Coutinho has staying power
before Edimilson Fernandes forced Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet into a smart save.
But Liverpool, slowly and surely, seized control. Joel Matip’s header from Coutinho’s corner bounced down and off the crossbar before Adam Lallana and James Milner threatened.
West Ham’s three-man defence had frustrated Everton, Stoke and Spurs but was finally breached by Sturridge in the 35th minute, via a moment of magic from Coutinho.
His defence-splitting pass opened up the home side’s rearguard and Sturridge strode through, rounded Adrian and slotted home for just his third Premier League goal of the season and his first since January 2 in another injury-hit campaign.
The lead should have been wiped out moments before half-time. Manuel Lanzini’s corner found its way to Andre Ayew but the £20milion striker somehow hit the post from two yards out before repeating the trick on the rebound in an incredible double miss. Having been given a reprieve, Liverpool took over as West Ham visibly tired in the sunshine. Their goalkeeper Adrian was called upon to foil Liverpool on three occasions in quick succession.
The crossbar was still shaking from Georginio Wijnaldum’s fierce volley when Coutinho gave Liverpool breathing space in the 57th minute.
He danced his way before beating Adrian with a low drive.
Five minutes later it was game over on the counterattack. West Ham were incensed that Matip got away with an elbow on Winston Reid but Liverpool broke and Coutinho waltzed past a static James Collins to score.
There was still time for through Origi – who also rattled the woodwork – to stab home from close range in the 76th minute.
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic said: “I’m very disappointed in the way we played.
“We wanted to avoid that factor of complacency but it was obviously there at least subconsciously. If you give Coutinho, Lallana and Sturridge time and space to play then sooner later they will kill you.”
WEST HAM (3-4-2-1):