Liverpool’s upcoming match against Fulham at Craven Cottage is crucial for their Premier League title hopes. However, the team must address their consistent struggles with slow starts if they want to secure a victory on the road.
So far this season, Liverpool has only managed to score two goals in the opening 15 minutes of league games. This statistic reflects their tendency to start matches slowly and highlights the need for improvement in this area. In fact, the Reds have scored as many goals from the 76th minute onwards as they have in the opening 48 minutes of matches. This discrepancy emphasizes their inability to capitalize on early opportunities.
Furthermore, Liverpool has conceded the fewest goals from the 76th minute onwards compared to any other team in the Premier League. This defensive strength late in games contrasts with their vulnerability in the early stages. It is crucial for the team to find a balance between their defensive solidity throughout matches and their ability to make an impact from the start.
Another concern for Liverpool is their recent struggle to score in back-to-back league games. However, this issue has not persisted for an extended period, with the team last experiencing a run of three goalless games in January and February of last season. This suggests that their current lack of scoring consistency may be temporary, and they have the potential to bounce back.
Looking ahead to the clash against Fulham, history suggests that Liverpool may have a chance to shine. Only three Liverpool players have scored hat-tricks against Fulham, with Daniel Sturridge being the most recent in May 2013. Additionally, Liverpool has seen four of their players sent off against Fulham, all during matches at Craven Cottage. This highlights the importance of discipline and avoiding unnecessary red cards that could hinder their chances of success.
While Liverpool has had a strong record against Fulham in the past, recent meetings at Craven Cottage have resulted in draws. However, there has never been a streak of three consecutive draws at this venue. Liverpool will be aiming to secure a ninth league double over Fulham, which would be their seventh in the Premier League era and their first since the 2018/19 season.
However, Liverpool’s task may not be as straightforward as they hope. Fulham has impressed at home this season, recording nine Premier League wins at Craven Cottage, their highest number since the 2011/12 campaign. This includes a notable victory over Arsenal on New Year’s Eve. Rodrigo Muniz has been in fantastic form, scoring six goals in his last five home appearances and becoming Fulham’s leading scorer in the league with eight strikes.
Furthermore, Fulham has only drawn once at home this season, demonstrating their ability to secure results on their own turf. They are currently seeking consecutive clean sheets in the league, a feat they haven’t achieved since December when they defeated Nottingham Forest and West Ham 5-0 in successive games at home.
In terms of goal-scoring contributions, Liverpool heavily relies on Mohamed Salah, who has found the net 24 times this season. However, other players need to step up and share the goal-scoring burden. Fulham, on the other hand, has a more balanced distribution of goals among their players, with Muniz leading the way with nine goals.
As Liverpool prepares for their clash against Fulham, they must address their slow starts and aim to make an impact from the opening whistle. They cannot afford to rely solely on late-game heroics. Additionally, they need to maintain discipline on the pitch and avoid red cards that could hinder their chances of success. Fulham’s impressive home form and goal-scoring prowess make them a formidable opponent, but Liverpool has the quality and history on their side to secure a crucial victory.