Virgil Van Dijk accepted responsibility for a glaring defensive error that allowed Arsenal to significantly impact the outcome of the title fight.
Curtis Jones, left, reflects with Virgil van Dijk and keeper Alisson Becker after the howler that let in Gabriel Martinelli to restore Arsenal’s lead
Gabriel Martinelli took advantage of a disastrous mistake involving Liverpool captain Van Dijk and custodian Alisson to score, giving Arsenal a 2-1 lead at the Emirates.
Alisson made another mistake as replacement Leandro Trossard sent the ball between his legs, resulting in Arsenal’s third goal. This puts Mikel Arteta’s team two points behind Liverpool at the top of the table.
Martinelli, left, had a simple chance to make it 2-1 in the Gunners’ 3-1 victory after confusion between Liverpool duo Alisson and Van Dijk
Winners If Manchester City wins their two remaining matches, including the one against Brentford on Monday night, they will secure the top position.
Van Dijk expressed his thoughts on the 3-1 defeat, stating, “It was an extremely challenging day.” I accept all accountability for Martinelli’s goal as it was a pivotal moment in the match, and I should have performed at a higher level.
“I made a decision to allow the ball to bounce and positioned my body to block it. Alisson made slight contact with me, which prevented him from clearing it effectively.”
“It causes pain, and this pain is experienced by the entire team, but particularly by me.” It constituted a significant pivotal moment.
“Instances like these have been infrequent throughout my professional journey, but I will bounce back by assimilating valuable lessons from unfavourable outcomes.”
Liverpool, having one player sent off with a red card in the 88th minute, had only their second loss in the league this season.
Jurgen Klopp, the manager of the Reds who will be leaving at the conclusion of this season, declined to express disapproval towards Van Dijk and Alisson.
He stated: “There was a disagreement among our key individuals.” They are individuals of the human species.
Bukayo Saka initiated the scoring, however Gabriel’s peculiar own goal, resulting from a blunder by William Saliba, allowed Liverpool to equalise just before the end of the first half.
However, the errors made by the Reds, which were criticised by pundit Roy Keane as being reminiscent of a low-level amateur club, resulted in the termination of their 21-game undefeated streak in domestic competitions.
Klopp stated: “Although we desired victory, our performance was insufficient.”
However, at present, there is no celebration of victory or demotion of teams. We possess the opportunity to shape our own fate.
“Ultimately, I did not consider the remaining number of games for City.” I am devoid of any feelings of anxiety or unease. We anticipate their consistent victory in all of their matches.
Arsenal have won three consecutive Premier League matches, propelling them to second place. Arteta praised his players for achieving a victory that could shape the outcome of the season.
When questioned about their current mindset towards winning the crown, Arteta confidently affirmed, “Without a doubt.” We have demonstrated today against the most formidable team in Europe.
“In order to excel and possess a superior mindset, one must consistently perform at a high level every three days.” This is the challenge we are facing.
“The game had significant implications for our current and future position.”
Midfielder Declan Rice underlined the significance of the game.
“We have successfully regained our momentum.”