Liverpool scored two goals from set pieces as they continued their fifteen match winning run and reestablished their five point lead at the top as they beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Alexander-Arnold and Firmino got the goals for the away side before Kante reduced the deficit but Chelsea could not find an equaliser.
Liverpool were good value for their lead as they controlled the tempo and looked most likely to score. They got the reward for their effort when a well worked free kick routine resulted in a goal. Mo Salah rolled the ball to the side ever so slightly to give Alexander-Arnold a better angle and the Englishman curled the ball past an outstretched Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Chelsea had chances to draw level as Tammy Abraham was played through but he struck straight at Adrian. The Blues did have the ball in the back of the net when Azpilicueta scored from close range but VAR intervened and the pictures show Mount was offside in the build up.
Lampard and his players were made to rue their missed chances as from another free kick, Liverpool scored. Robertson, after being rolled the ball, crossed and Firmino jumped highest and nodded in. Rolling the ball made Chelsea's defensive line unorganised and Firmino, arriving late, was not picked up and he took full advantage. Again defensively, Chelsea were caught out.
The second half saw a bombardment of Chelsea attacks and they did get their deserved goal. Kante went on a mazy run but Liverpool backed off him, allowing the Frenchman to strike and score a terrific goal. Chelsea pushed and pushed for a second and should've had one. Batshuayi went close from a header and Mount missed a good opportunity from close range. Joel Matip was exceptional in preventing Chelsea scoring.
On the balance of the match, Chelsea probably deserved a draw but Liverpool defended resolutely and that is what the best teams are able to do in matches when they are not at their best. Chelsea are now 11th while Liverpool continue their perfect start and regain their five point lead over Manchester City.
Chelsea had chances to draw level as Tammy Abraham was played through but he struck straight at Adrian. The Blues did have the ball in the back of the net when Azpilicueta scored from close range but VAR intervened and the pictures show Mount was offside in the build up.
Lampard and his players were made to rue their missed chances as from another free kick, Liverpool scored. Robertson, after being rolled the ball, crossed and Firmino jumped highest and nodded in. Rolling the ball made Chelsea's defensive line unorganised and Firmino, arriving late, was not picked up and he took full advantage. Again defensively, Chelsea were caught out.
The second half saw a bombardment of Chelsea attacks and they did get their deserved goal. Kante went on a mazy run but Liverpool backed off him, allowing the Frenchman to strike and score a terrific goal. Chelsea pushed and pushed for a second and should've had one. Batshuayi went close from a header and Mount missed a good opportunity from close range. Joel Matip was exceptional in preventing Chelsea scoring.
On the balance of the match, Chelsea probably deserved a draw but Liverpool defended resolutely and that is what the best teams are able to do in matches when they are not at their best. Chelsea are now 11th while Liverpool continue their perfect start and regain their five point lead over Manchester City.
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