Super sub, David Fairclough on the Reds first home game
After the game one player in particular was the main topic of conversation - Dirk Kuyt.
Despite failing to mark his debut with a goal, his effort and style made the right impression on everyone. After coming on for Peter Crouch he showed his eagerness to create a positive impact when he flashed a shot past the post with his first touch.
He obviously has the ability to get himself into goal threatening positions and hopefully it wonât take him long before he gets off the mark. He looks to have more to his game than being just a goalscorer, his link play was impressive and his vision to set up Craig Bellamy for the disallowed goal promises hope of an exciting strike partnership.
Rafa was quick to remain guarded about the win because while there were things to enjoy, there are still areas of concern. Last year defensively we looked at times unbreachable but at the moment we are giving away too many sloppy goals and not looking anything like as solid.
One benefit of the two week break will be to give the injured players some time to recover without missing too many games. The loss of Jamie Carragher and John Arne Riise on the first day against Sheffield United was a big blow.
Having to reorganise half of the defence just 30 minutes into the new season was a massive handicap, though it did give Rafa a chance to bring in Daniel Agger and give him a run in the side.
The Dane will feel the benefit of a run in the team. He looks impressive in possession and is always willing to come out of defence with the ball. Though it is presumptuous to compare to him past heroes, not since Alan Hansen have we had a defender who looks as comfortable with the ball at his feet. He doesnât yet have a reputation for hitting the net with any regularity but after Saturdayâs stunning effort he might have just reset the expectancy level.
Logged