Liverpool ground out a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace on Saturday afternoon, with Sadio Mane again showing what an influential figure he is.
The Reds entertained arguably their biggest bogey side at Anfield, with the Eagles prevailing on their last three visits there.
Jurgen Klopp made five changes to the side that beat Hoffenheim in midweek, with Andrew Robertson handed his official Liverpool debut in front of an expectant home crowd.
Respects were paid to those who lost their lives in Barcelona this week, with everyone inside Anfield observing a minute’s silence.
Former Red Christian Benteke led the line for Palace, but Joel Matip enjoyed an impressive game up against the burly striker.
Robertson enjoyed a tremendous first appearance for his new club, adding pace and quality down the left flank throughout proceedings.
After a frustrating opening 73 minutes, which saw chances coming and going, it was Mane who again proved to be Liverpool’s hero.
The Senegalese got his second goal of the season from close-range, with huge sighs of relief evident around Anfield.
Mane was a menace all afternoon, and with Philippe Coutinho missing, he stepped up to the plate when his side really needed him. What a footballer.
Next up for Liverpool is Wednesday’s vital Champions League playoff second-leg at home to Hoffenheim, as Klopp’s men look to seal a place in the group stages.
