Roberto Firmino became the first Brazilian to score 50 goals in the English topflight as Liverpool set a new club record of 13 straight league victories with a 3-0 win over Burnley at Turf Moor on Saturday evening. The win ensured the Reds returned to the top of the table after Man City had briefly taken over the summit with victory over Brighton.
The match started at a frenetic pace with Burnley almost taking an early lead through Chris Wood but Liverpool goalkeeper, Adrian, was able to get a hand to it.
That appeared to kick Liverpool into gear as they had their first attempt on goal through Mo Salah, whose curling effort was able to beat Nick Pope but could not beat the post.
Following those early chances, the game was played at a much slower pace but it was Klopp’s men who were dominating possession as expected.
However, they struggled to create any real chance as Burnley defended resiliently. But the clarets resilience will finally be broken although in an unlucky circumstance.
Receiving a ball from Jordan Henderson, Trent Alexander Arnold put in a cross into Burnley’s box but it hits Chris Wood and inadvertently loops over Nick Pope in Burnley goal.
The goal put Liverpool on the ascendancy and they doubled their lead moments later following an error from Burnley captain, Ben Mee.
The former Manchester City defender’s undercooked pass was pounced on by Roberto Firmino who set up Sadio Mane to finish past Pope and give Liverpool a comfortable lead into the break.
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30 – Since the start of last season, no Liverpool player has scored more goals in all competitions than Sadio Mane (30 – level with Mo Salah). Relentless. pic.twitter.com/chni7Fr20E
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) August 31, 2019
The second half started with Liverpool controlling play as Burnley resigned to fate. But it was not until the 61st minute that the Reds had a real sight at goal.
After beating a couple of Burnley defenders, Salah had the chance to set up Firmino, but the Egyptian choose to selfishly shoot with his weaker foot and it was easily dealt with by Pope.
However, the Brazilian will not be denied his goal with Salah making amends for his selfishness. The Egyptian managed to find space in a crowded area to tee up Firmino who fired a low shot past Pope, becoming the first Brazilian to score fifty Premier League goals in the process.
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Burnley tried to get a consolation when Jay Rodriguez was one on one with Adrian, but the Spaniard denied him to ensure Liverpool leave Turf Moor with three points and a clean sheet.