Liverpool made it two wins from two at the start of the new Barclays Premier League season as a fortuitous goal from Christian Benteke on his home debut was enough to give the Reds all three points against a spirited AFC Bournemouth side at Anfield on Monday night.
Take a look at how we have rated Brendan Rodgers’ side .
GK) Simon Mignolet
The Belgian stopper wasn’t called into any serious action and will be happy to have kept a second clean sheet in successive games. 6/10.
RB) Nathaniel Clyne
Was tested by the threat of Max Gradel in a exciting battle down the Reds’ right-hand side and will have felt he came out on top on his home debut for the Merseyside outfit. 7/10.
CB) Martin Skrtel
Much more composed than his central defensive partner, but was slightly fortunate not to concede a penalty in the second half. 6/10.
CB) Dejan Lovren
Suffered in the opening stages of the game and was almost at fault for Bournemouth’s first-half goal that was ruled out. Improved as the match wore on, but question marks over his £20million price-tag still remain. 6/10.
LB) Joe Gomez
Looked very nervous in the opening minutes, but improved as the game wore on and is looking like a promising defender. 6/10.
CM) James Milner
Energetic and disciplined midfield peformance from the England international, but he should have made the game safe midway through the second half as he scuffed an effort from close range wide of the post. 6/10.
CM) Jordan Henderson {C}
Not the best performance from the new Reds skipper and was forced off early in the second half, but he did go close with a effort from range which flew just over the bar. 5/10.
AMC) Philippe Coutinho – MOTM
Brilliant performance from the Brazilian magician as he was at the forefront of everything positive from the home side in the first-half particularly.
Only negative aspect about his performance was his finishing as he should have got himself on the scoresheet at least once. 8/10.
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AMR) Jordon Ibe
Quiet game from the youngster as he drifted in an out without great effect. 5/10.
AML) Adam Lallana
Very poor showing from the former Southampton man as he failed to have any impact on proceedings. His place will surely be under threat when Roberto Firmino is up to full match fitness. 5/10.
ST) Christian Benteke
Benefited from the offside flag not going up to net a confidence boosting goal on his home debut and will be hoping it can kick-start his career on Merseyside. 7/10.
Subs:
Emre Can
Still looks a little rusty after reporting for pre-season late following his exploits at the U21 European Championships earlier in the summer. 5/10.
Roberto Firmino
Not given much time to make a difference. 5/10.
Alberto Moreno
Was a useful outlet as the hosts came under pressure late on. 6/10.