Liverpool star Alisson Becker has been criticized for a moment of complacency during the first half of today’s Premier League match against West Ham.
Despite the Reds cruising at Anfield; The Brazilian’s lack of concentration almost cost the Hammers a lifeline in a game that remained shaky.
West Ham struggled against Liverpool’s set-pieces and Hugo Ekitike opened the scoring, soon after Dominik Szoboszlai smashed a corner into the center of the box and Virgil van Dijk expertly slotted home 2-0.
The highlight of the first half came just before the interval, when Alexis Mac Allister converted Ekitike’s lay-off with a sensational first-time volley to make it 3-0.
Stephen Warnock slams Alisson Becker
Despite the comfortable scoreline, former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock was left frustrated by Alisson Becker’s moment of madness while the Reds led 2-0.
Liverpool’s often heroic goalkeeper passed straight to Jarrod Bowen inside his own penalty area.
Fortunately for the hosts, the West Ham captain was so surprised by the gift that the ball bounced back into Alisson’s appreciative arms.
He said on BBC Radio 5 Live: “Alison was very happy. He thought it was a simple pass, but he was too lazy and relaxed.”
Liverpool must see victory
The dangers of such complacency became apparent shortly after the restart. West Ham pulled one back early in the second half with a goal from Tomas Soucek, making the score 3-1 and causing a sudden tension in the stadium.
Kodi Gakpo restored their three-goal lead in the 70th minute, and just five minutes later West Ham’s Castellanos scored from a set-piece to make it 4-2, making it a tense game.
Liverpool have taken the lead on several occasions this season, so Arne Slott’s side will need to watch the game wisely to avoid further slip-ups.
With the race for the top four intensifying as we head into March, the Reds cannot afford to let up their focus in order to qualify for the Champions League and get their season back on track.
