Player ratings: Liverpool v Crystal Palace – Aug 19 2017
By David Gate
Sadio Mane – 7
Got the goal with a beautiful stabbed finish after a period of pressure. Started back on the right hand side with Mohamed Salah on the bench. Kept moving and working to find space and create opportunities but the midfield three were too deep in the first half. He misses having the quick and clever interchanges with Coutinho and Lallana. Still not at full fitness so there is much more to come.
Daniel Sturridge – 6
Fantastic to see Daniel Sturridge back from injury though he suffered from having no service whatsoever. Andrew Robertson the only player who was looking to find his runs. Did nothing wrong but a combination of poor midfield play and lacking fitness means he was some way off his best.
Roberto Firmino – 8
Tireless as ever. There was one Crystal Palace counter attack shortly after the goal and Bobby tore back into the left back position to make the tackle. He dropped in deeper after Solanke came in and the midfield instantly looked improved. Such a good player.
Subs
Mohamed Salah – 7
Gave the team energy and drive that had been much lacking before then. Unlucky not to score with a wonderful shimmy and curling shot. Was the spark the helped get the win.
Dominic Solanke – 6
Came on in 70th minute and helped give the side better shape. He allowed Firmino to drop deeper and helped give Mane and Salah a more physical presence to work off. Contributed to the goal.
Dejan Lovren – N/A
Had no time to contribute except to make everyone nervous at his introduction.