7.0 ALISSON BECKER
The giant Brazilian is the only man we want to see in our goal. Was possibly unsighted for the first goal, but it was a shot he would normally deal with. Despite a frantic first half, his handling was excellent. The second half required Ali to be alert and strong against a dangerous opponent, which he did admirably.
8.0 TRENT ALEXANDER ARNOLD
As the England international resumed, the experimental positioning continued. With an incisive pass, assisted the Reds’ first goal and attempted to progress the ball throughout the first half. His command slipped slightly in the second half as the home team came out fighting. Trent was able to reclaim control as the clock ticked away, providing good recycling and consistent creation. This season, he has maintained his best form.
7.0 ANDY ROBERTSON
His role has been slightly altered, which has probably resulted in more consistency. Was adequate in the first half, especially given his need to cover across the back line. He had to be on his game in the second half and remained calm during an often-frantic period. The Scot played a solid game, producing a fine corner to assist the winning goal.
7.0 JOEL MATIP
The Cameroonian replaced Ibou, who was not risked for this game. He was perhaps a little off-guard for the first goal as he adjusted to the new right-hand side. He played very well in the second half and capped it off with a bullet header.
7.0 VIRGIL VAN DJIK
The rear-guard leader had to step up this evening, especially since Konate was unable to begin. In the first period, he was steady and organized as West Ham broke at every opportunity. Won some crucial second-half headers as the home side attempted to assert themselves.
4.0 JORDAN HENDERSON
Despite some troubling form, he is still chosen. He lost his man for the first goal and was unable to recover in time to block the shot. Late in the half, Michail Antonio breezed past him while the skipper waved his arms around, almost giving the Hammers a chance. He started the second half well, with more urgency in his play, but he remained a step behind before leaving the field.
Subtitled – 59 minutes
7.0 FABINHO
As the squad’s only designated holding midfielder, he maintained his central role. As the two sides fought for first-half control, he served as a good shield and was on the offensive in his defensive work. In a tense second half, he maintained his discipline and positional play.
7.0 CURTIS JONES
Another game, another opportunity to shine for our academy product. The first half was busy and bright as the game flowed from end to end. Despite working hard and using the ball well, I was unable to have a significant impact on the game after the goal.
Subtitled – 84 minutes
7.0 CODY GAKPO
Started over as the central and conduit type. With a superb long-range effort, he managed to bring the score back up to 1-1. Was an effective midfielder and option between the midfield and attack.
5.0 DIOGO JOTA
He had to start, especially after scoring four goals in his previous two games. It got a little muddled at times as avenues quickly closed off in front of a strong home defense. I kept working hard but couldn’t seem to get into the game.
7.0 MOHAMED SALAH
At the weekend, he looked dangerous, adding to his impressive goal total for the season. His influence was sporadic during the first period, as opportunities came and went quickly. Was always a threat on the break and showed flashes of brilliance, but was frequently doubled up on by an alert West Ham defense.
Subs;
LUIS DIAZ (ON 60) – 7.0
With some good play, I was able to shift the match’s momentum.
6.0 (ON 60) THIAGO
Better control and smart passing in a frantic second half.
6.9 (ON 78) DARWIN NEZ
Was overly enthusiastic and unpredictable.
JAMES MILNER (ON 84) – 5.0
Came on to stomp on a West Ham player.
Jürgen Klopp, THE MANAGER – 8.0
Surprisingly, the lineup remained largely unchanged, with Matip replacing Konate due to a minor injury to the giant defender.
With some real forward momentum, it appears that the German is content to roll the dice until something bad happens. With Spurs visiting Anfield on Sunday, it’s strange to be putting some players in danger.
The first half was entertaining and open, but the captain was unable to cover his zone or man for the goal.
The second half began poorly, prompting the manager to make the necessary changes. With new and more capable players coming off the bench, the Reds were able to become more aggressive in their play. The second goal arrived just in time, and the visitors were able to weather the storm against a strong West Ham performance.
Our German manager had a good day.
Prediction for the match;
Leave a Reply