Liverpool experienced a whirlwind of emotions in their 2-2 draw against Fulham at Anfield, coming from behind twice despite playing with 10 men for much of the match.
Andy Robertson’s red card in the 17th minute left the Reds in a tough spot, but second-half goals from Cody Gakpo and Diogo Jota salvaged a hard-fought point.
While Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table to five points, Chelsea could narrow the gap with a win against Brentford on Sunday.
The match, played during the Premier League’s 3pm TV blackout, was filled with drama and confusion. Robertson’s dismissal sparked debates in the press box, with former Liverpool player Jason McAteer initially convinced it would be overturned for offside.
Liverpool’s defensive reshuffle added to the chaos, with Joe Gomez taking up multiple positions and Ryan Gravenberch stepping into an unfamiliar centre-back role, requiring guidance from Virgil van Dijk.
Late-game confusion over the amount of stoppage time further heightened tensions as Liverpool pushed unsuccessfully for a winner.
Robinson’s Slip and the Kop’s Laughter
Fulham captain Antonee Robinson, who delivered two assists, had a comical moment during the second-half warm-up, slipping on the turf and drawing laughter from the Anfield crowd, particularly the Kop.
Darwin Núñez Backed by Fans
Darwin Núñez, criticized online for recent performances, responded brilliantly by setting up Jota’s equalizer after coming off the bench.
The Anfield crowd showed their support, loudly chanting his name as he prepared to enter the game, proving his popularity among match-going fans.
Slot’s Sideline Frustrations
Fulham manager Arne Slot was animated throughout the match, protesting various decisions and earning a yellow card for dissent.
He also expressed frustration over time-wasting by goalkeeper Bernd Leno and other incidents, including a collision between Kenny Tete and Joe Gomez.
Robertson’s Animated Support
Despite his red card, Andy Robertson watched the second half from behind the dugout, joining his teammates in passionately cheering Liverpool’s late surge. Players like Cody Gakpo and Federico Chiesa celebrated Jota’s equalizer with exuberance.
Salah’s Frustration
Mohamed Salah’s temper flared late in the match when Luis Díaz and Jota failed to pass to him in prime scoring positions. Salah made his displeasure clear, gesturing animatedly and looking to the sky in frustration after missed opportunities.
Iwobi Takes a Hit
Alex Iwobi, formerly of Everton, took a painful blow from Salah’s powerful volley late in the game. Though he initially tried to play on, Iwobi eventually collapsed, prompting mocking chants from the Kop. Still limping after the match, Iwobi admitted, “I’m in unreal pain! I can barely walk.”
Amid the chaotic moments, the match encapsulated the high stakes and drama that have defined Liverpool’s season so far.
