Arne Slot admits he expected controversial Liverpool winner to be ruled out

Liverpool breathed new life into their top four push on Sunday as they beat Nottingham Forest late on at the City Ground but Arne Slot expected more drama to go against his side

Liverpool boss Arne Slot was expecting misfortune to strike his side once more after Alexis Mac Allister’s winning goal against Nottingham Forest. The reigning Premier League champions beat Forest late on at the City Ground on Sunday – Mac Allister converting in injury time.

His winner came just minutes after he had seen another goal ruled out for a controversial handball decision. In assessing the game, Slot slammed his side for their first-half performance in the Midlands and admitted he thought Liverpool’s late goal would also be chalked off following a number of unlucky calls this season.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, the Dutchman said: “It was about having more control over their midfield. I just highlighted how well they played. We lost ev-e-ry ball.

“We could not keep the ball for one second. If we went long, we lost the duel. We lost a lot of second balls. The only part of the game that went well was defending inside the box. I saw players throwing themselves for long balls, had to defend set pieces. That’s what we did well and stayed in the game.

READ MORE: Liverpool forced into last-minute change vs Nottingham Forest after Florian Wirtz injuryREAD MORE: Liverpool overcome late VAR drama as Alexis Mac Allister scores winner – 5 talking points

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“The second half I saw something slightly different. We took over the game, maybe because they played on Thursday? For the first time this season, that was an advantage for us – that the team we faced played and we were off this week.

“With the way things are going this season, I would not have been surprised at all if both goals had been disallowed. But maybe fortune has changed – finally.”

Liverpool’s matchwinner Alexis Mac Allister also gave his verdict on the two incidents at the City Ground. Asked if his first goal – that was ruled out – had touched his elbow, he replied: “It did, but it’s harsh. Because it hit my back as well. I understand the rules but it’s football, it’s very harsh.

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On his eventual winner, the Argentine midfielder added: “I knew I would get another one [chance]. Before the throw-in, I told Hugo [Ekitike] it would be our situation. But I had another opportunity and I am glad it went in.”

Liverpool’s dramatic win against Forest leaves them sixth in the Premier League but they are now level on points with fourth-placed Chelsea. Slot’s side will be aiming to continue their push for a Champions League spot as they welcome West Ham United to Anfield next Saturday.

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