Rodgers urges Liverpool’s homesick players to relish performing under Anfield spotlight
LIVERPOOL 1 NORWICH CITY 1
UNDER-PRESSURE Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers insisted his side must embrace the challenge of playing under the Anfield microscope after his side continued their stuttering start to the season against Norwich yesterday.
Half-time substitute Danny Ings ignited the contest with his first Liverpool goal, only for Norwich defender Russell Martin to level matters following an error from goalkeeper Simon Mignolet.
Liverpool have taken eight points from their opening six league games, while their sluggish form at Anfield remains an issue. The Reds were hammered 3-0 by West Ham in their previous home clash.
“Anfield is a real special place to play. You have to have courage and bravery to play here,” said Rodgers.
“There is a great history but embrace it. You have to play positive football. There was a feeling of anxiety when I came in. We made it a fortress. Now we are having to rebuild it again.”
On a day when England striker Daniel Sturridge made his first Liverpool appearance in five months, strike partner Ings slid the ball beyond John Ruddy in the 48th minute. Martin levelled in the 61st minute after controlling a Mignolet punch with his chest and looping with ball over the stranded Belgian.