By: Dan Clubbe
West Ham 1-2 Liverpool
Liverpool are suddenly making a habit of this winning lark, so much so that they even managed an away win in THAT psychedelic previously seemingly cursed white kit.
Jurgen Klopp appears to have struck upon a system and a group of personnel that he fancies right now and it’s paying dividends as the Reds keep alive their dwindling hopes of competition among Europe’s elite next season in the Champions League.
Albeit without the style and finesse of the demolition of Leeds United at Elland Road, in many senses, this gritty performance on the road would’ve pleased Klopp more as his charges dug deep to get out of an opponent’s home patch with all three points.
The Hammers gave as good as they got for the most part and it was ultimately down to the moments of individual quality that saw Liverpool emerge victorious.
Here’s how I rated those involved:
Alisson Becker 7 – Big deflection on the goal that gave him little chance. Relatively well protected by those ahead of him and found time to act as a sweeper ‘keeper when it appeared as though the high line had been breached.
Trent Alexander-Arnold 8 – Another standout display in his new hybrid role that he appears to be revelling in. Showing off his defensive qualities both in the midfield and when recovering at right back, whilst also using every single ounce of class that he oozes with his ludicrous passing range.
Joel Matip 8 – Stepping into the not-insignificant hole left behind by Ibrahima Konate, there were plenty of doubts as to whether the Cameroonian could fill the void. However, he did so and then some as he covered well all night, won his duels and even managed to grab the winner in emphatic style!
Virgil van Dijk 6 – A disappointing display if truth be told. Fortunate to get away with failing to engage Jarrod Bowen as VAR came to the rescue. Needs to go back to dealing with situations rather than waiting for them to play out.
Andy Robertson 7 – Delicious delivery for the winner from the corner spot and overall a solid performance from the Scot.
See how the lads rated the Reds during The Player Ratings show
Jordan Henderson 6 – Kept it uncomplicated and covered well at right-back when Alexander-Arnold got involved higher up. Came off after the hour mark as he tired quickly perhaps with a view to starting once again on Sunday during what has been a hectic period for the captain.
Fabinho 6 – Another step seemingly in the right direction for the Brazilian who appears to be making quicker and more incisive decisions. Helped by the new shape potentially…
Curtis Jones 8 – The pick of the midfielders by some distance. Superb use of the ball and was quick to win back possession high up the pitch. Coming into his own in this rare run of starts.
Diogo Jota 7 – Snatched at the half chances that fell his way but overall a display filled with endeavour.
Cody Gakpo 9 MOM – Outstanding. Full of class, poise and quality. Can’t speak highly enough of what he’s done since he arrived mid-season and it feels as though there is plenty more to come! Drove from deeper areas expertly and took his goal in style. Boss!
Mohamed Salah 6 – A rare quiet night for the Egyptian King as things just didn’t come off on the right-hand side. No major concerns as he was always involved in dangerous areas – just one of those nights.
Subs:
Thiago 7 – Spraying passes left right and centre just to add his unerring brilliance to the party!
Darwin Nunez 6 – A surprising omission for many who did well when he came on. Seems to be behind a few in the pecking order at present.
Luis Diaz 6 – He’s back baby! Simply showed off at times with his skillset and showed his South American grit to stop a potential quick free kick. Just great to have him back.
James Milner 6 – See it out!
Conclusion: A hard-fought victory, the likes of which have been an all too rare commodity this season for the Reds. A host of fine individual performances notwithstanding, the headline here must be that Liverpool are finding ways to win football matches again.
