The best attack in the Premier League continues to score relentlessly, beating Southampton 3-0 with another vintage performance from Luis Suarez, finishing the match with a goal and two assists as they remain very much in the title race, climbing to second at the expense of Arsenal and Manchester City.
Liverpool scored first in the 16th minute, with Suarez reacting quickly to a huge mistake by Southampton defense to give his team the lead. Southampton were actually the better side in the first half, making the most of Liverpool’s shakiness when it comes to crosses and set pieces, but Simon Mignolet had one of his finest performances since opening day between the goalposts, leaving Liverpool ahead at halftime.
The Reds looked better in the second half, especially the moment Raheem Sterling came on the pitch for Philippe Coutinho, having a day he’d love to forget. Southampton ventured forward, and the Liverpool front three felt a lot more comfortable with the extra space, while Jordan Henderson finally returned to his better position in the middle.
A great pass from Steven Gerrard and a beautiful turn from Luis Suarez on his marker left Liverpool in a two on one attack, resulting in a 58th minute goal from Raheem Sterling, barely two minutes after he came on for the Brazilian.
From then on out, Southampton didn’t really put a dangerous chance in the Liverpool box. Steven Gerrard made the right decision every time he had to in clearing the few dangerous opportunities the home side created, and eventually it was another tricky Suarez move in the box that won Liverpool the third goal, getting a penalty kick which Gerrard converted as always.
With the win Liverpool climb to second place until Manchester City complete their missing matches. Maybe more than anything, despite Daniel Sturridge not matching the Ruud van Nistelrooy scoring record, Brendan Rodgers has to be pleased about the team not conceding a goal for the first time since the win over Everton on January 28.