Zonal Marking: Liverpool 1-0 Manchester City

Liverpool called a halt to Manchester City’s unbeaten run in the Premier League, courtesy of Mohamed Salah. One goal was enough to notch up all three points. That being said, the Egyptian overhauled Steven Gerrard in Liverpool’s Premier League Top Goalscorers table and is currently runner-up, with seven goals behind Folwer.

Goalkeeper and Defence:

That was a good day at the office for both Brazilian goalkeepers. Their hands were full and pulled off some amazing saves. Alisson Becker was tested in the 15th minute for the first time and delivered. Erling Haaland was trying to battle through the defensive line, but once successful, faced a fantastic shot-stopper. Becker thwarted Haaland’s attempts on goal and proved how crucial he is. Besides, he adds another important assist to his tally.

Joe Gomez stepped in to play in a partnership alongside Virgil van Dijk. These two were confident and delivered a third clean sheet in Premier League. The Dutchman was calm on the ball, his reading of the game and concentration were top-class.

As for Gomez, he won the majority of aerial duels, lost his first clash with Haaland due to the physical presence of the Norwegian, but his team-mates covered well.

Andy Robertson returned to the starting XI after recovering from injury. His runs on the left-side fuelled the Reds’ attacks. Full of energy, he gave extra attacking options up front and was solid at the back.

On the other side of the pitch, James Milner got the nod to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold and was superb. At 36, he proves age is just a number. His positioning and physicality were superb, therefore Phil Foden found it difficult to break the right-side. Mr Reliable ages like a fine wine.

Score: 4

Midfield

Thiago alongside Fabinho featured in the middle of the park. Their co-operation bore fruit, leaving Manchester City’s players struggling to get in-behind the Reds.

The Citizens were patient when building-up their play from defence to the midfield areas, by switching the play, passing to each other, but found it difficult to bypass a well-organised Liverpool midfield line.

Fabinho’s performances have been way off this season. He’s been looking like a shadow of himself. Though not this time. The number 3, responded well, was on the front foot and showed how important a building block he is.

Another decent display from Thiago, at times played a bit risky, but this is the way he does it. Aggressive in duels and creative in passing.

Score: 4

Attack

The end product was the missing factor. Liverpool produced 13 shots on goal, but only two of them were on target.

Mohamed Salah’s magic first touch brought Alisson’s volleyed pass to the ground, this let him get past Joao Cancelo, sprint towards Ederson and finish off in emphatic fashion. Anfield erupted. The Egyptian King’s goal turned out to be the decisive one that earned the victory.

Diogo Jota was energetic throughout the game. He had a golden chance to open the scoring, but failed to put it into the back of the net. Manchester City players were struggling with his body movement, he could break free from their marking. Was unfortunately stretchered off in injury time.

Roberto Firmino worked tirelessly and created some decent link-up play with his team-mates. Harvey Elliot was lively again, although at times was guilty of keeping the ball too long at his feet, but produced an overall decent display.

Score: 3,5

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