Once Carra's was out we've obviously lost a leader, and someone who'll organise the defence out at the back. Ayala and San Jose didn't play well, for me at all. They were poor, didn't stamp their authority on the game at all, and for now not up to playing in the EPL, or at least being 4th choice.
Glen Johnson and Emiliano Insua looked OK to me, not that bad a game for them at the very least. Martin Kelly was one plus point, when he came on midway through the second half I thought it was the first time he was playing in that position - and he was quite comfortable on it.
Didn't see much of Jay Spearing on the ball, and Lucas also drifted in and out of the game. That was what I thought, at least. Lucas was able to play some good balls to his mates, but unfortunately I thought he was played out of the park a couple of times in defensive mid, and also a little too slow in anticipating what is Atletico's next move.
Mascherano had a great game though, he showed every determination that oozed out of him, what a fantastic player, his ability to defend and protect the back four, and also sometimes creating good opportunities when we're attacking - Who says we need Xabi?
What stood out for me most, though, was the display from Gerrard and Torres. Gerrard was ever bursting forward with intent, and also the player that drives us forward. He had been very influential in our game even though we ended the game with a loss, and I still remember the crowd bursting into unison before he takes a freekick - Steve Gerrard, Gerrard! Torres, was also one of those players who played with great heart. His close control of the ball was fantastic, and it was only unlucky that his shot hit the inside of the bar and also did not win a penalty.
All in all, it was a good workout for the team, hopefully this will not affect the team's morale going into the new season. Kuyt and Babel is off for an international friendly on August 12th, hate it when it comes really. What's with an international friendly 3 days before the start of the season? FFS.
There is some need to work on the team understanding and teamwork, they looked like individuals at some moments and it was difficult to see the Liverpool of last season, where we never stopped attacking! I hope we would be able to shore up our defence in the next 7 days, and also get the much needed rest of course - due to all those globe-trotting.
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