It has been a strange first half at Anfield so far.
Liverpool have dominated possession against Brentford for large periods, but despite controlling the ball, clear-cut chances have been surprisingly limited.
Mo Salah has been busy and came closest with his free-kick striking the woodwork.
The atmosphere inside Anfield has remained emotional and intense with supporters fully behind the team during what could be the final appearances of several major players.
But on the pitch, Liverpool still look frustratingly predictable at times.
For much of the first half, Liverpool controlled territory without really creating enough danger in the final third.
There have been moments of nice build-up play involving Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister and Mohamed Salah, but the same issue has appeared again:
Too much possession.
Not enough penetration.
Then came the game’s biggest moment so far.
Brentford suddenly broke through and looked almost certain to score when Kevin Schade found himself through on goal.
But once again Alisson Becker came to Liverpool’s rescue.
The Brazilian threw himself at Schade brilliantly and somehow made a massive save to keep the scores level.
It was exactly the type of moment that reminds supporters why many still consider him one of the best goalkeepers in world football.
Liverpool instantly broke forward from the save and suddenly found themselves with a huge chance at the other end.
But incredibly, Cody Gakpo somehow failed to score.
In truth, both teams should probably have scored within seconds of each other.
Alisson saved Liverpool.
And then Liverpool wasted the perfect chance to punish Brentford immediately afterwards.
The moment almost perfectly summed up Liverpool’s season.
Moments of brilliance.
Moments of frustration.
And a team that still struggles to consistently kill games when opportunities arrive.
One bright spark again has been Rio Ngumoha.
The youngster has looked fearless every time he receives the ball and continues trying to drive directly at defenders — something many supporters feel Liverpool have lacked badly this season.
The Anfield crowd clearly responds to his energy too.
Liverpool still have enough quality to go on and win this game comfortably.
But the second half needs far more urgency, aggression and attacking movement.
Because emotionally the crowd is ready for a special afternoon.
Now the team need to produce a performance worthy of it.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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