Liverpool and Stoke played out a goalless draw at Anfield today, in a result that really helped neither team.
Stoke could’ve won it late on through Ryan Shawcross, but the defender missed a golden chance to give the Potters a vital win.
Mohamed Salah also failed to net, missing the chance to break the record for goals in a 38 game season for another week.
Here’s how we rated the Reds today…
Loris Karius – 7
The goalkeeper was never really tested and only really had one chance that went to the wrong side of the post to worry about. He was more then ready should it have been on target.
Joe Gomez – 5
Struggled for most of the day. Never really found his footing. Looks like he may be carrying some knocks which may be affecting his concentration too.
Virgil van Dijk – 8
Absolute class at the back. Always assured and directing play across the back line. Showing greater confidence on the ball to start attacks and providing a threat on corners.
Ragnar Klavan – 7
Solid outing again in relief of a depleted central defence. Against sides that lack raw pace, he is usually more than up for the task.
Alberto Moreno – 5
Still shows strong pace going forward but lacks precision on the ball and his decision-making is always suspect. Did nothing daft but struggled to have any real impact.
Trent Alexander-Arnold – 7
Given license to play further forward than he has been, he put in a solid shift, despite taking a heavy knock early in the first half. Pushed through and got an early exit to prepare for Roma.
Jordan Henderson – 6
Steady but standard shift. He was never able to really drive the side or match to another level Induced panic when he crumbled after catching a clip on the ankle but continued.
Gini Wijnaldum – 7
Possibly the strongest of the midfield three, full of industry and impetus but could never quite catch a break. Kept things ticking and tried to push forward but could not break through. His cross should have earned a pen.
Mohamed Salah – 7
Missed the early chance and was manhandled the rest of the afternoon by Erik Pieters. For the first time, he failed to score when starting at home since Boxing Day. So a difficult day may have been due.
Danny Ings – 6
Always active and full of industry but still far from ready for a full 90. His disallowed goal was far from a crystal clear offside call. Another step in a long return to form.
Roberto Firmino – 6
Clearly looking to pick his moments rather than flying at his fullest, he grew frustrated with the calls and the contest. Never really got a hold of the contest but stayed careful too.
Substitutes
James Milner (65′) – 6
Injected some needed energy but unable to make much of a real difference. Should not be taking corners.
Nathaniel Clyne (65′) – 5
Offered almost nothing aside from some pace and width on the right. Predictable and laboured since returning from injury.
