Premier League GW12 - Liverpool vs Brentford

Liverpool sought to get back on track with a draw at Luton Town in a thrilling Premier League match at Anfield. Riding high after three straight victories, Brentford attempted to overtake the Reds' formidable home record. The stage was set for an exciting clash, but instead what happened was a tale of lost chances, dramatic VAR, and a masterclass from Liverpool's star player.

Liverpool vs Brentford | Picture Credits: Getty Images

Liverpool:
The Reds failed to make it three league wins in a row after being held to a 1-1 draw against newly promoted Luton Town last Sunday. Luis Diaz's late equaliser, in which the winger paid a moving homage to his father who went missing in Colombia prior to his release, kept Liverpool's fate from being much worse. If Liverpool wins here, they would move up to fourth position in the league, ahead of third-place Tottenham.

Brentford:

Prior to their trip to Merseyside, Brentford had won three straight games in the premier league, demonstrating their excellent form. After easily defeating Chelsea at Stamford Bridge and overcoming Burnley, Thomas Frank's team battled back to defeat West Ham 3-2 in their most recent match. The Bees have never triumphed at Anfield in the Premier League, though, having lost 3-0 the previous season and drawing 1-0 in their matchup last year.

Starting Lineups:

Liverpool (4-3-3):

• Goalkeeper: Alisson

• Defenders: Alexander-Arnold, Matip, Van Dijk, Tsimikas

• Midfielders: Szoboszlai, Endo, Gakpo

• Forwards: Salah, Nunez, Jota

• Subs: Scanlon, Nyoni, Kelleher, Diaz, Quansah, Elliott, Chambers, McConnel, Doak
  

Brentford (5-3-2):

• Goalkeeper: Flekken

• Defenders: Ajer, Collins, Pinnock, Mee, Roerslev

• Midfielders: Janelt, Jensen, Norgaard

• Forwards: Wissa, Mbeumo

• Subs: Maupay, Zanka, Ghoddos, Onyeka, Strakosha, Peart-Harris, Baptiste, Yarmolyuk, Olakigbe

Anfield Stadium | Picture Credits: Getty Images

First Half: Drama Unfold

Both teams showed early intent as the contest began. Gakpo put Flekken to the test in the fourth minute, but in the fifth, chaos broke out in Liverpool's box, emphasising Brentford's threat. Both Nunez and Salah had their chances; nevertheless, the Uruguayan attacker was denied two goals by VAR. There was a tense mood since Brentford was a threat and Mbeumo lost a great chance.

The 39th minute saw the end of the standoff. Matip gained possession with a strong push, and Nunez was feed by Alexander-Arnold. The Uruguayan striker, who had already been denied twice, took the pass and found Salah at the ideal moment. With a superb finish with his left foot, the Egyptian maestro gave Liverpool a vital 1-0 lead.

With a 1-0 advantage at the break, Liverpool led. Salah's brilliant goal was the difference maker as Brentford, although being resilient and menacing, failed to take crucial chances. The Anfield crowd saw a competitive match in which Brentford showed promise but also needed to take advantage of their opportunities.

Second Half: Liverpool's Dominance Shines

After Brentford awarded a free kick to begin the second half, Liverpool took command right away. Nunez and Salah kept making issues for Brentford's defence. Tsimikas darted down the left in the 62nd minute, sending Salah a cross that he headed home to double Liverpool's advantage. The Bees challenged, saying that the ball had left the pitch, but VAR affirmed the ruling.

The 74th minute was when Liverpool wrapped up the win. Tsimikas gave the ball to Jota, who was first denied. Jota glided past defenders and scored a fantastic goal into the top-right corner. Liverpool's lead was increased to 3-0 as Brentford's defence was rendered useless.

When the final whistle blew, it was confirmed that Liverpool had defeated Brentford 3-0. Jota's magnificent finish and Salah's brace demonstrated Liverpool's attacking ability. Nunez, who was twice disqualified by VAR, was a key component of Salah's first goal. With the victory, Liverpool tied the top two teams in points with their move to third place in the league.

At Anfield, Liverpool's performance was very dominant. A pivotal victory was achieved because to Jota's skill, Nunez's tenacity, and Salah's clinical finishing. Despite Brentford's best efforts, Liverpool's strength at home won out. Liverpool is looking forward to a difficult matchup against the defending champions, Manchester City, as the international break approaches. In the interim, the Anfield supporters celebrate a well-deserved win, as the Reds continue their quest for Premier League success.

Salah celebrating along with the team | Picture Credits: Liverpool FC Website

Salah after netting the second goal | Picture Credits: Getty Images

Jota celebrating after he scored a goal | Picture Credits: Getty Images