Liverpool’s victory over reigning champion Manchester City 3-1 at Anfield on Sunday has open up an eight-point lead at the top of the table.
Liverpool’s confidence and self-belief has been gathering ominous momentum throughout manager Jürgen Klopp’s remarkable rejuvenation, but Sunday’s 3-1 victory over reigning Premier League champions Manchester City may just be the moment when they began to feel unstoppable.
When Liverpool last had the opportunity to overcome City, when victory at Etihad Stadium in January could have given them a 10-point lead at the top of the table, they slipped to a defeat which in the final reckoning cost them the title.
This was the day when Liverpool could make the statement loud and clear that they are in no mood to be denied, and that their wait for a title will not stretch beyond 30 years.
And this time, there was no mistake as a 3-1 win put them eight points clear of Leicester City and Chelsea and, perhaps more significantly, nine clear of Pep Guardiola’s side.
It was a game that lived up to its billing, full of quality, controversy and incident, with the champions playing their full part, but Liverpool will know this result may come to be seen at the decisive moment in their pursuit of that elusive crown.
Nothing will be taken for granted – but this is now Liverpool’s title to lose.
If the Reds do not win it this season, given their form, focus and current advantage, they will never forgive themselves. Yes, it is only November, but only one team can deny Liverpool from here: themselves.
