Waited a few days to process the game prior to posting. Having done so, here are a few thoughts.....
We played well. Very well! Well enough to win most games. If we played that well every game of the season then I would be very happy indeed!! On this occasion, their GK played a blinder, and denied us the three points - on several occasions!!
We do seem to lack a killer instinct/cutting edge/winning mentality that teams like Man U, City, Arsenal, etc have. Sadly, this has turned into an all too common theme.... completely dominate a game, only to walk away with 1 point, or no points at all. However, upon looking at our team I don't necessarily think that there is anything in particular that is missing. Suarez and Gerrard certainly have the killer instinct/winning mentality, and even players like Coutinho, Sturridge, Johnson, Enrique, and Henderson all have the ability to create/finish chances. I honestly think that a part of our profligacy/wastefulness comes down to the fact that we have a number of new faces in the team and there has been so much turmoil/transition over the last 3-4 years that we just aren't operating as a cohesive unit like some of the other top teams. However, I remain confident that this understanding/chemistry will develop in time.
Hopefully we can kick on and finish the season strong, but I honestly feel that next season will be the true indication of our"progress" under BR. I do think we are playing some enterprising footie at the moment, and if we can improve the quality and depth of the squad in the summer that we will be better off next term.
Thoughts and prayers with the families and friends of the 96. RIP
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