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MATCH
Darwin Nunez silenced the Brentford fans’ taunts with two stoppage-time goals, rescuing Liverpool from another damaging draw. The Uruguayan striker was greeted with chants of “You’re just a s**t Andy Carroll” when he came on as a substitute, but he had the last laugh.
Nunez’s first goal came in the first minute of added time, as he tucked home Trent Alexander-Arnold’s cross to turn Liverpool’s dominance into a goal. The away fans responded by turning the Bees’ chant back on them.
But when Nunez struck again to end all doubt, the travelling supporters erupted in celebration, singing “Liverpool, Liverpool, top of the league” and “We shall not be moved”. These are the days that titles are won and lost, and Nunez’s goals threw down the gauntlet to Arsenal ahead of their later kick-off.
Brentford could have no complaints but threatened themselves in a harum-scarum second half. The Bees should have scored inside five minutes, but Mikkel Damsgaard failed to adjust to a deflected cross from Mads Roerslev.
Liverpool started slowly, with Kostas Tsimikas picking up an early booking for tugging back Bryan Mbeumo. The Greek left-back’s mistake sparked a response from Liverpool, but they struggled to create clear-cut chances in the first half.
Dominik Szoboszlai’s effort clipped the crossbar, and Mo Salah’s shot was half-blocked, but Liverpool’s pressure eventually paid off. Szoboszlai was involved in a lovely move started by Cody Gakpo, but the Dutchman’s shot from Salah’s cross lacked power.
The second half was just as intense, with Liverpool forcing several saves from Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken. Luis Diaz, who started the game, was guilty of taking a dive as he followed up a shot, and was eventually replaced by Nunez.
Brentford looked dangerous at times, too, with Mbeumo sending a free kick all the way through to Alisson, who pushed it away in a panic. The Bees’ Yoane Wissa also tested Alisson with a shot, but Liverpool’s pressure eventually told.
Nunez’s goals were a proof of his determination and skill, as they lifted Liverpool to a crucial victory. The Reds’ fans will be hoping this is the start of a winning streak that will keep them firmly at the top of the league.
