Watford 0-1 Liverpool – 5 things we learned!
Stunner from Emre Can catches the eye
Liverpool took a big step towards Champions League qualification this evening after a stunning overhead kick from Emre Can sealed a 1-0 win away at Watford.
It was a massive win for the Reds in a weekend where Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal all dropped points, as all 4 teams remain in the chase for a top 4 finish.
Here are 5 things we learned from a tense clash at Vicarage Road that ended with Liverpool taking 3 points.
1) Coutinho injury a blow for Reds
Emre Can might’ve produced a moment of magic, but Liverpool lost their main magician early on in the match as Philippe Coutinho was substituted off early with a leg injury. He was walking with a limp and wasn’t in need of a stretcher but it still isn’t good news for Liverpool as they continue to chase a top 4 finish this season.
2) Take a bow, Emre!
An absolutely beautiful strike from Emre Can. There isn’t much to say about it, it was just a moment of brilliance.
3) Watford are not safe just yet
Watford offered very little tonight as they seemed happy to take a point from the game. They do have the ‘magic’ points total of 40, but with games against Leicester and Manchester City still to come, and Swansea still mathematically able to take 41 points, it’s not a foregone conclusion they’ll stay in the league, but they are tantalisingly close.
4) Lallana looking bright on return
Having spent 4 weeks out injured, it was a welcomed return for Liverpool midfielder Adam Lallana, even if it was earlier than expected. He looked like a real bright spark with his energy something to be admired, and he had an excellent effort on goal denied by the bar in the first half. All in all, a positive performance from the England international on his return.
5) Champions League is certainly in Liverpool’s hands
The win rounded off a very positive weekend for Liverpool, with their rivals below them all dropping points. The simple reality is that a draw just wouldn’t have done in this match, and they passed the big test with flying colours when the pressure was on. They are now in the driving seat to qualify for the Champions League. They still have 3 big fixtures to go this season, Southampton, West Ham, and Middlesbrough. Fans will be sweating on the fitness of Coutinho who could be key to their Champions League qualification hopes.
By Ben Kelly – @benkelly_10