Everton and Liverpool contested a 2-2 draw today in Goodison Park. It certainly wasn't a game without controversy. As a spectator of the game, it was evident how much of a difference two quality individual players can make for both of their sides. The performances and key moments from both Thiago Alcantara and James Rodriguez should be highlighted from today's game.
Thiago put in a man of the match performance on his Merseyside debut. The Spaniard was up against a midfield trio of Allan, Doucoure and Andre Gomes. From the first minute Thiago showed his intention. The midfield maestro looked for the ball at every opportunity from the Liverpool backline and also showed his defensive ability in front of the back four. He was the reds out ball throughout the game. The most important factor was that his teammates trusted him to take the ball on the turn and drive his side forward. Every time the midfielder took the ball to feet, you felt that Everton could be in danger. Not only is his passing pin point, but his immediate ambition is to pass the ball forward and look for an opening for one of his teammates. A prime example of this was when Thiago slipped a ball into Sadio Mane inside the Everton penalty box late into injury time, which was laid back to Henderson, who finished passed Pickford. The goal was ruled out but without Thiago playing that attacking pass into Mane, the chance would never have occurred. The man that was signed for £27 million in the summer already looks to be a bargain for the reds. Thiago possesses a creative spark while also being calm and collected on the ball. It was a dominant midfield performance from a player who will help his side win games throughout the season. Below is a link to Thiago's highlights from today's game.
James Rodriguez was involved in everything that was good attacking wise for Everton today. The Colombian joined Everton for free in the Summer from Real Madrid. He has already hit the ground running for his new side with 3 goals and 3 assists in 5 games. The playmaker showed yet again why he was thought of so highly since a young age. Rodriguez possesses the ability to deliver a quality ball from his gifted left foot. He produced an inch perfect ball for Everton's equaliser through Michael Keane from a corner kick. James plays off the right wing for his side but throughout the game he moves around the pitch as a free roaming player. On two occasions, James cut in on his left foot from the right and whipped in two dangerous crosses, one of which could have and should have been finished by Richarlison. The 29 year old also played a key part in Everton's equaliser. Rodriguez played a perfect ball down the line for Digne who provided the cross for Calvert-Lewin's goal. James may not have had the most successful times at Los Blancos but within 5 games for Everton, he is already showing his quality and touch of class. Below is a link to Rodriguez's highlights from today's game. https://youtu.be/-VcyHNVLJjo
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