5 Star Liverpool

What a way to end the year 2008 on top and 3 points clear of Chelsea.

Liverpool achieved this feat with a 5-1 demolition of Newcastle at St.James Park. Liverpool displayed their ruthlessness that was lacking during that two 0-0 draws at home to West Ham and Fulham.

Had Liverpool won that two encounters, they would have sitting comfortably at the to leading by 7 points.

This has to be one of the greatest match Liverpool played this season. Any team that goes to Newcastle and banged in 5 goals must be respected.

I am a big critic of Alonso and Kuyt but both seem to be playing better. I just hope Rafa will not sell him to Arsenal or other clubs.

Liverpool will certainly be the team to beat comes 2009.

With Chelsea and Arsenal to come to Anfield. Anything can happen.

The first big match will see Chelsea meeting Man Utd, I certainly hope it end with a draw while Liverpool win at Stoke.

Go Liverpool!

The Big Four - Loving Each Other.

The EPL this season is a funny one. The Big Four seem to love each other so much that they are "giving" each other the chance to claim the title.

Never in any BPL season that the Big Four dropped points together in the same week, I did not happen once but thrice.

Just when it looked my Liverpool presented Chelsea with numerous chance to reclaim top spot with a series of draws at Anfield, Chelsea themselves also drew games.

While Arsenal has been inconsistent losing to smaller teams but winning against Man Utd and Chelsea, they fell further behind after drawing with Liverpool last week.

The greatest beneficiary got to be Man Utd. They returned from the Far East with 2 games in hand and only 7 points behind leaders Liverpool.

It has been a funny season.

Liverpool Tripped At Home Once Again

Another 2 points dropped at home again. It is 3 games without a win at home.

Hull City put up another brave performance to dent Liverpool's title credential. Liverpool had to come back from 2 goals down to draw 2-2. As past home matches, Liverpool dominated the game but Hull took the lead against the run of play.

Liverpool was lucky to draw the game from a brace from who else but Gerrard. The Reds need their skipper to save them again.

It was another frustrating evening for the Reds fans and Liverpool team. Keane's future at Liverpool is becoming bleak when Rafa refused to use him in the match when Liverpool is in search of another goal.

Chelsea will be smiling as they should top the table after their game against West Ham. Liverpool regin at the top look shortlived.

Liverpool v Hull - My Preview

Liverpool host surprise package Hull City in their final match over the "honeymoon" period. After this match, the Reds will go head to head against Arsenal away from home.

During this "honeymoon" period, Liverpool disappoint many by drawing blank against lesser teams like Fulham and West Ham at home but register away win to Blackburn and Bolton. The record for those matches read P5 W3 D2 L0. If Liverpool were to turn the 2 draws to wins, they will be riding at the top by 5 points instead of a slender 1 point lead.

Many lesser known teams seem to have found a way to frustrate Liverpool at Anfield. However Hull City will not adopt a defensive formation as evident in their away matches against Arsenal and Man Utd where they scored and conceded 5 goals. Hull City's offensive play will suit Liverpool.

Having said that, without Torres, Liverpool may again be left frustrated by creating chances but not able to score.

With 2 victories away to Blackburn and PSV, this match is a MUST win for the Reds if they are to maintain their lead at the top knowing that Chelsea will beat West Ham.

I would go for a 2-0 win for Liverpool.

Wonderful Week for Liverpool

Liverpool maintained their one point lead at the top of the BPL table by beating Blackburn 3-1 at Ewood Park.

The scoreline did not reflect the whole story. Liverpool were made to work hard by a Blackburn side in deep trouble.

The first hafl saw Liverpool failing to get the foothold of the game and ended 0-0. It was the second half when Xavi Alonso opened the floodgate. With Torres out for another few weeks or so, one would wonder where the goals would come especially when Keane is struggling to find the net on a regular basis.

Wanted away Benayoun scored Liverpool second with a superb piece of skill. Santa Cruz gave Blackburn hope before Gerrard sealed the game with Liverpool third.

I would like Rafa to give Benayoun more playing time especially Liverpool fail to find the net against Fulham and West Ham. The former Hammer will provide extra craft and vision to create goals for Liverpool with the loss of Torres.

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A second string Liverpool side produced a positive display at PSV to top the group knocking off Athletico Madrid.

Goals from Babel, Riera and Ngog was enough to see of PSV 3-1 after trailing a goal down.





With the victory, Liverpool have the advantage of playing the second leg of the knockout stage at home.

It was rather perfect 4 days for the Reds having scored 6 goals in 2 away games.

This will certainly give Rafa's team the confident of challenging for honours for both front.


With Hull coming to Anfield this weekend, Liverpool will ill afford another 0-0 soreline against the Tigers. This is an ideal chance for Liverpool to pull further from Man Utd who travel to White Hart Lane to face in form Spurs. Spurs may just nick something from that game.

It all remain to be seen if Liverpool can carry the great form into this weekend game before they face Arsenal at the Emirates next week.

Title Challenger? It's Rubbish!

First it was Stoke, then Fulham and now West Ham.

It seems Liverpool is doing charity in this season BPL title race. Just when their rivals dropped points, Liverpool simply do not know how to take advantage. They lack
the experience to challenge for the title.

Lesser known teams have found a way to play at Anfield and Liverpool do not have answers to overcome them. The greatest beneficaries from the Anfield flop is Man Utd. However Chelsea and Arsenal must also be similing brightly after this draw.

It makes little wonder Man Utd and Chelsea have rule out Liverpool in this title challenge. It is not hard to think so.

Liverpool has dropped 6 points at Anfield this season and this is real bad. The draw matches they MUST win. There is no point beating the likes of Chelsea and Man Utd but drawing against teams like Fulham, Stoke and West Ham.

Rafa clearly need one more class striker. Robbie Keane is proving to be a big flop. 20 million pounds for Keane is surely an expensive flop. He is unable to lead the frontline during the absence of Torres.

I think I'm taking a short break from watching Liverpool play. They are back to their Houllier days when they are unable to grind result necessary to win the title. What promises to be a exciting month of November and December when Liverpool play the mid-table teams now are turning into a banana skin.

Seriously, Rafa need another proven striker to replace Torres upfront. Liverpool may wish to offload Keane in the summer.

Buy Defoe, Rafa!

Stand Up And Be Counted

With Chelsea slipping to an unexpected defeat at home to Arsenal last night, Liverpool will reclaim top spot if they do not lose the game against West Ham.

A draw is not good enough while a victory will open a 3 points gap between Chelsea and Liverpool and 8 points clear off Man Utd.

This is a must win game for Liverpool. Many will remember that the Reds missed the chance to go top after drawing with Fulham 0-0 when Chelsea themselves also drew 0-0 at home to Newcastle.

If Liverpool are to prove they are genuine title contender, they must not flop tonight. Anything less than 3 points will surely cast question if Liverpool possess the mentality to cope with the pressure.

Each of the Liverpool players playing in this game know the advantage with 3 points.

I would expect nothing less than a win. I would go for a 1-0 hard fought win for Liverpool.

Liverpool Struggled Past Marseille

Liverpool will have their skipper to thank for as they sealed their passage to the last 16.

After the disappointing home draw against Fulham, Liverpool was expected to win this match with style. However it was not a performance that made any Reds proud.

Marseille could have snatched a draw if Lady Luck had smiled on them last night. Liverpool was lucky that Gerrard header was enough to give Liverpool the victory.

In this match, only Torres and Gerrard impressed. The defence looked nervy, the midfielder could not win the battle in the middle of the park and poor Torres was isolated alone.

Mascherano had his worst game in Liverpool shirt. His form has dipped eversince appointed the captain of Argentina.

Maybe Rafa could well to rest him for some matches. I hope Rafa will start Babel and Benayoun in the match against West Ham.

Liverpool need some creativity in midfield.

Indeed, the result was good but the performance was ugly.

Title Hope Dented

For once I thought Liverpool was playing away from home. Until I saw the scoreboard at half time, I only realised the match is being played to Anfield.

Passings gone astray, players slower to the ball and lack of penetration. It's absolutely rubbish! Blame on the International Friendlies? No way.

Rafa decision to leave Alonso on the beach is questionable. Lucas was garbage and Mascherano looked jaded. The midfield lost the battle to Murphy and Bullard. Fulham looked dangerous on the counter. Had Reina been off form as well, Liverpool would end the first half trailing by two goals.

Liverpool clearly missed Gerrard. Without Gerrard, Liverpool is just a team without a soul. The Reds simply have no answer to Fulham resolute defence. They are unable to create chances.

Only Torres impressed. Keane was merely a passenger in this match. 20 millions pound for the ex-Spurs man is proving a poor business by Rafa.

Evident in this match, Liverpool is not good for the title. Chelsea and Man Utd will do battle come May.

Sorry Liverpool, you are not good enough if you can't beat the likes of Fulham and Stoke at home. This the a match you ARE expected to win but you failed the test.

One consolation for Liverpool is that Chelsea also drew blank at home by Newcastle.

Liverpool will look at the home matches against Stoke and Fulham if they are pipped to the title.

Easy Win for Liverpool.

Liverpool never looked in danger of dropping points at the Reebok Stadium yesterday.

The 2-0 win over Bolton reflect Liverpool's confidence and character at the moment, I am pleased with the way the Reds played in this match. Coming home with a clean sheet at the Bolton is never easy.
Liverpool should have won by a bigger margin if Keane and Gerrard is more clinical in their finish. Torres should have scored only for the post to deny him.

Kuyt has been in good form for the past few weeks and it is good to see him scoring again. He will shoulder some burden from Keane who is still adapting life at Liverpool.

Having said that, Liverpool need reinenforcement in their centre back position. With Skrtel out for months, Liverpool will be short of cover if suspension and injuries are to creep in.

I just wonder why Liverpool is reluctant to give Jack Hobbs a run out in the team.

Next up is the in form Fulham at Anfield. I do not foresee Liverpool having problem disposing their opponent.

This season has been great for Liverpool so far as they are in pace with Chelsea and some 5 points ahead of Man Utd and 8 points ahead of Arsenal.

Hopefully we can see Liverpool in this position in March 2009.

Bolton V Liverpool - My Preview

Liverpool's form has been patchy past weeks. 2 defeats to Spurs and a win against West Brom hardly please any Liverpool supporters.

The Reebok Stadium has not be a happy hunting ground for Liverpool. Though Bolton has not been performing well lately, they got 2 wins out of 2. On paper, this is a sure win match for the Reds. However, one must never discount Bolton phyiscal play. Liverpool will not enjoy playing Bolton at this time as there is some injuries and suspension to their defence.

Rafa was awarded the Manager of the Month for October. The award seem to be a jinx to most managers. Their team would perform badly after getting the award.

With Torres and Gerrard back, I predict a 2-1 win for Liverpool.

Liverpool Bounce Back.

Robbie Keane's first BPL goal for the club sent Liverpool to the top of the table for at least 24 hours.

Keane's double and a rare goal from Arbeloa ensure Liverpool bounced back from their defeat away to Spurs last weekend.

Though the 3-0 scoreline was flattering, the Baggies took the game to Liverpool and frustrated the Reds until the 34 minutes. Instead of playing a packed game, West Brom manager fielded two strikers to signal their intent. Torres started the game on the bench.

The game seems to be heading for stalement when a through pass by Gerrard sent Keane free and he lifted the ball past Carson. The pressure is off Liverpool as soon as they got the first goal.

Fear somehow creep in whether Liverpool can protect the lead. The game was considered well and truly over when Keane rounded off Carson for his second of the game.

The Baggies came out of the second half more stronger. They did created some problems for the Liverpool's defence which look a little suspect at times.

Any chance of a West Brom's comeback disappeared when Arbeloa scored in the 90th minute.

With Man Utd loss to the wounded Arsenal, Liverpool pulled 8 points clear off the Champion though the latter has a game on hand.

Liverpool vs West Brom - My Preview

After a difficult week, Liverpool will surely welcome the chance to put their disappointing performances behind them.

The Reds are winless in their. last 2 games, a defeat against Spurs and a gifted draw against A.Madrid. This weekend, they face the Baggies at Anfield. On paper, this game is a foregone conclusion based on the quality of both sides. However, Liverpool should look at their game against Stoke. The Baggies will play a tight game with a packed midfield.

Liverpool will have to be patient if they are to break down the Baggies's resilient. The Reds has not been impressive since the start of the season and they are lucky to br joint top wth Chelsea.

With Chelsea away to Blackburn and Man Utd away to the wounded Arsenal, Liverpool can reclaim top spot by beating West Brom.

With home advantage, I can see Liverpool winning the game by 2-0.

Liverpool Great Escape

I switched off the TV set after 89 minutes. I was disappointed with what I saw. The performance was a load of crap!

With defeat starting at Liverpool, the Reds got out of jail when the referee awarded a highly debatable penalty 3 minutes into stoppage time.



Liverpool lack ideas and creativity as they struggled to create clear cut chances. It was a sucker punch when Madrid took the lead after a brillant counter attack.

As in the Spurs match, Liverpool were dominant in term of possession but fail to make their chances count.

My blood really boil as the match progresses. I was expecting a tight encounter with the Reds winning by the odd goal.

Rafa Benitez said in the post match interview that Liverpool should have won the match given the number of chances. Sorry Rafa, if your team can't score, you can't win. It is as simple as that.

Since the start of the season, Liverpool has been struggling in matches despite their comeback wins. The only match which they won comfortably was the one against PSV. Other than that, the Reds has not been impressive.

This weekend fixture will see Liverpool take on West Brom. I expect to see them winning at least by two clear goals.

Carlsberg Web-TV Channel

I am absolutely delighted that Carlsberg Brewery has launched their Carlsberg web-TV channel featuring video clips on past classic Euro matches.



Being a soccer fanatic and a Liverpool fan, I can log on to www.partofthegame.tv to relive the great moments of past and present football greats. Apart from this, I can also check out funny moments at Football Magic Channel. I will surely be going to this website regularly.

We Will Be Back!!

It has been almost 24 hours since Liverpool lost their 1st match in the BPL, I have not digested the cruel fact.

Spurs will be bragging that they are the 1st team to end the Reds unbeaten run. Man Utd and Chelsea will be heaving a big sign of relief when they heard the news from White Hart Lane.

The news will please all non-Liverpool fan but it certainly won't please me!!! Rafa Benitez's man must bounce back quickly but beating A.Madrid and securing their Champion League qualification.

I expect a backlash from Liverpool this weekend. West Brom will visit Anfield and I expect the Reds to vent all their frustration at the Baggies.

Be very afraid West Brom, Liverpool will be back!!

Harry's Jinx Haunt Liverpool

I am distraught, angry and I am hungry for Spurs blood!!!!!!!! Surely I am speechless now. I understand all good things must come to an end. I can accept Liverpool's defeat but to Spurs when Stoke and Hull can beat them? If the two promoted side can defeat Spurs, surely the league leader can score a victory. It was afterall First vs Bottom!!!!

Liverpool has been making comebacks and breaking teams' heart with last minute winner, I guess the scenario has reversed in this match.

Based on recent matches, Liverpool has been unable to win games which they scored first except for Chelsea and Portsmouth match. At the Vicente of Calderon, the Reds failed to killed the game with a second goal and eventually ended a draw.

Liverpool dominated the match at White Hart Lane last night but fail to make their dominance count and they were punished by a last minute goal by Roman.

I just got a feeling that this year will be a three horse race between Chelsea, Man Utd and Liverpool. The title will well be decided by goal difference. Liverpool will surely lose in this apsect. They have so far failed to score a convincing win against any of the BPL side the played.

The failure to convert chances will prove costly for Liverpool if they do not improve on their goalscoring record. Both Man Utd and Chelsea are scoring goals for fun. Rafa Benitez may want to recruit one more class striker during the January window transfer. Torres is injury prone while Kuyt is socring goals but he can't give Liverpool 20 goals a season.

How Liverpool bounce back will depend very much on their mentality. Unless and until Liverpool convert their chances, the Reds will slowly find themselves out of the title race.

Rafa, Please sign Aaron Lennon and Roque Santa Cruz!!

As for now, I am just so lost and moody after the Spurs loss!!! No amount of words can console me.

I shall not be posting any picture for this post as it is just too painful....

Spurs v Liverpool - My Preview

What a funny week for Liverpool. First they host ex-Harry Redknapp Portsmouth in Anfield where they won 1-0 and now they travel to Spurs to face Harry Redknapp side.

Liverpool will surely fancy their chance if this match is played a week ago. Spurs were in complete disarray then but now they seem to be "reborned" to another team managed by the ex-Pompey boss.

Spurs beat Bolton 2-0 last Saturday and now they came back from 2 goals down to drew 4-4 against the Gunners in their North London derby.

Liverpool cannot afford to take this game lightly now that Spurs is finding their feet. Though Spurs strikeforce looks lightweight in their last few matches, their midfielders are chipping in the goals in their last 2 matches.

If Liverpool are to claim another 3 points, it would take another enoromous effort to that of the Chelsea game.

Looking at the remaining fixtures for Liverpool in November, the Reds can remain top of the table if they can score a victory against Spurs.

Liverpool will face the likes of Fulham, West Brom, Hull City and West Ham after their game against Spurs. With due respect to those teams, Liverpool should have no problem seeing off the teams.

It will be a tight encounter this weekend, however I tip Liverpool to beat Spurs 2-1 to end Harry Redknapp great start to his rein at White Hart Lane.

Gerrard "Spot" On For Liverpool

Liverpool needed a Gerrard penalty to remain top of the table.

The Reds dominate against a Portsmouth side coming and looking for a draw. They almost frustrate Liverpool until Gerrard intervene. It was not a pretty match. Pompey is getting by the departure of Harry Redknapp while Liverpool want to prove their win against Chelsea is no fluke.

Though it is not a convincing display by the Reds, what matter is the 3 points.


Come Saturday, Liverpool will travel to White Hart Lane for their clash with the rejevnated Spurs managed by - Harry Redknapp.

Liverpool v Portsmouth - My Preview

The BPL leader, Liverpool entertain Portsmouth in a midweek clash at Anfield.

The Reds on the back of a historic win against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge will want to claim 3 points against a Portsmouth side still reeling from shock following the departure of their manager, Harry Redknapp to Spurs. The Reds also welcome the return of Peter Crouch.

Though Pompey drew against Fulham at Fratton Park, Portsmouth are a improved side this season. Defoe is on hot scoring form while Diarra is running the show in the midfield. With David James in goal, it will take something special to beat the goalkeeper.

Victory against Chelsea will count for nothing if Liverpool can't win this match. Torres is still a major doubt for this game.

I predict that Portsmouth will take the game to Liverpool. My call for this game is a 1-1 draw with Crouch scoring against his former employer.

Liverpool Break Chelsea's Record

Oh well. What a joy! What a satisfaction and what a sweet revenge for last season's Champion League semi-final defeat. Let all Reds players and fans sit back and savour this victory.

Liverpool did something that other teams just fail to achieve. They beat Chelsea at the Blues backyard. It ended Chelsea 86 unbeaten home matches. No teams have done it for the past 4.5 years. Not Man Utd, not Arsenal, not even Barcelona or Valencia or Bayern Munich. Just when no one gave Liverpool the chance of a 3 points from Stamford Bridge, the Reds prove them wrong.

If anyone were to point out that the "Comeback Kings" were lucky to win against the 10 men of Man City and Wigan, they will need to think again. We went to the Vicente Calderon Stadium and score 1st only for the Spainish side to level. We travelled to the fortress Stamford Bridge to take the lead and defended stoutly to restrict Chelsea to long shots and high crosses into the box.

When Alonso scored off a deflection, I feared that Chelsea will raid attack after attack. I feared that Liverpool could not withdraw the onslaught from the boys from Stamford Bridge. As the match progressed, it seems relatively for the boys in Reds.

Rafa said before the match that Liverpool need a perfect 90 minutes in order to break Chelsea's long home unbeaten record. How right is Rafa. Liverpool just played to perfection. It's not luck that won the game for Liverpool. It was sheer determination, belief, guts and strong mentality. Had lady luck be with the Reds, Alonso should have put the game to the sword when his free kick hit the post with Petr Cech stood rooted.

It is 6 points out of 6 against the Big 4. What's now, Liverpool are 3 points clear off Chelsea and 8 points clear of Man Utd with the latter having a game in hand. The Liverpool of the past will simply play for a draw. The Reds of the past will lose their belief if they are a goal behind. However, this is a different Liverpool side.

Last night win against Chelsea will indeed further enchance Liverpool's title credential but it's still early in the season.

For now, we know that our rival has received our message of intent. Liverpool can boast that they are the side that broke Chelsea's long standing home record.

Man Utd, Liverpool is back and you won't be winning your 18th English title this season.

Chelsea v Liverpool - The Big Match

Chelsea welcome Liverpool for the top of the table clash this Sunday. It is hardly to see this match billed as 1st vs 2nd for many years.

Both teams goes into this match level on 20 points. They were the only two unbeaten side left in the BPL. The record of unbeaten surely has to end for either one of the teams.

On paper, Chelsea have been in irresistable form hammering 5 goals past Boro in the Riverside Stadium while Liverpool came back twice to beat Wigan in Anfield.

Liverpool and Chelsea have their injury worries but Liverpool will sorely miss their top marksmen in Torres.

I am not impressed by Liverpool defensively. They kept conceding needless goals. Liverpool will be punished if they commit the same mistake again. I do not think Liverpool can stage another comeback against Chelsea if they are a goal down. Chelsea is altogether a different opposition as compared to Man City and Wigan.

Can Liverpool break Chelsea's 4 years unbeaten run at the Bridge? I doubt so.

My heart wants the Red to win but my head says 2-0 to Chelsea. My other prediction:

Everton v Man Utd 1-2
Blackburn v Boro 2-0
Sunderland v Newcastle 2-1
West Brom v Hull 2-0
Man City v Stoke 3-0
Chelsea v Liverpool 2-0
Portsmouth v Fulham 3-1
West Ham v Arsenal 1-1
Wigan v Villa 2-1
Spurs v Bolton 2-1

Liverpool Denied Victory

After watching last night match, I fully with Rafa's post match interview.

Rafa said" If anyone comes to me and said we will have 7 points after tonight's game, I will be very happy but after watching the match, I feel that it's 2 points dropped." Rightly so.

Liverpool dominated the match in the first half with Keane scoring in the 14th minute. Keane could easily scored his second and sealed the game after a superb cross from Gerrard. Instead of tapping the ball into goal, Keane opted to aduciously flipped the ball into his net. However Keane missed the ball completely. Rafa was absolutely livid with Keane. Just what on earth was going through Keane's mind when he attacked the ball?

In a tough away game like this at the Stadium of Vicente Calderon and 1-0 to the good, Keane should have buried the ball into the back of the net.

There were some bad decision from the lineman not to allow Benayoun's goal to stood. Replay showed Benayoun was clearly onside. However Mainche goal's should have stood as well. Babel nearly gave Liverpool the victory when his header flashed past the goal.

The failure to convert chances haunted the Reds when Simao levelled in the 83rd minute. Both Carragher and Aberloa should share the blame in the manner they conceded the equalizer.

Nevertheless it was an encouraging display from Liverpool in such difficult match away.

Liverpool can held their head up for this Sunday top of the table clash against Chelsea.

Kuyt's Brace Sink Wigan

Football is a beautiful game but it is also a cruel game.

Try telling Wigan this and they will agree fully.

For the second successive match, Liverpool come back from the dead to win 3-2 with the opposition having a man sent off. Conincidentally, the two players were sent off with a reckless tackle on Alonso when Liverpool was 2-1 down.

With Chelsea hammering Boro in the earlier match, Liverpool knew that they cannot afford to slip up. Based on past record, Rafa has not beaten Steve Bruce's side in the BPL.

Wigan started the match without Heskey upfront. The Latics started the match brightly passing the ball well and quick to close in on Liverpool players. Typical of Steve Bruce's team, Wigan was well orgainzed and compact. Liverpool were not allow to settle down and slow to pick up the loose ball. Perhaps the international game took some sting off the players.



The unthinkable happened in the 29th minute, Agger made a mess of Reina pass. The Dane first touch was heavy and he tried to dribble past Zaki. Unfortunately, the Egyptian robbed Agger of the ball and place the ball past Reina. 0-1 to Wigan.

Agger made amend of his howler 8 minutes later. He took the ball from his own half and exchanged passes with Dossena who released Agger on the bye line. Kuyt was there and hit home Agger's cross for Liverpool equalizer.

Kuty nearly put Liverpool in the lead but Kirkland palmed the ball onto the post. Against the run of play, Wigan struck back with the last kick of the first half.

Kapo's cross went over Arbeloa's head and Zaki executed a spectaculsr scissor kick past the diving Reina. Anfield was stunned.

Liverpool showed more urgency in the second half. The Reds were creating more chances. Antonio Valencia was booked for disrupting a free kick. From the resulting free kick, Gerrard went agonisingly close. Valencia was sent off for his second bookable offence. The advantage is on Liverpool.

Dossena was replaced by El Zhar who made an instant impact. His cross was dummied by Gerrard. The ball laid nicely to Rierawho struck sweetly into the net. Game on. Liverpool sense a victory and went for the kill.

Benayoun replaced Arbeloa. Rafa decide to go for a win having taken out two full back. The gamble paid off when Kuyt scissor kick bounced off the box and Kirkland pushed the ball onto the post and into the net. 3-2 to Liverpool. Anfield erupted.

For the neutral, it was an entertainment match of football. For Liverpool fans, it was of mixed feelings. As a fan of Liverpool, I have to endure frustration, anguish and disbelief after the first half. The feeling of relieved after it was 2-2. Then moment of esctasy when Kuyt made in 3-2.

This result meant that Liverpool goes to Stamford Bridge next weekend for the top of the table clash. If Liverpool can get something from that game, this just might be Liverpool season.

Having said that, the rear guard for this Liverpool this season has been less impressive. With the departure of Riise and Finnan, Liverpool looked unsettled in defence. They have concede 4 goals in their last 2 games.

Dossena and Arbeloa have not impressed me. Dagen has been injury prone. Liverpool wil need to be resilent in their defence next week otherwise they will be punished by Chelsea ruthless attack.

Liverpool v Wigan - My Preview

The curse of International matches hit Liverpool yet again. The last thing Liverpool wants to to have their top players injured during their National duty.

The Reds was rocked by injuries to Torres and Babel. Torres could be out for 10 days due to a "tweak" to his muscle and an ankle injury forced Babel to withdraw from his game in midweek.

Torres has been in rich vein of form scoring 4 goals in his last 2 games. His injuries is like a sucker punch ahead of the Wigan game. With Torres out, the burden will be on the shoulder of Gerrard to lead the scoring. Robbie Keane should be the lone striker with Gerrard in a supporting role.

Liverpool has been impressive in their last few matches. Injuries to the duo severely dent the hope of the good run. Torres will miss this weekend game against Wigan, next week Champion League visit to his home town, Aletihco Madrid and possibly, the top of the table clash with Chelsea.

The game against Wigan will not be easy and the Lactics can frustrated Liverpool again like what they did with a 1-1 draw at Anfield last season. Steven Bruce's side will be no pushover. With Heskey leading the line, Liverpool's defence, without the injured Sktrel must be strong.

Wigan's will come to Anfield to pack the midfield and go for the counter attack. Rafa issue Liverpool with a statement of intent to go for the kill early. However with the injuries to Torres and Babel, the ability to score early appears remote.

I can see Wigan holding out Liverpool in the first half. My prediction is 1-1.

My other bold predictions:

Boro v Chelsea 1-2
Liverpool v Wigan 1-1
Fulham v Sunderland 1-1
Bolton v Blackburn 2-2
Villa v Portsmouth 2-1
Arsenal v Everton 1-1
Man Utd v West Brom 4-0
Hull v West Ham 1-2
Stoke City v Spurs 1-2
Newcastle v Man City 2-1

Mourinho Interested In Anfield Job?

According to report, the Special One is interested in taking the Anfield hot seat. There is also report that Juventus is targetting Rafa to replace the under fire Ranieri.

If both reports are true, then this could be Rafa last season at Anfield. This season will be a test for Rafa. If the Reds can win a sliverware preferably the league title, Rafa's job is safe. Looking back at the development inside the boardroom these 12 months, all is not well with Rafa and the American owners.

Personally, I like Mourinho during his time in England. Though he appears to be arrogant, he defends his players and team. He is a great movitator to the players. The response drew from some of the Chelsea players after his sack speaks volume to his credential.

Like Rafa, he prepare his team well paying attention to little details. He rallied the team when the team is down.

I welcome Mourinho to Anfield if Rafa is heading out of Anfield.

I Fear For Liverpool FC

With the global finanical crisis worsening, it also affect the BPL clubs which are already in debts.

There are reports that West Ham is probably the first BPL club to be hit. Already there will be no money available for their manager Zola to spend during the January transfer window. Portsmouth is club named to be in danger.

I really fear for Liverpool Football Club. They have brought over by American owners, of all people, with the promise to fund the transfer of new players and new stadium. Almost a year since the takeover, Liverpool fans have seen the worse inside the boardroom.

The American owners is facing difficulty to refinance the new stadium. The plan to build a new stadium has been put on hold for at least a year. Rumours have been that the pair is preparing to sell Liverpool to a more wealthier buyer.

Prior to the American takeover, the DIC group is keen to buy over Liverpool but sadly Rick Parry and David Moore decided to sell to the Amercians. If DIC has bought over Liverpool, the club will not be so much affected by the finanical crisis.

Hence, the finanical position of the club depend much on the Champion League success.

It won't be long to see one of the big clubs go into adminstration if the global economy cotinues.

The Spirit of Istanbul

Cast your mind back to May 2005 for the Champion League Final in Istanbul.

Liverpool was dead and buried by half tme. The Reds were outclasseed by Milan's Kaka and Co. The score was 3-0. No one gave Liverpool a chance. Nobody did including me.

When Gerrard scored the 1st, Liverpool made stunning comback within 20 minutes to draw 3-3. Then it was history like many people said.

Last night in Stadium of Manchester, many witnessed a great comeback by a Liverpool side lacking in ideas and creativity. Keane was dropped in favour of Machesrano. Rafa opted to play one striker.

The Blues of Manchester was in joy after Stephen Ireland blasted home after Arbeloa failed to clear the ball.

Things got worse for the Reds when Garrido curled a beautiful free kick past Reina. It was 2-0 to the home team.

Liverpool was staring at their first defeat of the season. Elsewhere Chelsea was leading 2-0 at the same time.

Whatever Rafa said during the break did wake Liverpool up. Liverpool began to impose themselves. The midfielders were quicker to the ball reducing the City's midfielder to mere passengers. In 54th minute, Gerrard slipped the ball into the legs of Garrido to the oncoming Aberloa who square the ball across goa, Torres arrived late to slide the ball home. 2-1 to City.

City was down to 10 men when Zabaleta was red carded following a two footed tackle on Alonso. In the 73 minute, Liverpool had a corner. Gerrard floated a beautiful ball and Torres rises unmarked to head home Liverpool equaliser.

It was 11 men against 10 man. The onus is on Liverpool to win the game. Torres could have easily go this hatrick not he had skied his shoot wide with only Hart to beat.

Skrtel suffered a serious knee injury when he twisted his knee. Liverpool had used up all 3 substitues. There was no numerical advantage for Liverpool and both team can go on to win the game.

The comeback was finally complete in the 90 minute when Torres shoot rebound off Hart and the ball gratefully to Kuyt and he made no mistake. City was stunned and the travelling Liverpool fans were celebrating yet another comeback from Liverpool.

In this season, Liverpool was a goal down against Boro, Man Utd, Marseille and now Man City and they came back to win the game. This is indeed grit and sheer determination. It has all the making of a serious title contender.

This victory was indeed a sweet one. This match shall be remembered as a match of two halves.

Man City v Liverpool - My preview

Liverpool travelled to the Stadium of Manchester for a tough tie against the newly labelled richest club in the world.

How much things have changed since last season. Man City has found a new sugar daddy while Liverpool's Amercian owners have financial problems following the US credit crunch. On the field, Liverpool are unbeaten in all competition and is joint top with Chelsea in the BPL table.

Following wins against Man Utd and Everton, Liverpool must be brimming with confidence. However with the much talked about the transfer of Robino to Man City and the return of Shaun Wright Philips, Liverpool are in for a tougher time than in Goodison Park.

Man City are formidable at home so far including the 6-0 thumping of Portsmouth. It's the highest scoring team vs the meanest defence in England.

This is a potential match where Liverpool will finally taste their first defeat of the season. Given the confidence in the Liverpool camp, I would go for 1-1 draw.

My other bold predictions:

Sunderland v Arsenal 1-2

Wigan v Boro 1-1

Blackburn v Man Utd 0-2

West Brom v Fulham 2-2

Spurs v Hull 3-0

West Ham v Bolton 2-1

Portsmouth v Stoke 3-1

Chelsea v Villa 1-1

Man City v Liverpool 1-1

Everton v Newcastle 2-0

Liverpool 3 v PSV 1

Liverpool gained maximum points in their quest for the Champion League after cruising to a 3-1 win against a hapless PSV side.

Gerrard's 100th goal for his club and Keane's first for the Reds ensure Liverpool took a giant step to qualifying for the second group stage. Althetico Madrid have also 6 points from two games.

PSV's game plan was to starved Liverpool by packing the midfield and defence. However their plan was backfired as early as the 4th mintue. Gerrard's corner found Torres who sweep the ball but was parried away by Issakson. The ball found Kuyt who made no mistake from close range.

Liverpool took control of the game. They were rewarded the second when Torres's low cross to Keane who took it first time. The ball went past the PSV keeper into the net much to the relief of Keane. His first goal for Liverpool after failing to score in his 10 matches.

Second half was the same for the Reds. It took Liverpool 72th minute to struck the third goal. Gerrard's rocket free kick had Issakson beaten all the way.

PSV scored a consolaton goal a minute later. The goal cost Liverpool top spot in the table. It has been a great week for Liverpool, Gerrard and Keane.

Come Saturday, Liverpool will face a tough tie at the Stadium of Manchester where Robino and Co is waiting.