Michael Owen scored twice and Fabien Barthez committed another goalkeeping blunder as Liverpool romped to a 3-1 win over Manchester United at Anfield today.
The deserved victory, Liverpool's fourth in succession over United, lifted them a point clear of Aston Villa at the top of the table and left the champions down in sixth place.
A cool Owen finish after 32 minutes and John Arne Riise's searing free-kick seven minutes later put Liverpool in control before David Beckham pulled one back just after half-time.
But within 60 seconds United's French World Cup winner Barthez, at fault for several goals already this season, missed a cross and England striker Owen nodded the ball home.
At Elland Road, Leeds United are playing Tottenham Hotspur knowing victory would lift them above Liverpool. Arsenal face Charlton Athletic at Highbury and Ipswich Town visit Chelsea, both games kicking off at 2.00 p.m.