April 27, (THEWILL)- Liverpool’s hopes of clinching the 2023/2024 English Premier League title suffered a significant blow as they were held to a 2-2 draw by West Ham United, at the London Stadium on Saturday. The result means the Reds have now dropped crucial points in their pursuit of league leaders Arsenal, while also providing a setback to the Hammers’ quest for European qualification.
The match began with a cagey opening period, as both teams struggled to assert their authority. Liverpool dominated possession, but apart from Luis Diaz’s effort that struck the post, they rarely troubled Alphonse Areola in the West Ham goal. However, the home side took the lead just before halftime when Jarrod Bowen powerfully headed home from Mohamed Kudus’ cross, equalling the record for the most goals scored by a West Ham player in a single EPL season.
Liverpool’s manager Jürgen Klopp evidently spurred his team into action during the halftime break, as they equalised within five minutes of the restart through an unlikely source – Andrew Robertson. The visitors sustained their pressure and took the lead midway through the second half courtesy of a fortunate deflected effort from Cody Gakpo.
Despite opportunities to extend their lead, which Areola denied through a series of crucial saves, Liverpool were unable to find breathing space. West Ham restored parity when Michail Antonio headed home from Bowen’s cross, leaving the scores level at 2-2.
Neither side could find a winner in the closing stages, meaning they had to settle for a point apiece. The draw leaves Liverpool two points adrift of Arsenal at the Premier League summit, having played a game more, and with just three matches remaining to close the gap – a task made even more daunting by the presence of Manchester City. For West Ham, the stalemate represents a setback in their pursuit of European football, as they remain eighth, with the race for the top seven heating up.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
