For Premier League giants, early FA Cup ties against lower-league opposition present a peculiar kind of pressure. The expectation is a straightforward victory, but the risk of a seismic upset, as demonstrated by Crystal Palace's defeat on Saturday, looms large. Liverpool navigated this peril at Anfield, securing a 4-1 third-round win over League One's Barnsley, but the performance left manager Arne Slot with as many questions as answers.
Slot's Strong Selection Proves Prudent
There was a notable shift in approach from the Liverpool boss for this fixture. Having learned from a shock exit at Plymouth in last season's competition and a Carabao Cup defeat to Crystal Palace this term, Arne Slot named a surprisingly strong starting XI. Key figures like Virgil van Dijk, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Alexis Mac Allister all began the match, with further firepower in Hugo Ekitike, Ibrahima Konate, and Florian Wirtz introduced from the bench later.
This decision was fully vindicated by the nature of the contest. Despite being in poor League One form, winning just three of their last 14 games, Barnsley, managed by Conor Hourihane, played with fearless ambition. They created chances, struck the post within 30 seconds, and refused to capitulate after going 2-0 down. The fact the travelling supporters had genuine moments to celebrate highlighted Liverpool's vulnerabilities, particularly in midfield where gaping holes appeared. A more clinical side, such as next-round opponents Brighton, could have inflicted severe punishment.
Mamardashvili Seizes Rare Opportunity
With first-choice goalkeeper Alisson rested, Giorgi Mamardashvili was handed a rare start. The Georgian, signed from Valencia as a long-term understudy, endured a difficult autumn deputising for the injured Brazilian during a poor run of form for the team. This outing offered a more familiar scenario for a Liverpool keeper: long periods of control punctuated by the need for sharp concentration.
Mamardashvili responded well. He was alert to early danger and made several important saves as Barnsley pressed forward. While he was helpless for Szoboszlai's own-goal mishap, his overall performance was a positive step. Given Alisson's recent injury history, such assured displays are crucial for building confidence in the number two, who may be called upon again sooner than expected.
Ngumoha's Mixed Night Ends in Injury
The match also provided minutes for promising youngster Rio Ngumoha. The 17-year-old, who finds himself in the limbo between academy star and first-team regular, had a quiet first half but grew into the game. His most telling contribution was a superb second-half cross that Curtis Jones narrowly failed to connect with.
However, his evening ended on a sour note. Ngumoha appeared to tweak his hamstring and was forced off, casting a shadow over his involvement. His brief cameo against Leeds on New Year's Day showed his potential at the top level, and fans are eager to see more, but this setback may delay his progress.
In summary, Liverpool's passage to the FA Cup fourth round was secured, but the performance was far from convincing. The victory avoids the negativity that engulfed Crystal Palace, yet the display against spirited but limited opposition will not satisfy Slot. The flaws exposed at Anfield serve as a clear warning that must be heeded before Brighton's visit.
