Liverpool missed a host of chances against Southampton and had to settle for a frustrating draw, which might even cost them their table position as Chelsea have now a clear chance to go top of the table tomorrow. Here, we look at how the Liverpool players fared in their draw against the Saints.
Karius (8/10)
Did not have much to do throughout the match. Although Southampton created many open chances, it was killed off right before the final touch most of the times. On other occasions, they simply put it wide. But the German did had to keep his concentration intact which is not easy when one is having an action less game.
Milner (8/10)
He was very perfect in his game and that’s what the problem was. He went on the offensive and defensive with immense discipline losing out few individual duels in between of course. But he did not attempt anything special from the flanks that could have ended at the back of the net. Spent most of the second half in the opponent’s half.
Lovren (7.5/10)
Liverpool’s defence had nothing much to do except some routine defending and Lovren was up to it. Had 6 ball recoveries and 3 successful tackles, one of which was absolutely crucial.
Matip (8.5/10)
Had one of the best matches of the season so far. He was calm and composed at the back and although Southampton had nothing much to offer up front, Matip made sure it stayed that way. Had a 92% passing accuracy which is very good considering that Liverpool played with a very high line at times.
Clyne (8/10)
He was often seen moving up front and crossing and has a match similar to Milner. Provided 16 successful final third passes throughout the game.
Can (7.5/10)
Missed an open chance. That was the more or less the most noticeable contribution by him. Otherwise, he was one of the many men Liverpool threw up front in search of the goal.
Henderson (8.5/10)
One of the most composed players on the pitch. He did his job perfectly. Recovered the ball 7 times, had 3 successful tackles, intercepted the ball 5 times and also had 78 successful passes.
Wijnaldum (8/10)
He did the job better than Can beside Henderson. Although he couldn’t create any real chance, he provided 13 passes in the attacking third. Was more into his defensive duties making 2 successful tackles and recovered the ball 6 times.
Coutinho (8/10)
He was largely subdued by Van Dijk and mostly Cedric Soares, whenever he got into spaces. Had a bit of spark here and there like the sharp pass to Firmino that he missed but was not dangerous otherwise. Repeated failed takeons frustrated him in the dying minutes and he was booked for a silly foul. Recovered the ball 11 times.
Watch this video below to see how hilariously we got the prediction of this match wrong
Firmino (7.5/10)
The Brazilian missed an absolute sitter. He couldn’t have got the ball in a better position and he shot it wide of the keeper. It is so unlike him. Made his usual movements up and down that often opened up spaces for Mane and Coutinho.
Mane (8/10)
It seems Southampton knows exactly how to tackle the speedy forward. Whatever movements he feigned were all anticipated from beforehand. Got an open chance in the first half but a brilliant save from Foster denied him.
Substitutes
Sturridge (8.5/10)
The heavy feet of Liverpool got new wings with his introduction. Provided some quick runs and witty turns in the later half. A goal looked imminent after he came on.
