Swindon vs Liverpool player ratings: Did Christian Benteke's wonder strike make him man of the match?

Reds continue their preparations as Benteke steals the headlines

Sam Long
Monday 03 August 2015 10:20 BST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

New Liverpool striker Christian Benteke scored a stunning volley on his debut during a routine 2-1 friendly victory over League One side Swindon Town.

The former Aston Villa man joined Brendan Rodgers' Reds this summer for £32.5m and, if this strike is anything to go by, then he will pay back his new employers this season with plenty of goals.

Picking up the ball from a Emre Can knock, the 24-year-old Belgian chested the ball in control before unleashing a venomous drive past the helpless goalkeeper.

Swindon responded through Jonathan Obika before Sheyi Ojo's late strike gave the Premier League visitors a narrow 2-1 win ahead of their first Premier League match of the season away to Stoke City on 9th August.

Brendan Rodgers is pleased with Christian Benteke's impact
Brendan Rodgers is pleased with Christian Benteke's impact (Getty)

"Christian's goal was incredible," said Liverpool manager Rodgers. "It was wonderful technique from the big guy."

But was his strike enough to make him the man of the match? See below for player ratings from the County Ground.

Adam Bogdan - 5

The Hungarian had a solid day and collected a couple of efforts form long range comfortably. The same couldn't be said of some far from ideal back passes that he received.

Trent Alexander-Arnold - 6

Recovered from early nerves to produce a sound display. The teenager's name is a mouthful and he proved to be a handful for his opposite number. Strong in the challenge.

Kolo Toure - 5

Named captain for the day, the veteran defender didn't quite lead by example. The lapses in concentration that have been present throughout his career are unlikely to ever be completely eradicated.

Mamadou Sakho - 5

The Frenchman was overlooked for captaincy, which suggests he is some way down the pecking order. His partnership with Toure will not have filled fans with confidence.

Alberto Moreno thanks the Liverpool supporters
Alberto Moreno thanks the Liverpool supporters (Getty)

Alberto Moreno - 5

The Spaniard was good on the ball and provided plenty of runs forward but he is still far too rash in his own third. Improving his defensive work should be a priority. Pace cannot mask such inadequacies.

Lucas Leiva - 6

The midfielder was as hungry as any Liverpool player on the pitch. He made several impressive interceptions early on, but also conceded possession in key areas after dwelling on the ball. Divisive display as ever.

Emre Can - 7

Can has spoken of his desire to cement a place in midfield but was outshone early on by Lucas. However, he grew into the game and provided the surges into the final third that can help him compete for regular game time alongside Jordan Henderson and James Milner.

Joe Allen - 5

The Welshman was unfortunate not to open the scoring with a fierce effort in the opening exchanges but was subbed off injured before any real impact could be made.

Roberto Firmino has a penalty appeal turned down
Roberto Firmino has a penalty appeal turned down (Getty)

Lazar Markovic - 7

The youngster was alive to close down the goalkeeper in the first half and exhibited strength in the challenge on several occasions. Not the finished article, but the signs suggest he will improve this season.

Christian Benteke - 8

The Belgian provided presence, poise and power. He did not look fully fit, but linked up well with his new team mates, particularly Firmino. Swivelled on the ball and produced a superb volley for his opening goal.

Roberto Firmino - 8

The forward could have won a penalty within seconds. Worryingly he stayed down, but then dusted himself off and produced an encouraging display. Goes past players for fun. Once fully fit, he will be a major threat.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in