They ran out comprehensive winners in their Merseyside clash against Tranmere Rovers at Prenton Park today.

From the off, Tranmere tried to impose their aggressive, aerial style. It had stunned seven previous Premiership sides, and Liverpool looked uncomfortable and unsteady against the expected war of attrition.

Gerard Houllier’s men were not clearing their lines properly and Tranmere were getting plenty of early encouragement.

But with their first serious attack on 11 minutes, Liverpool were ahead.

Sander Westerveld’s massive long clearance reached Michael Owen deep on the left.

His cross was met by Murphy on the edge of the six yard box, and his downward header - under no real pressure - bounced down and away from John Achterberg and into the net.

In a reversal of the first goal, Murphy crossed and Owen found the back of the net on 27 mins for his first goal in England since Christmas.

The score remained two-nil until the re-start when Koumas swung in a cross from the left and Steve Yates climbed at the far post to head in past Westerveld.

Six minutes later, Liverpool restored their two-goal cushion.

A Gary McAllister corner was flicked on by a Tranmere player and Stephen Gerrard scrambled and headed in from three yards.

Again six minutes later Tranmere clawed their way back into the tie.

A pass back from Fowler from the edge of area hit Babbel and fell for substitute Wayne Allison who turned and tucked it away with his first touch of the game.

On 79 mins McAllister tumbled under Steve Yates' challenge and a penalty was given. Robbie Fowler duly converted the spot-kick to restore Liverpool's two-goal lead.

Even with four minutes of added time, the task was too much for Tranmere.