Before kick-off at Anfield on Saturday, many were discussing whether or not Liverpool had enough to put away a West Brom team that would turn up to do one thing: defend. The Reds had failed to break down a Manchester United side intent on nullifying their threats on Monday evening, and with the Baggies having nabbed draws from each of their last three meetings with the Merseysiders, the omens weren’t great.However, after just 20 minutes all fears were put to bed when Sadio Mane swept home a volley before Philippe Coutinho bamboozled the West Brom defence to rifle home the second.Gareth McAuley made it interesting with a goal with just 10 minutes left to play, but the defender’s effort did little in the grand scheme of things, with the Baggies unable to muster another real chance.It was a great night for the home side, and here are FIVE pictures that summed it up…

The main Mane

Any fears that Liverpool may not be able to sweep aside West Brom were eased after 20 minutes when Mane netted. The Senegalese winger has been a big hit since his summer arrival from Southampton, and this effort at the Anfield Road end was his fourth in league action for his current side.

The Little Magician

Coutinho is, arguably, Liverpool’s best player, and he showed just why he has that tag against West Brom. The Brazilian’s first-half goal was a demonstration of all of his abilities as he cut in from the left, dummied two Baggies defenders and then smashed the ball in at the near post – the two men in question had to pay to get back into Anfield after that!

Sturridge’s face

While football on the pitch was a sight to behold, Daniel Sturridge’s face was a picture for another reason. With the Reds 2-0 up the camera cut to the striker, who appeared to be deep in thought. The striker’s performance against Man United on Monday was laboured, and with Liverpool looking good with Mane, Coutinho and Roberto Firmino up front, his route into Klopp’s Xi seems littered with obstacles.

Late flurry

Liverpool just cannot defend set-pieces, can they? The Reds were in full control of the game before they failed to deal with a corner, which allowed Gareth McCauley to smash home. The goal set up a nervy end to a game that really should have been seen off some time prior.

Close, but no cigar

The margin of victory at Anfield leaves Liverpool at the top of the Premier League, albeit just below Arsenal. Even if they had have held onto the 2-0 margin they would likely have been knocked off tomorrow by Manchester City, but it would have been a big boost for them to see their name at the top of the pile.