Premier League GW21 - Bournemouth vs Liverpool

Bournemouth vs Liverpool | Picture Credits: Premier League Website

Excitement surrounded the match between Bournemouth and high-flying Liverpool at the Vitality Stadium. As the Cherries looked to recover from previous losses, the Reds, who were atop the Premier League, wanted to increase their lead. We had no idea that the scene was being set for an incredible show in the second half.

Bournemouth:

Prior to losing to Tottenham 3-1, Bournemouth was one of the Premier League's best teams in recent weeks, having won four straight games at the highest level. Following their 3-2 comeback win over QPR at Loftus Road in response to their previous league defeat, the Cherries advanced to the FA Cup fourth round, where they will play host to Swansea City on Thursday.

Liverpool:

Liverpool is leading the Premier League following only one loss all season, to Tottenham in September thanks to a late own goal by Joel Matip. After defeating Arsenal 2-0 in the FA Cup third round, the Reds defeated Fulham 2-1 in their most recent match, which was the first leg of their EFL Cup semi-final. Although they haven't played in the Premier League since January 1, Jurgen Klopp's team defeated Newcastle United 4-2 at Anfield in their most recent league match.

Line Ups:

BOURNEMOUTH (4-2-3-1):

Neto; Max Aarons, Illia Zabarnyi, Chris Mepham, James Hill; Lewis Cook, Ryan Christie; Luis Sinisterra, Justin Kluivert, Marcus Tavernier; Dominic Solanke.

SUBSTITUTES: Lloyd Kelly, David Brooks, Emiliano Marcondes, Alex Scott, Kieffer Moore, Gavin Kilkenny, Philip Billing, Mark Travers, Ben Greenwood.

LIVERPOOL (4-3-3):

Alisson; Conor Bradley, Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez; Harvey Elliott, Alexis Mac Allister, Curtis Jones; Darwin Nunez, Diogo Jota, Luis Diaz.

SUBSTITUTES: Adrian, Cody Gakpo, Ryan Gravenberch, Bobby Clark, Kaide Gordon, James McConnell, Caoimhin Kelleher, Owen Beck, Jarell Quansah.

Vitality Stadium | Picture Credits: Facts.net

First Half: Patient Buildup and Controversy

Throughout the first forty-five minutes, Liverpool steadily tested Bournemouth's defence. Mac Allister and Nunez put Neto to the test from long range, and Christie of Bournemouth nearly scored with a left-footed shot. But there was some controversy in the first half when Kluivert avoided a possible red card for a lunging challenge on Diaz.

With the score tied at zero points at the half, both sides made their way to the locker rooms as the siren went off. Liverpool was in complete control of the ball, but they were unable to break the deadlock against a strong Bournemouth defence. Everything was in place for a thrilling conclusion.

Second Half: Liverpool Unleashed

As soon as the second half began, Liverpool left their stamp. The Reds took a 1-0 lead in the 49th minute when Nunez coolly tapped home after Jota executed a brilliant passing move.

Jota, a continual menace, was killed on the outside of the area, but Liverpool's impact persisted. The score remained at 1-0 as the ruling stood in the face of requests for a penalty.

Liverpool's superiority resulted in goals. Liverpool's lead was doubled to 2-0 in the 70th minute when Gakpo, making an impact off the bench, set up Jota for a superb finish.

Conor Bradley, a young right-back, showed off his skills by setting up Jota's second goal. Jota had a fortunate rebound and hammered it home to put Liverpool up 3-0.

Nunez completed his hat trick in the 90th minute + 3, taking advantage of Gomez's perfectly placed pass to give Liverpool a commanding 4-0 victory as the game was coming to a finish.

Liverpool's Statement Victory

Liverpool's convincing victory demonstrated their depth and attacking ability. Salah's absence was barely noticeable since Jota and Nunez took centre stage. With five points more than Manchester City, Klopp's team continues to lead the fight for the crown. Conversely, Bournemouth has a difficult schedule ahead of them, starting with an FA Cup matchup against Swansea City and then a league game versus West Ham.

A goalless first half for both the teams | Picture Credits: Premier League Website

Nunez's goals gave Liverpool a commanding lead in the second half | Picture Credits: Premier League Website

Jota's goals added more lead to Liverpool's score | Picture Credits: Premier League Website