Liverpool stinks in loss to Aston Villa

Liverpool put on a sorry display at Anfield not only losing 3-1 to visiting Aston Villa, but completely losing their composure on the pitch as well.  The result ended Liverpool's 31 match unbeaten home league record stretching back to December 2007.   It also leaves them 10th in the EPL standings with serious questions being asked about their title hopes after only two weekends of play.

Liverpool came out on the front foot creating chances right off the opening whistle, but were unable to beat American keeper Brad Friedel.  Yossi Benayoun, Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard all were turned away or missed in the opening minutes. 

It was an Ashley Young freekick that would open the scoring in the 34th.  Young swerved in a freekick that hit Lucas and bounded into the net for an own goal in front of the stunned crowd.  Liverpool began losing composure almost immediately as players looked flustered.  In stoppage time the real dagger was struck as another set piece was scored.  Nicky Shorey curled in the corner to Curtis Davies who headed home the 2nd goal. 

Liverpool came out looking to get back into the match after the break and Fernando Torres gave a lifeline in the 72nd as he cut the lead to 2-1.  Liverpool pushed for the equalizer, but it was Aston Villa who would strike.  Nigel Rio Coker zipped into the box where he was brought down for a penalty kick.   Ashley Young cleanly put away the spotkick and Villa had their win.