Reality Check: Looking good for another mid-table finish

August 18, 2012. This was the long awaited date, the start of the BPL season, the beginning of the Rodgers era (tiki-taka and all what not). 78 days after BR took charge, LFC crashed to a humbling opening day defeat away to a lively looking West Brom. 
Firstly, let me be a good sport and congratulate Steve Clarke on his first win as a manager. For those who recall, I wrote a piece endorsing him for the top job at Anfield.

In a game that showed familiar failings; Suarez dazzling but profligate. Agger and Skrtel over-casual in defence. Downing, ah!(the less said the better). I saw a half-time stat showing Allen had a 97% pass rate, that doesn't put points in my fantasy league team nor points on the table.

On a day where BR's former team was hammering QPR, ex-red Alex Kačaniklić was announcing his arrival on the stage with a goal for Fulham; I'm left with egg on my face and the all too familiar dose of reality.

Transfer Dealings

The transfer window has not been exciting for me and probably most LFC fans. Borini, Allen and Assaidi have all come in, young internationals with loads of promise but none is a  marquee player or game winner in my eyes. Maybe they'll have the desired hunger and ethic that BR seeks but Allen in particular at 15m was unneeded in my book especially with the presence of Henderson and the signs of growth shown by Shelvey. On the flip side, the club needs to lighten the squad as there is a glut of midfielders and youngsters who probably need to go out on loan.

New Manager 'Vibe'

BR has said all the right things. His interviews have been smart and enlightening, though I await today's post match interview. The 180-page dossier constantly referenced indicates a manager who is studious and detail oriented. One caveat is that for all the theorizing, football games are not won in classrooms or lecture halls. 

Setting Expectations

Time and patience are needed this season. LFC could well finish worse off than last season. For those "expecting" a top four finish, perhaps today will highlight the task ahead. 37 games yet remain starting with the champions at home next week. I have publicly said a 6th place finish with silverware in one of the cups will be adequate. Whatever happens this season it will be counter productive to not put faith in the manager for at least 2 seasons.

Birthday Musings

Lest I forget, today is actually my birthday. At midnight I had a huge slice of homemade Sweet potato cake with a cream cheese filling and frosting, topped up with chopped walnuts. Even though an LFC win today would have been the proper 'icing', I intend to have further discussions with the cake later on and will definitely not be sending BR or any of the lads a slice.