Liverpool star Alisson Becker admits Jurgen Klopp’s side are ‘doing the opposite’ of what is expected of them by failing to score early. But he praises their mentality to reply in games.
The Reds have scored 23 goals over their 12 Premier League fixtures so far this season. But only three of the Anfield natives’ strikes have come through the opening 15 minutes. Just a further five have also come before half-time, with Liverpool scoring 15 following the break.
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A majority of Liverpool’s goals have come during the final 30 minutes so far this term. The period between the 60th to 75th minute has produced five goals, followed by another five in the quarter of an hour preceding stoppage time. Only one goal has come after the 90th.
Striking home five goals between the 75th and 90th minutes mean Liverpool are scoring as many approaching full time as they are in the opening half-hour. They have also conceded five goals in the first 30 minutes – including one goal inside the opening minute at Arsenal.
Liverpool are scoring late and coming from behind to claim six of their 16 points
Liverpool have also come from behind to take six of their 16 points so far this season. That includes coming from behind twice to draw 2-2 at Fulham, once to take a point at home to Crystal Palace and from one behind to beat Newcastle United 2-1 with a 98th-minute goal.
Klopp’s squad also came from two behind to take the lead against Brighton & Hove Albion. Only for Leandro Trossard to seal a hat-trick in the 83rd minute and see the Seagulls leave Anfield with a point. Arsenal also won 3-2 in October after Liverpool had equalised twice.
Alisson acknowledges the significance of Liverpool scoring late goals to come from behind and get points in games. But the £67m goalkeeper also accepts the Reds have flipped the perceptions that they are quick starters by failing to produce their prolific efforts early on.
“Everybody is used to seeing it in our team,” Alisson told Sky Sports. “We, the players, and the people, as well. A consistent Liverpool, conceding only a few goals, keeping clean sheets, scoring [and] winning games.
“Everybody expects to see us score one, two or three goals in the first 20 minutes. But now we are doing the opposite. Of course, when you concede first and you win, it’s a sign of a strong mentality. That is important, as well.”
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