Curtis Jones: Liverpool told they “have got to show more heart” at half time

In a tense Premier League clash on December 5, 2026, Liverpool's midfielder Curtis Jones revealed the halftime message that fired up the Reds during their dramatic 2-2 draw against Fulham. Speaking post-match, Jones highlighted the need for greater intensity after a lackluster first half where Liverpool dominated possession but failed to convert chances effectively[1][2].

The game at Craven Cottage saw Liverpool trail early before mounting a comeback. Cody Gakpo's 90+4th-minute strike appeared to seal a vital victory, putting the visitors 2-1 ahead. However, Fulham's Harrison Reed stunned Anfield's hopefuls with a stunning long-range equalizer in the 90+7th minute, leaving Liverpool frustrated and still fourth in the standings with 34 points—14 behind leaders Arsenal[1]. Fulham climbed to 11th on 28 points.

"In the first half, we controlled possession well and gave our best effort, but didn't achieve much success," Jones admitted, echoing the halftime rallying cry: Liverpool had to "show more heart" to turn dominance into goals[1][3]. The second half response was fierce, but the late concession stung. "That's hard to take," Jones said of blowing the lead. "With the players we have, I feel we should have won a game like that[1][2]."

Looking ahead to the crucial title-deciding showdown against Arsenal on January 8—Liverpool's next big test amid a nine-match unbeaten run across competitions—Jones remained defiant. "It's a big game, but every game is big, especially now when we need every point," he stated. Recalling their earlier victory over the Gunners, he added, "They'll be looking to avenge that. We'll go there with confidence and try to get the win[1]."

The draw underscores Liverpool's resilience but exposes vulnerabilities in closing out games, as Jones urged more "heart" to reignite their fading title hopes in the 2025-26 season.

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