Liverpool's comprehensive defeat again raises questions for Rafa Benitez's American handlers. Steven Gerrard continues his awful form and a slow reacting Liverpool defence struggled to contain a hungry Reading team. Full marks to James Harper who just blew by Riise and in a cool finish ended Liverpool's undefeated run. Here is Nicky Shorey's wondrous free kick (Doyle connection) and Nicky Hunt's penalty.
Gerrard's equalizer restored some hope to the Reds before Doyle put Reading ahead and Harper sealed the win.
Take nothing away from them? I'm sorry but any team sport game has to have accountability from the players and Liverpool didn't take advantage of their opportunities. That's why they lost. I'm never a fan of people who blame "tactics". It's truly about the players on the pitch. The manager can only do so much.
SoccerBlog is one of the most influential blogs about soccer on the Internet. However, I think it would serve the site better if the author is not obviously biased against Liverpool. Gerrard's performance was not awful. Against Reading, they lost the game for they did not utilise the flanks properly. Reading bypass the midfield by pumping long balls. But take nothing away from them, they deserved their win. If anything, blame it on the managerial tactics. Chuckle. =)