Juan Mata rises above the mayhem against liverpool

Liverpool 1 Manchester United 2

Liverpool’s breathtaking run since their last meeting with United in December – 21 domestic games without defeat – was brought to a shuddering halt by a magnificent performance that earned Louis van Gaal’s side a five-point cushion over the Merseyside club in the chase for fourth place and Champions League football.

Gerrard’s moment of temporary insanity, sent off for stamping on Ander Herrera barely 30 seconds after appearing as a half-time substitute, was the outstanding feature of a fixture that rarely fails to deliver.