Premier League: Brendan Rodgers felt Liverpool should have beaten Everton
Sunday 28 September 2014 20:09, UK
Brendan Rodgers felt Liverpool did not get what they deserved after a 1-1 draw at home to Everton in the Merseyside derby.
Liverpool appeared likely to record a third Premier League win of the season following captain Steven Gerrard’s fine 65th minute free-kick.
However, Everton centre-half Phil Jagielka lashed in an equaliser in added time to leave Rodgers in rueful mood after the stalemate.
“We didn't get what we deserved,” said Rodgers.
"It was very clear that we were much the better side today. When you concede a goal like that so late on, it epitomises the luck that went against us today. But I'm certainly very proud of the players.
"I thought the intensity was getting back up to near where we have been for 19 months. Tactically, I thought we were very good in the game. Any moments to defend, we defended very well. We took the lead, we should have arguably had at least two more and we should have had a penalty.
"It was disappointing, but I think the performance, which I'm clearly looking to at the moment, was at a much better level than we have been at.
"I never felt in any danger during the game. I think the organisation of the players was very good. They had good concentration. I always felt that with the ball we were a real threat going forward. But when you conceded so late on like that, into injury-time, it's a little bit frustrating."
Rodgers also praised his skipper Gerrard after the 34-year-old’s early-season form attracted criticism in some quarters.
He added: "Stevie's such a selfless guy. He was letting Mario take a few [free-kicks] in the first half and I was screaming on for him to take it, because he's got so much quality.
"But he would rather, at times, let other people have an opportunity. He's shown many a time over the years that's his range. When he took it, it was a goal that should have won the game. But it was a wonderful free-kick and I thought his performance today was outstanding."
