In a crucial Premier League match, Liverpool’s aspirations for the title were further dampened following a 2-2 draw against West Ham United at the London Stadium. The game saw Michail Antonio equalize late in the match, leaving Liverpool trailing in the title race.
Match Highlights
The match marked Jarrod Bowen’s 200th appearance for West Ham, during which he scored a goal and provided an assist, equalling Paolo Di Canio’s record for the most goals in a single Premier League season for the club. Liverpool, still reeling from a recent 2-0 defeat to Everton, found themselves behind after Bowen’s first-half goal. However, they managed a comeback in the second half with goals from Andy Robertson and an own goal by Alphonse Areola, prompted by a deflected strike from Cody Gakpo.
Despite Liverpool’s efforts to take control, West Ham remained resilient. Bowen’s assist for Antonio’s header in the 77th minute secured the draw for the Hammers. This result has significant implications for Liverpool, placing them two points behind league leaders Arsenal and one behind Manchester City, with the latter having two games in hand.
Key Moments and Performances
The game began slowly, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances. Liverpool felt aggrieved not to be awarded a penalty in the 27th minute due to an offside call against Luis Diaz, which nullified the foul on Gakpo.
In the second half, Liverpool increased their intensity. Robertson’s goal in the 48th minute revitalized the team, and they briefly led after Gakpo’s effort led to Areola’s own goal. However, West Ham’s persistence paid off with Antonio’s decisive header from Bowen’s cross, leaving Liverpool’s goalkeeper Alisson unable to save.
Liverpool now faces an uphill battle in their remaining fixtures to claim the title, with their fate no longer solely in their hands.