Liverpool FC season 08/09

[Judge Judy]

4-4-2 that we've been playing all preseason will accommodate him just fine

[GiveNgog]

Yeah I'm goin with Tobes here..I reckon Rafa is gonna resort back to 4-4-2 to accomodate Keane.
I personally would like to see this though:
----------Reina---------
-Carra--Skrtel--Agger-
----Masch---Lucas----
--------Gerrard--------
-Babel------------Silva-
------Keane------------
--------------Torres----

Them three could handle the backlines just fine and they've got Masch and Lucas there to give them extra support.
And I've got a feeling we're gonna snatch Silva

[GiveNgog]

Found a quality song for Keane on the Liverpoolfc.tv site already:

To the tune of spiderman

Robbie keane, Robbie keane
he is fast and he is mean
we've got the ball , cross it in
and he will score
and then we'll sing
looook ouuut here comes robbie keane

Probably won't end up being 'his' song, but I like it

[totsreds08]

Yeah I'm goin with Tobes here..I reckon Rafa is gonna resort back to 4-4-2 to accomodate Keane.
I personally would like to see this though:
----------Reina---------
-Carra--Skrtel--Agger-
----Masch---Lucas----
--------Gerrard--------
-Babel------------Silva-
------Keane------------
--------------Torres----

Them three could handle the backlines just fine and they've got Masch and Lucas there to give them extra support.
And I've got a feeling we're gonna snatch Silva

yeh i reckon we will get silva and hopefully rafinha..he is good from what i have seen but im happy with the back line how it is

[delfino_1936]

some liverpoo fans think this is how you guys might line up

---------------------torres-----------------------

---silva/babel------------------keane/kuyt--------

--------------------gerrard-----------------------

------------monster------alonso/lucas-------------

aurelio/dossena---agger---skittles---carra/arbeloa

---------------------reina------------------------

if Silva signs

[totsreds08]

some liverpoo fans think this is how you guys might line up

---------------------torres-----------------------

---silva/babel------------------keane/kuyt--------

--------------------gerrard-----------------------

------------monster------alonso/lucas-------------

aurelio/dossena---agger---skittles---carra/arbeloa

---------------------reina------------------------


if Silva signs

[Judge Judy]

reina
arbeloa/carra TMNS agger dossena
kuyt mascha gerrard babel
keane torres

can't see us getting silva or rafinha, but would love to get silva to get us a fucking natural left footer on the left

[Judge Judy]

cuties

[# 9]

get the feelin that pool fans will be seein the robbie keane trademark goal celebration alot this season

[fowlerisgod]

Found this one on one of the forums
Best Song So Far

To the tune of = Let it be - The Beatles

Robbie Keane,
Robbie Keane,
Robbie Keane
Oh Robbie Keane
Liverpool's number seven,
Robbie Keane.

[Judge Judy]

someone really got their creative juices flowing with that one

[fowlerisgod]

Vote for king kenny!!!!!
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/poll ... footballer

[fowlerisgod]

someone really got their creative juices flowing with that one

but at least its the beatles!!! But agrees its pretty simple

[ramosrules]

get the feelin that pool fans will be seein the robbie keane trademark goal celebration alot this season

He stopped doing it during last year, i think hes getting a bit old and he might pull a hammy

[GiveNgog]

get the feelin that pool fans will be seein the robbie keane trademark goal celebration alot this season

Hope so, he's said in an interview he might pull it out occasionally but not too often.

[totsreds08]

what a beautiful site

[totsreds08]

here is one for the keane lovers

[Robbie Fowler]

ASTON VILLA have slammed the brakes on Gareth Barry's dream move to Liverpool.
The midlands club released a statement today that read: "Aston Villa can announce that Gareth Barry will be staying with the club following the interest from Liverpool over recent months.

"During discussions in the past few days, a final deadline to conclude this episode was set that all parties were aware of and agreed to.

"This deadline has now passed and so Gareth will remain with Villa."

But despite Villa's stance, SunSport understands that Liverpool are confident that an £18million deal can still be reached.

Midfielders Jermaine Pennant, Yossi Benayoun and Xabi Alonso could all be sold to help finance the deal.

Kop boss Rafa Benitez plans to pair Barry with pal Steven Gerrard in the centre of midfield - a partnership that has proved successful for England.

A deal would take Benitez's summer spending to over £50m.

The Spaniard has already brought in Robbie Keane, Andrea Dossena, Diego Cavalieri, David Ngog and Philipp Degen.

[LeBron]

The Sun .......pffffttttttt

Why on earth would you post anything those muppets have to say!!!!!!!!!

[# 9]

they av page3

[mattieg1200]

VILLARREAL 0 - 0 LIVERPOOL
Wednesday 30 July 2008 20:30 , Friendly
KEANE MAKES DEBUT IN SPANISH STALEMATE

Robbie Keane and David Ngog both made their first Liverpool appearances as the Reds were held to a third successive pre-season draw by Villarreal in El Madrigal.

In a match organised as part of the deal which took Pepe Reina to Anfield three years ago, the Liverpool 'keeper had to be content with a place on the bench following the birth of his second child in the early hours - but he received a standing ovation from all corners of the ground when joining the action with ten minutes remaining.

Also receiving a heroes welcome back to first-team football were Reina's fellow Euro 2008 stars, with Fernando Torres, Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa all enjoying their first action since their success in the summer.

It was a game of debuts, and not just those of new strikers Robbie Keane, who during 45 minutes showed several glimpses of the class which persuaded Rafa Benitez to splash out earlier this week, and David Ngog, who also enjoyed bright first-half.

The match also provided a first outing for a new grey away kit; one which bears a striking similarity to the Candy-sponsored number worn the last time a league championship trophy made its way to Anfield in 1990.

If that is a good omen for the season ahead, so too were the performances of many of Benitez's fringe players. The likes of Diego Cavalieri, Stephen Darby and Damien Plessis all put in decent displays in what was another useful run out.

The game was preceded by a guard of honour for old boy Reina, who was granted a standing ovation from a near-capacity crowd as he carried Spain's Euro 2008 trophy onto the pitch.

Once play did get under way, the new incumbent of our famous number seven shirt waited just two minutes to issue a signal of intent with a cheeky flick towards the onrushing Andrea Dossena. Sadly the move broke down but it was exactly the kind of touch the travelling Kop had come to see.

Others were out to impress, too, like the imposing Plessis, who flighted a superb ball to Andriy Voronin down the right wing. The boy has clearly been spending time with Xabi Alonso.

Next, with 20 minutes gone, Plessis provided his teammates with a much-needed refreshment stop after inadvertently belting the ball into the face of home captain Javi Venta, who laid strewn across the perfect grass for some time.

Off went the Liverpool players towards Doc Waller and his water bottles, a temporary antidote to the scorching Mediterranean heat.

It seemed to do the trick, as well - for just seconds after play resumed, Keane took out two men with another delicate touch before Dossena burst down the right and won a corner.

All very nice, but the Reds had yet to threaten Diego Lopez's goal. The first effort of any substance didn't arrive until 27 minutes when Keane, fed by Yossi Benayoun, fired over from inside the D.

At the other end, Cavalieri, who displayed safe hands throughout, was forced to respond to a rasping shot cum cross which he did well to turn away.

The Brazilian was called into action once more on 32 minutes when former Arsenal playmaker Robert Pires wriggled his way into space in the box before testing the visiting goal with a low sidefoot.

It was turning into a sustained period of pressure for the side who finished second in La Liga last term. Next Llorente ghosted past the seemingly well-organised Reds backline before lobbing Cavalieri. Happily the linesman's flag was correctly raised.

Liverpool were starting to ride their luck. An opening goal seemed almost certain on 42 minutes when Ibagaza fired against the woodwork, with the ball landing invitingly to teammate Cani eight yards out. With the net gaping, the man in yellow was somehow denied by a magnificent block from the impressive Stephen Darby.

A brief moment of respite arrived late in the first half when Benayoun worked his way into space before teeing up Ngog inside the box. Just when it seemed the Frenchman was about to join our relatively short list of goalscoring debutants, Lopez pulled a fine low save out of the bag.

The personnel might have changed, with Benitez making nine changes at the break, but the second half began pretty much where the first ended: with Villarreal on the attack.

Substitutes Jamie Carragher and Daniel Agger had to be at their very best to prevent a dangerous cross from Cani finding Llorente at the near post.

On too was Nemeth, another debutant, sporting shiny red boots. Sadly for him, many of the kind of chances he took with ease for the reserves last season were arriving at the wrong end.

Full-back Gonzalo should have scored following a goalmouth scramble only to be denied once again by Cavalieri, who this time used his legs to keep Liverpool's slate clean.

Finally, 20 minutes after the restart, the visitors began to get a foothold.

The turning point came when substitute Daniel Pacheco was found darting into acres of space down the left. It was two on two, with Jermaine Pennant sprinting forward to join the young Spaniard, who sadly took the wrong option by cutting inside and shooting harmlessly wide.

Nemeth then came close with a rasping effort. Unfortunately for him, it was his final contribution after being told to shake hands with Torres just 25 minutes into his senior bow. It was no reflection on the youngster's performance, just a case of simple maths, with Benitez having too many outfield players in need of a run out.

Then, after a Torres volley bounced harmlessly wide and a Alonso free-kick was saved well by Lopez, came the moment most who were present had been waiting for: the introduction of Reina, who was greeted by chants of 'Reeeeiiiina' as he made his way to the Liverpool goal with 10 minutes remaining.

Teams
Liverpool: Cavalieri, Dossena, Hyypia, Skrtel, Darby, Benayoun, Gerrard (captain), Plessis, Keane, Voronin, Ngog. Subs - Carragher, Arbeloa, Finnan, Pacheco, Kuyt, Torres, Alonso, Nemeth, Agger, Reina, Pennant

Villarreal: Lopez, Lopez Ruano, Prado, Godin, Rodriguez Venta, Ibagaza, Eguren, , Pires, Franco, Llorente. Subs - Viera, Franco, Fuentes, Soriano, Cygan

Referee: Unknown

Conditions: Warm

Attendance: Unknown

Liverpoolfc.tv Man-of-the-Match: Stephen Darby

[mattieg1200]

VILLARREAL 0 - 0 LIVERPOOL
Wednesday 30 July 2008 20:30 , Friendly
KEANE MAKES DEBUT IN SPANISH STALEMATE

Robbie Keane and David Ngog both made their first Liverpool appearances as the Reds were held to a third successive pre-season draw by Villarreal in El Madrigal.

In a match organised as part of the deal which took Pepe Reina to Anfield three years ago, the Liverpool 'keeper had to be content with a place on the bench following the birth of his second child in the early hours - but he received a standing ovation from all corners of the ground when joining the action with ten minutes remaining.

Also receiving a heroes welcome back to first-team football were Reina's fellow Euro 2008 stars, with Fernando Torres, Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa all enjoying their first action since their success in the summer.

It was a game of debuts, and not just those of new strikers Robbie Keane, who during 45 minutes showed several glimpses of the class which persuaded Rafa Benitez to splash out earlier this week, and David Ngog, who also enjoyed bright first-half.

The match also provided a first outing for a new grey away kit; one which bears a striking similarity to the Candy-sponsored number worn the last time a league championship trophy made its way to Anfield in 1990.

If that is a good omen for the season ahead, so too were the performances of many of Benitez's fringe players. The likes of Diego Cavalieri, Stephen Darby and Damien Plessis all put in decent displays in what was another useful run out.

The game was preceded by a guard of honour for old boy Reina, who was granted a standing ovation from a near-capacity crowd as he carried Spain's Euro 2008 trophy onto the pitch.

Once play did get under way, the new incumbent of our famous number seven shirt waited just two minutes to issue a signal of intent with a cheeky flick towards the onrushing Andrea Dossena. Sadly the move broke down but it was exactly the kind of touch the travelling Kop had come to see.

Others were out to impress, too, like the imposing Plessis, who flighted a superb ball to Andriy Voronin down the right wing. The boy has clearly been spending time with Xabi Alonso.

Next, with 20 minutes gone, Plessis provided his teammates with a much-needed refreshment stop after inadvertently belting the ball into the face of home captain Javi Venta, who laid strewn across the perfect grass for some time.

Off went the Liverpool players towards Doc Waller and his water bottles, a temporary antidote to the scorching Mediterranean heat.

It seemed to do the trick, as well - for just seconds after play resumed, Keane took out two men with another delicate touch before Dossena burst down the right and won a corner.

All very nice, but the Reds had yet to threaten Diego Lopez's goal. The first effort of any substance didn't arrive until 27 minutes when Keane, fed by Yossi Benayoun, fired over from inside the D.

At the other end, Cavalieri, who displayed safe hands throughout, was forced to respond to a rasping shot cum cross which he did well to turn away.

The Brazilian was called into action once more on 32 minutes when former Arsenal playmaker Robert Pires wriggled his way into space in the box before testing the visiting goal with a low sidefoot.

It was turning into a sustained period of pressure for the side who finished second in La Liga last term. Next Llorente ghosted past the seemingly well-organised Reds backline before lobbing Cavalieri. Happily the linesman's flag was correctly raised.

Liverpool were starting to ride their luck. An opening goal seemed almost certain on 42 minutes when Ibagaza fired against the woodwork, with the ball landing invitingly to teammate Cani eight yards out. With the net gaping, the man in yellow was somehow denied by a magnificent block from the impressive Stephen Darby.

A brief moment of respite arrived late in the first half when Benayoun worked his way into space before teeing up Ngog inside the box. Just when it seemed the Frenchman was about to join our relatively short list of goalscoring debutants, Lopez pulled a fine low save out of the bag.

The personnel might have changed, with Benitez making nine changes at the break, but the second half began pretty much where the first ended: with Villarreal on the attack.

Substitutes Jamie Carragher and Daniel Agger had to be at their very best to prevent a dangerous cross from Cani finding Llorente at the near post.

On too was Nemeth, another debutant, sporting shiny red boots. Sadly for him, many of the kind of chances he took with ease for the reserves last season were arriving at the wrong end.

Full-back Gonzalo should have scored following a goalmouth scramble only to be denied once again by Cavalieri, who this time used his legs to keep Liverpool's slate clean.

Finally, 20 minutes after the restart, the visitors began to get a foothold.

The turning point came when substitute Daniel Pacheco was found darting into acres of space down the left. It was two on two, with Jermaine Pennant sprinting forward to join the young Spaniard, who sadly took the wrong option by cutting inside and shooting harmlessly wide.

Nemeth then came close with a rasping effort. Unfortunately for him, it was his final contribution after being told to shake hands with Torres just 25 minutes into his senior bow. It was no reflection on the youngster's performance, just a case of simple maths, with Benitez having too many outfield players in need of a run out.

Then, after a Torres volley bounced harmlessly wide and a Alonso free-kick was saved well by Lopez, came the moment most who were present had been waiting for: the introduction of Reina, who was greeted by chants of 'Reeeeiiiina' as he made his way to the Liverpool goal with 10 minutes remaining.

Teams
Liverpool: Cavalieri, Dossena, Hyypia, Skrtel, Darby, Benayoun, Gerrard (captain), Plessis, Keane, Voronin, Ngog. Subs - Carragher, Arbeloa, Finnan, Pacheco, Kuyt, Torres, Alonso, Nemeth, Agger, Reina, Pennant

Villarreal: Lopez, Lopez Ruano, Prado, Godin, Rodriguez Venta, Ibagaza, Eguren, , Pires, Franco, Llorente. Subs - Viera, Franco, Fuentes, Soriano, Cygan

Referee: Unknown

Conditions: Warm

Attendance: Unknown

Liverpoolfc.tv Man-of-the-Match: Stephen Darby

[mattieg1200]

VILLARREAL 0 - 0 LIVERPOOL
Wednesday 30 July 2008 20:30 , Friendly
KEANE MAKES DEBUT IN SPANISH STALEMATE

Robbie Keane and David Ngog both made their first Liverpool appearances as the Reds were held to a third successive pre-season draw by Villarreal in El Madrigal.

In a match organised as part of the deal which took Pepe Reina to Anfield three years ago, the Liverpool 'keeper had to be content with a place on the bench following the birth of his second child in the early hours - but he received a standing ovation from all corners of the ground when joining the action with ten minutes remaining.

Also receiving a heroes welcome back to first-team football were Reina's fellow Euro 2008 stars, with Fernando Torres, Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa all enjoying their first action since their success in the summer.

It was a game of debuts, and not just those of new strikers Robbie Keane, who during 45 minutes showed several glimpses of the class which persuaded Rafa Benitez to splash out earlier this week, and David Ngog, who also enjoyed bright first-half.

The match also provided a first outing for a new grey away kit; one which bears a striking similarity to the Candy-sponsored number worn the last time a league championship trophy made its way to Anfield in 1990.

If that is a good omen for the season ahead, so too were the performances of many of Benitez's fringe players. The likes of Diego Cavalieri, Stephen Darby and Damien Plessis all put in decent displays in what was another useful run out.

The game was preceded by a guard of honour for old boy Reina, who was granted a standing ovation from a near-capacity crowd as he carried Spain's Euro 2008 trophy onto the pitch.

Once play did get under way, the new incumbent of our famous number seven shirt waited just two minutes to issue a signal of intent with a cheeky flick towards the onrushing Andrea Dossena. Sadly the move broke down but it was exactly the kind of touch the travelling Kop had come to see.

Others were out to impress, too, like the imposing Plessis, who flighted a superb ball to Andriy Voronin down the right wing. The boy has clearly been spending time with Xabi Alonso.

Next, with 20 minutes gone, Plessis provided his teammates with a much-needed refreshment stop after inadvertently belting the ball into the face of home captain Javi Venta, who laid strewn across the perfect grass for some time.

Off went the Liverpool players towards Doc Waller and his water bottles, a temporary antidote to the scorching Mediterranean heat.

It seemed to do the trick, as well - for just seconds after play resumed, Keane took out two men with another delicate touch before Dossena burst down the right and won a corner.

All very nice, but the Reds had yet to threaten Diego Lopez's goal. The first effort of any substance didn't arrive until 27 minutes when Keane, fed by Yossi Benayoun, fired over from inside the D.

At the other end, Cavalieri, who displayed safe hands throughout, was forced to respond to a rasping shot cum cross which he did well to turn away.

The Brazilian was called into action once more on 32 minutes when former Arsenal playmaker Robert Pires wriggled his way into space in the box before testing the visiting goal with a low sidefoot.

It was turning into a sustained period of pressure for the side who finished second in La Liga last term. Next Llorente ghosted past the seemingly well-organised Reds backline before lobbing Cavalieri. Happily the linesman's flag was correctly raised.

Liverpool were starting to ride their luck. An opening goal seemed almost certain on 42 minutes when Ibagaza fired against the woodwork, with the ball landing invitingly to teammate Cani eight yards out. With the net gaping, the man in yellow was somehow denied by a magnificent block from the impressive Stephen Darby.

A brief moment of respite arrived late in the first half when Benayoun worked his way into space before teeing up Ngog inside the box. Just when it seemed the Frenchman was about to join our relatively short list of goalscoring debutants, Lopez pulled a fine low save out of the bag.

The personnel might have changed, with Benitez making nine changes at the break, but the second half began pretty much where the first ended: with Villarreal on the attack.

Substitutes Jamie Carragher and Daniel Agger had to be at their very best to prevent a dangerous cross from Cani finding Llorente at the near post.

On too was Nemeth, another debutant, sporting shiny red boots. Sadly for him, many of the kind of chances he took with ease for the reserves last season were arriving at the wrong end.

Full-back Gonzalo should have scored following a goalmouth scramble only to be denied once again by Cavalieri, who this time used his legs to keep Liverpool's slate clean.

Finally, 20 minutes after the restart, the visitors began to get a foothold.

The turning point came when substitute Daniel Pacheco was found darting into acres of space down the left. It was two on two, with Jermaine Pennant sprinting forward to join the young Spaniard, who sadly took the wrong option by cutting inside and shooting harmlessly wide.

Nemeth then came close with a rasping effort. Unfortunately for him, it was his final contribution after being told to shake hands with Torres just 25 minutes into his senior bow. It was no reflection on the youngster's performance, just a case of simple maths, with Benitez having too many outfield players in need of a run out.

Then, after a Torres volley bounced harmlessly wide and a Alonso free-kick was saved well by Lopez, came the moment most who were present had been waiting for: the introduction of Reina, who was greeted by chants of 'Reeeeiiiina' as he made his way to the Liverpool goal with 10 minutes remaining.

Teams
Liverpool: Cavalieri, Dossena, Hyypia, Skrtel, Darby, Benayoun, Gerrard (captain), Plessis, Keane, Voronin, Ngog. Subs - Carragher, Arbeloa, Finnan, Pacheco, Kuyt, Torres, Alonso, Nemeth, Agger, Reina, Pennant

Villarreal: Lopez, Lopez Ruano, Prado, Godin, Rodriguez Venta, Ibagaza, Eguren, , Pires, Franco, Llorente. Subs - Viera, Franco, Fuentes, Soriano, Cygan

Referee: Unknown

Conditions: Warm

Attendance: Unknown

Liverpoolfc.tv Man-of-the-Match: Stephen Darby

[mattieg1200]

VILLARREAL 0 - 0 LIVERPOOL
Wednesday 30 July 2008 20:30 , Friendly
KEANE MAKES DEBUT IN SPANISH STALEMATE

Robbie Keane and David Ngog both made their first Liverpool appearances as the Reds were held to a third successive pre-season draw by Villarreal in El Madrigal.

In a match organised as part of the deal which took Pepe Reina to Anfield three years ago, the Liverpool 'keeper had to be content with a place on the bench following the birth of his second child in the early hours - but he received a standing ovation from all corners of the ground when joining the action with ten minutes remaining.

Also receiving a heroes welcome back to first-team football were Reina's fellow Euro 2008 stars, with Fernando Torres, Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa all enjoying their first action since their success in the summer.

It was a game of debuts, and not just those of new strikers Robbie Keane, who during 45 minutes showed several glimpses of the class which persuaded Rafa Benitez to splash out earlier this week, and David Ngog, who also enjoyed bright first-half.

The match also provided a first outing for a new grey away kit; one which bears a striking similarity to the Candy-sponsored number worn the last time a league championship trophy made its way to Anfield in 1990.

If that is a good omen for the season ahead, so too were the performances of many of Benitez's fringe players. The likes of Diego Cavalieri, Stephen Darby and Damien Plessis all put in decent displays in what was another useful run out.

The game was preceded by a guard of honour for old boy Reina, who was granted a standing ovation from a near-capacity crowd as he carried Spain's Euro 2008 trophy onto the pitch.

Once play did get under way, the new incumbent of our famous number seven shirt waited just two minutes to issue a signal of intent with a cheeky flick towards the onrushing Andrea Dossena. Sadly the move broke down but it was exactly the kind of touch the travelling Kop had come to see.

Others were out to impress, too, like the imposing Plessis, who flighted a superb ball to Andriy Voronin down the right wing. The boy has clearly been spending time with Xabi Alonso.

Next, with 20 minutes gone, Plessis provided his teammates with a much-needed refreshment stop after inadvertently belting the ball into the face of home captain Javi Venta, who laid strewn across the perfect grass for some time.

Off went the Liverpool players towards Doc Waller and his water bottles, a temporary antidote to the scorching Mediterranean heat.

It seemed to do the trick, as well - for just seconds after play resumed, Keane took out two men with another delicate touch before Dossena burst down the right and won a corner.

All very nice, but the Reds had yet to threaten Diego Lopez's goal. The first effort of any substance didn't arrive until 27 minutes when Keane, fed by Yossi Benayoun, fired over from inside the D.

At the other end, Cavalieri, who displayed safe hands throughout, was forced to respond to a rasping shot cum cross which he did well to turn away.

The Brazilian was called into action once more on 32 minutes when former Arsenal playmaker Robert Pires wriggled his way into space in the box before testing the visiting goal with a low sidefoot.

It was turning into a sustained period of pressure for the side who finished second in La Liga last term. Next Llorente ghosted past the seemingly well-organised Reds backline before lobbing Cavalieri. Happily the linesman's flag was correctly raised.

Liverpool were starting to ride their luck. An opening goal seemed almost certain on 42 minutes when Ibagaza fired against the woodwork, with the ball landing invitingly to teammate Cani eight yards out. With the net gaping, the man in yellow was somehow denied by a magnificent block from the impressive Stephen Darby.

A brief moment of respite arrived late in the first half when Benayoun worked his way into space before teeing up Ngog inside the box. Just when it seemed the Frenchman was about to join our relatively short list of goalscoring debutants, Lopez pulled a fine low save out of the bag.

The personnel might have changed, with Benitez making nine changes at the break, but the second half began pretty much where the first ended: with Villarreal on the attack.

Substitutes Jamie Carragher and Daniel Agger had to be at their very best to prevent a dangerous cross from Cani finding Llorente at the near post.

On too was Nemeth, another debutant, sporting shiny red boots. Sadly for him, many of the kind of chances he took with ease for the reserves last season were arriving at the wrong end.

Full-back Gonzalo should have scored following a goalmouth scramble only to be denied once again by Cavalieri, who this time used his legs to keep Liverpool's slate clean.

Finally, 20 minutes after the restart, the visitors began to get a foothold.

The turning point came when substitute Daniel Pacheco was found darting into acres of space down the left. It was two on two, with Jermaine Pennant sprinting forward to join the young Spaniard, who sadly took the wrong option by cutting inside and shooting harmlessly wide.

Nemeth then came close with a rasping effort. Unfortunately for him, it was his final contribution after being told to shake hands with Torres just 25 minutes into his senior bow. It was no reflection on the youngster's performance, just a case of simple maths, with Benitez having too many outfield players in need of a run out.

Then, after a Torres volley bounced harmlessly wide and a Alonso free-kick was saved well by Lopez, came the moment most who were present had been waiting for: the introduction of Reina, who was greeted by chants of 'Reeeeiiiina' as he made his way to the Liverpool goal with 10 minutes remaining.

Liverpool: Cavalieri, Dossena, Hyypia, Skrtel, Darby, Benayoun, Gerrard (captain), Plessis, Keane, Voronin, Ngog. Subs - Carragher, Arbeloa, Finnan, Pacheco, Kuyt, Torres, Alonso, Nemeth, Agger, Reina, Pennant

Villarreal: Lopez, Lopez Ruano, Prado, Godin, Rodriguez Venta, Ibagaza, Eguren, , Pires, Franco, Llorente. Subs - Viera, Franco, Fuentes, Soriano, Cygan

Liverpoolfc.tv Man-of-the-Match: Stephen Darby

[pires7]

Keane - A liverpool supporter as a boy whos boyhood dream was to play for Celtic!

[totsreds08]

without silva:

-------------reina------------
cara----skrtel----agger--dossena
gerrard----lucas---masc---babel
--------keane-------torres----

with silva:
-------------reina------------
cara----skrtel----agger--dossena
babel----gerr--masc----silva
--------keane-------torres----

[GiveNgog]

VILLARREAL 0 - 0 LIVERPOOL
Wednesday 30 July 2008 20:30 , Friendly
KEANE MAKES DEBUT IN SPANISH STALEMATE

Robbie Keane and David Ngog both made their first Liverpool appearances as the Reds were held to a third successive pre-season draw by Villarreal in El Madrigal.

In a match organised as part of the deal which took Pepe Reina to Anfield three years ago, the Liverpool 'keeper had to be content with a place on the bench following the birth of his second child in the early hours - but he received a standing ovation from all corners of the ground when joining the action with ten minutes remaining.

Also receiving a heroes welcome back to first-team football were Reina's fellow Euro 2008 stars, with Fernando Torres, Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa all enjoying their first action since their success in the summer.

It was a game of debuts, and not just those of new strikers Robbie Keane, who during 45 minutes showed several glimpses of the class which persuaded Rafa Benitez to splash out earlier this week, and David Ngog, who also enjoyed bright first-half.

The match also provided a first outing for a new grey away kit; one which bears a striking similarity to the Candy-sponsored number worn the last time a league championship trophy made its way to Anfield in 1990.

If that is a good omen for the season ahead, so too were the performances of many of Benitez's fringe players. The likes of Diego Cavalieri, Stephen Darby and Damien Plessis all put in decent displays in what was another useful run out.

The game was preceded by a guard of honour for old boy Reina, who was granted a standing ovation from a near-capacity crowd as he carried Spain's Euro 2008 trophy onto the pitch.

Once play did get under way, the new incumbent of our famous number seven shirt waited just two minutes to issue a signal of intent with a cheeky flick towards the onrushing Andrea Dossena. Sadly the move broke down but it was exactly the kind of touch the travelling Kop had come to see.

Others were out to impress, too, like the imposing Plessis, who flighted a superb ball to Andriy Voronin down the right wing. The boy has clearly been spending time with Xabi Alonso.

Next, with 20 minutes gone, Plessis provided his teammates with a much-needed refreshment stop after inadvertently belting the ball into the face of home captain Javi Venta, who laid strewn across the perfect grass for some time.

Off went the Liverpool players towards Doc Waller and his water bottles, a temporary antidote to the scorching Mediterranean heat.

It seemed to do the trick, as well - for just seconds after play resumed, Keane took out two men with another delicate touch before Dossena burst down the right and won a corner.

All very nice, but the Reds had yet to threaten Diego Lopez's goal. The first effort of any substance didn't arrive until 27 minutes when Keane, fed by Yossi Benayoun, fired over from inside the D.

At the other end, Cavalieri, who displayed safe hands throughout, was forced to respond to a rasping shot cum cross which he did well to turn away.

The Brazilian was called into action once more on 32 minutes when former Arsenal playmaker Robert Pires wriggled his way into space in the box before testing the visiting goal with a low sidefoot.

It was turning into a sustained period of pressure for the side who finished second in La Liga last term. Next Llorente ghosted past the seemingly well-organised Reds backline before lobbing Cavalieri. Happily the linesman's flag was correctly raised.

Liverpool were starting to ride their luck. An opening goal seemed almost certain on 42 minutes when Ibagaza fired against the woodwork, with the ball landing invitingly to teammate Cani eight yards out. With the net gaping, the man in yellow was somehow denied by a magnificent block from the impressive Stephen Darby.

A brief moment of respite arrived late in the first half when Benayoun worked his way into space before teeing up Ngog inside the box. Just when it seemed the Frenchman was about to join our relatively short list of goalscoring debutants, Lopez pulled a fine low save out of the bag.

The personnel might have changed, with Benitez making nine changes at the break, but the second half began pretty much where the first ended: with Villarreal on the attack.

Substitutes Jamie Carragher and Daniel Agger had to be at their very best to prevent a dangerous cross from Cani finding Llorente at the near post.

On too was Nemeth, another debutant, sporting shiny red boots. Sadly for him, many of the kind of chances he took with ease for the reserves last season were arriving at the wrong end.

Full-back Gonzalo should have scored following a goalmouth scramble only to be denied once again by Cavalieri, who this time used his legs to keep Liverpool's slate clean.

Finally, 20 minutes after the restart, the visitors began to get a foothold.

The turning point came when substitute Daniel Pacheco was found darting into acres of space down the left. It was two on two, with Jermaine Pennant sprinting forward to join the young Spaniard, who sadly took the wrong option by cutting inside and shooting harmlessly wide.

Nemeth then came close with a rasping effort. Unfortunately for him, it was his final contribution after being told to shake hands with Torres just 25 minutes into his senior bow. It was no reflection on the youngster's performance, just a case of simple maths, with Benitez having too many outfield players in need of a run out.

Then, after a Torres volley bounced harmlessly wide and a Alonso free-kick was saved well by Lopez, came the moment most who were present had been waiting for: the introduction of Reina, who was greeted by chants of 'Reeeeiiiina' as he made his way to the Liverpool goal with 10 minutes remaining.

Liverpool: Cavalieri, Dossena, Hyypia, Skrtel, Darby, Benayoun, Gerrard (captain), Plessis, Keane, Voronin, Ngog. Subs - Carragher, Arbeloa, Finnan, Pacheco, Kuyt, Torres, Alonso, Nemeth, Agger, Reina, Pennant

Villarreal: Lopez, Lopez Ruano, Prado, Godin, Rodriguez Venta, Ibagaza, Eguren, , Pires, Franco, Llorente. Subs - Viera, Franco, Fuentes, Soriano, Cygan

Liverpoolfc.tv Man-of-the-Match: Stephen Darby

Once is enuf buddy

[mattieg1200]

yer friggen computer playin up again

[mattieg1200]

REDS TO FACE BELGIANS IN QUALIFIER
Paul Eaton 01 August 2008

Liverpool have been paired with Belgian side Standard Liege in the third qualifying round for this season's Champions League.
The first leg is expected to be played in Belgium on 12/13 August with the return game at Anfield two weeks later. However, Liverpool would advise all supporters not to make travel arrangements until dates and venues have been confirmed.

Standard Liege are aiming to qualify for the group stages of the competition for the first time in their history having ended a 25-year wait for their domestic league crown last season.

The two teams last met in European competition back in the second round of the Cup Winners Cup campaign of 1965-66 when the Reds ran out 5-2 aggregate winners.

[GiveNgog]

Liverpool 4-0 Rangers

Scorers: Torres, Benayoun, Ngog, Alonso (PK).

Apparently Ngog looked really good..Alonso got forward a lot more.

Penannt was awful tho, I've heard.
Personally I rate Pennant highly, he should be starting most games unless we snatch Silva. (In which case Babel should move out on the right and Silva takes the left.