Isak winner gives Iraola victorious Liverpool return at Bournemouth
Liverpool left Bournemouth with three Premier League points after Alexander Isak’s close-range finish settled a demanding contest on the south coast, giving Andoni Iraola a winning return to the club he led into Europe before taking charge at Anfield in the summer.
The Liverpool manager received a warm welcome from the Bournemouth crowd, but his side were made to work hard for their second league victory of the campaign. Bournemouth began with considerable energy, pressing high and repeatedly disrupting Liverpool in midfield, while Evanilson posed an early threat that required Alisson Becker’s attention.
Iraola felt his players gradually found the level needed to withstand their former hosts. Liverpool ended the opening period more strongly before taking greater control after the interval, when their improved handling of second balls allowed them to establish a steadier rhythm and create opportunities to put the match beyond Bournemouth.
The decisive moment came after Cody Gakpo carried the ball forward and delivered a cross into a crowded penalty area. The delivery caused confusion in front of goal and Isak reacted to score his fourth of the season. The Sweden striker’s celebration in front of the travelling support brought a booking from referee Michael Oliver.
Liverpool’s defensive work was another encouraging feature for Iraola, whose team recorded a third successive clean sheet. Although there remain areas to refine, the manager saw increased resilience in the periods when Bournemouth were pressing hardest and Liverpool needed to defend their lead.
Florian Wirtz also improved substantially after an understated start. The German playmaker sent a close-range effort over the crossbar before the flag was raised for offside, though replays indicated he may have been onside. He became more influential in the second half as Liverpool gained control, with Iraola particularly pleased by his contribution after the break.
The win takes Liverpool to sixth place on nine points ahead of the international break. Bournemouth remain 17th with three points, level with Coventry and still close to the relegation places.
