It was only 1-0, and it only took Chelsea four points ahead of Liverpool, but the sense at Anfield on Thursday was of arcs heading in opposite directions. After 68 league games unbeaten at home, Liverpool has now lost its last five at Anfield, the first time that has ever happened, and it’s over 10 hours since it last scored there from open play. Chelsea, meanwhile, is up to fourth place, four points off second, and can reasonably expect Champions League football next season.
It’s fair to say that both sides began the season anticipating something rather better than this.