Star signing Florian Wirtz denied first Liverpool goal as Reds held by Sunderland

Liverpool was held 1-1 by Sunderland in the Premier League’s matchweek 14. After a goalless first half, the Reds fell behind in the 67th minute to a long-distance strike from Chemsdine Talbi. The defending on the play was sloppy, as captain Virgil van Dijk surrendered possession and then backed off, with the shot ultimately deflecting off him and beating goalkeeper Alisson.

In the 81st minute, Liverpool found the equalizer thanks to Florian Wirtz. The £116million summer signing showed impressive footwork before finding the net with a shot that deflected off Sunderland defender Nordi Mukiele.

Initially, it seemed that Wirtz had finally broken his curse with the first goal for Liverpool. However, the replays told a different story. His shot was heading off target until Mukiele diverted it into the net beyond Robin Roefs.

The Premier League match centre soon clarified: “Liverpool’s 81st-minute goal has been awarded as a Mukiele own goal.”

Nevertheless, Wirtz’s efforts still rescued Liverpool from a defeat at home. 1 point at Anfield today moves Arne Slot’s side up to eighth in the table with 22 points, overtaking Manchester United. Sunderland, meanwhile, remain sixth with a one-point advantage over the Reds.

Wirtz told Sky Sports after the match: “It doesn't matter. We drew, we wanted to win. That's what counts today. Unlucky.

"The last weeks were very difficult for us as a team, but we are on a good way to come back and we are giving everything to come back and win games. We wanted to win today.

"We want to be on the top table. We just have to continue, keep the hard work and hopefully things will change."