Full Time: Watford 0-1 Liverpool
Liverpool took a big step towards sealing their qualification for the UEFA Champions League next season, when they defeated Walter Mazzarri’s Watford 1-0 at the Vicarage Road on Monday night.
The Reds were hit by more injury worries, when star man Philippe Coutinho was taken off in the 13th minute due to an injury. But a moment of magic from midfielder Emre Can on the cusp of half-time was enough for Jurgen Klopp’s men to come away with 3 points, despite a late scare from the Hornets, when they struck the post.
The result means that Liverpool are now 3 points ahead of fourth-placed Manchester City and 4 above United, who are at 5th place. Both the Manchester clubs, however, do have a game in hand. Here is the Liverpool players fared on the night.
Here is how the Liverpool players fared on the night.
Liverpool Player Ratings
Simon Mignolet – 7/10
A relatively quiet first half. Dealt comfortably with the high balls and crosses that Watford pumped into the box in the second period.
Nathaniel Clyne – 7/10
A typically solid performance from the former Southampton man. Defended strongly, got forward well, but the end product was lacking.
Joel Matip – 7/10
Was given the beating by M’Baye Niang on one occasion, but it was another accomplished performance from the defender, making several interventions. Was always willing to bring the ball out from the back.
Dejan Lovren – 7/10
Celebrated the new contract extension with a strong and confident display. Kept things simple at the back and dealt with Troy Deeney quite comfortably.
James Milner – 6/10
Could not help out much in terms of attacking play, but stuck to his task defensively as Watford piled on the pressure late in the game.
Lucas Leiva – 7/10
Got booked for a ridiculous dive to win a penalty. But remained disciplined throughout and shielded his defence well. Grabbed the assist for Can’s goal as well.
Emre Can – 8.5/10
Always available to receive the ball from his teammates, the German put in a real shift in both attacking and defensive halves. Tested Heurelho Gomes with a driven effort from 25 yards out. Stole the show with his spectacular acrobatic effort. Surely a contender for the goal of the season.
Georginio Wijnaldum – 6/10
Lost the ball often, but did not lack the effort and industry in the middle of the park. A scrappy performance from the Dutchman.
Roberto Firmino – 6/10
Pressed hard from the front, but could not produce the usual spark in the attacking third. Wasn’t very involved in the proceedings.
Divock Origi – 6/10
Started the game poorly, but improved after the restart. Held up the ball really well and managed to test Gomes on one occasion.
Philippe Coutinho – NA
Taken off as early as the 13th minute after he picked up an injury.
Substitutes
Adam Lallana – 7/10
Came on for the injured Coutinho to make his return from injury. Put in a wonderful shift and hit the crossbar with a left-footed shot. Became tired as the game progressed.
Daniel Sturridge – NA
Replaced Origi for the final 5 minutes. Nearly scored.
Ragnar Klavan – NA
Brought on to replace Lallana for the final few minutes as Liverpool looked to protect the lead.