1. Liverpool’s goal threat is proving enough to cover for their second half dip
Most title winners are renowned for their last minute goals but Liverpool have been doing the opposite. The Reds have been blowing teams away in the first 20 minutes and they continued with pattern in this game.
Their high tempo start is usually followed by a significant dip, especially after half-time.
Most teams have been trying to take advantage of that, but in this game but the Reds seemed to always have a decisive second-half goal in them.
2. Raheem Sterling has completed his transformation from fringe player to definite starter for club (and maybe country)
It is not long ago that it looked like Raheem Sterling could miss out on England’s World Cup campaign, but his form has not only secured his place but has also risen the debate of where he should be best used.
Form is usually an important factor in major tournaments and, with a couple of wingers injured, there are some who feels that he should start out wide.
There is another strong argument to be made on England starting the prodigy behind two strikers. He has consistently been showing a rare combination of energy, nimble feet and quality end product at the tip of the diamond since Liverpool’s win over Manchester United game.
3. The biggest credit should go to Rodgers
Liverpool’s form does not conform to the limited squad that Brendan Rodgers has this season. The Reds boss has used the smallest number of players of all the teams in the top seven.
While he had injuries to key players, he has always found a way to produce results with the available ones. When Lucas Leiva got injured, he pulled Steven Gerrard deep into holding midfield and now the England midfielder has outshone most natural holding midfielders in the world.
Rodgers showed similar skills in Luis Suarez’s absence and he managed to get three points again in this game without both Daniel Sturridge and Jordan Henderson.
4. Norwich have to find a way to win
While the Canaries should be applauded for their never-say-die attitude after Liverpool scored twice in the first 12 minutes, they need wins not near-comebacks.
They have already made their job difficult for the remainder of the season, but sitting just three points off the bottom of the Premier League they need to start picking up points.
The teams below them are picking up points and Sunderland could overtake the Canaries if the Black Cats win their game in hand. No matter the opponent Norwich meet now, they have an unenviable task of going for wins, not just encouraging performances.
5. This was as much about beating Chelsea as Norwich
Liverpool performed well last weekend to pull away from Manchester City, but they still had a problem with Chelsea, who are visiting Anfield next.
The Blues have proven to be the most difficult team to beat of all the top seven clubs and, after they slipped up against Sunderland at home, Liverpool needed to extend their lead on the Blues just in case.
Now with a five-point cushion, Liverpool will approach the game without pressure; it is Chelsea who have to deal with the pressure of looking for a response in the intimidating Anfield atmosphere.
