Alexander Isak has given Liverpool supporters a glimpse of the striker they expected when the club made him one of the most expensive signings in British football history, scoring twice in the opening nine minutes of a 2–0 Premier League victory over Ipswich Town.
The Swedish forward arrived at Liverpool under enormous expectations after his high profile transfer from Newcastle United, but his first season at the club was disrupted by fitness problems and a difficult adaptation to his new surroundings. His performance at Portman Road, however, suggested that the wait for the real Isak may finally be over.
Liverpool entered the match searching for their first Premier League victory of the season after consecutive 2–2 draws against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest. New manager Andoni Iraola was also seeking his first league victory since taking charge, making the trip to Ipswich particularly important for the club...READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
Isak wasted little time in making the difference. He opened the scoring in the sixth minute after receiving a clever pass from Cody Gakpo, before firing a powerful effort beyond Ipswich goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen.
Just three minutes later, Isak doubled Liverpool’s advantage with another excellent finish. This time, the Sweden international displayed impressive composure and close control before finding the net to complete a remarkable start to the game.
Gakpo played a major role in both goals and once again demonstrated his importance to Liverpool’s attack. His contributions have helped create a strong understanding with Isak, with the Dutch forward providing the assists for Isak’s goals.
The partnership between the two attackers has quickly become one of the most encouraging aspects of Liverpool’s early season campaign. Gakpo’s movement and creativity have provided Isak with quality service, while Isak’s pace, strength and finishing ability give Liverpool another dangerous attacking option.
Isak even thought he had completed a hat trick before half time when he finished another promising Liverpool move, but the effort was ruled out for offside.
Liverpool controlled much of the match after taking their early two goal advantage, although Ipswich improved after the interval and created opportunities to put pressure on the visitors.
Iraola eventually made changes to protect the lead, with Isak withdrawn in the second half as Liverpool managed the game. New signing Bradley Barcola was introduced for his Liverpool debut, adding another attacking option to the team.
The victory was significant for more than just the three points. It gave Liverpool their first league win of the season, handed Iraola his first Premier League victory as manager and provided Isak with the confidence boosting performance many supporters had been waiting to see.
The clean sheet was another positive for Liverpool, particularly after defensive concerns during their opening matches of the campaign. The result offered the team a much needed lift as they prepare for a demanding run of fixtures.
For Isak, however, the biggest story was his return to the spotlight. After a challenging beginning to life at Anfield, his two goals provided a reminder of why Liverpool invested so heavily in him.
There will naturally be greater expectations following such a performance, but Isak will now hope to build on his display and establish himself as a consistent source of goals for Liverpool.
With Gakpo continuing to create chances and Isak showing signs of finding his best form, Liverpool supporters will be hoping the attacking partnership can become a major force as the season develops.
The 2–0 victory at Ipswich may therefore prove to be more than just Liverpool’s first league win of the campaign. It could be the night Alexander Isak finally began to look like the superstar striker Liverpool believed they were signing.
