Liverpool Grind Out a Needed Win as Isak and Gakpo Sink West Ham in London

The first half was tense. West Ham had a defensive setup, which was very deep, halting the midfield and making Liverpool look for openings through their strength. Not many chances were created, besides a few half-clear chances for both teams, but no chest was seriously tested. The Hammers stopped the opposing team very well, yet their own attacks lacked the cut to even take Alisson Becker a little out of his comfort zone.

Finally, the tie was broken right after the hour mark. Alexander Isak, who had been suffering from a goal drought in the league, was the quickest to react to a neat pass from Cody Gakpo and slotted the ball home with a calm precision. The goal gave a hike up to Liverpool’s morale and placed the visitors in total control.

West Ham made an effort to fight back, but that only led to their frustrations. Lucas Paquetá was sent off in the 84th minute for arguing and dissent, he was shown a red card, which basically put an end to any potential late comeback. Liverpool finished the game in the stoppage time, scoring their second goal when Gakpo made a cool finish after a fast-moving counter, thus sealing the 2-0 win.

For the Reds, this victory will definately boost their confidence as they aim to gaining their foot in the premier league table. Isak’s goal could herald the beginning of a more productive stretch, while Gakpo’s finish was not only well-timed but also indicative of why he is still such a big threat in the forward line. It was one of those unfortunate afternoons for the Hammers, playing at home did not mean much to them as they were unable to turn their chances into goals and, on the other hand, they were quite expensive with their discipline.

Ultimately, it was a game between Liverpool’s victory and lesson of patience and chance taking. They might not have mesmerized the audience, but they were so clinical when it was the deciding time, and that efficiency was what made the difference. On the other, West Ham…