Liverpool have responded forcefully to questions after their defeat to Nottingham Forest, following up their Champions League win over AC Milan with a 3-0 victory against AFC Bournemouth in the Premier League.
The Reds were saved by the early offside flag after Antoine Semenyo tapped the ball into the net in the fourth minute, but they were already 2-0 up before the half-hour thanks to two goals in three minutes from Luis Diaz.
Darwin Núñez added to the tally with a wonderful 37th-minute strike, putting Liverpool on course for a fourth win in five league games under Arne Slot.
Positives
Once Liverpool took control, they did not allow Bournemouth to get back into the game, something that was particularly noticeable in midfield at times. There was plenty to be excited about in attacking areas and it was also a good sign of the team's mentality, with three first-half goals in such a short period. Not conceding will also add to their satisfaction.
Negatives
The Reds started slowly, with Bournemouth dominating the game and putting the ball in the back of the net before the goal was ruled out. There was some poor passing by Liverpool in defence during that period and they didn't start the second half particularly well either. There were times when Liverpool were a little sloppy in defence and played too close to the Bournemouth box, although the fact they were 3-0 up probably played a part in that.
Manager Rating (1-10)
Arne's Slot, 8 — Slot's big decision was to sign Nunez, and that was confirmed by a brilliant performance from the Uruguay international, capped by a wonderful goal. There are signs that things are going well for the Dutchman and there seems to be a deep understanding of what he expects from his players.
Player ratings (1 to 10; 10: best. Players who join after 70 minutes are not rated)
GK Caoimhin Kelleher, 8 — He came into the box for Alisson Becker but had an attempted clearance blocked but recovered well to stop Semenyo. The goalkeeper handled balls well into the box or across goal and came out bravely to deny Luis Sinisterra a goal. He also reacted brilliantly to prevent a late goal after the ball rebounded off Trent Alexander-Arnold.
DF Trent Alexander-Arnold, 8 – Matched Marcus Tavernier's early run and set the tone for a solid defensive display in the first half. He was also impressive in attack, notably making a great run and choosing the perfect moment to play the pass that set up Diaz's second goal. Alexander-Arnold played another great pass to force Dean Huijsen's yellow card, but had a couple of sloppy moments in the second period.
DF Ibrahima Konaté, 7 – The defender gave a poor pass to Kelleher for a corner, but also sent the ball forward for Luiz's opener and had a generally good performance. He was booked for stopping Dango Ouattara's run.
DF Virgil van Dijk, 8 – He stayed high enough to keep Semenyo offside and score the early goal, and dominated the aerial game whenever needed. He also controlled Dominik Szoboszlai's pass well in a potentially dangerous situation.
DF Andrew Robertson, 6 years old –Hit the side-netting early on and had some intriguing battles with Ronald Araújo, but faced some awkward moments when facing Semenyo.
MF Ryan Gravenberch, 8 — He couldn't find the pass to punish Kepa Arrizabalaga's poor pass, but had some brilliant moments afterwards and carried the ball well. One ambitious shot was saved, but he is growing into this role.
MF Alexis Mac Allister, 8 – The Argentina international produced two spectacular passes to create chances for Mohamed Salah and made some brilliant tackles, both in defensive areas and high up the pitch. He also had a late header saved.
Minister Dominik Szoboszlai, 6 years – Shot high and wide under pressure from Ryan Christie but showed his technical quality with a lovely touch and runs to start counter-attacks. He also chipped in with some good defensive work at times.
Forward Mohamed Salah, 7 years old – Salah had moments of great play, including a brilliant pass to Nunez, and eventually provided an assist for the Uruguayan. But he was not as effective as many expected in front of goal, and saw Milos Kerkez save a shot on the goal line.
FW Darwin Nunez, 8 – He took advantage of the opportunity to start with excellent holding play during the first half and increasingly better finishing. Although he was not as effective in the second half, he always worked hard to help the team.
Forward Luis Diaz, 9 – Díaz had already shown plenty of intent with some eye-catching moves and a venomous finish before scoring both of his goals with great precision. He always looks a threat and is proving to be a very dangerous player this season.
Substitutes (players introduced after 70 minutes = no qualification)
Curtis Jones, 6 — He came on for Szoboszlai in the 61st minute and linked up with his teammates spectacularly at times, as well as being calm on the ball in difficult situations. He failed to score due to a poor block.
Federico Chiesa, N/R — Replaced Nunez in the 72nd minute on his Premier League debut and immediately showed his intent with an ambitious shot from distance that was saved.
Cody Gakpo, N/R — Replaced Diaz in the 72nd minute and linked up well, passing the ball accurately for Jones' chance before seeing his own shot blocked.
