There was a gulf between Javier Mascherano and Steven Gerrard for a vast duration of the game which got much better when Yossi Benayoun was introduced for Ryan Babel who continues to be wasteful. The reedy Israeli midfielder got the Reds back into the game with his clever link up play but one wondered why Rafa Benitez took so long. Before that the Reds were a one note team trying the long ball to Torres who had a very forgettable game. By the time the first half ended the other striker, Dirk Kuyt had drifted across deeper and deeper to help the ineffective midfield.
Benitez is betting on Alberto Aquilani but the Roma man is not due back till October. By that time it might be too late. It was left to the individualistic talent of Glen Jonhson to provide the most memorable highlight as he was brought down by Heurelho Gomes after dancing around the Spurs defense. Steven Gerrard took full opportunity of the PK to equalize. Liverpool's bench strength does not inspire confidence as Benitez brought on out of shape Andriy Voronin to try and get back in the game.
Spurs on the other hand have Luka Modric who stamped his presence on the midfield creating a number of chances that Keane was unable to finish of. Wilson Palacios was a motor in the middle. Jermaine Defoe was a constant threat around the box. Benoit Assou Ekotto scored his first goal for Spurs with a left footed rocket and Sebastien Bassong was able to ward of Jamie Carragher for his winning header on his club debut. The injuries to Carragher and Skrtel might have led to a drop off in defensive intensity but for the most part the defense held together well. It is the present lack of a creative midfield force and the over reliance on Torres which will give fans sleepless nights. Steven Gerrard is not the sort of player to build goals. Benitez might have no choice but to start Benayoun till Aquilani gets back to match fitness otherwise Reds fans will start bemoaning Alonso's departure.
Has anyone noticed that Luka Modric looks like Frederic Chopin?
Yes, Alonso was targeted by Arsenal last season. Wenger obviously saw what he brought to the table. But Rafa would have never sold to a rival. As for Benayoun, its amazing how he's stayed on despite his role as an after thought but he time and time again makes a huge difference. Rafa has a hard choice. Eschew his inclination to leave Benayoun on the bench till Aquilani finds his legs otherwise Liverpool will struggle to score goals.
Tottenham were just the better team - they looked strong all over the pitch and quite simply out played Liverpool.
This is going to be an interesting season.
I have no earthly idea what Rafa is thinking starting Babel over Benayoun. What has Babel EVER done to warrant a starting spot ahead of the workhorse Yossi?
And yes, Shourin, we certainly are bemoaning the loss of Alonso. I was hopeful he would stay and Mascherano would be the one to leave this summer...
"The reedy Israeli midfielder got the Reds back into the game with his clever link up play but one wondered why Rafa Benitez took so long."
Couldn't this question have been asked with regards to almost every league game for the past two years? I can't figure out why Benitez doesn't give Benayoun more burn. Every time he plays he impresses me and I am a ManU fan!