Midweek derby defeat equals big weekend reaction, right? Apparently, that is incorrect, since Liverpool went on to draw 2-2 with struggling West Ham. Season is over.
Goals: Bowen 43′, Antonio 77′; Robertson 48′, Areola OG 65′.
Goalkeeper and Defence
Alisson Becker (5/10):
He couldn’t keep out Bowen’s header, but he made many good saves, including one on Coufal’s deflected shot, before making a terrible mistake that gave West Ham control in the build-up to their second goal.
Trent Alexander-Arnold (6/10):
He was a constant threat with his passing and long-range shooting, but grew fatigued as the game progressed. Replaced with 12 minutes to go.
Jarell Quansah(4/10):
Was looking so comfortable, especially on the ball, until a sloppy pass allowed West Ham to take the lead. Then, stranded in a no-man’s land, Antonio headed home the equalizer.
Virgil Van Dijk (6/10):
He was normally cool in possession and handled with everything West Ham threw at him, but he was furious with his teammates following Bowen’s opening.
Andy Robertson (8/10):
The Scot had gotten himself into several dangerous attacking positions before doing well to level the game by controlling an uncomfortable ball.
Midfield
Alexis McAllister (7/10):
When given the opportunity to play farther forward, he is always a threat due to his clean passing in tight spaces and well-timed runs into the area. Unlucky not to have a goal or an assist.
Wataru Endo (6/10):
The Japan midfielder missed a few passes in the first half, but he gave Liverpool a solid foundation to build on in the second. However, I ran out of steam later on and was pulled off.
Ryan Gravenberch (7/10):
One of his best games for Liverpool, with the Dutchman coming up in the second half, generating several chances with his passing and dribbling.
Attack
Harvey Elliott (6/10):
Worked hard and was significantly engaged in the first half, but generated little, and, while he was unlucky with a decent long-range drive that clipped the bar, he squandered his finest chance to score when the ball fell for him at the back post.
Cody Gakpo (6/10):
He started up front ahead of Nunez but looked most deadly when he drifted to the left. His work ethic was remarkable, with the Dutchman winning numerous duels, but he was fortunate that his mishit ended in an own goal.
Luis Diaz (8/10):
As at Everton, Liverpool’s most active attacker by some far hit the woodwork. If he could finish, he’d be a winger. Nonetheless, he received an assist for identifying Robertson in the area before being pulled off.
Subs & Manager
Joe Gomez (n/a):
With only 12 minutes remaining, Alexander-Arnold was replaced at right back.
Darwin Nunez (n/a):
Another late substitution.
Mohamed Salah (n/a):
Introduced in the 79th minute following a touchline spat with Klopp, he failed to make an impact.
Dominik Szoboszlai (n/a):
Only brought on after death.
Jurgen Klopp 5/10:
His players responded admirably after the break, but it’s evident that his club is currently experiencing a confidence problem. The forwards continue to squander opportunities, while the defending has collapsed in recent months. Unfortunately, Klopp appears to be at a loss right now.