CavalieriCarragher Hyypia Agger InsuaMascherano AlonsoBabel Gerrard RieraKeaneGoals:Riera 25Torres 90+3Liverpool, despite the strong line-up, certainly made hard work of that.Outside of Cavalieri for Reina and Babel for Kuyt, this was as strong as team as Benitez could name. And it was one-way traffic in the first half after the 10th minute, but the away side only had a goal to show for it at the break. Wallace demonstrated Preston’s intent in the 5th minute, forcing Cavalieri to push a free kick around the post (even though it looked to be going wide), but Liverpool soon looked likely to seal the game by halftime.Keane, who had one of those games where little went right, mishit Liverpools first opportunity wide in the 12th, while Gerrard tested the keeper a couple of times before Riera opened the scoring in the 25th. Alonsos corner ended up at the wingers feet on the right, and he danced inside past defenders and unleashed a wicked shot which Longeran couldn’t get to.Liverpool continued to press, and both Babel and Gerrard spurned chances, but the rest of the half will be remembered for Keanes misses. Both Alonso and Gerrard released the striker with gorgeous passes, but when his good control took him through in the 38th, he shot at the keeper, and when the captains cross found him open in the box in the 45th, he put it wide with the goal gaping. And with those chances affecting his confidence, he pulled it back for Riera in the first minute of injury time when the better option was to shoot. I dont mean to harp on Keane hes getting in the right place and has always been a streaky scorer but Liverpool should have been two or three up, and he was the main culprit. And to add injury to insult, Alonso was hurt following up the final chance, and ended the half getting treatment, with Lucas coming on for him in the second.Its little coincidence that Preston were able to come back into the game after Alonso was forced off. Liverpool had two opportunities early on, with Keane again misfiring and Agger putting a free header wide, but the home side looked better after the break. Longeran made a spectacular save on Gerrard on the hour mark, and Riera fizzed a shot across the face of goal two minutes later, but from then on, Preston looked the most likely to score. And sadly, as a Liverpool fan, it truly started when Stephen Elliot replaced former red Neil Mellor, giving the home side a different option up front.Center back Sean St. Ledger had an equalizer in the net in the 64th, but it was rightfully ruled out for a silly Parkin foul on Carragher, holding him down as the ball came into the box even though Carra was probably unable to affect the result. So, thanks, Jon Parkin.Fortunately, Prestons increased possession led to few opportunities, with St. Ledger’s touch wasting their best, from a corner in the 75th, and Torres entrance for Keane in the 73rd gave Liverpool some relief as an outlet. The striker soon demonstrated both his talent and rustiness three minutes after his introduction, when he deliciously turned Mawene, but could only fire wide from outside the box.Aurelio came on for Mascherano in the 83th, with the Argentinean also picking up an injury, which saw Babel move up top and give Liverpool a relief valve on the break. Seeing out the final minutes, that relief valve came good as Babel flicked a long ball on for Gerrard, who raced towards goal, waiting for Torres to join the attack so he could square the ball to him for an easy goal. 2-0 flatters Prestons first half performance and probably doesnt do justice to their second half display.Im admittedly surprised that Benitez fielded a full-strength team no Lucas, El Zhar, Skrtel or Aurelio in the starting line-up but with a week in-between games (as well as the catcalls the manager faced after losing to Burnley at this stage in his first year), I probably shouldnt be. And that full-strength team was needed as Preston made Liverpool work for it in the second half.I truly hope Alonsos injury isnt too serious. The official sites saying little so far, other than he had stitches, and we saw conflicting images on television. He came out midway through the second half in an air cast but was smiling, and soon after, we saw him signing autographs for fans. Obviously the air cast is frightening, but those glimpses of his mood dont show a lot of seriousness.Had Alonso played the full 90, Ive little doubt hed be my man of the match. Prestons ascendancy in the second half tells the story in and of itself. He controlled play and was involved in all of Liverpools build-up. When hes on song, as hes usually been this season, he makes Liverpool tick. Time and time again, hes shown his importance, and has made everyone speculating on the Barry transfer (me included) look like an idiot. And thats why an extended spell on the sidelines worries me.Lucas didnt play badly hes often good in possession and the tackle, and plays those prodding passes (and then moves into the space!) Benitez loves so much. But hes not Alonso, and when teams are pressing and pushing for a goal, Xabis steady head and range of passing are needed.In lieu of Alonso, Im probably going with Riera for star performer. It was a wonderfully taken goal his fourth of the season, which is the kind of goal return Liverpool needs from the left flank. He and Babel switched flanks throughout the second before the Dutchman went up top, and was less influential on the right, but constantly looked for an opening and tried to get at defenders, providing a few clever mazy runs.In addition, I thought the backline played well, especially in the face of pressure. Hyypia again proved needed against a striker as burly as Parkin, and Agger mopped up well throughout. Both Carragher (hes done well at right back in every game hes played there) and Insua supplemented the attack, and both were challenged by Preston on the flanks, especially by Wallace down Liverpools right.And at the end of the day, while the wastefulnesss still worrying and until we know more, Alonsos injury is downright frightening, Liverpools through to the next round after a tricky away cup tie. Its another win to keep momentum, and a return to the field and the scoresheet for Torres.Stoke City in a week.

12:25pm, live in the US on FSCLast 3 matches:Liverpool: 5-1 Newcastle (a); 3-0 Bolton (h); 1-1 Arsenal (a)PNE: 1-1 Barnsley (a); 2-0 Derby (h); 2-3 QPR (a)Goalscorers (all competitions):Liverpool: Gerrard 12; Keane, Kuyt 7; Torres 5; Alonso, Babel, Riera 3; Hyypia 2; Agger, Arbeloa, Benayoun, Carragher, Lucas, Ngog, Plessis 1PNE: Mellor 8; Brown, Chaplow, Elliott, Nicholson, Parkin, St. Ledger, Wallace 3; Davidson, Jones 2; Mawene, McKenna, Sedgwick, Whaley 1Referee: Martin AtkinsonGuess at a squad:CavalieriDarby Skrtel Agger AurelioEl Zhar Gerrard Lucas BabelKeane NgogThe cup runs always bring changes to the team, but it seems like Benitez is going to pick a stronger side than lost to Spurs in the 4th round of the Carling Cup two months back, according to comments today.Gerrard will start, Torres will be available (and almost certainly will begin on the bench), and Aurelio and Skrtel are in contention as well.Playing Gerrard is the right thing to do. As Benitez says in the article, he hasnt played a ton of games this season unlike players such as Kuyt and Carra and getting right back on the pitch should help him focus on football instead of the impending court case. I suspect Lucas, whos played very well in his last two appearances, will partner the captain in midfield, giving Alonso and Mascherano a game off, but it is worth noting that Alonso didnt start in the last match against Newcastle.Hopefully, both Skrtel and Aurelio will return in defense. As Carras played nearly every game, either at center-back or right-back, this should be one he misses. And Hyypias played a fair few as well. Which would give Benitez the opportunity to start both Agger and Skrtel arguably Liverpools center-back pairing of the future.As Insuas started the last three, if Aurelios ready to go, he should be back as well. And to be honest, since Im expecting Darby on the right with Carra rested and Arbeloa still out, Im hopeful Dossena wont start. I havent given up on the Italian, but two untested fullbacks in a game where Liverpool will be challenged by a side with little to lose seems like too much change in the backline.Yes, its an away game, but Id still like to see Liverpool line up in the 4-4-2. The extra midfielder shouldnt be as necessary against a Championship side, and itd allow both Ngog and Keane to start up top. Robbie will assuredly play after sitting out the Newcastle match, and an early round FA Cup match seems like another good opportunity to blood the young Frenchman. And, whether or not Liverpool’s ahead, behind, or even, Id like to see Torres replace either of those strikers for some of the second half.Make no mistake; Preston wont be pushovers. 7th in the Championship, and only out of the playoff places on goal difference, Alan Irvine (Moyes former right-hand man) has his team playing well. That the games on their ground benefits them, and at the least, their top scorer, Neil Mellor the former Liverpool trainee will certainly be up for it.Liverpool ended the year in perfect fashion: a 5-1 win away from home to finish 2008 top of the league. Now, lets see them start the new one in the same manner.

Im reviving a post I put up around this time last year, comparing where Liverpool stands now to the previous two league campaigns.These are solely stats for the Premiership and dont include yesterdays win over Newcastle, even though itd make this years totals look a bit better. 19 games the midpoint of the season seems more fitting. Plus, demonstrating my laziness, I already had numbers for the last two seasons.Points total after 19 games:08/09: 4207/08: 3706/07: 34Results over 19 games:08/09: 12 wins, 6 draws, 1 loss07/08: 10 wins, 7 draws, 2 losses06/07: 10 wins, 4 draws, 5 lossesLeague position after 19 games:08/09:1st place07/08: 4th place06/07: 3rd place# of points behind 1st place:08/09: +107/08: -10, with a game in hand06/07: -13Goals scored after 19 games:08/09: 3007/08: 3306/07: 28Goals against after 19 games:08/09: 1207/08: 1206/07: 15Home Goals:08/09: 1607/08: 2006/07: 20Away Goals:08/09: 1407/08: 1306/07: 8Goal scorers:08/09: Gerrard 6; Keane, Kuyt, Torres 5; Alonso, Riera 2; Arbeloa, Benayoun, Babel, Carragher 107/08: Torres 9; Gerrard 7; Babel, Kuyt, Voronin 3; Alonso, Benayoun 2; Hyypia, Sissoko 106/07: Kuyt 6; Bellamy 5; Alonso, Gerrard 3; Crouch, Garcia, Gonzalez 2; Agger, Carragher, Fowler, Riise 1Clean Sheets:08/09: 1107/08: 1006/07: 10# of games Liverpool failed to score in:08/09: 4 [Villa (a), Stoke (h), Fulham (h), West Ham (h)]07/08: 5 [Pompey (a), Birmingham (h), Blackburn (a), United (h), City (a)]06/07: 7 [Everton (a), Chelsea (a), Bolton (a), United (a), Arsenal (a), Boro (a), Portsmouth (h)]Away form:08/09: 6 wins, 2 draws, 1 loss; 20 points out of 2707/08: 6 wins, 3 draws, 1 loss; 21 points out of 3006/07: 2 wins, 2 draws, 5 losses; 8 points out of 27Home form:08/09: 6 wins, 4 draws; 22 points out of 3007/08: 4 wins, 4 draws, 1 loss; 16 points out of 2706/07: 8 wins, 2 draws; 26 points out of 30Things that stand out: Before yesterdays match at Newcastle, Liverpool was behind last seasons pace in terms of goals scored. And I reckon that might have something to do with Torres absence. Liverpools home form, while better than last seasons, is still worse than in 06/07, when the team went 14-4-1 at Anfield. At the same time, the away form, which has been much heralded, is only marginally different from last seasons results. For all the grief about the infuriating four home draws, including three scoreless, its the same amount as at this time last season. And Liverpools still had less scoreless games than in previous seasons, even if more have happened at Anfield. Liverpools goals are more equally distributed than last season again, most likely because others (Gerrard, Keane, and Kuyt) have had to step up with Torres out.Cautions: Regardless of the usual the seasons only half over caution, there are still a few worries to keep in the back of the mind. The match against Chelsea on February 1st looks incredibly important. In addition, Liverpool still has to travel to United who are 10 points off the pace with three games in hand. Liverpool still looks to have a problem with goals at Anfield. 16 is the smallest return from the past three seasons. And if you include yesterdays Newcastle match which makes the totals 10 home games and 10 away Liverpools totaled more goals on the road than at Anfield.Good Omens: With trips to Stamford Bridge, the Emirates, Villa Park, and Goodison out of the way, Liverpool arguably has an easier second half of the season. Long-term absentees Torres and Skrtel, as well as Aurelio, are soon to return to the line-up. All will improve the squad, especially Torres, whose goals (and presence) have been dearly missed. At the same time, Keanes starting to show promise. Having scored three in his last two starts, the Irishmans bedding into the side. Most importantly, hes beginning to click with Gerrard evidenced by his first goal against Bolton similarly to how the captain set up many of Torres strikes last season. If those two can get on the same wavelength than Gerrard and Torres have, Keane will be especially dangerous. Of course, there still is the small matter of how he and Torres will pair together, and the effect thatll have on the rest of the line-up. Reina led the league in clean sheets in both 06/07 and 07/08. And hes delivered more scoreless games so far this season than at the same time in the last two campaigns. The recent emergence of Insua is also going to be very important. On his day, Aurelio can be one of the best left-backs in the world. Hes an incredibly gifted passer, good on set plays, and can get up and down the flanks. This superb play leading to Torres’ goal against Inter sums up many of Aurelio’s best qualities. But hes also made of glass, and has only averaged around 27 games in all competitions in the last two seasons (less than half of the likes of Gerrard, Carragher, et al). And Liverpools other left backs under Benitez Traore, Riise, and Dossena, have disappointed. If Insua can fill that void, and play at the level hes shown in the last few games, itll firm up Liverpools already stingy defense.

ReinaCarragher Agger Hyypia InsuaMascherano LucasBenayoun Gerrard BabelKuytGoals:Gerrard 31′ 66′Hyypia 36′Edgar 45+1′Babel 50′Alonso 76′ (pen)Thats one way to end the year.To be fair, a four-goal margin of victory usually flatters the victors. Not today. Its no exaggeration saying that Shay Given prevented Liverpool from tallying double-digits. Liverpool finished with 25 shots, 13 on target, more than double the opposition.The visitors had seven excellent chances before a quarter of the game was completed. Given kept five of them out: Kuyt from close range, Gerrard trying to side-foot on a free run through the box and on a trademark shot three minutes later, and two stops on Lucas efforts. Hyypia narrowly headed wide from a corner in the 16th and had another cleared off the line by NZogbia.But unlike in past games where Liverpools labored to open the scoring, they got the breakthrough around the half-hour mark, when Gerrard finally thundered an unstoppable shot into the top corner from Benayouns cutback, with a nice pass from Mascherano releasing the Israeli.And five minutes later, Hyypia doubled the lead, but not before Owen had the ball in the net, only for Duff to be dubiously ruled offside. 1-1, especially when Liverpool was dominant, might have changed things, but the away side was rampant throughout, and the bad calls evened out when Lucas was clearly onside in the 78th.Newcastle always looked vulnerable on corners, and Hyypia beat Coloccini in the 36th, jumping highest to meet Gerrards cross. The same combination almost put Liverpool up 3-0 in the 42nd, but again, Given came to the rescue.And on the stroke of halftime, Liverpools own lax defending on corners allowed Newcastle to trim the advantage. Both Gerrard and Carra were caught ball watching, and Edgar rose for a free header.Ameobi came on for Enrique after the break, and Newcastle were able to create and maintain better possession, but again, awful defending on a corner led to Babel cramming in from close range when Given couldnt clear the Dutchmans backheel after Lucas chested down (it wasnt a handball) Hyypias flick.Geremi nearly provided a lifeline in the 60th, when his 25-yard free kick ricocheted off the crossbar, but six minutes later, Liverpool sealed the points. Alonso replaced Benayoun, firming up the midfield when Newcastle was winning possession, which shifted Lucas to the right. And the Brazilian, who was probably my man of the match again (Im worried Im getting biased, writing this in the last two games hes started, but I truly thought he was excellent), played a perfect throughball for Gerrard to run onto from the right, outpacing Coloccini to chip over Given.10 minutes later, the captain must have rued not getting the chance to register a hat-trick when NGog, who replaced Gerrard in the 71st, was tripped in the box by Edgar. Alonso stepped up, and while Given went the right way, the Spaniards shot was struck too well. And Liverpool could have had more the aforementioned dubious offside call, when NGog had the ball in the net, as well as another superb save from Given on Lucas from close range in the 89th (with NGogs follow-up soft and easily cleared off the line). But 5-1, leaving Liverpool top of the league at the end of 2008, will do.With Liverpool back in the 4-2-3-1, the game was won early on in midfield. Lucas and Mascherano were dominant, not giving Newcastle a sniff of possession and spreading the ball well. Masch basically marked a line in front of defense that the home side couldnt pass, and Lucas got from box to box, in the middle of everything.Gerrard was basically a striker in support of Kuyt, and hassled and harried just as well as the Dutchman. Although his finishing wasnt the best early on, he still tallied twice and was able to be rested for the final 20 minutes. It was a bit of a surprise to see Keane left out for the entirety after his performance Friday, but the reprieve will do him good, and Liverpool continued to score in his absence.I also should apologize to Hyypia, who I assumed would be too knackered to start two in a row. That couldnt be further from the truth once again, the Finn was imperious at the back and a constant threat from set plays. Insua (and Agger, when Newcastle was pushed back) again supplemented the attack well, although Duff beat him for a pace a couple of times.Another apology is due to Babel, who did well starting on the left (and playing for the full match). He was error-prone and in and out of the game for the early period when Liverpool was dominant, but was an increasingly effective outlet as the game went on, and did well to force the goal that basically guaranteed the win.The last two games have seen Liverpool play their best football of the season, and its come at the perfect time. Halfway through the season, the teams hitting their stride for the first time in the campaign, and have thoroughly beaten the opposition in back-to-back games. At the same time, key players are nearing fitness Skrtel saw the last ten minutes of todays match, while Torres will soon be back in the picture.Now, Liverpool just needs to keep doing what theyre doing. Easy, right?

7am, live in the US on SetantaLast 4 head-to-head:3-0 Liverpool (h) 03.08.083-1 Liverpool (a) 11.24.071-2 Newcastle (a) 02.10.072-0 Liverpool (h) 09.20.06Last 3 matches:Liverpool: 3-0 Bolton (h); 1-1 Arsenal (a); 2-2 Hull (h)Newcastle: 1-2 Wigan (a); 2-1 Spurs (h); 3-0 Pompey (a)Goalscorers (league):Liverpool: Gerrard 6; Keane, Kuyt, Torres 5; Alonso, Riera 2; Arbeloa, Babel, Benayoun, Carragher 1Newcastle: Owen 7; Martins 6; Ameobi 3; Duff, Guthrie 2; Barton, NZogbia, Taylor, Xisco 1Referee: Excellent question. Neither the Beeb, nor Premierleague.com, nor anywhere else I can find lists who the ref is.Guess at a squad:ReinaDarby Carragher Agger InsuaMascherano AlonsoKuyt Gerrard RieraKeaneThere have to be some changes, with Liverpool playing two matches in less than 48 hours, but Im hopeful there wont be many. Picking the line-up’s even more of a crapshoot than usual because we rarely get to see how the players respond to one day off between matches, and the fitness levels will go a long way in determining who starts.Once again, despite the number of times Ive been wrong, Im guessing the 4-2-3-1. On the road, and with Mascherano certainly coming back into the side after missing out yesterday, seems to set Liverpool up for it. That and while Torres looks close to a return, he wont start his first game back, and I doubt NGog will partner Keane from the off.Both Riera and Kuyt were substituted early yesterday, so Im assuming theyll be fit to start on the flanks. Benayoun played the full 90 Friday, while Babels seemingly found himself out of favor. Even if he doesnt start here, Babel should feature as a substitute and if he doesnt, then I guess we can start reading something into it.Arbeloas still out with his hamstring problem, but Hyypias not likely to play two games in a row at his age. Which ideally means that Darby will get his first start at right back, as Carra should move back in the center to partner Agger. Insuas played well enough to keep his place on the left, but Ive got a sneaking suspicion that Benitez might use the full squad, and get Dossena back on the pitch.As per usual, Newcastles struggling on the injury front. Habib Beye, Jose Enrique, Mark Viduka, Joey Barton, Alan Smith, Nacho Gonzalez, Obafemi Martins and Shola Ameobi will miss the game, as will defender Sebastien Bassong for a straight red yesterday. But Michael Owens still with the Geordies (Danny Guthrie too), and Im always afraid of former Reds lining up against their former club. Mickeys found a decent spell of form too, with three goals this month as Newcastles only lost once in their last five.Weve finally seen a comprehensive Liverpool performance in the 3-0 win over Bolton. Halfway through the league campaign and Liverpools top of the league by a point. Yesterdays match can provide the springboard the team needs to push on for the second half of the season, but Liverpool will have to continue playing to that potential.

ReinaCarragher Hyypia Agger InsuaBenayoun Gerrard Alonso RieraKuyt KeaneGoals:Riera 26Keane 53 58Thats what Liverpool needed to deliver. For 60 minutes, that was as complete a performance as any this season. Liverpool dominated possession from the off, spread play beautifully with Alonso and Gerrard as pivots in the center, got excellent width from the wingers and fullbacks, and got the needed first half goal to relieve the pressure of the previous home draws.Boltons sniff through Nolan in the 2nd minute was as close as they came to scoring, and from there, Liverpool throughly controlled proceedings. Without Kevin Davies as a frontman, Bolton struggled to keep hold of the ball, and Liverpool pressed constantly, with Benayoun and Riera frequent targets on the flanks.Pressure truly started to mount 15 minutes in, and Jaaskelainen had to save Insua’s long-range low drive in the 19th before Kuyt narrowly headed over in the 20th. The number of corners shows Liverpools superiority, and they opened the scoring on their 8th in the 26th minute when Riera met Gerrards whipped low ball at the near post with a neat flick.For all their supremacy, Liverpool only had a one-goal lead to show for it at halftime, with Carraghers shot (left footed, from the left channel no less) only just over the bar in the 41st and another Insua blast from distance blocked before it could hit the target. But, for all the worry when Liverpools only a goal to the good, it never looked like Bolton would get back in it.Davies came on after the break, and it led to more possession for the visitors, but Keane put the game to bed before the hour mark. First, he took advantage of a perfect through ball from Gerrard with one touch and a left-footed shot past Jaaskelainen. Five minutes later, Reinas distribution led to a gorgeous goal on the break, less than 10 seconds after the visitors threatened with a free kick. Reina claimed and quickly threw the ball out to Alonso, who charged forward into space and found Benayoun on the right. The Israelis first-time ball released Keane, who made no mistake. Maybe his goal against Arsenal really will be a springboard.After the third, Liverpool took the foot off the gas and was content to see out the match. The home side was able to rest Riera, Gerrard and Kuyt, bringing on El Zhar, Lucas and NGog. I can’t help but read into the fact that Babel again was left on the bench, especially with January just around the corner.Bolton almost pulled one back in the 84th, but Smolarek dragged his shot wide, while Liverpool had a couple of opportunities of their own. And although it would have been nice to see Liverpool go all out for the full 90 and add a couple more to the scoreline, a comfortable 3-0 home win while resting some players before a busy Christmas program will certainly suffice.Leaving Mascherano on the bench, Liverpool looked good in the 4-4-2, although they were helped by Boltons willingness to sit back and defend. That’s stifled Liverpool in the past, but thanks to Gerrard and Alonsos vision spreading the play from side to side, and Riera and Benayouns willingness to run at defenders (with both fullbacks doing well to support), they were finally able to break down a stingy defense at Anfield. And once they got the first, more goals always seemed imminent.It probably was the best Liverpools played all season. Ive got no complaints, and could go on in praise of every player on the pitch. As I said, I was most happy about the range of passing, as well as the support from fullback. Insuas on his way to making the left back position his own with another heady performance, and Carragher was excellent on the right positionally in both attack and defense, and getting forward better than I expected. Not to downplay Arbeloas importance so far this season, but when Skrtels fit, I hope to see Carragher-Skrtel-Agger-Insua as the regular backline.And while Alonso was again in the middle of everything, man of the match probably has to go to Keane. Always busy in attack, and willing to drop deep with Kuyt playing furthest forward more often than not, hes tallied three goals in two games. His run for Gerrards throughball was exact, as was the one on the break for Benayouns center. He said hed come good, and on the basis of the last two games, he just might be right.With Chelsea and United both doing the business, a win here was essential. But not only did Liverpool win, they won convincingly, and did it in style. Its the perfect start to this stretch of four games in the 15 days, which continues with Newcastle on Sunday.

ReinaCarragher Hyypia Agger InsuaKuyt Gerrard Alonso RieraKuyt KeaneGoals:Riera 26Keane 53 58Thats what Liverpool needed to deliver. For 60 minutes, that was as complete a performance as any this season. Liverpool dominated possession from the off, spread play beautifully with Alonso and Gerrard as pivots in the center, got excellent width from the wingers and fullbacks, and got the needed first half goal to relieve the pressure of the previous home draws.Boltons sniff through Nolan in the 2nd minute was as close as they came to scoring, and from there, Liverpool throughly controlled proceedings. Without Kevin Davies as a frontman, Bolton struggled to keep hold of the ball, and Liverpool pressed constantly, with Benayoun and Riera frequent targets on the flanks.Pressure truly started to mount 15 minutes in, and Jaaskelainen had to save Insua’s long-range low drive in the 19th before Kuyt narrowly headed over in the 20th. The number of corners shows Liverpools superiority, and they opened the scoring on their 8th in the 26th minute when Riera met Gerrards whipped low ball at the near post with a neat flick.For all their supremacy, Liverpool only had a one-goal lead to show for it at halftime, with Carraghers shot (left footed, from the left channel no less) only just over the bar in the 41st and another Insua blast from distance blocked before it could hit the target. But, for all the worry when Liverpools only a goal to the good, it never looked like Bolton would get back in it.Davies came on after the break, and it led to more possession for the visitors, but Keane put the game to bed before the hour mark. First, he took advantage of a perfect through ball from Gerrard with one touch and a left-footed shot past Jaaskelainen. Five minutes later, Reinas distribution led to a gorgeous goal on the break, less than 10 seconds after the visitors threatened with a free kick. Reina claimed and quickly threw the ball out to Alonso, who charged forward into space and found Benayoun on the right. The Israelis first-time ball released Keane, who made no mistake. Maybe his goal against Arsenal really will be a springboard.After the third, Liverpool took the foot off the gas and was content to see out the match. The home side was able to rest Riera, Gerrard and Kuyt, bringing on El Zhar, Lucas and NGog. I can’t help but read into the fact that Babel again was left on the bench, especially with January just around the corner.Bolton almost pulled one back in the 84th, but Smolarek dragged his shot wide, while Liverpool had a couple of opportunities of their own. And although it would have been nice to see Liverpool go all out for the full 90 and add a couple more to the scoreline, a comfortable 3-0 home win while resting some players before a busy Christmas program will certainly suffice.Leaving Mascherano on the bench, Liverpool looked good in the 4-4-2, although they were helped by Boltons willingness to sit back and defend. That’s stifled Liverpool in the past, but thanks to Gerrard and Alonsos vision spreading the play from side to side, and Riera and Benayouns willingness to run at defenders (with both fullbacks doing well to support), they were finally able to break down a stingy defense at Anfield. And once they got the first, more goals always seemed imminent.It probably was the best Liverpools played all season. Ive got no complaints, and could go on in praise of every player on the pitch. As I said, I was most happy about the range of passing, as well as the support from fullback. Insuas on his way to making the left back position his own with another heady performance, and Carragher was excellent on the right positionally in both attack and defense, and getting forward better than I expected. Not to downplay Arbeloas importance so far this season, but when Skrtels fit, I hope to see Carragher-Skrtel-Agger-Insua as the regular backline.And while Alonso was again in the middle of everything, man of the match probably has to go to Keane. Always busy in attack, and willing to drop deep with Kuyt playing furthest forward more often than not, hes tallied three goals in two games. His run for Gerrards throughball was exact, as was the one on the break for Benayouns center. He said hed come good, and on the basis of the last two games, he just might be right.With Chelsea and United both doing the business, a win here was essential. But not only did Liverpool win, they won convincingly, and did it in style. Its the perfect start to this stretch of four games in the 15 days, which continues with Newcastle on Sunday.

10am, live in the US on SetantaI dont know how many are going to see this preview, but I thought getting it up on Christmas Eve would be a bit better than on the actual holiday tomorrow. Hope everyone who celebrates this commercialism gets everything theyre hoping for. Happy Holidays.Last 4 head-to-head:2-0 Liverpool (a) 11.15.083-1 Liverpool (a) 03.02.084-0 Liverpool (h) 12.02.073-0 Liverpool (h) 01.01.07Last 3 matches:Liverpool: 1-1 Arsenal (a); 2-2 Hull (h); 3-1 PSV (a)Bolton: 2-1 Pompey (h); 2-4 Villa (a); 0-2 Chelsea (h)Goalscorers (league):Liverpool: Gerrard 6; Kuyt, Torres 5; Keane 3; Alonso 2; Arbeloa, Babel, Benayoun, Carragher, Riera 1Arsenal: Davies, Elmander, Taylor 5; Cahill, Gardner, Steinsson 2Referee: Alan WileyGuess at a squad:ReinaCarragher Hyypia Agger InsuaMascherano AlonsoKuyt Gerrard RieraKeaneExcept for the backline, this is the same line-up that beat Bolton 2-0 in November.The Echo reports that Arbeloa will miss the next couple of weeks with a hamstring (sigh) injury, while I hope Insua stays in the team after his performance against Arsenal. Theres always a chance Darby could step in at right back, but I imagine Benitez (whether hes present or not) will stick with an established player, especially if Insua is on the left. Doesnt seem likely hed play both youngsters in the same league fixture.As usual, the question is whether Liverpool will go 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1 at home. Will Liverpool sacrifice Alonso or Mascherano (more likely Masch) for NGog or Babel? Or Kuyt up top with Benayoun, Babel, or Pennant (the forgotten man whos stunningly been rumored for a Real move, in the linked article above) on the right?Honestly, even though the added firepower looks needed with the recent goal return, I doubt itll happen. When Torres returns and thats seemingly soon itll be more of a debate, but for now, Ill be surprised if Liverpool deviates from the 4-2-3-1. It gets the best players on the pitch, and its a formation thats brought Liverpool success, even if it hasnt happened with Keane up top. But the Irishman showed signs of improvement with a well-taken goal against the Arse, and Liverpool started to adapt to the way he wants the ball. Granted, it led to more long balls from deep than were used to, but whatever works. And with the way Bolton plays with a congested midfield hoofing forward for Davies and Elmander its not the worst tactic.But Bolton has played some decent football of late. I got the chance to see their match against Pompey last Saturday, and up two within three minutes, they deserved to win by more. As in the match at the Reebok last month, Gardner spurned a couple of sitters (knock on wood, let’s hope that doesn’t change). Despite two losses in their last three, theyve risen up to 9th on the backs of three wins from the last five. Elmanders starting to settle (I finally dont look stupid for having him in my fantasy team), Gardner adds an extra dimension on the left, and theyre still a physical handful of a team.Liverpool have been lucky of late when they drop points, so have the teams around them. But as with the late winners a few months back, that luck cant last forever. The team needs to pick up wins at Anfield, and with the fixtures coming quickly over the next couple of weeks, needs to hit top form, as they have during the winter in previous campaigns.

ReinaArbeloa Carragher Agger InsuaLucas AlonsoKuyt Gerrard RieraKeaneGoals:Van Persie 24Keane 42Well, after Arsenal went up 1-0 within 24 minutes at the Emirates in a cagey, back-and-forth match, a comeback draw doesnt look the worst result. Especially with Torres still absent, Mascherano missing out with flu, and Benitez remaining on Merseyside thanks to kidney stones earlier in the week. And especially considering the teams never won at the Emirates, not to mention that three out of the four games against the Gunners ended 1-1 last year.But when Liverpool has a man advantage for 30 minutes, and dominates possession for the majority of the second half after getting the equalizer before the break, it again feels like two points dropped.Chances were few and far between early on, with Gerrard pretty much playing as a second striker. And it was the captain and Keane linking up in the 10th minute when the striker laid the ball off nicely, but Gerrards strike was straight at Almunia.Arsenals passing game improved as the game went on, but it was a Nasri long ball over the top that van Persie controlled with his chest past Carragher which opened the scoring. And the goal, which was brilliantly taken, clearly emboldened the home side, who were controlling the game and the ball, but chances remained at a premium.Liverpool never looked like being overrun, with Lucas and Alonso strong in midfield, and in the 42nd minute, an Agger long ball over the top led to an equalizer as stunning as the opener. Keane outpaced Djourou to beautifully half volley on the second bounce, giving Almunia no chance.That goal completely changed the game, and Liverpool were unlucky not to get a second before the whistle. In the 45th, Kuyt took the ball off Clichy and centered for Gerrard, but the skipper was a step behind, and could only put a diving left-footed shot high and wide. A minute later, Kuyt forced Almunia into a low fingertips save with an on-target effort from the right corner of the box.And it continued after the restart, although Arsenal certainly werent helped by Fabregas injury, which brought Diaby on for the second half. Lucass shot after Insua did well to get a cross in was well-saved by Almunia in the 47th, and Liverpool settled into their possession game. But when Adebayor was sent off in the 62nd minute for two soft yellows (yellows nonetheless, mind you), Arsenal was more content to sit back and absorb the pressure.And Liverpool responded by playing worse. They were more reliant on long balls forward, more hesitant, and looked less likely to get the winning goal. Arsenal created more opportunities on the break than Liverpool did with an extra man, although Reina was never really tested.Babel (for Riera in the 71st), El Zhar (for Keane in the 81st) and Ngog (for Lucas in the 88th) again came on, and once again were wondering why it took so long to make the changes, especially adding the second striker for a midfield player with a man advantage. Dont get me wrong Lucas had an excellent game, and was probably man of the match but it seemed like Liverpool should have added more attackers and take advantage of the edge. And it was always going to be Lucas replaced instead of Alonso. El Zhar had an excellent opportunity with a header (from Insuas cross) just wide in the 90th, but again, too little, too late.Again, I thought Lucas, bustling and busy in midfield (and lucky not to see yellow until the 81st), was outstanding, and he looks a far better player next to Alonso in midfield, who, as usual, spread the play well when Liverpool were on top. Insua never looked out of place against a top team, and supported the attack well. And Keane had an excellent game up top, diligently running throughout, and took his goal masterfully well.Despite getting forward well early on, Gerrard was a passenger too often, went deeper as the game went on (especially after the subs), and didnt take a couple of good opportunities, which you dont get many of in a game like this one. Unfortunately, Babel again did nothing off the bench, and didnt really looked too bothered, which isnt a good sign. And again, Im not happy that Liverpool, with Arsenal putting two lines of defenders behind the ball, looked a step slower after going up a man.But, honestly, I would have taken a point before the game. Yes, Liverpools gotten far too many draws of late, but this isnt one of the painful ones. Going to Arsenal is never an easy match, and Arsenals found a way to step it up against the big sides. Its just disappointing that Liverpool couldnt take advantage of the edges handed to them.It goes without saying that I hope for better on Friday.

11am, live in the US on FSCLast 4 head-to-head:4-2 Liverpool (h; CL) 04.08.081-1 (a) 04.05.081-1 (a; CL 04.0.081-1 (h) 10.28.07Last 3 matches:Liverpool: 2-2 Hull (h); 3-1 PSV (a); 3-1 Blackburn (a)Arsenal: 1-1 Boro (a); 0-2 Porto (a); 1-0 Wigan (h)Goalscorers (league):Liverpool: Gerrard 6; Kuyt, Torres 5; Alonso, Keane 2; Arbeloa, Babel, Benayoun, Carragher, Riera 1Arsenal: Adebayor, Van Persie 7; Nasri 4; Denilson 2; Bendtner, Clichy, Eboue, Fabregas, Gallas, Silvestre, Walcott 1Referee: Howard WebbGuess at a squad:ReinaArbeloa Carragher Agger DossenaMascherano AlonsoKuyt Gerrard RieraKeaneWith Liverpool away at the Emirates, where they havent yet won, I imagine the line-up will be fairly conservative and familiar: back to the 4-2-3-1 with both Masch and Alonso holding, Kuyt on the right, and Keane up top with Torres still out. And honestly, despite being clueless over a fair few line-ups of late, Id be very surprised if Sundays team looked much different than this.I still dont know what Keane did to seemingly land in Benitezs doghouse, but he has to start here. And after years of playing in London derbies for Spurs, hell hopefully be raring to do the business against the Arse. But itll be essential that hes supported by Gerrard and Kuyt, and not left isolated plowing a lone furrow.The key to Liverpool getting back in the game against Hull was Gerrard driving further forward from midfield, and getting into the box to be in position to score those two goals (making him top scorer for the season so far hes got the most in both the league and Europe). If hes able to do that playing off of Keane, itll help the Irishman, and Liverpools league scoring woes, immensely.This is one of those matches where Kuyts defending and workrate will be vital, so hes likely to shift back to the right, where hell probably be matched up against Nasri and Clichy. Thatll be a key area for both sides, and I think Benayoun, for all his talents, would be a liability against those two. Similar goes for Babel, but I do expect to see one or both used off the bench for fresh legs later on, as usual.With Van Persie and Adebayors speed, I expect Agger to replace Hyypia. Samis performed admirably the last couple of times out, and Adebayor is a big lad, but Aggers pace (and ability to carry the ball out of defense) will be even more crucial.Arsenals still missing Toure, Walcott, and Rosicky, and like Liverpool, drew their last match in the league. Sitting in fifth, eight points behind the leaders, Arsenal will be every bit as up for this game as Liverpool. Despite their troubles, theyve beaten both United and Chelsea so far this season. Every time theyve had a backs against the wall game, theyve come away winners. Heres hoping that changes on Sunday.