Liverpool traveled to Bournemouth for their 32nd game of the season as the battle hard for a European place. Jurgen Klopp made several changes to the side that faced Dortmund in the epic clash on Thursday and he gave a chance to five academy players in this game. The Reds took the lead in the 41st minute with Roberto Firmino hitting the net with a simple tap-in inside the box. Daniel Sturridge doubled Liverpool’s lead at the stroke of half time. King did manage to pull one goal back for the Cherries in the 93rd minute but it was too late for a comeback. Here is a look at how Klopp’s men performed.
Danny Ward – 6.5
Klopp gave a debut match to the goalkeeper and he managed to keep a clean sheet for almost the entire game. He was not troubled in the first half but made some decent saves in the second half.
Connor Randall – 6
The right back was not very sharp at the back but did well with the runs and the attacks. He managed to trouble the goalkeeper in the first half.
Kolo Toure – 8
Toure was outstanding at the back and managed to show his experience through resolute defending. He prevented the Bournemouth team from attacking in the first half but in the second half managed to hurt his hamstring and was replaced.
Lucas Leiva – 7
Lucas was selected as the center back to partner Toure and the Brazilian did a decent job at the back. He made some crucial interceptions and blocks for his side.
Brad Smith – 6
Smith started as the left back but was exposed and caught out of his position for a lot of time. However, he showed signs of improvement defensively.
Joe Allen – 8
Joe Allen ‘Pirlo’ as he was famously called in the game had a brilliant game in the midfield. He made some good passes and was quick in tracking back the Bournemouth attacks.
Kevin Stewart – 6
He partnered Allen in the midfield and was playing in the deeper positions. But he could not manage to hold the midfield and left a few gaps exposed.
Jordon Ibe – 7.5
Ibe played a very selfless game and was good in creating opportunities for Sturridge from the left wing. He was good with the crosses and made some decisive run on the flanks.
Sheyi Ojo – 7.5
Ojo displayed a brilliant performance similar to the one against Stoke City. The young winger promises a lot for the future with his dribbling abilities and his vision to create chances.
Roberto Firmino – 7
The Brazilian scored a goal from a simple tap-in and partnered well with Sturridge upfront.
Daniel Sturridge – 8.5 (Man of the Match)
Sturridge had an outstanding game and was at his best with his quick feet and dribbles in and around the box. He took a brilliant back-flick which led to Firmino’s goal and also scored the second with a thumping header.
Substitutes
Mamadou Sakho
Sakho was on for the injured Toure on the 68th minute. As usual, he was solid at the back with the tackles and the blocks.
Adam Lallana
He came in for Ibe in the 78th minute. Lallana did not have much time to create anything special.
Divock Origi
The in-form striker came in for Firmino on the 76th minute. Liverpool were already in an excellent position and held the ball really well.
