Man of the Match: ‘Best in the World’ – Star Shines in Liverpool’s Win Over Wolves | OneFootball

Liverpool 2 – 1 Wolves – Premier League Man of the Match

Alisson Becker

After Arsenal reduced the Liverpool lead at the pinnacle of the Premier League table to four points(with their win away to Leicester yesterday), much of the Reds fanbase began to question the credentials of the hosts and their ability to win the English league title. The uncertainty is something that has been built upon years of Manchester City eventually overcoming the Anfield giants, therefore, calm and collected men in red were needed at Anfield to restore the deserved seven-point lead.

Though the game was a rough ride that was full of subpar performances, the need to win when playing below expected levels is the bedrock of a championship win, one that was propped up upon some very good showing by world-class footballers. The experience and ability of the senior group will be that which ensures ultimate success, with fatigue and pressure likely to increase the weight on so many young shoulders.

Wolves came into this game with a fair amount of good form behind them and with the nervous Liverpool crowd failing to push their team early on, it took a clinical attacking effort to ensure the first half ended with a positive result. The attacking threats posed by the starting front three saw all grab their plaudits or/and goal involvements and it allowed a fatigue-ridden Liverpool team something to hold onto in a tense second half.

That second period was one of the most frustrating and worrying 45 minutes this season, as character and big defensive moments were needed to dispel the threat of a Wolves equaliser. Key to that endeavour was the giant frame of Alisson Becker, who stiff tall to stop a one-on-one opportunity and add a command to his penalty area that his team required. The notion that he can be replaced at this stage is laughable, as he took his veteran turn to show what is required to win major silverware.

Next up is a trip to Aston Villa, where even more big performances are needed to keep this title charge on track and away from North London. The chances to move ten points clear with a win will only intensify the pressure on Arsenal, who will then be the team with a game in hand. Winning is what count at this stage and today proved that only the points matter, not the route to get there.

Steven Smith’s Pre-match Prediction;

Liverpool 2 – 0 Wolves