After a disappointing run, losing their last three consecutive games, Liverpool secure a 2-0 victory over West Ham in the Round 13 of the English Premier League. The match statistics showed the clinical finishing prowess for Liverpool coupled with a poor final product from West Ham. The hosts’ woes were further compounded by ill-discipline which earned them a yellow card in the 84th minute, thereby ending all chances of a comeback.
Match Overview
Prior to the start of the game, the London Stadium was sepulchral after news of Billy Bonds’ passing. After a tribute, it was straight to business with record signing Alexander Isak’s acrobatic attempt forcing a spectacular save by Alphonse Areola.
Without talisman Salah, the Reds seemed deficient going forward but they managed to make a clear-cut chance just before the break. Virgil van Dijk searching ball forward wrecked the hosts’ defense before finding Florian Wirtz, but the great opportunity was easily tamed by Areola.
Isak who had been struggling since moving to Marseyside got a breakthrough shortly before the hour mark when he worked a yard in the box and fired home.
The hosts then regained control in the final third with Nuno Espírito Santo making an unusual striker for striker substitution. Their hopes of getting ack into the game were dissipated six minutes after Lucas Paquetá received a second yellow for a repeat offense.
The now motivated Liverpool wrapped up the victory in stoppage time when Cody Gakpo slammed home a close range effort. West will remain outside the bottom three, but will undoubtedly be anxious ahead of midweek round of the Premier League.
Upcoming Fixtures
West Ham:
Manchester United vs West Ham – 4 December 21:00
Brighton vs West Ham – 7 December 15:00
Liverpool FC:
Liverpool vs Sunderland – 3 December 21:15
Leeds vs Liverpool – 6 December 18:30
