Heading into yesterday’s game against Spurs, 2017 had been a period of relentless setbacks and mounting pressure for Klopp’s men.
Liverpool only managed one win in January, against Plymouth Argyle in the 3rd round of the FA. Before being dumped out in the 4th round by Wolves. Then their title challenge stuttered as they drew three and lost one.
Meanwhile, Chelsea kept up their momentum and opened a double digit lead at the top of the table, effectively ending Liverpool’s title hopes for another year.
Last week relegation-threatened Hull dispatched them 2-0 at the KCOM and Dry January seemed to be turning into a disastrous February. Then Manchester United’s victory over Watford yesterday compounded the crisis as it saw Liverpool slip out of the top four.
So, it’s understandable if Klopp’s players were feeling the pressure as they stepped onto the Anfield turf to face Spurs.
However, this time there was one crucial addition to their ranks, Sadio Mané, who showed exactly what Liverpool has been lacking in recent weeks. On 16 minutes, he capitalised on a glorious through-ball from Wijnaldum to cooly slot beyond Hugo Lloris.
The immediate focus was naturally on Mané’s celebration. But one fan has since spotted the brilliant reaction of the Dutchman to the goal.
https://twitter.com/Mr_CallumWright/status/830839728530452482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
It looks like the moment a lot of pressure was suddenly released.
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