The 2-1 scoreline suggests that Liverpool’s win over Tottenham came in a closely fought game but that could not be further than the truth.
The Reds completely outfought and outbattled Spurs and were only let down by some poor play and questionable choices in the final third.
A first-half header from Gini Wijnaldum and a second-half tap-in from Roberto Firmino put the Reds 2-0 up.
Erik Lamela’s injury-time strike gave Spurs a lifeline but they couldn’t force a very late equaliser.
Here’s how the Reds rated:
Alisson – 8
Didn’t have a lot to do but he oozed calmness. He did well to hold onto a strong strike from Christian Eriksen with Harry Kane lurking. He was cool with the ball at his feet and when it was in the air.
Trent Alexander-Arnold – 7
More than held his own against Danny Rose and Lucas Moura. He did get caught out a few times but generally, his positioning was spot on.
Joe Gomez – 7
Had a few very nervous moments where he was caught out by Moura but thankfully he wasn’t punished. Other than that, he looked as solid as he has all season, especially when the ball was in the air.
Virgil van Dijk – 9
Seriously, build statues of the man! He’s absolutely brilliant. He kept Harry Kane quiet all game and was totally dominant.
Andy Robertson – 7
Defended well when called upon and was a constant threat on the left, both with the ball and when he was pressing.
Gini Wijnaldum – 9
Was brilliant at the base of the midfield. He outfought and outworked Spurs. His header to open the scoring was an excellent one.
James Milner – 9
Along with Wijnaldum, Milner helped Liverpool dominate the midfield battle. He was involved in both goals and was fantastic at getting possession back when the Reds lost the ball.
Naby Keita – 6
Looked a little bit rusty at times. His movement was very good but nothing quite came off for him. Had a great chance to score but his shot was too easy for Michel Vorm.
Mohamed Salah – 5
Had some moments of magic but his decision making was pretty poor. He was a bit too selfish at times, something Jurgen Klopp was clearly unhappy with on the sidelines.
Sadio Mane – 6
Like Salah, Mane was a bit too selfish at times, but he did carry a bit more threat than the Egyptian.
Roberto Firmino – 7
Was his usual self without the ball, pressing and harrrying the Spurs back four and midfield. Scored the easiest goal he’ll ever get before going off with what looked like a nasty injury to his eye.
