Player ratings: Liverpool v Manchester City

Given – Pulled off an acrobatic one-handed save after 5 minutes to demonstrate no ill effects from the disappointnment of Paris. 7

Zabaleta – A generally solid game defensively, though he was slightly culpable for both goals. A trademark needless foul for the first, and not tight enough on Benayoun for the second. 6

Toure – The captain seemed to be struggling early on and it was no surprise to see him absent after half-time. To his credit he didn’t let the discomfort affect his game. 7

Lescott – Maybe it was being back on Merseyside as this was a solid performance reminiscent of his Everton days. 7

Bridge – Our defensive outlook ensured there was none of the kamikaze runs that were so costly against Burnley. 6

Wright-Phillips – An excellent turn and cross for the second goal, but for the most part he rarely got the better of Insua. Lost possession far to often. 5

Barry (Tevez, 60) – Often seemed to be playing in front of de Jong and alongside Ireland as an attacking midfielder. Unfortunately he lacked the quickness of foot to get on the end of things and it was another subdued performance. 6

De Jong – Defensively strong and kept Gerrard relatively quiet. His passing was direct and efficient, rarely wasting the ball. 8

Ireland – Kept trying to play the killer pass which never quite came off, but eventually got his rewards with the second goal. Having the darting runs of Robinho or Bellamy ahead of the Irishman may suit his game better. 7

Adebayor – Never able to physically impose himself on the Liverpool defence. Ended up one goal each between him and Skrtel at the set pieces. 6

Bellamy – The route one tactics meant he was rarely able to get into the game as an attacking force. Pity, as he normally does well against former clubs. Tracked back admirably. 6

Subs:

Onuoha – Slotted in well and looked very composed in his first league outing of the season. It was great seeing him passing rather than hoofing the ball forward, but he could have cleared it better prior to the Liverpool equaliser. 6

Tevez – Now we know why United fans loved him! Game changing appearance from the bench, turning us from a route one outfit into a footballing side. 8

Man of the match: Nigel de Jong.