Anfield was the venue as Liverpool hosted Burnley in the Premier League. Burnley stunned Anfield early on as an exchange and a low cross found Ashley Barnes who coolly slotted home but Liverpool came from behind as expected. Georginio Wijnaldum’s accurate finish with half time nearing pulled Liverpool back and they completed their comeback with Emre Can driving low and scoring from a distance.
Liverpool held on and scraped through to claim a massive victory which sees them stay a point behind Manchester City having played a game extra putting pressure in abundance over City and Tottenham who too are just a point ahead.
Here’s how the Reds have been rated after defeating Burnley.
CB : Simon Mignolet – 7/10
He really has cemented himself as the Liverpool number 1. His catching and throwing impressed but he needs to tune his goal kicks. A very good performance.
RB : Nathaniel Clyne – 5/10
Lost Barnes and Barnes scored early and he didn’t look a bit convincing either moving forward or while defending. His distribution needs to get better.
CB : Joel Matip – 5.5/10
Dealt aerially when Burnley changed approach. He still needs to keep his consistency as he struggled to get a grip early on.
CB : Ragnar Klavan – 6/10
Had to deal with Gray’s pace and he was experienced enough to deal with the task effectively. Made a crucial block in the second half to deny Barnes as well.
LB : James Milner – 6/10
Kept going on the attack and provided the dimension throughout the match. Being a left back though he should be more aware defensively that too without Coutinho’s support.
CM : Emre Can – 6.5/10
MAN OF THE MATCH! His performance was impressive today as he grew steadily in the second half. First half was mediocre. His accurate low drive meant that Liverpool got their crucial lead and he helped out the defence as well. He looks confident in the role that Henderson played earlier.
CM : Georginio Wijnaldum – 6/10
Maintained his composure for the equaliser and looked like a Liverpool player brimming with intent. His ball control was excellent as well today.
CAM : Adam Lallana – 5.5/10
Nothing extra-ordinary and didn’t affect the game as much as he would have liked. It was a performance that is contrasting with most of his games this season. Energy looked consistent, though.
RW : Sadio Mane – 6/10
Literally hugged the sideline and was ineffective but he developed well into the game once he started being more central. No goal or an assist but a decent performance.
LW : Philippe Coutinho – 4/10
Really unlike himself today. His deliveries were poor and they were as poor as his involvement in the game. He must improve as the system depends on him heavily as well.
ST: Divock Origi – 5.5/10
Stretched the play and made Burnley work at the back. It was a mediocre display but nothing bad.
