Liverpool recorded a comfortable 2-0 victory over struggling Newcastle United on Monday night.

Brendan Rodgers' Reds seemingly controlled proceedings at Anfield although John Carver's Magpies outfit were improved from their labored performance in last weekend's Tyne-Wear derby loss to Sunderland.

Raheem Sterling gave the home side an early lead with a wonderful goal in just the ninth minute, taking his season tally to seven in the league.

The England international received a lovely pass from Jordan Henderson on the left side of the area before cutting back in on his preferred right foot and curling an inch-perfect effort over Tim Krul's left hand and inside the far post.

Liverpool appeared not to be too fazed by anything the Magpies threw at them and held onto their one-goal lead until the 70th minute when Joe Allen scored for the first time for the Merseysiders at Anfield.

The former Swansea City midfielder's initial headed attempt from Lucas Leiva's hooked pass fell kindly off Toon defender Mike Williamson, allowing the Welshman to produce a rapid volley which powered past Krul.

The second goal preceded another red card for Newcastle when captain Moussa Sissoko received a second yellow in the 83rd minute to bring to an end another sub-par showing from Carver's men.

The loss was Newcastle's fifth on the trot, forcing them down to 13th on the table, as Liverpool returned to the winners' list after a couple of league defeats in a row. The Reds reclaim fifth position where they sit four points behind fourth-placed Manchester City.

2014/15 Barclays Premier League - season scores

Liverpool: 2 (Raheem Sterling 9', Joe Allen 70') Newcastle United: 0 (red card: Moussa Sissoko 83') Anfield, Liverpool - 44,611