As Roy Hodgson embarks on his first season as Liverpool manager, Monday night's game against Manchester City should give the clearest indication yet that the times are changing in the top order of the Premier League.

Liverpool, once declared as a key member of the "big four", looked pale in comparison to a Manchester City team that is rapidly turning themselves into a force to be reckoned with.

While Hodgson must be given plenty of time to implement his philosophy on the team, his decision to play a rigid and lifeless 4-4-2 at Eastlands backfired. On paper the eleven looked to have some bold intentions with David Ngog paired with Fernando Torres. However, the duo's similarities and lack of support from midfield meant they were far too isolated.

City's strong and imposing back four, ably shielded by Yaya Toure, Gareth Barry and Nigel De Jong, looked on top from the outset. There was little space to manoevuer in City's final third and Liverpool very rarely looked like penetrating the home side's back line. Steven Gerrard, who was expected to be the central midfielder to bomb forward, looked like he was instrcuted to hold the middle of the pitch with Lucas Leiva.

Hodgson's cause wasn't helped by numerous under-performers. Glen Johnson, on his 26th birthday, possibly had his worst game in a red shirt. Widemen Dirk Kuyt and Milan Jovanovic never looked like troubling City's full backs - despite Joleon Lescott looking slightly uncomfortable at left back.

Hodgson, similarly to former manager Rafa Benitez, was famed for the organisation and defensive discipline of his teams. Therefore it was worrying to see Liverpool opened up at regular intervals and comfortably beaten by a side who have a relatively similar level of playing talent available to them.

Liverpool's first defeat of the season probably brings back down to earth any heavy expectations after a promising opener against Arsenal. A challenge for the top four is certainly the most realistic ambition. City - in contrast - will harbour title hopes, and on this evidence it's apparent they're superior to the men from Merseyside.

The depressing situation for Liverpool supporters is the rapid decline in anticipation, expectation and excitement from the end of the 2008/09 season. After being so close to claiming a 19th title, suddenly the holy grail looks further away than ever.

A new season and a fresh start. Under new management, a change of ownership could soon follow suit. The 2010/11 campaign certainly has a different flavour to it.

Somewhat apprehensive before Sunday's opening Premier League game with Arsenal, I wasn't too sure what to expect. I came away cautiously optimistic that this season could yet prove to be a decent one.

Arsenal, a team 12 points better off last season, were contained with relative ease for the majority of the game despite the sending off of Joe Cole in the first half.

There is certainly a freshness about Roy Hodgson's Liverpool. It's difficult to describe, but perhaps the impact of any new manager will always have that initial hallmark. As for the team sheet, Hodgson's first surprise selection of the season was the inclusion of want-away midfielder Javier Mascherano.

Certain Liverpool supporters will have contrasting views on Mascherano's situation. But one thing is for sure – he will always give his best for the red shirt. Sunday was no different. Whether it be his first or last appearance for the club, you felt the performance was always going to feature the exact same intensity the Argentine has trademarked throughout his career.

In fact Mascherano's determination was matched throughout the team as Liverpool battled on with 10 players (at one stage nine). The shape and stability of the defending was pleasing but you probably have to credit Rafa Benitez on that one. The reds did a very similar kind of job on Everton last year when reduced to 10 men after the seeing Soto Kyrgiakos sent off.

Given time Hodgson's influence should grow on the team and will ultimately determine whether this present side can prosper this season.

Disappointing it may have been to lose a goal late on, it's hard to lay any blame with Pepe Reina. The outstanding performer of 2009/10, Reina reminded everyone for 89 minutes what a good goalkeeper he is. Unfortunately the goal was a mistake but you could argue that he was almost 'due' one. Even the top keepers very rarely go through seasons without one or two dodgy moments.

One major plus from the game was the continued form of David Ngog. The French striker seems to be really growing into the lone forward role after a progressive term last time out. Four goals in three games is a great start and a goal in a big game will do wonders for the confidence.

While Liverpool go to Manchester City next (following a Europa League tie) without the suspended Cole, there is reason to be satisfied with the opening day showing and enthused that there could be a ray of light at the end of the tunnel.

One game doesn't make a season but after the doom and gloom of last season with events both on and off the pitch, it felt good to see the team back in 'proper' action.