The Unstoppable Liverpool Machine
Thirteen may be unlucky for some, but for Liverpool, it’s a number that signifies their relentless march towards another Premier League title. As Arsenal faltered, Liverpool, now 13 points clear of their closest challengers, took another significant step forward. With Newcastle’s annual defeat at Anfield, the title race has all but concluded. Jurgen Klopp and Jorg Schmadtke’s shrewd signings in the summer of 2023 have paid off handsomely, fortifying the heart of the team and fueling their championship ambitions. The Kop, Liverpool’s iconic stand, erupted with chants of “Liverpool, top of the league” and “We’re going to win the league” after confirming Arsenal’s draw with Nottingham Forest. The championship looks like a mere formality now, and Liverpool fans are brimming with confidence.
The Midfield Masterclass
Liverpool’s victory over Newcastle was a testament to the depth and quality of their midfield. Arne Slot, the interim manager, praised the team’s mentality and work ethic, noting, “I think if you wear the Liverpool shirt as a midfielder you should score goals.” True to his words, Dominik Szoboszlai, who has been a revelation since his move to Anfield, scored the opening goal with a clever finish, guided through the legs of Dan Burn after a precise cutback from Luis Diaz. This was Szoboszlai’s second goal in as many games, following his crucial strike against Manchester City. Alexis Mac Allister, another gem in the midfield, added a second goal, showcasing his ability to step up in critical moments. Mac Allister, known for his sense of occasion, has found the net in high-stakes matches, including against Real Madrid and in the Merseyside derby.
Salah’s Supportive Role
Despite Mohamed Salah not scoring, the Egyptian maestro continued his impressive form by registering an assist, his 17th of the season. Salah’s presence on the pitch was still felt, with his delectable outside-of-the-boot cross almost resulting in a third goal for Liverpool. The forward’s relentless driving down the flank and his ability to create chances were evident, and Jacob Murphy of Newcastle was even booked for attempting to pull him back. It’s a testament to Salah’s skill that he can dominate even without a goal. In a one-two play, Salah returned the ball to Mac Allister, whose rising shot beat Nick Pope effortlessly. If Pope could be faulted for the first goal, he was blameless for the second, and Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s manager, expressed his frustration with his team’s marking.
The Importance of Isak
Newcastle’s game plan was significantly impacted by the absence of Alexander Isak, who was sidelined with a slight groin issue. Howe made the decision to reshuffle his lineup, moving to a 4-4-1-1 formation to provide Callum Wilson with more support. Wilson, making his first league start of the season, had a clear chance to score when he raced onto a ball from Dan Burn, but he missed the target. In a game characterized by rapid transitions, Newcastle posed a threat on the counter, but Alisson, Liverpool’s goalkeeper, remained untested. Howe acknowledged the importance of Isak, stating, “It goes without saying how important he is. It was a late decision, around midday. He didn’t feel right in his groin. It meant a tactical decision.”
A Familiar Story at Anfield
Newcastle’s frustration was palpable. The team has been winless in their last 29 visits to Anfield, a statistic that speaks to the daunting challenge of facing Liverpool at their home ground. Howe’s tactical reshuffle might have cost them some attacking fluidity, as moving Anthony Gordon centrally could have reduced their incisive play on the flanks. Despite the reshuffle, Liverpool’s clinical finishing and defensive solidity were on full display. The match ended in a familiar way, with Liverpool extending their lead at the top of the table and Newcastle continuing their winless streak.
Looking Forward
As Liverpool inches closer to the title, they can thank the strategic decisions made by Klopp and Schmadtke over the summer. The reinforcements in the midfield have not only bolstered the team’s defensive capabilities but have also added a new dimension to their attack. While the focus is often on top strikers like Salah, the performances of players like Szoboszlai and Mac Allister highlight the team’s overall strength. For Newcastle, the loss will be a hard pill to swallow, but the bigger challenge lies in breaking their long-standing Anfield jinx. With Liverpool’s form showing no signs of waning, the title seems all but secured, and the only question left is, when will they be crowned champions?
