Post by deadbat on Apr 4, 2024 22:35:17 GMT
There were no surprises at Anfield on Thursday night as the team that ended the night clear at the top of the table saw off the team at the foot of the division. After some lop sided contests featuring the Blades this season, many fans would have been fearing the worst but United were well in the contest for most of the duration. United missed two great chances inside the first two minutes but Liverpool quickly took control and led after Ivo Grbic’s horrific mistake gifted Darwin Gomez an opener. United got to half time only one down and then levelled after good work from McAtee and Hamer saw the ball go in off Bradley, the Liverpool defender. The home side were looking frustrated and had to bring on four substitutions but it was a moment of brilliance that saw them get the vital goal as Mac Allister’s wonder strike restored the lead. Gakpo’s late header gave the scoreline the gloss and a deserved victory for Liverpool but it had been a nervous second half for Jurgen Klopp’s men and an encouraging one for Chris Wilder. Defeated and on the verge of relegation but the fight and spirit shown was in evidence as United did not get the going over that many thought they would.
Manager Wilder shuffled his cards again with McAtee and Trusty in for Osborn and McBurnie; who dropped to the bench seemingly with fitness issues after they had been two of United’s best players at the weekend.
Klopp, in his final game against the Blades and Wilder, made two changes to the side that began the 2-1 home win over Brighton as Ibrahima Konate replaces Jarell Quansah in the middle of defence, with midfielder Ryan Gravenberch in for Wataru Endo, who does not feature in the squad.
Liverpool knew a win would take them top but would also be looking to boost their goal difference in comparison to rivals City and Arsenal, knowing a large victory would see them getting closer to the Gunners in that regard.
However, it was the Blades that started the better and could have scored twice in the opening two minutes. The first chance came when Robinson’s long throw was flicked on by Ahmedhodzic and McAtee was in at the back post but his finish was straight at Kelleher who saved with his legs. Anywhere else and it would have been a goal. Straight from the resulting corner, Trusty flicked his header across and Brereton Diaz almost converted at the far post with the keeper well beaten. It had been a really encouraging start but Liverpool woke from their slumber and Grbic’s indecisive keeping on 5 minutes saw him palm a cross away leading to Salah curling an effort goalwards and the Croat had to help it over the bar. Nunez then headed narrowly wide from a dangerous cross as he was left completely unmarked.
The next spell saw Liverpool dominate the ball and were looking to feed Diaz and Salah at every opportunity. Bradley and Gomez were both well forward in support as United tried to plug the gaps as the pass and move possession football threatened to open them up. Souza’s foul on Gomez gave the home side a free kick and after it was initially cleared, Salah again looked to find the corner but this time was over and wide.
Arblaster’s give away saw Salah play in Nunez and his cross was cleared by Bogle as United scrambled back to clear. The home side were now in complete control after their poor start but the opening goal came from a goalkeeping effort. The ball was played back to Grbic and he took way too long to clear, talking a touch and then firing it at the advancing NUNEZ and it bounced into the net as the keeper ran back in vain as it bounced over the line.
Liverpool were now in confident mood and Nunez danced round two weak challenges from Ahmedhodzic and Arblaster but his shot was straight at Grbic. Brereton Diaz gave United a breather as he drew a foul but McAtee’s free kick was wasted, continuing another poor performance from the on-loan City man.
Mac Allister’s was given way too much time on the edge of the box but his effort did not quite have the curl to come back inside the post and went narrowly wide. The Blades were really struggling with the intensity of Liverpool but were not helping themselves by constantly turning the ball over. All of the midfield were guilty of this for a spell as the game between defence v attack. Diaz embarrassed both Bogle and Souza, leaving them both in the dirt with some outrageous skill out wide but Gravenberch’s effort lacked power and Grbic made the save. Soon after Szoboszlai took aim and his effort drew a tip over from the goalkeeper.
A rare attack from United saw Robinson have another opportunity to throw the ball in and whilst his effort did not endanger the home backline, it was returned and Ahmedhodzic fired over but the offside flag went up anyway. Diaz then got away from the United defence too easily but shot wide before in stoppage time at the end of the half, the Blades did fashion another chance. Brereton Diaz did well to hold it up and slipped a clever ball into the path of Bogle, whose shot was powerful enough but Kelleher dived to his right to make the save. Souza made a good tackle as Liverpool tried to break and appeals for a free kick on the edge of the box, were waved away just before the half time whistle went.
United were only one down and had opportunities at the either end of the half but 83% possession, on track for a Premier League record, told a story and once again too many shots were raining in on the Blades goal. What was frustrating was the manner of the goal – an absolute howler.
The second half began with Grbic taking a cross and then fielding a shot from Salah from the edge of the area with no challenge on him.
United did win a free kick on 50 minutes after foul on Breteton Diaz but Hamer’s effort was straight at the keeper. Liverpool then nearly got in after Holgate overplayed. The Blades had competed well in this period of the game and were picking up loose balls and looking more of a threat. On 56 minutes, the Blades found a shock leveller. McAtee did well in the build up to keep the ball and then once again was instrumental as he got on the ball and sent over a deep cross which saw Brereton Diaz and Hamer at the back post and the ball came off Hamer and then off BRADLEY (OG) to squirm under Kelleher’s legs and into the net!
Liverpool responded with a double change with Robertson and Elliott on for Salah and Gravenberch. Hamer was struggling to carry on after the goal when he picked up a knock and Osborn replaced him. MCBurnie and Osula also came on for Brereton Diaz and McAtee.
A corner saw Van Dijk head down but Grbic did well to spring to his right and make the low save and the subsequent corner was headed behind and a goal kick was awarded. Konate needed treatment after he took a whack from Osula but this game was not more evenly balanced than the first half. United were looking dangerous on the break and Arblaster played it out to Bogle whose cross fell to McBurnie but his cross did not sit for a teammate.
Ahmedhodzic made a vital stretched clearance to knock the ball away before Liverpool made another double change as Gakpo and Jones for Szoboszlai as the crowd started to become frustrated. A few needless fouls and give aways saw the Blades regain possession and they were well in the game. However, one substitute Jones crossed for another, Robertson, to fire narrowly wide to keep United honest. A soft foul gave Liverpool a free kick but United were able to clear to Osula who appealed in vain for a foul on half way but nothing was given and the ball came back at the Blades. The ball was not properly cleared and a few ricochets saw it fall for MAC ALLISTER who reacted quicker than McBurnie and smashed the ball into the top corner of the net.
Trusty came off for Brooks but Liverpool could now relax and won two corners before Gakpo danced round his man and fired wide. Liverpool had a free kick from 25 yards and Mac Allister took it and it brushed Souza and cracked off the bar before Holgate and Grbic combined to knock it behind. Osula gave the ball away and Liverpool broke and nearly got in before McBurnie was booked for an elbow.
Slimane came on for Holgate before more indecisive goalkeeping from Grbic saw him fail to complete the catch and almost get lobbed but the third goal was not long coming. Roberton sent over an inviting delivery and with half the defence coming out and half staying in, Osborn could not get close enough to GAKPO who headed easily into the net past the exposed Grbic who was slow to react to the header.
There would be 7 minutes of stoppage time but Liverpool played this time out with comfort and United’s race was run and the home side celebrated returning to the top of the league. For the visitors, their inevitable relegation back to the Championship will surely be confirmed in a matter of weeks but United could be proud of their efforts in a committed and resilient showing against a far superior side.
United – I never expected anything tonight but a good old-fashioned hammering so was pleasantly surprised that not only did we not get absolutely pumped but we stayed in the game, got level, and then gave Liverpool a decent game for long spells. We began really well and missed two great chance. McAtee has to score. That would have given us something to defend, albeit for 90+ minutes! After these opportunities, Liverpool gradually got on top and Grbic’s indecisive night began early with a weak punch and Salah started to cause problems. Liverpool swarmed at us and had chances but we kept out discipline and shape. We real solid defensively and kept tight to them most of the time. The only issue I had was that when we did have it, we constantly tossed it away – the midfield in particular were really poor and panicked too much. Felt Brereton Diaz did ok with that he could but McAtee, Hamer, Souza and Arblaster were not able to keep it and thus give the defence a break. I have criticised Bogle and Trusty but both stuck to their tasks with little protection. Same for the back three – faced with a poor goalkeeper behind him and little in the way of stopping the ball coming at him – Holgate, Robinson and Ahmedhodic all played fairly well against top class opponents.
It was annoying as even though they had loads of ball and were camped in out half – not sure they had tons of clear chances or missed sitters. The goal we conceded was ridiculous and something you should not even see down the leagues. He had so long to clear and then even then had to kick it away from the player. After this I feared the worst, but we stayed on the game and were competitive and they did not have lots of chances. A few just wide or routine Grbic saves. We then even had another chance via Bogle. 1-0 at half time was fine though despite the possession they had – just really annoying the goal we conceded in terms of us gifting it them.
After the break for 15 minutes, we had a real go and seemed to keep it better, commit more men forward and at least look a threat. We broke better and started to win more ball in midfield with Souza, Hamer and Arblaster improving. The goal still came out of the blue and a bit of luck but a great ball from an otherwise disappointing McAtee. Liverpool made changes and so did we (can argue he maybe should have left it a bit as we had got level even though the players that went off probably were tiring again). Actually, even after the subs, we still had a few moments and Liverpool were getting frustrated. They had to make two more chances and Klopp was visibly annoyed. I wanted us to just take it on another 5 or 10 minutes and even though they probably still win, they then commit even more forward and we may have chances on the break. I was disappointed with both McAtee and Osula who had to use their assets to get us and keep us up the pitch but failed to do that. The goal came when Osula lost it cheaply although maybe Anel could have got more on the clearance. McBurnie is on his heels but it is some strike. No issues with a goal going in like that rather than the soft one first half. We have so little attacking threat and often are so tired after chasing around (83% possession!) that it is hard for us to go again and try and get up the field and create something. The stats show we never come back really and this is down to fatigue and lack of ability/game changers. After this Liverpool were relatively comfortably and scored a late goal to make it easier than it maybe was – same as at Bramall Lane.
The stats make us look like we were battered again but I actually thought despite this, that we gave a decent account of ourselves and stayed right in the game. We got it to 1-1 and I felt Liverpool were getting frustrated but then the goal is real quality. I do think we did as well as we could have done really in terms of limiting the top of the table to few clear chances. They did have quite a lot of efforts but most were long range or outside the box. I am not sure the subs helped again but maybe even without them, Liverpool would have pushed on and won. It is easy to keep looking at the subs and maybe it’s just a case of we lack quality in both starters and in reserve! I thought the midfield were sloppy to begin with, on and off the ball but the defence were solid to decent all game – especially with an erratic goalkeeping display behind them.
The game resembled the match at the Lane where we gave them a decent match and at least remained in it and to get level at the hour mark was something I did not expect. In the end Liverpool won deservedly and 3-1 was probably about right but it was not the easy night they hoped for and not the battering we thought we get. At this stage we are playing for pride and will be down probably before the end of the month (although potential points deduction for Everton again might keep it going a bit longer that that). We now have to be planning for next season. I would not be using McAtee or Archer personally as they are not going to be here. Maybe BBD and Holgate won’t be (the latter maybe we have a chance of signing?) but they have been solid recently so an argument they retain their places but we need to see more of Arblaster and Brooks and maybe a few other youngsters too.
Chelsea will be hard on the back of their comeback win and an inform Palmer. We also seem to be generally (Fulham game apart) be more competitive on the road but if we can repeat the efforts of tonight with the crowd behind us, who knows? I honestly cannot see many more points this season – we might nick something v Burnley or Forest at home but I think a few draws and maybe one win is the best we can hope for. For me, regardless of the results, all the focus really needs to be on who we are keeping (won’t be many) and looking at new signings as we do need a number of new players for next season – particularly up the top of the field. The goalkeeping situation is still a worry as Grbic does not look any better than Foderingham at all.
Ratings:
Grbic 3/10 – Started indecisively with a weird punch away when he could have taken the ball and had to push a shot over as a result. He then kicked one straight at them before an absolute horror show as he took too long and gave them a goal on a plate. All those who say his distribution is better than Wes, I am not so sure. His kicking for the most part is poor. He booted a ton out on Saturday and then did that tonight. He looks so slow to deal with things both with his feet and his hands and looks another really poor signing. He made some routine saves after this for the rest of the first half and was again badly exposed as our keepers have all season. Second half made a good save from Van Dijk’s header and then no chance on the second. The third he is a bit slow down to but again most shots going in unless right at him, generally go in! He also then failed to take another cross and nearly got lobbed. Just looks very shaky and not sure for the money we have spent, that we have upgraded at all and still a position we need to improve in the summer.
Bogle 6.5/10 – Started ok but was put one on one v Diaz too often with little help from midfield. He did clear a few and got his body in the way at least and stuck to his task but often does not get tight enough to his winger. He ended the half was a decent effort as he had a rare break forward. His strength is clearly attacking and he struggles to defend which means he will always struggle to be a player at this high level when you need to be exceptional at the former to get a better club. However, thought he stuck at it and despite them getting away a few times, he at least got stuck in and tried to make tackles.
Trusty 6.5/10 – Surprised he was picked as he has struggled versus wingers out wide – although did well against Salah in the reverse fixture. He started off again giving his man – albeit a top world class player – too much time. However, like with Bogle he stuck at it and thought he improved as the game went on. He made a few tackles and headers. He did boot a few out under no pressure showing his technical deficiencies. I have been very critical of him but he was ok tonight against some really good players. Nearly set up a goal too for BBD. Salah in the end went off and they were better after he was replaced!
Ahmedhodzic 7/10 – As with Saturday, he was much better tonight and has continued his recent return to form. Maybe taking the captain armband of him has helped him? Thought he did some ok things to start with and kept to his shape and got a few blocks on but also got outmuscled a few times too and guilty of switching off as they ran off us. I felt the defence had no protection and the ball was given back constantly making it hard for them. I nearly set up a goal early and then had a volleyed effort when he was just offside. He made a few key interceptions and used his long legs to good effect in the 2nd half and thought he was excellent as we largely frustrated them.
Robinson 7/10 – Committed performance in terms of throwing his body in the way and we had two chances off his throws tonight first half. He struggled with some of the pace and movement as the whole Blades team did but must be frustrated nobody in front of him seems to ever keep the ball and means they have to defend, defend and defend almost all game. However, he did this pretty well and he was mostly solid. I do think the final goal he has to react and help Osborn but at this stage we were caught between trying to somehow find a way forward and launch a final attack.
Holgate 7/10 – Thought he did ok actually and looked like he was able to keep his discipline in terms of shape. He read the game well and got some nice tackles and blocks in. He has improved after a really poor start. He made some decent interceptions and was able to help nullify any gaps. He did give it away a few times second half but overall he was solid. He has been solid in recent games and if we could get him (on a much lower wage) could be an asset in the Championship.
Souza 6/10 – Usual frustrating evening but not his worst game. Did make a few decent tackles but often barely got out of a jog and did not pressure or tackle the opposition who had way too much time to run through or play easy passes to the front men. He makes the showbusiness like tackles now and again but too often players walk by him as he ambles back. I want him to win more of the 50-50 headers/loose balls. He did do some better things 2nd half and thought he was much better in that spell where we had some attacks and managed to actually have some possession. There was a few times near the end where he sort of pulled out of things though and then seemed to be injured again?
Hamer 6/10 – Started on the ball and lively but quickly as we had little possession, he started to become less and less of a factor. The ball was played almost entirely in our half and he was living off scraps but I also thought when he had it, he like the rest of the midfield was sloppy in possession. I wanted us to keep it more and at least try and play a few passes as the co commentator said rather than lumping it. 2nd half we did better with the ball and he had a few passes or interplay and then got on the end of the cross to force the own goal. Had to go off injured not long after that.
Arblaster 5.5/10 – Endured a difficult night I felt where it all seemed a bit quick and physical for him first half. He gave the ball away pretty much constantly and got brushed off a few times. I just felt the whole midfield could not keep it or pressure them on the ball. He kept to his shape and did improve after the break but not sure he touched the ball too much or had much influence. He did have one bit of play in the lead up the McBurnie chance. I am sure I will get called for my mark and do think he is a really promising player but tonight showed the likes of him and Osula how far off they are at the top, top level (no shame in that as these are kids starting out playing world class players). I do like him and think he is really promising but have to mark it as I see it, whether a young pro, experienced player or a Blades fan!
McAtee 5/10 – Thought he was poor tonight outside of the goal where he twice showed good feet and put an excellent cross over. He missed a great chance which was easier to score from and then when given the ball often lost it cheaply. I just felt he ran down blind alleys and he was not able to help us give the defence a break. Got brushed aside too much. He had a decent spell when Wilder came in but seems to have gone backwards and given a start tonight not sure he did enough. Wonder what his future holds as not sure he has shown enough (albeit in a struggling side) to get another Premier League loan next season and think he might be headed back to the Championship again. Can see why he came off but maybe after he had just found an assist, we might have waited a bit longer and Osula was even worse!
Brereton Diaz 6/10 – First half worked hard again with little service and tried to hold the ball up but he could not quite get on the end of that chance but he won a few free kicks and at least was an outlet. He kept running down the channels but as the game went on, we had less and less of the ball. Second half he got on it more as we had that spell either side of the goal but then we opted to freshen things up and he has been a lone striker much of the time so can see why he was taken off.
Subs:
McBurnie 5.5/10 – Actually looked a handful for a spell after he came on and had a half chance when he crosses the ball (could he have gone for goal?) but then they score and we are struggling to get the ball up to him. Silly yellow card and then we did not really get it up to him. I do feel he was slow to react on the second goal and he was close to Mac Allister before the Liverpool man reacted quicker.
Osborn 5/10 – Brought on and started in midfield and was getting his foot in a few times but they were gradually getting on top and after the goal he then ended up at the back after Trusty went off. The third goal he is not able to react and we saw this at Bournemouth but that again is maybe harsh?
Osula 2/10 – Thought he was woeful after he came on. The ball never stuck to him. He lost it cheaply in the lead up the second and quite a few other occasions he was not able to keep it. Also committed a really bad foul and surprised VAR did not look at it (although you could argue the scissor motion was something Nunez did at Bramall Lane and got away with it?). He has to keep the ball better and not give it away so cheaply. He just looks like a headless chicken. It’s worrying with Brewster injured and everyone else out of contact, only him and Traore are currently slated to be here. Both don’t look even close to Championship level players to me. Needs a season loan in League One where he plays regularly as that did not happen at Derby to see if he can improve and learn the game but he is a long way from the level required yet in terms of where to run, holding it up, linking or being a goal threat. BBD and McBurnie are so much better than him at football awareness.
Slimane – Did not see much of him but he did give it away once I recall. Seems to have been a forgotten man.
Brooks – I would like to see him and Arblaster get some games together to end the season and ended this game in midfield. It was too late really for him to make any difference as were chasing around at this stage. Not sure he even touched the ball?
Manager: Wilder 7/10 – A competitive performance where we set up well organised, made it hard for them and restricted them to long range efforts. We could have been ahead early and then stayed in the game. He rightly looked well annoyed with the keeping mistake but we kept it tight-ish and then got level and then had a bit of a go. The goal they scored was an absolute beauty to be fair but sure there will be arguments about the subs again. Liverpool’s made a big difference and ours probably did not but then the counter argument is that we still had a decent spell after the goal and subs? I thought that today we looked more like the side when Wilder first came in – shape, solidity and at least being hard to break down. We will never win games with such little possession and our ball retention is still largely awful but defensively we were far better.
Liverpool – I thought that in recent times with Firmino, Mane and a few others moving on, that they were sort of on the downward and did not see them competing – with City and Arsenal both being the dominant powers for a period. However, credit to Klopp for getting them right in the race yet again with some strong teams against them that have spent a lot more. I don’t like the guy particularly after he had initially quite down to earth when he came to the UK – he has become a self-entitled prick who complains about anything and everything and be glad to see the back of him as most fans outside Liverpool will. However, he has managed to bring young players in, make some smart additions and they are right there competing for the title again. They have gone top but still feel that City will win it again but I might be wrong.
Be nauseating to see him celebrating as he final act and it’s coming to something when I’d prefer a team who just chuck billions at it – in City – to win it over him and Arteta (who is a smug prat). Despite my thoughts on him as a person, he has been a very good manager there and like with others who have left big clubs (Ferguson, Mourinho, Wenger etc) will be a hard act to follow as for all the annoyance of his personality – that is what probably connects him to the Scousers and sort of adds fuel to the Liverpool against the world mentality that sadly many of their fans have both in football and life in general.
I find his whole act a bit tiring now (like a better, more modern-day Warnock) and concede if he is your manager you’d mostly love him but at times even as a Reds fan you must find him somewhat cringeworthy?
In terms of tonight, it was harder night than maybe they envisaged. They began poorly and should have been behind but got hold of the game but got a bit of a fortunate goal (will say it was good closing down I suppose) but never put us away and then conceded a sloppy goal and either side of this, they were not great and gave it away or failed to be secure in their play. At 1-1, they were making changes and then throwing men forward but it took a real moment of quality to score. After this they saw it out fairly easily and got another goal late on. Klopp’s reaction at the end was as much relief as delight as they survived a bit of a scare.
Opponent Man of the Match – Mac Allister got the TNT man of the match and this is probably right. Had a few decent efforts, schemed in midfield and scored an absolute worldy to effectively win the game. Nunez worked hard, closing down and was a nuisance. I thought Diaz was good first half but faded. The subs made a difference with Robertson, Gakpo, Jones and Elliott giving them energy and fresh impetus.
Opponent Weak link – Thought they had a few off their game. Salah started well with some decent efforts but then was not in the game and was taken off. Gravenberch was poor and looks a long way off being a Liverpool starting player.
Referee/Officials – Stuart Attwell. Relatively easy game to ref. Not sure I can recall too many bad decisions. Only one booking McBurnie for the silly challenge and can’t recall too many really bad fouls. Liverpool fans will bleat about some over zealous stuff but only maybe the Osula one was a poor one and should have been at least a yellow card. We did chop them down a few times but I was just pleased we were not a soft touch as we often are. Van Dijk’s chokehold on Trusty was not even checked seemingly which was weird? They played 7 minutes of stoppage time- bet if it was 1-1, it would have been close to double that!
Manager Wilder shuffled his cards again with McAtee and Trusty in for Osborn and McBurnie; who dropped to the bench seemingly with fitness issues after they had been two of United’s best players at the weekend.
Klopp, in his final game against the Blades and Wilder, made two changes to the side that began the 2-1 home win over Brighton as Ibrahima Konate replaces Jarell Quansah in the middle of defence, with midfielder Ryan Gravenberch in for Wataru Endo, who does not feature in the squad.
Liverpool knew a win would take them top but would also be looking to boost their goal difference in comparison to rivals City and Arsenal, knowing a large victory would see them getting closer to the Gunners in that regard.
However, it was the Blades that started the better and could have scored twice in the opening two minutes. The first chance came when Robinson’s long throw was flicked on by Ahmedhodzic and McAtee was in at the back post but his finish was straight at Kelleher who saved with his legs. Anywhere else and it would have been a goal. Straight from the resulting corner, Trusty flicked his header across and Brereton Diaz almost converted at the far post with the keeper well beaten. It had been a really encouraging start but Liverpool woke from their slumber and Grbic’s indecisive keeping on 5 minutes saw him palm a cross away leading to Salah curling an effort goalwards and the Croat had to help it over the bar. Nunez then headed narrowly wide from a dangerous cross as he was left completely unmarked.
The next spell saw Liverpool dominate the ball and were looking to feed Diaz and Salah at every opportunity. Bradley and Gomez were both well forward in support as United tried to plug the gaps as the pass and move possession football threatened to open them up. Souza’s foul on Gomez gave the home side a free kick and after it was initially cleared, Salah again looked to find the corner but this time was over and wide.
Arblaster’s give away saw Salah play in Nunez and his cross was cleared by Bogle as United scrambled back to clear. The home side were now in complete control after their poor start but the opening goal came from a goalkeeping effort. The ball was played back to Grbic and he took way too long to clear, talking a touch and then firing it at the advancing NUNEZ and it bounced into the net as the keeper ran back in vain as it bounced over the line.
Liverpool were now in confident mood and Nunez danced round two weak challenges from Ahmedhodzic and Arblaster but his shot was straight at Grbic. Brereton Diaz gave United a breather as he drew a foul but McAtee’s free kick was wasted, continuing another poor performance from the on-loan City man.
Mac Allister’s was given way too much time on the edge of the box but his effort did not quite have the curl to come back inside the post and went narrowly wide. The Blades were really struggling with the intensity of Liverpool but were not helping themselves by constantly turning the ball over. All of the midfield were guilty of this for a spell as the game between defence v attack. Diaz embarrassed both Bogle and Souza, leaving them both in the dirt with some outrageous skill out wide but Gravenberch’s effort lacked power and Grbic made the save. Soon after Szoboszlai took aim and his effort drew a tip over from the goalkeeper.
A rare attack from United saw Robinson have another opportunity to throw the ball in and whilst his effort did not endanger the home backline, it was returned and Ahmedhodzic fired over but the offside flag went up anyway. Diaz then got away from the United defence too easily but shot wide before in stoppage time at the end of the half, the Blades did fashion another chance. Brereton Diaz did well to hold it up and slipped a clever ball into the path of Bogle, whose shot was powerful enough but Kelleher dived to his right to make the save. Souza made a good tackle as Liverpool tried to break and appeals for a free kick on the edge of the box, were waved away just before the half time whistle went.
United were only one down and had opportunities at the either end of the half but 83% possession, on track for a Premier League record, told a story and once again too many shots were raining in on the Blades goal. What was frustrating was the manner of the goal – an absolute howler.
The second half began with Grbic taking a cross and then fielding a shot from Salah from the edge of the area with no challenge on him.
United did win a free kick on 50 minutes after foul on Breteton Diaz but Hamer’s effort was straight at the keeper. Liverpool then nearly got in after Holgate overplayed. The Blades had competed well in this period of the game and were picking up loose balls and looking more of a threat. On 56 minutes, the Blades found a shock leveller. McAtee did well in the build up to keep the ball and then once again was instrumental as he got on the ball and sent over a deep cross which saw Brereton Diaz and Hamer at the back post and the ball came off Hamer and then off BRADLEY (OG) to squirm under Kelleher’s legs and into the net!
Liverpool responded with a double change with Robertson and Elliott on for Salah and Gravenberch. Hamer was struggling to carry on after the goal when he picked up a knock and Osborn replaced him. MCBurnie and Osula also came on for Brereton Diaz and McAtee.
A corner saw Van Dijk head down but Grbic did well to spring to his right and make the low save and the subsequent corner was headed behind and a goal kick was awarded. Konate needed treatment after he took a whack from Osula but this game was not more evenly balanced than the first half. United were looking dangerous on the break and Arblaster played it out to Bogle whose cross fell to McBurnie but his cross did not sit for a teammate.
Ahmedhodzic made a vital stretched clearance to knock the ball away before Liverpool made another double change as Gakpo and Jones for Szoboszlai as the crowd started to become frustrated. A few needless fouls and give aways saw the Blades regain possession and they were well in the game. However, one substitute Jones crossed for another, Robertson, to fire narrowly wide to keep United honest. A soft foul gave Liverpool a free kick but United were able to clear to Osula who appealed in vain for a foul on half way but nothing was given and the ball came back at the Blades. The ball was not properly cleared and a few ricochets saw it fall for MAC ALLISTER who reacted quicker than McBurnie and smashed the ball into the top corner of the net.
Trusty came off for Brooks but Liverpool could now relax and won two corners before Gakpo danced round his man and fired wide. Liverpool had a free kick from 25 yards and Mac Allister took it and it brushed Souza and cracked off the bar before Holgate and Grbic combined to knock it behind. Osula gave the ball away and Liverpool broke and nearly got in before McBurnie was booked for an elbow.
Slimane came on for Holgate before more indecisive goalkeeping from Grbic saw him fail to complete the catch and almost get lobbed but the third goal was not long coming. Roberton sent over an inviting delivery and with half the defence coming out and half staying in, Osborn could not get close enough to GAKPO who headed easily into the net past the exposed Grbic who was slow to react to the header.
There would be 7 minutes of stoppage time but Liverpool played this time out with comfort and United’s race was run and the home side celebrated returning to the top of the league. For the visitors, their inevitable relegation back to the Championship will surely be confirmed in a matter of weeks but United could be proud of their efforts in a committed and resilient showing against a far superior side.
United – I never expected anything tonight but a good old-fashioned hammering so was pleasantly surprised that not only did we not get absolutely pumped but we stayed in the game, got level, and then gave Liverpool a decent game for long spells. We began really well and missed two great chance. McAtee has to score. That would have given us something to defend, albeit for 90+ minutes! After these opportunities, Liverpool gradually got on top and Grbic’s indecisive night began early with a weak punch and Salah started to cause problems. Liverpool swarmed at us and had chances but we kept out discipline and shape. We real solid defensively and kept tight to them most of the time. The only issue I had was that when we did have it, we constantly tossed it away – the midfield in particular were really poor and panicked too much. Felt Brereton Diaz did ok with that he could but McAtee, Hamer, Souza and Arblaster were not able to keep it and thus give the defence a break. I have criticised Bogle and Trusty but both stuck to their tasks with little protection. Same for the back three – faced with a poor goalkeeper behind him and little in the way of stopping the ball coming at him – Holgate, Robinson and Ahmedhodic all played fairly well against top class opponents.
It was annoying as even though they had loads of ball and were camped in out half – not sure they had tons of clear chances or missed sitters. The goal we conceded was ridiculous and something you should not even see down the leagues. He had so long to clear and then even then had to kick it away from the player. After this I feared the worst, but we stayed on the game and were competitive and they did not have lots of chances. A few just wide or routine Grbic saves. We then even had another chance via Bogle. 1-0 at half time was fine though despite the possession they had – just really annoying the goal we conceded in terms of us gifting it them.
After the break for 15 minutes, we had a real go and seemed to keep it better, commit more men forward and at least look a threat. We broke better and started to win more ball in midfield with Souza, Hamer and Arblaster improving. The goal still came out of the blue and a bit of luck but a great ball from an otherwise disappointing McAtee. Liverpool made changes and so did we (can argue he maybe should have left it a bit as we had got level even though the players that went off probably were tiring again). Actually, even after the subs, we still had a few moments and Liverpool were getting frustrated. They had to make two more chances and Klopp was visibly annoyed. I wanted us to just take it on another 5 or 10 minutes and even though they probably still win, they then commit even more forward and we may have chances on the break. I was disappointed with both McAtee and Osula who had to use their assets to get us and keep us up the pitch but failed to do that. The goal came when Osula lost it cheaply although maybe Anel could have got more on the clearance. McBurnie is on his heels but it is some strike. No issues with a goal going in like that rather than the soft one first half. We have so little attacking threat and often are so tired after chasing around (83% possession!) that it is hard for us to go again and try and get up the field and create something. The stats show we never come back really and this is down to fatigue and lack of ability/game changers. After this Liverpool were relatively comfortably and scored a late goal to make it easier than it maybe was – same as at Bramall Lane.
The stats make us look like we were battered again but I actually thought despite this, that we gave a decent account of ourselves and stayed right in the game. We got it to 1-1 and I felt Liverpool were getting frustrated but then the goal is real quality. I do think we did as well as we could have done really in terms of limiting the top of the table to few clear chances. They did have quite a lot of efforts but most were long range or outside the box. I am not sure the subs helped again but maybe even without them, Liverpool would have pushed on and won. It is easy to keep looking at the subs and maybe it’s just a case of we lack quality in both starters and in reserve! I thought the midfield were sloppy to begin with, on and off the ball but the defence were solid to decent all game – especially with an erratic goalkeeping display behind them.
The game resembled the match at the Lane where we gave them a decent match and at least remained in it and to get level at the hour mark was something I did not expect. In the end Liverpool won deservedly and 3-1 was probably about right but it was not the easy night they hoped for and not the battering we thought we get. At this stage we are playing for pride and will be down probably before the end of the month (although potential points deduction for Everton again might keep it going a bit longer that that). We now have to be planning for next season. I would not be using McAtee or Archer personally as they are not going to be here. Maybe BBD and Holgate won’t be (the latter maybe we have a chance of signing?) but they have been solid recently so an argument they retain their places but we need to see more of Arblaster and Brooks and maybe a few other youngsters too.
Chelsea will be hard on the back of their comeback win and an inform Palmer. We also seem to be generally (Fulham game apart) be more competitive on the road but if we can repeat the efforts of tonight with the crowd behind us, who knows? I honestly cannot see many more points this season – we might nick something v Burnley or Forest at home but I think a few draws and maybe one win is the best we can hope for. For me, regardless of the results, all the focus really needs to be on who we are keeping (won’t be many) and looking at new signings as we do need a number of new players for next season – particularly up the top of the field. The goalkeeping situation is still a worry as Grbic does not look any better than Foderingham at all.
Ratings:
Grbic 3/10 – Started indecisively with a weird punch away when he could have taken the ball and had to push a shot over as a result. He then kicked one straight at them before an absolute horror show as he took too long and gave them a goal on a plate. All those who say his distribution is better than Wes, I am not so sure. His kicking for the most part is poor. He booted a ton out on Saturday and then did that tonight. He looks so slow to deal with things both with his feet and his hands and looks another really poor signing. He made some routine saves after this for the rest of the first half and was again badly exposed as our keepers have all season. Second half made a good save from Van Dijk’s header and then no chance on the second. The third he is a bit slow down to but again most shots going in unless right at him, generally go in! He also then failed to take another cross and nearly got lobbed. Just looks very shaky and not sure for the money we have spent, that we have upgraded at all and still a position we need to improve in the summer.
Bogle 6.5/10 – Started ok but was put one on one v Diaz too often with little help from midfield. He did clear a few and got his body in the way at least and stuck to his task but often does not get tight enough to his winger. He ended the half was a decent effort as he had a rare break forward. His strength is clearly attacking and he struggles to defend which means he will always struggle to be a player at this high level when you need to be exceptional at the former to get a better club. However, thought he stuck at it and despite them getting away a few times, he at least got stuck in and tried to make tackles.
Trusty 6.5/10 – Surprised he was picked as he has struggled versus wingers out wide – although did well against Salah in the reverse fixture. He started off again giving his man – albeit a top world class player – too much time. However, like with Bogle he stuck at it and thought he improved as the game went on. He made a few tackles and headers. He did boot a few out under no pressure showing his technical deficiencies. I have been very critical of him but he was ok tonight against some really good players. Nearly set up a goal too for BBD. Salah in the end went off and they were better after he was replaced!
Ahmedhodzic 7/10 – As with Saturday, he was much better tonight and has continued his recent return to form. Maybe taking the captain armband of him has helped him? Thought he did some ok things to start with and kept to his shape and got a few blocks on but also got outmuscled a few times too and guilty of switching off as they ran off us. I felt the defence had no protection and the ball was given back constantly making it hard for them. I nearly set up a goal early and then had a volleyed effort when he was just offside. He made a few key interceptions and used his long legs to good effect in the 2nd half and thought he was excellent as we largely frustrated them.
Robinson 7/10 – Committed performance in terms of throwing his body in the way and we had two chances off his throws tonight first half. He struggled with some of the pace and movement as the whole Blades team did but must be frustrated nobody in front of him seems to ever keep the ball and means they have to defend, defend and defend almost all game. However, he did this pretty well and he was mostly solid. I do think the final goal he has to react and help Osborn but at this stage we were caught between trying to somehow find a way forward and launch a final attack.
Holgate 7/10 – Thought he did ok actually and looked like he was able to keep his discipline in terms of shape. He read the game well and got some nice tackles and blocks in. He has improved after a really poor start. He made some decent interceptions and was able to help nullify any gaps. He did give it away a few times second half but overall he was solid. He has been solid in recent games and if we could get him (on a much lower wage) could be an asset in the Championship.
Souza 6/10 – Usual frustrating evening but not his worst game. Did make a few decent tackles but often barely got out of a jog and did not pressure or tackle the opposition who had way too much time to run through or play easy passes to the front men. He makes the showbusiness like tackles now and again but too often players walk by him as he ambles back. I want him to win more of the 50-50 headers/loose balls. He did do some better things 2nd half and thought he was much better in that spell where we had some attacks and managed to actually have some possession. There was a few times near the end where he sort of pulled out of things though and then seemed to be injured again?
Hamer 6/10 – Started on the ball and lively but quickly as we had little possession, he started to become less and less of a factor. The ball was played almost entirely in our half and he was living off scraps but I also thought when he had it, he like the rest of the midfield was sloppy in possession. I wanted us to keep it more and at least try and play a few passes as the co commentator said rather than lumping it. 2nd half we did better with the ball and he had a few passes or interplay and then got on the end of the cross to force the own goal. Had to go off injured not long after that.
Arblaster 5.5/10 – Endured a difficult night I felt where it all seemed a bit quick and physical for him first half. He gave the ball away pretty much constantly and got brushed off a few times. I just felt the whole midfield could not keep it or pressure them on the ball. He kept to his shape and did improve after the break but not sure he touched the ball too much or had much influence. He did have one bit of play in the lead up the McBurnie chance. I am sure I will get called for my mark and do think he is a really promising player but tonight showed the likes of him and Osula how far off they are at the top, top level (no shame in that as these are kids starting out playing world class players). I do like him and think he is really promising but have to mark it as I see it, whether a young pro, experienced player or a Blades fan!
McAtee 5/10 – Thought he was poor tonight outside of the goal where he twice showed good feet and put an excellent cross over. He missed a great chance which was easier to score from and then when given the ball often lost it cheaply. I just felt he ran down blind alleys and he was not able to help us give the defence a break. Got brushed aside too much. He had a decent spell when Wilder came in but seems to have gone backwards and given a start tonight not sure he did enough. Wonder what his future holds as not sure he has shown enough (albeit in a struggling side) to get another Premier League loan next season and think he might be headed back to the Championship again. Can see why he came off but maybe after he had just found an assist, we might have waited a bit longer and Osula was even worse!
Brereton Diaz 6/10 – First half worked hard again with little service and tried to hold the ball up but he could not quite get on the end of that chance but he won a few free kicks and at least was an outlet. He kept running down the channels but as the game went on, we had less and less of the ball. Second half he got on it more as we had that spell either side of the goal but then we opted to freshen things up and he has been a lone striker much of the time so can see why he was taken off.
Subs:
McBurnie 5.5/10 – Actually looked a handful for a spell after he came on and had a half chance when he crosses the ball (could he have gone for goal?) but then they score and we are struggling to get the ball up to him. Silly yellow card and then we did not really get it up to him. I do feel he was slow to react on the second goal and he was close to Mac Allister before the Liverpool man reacted quicker.
Osborn 5/10 – Brought on and started in midfield and was getting his foot in a few times but they were gradually getting on top and after the goal he then ended up at the back after Trusty went off. The third goal he is not able to react and we saw this at Bournemouth but that again is maybe harsh?
Osula 2/10 – Thought he was woeful after he came on. The ball never stuck to him. He lost it cheaply in the lead up the second and quite a few other occasions he was not able to keep it. Also committed a really bad foul and surprised VAR did not look at it (although you could argue the scissor motion was something Nunez did at Bramall Lane and got away with it?). He has to keep the ball better and not give it away so cheaply. He just looks like a headless chicken. It’s worrying with Brewster injured and everyone else out of contact, only him and Traore are currently slated to be here. Both don’t look even close to Championship level players to me. Needs a season loan in League One where he plays regularly as that did not happen at Derby to see if he can improve and learn the game but he is a long way from the level required yet in terms of where to run, holding it up, linking or being a goal threat. BBD and McBurnie are so much better than him at football awareness.
Slimane – Did not see much of him but he did give it away once I recall. Seems to have been a forgotten man.
Brooks – I would like to see him and Arblaster get some games together to end the season and ended this game in midfield. It was too late really for him to make any difference as were chasing around at this stage. Not sure he even touched the ball?
Manager: Wilder 7/10 – A competitive performance where we set up well organised, made it hard for them and restricted them to long range efforts. We could have been ahead early and then stayed in the game. He rightly looked well annoyed with the keeping mistake but we kept it tight-ish and then got level and then had a bit of a go. The goal they scored was an absolute beauty to be fair but sure there will be arguments about the subs again. Liverpool’s made a big difference and ours probably did not but then the counter argument is that we still had a decent spell after the goal and subs? I thought that today we looked more like the side when Wilder first came in – shape, solidity and at least being hard to break down. We will never win games with such little possession and our ball retention is still largely awful but defensively we were far better.
Liverpool – I thought that in recent times with Firmino, Mane and a few others moving on, that they were sort of on the downward and did not see them competing – with City and Arsenal both being the dominant powers for a period. However, credit to Klopp for getting them right in the race yet again with some strong teams against them that have spent a lot more. I don’t like the guy particularly after he had initially quite down to earth when he came to the UK – he has become a self-entitled prick who complains about anything and everything and be glad to see the back of him as most fans outside Liverpool will. However, he has managed to bring young players in, make some smart additions and they are right there competing for the title again. They have gone top but still feel that City will win it again but I might be wrong.
Be nauseating to see him celebrating as he final act and it’s coming to something when I’d prefer a team who just chuck billions at it – in City – to win it over him and Arteta (who is a smug prat). Despite my thoughts on him as a person, he has been a very good manager there and like with others who have left big clubs (Ferguson, Mourinho, Wenger etc) will be a hard act to follow as for all the annoyance of his personality – that is what probably connects him to the Scousers and sort of adds fuel to the Liverpool against the world mentality that sadly many of their fans have both in football and life in general.
I find his whole act a bit tiring now (like a better, more modern-day Warnock) and concede if he is your manager you’d mostly love him but at times even as a Reds fan you must find him somewhat cringeworthy?
In terms of tonight, it was harder night than maybe they envisaged. They began poorly and should have been behind but got hold of the game but got a bit of a fortunate goal (will say it was good closing down I suppose) but never put us away and then conceded a sloppy goal and either side of this, they were not great and gave it away or failed to be secure in their play. At 1-1, they were making changes and then throwing men forward but it took a real moment of quality to score. After this they saw it out fairly easily and got another goal late on. Klopp’s reaction at the end was as much relief as delight as they survived a bit of a scare.
Opponent Man of the Match – Mac Allister got the TNT man of the match and this is probably right. Had a few decent efforts, schemed in midfield and scored an absolute worldy to effectively win the game. Nunez worked hard, closing down and was a nuisance. I thought Diaz was good first half but faded. The subs made a difference with Robertson, Gakpo, Jones and Elliott giving them energy and fresh impetus.
Opponent Weak link – Thought they had a few off their game. Salah started well with some decent efforts but then was not in the game and was taken off. Gravenberch was poor and looks a long way off being a Liverpool starting player.
Referee/Officials – Stuart Attwell. Relatively easy game to ref. Not sure I can recall too many bad decisions. Only one booking McBurnie for the silly challenge and can’t recall too many really bad fouls. Liverpool fans will bleat about some over zealous stuff but only maybe the Osula one was a poor one and should have been at least a yellow card. We did chop them down a few times but I was just pleased we were not a soft touch as we often are. Van Dijk’s chokehold on Trusty was not even checked seemingly which was weird? They played 7 minutes of stoppage time- bet if it was 1-1, it would have been close to double that!
