Liverpool were held to a 2-2 draw at Aston Villa as the Premier League leaders dropped points to give Arsenal hope in the title race.
Substitute Darwin Nunez had a chance to win it but blazed over in the closing stages as Trent Alexander-Arnold’s second-half deflected strike earned Liverpool a point to stretch their advantage to eight points having played a game more than Arsenal.
Emi Martinez produced a goal-saving tackle after a Tyrone Mings mistake late in the game
Ollie Watkins headed Villa into the lead just before half-time as they came from behind after gifting Mohamed Salah the opener, but the visitors were only ahead for nine minutes before Youri Tielemans equalised.
Liverpool now face big games at Manchester City, live on Sky Sports this Sunday, and Newcastle in the Premier League as the title race hots up, with Arsenal knowing they can close the gap to five points. Aston Villa remain in ninth after pushing the leaders all the way despite a host of defensive injuries.
Alexander-Arnold was hooked soon after his equaliser and appeared unhappy with Arne Slot’s decision to replace him with Conor Bradley.
Villa fought back impressively after a difficult opening period as Marcus Rashford shone on his first start for the hosts. The Manchester United loanee had a curling effort cleared off the line and won the free-kick that led to Tielemans’ equaliser.
Jota missed a glorious chance to restore Liverpool’s lead instantly after Villa levelled, but completely miscued his strike when through on goal against Emi Martinez.
Andres Garcia, signed by Villa in the winter transfer window, was at fault for Liverpool’s opener as he passed the ball to Diogo Jota, who squared for Salah to score his 24th league goal of the season.
Whether Liverpool live to regret their spurned chances remains to be seen. They have lost just once in the league this season and are being chased by an Arsenal team without a striker. If they can ride out the storm in their next two games, their rivals’ hope will likely have faded.
More to follow.
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