In this instalment we're going to discuss tackling, possession duels, interceptions, blocks and fouls conceded or won. As you know this is going to fit right into Javier Mascherano's. You'd not expect this one to be close at all and expect Mascherano to be far and away the better tackler out of the three.
The first instalment of this feature was a success so we are going to make it into a regular feature every time Liverpool win in the Premier League.
The latest game was yesterday's win at the Stadium of Light against, a struggling, Sunderland. Immediately after the game a lot of supporters, myself included, put the win down to a bit of lady luck that went our way after half an hour of the first half. On second thoughts I'd like to change my mind and put it down to a mixture of lady luck, which every team requires, and some very good performances in the Liverpool team.
A superb win for Liverpool FC, which totally hinged on the decision midway through the first half when Liverpool were awarded a penalty. The decision for the penalty was an incorrect one and this changed the whole game. However we are thankful for the decision especially after we've been on the wrong end of decisions in the past (See the unforgettable beach ball goal last year).
"We've got the best midfield in the world!" is what reverberated in Anfield and mainly on the Kop in the heights of Rafael Benitez's reign at Anfield. The song mentioned Xabi Alonso, Momo Sissoko, Gerrard and Mascheranoooooooooo! We loved that song, we loved that midfield quartet. Since then we've undergone a total transformation in midfield, no longer does it have the passing range of Alonso or the terrier like tackling of Mascherano or Sissoko.
Since Alonso's big money departure to join Spanish giants Real Madrid, we have never quite come to terms with his loss. Many actually believe this has caused our decline over the last few seasons.
This sunday, Liverpool go head to head to head with Steve Bruce (the manager) for the 16th time in the Premier League and the 20th time overall. Over the years it has been notoriously difficult for the reds to take all 3 points away from these games, in fact, it has only ever happened...
Liverpool FC Vs SC Braga
Our basic stats at half time are attached below for all to view. We'll add more context later but as we're providing these statistics on the go we cannot add any at the moment!
Basic Stats from Braga (H) in Europa League
Player Stats
SamSports looks at Lucas Leiva's performances earlier this season, during the Roy Hodgson era. How has he done? Why should his performances be classed as impressive? Where can he improve? All those questions answered in this article.
Last updated: 5th April 2011
Another update to this article for you all as it's received such good feedback. A week makes a massive difference in football and as you can see, from the stats below. Darren Bent has been the main beneficiary thanks to his two goals, against the bitter blues of Merseyside, this weekend. He further improved his stats because the two goals were his only shots in the game therefore improving his accuracy as well as minutes per goal ratio.
