Salah’s Brace Secures Liverpool’s Win and Extends Premier League Lead
AFP | London
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com
Mohamed Salah delivered a decisive performance, scoring twice as Liverpool secured a 2-0 victory over Bournemouth yesterday, extending their lead at the top of the Premier League to nine points.
Despite the win, controversy surrounded Liverpool’s opening goal. Cody Gakpo won a penalty in the first half, but replays suggested he tripped over his own feet rather than being fouled by Lewis Cook. Referee Darren England’s decision to award the penalty was upheld after a VAR review, leaving Bournemouth furious.
“The referee’s decision was reviewed and confirmed by VAR, with the challenge deemed to be a trip by Cook on Gakpo. VAR also verified that Gakpo was onside in the build-up,” the Premier League stated.
Salah converted the spot-kick and later sealed the win in the second half, further cementing Liverpool’s dominance over second-placed Arsenal in the title race.
The Egyptian forward now boasts 21 goals in 23 league matches this season, marking the fifth time he has surpassed the 20-goal mark in an English top-flight campaign. His 178th career Premier League goal pushed him past Frank Lampard into sixth place on the league’s all-time scoring chart.
Liverpool remains unbeaten in 19 league matches, with 17 wins in 23 games, showcasing a remarkable run under Arne Slot, who took charge after Jurgen Klopp’s departure.
Now eyeing an English record-equalling 20th league title—and their first since 2020—Liverpool will watch keenly as Manchester City faces Arsenal on Sunday, hoping their rivals drop points.
Next, Liverpool turns its attention to the League Cup semi-final, where they aim to overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit against Tottenham at Anfield on Thursday.
One concern for Slot, however, was Trent Alexander-Arnold’s second-half injury, which forced the England right-back off the pitch.
Bournemouth, despite impressive home wins over Manchester City and Arsenal this season, couldn’t break through Liverpool’s solid defense. Meanwhile, third-placed Nottingham Forest suffered a 5-0 thrashing on the south coast last week, adding to the intensity of the Premier League race.
Related Posts