Liverpool v Aston Villa - To dive or not to dive that is the question.

Match Verdict:

A surprise performance from the Villa resulted in a 2-2 draw at Anfield.  Goals from Weimann and Benteke launched Aston Villa into a deserved 0-2 lead.  The Villa boys were buzzing around and not letting Liverpool settle into their passing game, Stevie G in particular looked a bit shocked (I think he has watched a lot of Villa lately and was expecting an easy ride).  Villa switched off briefly before half time allowing Daniel Sturridge to steal an undeserved goal on the stroke of half time.

When the second half got underway you could see a real intent from Liverpool to turn the match on its head.  Brendan Rodgers had re-jigged his team to cope with the Villa attack and they were starting to make headway.  Villa's defence stood firm under increased pressure until the villain of the day Luis Suarez "won" a penalty.  Gerrard did what Gerrard does and tucked it away and my thoughts turned to a 3-2 defeat.  Villa didn't crumble they stood firm and even created a few chances to win the game.  Looking at the 90 minutes Villa deserved the 3 points but a point at Anfield is a good point especially with teams around us gathering pace in the race to avoid relegation.

Player ratings

·       Brad Guzan - 6 - At fault for the penalty but otherwise solid and reliable.

·       Leandro Bacuna – 6 - Some suspect passing but otherwise comfortable on the ball and got forward with effect.

·       Ciaran Clark – 7 - Dealt with Liverpool’s attacking threat and looked more comfortable than in recent weeks.

·       Ron Vlaar - 8 - A real leader that led by example (please stay fit).

·       Ryan Bertrand – 7 - Comfortable debut, got forward will prove to be a real asset.

·       Ashley Westwood – 6 - Kept the ball ticking over without being spectacular.

·       El Ahmadi – 6 - Developing a habit of popping up in the box needs to work on his finishing.

·       Fabian Delph – 7 - A driving force in midfield could make a late push for Wold cup if injuries favour him and Villa can improve.

·       Andreas Weimann 7: Some wild shots but great run to earn his goal.

·       Christian Benteke – 8 - The beast is back! Need I say more?  He dominated Liverpool’s defence.

·       Gabriel Agbonlahor – 8 - Catalyst for the performance, Villa lost something in attack when he had to go off.

Subs:

·       Yacouba Sylla – 5 - Gave the ball away, and struggled to get into the game.

·       Grant Holt – 6 - Looked comfortable holding the ball up, will no doubt contribute more in future games.

·       Antonio Luna – 5 - Didn’t get much time to have an effect on the game.

The aftermath

The diving debate has been rumbling on, personally I am over it.  Guzan presented Suarez with the opportunity to "win" a penalty and he took it.  These decisions balance themselves out so let’s move on and hopefully show this kind of performance at home to the Baggies a week on Wednesday, if we do then we will win.