Alisson Becker contributed to a near-perfect Liverpool performance with some top saves, but a familiar issue reared its head once again.
Not many expected the Brazilian to get the nod for this FA Cup clash.
Giorgi Mamardashvili was snubbed by Arne Slot in favour of the first-choice stopper, and that decision paid off in the form of a clean sheet.
Alisson made a couple of superb saves to keep Brighton at bay.
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Curtis Jones points to the Anfield stand in celebration during Liverpool's FA Cup match against Brighton & Hove Albion
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It wasn’t a perfect performance, though. One particular facet of his game was problematic once again.
Alisson Becker’s distribution for Liverpool has been poor lately
You don’t reach world-class status as a goalkeeper through shot-stopping alone.
The modern game requires the keeper to be as comfortable on the ball as any of their teammates.
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Liverpool’s number one is usually elite in that regard, but errant passes and unassured possession play have started to seep into his game recently.
Alisson Becker pictured in action during Liverpool's UEFA Champions League match against Galatasaray.
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Alisson got heat for his Man City error that resulted in a game-winning penalty from Erling Haaland in injury time. Mistakes happen.
What’s more concerning is the drop in quality with regards to distribution. Against Brighton, there were a couple of heart-in-mouth moments, as was the case against Sunderland and City. The Reds were lucky not to be punished.
The Alisson we know is a reassuring presence at the back for Liverpool. He has been less reassuring of late.
Arne Slot says result flatters Liverpool
None of the errors Alisson made cost his side on this occasion. Liverpool have knocked Brighton out in emphatic fashion — at least, that’s what the 3-0 scoreline suggests.
According to Slot, though, it’s not a totally fair reflection.
Asked to break down the performance in his post-match press conference, he said: “What impressed me the most? Maybe the goals, especially the second goal. It was a fantastic goal.
“In the end it felt like a comfortable win but I think it was more closer than the 3-0 scoreline shows.”
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Rio Ngumoha was robbed of a brilliant moment 😡
Liverpool v Brighton & Hove Albion - Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round
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That is more of a compliment to Brighton than a slight on Liverpool. The Reds were dominant and didn’t look like losing at any stage.
With luck, we can see a similar level in the Premier League now.
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