Liverpool opened up an eight-point lead at the top of the Premier League table by picking up a commanding victory over title rivals Man City at Anfield.
Fabinho gave the Reds the lead with a stunning long-range effort on 6 minutes. Trent Alexander-Arnold appeared to handle the ball in the build-up, but the goal was given after VAR decided the ball struck Liverpool’s right-back unintentionally.
Liverpool went 2-0 up when Mohamed Salah headed home a fantastic cross from left-back Andrew Robertson. Once again, VAR was at the centre of the action. Still, the Egyptian was marginally onside.
Manchester City had chances to get back into the game. Ex-Liverpool forward Raheem Sterling was a constant threat, while a deflected Sergio Aguero shot brushed the post.
However, Sadio Mane scored the home side’s third to put the match out of reach. Mane converted a sweeping Jordan Henderson cross to all-but seal the victory for the Reds.
With 12 minutes remaining, Bernardo Silva scored a consolation goal for the visitors. But the damage had already been done.
Man City manager Pep Guardiola sarcastically thanked the officials at the final whistle, clearly enraged by decisions that he left went against his team.
Liverpool – Manchester City
Possession
45%-55%
Shots
12-18
Shots on Target
5-3
Corners
4-13
Fouls
10-5
As the stats suggest, Man City enjoyed the lion’s share of the possession. The away side also had more attempts than Liverpool, but the Reds were far more clinical with their chances.
Despite Liverpool’s high foul-count, City’s Rodri and Jesus were the only players to be booked.
The Brazilian midfielder made his presence felt all over the pitch on Sunday. Not only did he score a sizzling 25-yard strike, he also broke up the opposition’s attacks and rarely gave the ball away.
Fabinho has turned himself into one of the best in the business in his position, and he has firmly established himself as a regular in the heart of Liverpool’s midfield with his performances this season.