Liverpool: Mignolet 6.5, Johnson 6, Skrtel 6 (Toure 11, 6), Lovren 6, Markovic 6.5 (Balotelli 59, 6), Henderson 6.5, Can 6, Lallana 5, Sterling 5.5, Sturridge 6.5, Coutinho 5.5
Blackburn: Eastwood 7, Henley 6.5, Baptiste 7, Kilgallon 7.5, Olsson 6.5, Cairney, Marshall 6 (Taylor 68, 6), Williamson 7.5, Evans 6.5, Conway 6, Gestede 8
Liverpool faced an unexpected roadblock in the midst of some fine form as they were held by a sturdy Blackburn side for a goalless draw at Anfield. The draw means that Liverpool will have to travel Ewood Park for a replay.
Liverpool looked deft of any ideas whatsoever as they were completely out of sorts. Anyone watched this game would doubt that this same team defeated defending champions at the very same venue just over a week ago. But here they were drawing up yet another pedestrian performance.
Blackburn on the other hand were absolutely fantastic. They stuck to their plan and never gave Liverpool any breathing space in midfield and also in defence. They shackled Liverpool’s explosive playmakers and also came agonizingly close on upsetting their high profile hosts.
Martin Skrtel was stretchered off as he landed very awkwardly leading to an injury in the neck region. Kolo Toure replaced him and the Ivorian was inches away from sending hosts into semis but was denied by post.
Liverpool after a lackluster display have to travel to Ewood Park for a replay, which has given Rovers a chance to edge their way to Wembley. It’s anybody’s game now.
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