Liverpool were magnificent as they beat Man City 3-1 at Anfield on Sunday afternoon, going eight points clear at the top of the Premier League.
Liverpool 3-1 Man City
Premier League, Anfield
November 10, 2019
Goals: Fabinho 6′, Salah 13′, Mane 51′; B.Silva 78′
Alisson (out of 10) – 8
The Brazilian is arguably the world’s best goalkeeper and he oozed authority against City.
He didn’t do anything spectacular, but he saved everything that he should have, was composed with the ball at his feet and caught a number of corners.
Could do little about Bernardo Silva’s consolation.
What a remarkable young footballer Alexander-Arnold is.
On a day when so many Liverpool players shone, the 21-year-old was a joy to watch, especially in terms of his creativity.
He played a wonderful pass in the lead up to Mohamed Salah‘s goal and produced some touches that earned great applause from the Anfield crowd.
Given a stern test by Raheem Sterling, particularly late on.
Dejan Lovren – 8
There were concerns about Lovren’s inclusion in the Reds’ starting lineup, but he passed with flying colours.
Tasked with stopping the relentless Sergio Aguero, he more than held his own, showing that he is at his best when focus is required the most.
Several crucial blocks summed up his effort levels.
Virgil van Dijk – 8
Liverpool’s defensive rock was typically assured all afternoon, almost going unnoticed at times.
The Dutchman was dominant aerially, calm in possession and marshalled the troops expertly, with one late duel up against Gabriel Jesus highlighting what a colossus he is.
The most influential player in the Premier League.
Andy Robertson – 8
This was yet another day where Robertson showcased why he may be the best left-back around.
A needless early foul on Silva wasn’t a great start, but the Scot only grew from that point on, defending doggedly and providing energy going forward.
His assist for Salah was glorious—his fourth of the season so far.
Fabinho – 9 (Man of the Match)
Liverpool have numerous players in the running to be the best on the planet in their position—Fabinho certainly fits into that category.
The 26-year-old was a monster in the middle of the park, snapping into tackles, keeping possession and outperforming City’s midfielders.
He also opened the scoring with a stunning 30-yard striker, showing that he is far more than just a water carrier.
An incredible display.
Jordan Henderson – 8
There were some who wanted Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to start over Henderson, but he repaid Jurgen Klopp‘s faith in him in style.
Relentless in his work rate and also a more potent attacking threat than in recent weeks, the captain epitomised Liverpool’s performance.
He picked up a brilliant assist, crossing for Sadio Mane to make it 3-0.
Gini Wijnaldum – 9
Wijnaldum may be frustratingly quiet in some matches, but he always seems to turn up on the biggest occasions.
Liverpool’s No. 5 was magnificent in midfield, showing some beautiful touches, excelling in tight spaces and bullying City’s players.
When he is like this, he is truly formidable.
Mohamed Salah – 8
Salah has come in for criticism recently, but he was electric on Sunday afternoon, especially in the opening 45 minutes.
The Egyptian had the beating of the beleaguered Angelino from the off and he took his goal in sublime fashion, heading home in front of the Anfield Road end.
One majestic turn that bamboozled Sterling was a great moment, as Salah found top gear.
May have aggravated his ankle problem, which would be a blow.
Sadio Mane – 8
Mane is a strong contender for the Reds’ Player of the Year so far and he was again hugely influential.
His touch let him down a few times, but this was a very good performance, with his work ethic superb and his pace causing City’s defence constant problems.
Made it 3-0 with a well-taken header.
Roberto Firmino – 8
Firmino led the line, and as is the so often the case against Pep Guardiola’s side, he was excellent.
Dropping deep to help create chaos, the 28-year-old was intelligent in all facets of his play, whether it be his passing or his defensive contribution.
Substituted in the second half.
Substitutes
James Milner (on for Henderson, 61′) – 7
Did his job well, helping Liverpool get over the finish line.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (on for Firmino, 79′) – 6
Fairly quiet—could have offered Alexander-Arnold a bit more support defensively.
Joe Gomez (on for Salah, 86′) – 6
Only on the minutes for a few minutes, but shored things up.
Subs not used: Adrian, Lallana, Keita, Origi
Manager
Jurgen Klopp – 9
Liverpool have the best manager in the business.
This was an almost perfect day for Klopp, whose starting lineup was vindicated, especially his midfield selections.
The German got a supreme performance out of his side, as they dismantled City going forward and held strong at the back.
Eight points clear.
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