3pt Conversion

[Bournemouth 0 – 1 Liverpool].

This game screamed 1-0 from the get-go, and it ultimately didn’t disappoint. Andoni Iraola’s visit, to the grounds where last year he led the Cherries to a historic continental football appearance, had a special meaning for him, but for us fans, this game was a first-class yawn inducer. Still, it does feel like there are difference makers this season, doesn’t it? Because last season, after that first half, I would have bet on a much higher chance of the Cherries converting, with the Reds perhaps gasping their way to a hard-fought draw.

Instead, today, we took home the three points.

One difference maker is, as quiet as he otherwise was, Alexander Isak. It’s been a while since Liverpool had an honest-to-goodness, real number 9, the kind that can do nothing all game and still score that one vital opportunity when the ball finds its way to them. Isak did not have a good game, but when called upon, he made it count. Having watched the replay several times, I am still under the impression that it was a somewhat awkward but still intentional back-heel from Wirtz, which just goes to show that some players can look utterly deflated and then produce a valuable touch that breaks a deadlock. Today that zombie was the German.

You really wonder what is going on with him. His first half performance was arguably the nadir of his Liverpool career so far. But he did show up to the second, and it ended up mattering, and you gnash your teeth in frustration even as you admire the outcome.

None of this is to take away from man-of-the-match (again!) Cody Gakpo, who made that goal with an explosive run on the right wing that would have done justice to Mo Salah in his prime. Gakpo is not only playing incredibly well this season, he is showing a kind of versatility that wasn’t really on display before – did you know he could be this good on the right? – and it seems like his best days are yet ahead of him.

Another key differentiator that must also be named is, of course, the backline, and in particular, the rapidly building collaboration between Van Dijk, Jacquet, and Araujo. The latter doesn’t even speak English yet, which inevitably slows his overall integration process, but his experience keeps showing and his defensive maturity is incredibly refreshing. What a find in him, and if he keeps this up, there is zero doubt in my mind that Liverpool will take up the option of buying him at loan termination. And speaking of Jacquet, what a player he is. I do wonder if he is capable of the offensive contributions of Van Dijk, but defensively, there is no doubt we found ourselves a true gem.

Before I wrap up, one thing to note to Iraola’s credit: we will be seeing a lot more of Nyoni and Koumas. The Spaniard is actually making use of these incredible talents, as well as Rio, and that can only be a good thing for Liverpool. There is so much promise in this squad, and while I still do not really expect us to be fighting for major honors this season, it does feel like the next few years could be rather enjoyable.

I’ll drink to that.