Liverpool player ratings v Brighton – 9/10 Mohamed Salah breaks record, 4/10 stinks
Liverpool secured a 2-1 win against Brighton at Anfield on Sunday afternoon (31 March) to keep themselves in the tight title race.
The Seagull’s Danny Welbeck bagged a shock opener within two minutes, but Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah both scored to extend their unbeaten run in the league to six.
Football Insider has analysed the Reds’ players’ performances following their clash against Roberto De Zerbi’s side.
PLAYER RATINGS
Caoimhin Kelleher [6]
His defence let him down for Welbeck’s quick opener but his latest outing has once again proved that Kelleher is a quality stand-in for the injured Alisson. Had little to do in the second half amid his side’s dominance but was dependable when called upon.
Joe Gomez [6]
Looked exposed at times at right-back but did well against a very advanced Tariq Lamptey, who was hauled off after 68 minutes. Made a number of important tackles and performed admirably when he moved into midfield – but not as effectively as the injured Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Virgil van Dijk [4]
The Dutchman played much of the game rather high up the field and looked uncomfortable on multiple occasions. He even lost his first aerial duel in two months against Lewis Dunk and was left wanting for Welbeck’s opener.
Jarell Quansah [7]
Another very assured performance from the youngster. Grew into the game after a tough opening and showed his typical aggression while covering for Bradley when he was moving up the field.
Conor Bradley [7]
Seemed to comply with Klopp’s demands perfectly by being an impactful force in the opposition half, but this sometimes left him wanting at the back. However, he rarely lost possession and proved once again that he is good enough going forward to risk leaving gaps at the back.
Dominik Szoboszlai [5]
Very clearly the weakest of a strong midfield. His passing was hit and miss, and he only managed two successful crosses out of nine attempted. He held possession all across the final third but did little while on the ball.
Wataru Endo [8]
Incredibly strong outing in the middle of the Reds’ midfield and hardly put a foot wrong. His solidity at the back allowed his midfield partners to advance and his one interception, two tackles and clearance helped ensure that the Seagulls did not take anything away from Anfield.
Alexis Mac Allister [8]
The heartbeat of Liverpool’s midfield managing 92 per cent passing accuracy. Was instrumental in much of his sides’ attacking excellence and even prevented some dangerous Brighton attacks having made three tackles and two clearances.
Luis Diaz [9]
His smart finish in the 27th minute got his side back in the game and a narrowly offside strike in the second half could have secured him a brace. He was caught out of possession a few times but he regularly gave Brighton’s backline a few scares. A dazzling performance.
Mohamed Salah [9]
Unsurprisingly, Salah was the dominant force in Liverpool’s attack. He bagged the winner with a cooly-taken finish inside the box and with 12 total shots, his most ever in a Premier League match, he could have put the game to bed very early. He will rue the two big chances he missed, but once again showed his excellence by scoring his 15th league goal of the season.
Darwin Nunez [4]
Only had 28 touches and two shots before being taken off for Harvey Elliott in the 82nd minute and was outshone by his attacking teammates. He still offered the Reds a threatening outlet, but this was far from his best display.
Substitutes
Harvey Elliott [6] – Did not have enough time to make a real impact, but ensured that his team kept their lead after coming on for Darwin Nunez in the 83rd minute.
Cody Gakpo [N/A]
Ryan Gravenberch [N/A]
In other news, Liverpool next manager: Top 10 contenders ranked after big Xabi Alonso twist.
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