Liverpool dropped a hotly contested 3-2 contest against rivals Manchester United as the Red Devils completed the domestic double over the Reds for the first time in a decade. But there were plenty of bright spots for Liverpool and even more talking points. Here are the Top 3 Takeaways from Old Trafford.
Possession Without Purpose
Liverpool dominated possession in the first half with 63 percent, but it only produced one shot on goal. Most of the passes were to wide areas, not in an attacking position. Arne Slot has made mention of this issue on numerous occasions. It seemed to have been addressed but it reared its ugly head again today. Liverpool were much more direct in the second half, but they needed to be so for the full 90.
Experience Is The Teacher
I hate to be too negative, but Rio Ngumoha deserved more time on the pitch. In the 15 minutes he played, he continually won one-on-one battles with defenders. He did take an ill-advised shot with Szoboslai open, but with more experience, he will recognize and make that pass. The question is, how is he supposed to get more experience if he does not see enough time on the pitch? With both number 9s out, this would have been to give him a full run.
All Is Not Lost
Even with the setback, Liverpool are still in excellent shape to qualify for the Champions League next season. They just need one point from the final 3 matches to wrap up a spot. The only way they don’t qualify is to lose all the remaining matches, and Brighton win their final three, so it's hard to be overly upset
LFC Globe Verdict
There is a lot to like and dislike about this game. Liverpool’s first-half performance deserves criticism; the second half deserves praise. In all, while the loss stings, it does not hurt the Reds' UCL chances that much, so it's time to put this behind us and move to the next one.
Have Your Say
Are you more upset over the loss, or do you prefer to focus on the Reds' spirited comeback in the second half? Let us know below.