Liverpool moved within 2 points of the Premier League title with a resounding 4-0 win against Crystal Palace at Anfield. The Reds dominated proceedings from start to finish and made an in-form Eagles side look like they belonged in a different division. The victory means Manchester City must win at Stamford Bridge on the 25th of June to prevent Liverpool from being crowned champions before the two sides meet at the Etihad next week.
In goal, Alisson may have had the easiest game of his footballing career. Not a single shot on target for Crystal Palace and just three long-range efforts that finished up in the stands.
At the back, Andy Robertson returned to the defence alongside Trent Alexander-Arnold, Joe Gomez and Virgil van Dijk. The two centre-backs snuffed out any counter-attacking threat that Palace attempted to put together. It was great to have Robertson back on the left-hand side as he was sorely missed against Everton. His constant running and attacking prowess was a danger throughout. Trent Alexander-Arnold forcefully brushed the cobwebs off for this one after his subpar showing on the weekend; a stunning free kick to open the scoring and his distribution and decision-making was top-notch for the entirety that he was on the field. Neco Williams got 15 or so minutes as well, replacing Trent, and put in a very promising performance as well.
In midfield, Gini Wijnaldum started next to Fabinho and Jordan Henderson. The dutchman missed two or three good chances but we’re used to Gini’s terrible finishing in a Red shirt by now. Henderson had a decent game, but Fabinho was the standout. He created Salah’s goal with a delightful chipped through-ball in the first half, before rifling a 30-yard thunderbolt into the back of the net to make it 3-0. He was sensational all game long and appears back to his very best after a difficult few months when returning from injury.
Mo Salah joined the usual front 3 of Mané and Firmino and showed what we missed in the derby. He was a constant menace in-behind the Palace defence and got his customary Anfield goal late in the first 45. Firmino struggled again and should be wary of losing his position to Takumi Minamino who has looked sharp since football returned. Sadio also found the back of the net with a lovely finish after a superb first-time through-ball from Mo Salah off of his weaker foot.
As for Man of the Match, there were a number of excellent performances, but I’m going to go with Fabinho. He looked good against Everton and against Crystal Palace he was nothing short of incredible. A goal and an assist for the Brazilian and a clean sheet to boot. A pretty perfect outing.
