ANFIELD, LIVERPOOL // Liverpool defeated Union Saint-Gilloise 2-0 to maintain their winning start in the Europa League. Ryan Gravenberch scored the team’s opening goal.

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Jürgen Klopp made nine changes to his squad, but there were still a few surprises. The Reds manager declined to rest Darwin Núñez and Mohamed Salah before the weekend, and Curtis Jones was left on the bench following his red card against Tottenham.

Salah and Núñez both had chances to put Liverpool ahead early on; the former forced Anthony Moris into a save, while the latter inexplicably missed a goal that was clearly his to take.

Prior to Gravenberch’s fastest goal of the season, which sent the Reds on their way, it appeared as though the Belgian team could be able to keep the game deadlocked going into halftime.

Liverpool was still in control of the game, but they were unable to score a second goal to end it. Diogo Jota had a header saved, and Luis Díaz hit the crossbar before the offside flag was correctly raised this time.

That was before Jota scored a late goal to guarantee the win and keep his perfect record in the Europa League.

REVIVALS

Although Gravenberch might not have anticipated his first Liverpool goal to come so easily, the Dutchman’s strong play was undoubtedly worthy of it. He has undoubtedly done himself no harm in trying to start Sunday’s match against Brighton.

Trent Alexander-Arnold making a big comeback and starting in the opening is also encouraging.

PERSONAL SETBACKS

Whoa, Darwin. The Uruguayan international was active as usual as Liverpool dominated, but it’s puzzling that he didn’t add to his total this year. Against Brighton, he will most likely start at the front, but he needs to be burying those opportunities.

Another setback came with Caoimhín Kelleher’s injury prior to the game. It’s unfortunate that he won’t get more well-earned playing time, but he wouldn’t have had much to do.

PLAYER RATINGS

Alisson Becker — 6

A late call-up for the Brazilian with Kelleher out injured. Definitely one of his quieter nights, but given how good he’s been, he deserves an easy clean sheet.

Trent Alexander-Arnold — 7

Back in the starting line-up following his recent injury. Quick thinking from him and Alisson to get Liverpool on the attack before his shot was spilled for Gravenberch’s opener.

Ibrahima Konaté — 7

Had very little to do defensively as Liverpool dominated, but crucially got the better of the giant Gustaf Nilsson just as he looked to have broken through.

Jarell Quansah — 7

Read things well and almost created a goal for Salah early on. Showed good strength to hold off Rodríguez as he looked to cause Liverpool some danger.

Kostas Tsimikas — 6

A bit of a mixed night for the Greek. Got forward well and was always available, but his delivery was lacking a bit at times.

Wataru Endō — 7

Kept things simple in front of the backline and wasn’t tested too much in a defensive manner. Moved the ball well though in tight spaces and could have an outside chance for Sunday.

Ryan Gravenberch — 8

Got himself involved a lot, including forcing an early save from Moris with a powerful shot before he reacted well to grab his first goal for the club. Looks to be growing in confidence, and will be hopeful of a spot in Sunday’s side.

Harvey Elliott — 6

Was almost the architect of a superb goal, which Núñez should have scored. Some loose passes though before he was moved to the right wing for the second half.

Mohamed Salah — 7

Surprisingly didn’t make the net bulge after racing clear through in the opening minutes. Unsurprisingly hauled off at half-time as Klopp took no chances ahead of the weekend.

Darwin Núñez — 6

Missed an absolute sitter after a great move between Elliott and Salah, and hesitated shortly after with a bouncing ball. You can’t keep him out of the game though.

Diogo Jota — 6

Didn’t really feature much in the first half bar a speculative penalty shout. Improved after the break as he saw his header saved well, before wrapping up the victory with a cool finish late on.

SUBSTITUTES

Alexis Mac Allister— 6

Added a bit more energy to the midfield, and a nice moment as he came up against his brother Kevin.

Curtis Jones — 6

A surprise to see him start on the bench, but he got his opportunity and looked dangerous at times.

Luis Díaz — 6

Showed great control as he almost doubled the lead before hitting the post, although on this occasion he was DEFINITELY offside.

Joe Gomez — 6

Solid as he gave his vice-captain and skipper for the night a rest.

Dominik Szoboszlai — N/A

A late cameo for the final 15 or so minutes.