A game that will be remembered for decades to come, Liverpool trounced Middleborough 14-13 on penalties after the game ended 2-2.
Here’s an assessment of the Reds performances out of 10 :-
Simon Mignolet – 6
Another mixed outing for Liverpool’s Belgian. Mignolet pulled 2 world-class saves in either half of normal time, saved a penalty and emphatically dispatched his all in the space of 150 odd minutes. However, indecision while facing set-pieces and his lack of command in the 6 yard box still leaves Liverpool fans with unfulfilled desires.
Javier Manquillo – 6
After a rather silent first half, the young Spaniard grew into the game. Another solid and unspectacular performance from the 20 year old.
Kolo Toure – 4 (flop of the game)
After having hit numerous long balls aimlessly in the first half, Kolo Toure completed his forgetful performance by giving away a penalty in the dying minutes of extra-time, which led to that high pressure penalty shoot-out.
Mamadou Sakho – 6
The Frenchman who often ends up with a mixed reaction from Reds fans was strong in the air, assertive in a tackle and accurate with his passing.
Jose Enrique – 6
The Spanish left-back made his first start since having suffered terrible knee problems last season. A steadying presence at left back, Enrique visibly tired as the game went on.
Lucas Leiva – 6.5
Quiet and efficient; neither great nor poor Lucas put in a performance very typical of the player he has grown into the past few seasons. Slotted home his spot-kicks effortlessly, Lucas stayed deep enabling the likes of Rossiter and Williams to bomb on.
Jordan Rossiter – 7
A perfect individual display on his debut – 17 year old Rossiter took his goal with the calmness of a veteran. Neat in possession and utilizing the ball effectively, Rossiter has got the looks of an old-fashioned midfielder.
Adam Lallana – 7
One of Liverpool’s better players on the night – the former Saints midfielder is gradually building up his match fitness and regaining the sharpness that took him to Brazil. A creative midfielder who twists and turns as and when he wishes Lallana is a joy to watch.
Lazar Markovic – 5
A rather invisible performance from Liverpool’s Serbian youngster. With his touch letting him down on a few occasions, Markovic passed up 2 golden chances to get a shot off at goal. Still adapting to life in Merseyside, it looks like the 20 year old hasn’t exactly settled yet.
Raheem Sterling – 7.5
Its becoming a habit for young Sterling to invariably be the best player on the pitch. Having worked tirelessly all 120 minutes, Sterling showed relentless energy. strength and creativity.
Rickie Lambert – 4
We’ve heard of jersey’s weighing players down and at the moment it seems like Rickie Lambert is finding the Liverpool shirt incredibly heavy. Poor in possession and unconvincing off it, Lambert looks like a shadow of his confident, relaxed Southampton self.
Substitutes
Mario Balotelli – 6
Offered more than what Lambert offered upfront and calmly converted both of his penalties.
Suso – 7
Unfortunate not to start from the off, the young Spaniard took his goal like an expert. Calmly netted his penalties too.
Jordan Williams – 6.5
The youngster making his debut showed great character in unusual circumstances. Put away his penalty and was tidy on the ball.