Preston North End 0-1 Liverpool

It was a deserved victory for Liverpool but they were made to work for it due to a combination of poor finishing and Preston's second-half fightback when they played higher up the pitch and caused the Premier League leaders a few problems. Riera's 24th-minute strike looked to have set the tone but they spurned many chances. Preston had few chances to speak of, with St Ledger's header denied due to Jon Parkin's silly decision to impede Carragher when he did not need to. TV replays suggest that Carragher had fouled Parkin on the initial free kick but it was difficult to spot and Preston should not feel aggrieved. After a tame first half they can be proud of their play in the second.

Full-time Preston North End 0-2 Liverpool Liverpool clear and Babel, on the halfway line, flicks the ball on to Gerrard, who is clear and alone on goal, with just Torres for company. He reaches the six-yard box and squares for the Spaniard to stroke home to seal the victory. Preston wanted a foul by Babel but no whistle was coming and Liverpool get the second that they deserved but seemed reluctant to score.

90mins+3 GOAL! Preston North End 0-2 Liverpool

90mins+2 Nicholson is almost clear on the edge of the area but Carragher intercepts and clears.

90mins+1 Parkin is found in space but takes too long and is dispossessed when there was an option out wide.

90mins There will be three minutes of added time for Liverpool to protect their one-goal lead.

89mins Parkin is found in the area but he turns in a manner more akin to a tanker and Liverpool clear.

88mins Riera brings down Nolan for another free kick. Nicholson's kick fails to clear the first defender. Another wasted opportunity.

87mins Elliott heads the ball across goal and Preston try to get a shot in but the ball does not sit and Liverpool clear. Babel concedes a free kick to allow Wallace to put the ball in but it is claimed with ease by Cavalieri.

86mins Torres runs at the defence but loses the ball. It goes to Gerrard whose shot is strong but down the throat of Lonergan.

85mins Liverpool have resumed their grip on the game, passing with ease. Parkin skies the ball into the area but Hyypia clears.

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