Antonio Conte’s blues travelled to Merseyside to take on Jürgen Klopp’s Reds at Anfield in a match where two passionate managers were expected to see out a game of high tempo and quality. The game started on a balanced note but 25 minutes in, Liverpool were already dominating. However, a free kick from Luiz caught Mignolet off guard and Chelsea opened the scoring.
Liverpool’s persistence in the second half saw them equalise and the game ended with the spoils being shared. However, it matters very less at the very top as Chelsea still remain far away and undoubtedly a draw too seems to be a favourable outcome as they march on towards the league title. Here’s how Conte’s side fared in the game.
Courtois – 6.5/10
Not tested much but his positioning and stretching saves looked eye-catching and impressive. Nothing to worry about as the Belgian will be confident about keeping clean-sheets in the next few games.
Victor Moses – 5/10
Looked a little low today and not effective. Needs to improve and be consistent.
Cesar Azpilicueta – 6/10
Was calm on the ball but Liverpool exploited his lack of aerial prowess in the far post when Henderson’s pass found Milner who assisted for Wijnaldum.
David Luiz – 8/10
An absolute brick-wall at the back, defending wisely and reading everything tremendously. His presence of mind and precision from the free kick saw a reckless Mignolet watch haplessly as he opened the scoring. What a signing Luiz has been!
Gary Cahill – 6/10
Tidy and dutiful. Nothing else can sum up his performance of last night.
Marcos Alonso – 5/10
Has to produce more and help out his team from his position. Was extremely ineffective.
N’Golo Kanté – 7/10
A machine! He was everywhere on the pitch and successfully got in so many challenges denying Liverpool time and again. A typical Kanté performance.
Nemanja Matic – 6/10
Outclassed by the press but clean with his performance.
Willian – 6/10
Counter attack was the style of play for which he was brought into the side and it always looked to be an option till the end with him being involved. Couldn’t do much as Liverpool pressed relentlessly.
Eden Hazard – 5/10
Ineffective and outnumbered. Has to step up for the Arsenal game and needs to involve himself more often.
Diego Costa – 4.5/10
Isolated throughout and missed a crucial penalty having won it himself. Conte will expect more from this man as much as the Spaniard will demand from himself. Another man who needs to get it sorted before the London derby.
