Alisson Becker – 7.5
Made a superb early stop on Sterling, before a cruel deflection made De Bruyne’s opening goal unreachable. Was kept busy, and again could do little for the goal from Jesus. Had good moments where his positional sense was vital.
Trent Alexander-Arnold 7.0
A nervy start was extinguished by a lovely opening assist for Jota. Stood up so well to continuous threats, and was a willing taker of the ball. An average game by all accounts, which is pretty good against City.
Andy Robertson – 7.0
Was caught high a couple of times early, as City drove down the flanks. Was up and down the wing like a yo-yo, in a game where he was neither good nor bad.
Virgil Van Dijk – 8.0
Was needed time and time again in the opening stages, and his pace was the saving grace on a number of occasions. Great leadership, when other teams would have crumbled.
Joel Matip – 7.5
Was continually tested and dragged about early on, in what became a ‘hold off City’ drill. The second saw him less troubled, as Liverpool gained more composure. Moments presented themselves, but Joel stayed the course.
Fabinho – 6.5
Wasn’t his best start, and gave away the free kick which led to the City opening goal. Grew into the match, in a very difficult game to screen the defense. A crucial yellow was taken for the team late on. Generally struggled to maintain his usual dominance with such vibrant City movements.
Jordan Henderson – 6.5
Endeavor yes, but lacked control of his positional sense early on. Looked out of his comfort zone in this step of match, with City at times coasting through him. Kept going till he went off.
Subbed 78 mins
Thiago Alcantara – 8.0
A delight when in possession, and needed more of the ball for Liverpool to start bouncing. Had tricky moments where the pace of the game had him flying into challenges, but his on ball work was lovely at times.
Man of the Match
Mohamed Salah – 7.0
Looked dangerous early, with intent in his movement. A sublime pass for Mane’s goal could be what was needed. Drew defenders, and looked more impactful.
Sadio Mane – 8.0
Was in and out of the game in the early exchanges. His goal was brilliant, and his display very good. The work was there, the movement and the finish. Very good game for Sadio.
Subbed 84 mins
Diogo Jota – 7.0
A clinical strike, and showed why Klopp started with him. A neat finish to level the score helped to settle the reds. The goal brought up a very average goal though.
Subbed 68 mins
Subs:
Luis Diaz – 6.5 (on 68)
Brought some real purpose, and very direct in his play.
Naby Keita – 7.0 (on 78)
Was refined and very efficient in his work.
Roberto Firmino – 6.0 (on 84)
Great pressing and urgency. Maybe should have been a starter.
The Manager:
Jurgen Klopp – 8.0
The best two teams in the league, and possibly the world. It’s hard to not praise a point away from home, and the starting line up could have been argued by all, all day long. He seemed to make the right changes, but maybe earlier could have looked to alter the dynamic.
Regardless of any criticism, he’s kept the reds very much in the hunt for the Premier League crown.
