Morning all! Once again, I must apologise for the delay in my RAAAAAAAATINGS! as I was in Liverpool and could not be arsed, really. I couldn't even be arsed going to the match, and ended up watching it in a terrible "sports bar"in Ainsdale, but that's another story.
Such are the vagaries of football, and one of the many paradoxes of being a manager, that no sooner have we eulogised about the importance of being able to "win when you're not at your best" and "three points is all that matters" after games like Palace, then we will soon start to worry that "we'll get beat sooner or later" and "performances have to improve" following another victory without playing that well.
So it was against Brighton. The first half was pretty good; we looked in control and were finding space to create opportunities, with one belting free-kick off the bar from TAA a highlight, and the deserved goal came soon enough, with Salah stroking in a lovely first-time finish. But we then lost focus and some intensity after the break, with Brighton's well-organised and hard-working side closing down space and also creating a few chances of their own. Luckily, Allison made some decisive clearances and one good late save ensured we got the three points.
Allison (7) The chip made headlines, but there were a couple of other less impressive touches that caused consternation, however his assurance and confidence is very promising indeed and he looks like an inspired signing so far.
Virgil (6) Yet another clean sheet, well-marshalled by our defensive lynchpin. Actually had a slightly less assured game than usual, with Gomez more solid overall and he did look a little TOO confident at times, with a slack pass that was nearly punished. But 6 is about right - decent display.
Gomez (7) Good start to the season continues, and his concentration and application was rock solid. Looks like it could be a very fine CB partnership with Virgil.
TAA (7) Maybe an extra point for that pass? There's not many fullbacks with the technique and confidence to pull those off. Hit the bar with a good freekick effort, evn if some of his other crossing was still a bit wonky. Improving every game.
Robertson (7) Was our best player after halftime, as so many others seemed to wilt, and his running power and positivity were great to see. Up and down all day long, and another lovely, solid display from Mr Consistency.
Wijnaldum (7) Very impressive in the first 45 minutes, and hardly put a foot wrong in another smooth, confident display of intelligent and disciplined midfield play. Not quite as dominant after the break, but can be pleased with how he has started the season, after many wondered what his role in the team would be. Nothing blood and thunder about his game, but efficient.
Milner (7) Like Wijnaldum, has taken the extra challenge and competition for places head on, with another influential display in central midfield. He worked so hard, and it was the second game in a row that a shuddering challenge has provided impetus and proven decisive. This time it was Milner's challenge that helped create the goal, winning back possession after some ill-advised tippy-tappy bollocks from Brighton. It's this type of contribution - more artisan than artist - that is crucial to any winning side.
Keita (6) Some good things, especially in the first half, as he was very involved and drive forward at every opportunity. End product still not quite there, and he faded after half-time as Brighton stepped up a gear.
Mane (5) Saw enough of the ball, but his passing and shooting was way off, and he twisted and turned into trouble too often to cede possession. By his usual high standards, this was pretty ordinary.
Salah (7) Extra point for the match-winning goal, which was a lovely finish and he looked slightly more like himself, even if he's still some way below his best.
Firmino (6) Started the season slowly, but this was an improvement and he was more involved and lively. Some of his flourishes didn't come off, but at least he had a shot on target, which was well saved by their keeper.