Thomas Frank believes a moment of brilliance from Andy Robertson and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain killed Brentford’s hopes of a Premier League point at Liverpool on Sunday, speaking to the BBC.
No Salah, no problem. Jurgen Klopp’s fist-pumping celebrations at full-time told their own story.
Without his free-scoring talisman, not to mention Sadio Mane and Naby Keita, Liverpool’s fringe players stepped up to ensure that Pep Guardiola cannot wipe the dusts off the champagne flutes just yet.
Making rare starts in the Premier League, Curtis Jones, Roberto Firmino and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain offered a timely reminder of their qualities.
The latter even capped a performance full of energy and endeavour with his first league goal of the campaign, stooping to head a pinpoint Robertson cross into Alvaro Fernandez’s net.
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“We were unbelievable in the first half against one of the best teams in the world. We kept them quiet,” said Frank, bemoaning the nature of Fabinho’s 44th minute opener.
“If we had gone to half time 0-0 it would have been a different story. But if we want to get points here we can’t concede from set pieces.
“We had the chance with Bryan Mbuemo. And then they came down the other end – fantastic cross, fantastic finish – and that killed the game.
“Until the second goal, it showed if we keep our discipline, keep pressing, defend well in the low block, we can match some of the best.”
Liverpool sealed a convincing win with a late third. Takumi Minamino came off the bench to profit following a mix-up in the Brentford backline.
The Japan international has now found the target times this season. Not bad when you consider that he’s scored more goals (six) than he’s started games (five).
Kaide Gordon was also handed his Premier League debut.
The twinkle-toed teen impressed days after opening his account against Shrewsbury in the FA Cup.
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