Liverpool v Ipswich: Reds travel to Ipswich

The mood among the kopites has started sour based on how the end of the transfer market went this past summer, although key pieces were added the lack of depth in midfield and other crucial defensive positions could surely rear its ugly head further down the line. After securing a point at St James’ Park from a Victor Munoz won pen, converted by Szoboszlai, we met with Forest at Anfield and again showed how easy Liverpool is to play through and conceded two goals on the trot. A willingness to press and fight needs to be prevalent in this 3rd match day tie on Friday night vs Ipswich Town.

Two draws, two very different performances

Liverpool have drawn both games so far, but the underlying numbers pulled in opposite directions: 3.13 xG created away from home, then 1.28 at Anfield while conceding 2.88.

I would say with the new coach and only two games into the season it is far too early to tell what this Liverpool squad will be about, we do know that going back to last year Liverpool have not won a game in I believe 6 to 7 Premier League matches which is concerning to say the least. What I do know is that if you are playing Liverpool we will give you a chance, give you some motivation at this current time, they need to inspire that fear of playing Liverpool again not that they will let you have a run every game.

What Ipswich have shown

A 2-1 home win where they were marginally the better side on xG (1.58 to 1.18), then a 5-2 away defeat in which they conceded 4.87 xG.

Ipswich Town have looked fairly formidable so far in the Premier league and I actually thought the most recent match between them and Manchester United should have been closer than the scoreline reads. With this being said, The Reds are clear favorites tonight and should be able to control the ball and dictate the pace. I am interested to see what the manager does with Bradley Barcola given that he has not played any preseason games at all with PSG in preparation for the transfer to Liverpool. This is a game that at the absolute minimum Liverpool need to look competent defensively and understand that they are the superior side and use that quality to be the difference in this match.

The one to watch

Anomaly this early into the season — I feel that this will waver off as games are played.

Liverpool’s own numbers

He needs some service for sure from our full backs and midfielders but we need that Wirtz and Isak connection to continue to build and blossom as time goes on. I believe it’s Wirtz that may be able to feed him.

Prediction

3-1 to the Reds. Munoz, Isak, and Szobo on the score sheet. Up the reds!