Salah influential again as Liverpool settle for draw at Aston Villa

Photo Credit: Liverpool FC

Liverpool took the lead away at Aston Villa but the hosts rallied to a 2-2 Premier League draw despite two more goal contributions from Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah.

The 32-year-old Egyptian forward was on target to finish in the first half for his 24th Premier League goal of the campaign and 29th in all competitions. A dreadful error from Villa right back Andres Garcia conceded possession to Diogo Jota at the edge of the penalty area and the Portuguese winger crossed for Salah to roof his finish into the goal.

But the hosts did not let the costly error deter their efforts. Youri Tielemans and Ollie Watkins struck the Premire League leaders with a fierce combo at the end of the first half and Salah's opener was cancelled out as Villa took a 2-1 lead into halftime.

Whenever Liverpool needs a response, however, Salah continues to provide the moments of quality needed by the Reds. Just after the hour mark, Salah collected the ball on the right wing and hurtled a challenge from Villa left back Lucas Digne before laying the ball back to Trent Alexander-Arnold who unleashed a trademark technical strike past keeper Emiliano Martinez.

The assist saw Salah reach yet another milestone as he became the first player to contribute 15 goals and 15 assists in a Premier League season since former Chelsea and Belgium national team star Eden Hazard in the 2018-19 season.

Wednesday's result opens up an opportunity for second place Arsenal to close the gap on the league leaders. Liverpool lead the table by eight points but Arsenal can gain some important ground when they host West Ham United on Saturday. Meanwhile, Salah and Liverpool have a major test ahead on Sunday when they travel to face defending champions Manchester City.