This was a thudding reality check for anyone who thought Liverpool, having dusted themselves down over the winter break, would stroll back into the top four. They were beaten here by a bright, resolute Brentford but also by a shambolic opening night’s work by their own back line that ultimately took the game away. Ibrahima Konaté’s own goal typified that and was followed before half-time by a header from Yoane Wissa, who had already seen two efforts disallowed.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s riposte appeared to have shifted the dial but Bryan Mbeumo’s cool late finish, from Brentford’s only significant attack of the second half and resulting from a costly slip by Konaté, completed a chastening evening for Jürgen Klopp. Brentford, unbeaten in six, are in fine form and move up to seventh. Klopp may reflect that Liverpool remain a shadow of themselves.
