2 games into the new season and Liverpool has a 100% record. Wins against Sunderland and Boro has catapulted the Reds to a dizzying second spot behind pounds-rich Chelsea. The 2 wins so far however has not been convincing. That plus also a last gasp winner against Standard Liege to qualify for the Champions League has only raised the imminent question. Are we going to be Champions at the end of the season? Everyone knows that only great teams win matches even when they're struggling to find form. What is more interesting is that the wins against Boro and SL was done minutes/seconds away from the final whistle.
This Sunday will see the Reds take on "Barry" Villa. Now that's uncomfortable. Barry was nearly a Red but O'Neil and Villa made it difficult with their haggling. So unless someone else comes into the picture, expect Barry a Red next season? Villa though is strengthen with the arrival of Milner formerly of Leeds and Newcastle. With Milner in, perhaps O'Neil can then agree to release Barry.
The game against Villa will be tight. Last season the Reds won 2-1 on opening day. Despite the shocking loss to Stoke, Villa will be fired up against the Reds. So, my take is that Liverpool will come away with at least a point and expect Robbie Keane to score his first Liverpool goal.
So how are the others doing? Chelsea looks good. Convincing wins against Pourtsmouth and Wigan. Clean sheets too. Man U drew the opener and won by a solitary goal against Pourtsmouth. Arsenal too was not too convincing in their win against WBA and a defeat at Fulham. Spurs lost their first 2 games. Hull, Blackburn and Newcastle are the other teams that have yet to lose. Expect them to lose to Wigan, West Ham and Arsenal respectively this week.
So, its still early. 2 games does not make a season. But the Reds are moving nicely.
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