Liverpool travelled to the Vitality Stadium to take on Bournemouth who have certainly punched above their weight so far in the league. The visiting team secured a thumping 4-0 win which sent them to the top of the table as Manchester City lost unexpectedly to Chelsea.
Klopp’s men controlled the game for the most parts and they hogged possession without threatening too much in the first half. They got a lucky break as Mohamed Salah was offside for the first goal, but the linesman missed it after Roberto Firmino’s long-range effort.
The Reds were off the blocks quickly in the second half, and Salah finished smartly for the second goal. The game was as good as done at that time as the Cherries’ shoulders had dropped. An own goal and a calmly taken third goal from Salah wrapped up a comfortable game for the Merseyside club.
Here is how they fared on a cold and rainy day.
Alisson Becker 7
An assured performance from the Brazilian in goal. His handling was top notch, and he was decisive in his box. Every game he is proving why Liverpool paid the big bucks for him.
Andy Robertson 7.5
Mr Consistent of this current team as he hardly puts in a poor performance. Was the same today today as well. Played a big part while going forward and was the reason behind the third goal.
Joel Matip 7.5
Made some smart interceptions and blocks. Carried the ball well from the back.
Virgil Van Dijk 7
Had one or two tricky moments but apart from that, he was a rock in defence.
James Milner 6.5
Played as a makeshift right back and put in another dependable performance playing out of position in his 500th game in the Premier League.
Fabinho 6.5
Won the ball well and was often snapping into challenges. Got a yellow card but it was a solid performance from the Brazilian.
Georginio Wijnaldum 6
Did the workhorse role in midfield. Neither too flashy or anything bad from the Dutch midfielder.
Naby Keita 7
Looked the brightest man in midfield regarding going forward and creativity. Played some good little one-twos and seemed like a real deal for the Reds.
Xherdan Shaqiri 6
Often dropped deep to get on the ball. Didn’t influence as much as he had done in the past few games but a decent showing nonetheless.
Roberto Firmino 7
He had a free role in the attacking third and was almost everywhere. Took a good snap-shot first time from distance which caught Begovic out and allowed Salah to open the score. Added another assist later on.
Mohamed Salah 8.5
Got lucky with the first goal but there was nothing fortunate about the other two as he showed his class and finished with composure and confidence. Has come under scanner for few average performances but still keeps scoring plenty and once again proved that he is here to stay.
Substitutes
Sadio Mane N/A
Wasn’t involved much.
Adam Lallana 6
Showed his energy and combined well. Was indecisive when he had a chance to have a go at goal.
Jordan Henderson N/A
Played too little to warrant a rating.
