Monday, November 21, 2011

Match Report: Chelsea 1 - 2 Liverpool

Glen Johnson scored a sensational late winner to earn Liverpool three vital Barclays Premier League points at his old club Chelsea.

Former Blues full-back Johnson netted a brilliant solo effort to inflict his old club's third defeat in four league matches and leave both teams 12 points behind Manchester City.

Each side committed bad defensive errors to concede earlier goals, with Maxi Rodriguez giving Liverpool a half-time lead on his first league start of the season and substitute Daniel Sturridge equalizing shortly after the break.

A draw was arguably a fair result but that had also been the case in Chelsea's games against Manchester United and Arsenal this season when they also ended up on the losing side.

This loss cast further doubt on manager Andre Villas-Boas' Stamford Bridge revolution, with the Blues now looking set to drop out of the top four, something billionaire owner Roman Abramovich is unlikely to tolerate for long.

The Russian watched his prize asset left on the bench as Fernando Torres and Liverpool's Andy Carroll both failed to start.

The game did bring together the two players accused of racially abusing an opponent in recent weeks.

Both John Terry and Luis Suarez, who strenuously deny the allegations made against them, were both spared the kind of hostile reception from rival fans they might expect against other opponents.

Liverpool made the more impressive start, almost exploiting Chelsea's now notoriously high defensive line by twice Rodriguez getting beyond Suarez and Bellamy.

It took 10 minutes for the home side to seriously threaten, Juan Mata drilling Florent Malouda's cross dangerously back across goal.

At the other end, Branislav Ivanovic got a vital touch on Bellamy's cross before Johnson wasted a great opportunity to tee up a team-mate after a barnstorming run.

Liverpool, wearing black armbands in memory of the son of goalkeeper Brad Jones, who died of leukaemia on Friday, were looking more than comfortable, although Drogba hit the stanchion with a free-kick some supporters thought had gone in.

Terry, whose error cost Chelsea dearly against Arsenal in their last home game, made another gaffe in the 28th minute when he was robbed by Kuyt but David Luiz snuffed out the Liverpool attack.

Lucas was booked for clattering into the defender but the visitors' pressure was beginning to tell and they took the lead five minutes later after more horrendous defending.

John Obi Mikel dwelt on Petr Cech's pass and Charlie Adam robbed him, fed Craig Bellamy, who played a one-two with Suarez before feeding Rodriguez to clip over the goalkeeper.

An angry exchange between Terry and Bellamy, who have had more than one run in down the years, was calmed by referee Lee Probert.

With Chelsea's title bid threatening to unravel entirely, Villas-Boas hauled off Mikel for Daniel Sturridge at half-time.

It almost paid off four minutes in when Frank Lampard and Mata combined to find Drogba, who curled over from a good position.

The home side still looked uncertain whenever Liverpool broke but their pressure told in the 55th minute thanks to some rotten defending from the visitors.

Malouda was allowed to advance into the box and his cross-cum-shot was tapped home by Sturridge.

A wonder-save from Jose Reina stopped Ivanovic glancing home Drogba's free-kick two minutes later as Chelsea continued to dominate.

Ramires was booked for a late tackle on Martin Skrtel, with Kuyt following suit after hauling back Malouda.

Liverpool threw on Jordan Henderson for Bellamy in a bid to stem the tide, although Malouda went close with an audacious overhead kick.

The winger then sent a half-volley from Ivanovic's cross back across the face of goal and over the heads of waiting team-mates as Torres and Carroll both warmed up on the touchline.

They were made to wait even longer as the next change saw Stewart Downing replace Rodriguez before Ivanovic was cautioned for a nasty tackle on Suarez.

With just six minutes remaining, Torres finally arrived - along with fellow Liverpool old boy Raul Meireles - with Drogba and Ramires making way.

The visitors missed a great chance when Kuyt dragged wide after great work down the right from Henderson before Johnson produced one of the goals of the season to win it three minutes from time.

The full-back brought down Adam's pinpoint crossfield ball superbly, nutmegged Ashley Cole, and drove goalward before slotting into the corner.

Reds Delight Dalglish

Kenny Dalglish saluted his Liverpool side after they overcame Chelsea 2-1 at Stamford Bridge courtesy of Glen Johnson's superb late goal.

The spoils looked set to be shared after Daniel Sturridge cancelled out Maxi Rodriguez's first-half opener before Johnson's intervention.

The former Chelsea full-back collected Charlie Adam's raking cross-field pass, nutmegged Ashley Cole and the slotted home after driving into the box.

Dalglish's side is now level on points with the fourth-placed Blues in the Premier League table and it was a sweet moment for the Scot.

He guided his side to a 1-0 victory in West London shortly after returning to the Anfield hot seat last season, but took more pleasure from the victory this term.

"We wanted the same belief and positivity as last year. I think they surpassed that and were better this year than they were last year," Dalglish told Sky Sports.

"It is a great credit to them to come away from here with three points.

"In the first half we got a goal and were playing really well. In the second half they changed a little bit, put a bit more pressure on us and got the equalizer.

"But we hung on in there and to their credit they kept going. And at that stage of the game to have our right full-back up there and slotting it away is a great credit to the players and how much they want to move forward.

"I thought we played really well in the first half, and I don't know if anyone would object to us taking the three points.

"I was just pleased with the way they played, their attitude and their commitment. It was 'Dad's Army' really, with a lot of the old boys playing. Then the young boys came on and they never let us down either.

"It was a good day for Liverpool football club."

Duo Dedicate Win To Jones

Glen Johnson and Charlie Adam dedicated Liverpool's 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge to Reds goalkeeper Brad Jones.

The visiting players wore black armbands during Sunday's Premier League encounter in memory of Jones' young son Luca, who died on Saturday after a battle with leukaemia.

Johnson scored the winning goal three minutes from time when he collected Adam's raking cross-field pass, nutmegged Ashley Cole and drove into the box before sliding the ball past Petr Cech.

Adam also had a hand in the first as he robbed a dozing John Obi Mikel before releasing Craig Bellamy, who played a one-two with Luis Suarez and then played in Maxi Rodriguez for the opener.

"I'd like to dedicate that to Brad. He's had a difficult week so that's for you," the Scotland international told Sky Sports.

And Johnson added later on Twitter: "I want to dedicate my goal and the win to Brad and all his family! My love is with all of you!!! X"

Adam felt that the Anfield outfit's grafting was the key, with the Reds showing great resilience to go on and claim all three points after Daniel Sturridge had cancelled out the opener.

He said: "Hard work was the difference. We had good shape.

Glen Johnson Delighted To Be Returning To Full Fitness

Glen Johnson says he is nearly back to full fitness after grabbing an 87th minute winner for Liverpool away to Chelsea on Sunday.

With the build-up to the game focusing on ex-Liverpool players who now ply their trade at Chelsea, in the form of Fernando Torres and Raul Meireles, it was the former Blues man who grabbed a dramatic winner for his side.

Liverpool took the lead in the first half through Maxi Rodriguez, before substitute Daniel Sturridge equalized after the break, but Johnson's late goal helped the Reds move level on points in the table with their opponents.

The England international, who returned to action after a lengthy absence through injury in October, says his fitness levels are improving every game.

“I was the last name in people’s minds but I like to get forward and I’m very grateful for the goal,” Johnson told Sky Sports.

“Obviously I’ve had a few difficult months but I’ve been feeling better game by game and I finally feel I’m getting back to full fitness.

“We knew we dominated the first half but we knew they would get a kick up the backside at half-time and we expected a reaction, and once they get into that gear they are difficult to stop. The lads showed great character to bounce back and get the late goal.

“It’s two big clubs chasing each other and we know we know we are in a good position. We could have been better with results but we are happy with the result and we will take it.”

Charlie Adam was also a stand-out performer for Liverpool, playing a vital part in both of his side's goals.

“It was difficult because Chelsea is a good team,” Adam said. “We knew it was going to be difficult but we’ve got good players ourselves and I thought we played terrific and it’s a good way to bounce back after a difficult few weeks because the result against Swansea was hard to take.

“We were told to press and you always think you’ve got a chance and I was fortunate enough to get [the ball]. Maxi did well to finish it and we did well to bounce back after conceding the goal [early in the second half].”

Liverpool Join The Race To Sign PSV Star Midfielder

Liverpool are the latest club to be linked with a move for in-demand midfielder Kevin Strootman who has been attracting interest from a number of European clubs are starring for PSV Eindhoven.

The 21-year-old only joined the Dutch club in the summer after coming through the youth system at Sparta Rotterdam and has so far impressed both for his club and for his country with some assured displays for Holland.

The central midfielder has already made six appearances for Holland and recently scored his first international goal against Finland in September 7.

Holland manager Bert van Marwijk is a huge admirer of the midfielder and has praise on the player vision and ability on the ball. This has led to a number of reports linking him with a move away from PSV with The People reporting that Liverpool have been watching the player in action.

Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish sent assistant manager Steve Clarke and coach Kevin Keen to Hamburg last week to watch the midfielder in action against Germany and the pair were said to have been impressed with what they say despite the 3-0 loss.

PSV paid €13million for the midfielder during the summer and Liverpool would certainly have to make an improved offer if they were to convince the Dutch club to part with the talented youngster.

Liverpool Planning Surprise Swansea Raid For Nathan Dyer

Liverpool are believed to be preparing to make a shock bid for Swansea City's Nathan Dyer after the winger's impressive performances in recent weeks caught the attention of manager Kenny Dalglish.

Dyer, 23, has been one of the star players during Swansea's impressive start to their first season in the Premier League and Reds boss Dalglish apparently sees the young wideman as exactly what he is looking for to complement his existing squad.

Dalglish signed Stewart Downing from Aston Villa in the summer and the England man has been a top performer on the left, while fellow new recruits Jordan Henderson and Charlie Adam have been regulars in the centre.

But the Liverpool boss is reported to be keen on bringing balance to Liverpool's team with pace and width on the right and he has identified Dyer as the man to offer that.

The Scot has personally scouted the player already this season and saw him up close when Swansea earned a 0-0 draw at Anfield earlier this month.

Dyer was again impressive as the Swans lost narrowly at home to Manchester United on Saturday.

However, Dalglish may have to move quickly if he is to secure his services, with both Everton and Newcastle also said to be keen on making a bid.

LA Galaxy Target Kuyt As Their Next Premiership Signing

LA Galaxy are ready to make an effort to sign Liverpool’s Dutch International Dirk Kuyt with a view to signing the player in January but loaning him back to Liverpool for three months.

Kuyt’s time at Liverpool is coming to and end and it was always thought that he would return to his native Holland, however the speculation is that it is LA Galaxy that he is destined for.

LA Galaxy will be looking to bring in a couple of new players this winter, especially with David Beckham set to leave, and have identified Kuyt as the perfect choice, he may be 31 years old, but they feel that he could offer them at least two good seasons before he retires, possibly even three.

It would be an interesting dilemma for Kuyt, he has expressed the wish to return to his old club Feyenord, but it seems their interest is minimal and it was always going to be difficult for him to set up camp at Ajax, another club linked with the 31 year old.

LA Galaxy have a habit of going for players coming to the twilight of their careers and it makes sense that they would want Kuyt, question remains, would he go to the USA?

Liverpool Fans Wearing “Evra Is A Liar” T-shirts

Liverpool fans showed up at Stamford Bridge on Sunday wearing “Evra is a liar” t-shirts, which stewards made them remove ahead of kick-off.

Despite Luis Suarez admitting he called Evra a name in Spanish and the FA charging the Liverpool striker with directing racial verbal abuse at Evra, Liverpool fans have predictably rolled out their usual hero worship for their player.

Fellow Uruguayan Gus Poyet spoke out in defence of Suarez earlier this week, claiming his countryman isn’t racist, rather they “treat people of colour in a different way” back in Uruguay.

“I played with a player, and nobody knew him as Fernando Cáceres,” Poyet said. “Everyone knows him worldwide as Negro Caceres. Is that racist? In England it is but in the rest of the world, in South America or Spain, it’s not.

Some Liverpool fans have quickly claimed that “negro” or “negrito” is not racist terms in Uruguay, in fact, they are words you would use to address a friend.

The Kop: “In Spanish-speaking countries such as Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay where there are few people of African origin and appearance, negro is commonly used to refer to partners, close friends or people in general. It is similar to the use of the word “nigga” in urban communities in the United States.

For example, one might say to a friend, “Negro Como andas?” (literally “Hey, black one, how are you doing?”). In this case, the diminutive negrito is used, as a term of endearment meaning “pal”, “buddy” or “friend”. Negrito has come to be used to refer to a person of any ethnicity or color, and also can have a sentimental or romantic connotation similar to “sweetheart,” or “dear” in English.

It seems to me if Luis Suarez did use either word it would be more in the context of a term of endearment rather than a racial slur.”

Hold on, aside from the fact it is irrelevant to the FA what terms are or are not seen as acceptable in Uruguay, why on earth would any Liverpool fan think that Suarez was referring to Evra as “buddy” or “sweetheart”? With the pair of them at each other all game, it would be ridiculous to seriously try and claim that Suarez was using a “term of endearment” when talking to Evra that day.

Evra was visibly worked up whenever he came in to contact with Suarez, with the referee having to separate them on a number of occasions. For argument’s sake, let’s imagine Suarez didn’t think there was anything offensive about what he was saying. It wouldn’t have taken him long to work out that what he was calling Evra wasn’t going down very well and he needed to stop. Regardless though, pleading ignorance where racist terms are concerned doesn’t cut it and if Suarez called Evra “negro” or “negrito” he needs to be punished accordingly.

Sir Alex Ferguson recently criticized Liverpool for not doing as United had by obeying the FA’s request not to talk about the case. Kenny Dalglish has astonishingly repeatedly claimed that if Suarez isn’t found guilty, Evra should be punished. If Suarez is found guilty, the Liverpool manager and fans have put themselves in a very embarrassing position in vehemently supporting a racist.

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Match Preview: Chelsea vs Liverpool

As much as Andre Villas-Boas and Kenny Dalglish would prefer it not to be the case, all eyes will be on Fernando Torres, with a few glances towards Raul Meireles, when Chelsea host Liverpool on Sunday.

Torres and Meireles both left Anfield within the last 12 months under respective clouds having been seen by many on Merseyside to have forced their transfers to Stamford Bridge.

Spain international Torres quit Liverpool last January in a £50million deal, while Portugal playmaker Meireles moved on the final day of this summer's window having played three games for his former club this season.

Both players have claimed there are untold stories to their transfers, but they remain unpopular in the eyes of those in red and are certain to be targeted by the travelling boo-boys in West London.

Liverpool's loss was Chelsea's gain and, although Torres, who suffered defeat to Liverpool in his first reunion in February 2011, has scored just three league goals since moving, both he and Meireles appear to be important members of Villas-Boas' new-look team.

Such will be the focus on Torres and Meireles, there may even be some respite for John Terry amid the ongoing investigations of the Football Association and the police regarding allegations of racism towards Anton Ferdinand.

Chelsea's main concern is to avoid dropping further points, with Premier League leaders Manchester City already holding a nine-point lead over Villas-Boas' fourth-placed club, who have already lost three games.

Liverpool would need to win four or more goals to overtake Chelsea, but Dalglish's side are just three points behind their weekend hosts, despite drawing three of their last four league matches.

Chelsea will welcome back Didier Drogba from suspension, while John Obi Mikel shook off a back injury to face Blackburn before the international break.

Goalkeeper Hilario was not involved in the squad at Ewood Park because he was suffering with 'flu, but Michael Essien (knee) remains a long-term absentee.

Defender Jamie Carragher is in contention to return to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday having missed the last two matches with a calf injury.

Striker Luis Suarez is expected to keep his place in the starting line-up after being rested for Uruguay's friendly win over Italy in midweek as a precautionary measure after a minor back problem.

Captain Steven Gerrard is still making his way back to full fitness after an ankle infection.

Possible starting XIs:

Chelsea: Cech, Bosingwa, Ivanovic, Terry, Cole, Lampard, Ramires, Mikel, Mata, Sturridge, Torres.

Liverpool: Reina, Johnson, Carragher, Agger, Enrique, Lucas, Adam, Downing, Henderson, Kuyt, Suarez.

AVB - Reds Still In Title Hunt

Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas believes Liverpool are still in the hunt for the Premier League title by virtue of their significant summer spending.

The Blues tackle Kenny Dalglish's men at Stamford Bridge on Sunday bidding to close the 12 point gap between themselves and table-toppers Manchester City.

Three successive home draws have seen Liverpool's momentum stall, but they know a win in west London will bring them level with their opponents.

Many are already suggesting a two-horse race for the title between the two Manchester clubs, but Villas-Boas has refused to rule out the prospects of Liverpool thanks to the Anfield club's history and heavy investment in players over the summer.

"I've always seen them as title contenders because it's been assumed by them that they would do it," said the Portuguese.

"Dalglish has made the necessary changes to Liverpool for them to progress to title contenders this year.

"He made seven changes to the team, seven coming in, which represents the type of commitment the ownership have to put them back on title-winning ways.

"They are one of the biggest clubs in England and I always assumed they were challenging for the title."

Speaking about his own side's prospects, Villas-Boas admits that his side is facing a crucial month of domestic league, cup and European action.

"It's a good period for the different competitions," he added. "You can qualify for the last 16 of the Champions League, the Premier League can maybe start taking its pattern by the end of December.

"There's also a quarter-final in the Carling Cup with Liverpool, which gives us a chance to go into that competition next year."

Villas-Boas has also challenged Daniel Sturridge to maintain his level of performance after making his England debut in midweek.

The 22-year-old capped a successful year with a first appearance for Fabio Capello's side in the 1-0 win against Sweden on Tuesday, and his club manager now hopes he can prove he deserves to stay in his national squad.

"His performances for the club have taken him to England, and to a first appearance, which is something that is gratifying," said the former Porto boss.

"When someone arrives at that level, you have to prove you can continue to be at that level. That's the challenge he faces."

Reina Aims To Pile The Agony On Fernando Torres

Pepe Reina is desperate to pile the misery on his close friend Fernando Torres when Liverpool FC face Chelsea tonight.

The Liverpool FC keeper will line up at Stamford Bridge against his fellow Spaniard who quit Anfield for a British record fee of £50million back in January.

Since then Torres has struggled in the capital with just five goals in 30 appearances and Reina is on a mission to ensure the striker endures another fruitless afternoon against Kenny Dalglish’s men.

“Fernando is my friend and I always speak to him,” Reina said. “It will be strange to play against him once again and to see him in blue is kind of strange.

“But I’ve played many times against friends of mine both in Spain and in England and it’s never been a problem.

“I will wish him all the best of luck after the game but for those 90 minutes I wish him anything else.

“I don’t want to lose.”

Torres is guaranteed a hot reception from Liverpool fans who were angered by his decision to walk out on the club.

However, Reina insists supporters should remember what he achieved during his three and a half years at Anfield when he netted 81 goals in 141 appearances.

And the shot-stopper expects Torres to rediscover the form which made him a Kop idol.

“It was his decision to leave and we had to respect that,” Reina said.

“It was such a large amount of money and it was still a difficult period for the club. Fernando thought it was an opportunity to keep growing as a player.

“What we need to keep is that Fernando scored a fantastic number of goals for Liverpool. He was once the people’s favourite.

“We’ve said it many times, there is no-one bigger than Liverpool. Players come and go, managers come and go, the club will always stay.

Carroll Will Be Given A 12-month Boot Camp To Salvage His Liverpool Career

Liverpool will put Kop-flop striker Andy Carroll in a 12-month boot camp in a bid to salvage his Anfield ­career.

The £35million star’s diet and ­drinking will be closely monitored – and he is even prepared to ditch his ­trademark ponytail as worried Kop chiefs plan a new clean-cut image for him.

Carroll, 22, has scored just four goals in 16 Premier League games since his move from Newcastle in January – a slump that that has seen him drop out of the England reckoning.

Three Lions boss Fabio Capello left him out of the squad for the games against Spain and Sweden and he hasn’t been guaranteed a Liverpool starting place this season.

The new year-long health kick ­imposed by Anfield chiefs is a clear sign they are disturbed by his conditioning, even though they have repeatedly denied it.

A source said: “Andy is happy to go along with this long training schedule Liverpool have devised for him. It’s a conditioning program which will look at his whole lifestyle. While Carroll is obviously a big lad he is not particularly muscular and they want to put this right. They are not looking to give him more bulk, but more strength.

“He knows that as a £35m signing he should be the first name on the Liverpool team-sheet for the game at Chelsea but he also knows this won’t be the case.

“And as far as England is concerned he feels that his international career is going backwards.” Significantly, when asked if Carroll still had an England future, Capello replied: “Yes. But it depends on him, not on me.”

But Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish is defiant about his out-of-condition striker...and particularly that hefty fee.

Dalglish said: “Andy’s price-tag is only a problem for other people, not for us.

“He replaced a £50m striker which means we are £15m up on the deal – so he’s not a bad buy. Besides, we don’t look at anyone’s price.

“If someone comes here for nothing it doesn’t mean he has to be better than someone who has come here for £20m. If you can pass, play and score it’s no problem what you cost. Money is irrelevant.

“We are delighted with Andy Carroll. Two of the last three games he’s played have been his best two for the club.

“I don’t know where people get their ideas from about Andy. Stories appear on the internet about him and people follow it up even though it’s not always true.”

England boss Capello has warned Carroll he must be playing regularly and scoring goals to be under ­consideration for the Euro 2012 finals in Poland and Ukraine next summer.

The England boss said: “Andy Carroll is a good player and a good talent but in this moment we need to wait.

“First, he needs to score goals. For forwards it is like a drug – they need goals and I am waiting for his goals. I am looking for his goals.

“But I’m not worried about him. With young players you need to wait sometimes.

“When some players change clubs, like Carroll from Newcastle to Liverpool, the pressure is different.”

Arsenal And Liverpool To Battle For Barcelona Defender

Arsenal and Liverpool are amongst the teams ready to try and sign Eric Abidal, according to the Mirror.

The agent of the French left-back has claimed that it is more and more likely Abidal could leave the Nou Camp with his contract out at the end of the season.

Both Arsenal and Liverpool invested in new full-backs over the summer in the form of Andre Santos and Jose Enrique but appear to be keen on adding Abidal.

“We have very good relations with Barcelona, but we have not yet found the solution to extend the contract,” said agent David Venditelli.

“The truth is that, as time goes by, the risk of Abidal leaving Barcelona next year gets higher.”

Liverpool Set To Secure Chris Samba Signing

Liverpool is leading the hunt for Blackburn’s defensive colossus Chris Samba.

The ambitious Rovers star has switched agents after failing to secure a move away from Ewood Park last summer.

And Liverpool have been alerted to the fact he remains keen on leaving the struggling Ewood Park club. Arsenal showed keen interest in Samba last January, when the Congo international was rewarded with an improved five-year contract by Blackburn.

The Gunners and local rivals Tottenham were both chasing Samba during the summer but neither tabled official bids for the player.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has since signed German international defender Per Mertesacker, meaning that his interest in Samba has cooled.

Spurs are still on the look-out for a new centre-back but Liverpool are said to be in pole position for Samba.

Despite signing young Uruguayan defender Sebastian Coates in the summer, the Anfield club are still on the look-out for a new centre-back especially as this may be Jamie Carragher’s final season as a regular first-teamer.

It is believed Samba, 27, has become increasingly frustrated with life at Ewood Park and is eager to move to a bigger club while he is still in his prime.

That has sparked his move to new representatives and could see him switch clubs in January.

Blackburn owners Venky’s are under no pressure to sell players but they could be tempted by an offer of around £10million for their prize asset.

Reina: I'm Excited By Future

Pepe Reina believes all the ingredients are in place to make Liverpool challengers for the game's top honours.

The Spain goalkeeper insists the acquisition of the club by Fenway Sports Group last year has provided the Reds with the grounding required to enjoy a bright future - and he's excited by what is in store for the club.

"Now we have the money to buy some players and create a squad that is able to compete for the title," said Reina.

"Hopefully, with the right balance of the owners, supporters and the squad we can become champions again.

"It's important for the club to have this stability and positivity with the new players and a new manager. It is something we have to work on and the plan is to get better.

"It has been a good football career so far but my dream is to be in a championship-winning Liverpool team.

"My time here has been more positive than negative and I am very proud of having played so many games for Liverpool already.

"Liverpool is probably one of the best clubs, if not the best, in the world and it has been a pleasure to be here for the last seven years."

U18s Cruise To City Win

Liverpool U18s produced another superb display on their travels as they secured a 3-1 win at Manchester City on Saturday afternoon.

Mike Marsh's youngsters were looking to bounce back following last weekend's disappointing loss against Bolton and they did it in style courtesy of goals from David Moli, Jordan Lussey and Jack Dunn.

The result means the Reds remain unbeaten away from home this season and pick up three points that will give them a significant lift ahead of the forthcoming clash at Man United on Friday.

The visitors bossed the contest throughout and could have stolen in front on four minutes but no-one was on hand to fire in the rebound after Josh Sumner's shot was spilled by Angus Gunn.

City responded and Tyrell Belford did well to thwart Adam Drury before Alex Henshall's cross-shot was brilliantly cleared by Matty Regan.

The hosts were beginning to find openings and Drury wasted a glorious chance to put them ahead when he fired straight at Belford.

This miss seemed to inspire life into the Reds and after Lussey hit a free-kick into the wall they should have opened the scoring on 26 minutes.

The ball broke to Moli inside the six-yard box but when the forward miscued it presented an even more inviting opportunity for Regan. The centre back struck the ball cleanly but saw his effort arrow wildly wide of goal from point-blank range.

Next, Dunn fizzed just off target before the away side broke forward with devastating effect on 32 minutes.

Belford's quick-thinking throw found substitute Nathan Quirk on the left wing. The midfielder, who had just replaced the injured Sumner, hit a superb outside of the foot pass down the line to find the clever run of Dunn. The England U17 star raced through before unselfishly teeing up Moli who made no mistake from eight yards.

Dunn then saw a low free-kick beaten away at the near post by Gunn and Regan headed a corner over as Liverpool ended the half on top.

City was always going to respond after the interval but the visitors continued to produce a display worthy of their lead.

With defences on top, chances were at a premium until another fine move saw Liverpool double their lead on 59 minutes.

Moli did well down the right before crossing to the far post where Lussey ghosted in to fire home a clinical finish.

Both Dunn and Moli then wasted openings before City were given a lifeline on 76 minutes when Regan was harshly penalised for handball.

However, Belford produced a smart save low to his right to keep out Albert Rusnak's spot-kick.

With time ticking away Liverpool continued to threaten and they made it three four minutes later when Moli set up Dunn to beat Gunn with a low drive. It was the perfect way for the youngster to celebrate his 17th birthday and capped a final overall performance from Marsh's charges.

To their credit, City kept pushing until the end and they grabbed a consolation three minutes from time.

Saturday, November 19, 2011

Kenny's Chelsea Lucky Charm

Kenny Dalglish is hoping to maintain a proud record when he takes Liverpool to Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

The Scot has never lost to Chelsea as Liverpool manager in any competition - winning eight and drawing three of the 11 meetings.

Here are the rest of the facts and figures ahead of the big game from club statto Ged Rea.

Head to head (league only):

Overall: Liverpool 62 wins, Chelsea 46 wins, 28 draws.

At Chelsea: Liverpool 17 wins, Chelsea 37 wins, 14 draws.

A win will put Liverpool level on points with Chelsea and a three goal margin of victory will take the Reds above their London rivals.

Last season Liverpool recorded their second Premier League 'double' over Chelsea. The Reds won 2-0 at Anfield thanks to two Fernando Torres goals in the first half and a tremendous rearguard action after the break.

Raul Meireles scored the only goal of the game after 69 minutes of the return in London last February - a game that saw Torres wear a Chelsea shirt for the first time.

The 'double' was only the Reds' second over the Blues in 21 seasons.

All of the Reds' wins at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League era have been by a 1-0 scoreline. Last season's victory followed Xabi Alonso's winner in 2008 and Bruno Cheyrou's in 2004.

Despite a recent improvement, Liverpool have picked up just 13 points out of a possible 57 in league visits to Chelsea.

The Reds have lost 11 of their last 15 league visits to the Bridge and won only three of the last 21 on the ground.

Since the inception of the Premier League Liverpool have won 15 and lost 16 of the 38 meetings.

Liverpool has scored just eight times at Stamford Bridge in 19 league visits.

They have not scored more than once in a league game on this ground in their last 15 visits since a 2-2 draw in December 1995 when Steve McManaman scored both goals.

Pepe Reina was controversially dismissed in the league meeting on this ground in February 2006, while Steven Gerrard also received his marching orders at Stamford Bridge in 2003.

Glen Johnson played 72 times for Chelsea in all competitions from 2003-07, scoring four times.

His first ever league goal was scored on this ground eight years ago this month in a 5-0 win over Newcastle.

Jordan Henderson made his career league debut on this ground in November 2008. His Sunderland team lost 5-0.

However, he was in the Black Cats side that recorded a shock 3-0 win at the Bridge a year ago last weekend.

Patrik Berger scored Liverpool's last hat-trick against Chelsea - at Anfield in October 1997.

That is one of only four occasions when Reds players have scored three in a game against Chelsea - the others being James Stewart (1910), Fred Pagnam (1915) and Gordon Hodgson (1930). All were scored at Anfield.

No player has ever scored a hat-trick for Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.

Liverpool's clean sheet last season was only their fourth in the last 16 league visits.

The Reds' biggest victory on this ground came in December 1989 when they won 5-2.

Liverpool's heaviest ever defeat at Stamford Bridge came on the opening day of the 1937-38 season when they lost 6-1.

Only Fabio Aurelio, Lucas and Dirk Kuyt of the current squad have scored for Liverpool at Stamford Bridge - all in the Champions League.

In fact, Aurelio's last Liverpool goal came in the 4-4 European draw at the Bridge in April 2009.

The Reds are looking to record back-to-back league wins at Stamford Bridge for the first time since the 1974-75 season.

Liverpool have won twice in the last three visits and have won four of the last six league meetings home and away. They have lost only two of the last nine.

In the last seven league meetings between the sides only one of the teams has managed to score. The last occasion when both teams scored was in the 1-1 draw at Anfield in August 2007.

Charlie Adam could make his 250th career club appearance in all competitions.

Going into this weekend's fixtures only the United's of Manchester and Newcastle (three each) have conceded fewer league goals on the road than Liverpool's five.

Liverpool is looking for a third successive league clean sheet for the first time since last February, when they kept four in a row. The last in that sequence was the 1-0 win at Chelsea.

The Reds have won four away games in succession in all competitions. The last time they won five was in May 2006 (ultimately they won six in a row) while they bid to register three in a row on the road in the Barclays Premier League for the first time since May 2009.

Chelsea have scored only six times against Liverpool in the last 10 league meetings home and away.

They have lost only six of their last 144 league games at home, the last coming in that 5-3 loss to Arsenal in the last fixture in front of their home fans.

Chelsea's last hat-trick in the fixture was scored by George Mills in August 1937 at Stamford Bridge.

Didier Drogba has scored 10 goals against Liverpool during his career - the first two for Marseille and eight for the Londoners.

Fernando Torres scored seven goals in eight games against the Londoners. Since moving to Stamford Bridge he has scored five goals in 30 games in league and cup. He scored 13 times in his last 30 Liverpool games.

He has scored more league goals for Liverpool in 2011 than he has for Chelsea - four for the Reds, three for the Londoners.

By comparison Luis Suarez has scored 11 in his 27 games for the Reds, while Andy Carroll has five in 21 appearances.

Raul Meireles scored five goals in 44 appearances for the Reds with his penultimate goal for the club coming on this ground. He has found the net once in his 11 games for Chelsea - scoring his side's first in a 5-0 Champions League win over Genk.

Nicolas Anelka played for the Reds during the 2001-02 season while on loan from Paris St Germain, scoring five times in 22 games in league and cup.

Along with Fernando Torres, David Luiz also made his Chelsea debut in this fixture last season, while Salomon Kalou, John Obi Mikel and Alex have all made their Blues' debuts against Liverpool in recent seasons.

The Blues have kept only two clean sheets in the last 10 games in all competitions and the 1-0 win at Blackburn last time out was their first Premier League shut-out since the opening day.

They have not kept a league clean sheet at Stamford Bridge since beating West Ham 3-0 in April.

Frank Lampard is Chelsea's leading scorer this season with seven goals, six in the league. He has scored five times in his last five league games, including a hat-trick at Bolton last month.

Earlier this season he became only the fifth player in history to make 500 Premier League appearances.

John Terry and Ashley Cole are the only players to play in every Chelsea league game this season.

Chelsea have had five players sent off this season: Alex, Torres, Jose Bosingwa, Didier Drogba and Ross Turnbull.

They have conceded nine goals at home in five league games. They shipped only 13 in 19 league games last season at the Bridge.

In 11 league games they have conceded 15 goals this season - the same number they let in during the whole of Jose Mourinho's first season in charge.

Leading scorers this season (league in brackets):

Liverpool: Suarez 7 (4), Carroll 3 (2), Adam 2 (2), Bellamy 2 (1), Gerrard 1 (1), Henderson 1 (1), Kuyt 1 (0), Maxi 1 (0), Skrtel 1 (1), own goals 2 (2).

Chelsea: Lampard 7 (6), Sturridge 5 (4), Torres 4 (2), Mata 3 (2), Ramires 4 (3), Terry 3 (3), Kalou 2 (0), Anelka 1 (1), Bosingwa 1 (1), Drogba 1 (1), Ivanovic 1 (0), Luiz 1 (0), Malouda 1 (1), Meireles 1 (0).