Andoni Iraola left the Vitality Stadium with three points on his first return to Bournemouth, but Liverpool needed a moment of quality to escape with a 1-0 victory. Alexander Isak struck in the second half to settle a scrappy contest and keep Liverpool unbeaten before the international break.
Iraola received a warm reception from the Bournemouth supporters after leading the club to European qualification last season before moving to Liverpool. His return looked set to end in frustration as both teams struggled to create clear chances.
Bournemouth had the better opening. Evanilson came closest in the 18th minute when his flick forced Alisson into a save. Liverpool struggled to find their rhythm, with Florian Wirtz firing over from close range.
The visitors gradually improved after the break and finally found the breakthrough in the 57th minute.
Cody Gakpo drove forward before sending the ball into the area. Wirtz’s touch helped the move continue and Isak reacted quickly to turn the loose ball past Djordje Petrovic. It was the Sweden striker’s fourth Premier League goal of the season.
Isak ran towards the travelling Liverpool supporters to celebrate and was booked for his reaction.
Bournemouth pushed for an equaliser but could not find a way through a Liverpool defence that held firm. The hosts finished the afternoon without a league win after five matches.
