Liverpool changed most of the starting line up, with only Kuyt and Insua remaining from last weekend's win over Utd. Spearing and Plessis played in the middle, and i was rather satisfied with the both of them actually. Spearing obviously fighting for his place. Ngog did well in the first half, showing the potential he has. Degen playing his 5th game for the team showing a willingness to get forward. Younger players showing a willingness to work hard. Happy with the slick passing as well (at times)!
It was the day for long range shooting. Babel, Voronin, Spearing and of course Insua all giving it a go. Spearing's attempts landed in row Z, but most were on target. Insua produced a contender for goal of the month. A swerving dipping volley that stunned the keeper and left him helpless. Insua is really stepping up. He should be encouraged to shoot more =)
Finally, we have the long awaited Alberto Aquilani making his debut. The former Roma man arrived in the summer carrying an ankle injury. The medical team decided to take their time with him, and hopefully his problems are behind him. He came on in the final 13 mins, and though obviously lacking match fitness, showed glimpses of what we can expect from him.
Looking composed on the ball, and showing a range of passing that Liverpool have missed since Alonso left. Something he did made me break into a smile and gave me goose bumps. Receiving the ball inside the Liverpool half, he looked up and delivered a pin point cross field 40m pass to the right, releasing a Liverpool player behind the Arsenal left back. This was something that Alonso used to do all the time. Mascherano must be happy that he won't have to stand in the role of creator any longer. Aquilani also reacted first to a loose ball outside the box to to fire long range, but straight at the keeper. Something i felt was missing recently is Liverpool's lack of confidence. Benayoun and Kuyt, indispensable players, are both rather shy in front of goal. When presented with an opening, they rarely have the confidence to shoot, and the chance usually goes begging. Hopefully occupying the attacking midfielder position will encourage long range efforts, Stevie G style. An athletic bicycle kick that deflected off an Arsenal arm also suggests that the Italian isn't going to shy from goalscoring duties.
Losing to a immensely talented young Arsenal side is no shame. These 18, 19, 20 year olds + a few oldies, played with such confidence and style. If they all stay and develop, it's scary to imagine an Arsenal team in 3 years, minimal money spent. Really hope the Carling Cup goes to Arsenal, so i can say that we lost to the eventual winners =)
