Liverpool moved up to second place in the Premier League table on Saturday with a 3-0 win against Southampton at St Mary's Stadium.
Luis Suarez put the visitors ahead on 15 minutes before substitute Raheem Sterling doubled their advantage with 57 minutes played.
Steven Gerrard then secured the points for his side deep in stoppage time when he converted from the penalty spot.
Here, Sports Mole takes a closer look at the action between the two teams on the South Coast.
Match statistics
Southampton
Shots: 13
On target: 2
Possession: 57%
Corners: 3
Fouls: 10
Liverpool
Shots: 12
On target: 5
Possession: 43%
Corners: 6
Fouls: 6
Was the result fair?
Despite Southampton putting in a spirited display, it was Liverpool who ran out deserved winners thanks to their clinical edge in front of goal. The visitors looked dangerous whenever they surged forward and ultimately proved too strong for their opponents.
Southampton's performance
The Saints will be cursing themselves for not capitalising on a tremendous spell of pressure after going behind in the first half. The hosts were dominant following Luis Suarez's opener, but some indifferent finishing saw them unable to get back on terms. They were made to pay for it in the second half as Liverpool turned the tables and struck lethally to kill the game off. However, manager Mauricio Pochettino will not be too displeased with what was an encouraging performance from his players.
Liverpool's performance
Brendan Rodgers's side were second best for much of the first half, but they converted their chance in front of goal to give themselves a solid footing in the match. They were much improved after the break, attacking with plenty of menace while defending with a robustness that has been lacking in recent weeks. Many have predicted that the Merseysiders will eventually fade out of the title race, but this could be the match that is looked back upon as the one where they firmly established themselves as genuine contenders.
Sports Mole's man of the match
Luis Suarez: The enigmatic Uruguayan was a constant source of danger for the Southampton defence thanks to his slippery movement and confidence on the ball. The way that he took Liverpool's opening goal was a lesson in natural finishing.
Biggest gaffe
Southampton carved open a decent opportunity to get level at the end of the first half when the ball found its way through to Jay Rodriguez inside the Liverpool box. However, the forward could only direct a tame effort towards goal that Simon Mignolet dealt with easily.
Referee performance
There were one or two instances where Lee Probert had to be firm, but overall the official allowed the game to be played in a way which benefited the slick passing style of both teams.
What next?
Southampton: The Saints are back in action next Saturday when they travel to Crystal Palace in the Premier League.
Liverpool: The Reds continue their Premier League campaign next Sunday with a trip to bitter rivals Manchester United.
Jack Prescott
