4-2 and this is the first time in 13 years that we come back from behind away from Anfield. After 84 games in all competition, in which we drawn 13 and lost 71, we finally win from behind. I wonder when was the last time we overcame a 2 goal deficit? Also, we have 3 shots on target and score 4. Isn't it good?
First half was just painful. Fortunately (?) the local cable TV had some problem and so it was not shown. But listening to live commentary from Steve Hunter is already painful. Apart from one or two moments like Riise's header or Garcia's ambitious goal attmepts we were just hopeless.
Enter 2nd half and Xabi, and it'a different ball game. And luck be with us this time too. Baro was probably trying to cross the ball to Garcia at far post when the ball deflected on Knight and went into the goal. 2-1 and confidence was back and we looked more and more likely to be winner. Then Xabi had a great cross and Garcia's header saved by Van der Sar, but Baros was quick enough to score. 2-2.
Then Josemi was sent off but we seemed to be ignoring this fact. Another freekick and Xabi scored it with the help of another deflection. 2-3. In 92 minutes Biscan came on for Baros to kill time, but he certainly had another thoughts. A nice pass to Warnock, then Warnock 1-2 back to Biscan, and he scored! 2-4 and game over!
I think this game proves that when Xabi plays well he's even better than Gerrard. Compare this performance with the Chelsea game and you will know what I mean. How Rafa will change the formation when Stevie G is back is really interesting, but we would love this problem.
Player Rating:
Kirkland: 7 Not his fault for the 2 goals, and he looks more commanding than Dudek. Keep on the good work!
Josemi: 5.5 As in the Chelsea game he's too slow when facing pacy players. The red card was derseved, but I like his fighting spirit.
Carragher: 8 If we lost this game he will certainly be the man of the match for the 3rd match in a row! Carra is always there when we need him. Covers Sami well.
Hyypia: 7 A bit undecisive at times, but in general not a bad performance.
Traore: 6 At time he shows some flair when going front, but defensively there's still a lot to improve.
Garcia: 7 He can player much better. He lost the ball and lead to Fulham's 2nd goal. Almost score if not for Van der Sar's great save, but fortunately Baros scored the rebound.
Hamann: 7.5 A solid game for Didi, but this game also highlights one of his problem: He can't lift the level of the players. So in 1H when Diao was there he just let him do the damage... With Xabi on in 2H, he plays much better.
Diao: 3 Enough trial, Rafa. How can you play a backheal in your own half and let the other team score?
Riise: 7 A solid game, almost score a header to equalize when we were 1 down.
Cisse: 7 Although his bonding with Milan is not perfect, it is improving. But he need to link up more with the midfield.
Baros: 8 Score a goal and "assist" the first own goal. A good performance in 2H. Otherwise same comment as Cisse.
Substitutions
Alonso: 9 How often did we see a player change the game? Not so often. In this game Xabi shown us how to do it. But somehow he missed an absolute sitter at 6 yards.
Warnock: 7 Played 5 minutes and had an assist. Good job!
Biscan: 7 Played 40 seconds and touched the ball twice: 1 pass to Warnock, and 1 shot and 1 goal! You derseve it!
Rafa: 7 If playing Diao is a mistake, he's quick to admit it and repaired the damage. And sending Biscan on is probably a genius touch!
Fulham: 6 1H shows they can playing some good football, but in 2H Xabi changed the game.
Man of the Match: Alonso. He came on and made us all happy.
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