Liverpool edge out Stoke in nervy eight-goal thriller

Liverpool moved back in to the top four of the Premier League after edging out Stoke City in an eight-goal thriller at the Britannia Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

An own goal from Ryan Shawcross put the Reds in front after just five minutes, before top scorer Luis Suarez doubled their advantage shortly after the half-hour mark though goals from former Liverpool duo Peter Crouch and Charlie Adam drew the hosts’ level before half time.

A penalty from captain Steven Gerrard and a second from Suarez – his twenty-second of the season – restored a two goal lead for Brendan Rodgers’ side though a goal five minutes from time from Jonathan Walters ensured a nervy finish.

However, with three minutes left to play, substitute Daniel Sturridge, making his first appearance since he salvaged a point in the Merseyside derby back in November, added a fifth for Liverpool to make sure of the victory.

The Reds, who have moved to with five points of leaders Manchester City, will now turn their attention to Saturday’s match against Aston Villa at Anfield.

Arsenal, who currently sit a place above Liverpool with a game in hand, face Villa this evening and can return to the top of the league with victory.