Chelsea 1-2 Liverpool: 3 Reasons why the Reds won against the Blues | Premier League 2019/20

#1 A mixture of luck and resolute defensive work saw Liverpool come out top

\Virgil van Dijk played a pivotal role in helping preserve Liverpool's lead

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp elected to field the same back line that took to the field in Liverpool's 2-0 loss to Napoli. Liverpool's defence put in an improved display and were resolute in the second half, thereby helping their side come out victorious in a gruelling game.

Virgil van Dijk put in a great shift yet again as he read the game with great intelligence, snuffing out numerous Chelsea attacks. The Dutchman came out trumps against an in form Abraham, who had recently bagged a hat-trick against Wolves. His leadership came to the fore as his side scraped through by two goals to one.

Operating on the right hand side of the central defence, Joel Matip made some crucial tackles and interceptions to ward off Chelsea's front three of Mount, Abraham and Willian. Matip used his physicality and composure to great effect and pinched the ball off Chelsea's forwards whenever an opportunity presented itself.

Matip dominated the aerial battles by winning 5/6 aerial duels and recovered possession on seven occasions. Liverpool's fullbacks made telling contributions to both goals as Alexander-Arnold scored the opener and Robertson assisted Firmino for the second goal.

Due credit must also be given to stand-in keeper Adrian, who made a series of saves to deny the likes of Abraham and Alonso.

In spite of their inability to close down Kante during the build up to Chelsea's goal, Liverpool's defence did really well to withstand a barrage of Chelsea attacks in the second half. Their organisation was spot on as they caught Chelsea's forwards in an offside position on many occasions.

Overall, assistance from VAR in a crucial period of the game and some fine defensive organisation saw Liverpool secure their sixth win of the season, in as many games.