Liverpool’s Mixed Performance Against Wolves Yielded Excellent Results by Halftime

Liverpool's first half performance was no picture of perfection. It was not even close to that. But ask any supporter if they'll take a two goal lead into the break and a resounding, “H Yea!” will be the response.  Luis Suarez and Roger Johnson's goals capped a solid first-half effort for the Reds, though there was much room for improvement. 

The ugliness of Liverpool's start to the game was masked by the opening goal. Whether or not Andy Carroll fouled Roger Johnson is a subject for debate. What is beyond doubt is that the goal drained the visitors of the confidence and self-belief that had their hosts on the back foot in the early goings. 

Wolves' loss in this department was LFC's gain. The Reds' possession and passing improved on the whole and they took some measure of control of the proceedings. However, even with the momentum from the goal, Wolves remained within striking distance and threatened from the numerous set-pieces Liverpool conceded near their goal. 

It was the class of Suarez that was the difference between the teams by halftime. The Uruguayan was a constant menace to the Wolves defense, and his deserved goal late in the half was the symbolic and real difference in quality between the two teams. Jose Enrique's assist was nearly equal in class to Suarez's brilliance in completing the move. 

"They put us under a bit of pressure in the first half but we went 2-0 up.” Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish told LiverpoolFC.tv after the game. 

In comments he made on the team's website, Wolves manager Mick McCarthy focused on the moments leading the goals. "We had a difficult first half. … I thought first 10 minutes we started okay but then we conceded a goal, for which I thought Johnson was fouled by Carroll and I was annoyed about that. The second one, we tried to play offside and did it badly and it cost us."

Liverpool supporters tweeted their opinions on the first 45 minutes. 

@MidoAkaPrinze: Well played LFC especially in the first half. LFC need to be more clinical in front of goal. Andy Carroll is playing better- #unlucky #YNWA

@JamesSethOwens: Cracking goal from Luis Suárez but #LFC hit and miss first half. Lot of sloppy fouls, sluggishness without the ball and overhit long passes.

What is your verdict on the first half of the Liverpool vs. Wolves game?