Liverpool’s best start in Premier League history witnessed a tricky test yesterday night at Molineux when new boys Wolves threw up a challenge exhibiting their on-field excellence. Both the Manchester clubs as well as Arsenal only managed a draw against Nuno Espirito Santo’s men whereas Chelsea, the team which broke Man City’s unbeaten streak, suffered a shocking defeat earlier this month to Wolves. The Reds, however, had a perfect start when Mohamed Salah broke the deadlock early in the game. They showed massive resilience defensively and a second-half strike from Virgil van Dijk sealed all three points for the Merseysiders. Liverpool are now unbeaten in 18 league games and would keep hold of their top of the table spot during Christmas Eve.
Below are the Liverpool players rated in their comprehensive 2-0 win against Wolves.
Alisson Becker: 7.5
Had to make a few routine saves and the Brazilian was decent tonight after a howler last weekend against Manchester United. Impressed with his distributing and passing traits, and showcased great control over the ball while being closed down. Another well-deserved clean sheet for the flamboyant Selecao international.
James Milner: 7.5
Missed the Manchester United game through a minor knock but returned to action as a makeshift right-back replacing Nathaniel Clyne. The veteran had some initial discomfort against Jonny and Adama Traore but settled down pretty quickly and delivered yet another dominating display utilising his experience and game-reading ability.
Dejan Lovren: 6.5
Did not look convincing enough in the heart of Liverpool defence. Had an improved second-half where he made some key clearances and won duels against Raul Jimenez refraining him from creating trouble inside the box.
Virgil van Dijk: 9
The ever-reliable Dutchman scored his first Premier League goal in Liverpool colours from an exquisite finish after picking up Mo Salah’s pass. Had a towering presence at the back and did not allow the hosts to cause enough menace for Alisson in goal.
Andrew Robertson: 7
Had a couple of nervy occasions, particularly one in the closing moments of the game. But the Scotsman was consistent with the overlapping runs, performed his defensive duties and also played his part in the build-up down the left-hand side.
Fabinho: 7.5
Lost the ball a few times but delivered yet another stellar display as a double pivot. Kept on blocking and breaking down Wolves’ moves in the middle of the park and initiated many attacking threats with his distribution as well as passing attributes. Did exceptionally well to play a one-two with Sadio Mane before crossing it from the byline for Salah in Liverpool’s early opener.
Jordan Henderson: 8
Majestic display from the skipper who not only marshalled the defensive line but also created moves upfront finding the right player at the right place. Controlled the pace of the game and pushed his teammates to press high up the pitch forcing Wolves to lose possession dangerously.
Sadio Mane: 7
Had a slow start but picked up momentum after the break and combined well alongside Salah while operating from the right flank. Was replaced by Nathaniel Clyne in the closing minutes of the game.
Roberto Firmino: 7
Firmino, too, was wasteful initially but lived up to the expectations after the break. Carried the ball forward from the deep and linked up with both Mane and Salah to disarray the hosts’ defensive organisation. Got replaced by Georginio Wjnladum late in the game.
Naby Keita: 5.5
Was deployed as a left midfielder, but the ex-RB Leipzig star failed to impress while he was on the pitch. His howler deep down the pitch could have had brought Wolves back in the game whereas his final ball in the attacking third always lacked imagination. Was forced to make way for Adam Lallana through an injury early in the second half.
Mohamed Salah: 8
His composed finish allowed Liverpool to have control over the flow for the rest of the match. Was lively upfront and created many opportunities with his pace, tricky runs and swift footwork.
Substitutes
Adam Lallana: 6
Made a strong start but faded off late in the game. Took part in a few build-ups high up the pitch alongside Salah, Mane and Firmino.
Goerginio Wijnaldum: 6
Should have had scored in the final moments of the game. Mostly concentrated on protecting the lead and forming counter attacks from the deep.
Nathaniel Clyne: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
