It was an evening for late action for Brendan Rodgers’ Liverpool as new-boys Balotelli and Lovren rescue the Reds from what looked like yet another defeat. Here is a look at how the Reds performed on a chilly night on Merseyside against a Swansea side who were determined to stay put and wait the game out.
Brad Jones – 6/10
The Australian keeper was untroubled for most parts of the game. The Aussie shot-stopper couldn’t have done much about the finish from Marvin Emnes although his kicking was particularly a worry for the Liverpool back-four.
Javier Manquillo – 7/10
The industrious Spaniard was at his best down the right flank. Engaged in an intriguing battle with Jefferson Montero, Manquillo supported the attack just as well as he was defensively solid.
Kolo Toure – 7/10
The Ivorian veteran brought experience and leadership to the Reds defence. Few key tackles and a couple of incisive passes from the former Gunners centre-half showed just why Brendan Rodgers’ still has him as part of his plans.
Dejan Lovren – 7/10
The Croatian centre-half was at the eye of the criticism storm the Reds defence was under. A steady performance in defence with a priceless composed header to seal the win topped off a memorable day for the former Lyon defender as he netted his first Liverpool goal.
Glen Johnson – 6/10
The England international was forced out to the left by Brendan Rodgers as he accommodated the impressive Manquillo in the squad. Defensively solid, Johnson showed signs of his best form in flashes when he got forward, Still a shadow of the player he once was.
Lucas Leiva – 6/10
The defensive midfielder might be on his way out of Anfield soon, however, as of now he is still a Liverpool player and his performance against the Swans shows just how much Rodgers’ needs a proper defensive midfielder. Broke up play very well and was comfortable on the ball all game.
Jordan Henderson – 6/10
In his first game as Liverpool skipper, the 24 year old gave a good account of himself. Sat alongside Lucas in midfield and shielded the defence and got forward to support Coutinho without needing an invitation.
Phillpe Coutinho – 8/10
The little Brazilian was simply the best player on the pitch. Bright in possession and stamping his class every time he got the ball. His form will be a huge plus for Rodgers’ in the coming weeks.
Lazar Markovic – 5/10
In an unfamiliar left wing position, the 20 year old put in a lot of hard-work to no avail. Still slightly off pace, the former Benfica man is finding it hard to adjust to the English game.
Fabio Borini – 7/10
The Italian was the hardest working player on the pitch. Ran his socks off and eventually got the reward for his hard-work with a peach of a cross that set up Mario Balotelli for the equaliser. Possibly an upturn in the Italian’s fortunes in a Red shirt.
Rickie Lambert – 5/10
The former Saints striker did well at times to hold up play. Still heavily under-performing, the weight of a Red shirt might be getting to the 32 year-old.
SUBS :-
Adam Lallana – 6/10
The 26 year old midfielder replaced Markovic on the left wing and didn’t have any more of an effect on the game than the Serb.
Mario Balotelli – 7/10
Got the equaliser, gained a whole lot of confidence and looked dangerous when he got the ball. If only the enigmatic Italian could do this week in and week out in a Red shirt.