What a result at home. This is a big victory. We’re through to the next phase of the FA Cup and it was won with hard work and determination from the boys in Red this afternoon.

Liverpool FC pressed and pressed. We gave the Red Devils as little time on the ball as possible, and the game was deservedly won in the final few minutes of the encounter. The game kicked off to a supercharged atmosphere at Anfield, Maxi Rodriguez tested Spanish goalkeeper David de Gea just three minutes in, but the United keeper managed to parry it away.

Apart from that, Manchester United dominated possession in the early proceedings, creating numerous opportunities for themselves, including Antonio Valencia’s effort from far out which bounced back off the post. But it was the Reds who took the early advantage as de Gea was blocked by Andy Carroll and de Gea failed to clear his lines. With him being off his line, Agger put the ball into the back of the net with a powerful header from a Steven Gerrard corner.

As seen against Manchester City, Liverpool retreated following their opener, as they tried to soak up the pressure. They only managed to do so until six minutes before half time, as Park Ji Sung pounced onto a Rafael da Silva cross to finish past Reina.

When the game seemed to be headed for a 1-1 draw, Pepe Reina’s long clearance was flicked on by Andy Carroll who found Dirk Kuyt behind the defenders and with only David de Gea to beat. The Dutchman duly took the invitation and scored with a powerful finish past the Spanish goalkeeper.

Starting off Defensive

Once again, Kenny Dalglish played a rather defensive set-up to start off with, with five defenders starting the game (Jamie Carragher at the defensive midfield berth). Liverpool FC lacked that edge in midfield as passes were wayward and off the mark. Jamie Carragher was barely in action both defensive wise and attacking wise. It was a tactical fault and Kenny Dalglish managed to realize this.

Kenny Dalglish made three relatively successful switches in the game, with Adam making for a better defensive midfielder than Carragher, Craig Bellamy offering more avenues in attack and Dirk Kuyt, well, scoring the goal.

Published with permission from Two Liverpool Fans.