Liverpool players’ ratings vs Watford: New season but same old problems

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Liverpool started the new season with a 3-3 draw against a much weaker Watford side and the game once again opened debates over Liverpool’s biggest weakness – their defence.

Stefano Okaka put the Hornets into a shocking lead after he headed the ball into the back of the net in the 8th minute of the match but the Reds clawed back into the match thanks to the help of Sadio Mane just before the half hour mark. Abdoulaye Doucoure restored the lead for the home side just three minutes later though and with that Watford went into half-time with a much-deserved lead.

But as soon as the second half went under way, Jurgen Klopp’s men shifted gears and scored two goals in quick succession to tip the match in their favour. But the script had not yet come to an end as Watford put in an injury time equaliser from a corner and with that managed to salvage a much-deserved point at Vicarage Road.

Here are the Liverpool’s players’ ratings against Watford:

Simon Mignolet – 6/10

There was nothing much that Mignolet could have done for the goals that he had to concede but his decision making at times was very indecisive.

Trent Alexander Arnold – 7/10

Did quite a fair enough job when you consider that he was filling in for Nathaniel Clyne. Even though he looked shaky at times but did come up with some good clearances. But in all honesty, his more experienced counterparts should have done more to help him out.

Joel Matip – 5/10

Was easily one of the worst players for Liverpool during the first half and he had a part to play for conceding the first goal. Picked up his game during the second half but still not up to the mark considering he is playing for Liverpool.

Dejan Lovren – 6.5/10

Another defensive poor performer. Was virtually outmuscled by the Watford players on every possible duel.

 

Read: Chelsea players’ ratings vs Burnley.

 

Jordan Henderson – 7/10

Calm and collected performance by him at the heart of the midfield but did not provide any added flair while going forward.

Georginio Wijnaldum – 5.5/10

No influence in the game whatsoever especially in the first half. Did put up his act after the interval but it was too late by that time.

Emre Can – 7.5/10

Easily the best midfielder for Jurgen Klopp on the night. Make some good forward runs and tried to play forward passes with every chance that he got.

Alberto Moreno – 6/10

Was the biggest culprit for Watford’s second goal and had very little contribution in the defensive areas. Going forward he looked much more comfortable.

Sadio Mane – 8/10

He was Jurgen Klopp’s go-to-man last summer and he started this season with the exact same reputation. Scored a brilliant goal just before the half hour mark but he is still a few yards away from his peak form.

Mohamed Salah – 7.5/10

Had very little to feed up during the first 45 minutes but after the interval, he looked more lively and he eventually won the penalty which led Liverpool’s second goal. He also opened his scoring as a Liverpool player by scoring the third goal for the Reds.

Roberto Firmino – 6.5/10

Scored Liverpool’s second goal from the penalty spot and also assisted Salah first goal for the club. But other than that he provided nothing throughout the match.

 

Substitutes:

 

Joe Gomes – N/A

James Milner – N/A

Divock Origi – N/A