It was back to the day job for Klopp and he made sure the only fallers were at Aintree... and not at Anfield
encouragement offered to the sacrificial gladiators in Rome’s Coliseum. It didn’t do them any good either.
Chances came and went, Salah just unable to capitalise on a delightful chip from Mane as Bournemouth opted for damage limitation.
To reach half-time just a goal down was some feat as Liverpool pressed hard on the accelerator, looking a side full of confidence and authority and the best bet at preventing a Manchester City title-winning monopoly in the coming years. But you can’t keep the mighty Mo Salah down and finally after a succession of missed chances and following a penalty appeal he made it 40 goals for the season with a looping header from Alexander-Arnold’s cross.
And it’s 30 in the Premier League as he heads the chase for the golden boot – unless Harry Kane can invent a few more goals!
Then in the dying seconds along came Firmino to complete the scoring for the famed trio with a low thundering strike. For Bournemouth and their young rising boss it was another sharp learning curve.
To his credit, Howe has emerged from his most difficult season in the Premier League still prepared to play the game the right way, a trait which has been recognised by Klopp who insists he is a role model for young coaches everywhere.
Former Evertonian Dan Gosling forced a fine late save from Loris Karius, but this was an evening for a little Roma therapy from Klopp’s side as they turned their attention to the Premier League.