Manchester City midfielder Elliot Anderson admitted the atmosphere at Anfield was "more than normal" after his side beat Liverpool 3-0 in the Premier League. The match was City's first since an independent panel found them guilty of almost all of the Premier League charges levelled at them in February 2023.
Hostile reception at Anfield
Given the verdict and the rivalry between the two clubs, a hostile environment was expected at Anfield. Concerns about the team bus potentially being attacked were raised before the match, but after using an alternative entrance, the City team arrived at the ground without incident.
Once the game kicked off, the City players were greeted with boos, jeers and chants of 'cheats' and 'going down' from an angry home support. Asked about the atmosphere after the game, Anderson told Sky Sports: "It was more than normal, arriving into Anfield and the first 10 minutes of the game.
"We did well to quieten the crowd. [We] struggled first half but second we were better and then the goals came. I think I just enjoy it, I enjoy the crowd and I enjoy the noise, I thrive under it and that is when I really come alive and it gives me confidence."
City fight back for victory
Anderson and his teammates rose to the occasion. After an even first half, the game swung in City's favour midway through the second period when Ryan Gravenberch was sent off for a second bookable offence. Moments later, the Blues had a two-goal advantage as Erling Haaland and Jeremy Doku fired home.
Rayan Cherki wrapped up the game with a brilliant team goal to make it six wins from six for the Blues in the league. On the team's performance, Anderson added: "[We showed] togetherness, fight, [it is] a tough place to come and we stuck together and fought for each other. We've showed courage."
