Liverpool Player Ratings: Arsenal (N)
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Liverpool started their 2020/21 campaign with a penalty shoot-out defeat at the hands of Arsenal in the Community Shield at Wembley.
Both teams were short in preparation as they build towards the new season, and it showed at times as the match lacked the desired pace and quality of a top-flight encounter.
The Reds, who had some key absentees including Jordan Henderson and Trent Alexander-Arnold, went behind after 12 minutes when Gunners captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang curled his effort into the far post past a diving Alisson Becker.
Jurgen Klopp’s side did take control of proceedings as the game went on and were deservedly back on level terms when substitute Takumi Minamino found the ball at his in the six-yard box.
At the full-time whistle the contest went straight to penalties, young striker Rhian Brewster, who came on in stoppage time, was the only man to miss as his penalty clipped the bar and went over.
The Premier League champions losing 5-4 to Mikel Arteta’s FA Cup winners. Here’s how the Reds rated.
Alisson Becker - 6
Made an impressive stop to deny Eddie Nketiah. Didn’t really get close during the pens.
Neco Williams - 5
Whilst not at fault for the goal, it came on his side. Struggled to make the impact he would have wanted to going forward.
Joe Gomez - 7
Solid throughout including when he was shifted to right-back, something we know he doesn’t enjoy.
Virgil van Dijk - 8
Flawless performance, more useful minutes ahead of more important matters to come.
Andy Robertson - 8
Possibly looked the most ready to begin the new campaign. A constant threat down the left-wing and provided the most dangerous moments.
Fabinho - 6
Scored his penalty with conviction and was impressive throughout the 90 minutes. Moved to centre-back and slotted in nicely.
Gini Wijnaldum - 5
Not his best performance in a Liverpool shirt from the much talked about Dutchman. Grew into the match in the second half.
James Milner - 6
Chosen ahead of Naby Keita and perhaps should have opened the scoring with a header. Industrious as ever and never gave up.
Mohamed Salah - 6
The new hair cut did not bring one of his best outings. Quiet and struggled to find his usual space down the right. Missing TAA’s influence perhaps.
Roberto Firmino - 6
Smart touches as ever and fired narrowly wide from distance. Not at his influential best but that should come.
Sadio Mane - 7
Had at least one great chance to score when through on goal and looked sharp at times.
Naby Keita (Sub) - 7
Always wanted the ball and carried it forwards at every opportunity. More impressive form from the midfielder.
Takumi Minamino (Sub) - 8
Will have been delighted to get his first goal for the club and showed his growing confidence. Some nice touches and changes of direction.
Curtis Jones - 6
Scored his penalty convincingly as he continues to show is potential.
Rhian Brewster - NA
Will have been gutted to miss his spot-kick after showing great pre-season form. May find himself out on loan soon.
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