It was not the prettiest performance but Liverpool got the job done, beating West Ham United 1-0 at Anfield. Liverpool had spells of good play and had the majority of possession. However, West Ham had a number of very good chances and will be kicking themselves to walk away from the game with nothing.

Sadio Mane scored the only goal of the game, tapping in from a Trent Alexander-Arnold cross. It was a tight call from offside, but Mane was just on. This takes his tally for Premier League goals this season to 12, one better than what he achieved last season. The Senegalese forward is averaging a goal a game in the league; he has quietly gone about his business very well this season and produced good numbers.

Other than the goal, Liverpool did not have too many more chances. Mohamed Salah had his best opportunity in the second minute. A fast break away led to Salah having a one-on-one with Lukasz Fabianski, but the Egyptian’s shot was comfortable for the keeper. It was not Salah’s best game, he was greedy in certain attacking moves where a pass was the better option. Salah looked a frustrated figure and was subbed in the 79th minute.

Despite only having 31% possession, West Ham created a number of great chances. Pablo Fornals saw his chipped effort cleared of the line by Alexander-Arnold. The Reds believed that he was offside, but he had timed his run perfectly.

Manuel Lanzini had a great opportunity as well. He controlled the ball from a cross, faked his initial shot to leave Trent on the floor, but then skyed his shot over the bar.

Despite having the best opportunities of the game, David Moyes side left empty-handed.

 

  • Diaz and Trent top performers

New signing Luis Diaz once again showed why there is a lot of excitement around this player. He again looked very bright and gave West Ham problems during the game. His pace with the ball and movement off the ball makes his very hard to mark.  

He is still very new to Anfield and still getting used to his surroundings. However, it looks only a matter of time before he starts to score for the Reds. And once he does, he will score plenty of goals for them.

Alexander-Arnold had another great, showing his quality both defensively and offensively. He got another assist, taking his tally to 17 in all competitions for the season. That is already his best season for assists.

Trent was also very strong defensively last night. A goal-line clearance and all-round good defensive display showed why he is the best right back in the world.

 

  • Reds make it 12 in a row

Liverpool certainly had to work hand for their victory. Hanging on to a one goal lead, it was nervy towards the end, but they were able to get the job done.

This win takes Liverpool to a 12th successive win in all competitions. In that time they have only conceded four goals, keeping eight clean sheets. The Reds are in amazing form and are showing why so many people are talking about a possible quadruple.

For Jurgen Klopp, his only concern will be that his team keeps on winning. Last evening was a great example of Liverpool digging in and refusing to be beaten. It wasn’t the prettiest win, but they all count the same. The mentality monsters look determined to end the season strongly.

With Manchester City playing their rivals Manchester United, they is hope rather than expectation that United can do Liverpool a favour.

Liverpool have done their job and can now rest and prepare themselves for Inter Milan on Tuesday night.