SUPERMANE!

Liverpool ride on Sadio’s brace to boss over Chelsea

London, Sept. 21: Sadio Mane tormented Chelsea as the Liverpool forward struck twice after sparking Andreas Christensen’s dismissal in the champions’ 2-0 win.

Mane was involved in the turning point at Stamford Bridge as the first clash between Premier League title contenders this season swung Liverpool’s way.

In first half stoppagetime, Jordan Henderson picked out Mane’s run behind Christensen and the Denmark defender responded by rugby-tackling the Senegal star to the ground. Referee Paul Tierney initially booked Christensen, but VAR told him to consult the pitchside monitor and he changed his decision to a red card.

Mane grabbed his first goal of the season in the 50th minute and then was gifted his second goal as Chelsea keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga made a hash of trying to play out from the back, allowing the Liverpool forward to intercept and slot into the empty net.

After their chaotic 4-3 win over Leeds on the opening weekend, this was a return to the kind of dominant display Liverpool produced so often en route to their first English title for 30 years last season.

Meanwhile, Neal Maupay’s quick-fire double inspired Brighton’s 3-0 win against Newcastle.

Graham Potter’s side raced into a two-goal lead after just seven minutes at St James’ Park thanks to the brace from French striker Maupay.

Also, Leicester City got better of Burnley 4-2 to go top of the table on goal difference. —

AP Sadio Mane of Liverpool celebrates after scoring a goal against Chelsea during their English Premier League match at Stamford Bridge Stadium in Fulham, South West London, on Sunday. Liverpool carved out a 2-0 victory. —