Liverpool breathed new life into the Premier League title race with a stunning 4-1 win against 10-man Manchester United on Saturday as the champions suffered their biggest home defeat in 17 years.
Rafael Benitez's side came from behind in an explosive clash at Old Trafford to move within four points of leaders United, who still have a game in hand on their bitter rivals.
Cristiano Ronaldo's 23rd minute penalty gave United the lead, but Fernando Torres capitalised on a mistake by Nemanja Vidic to equalise five minutes later. Steven Gerrard scored from the spot to put Liverpool in front in the 44th minute after the England midfielder was fouled by Patrice Evra.
In the 77th minute, Vidic was sent off for hauling down Gerrard and Fabio Aurelio scored from the resulting free-kick.
Andrea Dossena completed a memorable day for the Reds when he lobbed in the fourth in the 90th minute, handing United their biggest home defeat since QPR ran riot at Old Trafford on New Year's Day 1992.
"We knew we had to win," Benitez said. "We have played better, but not against teams at the level of United so I am really pleased for the players.
"The league is very difficult but at least we now have more options and we are more confident that we can beat anyone and stay closer."
United manager Sir Alex Ferguson added: "It is a hard one to take because I thought we were the better team and the score does not reflect that. "If the league was starting today, you would take a four-point start. Now the thing is to respond."
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