Southampton 0 Liverpool 1
Emile Heskey scored his first Premiership goal since September to end Southampton's unbeaten home record and give Liverpool a deserved victory at St Mary's tonight.
The England striker planted a firm header past Saints goalkeeper Antti Niemi in the 14th minute to give Gerard Houllier's team their first league win in 12 starts in a match they should have won by a wider margin.
Fernandes then teased his way into a shooting position 20 yards from the Liverpool goal, but the Frenchman's effort sailed high over the crossbar.
With 16 minutes remaining, confusion in the Saints defence almost allowed Murphy to score but his shot cannoned straight into Anders Svensson. Riise picked up the loose ball and crossed for Owen, but he headed wide while under pressure.
Strachan then made his final change when Delgado replaced Wayne Bridge with 10 minutes remaining.
Lundekvam ghosted in at the near post in the 84th minute to meet Matt Oakley's cross, but he could not keep his header on target.
The home side won several late corners in a bid to snatch a draw, but the Liverpool defence kept them at bay and ended the Saints' unbeaten home record this season in the process.
PA