3-1 and it is easier than we expected thanks to the comical errors of Bounsong. Rafa surprised everybody by fieidling a 5-4-1 formation, and it pays off in attack, although defense-wise it still need some fine-tuning, especially at the end of the second half we were under severe pressure from Newcastle. If not for the nice performance of Given we could win by a larger margin. We are keeping our pressure on Manchester United, and if they slip we will be there to catch up.
Player Rating:
Reina: 7 A commanding performance although he did not have too many to save.
Carragher: 7 Commanding display at the back.
Hyypia: 7 A good performance, although he is a bit guilty for the goal conceded.
Agger: 7 A solid display at the back and also contributed to the second goal.
Kromkamp: 7 A nice assist and a fine shot on target well saved by Given.
Warnock: 7 A good display both attacking and defending.
Cisse: 6.5 Nice penalty taken and good performance overall, but his childishness almost lead to him sent off.
Gerrard: 7.5 Good display in the middle and a nicely taken goal.
Hamann: 7 Doing the defensive job brilliantly.
Kewell: 7 Causing Newcastle defense lots of problems.
Crouch: 8 Simply undefendable. One goal, one assist and also earned us the penalty for the 3rd goal.
Substitutions:
Luis Garcia: 7 A good display overall.
Alonso: 7 Find goal attempt saved by Given.
Fowler: Not enough time to impress.
Rafa: 7.5 A bold decision to start 5-4-1 and surprised everybody. Shows he is a tactical genius.
Newcastle United: 5 Poor defending but must be glad they have Given in goal. Need to improve dramatically to beat Chelsea in FA Cup. Good luck to them.
Man of the Match: Crouch. Superb performance that repays Rafa's faith on him.
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