How did Liverpool beat Manchester United at Old Trafford?

What stood out about Liverpool and how did they win? There were many contributing factors but here are the really noteworthy ones.

Manchester United’s tiredness

To get this out the way early and reconfirm, United had a demanding task over the past six days. Football every second day for them was a strong reason they lost two of the three games played, beating only Aston Villa.

Scoring from set-pieces and open play

This one stands out above all. When last have you seen the Reds score from every half opportunity they produce? A goal came from a corner, a distant free-kick, a reward from ruthless pressing, and against the run of play.

A goal from every possible situation. That is what it takes to beat Man United and that it was it takes to stay in the running for a top-four spot.

Jurgen Klopp’s team selection and decision making

Everybody thought Klopp would switch Fabinho alongside Nat Phillips with Ozan Kabak sidelined – but the manager stuck Rhys Williams next to Nat and left Fabinho to boss the middle of the park and protect the backline.

Williams and Phillips must get credit for keeping a side filled with Rashford, Edinson Cavani, and Bruno limited to two goals – the two outplayed Cavani for most of the meeting. Not bad for a 20-year-old and a 24-year-old.

They went up against one of the most in-form strikers at this late stage. Added to Klopp’s brilliance, the right late decisions made by the manager worked to the T.

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Jota got the goal and Mane was effective when he was introduced in the second half. His substitution partner, Curtis Jones, got the assist for Salah.

The perfect adjustments at the right time for Klopp made the world of difference. Everything worked and it worked well for the Reds.