Honest Lovren hurt by Villa concession
Dejan Lovren was left frustrated by the manner of the 'easy goal' that Liverpool conceded in losing 1-0 to Aston Villa, but called for heads to be lifted before an immediate return to action in two days.
Gabriel Agbonlahor pounced on a loose ball in front of the Kop to squeeze a finish home in the ninth minute on Saturday, claiming what proved to be the winner for Paul Lambert's travellers.
Despite mounting pressure throughout the remainder of the encounter, the Reds could not produce an equaliser, not least when the woodwork denied Philippe Coutinho a fine strike from distance.
There was an obvious sense of disappointment for Lovren when the tie had concluded, though he echoed the sentiments of manager and colleagues in targeting a quick response.
The centre-back told Liverpoolfc.com at Anfield: "Of course, for everyone it hurts, especially for the defence.
"When you look at the game, they didn't have many chances. But from corners, they were really good, that was the chance for them.
"We are disappointed. We didn't start the game well and we conceded an easy goal from the corner. Afterwards it was difficult to come back.
"They were really tight in defence. In the second half it was a little bit better, we were moving the ball a little quicker and we had some chances. But the ball didn't want to go in.
"We are really disappointed but we need to keep our heads up now because the next game is in the Champions League."
Yesterday's fixture ushered in a busy fortnight for Liverpool, encompassing five matches and three different competitions for Brendan Rodgers' charges in September.
Tuesday will bring the challenge of Bulgarian contenders Ludogorets Razgrad in the Champions League, and Lovren acknowledged the importance of three points.
"It's good to be back in the Champions League," the Croatian added. "We need to keep our heads up and win that game at home to start well in the Champions League."