Emre Can's stunning strike strengthens Liverpool's CL hopes

The Germany international's acrobatic volley in first-half stoppage time proved enough to ensure the Reds cashed in on rivals Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal all dropping points on Sunday.

The only worry for Jurgen Klopp was the sight of Philippe Coutinho limping off early on with a thigh problem.

Liverpool remain third but are now three points clear of City and four ahead of United, who both have a game in hand.

Klopp's men dominated possession in the first half but struggled to make it count.

Adam Lallana made his comeback from injury in place of Coutinho before Can's fierce 25-yarder was tipped away by Heurelho Gomes.

Three minutes before the break the Reds were inches away from going in front.

Lallana latched on to Sebastian Prodl's defensive header and sent it back with interest. His dipping 20-yard volley was too good for Gomes but cannoned back off the underside of the bar.

Then Can took centre stage. Lucas Leiva spotted Can's burst into the box and clipped an inviting pass in his direction.

What followed was simply sensational as Can launched himself into a bicycle kick 14 yards out – the ball arrowing beyond Gomes and into the corner.

In the second half Liverpool attacked with more purpose and should have wrapped up the points.

James Milner's free-kick was kept out by Gomes before Origi's curling effort was turned behind. Origi raced through again soon after but after holding off Prodl he couldn't beat the keeper.

Watford rallied with referee Craig Pawson the only one inside Vicarage Riad who didn't spot that Simon Mignolet had tipped over Etienne Capoue's piledriver.

Deep into stoppage time there was a huge let off as Sebastian Prodl hammered against the bar as the Reds held on to a precious win.

Source: Liverpool Echo

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