Full Time: West Ham United 0-1 Liverpool
Liverpool thrashed West Ham United 4-0 at the London Stadium on Sunday to put themselves in the pole position to finish in the top four of the Premier League.
Despite a poor start, the Reds grew into the game and managed to take the lead through a Daniel Sturridge strike in the 35th minute. Defender Joel Matip then struck the crossbar with a header, before Andre Ayew hit the post for West Ham on the stroke of half-time as Liverpool went into the break with an advantage.
It was Georginio Wijnaldum’s turn to strike the crossbar in the second period, moments before Philippe Coutinho found the back of the net after some magical piece of work. The Brazilian then made it 3-0 four minutes later finishing off a counter attack to all but seal the game. Divock Origi hit the bar again for the Reds, before he found the back of the net in the 76th time to pile on West Ham’s troubles.
The win sees Liverpool move back into the third position in the table, after having lost the place to Manchester City on Saturday. They now sit a point ahead of the Citizens and four above fifth-placed Arsenal, who both have a game in hand.
Here is how the Liverpool players fared on the day:
Liverpool Player Ratings
Simon Mignolet – 7/10
A strong performance. Made a couple of smart saves, always alert to come out to high crosses. Assured at the back.
Nathaniel Clyne – 7/10
Solid in defence as he did not allow Aaron Cresswell to flourish. Dug deep and held his own.
Joel Matip – 7/10
A comfortable outing at the back. Always a threat from set-pieces and will have been disappointed not to have scored.
Dejan Lovren – 7/10
Let Ayew free in a dangerous position from a corner, but the Ghanaian could not capitalize. Other than that, a reliable performance.
James Milner – 7/10
Gave his everything to the team’s cause in a wholehearted performance. Won the ball well, bombed forward when needed.
Emre Can – 8/10
Started a little nervy, but soon got into his strides and controlled the game in the middle of the park. Kept Liverpool moving forward while also covering his defence well.
Georginio Wijnaldum – 8.5/10
Not a great first half, but was brilliant after the restart. Two assists and almost scored a brilliant goal himself. Amazing energy levels.
Philippe Coutinho – 9/10
Set Sturridge up for the opener with a beautiful pass, before bagging the three points with two exquisite goals in the second period. Big game and he stood up tall.
Adam Lallana – 8/10
Was a menace in the hole behind the striker, especially so in the second period. Sharp movement, crisp passing and always pressing high up.
Divock Origi – 7/10
A quiet first half for the Belgian, but grew into the game in the second period. Hit the woodwork and found the back of the net.
Daniel Sturridge – 8.5/10
Looked like the Daniel Sturridge of old. The movement, the confidence, the swagger and the composure in front of goal was all back. Lovely finish for the opener.
Substitutes
Lucas Leiva – NA
On for Sturridge in the 86th minute.
Ben Woodburn – NA
Replaced Coutinho in the 89th minute.
Marko Grujic – NA
Came on for Lallana in the 89th minute.