How can the Reds upset favourites Chelsea?
Chelsea are top of the league, and overwhelming favourites for today’s lunchtime game against Liverpool. But Chelsea’s great form is not all it is made out to be, and Liverpool could spring a huge surprise at Anfield.
Here are the six key factors that could help Liverpool to a famous victory.
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5) Chelsea’s subtly poor form
Chelsea have won two and drawn two of their last four, but that doesn’t tell the full story. They failed to beat a poor Manchester United side, retreating deep and conceding a late goal. They then struggled against League 2 Shrewsbury, winning only after a fortunate late own-goal. They beat QPR with a lucky penalty after toiling for the majority of the game; and then drew with Champions League minnows Maribor, a game they would have lost if Maribor had scored an easy chance late on.
4) Anfield crowd
While Jose Mourinho complained about the atmosphere at Stamford Bridge, Anfield will have no trouble making a huge noise for this game. The rivalry that has developed between Mourinho’s Chelsea and Liverpool in recent years will drive the volume to new levels, and Chelsea (or the referee) could wilt under the pressure from the crowd.
4) Liverpool’s freshness
Liverpool played a weakened side against Real Madrid, a decision which has been analysed more for its ethics than its practicality in the aftermath of their loss. It is today that we really find out if the gamble paid off, with Liverpool also having had an extra day’s rest over Chelsea. The Reds must exploit this by keeping the pressure up as the second half progresses, and not letting Chelsea dominate possession.
3) Chelsea’s blunt attack
Diego Costa returned for last Saturday’s game against QPR but looked rusty after missing four games. Without the Brazilian Chelsea have looked weak up front, and their gameplan is hugely dependent on the striker to stretch opposition defences with runs in behind. When Costa isn’t scoring, the Blues are blunt.
2) Defensive weakness
Chelsea’s defence is touted as their strong suit, but they have conceded far too many sloppy goals so far this season. The Blues have kept only one clean sheet in their last six games, and Liverpool’s attacking threat is far greater than the likes of QPR and Maribor.
1) Desire
Liverpool will be desperate to avenge the events of last year, when Steven Gerrard’s slip cost the Reds the title they’ve craved for so long. Brendan Rodgers must channel the desire for revenge carefully, as an excess of passion could leave them exposed, but he will have no trouble motivating his players for today’s game.