A disappointing draw in the FA Cup fourth round means that Liverpool must win at Upton Park if they are to make it through to the next round
I can’t help but feeling like that was Liverpool’s best chance to beat West Ham, because travelling to Upton Park won’t be easy. The reds are currently still fighting in both domestic cups, the Premier League and the Europa League, meaning the replay adds to an already hectic set of fixtures.
A Liverpool team with a balance of both experience and youth were frustrated in the game against West Ham, mainly by a great performance from West Ham’s goalkeeper, Darren Randolph. Randolph saved shots from Christian Benteke, Joe Allen, Joao Teixeira and more, with Liverpool’s 6 shots on target coming to nothing.
The current Liverpool hero, Joe Allen, captained Liverpool for the first time in this game, and I was glad to see his current form rewarded. The team on a while played better than expected, defending reasonably well and looking somewhat creative up front.
The reds even managed to pose some threat attacking set pieces, and defended them without looking weak. West Ham’s best chance came when a shot smacked against the post, and the whistle was blown for a foul before a rebound could be directed into the goal.
Along with it being Joe Allen’s first captaincy, it was also Steven Caulkers first game in his preferred centre-back position. We’ll get on to how he played, but it was exciting to see him partner up with Dejan Lovren (who returned from injury this game).
Liverpool are already in the final for the Capital One Cup, can they work their way into another domestic cup final? or will West Ham win on their home turf?
Here’s Rush the Kop’s player ratings for the goalless draw against West Ham.
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