Liverpool’s 3-1 victory over Sheffield United propelled them back to the top of the Premier League, extending their winning streak at Anfield to 29 league games.
“We’ve conquered all of Europe,” the Reds’ supporters chanted before kickoff, but their thoughts were primarily on domestic dominance following the exciting turn of events that saw rivals Manchester City and Arsenal both taste victory on Wednesday night. Liverpool were understandably enraged after the latter passed the Reds to take the lead, but within 45 seconds, James McAtee’s bizarrely placed shot straight at Caoimhin Kelleher from just six yards out gave the visitors the advantage.
Under Jürgen Klopp, the Reds proceeded as usual, fighting fire with fire and not letting any warning flags stop them. Their most productive work was led by Darwin Núñez, whose willing runs resulted in Liverpool’s first goal. As the Uruguayan striker applied pressure to visiting keeper Ivo Grbić, who seemed to be losing the game, the keeper smashed the ball into his midriff and into the net. After the first goal, the hosts’ attacks became more intense, and Chris Wilder was probably happy to watch his team struggle through the tunnel with just a one-goal deficit at halftime.
Sheffield United fans knew how big of a task they had ahead of them because their team had only lost one of their previous 39 home league games against promoted clubs. Fans of that team would have been pleased to see their team, who were in danger of relegation, show courage before they were fortunate enough to be rewarded just before the hour mark. McAtee’s flighted ball was met by Gustavo Hamer’s head before the ball slipped through Kelleher’s legs due to a clumsy attempt at clearing by Liverpool’s Connor Bradley.
Suddenly, there was tension in the air in Merseyside as Liverpool yearned for their revenge. They had a number of opportunities, the best of which was Andrew Robertson’s volley that sailed over the goalpost. Nonetheless, fans of the Reds this season have grown used to the team’s late drama, and as the Kop held its breath, Alexis Mac Allister stepped up to smash home a spectacular 25-yard shot.
Now with their tails firmly up, Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo nodded home in the closing minutes to wrap up the match after coming close multiple times. Sheffield United’s survival in the top division now hangs in the balance after a heartbreaking night. Conversely, despite having only one clean sheet in their previous nine league games, another late victory for the Reds will only strengthen their confidence that they can raise the Premier League trophy in May.
Man of the Match: Alexis Mac Allister of Liverpool.