Liverpool and Arsenal have thrown up goal-laden fixtures in the past, and this was no different – although this time, the goals were entirely on one side, as Liverpool shredded the Arsenal defence in a 4-0 win.
It was yet another disappointing display for Arsenal in an away game against one of the rest of the top six, especially at Anfield, while for Liverpool it was another fearsome display against a rival.
Here are seven deadly stats from the game:
FIRMINO AND MANE TORTURE ARSENAL AGAIN
Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane came into this game looking to extend prolific records against Arsenal – for both, the Gunners are something of a favourite opponent. And the duo duly obliged.
MANE’S HOT START CONTINUES
Before Sunday, only two Liverpool players had scored in the first three matches of a Premier League season. But what with Mane’s hot start to the season and his love for scoring against Arsenal, it was always likely that the Senegalese would join Daniel Sturridge and Reds legend Robbie Fowler on that list.
LIVERPOOL’S LIGHTNING-QUICK COUNTER
Arsenal took to the second half looking for an early goal that would reduce their deficit and give them a fighting chance to take something from the game. They ramped up the attacking pressure and earned a corner. Twelve seconds later, the ball was in the back of the net. Their own net.
CAN STARS AS ATTACKERS RUN RIOT
Emre Can starred for Liverpool during their Champions League qualifier against Hoffenheim, and although he didn’t find the back of the net against Arsenal, he did just about everything else in a brilliant performance. The German pulled the strings and ensured Liverpool controlled the midfield, letting the front three run riot.
ARSENAL’S AWAY DAY BLUES VS TOP 6 CONTINUE…
Arsenal have notoriously struggled on their travels against the rest of the teams that finished in the top six last year, with their last win coming against Manchester City in 2015. Since then, it’s been only misery for Arsene Wenger’s side against the rest of the Premier League’s big guns.
…ESPECIALLY AGAINST LIVERPOOL
The Gunners especially don’t like travelling to Anfield. Liverpool are developing a tendency of sweeping Arsenal aside with the Anfield crowd in full voice, and Sunday was just a continuation of the trend.
RELEGATION FORM AT THE BACK?
Only one team has faced more shots on target in the Premier League in 2017 than Arsenal – and that team is no longer in the Premier League: Sunderland.
The Gunners have allowed 120 shots on target this year, which is simply not good enough form at the back to sustain a challenge for the top six, let alone the top four or the title. If they’re serious about returning to the Champions League next season, they should start by cutting out the shots.