Liverpool midfielder James Milner praised the influence of goalkeeper Alisson Becker after the Brazilian made a great save against Newcastle to deny Ciaran Clark’s header at close range.
Jurgen Klopp’s team was frustrated with the result, as the game ended goalless, having lost points to two of the candidates for the descent in successive games.
But Milner says the performance improved a lot in the 1-1 draw at Anfield with West Brom, with Alisson’s late heroism preventing what would have been an undeserved defeat.
“I think it was a big improvement [on West Brom]. We faced two very stubborn teams, everything to score points, “said Milner to Liverpool’s official website.
“At least we were better. Unfortunately, it was not good enough for the three points, but we have to keep pushing.
“We created enough chances, [were] solid in the back, any balls that came out were winning.
“But a mix of good goalkeepers, defenders, a little bit of bad luck and maybe not taking advantage of the opportunities was the difference.
“It is important that you just keep it moving, be patient and make sure there is movement in the front.
“It is easy at times to get frustrated and try difficult balls or very direct balls over the top and they are cut.
“We restricted them for most of the game, but Ali is first class – everyone knows that. Especially on a night like this, I can imagine that it will be very cold for him, standing in the back without much to do. .
“Then, having to make a defense like that in the end – it shows how good he is and how great a player he is for us.”
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Liverpool are three points clear at the top of the table by the time 2020 is coming to an end, although Manchester United have one game less and could draw at the top if they win.
“At this moment when nobody wants to grab the back of the neck. We lost points, everyone seems to be losing points,” added Milner.
“[Manchester] United had a good race and is probably the only team that is having a good campaign.
“It is important to start now and try to get some points from three points.
“But the world is in a very strange place at the moment and football is the same.
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“Everyone’s life is upside down, it’s difficult mentally for everyone and it’s the same in football.
“I hope we can get out of this other side and the same goes for football – we just need to keep going.
“It is different, it is different times and that moment when you may need the crowd to give you that strength and cross the line.”