Iraola laments lack of Liverpool ‘intensity and urgency’ in first half of draw with Forest | OneFootball

Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola admitted his side were not good enough in the first half of their 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest, blaming a lack of intensity without the ball.

The Reds came from behind to rescue a point at Anfield thanks to a late Victor Munoz strike, but Iraola felt his side allowed Forest too much time and space during a poor opening 45 minutes.

“I think what we did without the ball affects a lot,” Iraola said.

“I think in the first half we were being passive without the ball, leaving a lot of distance, letting them pass and be comfortable.

“After we improve this, a matter of intensity, getting closer to the position, giving you a chance to win duels, then you start attacking quicker and better.

“It’s this lack of intensity without the ball.”

Stay up to date with all the latest Liverpool news by joining our Liverpool WhatsApp channel. 

Iraola also highlighted Liverpool’s difficulties defending throw-ins, with Forest’s goals coming after situations he felt his side could have dealt with better.

“We’ve also had issues today with the throw-ins,” he added.

“Not only the long throw. The first goal came from a throw-in we can defend, and obviously the second goal come from that situation also.”

Liverpool improved after the interval, with Iraola pleased by the greater urgency and intensity his side showed in the second half.

“The first half has been poor from our side. We haven’t been good enough and we haven’t controlled the game,” he said.

“We improved a lot in the second half. We were much more intense, much quicker on the ball, with more sense of urgency.”

If you enjoy our articles, help us out by making Hayters.com one of your preferred sources on Google by clicking here.