In the wake of the Fabinho news, Liverpool had some adjustments to make against Brighton Hove Albion. In an anxious ending, the Reds edged past the Seagulls 2-1.
In a first half that saw Liverpool dominate as expected, Graham Potter’s Brighton played with greater freedom to go forward. It made for an interesting affair in the early going. It forced the Reds to refocus on their solidity while working through the refashioned midfield to get forward.
After a few excellent chances, Trent Alexander-Arnold reestablished his provider role, delivering not one but two sumptuous balls into the area for Virgil van Dijk to nod into the net. Scoring two goals in six minutes eased early worries about the changes required in personnel.
It even looked like Liverpool might even gather their first clean sheet at Anfield this season. Then a moment of madness happened.
Brighton played a long ball over the top, splitting the centre-halves. Alisson raced out of the area hoping to head it away, only to be beaten to the ball. In a mad moment, the Brazilian swatted the ball aside, preventing a goal-scoring opportunity and receiving a red card.
In the intervening changes that pulled Adrián from the bench and into action, Brighton astutely took advantage when Lewis Dunk took a low shot that found its way into the corner before Liverpool was completely ready. The goal led to a much nervier finish. Still the Reds took three points.
Here are four findings from the match.
