Alexander Isak’s rapid double lifts Liverpool past Ipswich Town

Liverpool secured their first Premier League victory of the season with a 2-0 win at Ipswich Town on Friday, as Alexander Isak scored twice inside the opening nine minutes at Portman Road.

The Sweden striker struck in the sixth and ninth minutes, giving Liverpool an early advantage they protected for the remainder of the third-round match.

Both goals were created by Netherlands international Cody Gakpo, whose contribution helped the visitors make a decisive start. Isak’s quick-fire double also provided an impressive beginning to his Liverpool career in the Premier League.

The result moves Liverpool on to five points and into fifth place provisionally in the Premier League table. Ipswich Town remain on three points and are 13th for the time being.

Liverpool had arrived in search of their first win of the campaign after opening the season with successive 2-2 draws against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest. The victory at Portman Road ended that sequence and gave the team a much-needed three-point return.

Isak makes immediate impact

Isak’s two goals take his tally to three in the Premier League this season. He had previously scored in Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest in the previous round.

The forward also continued his strong record against Ipswich Town. The brace means he has now scored six goals in three appearances against them.

Gakpo was central to Liverpool’s bright opening, supplying the final passes for both goals. The visitors took full advantage of their early momentum before Ipswich began to settle into the contest.

Despite being rocked by the two goals, Ipswich improved as the match progressed and attempted to mount a response. They were unable to find a way through Liverpool’s defence, however, and their periods of pressure did not produce a goal.

Liverpool’s early lead ultimately proved enough to decide the game, with Ipswich unable to reduce the deficit after Isak’s fast start.

The match also marked Bradley Barcola’s first appearance for Liverpool. The France international came on as a substitute for Victor Munoz in the 64th minute.

For Liverpool, the win represents their first success of the Premier League season after two draws. For Ipswich, the defeat leaves them with three points from their opening three matches, while Liverpool move temporarily into the upper part of the table with five points.