Liverpool secured their place in the FA Cup fourth round with a 4-1 victory over Barnsley at Anfield, but not before surviving a major scare from the League One side on a dramatic evening dominated by Dominik Szoboszlai's mixed fortunes.
Barnsley's Bright Start and Szoboszlai's Stunner
The Reds were given an immediate warning of the challenge ahead as Davis Keillor-Dunn rattled the post with a powerful header inside the first minute. Barnsley continued to press, forcing goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili into action, before Liverpool struck against the run of play.
It was Dominik Szoboszlai who broke the deadlock in spectacular fashion, unleashing a thunderous 25-yard drive into the top corner for his sixth goal of the season. The Hungarian's moment of brilliance was soon matched by defender Jeremie Frimpong, who cut inside from the right flank and fired a stunning left-footed effort into the roof of the net, easing concerns following Conor Bradley's long-term injury.
A Costly Error and Penalty Controversy
Just as Liverpool seemed poised to cruise into the next round, Szoboszlai's night took a bizarre turn. Attempting an unnecessary backheel pass yards from his own goal, he gifted the ball straight to Barnsley's Adam Phillips, who gratefully slotted home to make it 2-1.
The visitors then had strong appeals for a penalty turned down on the hour mark. Reyes Clearly went down under a challenge from Szoboszlai in the area, but with VAR not in use for the fixture, the referee's decision to wave play on stood, much to the fury of Barnsley boss Conor Hourihane.
Late Flurry Seals Brighton Date
Liverpool finally put the tie to bed with two late goals. German playmaker Florian Wirtz, who is increasingly finding his feet in English football, curled a beautiful effort into the top corner following a slick team move. He then turned provider, setting up Hugo Ekitike to mark his return from injury with a simple finish.
The victory sets up a fourth-round tie at home to Premier League rivals Brighton, who knocked out Manchester United in the previous round. While the scoreline suggests comfort, Arne Slot will know his side were given a thorough examination by a determined Barnsley team before their quality ultimately told.
