Liverpool looked to extend their excellent start to the season with another win against a confident Crystal Palace. The London outfit have had a good record against the Reds in recent times however and were hoping to match their performance against newly promoted Fulham, who they beat 2-0 away from home in their first match of the season. Liverpool comfortably dispatched West Ham by thrashing them 4-0 at Anfield last weekend.

Liverpool Player Ratings

Liverpool, as expected, fielded an extremely strong line-up to keep up with the likes of Manchester City, who had also won their respective matches during the weekend. Captain Jordan Henderson started once again on the bench as Jürgen Klopp named an unchanged starting 11 to the one that beat West Ham last time out. Liverpool were the dominant side and deservedly took home all three points.

Alisson – 7

The second most expensive goalkeeper in the world was not challenged too often throughout the match and managed a second clean sheet from as many games. He looked comfortable in possession, showcased again his outstanding delivery from goal kicks which allowed Liverpool to get on the front foot, and generally controlled his area with ease. Made one excellent save from a direct free-kick headed for the top corner.

Trent Alexander-Arnold – 7

A solid performance from the young full-back who put many dangerous balls into the box from the right. Was under pressure a few times from counter attacks and was cautioned reasonably early on. Kept his cool towards the end of the match and ultimately managed to contain the majority of the opposition’s threats.

Joe Gomez – 8

Another impressive outing for Gomez who is growing into his position as a centre-half for the Reds following a season implemented as a full-back. Has a great understanding with Virgil van Dijk, and showed his athletic skills by matching Zaha for pace and power. Did well under pressure and didn’t take any risks in possession.

Virgin van Dijk – 9

One of the standout performers on the pitch, the most expensive defender in the world continued where he left off last season by marking Christian Benteke out the game. He beat the target man in the air at every opportunity and didn’t give Palace a sniff of goal. Was involved in the build-up for both goals.

Andrew Robertson – 7

The Scotsman grew into the game after a few poor touches at the beginning of the match. Should have got an assist after beautifully sending Salah through on goal and was a constant menace down the left-hand side.

Georginio Wijnaldum – 7

Discreetly carried out his duties to perfection. Operating at the base of a three-man midfield, he was called upon in his own half to regain possession and recycle the ball rather than in his more familiar role further up the field. Will give food for thought for Klopp as the season goes on.

James Milner – 8

One of the more senior players in the squad, Milner surely consolidated his starting position in the line-up. Captain on the day, he showed great nerve to take the penalty which led to the first goal, coolly tucking it away to the goalkeeper’s left. Showed his defensive astuteness with a no-nonsense tackle on Zaha before half-time.

Naby Keïta – 9

One of the best players on the pitch. Skilful and unpredictable on the ball, he wonderfully teed-up Salah which should have resulted in the opening goal. A world class midfielder in the making.

Sadio Mané – 9

Continued his superb start to the season with another exemplary performance. Scored the second with a marauding run from his own half in the dying embers of the game to all but guarantee the first away victory for his team.

Mohamed Salah – 7

A more quiet game for the winger, but was heavily involved in both goals. Was fouled for the penalty which gifted Liverpool the first goal and also set up Mané for the second. A nightmare to defend against but will be disappointed not to have scored having squandered at least two clear chances.

Roberto Firmino – 7

Was involved in much of Liverpool’s build-up play and was sharp on the ball. Eager as always to come back and defend for his team but he didn’t have the clear-cut opportunities to directly affect the game.

Substitutes

Jordan Henderson – 6

Came on for Milner and took the captain’s armband but didn’t overly affect the game. Was solid when called upon in defence, tightened the gaps in the centre of the park and was a keen runner.

Adam Lallana – 6

The attacking midfielder didn’t have enough time to stamp his authority on the match and gave away a needless foul which could have resulted in a goal..

Daniel Sturridge – N/A

Was subbed on in the last seconds and didn’t touch the ball.

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