Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp says fatigue played a role in his side's 3-2 defeat at Southampton.
The Reds looked in control after taking a 2-0 lead mid-way through the first half but were stunned by the hosts' impressive comeback in the second half.
And the German admits a Top Four finish is now not easy to achieve.
"The first half we played brilliant football, we have to close the game out, you have to accept the second-half they controlled the game," Klopp is quoted as saying by BBC Sport.
"They scored three goals, we didn't, that is how football is.
"We have played 20 more games, how can I blame my players? They were not in the same shape in the second half and we had to finish the game.
"We have had wonderful moments this season and today it was Southampton's moments.
"I do not know about the top four, we are not closer than we were before. There are nine games left, that is 27 points, it is possible, I don't know."
