I watched the game last night and considering they spend over half the game with 10, they weren't out of it. I'm not sure if thats an indication on Liverpools effort or Manchester Uniteds star waning.
The penalty decision - I've seen worse given but I don't think it was a penalty in my opinion. Halsey had a great view, insignificant contact and Valencia startfishes it. I think at any stage you have contact with the striker in the box, then you do put yourself in the spot light come decision time.
I do sometimes wonder if they would be better off without Gerrard. I liken it to the Michael Jordan Chicago Bulls in the 80's. Once he did less and let everyone get involved, they played better as a team. Hell of a footballer but sometimes that can be the problem.