Eight years since Gerrard’s stumble or the slip that cost Liverpool the title

The title was in his hands, but Steven Gerrard’s slip-up started a black period for Liverpool that culminated in the loss of the almost certain championship. On Wednesday it was exactly eight years since Demba By’s memorable goal. What happened then?

Liverpool only needed to win at least two of the last three rounds to secure the title. They were far from the best team, but thanks to the attacking trident of Raheem Sterling, Luis Suárez, Philippe Coutinho, they were at the very top of the table.

Liverpool were looking for their first win against Chelsea. Just when it looked like going into the booths goalless, Steven Gerrard slipped in the middle of the park and visiting striker Demba Ba went at the goalkeeper alone. He converted the raid and Chelsea missed.

After the change of sides, the Reds tried in vain to turn the tide, but Brazilian Willian scored in stoppage time to give Chelsea a 2-0 win. The result gave the title hopes to the hitherto underrated Manchester City.

Liverpool still had the first place in their hands, in the next round against Crystal Palace they led even 3: 0, but they lost the lead in the second half. Manchester City, meanwhile, managed the game against Everton and the round 29 playoff against Aston Villa, which was a huge problem.

Before the last round, Liverpool faced a daunting task, beating Newcastle and hoping for a Manchester loss against West Ham. Gerrard and co accomplished the first part of the task, but the Hammers lost 0-2 at the Etihad Stadium and the title went to Manchester.

This year, Gerrard can redeem himself for his slip up. Liverpool are likely to fight Manchester City for the title again this year until the last round, when the Citizens face Aston Villa. Birmingham are the team Gerrard is training, so motivation is clearly taken care of.

Source: Premier League