Rich Godden rates the players after a hard fought 1-0 win over Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.
Player Ratings: Liverpool (h)
By Rich Godden
Updated Tuesday, 5th October 2004
Paulo Ferreira- Got forward well and defended in his usual consistent manner. Put in a fantastic cross which Lampard should have scored from. 8
John Terry- Solid as a rock, as ever! Tex is the easiest player to write a review for because he is so consistent! 8
Ricardo Carvalho- Marshalled Cisse superbly and is looking a fantastic signing. Beginning to develop an understanding with Tex which bodes well for the future. 8
William Gallas- Great in defence and fantastic in attack. When he managed to get forward, Willy's pace was such a threat to Liverpool and he even put in a couple of tempting crosses. 8
Claude Makelele- In a scrappy game, Claude came out on top in his midfield battle. Gave the ball away cheaply at times but more than made up for it with his great shielding of the back four. 8
Frank Lampard- Should have had a hat trick but he'll be kicking himself for not even getting one! The good sign is that Frank is once again getting into great positions to score from. Great free kick to set up JC for the goal too. 7
Alexey Smertin- Like Robbie Savage, except he can play! So industrious, he must be a nightmare to play against. 8
Damien Duff- Started superbly, getting past the Liverpool defence for fun and sent in some great crosses. Unfortunately, Duffer faded once Drogba went off and we simply did not look the same side. 7
Eidur Gudjohnsen- Another disappointing performance, although he deserves plaudits for the way he admirably tried to lead the line once Drogba went off. Might need a spell out of the side to give him a kick up the back side. 6
Didier Drogba- Gave the Liverpool defence a nightmare with his direct play. Unfortunate that he had to go off with a groin strain in the first half as he was looking very dangerous. 7
Subs
Joe Cole- Came on for Drogba and put in a decent attacking show. Great finish for the goal too, just a tad greedy at other times. 7
Tiago- On for Smertin, didn't have long enough to make an impact. N/A
Geremi- Came on for Duff. Played pretty well whilst he was on the field, would've had a tap in but for Joe Cole's lack of vision! 7
