Premier League: Rodgers: Win shows that we can beat the big boys this season
LIVERPOOL 1 vs MANCHESTER UNITED 0
LIVERPOOL manager Brendan Rodgers believes his team has the confidence to beat the Premier League’s top sides this season, after the Reds extended their 100 per cent start to the season against champions Manchester United.
A fourth minute goal from birthday boy Daniel Sturridge, who turned 24 yesterday, was enough to separate the fierce rivals, ending in Liverpool’s third 1-0 league victory in a row.
“It is another step for us because we drew too many of the big games last season,” Rodgers said. “It is an indicator that our winning mentality is becoming stronger. You could see the reaction through the team was very good and that’s what we are going to need.”
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Liverpool took an early lead when Daniel Agger beat his opposite centre-back Rio Ferdinand to an outswinging corner, heading the ball towards goal. Sturridge, lurking near the goal-line, flicked the ball on past two United players and into the net.
Robin van Persie had chances to level the score before the break, yet failed to convert, while a curling Steven Gerrard free-kick was saved by David De Gea.
The visitors pushed forward in the second half yet could not find a way through Liverpool’s defence. Nani’s venomous shot in the 77th minute was palmed away, while Van Persie hit a late chance wide.