SOUTHAMPTON (4-2-3-1): Forster; Clyne, Fonte, Yoshida, Targett; Wanyama, S Davis (Schneiderlin 46); Djuricic (Tadic 75), Ward-Prowse (Mane 56), Elia; Pelle. Subs: K Davis, Gardos, Long, Reed.
LIVERPOOL (3-4-2-1): Mignolet; Lovren, Skrtel, Can; Ibe (Johnson 75), Henderson, Allen, Markovic (Moreno 46); Lallana (Sturridge 62), Coutinho; Sterling. Subs: Ward, Toure, Lambert, Balotelli.
Liverpool win a controversial game at St Mary’s to close in on Manchester United as Phillipe Coutinho and Raheem Sterling propel the Meseysiders to a crucial win. This win opens up the race for the top four as the top six clubs are within the mix for Champions League places except Chelsea and City, who are virtually guaranteed of a top two finish.
The game began with a stunning strike from Philippe Coutinho who struck a thunderous strike from 25 yards out within three minutes. The Brazilian gave the visitors a strong headstart in challenging conditions in Southampton. The hosts could’ve clawed their way back into the game had it not been Kevin Friend’s dubious decisions as he denied them two clear penalties. Despite the absence of star striker Daniel Sturridge, the visitors looked comfortable especially later in the first half.
The second half was a Saints’ side which looked dejected and out of sorts. Raheem Sterling did the rest as he sealed the tie in 73rd minute. The Saints were never a threat and Brendan Rodgers capitalized on this with some aplomb.
The race of the top four is hotting up as Liverpool are bring the good run of form to displace Manchester United from fourth spot, currently their form gives them an edge over their arch rivals.
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