Liverpool returned to the midfield diamond that brought success at the end of last season and with it returned the attacking and exciting football that became their trademark in 2013/14.
Tottenham 0-3 Liverpool
Premier League, Sunday 31st August 2014
Raheem Sterling shone in the attacking midfield role at the tip of the diamond midfield, while there were encouraging signs from Mario Balotelli and Daniel Sturridge as a partnership up front.
The Italian had a mixed game on his Liverpool debut, rusty with his finishing but working hard for the team and creating space for his partner. With defenders now having to worry about Balotelli, others around him——Sturridge, Sterling, Henderson——are afforded more space.
There were certainly some heart stopping moments with Dejan Lovren and Mamadou Sakho in defence, but Liverpool’s two new full-backs, Javier Manquillo and Alberto Moreno certainly look impressed.
Here are the best of the reactions of fans via social media:
Here is Balotelli's touch map to emphasize his work rate and shows twice as many touches in our half than Sturridge pic.twitter.com/gwUTdNRbKB
— Rory Fitzgerald (@RoryFitz9) August 31, 2014
First cleansheet in nine for #lfc. Nervy moments and still plenty questions regarding our centrebacks but fullbacks are a big improvement.
— LFCZA (@LFCZA) August 31, 2014
Praise for Mignolet from ‘DeathOrGlory’ in the forums:
Many things will be said in this thread, but i think one of the most telling moments in this game was that Mignolet save right before half time. That goes in and the game is completely different. Well done Simon!
Have to admit, Rodgers smiling and enjoying watching his team is refreshing to see in football. Should be enjoyed. #LFC
— David Downie (@daviddownie17) August 31, 2014
Could be the best left back Lfc have had since the treble season!!!
— Jamie Carragher (@Carra23) August 31, 2014
‘Hope in your heart’ in the forums:
Looking back at the goals, they were brilliant, especially Moreno’s: the pace that lad has is simply astounding… he leaves Townsend (arguably one of the fastest players in the league) for dead there, before taking a perfect shot after such a bust-lunging run… absolutely breathtaking!
The away fans sing Mario Balotelli's name as he takes his place on the bench. He acknowledges them with a wave. #LFC
— James Carroll (@James_Carroll84) August 31, 2014
Work to do defensively but we still look one of, if not the most fluid attacking side in the league. Brilliant going forward. #LFC.
— Simon Steers (@sisteers) August 31, 2014
Hodgson is at this game. He’s probably thinking “Why couldn’t Henderson do this for England?” It’s because of you, Roy. Because of you. #lfc
— Dave Phillips (@lovefutebol) August 31, 2014
Great result heading into the international break, loads of positives, looks like we will be a threat to the top again this season. #LFC.
— Simon Steers (@sisteers) August 31, 2014
