Jurgen Klopp left baffled as "dominant" Liverpool throw away two points against Sunderland
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Jurgen Klopp saw Liverpool throw away a win – and admitted: “It doesn't feel good.”
Angry Klopp was baffled at how his “dominant” side let the lead slip twice to two Jermain Defoe penalties , to hand Chelsea more encouragement at the top of the league.
Klopp reckoned ref Anthony Taylor got it wrong when he awarded Defoe a free kick on the edge of the box six minutes from time.
The resulting free kick was handled by Sadio Mane, who along with Daniel Sturridge twice put Liverpool ahead. Defoe levelled from the spot kick.
Klopp said: “We scored the second goal, it felt good, it felt deserved.
(Photo: Liverpool FC via Getty)
(Photo: Getty Images Europe)
“Then I would say no foul, no free-kick. I saw it again and there was no contact.
“Then handball, 2-2, I must be honest it doesn’t feel good.
“Sunderland got a point because of two penalties. To get two!
(Photo: Action Images via Reuters)
“The free-kick, that was harsh and hard to accept but obviously I have to accept. If you see it again there was no contact.
"I saw it in the game and the fourth official saw it. It’s not the worst mistake in the world but it is so hard.
“Two penalties against us feels not good. Usually I like to talk about football. It is difficult today.”
(Photo: Action Images via Reuters)
(Photo: Ian Horrocks)
Klopp refused to blame Mane saying his reaction was a “reflex”.
Asked about the title race, Klopp said: “I cannot change anything. We have to accept the results of the other teams.
"Yes, there is a long way to go. We have a long trip home.”
Liverpool were missing injured Jordan Henderson. Sturridge limped off after a bang on his ankle and James Milner was subbed at half time with a kick on the calf. None are expected to be serious injuries.