The result is all that counts. But it was a very disjointed performance with several of the usual weaknesses exposed. Difference is, we won. And again that's all that counts.
Karius (4) a dithering, hopeless calamity. Utterly rooted to the spot; whenever a high ball came into the box, or even the 6 yard area, Karius stood watching and totally useless. So fortunate not to concede more than one. If this is his level, we've replaced Mignolet with an even worse keeper.
Clyne (7) started poorly, with a collective defensive malaise that emanated from the hapless Karius, but was very good after that, with several great bursts forward and solid defensively. Ratings reflects overall display, so 7 it is
Matip (5) all over the place at times and made two or three very poor mistakes with lackadaisical defending.
Lovren (5) another who had a horribly erratic and sloppy start, but improved after the break. Probably shaded it over Matip, who had one more massive fuck up in him at any time
Milner (7) our top scorer. Which is impressive, as well as a bit concerning. He was, like the rest, poor in the first half, with some rally obvious 'he's a right footed midfielder playing at left back' moments, but he was great in the second half, a constant metronomic threat in attack and nerveless as ever form the spot
Lallana (n/a) started poorly, off injured early
Henderson (6) same story; bollocks first half, came belatedly to life in the second with some great passing and interceptions. Should take more responsibility to lift the side when we need it
Wijnaldum (5) terrible first half, totally average second. Invisible really, so perhaps 5 is being kind.
Mane (7) only Liverpool player to look a threat in the first half, he was a constant threat with that pace and power, even if his final effort wasn't always great
Firmino (8) dreadful start, looking slow in mind and body, but the arrival of Sturridge, with his running behind and more natural striking instincts, created far more space which Firmino exploited very well. Great header, and while the penalty was soft, it was well worked. Hopefully Klopp will realise that Firmino doesn't score when he is playing on his own and needs a proper striker to play ahead of him.
Coutinho (7) looked slow and lightweight in the first half, with the midfield hustle and bustle way too much for him, but was head and shoulders above the rest in the second half. Creative and skilled.
Subs
Sturridge (6) didn't get enough chances, but showed willing and made lots of clever runs to drag Swansea out of position
Origi (4) shit
