The stark difference in Andy Robertson’s reactions to the two late goals at Anfield this afternoon perfectly captured the emotional rollercoaster experienced by Liverpool players and fans alike.
Liverpool had clung to a narrow 1-0 lead for much of the second half, only to concede an unfortunate equaliser. Virgil van Dijk’s attempted clearance ricocheted off Robertson and into their own net, gifting West Ham a fortunate but deserved goal.
Just three minutes later, Van Dijk redeemed himself with a towering header that sealed a dramatic winner for the Premier League leaders. He celebrated passionately, kissing the badge on his shirt as Liverpool edged closer to securing the title — now just six points away.
The shift in Robertson’s demeanor between those two moments was dramatic. After the own goal, he turned and shouted angrily at Van Dijk, who held his head in disbelief. But following the winner, Robertson embraced his captain, even appearing to kiss him on the head in celebration — a complete emotional turnaround.
It was a classic example of football’s ability to swing emotions in an instant. While a draw wouldn’t have been disastrous, it would’ve been another setback after last week’s loss to Fulham. That’s why the frustration over the equaliser was so intense — and why the euphoria of the late goal meant so much.
Both Robertson and Van Dijk were key figures in Liverpool’s 2020 title win and have endured narrow misses since, making their hunger for another championship even greater.
Thankfully, Robertson can now look back on the chaotic moment of the own goal with a smile, knowing how sweetly it all ended.
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