Steven Gerrard sharply criticized Liverpool's performance following their 2-1 defeat to Wolves in the Premier League, describing their play as "desperate" and "terrible" for much of the game. The loss occurred on 3/3 at Molineux Stadium, where Liverpool conceded two late goals after an initial equalizer.

Rodrigo Gomes (yellow shirt) chipped the ball to open the scoring in Wolves' 2-1 win over Liverpool in the 29th round of the Premier League at Molineux, Wolverhampton, England on 3/3. Photo: Reuters

Gerrard expressed particular disappointment with Liverpool's defending, highlighting specific errors that led to both Wolves goals. He stated that for the first goal, scored in the 78th minute, defender Virgil van Dijk should have been stronger in an aerial challenge. He also criticized goalkeeper Alisson's unsafe handling, which led to the second goal, which came in the fourth minute of injury time.

"For the first 65 minutes, Liverpool played in a desperate state, really terrible," Gerrard commented on TNT Sports. "They lacked pace, lacked the necessary quality. It was just a basic long ball forward, they were two against one and should have dealt with it. The second goal was a poor pass from the goalkeeper and there was no reaction".

Manager Arne Slot acknowledged Liverpool's recurring problem of conceding late goals, noting this was the 5th time this season they had lost after conceding in injury time – their worst record in a Premier League season. Slot lamented the "old story" of struggling to score from open play despite creating chances, while conceding crucial goals.

The decisive goals for Wolves highlighted Liverpool's defensive frailties. Rodrigo Gomes opened the scoring in the 78th minute after Tolu Arokodare won an aerial duel and provided an assist. After Mohamed Salah equalized, Andre sealed Wolves' 2-1 victory in injury time with a shot that deflected off Joe Gomez.

Slot admitted his team's performance was subpar, particularly in the first half, despite some improvement after the break. He expressed regret over two late chances missed by Salah and Van Dijk, emphasizing the frustration of conceding two goals from seemingly innocuous situations after largely limiting Wolves' opportunities. "We hardly gave them any chances, but conceded two goals," Slot said. "This has happened too many times this season".

The defeat carries significant implications for Liverpool's aspirations, potentially dropping them to 6th place in the league standings if Chelsea win their late match against Aston Villa today. Slot, however, maintained that the race for a Champions League spot remains "wide open", urging his team to improve in all aspects for the remaining 9 league rounds.

Liverpool's immediate schedule includes an FA Cup 5th-round rematch with Wolves on 6/3, followed by a Champions League round of 16 first-leg away game against Galatasaray four days later.

Hong Duy (according to Daily Mail)