Liverpool had far more possession and to be fair looked reasonably composed in defence. Despite their domination they never looked like scoring, and the problems on the field before even more depressing as Thompson made a string of strange substitutions - such as putting Heskey on the left rather than upfront. We are left with two depressing stats after this game. First, we have only come from behind to win once this season (and that glorious win at Everton seems a long time ago now). Second, we have now picked up 6 out of the last 21 points - regulation form. Given the fact we are still with the leaders at the top it just goes to show how far ahead we could be by down. Given the next few games we have to play however, there is a real chance the season could be over by the end of January.
So, where has it gone wrong. It is certainly more than the hex of the manager of the month award!
1. Goals: we are not scoring at the moment. This is not because we lack firepower, as Thommo rightly points out. It is the awful service from midfield and our tendency to compress play in the centre. We need more width, it is obvious to anyone. It was depressing last night to see three of four Liverpool players stumbling into each other at the edge of the Southampton box looking completely bereft of ideas. Gerrard played well last night, but we need more penetration from strong central midfielders and we need more pace on the wing, preferably with real wingers. Smicer should not be starting and playing full games, he is a squad player and no more.
2. The strongest team: there has been a lot of talk that we do not know our strongest team. The key point for me is that we play too many players out of position, you only have to look at how Ziege has returned to form at Spurs to see that. Riise has done well in defence but he is a natural winger. Vignal, when he is fit, should take his place in defence. For now, Wright should play in defence and Riise in midfield. We probably though need a new midfielder. The need also needs to be organised to give Jari some space, so we can actually capitalise on his talent. The first choice team at the moment for me should be: Dudek, Carra, H and H, Wright, Riise, Gerrard, Didi, Murphy, Owen and Heskey - with Macca, Berger, Smicer, Jari and Anelka used for minor rotation and substitutions.