Why Florian Wirtz Was Liverpool’s Best Player vs. Burnley – and Cody Gakpo “Frustrating” Again

In a frustrating 1-1 draw against relegation-threatened Burnley at Anfield, Liverpool dropped points despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances. Florian Wirtz emerged as the standout performer, earning top player ratings for his clinical first-half strike that gave the Reds a deserved lead.[5][2][1]

The match began with Liverpool asserting control, but Burnley earned a penalty around the 30-minute mark after Florentino fouled Gakpo. Dominik Szoboszlai stepped up but blazed his shot against the crossbar, compounding a poor week following his FA Cup miss against Barnsley.[2][4] Undeterred, Liverpool broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute. Hugo Ekitike advanced down the left, Curtis Jones provided a clever assist, and Wirtz unleashed a powerful, whipped finish into the top corner from inside the box – pure quality that deceived the keeper and left Burnley stunned.[3][4][1]

At halftime, the Reds led 1-0, having responded well to the penalty miss. However, complacency struck early in the second half. Marcus Edwards capitalized on Liverpool's let-offs, cutting inside and thrashing a low shot past Alisson to equalize midway through the period, sparking rare joy for Scott Parker's visitors.[1][2][4] Despite remaining the better side post-equalizer, Liverpool couldn't regain the lead. Wirtz lamented post-match: "It's very frustrating – we had enough chances to decide the game. We have to be better in front of goal."[1]

Curtis Jones (8/10) shone alongside Wirtz, central to attacks with his assist, before making way for Chiesa.[2] Wirtz (8/10) impressed with his goal and growing team understanding, boosting his confidence.[1][2] But Cody Gakpo was "frustrating" again, winning the penalty yet failing to convert chances, drawing criticism amid Liverpool's wastefulness.[5][2][4] Substitutions like Robertson, Ngumoha, and Mac Allister came late (78th-87th minutes), but couldn't spark a winner.[4]

Home fans voiced dissatisfaction as all three promoted teams escaped Anfield with points this season. Wirtz felt no anxiety, insisting Liverpool played well but lacked finishing: "We were the better team, had the better chances. It just didn't want to go in."[1] A valuable lesson in ruthlessness for Arne Slot's side.[2]

(Word count: 298)