Liverpool legend Mark Lawrenson believes that a lack of bravery on our part, and Manchester United’s subsequent courage, handed them all three points in what he described as a “poor” game, the Liverpool Echo reports.
After what was a non-eventful first half with both sides cancelling each other out, Lawrenson believes that Louis van Gaal’s willingness to make a change at half-time gave them the edge.
While Lawrenson claims that he doesn’t believe that there is much between the two clubs, he doesn’t view that as a positive given that Manchester United are “no great shakes”.
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“I think the difference was that United, after that first half, were just that little bit braver,” Lawrenson wrote in his column.
“They were forced into a half-time change I think, being the home side. And of course within five minutes it has paid off, with Ashley Young buying the free kick which led to the opening goal.
“Liverpool aren’t too far off Manchester United, in my opinion. The trouble is, that’s not saying much.”
Lawrenson’s comments are understandable considering that Brendan Rodgers’ contain and counter strategy became redundant once we went a goal behind.
Having said that, we still had a few opportunities to get back into the game before Christian Benteke’s effort with Daley Blind clearing one off the line before David De Gea pulled off a smart save from Danny Ings’ attempt.
Rodgers seems intent on this 4-3-3 system in big games away from home, but he must also combine the defensive security this system can potentially provide while also maintaining our attacking threat.