Thursday, August 20, 2009

Looking Back On Week 1


In a season that promises to have its ups and downs, Week 1 of the Barlcay's Premiership was just that. For many Reds, this first week was seen as a new beginning of sorts. This was finally the year we would challenge and over take the scum from Manchester. Yet if you looked on any LFC Forum, you would likely see doom mongers wildly proclaiming the season lost.

That last observation may be a bit heavy handed, but it still raises a point. It it took one poor performance at a venue where we rarely play well to once again bemoan the manager and the players. Truth be told, no one bar Pepe Reina put in a good shift. It was simply one of those games. It also gave us a possible look into what is to come against stronger opposition. Lucas struggled at times against Tottenham, but never really made any massive mistakes. I think Lucas is a good squad player, and someone who could eventually make an impact for us, I just think our midfield is less creative with him in there.

Oh how quickly outlooks can change.

As I was getting ready to watch the match yesterday, I was telling friends back in Liverpool that we needed this fixture. I was strangley confident, but all the while knowing all too well the four points dropped against Stoke last season. From the first whistle I saw a different Liverpool. Where we seemed unassured and simply poor in the midfield against Spurs, we were confident and comanding against Stoke.

It would take but four minutes for Fernadno Torres to find the back of the net. This my friends, was the product of what we will need to see more of if we are to end our 19 year drought. Not just goals from Torres, but a complete team attack. All of our attacking six got involved in the goals scored. None more spectacular than Anfield debutant Glen Johnson's 44th minute beauty.

If there is one massive difference in our side, it isn't the loss of Alonso. It is the signing of Glen Johnson. Johnson clearly adds flair to a right side that was rather dull last season. Not only is our attack already more dynamic, but his nose for the penalty area will only aid our attack. He has been involved in three of our five goals scored this season. He's already matched our previous RB's production in just two matches. Should this keep up, it may very well be a key part in bringing number 19 home.

Without getting ahead of myself, a look at the next five fixtures brings a positive feel to our chances. Three of these five fixtures are at home. A struggling Aston Villa, newly promoted Burnley & Hull. While we must be weary of all opposition, these fixtures maybe coming at just the right time for Liverpool.

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