Liverpool 3-1 Leeds United
Liverpool picked up only their second win in five home matches on Saturday, against Peter Reid's struggling Leeds side.
Steven Gerrard led Liverpool out for the first time in a Premiership match at Anfield, and the Reds' star was in fine form once more as he led his team to a priceless three points.
Michael Owen opened the scoring with 10 minutes of the first half remaining, volleying a superb shot into the top corner in front of the Kop, after a precise chipped pass into the area by Biscan had been flicked on towards Owen by Riise.
But despite playing an important role in a number of Liverpool's attacks, Riise's defensive display was less impressive, and the Norweigan was turned inside out by Leeds' on loan winger Jemaine Pennant all afternoon, with Pennant allowed to easily pass Riise just a few minutes before the break and cut a low cross back into the box which Alan Smith fired into the net.
Leeds were were arguably the better team in the opening stages of the second half and Mark Viduka missed a fabulous chance to make Liverpool pay for some poor defending when he was left with just Dudek to beat as he picked the ball up in the Liverpool penalty area. But Dudek stayed on his feet and made a good block with his legs from Viduka's low shot.
It was a much needed wake up call for Liverpool, and they responded well, playing some excellent football which included a lengthly spell during which time the ball barely left Leeds' half of the pitch. A home goal appeared to be just around the corner, although when it arrived, it was in very controversial circumstances.
Danny Murphy, on as a sub, swung a low free kick towards the far post which Robinson looked as if he was about to gather comfortably. But the ball somehow made it's way past Robinson and hit he back of the net, though any celebrations looked to have been cut short as referee Jeff Winter spotted a raised flag indicating that Michael Owen had been offside.
After a brief stoppage as Winter consulted with his linesman, the goal was awarded, with the North East official deciding that Owen had not been interfering with play.
A third goal by Florent Sinama Pongolle, another of Houllier's second half subs, made sure of the win which moves Liverpool back into the top half of the table.
An away trip to high flying Fulham is next up for the Reds, before their first meeting of the season with Man United.
LFC-1 Star Man: Steven Gerrard.
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