Liverpool bolstered their push for the Premier League title with a narrow 2-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers, marking their 16th win in the last 17 encounters between the two sides in the top flight.
With a comfortable lead heading into the match, Liverpool had a bit of leeway for a potential slip, but securing all three points was their clear objective against Wolves.
They began the match with a positive intent, generating a solid opportunity within the first 10 minutes; however, former Wolves player Diogo Jota volleyed just wide after a well-worked combination involving Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson.
The Reds soon found themselves in the lead, albeit through a stroke of luck, as a mistimed clearance from Toti Gomes fell to Luis Diaz, who bundled the ball over the line with his midriff.
Diaz continued to be a persistent threat for Wolves at Anfield, setting up Jota in the box, but he was denied by a stunning last-ditch block from Emmanuel Agbadou.
Throughout the first half, Liverpool’s relentless attacking play suggested it was only a matter of time before they doubled their advantage.
They did just that just before halftime, with Mohamed Salah confidently converting a penalty after Jose Sa brought down the influential Diaz in the area.
Matheus Cunha did come close to scoring for the visitors, with a free-kick that seemed promising at one stage, but his shot went inches wide.
Wolves had a golden opportunity to close the gap when Marshall Munetsi broke clear on goal, but he was thwarted by Alisson’s excellent save.
Just when it seemed Wolves might be in for a tough afternoon, Alexander-Arnold set up Salah, who tucked the ball away, only for the offside flag to save Wolves from further embarrassment. The officials were certainly kept busy, finding themselves at the centre of another controversial moment just before the hour mark.
Simon Hooper awarded a penalty when Agbadou’s wild swing brought Jota down in the area. However, after consulting with the pitchside monitor, he reversed his initial decision.
Wolves capitalised on this stroke of fortune as they pulled a goal back through a stunning strike from Cunha, who curled it beautifully in front of the Kop.
Despite an unusually lacklustre performance in the second half, Arne Slot’s side managed to hold on to their slim lead, which was crucial in maintaining their seven-point gap at the top of the table.
For Wolves, a loss was anticipated, leaving them precariously above the relegation zone.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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