his touch and ability on the ball was very impressive. If he carries on playing like he did today, Liverpool will try to sign him permanently.
FC) Sturridge – 9 – Man of the Match
Scored a goal with his only chance, and did superbly to make two more for his strike partner Luis Suarez. Was often isolated in the first-half, but recycled possession when he needed to, and beat his fullback brilliantly to practically provide unmissable chances for the returning Suarez.
FC) Suarez – 8
Suarez’s first Premier League start for ten matches ended brilliantly for the enigmatic forward. He scored two tap ins, and provided Sturridge with some much needed support at the top of the field. The partnership between the two looked fantastic, and is undoubtedly Liverpool’s key asset in their pursuit of a top four finish. Regularly tried the obscene, which very very rarely paid off – but he was the only world-class player on the pitch, and his two goals were the difference this afternoon.
COMMENTS