Liverpool secured a 3-1 win at Crystal Palace, but the result was overshadowed for John Aldridge by a controversial penalty that denied Alisson Becker a clean sheet. The former Liverpool striker described the decision as a disgrace and questioned the standard of officiating.
Win Takes Liverpool Back Into Top Four
Liverpool were sketchy at times defensively against Crystal Palace and had to rely on Alisson to secure the win. Aldridge acknowledged the pressure on both sides, noting that Palace's game-plan was to suck Liverpool in and hit them on the break.
Alexander Isak scored another goal, while Florian Wirtz and Bradley Barcola delivered in the final third. Aldridge highlighted the importance of confidence, comparing a goalscorer in form to facing an open goal. He also praised the manager's plan coming through, with effort, commitment, and running power matching other teams.
The win takes Liverpool back into the top four, which Aldridge said is the aim. He hopes players return fit from the break and can build on the result against Manchester United, describing it as a massive fixture regardless of their league position.
Alisson Back to His Best
Aldridge said Alisson was back to his best after being questioned in the week, praising his save against Arsenal despite an earlier mistake. He argued the goalkeeper should not be put under pressure and described him as unbelievable.
Aldridge reiterated his view that Alisson deserves a new contract, noting that goalkeepers can play into their forties. He said he was delighted to hear the player wants to stay and that talks have started, hoping for a positive outcome.
Penalty Decision Irritates Aldridge
Aldridge expressed irritation at the Crystal Palace goal, saying he could not see how it was a penalty. He described it as a collision between two players going for the ball and said he had never seen a penalty given for such an incident.
He dismissed the LiVARpool taunt from rival fans, claiming big decisions keep going against Liverpool. Aldridge called for the league to step in and involve ex-players to offer a player's point of view, insisting common sense has to prevail.
