Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the Premier League with an emphatic 4-0 win over Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on Sunday.
The result saw the Reds move five points clear ahead of second-placed Manchester City, having played a game more following their return to action after a top-flight winter break.
Darwin Nunez gave the visitors the lead by finishing off a well-worked attack, with Jota providing a crucial assist, finding his fellow forward inside the area. Jota then doubled Liverpool’s advantage with a low effort, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess.
The Portugal forward completed his brace nine minutes later at the second attempt, underlining his clinical finishing. Nunez sealed the dominant victory by sliding in to convert a Joe Gomez delivery from the right flank.
For a detailed analysis of Liverpool’s outstanding display, we turn to Damon Carr (@da9mo).
What a remarkable second-half performance from Liverpool, bouncing back from a disappointing first half!
Damon: It was a Premier League title-winning performance in the second half. The first half was very poor, never got into the game. Once we took the lead, the confidence increased and Bournemouth felt the sheer class of this Liverpool side. A couple of disappointing individual performances I must say but Bradley, Konate, Mac, Jota, and Nunez were exceptional. Top of the league for a reason.
Darwin Nunez made a triumphant return to the scoresheet, marking a significant confidence boost for the 24-year-old.
Damon: If Darwin Nunez continues in that vain of form he had in the second half, we win the league. It’s as simple as that. The guy was everywhere. Even back defending. Both goals were great finishes too. I hope Klopp keeps him on the left though, I think it suits him much more. Cutting inside or getting the ball in the box.
Diogo Jota showcased his importance for the Reds by scoring twice against the Cherries. How pivotal will the Portuguese forward be for the remainder of the season?
Damon: Goals are pivotal therefore Jota is absolutely pivotal if we want to win trophies. The guy gets one chance and doesn’t miss. We know City and Arsenal are going to push us all the way and in those games where just a goal to win it, Jota is the man.
Looking ahead, Liverpool are set to face Fulham in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg. Are there any specific changes you would like Jurgen Klopp to make for this crucial match?
Damon: We’ve got to be careful with the changes we do make for this match as the tie is far from over and we have to go through no matter what.
I would drop Jones, Konate, Diaz, and Elliot from today’s game and play with Quansah, Grav, Clark, and Gakpo instead. I want to rest Mac but we have no one. Who would’ve guessed that may have happened?
We have Chelsea and Arsenal after too which are huge, huge games. Everyone will think Chelsea are going to be an easy three points. That’s where you drop points when you think like that.
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