Another replay awaits Liverpool after the Reds failed to finish off West Ham at Anfield in the fourth round of the FA Cup.
Manager Jurgen Klopp made 10 changes from the line-up that advanced to the League Cup final, but the youth-dominated side could only muster a 0-0 draw against the Hammers.
Given that this was the fifth game in the last two weeks, the roster changes are understandable and not necessarily a reflection on how seriously the club takes the competition.
In spite of the disappointing result, Klopp can feel good about the dominance that the academy filled side achieved against the visiting Londoners.
What was missing, however, was that bit of quality that could get the ball across the goal line, despite the fact the Christian Benteke started, leading the line.
Even though goalkeeper Darren Randolph denied the Reds with an excellent second half performance, Liverpool had chances to advance but did not take them. It is a recurrent theme.
Here are four findings from the match.
More Matches
The one outcome that could prove most costly is that Liverpool now need to travel to Upton Park for a replay amidst an already crowded fixture list. With a squad only coming out of an injury crisis one more midweek trip was the last thing the club needed.
February now totals eight matches, including the League Cup final. Two matches a week from now until the final will test the squad’s depth, even more so without January reinforcements.
West Ham will have felt pleased scraping a draw and fancy their chances at home. The only saving grace for the Reds is that aside visiting Leicester, the league fixtures are against weaker sides. Yet, Liverpool have not exactly lit up the lower table teams either.
Committed Kids
Klopp’s kids side may have been short of quality in the final third, but there was absolutely no lack of desire or work-rate. Cameron Brannagan, Kevin Stewart and Brad Smith were among the starters and keen to impress.
Just over a half hour in Cameron Brannagan lashed a low, swerving shot that forced West Ham’s Randolph into action. Although it was pushed away, it was one of the better efforts on the night.
Stewart put himself about and even tried to maintain a physical presence against a much more rugged Hammers midfield.
Meanwhile, Smith had a challenge getting back to track Victor Moses but pushed forward with some success and served some decent crosses. Yet, the Reds’ final ball and finish proved elusive again.
Teixeira’s Talent
Perhaps no longer a youth, Joao Carlos Teixeira has been playing for his Liverpool future. The 22-year-old filled in behind the striker, in a creative turn. He combined cleverly with Jordon Ibe’s pace and caused West Ham plenty of problems.
Whether or not the Portuguese remains a Red or not is unclear, but he is a decent footballer regardless. There was a determination in his play, as he attempts to take each chance presented to him.
He nearly released Benteke for a potential winner in the first half. Later, Teixeira could have won it himself were it not for another Randolph save. He may not be good enough to stay but will undoubtedly prove valuable during the latter half of the campaign.
Breaking Benteke
Another opportunity squandered by the big summer signing meant the ninth straight blank. For whatever reason, Liverpool seem to be breaking Benteke.
Of course, it is not entirely the striker’s fault. He has never really suited to fitting into the way Liverpool played under either of the season’s managers. Unfortunately, it does not seem to be getting better. The big man struggled to keep pace with his young team mates and continues to be caught out of dangerous positions in front of goal.
The £32.5m Plan B looks bereft of confidence and has done very little to inspire any from his manager. Playing as a lone striker does not suit him and the quality of service seems to make little difference. It is hard to see how he earns another start in the near future, apart from spelling Roberto Firmino.