Fabio Borini's goal has given Liverpool a 1-0 lead going into the break against Aston Villa this afternoon as they look to win three Premier League away games in a row for the first time this season.
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Liverpool made a bright start to the match at Villa Park and forced a corner early on. The ball dropped for Philippe Coutinho at the back post, but the Brazilian could not keep his effort on target.
Villa held their own during the opening exchanges and gradually grew into the match.
Ashley Westwood, in particular, displayed a good range of passing which pegged Liverpool back into their own half.
There was little to report by way of chances, however, as both sides struggled to create anything meaningful in the first 15 minutes of the game.
Liverpool did have the ball in the net as Alberto Moreno burst through and lashed a low shot beyond Brad Guzan's reach, but his celebrations were cut short by the linesman's flag.
Minutes later, Borini stretched to volley in Jordan Henderson's clever cross and this time the goal was allowed as Liverpool edged in front.
The goal gave Liverpool confidence and Coutinho almost doubled his side's lead after arriving late in the box to meet Lazar Markovic's cross, but Guzan was alert to make the save.
Sterling was the next to waste a good chance, after his lofted effort was easily stopped by the Villa keeper.
Benjamin Topliss
