For 45 minutes at Portman Road, I remembered what it was like to watch Liverpool and properly enjoy it.
I said before the game that the first goal was crucial. Alexander Isak decided two would be even better, scoring them in quick succession and effectively taking the contest away from Ipswich.
The goalkeeper should do better with the first, although Isak still had to make the run and finish it. The second was different. Movement, composure, quality. That was the player you pay the big bucks for, a striker capable of making the decisive moment look wonderfully straightforward.
Cody Gakpo was my man of the match. He looks liberated. Two assists, strength, imagination and a willingness to take responsibility whenever Liverpool went forward. His pass for Isak’s second was magnificent. Bradley Barcola’s arrival gives Liverpool serious competition on that side, and Gakpo appears ready to embrace it.
There was plenty else to like. Ronald Araujo gave Liverpool greater security at right-back, the shape looked more balanced and, after conceding four goals in the opening two games, a clean sheet was very welcome.
Liverpool controlled the game rather than allowing it to become another chaotic afternoon.
There remains plenty of work for Andoni Iraola. Nobody should pretend otherwise after three league games.
But a win is a win, Isak has his goals, Liverpool have their clean sheet and, for that first half especially, watching them felt familiar again.
I’ve missed that feeling.
Post-Match Podcasts
Guy Drinkel is joined by Jim Boardman and Lewis Aspinall on Post-Match RAW with fan reaction to Liverpool’s 2-0 Premier League win at Portman Road over Ipswich Town this evening - Watch Now
Gags Tandon and Tadiwa Chanakira share their player ratings on Rate Don’t Hate after Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Ipswich Town - Watch Now
Liverpool Head Coach Andoni Iraola gave his thoughts on Liverpool’s win at Ipswich. - Listen Now
Post-Match Articles
