The match unfolded with the Hammers seizing the lead courtesy of Jarrod Bowen just before halftime. Despite a strong comeback by the Reds in the second half, marked by an equalizer from Andrew Robertson and an own goal by Alphonse Areola, Michail Antonio’s late strike dealt a decisive blow to Liverpool’s title ambitions.
The game commenced with Liverpool pressing forward, controlling possession and dictating the tempo, while West Ham seemed content to play on the counter. Although the Reds dominated play, they struggled to convert chances into goals. A penalty shout and several missed opportunities underscored their frustration.
Bowen’s header just before halftime compounded Liverpool’s woes, necessitating a significant turnaround in the second half. The Reds responded emphatically, with Robertson netting early. Despite continued pressure and near misses, including a chaotic goalmouth scramble, Liverpool couldn’t secure the win.
West Ham’s disciplined defense frustrated Liverpool’s relentless attacks, and Antonio capitalized on a well-placed cross from Bowen to level the score. A frantic final push from Liverpool in stoppage time failed to produce a winner, leaving them with just one victory in their last five league outings.
The draw leaves Liverpool in third place with 75 points, trailing Arsenal by two and Manchester City by one, albeit with more games played. West Ham, in eighth place with 49 points, gained a valuable point in their pursuit of European qualification.
