Image source: Liverpool fc
Arne Slot’s Reds finally found the response they badly needed with a composed 2-0 win at West Ham United on Sunday. After three straight defeats across all competitions, tension was building around results, rhythm and confidence. Arne Slot walked into his post match press conference with clear relief on his face, but also with a strong message.
This win was earned. It was controlled. And it mattered for more than the scoreline. Two sharp second half goals from Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo gave Liverpool the lift they had been searching for. The performance had calm moments, brave moments and long spells of control that Slot has been demanding all season. It was not perfect, but it was very different from their recent struggles.
Relief After Gakpo’s Late Goal
Slot’s reaction to the second goal was honest. When Gakpo finished in stoppage time, the head coach knew the points were finally secured. But even in that moment he had a quick worry about a possible handball. He said he felt relief first, then waited for confirmation. Only after the referee pointed to the center circle did Slot allow himself to enjoy what the goal meant. Liverpool had earned breathing room at the end of a match they controlled from start to finish.
A Much Better Team Response
Slot praised the team’s reaction throughout the match, especially after how recent games had unfolded. He pointed out something Liverpool fans have felt for weeks. They have been creating early chances but not finishing them, and opponents have been punishing them with their first shot. That pattern did not repeat at the London Stadium. West Ham had only one real chance in the entire match, and it came in the final moments.
For once, Liverpool were not forced into a frantic chase. Slot said that controlling the match at 0-0 and then at 1-0 allowed the players to build confidence and settle into their rhythm. He highlighted another key improvement. No set piece goals conceded. Liverpool even came close to scoring from a long throw, something Slot said is vital for a team trying to rebuild momentum.
Support From the Fans Meant Everything
One of the most emotional parts of Slot’s press conference came when he spoke about the away fans. The Liverpool supporters filled the away end and backed the team from the first whistle. Slot said their support showed the character of the club and the identity of the fanbase. He made it clear that support during difficult moments matters even more than during successful ones. For a team that has been under pressure, hearing their fans sing throughout the match meant a lot to the players and staff.
Isak Finally Gets His Premier League Goal
Alexander Isak opened the scoring with a calm finish after the hour mark. It was his first Premier League goal for the club, something he had been working toward since joining. Slot praised his performance but also noted the difficult situation Isak has been in. As a number nine, minutes and match rhythm matter. He has played in many matches but not always for long stretches. Isak scored just before he was substituted, which made the moment even more important for him and the team. Slot said the goal was well deserved after several earlier chances.
Florian Wirtz Shines After Returning From Absence
Florian Wirtz played only one training session in the two weeks before the match, yet he delivered one of his best performances for Liverpool. Slot explained that Wirtz was key in creating overloads in midfield and helping build attacks with quick one touch play. The coaching staff wanted to take him off earlier due to fitness concerns, but Slot kept him on because the game demanded his intelligence on the ball. His diagonal pass to Gakpo in the box was one of the standout moments of the match, even though it did not result in a shot. Slot acknowledged Wirtz individually but made sure to praise the overall team performance as the main foundation.
Kerkez Impresses Until Cramp Forces Him Off
Milos Kerkez was another player who caught the eye. He pushed forward aggressively in the first half and defended strongly across the match. Slot confirmed he was substituted due to cramp, which he said was understandable. The Premier League demands intensity, and Kerkez is still adapting to the physical load of playing multiple matches in short periods. The only West Ham chance came when Kerkez was off the pitch, but Slot said that was not related to the full-back’s replacement. Overall, he described the defensive display as solid.
Why Mohamed Salah Started on the Bench
As expected, Slot was asked why Mohamed Salah did not start. Slot explained that with four matches in ten days and only 14 or 15 outfield players available, rotation was unavoidable. He also felt that West Ham’s tactical shape required a specific lineup. Slot made clear that Salah remains essential to the club. Managing minutes was simply necessary given the schedule and the need to protect players.
Isak’s Reaction: “Stay Humble and Build Momentum”
After the match, Isak spoke openly about his goal and the importance of the win. He said he has been working to regain full form and that scoring helped his confidence. But he stressed that the biggest value of the match was the team victory. Isak said that one win does not mean the team is fully back. They need to stay humble and use this result to push forward. With Premier League matches against Sunderland and Leeds coming up quickly, he said the team must keep the same focus and effort.
Why This Win Matters for Liverpool’s Season
This match was more than a routine win. It was a response the entire club needed. The players looked sharper, the passing was cleaner, and the defensive structure held firm for the full 90 minutes. Slot has been asking for control and calmness in key moments. This time, he got both. Isak broke his scoring drought. Wirtz delivered a standout game after injury. Gakpo finished with confidence. The back line stayed organised. And the fans showed unity and belief.
Liverpool still have work to do, and Slot made that clear. But this win gives them a foundation again. It restores confidence, lifts the mood and creates a chance to build real momentum. If they keep this level in the next two matches, the difficult run may soon become a turning point in their season.
🔴Find the Latest News on Player Ratings | Transfers | Prematch | Postmatch
Thank you for your continued support, and let’s cheer Liverpool on to success in the upcoming match. Your thoughts are always welcome in the comments section. For further insights, you may explore the official Liverpool FC website by clicking here.
YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com