Jurgen Klopp’s team somehow managed to squander a two-goal lead at Villa Park, emphasizing once more the desperation of Liverpool’s emotionally and physically drained players in Monday night’s chaotic 3-3 draw against Aston Villa.
The Reds initially took the lead courtesy of Emiliano Martinez’s unfortunate own goal, but despite allowing Aston Villa to equalize after a poor pass from Alexis Mac Allister led to Youri Tielemans’ goal, Liverpool regained a two-goal advantage thanks to Cody Gakpo’s goal and Jarell Quansah’s header.
However, Mac Allister’s errors once again proved costly as Villa clawed their way back into the game. Jhon Duran capitalized on Mac Allister’s careless loss of possession, while the substitute scored again just three minutes later, deflecting in a shot from Moussa Diaby.
Here’s how GOAL rated all of Liverpool’s players at Villa Park:
Goalkeeper & Defence:
– Alisson Becker (6/10): Made some crucial saves but nearly conceded a goal with a risky pass.
– Trent Alexander-Arnold (5/10): Had a quiet game and lost possession several times.
– Jarell Quansah (7/10): Scored a goal but was beaten easily on Villa’s first goal.
– Virgil van Dijk (6/10): Despite his frustration with the defending, he bears some responsibility.
– Joe Gomez (5/10): Struggled against Leon Bailey and lost track of Diaby.
Midfielder:
– Harvey Elliott (8/10): Played a dynamic role in two goals.
– Wataru Endo (6/10): Worked hard but couldn’t control the game.
– Alexis Mac Allister (3/10): Made critical mistakes due to evident tiredness.
Attack:
– Mohamed Salah (7/10): Troubled the opposition but faded as the game progressed.
– Cody Gakpo (8/10): Ended the season strongly with a goal.
– Luis Diaz (6/10): Showed effort but lacked effectiveness.
Subs & Manager:
– Jurgen Klopp (5/10): The defensive issues persisted, and keeping a fatigued Mac Allister on the field was a significant error, though his trust in Elliott and Gakpo was vindicated once again.