A “huge victory” was celebrated by Liverpool full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold as the champions-elect of the Premier League advanced to the verge of winning the title.
The first championship in 30 years is nearly in its grasp, after Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Alexander-Arnold and Fabinho tore Crystal Palace apart in a one-sided 4-0 win at Anfield, four days after a goalless Merseyside derby.
“I think it’s a big success,” the British defender told Sky Sports. “The lads played very well.
“For us, it was a difficult game, it was clearly very frustrating to get the drawback on our first game only on Sunday.”
“It is nice to be back in Anfield despite what has happened. It couldn’t have been better for us, so we’re making up the win.”
The full-back felt his stunning free-kick had made amends against Merseyside rivals Everton for missed opportunities.
“I have been doing a lot of practice,” he added. “I had a few chances to not score with Everton that I was disappointed but I got the chance today and I was able to put it away.”
“It was good for the lads to have the ball rolling and we kicked on from there.”
Alexander-Arnold hesitated to start celebrating Liverpool’s first Premier League title win since 1990 but said: “These are two points so it’s close. A lot can happen in the Premier League but we’re close.”
The Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has only one regret that no supporters were able to witness the win inside Anfield.
He said: “Imagine if today the stadium could have been full, and people could have experienced that life.”
“I don’t think the game would have been better to be honest, because my boys were playing in the stadium like everyone was. They pushed themselves through.”
“The atmosphere on the pitch was amazing. I said earlier, as this part of the season began, that I’d like to see some of the best games behind closed doors, ever, because I hope it doesn’t happen often.”
“That was the best game I’ve ever seen behind closed doors to counteract the pressure. The attitude shown by the boys was stunning. I liked it very much.”
The squad was not only motivated by their imminent victory in the title, but also by the desire to play entertaining football for the fans who can not attend, believed Salah.
“Two points, it’s great to go and win the league,” he said.
“Today we had a great performance and I’m happy with the result and looking forward to the games that follow.”
“Those players are all motivated. The team is motivated behind closed doors to win the league and play the best sport.”
“We have been waiting for this for a long time and as a team, we have worked hard for it over the last few years.”
“We have dreamed of this as a club and we’re in a good position, so hopefully we’ll be able to get it across the line very soon.”
