By Muojindu Francis

Liverpool stumbled through a scrappy game, with Arne Slot labeling it their poorest first half of the season. Yet Alexis Mac Allister emerged as the hero, securing a crucial victory that keeps the Reds' top-four hopes alive.

Not every match plays to a team's strengths this late in the campaign, with just 11 games remaining, so grabbing points is what mattered. And that's exactly what Liverpool did at the death against Nottingham Forest.

Snatched on The Buzzer

The performance, most notably in the second half, was undoubtedly one of the slowest and unimaginative in Slot's year and a half in charge thus far. Frustrated for large portions of the game suggested that The Reds would be grateful with a point at the City Ground, as Nottingham Forest continued to hold Liverpool from creating any clear cut chances. The majority of the action was at the wrong end for Liverpool. With 18 shots to Liverpool's 10 (despite only 2 of these bringing Alisson Becker into action), saw very little hope for Liverpool to take all three points in a weekend where Top 4 rivals Chelsea had dropped points to Burnley.

In the final minutes, Liverpool kept mounting pressure, Ngumoha was left isolated after coming off the bench for a rare cameo. The youngster delivered a beautiful cross into the box, palmed away by Stefan Ortega, but Mac Allister was quick to pressure Ola Aina who's fluffed clearance was deemed to strike his elbow which ruled out a dramatic late winner.

Credit: ESPN

It seemed as though the chance had gone, and Liverpool would have to settle for a point once more after Mac Allister's chalked off goal.

The Reds would not be denied for much longer though, as Szoboszlai whipped the ball into the box and Van Dijk leaped highest to head it, but Ortega was on hand to deny once more but he could only save it to the center of goal where Mac Allister was right on cue to fire home once again granting Liverpool the lifeline and sealing the win.

Credit: Liverpool.com

Rio Ngumoha - The Difference Off The Bench

Credit: Liverpool.com

Seventeen-year-old Rio Ngomoha's 14-minute substitute appearance sparked excitement, with pundits pushing for him to start matches over Cody Gakpo who has just one goal involvement in 2026 so far. 

While there's merit to that argument, piling too much responsibility on such a young talent risks stunting his growth or inviting injuries early on in his career.

Still, his bravery, flair, and bold decision-making offered lessons that senior players could take notes from

Top 4 Chances - Verdict

Credit: BBC

Liverpool's recent run has lacked flair, sparking doubts about its lost edge. Holding a 1-0 lead marks progress, but elite teams close out games with conviction. A poorly defended lead can result in a draw or a loss. The final 11 fixtures will define their top-four push. the ruthless finishing that has defined this  Liverpool squad must return.

Three points secured, but plenty of polishing needed ahead.