Match Report : 22/10/2016

ALBION's four-match unbeaten run in the Premier League came to an end at Anfield as they were defeated 2-1 by a dominant Liverpool.

First-half goals from Sadio Mane and Philippe Coutinho secured all three points for the in-form Reds, who, in the process, climbed to the top of the table having won five and drawn two of their last seven league matches.

Gareth McAuley fired home late on to give the Baggies hope and set up a dramatic finish but it was not enough.

Defeat, Albion's first since September 10, comes after Tony Pulis' side had followed up their impressive victory over West Ham United with successive draws against Stoke City, Sunderland and Tottenham Hotspur.

The Baggies will now look to bounce back next Saturday when Pep Guardiola's Manchester City arrive at The Hawthorns.

The hosts took the lead courtesy of a well-worked counter in the 21st minute as Mane, with a first-time finish, converted Roberto Firmino's deep cross.

Liverpool doubled their advantage shortly after the half-hour mark as Coutinho cut in on the left side of the penalty area and fired home at the near post.

Ben Foster produced a stunning save to keep out Dejan Lovren's second-half header before Jonas Olsson made an outstanding block to deny Emre Can.

The Baggies, playing for the first time in front of a redeveloped Main Stand at a new-look Anfield, went close through Nacer Chadli before substitute James Morrison curled just over.

McAuley then smashed home from close range from Chris Brunt's corner before Foster was on hand again to produce a great stop to keep out Firmino.

Albion pushed in search of a late equaliser but, with the shares having been spoiled on in both meetings last season, it was the home side who claimed victory on Merseyside.