AM) Daniel Sturridge – 4/10 (Lambert – 106′)
Disappointing night for the striker, who arguably wasted Liverpool’s best chances. Held onto the ball too much, and went for goal when he might have passed. He hasn’t looked quite the same since returning from injury, and the patience of Reds supporters unfortunately won’t last forever.
AM) Raheem Sterling – 5/10
You can’t question his work-rate, but there was no end product from the youngster tonight. He cut a frustrated figure up front for much of the evening, particularly after Balotelli, and then Sturridge went off. Why didn’t he take a penalty? Again, we’ll probably never know.
ST) Mario Balotelli – 6/10 (Lallana – 82′)
He was always going to struggle to make a massive impact on the game after picking up an early and needless booking. However, his hold up play was decent, as was his delivery from set pieces, and his withdrawal in the closing stages came as something of a surprise.
Subs:
1) Javi Manquillo – 5 – Gave Liverpool extra security at the back, but was he the right man to bring on?
2) Adam Lallana – 6 – Performances suggested he deserved to start, took his penalty well.
3) Rickie Lambert – 6 – Brought on to take a penalty, and tucked it away nicely.
