Liverpool stunned by sour Cherries

Both sides went into the affair desperate for a win - Bournemouth needed the three points to help their relegation fight, while Liverpool were looking to build on that historic derby-day win over Manchester United last weekend.

Klopp's men dominated much of the first half, most notably with a flurry of corners straight after one another. Neither Van Dijk nor Konate's towering heights weren't enough to force an effort home, as the home defence remained resolute for the opening forty-five. The visitors soon found themselves behind, however.

It was thanks to a great move down the right flank from Outtara, who battled off both Robertson and Van Dijk before cutting back at the last available chance, straight into Billing's path who was charging in to the area, ready to pounce. The Dane easily found the net, clinically putting it past Alisson who was unable to prevent the 1-0. This was enough to see the hosts go into the dressing room with an advantage in tact, leaving Liverpool with all the work to do.

After coming out from the pause revitalised, Klopp's squad were straight back on the front foot. Yet more pressure on the Neto goal was only met with yet more solid Cherry defending, however, as they were initially unable to find the equaliser. After a short while attacking, Bournemouth's Smith was found out by the VAR for a clear handball at the back post, gifting the Reds the perfect opportunity.

The chance fell to Egyptian king Salah, who will be left with nightmares from the result. Liverpool's highest-paid player blazed his penalty well wide of the target after having a chance from 12 yards, which was much to the home fans' delight. He won't like to hear it, but Salah made history with his miss, being the forward's first every penalty he's put completely off target in his Premier League career.

Despite several fresh legs and more late pressure, Klopp was unable to mastermind his men to a victory, with the Liverpudlian side left to rue their missed chances. Not their day for the visitors, who remain in fifth spot, handing them a painful blow to their Champions League hopes. This result is vital for the Cherries' relegation fight as it lifts them outside the drop zone. 

 

March 11, 2023