Liverpool 5-2 West Ham: Ekitike Stars & Reds Showcase Set-Play Brilliance
Liverpool put on a dazzling attacking display to beat West Ham United, 5–2, in the Premier League at Anfield on Saturday, climbing into fifth place in the table and giving its hopes ahead of the top four race a big lift.
The match was a display of Liverpool’s vastly improved set-piece delivery, with three of the Reds’ first-half goals coming from corners — something that has eluded them so far this season. Morton, Ekitike, Virgil van Dijk and Alexis Mac Allister all scored from dead-ball situations as West Ham showed they struggle to deal with aerial deliveries.
First-Half Blitz from Set Plays
Liverpool was on the front foot early, taking the lead in less than five minutes as Hugo Ekitike forced home from a corner, riding a wave of momentum to dominate for much of the first half. The French forward’s performance felt influential too, as he created a number of chances and added to his already impressive scoring record this season.
Virgil van Dijk soon headed in another corner to make it 2–0 and Alexis Mac Allister volleyed in a third from a set-piece delivery before half-time.
West Ham Stage Fightback — Reds Hit Back
West Ham started the second half brightly and Tomáš Souček got his team back into it early on after he took advantage of a defensive error. Later, Valentín Castellanos scored from a corner to pull it back to 4–2, giving the visitors hope of a comeback.
But Liverpool composed themselves with a steady display. Cody Gakpo re-established a three-goal cushion with a well-taken strike, and an own goal by Axel Disasi after pressure inside the box sealed the 5–2 outcome.
What This Means for Each Team
The win underscored Liverpool’s rediscovered potency, especially in the box and from set pieces — a tactical refinement that coach Arne Slot has emphasized this season. West Ham, meanwhile, are locked in the battle against relegation and face struggles to get two performances together on the road.
Liverpool’s supporters will take solace from some of the verve and thrust they showcased at Anfield, not least from their set-pieces, as the Premier League reaches critical points.
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