Liverpool played hosts to Bournemouth at Anfield after securing progression into the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League in midweek. The Reds got off to a great start when Sadio Mane scored in the 7th minute. They kept the pressure on the away side but Eddie Howe’s team defended valiantly to go into half-time with only a goal down.
The second half began with the Merseysiders on the front foot and creating chance after chance to get their second goal. Mohamed Salah scored in the 69th minute after being played in by an outstanding cross from Trent Alexander-Arnold. Roberto Firmino put the icing on the cake when he found the back of the net in the 90th minute to cap off a wonderful victory for the Reds. Liverpool ran out 3-0 winners on the night to consolidate their position in the top 4.
Let’s shed some light on each Liverpool player’s performance during the game.
GK: Loris Karius – 7/10
The German keeper did well when called upon and earned another clean sheet at home.
RB: Trent Alexander-Arnold – 9/10
He was one of the best players on the pitch. The youngster delivered some dangerous crosses into the Bournemouth box and was a consistent outlet for Liverpool down the right flank.
CB: Dejan Lovren – 8/10
The Croatian made some crucial clearances in the second half to secure a well-deserved clean sheet on the night.
CB: Virgil Van Dijk – 7.5/10
The Dutchman looked calm and composed in the Reds backline and organised his defence well when tested by the Cherries attackers.
LB: Andrew Robertson – 7/10
He defended well and was a constant threat down the left flank. However, the Scottish defender failed to be productive in the final third.
CM: Jordan Henderson – 8/10
The Liverpool skipper put in a captain’s performance at the heart of the Reds midfield. He was outstanding with his passes and switch of play, and also pressed the Bournemouth midfield well while defending.
CM: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – 8/10
Another wonderful performance by the former Arsenal player, he made some great runs into the box and was unlucky not to score with his ferocious shot in the second half.
CM: Georginio Wijnaldum – 6.5/10
He had a quiet game at the centre of the park but did well to link up play in the opposition half.
RM: Mohamed Salah – 8/10
The Egyptian scored his 40th goal of the season with a clever finish in the second half.
ST: Roberto Firmino – 8.5/10
The Brazilian worked tirelessly during the game and got his deserved goal in the 90th minute to cap off a magnificent performance for the home side.
LM: Sadio Mane – 8/10
He scored the all-important opening goal of the game which gave Liverpool a wonderful platform to go on and bag the three points.
Substitutes:
CM: James Milner – 6/10
He came on and worked hard to secure the three points for the home team.
CB: Ragnar Klavan – 7/10
He came off the bench to see off the late Bournemouth charge and earn his side a confidence-building clean sheet.
ST: Dominic Solanke – N/A
He hardly had any time to make an impact in the game.
