Liverpool claimed their dominance in the Premier League with a resounding 4-0 victory over Bournemouth, propelling them to the top of the table on Sunday.
The first half proved to be a source of frustration for the Reds, but a second-half surge saw them elevate their tempo, resulting in two remarkable goals on the counterattack. Darwin Nunez calmly concluded a slick move to open the scoring, while Diogo Jota unleashed a low shot after a precise pass from Cody Gakpo.
Jota secured his brace in an unusual turn of events, initially miskicking his shot before confidently converting on the second attempt. Nunez sealed the deal in injury time by turning home Joe Gomez’s cross.
This commanding performance places Liverpool five points clear of Manchester City, albeit having played one additional game.
Chief Liverpool FC Writer for the Liverpool ECHO, Ian Doyle was present at the Vitality Stadium to rate the performance of the Liverpool players.
Alisson Becker 7
“Fielded one Christie effort first half but caused consternation with one wayward throw. Safe hands in difficult conditions second half.”
Conor Bradley 8
“Difficult times at first up against Sinisterra on Premier League debut but settled and began to contribute decisively at both ends. Another lively showing. Subbed.”
Ibrahima Konate 8
“Took unnecessary chances at times in possession early on but great in importance and vital blocks and challenges – not least one on Solanke – second half.”
Virgil van Dijk 8
“Two good blocks as Bournemouth threatened before break and the most composed visiting defender. Led the defensive effort superbly with real captain’s performance.”
Joe Gomez 7
“Not overly comfortable as the home side pressed intently at times and didn’t offer much going forward first half, but second half saw sensible showing and an assist late on for Nunez.”
Alexis Mac Allister 8
“By some distance Liverpool’s best player first half, impressing with his passing, tackling and drive. Maintained level after break to give Reds platform on which to build.”
Harvey Elliott 6
“Mixed bag before break with some good tackling negated by giving the ball away cheaply. Busier second half. Subbed.”
Curtis Jones 7
“Looked to get Liverpool moving but too often ended up running into opponents or, on occasion, his own team-mates. Got into groove second half and involved in build-up for opener. Possible injury a concern, though. Subbed.”
Luis Diaz 6
“A couple of moments of promise first half on the right but didn’t always combine well with other forwards. Subbed.”
Diogo Jota 9
“Ball bounced off him more times than on a trampoline in opening quarter but soon got to grips, assisting the first goal and then clinically finishing for the second and third. Whether down the centre, right or left, such a handful. Subbed.”
Darwin Nunez 9
“Worked hard down the left and a couple of sights at goal before break and took key opener expertly well and hard work helped set up the second. Notched the fourth in fine fashion. Booked.”
Cody Gakpo (for Diaz 64) 7
“Introduced on the left, brought extra thrust to the Liverpool attack and set up Jota’s first.”
Ryan Gravenberch (for Elliott 64) 7
“Pressure helped create the third goal. Better from the Dutchman.”
Owen Beck (for Bradley 83)
“Slotted in at left-back on Premier League bow with Gomez shifting to the right.”
Bobby Clark (for Jones 83)
“More minutes for the exciting midfield youngster.”
Kaide Gordon (for Jota 90+4)
“Hi there.”
In other Liverpool news, Jamie Carragher Names Liverpool’s Best Player in First Half Against Bournemouth