Brentford 3-2 Liverpool: Premier League Champions Uncovered Once more
Brentford delivered a efficiency filled with organisation, depth and conviction to say a 3-2 victory over Liverpool on the Gtech Group Stadium. For Liverpool, the Premier League champions, this was a sobering reminder of the fragility that has undermined their early season. Arne Slot’s aspect had hoped the emphatic midweek win in Europe marked a reset. As a substitute, this defeat underlined that the problems run deeper.
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Liverpool arrived in West London nonetheless energised by the 5-1 overcome Eintracht Frankfurt within the Champions League, a consequence that halted a dangerous run of 4 defeats in all competitions. For a lot of supporters, it felt just like the spark had returned. Inside minutes of kick off, the optimism drained as acquainted flaws resurfaced.
Defensive Considerations Proceed to Undermine Liverpool
Michael Kayode’s lengthy throw after 5 minutes created chaos within the Liverpool penalty space. Dango Ouattara steered in from Kristoffer Ajer’s flick, capitalising on indecision throughout the visiting defence. The simplicity of the aim was regarding. A direct set piece was allowed to bypass markers, and the response lacked authority.
Brentford continued to focus on lapses and disorganisation in Liverpool’s defensive construction. The house aspect sensed vulnerability and pressed aggressively. Their second aim arrived on the verge of half time. Kevin Schade latched onto an outstanding move from Mikkel Damsgaard and calmly completed past Giorgi Mamardashvili. Liverpool’s again line parted once more, with the motion and timing of the run left unchecked.
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Milos Kerkez endured one other tough night and his uncertainty in key moments positioned strain on these round him. He did, nevertheless, present a lifeline in stoppage time on the finish of the primary half. The total again reacted sharply to pressure the ball dwelling and cut back the deficit. It supplied hope, however Brentford’s management of the competition remained.
Photograph: IMAGO
Expensive Selections and a Missed Alternative to React
Liverpool required composure after the restart, but Brentford regained momentum. On the hour, VAR suggested the referee to evaluate an incident involving Virgil van Dijk and Ouattara on the sting of the realm. The Liverpool captain was deemed to have fouled his opponent on the road. The penalty was awarded and Igor Thiago transformed confidently.
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As soon as extra, Liverpool had been pressured to chase the sport. Mohamed Salah struck late to arrange a tense conclusion, an instinctive end that sparked perception in a doable rescue. Nevertheless, Brentford managed the ultimate minutes with intelligence, self-discipline and willpower. Slot’s aspect had left themselves an excessive amount of to do.
The total time whistle confirmed a fourth successive Premier League defeat. Liverpool’s issues can’t be labelled as misfortune. The recurring themes of defensive uncertainty, sluggish begins and an incapability to wrestle again management at key levels are starting to form their early marketing campaign story.
Photograph: IMAGO
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Implications for Liverpool and Brentford
This consequence leaves Liverpool sixth within the Premier League desk, 4 factors behind leaders Arsenal, who face Crystal Palace on Sunday. There’s time to reply, however early strain is constructing, and with rivals gathering momentum, Liverpool can unwell afford additional setbacks. The champions have to rediscover resilience and construction, significantly away from dwelling.
Brentford moved into tenth place with their fourth victory of the season. Their efficiency was assured and tactically astute. Keith Andrews’ gamers embraced their plan with full dedication, urgent with intelligence and exploiting Liverpool’s weaknesses at each ends of the pitch.
For Liverpool, there shall be scrutiny on group choice, tactical form and particular person kind as Slot analyses this setback. The gamers know they have to present higher defensive self-discipline and velocity of play to regain management in matches. For now, Liverpool go away West London with questions somewhat than momentum.