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Fans and neutrals were treated to a thoroughly entertaining seven-goal thriller at Merseyside on Sunday night as Manchester City were condemned to a 4-3 defeat against a lively, if shaky, Liverpool side.
Their first domestic defeat snaps a 30-match unbeaten streak in the Premier League and is only their second loss all season long. Liverpool were nothing short of exemplary going forward although they were unsatisfactory at the other end of the pitch.
Despite the lapse in defence, Liverpool fully deserved to clinch all three points. Here are some key stats from the match.
#1 Man City's unbeaten run meets its demise
This was a big loss for Man City and the scoreline would've been a lot less comforting were it not for Liverpool's lacklustre defending. However, that does take away from the fact that they have been astounding thus far and the strong reaction this loss has elicited amongst fans and neutrals alike is a testament to City's high standards this season.
Despite the loss, City still managed to pull 3 goals back, which highlights their pedigree and undeniable ability. Pep Guardiola's side will almost certainly emerge from this encounter stronger, wiser, and better prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.
#2 Andrew Roberston had a brilliant game at left-back
On a night where Liverpool's defence was subject to scrutiny and pressure again, Andrew Roberston turned out to be a bright spark. In him, Liverpool may have unearthed a gem.
The 23-year-old Scotsman put in a fantastic performance at left-back, frustrating Raheem Sterling and commanding his side of the pitch.
#3 Oxlade-Chamberlain played with aplomb
The departure of Philippe Coutinho last week has left many to wonder if Liverpool's top four push might be dented and if their hand may be forced to dip into the transfer market. Many names have been making the rounds but if this performance was anything to go by, Liverpool have portrayed that they need not look for a player purchase.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain put in a remarkable shift in the red shirt against City, scoring a goal and assisting another. Regular game time has been hard to come by for him so far and this could hypothetically open the door to a place in the starting line-up for him.
#4 Mohammed Salah's scintillating form
Liverpool need to do everything in their power to tie down their current top scorer this season at Anfield for years to come. Once again this season, Salah found the back of the net and in spectacular fashion no less.
As Ederson attempted to clear the ball, it fortuitously found itself at Salah's deft feet who brilliantly took a quick shot at a gaping, defenceless goal to bang home his 24th goal of the season, his 18th in Premier League.
Salah has been nothing short of a revelation this season and with Real Madrid circling in an attempt to pry him away, Liverpool would do well to fend off any offer for the Egyptian, as he is well worth the effort.
#5 Anfield continues to be Manchester City's Achilles heel in the Premier League
Going into the game, few would've counted their poor record at Anfield against Man City but the fact that it remains intact is a testament to Liverpool's performance and spirit. It wasn't an easy victory by any means but it was well deserved.
