Ian Doyle rates the performance of the Liverpool squad following their 2-1 victory over Fulham at Anfield during the League Cup semi-final first leg on Wednesday night.
Liverpool managed to overturn a deficit and secure a narrow lead in the first leg of their League Cup semi-final clash with Fulham.
Curtis Jones and substitute Cody Gakpo scored two quick goals in the second half, changing the momentum of the match, as Willian had previously provided Fulham with a lead in the first half.
Here’s how the Liverpool players rated on a spirited night at a cold Anfield on Wednesday.
Caoimhin Kelleher 6
Defeated by a close-range shot for the first goal and saved a powerful Pereira attempt before halftime. Made a crucial save from Cordova-Reid’s strike in the second half.
Conor Bradley 8
In the first half, tackles on Robinson and Willian energized the crowd. They posed a persistent threat in attack and showed determination on both sides of the pitch. Promising performance.
Ibrahima Konate 6
Had lots of ball control but struggled to advance from the defense in the first half. Improved as the match went on.
Virgil van Dijk 6
Recovered from illness, he struggled in the first half, showing uncertainty with a clearance that led to Fulham’s goal and hesitating on several occasions. However, he showed significant improvement in the second half. He also received a yellow card.
Joe Gomez 6
Not quite as sure-footed defensively as of late but able to push forward regularly, and fired one effort wide. Vital clearance second half.
Alexis Mac Allister 7
He aimed to introduce a crucial pace through his passes, although not always successful in the first half. However, he became increasingly influential as Liverpool intensified their play.
Ryan Gravenberch 5
There were moments of effective pressing, but overall, the possession was often too loose. The ball was held for extended periods, and there was a missed wide attempt in the second half. Eventually, the player was substituted.
Curtis Jones 7
During the initial quarter, they faced scrutiny for occasional ball losses in risky zones. However, their persistence in shooting eventually led to an equalizing goal via a deflection.
Harvey Elliott 6
He found promising positions that his teammates missed but also encountered several obstacles. He performed slightly better when moving towards central zones after the break. He was substituted out.
Diogo Jota 6
In the first half, they weren’t significantly involved as Liverpool had limited chances. However, after the break, they switched positions multiple times, began to find opportunities, and played a part in the build-up to both goals.
Luis Diaz 6
Showed great effort and pressed effectively, with the highlight being a solid challenge on Cordova-Reid in the first half. However, remained subdued thereafter.
SUBS
Darwin Nunez (for Gravenberch 56) 8
While not consistently graceful, the player can be credited with an assist for the equalizer. They performed commendably in setting up the second goal and managed to challenge Fulham’s goalkeeper, Leno, who made three impressive saves.
Cody Gakpo (for Elliott 56) 7
Played on the right side and put in a proper shift which was rewarded with excellent finish for the winner.
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