Liverpool beat Middlesbrough 3-0 at the Riverside Stadium to keep pace with Premier League leaders Chelsea.
Liverpool took the lead through Adam Lallana. The England international flew in at the back post to nod in Nathaniel Clyne’s cross and set the Reds on their way to their first victory in three Premier League games. Lallana’s game has elevated to a how new level this campaign and Liverpool are reaping the rewards. You can see Lallana’s goal here.
Divock Origi then rounded off a free-flowing team-move to bag his fifth goal in as many appearances. His good form could spell the end of Daniel Sturridge’s Liverpool career. Click here to see Origi’s goal.
Lallana bagged his brace to seal all three-points. He arrived late and powered the ball past the helpless Victor Valdes. The 28-year-old has been involved in 11 goals in 14 Premier League appearances so far this campaign; one more than he contributed to in the entirety of last term. Watch Lallana’s second goal here.
Middlesbrough player ratings: Valdes 6, Barragan 5, Chambers 6, Gibson 6, Fabio 4, Forshaw 7, Clayton 6, de Roon 6, Traore 3, Negredo 3, Fischer 4.
Liverpool player ratings: Mignolet 7, Clyne 7, Lovren 6, Klavan 5, Milner 6, Lallana 9, Henderson 7, Wijnaldum 6, Mane 7, Origi 8, Firmino 6.
Man of the match – Adam Lallana: In Philippe Coutinho’s absence, Lallana has stepped to the fore. He was absolutely everywhere tonight, and his two goals epitomised his excellent performance.