Ryan Gravenberch and Wesley Fofana netted in the first half at Anfield on a day that underlined the work Arne Slot and his coaching staff still need to do over the summer.
14:25, 09 May 2026Updated 14:38, 09 May 2026
Arne Slot and Rio Ngumoha
Arne Slot's decision to replace Rio Ngumoha was booed on Saturday at Anfield
Liverpool was held to a disappointing 1-1 draw at Anfield by Chelsea on Saturday, as Arne Slot faced a further backlash from the home fans.
The Reds started the game brightly at Anfield and took the lead via an excellent curled effort from Ryan Gravenberch. But Chelsea grew into the game throughout the first period and equalized via Wesley Fofana's scruffy finish from a set-piece.
It could have been worse had Cole Palmer's goal stood at the start of the second period, but it was chalked off for offside in the build-up, as was the case for Curtis Jones' header soon after. In the end, a share of the points was a fair reflection of the game, as the Reds missed the opportunity to all but end its involvement in the race for the top five.
How the table looks
Liverpool's draw means it failed to take a huge step towards securing a top-five finish. It now sits seven points clear of sixth-place Bournemouth, who faces Fulham later on Saturday. Given Brentford and Brighton can still catch the champions, the race is very much still on, even with Liverpool in the driving seat.
Ngu-more please
When Ngumoha joined Liverpool from Chelsea's youth ranks a little under two years ago, he will no doubt have dreamt of one day playing a starring role against his former side, who, it should be noted, were furious to lose the precocious young talent. Based on Saturday’s display, it’s clear to see why. Ngumoha was electric at Anfield, where it took just 12 minutes for the Kop to serenade the teenager. His incisive runs from the left wing terrified Chelsea and it was from one such instance that he fashioned the opening goal, laying the ball perfectly into Gravenberch’s path. He was Liverpool’s star attacking player, and Saturday was a reminder not just that Ngumoha is ready to start games for the Reds, but can even determine their outcome.
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Slot decision booed
Given Ngumoha's performance, it was no surprise Slot's decision to hook Ngumoha's in the 67th minute was not popular. The winger was replaced by Alexander Isak as Liverpool looked to find a winner late on - and as the no.73 flashed up on the board, there were immediate jeers from the home supporters. They quickly turned to applause for Ngumoha's contribution, with chants of "Rio" echoing around Anfield. This isn't Slot's lowest moment of the season, but proof that he still has work to do to win hearts and minds once again. The full-time boos were further evidence of his continued struggles.
Further Anfield fury
Slot spoke about his desire to build confidence in the final games of the season, which he hopes will transfer into next term. However, Saturday’s performance was a reminder of how many areas still need improvement. After an impressive start, Liverpool allowed its standards to drop, and Chelsea gained the initiative. By the half-hour mark, there were disgruntled moans emanating from the Kop as Chelsea controlled the pace of the game and hosts were unable to retain possession. Fofana’s equalizer further dampened the mood, while there were howls of fury after Cole Palmer scored at the start of the second half, only for it to be ruled out for offside. Liverpool did end the game stronger, but there was still frustration at how attacks broke down and a lack of creativity, which culminated in the full-time boos. Sadly that has become an all-too common occurrence at Anfield this season.
Business as usual
Liverpool supporters have protested against plans to increase ticket prices in each of the last two home matches. As part of that, the Kop has been lacking its usual banners and flags, as fans sent a powerful message to Boston. Yet, following news this week that those plans have been scrapped by FSG, the Kop was back to its magnificent best on Saturday, and featured its usual decorative appearance.