Liverpool more than just 'The Balotelli Show' (ESPN article)

by Dave Usher for ESPN

Liverpool bounced back from their defeat to Manchester City with a comfortable 3-0 win over a once again outgunned Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane. Much of the pre-match focus had been on how Mario Balotelli would fit into Liverpool's up-tempo pressing style and, more specifically, whether he would be able to strike up a rapport with Daniel Sturridge. The Italian answered both questions with a lively, hardworking display full of promise for the future, but rather than the much-discussed front two, it was Liverpool's supporting cast who proved to be the match-winners.

Midfielders Jordan Henderson and Joe Allen created the opening two goals (scored by the other members of that midfield, Raheem Sterling and Steven Gerrard from the penalty spot) while the third was delivered in spectacular fashion by left-back Alberto Moreno. That's an encouraging sign for Brendan Rodgers, but he'll know better than anyone that Liverpool will go as far this season as their strikers take them, and this was a very promising beginning for the Balotelli/Sturridge pairing.

It was almost the dream start for the Italian when Sturridge picked him out on the back post inside two minutes, but his header was kept out by the agile Hugo Lloris. Balotelli wasted another headed opportunity shortly after and also snatched at an open goal from 30 yards out when with a bit more composure he could have found Sturridge for a tap in. Rodgers won't mind that and as far as first impressions go, Balotelli made a pretty good one with this performance.

Read the full article here.