Match report: Liverpool v Crystal Palace – 19 Aug 2017
Sturridge returns
Thankfully Sturridge hasn’t broken anything and he’s recovered from his pre-season injury. The frontman did well pressing the defenders and piling on the pressure alongside Mané. Their quick fire short passes kept Crystal Palace on their toes but each chance unfortunately fizzled out.
A first half foul on Sturridge led to a promising free kick right on the edge of the box. But the striker shot straight at the wall and lost a great opportunity to put the Reds in front. Another free kick chance was wasted after Milner fired it straight over the crossbar. Maybe Alexander-Arnold needs to give them lessons next time they train.
It's good to be back home. 👊 pic.twitter.com/UCoDnnda7N
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) August 19, 2017
Liverpool take all three points
After nearly three quarters of the game had passed, Liverpool finally broke the stalemate between the two sides. And who else to put them in front than secret weapon Sadio Mané? His return to the game has been a much needed one and he seems in better shape than ever.
Mané slid a cool and calm ball past Wayne Hennessey in the 73rd minute. Hennessey was otherwise on fire this afternoon too, pulling off save after save and denying Klopp’s men any chance of getting ahead.
Related Story: Player Ratings: Liverpool v Crystal Palace
Despite only one goal today, Liverpool secure their first win of the season and a clean sheet thanks to a sharper team of defenders and strong goalkeeping from an ever improving Simon Mignolet. The Belgian didn’t have a great deal to worry about from the Eagles, but when they did come knocking, he slammed the door shut on them.
A successful afternoon, lads, well done! Next up is the second leg against Hoffenheim at Anfield, meet you there Reds to finalise our position in the Champions League!