
From Buildup Problems to VAR: Statistical Analysis of Liverpool 1-1 Aston Villa
A Controversial Tie Marred by Time Wasting and Buildup Problems
The Tangled Web of Time Wasting
In a game overshadowed by controversy, the Reds' recent 1-1 draw with Aston Villa at Anfield highlighted some of the more problematic aspects of modern football. From an unprecedented amount of "dead time" to seemingly never-ending discussions on the efficacy of VAR, the match had it all.
As Daniel Rhodes keenly observed on the latest Anfield Index Under Pressure podcast:
"If I was the …

Curtis Jones and Trent Alexander-Arnold: Pressing Icons
Under Pressure Podcast Hails Reds' Pressing Evolution
Liverpool FC, under the stewardship of Jurgen Klopp, are experiencing a remarkable return to form, having won seven consecutive games in the Premier League. The reasons for this success are varied, but three key factors seem to stand out: the pressing tactics deployed by Klopp, the emergence of young star Curtis Jones, and the sublime form of Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Simon Brundish: "Curtis Jones is a revelation. His pressing, his movement, his understanding of …

Under Pressure Podcast: Decoding Liverpool's Winning Streak
Liverpool's Winning Streak: A Statistical Dive into the Under Pressure Podcast's Analysis
How continuity, control and key performances led to six straight wins
As a die-hard Liverpool FC fan, you've undoubtedly been following the Reds' journey this season. And if you're a fan of LFC statistics and analysis, you've likely stumbled upon the Under Pressure Podcast. Hosted by Dan Kennett with regular panelists Simon Brundish, Dan Rhodes and Dr Phil Barter; colloquially known as 'The A-Team', the podcast offers a …

Patience, Patients & Prospects: Reviving Liverpool's English Core
Aside from the last ten minutes of the past two matches, everything is looking rosy in Liverpool-land. Sunday night Mo Salah was awarded the PFA Player of the Year award and, of course, Tuesday night ended with Liverpool holding a 5-2 advantage going into the Champions League semi-final away leg. Things are going so well in fact that we're not satisfied anymore with just a Champions League semi-final victory. It has to be decisive. It has to embarrass the opposition. …