The Reds extended their record run, remaining the only unbeaten side in the league after Manchester City’s loss at Chelsea, taking a massive step in their title challenge. Liverpool batted Bournemouth aside 0-4 at the Vitality Stadium.
Jurgen Klopp has built this squad to win in more ways than they have at any time in his tenure. Yet, the Reds look increasingly like they may have finally begun clicking. The side played with exceptional purpose, controlling the contest from start to finish.
Before the matchday 16 finished, the win earned them top spot in the league table.
It may have been a milestone day for James Milner, but Mohamed Salah, not for the first time, stole the show. Milner made his 500th Premier League appearance, however, Salah scored a hat-trick.
Yet, the ever-humble goalscorer refused to receive the Man of the Match award. Instead, the attacker handed the award to Milner in a remarkable show of respect for the veteran who served as the side’s captain.
Salah opened the scoring amidst mild controversy before the break, sticking home a rebound from Roberto Firmino’s venomous shot from distance. While he could have been called offside, Salah used the second half to remove all doubt.
Minutes after the restart, Salah shook off Steve Cook’s cynical challenge to slot home another. Then after a Cook own goal, he rekindled reminiscences of last season, racing to shake off a tackle and surge behind Bournemouth’s defence, beating Asmir Begovic twice, and flicking the ball sublimely into the back of the net.
Here are four findings from the match:
