Steven Gerrard’s Anfield homecoming ended in disappointment and a 1-0 defeat at the boot of Mohamed Salah as Aston Villa’s resilient display could not eke out a point against Liverpool.
The former Reds captain was back at his boyhood club in a professional capacity for the first time since leaving in 2015 and while the locals were pleased to see him again, they were happier he left empty-handed.
Liverpool had their chances but it was not until Tyrone Mings pulled down Salah in the 67th minute that their resistance was broken by the Egyptian’s 15th consecutive successful penalty – his 21st of the season.
That ensured they kept pace a point behind leaders Manchester City and a point ahead of Chelsea in the three-way title race.
It was always going to be an uphill task for Gerrard despite three wins in four matches and a narrow defeat to Manchester City since taking over as he just does not have the quality of his opponents at his disposal.
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