Confession: As this goal was being scored, I was having an argument about whether or not John Obi Mikel should be starting in this game. While the argument was more about whether a player who plays his position is needed than it was about whether or not he is a good player, I feel vindicated! Liverpool lead Chelsea 1-0 at Stamford Bridge after 35 minutes, thanks to a goal by Maxi Rodriguez.
Chelsea Vs. Liverpool, 2011 Premier League: John Obi Mikel Error Gifts Reds A Goal
Mikel shouldn't have had any problem getting the ball up the pitch, but while in his own half and under pressure from Liverpool players, Mikel dallied on the ball and was stripped. What ensued was a fantastic exchange of passes between Luis Suarez and Craig Bellamy, the latter of which had an opportunity to shoot. Instead, he laid the ball off to an unmarked Rodriguez on the left side of the penalty box, and he finished the chance.
While it would be a bit unfair to say Liverpool "deserved" the goal, they've probably been the better side so far. Chelsea's best chance came on a free kick and they look a bit slow at the moment.
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