The Reds came into the game undefeated, but Enzo Maresca’s side showed plenty of fight, determination and endeavour to make it six wins from our opening six top-flight fixtures thanks to second-half goals from Haaland, Jérémy Doku and Rayan Cherki.
All three goals came after Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch was sent off for a second yellow card, with our opener coming just two minutes and 37 seconds after the dismissal.
GALLERY: DEADLY DOKU STARS AT ANFIELD!
Speaking in an interview after the game, Haaland was elated with the team’s unity and attitude in Merseyside.
“It’s part of City and every single fan,” he began. “It’s a lovely moment that will stick with us for a long time, when it comes to the feeling of after the game and in the game.
“It was tough and hard. We showed amazing character from Gigio at the back, all the way to the front. I’m so proud of everyone. It’s always tough to come here. It’s about these times to stay strong mentally and stick together. And do what you can do something about. What we can do is play good football and fight together. That’s the only thing we can do.
“In the end you want to win games, it’s as simple as that. Perform well, play good football and win games. This was a mental battle because we came back from internationals, and it’s never easy to come back to the first game after being away for over two weeks. I’m proud that we managed to stick together so well. We are mentally strong.
“I missed a big chance right before and it was just about focusing on getting another chance and stay focused. The moment came and I took it.
“I’m proud of that and proud of the team for scoring three goals at Anfield because it’s not often that happens. In the end I’m proud of everyone.”
The impressive win condemned Liverpool to their joint-biggest defeat in the Premier League at Anfield and meant we’ve now enjoyed back-to-back league victories at Anfield for the first time since January 1953.
A key figure towards the success was midfield maestro Elliot Anderson, who was voted Player of the Match after another masterclass in the middle of the pitch.
“I spoke about the character at Old Trafford when we went down to 10 men and today again, the first guy I think of is Elliot,” said Haaland about his teammate. “Today again he controlled the game for us and he goes into the tackles.
“He does the things we need to do. He’s a good player!
“I didn’t see my dad. I was looking for him. It looked like they had the time of their lives! I think he enjoyed himself so I’ll send him a message.
“There’s plenty of games coming on. It’s time to recover and already start focusing on the next one.”
