Alisson Becker – 7.0
The only man we want to see in our goal, the giant Brazilian is irreplaceable. Was perhaps unsighted for the opening goal, yet it was a shot he would usually deal with. His handling was solid through a frantic first half. The second half was about being alert and strong against a dangerous opponent, which Ali achieved well.
Trent Alexander Arnold – 8.0
The experimental positioning continues, as the England international started once more. Made the assist for the Reds’ opening goal with an incisive pass and tried to progress the ball throughout the opening half. His control fell away a little in the second half as the home side came out fighting. As the clock ticked away, Trent was able to regain that control and offer good recycling and steady creation. His best run of form this season continues.
Andy Robertson – 7.0
His role is slightly altered, which has probably brought about some more consistency. Was solid enough through the opening half, especially with his need to cover across the back line. Had to be on his game in the second half and was assured through an often-frenetic period. A solid match for the Scot, whilst producing a fine corner to assist the winning goal.
Joel Matip – 7.0
The Cameroonian came in for Ibou, who was not risked for this match. Was maybe a little flat-footed for the first goal, as he got used to the altered right-hand side. He was very solid in the second half and topped that improved performance with a bullet header.
Virgil van Djik – 7.0
The rear-guard leader really had to step up this evening, especially with Konate unable to start. Was steady and organised in the opening period as West Ham broke at every opportunity. Won some important second-half headers as the home side looked to impose themselves.
Jordan Henderson – 4.0
Continues to be selected, despite some worrying form. Lost his man for the opening goal and could not get back to make a block on the shot. Nearly gifted the Hammers a chance late in the half, as Michail Antonio breezed past him, whilst the skipper waved his arms around. Started the second half well, with more urgency in his play, yet continued to be a step off the pace before leaving the field.
Subbed – 59 mins
Fabinho – 7.0
Kept his central role, as the only designated holding midfielder in the squad. Acted as a good shield and was on the front foot in his defensive work, as the two sides fought for first-half control. Maintained his discipline and positional play in a heated second half.
Curtis Jones – 7.0
Another game and another chance to shine for our academy product. Was busy and bright as the game flowed from end to end in the first half. Get plugging away and using the ball well, yet could not impact the game to a high degree after the goal.
Subbed – 84 mins
Cody Gakpo – 7.0
Started again as the central and conduit type forward. Managed to strike fro distance to bring the score back to 1-1 with a superb long-range effort. Was effective as a facilitator and option between the midfield and attack.
Diogo Jota – 5.0
Had to start, especially with four goals in his last two outings. Got a little muddled at times as avenues soon closed off in front of a solid home rear-guard. Kept working hard but struggle to really get into the game.
Mohamed Salah – 7.0
Looked dangerous at the weekend, whilst adding to his impressive goal haul for the season. His influence in the first period was sporadic, as opportunities came and went very quickly. Was always a threat on the break and showed good moments, yet was often doubled up upon by an alert West Ham defence.
Subs;
Luis Diaz – 7.0 (on 60)
Helped to shift the momentum of the match with some good play.
Thiago – 6.0 (on 60)
Offered better control and smart passing through a frenzied second half.
Darwin N̼̱ez Р6.9 (on 78)
Was overly excited and unpredictable.
James Milner – 5.0 (on 84)
Came on to kick a West Ham player.
The Manager;
Jürgen Klopp – 8.0
Surprisingly went pretty much unchanged, with Matip coming in for Konate, due only to a slight injury to the giant defender.
With some real forward momentum, it does look like the German is simply happy to roll the dice until something negative occurs. With Spurs to visit Anfield on Sunday, it is curious to be pushing some players into the red zone.
The opening half was entertaining and open, yet it was the skipper who was unable to cover his zone or man for the goal and left that side of the midfield explored continuously.
The second half started badly, which saw the required changes from the manager. With new and more able blood brought from the bench, it allowed the Reds to become more proactive in their play. The second goal came at the perfect time and the away side were able to weather the storm against a good West Ham performance.
A good day for our German manager.
Pre-match Prediction;
West Ham 2 – 2 Liverpool
