BRIGHTON: Brighton delivered a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Premier League champions Liverpool on Monday, extending the Reds’ winless run since clinching the title. Jack Hinshelwood emerged as the late hero, scoring the decisive goal with his first touch after coming off the bench at the Amex Stadium.
Harvey Elliott opened the scoring for Liverpool in the 9th minute, capitalising on a dynamic run and assist from right-back Conor Bradley. The goal marked a historic milestone, making Liverpool the first team to score in every away league game in a Premier League season. However, Brighton responded through Yasin Ayari, who netted a composed finish in the 32nd minute after a clever pass from Brajan Gruda.
Dominik Szoboszlai restored Liverpool’s lead just before halftime with a swerving strike from the right wing that caught goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen off guard. The Hungarian’s bemused celebration suggested the effort may have been an accidental shot rather than a cross.
Despite leading twice, Liverpool’s defense faltered again in the second half. Kaoru Mitoma equalised in the 69th minute after Danny Welbeck’s effort was parried by Alisson, and Hinshelwood sealed the win in the 85th minute from Matt O’Riley’s cross.
Since securing their 20th league title on April 27, Arne Slot’s side has managed just one point from three games, with defeats to Brighton and Chelsea and a draw with Arsenal. The team’s motivation appears to have waned, following a celebratory trip to Dubai and reports of Slot partying in Ibiza.
Liverpool will lift the Premier League trophy on Sunday at Anfield against FA Cup winners Crystal Palace, followed by a victory parade through the city on Monday. – AFP
