A series of defensive mistakes saw Liverpool slump to defeat against improving an Arsenal. The defeat in North London means the Reds cannot break the Premier League points record.
Rare mistakes from Virgil van Dijk and Alisson saw Liverpool collapse to their third Premier League defeat of the season. A defeat which sees Liverpool’s hopes of reaching 100 points vanish.
Liverpool Slump to Defeat At Arsenal
A Night to Forget For Two of the Liverpool Backline
Liverpool crashed to defeat at Arsenal thanks to costly errors from van Dijk and Alisson – two of Liverpool’s outstanding performers this season.
It proved to be a difficult night in North London with Liverpool’s dominance of the ball not providing a reward. For large parts of the game, they controlled the game but couldn’t turn their possession into chances. Their only bright moment was an excellent Sadio Mane goal.
A night to forget for arguably the world’s best defender. Van Dijk was caught napping by a busy Reiss Nelson and he paid the price. Alexandre Lacazette providing the finish. A perplexed Jurgen Klopp was further frustrated when Alisson played a sloppy pass straight to the feet of Lacazette. The Frenchman turned provider this time setting up Nelson who finished excellently.
The Reds dominated the second half but found chances hard to come by. Mohamed Salah came closest sending a header straight at Emiliano Martinez. Klopp will be disappointed but he won’t question the effort his players put in.
Liverpool’s hopes of breaking Manchester City’s points record have gone. However, Klopp will want to finish on a high as they face Chelsea next.
An excellent result for Arsenal and Mikel Arteta. The victory keeps the Gunners in the race for a Europa League spot.
Expect a Reaction From the Reds When They Face Chelsea
A night of frustration at the Emirates Stadium was summed up by their mistakes. Complacency may have kicked in but credit where credit is due. Arsenal pressed the Liverpool defence and got their reward.
Van Dijk, who has been outstanding all season, put in a very rare sloppy performance. He will want the right the wrongs -as will his teammates. Despite their dominance of the ball, the dangerous attacks and runs in behind were missing. Liverpool’s usual cohesion was missing and it was clear to see throughout the second half.
The front three were largely quiet. A disappointing night in particular for Salah who was playing his 150th Liverpool game.
Jurgen Klopp will demand a reaction as they prepare to lift the Premier League title in a week’s time. He will want his team to show why they are Champions of England.
While the points record may have gone, the Reds can still record one of the highest points total in Premier League history in their final two games. That is extra motivation for Klopp and his side as they look to bounce back from a rare defeat.
Main Photo
