Southampton showed a strong defensive performance against a Liverpool side aiming to guarantee a Champions League spot.
Liverpool’s first sight at goal came as Oriol Romeu was dispossessed by Brazilian attacker Roberto Firmino, whose shot was well blocked by Maya Yoshida.
Liverpool’s side throughout the first half lacked width, which meant they had to try their luck from further out. Shots from Firmino and Emre Can, both from outside the area, were comfortably saved by Fraser Forster.
Some may remember back in September, at the Emirates Stadium in the 90th minute, referee Bobby Madley awarded Arsenal a rather doubtful penalty. Once again, Madley took his time with the decision to award Liverpool a penalty after an hour of play, having judged Jack Stephens to have handled the ball within the box.
Fraser Forster taunted compatriot James Milner with the mind-games. Milner had previously converted all five of his penalties this season whereas Forster had let in the previous eight penalties he had faced in a Saints shirt. Milner’s low shot towards the bottom corner of the net was well saved by Forster.
With the introduction of Adam Lallana and Daniel Sturridge, Jurgen Klopp had injected more pace and creativity in a rather lethargic Liverpool side. They both combined to work their way into the box, but Sturridge’s finish was tame and straight into Forster’s hands. Sturridge soon had another half chance, but yet again Southampton held their shape, and the England international’s shot from outside the box went just wide of Forster’s near post in front of the Kop end.
Forster was forced into a save towards the end of the game, as Milner’s cross found Marko Grujic’s head, but his header, for all the power it had, was aimed straight at Forster.
Liverpool have had four attempts to claim a win against Southampton but in over 400 minutes, the Reds have not even scored.
Southampton currently sit tenth in the Premier League with a game in hand and they’ll be looking to clinch a result against Arsenal to continue their push for a top eight finish.
