Champions League review: Fiorentina v Liverpool

Whoever said that Liverpool were back to their winning ways, will have to eat back those words quickly. Yes………..I am talking about myself. Unfortunately, looks sometimes are very deceptive. When the Kops thrashed Hull City 6-1 (To read a review of that game, click here), it seemed like they were back to winning ways, also winning 5 other games along the way. However, this run of 6 wins n all competitions was to end on a miserable note.

Liverpool, fresh from their Hull game, started off strongly attacking from the word go and were utilizing the flanks well. They did not create any significant chances, but it looked like another simple outing. Things started changing though, 10 minutes into the game. The Viola created their first real opening around the 12th minute, and from there on there was no looking back for them. The kept pushing and to their and their supporter’s content, Liverpool kept making mistakes in midfield and conceding possession.

The first goal came courtesy a mistake from left back Emiliano Insua (you might remember Rafa tipping Insua to make the Argentine national team) who played the youngster Jovetic onside for his first Champions league goal. If Insua keeps making these kind of mistakes, he is not going anywhere, leave alone the Argentine national team.

Before the Reds were able to regroup, they received another shot to the arm in the form of the second goal from the Viola; the much touted Glen Johnson to blame for this one. The only person who looked to be really committed on the field was Jamie Carragher; and he was naturally furious with the attitude of his other teammates in defence and midfield.

(To view the game highlights, click here.)

The second half did not produce too many surprises. Liverpool attacked the Fiorentina goal as expected, but were never really able to mount a scathing attack. Somehow, the Liverpool midfield looks listless and out of ideas when it comes to the big teams and big games. With a genuine provider missing from the lineup, I am sure Rafa would be eagerly waiting for Alberto Aquilani to get fit.

Liverpool play their next game away to Chelsea in the premiership (who lost 1-3 away to Wigan). Chelsea will no doubt be looking to consolidate their position in the league and give the Reds a torrid time. Will Liverpool be able to come out of the pit they seem to be digging for themselves? Keep watching!!!