Starting XI
Alisson Becker – 7.0
After the most uncomfortable of starts (those passes out from the back), he soon came back with a vengeance. A beautiful penalty save from Bowen was well deserved for a dubious penalty decision. Was pretty much untested apart from the odd moment.
Trent Alexander Arnold – 7.0
A very assured defenders performance, and was clearly looking to stay diligent in his duties. Was considered in possession and when the opportunity came to impact the game, his class and technical ability was so evident. A very professional performance.
Kostas Tsimikas – 7.0
A great delivery for Darwin’s opener, and a willing outlet on the left. Much like Trent, stayed compact and resolute in defence, as the reds looked to limit opportunities for West Ham.
Subbed – 80 mins
Virgil Van Dijk – 8.0
Dominance and leadership quality’s in abundance. Seems angry, and is commanding far more from those around him. Was strong in the air, aware on the deck, and his decision making was spot on.
Man of the match
Joe Gomez – 7.0
A very good foil for Virgil once more. Competed well, and didn’t over complicate his play. Had a scary moment on 70 where the ball flew over his head, but was keenly alert other than that.
Thiago Alcantara – 8.0
Dictated possession through the first and showed real control of proceedings. Was the orchestrator of all that was good in the first half, and his departure from the field was only due to preservation of that which is needed most.
Subbed – 57 mins
Jordan Henderson – 6.0
A solid enough outing, with positional responsibilities mush improved. He kept his play simple, and was part of a well drilled structure. Pressed when needed, and was smart and considered on the ball.
Darwin Nunez – 7.0
A game of spectacular moments. Had some superb and instinctive moments in front of goal, and it feels like a flood of goals are looming. Rattled the post, rattled the keepers hands, and placed a perfectly executed header into the corner. A good strikers game.
Subbed – 57 mins
Mohamed Salah – 7.0
Seemed a little out of it on the wing, and playing second fiddle looked like it was effecting his game. Was smart on the ball, and came to life when moved into centre forward.
Roberto Firmino – 7.0
So unlucky not to score, but his delicate touches and smart play are helping knit the system together. Was a little wasteful in front of goal, but his on and off ball contribution is solid right now.
Subbed – 80 mins
Fabio Carvalho – 6.0
Moments of good play, but still learning his way into things. Bright and busy, and neat interplay we’re apparent.
Subbed – 57 mins
Substitutes;
Harvey Elliott – 6.0 (on 57)
Nice moments, and allowed Mo to move inside.
Curtis Jones – 6.0 (on 57)
Good to have his versatility back.
Fabinho – 7.0 (on 57)
Snapped and added bite.
James Milner – 7.0 (on 80)
A midfield stiffener, and immense lunge to stop a late equaliser.
Andy Robertson – 6.0 (on 80)
Came on to add legs.
The Manager;
Jurgen Klopp – 8.0
The congested fixtures mean changes are going to be happening each and every week, and it looks like Klopp is working the deck pretty well right now.
Surely would have wanted to keep Mo up top, but injuries and form have probably dictated that call. Was keen to change up as probably pre-planned, and a more measured performance was evident.
Wanted three point, got three points, so a good night for the manager in what was a tough game to navigate.
