Liverpool completed a superb second-half comeback to claim a 2-1 win at Stoke City, sealing a crucial three points in the pursuit of Champions League football.
After sloppily surrendering two points against Bournemouth in midweek, it was critical Jurgen Klopp’s side bounced back to winning ways at the Britannia Stadium.
And in a game of two halves the Reds did just that, producing an excellent second-half turnaround to seal a vital win in the top-four race thanks to fine finishes from substitutes Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino.
The ongoing injury crisis made life extra difficult for Liverpool, with Klopp naming a much-changed lineup which saw Ben Woodburn handed his full Premier League debut and Trent Alexander-Arnold also start.
Alexander-Arnold battled well in defence as the Reds came under pressure in a difficult first-half which Stoke started sharply and almost took an instant lead in, but Xherdan Shaqiri saw an early goal disallowed.
Woodburn, who should have had a penalty in the first half, worked tirelessly in attack alongside Divock Origi, but the strike duo had very little to feed off as the Reds lacked belief.
Just as it appeared Klopp’s men would get through an underwhelming first half unscathed, Stoke took the lead on 44 minutes through Jon Walters, with the boyhood Evertonian heading past Simon Mignolet when unmarked at the near post.
Klopp was clearly unimpressed by his side’s opening 45 minutes, and acted decisively by making a double change at the break, with Coutinho and Firmino entering for Alexander-Arnold and Woodburn.
The changes made an instant impact with Liverpool a transformed side following the introduction of the Brazilians, who increased the quality and threat of the Reds’ play, with Gini Wijnaldum also enjoying greater influence.
And on 70 minutes, Klopp’s switches made the impact he hoped for as Coutinho brought Liverpool level, firing home a crisp finish in front of the travelling Klopp, sparking great scenes of celebration.
Liverpool sensed a winner and it came just two minutes later, as Firmino rifled an unstoppable volley past Lee Grant, completing a stunning quick-fire turnaround for Klopp’s much-improved Reds.
Liverpool simply had to see out the game for the final 18 minutes plus stoppage time, and helped by a stunning save from Mignolet to deny Saido Berahino, the Reds sealed a vital win, much to the boss’ satisfaction.
It was a fantastic comeback from Liverpool, with full credit going to Klopp for acting decisively with changes, and the players for taking responsibility to make the difference.
The three points provide a huge boost in the Reds’ pursuit of Champions League football, which continues next Sunday with a trip to West Brom.
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