Match Reaction: Liverpool Player Ratings

As Liverpool fans, all we can do is hope that this is the last time this season that a referee attempts to steal our limelight, as regardless of what went against us and whether those penalties were valid or not, the fact is Big Sam has spoken so the victory will now be deemed ‘controversial’.

The important thing is to remember that we know that was a deserved win, and that any team that simply ‘parks the bus’ and employs the usual strong-arm tactics we’ve come to expect from Allardyce deserve everything they get and Brendan Rodger’s Liverpool gave them a demonstration of how to deal with two banks of four on Sunday afternoon.

Player ratings are below:

Simon Mignolet – 5: Sadly, another unconvincing display from Mignolet who seems to wilt under pressure in his box. He was desperately unlucky to concede after Carroll’s GBH and that perhaps set the tone for his second half performance but the young Belgian needs to improve his strength and command of his area if he is to remain as Liverpool’s number 1; simply being a good shot-stopper does not make a good ‘keeper, as we know all too well from David James.

Glen Johnson – 8: Another productive and impressive display from Johnson who refused to let Allardyce’s side bully him in – or out – of possession. His improvement can only be of great advantage to the Reds and he can hopefully hold that form up for the next 5 games.

Mamadou Sakho – 7: Great display from Sakho for his first start in many months, particularly against the bullying tactics of Carroll and his teammates. His physicality complements Skrtel’s leadership and organisational qualities and the pair make for an intimidating pairing. The only time West Ham got the better of Liverpool’s defence was in basically assaulting Mignolet from a corner and credit must go to Sakho for his unflappable display.

Martin Skrtel – 9: Once again, the big man from Slovakia was an indomitable tower at the heart of Liverpool’s defence. Regardless of many Reds’ fan’s preference for Agger, there can be no doubt after the way handled Carroll that Skrtel is Liverpool’s most important, consistent and valuable defender. The supposed threat of Carroll was nullified with such ease that, at times, you had to laugh at how we’d managed to recoup £15 million for the striker, whilst Skrtel only added more to his own value. If he can continue this form, like Johnson, Flanagan and Sakho, then our defence should no longer be an issue in the remaining 5 games.

Jon Flanagan – 6: A strangely mixed display from ‘Flanny Alves’, as he at once looked dangerous going forward and susceptible at the back. There can be no doubt that the majority of Flanagan’s faults lie in his inexperience – something which he will iron out – so there is much more to come from the young Scouser.

Steven Gerrard – 8: Imperious performance from the captain, even without the two penalties, as he held Nolan and Noble at bay, whilst often filling in as a third centre back. His legs began to let him down the more the game wore on but Lucas and Henderson were there to ensure his performance didn’t go without reward. If Gerrard can keep leading his men like this, then we can all keep dreaming.

Jordan Henderson – 7: Very, very solid from Henderson, who’s maturity belies his age. He has almost become another Lucas in that he is so reliable you almost forget he’s doing a very important job. Didn’t offer as much going forward as he has since Christmas but helped earn the points.

Philippe Coutinho – 6: Was lively but unable to make much of an impact, however that is pretty understandable considering the literal bus that Allardyce parked in front of his goal for the majority of the match. Will have his day before the season is out but trying to pick the lock of an 8-man defence was beyond even Sturridge and Coutinho at times.

Raheem Sterling – 7: Not as much of the usual penetration that we are used to from the young winger but he didn’t stop running and gave his teammates an outlet when West Ham looked like trying to string more than a long-ball and a few passes together.

Daniel Sturridge – 6: For all his running, he looked blunted and perhaps in need of a rest, however that will not be possible in the next 5 games and the next week should give the striker a much-needed rest. Will need to be back to his best for the visit of our title rivals next Sunday.

Luis Suarez – 7: Like his two attacking partners, Suarez often found it difficult to get past a packed defence but then, he looked more likely than most to break through that 8 man wall. Like Sturridge he looked laboured at times but, again, that is to be expected under such conditions. City will present many more opportunities next week and Liverpool will be looking to their front three to exploit them.

Subs:

Lucas Leiva – 8: If ever there was a more unwelcome substitution. Some of the anger at Coutinho being replaced at half-time bordered on the ridiculous but his fellow Brazilian showed, once again, his importance to the cause and assisted his teammates in keeping West Ham down to a handful of chances in the second half. As we said a few weeks back: will be very crucial in the run-in.

Kolo Toure – 6: Had little time to make much of a difference and, if anything, caused Liverpool to play within themselves for the final 9 minutes. Made some important clearances, however and may well find himself with another title medal in a months time.