Liverpool faced an unexpected setback in the FA Cup as they were knocked out by second-tier side Plymouth Argyle with a narrow 1-0 defeat at Home Park on Sunday. The loss dashed Liverpool’s dreams of securing a quadruple title this season.
The decisive moment came in the 53rd minute when Plymouth was awarded a penalty for a handball by midfielder Harvey Elliott. Ryan Hardie stepped up confidently and sent Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher the wrong way, sealing the victory for the hosts.
\"We all came here today with a dream and we have done it. I don't know what to say,\" Hardie shared with ITV. \"There is obviously a lot of pressure. It is about picking your side, and I committed to it.\"
Liverpool, currently leading the Premier League and having advanced to the UEFA Champions League’s last 16, struggled for creativity throughout the match. With only one shot on target in the first half, their offensive efforts were limited, especially with key players like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk resting ahead of the upcoming Merseyside derby against Everton.
The game remained tight as Plymouth, sitting at the bottom of the Championship table, gradually found their rhythm. In added time, Plymouth’s goalkeeper Conor Hazard proved to be the hero, making a crucial save against Diogo Jota’s volley and Darwin Nunez’s header.
\"At the end of the day, it is my job. So I am delighted with that,\" Hazard commented following his impressive performance.
Liverpool’s unexpected exit brings an end to the early buzz surrounding their potential quadruple, highlighting the unpredictable nature of cup competitions.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
