A Victory of Hopes

Gerrard scored after frustrating unlucky thirty minutes where chances were won by Newcastle's luck. When Gerrard opened the score following a back pass in the D-box from Benayoun, Liverpool looked stronger than ever. Soon after 5 minutes, Hyypia scored to double the tally but Liverpool could not end the first half without conceding through a header from Edgar.

Five minutes into the second half, Babel scored again for Liverpool which was an unlikely goal with four Newcastle defenders against Babel alone inside the box that tumbled in front of the keeper Shay Given for a while. Gerrard was never going to stop scoring as he again netted the ball in the 66th minute capitalizing the one on one situation with Given. Alonso came as a substitution to score through a penalty earned by Ngog another substitution which made the score 1-5 at James Park.

The season has been the best since 1990 when Liverpool last lifted the league trophy. The hopes are that this time around Liverpool seem to have the potential to make it to the League title. May Gerrard and Carragher's dream come true.

Keane dumps Bolton

A great win to retain the top spot in the premier league. Liverpool were very strong and determined to win the home game this time. The game ended 3-0 at home with Riera scoring one in the first half and Keane scoring twice in the second. As the league has entered the second half after Christmas, the Boxing day saw Liverpool start the latter half with a very confident win. The never satisfied coach Benitez was at Anfield but Sammy Lee was the man in charge following Benitez's kidney-stone surgery.

Riera took the lead in the 26th minute goal from Gerrard's corner kick which he only had to flick to divert it into the back of the net. Then in the 52nd minute, Keane showed an example of how confident a striker he is by netting the ball with his second best left foot. The third goal was a counter attack started by brilliant keeper Reina who rolled the ball to Alonso following a simple save that saw Alonso take the ball all the way to the other side where he passed it to Benayoun who gifted it to Keane inside the box and the ball had nowhere to go with Keane's final touch except goal.

It was second 1-1 draw in a row at the Emirates Stadium between Arsenal and Liverpool in 2008 in the premier league itself. They had played last season's fixture in April where a goal each from Peter Crouch and Van Persie saw the two sides leveled. Yesterday too the match ended in a 1-1 draw with Arsenal taking the lead in 25th minute through Robin Van Persie through a fabulous cross from the wonder kid Nasri. 5 minutes before the half time the shy striker Robbie Keane made it level with a very confident one-on-one goal with Almunia. In no time, Gerrard could have doubled the score through a wonderful pass from Kuyt only 3 yards from goal which went pegging. The second half saw Emmannuel Adebayour yellow carded for the second time in the 60th minute which made him leave the field but seemed quite an unfair decision whatsoever.

Liverpool had visited Emirates without Torres and Rafa Benitez himself. However Rafa was in contact with the Goalkeeping coach throughout the game instructing Sammy Lee who was in charge of Liverpool side in his absence. The game was pretty interesting but Liverpool could have done better especially after 60th minute when Aresenal were down to 10 men without Adebayour. However, they're in the top position two points clear from Chelsea who are to visit Pompey tonight.

League Leaders

Four years and eight months of Chelsea's unbeaten record at Stamford bridge with 86 matches was brought to an end by Liverpool to top the table in the Barclay's Premier League. Liverpool have not only won the game but proved their critics wrong that their top form will not continue till the middle of the season. They have proved that they are here this time to win the title and not to settle for anything less. No one must have expected Liverpool to win the match, but their fans had faith on them that turned to be true. Liverpool got in front through a deflection on Xabi Alonso's shot in the 10th minute of the game and kept their lead throughout. Chelsea had shown their best in the last fifteen minutes of the first half otherwise, Liverpool were the better side in every way. In the second half, the game got a bit physical with the frustration that grew on Chelsea with a number of cards being produced.

With Drogba, Ballack and Joe Cole injured, Scolari had to use some new young faces which didn't turn out to be the best of efforts. There were many occassions where Chelsea was outnumbered by the Liverpool defense brilliantly. On the other side, Torres was not available with the hamstring injury, and Babel was considered not to be cent percent fit by himself. However, Babel was an important substitution in the 60th minute which troubled the Chelsea defense very well. In numbers, the efforts from Liverpool were more with Xabi Alonso coming closest with the free kick that hit the woodwork. Babel had produced an excellent effort which went a yard away from goal. Chelsea made less efforts in comparison, moreover, the Liverpool defense was very hard to break.

The win has been the most important one taking Liverpool to the top of the table three points clear Chelsea and eight points clear the defending champions Manchester United.

Done it Again

This was the fifth time Liverpool came back and won the game this season (four in BPL and one in Champions League). This shows how passionate they are for the title. Liverpool conceded a goal which was a gift to Zaki from the mistakes from Agger and Reina (I would not call it only Agger's mistake because Reina also made a mistake while playing the ball to Agger when Carragher was free on the far side) . However, Agger made a quick remedy for his mistake by moving with the ball from one side of the field to the other with a superb run and creating the chance that was converted by Kuyt. At the end of the first half, Zaki again scored with an outstanding bycycle volley.
The game changed in the second half as Antonio Valencia (Wigan Athletic) was shown the yellow card twice and sent off for two challenges that deserved bookings. This brought about a turn in the game and it was very best utilized by Rafa Benitez. Benitez substituted two full backs Dossena and Arbeloa and sent El Zhar and Benayoun into the field. As the pressure was not going to increase on the defense, Rafa took this opportunity to attack and score and it took no time to equalise when El Zhar created the best chance of the game which was tactfully left by Gerrard for Riera to strike which went into the back of the net. Liverpool were not ready to settle on sharing points and kept their attack at the highest level. They kept on putting the pressure and finally Kuyt scored again to become the savior.
Liverpool have kept the title race very much alive however, the 5-0 win over Middlesbrough has extended the Chelsea's goal difference lead. It might take these two teams to face each other to bring any difference on the point.

Trouble again

Torres will be out of field for at least ten to fifteen days with a hamstring tear from his international duty. So this means, he will be out of at least four fixtures including the one with his previous home club Atletico Madrid, Chelsea, Latics and Pompey being the other three. This may cost some points for Liverpool from BPL and CL as well. Liverpool are in a good position in both the competitions and yet to come to their best form, but Torres' injury might be a real blow to them having to slip points and position. Let's hope for the best and the best is yet to come.

Dropped Two Points

The goal from the perfect free kick by Steven Gerrard early in the game was ruled out by the poor decision made by the linesman. After that it was a frustrating game for Liverpool against Stoke City failing to score. It was a huge opportunity for them to get atop the table as Manchester United and Chelsea drew 1-1. Had they won against Stoke City, they would be two points clear Chelsea and one point ahead of Arsenal leading the Barclays Premier League. The defense and the consistent resistance from Stoke City with brilliant performance from the Goalie Sorensen was praiseworthy. They deserved the point they collected from Anfield and it was something to celebrate for them.
However, for Liverpool it was the most disappointing result in all competitions this season. The numerous attempts by Xabi Alonso, Steven Gerrard and even from Torres went pegging as they failed to score until the 90th minute. The frustrated team had to drop two points to remain at the third position behind Arsenal and Chelsea.

A Perfect Win

Manchester United were no match to Liverpool as far as their latest meeting is concerned. Liverpool came from behind to win a well deserved 2-1 win over Manchester United. Liverpool started with Gerrard and Torres both on the bench. They got behind right in the third minute into play. Two debutantes from either side (Riera for Liverpool and Berbatov for Manchester United) left something to look for in future. Berbatov set an early goal for Tevez who was completely missed by Mascherano, that gave them lead in style. On the other side, Riera played really good football at the left wing putting on decent crosses at times. With a couple of mistakes from goalkeeper Van Der Saar, Manchester got a little bit unlucky to have conceded an own goal through Wes Brown. The game ended levelled at 1-1 at the end of the first half.

The second half began with Liverpool putting pressure right from the beginning. Couple of chances created by ManU went pegging with the likes of a 5 yard effort from Tevez and a long range effort by Paul Scholes. Rafa had no choice but to send Gerrard on field in the 68th minute who changed the game literally by troubling the defense. Then came the super substitute Ryan Babel in the 72nd minute to replace Riera. Within minutes after entering the field, Kuyt set a nice goal to Babel who in turn struck so confidently that the ball had no destination except the back of the net. This was a perfect reply and a replica to what Manchester United had produced in the 3rd minute of the first half to take the lead. This time it was Liverpool's turn to take the lead.

Referee had no choice except to send Vidic off with second yellow card, after a harsh challenge over Alonso in the 90th minute. The game ended with 2-1 scoreline, Liverpool winning and climbing to the top of the table with 10 points. Chelsea are visiting Manchester City later tonight and if they lose or draw the game, Liverpool will be on the top for at least a week.

The Clash

As the day has come, Liverpool have some good news. In a press conference, Benitez revealed that Gerrard and Torres both have made good progress and will be on the squad. When asked about whether they will play or not, he replied that when they are in squad they are there to play. This might have surprised many at Old Trafford as they were expecting them not to be available and even Liverpool FC fans were disappointed earlier when Gerrard ruled himself out of the clash. But however, they are in the squad and that's a good news not only to Liverpool FC fans but to every football fan willing to watch a quality game. Liverpool vs Manchester United is a big game and without big players from both sides, it won't be good enough, though Chritiano Ronaldo and Hargreaves will not be playing from the other side. 30 million pound Berbatov will probably make his debut at Anfield and provide more options to Sir Alex Ferguson.

Troubled Liverpool

Steven Gerrard will not be playing against Manchester United on Saturday after he confirmed himself unfit for the clash. Fernando Torres is also highly unlikely to be ready for the game because of the hamstring tear which could take some more weeks to bring him on field. This has left Benitez to manage his team without the 'amazing duo'. Liverpool clearly will have to play Keane and Kuyt/Babel up front and will probably introduce Reira to the Premier League on the left wing. The midfield will have Xabi Alonso, Mascherano, Benayoun/Lucas and El Zhar who will come on as a substitute as he has been successful in giving impressive performances. The defense will be managed by Carragher, Martin Skrtel, Arbeloa/Hyypia and Dossena and probably Benitez will send in Aurelio in the second half. Pepe Reina has always been Number 1 ever since he came in even though his jersey is numbered 25. He will be very busy this Saturday as Manchester United will have Rooney, Tevez and probably Berba putting pressure up front. Liverpool have not beaten Manchester United under Benitez and a win on Saturday would be the greatest reward to him.

Big Money Big Names

As soon as Abu Dhabi United Group (ADUG) took over Manchester City from Thaksin Sinawatra, a wind of revolution has been felt in the Premier League. The Light Blues have emerged as the new contender if not for the Premier League title, definitely for the Champions League position next season. This does not only mean that they have a chance of playing the Champions League next season, but also signifies that one of the top-four clubs (Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal or Liverpool) will not be playing the Champions League next season. With their desire to build the very best team on the planet, they are seeking to attract big names in football with the likes of Steven Gerrard, Michael Essien, Christiano Ronaldo, Kaka and so on with the immediate interest in Steven Gerrard and Michael Essien in the coming winter. Having already beaten Chelsea in signing Robinho from Real Madrid for 32 Million Pounds mega deal, it seems that as long as you can spend, you can do anything. After all, money matters everywhere and football is no exception.

Riise's Open Letter to Fans

After his seven years career at Anfield, Riise joined Roma. However, his open letter to fans proves that he will be and will always be accepted by his fans as a true Red forever.

“Dear fans of Liverpool FC,

“After seven seasons at Anfield, it's time for me to "walk on". In many ways it feels inspiring and exciting to be familiar with the pressure of a new employer, meet new fans, meet a new culture and play a new kind of football. I look forward to this new adventure, but I travel with a loss.

“Because, it's not easy for me to leave you - the world's best supporters! I've been thinking about this almost every day this summer. After seven wonderful seasons, and more than 340 matches for Liverpool, I never had the opportunity to make a real and proper goodbye with you - the world's most motivating fans. You have always supported me and the team and I want you all to know how important you've been to me and the other players.

“I've been giving my "thank you" to the club, the staff and the players and they'll always have a special place in my heart. And this is my thank-you letter to all the fans out there that have been supporting me during these years. I will follow the team closely from Italy and will stay in touch with many of the players and many of my friends in Liverpool.

“With respect to the many hundreds of great moments I have experienced in red, it will be unfair to draw up one highlight rather than another. There has always been the highlight of wearing the red shirt at Anfield. It's always been a privilege to have the initials LFC on the space closest to the heart. As you all know I was a player who always, no matter what, gave 110 per cent in every training session and every game. I always tried to give you the entertainment you deserved. Even in the bad moments you were there for me and the team.

“To play in front of the red crowd, every minute has been a privilege. Even after my unfortunate own goal against Chelsea in the Champions League semi last April - where all our dreams were crushed - I felt the support and sympathies from you as real and important. When I signed seven years ago, I couldn't in my wildest dreams expect the journey you all gave me. I will always be grateful for that. A big thank-you to you all.

“I'm 100 per cent sincere when I say that I will always remember all the great moments we've had and you - our fans - have such great importance for these great matches and great moments. Liverpool FC will have a lot more great moments like this in the future and I hope that I will experience great things with my new team - AS Roma. I hope you will continue to follow my career.

“Therefore, I do not say goodbye, but so long. Arrivederci - Walk on!

Sincerely,
John Arne Riise
"The ginger".

Torres too!!!

Liverpool are awarded with yet another blow. Torres is out with hamstring injury and will miss games that are crucial with the likes of next fixture with Manchester United. The previous game with Aston Villa ended in a goalless draw without Torres and Gerrard and they are visiting Old Trafford probably without these players again. Liverpool are vying to score in every match but are not being able to score with some genuine chances created by themselves. At this stage, the question arises that have Liverpool spent wisely enough this time to be able to remain in the title chase? They're not looking any better.

Gerrard Out!!! What's in store?

Steven Gerrard will be out for two weeks. With Gareth Barry confirming his stay at Villa, Liverpool will have to play Alonso, Mascherano and maybe Babel/Lucas to fill the void left by Gerrard's injury. The next two fixtures for Liverpool will be tough without Gerrard because it will be a tough away game against Aston Villa and regarding second fixture Benitez has never beaten Alex Ferguson in his career. Benitez has revealed that this time it is the League title that's most important to Liverpool and if he wants to regain long lost title for Liverpool, it is mandatory not to lose games throughout the season. Let's see what's in store.

Keane on Robbie

It rather came as a surprise when Robbie Keane joined Liverpool as he was not in the list that Benitez planned to make purchase. But question remains, is Robbie Keane really the one that leads the club to long lost title? The purpose behind his purchase could be filling the gap after Peter Crouch left for Portsmouth, although Keane and Crouch are far apart in their playing style. Keane probably will assist Torres more for goals than getting some by himself, but as the last season showed, Liverpool can do nothing only with Torres striking 33 goals. Liverpool rather needed a Torres-type striker (maybe David Villa) who can score goals in every game alongside Torres. However, the ex-Tottenham player is expected to leave the likes of Kuyt, Babel, Voronin (in case he stays), fighting for their positions in the starting eleven.

Double for ManU

This review should have come a long time ago, but due to some reasons it has been delayed. Manchester United has won both the BPL and CL taking the "double" away. Cannot say if Chelsea got unlucky with the BPL because they didn't even win the last game, but surely they got unlucky in the Champions League finals after reaching so close to the title. They have not broken their record of not winning the Champions League Title. For ManU, it must have been the most wonderful season winning the BPL for 17 times only one less than the mighty Liverpool. Anyways, the season is over now, let's wait for another to start in August.

It's getting more and more interesting

Yet another empty handed season for Liverpool. No title this season however, they played really well on the latter part of the season which was not at all enough to eye the domestic title though. At the Champions League, they got a little bit unlucky as they conceded an own goal at home. At Stamford Bridge, the same story, no one has beaten Chelsea for a long long time there. But Liverpool's season-end form always leaves a hope for the fans to await the next season.

Today looking at the season, everything has gone right for Chelsea. They were not even a threat at the mid-season and they climbed the table from third to second as Arsenal lost and drew games that were important leaving Chelsea and Manchester United to battle for the title. And now with only one game left for both of them, (Chelsea home and ManU away) the season cannot get more interesting. More importantly after this gets decided, these two teams will fight for the Champions League title. If ManU lose the BPL (Barclays Premier League), they will fully try to win the C League because after dominating the season for such a long time, they will not want to end it without a trophy. And if they win, who wants to lose the chance of getting "The Double". But looking critically at this situation, if Chelsea loses the BPL, nothing will stop them from winning the CL because they will be going to "Moscow" to play CL final which happens to be their owner's (Roman Abramovich's) homeland where most of the spectators will be supporting Chelsea. This will be like playing in a home ground.

Whatever happens, the pressure now is on Manchester United because they will have to save a title first by playing away and then CL which seems to be an away game even though it is not Stamford Bridge.