Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table to eight points after a tense encounter against Southampton.
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Despite a lackluster performance riddled with defensive errors, the Reds managed to scrape a win, thanks to Mohamed Salah’s clinical display, including a decisive penalty.
The visitors took the lead early through Dominik Szoboszlai, who capitalized on a defensive mistake.
However, Southampton equalized after Kelleher’s penalty save was turned in by Armstrong on the rebound. Fernandes’ second-half strike added to Liverpool’s woes, but Salah’s brace, including a penalty, secured the points.
Player Ratings
Caoimhin Kelleher – 8:
Made crucial saves, including a penalty stop, though he couldn’t prevent the rebound or Fernandes’ strike. Continues to impress, though his starting spot may be at risk with Alisson’s return imminent.
Conor Bradley – 7:
Recovered well after an early booking and contributed defensively. Grew into the game offensively.
Ibrahima Konate – 5:
Struggled throughout, with poor passing and defensive lapses. A rare off-day for the usually dependable center-back.
Virgil van Dijk – 6:
Sloppy in the first half, gifting possession for Southampton’s opener. Improved significantly in the second half, showing leadership in the defensive press.
Andy Robertson – 6:
Mixed performance. Looked dangerous in attack but conceded a clumsy penalty.
Ryan Gravenberch – 7:
Showed flashes of quality with a key assist for Salah but lacked consistency in defensive transitions.
Curtis Jones – 6:
Solid in possession but lacked creativity. Subbed early in the second half.
Dominik Szoboszlai – 7:
Energetic and effective in pressing. Opened the scoring but faded slightly after the break.
Mohamed Salah – 8 (Man of the Match):
Clinical and decisive. Scored twice, including the winning penalty, and caused constant problems for Southampton’s defense.
Darwin Nunez – 5:
Offered little in terms of link-up play or goal threat. A disappointing outing for the striker.
Cody Gakpo – 6:
Had moments of brilliance but failed to capitalize on key opportunities.
Substitutes
Luis Diaz – 7:
Added directness and creativity in attack after his introduction.
Alexis Mac Allister – 7:
Injected energy and looked to unlock Southampton’s defense.
Wataru Endo – N/A:
Late substitute tasked with breaking up play.
Manager’s Assessment
Arne Slot – 7:
Chose a strong starting lineup, but Liverpool’s recurring sluggishness in away games continues to be a concern. His substitutions brought stability and creativity, but the Reds must improve their intensity in such fixtures.
Liverpool’s defensive frailties and complacency are issues to address, but with a crucial victory, they remain firmly in control of the title race.
