Champions League restarts

Champions League group stage restarts and we will beginning from visiting PSV Eindhoven, our first ever competitive match with them. We need to forget the crash in the derby, and the draw is quite kind for us, so it will be nice to at least get a point there for a start.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Agger
Hyypia
Carragher
Gerrard
Alonso
Sissoko
Gonzalez
Kuyt
Bellamy

Result: 1-0

Match Report 060909 at Everton: We tumbled

0-3 and this is the worst derby defeat in more than 40 years. We just don't perform well as a team. Reina again made some silly mistakes but defense as a whole played badly. Rafa's ommission of Bellamy also raised a few eyebrows. And although we dominated in goal attempts, but we lack the killing instinct. Also we were running out of luck as there were 2 shots hit the post, numerous shots just a few yards wide, and Poll failed to award us a penalty for a handball.

The unbeaten run since March finally ended and we need to pick ourselves up and start another run. Starting in Holland.

Players Rating:
Reina: 4.5 A very poor result especially letting in the 3rd goal. Is he lack of confidence or what? A few more performance like this and Rafa should switch to Dudek.
Finnan: 5 Poor defending that lead to the first goal. Almost scored in 2H.
Carragher: 5 Even Carra performed badly, especially the ineffective clearance that lead to the 2nd goal.
Hyypia: 5 Can't contain Johnson and his lack of pace is obvious.
Aurelio: 5.5 A nice freekick but still unconvincing in defense.
Gerrard: 6.5 The only player that played OK in this game, and hit the goalpost twice.
Alonso: 5.5 Yet to pick up his form this season.
Sissoko: 6 A solid display.
Luis Garcia: 5 A nice crossing in 1H was his only contribution.
Fowler: 5.5 Had a few shots in the opening minutes but then there is no supply to him.
Crouch: 5 A very poor performance. Almost invisible.

Substitutions:
Kuyt: 6 Looks sharp and dangerous, but failed to put the ball in the net.
Riise: 5.5 Injuried again for a bad tackle.
Pennant: 6 Not enough time to impress.

Rafa: 5 The formation has a few problems and the internatinal run has disturbed Rafa's preparation. Nevertheless Rafa's omission of Bellamy and failure of setting the defense had exaggrated the problem.

Everton: 7 They played well and deserved the win, although the margin has flattered them.

Player of the Match: Gerrard. If he scored from one of the many opportunities, the result may be completely different.

First hurdle

It's Derby time again and this is the first hurdle of the season with 3 consecutive key away games. Both teams are running on a high recently but after the international weekend Rafa may rest a few key players. It would be nice to see Robbie score again.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Agger
Aurelio
Pennant
Gerrard
Sissoko
Gonzalez
Fowler
Crouch

Result: 3-1

August Month Review

3 wins and 2 draws was not a bad result, although it can always be better. Expectations were high after we beat Chelsea with our team C, but then it was back to ground level after we drew with Sheffield United and Maccabi Haifa. We have 4 injuries and defense was cracky, but the new boys fit in the team very well.

Looking ahead, Rafa need to sort out the defense problems quickly, as there will be a lot of tough away games in September.

Players of the Month: (1) Crouch 7.23 (2) Sissoko 7.13 (3) Bellamy and Pennant 7.10. Crouch scored 3 goals for the club and 2 more for England. Momo patrolled the midfield nicely before his injury, and the new boys Bellamy and Pennant both did their jobs well and impressed us.

September Prediction:
9/9 Everton (a) Last time Stevie G and Beattie were both sent off, and Everton is on a high. This is a good time to stop them.
9/12 PSV Eindhoven (a) Champions League restarts and Kuyt would provide us lots of information about PSV.
9/17 Chelsea (a) A very tough game, a draw would not be a bad result, but let's win it.
9/20 Newcastle United (h) Newcastle is still under evolution and we should beat them.
9/23 Tottenham Hotspur (h) Spurs may have made a mistake in selling Carrick, but still they are a strong team.
9/27 Galatasarak SK (h) A home game we should win.
9/30 Bolton Wanderers (a) Another tough away game. Beat them and we will be in a good position.

Match Report 060826 vs West Ham United: Lightning do strikes twice

2-1 and this match has re-run a few of the FA Cup Final events: Reina made an error and West Ham scored from a crossing, and there is a wonderful long range strike that reversed the momentum. In general we played well in this game, it's just we lack a bit of luck to score one more goal to settle the game.

Players Rating:
Reina: 5.5 Made a bad mistake and put Zamora's crossing into the goal, but made a good save at the end to keep the score. However, he needs to be more careful or else we will see Dudek again.
Finnan: 6.5 A steady game at the back.
Agger: 8 Wonderful strike. Nice defense. Future of the Club.
Hyypia: 6.5 Not the best game and was exposed in a few occasions.
Aurelio: 6.5 Had some good free kicks but could also do better for the goal conceded. Still doing better in attack than defense.
Pennant: 7.5 Provided a lot of options for the striker. Another good display.
Gerrard: 7 Drove the team to overcome the 1 goal deficit. He also helped en-route the winning goal.
Alonso: 7 Without Momo, he needed to do more the defensive works.
Luis Garcia: 7 Wasted numerous chances but at the end he provided a nice assist.
Bellamy: 7 Another lively game and provided many threats.
Crouch: 7.5 A well taken goal but other than that he did not have too many contributions.

Substitutions:
Kuyt: 7 Had a great impact when coming up. Definitely he will provide Rafa with more options.
Gonzalez: 6.5 Lively performance.
Zenden: 6 Not enough time to impress.

Rafa: 6.5 Was hindered by the injuries and still has not solved the defense problem.

West Ham United: 6.5 Scored with the only chance in 1H. They will be a top 10 team if Europe proved to be not too much a distraction.

Man of the Match: Agger. Wonder goal.

FA Cup Final re-run

It's West Ham again. Despite the injury of Ashton, they still have Zamora who is on fire. We are also hit with a more serious injury problem, but now that we are in Champions League, we should put our mind back and perform, especially this match is for celebrate the 100 years of Kop end.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Agger
Hyypia
Aurelio
Pennant
Gerrard
Alonso
Luis Garcia
Kuyt
Crouch

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060822 vsMaccabi Haifa: A close shave

1-1 and we are through to the group stage, but it was with a lot of scary moment and another two injuries. Without Carra defense at a whole has problems, and we are some what lucky to just concede one goal thanks to Reina. Is it down to the aging of Hyypia or is it down to the new boys yet to fit in? Probably a mix of both.

It was also a mystery why with Crouch, Pennant and Gonzalez all starting it was not until Crouch scored that goal that we see a good cross from the wings. I would think this is the purpose of this formation. Nevertheless this is another great header from Crouch.

Players Rating:
Reina: 7 Helped to minimize damage and keep the score at 1-1.
Finnan: 6 Was exposed several times.
Agger: 6.5 Indecisive game.
Hyypia: 6 Showed again he is aging and fading very fast.
Warnock:6 Anoter injury...
Pennant: 7 A great cross and this is why Rafa signed him.
Alonso: 6.5 Tried hard to score early on.
Sissoko: 7 Played well before the injury.
Gonzalez: 6 A bit quiet, but maybe we have put too much pressure on him.
Luis Garcia: 6.5 Had a few shots on target but the keeper responded very well.
Crouch: 7.5 Created lots of chances for the team and scored the important one. He is ready to fight for the place.

Substitutions:
Aurelio: 6.5 Doing well going forward, but was always exposed when defending.
Gerrard: 6.5 Despite the stomache problem he is still driving the team when coming up.
Bellamy: Not enough time to impress.

Rafa: 6 Another game distorted by injuries. But Haifa is not a poor team and Rafa would be happy to the response of the attacking players, although he will be concerned about the defense.

Maccabi Haifa: 6.5 Matched us very well, and good luck to them in the UEFA Cup.

Player of the Match: Crouch. Another great header and he has scored 4 goals in 10 days for the Club and Country.

Be alert

We have a tricky match which is very important financially. Carra and Riise would not be able to participate, and the stand-in players need to be alert. Keep a clean sheet and score, and we will be through.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Agger
Hyypia
Aurelio
Pennant
Gerrard
Sissoko
Gonzalez
Bellamy
Crouch

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060819 at Sheffield United: Down to earth

1-1 and the result, especially after Sunday's Chelsea and Manchester United results, brought us down to earth again. What's worse, Carra and Riise were both injuried and will miss the crucial game against Maccabi Haifa. Rafa needs to sort out the defense problem as we keep on conceding goals.

Rafa's tactic is hindered by the early injuries. The defense has big problem as Hyypia was dragged by the Sheffield defender and Agger failed to react. Fortunately we have a some-what dubious penalty, and Fowler scored. Clearly everybody's mind is in the Maccabi Haifai game and so the team did not perform as it shoud be.

Player Rating:
Reina: 6.5 Not much to do and can't do much on the goal.
Kromkamp: 6 A surprise start, and failed in defense as a whole.
Carragher: 6.5 A worrying injury after a harsh tackle by Hulse.
Hyypia: 6 He is getting slower and slower and his performance is worrying.
Riise: 6.5 Suffered from a bad injury after a great cross.
Zenden: 6 Ineffective game.
Gerrard: 7.5 One of the better player. The penalty decision is a bit dubious
though.
Sissoko: 7 Battling hard in the midfield, but beware of the yellow cards.
Aruelio: 7 A nice performance and it is nice to see him take control of all the corners and free kicks. Should have scored directly from a free kick, but Kenny has a different thought.
Bellamy: 7 Another lively performance.
Fowler: 7 A quiet performance, but his penalty is class.

Substitutions:
Gonzalez: 6.5 Could have done better, and missed a great chance.
Agger: 6.5 Fits in well although he is also partly responsible for the goal conceded.
Pennant: 6 Not enough time to impress.

Rafa: His starting formation is a bit strange and his tactics is further hindered by the injuries. Need to sort out the defense sooner rather than later.

Sheffield United: 6.5 A well deserved draw. Warnock claimed we won't have that hard a challenge in the league this season. Hope his word is true.

Man of the Match: Gerrard. Drove the team on.

19

This season, we have a much stronger team to challenge for #19. The new players look promising and adapting to the new team well, and the confidence within the team is high. We look difficult to beat. Last season, we were 6 points behind Chelsea, and the points were lost against the top 4 teams. For Chelsea, how many points can they gain? Not many. If we play with the same consistency, with a better record against the top 4 teams, and a bit of lucky, #19 is coming. But first, let's play well against Sheffield United.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Pennant
Gerrard
Alonso
Sissoko
Gonzalez
Bellamy

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060813 vs Chelsea: A well deserved win

2-1 and it is a nice way to start the domestic season. Rafa is bold enough to rest a lot of first team players, but the team still plays well. This shows how far we have developed. The team is now getting closer to Rafa's ideal team, and we will have a good chance in challenging the Premiership, especially if Chelsea is turning their focus to CL.

Players Rating:
Reina: 7.5 Nobody can stop that Shevchenko goal, but he did made 2 nice consecutive saves in 2H to keep the score at bay.
Finnan: 6.5 Played well but one slow action let Shevchenko scored.
Carragher: 7 Captain Carra did his best to protect the goal.
Agger: 7 A nice game for the young Dane. We can expect more games for the guy this season.
Riise: 7.5 Scored a nice goal after running the whole pitch.
Pennant: 7 Another lively match.
Sissoko: 8 The boss of the midfield, and shown Ballack how to play in Premiership.
Zenden: 7 A nice performance.
Gonzalez: 7 Another nice game.
Luis Garcia: 6.5 A good game.
Crouch: 7 Scored a nice goal thanks to Bellany's great cross.

Substitutions:
Aurelio: 7 A nice debut. His freekicks are class, and he almost scored a goal.
Alonso: 6.5 A good game although he was unlucky to get a yellow card.
Gerrard: 6.5 Still picking up his form.
Bellamy: 7 Another nice run and made an impact when substituted on.
Sinama-Pongolle: Not enough time to impress.

Rafa: 7 His formation is very bold and his substitutions made impacts. Tactical genius.

Chelsea: 6.5 They will still be the favorite, but we are getting closer. And with a little bit luck, who knows what will happen?

Man of the Match: Sissoko. A real bargin for 5m.

Win the glamorous friendly

Community Shield is just a glamourous friendly game, and in the past only 30% of CS winner became league Champion. Nevertheless, this is a good game to testify how close we get to Chelsea. Rafa will no doubt make a few changes, and no matter who plays, make sure you don't injure yourself.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Pennant
Gerrard
Sissoko
Gonzalez
Crouch
Bellamy

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060809 vs Maccabi Haifa: Dream debuts

2-1 and it was not until 88 minutes that Gonzalez scored that we beat Maccabi Haifa. As you can expect after the World Cup, a lot of players are still far from the necessary fitness level. However the defense is really shocking and left so many holes for the opponents to explore. The new players have yet to gel with the team yet. Reina has to make a good save in 2H to prevent Haifa from taking the lead the second time. We have a Community Shield game and another friendly to go before the real season kicks off, and Rafa needs to sort it out quickly.

Player Rating:
Reina: 7 Can't do much about the goal conceded, and had made a good save in 2H.
Finnan: 6.5 Was a bit slow in making decision, but gradually recovered and even provided a good cross at the end.
Carragher: 7 Made a few great tackles.
Hyypia: 6 Was partly responsible for the goal conceded.
Riise: 6 Also responsible for the goal conceded.
Pennant: 7 A lively debut and provided a few good crosses.
Alonso: 7 A bit disappointing until his assist to Mark's goal.
Gerrard: 7 Shows some lack of form as he is still recovering from the long season.
Sissoko: 6.5 Running up and down, provided an assist, get a silly yellow card, and bursted the ball at the 93rd minute.
Zenden: 6 Trying very hard but not much use.
Bellamy: 7.5 A dream debut with a nice taken goal. It was funny to see him wearing #17, Stevie G's old number, running along with Stevie G to chase the ball when it was parried by the opponent goalkeeper, and scored it.

Substitutions:
Luis Garcia: 6.5 Tried hard and provided some threats, but his "dive" does not help.
Crouch: 6.5 Provided aerial threats and was close to score in 2 occasions.
Gonzalez: 7.5 Scored from his first touch. He is really speedy and almost run over the ball.

Rafa: 7 Great substitutions that create impact, although he need to work hard on the defense, the general fitness and the new player's understanding of the team flow.

Maccabi Haifa: Scored from their only shot on target, could have score 2 more. We need to be alert in the 2nd leg.

Players of the Match: Bellamy and Gonzalez. Dream debuts.

The most important match of the season

Although this is the first game of the season, this match is important as we need to get into Champions League to generate enough revenue. Looking at the result of the pre-season friendlies we were not at our best, especially the young defenders keep on making errors. Also, 3rd round qualifiers may be banana skin as the weaker teams will normally be physically better prepared and playing for the game of their life. And for us, since this is the world cup year many first team players were just back and fitness may be a problem. Nevertheless, we should have enough talent to dispose them of.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Gerrard
Alonso
Sissoko
Zenden
Bellamy
Crouch

Result: 3-0

Back where it belongs

Fowler to wear the famous #9 again. How nice it is!

http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/drilldown/N152952060721-1137.htm

Pre Season starts

After a short break the pre season game starts tomorrow. Although the players involving in the world cup will still be resting, there are still lots of new faces in the team, leaded by the fit again Fowler. Bellamy, Gonzalez and the two South Amercian young guns may have their debut, and this year, we will be better prepared and challenge the title.

One Year On

It was one year ago that we became the European Champions the 5th time and were entitled to keep the Big Ear forever. The memory is still here, but before it fades out, I need to keep it down.

It all began 2 years ago. We met Newcastle in the last game of the season, but since they did not beat Southampton the match before, we were virtually secured 4th place. This made me feel safe to travel to Melbourne on that Saturday night to have missed the game.

After the season is over Houllier resigned and Benitez arrived. It was certainly a season of changing, and Gerrard almost left. Luckily he didn't, but a certain striker did - he even sit out the Champions League 3rd round qualifier for this purporse. We rolled through to the Group Stage and was playing just OK. Misjudgement by the referees like the Saviola goal did not help, and we went into the last game knowing we need to beat Olympiakos by 2 goals to qualify.

The match was not going well in the first half. We were one down by a Rivaldo freekick and need to score three in the second half. Rafa brought up Sinama-Pongolle and he scored one. Then he brough up Mellor and he did the same. Time was running out, then come Stevie G, scoring a thrunder from 30 yards out and we were through. Now bring on Leverkusen.

At this stage I had some hope that perhaps this would be our season, although very few people gave us any chance at all. Leverkusen were duly destroyed, then came Juventus. It was fate that brought us together, 20 years after the Hasel tragedy. We won the first game 2-1 and kept a clean sheet at their home. And we were in the semi-final and next came Chelsea, the team we lost 3 times already that season.

First leg was a good 0-0, although the result was good, but we should have won the game. In the second leg the Kop did its best and sucked Luis Garcia's shot into the net. We kept our heads high, then in the 96th minute Gudjohnsen was very close to score - so close that the Football God came out and prevented the goal, and we were in the Final in Istanbul. I would have quite watching football if he scored, for that means there is no justice at all. After this game I cried - for we finally broke all omens and in the Final, after 20 years.

I have never been so nervous before. The match was on a Wednesday, and I began to feel nervous on Monday. On Tuesday I received the Champions League Final jersey and then came the Wednesday. I wore the jersey and we were well beaten 0-3 in 1H. I was hoping this was just a dream, and slightly think of the games at Basel and vs Olympiakos. I took off the jersey and wore my usual Stevie G #8 jersey on, and somehow, we came back. At 1-3 I thought it is good to get some pride back, but after Smicer scored that beauty, I knew we have a chance. Then Xabi missed that penalty and hit the rebound, I knew we can win it. Then we rolled on, and at the end of extra time, Dudek made that impossible double saves of Shevchenko, and I knew we will win. For the Football God won't be that crual and carry us so far and drop us.

Then came the penalty shootout. First came Milan and Dudek saved. From our side it was Hamann. I remembered his miss at Cardiff at that League Cup Final, but this time he made it. Then Dudek saved. Next came Cisse, who's miracle return from injury and scored the penalty. Then AC Milan scored and Riise missed. It was 2-2. Next came Smicer, a guy who had his heart with the Club, but due to injuries was never fulfilled his truth potential, scored his last goal for us. Now it's Shevchenko, the best striker in the world. But this was not his day and Dudek saved. And the rest is history.

Somehow I didn't cry this time, for maybe I have lost all my energy, but I am proud of the team. For this is certainly not the best team on the pitch apart from that 6 minutes, but due to their belief, together with the supporting fans, we made the impossible possible.

First to leave

Morientes became the first First-Team player to leave this off-season. It is a really pity that he did not play as good as his fame, but certainly he will be easier to adapt to Spain.

Good luck Nando.

2005/06 Season Review

Another season, another trophy. We also improved a lot in the league, and depends on how well Rafa can improve the team, we will be a serious challenger for the title. Now the team has some steal in it especially at home and we have the tag of "difficult to beat" attached. Next season will be even more challenging and let's see if we can win the big thing finally.

Player Rating (Games played, Minutes played, Goal scored/conceded, Assists/cleansheets, MoM, Rating)

Goalkeepers:
Carson: 4G 360M 6GC 1CS 0MoM 6.13
Dudek: 6G 459M 4GC 2CS 0MoM 6.60
Reina: 53G 4821M 34GC 30CS 2.5MoM 6.75

Reina was the number one in the post and did his job very well, with 30 clean sheets in his bag. He imposes a sense of security to the defenders. Although he may lost focus at times (especially the Birmingham away league game and the FA Cup Final) but in general he did very well.

Although Dudek lost his place to Reina he still played well whenever he is called up. Carson did not have any big progress at all and had eventually loaned out. One of them may be leaving this summer.

Defenders:
Agger: 4G 360M 0GS 0A 0MoM 6.63
Carragher: 57G 5154M 1GS 2A 6MoM 6.94
Finnan: 52G 4556M 0GS 7A 1.5MoM 6.65
Hyypia: 59G 5205M 2GS 0A 2.5MoM 6.64
Josemi: 12G 832M 0GS 0A 0MoM 6.39
Kromkamp: 17G 764M 0GS 1A 0MoM 6.45
Medjani: 1 unused substitute
Raven: 1G 90M 0GS 0A 0MoM 6.00
Riise: 52G 3906M 4GS 5A 2MoM 6.74
Traore: 24G 1396M 0GS 0A 0MoM 6.25
Warnock: 30G 1940M 1GS 0A 1MoM 6.33
Whitbread: 3G 216M 0GS 0A 0MoM 6.33

Carra once again lead the defenders, and together with Reina, Hyypia, Finnan and Riise formed our best defensive lineup. This lineup played 18 times with 13 cleansheets and 7 goals conceded - 3 of them in the FA Cup Final and 4 game with 1 goal conceded and an impressive 14 wins, 2 draws and 2 defeats. Agger and Kromkamp are bought in as backups and performed OK, and Warnock also did well in the second season, with a high in the Fulham game that he scored his first goal for us. For the others, Rafa will be looking for buyers as he had already bought a few young defenders.

Midfielders:
Alonso: 47G 4087M 5GS 8A 7.5MoM 6.88
Andersen: 1 unused substitute
Barragan: 1G 12M 0GS 0A 0MoM
Gerrard: 53G 4238M 23GS 17A 16MoM 7.19
Hamann: 32G 2222M 0GS 1A 0MoM 6.60
Kewell: 41G 2757M 3GS 3A 1MoM 6.78
Le Tallec: 2G 148M 0GS 1A 0MoM 6.50
Luis Garcia: 50G 2936M 11GS 6A 6MoM 6.72
Potter: 7G 400M 0GS 0A 0MoM 6.42
Sissoko: 45G 3417M 0GS 2A 1.5MoM 6.84
Smicer: 16G 504M 1GS 0A 0MoM 6.21
Zenden: 17G 1095M 2GS 2A 0MoM 6.60

Gerrard is no doubt the best midfield and he is miles apart from the others. But then Alonso and Sissoko also did well as well, and Harry Kewell returning to his best (although he was hurt by another injury in the Final). Luis Garcia and Zenden (before his injury) also played well in the wings, and Hamann a rock in the central whenever he is called upon. For the others, they may see the exit door soon. Rafa has also keen in improving this area and a right winger will be high on his agenda, although he may still play Gerrard and Luis Garcia there as well.

Attackers:
Baros: 2G 38M 0G 0A 0MoM 6.50
Cisse: 54G 2873M 19GS 6A 3.5MoM 6.69
Crouch: 49G 3294M 12GS 7A 4MoM 6.76
Fowler: 16G 857M 5GS 1A 3.5MoM 6.93
Morientes: 46G 2947M 9G 5A 2.5MoM 6.56
Sinama-Pongolle: 16G 538M 3GS 0A 1MoM 6.63

We still need to bring in some players in this department. Despite scoring 19 goals Cisse is still likely to be offload if we have a good offer for him. Nando just did not perform to his level for two years and will most likely out. Cisse was good, but he is never a 20-goal striker for us. Rafa did his master-stroke and bring back Fowler, and his performance are just marvelous. Expect a lot of changes here.

Players of the Season (1) Gerrard 7.19 (2) Carragher 6.94 (3) Alonso 6.88. This is exactly the same as last season, as the three players played consistently well. Momo also played well as well and will be serious challenger for the top 3 post. And Fowler... if he can maintain his form for the whole season, the league title won't be far away from us.

Forward Plans
Rafa had rewritten history and became the first Liverpool manager to bring in trophy in his first two seasons. Now he is going to challenge himself by winning another trophy in the third season - this time the league championship. In analyzing the result of the season, we were slightly better in facing teams from 6th to 20th, but we did very poorly against the other top 5 teams, especially away. We definitely need to improve here. It will be difficult, but if Rafa can bring in a few players to complete his game plan, and if we can maintain our form in the league and improve in facing the top teams, anything is possible.

May Month Review

It's like Istanbul take two. We win at Portsmouth but it was not enough to move us into second place, but we were on a eleven game winning streak and confidence was high when we play West Ham in the FA Cup Final. Then the match become another FA Cup classic.

Players of the Month: (1) Gerrard 8.00 (2) Sissoko 7.75 (3) Cisse 7.50. Stevie G saved us again in the FA Cup with that superb 30 yard volley. Momo basically carried us through in the extra time. And Cisse scored in both games. Well done all!

As usual, there will be a summer shuffle and some players will leave and some will come. For all those who are leaving, thanks for your efforts and good luck; and for all those who will join us, hope you will bring us the one trophy we all long for. And lastly, for those who will be playing in the World Cup, good luck, and don't get injuried.

Match Report 060513 vs West Ham United: Lightning strikes twice

3-3 and just like in Istanbul we win the FA Cup after penalty shootouts. Credits to West Ham, they don't deserved to lose. But we have Gerrard - the man who almost left us due to misunderstanding, but now he get what he was dreaming as a kid - being the captain of Liverpool and lift FA Cup. Now there is only one last thing for him - to be the captain of Liverpool and win the league for us.

Maybe it was due to tireness that many of our reliable players all making mistakes at the same time. The match started very dull in the first 20 minutes and all of a sudden, West Ham had a counter-attack due to Xabi's mispass and lead to the ball strike to Carra's left foot and caused a goal. Then Reina fumbled and let Ashton scored another goal. At 0-2 down I was thinking Istanbul, but then Crouch has a legal goal incorrectly ruled offside. Luckily Cisse scored one from another superb Gerrard pass.

At the start of 2H Reina had to be alert to make a double save to keep the score at 1-2. Then Gerrard scored a volley, and we looked to be able to win the match at any time. Unfortunately, West Ham was lucky again and Konchesky scored a complete fluke with a cross gone into the goal. As the announcer announced there will be 4 extra minutes of added time, Gerrard got the loose ball, and hit a wonderful strike to the left side of the net. Game on!

During extra time lots of players from both sides get cramps and other injuries, and at the very end of the 2H of extra time, Reina had to be at his best again by tipping the ball away to the post from another West Ham attack. The ball then bounced to Harewood, but because he had cramp so he miskicked the ball completely, and the match gone to penalty.

At penalty there will only be one winner. We have won 8 of the previous 9 penalty shootouts and duly make it 9 out of 10. Reina was once again superb and saved 3. Hamann, Gerrard and Riise scored and then the FA Cup is ours.

Player Ratings:
Reina: 7 Crap in normal time especially for the second goal but later saved the team and win the Cup.
Finnan: 6.5 Probably his worst performace this season.
Carragher: 6.5 Scored an unlucky own goal but after that he performed well.
Hyypia: 6 Failed to contain Ashton and missed a penalty. Not his day.
Riise: 7.5 Become stronger and stronger as time drag on. And scored a penalty to kill of the ghost in Istanbul.
Gerrard: 8.5 It may be flattered to say he won us the Cup, but it is close. The Final will be rightly named as "The Gerrard Final".
Alonso: 6 A very poor performance from his high standard. Probably affected by injury.
Sissoko: 8 Only second to the captain. He had limitless energy in the midfield and carried us during extra time.
Kewell: 5.5 You have to feel sorry for him as he completed his Cup Final injury treble.
Cisse: 7.5 Scored a great volley but after that faded very fast.
Crouch: 6.5 Maybe too much pressure for him. Did not perform well at all.

Substitutions:
Morientes: 6.5 Could have played his last game for us. Not too bad, but not convincing.
Kromkamp: 6.5 An OK performance.
Hamann: 7.5 Once again his persence guided us to victory, and scored another great penalty to set the tone in the shotout.

Rafa: 8 A great game for Rafa, and once again his master stroke of introducing Hamann at the right time proves effective.

West Ham: 8 Although their 3 goals are considered lucky, it is also undeniable that they played a good game. Luckily Gerrard is on our team, and luck even out at the end.

Man of the Match: Gerrard. The Gerrard Final.

Win it for the fans, Fowler, and Luis Garcia

It is the FA Cup Final and we are hot favorite to win it. Rafa will make sure the team won't be complacement as West Ham will not be an easy opponent. And let's win it for the fans, especially those who suffered in that Burnley defeat, Fowler, who was cup-tied, and Luis Garcia, who did a lot in sending us to Final, but was too stupid to miss the Final for that sent-off.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Gerrard
Alonso
Sissoko
Kewell
Cisse
Crouch

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060507 at Portsmouth: A nice win

3-1 and it is a nice win to conclude the league, especially Fowler to score after his contract extended. Although we cannot catch Manchester United as they also win, the result and the total points of 81 is really good and it creates the platform for us to challenge the title next season. Now we have the FA Cup Final to concentrate on, and let's hope Alonso's injury is not that serious and he can start.

Players Rating:
Dudek: 7 A nice performance. Hope this is not his last game for us.
Finnan: 7 A good defending performance after a rest.
Carragher: 7.5 As usual, Carra defends with passion and skills.
Hyypia: 7 A solid display.
Riise: 7 A good defending game.
Gerrard: 7.5 Played well with an assist.
Alonso: 6.5 Hope his injury is not that serious.
Sissoko: 7.5 Great defending midfield display.
Kewell: 7 Running the left side well.
Fowler: 8 Another goal. It is really great news that Rafa extended his contract.
Morientes: 7 A good display without a goal.

Substitutions:
Kromkamp: 7 A good display in the right midfield.
Crouch: 7.5 A nice goal taken.
Cisse: 7.5 One goal, one assist. No doubt Rafa should start him in the FA Cup Final.

Rafa: 7 A good team selection and he will be happy about the professional display of the team.

Portsmouth: 6 They are in holiday mood after securing the league position last week. Next season will probably be better.

Man of the Match: Fowler. Even the Portsmouth fans sing his name.

Just Win It.

This is the last game of the league season and if we win it, we will capture on a Manchester United slippage. Rafa probably will have one eye on the FA Cup final and rest some players, but for whoever called upon to this game, they will stick to the game plan and win it for us. Just win it, and we will hope for the good news.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Traore
Cisse
Sissoko
Hamann
Kewell
Fowler
Morientes

Result: 2-0

April Month Report

6W0D0L. A perfect month and we are now in FA Cup Final and 1 point behind Manchester United. Rafa even has the luxury to rest some players in the last 2 matches and still managed to win both games comfortably. Let's continue to play well in the final 2 matches of the season, and it will be great if we can finish the season 2nd in the table and have the FA Cup home.

Players of the Month (1) Gerrard 7.33 (2) Reina/Alonso/Fowler 7.30. Gerrard played well in the FA Cup semi-final and scored 2 great goals in the Villa game. Reina has been keeping the goals in superb form all season, Alonso has played well and have 3 assists in the month. And Fowler... 4 starts, 3 goals and 1 assist. Sign him up!

May Prediction:
5/7 Portsmouth (a): We will win this game to capitalize on any Manchester United slip.
5/13 West Ham United (n): Let's not be complacemancy, and win it for the fans.

Match Report 060429 vs Aston Villa: Keep chasing 2nd place

3-1 and it is a brilliant win thanks to the effort of the team especially Stevie G. As Manchester United have lost 5 points in the weekend we are just 1 point behind with 1 game to go. Should they failed to win in the last game and we beat Portsmouth, we will finish the league as second place. So let us avoid any complamancy and do our best to prepare for the arrival of the miracle.

We started the match sharply and Nando scored in just 3 minutes from a superb Alonso long pass. We then lowered our gear and gradually invited Villa to attack. They finally equalised in about an hour from our sloppy defending. Then we woke up and Stevie G scored 2 goals in 5 minutes and put the result beyond Villa's reach. Now we have a lot to play for the last league game of the season, so every player should make sure we are alert so that we can capitalize any Manchester United slip.

Player Ratings:
Reina: 7 Not much to do with the goal, and was alert to parry away a potential Sissoko own goal.
Kromkamp: 6.5 A steady display.
Carragher: 7 Defend with style. And his two kids are very cute!
Hyypia: 6.5 Made some rare errors in the game.
Traore: 6.5 A good defending display.
Cisse: 7 A good shout for the FA Cup Final starting place.
Gerrard: 8.5 Two nice goals to determine the result.
Alonso: 7.5 Two nice assists.
Riise: 7 A good display in the midfield.
Morientes: 7.5 A nice taken goal.
Crouch: 6.5 Not much impact in the game.

Substitutions:
Fowler: 6.5 Have a shoting chance but somehow missed.
Sissoko: 6.5 Almost scored an own goal, but in general a good display.
Warnock: 6.5 Not much impact.

Rafa: 7 Rested a few players and still able to get a win. And Fortress Anfield was rebuilt.

Aston Villa: 6 A really poor season for them.

Man of the Match: Gerrard. Keep scoring as you may need to play striker for England!

Keep winning

This is the last home game of the season and let's win it for the fans and maintain our slim hope of catching up Manchester United. Rafa may again rest some players, but for whoever playing, don't do silly things and get you red cardded.

My Team Prediction:
Dudek
Kromkamp
Hyypia
Traore
Warnock
Gerrard
Hamann
Sissoko
Cisse
Fowler
Morientes

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060426 at West Ham United: Stupidity overshadowed victory

2-1 and the result will give us a psycological boast before the FA Cup Final, but for some stupidity by Luis Garcia, he get himself sent off and will miss the Final. While we may be sympathatic on the fact that he played well in the Semi Final that let us into the Final, but sometimes you need to be careful not to let the image that you are a diver get affect yourself. But unfortunately Luis Garcia learned it the hard way. Now, we are going to win this for him without his participation.

Player Rating:
Dudek: 6.5 A decent display for our CL hero.
Finnan: 6.5 A good display at the back.
Carragher: 6.5 Leading the defense well apart from the lapse at the start of 2H.
Traore: 6.5 Not bad performance as center back.
Warnock: 6.5 A good performance.
Kromkamp: 6.5 Played well in right midfield and right back.
Sissoko: 7.5 Nice performance and a nice assist.
Hamann: 7 Good display in midfield.
Cisse: 8 Two nice goals.
Fowler: 7 A great assist but should have score himself to make it 3-0.
Morientes: 6.5 Hit the crossbar...

Substitutions:
Hyypia: 6.5 Good display when called up.
Luis Garcia: 4 Have only himself to blame for the red card.
Riise: Not enough time to impress.

Rafa: 7 A good rotation in resting most of the first team players, but would be angry for Luis Garcia's stupidity.

West Ham United: 6 Also rested many players, and it may hurt them more with Mullin's sent off. And we will beat them again in the FA Cup Final on May 13.

Man of the Match: Cisse. Great display, but why can't he play like every game?

The FA Cup rehersal

Although this game is the FA Cup rehersal expect there will be big changes to the lineup on May 13 as Rafa will be resting many players after a long season. This is a chance for the 2nd team players to impress tonight, and grab it well.

My Team Prediction:
Dudek
Kromkamp
Agger
Traore
Warnock
Cisse
Sissoko
Hamann
Riise
Morientes
Crouch

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060424 vs Chelsea: The better team won

2-1 and this time no doubt the better team won. Rafa's tactics were spot on and the players discharged accordingly. Luis Garcia proved again he is a big time player, and Harry Kewell had his best game for us. The job has not finished yet, and we will face West Ham in the Final. Let's not be complacement and finish the job professionally.

Players Rating:
Reina: 6.5 A very poor decision in rusing out and lead to the Drogba goal. Other than that, he was not seriously tested.
Finnan: 7 Discharged his defensive responsibility well.
Carragher: 7 Another whole-hearted performance from Carra as you can expect.
Hyypia: 7 Handled the Chelsea strikers well.
Riise: 7.5 Scored another beauty, but his poor header clearance let to the Chelsea goal.
Luis Garcia: 8 Big time player, and this time the ball definitely crossed the line.
Gerrard: 7.5 Disciplined performance by the PFA Player of the year.
Alonso: 7.5 Goo display in the middle.
Sissoko: 7.5 Excellent defensive display in breaking the Chelsea midfield.
Kewell: 7.5 A superb display by Kewell. Made lots of fun of the Chelsea full backs.
Crouch: 7 His persence created lots of troubles to the Chelsea defense.

Substitutions:
Cisse: 6 Erratic and poor performance. Cannot keep the ball.
Traore/Morientes: Not enough time to impress.

Rafa: 8 Spot on tactics.

Chelsea: 6 Tasteless.

Player of the Match: Luis Garcia. Magic.

Another 5th time lucky

It's Chelsea again and we won't mind to win once every five times if this means we are going to eliminate them again in another semi-final. It is a pity that Fowler is cup-tied and won't be able to continue his amazing scoring run, but the other strikers will now need to step up and take responsibility.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Luis Garcia
Gerrard
Alonso
Sissoko
Kewell
Crouch

Result: 1-0

Match Report 060416 at Blackburn Rovers: Happy Birthday to Rafa

1-0 and this time Fowler sent an excellent birthday gift to Rafa by scoring the goal that secured us 3rd place and Champions League qualification. The goal is a very controversal one, but this is how the rule is intrepreted... and fortunately this time we benefited from it.

Fowler has scored 4 goals in 4 starts now and it makes Rafa's decision easier. For Cisse, he is puting himself in an awful position... but he can improve it by scoring against Chelsea.

Players Rating:
Reina: 7.5 Another good goal keeping performance.
Finnan: 7 Defending very well
Carragher: 8 Another superb performance.
Hyypia: 7.5 He may have lost his pace, but it is more than covered by his superb positioning.
Warnock: 7 A bit shaky at times facing Bellamy but in general a good performance.
Cisse: 6.5 A good dummy in the offside position, but he missed 2 golden chances to make the win easier.
Alonso: 6.5 A slight off day from his high standard.
Sissoko: 7.5 Superb in midfield.
Riise: 7 A good display in left midfield and defense.
Fowler: 8 How can Rafa justify not renewing his contract?
Morientes: 6.5 An assist and a tame header.

Substitutions:
Luis Garcia: 7 Provided another level of threat to Blackburn
Kewell: 6.5 A good performance in general.
Krompamp: Not enough time to impress.

Blackburn Rovers: 6 Not really in the game, and now they probably need to settle on UEFA Cup.

Men of the Match: Carragher and Fowler. Two great Scrousers diplay for the Hillsborough 96.

We remember

It's Hillsborough anniversery and we remember those who lost their lives for their beloved team. Blackburn had done very well in moving the game by 1 day (although in hindsight it should not be scheduled on the day at first place). We have already secured fourth place after Arsenal's draw, but nevertheless let's win it for the people, and continue our fading dream of finishing 2nd.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Gerrard
Alonso
Sissoko
Kewell
Fowler
Crouch

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060409 vs Bolton Wanderers: The Birthday gave us the birthday gift

1-0 and the birthday boy scored a really nice goal that was decisive. We did not play particularly well, but what matters is that we get 3 more points and 1 more win we will guarantee at least finishing 3rd, although finishing 2nd is still mathematically possible, but it will be very unlikely.

Player Ratings:
Reina: 8 Made a lot of saves to make sure we win.
Finnan: 6.5 A bit shaky.
Carragher: 7 Made a great tackle in 1H to keep the score at 0-0
Hyypia: 6.5 Looks a bit tired.
Riise: 6.5 A decent defense display, but not much use when pushing up.
Cisse: 6 Not effective in attack and was correctly substituted.
Gerrard: 6 Not very effective. Maybe he was rested for too long?
Alonso: 7 Have a few nice passes and was unlucky to hit the post.
Kewell: 6.5 Provided lots of problems to the Bolton defense.
Fowler: 7.5 A well taken goal that makes the difference.
Crouch: 7 A nice assist and a few tame header.

Substitutions:
Luis Garcia: 6.5 Have a good impact when come up but soon faded.
Hamann/Traore: Haven't seen them for a long time, but not enough time to impress.

Rafa: 6.5 A good game plan in general, although we seemed to be unable to control the pace.

Bolton Wanderers: 5.5 A poor display probably due to the jading of players. They need to step up a gear in order to qualify for UEFA Cup.

Man of the Match: Reina. Fowler scored the winning goal, and Reina makes sure we get the 3 points.

Prepare on another tough fight

Bolton may have lose many matches recently but they will still try their best to win this game as it is still mathematically possible for them to finish 4th. We will welcome Sammy Lee, but will make sure he is on the losing side.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Gerrard
Alonso
Sissoko
Kewell
Fowler
Crouch

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060401at West Bromwich Albion: A easy win

2-0 and we were in control from start to finish. Cisse played very well on the right and showed us how his pace can terrify defenders with a goal and an assist. Alonso was playing like Joe Montana and it is really nice to see him excel especially without Stevie G. And Fowler has scored another poacher goal. Rafa, give him a contract.

Player Ratings:
Reina: 7.5 Had to be very alert in 2H against Gera to earn another clean sheet.
Finnan: 7 Nice defending.
Carragher: 7 Solid as usual.
Hyypia: 7 Good game in defense.
Riise: 7 Another nice display.
Cisse: 8 Used his pace very well and scored a well deserved goal.
Alonso: 8 Played like a quarter back. His long passes that feed Cisse provides a lot of danger and 2 goals.
Sissoko: 7.5 Tackle as if he was never injuried.
Kewell: 7 Doing the destroy on the left.
Fowler: 7.5 A nice goal and he surpassed Dalgish. We want more!
Crouch: 6.5 Missed a sitter.

Substitutions:
Luis Garcia: 6.5 Continue the terrifying job on the right.
Morientes: 6.5 A fair game.
Kromkamp: Not enough time to impress.

Rafa: 7.5 His tactic is spot on once again in using Cisse to outrun Robinson. Need to address the slightly sloopy defense 2H when Gera was on the pitch.

West Bromwich Albion: They are now back to relegation zone. And they really need to work very hard to survive.

Men of the Match: Alonso and Cisse. Both played well and deserve the award.

Expect a tough game

West Brom is fighting for survival and as Crouch mention, they will put up the game of their live. Stevie G is suspended and so Rafa will do some shuffle. But we will have enough firepower to win the game.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Luis Garcia
Alonso
Sissoko
Kewell
Fowler
Crouch

Result: 2-0

March Month Report

4W1D2L. A slow start in the month sees us out of Champions League and further behind Manchester United for the 2nd spot race. After that we have 4 great wins which we scored 18 goals and will play Chelsea (again!) in the FA Cup semi-final. Especially in the 4 wins we see Rafa as a tactical genius and the players starting to understand his vision. The 3-5-2 formation vs Newcastle and 4-4-1 with 10-men vs Everton highlights how good a manager Rafa is. The signs are good and the strikers are scoring goals for fun. Although it is now unlikey that we will finish 2nd the team will no doubt to contiune this final spark and try to catch and win the FA Cup.

Players of the Month: (1) Luis Garcia 7.25 (2) Crouch 7.21 (3) Carragher 7.14. Luis Garcia is hitting form and scoring his big match goals for fun. Expect him to score against Chelsea. Crouch also scored 3 goals and make many more goals which leads to the team's 4 wins. Carra is as usual a rock at the back. Fowler and Sissoko also played well as well when required.

April Prediction:
4/1 West Bromwich Albion (a): It will be a hard fight as West Brom is fighting for survival.
4/9 Bolton Wanderers (h): Bolton seems to be a bit tired currently, but they will still fight for the CL position. Expect anoter difficult win.
4/16 Blackburn Rovers (a): Thanks Blackburn for moving the game, but we will show no mercy.
4/22 Chelsea (n): 5th time lucky again this time vs Chelsea.
4/26 West Ham United (a): Rehersal of FA Cup Final.
4/29 Aston Villa (h): Maybe the last game Baros visit Anfield in the Villa jersey. Depend on the situation we may find Dudek being called on service.

Match Report 060325 vs Everton: The team is starting to understand Rafa's vision

3-1 and this is a tremendous result, especially we were one man down for most of the time due to the stupidity of Stevie G. Fortunately his teammates are not that stupid and they fight to the end according to Rafa's game plan. This is probably the best performance we have this season, and the signs are good that the team is getting closer to Rafa's vision.

Player Rating:
Reina: 7 Solid display.
Finnan: 7.5 A good performance in general with a highlight of fine assist.
Carragher: 8.5 Lead by example while Stevie G is gone.
Hyypia: 7.5 Solid display at the back.
Riise: 7 A bit quiet but still a good display.
Gerrard: 4 2 stupid mistakes, but he should appreciate his teammates filled his role, and the Kop still sings his name.
Alonso: 9 Rise to the situation and control the game.
Sissoko: 8 A generator in the middle. Tremendous display.
Kewell: 8 What a goal! And he keep on menancing the Everton defense.
Luis Garcia: 8.5 Another big match goal from our big match player. His goal eased our worry and drove us to victory.
Crouch: 8.5 Undefendable. His presence posed many worries to Everton.

Substitutions:
Warnock/Morientes: Not enough time to impress.

Rafa: 9 What a tactical genius! And the players now understand his vision!

Everton: 5 Failed to take advantage with the additional man. And this game probably avoided them another embarassment in UEFA Cup.

Man of the Match: Alonso. Although all the players except Stevie played well too.

Derby Derby

It's Merseyside Derby on Staturday and Derby Derby day on Sunday in Hong Kong. The game is highly expected as both teams have hit form recently. Rafa is well prepared for the game and this game is probably win in the midfield.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Gerard
Alonso
Sissoko
Kewell
Fowler
Crouch

Result: 3-1

Match Report 060321 at Birmingham City: Magnificiant Seven

7-0 and we break the duck and finally beaten Birmingham City. They may be hindered by the long injury list but still they are a Premiership Team. This is the largest margin win for two Premiership Team in the FA Cup and our biggest ever FA Cup away win.

The match was effectively over at 5 minutes when Crouch scored to make it 2-0. But then we keep on scoring and at the end the result did justify our efforts. We are in high confidence now and we will try our best to catch up Manchester and win the FA Cup as well.

Player Rating:
Reina: 7 One save to made and he made it superbly.
Finnan: 7 A good display
Carragher: 7.5 A nice tackle to prevent Forsell to score.
Hyypia: 8 Scored in 54 seconds to kick start the riot.
Traore: 6.5 Too bad he was injuries so early...
Gerrard: 8.5 Lead the team with 2 nice assists. Superb performance once again.
Alonso: 7 Played well without really shine.
Sissoko: 7.5 Welcome back! A nice goggle and a nice assist.
Riise: 7.5 A rocket goal!
Luis Garcia: 7.5 Two nice assists.
Crouch: 8 Two nice goals taken.

Substitutions:
Kewell: 7.5 A nice crossing that lead to a Birmingham own goal.
Morientes: 7.5 A nice taken goal thanks to the unselfishness of Gerrard.
Cisse: 7.5 Scored a nice goal in just 11 minutes on the pitch. And no disrespectful acts this time.

Rafa: 8 A nice team selection and a nice performance.

Birmingham City: 3 A very poor performance and it is unlikely they will survive - unless they beat Manchester United at the weekend and then Chelsea the following week.

Man of the Match: Gerrard. Showing no tireness at all.

Another fifth time lucky

It is amazing that Birmingham City is the only Premiership team we have yet to beaten under Rafa (the other teams we have yet to beaten are: Burnley, Sao Paolo and Benfica) and tonight, we need to beat them finally to process in the FA Cup. As Rafa said he need to rotate the team, but no matter who he plays and what formation it will be, the key is to control the ryhthm and we will beat them. And, similar to Chelsea and Manchester United, we will beat them in the 5th game.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Warnock
Gerrard
Alonso
Hamann
Kewell
Cisse
Crouch

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060319 at Newcastle United: A suprisingly easy win

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.

A tough game

Away at Newcastle is always a tricky game and it is probably the toughest of our remaining 9 games, although our ex-player will not be feature. But if we really want to challenge 2nd place, we have to win this game.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Warnock
Luis Garcia
Gerrard
Alonso
Kewell
Cisse
Fowler

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060315 vs Fulham: Five star display

5-1 and it is really nice to see 3 strikers and Warnock all on the scoresheet, and Cisse playing a big part in 2 of the goals. It is one of the better display of the year, and if the strikers can now remember how to score goals, we can capitalize on any Manchester United slip and capture 2nd place. Well done all players!

Player Rating:
Reina: 7 A good display overall.
Finnan: 7.5 Lively display and could have scored.
Carragher: 7 Provided a solid platform for the team to go forward
Agger: 7 Good defending display.
Traore: 6.5 Out of position for the goal conceded, but in general he is not doing to bad.
Luis Garcia: 7.5 A good display and played big part in the first 2 goals. Almost scored but was unlucky to hit the bar.
Gerrard: 7.5 Seems a bit tired but still do lots of damages to Fulham.
Hamann: 7 Quietly doing his job well as usual.
Kewell: 7 Involved in the first 2 goals.
Morientes: 7 Wasted a lot of chances but at the end did score one.
Fowler: 8 This time the goal is not disallowed. And shown the teammates how to score.

Substitutions:
Cisse: 7 Involved in the 3rd and 4th goals. It's a pity he didn't score, but his day will come soon.
Crouch: 7 An instinct goal in changing direction of Gerrard's kick into the net.
Warnock: 7 What a stunner and open his scoring account. Well done young man!

Rafa: 7.5 A good display in general and his substitions once again grown fruit and involved in 3 goals.

Fulham: 6 Another poor display away from home. But they should still be able to survive.

Man of the Match: Fowler. He's back.

We need to finish strong

We are now 5 points behind and played one more game, and with only nine games to go, it will be difficult to overcome this gap. But we still need to finish the season strong - to prepare for the FA Cup and to avoid dropped to 4th place.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Agger
Warnock
Luis Garcia
Gerrard
Hamann
Kewell
Cisse
Fowler

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060312 at Arsenal: Disaster

1-2 and it was a disaster to see Alonso sent off for a slide and Stevie G back-passed to Henry for the winning goal. We may not deserve to win the game but at least a draw makes sense. The chance of catching up Manchester United is further slimmed, but we need to respond on Wednesday against Fulham.

The defense has problem in containing Henry, and the small size of Highbury means makes us difficult to pass the ball well. But still we do not create enough chance to win the game and yet we gifted Arsenal many many chances. Rafa need to re-shuffle the midfield now that Alonso is missing the Fulham game.

Player Rating:
Reina: 7.5 Can't do much for both goals, and he keeps us at 0-1 for his many good saves. At the end he still denied Henry a hat trick.
Finnan: 6 Has problem in containing Henry, but he has a few good crosses.
Carragher: 6.5 Also has problem in containing Henry.
Hyypia: 6 Tonigh he seemed getting old when facing Henry.
Warnock: 6 Shaky at first but gradually he gained control. Had a few nice crosses too.
Kromkamp: 6 Not a good choice for right midfield and only lasted 45 minutes.
Gerrard: 5 His error lead to the second Henry goal. But he will respond.
Alonso: 5 A bit hard in getting the red card as he was only slipped.
Hamann: 6 A fair game for Hamann
Luis Garcia: 7 Annoymous for most of the game, but once again shown his alertness in scoring the equaliser.
Crouch: 5.5 No clear cut chance throghout the game. Sit too deep at times.

Substitutions:
Kewell: 6 Not much impact.
Fowler: Not enough time to impress.

Rafa: 6 Would be angry for the dismal performance.

Arsenal: 7 They controlled the game quite well. They probably can catch up Spurs if they start to win away games, but I don't think they can conquer Europe.

Man of the Match: Reina. Could have lost 0-3 if not for his alertness.

Secure top four

As Rafa said winning at Highbury will probably secure top 4 position, which is crucial for the club. Of course we still need to fight till the end to finish second, but it will start from winning this game. And the strikers need to score some goals to boast morale.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Warnock
Gerrard
Alonso
Hamann
Kewell
Fowler
Crouch

Result: 1-0

Match Report 060308 vs Benfica: The dream has ended

0-2 and we are knocked out of Europe. We still cannot score and as Stevie G said we probably need more shooting trainings. And the defense without Hyypia and Riise were shaky. It's really disappointing, but now we need to focus on finishing 2nd and win the FA Cup.

Player Rating:
Reina: 6.5 Can't do much for the 2 goals.
Finnan: 6.5 A fair game.
Carragher: 6.5 Somewhat guilty for the first goal. Almost scored from a corner though.
Traore: 5.5 Too many errors and one of them lead to the first goal.
Warnock: 6 Still not convincing.
Luis Garcia: 6 Failed to make any significant threats.
Gerrard: 7 Can't lift the team to win the game.
Alonso: 6.5 Frustuated.
Kewell: 6 No magic provided.
Morientes: 5.5 Simply disappointed.
Crouch: 6 Missed too many chances.

Substitutions:
Cisse: 6 Not helpful at all.
Fowler: 6 Scored another disallowed goal.
Hamann: 6 Not much impact.

Rafa: 6 The team let him down. We have so many shots and corners but failed to score a goal.

Benfica: 7 Deserved winner. Substained our first 20 minute of pressure and later on scored 2 goals from counter attack. Good luck to them.

Man of the Match: Gerrard. Righty said we need scoring practice.

We need to score

With a goal down we need to score two goals more than Benfica to get through to the next stage. It is a bit worrying that none of the strikers are scoring goals, but why not start from tonight? Maybe Robbie can score a hat trick.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Luis Garcia
Gerrard
Alonso
Kewell
Fowler
Crouch

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060304 vs Charlton Athletic: Another two point loss

0-0 and we should have win the game easily, but the lack of firepower let us down. We dominated the game but could not find a way to put the ball in the net. And even when Fowler did - Cisse was offside. It is a very fluctuating result, and we are just 1 point ahead of Manchester United but played 2 more games.

Player Rating:
Reina: 7 Not much to do but when he does need to do something, he did it well.
Kromkamp: 6.5 A good effort put up.
Carragher: 7 Lead the back 5 well.
Hyypia: 6.5 Was injuried and only played 1H. But he should be ready for the Benfica game.
Traore: 6.5 1H as left back and 2H as center back. A good display overall.
Cisse: 6 Tried very hard and was very lively, but was guilty of staying in the offside position that denied Fowler's goal.
Gerrard: 7 Another good display from the captain.
Hamann: 6.5 Doing the defensive work very well.
Kewell: 7 We need more from Harry. Had a few tame shots only.
Fowler: 7.5 Another disallowed goal, but the real one will come very soon.
Crouch: 7 Posed lots of threats to Charlton but unable to score.

Substitutions:
Riise: 6.5 Played 2H quite well.
Alonso: 7 Provided a few spectacular passes and shots but failed to find the net.
Morientes: Not enough time to impress.

Rafa: 6.5 Still unable to find solution to the lack of goals.

Charlton Athletic: 7 Come for 1 point and get what they want. But Myhre single-handly win them the point.

Man of the Match: Fowler. Showed us why Rafa brings him back. He may be annoymous for most of the game but was still the most deadiest in front of goal.

We need to start scoring more goals

We still have a problem in scoring goals with the strikers not scoring many goals. On current form Crouch is the best among the 4, but Fowler is getting closer and closer. Last time we lost a very poor game against Charlton and now we need to get a result from them.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Kromkamp
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Cisse
Gerrard
Alonso
Kewell
Fowler
Crouch

Result: 2-0

February Month Report

4W1D3L and it was not a good month for us as we lost 8 points in the league and are 1 down in the Champions League. The month started poorly with 1 point from 3 league games, and then we gradually improved by beating Wigan, Arsenal and Man United. Then we have a blip in conceding a late goal at Benfica, but then we bounced back and beat Manchester City.

The main problem is still the lack of goals. We scored 5 goals only in the month (which contributes to the 4 wins and 1 draw). Rafa need to find a way to flood the goals.

Players of the Month: (1) Gerrard 7.0 (2) Carragher/Hamann 6.6 (3) Hyypia 6.5. Stevie G is still the engine of the team and we lost both matches he didn't play. Carragher is as usual rock solid at the back. With the injury to Sissoko Hamann's role becomes more important and it is nice to see him preserved and performed to his best level. Hyypia scored a great goal at Wigan and we would of course love to see more.

March Prediction:
3/4 Charlton Athletic (h): Last time we didn't play well and this is now the time to get a result.
3/8 Benfica (h): We need to beat them by 2 clear goals. Remember Olympiakos?
3/12 Arsenal (a): This is a tricky game and we are not good traveller to London. But we will change the habit here.
3/15 Fulham (h): Same as the Charlton game we need to get a result.
3/19 Newcastle United (a): Anoter tricky game, Owen may be back in this game but still we would win it.
3/22 Birmingham City (a): 5th time lucky for Rafa.
3/25 Everton (h): The players need to be alert as this will be a very physical game.
3/29 Champions League Quarter FInal, 1st leg: If we pass through Benfica we will not fear any opponent.

Match Report 060226 vs Manchester City: Another good result but average performance

1-0 and the result is good, although we should have kill off the game much earlier given we have 1 extra man for more than half an hour. Crouch is unlucky not to score but Nando's form is worrying. Need to sort out ASAP.

Player Rating:
Reina: 7.5 Made many saves and interception to keep the score at 1-0.
Finnan: 6.5 A good defensive display.
Hyypia: 6.5 Lead the defense well.
Agger: 6 A bit hestitate and not familiar with his teammates.
Riise: 6.5 Good defensive display.
Kromkamp: 6 Played as right midfielder but did not provivde too many good crosses.
Gerrard: 8 Provided the crucial assist and lead the team well.
Alonso: 6 Played a bit part but was then injuried. Form is not good though.
Kewell: 7.5 Scored a great goal and could have score more.
Crouch: 7.5 Lots of chances but James was good.
Morientes: 6. Worrying. Have a sitter but failed to shot with any power.

Substitutions:
Hamann: 6.5 Another good display. Provided a killer pass to Nando but he failed to score.
Luis Garcia/Traore: Not enough time to shine.

Rafa: 7 Good team display, but still need to solve the lack of goal.

Manchester City: 6.5 Good at home but poor in travel. I really hope they can respond and challenge for a UEFA place.

Man of the Match: Gerrard. Killer assist and was happy back to his favorite middle.

My del.icio.us tagrolls

We need a response

After the midweek dismal result we certainly need a result to cheer up. Fowler will not be eligible to play this game, so the other three guys need to do the job. Carra will also take a break as he got his 5th yellow so Agger get another chance to impress. And win it for Momo. We certainly miss you.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Agger
Hyypia
Riise
Gerrard
Alonso
Hamann
Kewell
Cisse
Crouch

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060221 at Benfica: We need the Kop

0-1 and once again we contolled the match but could not score, and at the end a defensive error was made and we were defeated. It seems that as Stevie G is injuried we just cannot have the penetration to get through. Luis Garcia is too lightweight and should only play as a sub at Benfica. Anyway we still have the 2nd leg and it can be Olympiakos 2nd coming.

Player Rating:
Reina: 6.5 Nothing to do but then suddenly conceded a goal.
Finnan: 6.5 A good game.
Carragher: 7 Captain Carra did his job well but cannot convince the players to score a goal.
Hyypia: 6.5 At a time when the strikers can't score a goal, We definitely need Sammi to score some. Remember Juventus?
Riise: 6.5 Working hard but not much impact.
Luis Garcia: 6 Too light-weighted and should start as a sub if not Gerrard's injuried.
Alonso: 6 Back from injury, but his condition is still not too good.
Sissoko: 6 Unlucky to pick up that injury. Get well soon and we need you.
Kewell: 6 We need him to score more goals. One in as many game is not enough.
Fowler: 6 Not in full fitness and only has a few half chances.
Morientes: 6 Another disappointing performance.

Substitutions:
Hamann: 6 Played well but conceded the crucial free kick that lead to the goal.
Cisse: 6 Replaced God but did not do anything convincing.
Gerrard: Not enough time to turn the tide.

Rafa: 6 Hit by injury, tried his best but at the end we were frustuated by the lack of fire power once again. He won't be happy in the way we conceded the goal. But it's only half time and we have enough time and support from the Kop to turn it around.

Befica: 6.5 Would be happy to come to Anfield with a goal in hand.

Man of the Match: Carragher. The vice captain has another good game once again.

斷背山

每個人心裏都有一個斷背山，只是你沒有上去過 。

作為一個真正忠於自己的人，最重要的不是為了取得別人的掌聲，而是做自己要做、應做的事，堅持自己固有的信念，追求自己的理想以至夢想，即使夢想無法實現，即使到自己臨終時夢想也只是一個遺憾。但這一生總算沒有白過了。

If I die today I can say I fulfiled the above. But can I still fulfil this if I live longer? Only time will tell, but I will try my best.

We achieved your dream

One particular banner on Saturday's FA Cup tie vs Manchester United was "We achieved your dream". Of course this refer to our winning the Champions League last season, but once again, we are going to help our neighbor to achieve their dream of beating Benfica. Alonso is back, Fowler will play his first European game for many years, and with 3 consecutive 1-0 wins, the confidence will be high. And of course, Rafa is well prepared.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Gerrard
Alonso
Hamann
Kewell
Fowler
Crouch

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060218 vs Manchester United: Job completed professionally

1-0 and although it is not pretty, but it is a job completed professionally. They never have a clear cut chance throughout the match and although we cannot score another goal to win it more comfortably, the 1-0 is enough to make us 1 step closer to win the FA Cup.

This time we controlled the pace and ruled midfield. All the players have been superb. The 3 cleansheet wins in a row will boast our confidence in visiting Portugal on Tuesday.

On a sad note. It is really sad to see Alan Smith get injuried. This is a freak injury and let's hope he can get well soon.

Player Rating:
Reina: 7 Return from suspension and have almost nothing to do.
Finnan: 8 Doing superbly on both ends, with an assist, a shot to the side net, and ditched van Nistelrooy for their own real chance.
Carragher: 7 Muted the Man United offense. Unlucky to pick up a yellow card, but it is good as he need to take a break.
Hyypia: 7 Good performance at the back
Riise: 7 Good performance, his shot has broken Alan Smith's leg but it is just a freak injury.
Gerrard: 7 Lead the team as usual.
Sissoko: 7 Lively in the midfield goings ups and downs.
Hamann: 7 Provided the solid protection to the back four and muted the opponent midfield.
Kewell: 7 When Harry met Gary :) Set the tone for the game as he muscled Neville out.
Crouch: 7.5 Beautiful header. Nice to see him on the score sheet again.
Morientes: 6.5 His runs are getting better but he need to score a goal ASAP to get his confidence back.

Substitutions:
Luis Garcia: 6.5 Could have scored when he is through but was pulld down by Videc.
Kromkamp/Cisse: Not enough time to impress.

Rafa: 7.5 Excellent tactics focusing on the United's weaknesses. Spot on!

Manchester United: 6 League Cup is their own prize this season and Mellor will shot them down next Sunday. After that it will depends on the players psycology as they have nothing to win for except the second place. But we will edge pass them for the second place.

Man of the Match: Finnan. Unsung hero for so long.

5th time lucky

It's the fifth time we play United under Rafa. We have not yet win, but like the Chelsea fixture this is now 5th time lucky for us. With Luis the big match player started to pick up form, now is the time.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Luis Garcia
Gerrard
Sissoko
Kewell
Cisse
Crouch

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060214 vs Arsenal: Luis the Valentine Hero

1-0 and with his first touch Luis Garcia is the hero for the victory. The race to second place is still on, and this is another timely win before the next big games.

The players still look very tired but at least we can control the pace of the game. We have lots of chances but find it difficult to find the net. Luckily Luis Garcia was alert as ever and present at the right place at the right time.

Player Rating:
Dudek: 7 Another good display. He will probably be back to subsitute for at least the next 2 games, but Rafa should give him another chance when we play Manchester City.
Finnan: 6.5 A good defensive display.
Carragher: 7 Had a good 400th game. What a man!
Hyypia: 7 After his last goal he is more eager to shot. We would like to see more.
Riise: 6.5 Tested Lehmann several times but mostly off target.
Gerrard: 6.5 Missed a penalty that is a bit controvesial, but his performance was not affected.
Alonso: 6 Tired. Rafa should rest him in the Manchester City game.
Sissoko: 6.5 Doing the dirty works well.
Kewell: 6.5 Take lots of shots but mostly off target, including a spectacular overhead kick.
Fowler: 6.5 Getting better and better in terms of fitness. Too bad he is cup-tied for the FA Cup, but at least he will be ready for the Benfica game.
Morientes: 6 Another unconvinving display with 2 miskicks which he should at least take a shot on target.

Substitutions:
Hamann: 7 A nice shot that forced Lehmann to parry the goal for Luis Garcia to score.
Cisse: 6 Not too convincing...
Luis Garcia: 7.5 The hero. He is the first one to react when Lehmann parried the ball and deserve to score. Welcome back at the right time!

Rafa: 6.5 His master-stroke substitutes work this time. But still haven't solve the goal draught.

Arsenal: 6 Will be difficult to catch Spurs with this performance, but they looks similar to what we were last year. Champions League in sight?

Man of the Match: Luis Garcia. Like last year he starts to sparkle at this time of the season. And we need him desperately.

3 games to shape this season

As Rafa said the next 3 games will shape our season. It starts with Arsenal, who is very poor in away games but with 2 defenders back. The key for us is to keep a high pace like what we did last season. This is also the last game for Dudek to convince Rafa, although it will be difficult but don't give up and give us your best. And the strikers please start to score.

My Team Prediction:
Dudek
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Gerrard
Alonso
Sissoko
Kewell
Cisse
Morientes

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060213 at Wigan Athletic: A good result despite poor performance

1-0 and it is really important to start the winning habit before the critical period in the coming week. We did not play too well as the players are tired, but at least we get a result and this is most important.

Player Rating:
Dudek: 7 A much better performance and had to stretch well enough to keep the clean sheet, especially in preventing Hyypia from scoring an own goal.
Finnan: 6.5 A good performance but not much contribution to the attack.
Carragher: 7 A nice volley for the assit to Sami.
Hyypia: 7.5 A good goal scored. Could have scored 1 more at both ends.
Riise: 6.5 Same as Finnan.
Gerrard: 7 Good performance after come back from injury.
Alonso: 6 A quiet game. Fatigue factor is clearly affecting his performance.
Hamann: 7 A good performance and doing his job quietly.
Kewell: 6 A quiet perforamnce.
Fowler: 6 First start but only have 1 scoring chance.
Morientes: 6 Had a nice volley saved.

Substitutions:
Kromkamp: 6.5 Doing well this time.
Cisse: 6 Not much contribution.

Rafa: 6.5 Should be glad on the result but not the performance. Need to help Luis Garcia to be back to form ASAP.

Wigan Athletic: 6 A good performance given they have no recognized striker available. Good luck on the League Cup Final and we will be backing you.

Man of the Match: Hyypia. A nice goal and good all-round performance.

Let's move on

It's another away game and we need to pick up the winning habit sooner rather than later. Wigan's focus is now in the league cup, and if we can beat them and Arsenal on Tuesday, the outlook will be much better.

My Team Prediction:
Dudek
Kromkamp
Carragher
Agger
Warnock
Gerrard
Alonso
Sissoko
Kewell
Cisse
Morientes

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060208 at Charlton Athletic: Learn from mistakes

0-2 and we did not win in the last 4 away league games - 1 draw and 3 defeats. The fatigue factor now kicks in, and we also make lots of mistakes. Rafa need to sort it out ASAP.

Once again we misfired despite creating lots of chances with no Gerrard to score. And the defense unit just fail as a whole. And after the 2 goals conceded Charlton just play counter attack comfortably and almost hit us with another 2 chances.

We should still be able to finish 2nd though as there is still lots of games remaining.

Player Rating:
Dudek: 5.5 A poor comeback. Maybe guilty for the penalty, and was beaten at least twice in 2H but the goal post saved him.
Finnan: 6 One of the better player.
Carragher: 5.5 Lost his temper after the first goal and then partly guilty for the second goal.
Hyypia: 6 Time to score, Sami.
Traore: 5.5 Not too bad.
Cisse: 5.5 Starting to see some flash in 2H but then was substituted.
Alonso: 6.5 Create lots of chances for the strikers but no fruit.
Sissoko: 6 Played well defesnsively, have 4 shots but none on target. Isn't he a striker before in France?
Kewell: 6 His tricks doesn't work this time.
Crouch: 5.5 Failed to make any impact.
Morientes: 5.5 Mystery of not being substituted.

Substitutions:
Fowler: 5.5 Failed to make any impact at all.
Riise: 5.5 Not much he can do.
Kromkamp: Not enough time to make a real impact.

Rafa: 5 He needs to motivate the team and find someone to score ASAP.

Charlton Athletic: 7 You have to give them credits. Despite us controlling at least before the 2 goals, they were tightly defending and also play counter attack well in 2H.

Man of the Match: Alonso. But just the better one in a poor team performance.

Welcome back, Jersy

With Reina suspended it will be time for Dudek to resurrect his career. Three games to prove his worth. Together with Stevie G's injury there will be another resuffle tonight. And we need to start scoring goals.

My Team Prediction:
Dudek
Kromkamp
Carragher
Agger
Warnock
Luis Garcia
Alonso
Sissoko
Kewell
Fowler
Crouch

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060205 at Chelsea: A Poor Game

0-2 and it was a very disappointed result. Not that because we lost but because of our continuous problem of lack of a cutting edge finishing. Before Chelsea scored the first goal they have not a single shot on target. For us? We havel lots of half chances and couldn't take any. This is the major reason we lost.

As for Reina's red card, he need to learn how to react when an opponent stir up fire. But maybe it's a chance for Dudek to recapture his World Cup position. And we are now feeling the fatigue factor.

Perhaps it is good to lose this match. We can now focus on more realistic goals (ie, finishing 2nd, and try our best in Champions League and FA Cup). But we need to improve our finishing and set-pieces.

Player Rating:
Reina: 5 Should not raise his hand. Lesson learnt.
Finnan: 6 One of the better player.
Carragher: 7 Lead by example.
Hyypia: 6 Had a good game but we miss his goals.
Warnock: 5 At fault in covering Crespo for the offside position, and shaky.
Gerrard: 6 Had a shot saved by Cech. And maybe it's time to let others to take corners.
Alonso: 5.5 One of his poorer game with lots of missed passes.
Sissoko: 6.5 Was controlling midfield before we lost the first goal.
Riise: 6 Not too effective.
Kewell: 6 With a shot close to target.
Crouch: 5.5 No real impact on the game.

Substitutions:
Luis Garcia: 6 Come and off, but can't change the score line.
Ciise/Dudek: Does Cisse play? At least Dudek made a good save.

Rafa: 5 Need to solve the problem of lack of goal and our set-piece conversion. It's really no point just to win corner and shots but without any goals.

Chelsea: 6.5 A dirty performance. I really don't think they have the attitude to be called "Champion". Let Barcelona teach them a lession.

Man of the Match: Carragher. Prevent us from further humiliation.

Don't let the dream die - yet

If we still want to have the dream of winning the title, we must win this game - although winning it may not be enough. The team is a bit tired currently, but we still need to keep a high tempo to have any real chance to win. Although Rafa hinted he may start Fowler but I think he would play a 4-5-1 to pack the midfield. But I may be wrong.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Luis Garcia
Gerrard
Alonso
Sissoko
Kewell
Crouch

Result: 1-0

Match Report 060201 vs Birmingham City: The party was spoiled

1-1 and as Rafa said it is a disappointing result. Look at the fact: We have 25 shots with 10 on target and can only score one, yet for Birmingham they have 3 shots and 2 on target. And on a night when Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal slips, we definitely should win the game.

The result make Birmingham remains 1 of the 4 teams Rafa's team has yet beaten. The other twos are Manchester United (which we will beat them on 2/18) and Sao Paolo (which we should have won) and Burnley (which was a shame to lose).

As Rafa said if you are winning 1-0 and creating lots of chances and them with 10 men, you should win the game, but we just couldn't find the goal.

Player Rating:
Reina: 7 Did well to parry away the Heskey header but couldn't prevent Alonso to score the own goal.
Finnan: 6.5 Provided some crossing but didn't make a big impact.
Agger: 6.5 A nice debut, saw him go up front quite often, almost conceded a goal due to lack of concentration, and almost scored on his debut.
Hyppia: 6.5 Commanding performance.
Riise: 6.5 Not much to do at the back, but failed to make an impact going up.
Luis Garcia: 6 Return from injury and still picking up his match fitness. Should have scored.
Gerrard: 7.5 Scored a goal and then rested.
Hamann: 6 Not much contribution.
Kewell: 7 Lively, but just couldn't find the net.
Crouch: 5.5 Not a good game, though his look when substituted was quite innocent.
Morientes: 7 Have another nice assist and should have scored or provide another few more assists.

Substitutions:
Fowler: 7 His movement is good, scored an overkick goal but was (correctly) ruled offside. Need more match fitness.
Alonso: 5. Dreadful own goal. Need to repay Fowler for spoiled his party.

Rafa: 6 His tactic may be wrong this time. Maybe he just want to rest Xabi and Stevie G (after his scoring) but playing at home we need more creativitely rather than steel.

Birmingham City: 6.5 Stolen 2 points from us, but they deserve it for their never-say-die spirit. But they need to improve a lot if they want to survive.

Man of the Match: Gerrard. Provided the platform for the party, but other players let him down.

Thanks Rafa for bringing Fowler back

Enough have been said in Rafa's bringing back our favorite son. You can tell from his words and his face how happy he is. To quote a few:

"It has always been a club close to my heart. I grew up supporting the other side but ever since I came to Liverpool when I was 11, I grew very close to everyone involved with the club. You put on the red shirt again and it's just an amazing feeling and I'm glad I'm going to get that opportunity again."

"Yes. I think if you pray enough for things, well I'm proof that they can happen. I'm absolutely delighted to be back. I feel like a kid waking up on Christmas morning every day now! It's fantastic and it's something that I have wanted to happen for such a long time. I am very glad that it has come about again."

And to quote the words from Rafa and Parry:

Rafa: "I don't think I've ever seen a player quite so happy to be joining a club.”

Parry: "I had to persuade Robbie to look at the contract. I think I could have put a contract in front of him with no money on it and he'd have signed it!"

Whether he will be successful in getting a longer term contract is now completely up to him. If he play well certainly he will get one, but even if he doen't play well and get one, at least he tried.

Welcome back, Robbie, and we can't wait to see you score and hold your left waist high. Lovely.

Chapter Two

Fowler will probably not start this game but expect to see him in the bench and present for 10-20 minutes. After all these years our favorite son is back to where he belong. He may not have the pace or match fitness yet, but he will contribute in terms of lifting the morale and atmosphere, and he is as deadly as he was.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Agger
Riise
Gerrard
Alonso
Sissoko
Kewell
Cisse
Crouch

Result: 2-0

January Month Report

3 wins, 1 draw and 1 lost in January amd we lost 5 points in 2 away league games. The lowest point is no doubt the defeat at Manchester United, but it is sure that even though we lost that particular battle, we will win the war and finish higher than them, although we may not yet catch Chelsea. And for the highest point, is no doubt, the return of God. Expect to see his second debut vs Birmingham.

Players of the Month: (1) Gerrard 7.1 (2) Kewell 7.0 (3) Alonso 6.9. As usual Stevie G carries the team and scored in both FA Cup games. Kewell scored a well deserved cracker and win us the game against Spurs. And Alonso scored 2 amazing goals at Luton that averages 50 yards. Special credit must also be given to Sinama-Pongolle who scored 2 great goals at Luton as well.

February Prediction:
2/1 Birmingham City (h): Return of God.
2/5 Chelsea (a): If we want to maintain any slight hope of catching Chelsea, we must win this game.
2/8 Charlton Athletic (a): Charlton may have revived a little bit but we should win this. Remember God's overhead kick at the final game in the Treple Season there?
2/11 Wigan Athletic (a): Well done Wigan in getting into the League Cup Final, but we will beat them.
2/14 Arsenal (h): At this stage they will be preparing for Champions League.
2/18 Manchester United (h): 5th time lucky for Rafa.
2/21 Benfica (a): Return of European game, and we will get a result there.
2/26 Manchester City (h): Thanks City of allowing God to be back to his true home, but we will show no mercy.

Match Report 060129 at Portsmouth: A dull performance, but at least we are through

2-1 and it was not a good performance at all, but the result was good and we have now entered the hat for drawing Round 5.

The freshly laid field certainly does no good to the performance of both teams, and it was not until Stevie G slot in that penalty before we have a goal on target. After that Riise scored an absolute streamer. In 2H we were lapsed and let them score one. After that Riise almost score another one but unfortunately it was his right foot. But then it is enough and we are through.

Player Rating:
Reina: 6 An average performance but he was alert when Portsmouth have chance.
Kromkamp: 6 Not a good full debut.
Carragher: 7 Good as usual.
Hyypia: 6.5 Back from illness and performed OK.
Warnock: 6 An average performance.
Gerrard: 7 Scored from penalty.
Alonso: 6.5 Control the midfield without really sparkle.
Sissoko: 6 Not a good performance and please don't dive.
Riise: 7.5 Scored a cracker but should have score one more.
Cisse: 6.5 Feeling the pressure now and played quite good in 2H as right midfielder.
Morientes: 6 Apart from the assist had done nothing.

Substitutes:
Crouch/Finnan/Kewell: Not enough time to impress

Rafa: 6.5 Not a good performance from the team, but the result is OK.

Portsmouth: 6 Now they can concentrate the fight against relegation. But need to gear up 1 or 2 gears.

Man of the match: Riise. Nice goal that kill off the game.

Welcome back, God

Yes, he's back. To me it is even a bigger news than Michael Jordan back to basketball. It is really surprised that he is still only 30 after all these years. I don't really mind if he can still perform for us, but he is a player with a Liverpool heart.

It's a pity he is cup-tied in FA Cup, but Champions League is on the way.

Welcome back!

Rebound

After last week's underserved defeat now is the time to bounce back. Portsmouth was absolutely poor recently, and although we have never beat them in FA Cup, now is the time.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Kromkamp
Carragher
Agger
Riise
Gerrard
Alonso
Sissoko
Kewell
Sinama-Pongolle
Morientes

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060122 at Manchester United: We lost the battle, but will win the war

0-1 and we were very unlucky not to get at least 1 point in a game we dominated. Should the strikers be less wasteful we would have win the game easily. Anyway lady lucky was not on our side, and we shall move forward even though we failed to capitalize on a rare Chelsea slip.

Up front Cisse got a lot of sticks and was rightly so. Rafa need to find a way to solve this. We also lack smoothness in terms of passing, and are still extremely wasteful in set pieces. We also lacked a moment of concentration and paid the price. And we miss Luis Garcia.

Player Rating:
Reina: 6 Cannot do much on the goal but other than that he had a good and quiet game.
Finnan: 7 One of the better player on the field.
Carragher: 7 A good performance.
Hyypia: 6 At time he was exposed but overall he had a good game.
Riise: 6 Moving ups and downs but failed to create any real chances.
Gerrard: 6 1H as right midfielder, 2H as middleman, but not effective as he should be. And he need to mind his tackles at times.
Alonso: 6.5 Good quarterback performance.
Sissoko: 6.5 Good display with heart.
Kewell: 6.5 Played well with heart. This is what we like to see from Harry.
Cisse: 5.5 Guilty of missing the big chance with the goal at his mercy.
Crouch: 5.5 Very unproductive.

Substitutions:
Morientes: 6 Not much influence.
Sinama-Pongolle: 6 Tried hard but failed to impact.
Kromkamp: Not enough time to impress. Expect Rafa to start him at Portsmouth.

Rafa: 6 Failed to win the game with his changes this time.

Manchester United: 6 The better team lost. But we will edge them out, at least.

Men of the Match: Carragher and Finnan. Two good and consistent defenders.

What do you do with 3 iPods?

Answer: Make a tripod

Plan for a win

It's away at Old Tradford and although a draw would not be too bad for the race for second, Rafa will no doubt plan to win the game. It will probably be a very physical game, but with Kewell reborn, we can exploire their defense using Crouch's height and Cisse's speed. And we will show them where the Big Ear is.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Finnan
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Gerrard
Alonso
Sissoko
Kewell
Cisse
Crouch

Result: 2-0

Match Report 060114 vs Tottenham Hotspur: Revival of a great player

1-0 and it is the revival of Harry Kewell! Coping with the defeat of Manchedter United we are now in a firm position to capitalize in any potential Chelsea fall off.

Throughout the game we have controlled the game very well, the only scare period is after halftime when Spurs seemed to be geared up and we almost conceded goal. Robinson proves why he is England's no. 1, and it requires a superb strike from Harry Kewell that break the deadlock. He derserves to score such a goal, especially in front of the Kop, and also Carra's praise. Welcome back, Harry!

Player Rating:
Reina: 7 Good in goal and keeps his 8 consecutive home clean sheet.
Finnan: 7.5 Great crossing for the goal and is a constant threat from the right.
Carragher: 7 Superb defending at the back.
Hyypia: 7 Played much better than last game knowing that Agger has arrived. Healthly competition.
Riise: 7 Active on the left.
Gerrard: 7.5 Lift the team as usual.
Alonso: 7.5 Great vision in terms of his passes, and his goal in Luton makes the opponent goalkeeper afraid to come out too far away.
Sissoko: 7 He is more self-controlled and played very well in protecting the back 4.
Kewell: 8 Great goal to break the deadlock. He is back.
Morientes: 7 Tried hard but only hit the bar.
Crouch: 6.5 Had a free header saved early in the match.

Substitutions:
Cisse: 6.5 Provided another way of threat with his speed.
Kromkamp/Warnock: Not enough time to impress

Rafa: 7 His continuous faith in Kewell is finally repaid.

Tottenham Hotspur: 6.5 Tough to breakdown Robinson, but somehow their attack has an off day. But they will be there to challenge Arsenal for the 4th spot. Just ask Jol to shut his mouth.

Man of the Match: Kewell. A nice goal that deserves the endorsement of Carra and the Kop.

Start of a critical period

There are lots of tough games in the coming week that will shape our season, as we will play the first 5 teams in the league that starts with Spurs at home tomorrow. The defenders may look at bit tired and conceded 5 goals in the last 2 games, but with new signings arrived Rafa will be able to rotate the players a little.

My Team Prediction:
Reina
Kromkamp
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Gerrard
Alonso
Sissoko
Kewell
Cisse
Crouch

Result 2-0

Match Report 060107 at Luton Town: Great result, poor performance

5-3 and it was a roller coaster that we went from 1-0 to 1-3 and win the game 5-3. From an entertainment point of view this is a great game, but from the team's point of view there are lots of things to worry like the defense started to leak goals, and the players were tired or complacement. The good thing is that perhaps it that the players have enough quality and belief to win the game, and now is probably a good time to refresh ourselves and to gear up for the rest of the season.

We filed a very strong starting 11 with Reina the only first team player rested. We did not start too well and Luton were the better team. Maybe due to tireness or the absense of Reina, the defense were pressured wave by wave. Somehow Stevie G scored a great goal, but after that Luton did not give up and derserved to scored two nice goals in the expense of the very poor defense.

After the break we come out better with Cisse moved to right and Stevie G moved to central. We have a penalty but Cisse missed it. Then Luton had a penalty and promptly scored. At this point of time we stil have a lot of time, and with a tactical masterstroke Rafa turned it around. The introduction of Sinama Pongolle started another comeback and quickly he scored. From this point onward it is only a matter of time on when the 2nd goal will be scored. And it came from a superb 40 yard lob from Xabi. We keep pressuring, and Luton is now tired, and Sinama scored a header and we are up front again. At the stoppage Xabi shown his great football sense as he turned the Luton goalie who came up for a corner and scored from 60 yards. And this goal won a punter 25,000 pounds.

Player Rating:
Carson: 5.5 Leaked 3 goals and should have done better.
Finnan: 6.5 The better defender and he had a great cross for Sinama's header.
Carragher: 6 A poor day for Carra as he was turned for a goal conceded.
Hyypia: 5.5 One of his worst game for us. Tired and outplayed for too many times.
Riise: 6 As with the other defenders he did not have a good game.
Gerrard: 7 Whether he was disinterested or showing complacement or don't think the match is over is subject to debate. But at 1-3 it was him who rally the boys through.
Alonso: 7 Very poor 1H as he was outmuscled (probably the same reason Rafa didn't start him at Bolton), but scored two wonderful goals in 2H that averaged 50 yards.
Sissoko: 5.5 His worst game for us, and could have been sent off for a bad tackle.
Kewell: A fair game with not too many contribution. But it is clear that Rafa rated him very high.
Cisse: 6.5 Had a penalty saved.
Crouch: 6 Outmuscled by the Luton boys???!!!

Substitutions:
Sinama Pongolle: 8.5 As in the Olympiakos game, Sinama come from the bench and scored for us - this time 2 goals. This is the first game he scored more than 1 for us, and he has a very big Liverpool heart, unlike Le Tallec. Rafa please take note.
Kromkamp/Warnock: Not enough time to impress. Welcome on board Jan!

Rafa: 7 He proved he can really turnaround a game, this time by the timely substitution. But he would be angry about the complamency.

Luton: 7 Credits to them and particular their manager Newell. If they have enough stamina to press for 90 minutes we were already out.

Man of the Match: Sinama Pongolle. Don't loan him out.

We want to win the FA Cup as well

After the "mistake" last season in sending a weak team and lost to Burney, Rafa will send a stronger team this time. The fans love the Cup and although Luton may be a tricky draw, the teams are motivated to win it.

My Team Prediction:
Dudek
Kromkamp
Carragher
Hyypia
Riise
Potter
Gerrard
Sissoko
Kewell
Sinama-Pongolle
Crouch

Result: 3-0