Liverpool vs. Arsenal: Why its a losing battle for the Reds

Liverpool versus Arsenal, has become perhaps a premier league classic in recent times, known for one thing; not denying fans of goals and entertainment.

It may not be the Manchester City vs. Liverpool fixture or the Manchester United vs. Liverpool tie that holds either stake or pride going for it, but it sure delivers on its promise of fine football and goal narrative.

However, Saturday evening’s tie smells a different kind, both on the nose and what stands ahead for either side. Lose this game, and the opponent gets the upper hand in the title race, draw and you risk Premier League bullies, Manchester City getting themselves into the narrative again, something both sides should be wary of heading into this game.

Unlike the previous season, both teams do not have a significantly higher advantage of getting a result from this game, and if any side is seen as favorites, it is based on perhaps an individual bias of the person viewing the tie.

The North London Gunners for what its worth, seem like the more balanced side, with a stable midfield and defence that has not only succeeded in containing every attack that came its way, but also frustrated opposition defences.

For the Reds however, there is this notion that they just don’t know when to lose, and despite having gone down to opponents countless times this season, they have either found a way to come back at their opponents or placed them under pressure to the last minute. It is never over until it is over for Liverpool, a statement its manager, Jurgen Klopp has referenced all too many times in press conferences.

But this game looks different. Arsenal in as much as they may not be playing the best of games like they did last season, look very much different this time around. Their manager, Mikel Arteta has done one thing fans and pundits have not given him credit for –the fact that he has learnt and continues to learn.

The Anfield atmosphere may have saved Liverpool from certain defeat to Arsenal last season, but if there is anything the Reds need to fear and be cautious of, heading into kickoff, it is to avoid conceding a goal first to the Gunners like they have done this season to opponents.

This on its own end, seems to be quite the daunting task for the Reds, bearing in mind Liverpool‘s midfield situation and a front 3 that has found itself guilty of not converting chances.

Failure to put the ball into the back of Arsenal’s net first, or leaving it late to do so after eons of chances missed, could potentially leave Liverpool facing a losing battle to Arsenal.