Player Ratings: Arsenal 2 -1 Liverpool

Despite conceding goals to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and then Lukas Podolski, Liverpool fought back valiantly, scoring through a Steven Gerrard penalty, but missed a host of chances as they were ultimately defeated 2-1. Some controversial refereeing decisions added to an end to end game, in which the Reds were the stronger side in what was one of our best performances at the Emirates for years.

Here are my player ratings:

Brad Jones 6 / 10

Had little to do for most of the game. Made a good save low to his left against Ozil and got good distance on his punches. Wrong footed for the first goal and could do little with the second.

Daniel Agger 6 / 10

Generally solid on his return to action. Won his headers and tackles and fought against the aggressive Sanogo. Very calm in possession and used the ball progressively. Beaten for pace by Oxlade-Chamberlain at times. Missed what looked an open goal late in the game but the chance was harder than it seemed and was punched in the head for his troubles.

Martin Skrtel 6 / 10

A consistent if unspectacular performance. Tandemned well with Agger on numerous occasions, dropping off when Agger went to close and vice-versa. The rock on which our defence is now built, if only others were as consistent.

Aly Cissokho 3 / 10

The weakest link in Liverpool’s team by far. Very poor on the ball and when he offered width always passed backwards missing some good passing options offensively due to his lack of vision or ability. Showed good strength defensively but struggled against speed and technique of Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Jon Flanagan 5 / 10

Mediocre showing by the youngster. Indecisive early on, uncertain when to get forward or when to hold. Was at fault for second goal when he clearly saw Podolski’s run early but backed off rather than moving infield towards the box, and only accelerated to close the run when it was too late. Not his usual buccaneering self until later in the game.

Steven Gerrard 8 / 10

Hi excellent form continues in his new position. Great vision, setting Sturridge through early on goal, spreading play and being strong and tactically astute defensively. Blocked a goal bound effort that unfortunately rebounded and led to first goal. If others had shown similar astuteness defensively perhaps we wouldn’t have conceded. Great game.

Philippe Coutinho 7 / 10

Thriving in his central position, interchanging frequently with other players and critical to the quality of our attacks and danger in final third. Worked hard defensively and got some challenges and interceptions in. Should have set up Suarez for a goal after his clever run in behind was picked out expertly by Gerrard.

Joe Allen 4 / 10

Passed and moved but without adequate impetus or thrust. Tried to get forward but doesn’t look comfortable in the final third. Didn’t press as well as he has in the past, but worked hard and tidy as ever in possession. Needs to do more and have a clear impact if he is to play more often.

Raheem Sterling 8 / 10

Outstanding performance. Constantly dangerous, made himself available with plenty of movement and clever runs forward. Defended with real gusto and was still very dangerous when moved to right back late on. Wonderful talent playing at the top of his ability and learning fast.

Luis Suarez 7 / 10

Was effervescent and worked his socks off trying to create chances for himself and others. Could have had a hat-trick and often created his own opportunities. Was a little isolated wide right in the first half, but came centrally in the second half and was unfortunate not to get a goal or assist from his wonderful movement and technique.

Daniel Sturridge 6 / 10

Played well trying to break the record of scoring in more than eight consecutive appearances for Liverpool. Missed four clear one on ones with the keeper, having made clever runs to find space. Missed some other half chances too. Looked devastated at the final whistle as he knew how costly his misses were, but nevertheless continues to thrive in a Liverpool shirt.

Substitutes

Jordan Henderson 6 / 10

Showed forward endeavor when he came on, and the tactical decision of removing the ineffectual Cissokho created plenty of opportunities on the right as Henderson interlinked and covered for the forward runs of Sterling from right back.

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