Liverpool let a two goal lead slip in the FA Cup at Shrewsbury last night with much blame being pointed at defenders but attackers should take equal share.
It is a rare occasion these days when Liverpool don’t win. But after last night’s draw with Shrewsbury in the FA Cup fourth round the old blame game started up on social media.
Many fans were incensed at the defending, particularly of the three senior players returning from injury; Joel Matip, Fabinho and Dejan Lovren.
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The Croatian was clearly at blame for the first Shrewsbury goal as he missed an attempted tackle to leave no-one in behind him. He has made similar mistakes before so this can’t be chalked up to lacking game time alone.
Matip and Fabinho have been two of the best performers for Jurgen Klopp over the last 12 months but they both looked rusty after long injury lay offs. Sluggish and sloppy throughout they did not enjoy the cold air, bobbly pitch and chaotic nature of a knockout FA Cup tie with lower league opposition.
While the defense struggled, there was also little joy at the other end of the pitch. Takumi Minamino made only his second start to the club and is still working out the system and how he will fit in. Plenty of effort from the new boy but he created few opportunities to show off his ability.
Harvey Elliott had perhaps his quietest game in a Liverpool shirt this season – struggling to make an impression in the same way he did in the previous round and in the three Carabao Cup ties he has already featured in.
The biggest disappointment was Divock Origi who did not make the most of his physical presence in the game. He also snatched at every scoring opportunity, trying to be a hero. Though he has a wonderful record of heroics, he would have been better served by passing or taking a second longer in most scenarios.
The only players who really shone yesterday were Curtis Jones (who bagged his second senior goa), Pedro Chirivella (who got the assist) and Neco Williams whose crossing was a threat all game.
The news that Jurgen Klopp is unlikely to play any senior players in the replay next month means that trio will have to shine again if the Reds are to make the fifth round.