Liverpool suffered a shocking defeat to Italian representative Atalanta in the first leg of Europa League’s quarter-final at Anfield. One of the highlighted factors was Reds goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher who was considered not to be in his best form for the game.
Atalanta scored the first goal through Gianluca Scamacca who sent the ball into Kelleher’s direction. However, the Irish goalie failed to anticipate the ball directing at him, letting it slip under his body in the process.
Caoimhin Kelleher error labelled as “terrible goalkeeping”
Former England striker Dean Ashton was left baffled by Caoimhin Kelleher error in the game. Ashton said that Kelleher did not show the quality he usually showed since stepping into Alisson Becker’s position, who is currently injured.
“This is terrible, terrible goalkeeping from Kelleher,” said Ashton when commenting on the game with talkSPORT. “He’s been good since he came in for Alisson but this is a horrible, horrible mistake.”
Kelleher’s sloppy performance continued in the second half when Atalanta scored the second and third goals of the night. Scamacca extended the lead for La Dea after receiving a cross from Charles De Ketelaere. The former West Ham striker sent the ball into the right direction of Kelleher who was only able to watch the ball into his net.
Atalanta’s third goal came from a rebound where Kelleher blocked the ball which glided into Mario Pasalic’s path. Three goals for the visitors, putting them in an advantageous position when playing the second half at Gewiss Stadium next week.
Also Read: Liverpool Injury Update: Jurgen Klopp receives huge boost ahead of Europa League action