Bit of a dull affair to be honest and you could clearly see the commitment level of the lads wasn't up to our usual standards. Sure we started off with plenty of gusto but it's no surprise when it came to the proper challenges and putting your body on the line a few of our lads were in a bit of self preservation. No matter how hard you might try to not think about the final looming I think it's virtually impossible to not allow it to influence a few of your decisions.
1-1 Probably a fair result even though we had a large advantage in terms of possession/shots/corners. As Jürgen said in his post match interview we were shooting at the wrong time when passing was clearly the right option. For example Lovren shooting from 30 yards out when Sturridge is in a good position on the back stick is just daft, you could see Sturridge's reaction but not just that if he doesn't hit it over then the counter is on so he basically has to ensure he either hits it over or scores which almost always happens with defenders in these situations. Coutinho, again, was our worst offender, he had a couple of opportunities where the shot was the right option but the lad must have the most shots taken in the league per minute played it's a bit silly now. Has to learn when the shot is the right choice because as a creative player if you've got a half chance to shoot then you've probably got a very good chance to make a telling pass and I'd love him to move towards this because that's what I think is actually his best talent.
Migs: Actually had one of his better matches for us, despite going wandering on Traore's chance (which was pretty hilarious) he pulled off some good saves and could little for their goal: 7
Clyne: Think Nat needs to work heavily on his crossing/offensive contribution, as a defender he's aware, he's solid and dependable but if he wants to take his game to the next level then it simply has to be his focus. Unless we bring in a pair of wingers (which I doubt) then he is going to be given the same amount of space and time next season and he has to present himself as a threat more or defenders will be too happy to sit off him and allow him to just surrender possession or not hurt. The moment that changes and he becomes a real threat is when spaces will be easier to create: 6.5
Lovren: Poor choices in pressing, passing and didn't close down Hazard enough for his goal (like the rest of them on that). He turned it around no problem against Villarreal so I hope his mind wasn't in the game too well again: 6
Kolo: Our better centre half on the night, although did miss a top chance about 6 yards, could see in his reaction what it meant though and deserves a new contract. Would much prefer him as an option from the bench than Skrtel and I also think he's be much happier/helpful in the dressing room and in and around the place: 7
Moreno: A couple of cracking recoveries that not many players in the league could pull off but has a lot of work to do in the close season, I hope some competition (either Gomez or new arrival) comes in the summer to spur him on. If he could elevate his game a couple of levels and find a brain he's got some fantastic natural abilities but they need harnessing: 6
Can: Nowhere near as dominant as against Villarreal and I think he was one of the players allowing himself a little rest and recovery if I'm honest. His aggression wasn't on the same level and once you allow that to slip the determination dips with it: 6
Milner: Partly what I expected and was happy not to see against Villarreal, he did allow himself to expose the middle too much and was the man who should have been marshaling Hazard (I believe), didn't have a good night in that respect and overall didn't have the best of influences: 6
Lallana: Should have scored a couple, has a terrible weak shot and must do something about it in the summer if he wants to retain his place in the starting XI. I think a squad place is quite secure for him though and that's a step up the ladder where I saw him a few months ago: 5.5
Firmino: Thought he should have done better with his break-away chance, could see he thought Matic was going to get the challenge in but in truth he'd got far enough ahead that only a penalty would have stopped him. Offered most out of our 3 attacking midfielders and was a constant thorn in their sides. Guilty of surrendering possession cheaply on a couple of occasions which is too often the case (although very often wins it straight back): 6.5
Coutinho: Was back in shoot on sight mode, not good enough in the decision making department that and must apply his massive talents better. We had the chances and the runners when the ball was at his feet for him to rip open this game and it frustrates me so much to see him smash it into defenders legs so often when he has such finesse in the pass: 6
Sturridge: After another promising opening 15-20 mins he went missing and cut a frustrated figure. To be fair to him the service was pretty poor but he mustn't let his head drop just because we're not ahead in the opening burst. Perhaps he was just another that was gearing it down a notch in anticipation for the final, I guess only he'll know. Missed a glorious chance to get back on level terms after good work from Firmino and Lallana: 6
Allen: Again made a difference from the bench and has to be close to being offered a new contract.
Benteke: Also made a difference with his goal, wont get many easier but right place, right time is one of the arts of a striker so well in.
Ojo: Cracking cross, people will blame the keeper but the whip on that was delicious, hit with proper pace about it. Mentioned in a different match how well he strikes corners too and I just see a huge future for this lad. Mcarz highlighted the stats earlier in the thread but it's not just appearances if you did assists per minute played then it's even more impressive. Think he'll get more and more time with us and has all the hallmarks of a first team player, not too far off pushing for a place right here and now and most certainly see why Ibe has been pushed down a notch. Keep on working hard Sheyi! Top stuff.
Logged
