1 month ago
Anfield Index
Newcastle 0 – 2 Liverpool – PL Player Ratings
Alisson Becker – 9.0
The monstrous keeper made some vital first half saves, one which was a brilliant one on one stop to keep the scores level. So quick off his line and really papered over some cracks within the reds shield. Was not overly busy in the second half as a sense of game management started creeping in. Late on he made a brilliant stop against Wilson, smothering a shot after pouncing to close the space.
Man of the match.
Trent Alexander Arnold – 7.0
A spectacular pass for the opening goal and a constant menace in the attacking third through the first half. Was busy defensively and seemed reinvigorated for the fight. A good overall game, especially when the like of Saint-Maximum was looking to cause damage.
Andy Robertson – 8.0
A solid first half full of energy and tenacity. Some good defensive play was required through a frenetic opening period. Had to be on his toes against a lively front three and nearly made the assist as Darwin came close in the second half, which would have made it 0-3. Was very attacking through that second period and probably should have scored.
Joe Gomez – 7.0
Chosen to partner Virgil, he looked more comfortable and committed even when Newcastle was often in the first half ascendancy. Was steady and vigilant under some sporadic moments of pressure as the reds looked to close out the game.
Virgil van Dijk – 8.0
A huge return for Klopp’s starting eleven. The defensive leader was able to be dominant as the reds struggled to get a grip on the first half, despite the two goals. Showed real intelligence at times against a quick front three and when dealing with balls into the box.
So important to have him back.
Stefan Bajčetić – 6.0
A tough first half where the home side were able to dictate much of the play. He showed positional discipline and maturity when the pressure built. A decent outing.
Subbed – 58 mins
Fabinho – 7.0
Showed good aggression when needed, and was keen to stamp his authority on the game. Showing real signs of evolving into a tighter knit holder, that can control space. Another solid game.
Jordan Henderson – 6.0
Was a little off the pace as the first half swayed from end to end. Struggled to impact apart from the off good pass before being taken off. Steady if unspectacular.
Subbed – 58 mins
Mohamed Salah – 8.0
A very important and effective first half which saw him able to deliver a delicious clipped assist for Gakpo, and the pace to create a moment that saw Nick Pop me sent off. Was so lively and dangerous throughout as he looked to impact the game from multiple avenues
Cody Gakpo – 7.0
A first half of good moments and a lovely finish for the second goal. His link up play and movement was cute and you could see the understanding continue to grow. Another solid outing. Looks promising.
Subbed – 58 mins
Darwin Nunez – 8.0
A brilliant goal to open the scoring. His touch, awareness, and powerful strike was another glimpse of Darwin’s limitless potential. His pace and direct style were always a huge threat. Taken off to ensure he’s ready for Madrid, but not before he nearly sent a lovely curling effort towards the far post.
Subbed – 58 mins
Subs;
Diogo Jota – 6.0 (on 58)
Looked very bright and keen to get the managers attention. Should have scored late on.
Roberto Firmino – 6.0 (on 58)
Some lovely touches,
James Milner – 7.0 (on 58)
Came in to add leadership within the middle ground. Some crunching challenges scuppered any opportunities to break.
Harvey Elliott – 6.0 (on 58)
Looked lively without adding too much.
The Manager;
Jürgen Klopp – 8.0
He was always going with this side, as Virgil was a nailed-on starter as soon as his full fitness was confirmed.
Though the game was an end-to-end battle for the opening period of the first half, his team once again showed a cutting edge to take advantage when the opportunity arose. The Darwin goal was brilliant, whilst the second goal showed the relationship that is building between his new look front three.
The second half was about managing the match, with a two-goal cushion to rest upon. His keeper was sublime but he would have been annoyed that his players did not close it out with a third goal
The reds are on the up.
Pre-match Prediction;
Newcastle 1 – 2 Liverpool
