Reds secure three points at Selhurst Park
Liverpool moved up to fourth place in the Premier League after securing a 3-1 victory against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. Alexis Mac Allister put the away side ahead four minutes before halftime when he headed in a smart free kick delivery from Dominik Szoboszlai.
Crystal Palace created several opportunities during the match. Yéremy Pino hit the crossbar for the hosts, and Jørgen Strand Larsen had a goal ruled out for offside. Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker was called into action, making important saves to deny Quinten Timber and Adam Wharton.
The visitors extended their lead nine minutes into the second half. Ronald Araujo passed to Bradley Barcola, who crossed for Florian Wirtz to slot home. Víctor Muñoz later set up Wirtz, who touched the ball to Alexander Isak. The striker beat Dean Henderson to score his eighth goal of the season in all competitions. Eddie Nketiah scored a late penalty for Palace after a foul by Milos Kerkez, but the outcome was already decided.
Attack starts to click for Iraola
The win brings relief to manager Andoni Iraola after a difficult week. Liverpool entered the game following a 1-0 defeat to Arsenal and a 3-2 loss against Fenerbahce in Turkey.
Iraola was pleased to see his team bounce back away from home. He noted after the match that the team needed the win after the loss in Turkey and praised his players for controlling the game better in the second half once they had space to attack.
Barcola set up Wirtz for the second goal, marking his third assist in four league games. The summer signing arrived from Paris Saint Germain for 123 million pounds. This match was only the second time that Barcola, Wirtz, and Isak all provided a goal or assist in the same game. Iraola starting attacking quartet cost more than 391 million pounds in transfer fees, and fans will be encouraged to see them linking up effectively.
Away form stays strong despite home worries
The defeat leaves Crystal Palace bottom of the Premier League table. Palace manager Pierre Sage faces mounting pressure after losing seven of his ten top flight matches in charge.
Liverpool head into the two week international break in fourth place. Their record away from home remains strong, with 13 points collected out of a possible 15. However, their form at Anfield has been a problem this season, where they have managed just five points and scored four goals.
Liverpool currently rank 18th in the Premier League for big chances created with 17, which is only two more than Hull City. Iraola stated that the team still has room to improve. Liverpool will host Manchester United after the international break, where they will aim to turn around their home form.
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