April 23, 2017. That was the last loss that Liverpool suffered in Anfield after they lost 1-2 to Crystal Palace. Three years later and after 68 games, Liverpool has tasted defeat as their Premier League 2021 campaign goes from bad to worse. Having not won in five consecutive games, Liverpool's misery reached the zenith when they lost 0-1 to Burnley to suffer their first home loss in three years and also bring to an end their near-legendary 68-run unbeaten streak at home. With this loss, Liverpool are six points behind Manchester United, who are scripting their own fairytale resurgence.
After the end of the match, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp took the blame upon himself for the loss. It was Burnley's first win at Liverpool since 1974 and Jurgen Klopp has expressed concern that the team had not scored in four successive games. "It obviously didn't work out tonight and that's what we have to admit," Klopp said. "It's obviously my fault."
Frustrations boiled over at the halftime whistle as Barnes reacted angrily to Fabinho appearing to flick out at him, provoking a small melee, but referee Mike Dean only showed the Brazilian a yellow card. Meanwhile, Klopp and Burnley manager Sean Dyche had their own heated exchange as they headed down the tunnel. "I didn't start it, but it's nothing," Klopp said.
Chasing a bit of history
The situation regarding Manchester United and Liverpool is contrasting. The Reds are chasing a record-equalling 20th Premier League title while the Red Devils' resurgence could see them register their 21st Premier League title and make things difficult for Liverpool. At the half-way stage of the English Premier League, Manchester United is peaking at the right time and they are closely followed by Manchester City. Liverpool, on the other hand, seems to be stuck in a downward spiral.
Manchester United will take on Sheffield United in a crucial game while Liverpool face a tough assignment against a resurgent Tottenham Hotspur.
