MAN CITY 0 – 1 Liverpool – MY THOUGHTS
12 Jan
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A thoroughly deflating performance but not quite as damaging a result as it could have been. This was a largely insipid City display, lacking any sort of creativity or desire, but with just a one-goal deficit, we are by no means out of the competition. The second leg at Anfield in a couple of week’s time will decide that and should we go there and perform as we have done for large periods of this season, it could well be a completely different feeling at the end of that match.
For the moment, there is a strong sense of disappointment at our lacklustre showing, but huge praise should be directed towards Liverpool, whose tactics proved effective, if not entirely entertaining. Their midfield dominance paid off and by scoring an early goal, it allowed them to sit back, pack the defence and midfield, and frustrate the Blues. Lacking the brilliance of David Silva, we looked lethargic, functional and didn’t really deserve anything from the game.
Understandably, we looked a touch fatigued after our exertions on Sunday in the Manchester derby and Liverpool took full advantage, pressing high up the pitch and controlling the midfield battle. Once they scored their goal, they were able to sit back and were resolute enough in defence to repel any City advances.
At the back for City, in the absence of Vincent Kompany, was Stefan Savic and it was his foul which conceded the crucial penalty. I’m not convinced he was as poor as has been made out generally, but it’s fair to say he lacks the authority and dominance of our captain. Surprisingly for someone normally so cultured on the ball, he was nervous and eager to get rid of it. He may well get a run in the side during Kompany’s suspension, but he’ll need to improve and settle down.
Opposition View: As mentioned above, I was impressed with Liverpool throughout. Their tactics in the opening exchanges were spot on, pressing high and limiting the time we had on the ball. Then, once their lead was secured, they were far more defensive and encouraged City to attack, but Agger and Skrtel were superb in defence and managed to nullify our threat.
At Anfield, I’m not sure they will be so defensive and a more open game would surely suit us better. However, if they opt to protect their lead again, the onus will be on us to break them down. And that’s something we never looked like doing.
We need to sign another dominant midfielder. Savic seem to be a better RB than CB.
a Liverpool fan’s view.
As you said our tactics were negative. I didn’t like it but it was effective. Obviously I hope we go on to get to the final but would like to wish you all the best in pipping Utd to the title.
So its advantage Liverpool.But what if the ref had sent him off? There are many inconsistencies in ref std. Until the FA makes it mandatory for two footed lunges to be rc,it’s up to the guy in black to decide.
That is why matches are in danger of being decided by the refs and not the footballers.