Liverpool were condemned to an embarassing defeat by Bournemouth on Sunday. It was one of the loss least expected but also one of the finest comebacks in the Premier League.
The Reds went into the match with the hope of closing the gap at top of the league after Chelsea’s win over Man City, and Arsenal and Tottenham thrashing of West Ham and Swansea City respectively, but their hope was dashed when Bournemouth produced one of the stunning comebacks in the league.
Liverpool had raced into a two-goal lead within 22 minutes of start through Saido Mane and Divock Origi before Bournemouth Callum Wilson pulled one back from the penalty spot after James Milner had fouled Fraser in the penalty area.
Emre Can restored their two-goal cushion but three goals in 14 minutes from Bournemouth condemned Liverpool to their second league defeat in the hand of minnows.
It has often been said that their defence will be their undoing in their title race again this season. It has affected them twice in the last decade, both in 2008/2009 and 2013/2014 seasons.
It has been showing in their matches this season but Jurgen Klopp seems to have taken it with levity, coupled with the fact that he looks like a coach that has no plan B should the initial plan failed.
They were able to escape against Crystal Palace when their defence almost gave them up but no escape route this time around as they collapsed against Eddie Howe’s men, ending their 15 match unbeaten run in all competitions.
The reds were without their playmaker Philippe Coutinho but the absence of Joel Matip in the defence proved more costly. Goalkeeper Loris Karius was expected to be an upgrade on Simon Mignolet but the German has been unconvincing.
While not written Liverpool off. Further slip up will definitely affect their title race.