Liverpool 2 – 1 Brighton – Premier League Man of the Match | OneFootball

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

Caoimhin Kelleher – Liverpool FC

Following the 2-3 EFL Cup win over Brighton in midweek, the alternating cast was always going to be an inevitable element which played a part in both team and individual performances at Anfield this afternoon. The early (and opening) goal went the way of the vibrant visitors, with a wonder strike stemming from the right boot of the Brighton goal scorer, Ferdi Kadıoğlu, which was unstoppable as it arced its path away from the outstretched hand of the 25-year-old, Caoimhin Kelleher. Luckily for the underperforming reds (in the first half), their deputizing stopper was able to avert a second goal from taking the game away from the home side, as he managed to stop the score doubling to 0-2 with an outstanding save.

In midweek, we saw the superb display of Liverpool’s third choice goalkeeper, Vítězslav Jaroš, solidify the notion and brilliance in depth of those that wear gloves under the LFC umbrella. Despite Alisson Becker leading the world class way and the summer signing of Giorgi Mamardashvili future proofing the stable of assets (between the sticks), it continues to be the 18-cap Republic of Ireland stopper, Kelleher, who garners so much of the plaudits. As a man that seemed destined to find a new home in the most recent off season, it is surely now inevitable that the 6ft 3inch keeper will land at a prominent destination next summer. The new CEO of Liverpool FC, Michael Edwards, has evidently identified the need for brilliance in the Anfield goal, as the key Sporting Director that once signed the Brazilian sensation, Ali.

Against a mightily organized and talented roster of players, the need to hold on was evident today, especially with Brighton fighting to solidify their place as a top eight side in the Premier League. So many of the starting reds were off the pace in the first half, which made the performance of the starting keeper imperative to long term success. Though Mohamed Salah, and Cody Gakpo, will gain the headlines, their second half showing was built upon the saves and assurance delivers by the man of today’s match, Caoimhin Kelleher.

Next up, the visit of Bayer Leverkusen, where a famous former son, Xabi Alonso, returns to Anfield.

Pre-match Prediction;  Liverpool 2 – 0 Brighton

Steven Smith