Well I can't help but feel that it should have been a rout. Liverpool have been due for a good throttling of an opponent for quite some time. Then the first two went in so early in the game, I really felt like this would be the breakout game. However, it didn't happen. Good news though is that the back four look like an immovable object who rarely let Villa get anywhere close to decent striking position. Nearly all of Villa's chances were from outside the box. Overall though, considering our run of draws we had previously, I'll take three points anyway we can get them. On to the ratings:
Reina - 7 - Very commanding in his box, but only one save to make on a close in header early. He was a spectator for most of the game, but was ready when needed.
Enrique - 7 - Did not do much in the attack, but kept Villa's attack very quiet. I'll take that any day.
Skrtel - 8 - Scored a fantastic header. Along with the others, did well to subdue Villa, even when they were pressing towards the end.
Agger - 7 - Another solid display. I really thought we might see another fantastic left footed strike, like his beauty against West Ham, when he came charging forward. Oh well, he chose to pass. We definitely have a fantastic back line.
Johnson - 8 - A constant threat going forward, he was unlucky with a slightly heavy touch on a few occasions. However, he played very well and linked up with the midfield fantastically. It seemed like he was providing the majority of Liverpool's width today.
Bellamy - 8 - Right place, right time. Good poachers goal and a good display down the flank. I didn't think his pace was utilized by the rest of the team as well as it could have been. It seemed like Villa were playing a very highline early on. Also put in a beauty of a corner for the second.
Adam - 6 - This is probably slightly generous. Poor set pieces and a bit of a confusing display. I don't think he knew where he was supposed to be with Jonjo on the pitch. It seemed as if they were running into each other quite a bit. I'll give him a pass for the new formation. His long passes didn't come off as well today either.
Henderson - 6 - His usual display, periods of anonymity followed by a decent spark. He miss hit a few passes that should have been made, but made a few as well. I just don't know what to think of him. I hope he will grow into his position, much like Lucas did.
Shelvey - 7 - I thought he did quite well for his first start. He wasn't afraid to get stuck in and he was always looking to attack. He does misplay a few too many balls for my liking, but he is still quite young.
Downing - 7 - Great display against his own club. He put in a number of decent crosses and passes and it was his corner that created the first goal. There were a number of balls he played across the middle of the box that no one got on to, but someone should have. Hopefully this game will get him back on track and out of his funk.
Suarez - 7 - A very quiet first half, followed by a lively start to the second. He hit the woodwork twice after some great moves and drew quite a crowd. Overall, it was mediocre, but he showed that he only needs a glimpse of goal to be dangerous. Made Guzan pull out a fantastic save on the first goal from a cheeky little flick. Would have been a great goal.
SUBS:
Carroll - 6 - Probably should be N/A, but he really didn't do anything and had enough time to be rated. To be fair, service to him was non-existent in general though, mostly due to Villa throwing everything forward.
Kuyt - N/A - No real time.
Carragher - N/A - No time.
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