Liverpool had German international Dietmar Hamann sent off for a two-footed tackle but despite being a man down the Merseysiders still edged Sunderland 1-0 at Anfield to stay top of the Premiership today.
Emile Heskey's winner after 22 minutes, his first goal in 20 games, was the difference between the two teams in a fiercely competitive match which produced few clear-cut chances.
Heskey, who last found the net on September 1st in England's dramatic 5-1 win over Germany, met Danny Murphy's inswinging free-kick with a powerful downward header which flashed past Sunderland goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen.
A minute before half time Liverpool were reduced to 10 men, Hamann receiving his marching orders for a two-footed challenge on Bernt Haas.
Referee Steve Bennett brushed aside claims that the German had gone for the ball and reached for the red card.
Sunderland, who had managed to draw on their last three visits to Anfield, enjoyed the lion's share of possession in the second half but could not break down a stubborn Liverpool defence.
Substitute Gary McAllister should have added a second goal after 67 minutes when Vladimir Smicer cut the ball back from the by-line but with just Sorensen to beat the former Scottish international blasted wide from 10 yards.
The home side lacked a cutting edge up front with Michael Owen missing through injury.
The 21-year-old England star, three short of his century of goals for the club, was not risked after suffering cramp in training.
AFP