Liverpool demolished Aston Villa with another spectacular and emphatic victory, a 5-0, with Steven Gerrard scoring a hat-trick (2 penalties and a free-kick) while Dirk Kuyt and Albert Riera scored a goal apiece. With that win, Liverpool continue pressurizing Man Utd with only one point less than them. This was Liverpool's biggest win this season.
Having routed Man Utd 4-1 last weekend, Liverpool took advantage of the champions losing 2-0 at Fulham on Saturday. Man Utd has 65 points after 29 games; Liverpool 64 after 30 games. Chelsea, who lost 1-0 at Tottenham on Saturday, has 61.
Liverpool dominated the pitch with 62% of possesion. They also managed to get 19 shots including 7 shots on target. Aston Villa had a few chances to score but Jose Reina superb performance denied them of creating any goals.
In the 64' minutes, Torres' run invited a challenge from Friedel after the Spain striker knocked the ball past the keeper, who could not help but bring him down. Referee Martin Atkinson had no hesitation in pointing to the spot, but also in brandishing a red card to the American. This marks the end of Aston Villa's hopes of a comeback win, or even a draw, as they were already 4 goals down and a penalty awaiting. Steven Gerrard completed the hat-trick with the penalty.
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