A 2-0 derby day victory for Liverpool helped the team get back on track after Everton forgot that football involves both attacking and defending.
Liverpool vs Everton: Player Ratings
Goalkeepers and Defenders
Alisson Becker- 7/10
He had nothing to do in the first half other than pick up a few crosses and make a few passes. And get up after being challenged somewhat late. And that’s just OK with us.
Trent Alexander-Arnold- 7/10
In the first 45 seconds, he made some pretty clumsy first-time passes. He did an excellent job sticking to his assignment of blocking Dwight McNeil’s forays down the flank. A few high upfield interceptions made it possible for rapid counterattacks, and one low cross was risky.
Joe Gomez – 7/10
Ellis Simms, a top-tier rookie, was bullied. He had a passing accuracy of 93 per cent at the end of the game and covered the defensive line’s whole breadth very well.
Joel Matip – 8/10
From the beginning, he was much off the pace of the game, getting caught by one ball in behind and losing a few physical encounters.
However, we saw him make those crucial forays forward in light of the relative lack of imagination in the midfield.
Andy Robertson – 7.5/10
Our left-back played at a considerably faster pace, quick to challenge. But more crucially, very quick to advance into open space and carry the ball 20 to 30 yards upfield. It was essential to Liverpool’s second goal.
Midfielders
Bajcetic – 9/10
He was the most composed player on the field in the first half. He was putting out fires for a number of his teammates. And he was great at distributing the ball under pressure.
Fabinho – 6.5/10
Still exceedingly hesitant and sluggish to react. There have been a few more vital defensive plays, mainly stopping one-on-ones when racing directly at him. But the athleticism is unquestionably lacking if he gets bypassed.
Henderson – 7/10
His high-intensity pushing resulted in a steady stream of back passes met with applause from the Kop. However, a disproportionate number of his first-time deliveries also went into the stands.
Forwards
Mohamed Salah- 8/10
Unquestionably a gift, but Mo assisted in the move and capitalised on it. And the situation changed immediately. Suddenly, he could challenge opponents with his initial touch and turn and participate in build-up play. And help overload the right for a 2-0 score.
Darwin Nunez – 8/10
While mainly positioned on the left, he pushed a few opponents aside and led the line through the middle when necessary. And he made an excellent clipped cross for the game’s first assist.
Cody Gakpo – 7/10
The Dutchman finally scored for Liverpool. And his back post-tap-in wasn’t just a proud moment for him. It also helped calm other people’s fears.
Substitutions
Jota- 5/10
A welcome return from a long injury lay-off. He needs minutes, obviously.
Firmino- 6.5/10
Another return from injury. We can perhaps encourage healthy competition for available spots.
Milner – 7/10
Hugely strong tackle to stop a free run on goal.
Keita – N/A
Just a short while.
Elliot – N/A
Likewise.
