LIVERPOOL: Florian Wirtz marked a personal milestone with his first goal for Liverpool as the Reds edged Wolves 2-1 to climb into the Premier League’s top four on an emotionally charged night at Anfield.
The match was preceded by poignant tributes to former Liverpool and Wolves forward Diogo Jota, who was killed in a car accident alongside his brother Andre Silva in July. Jota’s two children led the teams out as mascots, with his wife Rute Cardoso watching from the touchline, while both sets of supporters joined in chants during the 18th and 20th minutes — the shirt numbers he wore at Wolves and Liverpool.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot praised the conduct of players and supporters alike. “From the tragedy until now, there have been so many special moments,” he said. “Not only our fans, but away fans too, have shown the respect Diogo and his brother deserved.”
On the pitch, Liverpool made a strong start against a Wolves side mired near the bottom after taking just two points from their opening 18 league matches. Ryan Gravenberch opened the scoring before half-time, lashing home from Jeremie Frimpong’s cross to give the hosts control.
Moments later, Wirtz doubled the lead, prodding in Hugo Ekitike’s pass to finally open his Liverpool account in his 23rd appearance. The 22-year-old German, signed from Bayer Leverkusen for £100 million, is increasingly shouldering responsibility following Alexander Isak’s long-term injury.
“He’s been very important for us all season,” Slot said.
“Today he showed much more than just the goal — he was special in many parts of the game.”
However, Liverpool’s fragility resurfaced after the break when Santiago Bueno headed Wolves back into contention from a set-piece. With memories of recent late collapses still fresh, Slot’s men were forced to dig deep, relying on a perfectly timed Conor Bradley tackle to deny Jhon Arias a late equaliser.
While far from convincing, the victory maintained Liverpool’s upward momentum — and ensured Wirtz’s first goal arrived on a night Anfield will long remember. – AFP
