Six More Points For Reds

Van Dijk scores winner on 100th game as Liverpool captain to close in on English title

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LIVERPOOL - Virgil van Dijk spared Liverpool's blushes with a late headed winner to beat West Ham United 2-1 on April 13 and edge to within six points of the English Premier League title.

Andy Robertson's own goal four minutes from time had given the lowly Hammers a deserved equaliser after Luis Diaz put Liverpool in front early on.

Van Dijk, though, swiftly restored the lead to show Liverpool retain the mentality of champions, even if they are running out of steam in the closing stages of the season.

Liverpool's lead stretches to 13 points with six games remaining.

A record-equalling 20th English top-flight title could come as early as April 20, if Liverpool win at Leicester City and Arsenal lose away to Ipswich Town.

The stage was set before kick-off for Mohamed Salah to be the hero, as the Egyptian was given a huge ovation just days after ending speculation over his future by signing a new two-year contract.

After the match, he said he hoped van Dijk would follow suit, noting: "I am glad we managed to do that (contract) before the end of the season.

"Hopefully, Virgil will be next. He can do whatever he wants but I would love to play with him next season."