Liverpool won through in their FA Cup 4th round clash despite a disjointed performance against AFC Bournemouth.
Leading up to this game Liverpool suffered a triple injury setback, with Lucas Leiva, Glen Johnson and Joe Allen all ruled out for the reds.
Despite the disappointing performance against Aston Villa at Anfield last week, Rodgers stuck with Gerrard in a more defensive role - with Coutinho also playing in a deeper role than usual to make up for the lack of a third midfielder.
Martin Kelly was chosen as the man to replace Glen Johnson at right back.
From the first whistle the Championship side were on the front foot. With the wind literally in their sails they gave Liverpool a stern test, making full use of the wings and earning plenty of corners and getting plenty of crosses in. Their lack of accuracy ensured Liverpool stayed in the game until our first shot on target in the 27th minute.
Luis Suarez sent over a great cross from one corner of the penalty box to the other and Victor Moses controlled the ball well. With two Bournemouth defenders advancing, the on-loan Chelsea man drilled the ball low, through their legs, and inside the corner of the goal.
LFC were grateful with the undeserved lead.
The goal didn't change the patterns of play and Bournemouth continued to play good football in search of a goal. As injury time ticked away they had enough time for a further two corners, but LFC remained resolute and remained in the lead.
Liverpool marginally improved in the second half, but Bournemouth were still keeping the reds defence on their toes.
On the hour the reds doubled their lead and effectively sealed their place in the next round.
Suarez again was the creator, with a lovely weighted through ball that Sturridge pounced on to fire into the corner of the net.
Martin Skrtel was involved in a nasty looking clash of heads during the game which resulted in a couple of staples being applied on the touchline. He returned to action so it is unlikely to affect his availability for our next fixture.
Meanwhile, Jon Flanagan marked his return to action for the reds when he was brought on for the final 20 minutes to replace Kelly.
Sterling and Alberto also received late cameo's. A more comprehensive performance may have seen them enjoy more than the final 7 minutes of the game.
Liverpool can now turn their focus to Tuesday night's massive Premier League clash at Anfield against Everton. The draw for the FA Cup 5th Round is tomorrow.
we need a midfield monster. coutino couldn’t find his form in a box file. can see bodgers dropping him for good soon.