Manchester United beat Liverpool at Anfield for the first time since 2016 as Harry Maguire’s header secured a 2-1 win.
Harry Maguire was the match-winner as Manchester United beat Liverpool 2-1 at Anfield(Image: Manchester United via Getty Images)
Manchester United supporters have had too many disappointing journeys home on the M62 in the last decade but not on Sunday night.
The Reds were good value for their 2-1 victory over Liverpool at Anfield. Bryan Mbeumo set the tone early as he fired home thanks to an excellent Amad through ball. Cody Gakpo hit the post twice in the first half and again in the second before his luck eventually turned. He scored from close range to level proceedings and the momentum looked to have turned.
But up stepped Harry Maguire. He rose highest at the back stick to divert Bruno Fernandes’ cross in and spark jubilant scenes in the away end.
MEN Sport has taken a look at some moments you may have missed from the game:
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Maguire reaction speaks volumes
The long-lasting image in the minds of United fans after that victory will be of Maguire with his arms aloft being adored by the travelling contingent. However, a more important image was the centre-back repeatedly thumping the badge after the game.
For too long United have been accused of having some players in their ranks who don’t show the commitment expected of the fans. Maguire isn’t one of those players and the Reds should ensure that a new contract is prepared for him.
Slot confusion
With the benefit of hindsight, Ruben Amorim mastered Arne Slot before a ball was even kicked. There were a couple of positions up for grabs heading into the game but few thought that Benjamin Sesko would be dropped.
The decision even caught Slot by surprise as shown in his pre-match interview. He was left guessing when asked how United would line up in the forward area and that confusion paid dividends inside two minutes as the Reds scored on their first attack.
Arne Slot was left frustrated as Liverpool lost 2-1 to Manchester United(Image: PA)
Schmeichel transfers his powers
As United’s players exited the team bus at Anfield, Senne Lammens was greeted by Peter Schmeichel who gave the Belgian a big hug.
Lammens oozed confidence between the sticks and he was not worn down by the intimidating atmosphere at Anfield. Amorim said the goalkeeper was not Schmeichel yet but the away end reinvigorated that chant again in the first half when he stood up to Alexander Isak and made a huge save.
Two legends
It was a blood-and-thunder atmosphere at Anfield and there was no love lost on the pitch. But in the stands, two club legends managed to move rivalries to one side to enjoy some Chocolate Buttons.
Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Kenny Dalglish shared a snack at half-time. Whether Ferguson would have shared his chocolate if United were losing at the break, we will never know.
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