Liverpool 4 – Rangers 0

Well in the past few days there have been a lot of discussions in the media about our supposed “gun-shy” strikers. I just have to ask; if two strikers totaling 50+ goals between them and a small group of others scoring 10+ each themselves is indeed “gun-shy” then was anyone successful scoring last season? I mean seriously, I’m glad I’m not drinking whatever they’ve gotten into, because it’s left them quite daft.

Today found our anemic offense up in Scotland for a showdown with Rangers at Ibrox. A storied club with tremendous support, not to mention last season’s UEFA Cup runners-up this figured to be a stern test for us. It’s no secret that Scottish sides usually run a pretty tight ship at the back, and so I had figured on a 1-0.

That brings us to the match itself, which we dominated totally. Other than one opportunity cleared off the lone by Dossena, we were fairly blemish free until the game was out of reach for the home side. Torres tapped in to open both the scoring and his account for the season. Following that was a brilliant left footed finish from David Ngog, curling it right around the keeper into the smallest of spaces. I like what I see from him so far: good control , a bit of flair, and an eye for goal. He very nearly had two later on in the match with yet another left footed curler that just missed the top corner.

Yossi Benayoun again showed his poacher’s eye to tap in the 3rd goal, before a lovely move by Nemeth netted us the penalty that Alonso slotted away for the final of 4-0.

I’m going to give 3 stars of the game here, just because I can, and because I like the hockey tradition.

1. David Ngog – Showing confidence that he’s not afraid to go for broke

2. Jay Spearing – Same as Ngog, but with a totally different attitude. He’s little Carra from what I see.

3. Andrea Dossena – Made one goal saving challenge and several beautiful crosses.

Honorable Mention- Robbie Keane showed some excellent vision and movement today, seeing as I expect that out of a 20 million pound acquisition it’s not quite as praiseworthy.

I do have one turd I’d like to mention for this match:

Jermaine Pennant, we cannot sell you fast enough.

All in all though, a solid performance and one to build on. We were simply a class above Rangers, who are not at all a bad side and don’t get drilled 4-0 on many occasions.