Georginio Wijnaldum wins it for Liverpool with a thumping header as Jurgen Klopp gets the better of old foe Pep Guardiola at Anfield.
Liverpool secured a hard-fought victory over rivals Manchester City at Anfield to end 2016 on a high.
Georginio Wijnaldum gave Liverpool the lead with a thumping header after eight minutes.
Georginio's goal and winner came as Adam Lallana delivers a sumptuous cross from the left flank in the 8th minute, and Georginio Wijnaldum converts with a bullet header.
City battled during a scrappy second period but never really tested Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet.
The victory leaves Liverpool second in the Premier League table, four points clear of City in third
As a statement of intent for 2017, this was clear enough. As Chelsea continued their extraordinary run of victories, Liverpool responded. Not overwhelmingly but with enough verve and energy to suggest they will at least chase Chelsea well into this new year.
Anfield resounded with the songs of old and the roar at the end might have been heard on the King’s Road.
A grinning Jurgen Klopp embraced players at the end of the game as he was saluted and hope abounded.
With Liverpool's victory, a title challenge is building and, shaky though they look at times, Liverpool are a force to be reckoned with. Their sheer determination, enthusiasm and the momentum they generate demand that they be taken seriously.
Team Lineups:
Liverpool XI:
Mignolet, Clyne, Lovren, Klavan, Milner, Can, Henderson, Wijnaldum, Mane, Lallana, Firmino.
Subs: Karius, Sturridge, Moreno, Lucas, Origi, Ejaria, Alexander-Arnold.
Man City XI:
Bravo, Zabaleta, Otamendi, Stones, Kolarov, Fernandinho, Toure, Sterling, Silva, De Bruyne, Aguero.
Subs: Sagna, Fernando, Caballero, Jesus Navas, Clichy, Iheanacho, Garcia.
Referee: Anthony Taylor.
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