Liverpool’s Set-Piece Revolution Fuels Victory Over West Ham
Liverpool’s transformation from set-piece struggles to a top-flight force underpinned a 5-2 win over West Ham, bolstering their Champions League qualification hopes. The victory moved Liverpool level on points with fourth-placed Manchester United.
Ekitike Shines in Anfield Thriller
Hugo Ekitike was instrumental in Liverpool’s success, scoring one goal and providing two assists. The Reds’ set-piece prowess was on full display, with Virgil van Dijk and Alexis Mac Allister too finding the net from corners, becoming only the second team in Premier League history after Manchester United in 2016 to achieve this feat.
Cody Gakpo scored his first league goal in eight matches, and the result was secured when Axel Disasi turned in Jeremie Frimpong’s cross, easing any lingering nerves after goals from Tomas Soucek and Taty Castellanos had briefly threatened a West Ham comeback.
From Weakness to Strength: Slot’s Impact
At the turn of the year, Arne Slot’s side had the worst record in terms of set-piece balance – the difference between the number scored and conceded – leading to the sacking of coach Aaron Briggs. Since Novel Year’s Day, however, they have scored nine and conceded only three from set-pieces, the best form of any top-flight team in that period.
“Slot had argued part of their struggles in the first half of the season had just been down to bad luck but that appears to have changed…”
The shift in fortunes is particularly notable considering Liverpool’s struggles with set-piece effectiveness earlier in the season. The team has found a new level of efficiency in exploiting opportunities from corners and free-kicks.
Match Details
Liverpool broke the deadlock just five minutes into the match. West Ham failed to clear a corner, and Ryan Gravenberch squared for Ekitike to fire through the legs of Konstantinos Mavropanos, beating Mads Hermansen.
Virgil van Dijk added a second in the 24th minute, heading in Dominik Szoboszlai’s inswinging corner. Alexis Mac Allister then extended the lead before halftime, volleying home after Ekitike’s assist.
West Ham responded with goals from Tomas Soucek and Taty Castellanos, but Gakpo’s goal and Disasi’s own goal sealed the victory for Liverpool.
Key Stats
- Hugo Ekitike scored his 16th goal of the season, with 11 coming in the league.
- Virgil van Dijk scored his third league goal of the season, equaling his tally from last year.
- West Ham have conceded a league-high 15 goals from corners this season.
Looking Ahead
Liverpool’s win puts them in a strong position in the race for Champions League qualification. Their improved set-piece prowess, combined with the form of players like Hugo Ekitike, will be crucial as they continue their push for a top-four finish.
FAQ
- Who scored the first goal for Liverpool?
- Hugo Ekitike scored the first goal for Liverpool in the 5th minute.
- How many goals did West Ham score?
- West Ham scored two goals, with Tomas Soucek and Taty Castellanos finding the net.
- What changed for Liverpool regarding set pieces?
- Liverpool sacked their set-piece coach and have since dramatically improved their performance, scoring nine and conceding only three from set-pieces since New Year’s Day.
Did you know? Liverpool have now scored three goals from corners in a single Premier League match for the first time since December 2019.
Pro Tip: Effective set-piece routines require precise delivery, intelligent movement, and strong aerial ability. Liverpool’s recent success demonstrates the impact of focused training and tactical adjustments.
What are your thoughts on Liverpool’s turnaround? Share your opinions in the comments below!