The Premier League champions can no longer break the league’s record points tally after an uncharacteristically mistake laden display at the Emirates. Following their 2-1 defeat, they can now reach a maximum of 99 points, one short of Manchester City’s centurions season.
Truthfully, since the moment the league title was confirmed, The Reds haven’t been their usual ruthless selves. This game was another example that they may have subconsciously switched off a couple of weeks ago.
Liverpool still found it within themselves to dominate the match and went ahead when Sadio Mane burst into the six-yard box to fire Liverpool ahead. At this time, Arsenal had barely left their half and the champions seemed rampant.
However, two ‘I remember when’ moments cost Liverpool dearly as both Virgil Van Dijk and Alisson Becker made basic mistakes to allow Arsenal to go in front before half time. Both errors came from over-casual passing from the Liverpool men.
Alexandre Lacazette seized on the first error and a neat finish from Reiss Nelson to put the Gunners’ ahead. These were two of Arsenal’s three attempts on goal throughout the game; Liverpool had 24.
Jurgen Klopp cut a confused and at times angry figure on the sideline throughout the game. He admitted after it has been difficult to maintain the intensity levels since the title was confirmed.
Here’s how we rated The Reds after the loss at the Emirates:
ALISSON BECKER - 5
Chances of another Golden Glove are quickly fading for the Brazilian. His poor pass to Andy Robertson led to Reiss Nelson’s goal.
TRENT ALEXANDER ARNOLD - 6
Made some unbelievable switches of play but his crossing left a bit to be desired.
JOE GOMEZ - 7
His best display since the restart. Carried the ball out of defence well and easily dealt with the little attacks that came his way.
VIRGIL VAN DIJK - 5
Never thought we’d see the day! An error under pressure gave Arsenal a way back into the game.
ANDY ROBERTSON - 7
Spent the majority of the game as a left wing option. Set up the Liverpool goal and was busy all night.
ALEX OXLADE-CHAMBERLAIN - 5
Walking through a guard of honour from his former club was perhaps the best part of the midfielder’s night. He really struggled to influence proceedings.
FABINHO - 6
Did his job with ease defensively. Perhaps could have done with a bit creativity more going forwards.
GINI WIJNALDUM - 5
The Dutchman did nothing majorly wrong. Missed a good chance with his head in the second half. Another who struggled to break down the defence.
MOHAMED SALAH - 5
Snatched at all of his chances. He showed neat footwork to sit David Luiz down before chipping high at the keeper. He looked dangerous at times but failed to deliver an end product – not the norm.
SADIO MANE - 8
Liverpool’s best player on the night. Created almost everything and deserved his goal. Unlucky not to get more.
ROBERTO FIRMINO - 5
Another frustrating night for the number nine. He always scores against Arsenal and very nearly got another when he closed down the goalkeeper to block a kick. Faded out of the game before being subbed.
NABY KEITA (SUB) - 7
Positive once more from the Guinean midfielder. Carried the ball forwards and looked to get the champions playing.
TAKUMI MINAMINO (SUB) - 6
Given a chance in his favoured central role between Salah and Mane, showed glimpses of nice touches and turns. Should have gone down for what would have been a stonewall penalty.
DIVOCK ORIGI (SUB) -
Did not make an impact on the match at all.
XHERDAN SHAQIRI (SUB) - 5
Definitely has new hair! First time we have seen him in seemingly forever. Finished well on the half-volley, albeit seconds after a free-kick was awarded.