Maguire’s header earns Man United first Anfield win in nine years
Harry Maguire delivered a dramatic moment at Anfield as his 84th-minute header sealed Manchester United’s first victory against Liverpool at Anfield since 2016, lifting the pressure on manager Ruben Amorim.
United had stunned the home crowd only 61 seconds into the match when Bryan Mbeumo fired past Giorgi Mamardashvili after being played through by Amad Diallo.
The goal sparked controversy, as Liverpool players protested that play should have been stopped for a head injury to Alexis Mac Allister, who had gone down following a collision with Virgil van Dijk moments earlier.
Gakpo’s equaliser in the 78th minute appeared to have rescued a point for Arne Slot’s side, but Maguire’s towering header ensured back-to-back Premier League wins for the first time under Amorim’s reign.
The result leaves Liverpool four points behind leaders Arsenal and struggling with a fourth straight defeat, their worst run in 11 years, despite spending nearly £450 million ($604 million) in the transfer market.
United, meanwhile, climb to ninth place, just two points behind Liverpool, as Amorim recorded his biggest win since taking charge nearly a year ago.
“It means everything,” Maguire said after the match. “They’ve had the better of us over the last few years. We haven’t given our fans enough days like today, it’s been a long time coming, coming to this ground and picking up three points.”
