Liverpool delivered a commanding performance at Anfield, defeating West Ham 5-2 in a Premier League clash that highlighted their remarkable transformation into set-piece specialists. The victory keeps Liverpool firmly in the race for Champions League qualification, moving them level on points with fourth-placed Manchester United.
First-Half Corner Blitz
Three goals from first-half corners set the tone for Liverpool's dominance. Hugo Ekitike, Virgil van Dijk, and Alexis Mac Allister all found the net from set-pieces, making Liverpool only the second team in Premier League history, after Manchester United in 2016, to achieve this feat in a single match. Ekitike opened the scoring in the fifth minute, capitalising on poor West Ham defending to fire through Konstantinos Mavropanos' legs with a deflected shot.
Statistical Turnaround
This performance underscores a dramatic shift for Liverpool under manager Arne Slot. At the turn of the year, the team had the worst set-piece balance in the league, leading to the sacking of coach Aaron Briggs. Since New Year's Day, however, Liverpool have scored nine set-piece goals while conceding just three, the best record of any top-flight side during this period.
Slot had previously attributed their early-season struggles to bad luck, but the data now supports a tangible improvement. Despite an expected goals (xG) of just 0.7 in the first half against West Ham, Liverpool's clinical finishing from corners proved decisive.
Key Moments and Contributions
Van Dijk's headed goal from Dominik Szoboszlai's inswinging corner marked his third goal in eight games, equalling his tally from last season. The Netherlands captain now has 28 non-penalty Premier League goals, second only to John Terry among central defenders.
Cody Gakpo ended his eight-match league goal drought with a well-taken effort, cutting inside and shooting into the far post. Although West Ham threatened a comeback with goals from Tomas Soucek and Taty Castellanos, Liverpool sealed the win when Axel Disasi turned Jeremie Frimpong's cross into his own net.
West Ham's Anfield Woes
West Ham's struggles at Anfield continued, with this defeat marking just one win in 59 visits. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo was left despondent on the sidelines, particularly after Mac Allister's volley from a corner effectively ended the contest before halftime.
The Hammers had shown signs of revival recently, taking 11 points from their previous six matches, but Liverpool's set-piece prowess blew a hole in their momentum. Defensive errors, including Mavropanos firing over from close range and comical miscommunications, compounded their difficulties.
Implications for the Season
Liverpool's victory not only narrows the goal difference gap with Manchester United to just one goal but also reinforces their status as a team transformed. From set-piece failures to league leaders in this department, their strategic adjustments under Slot are paying dividends as the Champions League race intensifies.
