Heroic Debutant Mignolet Preserved Victory for the Reds

Mignolet (middle) the saviour

This is a much better season-opener for Brendan Rodgers. Daniel Agger was again the man of mistake this time. Thanks to newcomer Simon Mignolet, who not only rescued the centreback by saving Jonathan Walters' penalty, but also ensured his shaky performance before the interval is well forgotten. 

Daniel Sturridge, Iago Aspas and Philippe Coutinho displayed some promising attack. Only Sturridge managed to beat the terrific Asmir Begovic, although better finishing would have sealed off the match.  Mark Hughes still has quite a lot to do. Stella defence alone would not bring them too far. More urgently, they might need a new penalty taker.

Up for the challenge

Liverpool started pressurising Stoke's defence from the first minute and never slacked off, making it difficult for Stoke to play the ball out of defence and leaving Peter Crouch isolated. Rodgers has surely worked the team well in pre-season, showing excellent physical fitness and stamina to execute his football philosophy.

1-0 would not be the scoreline Rodgers is content with. More importantly, Liverpool looks more than ready to challenge the top four spot. Already looking in a good shape, the return of Luis Suarez could bring the much-needed finishing ability they are desperate for.

Philippe Coutinho

Having joined mid-way through last season, Coutinho took no time in adapting to English football and has already established himself as the main source of attack at Anfield. With Steven Gerrard aging and dropping further deeper, Coutinho was everywhere on the field, not limiting himself on the left and orchestrated Liverpool's attack. Better composure from Jordan Henderson and Iago Aspas would have already credited the no. 10 a couple of assists. Eager for the ball, never shy from dribbling, creative in passing, the Brazilian will be the star of Liverpool this season.

Just too predictable

You would not blame Mark Hughes to opt for a more defensive lineup. In fact, it was the solid defence that kept the Potters within the margin of one goal. However, when trailing, Hughes had little options on the bench to surprise his opponents.

A speedy striker would be the ideal company to Peter Crouch. Instead, they only have Cameron Jerome and Kenwyne Jones. Charlie Adam was the only alternative in midfield but is stronger in dead ball delivery than creating chances in live situations. Stoke did not look more threatening after making substitutions and had to rely on the reckless Agger to grant them an opportunity for equaliser. Mark Hughes will have to speed up his pursuit for Mama Biram Diouf or Jermain Defoe.

Man of the match --- Asmir Begovic

Seldom is this awarded to the player on the losing side, but it is hard to argue Begovic was the star of the afternoon. Mignolet left it late to earn his moment in the debut. Begovic, on the other hand, showed why he is one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League. Not only did he make himself big in front of strikers, top corners or close range shots were all under Begovic's control. Doing his best to keep Stoke City in the game, Walters could not reward Begovic with a well-deserved draw.